Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Evil schemes stopped with mysterious words..
FAITH:
2 Timothy 3:1--4:8
Paul warned that godlessness and evil schemes would increase as the end of history approached. People would follow false teachers who would tell them what they wanted to hear. Paul's words warned and encouraged Timothy to teach the Scriptures soundly.
Christians must guard against deceit by knowing what Scripture teaches.
The apostle Paul warned that many will follow the false teachers, not knowing that in feeding upon what these people say they are taking the devil's poison into their own lives. Thousands of people in every walk of life are being deceived today.
The world cannot understand God's wisdom, and God reveals the mystery of the gospel to us when the Holy Spirit opens our spiritual eyes.
Men are always seeking for greater wisdom, but they usually bypass the Ultimate Source of wisdom. The scriptures clearly point this direction. They
reveal. "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding" (Proverbs 9:10). But what has man done with this tremendous resource at his fingertips? Ignored it!! "For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God, or give thanks; but they became futile in their speculations and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools.(Romans 1:21-22)
Since God's wisdom resides in His Word, it is imperative to know what He has revealed, but even many Christians ignore a regular time reading studying the Scriptures. Therefore many of their decisions are foolish, because they've not consulted the Ultimate Source of wisdom.
by Rick Yohn
Applying it: Do you read God's Word faithfully? Create a notebook of observations. Keep track of new discoveries and old truths. Let them strengthen your faith and share them in your conversations. You will find strength in the true gospel to keep false teachers out of your life and your family from side tracked lives.
Exploring it: False teachers--Deuteronomy 13:1-3; Matthew 7:15; 24:11;
2 Corinthians 11:3-4; 1 John 1:8-10; 1 Timothy 4:1-2;Renewing your mind--Proverbs 15:14; Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8
FRIENDS:
Father, We want only to please you. We, your children, cherish your promise to take care of us. And yet we often come to you with confusion because we are unsure of what is best, uncertain of your will. You have provided the answers for us and Father, your word is always there to calm, reassure, correct, direct and to teach us that you will forgive us and that there is no sin too deep for your hand of forgiveness to reach. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen
THE CHALLENGE....by Corie Ten Boom
If you really want to know God, you should read the book He wrote. It's called the Bible, and it's one of the most important tools that God uses to direct your steps and transform your life. As you seek to build a deeper understanding with your Creator, you must decide whether God's word will be a bright spotlight that guides your path every day or a tiny night light that occasionally flickers in the dark. The decision to study the Bible--or not--is yours and yours alone. But make no mistake: the way that you choose to use your Bible will have a profound impact on your and your loved ones. Your Bible is waiting patiently on your bookshelf....now what are you going to do about it?
This paragraph by the famous Corrie Ten Boom was the catalyst to my re-reading the Bible through this coming year. I have done the plan before but it was many years ago and it was such a benefit and blessing to me then. But unfortunately my Bible reading habits have gotten sloppy, again. Is this where you are?
As the devotional suggested, this time I am going to keep a notebook to write down my observations in.
Please join me in committing to a year of daily Bible reading.
65 THINGS I HAVE LEARNED -part 2
21-When you're on vacation, sometimes it's better to buy postcards of
the scenery rather than trying to get pictures of it yourself.
22-People who talk about other people to you are probably talking
about you to other people.
23-No one looks ugly when they're smiling.
24-You can catch a lot more flies with honey than you can with
vinegar. (Favorite saying of my mother who died in 1975.)
25-Words actually can hurt a lot more than sticks and stones.
26-Often it's very wise not to share what you really think.
27-Butter makes almost anything taste better.
28-Whether you feel really bad or really good, it usually doesn't last for long.
29-It's much easier to stay in shape than it is to get back into shape.
30-When the day finally comes for your hair appointment, your hair
will look better than it has for weeks.
31-Remember that 100 years from now no one will know the difference.
(another one of Mother's sayings)
32-It's much easier to criticize things you don't like than it is to fix them.
33- If you don't have children of your own, ask a friend to share
theirs. It's a good compromise for all.
34-Most every problem will seem less serious after a few days have gone by.
35-Most parents seldom remember what it felt like to be a child,
that's what Grandparents are for.
36-If you have bad news to deliver, if at all possible, do it in person.
37-Flowers will ease the bumps out of even the worst day.
38-If you can grow your own herbs it will help you to become a better cook.
39-Price has very little if anything to do with the quality of restaurant food
40-The book is almost always better than the movie.
FOOD:
Serving snacks to friends for New Years Eve or New Years Day...how about this one?
Over 1,000 people on my food list said it's a 5 star recipe.
Buffalo Chicken Dip (serve warm)
2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup Ranch dressing
3/4 cup pepper sauce, such as Franks Red Hot
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 bunch celery, cleaned and cut into 4 inch pieces
1 (8 ounce) box chicken-flavored crackers
Heat chicken and hot sauce in a skillet over medium heat, until heated through. Stir in cream cheese and ranch dressing. Cook, stirring until well blended and warm. Mix in half of the shredded cheese, and transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook on Low setting until hot and bubbly. Serve with celery sticks and crackers
FUN:
Q: What's the true definition of mixed emotions?
A: When you see your mother-in-law backing off a cliff in your brand new car
(if you love your MIL and are offended by this, Sorry)
(if not, go ahead and laugh, it's called a joke, not a wish)
Monday, December 29, 2008
Study to show thyself approved...
FAITH:
John 5:39 (NCT)
39 You carefully study the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. They do in fact tell about me,
2 Timothy 2:15 (KGV)
15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
.
We go to the word of God for comfort, and when we do, the words pierce like a surgeon's scalpel, both cutting and healing. The Word of God cuts
to the very place where thoughts and attitudes come together, at the juncture of soul and spirit, providing a healing that can be obtained in no other way on earth. The Bible was provided for us as a vehicle to carry us so that we might be able to see Jesus Christ.
If you want to grow in the Word of God, become a person with a chisel and quarry the Word look, explore, seek. Let the Word become your Word,
and you will grow.
I challenge you to discover the Bible in your own life.....to regain the same hunger and enthusiasm you felt when you first heard the name of Jesus.
by Max Lucado -
Starting January 1st I am going to post daily Bible readings as a challenge to anyone that wants to read the Bible through in a Year. I'm not big on New Years resolutions but this is one I am making in front of everyone to hold myself accountable.....
Remember I put the Gateway Bible Search on here so you can put in the days scriptures and read it on line in your favorite translation or use those scriptures as part of your daily devotional time. If you have any problems
making it work for you, just let me know and I will assist you in any way I can.
-By reading from four separate places in the Scripture every day, you should be able to better grasp the unity of the Scriptures, as well as
enjoy the variety of seeing four different viewpoints.
-You can begin at any point of the year.
-To prevent the frustration of falling behind, each month of this plan give you only 25 readings so you can stay caught up.
-If reading through the Bible in one year looms as too large a task, you can alter the plan to meet your needs. For example, you could read the gospels and the wisdom books this year and the other two categories next year.
-Ask God each day to speak directly to you from the Scripture portions you read. Be expectant, and let you continual exposure to God's Word reshape your attitudes and behavior as you gain a better understanding of every part of His written testimony to us.
FRIENDS:
Father, we're amazed at how practical your Bible is. Who would have thought that daily help could be found in a book so old. Every time we open it we find it's not old at all. Help us to look for your guidance in that precious book. Make us aware of how precious your Word is. Bless those who transport your Word to far off places, to people who haven't been able
to open your word. Thank you, Father, for giving us the source of light and strength, and for giving us the opportunity to uncover the jewels waiting
to be discovered in your holy pages. In Jesus' name, Amen.
I am going to be 65 this week so as an homage to that monumental day in my life I am going to take a time out from my Thankful list and I am going to do this list~ you will see if I have been paying attention to life.
65 THINGS I HAVE LEARNED {part one}
1- Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day also the easiest to serve to guests.
Have a brunch instead of a dinner.
2- Knowing a lot of people can be fun, but having a few good friends has been one of the most wonderful things in my life.
3-Getting up early can be just as fun as staying up late.
4- Learn to appreciate your own company.
5-Having a little savings account is a good feeling.
6-You can lock the door against a thief but you can't lock out a liar.
7-Often people won't understand you but it's really OK.
8-Not everything about getting older is enjoyable, but it's better than dying before you've accomplished everything you want to.
9-Always keep a few eggs on hand. You will be able to cook many things at the last minute
10-Saving all your meat and vegetable scraps and making homemade stock is a good habit to acquire.
11-People who are great cooks, rarely get invited to people's houses for dinner (unless they're lucky enough to have friends who are also great cooks.)
12- When you lose weight, it's a good idea to get rid of all the clothes in the larger size you don't want to return to.
13-Most people don't really notice whether or not your fingernails are done or what you are wearing
14-Your best friends are the ones who'll tell you what you need to know but can't see because you're too close to the situation.
15-Never wear underwear that hurts
16-You'll never get fat by drinking too much water or eating too many carrots.
17-Most any vegetable tastes great if it's tossed with a bit of olive oil, some herbs, and roasted at high heat.
18-Don't buy large tomatoes from the store as they are rarely taste good. Buy cherry or grape tomatoes instead.
19-Doing for others serves two purposes. It helps the other person and it really makes you feel good
20-Shoes that aren't comfortable are never a good purchase, even when they're on sale.
~~~~~~more next time~~~~~~~~~~
FOOD:
Here is another way to use up leftover turkey Or pick up a rotisserie chicken and already chopped onions and make a really quick meal
anytime.
VERY QUICK AND VERY EASY MEXICAN STEW
1 cup diced onion 1
-2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups cooked poultry meat diced
1 (1 1/4 ounce) pkg. taco seasoning mix
2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can black or kidney beans, drained
1 (8 3/4 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
Cook onion and garlic in oil in large saucepan until tender. Add cooked chicken, taco seasoning, tomatoes, beans, corn and chilies. Blend broth
and cornstarch; add to saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes; stirring occasionally. Serve with cornbread for a hearty meal.
FUN:
Make your own Evolution of Dance Video
http://www.peoplejam.com/eod/
Friday, December 26, 2008
Grace and Truth
FAITH:
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14
It’s a grandfather’s prerogative to tease his grandkids a little bit, right? So when one of my young grandkids is first learning math, I quiz him about his newfound knowledge. “Do you know about math yet?” I ask.
“Sure, Papa, I know math.”
“Well then, what’s two plus two?”
Beaming up at me, he quickly and proudly replies, “It’s four!”
