Can you Smell That?

Some people are more sensitive to smell than others. My husband is one of those persons.

When our children were small, my hubby would never change a diaper, or clean up after a dog accident. And that is the truth!  Good thing he has a willing wife ready to do the smelly thing!

This particular morning my hubby was cooking breakfast on our electric stove.  Suddenly all the lights went out and sparks flew, and our stove just quit!  Out of the blue he could smell smoke.

Stepping outside to investigate the fuse box, he discovered that the electric panel was on fire. Flames were shooting out and it appeared that our mobile was possibly doomed to also catch on fire.

Keeping his wits about him, he quickly turned off the power at the main pole. Next he grabbed the hose and squirted water until all the fire was extinguished.

After turning the power back on, he discovered that a few plugs in the house were still working, and by using extension cords, he was able to get our refrigerator going.

A quick call to our contractor neighbor on his cell phone - - gave us the name and number of a reliable electrician who showed up late that afternoon. The electrician was able to do some temporary work, and we were thankful that he gave us TV and computer access.   

His promise to return in two days to replace the panel did not come to pass, as apparently there were parts to order that were not available locally. This left us for the week end with temporary fixes and extension cords.

Again he did not return at the time promised, and we found it necessary to leave for a dentil appointment and go about our business.

Leaving him a note on the gate, and penning our three dogs in their small yard; we left, as this would allow him to do his work unhindered by curious animals.

After another no show, we called and left him a message stating that we were wondering where he was. Well finally it all worked out and he arrived with a new panel and a helper and did the installation pronto, and to our liking. We were pleased!

This reminded me to consider all the time we wait; expecting the return of Jesus to happen soon. He keeps putting us off for another day, another week, another year.

However as I read the signs of the times, I think that his delay must have a good reason.  

There must be some more sheep that still need to get into the fold !!

This post was shared at: Shanda's site. Do visit there!

http://www.shandaoakleyinspires.com/2011/08/on-my-heart.html

Also shared at The Well spring, do visit there as well.  http://www.lauraboggess.com/2011/08/playdates-with-god-perspective.html

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Whale of a Tale

Our Pastor chose another Old Testament Prophet for his sermon and today it was Jonah.

Why was Jonah so unwilling to obey God’s first call to go preach and warn the city of Nineveh that they had 40 days to repent or burn?

1. Jonah hated the people of Nineveh because of their cruelty to the Jewish people. They had taken many captive, raped the women and some of the soldiers had fathered children by the Jewish women. They were also deep into idolatry and the worship of false gods and were participating in witchcraft of every kind.

2. Jonah knew the kindness and mercy of our Lord, and he was deeply worried that if the people of Nineveh heeded his warning, that God might change his mind and not destroy the people and their city.

3. Jonah was secretly hoping that Nineveh’s people would get their just deserts!!

Most of us have heard the story of how Jonah decided on his own to get a ticket on a boat going in the opposite direction.

(Have you ever gone the other way when God said to walk straight and do not pass GO?)

When the GREAT storm arose, the sailors soon decided that someone must be at fault and when they drew straws, Jonah’s lot was chosen.

Where was Jonah? He was in the bottom of the boat fast asleep, with not a worry, not an ounce of conscience and happily resting on his laurels.

When he was confronted, he quickly admitted his error and suggested that in order to save themselves they must cast him overboard, which they swiftly did. 

We know the story how he spent three miserable days and nights in slime and filth, crying out to God for mercy and declaring that he would GO and do as he was told.  

Don’t you dislike the word “vomit?” but that is what the fish did - - quickly he upchucked Jonah on to dry land.  This time Jonah took off in the right direction.

The city was heavily populated, extremely large and it was a three day walk from one end to the other.  Jonah arrived and began his walk for one day. 

Then he began his prepared warning. “Repent from your evil ways, or God is going to destroy you and this city!!”   

Jonah knew it from the get go - - - immediately the people began to cry out to God with deep remorse.

From the King to lowest person in Nineveh, they all began to repent . The king commanded every one to stop their sinning, to fast, and to cover themselves in sack cloth and ashes, including the animals.

Then God changed his mind and decided to give the people a second chance. Isn’t that just like God to show mercy to those who repent and are willing to change their ways?

Was Jonah happy? Not on your life!!

"I Knew This Was Going to Happen!" was all he could say. Jonah was furious. He lost his temper.

He yelled at God, "God! I knew it—when I was back home, I knew this was going to happen! That's why I ran off to Tarshish! I knew you were sheer grace and mercy, not easily angered, rich in love, and ready at the drop of a hat to turn your plans of punishment into a program of forgiveness!”