“Oh, that’s where you’re wrong. Two plus two is 22. You take one two, put it next to the other two, and you have 22. And,” I continued, “one plus one equals eleven. Three plus three is 33. Don’t you know that? Who’s teaching you math?”
Invariably, eyes roll, and I hear, “Oh, Papa, you’re wrong—2+2 is four!”
“Are you sure?” I say.
“Yes, I’m sure!” is the confident reply.
Thankfully, my grandkids are getting a good handle on the fact that truth can’t be played with. Even though I’m older, an authority figure, and a loved one, they are ready to challenge me if I don’t have the facts straight. The truth stands, and they can quickly spot (and point out) the error of my “logic.”
As Christ’s followers, we need to get a better handle on that reality. You don’t play around with truth. In fact, as John is telling us about Jesus, he assures us that we know that Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14).
People don’t have much trouble with the grace part. Of course God’s grace is amazing, unlimited, lavish, and actively demonstrated in the death of
Jesus on the cross. He forgives sins, restores lives, and pours out countless blessings that are neither deserved nor expected. No arguments about His grace.
But when we hit the “truth” part, the world walks out in protest. Truth, in so many minds, is a pliable commodity, so flexible that you can have
“your truth” and I can have “my truth,” even if they are completely contradictory. Illogically, in the world’s eyes, every claim can be equally
valid and, in fact, we are quickly written off as intolerant if we point out the wrongheadedness and false thinking of a worldview that does not line up with God’s Word.
John reminds us that Jesus came not only to demonstrate God’s unlimited grace but also His absolute truth. Jesus claimed to be the Way, the Truth, and the Life—the only way, in fact, to the Father. He told the crowd gathered at the temple that He and the Father were one. His truth claims can be rejected or received, with eternal consequences, but they cannot be
altered or spun to a more politically correct alternative. They do not sync with false worldviews and are not simply one option among many.
So, the question for you and for me is: “Are we playing around with truth?” We wouldn’t be among the first to bend the words of Jesus to fit our own dreams and misplaced desires. And, I should ask, are we able to spot false
truth claims and erroneous thinking as quickly as my grandkids spotted my flawed mathematical theorems? And, just as importantly, are we willing to speak out for the truth, graciously yet firmly exposing error for what it is? We can and should be agents of the grace of Christ. But let’s remember the rest of the verse and be agents of His truth as well.
It would be really great if 2+2 could be 22 when I am balancing my checkbook, but it is still and always will be four. The truth is the truth and that never changes. Thank God that He has given us truth to keep the balance of the checkbook of our lives in good order.
How have you responded to the claims of Christ?
Have you embraced Him as the Way, the Truth, and the Life?
Read Acts 4:12 to see Peter’s affirmation of Christ’s exclusive claims.
In what ways is the world trying to play around with the truth? How do many people view God’s Word and the truths found in it?
How can you be an agent of God’s grace and His truth this week?
by Joe Stowell
FRIENDS:
Father, I pray that when I leave this earth that I will leave behind a life that points to you. Help me to live as if today were my last, because we do not know what this day will bring. I pray that I will be more kind and loving to others. Thank you for blessing me and loving me. Please give me strength this day. May you be glorified and our families be blessed. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR:
I have been sick in bed for several days so have not done anything but sleep or be on my lap top in bed.
I am thankful for the moments that I feel better. I will be thankful when my Medicare kicks in after the first of the year so I can get medical
attention besides the doctor at Wal-mart.
So I wlll be thankful for that next week. I am thankful for Ginger Ale.
I am thankful for fake potato soup. This ipretty pathetic, isn't it....sorry!!!!
FOOD:
This not so much of a recipe but a suggestion I received from someone that is a total foodie. Therefore I trust her taste buds. I will try to make a guess as to how much after you read what she said:
Christy made us a soup that was killer! chicken stock, torn up rotisserie chicken, two bags of southwestern veggies (corn, green chili, onion,
peppers) AND Velveeta cheese....took about fifteen minutes to make and holy cow was it good! eat it over chili lime chips with grated cheese and cilantro......we have had it three times since coming home!!! not exactly on the lean side either.....but we had a nice salad to balance it out!!! can switch it up with pork, beef and make it more Italian style with tomatoes....good this way too!
My guess would be:
2 cans Chicken stock or home made equivelant of about 4 cups.
She says 2 bags of veggies. If they are the big ones then I would go with the 4 cups of stock
If not, I would do 2 cups or 1 can plus maybe a little bit more.
I would buy one chicken and use part in this and part in something else.
Small box of cheese and about half of that to start. Could add more if you wanted it to be more cheesy. The chips, about a hand- ful and maybe 1/4 c grated cheese and the cilantro definately to taste.
If she says this is good than, trust me, it's good!!!!
FUN:
You can sure tell that I have been house bound. This has gotten so many laughs from all the people I have shared it with.
Here is another long one......from one of my "Biddy" friends from Seattle.
-Got up early.
-6 inches of drifted, windblown snow on the covered deck.
-*Tried to burn the house down. (...I made a big 'FOOMP!!)
-Watched it snow and snow and snow and swirl like a huge blender.
*"FOOMP"
I decided to make a bottom round roast in the crockpot. Got a recipe online that sounded intriguing.
(Brown the roast in butter and oil, pour cognac over it and flame it, douse flames with a mix of Beef stock and red wine, cook 8 hours and shred for sandwiches)....simple.
I ran to the bar and grabbed the cognac while the roast was browning on one side.
Came back.
Had an ever-so-fleeting idea I should grab a large lid in case 'something might go wrong and let the thought die an equally fleeting death.....
Had my cognac....check.
My red wine, stock mixture....check.
The lighter....check.
Dumped the cognac in. Immediately noticed a sickly sweet smell like a Perfume Nazi from Macy's had snuck in the back door. (You know...the ones that accost you and try to get you to spray on a sample?)
Ignored the smell and...............lit the lighter.
Passed it over the pot and....
'FOOMP!!!'
The ball of flame went all the way up to the ceiling and sideways to both walls!! I let out a scream. (Really, I can't scream. It's more like a Tuba that needs tuning.)
My husband came running in as I got under the flame, grabbed a big lid out of the drawer in the stove and threw it on the pot. The flames stopped and as big as that fireball was; there was absolutely no damage anywhere!!!!
I found out 2 things in the moments after the FOOMP:
[1] It wasn't a Perfume Nazi. I had grabbed the Nivan. It's Vanilla Cognac.
[2] Vanilla Cognac seems to have a much, much lower flash point than Courvosier.......
Waited 8 more hours for the roast to cook, shredded it with forks and found out meat with vanilla is weird.... It was 'ok' but not a keeper. I doctored up the rest of it with brown sugar, Ketchup, etc. and made it into BBQ for tomorrow.
Now we know why I built airplanes instead of being a chef.
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14
It’s a grandfather’s prerogative to tease his grandkids a little bit, right? So when one of my young grandkids is first learning math, I quiz him about his newfound knowledge. “Do you know about math yet?” I ask.
“Sure, Papa, I know math.”
“Well then, what’s two plus two?”
Beaming up at me, he quickly and proudly replies, “It’s four!”
“Oh, that’s where you’re wrong. Two plus two is 22. You take one two, put it next to the other two, and you have 22. And,” I continued, “one plus one equals eleven. Three plus three is 33. Don’t you know that? Who’s teaching you math?”
Invariably, eyes roll, and I hear, “Oh, Papa, you’re wrong—2+2 is four!”
“Are you sure?” I say.
“Yes, I’m sure!” is the confident reply.
Thankfully, my grandkids are getting a good handle on the fact that truth can’t be played with. Even though I’m older, an authority figure, and a loved one, they are ready to challenge me if I don’t have the facts straight. The truth stands, and they can quickly spot (and point out) the error of my “logic.”
As Christ’s followers, we need to get a better handle on that reality. You don’t play around with truth. In fact, as John is telling us about Jesus, he assures us that we know that Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14).
People don’t have much trouble with the grace part. Of course God’s grace is amazing, unlimited, lavish, and actively demonstrated in the death of
Jesus on the cross. He forgives sins, restores lives, and pours out countless blessings that are neither deserved nor expected. No arguments about His grace.
But when we hit the “truth” part, the world walks out in protest. Truth, in so many minds, is a pliable commodity, so flexible that you can have
“your truth” and I can have “my truth,” even if they are completely contradictory. Illogically, in the world’s eyes, every claim can be equally
valid and, in fact, we are quickly written off as intolerant if we point out the wrongheadedness and false thinking of a worldview that does not line up with God’s Word.
John reminds us that Jesus came not only to demonstrate God’s unlimited grace but also His absolute truth. Jesus claimed to be the Way, the Truth, and the Life—the only way, in fact, to the Father. He told the crowd gathered at the temple that He and the Father were one. His truth claims can be rejected or received, with eternal consequences, but they cannot be
altered or spun to a more politically correct alternative. They do not sync with false worldviews and are not simply one option among many.
So, the question for you and for me is: “Are we playing around with truth?” We wouldn’t be among the first to bend the words of Jesus to fit our own dreams and misplaced desires. And, I should ask, are we able to spot false
truth claims and erroneous thinking as quickly as my grandkids spotted my flawed mathematical theorems? And, just as importantly, are we willing to speak out for the truth, graciously yet firmly exposing error for what it is? We can and should be agents of the grace of Christ. But let’s remember the rest of the verse and be agents of His truth as well.
It would be really great if 2+2 could be 22 when I am balancing my checkbook, but it is still and always will be four. The truth is the truth and that never changes. Thank God that He has given us truth to keep the balance of the checkbook of our lives in good order.
How have you responded to the claims of Christ?
Have you embraced Him as the Way, the Truth, and the Life?
Read Acts 4:12 to see Peter’s affirmation of Christ’s exclusive claims.
In what ways is the world trying to play around with the truth? How do many people view God’s Word and the truths found in it?
How can you be an agent of God’s grace and His truth this week?
by Joe Stowell
FRIENDS:
Father, I pray that when I leave this earth that I will leave behind a life that points to you. Help me to live as if today were my last, because we do not know what this day will bring. I pray that I will be more kind and loving to others. Thank you for blessing me and loving me. Please give me strength this day. May you be glorified and our families be blessed. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR:
I have been sick in bed for several days so have not done anything but sleep or be on my lap top in bed.
I am thankful for the moments that I feel better. I will be thankful when my Medicare kicks in after the first of the year so I can get medical
attention besides the doctor at Wal-mart.
So I wlll be thankful for that next week. I am thankful for Ginger Ale.
I am thankful for fake potato soup. This ipretty pathetic, isn't it....sorry!!!!
FOOD:
This not so much of a recipe but a suggestion I received from someone that is a total foodie. Therefore I trust her taste buds. I will try to make a guess as to how much after you read what she said:
Christy made us a soup that was killer! chicken stock, torn up rotisserie chicken, two bags of southwestern veggies (corn, green chili, onion,
peppers) AND Velveeta cheese....took about fifteen minutes to make and holy cow was it good! eat it over chili lime chips with grated cheese and cilantro......we have had it three times since coming home!!! not exactly on the lean side either.....but we had a nice salad to balance it out!!! can switch it up with pork, beef and make it more Italian style with tomatoes....good this way too!
My guess would be:
2 cans Chicken stock or home made equivelant of about 4 cups.
She says 2 bags of veggies. If they are the big ones then I would go with the 4 cups of stock
If not, I would do 2 cups or 1 can plus maybe a little bit more.
I would buy one chicken and use part in this and part in something else.
Small box of cheese and about half of that to start. Could add more if you wanted it to be more cheesy. The chips, about a hand- ful and maybe 1/4 c grated cheese and the cilantro definately to taste.
If she says this is good than, trust me, it's good!!!!
FUN:
You can sure tell that I have been house bound. This has gotten so many laughs from all the people I have shared it with.
Here is another long one......from one of my "Biddy" friends from Seattle.
-Got up early.
-6 inches of drifted, windblown snow on the covered deck.
-*Tried to burn the house down. (...I made a big 'FOOMP!!)
-Watched it snow and snow and snow and swirl like a huge blender.
*"FOOMP"
I decided to make a bottom round roast in the crockpot. Got a recipe online that sounded intriguing.
(Brown the roast in butter and oil, pour cognac over it and flame it, douse flames with a mix of Beef stock and red wine, cook 8 hours and shred for sandwiches)....simple.
I ran to the bar and grabbed the cognac while the roast was browning on one side.
Came back.
Had an ever-so-fleeting idea I should grab a large lid in case 'something might go wrong and let the thought die an equally fleeting death.....
Had my cognac....check.
My red wine, stock mixture....check.
The lighter....check.
Dumped the cognac in. Immediately noticed a sickly sweet smell like a Perfume Nazi from Macy's had snuck in the back door. (You know...the ones that accost you and try to get you to spray on a sample?)
Ignored the smell and...............lit the lighter.
Passed it over the pot and....
'FOOMP!!!'
The ball of flame went all the way up to the ceiling and sideways to both walls!! I let out a scream. (Really, I can't scream. It's more like a Tuba that needs tuning.)
My husband came running in as I got under the flame, grabbed a big lid out of the drawer in the stove and threw it on the pot. The flames stopped and as big as that fireball was; there was absolutely no damage anywhere!!!!
I found out 2 things in the moments after the FOOMP:
[1] It wasn't a Perfume Nazi. I had grabbed the Nivan. It's Vanilla Cognac.
[2] Vanilla Cognac seems to have a much, much lower flash point than Courvosier.......
Waited 8 more hours for the roast to cook, shredded it with forks and found out meat with vanilla is weird.... It was 'ok' but not a keeper. I doctored up the rest of it with brown sugar, Ketchup, etc. and made it into BBQ for tomorrow.
Now we know why I built airplanes instead of being a chef.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Part 2 It's Christmas and the Greatest Gift is Here
Do you remember how hard it was, as a child, to wait for Christmas? Our parents told us to be good, as if being good as children was possible. Hopes
and fears raced through our minds as time slowed to a crawl.
Children Waiting
When the king came looking for the couple, he was full of questions? "Why are you hiding? What did you do? Why?"
The couple had excuses. The man blamed the woman. The woman blamed the beast. The beast blamed the king.
The king showed his willingness to forgive, and made some mysterious promises about the future. But life changed that day for the caretakers. They lost their home and life as they had known it. Even though they never saw the beast again, they saw shadows of him everywhere. In a fit of envy, their first son killed his younger brother and then left home trying to
shake the memory of what he had done.
Everything was different now while nothing really changed. Desires to have gave way to the fear of losing. Every new beginning ended up being the
same old story. Pain and loss were always close by. The hope for some thing better turned life into an endless wait. Time flew in the best of times and crawled through the worst.
Through all of the family's trouble, the king remained strangely absent, and present. Eventually he appeared to an old childless couple and
told them he was going to give them a son. He promised that through their family he would offer peace and happiness to the whole world.
The king kept his word. In their old age, the couple became father and mother not only of a son, but of a family that would give birth to another son. This son, according to the king, would be his son, born of a virgin, in the town of Bethlehem. He would be called, "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty
God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." This son would be the solution for every problem, and the answer to every question. He would bring peace on earth and good will to all.
The children of the family, however, found that waiting for the birth of this new baby was hard. And trying to be good was impossible. Even though the king gave them a homeland at the crossroads of the world, and even though he introduced them to their neighbors as a miracle family, their inability to wait for "the gift" tested his patience, until the king stopped talking.
Let's Pause and Reflect:
Do you agree that the king's story is our story, that one of the things it shows is how hard it is for his children to wait, and how impossible it is for
them to be really good?
Sometimes the best thing about Christmas is the anticipation. When the day actually comes, it passes all too quickly … often leaving warm
memories mingled with unrealized hopes and let down.
The real Christmas story follows a similar pattern…
Finally Here!
After 400 long years, the silence was broken by unkind rumors and the cry of a baby. Local shepherds and wise men from the East took turns worshiping the child whose birthplace was predicted by a prophet, announced by angels, and marked by a mysterious star in the sky.
But the day passed quickly, followed by a threat on the the child's life, a quick trip out of the country, and then a return to obscurity.
Thirty years later, the son of promise turned water to wine at a wedding party and then traveled from town to town doing good and giving hope to the poorest and most troubled of people. Crowds of excited people followed him until religious leaders became envious of His influence. Instead of using His power to overthrow His enemies, the teacher said He
had come to die.
In a stunning turn of events, family leaders spread false rumors about the teacher. They accused him of trying to overthrow the government and called for his death. On a holiday that celebrated their national freedom, an angry mob unknowingly subjected the king they had been waiting for to
a public execution.
No words could express what was happening in the heart of the king's mother as she collapsed in the arms of another son. But as she gasped
and groaned, she heard once again the voice of an old prophet who had said at her child's temple dedication, "This child will be rejected by many in
Israel, and it will be their undoing. But he will be the greatest joy to many others. Thus, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul."
Let's Pause and Reflect:
Would you agree that the emotions that often change so dramatically between Christmas morning… and evening… are a picture of our own journey of faith?
The joy of the received gift of God is followed by emotional let down and trouble…
Trouble comes with the promise that the best is yet to come…
A passing day has been replaced with the anticipation of unending joy…
Who hasn't been frustrated trying to find the perfect Christmas gift?
So why bother? Probably for any number of reasons… none of which is more important than giving out of a heart that is once again being
warmed by the true meaning of the Christmas story.
The Gifts of the King
For 3 days the king's family and friends were afraid and confused. Then on the first day of a new week, several of them found his grave empty. Within a few hours one of the women reported seeing him alive and well in the garden where he had been buried.
For the next 40 days the king appeared, and then reappeared, so repeatedly and convincingly that the same friends who had run for their lives at his arrest showed a willingness to die for their report that he was alive.
Now, the whole story could be told. To share his immortality and happiness, the king of creation had used his infinite power and eternal love to buy the perfect gift for anyone who would trust him. At his own expense, the price of which was understood only by himself, he bought us gifts infinitely and eternally greater than all of the gold, frankincense, and myrrh given to him at his birth.
Then in a final meeting, on a hill overlooking the city that had rejected him, the king told his friends to wait until he sent them an invisible companion who would remain with them until his return. In his temporary absence, this unseen presence would give them everything they needed to tell everyone who would listen where to find the gifts the king had bought and hidden…
The king's secret was that the most perfect of all gifts was waiting for the asking at the foot of a barren tree, so ugly, and so empty, no one would
naturally think to look there… unless they were told.
Then he left them with one more final act of inexpressible wonder…
The Gospel writer John later retold the king's story saying, "In the beginning was the Word… and the Word was God… and the Word was made flesh and lived among us… and we saw his glory full of grace and truth… and of his fullness we have all received… for the law came through Moses… but grace and truth came through Jesus, the Messiah King"
(John 1:1-17)* by Mart DeHann
GRACE AND TRUTH....what a gift!!!!!!
FATHER, we thank you for caring so much for us that you sent your son for our sakes. Be with all of us this day as we honor and celebrate you.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!
*1 In the beginning there was the Word. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning.3 All things were made by him, and nothing was made without him.4 In him there was life, and that life was the light of all people. 5 The Light shines in the darkness,and the darkness has not overpowered it. 6 There was a man named John who was sent by God.7 He came to tell people the truth about the Light so that through him all people could hear about the Light and believe.8 John was not the Light, but he came to tell people the truth about the Light.9 The true Light that gives light to all was coming into the world! 10 The Word was in the world, and the world was made by him, but the world did not know him.11 He came to the world that was his own, but his own people did not accept him. 12 But to all who did accept him and believe in him he gave the right to become children of God.13 They did not become me his children in any human way—by any human parents or human desire. They were born of God. 14 The Word became a human and lived among us. We saw his glory—the glory that belongs to the only Son of the Father—and he was full of grace and truth.15 John tells the truthabout him and cries out, saying, "This is the One I told you about: 'The One who comes after me is greater than I am, because he was living before me.' "16 Because he was full of grace and truth, from him we all received one gift after another.17 The law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. But God the only Son is very close to the Father, and he has shown us what God is like.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Part 1-The Christmas Story told from a different perspective
FAITH:
All over the world the story is being told. Around a campfire on the African Savannah, under the star filled skies of the Australian Outback, in the store
fronts and meeting halls of Asian and American cities, gravely voices rise and fall with emotion, telling the oldest of stories, phrase by phrase, once again…as if for the first time…
In the Beginning
Long ago, before shepherds watched over their sheep by night, and even before there was a star in the sky, a great king asked for silence.
Then the king spoke and the universe exploded into existence. He said,"Let there be light," and the darkness ran from him. By the power of his words he created high mountains and deep valleys. With endless imagination and attention to detail, the king filled the land, waters, and sky with living
creatures of every shape, color, and size.