Jonah felt so sorry for himself that he wished he could die. Talk about being depressed!

God said, "What do you have to be angry about?"

But Jonah just left, going out of the city to the east and sat down in a sulk. He put together a makeshift shelter of leafy branches and sat there in the shade to see what would happen to the city.

God arranged for a broad-leafed tree to spring up. It grew over Jonah to cool him off and get him out of his angry sulk. Jonah was pleased and enjoyed the shade. Life was looking up.

But then God sent a worm. By dawn of the next day, the worm had bored into the shade tree and it withered away. The sun came up and God sent a hot, blistering wind from the east. The sun beat down on Jonah's head and he started to faint. He prayed to die: "I'm better off dead!"

Then God said to Jonah, "What right do you have to get angry about this shade tree?" Jonah said, "Plenty of right. It's made me angry enough to die!"

God said, "What's this? How is it that you can change your feelings from pleasure to anger overnight about a mere shade tree that you did nothing to get? You neither planted nor watered it. It grew up one night and died the next night. So, why can't I likewise change what I feel about Nineveh from anger to pleasure, this big city of more than 120,000 childlike people who don't yet know right from wrong, to say nothing of all the innocent animals?"

Isn’t it amazing how God uses a whale and a plant to show his mercy? He is not willing that any should perish but that all would come to repentance.

Jesus referred to the story of Jonah saying that even so, he (Jesus would spend three days in the grave but would rise again so that we as a people could receive eternal LIFE.

God spared Jonah and yet He spared NOT His own son so that death could be swallowed up in victory for all who believe and receive.

This post was shared at: Hear It on Sunday, Use It on Monday http://www.michellederusha.com/2011/08/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday_28.html    Do visit Michelle's site and enjoy some great posts there.

Portions of the story are taken from the Message Bible.

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Anyone Find my Quarter?

Deprived? No our children were not without! Although they did not have everything they wanted either.

They had small allowances that gave them a few extras, but that seemed not to be enough.

One day as they all sat around our kitchen table with their friends; four young girls laughing and remembering how they used to come up with extra money.

My youngest was the most creative. They all laughed as they told on her. She would enter the local transit bus that she rode to school, and then pretend that she had dropped something. Has anyone found my quarter?

She kept repeating the question until some kind person would fish a quarter out of their purse and hand it to her.

At Christmas they would go as a group up and down the street; ring a door bell and sing Christmas carols while holding a “tip basket.”

Most of what they did, I am happy to say that I did not know about it at the time, but only learned about it later.

My daughter is grown now, but she is still creative and has progressed to E-bay and is doing pretty well at buying and selling to make a profit. She also uses coupons and rebates - - not because she is deprived, but because she is able to share with homeless centers, schools and other worthy projects.

I believe the quarters we find on the bus can be multiplied if we find direction.

Have you found any quarters lately?

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Waffles

Often it takes us an all day trip to make a visit to see our doctor.

Our Kaiser HMO is 75 miles from our home, and when we have an appointment that calls for a follow-up the next day, it is more convenient to find a motel to stay overnight.

On one such occasion we stayed at a very nice place that offered a breakfast buffet the next morning.

My husband was fascinated with a very fancy waffle maker that was in the dining room.

The management had pre-filled waffle batter into small cups and you could bake them yourself. The instructions were to turn the waffle upside down during the baking and when the light went off it was ready.

“I must have one of these waffle makers,” said my husband, so upon our return home and a visit to Amazon.com  - - revealed a Restaurant type iron just to his liking.

Next hubby went searching for just the right recipe. He was able to find one that was even better than my old recipe, so now his is the one we use. I share it here with you. 

P.S. This Yummy Waffle recipe will work with any waffle maker. It does not need to be a waffle maker that turns upside down!

So Good Waffles

l/2 cube soft butter

1 1/2 cups sifted flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
Pinch salt
2 Tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 cups milk
2 eggs separated

Sift dry ingredients into large bowl. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, butter and milk together. Add to the dry mix. Beat the egg whites in a separate bowl until fairly stiff and add to batter.

Measure 2/3 cup batter into preheated waffle iron and bake until brown. Top with fruit or warm syrup.

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/

Do amble over to her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

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A Grimms fairy tale!

Once upon a time, there was an old woman who lived in a shoe and she thought she would write a blog.

She tried to write lovely flowery words like the others she witnessed out there in space, but the only thing that would come from her pen were raw stories from her youth.

Then flowed tales about her children and mischief that she and others had done through the years and lessons those events had taught her.