Then, as evil eyes watched from a distance, the king reached down, picked up a handful of the earth he had made, and breathed into it his own likeness.Then the great one motioned to a surrounding paradise and said to his likeness, "All of this I am entrusting to you. Care for the land, and
it will care for you."
For a while the new caretaker was too absorbed in his work to recognize the emptiness within. The king,however, knew that it was not good for the
man to be alone. So he put his likeness to sleep, and from the package the king had used to protect the man's heart, he made a helper and a friend.
One of the gifts the king gave the couple was something they never would have thought to ask for. He hid it in two trees that he planted in the very
center of the garden. One he called the "tree of life" and the other, "the tree of the knowledge of good and evil." Pointing to one of them, the king said, "Eat from anything in the garden except this. If you eat from this one you will die."
Sharing the king's happiness, but not understanding the riddle of the forbidden fruit, the couple's days were filled with surprise, laughter, and growing wonder.
Pause and reflect: This is only the beginning of the unfolding drama that would eventually send heralding angels to the Shepherd's Fields of
Bethlehem. Long before wise men from the East made their way to worship the newly born king of the Jewish people, the first chapters of
Genesis describe the wonder of the One who,
1. Makes something out of nothing.
2. Speaks light into darkness.
3. Brings order out of chaos.
4. Breathes his own likeness into a handful of dirt.
5. Fills loneliness with friendship?
6. Gives meaning to everything?
7. Gives life to those who haven't earned it?
One of the ironies of a modern Christmas is that gifts around a tree are at the center of our celebration of an ancient story… a story that begins
and ends with a tree-centered gift of immortality (Genesis 1-3; Revelation 22:1-3)
Freedom to Choose
Hiding in the shadows, a rebel watched the caretakers and envied their happiness. In the innocence of another time and place, he too had known the king's favor.
Disguising himself as a beast of paradise, the rebel surprised the woman first by speaking, and then by claiming to know the answer to the riddle
of the trees.
Why was one tree off limits? According to the most streetwise of creatures, the king was holding out on them. There were secrets he didn't want the couple to know.
A fatal mix of freedom, curiosity, and distrust got the best of the couple. Tasting the forbidden fruit was like taking a mind-altering drug. In the
rush of lost innocence, the caretakers suddenly felt afraid and vulnerable. Grabbing leaves to cover themselves, they ran to hide from the king.
(Pause here for a moment and answer this)
Do you agree that there is irony in the way this Christmas story begins and ends with trees?
1. One for life.
2. One for death
3. Two for freedom of choice.
4. Who could have imagined that someday we would put up a tree… to celebrate the birth of a king… who died on a tree… to pay for our life… and our freedom of choice.
5. Is it possible that it is no accident or coincidence that the king whose birth we celebrate on Christmas died on a tree? Does his death on a tree show that he himself was willing to pay the ultimate price…for the gifts of life and freedom he didn't just give us…but bought for us? by Mart DeHann
FRIENDS:
Blessed Lord and God, we come to you, aware that you have pierced our world. You became flesh, you dwelled among us, you saw us in our fallen state, you reached in and pulled us out. You offered us salvation, you offered us mercy. And we are ever thankful. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR:
1. Friends who are so comfortable with us they tell us "I need your help"
2. Jen, the sweet receptionist from my building
3. People with a sense of humor
4. Knowing where I will be going for my next life
5. Finding a clean pair of jeans after all
6. My son's generosity towards me
7. Having a safe place to share my heart
8. Christmas cookies
9. Phone call saying, "remember, I love you"
10. The medicine I take to keep me well. Where would I be with out it?
FOOD:
Perfect Molasses Cookie Mix
6 c flour
3 c sugar
1 T baking soda
1 T baking powder
1 T ground ginger
1 T ground cinnamon
1 t ground nutmeg
3/4 t ground cloves
1/2 t ground allspice
Mix the above dry ingredients in a very large bowl with a wood spoon or wire whisk. When completely mixed divide the mixture evenly into 3 large ziplock
baggies with 3 cups of the mix in each. Make one ziplock at a time.
When you are ready to make cookies;
Add;
3/4 c soft butter (real), 1 egg, 1/4 c molasses to each 3 cup dry mix in your ziploc. Roll into 1 inch balls and roll in plain white granulated sugar. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake at 375 for 10 minutes until the edge is firm and the top is
cracked. Cool on the pan for 1 minute before moving to wire racks.
FUN:
A 4-year-old boy was asked to give the meal blessing before Christmas dinner. The family members bowed their heads in expectation.
He began his prayer, thanking God for all his friends, naming them one by one. Then he thanked God for Mommy, Daddy, brother, sister, Grandma, Grandpa, and all his aunts and uncles. Then he began to thank God for
the food. He gave thanks for the turkey, the dressing, the fruit salad, the cranberry sauce, the pies, the cakes, even the Cool Whip.
Then he paused, and everyone waited, and waited. After a long silence, the young fellow looked up at his mother and asked, "If I thank God for the
broccoli, won't he know that I'm lying?"
All over the world the story is being told. Around a campfire on the African Savannah, under the star filled skies of the Australian Outback, in the store
fronts and meeting halls of Asian and American cities, gravely voices rise and fall with emotion, telling the oldest of stories, phrase by phrase, once again…as if for the first time…
In the Beginning
Long ago, before shepherds watched over their sheep by night, and even before there was a star in the sky, a great king asked for silence.
Then the king spoke and the universe exploded into existence. He said,"Let there be light," and the darkness ran from him. By the power of his words he created high mountains and deep valleys. With endless imagination and attention to detail, the king filled the land, waters, and sky with living
creatures of every shape, color, and size.
Then, as evil eyes watched from a distance, the king reached down, picked up a handful of the earth he had made, and breathed into it his own likeness.Then the great one motioned to a surrounding paradise and said to his likeness, "All of this I am entrusting to you. Care for the land, and
it will care for you."
For a while the new caretaker was too absorbed in his work to recognize the emptiness within. The king,however, knew that it was not good for the
man to be alone. So he put his likeness to sleep, and from the package the king had used to protect the man's heart, he made a helper and a friend.
One of the gifts the king gave the couple was something they never would have thought to ask for. He hid it in two trees that he planted in the very
center of the garden. One he called the "tree of life" and the other, "the tree of the knowledge of good and evil." Pointing to one of them, the king said, "Eat from anything in the garden except this. If you eat from this one you will die."
Sharing the king's happiness, but not understanding the riddle of the forbidden fruit, the couple's days were filled with surprise, laughter, and growing wonder.
Pause and reflect: This is only the beginning of the unfolding drama that would eventually send heralding angels to the Shepherd's Fields of
Bethlehem. Long before wise men from the East made their way to worship the newly born king of the Jewish people, the first chapters of
Genesis describe the wonder of the One who,
1. Makes something out of nothing.
2. Speaks light into darkness.
3. Brings order out of chaos.
4. Breathes his own likeness into a handful of dirt.
5. Fills loneliness with friendship?
6. Gives meaning to everything?
7. Gives life to those who haven't earned it?
One of the ironies of a modern Christmas is that gifts around a tree are at the center of our celebration of an ancient story… a story that begins
and ends with a tree-centered gift of immortality (Genesis 1-3; Revelation 22:1-3)
Freedom to Choose
Hiding in the shadows, a rebel watched the caretakers and envied their happiness. In the innocence of another time and place, he too had known the king's favor.
Disguising himself as a beast of paradise, the rebel surprised the woman first by speaking, and then by claiming to know the answer to the riddle
of the trees.
Why was one tree off limits? According to the most streetwise of creatures, the king was holding out on them. There were secrets he didn't want the couple to know.
A fatal mix of freedom, curiosity, and distrust got the best of the couple. Tasting the forbidden fruit was like taking a mind-altering drug. In the
rush of lost innocence, the caretakers suddenly felt afraid and vulnerable. Grabbing leaves to cover themselves, they ran to hide from the king.
(Pause here for a moment and answer this)
Do you agree that there is irony in the way this Christmas story begins and ends with trees?
1. One for life.
2. One for death
3. Two for freedom of choice.
4. Who could have imagined that someday we would put up a tree… to celebrate the birth of a king… who died on a tree… to pay for our life… and our freedom of choice.
5. Is it possible that it is no accident or coincidence that the king whose birth we celebrate on Christmas died on a tree? Does his death on a tree show that he himself was willing to pay the ultimate price…for the gifts of life and freedom he didn't just give us…but bought for us? by Mart DeHann
FRIENDS:
Blessed Lord and God, we come to you, aware that you have pierced our world. You became flesh, you dwelled among us, you saw us in our fallen state, you reached in and pulled us out. You offered us salvation, you offered us mercy. And we are ever thankful. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR:
1. Friends who are so comfortable with us they tell us "I need your help"
2. Jen, the sweet receptionist from my building
3. People with a sense of humor
4. Knowing where I will be going for my next life
5. Finding a clean pair of jeans after all
6. My son's generosity towards me
7. Having a safe place to share my heart
8. Christmas cookies
9. Phone call saying, "remember, I love you"
10. The medicine I take to keep me well. Where would I be with out it?
FOOD:
Perfect Molasses Cookie Mix
6 c flour
3 c sugar
1 T baking soda
1 T baking powder
1 T ground ginger
1 T ground cinnamon
1 t ground nutmeg
3/4 t ground cloves
1/2 t ground allspice
Mix the above dry ingredients in a very large bowl with a wood spoon or wire whisk. When completely mixed divide the mixture evenly into 3 large ziplock
baggies with 3 cups of the mix in each. Make one ziplock at a time.
When you are ready to make cookies;
Add;
3/4 c soft butter (real), 1 egg, 1/4 c molasses to each 3 cup dry mix in your ziploc. Roll into 1 inch balls and roll in plain white granulated sugar. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake at 375 for 10 minutes until the edge is firm and the top is
cracked. Cool on the pan for 1 minute before moving to wire racks.
FUN:
A 4-year-old boy was asked to give the meal blessing before Christmas dinner. The family members bowed their heads in expectation.
He began his prayer, thanking God for all his friends, naming them one by one. Then he thanked God for Mommy, Daddy, brother, sister, Grandma, Grandpa, and all his aunts and uncles. Then he began to thank God for
the food. He gave thanks for the turkey, the dressing, the fruit salad, the cranberry sauce, the pies, the cakes, even the Cool Whip.
Then he paused, and everyone waited, and waited. After a long silence, the young fellow looked up at his mother and asked, "If I thank God for the
broccoli, won't he know that I'm lying?"
Saturday, December 20, 2008
On Earth Peace, Goodwill.......
FAITH:
Over the years, the ethnic relatives of Jesus have not been the only ones to ask, “If Yeshua was the Messiah, where is the peace he was supposed to bring? The prophet Isaiah clearly predicted that in the days of the promised King, ‘They will hammer their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, And never again will they learn war’” (Isaiah 2:4).
Yet, the results were quite different when,
Six hundred years later, the Gospel writer Luke tells us that, according to a group of shepherds, “Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:13).
So where is the peace?
Part of the answer seems to be a matter of translation. Without denying that the ultimate expression of Messianic peace will be global and political in scope, the promise of the angels allows for a peace that is a personal, partial, and urgent priority. Versions other than the KJV clarify that the peace the angels announced is to both men and women “with whom God is pleased”, or, “on whom God’s favor rests.”
The peace proclaimed by angels over the Shepherds’ Fields of Bethlehem turned out to be the kind of peace that is learned best in the middle of temporary conflict. It’s the kind of peace that is rooted not in circumstance but in the assurance of God’s forgiveness and favor.
We ourselves have seen how secure and fragile this peace is. As secure as we are in the grace and peace of Christ, we struggle to know how to express and extend that grace and peace to one another. We don’t even have to break into each others’ cars, computers, or houses to do harm. It doesn’t take much honesty, joy, or sorrow to unintentionally ignore or insult the pain of another brother or sister.
Yet, for now, I am quite sure that such imperfect conditions and misunderstandings are what it takes for us to grow in our understanding of the peace the angels were announcing. Only by having to face the failures, unfairness, and inequalities of this broken world can we discover what it means to experience and express a peace that is rooted in our God’s acceptance of us in Christ.
Even though we might wish it otherwise, it is probably true that only by unintentionally hurting and reacting to one another… by what we say and don’t say… can we discover that we cannot on our own make peace with one another, our God, or even ourselves. Only as the Spirit of Christ, himself, is present in the telling our own stories of brokenness, and need, and grace can we learn how to show together that he is our peace, our purpose, our happiness, our hope, and, for now, the ultimate bearer of fears and tears.
Only in the grace of the Son, who came to be our peace in conflict and our wealth in poverty, can we learn to extend to one another the peace, and patience, and good will that we are discovering in him.by Mart DeHann
FRIENDS:
Father, Help us today to maintain our promise of faithfulness to you because we know only through you can we have peace. Especially Lord, when we're not surrounded by people who agree with us and encourage and understand our devotion to you. Give us courage as we face the challenges of each new day. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR:
1. Being able to get along in new situations
2. Someone looking up and being glad you just walked in
3. Bible studies
4. Big warm hugs...people who live alone don't get many of these
5. No snow
6. Free food
7. Being artistic (gift from God)
8. For the zillionth time, my home
9. Making friends out of potential enemies
10. The way God's word sneaks into our heart's and convicts us
FOOD:
Thai Chicken Soup
made in the crock pot
6 thighs or legs, or combination of both
2 cans (16 ounces each) chicken broth
8 carrots, diagonally sliced
1 large onion, chopped
1 piece (2 inches) ginger root, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 stalks lemon grass, cut into 1-inch pieces,
or 1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 can (15 ounces) unsweetened coconut milk
1 medium red or yellow bell pepper, cut into
1/2-inch pieces
2 cans (4 ounces each) straw or button
mushrooms, drained
1-2 tablespoons Thai yellow curry paste
fresh lime wedges
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts
Combine chicken, broth, carrots, onion, ginger root, garlic, lemon grass and crushed red pepper in a slow cooker.
Cover; cook on low-heat setting 6-7 hours or high-heat setting 3 to 3 1/2 hours. If necessary, skim off fat. Remove chicken. When cool enough to handle, shred chicken and return to pot.
Stir in coconut milk, bell pepper, mushrooms, curry paste and cilantro. Cover; let stand 5-10 minutes. Discard lemon grass. Ladle soup into
bowls. Sprinkle peanuts over each serving and serve with fresh lime wedges.
FUN:
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't.
A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change,and she does.
A woman has the last word in any argument.
Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
Over the years, the ethnic relatives of Jesus have not been the only ones to ask, “If Yeshua was the Messiah, where is the peace he was supposed to bring? The prophet Isaiah clearly predicted that in the days of the promised King, ‘They will hammer their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, And never again will they learn war’” (Isaiah 2:4).
Yet, the results were quite different when,
Six hundred years later, the Gospel writer Luke tells us that, according to a group of shepherds, “Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:13).
So where is the peace?
Part of the answer seems to be a matter of translation. Without denying that the ultimate expression of Messianic peace will be global and political in scope, the promise of the angels allows for a peace that is a personal, partial, and urgent priority. Versions other than the KJV clarify that the peace the angels announced is to both men and women “with whom God is pleased”, or, “on whom God’s favor rests.”
The peace proclaimed by angels over the Shepherds’ Fields of Bethlehem turned out to be the kind of peace that is learned best in the middle of temporary conflict. It’s the kind of peace that is rooted not in circumstance but in the assurance of God’s forgiveness and favor.
We ourselves have seen how secure and fragile this peace is. As secure as we are in the grace and peace of Christ, we struggle to know how to express and extend that grace and peace to one another. We don’t even have to break into each others’ cars, computers, or houses to do harm. It doesn’t take much honesty, joy, or sorrow to unintentionally ignore or insult the pain of another brother or sister.
Yet, for now, I am quite sure that such imperfect conditions and misunderstandings are what it takes for us to grow in our understanding of the peace the angels were announcing. Only by having to face the failures, unfairness, and inequalities of this broken world can we discover what it means to experience and express a peace that is rooted in our God’s acceptance of us in Christ.
Even though we might wish it otherwise, it is probably true that only by unintentionally hurting and reacting to one another… by what we say and don’t say… can we discover that we cannot on our own make peace with one another, our God, or even ourselves. Only as the Spirit of Christ, himself, is present in the telling our own stories of brokenness, and need, and grace can we learn how to show together that he is our peace, our purpose, our happiness, our hope, and, for now, the ultimate bearer of fears and tears.
Only in the grace of the Son, who came to be our peace in conflict and our wealth in poverty, can we learn to extend to one another the peace, and patience, and good will that we are discovering in him.by Mart DeHann
FRIENDS:
Father, Help us today to maintain our promise of faithfulness to you because we know only through you can we have peace. Especially Lord, when we're not surrounded by people who agree with us and encourage and understand our devotion to you. Give us courage as we face the challenges of each new day. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR:
1. Being able to get along in new situations
2. Someone looking up and being glad you just walked in
3. Bible studies
4. Big warm hugs...people who live alone don't get many of these
5. No snow
6. Free food
7. Being artistic (gift from God)
8. For the zillionth time, my home
9. Making friends out of potential enemies
10. The way God's word sneaks into our heart's and convicts us
FOOD:
Thai Chicken Soup
made in the crock pot
6 thighs or legs, or combination of both
2 cans (16 ounces each) chicken broth
8 carrots, diagonally sliced
1 large onion, chopped
1 piece (2 inches) ginger root, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 stalks lemon grass, cut into 1-inch pieces,
or 1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 can (15 ounces) unsweetened coconut milk
1 medium red or yellow bell pepper, cut into
1/2-inch pieces
2 cans (4 ounces each) straw or button
mushrooms, drained
1-2 tablespoons Thai yellow curry paste
fresh lime wedges
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts
Combine chicken, broth, carrots, onion, ginger root, garlic, lemon grass and crushed red pepper in a slow cooker.
Cover; cook on low-heat setting 6-7 hours or high-heat setting 3 to 3 1/2 hours. If necessary, skim off fat. Remove chicken. When cool enough to handle, shred chicken and return to pot.
Stir in coconut milk, bell pepper, mushrooms, curry paste and cilantro. Cover; let stand 5-10 minutes. Discard lemon grass. Ladle soup into
bowls. Sprinkle peanuts over each serving and serve with fresh lime wedges.
FUN:
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't.
A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change,and she does.
A woman has the last word in any argument.
Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Love for the World
FAITH:
2 Timothy 4:9-18
"The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen."
2 Timothy 4:18
It was a cold December morning. Dressed in a white execution gown, he was led to the wall of the prison courtyard with the others. Blindfolded, he waited for the last sound he would hear: the crack of a pistol echoing off the prison walls. Instead, he heard fast-paced footsteps, then the announcement that the czar had commuted his sentence to 10 years of hard labor.
So intense was that moment that he suffered an epileptic seizure—a malady he would suffer the rest of his life.
Fyodor Dostoevsky was sent to prison, where he had only a New Testament to read. In it he discovered something more compelling than his socialistic ideals. He met Jesus, and his heart was changed. Upon leaving prison, he wrote to a friend that the Lord was so dear to him that if he were to find out that Jesus was not in the realm of truth, he would rather have Jesus than the truth.
Dostoevsky returned to civilian life. He wrote feverishly and produced the novels The House of the Dead and Crime and Punishment, followed by his personal memoirs and many other works.
The sorrowful end of this story is that he never grew as a believer in Jesus. His church attendance was sporadic. He neglected Bible study and the fellowship of other believers. He began to drink heavily, and gambling left him penniless. He had left prison with his heart aflame for Jesus, but he died with nothing more than smoldering embers.
As a writer, Dostoevsky left a legacy that places him among the literary greats. One wonders what impact his life could have had if he had stayed faithful to God. In the words of the great poet John Greenleaf Whittier, "Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these: 'It might have been!'"
Keeping on track for Jesus in good times and in bad is the only way to finish life and face eternity with few regrets. by Joe Stowell
* What things in my life have sidetracked my passion and enthusiasm for Jesus?
* Why is it so hard to stay faithful to Him?
* What will I do differently today to reflect my love for Jesus?
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR
1. People that still find my opinion valuable
2. Being able to make change the old way..no machines
3. New friends
4. A warm home
5. God's wonderful care for my foster Grandson
6. Silence
7. Being able to pay my bills
8. That God brought me to California especially with all
the snow they are having back home.
9. Sitting next to my grandchildren at church
10. Being able to share my pain with a friend
FRIENDS:
Father, When we confront temptation, when we stand face to face with evil, we pray that you would give us strength and that you would use your power to block the path of evil. Thank you for your promise that if we do what is right, eventually truth and justice and goodness will prevail. As we face the dilemmas and options of this tijme, remind us that good does reign supreme. In Jesus' name, Amen
FOOD:
Does anyone make these anymore. I remember them from my
childhood.