Parables seemed to be an excellent method to teach about life and mistakes that can be made and how to avoid them.

She was reminded that Jesus often used stories to illustrate points he desired to put across.

She remembered that the Bible says that many things that are written in God’s word are there for examples so that we can profit from them.

Hopefully if we observe someone in the Bible making a terrible mess, supposedly we can try to prevent ourselves from getting into a similar situation.  Then again if we view someone in the Bible being blessed, it will encourage us to obey God and likewise be blessed.

There were times when the old woman would rant and rave because she hated to see the path some of those she knew - - were traveling in life.

She wrote about making wise choices and staying out of situations that might prove harmful.  Mostly she urged those who would listen to serve God and follow Jesus all the days of their life.

Did anyone listen? Some did, and others did not. At least those who listened had some food for thought, and perhaps if not now, then possibly later on they could make it to the good path.

She was told by a few of her church friends that her stories were not wanted, and that she preached too much!  But then what did her "church friends” know?

So the old woman wondered if she should simply put down her pen and keep quiet.  To still the noise!

Then she began to hear remarks and comments of people being blessed by her words, and this encouraged her to write on.

She questioned to herself, “Do other writers often feel that they are out there all alone and perhaps that no one is listening?”

Then it occurred to her that if only one person was listening, that would be enough!

 This post was shared at Bonnie's Faith Barista site: Please view other entries at: http://www.faithbarista.com/2011/08/start-living-as-gods-work-of-art/

 

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Daddy’s Watch

Happily engrossed in playing with my dolls on the front room floor, I was oblivious to my Dad entering the room and placing his watch on the mantle. Sharply, he called my attention to it.

He declared, “I am leaving the room for a few minutes, and I do not want you to touch this watch, because the glass face is broken.” He continued, punctuating each word, “Do… not… take… your… finger …and… move… the… hands, …because… they… will …fall …off …if… you… shift… them!”

Dad worked for the railroad and his watch was a valued possession. Each month he took it into the jewelers to be cleaned and checked in order to be certain that the time was absolutely accurate.

The stage had been set!! Here was a typical a five-year-old who, up to that precise moment, could care less about Dad’s watch. Next was a father giving explicit directions of what NOT to do as he was leaving the room. - - -  Enter the devil.

The devil speaks so subtly to our minds, that we believe it to be our own thoughts. This particular day he was very active!  He suggested that I just take a tiny peek at the watch.

My curiosity heightened! Carefully pulling a chair up to the mantle - - I could now touch the watch.  Ever so gently, I moved the hands to see if they would fall off.  They did!! ”Oh no!” I thought to myself, “Now I am in for it!”

What could I do?  Softly re-placing the chair, I quietly tippy-toed back to the rug and set about playing with my dolls. I tried not to think about what might happen when my dad took notice.

My parents believed in corporal punishment for lying and for stealing, but most especially for direct disobedience. No matter how much I declared my innocence, my dad did not believe me, so the switch was applied.   

This instance of my life reminds me of Adam and Eve in the garden. They were given only one ‘Thou Shalt Not,” and they could not keep it!  Just one tiny bite was all it took. Their punishment was to leave the beautiful garden, doomed to toil and labor with the sweat of their brow in order to provide for them-selves.

Unfortunately, we have inherited the results of their disobedience: a nature that needs redemption, curiosity about sin, and hard work to care for our families.

When we hear the words, “Thou Shall Not,” we must understand that whatever the directive is, it is for our protection and in our best interest to heed the warning and stay away.

Yes - - and because God knows we are but flesh, He has given us the Holy Spirit to be our helper as we follow Jesus and seek to obey His commandment of Love.

This post was shared at the One Word Carnival. Please visit and view other great posts you will find there at: http://peterpollock.com/2011/08/childhood-blog-carnival/

Also shared at: Play dates with God at the Wellspring:  Please do visit there.    http://www.lauraboggess.com/2011/08/playdates-with-god-fleeting.html 

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God’s Hill Billy

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The following post is from my notes taken from our Pastor’s sermon this Sunday Morning. Pastor was reading from the Message Bible: Amos chapter 2.

The prophet Amos was a shepherd from a small village in the hills, and all he wanted to do was tend his sheep. He had no interest in becoming a prophet; in fact he fought against it until he finally yielded, and decided to obey God, and warn the people.

His message was not a popular word. In fact he spoke with a loud stern, angry voice because he was speaking for God. 

His cry was God says: "Because of the great sins of my people —I'm not putting up with her any longer.”

Amos did not mince words, and he gave his message as straight from the mouth of God.