Basic No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie
* 1 cup brown sugar
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 1/2 cup cocoa powder
* 3 cup quick cooking oats
* 1/4 cup peanut butter
* 1/2 stick of butter
1. In medium saucepan combine brown sugar, granulated sugar,
cocoa powder, butter, and milk.
2. Stir over medium heat until sugars are dissolved and all
ingredients are well blended.
3. Add vanilla and heat to boiling. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in oats and add peanut butter to mixture.
5. Drop on to wax paper by teaspoon for drop style cookies
or by tablespoon and shape (to look more like cookies).
6. Cool to room temperature (about 45 minutes)
FUN:
Are you flying somewhere this holiday season? Maybe you will hear some of these in the friendly skies...
1. "Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken
clouds, but we'll try to have them fixed before we arrive.
Thank you, and remember, nobody loves you, or your money,
more than Southwest Airlines."
2. "Your seat cushions can be used for flotation, and, in the
event of an emergency water landing, please paddle to shore
and take them with you with our compliments."
3. "As you exit the plane, make sure to gather all of your
belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly
among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children
or spouses."
4. And from the pilot during his welcome message: "Delta
airlines is pleased to have some of the best flight attendants
in the industry. Unfortunately, none of them are on this flight!"
5. Overheard on an American Airlines flight into Amarillo, Texas,
on a particularly windy and bumpy day: During the final approach,
the Captain was really having to fight it. After an extremely hard
landing, the Flight Attendant said, "Ladies and Gentlemen,
welcome to Amarillo. Please remain in your seats with your
seat belts fastened while the Captain taxis what's left of our
airplane to the gate
2 Timothy 4:9-18
"The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen."
2 Timothy 4:18
It was a cold December morning. Dressed in a white execution gown, he was led to the wall of the prison courtyard with the others. Blindfolded, he waited for the last sound he would hear: the crack of a pistol echoing off the prison walls. Instead, he heard fast-paced footsteps, then the announcement that the czar had commuted his sentence to 10 years of hard labor.
So intense was that moment that he suffered an epileptic seizure—a malady he would suffer the rest of his life.
Fyodor Dostoevsky was sent to prison, where he had only a New Testament to read. In it he discovered something more compelling than his socialistic ideals. He met Jesus, and his heart was changed. Upon leaving prison, he wrote to a friend that the Lord was so dear to him that if he were to find out that Jesus was not in the realm of truth, he would rather have Jesus than the truth.
Dostoevsky returned to civilian life. He wrote feverishly and produced the novels The House of the Dead and Crime and Punishment, followed by his personal memoirs and many other works.
The sorrowful end of this story is that he never grew as a believer in Jesus. His church attendance was sporadic. He neglected Bible study and the fellowship of other believers. He began to drink heavily, and gambling left him penniless. He had left prison with his heart aflame for Jesus, but he died with nothing more than smoldering embers.
As a writer, Dostoevsky left a legacy that places him among the literary greats. One wonders what impact his life could have had if he had stayed faithful to God. In the words of the great poet John Greenleaf Whittier, "Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these: 'It might have been!'"
Keeping on track for Jesus in good times and in bad is the only way to finish life and face eternity with few regrets. by Joe Stowell
* What things in my life have sidetracked my passion and enthusiasm for Jesus?
* Why is it so hard to stay faithful to Him?
* What will I do differently today to reflect my love for Jesus?
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR
1. People that still find my opinion valuable
2. Being able to make change the old way..no machines
3. New friends
4. A warm home
5. God's wonderful care for my foster Grandson
6. Silence
7. Being able to pay my bills
8. That God brought me to California especially with all
the snow they are having back home.
9. Sitting next to my grandchildren at church
10. Being able to share my pain with a friend
FRIENDS:
Father, When we confront temptation, when we stand face to face with evil, we pray that you would give us strength and that you would use your power to block the path of evil. Thank you for your promise that if we do what is right, eventually truth and justice and goodness will prevail. As we face the dilemmas and options of this tijme, remind us that good does reign supreme. In Jesus' name, Amen
FOOD:
Does anyone make these anymore. I remember them from my
childhood.
Basic No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie
* 1 cup brown sugar
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 1/2 cup cocoa powder
* 3 cup quick cooking oats
* 1/4 cup peanut butter
* 1/2 stick of butter
1. In medium saucepan combine brown sugar, granulated sugar,
cocoa powder, butter, and milk.
2. Stir over medium heat until sugars are dissolved and all
ingredients are well blended.
3. Add vanilla and heat to boiling. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in oats and add peanut butter to mixture.
5. Drop on to wax paper by teaspoon for drop style cookies
or by tablespoon and shape (to look more like cookies).
6. Cool to room temperature (about 45 minutes)
FUN:
Are you flying somewhere this holiday season? Maybe you will hear some of these in the friendly skies...
1. "Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken
clouds, but we'll try to have them fixed before we arrive.
Thank you, and remember, nobody loves you, or your money,
more than Southwest Airlines."
2. "Your seat cushions can be used for flotation, and, in the
event of an emergency water landing, please paddle to shore
and take them with you with our compliments."
3. "As you exit the plane, make sure to gather all of your
belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly
among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children
or spouses."
4. And from the pilot during his welcome message: "Delta
airlines is pleased to have some of the best flight attendants
in the industry. Unfortunately, none of them are on this flight!"
5. Overheard on an American Airlines flight into Amarillo, Texas,
on a particularly windy and bumpy day: During the final approach,
the Captain was really having to fight it. After an extremely hard
landing, the Flight Attendant said, "Ladies and Gentlemen,
welcome to Amarillo. Please remain in your seats with your
seat belts fastened while the Captain taxis what's left of our
airplane to the gate
Monday, December 15, 2008
Burn Through Prayer
FAITH:
Nehemiah 1:1-2:20
Nehemiah, a Jew displaced by the Babylonian captivity, served in the king's court. When he heard of the decrepit condition of the gates and walls of Jerusalem, he wept and asked the king to send him to rebuild the walls.
When Nehemiah heard bad news, he prayed. After praying, he developed a plan.
Nehemiah 1 is a blend of prayer and action....Why is prayer so important? Here are the four shortest reasons I know.
...Prayer forces me to leave the situation with God; it makes me wait.
Secondly, prayer clears my vision.... When you first face a situation, is it foggy? Prayer will "burn through". Your vision will clear so you can see through God's eyes.
Thirdly, prayer quiets my heart. I cannot worry and pray at the same time....
Fourthly, prayer activates my faith. After praying, I am more prone to trust God....Prayer sets faith on fire.
Don't just fill the margins of your Bible with words and thoughts about ways a leader prays. Do it!....Pray! Prayer was the first major step Nehemiah took in his journey to effective leadership....
...The Lord is the Specialist we need for those uncrossable and impossible experiences. He delights in accomplishing what we cannot pull off. But He awaits our cry. He listens for our request. by Charles Swindoll
Applying it: What was your first response to an unexpected medical bill, a car breakdown, or a layoff at work? Did you respond in anger, by worrying and complaining, or did you first go to God and ask for his help and guidance through the hardship?
Exploring it: Prayer during difficult times--1 Samuel 7:7-9; 1 Kings 17:17-24; Psalm 34:4-7; 61:1-2; 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
FAMILY:
Father, We know that the real reason for prayer is first to Praise you, to give you honor and glorify your name. You are truly the King and you have saved your people when we could not save ourselves. We often forget to pray when life's troubles hit us unexpectedly and for this we ask your forgiveness. Even more we ask you to forgive us when we forget to Praise you. We thank you now and worship you and glorify your name forever and ever. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR
1. Good preaching
2. Friends who say, "please come, I need you" (being needed)
3. Party invitations (being included)
4. A smile of welcome from a child
5. Memories of those who are gone
6. A really good sandwich
7. Sunshine after the rain
8. Having the heart to give (does more for the giver)
9. Hope that comes from Christ
10. Shared laughter
FOOD:
Easy Meatballs
* 1 16-ounce can Ocean Spray(R) Jellied Cranberry Sauce
* 1 12-ounce bottle Heinz(R) Chili Sauce
* 1 2-pound bag frozen, pre-cooked, cocktail-size meatballs
Directions
Combine sauces in a large saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat,
stirring until smooth. Add meatballs. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or
until meatballs are heated through, stirring occasionally.
Makes 30 appetizer servings.
Slow cooker Preparation: Place meatballs in a slow cooker. Combine
sauces and pour over meatballs. Cover and cook 4 hours on HIGH.
FUN:
Friday, December 12, 2008
Where is your citizenship?
FAITH:
Isaiah 65:1-66:24
God answered the prayers of his people. Those who remained faithful would receive life, joy, and peace beyond imagination. The disobedient would receive judgment and death.
God cannot overlook sin, and he will punish it; but the faithful will know the eternal blessings of God's new kingdom.
While the kingdom is full of righteousness, peace and joy, it isn't a physical, tangible thing. It isn't something we touch or see....
Furthermore, this kingdom isn't verbal, something we can actually hear with our ears, even though it is powerful....
It that isn't mysterious enough, I should add that while it is unshakable, it isn't visible either!
....How about that! We're supposed to seek something we cannot feel, or hear. And we're expected to embrace something that is intangible, inaudible, and invisible.
....God's kingdom is a synonym for God's rule. Those who choose to live in His kingdom (though still very much alive on Planet Earth) choose to live under His authority.
Maybe a super-simple outline of the Bible will help us understand the definition of God's kingdom even better. But first let me warn you--it's so basic you'll probably sneer!
l. God creates the heavens and earth and all things in them, including mankind. That's Genesis 1 and 2.
ll. Mankind, alone, rebels against God's authority. That's covered in Genesis 3.
lll. God moves through history to reestablish His authority over all creation. That's Genesis 4 through Revelation 22.
....And if you are wondering where you and I fit into this outline, take a look at category three. For centuries God has been at work reestablishing His rulership...
All this leads me to some helpful news, some bad news, and some good news! The kingdom is the invisible realm where God rules as supreme authority. That's helpful news. The bad news is the we, by nature, don't want Him to rule over us; we much prefer to please ourselves. We;d much rather serve mammon (the word means "money") than the Master....More bad news is this; Most people do serve mammon. Just look around. Who's in charge, God or mammon? What's happening? The mediocre majority have bought into a mammon lifestyle.
Now, the good news. We don't have to live that way. God has given us an avenue of escape. It's called a birth from above .... Not until we experience a spiritual rebirth will we submit to God's rule.
So when I write of God's kingdom, I'm referring to His right-authority over our lives. Only then can we experience true excellence. by Charles Swindoll
Applying it: Become a citizen in God's kingdom today by trusting in Jesus. Reserve your place in his new creation by making him Lord of your life. You can have permanent hope and eternal life! There is no better way to live than by following him.
Exploring it: Kingdom of God--Matthew 5:3-12; Luke 4:43; 9:2; John 3:3; Acts 1:3; 1 Corinthians 1:2
FRIENDS:
Father, You've given us such a great promise, the promise of salvation. Forgive us, Father, when we sometimes put more hope in the things of this earth than in the incredible promises of your heaven. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR
1. Having a God who knows what I need and providing it.
2. Laughter with a friend
3. The reassurance that God has a plan for me
4. Sunshiny days (recurring theme with me)
5. Not being charged a late fee when I forgot to pay my rent on time (oops)
6. Being able to cook nutritious meals
7. The laughter of a little child
8. People who care about me and let me know they do
9. God's grace concerning my health
10. The ability to stay connected with my friends afar via the Internet
FOOD:
Brown Sugar Shortbread
From Every Day With Rachael Ray
Makes 16 cookies
1 c. flour
1 stick (4-oz.) unsalted butter
1/3 c. brown sugar
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using an electric mixer, combine the flour, butter and sugar. Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch square baking pan. Bake until golden around the edges, 18 to 20 minutes.
2. Let the shortbread cool slightly in the pan, then cut into 16 squares and transfer to a rack to cool completely.
FUN:
People are always asking couples whose marriages have endured at least a quarter of a century for their secret for success. Actually, it is no secret at all. I am a forgiving woman. Long ago, I forgave my husband for not being Paul Newman. --Erma Bombeck
Isaiah 65:1-66:24
God answered the prayers of his people. Those who remained faithful would receive life, joy, and peace beyond imagination. The disobedient would receive judgment and death.
God cannot overlook sin, and he will punish it; but the faithful will know the eternal blessings of God's new kingdom.
While the kingdom is full of righteousness, peace and joy, it isn't a physical, tangible thing. It isn't something we touch or see....
Furthermore, this kingdom isn't verbal, something we can actually hear with our ears, even though it is powerful....
It that isn't mysterious enough, I should add that while it is unshakable, it isn't visible either!
....How about that! We're supposed to seek something we cannot feel, or hear. And we're expected to embrace something that is intangible, inaudible, and invisible.
....God's kingdom is a synonym for God's rule. Those who choose to live in His kingdom (though still very much alive on Planet Earth) choose to live under His authority.
Maybe a super-simple outline of the Bible will help us understand the definition of God's kingdom even better. But first let me warn you--it's so basic you'll probably sneer!
l. God creates the heavens and earth and all things in them, including mankind. That's Genesis 1 and 2.
ll. Mankind, alone, rebels against God's authority. That's covered in Genesis 3.
lll. God moves through history to reestablish His authority over all creation. That's Genesis 4 through Revelation 22.
....And if you are wondering where you and I fit into this outline, take a look at category three. For centuries God has been at work reestablishing His rulership...
All this leads me to some helpful news, some bad news, and some good news! The kingdom is the invisible realm where God rules as supreme authority. That's helpful news. The bad news is the we, by nature, don't want Him to rule over us; we much prefer to please ourselves. We;d much rather serve mammon (the word means "money") than the Master....More bad news is this; Most people do serve mammon. Just look around. Who's in charge, God or mammon? What's happening? The mediocre majority have bought into a mammon lifestyle.
Now, the good news. We don't have to live that way. God has given us an avenue of escape. It's called a birth from above .... Not until we experience a spiritual rebirth will we submit to God's rule.
So when I write of God's kingdom, I'm referring to His right-authority over our lives. Only then can we experience true excellence. by Charles Swindoll
Applying it: Become a citizen in God's kingdom today by trusting in Jesus. Reserve your place in his new creation by making him Lord of your life. You can have permanent hope and eternal life! There is no better way to live than by following him.
Exploring it: Kingdom of God--Matthew 5:3-12; Luke 4:43; 9:2; John 3:3; Acts 1:3; 1 Corinthians 1:2
FRIENDS:
Father, You've given us such a great promise, the promise of salvation. Forgive us, Father, when we sometimes put more hope in the things of this earth than in the incredible promises of your heaven. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR
1. Having a God who knows what I need and providing it.
2. Laughter with a friend
3. The reassurance that God has a plan for me
4. Sunshiny days (recurring theme with me)
5. Not being charged a late fee when I forgot to pay my rent on time (oops)
6. Being able to cook nutritious meals
7. The laughter of a little child
8. People who care about me and let me know they do
9. God's grace concerning my health
10. The ability to stay connected with my friends afar via the Internet
FOOD:
Brown Sugar Shortbread
From Every Day With Rachael Ray
Makes 16 cookies
1 c. flour
1 stick (4-oz.) unsalted butter
1/3 c. brown sugar
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using an electric mixer, combine the flour, butter and sugar. Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch square baking pan. Bake until golden around the edges, 18 to 20 minutes.
2. Let the shortbread cool slightly in the pan, then cut into 16 squares and transfer to a rack to cool completely.
FUN:
People are always asking couples whose marriages have endured at least a quarter of a century for their secret for success. Actually, it is no secret at all. I am a forgiving woman. Long ago, I forgave my husband for not being Paul Newman. --Erma Bombeck
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
How's your furnace?
FAITH:
Psalms 116:1-117:2
After a close call with death, this unknown psalmist thanked God for answering his prayers and praised God for his deliverance.
Praise should be the natural result of answered prayer.
Worshiping in spirit is the opposite of worshiping in merely external ways. It is the opposite of empty formalism and traditionalism.
Worshiping in truth is the opposite of worship based on an inadequate view of God. Worship must have heart and head. Worship must engage emotions and thought.
Truth without emotion produces dead orthodoxy and a church full (or half-full) of artificial admirers,like people who write generic anniversary cards for a living. On the other hand, emotion with our truth produces empty frenzy and cultivates shallow people who refuse the discipline of rigorous thought. But true worship comes from people who are deeply emotional and who love deep and sound doctrine. Strong affections for
God rooted in truth are the bone and marrow of biblical worship.
Perhaps we can tie things together with this picture: The fuel of worship is the truth of God, the furnace of worship is the spirit of man and the hear of worship is the vital affections of reverence, contrition, trust, gratitude, and joy.
But there is something missing from this picture. There is furnace, fuel and heat, but no fire. The fuel of truth in the furnace of our spirit does not automatically produce the hear of worship. There must be ignition and fire. this is the Holy Spirit.
Now we can complete our picture. The fuel of worship is a true vision of the greatness of God; the fire that makes the fuel burn white-hot is the quickening of the Holy Spirit; the furnace made alive and warm by the flame of the resulting heat of our affections is powerful worship, pushing it way our in confessions, longings, acclamations, tears, songs, bowed heads, lifted hands and obedient lives. by John Piper
Applying it: Have you ever been in a desperate situation? did you ever thank God for saving you? If you are at a loss for words, read this psalm as your prayer to God.
Exploring it: Thankfulness - 2 Chronicles 7:3; Psalm 8:2; 30:11-12; 107:31-32; Luke 17:15-16; 1 Corinthians 15:56-57; 2 Corinthians 1:10-11; Ephesians 5:19-20.
FRIENDS:
Father, help us to always remember you, to remember who is in control. We want to remember your goodness from the past and thank you for it. We want to remember your closeness to us in the present situations we are in and to praise you for your power for our futures. We want to see you and to know you better. We ask you, Father, to help us see Jesus and to deepen our faith and our gratitude upon seeing him more clearly. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM GRATEFUL FOR
1. A finished project that turned out well
2. The way most people will get in and help when needed
3. Invitations to dinner
4. The excitement of Christmas
5. The way God resolves a difficult situation
6. The patience that comes with getting older
7. My home (I know I say this often but I am so grateful for it all the time)
8. How God has provided friends for me
9. Seeing my children succeed
10. Having a wonderful church to worship in
FOOD:
Are you going to a cookie exchange and want something new to take?
Instead of one recipe, here is a link to many cookie recipes:
http://www.northpole.com/Kitchen/Cookbook/cat0001.html
FUN:
Christmas Ornaments
Customer at a counter of a lawn ornament shop "Give me four of
those elves, two of the big reindeer, two of the small reindeer,
and one of those bent-over, fat Mrs. Santa's with the ridiculous
bloomers."
The shop owner "That'll be eighty dollars for the elves, fifty
dollars for the big reindeer, twenty dollars for the small
reindeer, and a big apology for my wife!
Psalms 116:1-117:2
After a close call with death, this unknown psalmist thanked God for answering his prayers and praised God for his deliverance.
Praise should be the natural result of answered prayer.
Worshiping in spirit is the opposite of worshiping in merely external ways. It is the opposite of empty formalism and traditionalism.
Worshiping in truth is the opposite of worship based on an inadequate view of God. Worship must have heart and head. Worship must engage emotions and thought.
Truth without emotion produces dead orthodoxy and a church full (or half-full) of artificial admirers,like people who write generic anniversary cards for a living. On the other hand, emotion with our truth produces empty frenzy and cultivates shallow people who refuse the discipline of rigorous thought. But true worship comes from people who are deeply emotional and who love deep and sound doctrine. Strong affections for
God rooted in truth are the bone and marrow of biblical worship.
Perhaps we can tie things together with this picture: The fuel of worship is the truth of God, the furnace of worship is the spirit of man and the hear of worship is the vital affections of reverence, contrition, trust, gratitude, and joy.
But there is something missing from this picture. There is furnace, fuel and heat, but no fire. The fuel of truth in the furnace of our spirit does not automatically produce the hear of worship. There must be ignition and fire. this is the Holy Spirit.
Now we can complete our picture. The fuel of worship is a true vision of the greatness of God; the fire that makes the fuel burn white-hot is the quickening of the Holy Spirit; the furnace made alive and warm by the flame of the resulting heat of our affections is powerful worship, pushing it way our in confessions, longings, acclamations, tears, songs, bowed heads, lifted hands and obedient lives. by John Piper
Applying it: Have you ever been in a desperate situation? did you ever thank God for saving you? If you are at a loss for words, read this psalm as your prayer to God.