The people had broken all the covenants and laws. They were worshiping foreign gods, and were living immoral lives.

It was wine women and song, and what ever else was vile that they could dream up to defile the name of Jehovah.

Their hearts were utterly wicked and their utmost thoughts were for pleasure for themselves.

They were not entirely different from many we find in our world today.

Amos told the people, REPENT and God will bless you instead of punishing you. If you serve the Lord, your head will swim with all the blessings.

The majority of the people rejected the Prophet’s message. They trampled on his words.

All that Amos prophesied was true and it came to pass as he had delivered it.

Approximately 10 percent of the people listened and repented after hearing the message of Amos. They were rewarded with blessings, and the rest of the people were carried off captive by another nation, and many lost their lives.

The message of repentance is still true today. Repent and live!

Jesus reminds us that the angels in heaven rejoice over one sinner who repents.

If we seek the Lord, we will hear him say, “I will forgive you, I will love you, I will save deliver and restore you, I will bless you.”

Guaranteed because God says it is so!

This post was shared at:   Hear it on Sunday, Use it on Monday

http://www.michellederusha.com/2011/08/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday_21.html  

Please do visit and enjoy other awesome posts found there.

Clean Hands

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My husband had just read an article about Purell and Presidents and he informed me according to a report by Brian Williams - - 

Bush and Obama are two men of the hand sanitizer generation. Both have become dependent upon, if not addicted to, the vaguely slippery, slightly gelatinous liquid which has become the staple liquid...the nectar of life...for those who shake hands for a living and wish to avoid germs...and thus its become the coin of the realm in modern politics.

As my husband mentioned the product Purell, my memory immediately flashed back to the 1990’s when - - Not by happenstance, but by God’s direction, Kitty Hamilton, a Missionary Evangelist began to attend our small church.

Kitty asked several of our ladies to be on her board of trustees while she was organizing her ministry as a non-profit corporation, and I agreed to help her. 

Able to speak four languages fluently, she still travels to Peru, Germany, Indonesia, and the African Congo. Amazing miracles occurred as she ministers and her energy always amazes me.

A church group in Equitos, Peru had invited Kitty to be the main speaker at a woman’s conference, and she asked me and two other friends to accompany her and speak at some of her workshops. 

During our time there, we were asked to take a tour up the Amazon River to visit a Native village. The boat held a goodly number and some of her Peruvian friends went along with us on the sightseeing experience; one of which was a college student.

On this journey to Peru, I was trying to be very careful as to what I ate or drank, because I knew there would be germs that I wanted no part of.  For that reason, I had brought along with me a small purse size bottle of Purell, the liquid hand sanitizer.

We were met by the village chief, and his tribe along with the children and were greeted warmly. They invited us to enter their Hogan and they began to demonstrate some simple native dances. The girls placed some hand made necklaces around our necks, and we were expected to give them a dollar which we did.

Next the natives invited us to join with them in a hop and skip dancing circle as we enjoyed the moment.  That is me in the blue dress in the photo.  The college girl is with the purple shirt and tan pants.  Kitty is in the background in the red skirt.

As we were leaving there were good byes, and I removed my bottle of Purell and placed a dollop on my hands. The Native college student asked, “What is that?”

I was embarrassed to be caught, and replied, “It is a hand lotion, would you like some?” and I crossed her palm.

She may have been more educated than I gave her credit for.  Anyway, we both had clean hands, that day.

Again I am reminded that it is not just my hands that must be clean, but it is my heart also. Jesus has provided for us something more powerful than Purell to clean our hearts.   His precious blood is the cleansing agent!

All we need do is ask and he will wash away any sin from our heart and cause it to become as white as the snow.

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Okra and Tomatoes

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My post from yesterday caused me to reminisce about the first year we lived in Oklahoma. The year was 1976 and we had arrived early enough to plant a garden. A trip to the local Wal-Mart gave us a variety of seeds including Okra, squash, and cucumbers.

On our way home we spotted a sign at a Garden supply that said, “Tomato Plants 5 cents each. WOW that seemed like a bargain, so we stopped and purchased a dollars worth; 20 plants.

It never occurred to us to ask what kind of tomatoes these were. It turned out they were cherry tomatoes! (Not our favorite.)

Our Okra and tomatoes grew like crazy and before long we had a bountiful harvest.

Every Wednesday evening the church we attended would have a before church Pot Luck, so I purchased a tomato colander that would take out the many seeds.

Thus I could create an amazing Southern dish to take to the church social.  It became a favorite; at least the associate Pastor said it was his favorite. Here I share my recipe with you.