Exploring it: Thankfulness - 2 Chronicles 7:3; Psalm 8:2; 30:11-12; 107:31-32; Luke 17:15-16; 1 Corinthians 15:56-57; 2 Corinthians 1:10-11; Ephesians 5:19-20.
FRIENDS:
Father, help us to always remember you, to remember who is in control. We want to remember your goodness from the past and thank you for it. We want to remember your closeness to us in the present situations we are in and to praise you for your power for our futures. We want to see you and to know you better. We ask you, Father, to help us see Jesus and to deepen our faith and our gratitude upon seeing him more clearly. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM GRATEFUL FOR
1. A finished project that turned out well
2. The way most people will get in and help when needed
3. Invitations to dinner
4. The excitement of Christmas
5. The way God resolves a difficult situation
6. The patience that comes with getting older
7. My home (I know I say this often but I am so grateful for it all the time)
8. How God has provided friends for me
9. Seeing my children succeed
10. Having a wonderful church to worship in
FOOD:
Are you going to a cookie exchange and want something new to take?
Instead of one recipe, here is a link to many cookie recipes:
http://www.northpole.com/Kitchen/Cookbook/cat0001.html
FUN:
Christmas Ornaments
Customer at a counter of a lawn ornament shop "Give me four of
those elves, two of the big reindeer, two of the small reindeer,
and one of those bent-over, fat Mrs. Santa's with the ridiculous
bloomers."
The shop owner "That'll be eighty dollars for the elves, fifty
dollars for the big reindeer, twenty dollars for the small
reindeer, and a big apology for my wife!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Donations anyone?...all parts of this days post were donated by readers. If you have something you want to share, please do so. Thanks!!!
FAITH:
Romans 5:2-4
"And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope"
Perseverance is the key to every great accomplishment because nothing of lasting value has ever been achieved without it. Industrialist Henry Ford is one of the great success stories of American history, but he failed in business five times before he succeeded. A Ford Motor Company employee once asked his boss the secret of success, and Henry Ford replied, "When you start a thing, don't quit until you finish it."
The path ahead of you is strewn with obstacles. People will oppose you. There will be financial setbacks, time pressures, illnesses and misfortunes. Some of the biggest obstacles will be inside of you: self-doubt, insecurity, procrastination, and worry. You must give yourself permission to succeed.
When we persevere through adversity, we win the approval of our Lord Jesus Christ, who told the suffering church at Ephesus, "I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. . . . You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary" (Rev. 2:2-3). That, I'm sure, is the same commendation Joseph received from God when he passed the perseverance test.
Perseverance is a refusal to quit. It's falling down 100 times and getting back up 101 times. We need to remember that perseverance is not a matter of forcing doors to open; it's standing in front of the doors as long as it takes before God chooses to open them.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. The race doesn't go to the swiftest, but to those who don't give up. We need endurance in order to deal with the stress of adversity. We must maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. People give up or give out when they feel depleted?
When they physically, emotionally and spiritually run out of gas.
When going through adversity, watch out for pessimists, blamers and toxic personalities. Beware of people who try to talk you out of your dreams and goals. Spend time with optimists and encouragers. Seek out people of faith.
Persevere to the end. by Os Hillman
FRIENDS:
Father, You know my heart and my heartaches. You have showered me with blessings and carried me through the valley of pain and sadness. Thank you for the godly influence of special people in my life. Thank you for those who pray for and encourage me. I even thank you for the hard times and trials I have been through, for they have strengthened my faith. I praise you for giving me a spirit of hope, love, and acceptance, rather than allowing me to become angry, bitter, and downcast. I praise you God, from whom all blessings flow. May I, in return, be a blessing to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR
1. The way food tastes
2. The church Christmas party
3. A spirit of helpfulness in others
4. Uncle Rube
5. My laptop
6. Christmas lights and decorations
7. The first Christmas card I received
8. People caring for each other
9. Retirement
10. If I say the Farmers Market again it's not an oversight, just
me being grateful every time I eat something I bought there.
FOOD:
this got rave reviews on one of the food lists I belong to
Hollywood Squares (LIKE Reese's Peanut Butter Cups)
Ingredients:
2 cups peanut butter
2-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup butter, melted
Topping:
2 squares semi-sweet baking chocolate
1 tbsp. peanut butter
Directions:
Combine all ingredients except topping ingredients.
Mix well and press into a buttered 9-inch pan.
Melt the topping ingredients together (the microwave works well for this) and spread over the top of the peanut butter mixture.
Chill until topping is firm.
Cut into squares.
FUN:
1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots
on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the
Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots,
leave immediately. Go next door, where
they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And
quickly. It's rare.. You cannot find it any other
time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares
that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not
as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic
or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it.
Have one for me. Have two.
It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the
whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone.
Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed
potatoes. Fill it with gravy.
Eat the volcano.
Repeat.
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're
made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's
skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a
sports car with an automatic transmission.
5. Do not have a snack before going to a
party in an effort to control your eating.
The whole point of going to a Christmas party
is to eat other people's food for free.
Lots of it. Hello?
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise
between now and New Year's.
You can do that in January when you have
nothing else to do. This is the time for long
naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet
table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food
and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good
at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies
in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself
near them and don't budge. Have as many as
you can before becoming the center of attention.
They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave
them behind, you're never going to see them again.
8. Same for pies. Apple, Pumpkin, Mincemeat.
Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like
mincemeat, have two apples and one
pumpkin. Always have three.
When else do you get to have more than
one dessert? Labor Day ?
9. Did someone mention fruitcake?
Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory
calories, but avoid it at all cost.
I mean, have some standards.
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible
when you leave the party or get up from the table,
you haven't been paying attention.
Re-read tips; start over, but hurry,
January is just around the
corner. Remember this motto to live by:
"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave
with the intention of arriving safely in an
attractive and well preserved body,
but rather to skid in sideways,
chocolate in one hand, body
thoroughly used up, totally worn out
and screaming "WOO HOO what
a ride!"
Have a great holiday season...
Romans 5:2-4
"And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope"
Perseverance is the key to every great accomplishment because nothing of lasting value has ever been achieved without it. Industrialist Henry Ford is one of the great success stories of American history, but he failed in business five times before he succeeded. A Ford Motor Company employee once asked his boss the secret of success, and Henry Ford replied, "When you start a thing, don't quit until you finish it."
The path ahead of you is strewn with obstacles. People will oppose you. There will be financial setbacks, time pressures, illnesses and misfortunes. Some of the biggest obstacles will be inside of you: self-doubt, insecurity, procrastination, and worry. You must give yourself permission to succeed.
When we persevere through adversity, we win the approval of our Lord Jesus Christ, who told the suffering church at Ephesus, "I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. . . . You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary" (Rev. 2:2-3). That, I'm sure, is the same commendation Joseph received from God when he passed the perseverance test.
Perseverance is a refusal to quit. It's falling down 100 times and getting back up 101 times. We need to remember that perseverance is not a matter of forcing doors to open; it's standing in front of the doors as long as it takes before God chooses to open them.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. The race doesn't go to the swiftest, but to those who don't give up. We need endurance in order to deal with the stress of adversity. We must maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. People give up or give out when they feel depleted?
When they physically, emotionally and spiritually run out of gas.
When going through adversity, watch out for pessimists, blamers and toxic personalities. Beware of people who try to talk you out of your dreams and goals. Spend time with optimists and encouragers. Seek out people of faith.
Persevere to the end. by Os Hillman
FRIENDS:
Father, You know my heart and my heartaches. You have showered me with blessings and carried me through the valley of pain and sadness. Thank you for the godly influence of special people in my life. Thank you for those who pray for and encourage me. I even thank you for the hard times and trials I have been through, for they have strengthened my faith. I praise you for giving me a spirit of hope, love, and acceptance, rather than allowing me to become angry, bitter, and downcast. I praise you God, from whom all blessings flow. May I, in return, be a blessing to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.
10 THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR
1. The way food tastes
2. The church Christmas party
3. A spirit of helpfulness in others
4. Uncle Rube
5. My laptop
6. Christmas lights and decorations
7. The first Christmas card I received
8. People caring for each other
9. Retirement
10. If I say the Farmers Market again it's not an oversight, just
me being grateful every time I eat something I bought there.
FOOD:
this got rave reviews on one of the food lists I belong to
Hollywood Squares (LIKE Reese's Peanut Butter Cups)
Ingredients:
2 cups peanut butter
2-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup butter, melted
Topping:
2 squares semi-sweet baking chocolate
1 tbsp. peanut butter
Directions:
Combine all ingredients except topping ingredients.
Mix well and press into a buttered 9-inch pan.
Melt the topping ingredients together (the microwave works well for this) and spread over the top of the peanut butter mixture.
Chill until topping is firm.
Cut into squares.
FUN:
1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots
on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the
Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots,
leave immediately. Go next door, where
they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And
quickly. It's rare.. You cannot find it any other
time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares
that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not
as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic
or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it.
Have one for me. Have two.
It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the
whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone.
Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed
potatoes. Fill it with gravy.
Eat the volcano.
Repeat.
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're
made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's
skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a
sports car with an automatic transmission.
5. Do not have a snack before going to a
party in an effort to control your eating.
The whole point of going to a Christmas party
is to eat other people's food for free.
Lots of it. Hello?
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise
between now and New Year's.
You can do that in January when you have
nothing else to do. This is the time for long
naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet
table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food
and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good
at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies
in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself
near them and don't budge. Have as many as
you can before becoming the center of attention.
They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave
them behind, you're never going to see them again.
8. Same for pies. Apple, Pumpkin, Mincemeat.
Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like
mincemeat, have two apples and one
pumpkin. Always have three.
When else do you get to have more than
one dessert? Labor Day ?
9. Did someone mention fruitcake?
Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory
calories, but avoid it at all cost.
I mean, have some standards.
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible
when you leave the party or get up from the table,
you haven't been paying attention.
Re-read tips; start over, but hurry,
January is just around the
corner. Remember this motto to live by:
"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave
with the intention of arriving safely in an
attractive and well preserved body,
but rather to skid in sideways,
chocolate in one hand, body
thoroughly used up, totally worn out
and screaming "WOO HOO what
a ride!"
Have a great holiday season...
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About Me
- P-Dot
- Over the years of yo-yo dieting, Pills, and over eating I have ruined my metabolism. Here is how I am chosing to heal myself.