Okra and Tomatoes

Ingredients

• 4 ounces breakfast sausage, preferably spicy, remove casings
• (Optional - substitute 4 slices bacon instead of sausage)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 pound okra, (about 5 cups), sliced
• 3 cups chopped tomatoes, (3-4 medium) (optional use canned tomatoes)
• 2/3 cup tomato juice or water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional - - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper or 1/2 minced jalapeno

Preparation

1. Cook sausage (or bacon) in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks, until it is no longer pink, 2 to 3 minutes. Add onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Increase heat to high; add okra, tomatoes, tomato juice (or water), salt and crushed red pepper (or jalapeno) and cook, stirring often, until bubbling. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and the vegetables are very tender, about 30 minutes.

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/

Do amble over to her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

Do Things Just Happen? Or is it GOD?

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Usually when a couple are house-hunting in order to purchase a home, they both go together to make that decision.

In this instance, that was not the case. The decision was being left up to me! Soon I was on a plane flying to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to purchase a home for our year’s stay.

Our plans were to arrive in the beginning of summer and get settled in before school began.

Since the Bible Training Center was holding their classes at Sheridan Assembly in Tulsa, I decided to go there first and audit a class. Seating my self with the students, I sat back and tried to blend in.

One gentleman realized that I was not a student so he asked me, “Why are you here?”

I told him, “My husband and I will be students in the next school term, and that I was there to purchase a house for our family.”

Enthusiastically he flipped through his wallet and drew out a business card. “Here,” he said, “My father-in-law is a Real Estate Agent and he can help you.”

Did I just “Happen,” to sit next that particular student?

Arriving at my motel, I called the number on the card, and was pleasantly surprised when the man I was supposed to call answered the telephone. He just “Happened” to have floor duty that day!

I gave him all the information as to what I needed: a four bedroom house, a certain price range, a large yard for our two big dogs.  We were bringing our two girls with us, and we also expected company!!

He asked if I would be free the next day to view homes, and I grabbed the opportunity. In the meantime, he would put together a list of homes available, and we would start early the next morning.

True to his word, he took me to view many homes in the Tulsa area but none were ringing a bell.

Finally, the agent asked me if I would be willing to go further out towards Broken Arrow, as there were some fairly new homes there with large yards. I told him, that we were used to driving 20 miles in California and that would not be a problem.

Three homes in that area were shown to me. Suddenly, as we looked through the last home, I heard in my spirit, “This is it.”

I called my husband and shared the particulars. He told me what to offer and not to go over a certain price. Everything clicked. I told the sellers, when we needed Escrow to close, signed papers, left a deposit, and flew back to California. With not so much ado, we had our home – a home in Broken Arrow!

Two months later we arrived in Oklahoma with our menagerie and family. We met the agent, made all the closing settlements, and headed out to our new home. The sellers were doing their final sweep and told us they would be out in 20 minutes or so. Shortly we were able to set up our beds, bring in our things and settle in for the night.

What occurred next was amazing. The following day we decided to drive into Tulsa to the ministry headquarters and spy out the land. Guess what? We were told that the School for the next session would be moving to a new location, one just newly purchased in Broken Arrow, located 3 miles from our new home!

Now, do you believe that “Just happened?” … Or was it God?

You too can expect God to direct your path in all of life’s decisions. Learn to seek His face, and then trust your spirit as He guides you in the way you should go.

Do I believe things just happen? With God I believe they certainly do!!

This post has been shared at: Bonnie’s site at: http://www.faithbarista.com/2011/08/the-penny-man-guest-post-by-paper-angels-author-billy-coffey/#more-11402  

Scroll down for all the other entries.

Are You Afraid this Plane Will Crash?

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Many years ago, we had moved to Oklahoma, and it was necessary for me to fly back to California to attend a court hearing. One of our customers did not want to pay their bill for their new roof so we took them to court. I made my reservation and off I went.

“Are you scared that this plane might go down?” asked the young lady sitting beside me.

“Oh, there is nothing to worry about. This plane will arrive safely at its destination,” I told her. “Why do you say that?” she asked. I replied, “I am on this plane and I have prayed for a safe trip, and God hears and answers (most of) my prayers. We might have a few bumps, but just like on a highway there are ruts in the road at times. Don’t worry! We will get there on time, and all in one piece.”

I did not try to convert her, or quote scriptures or use the Roman Road technique because many times we are only led to speak a few sentences, and that is all that God requires.

It has been my habit to speak certain words as I enter an airplane. I remember well the day that I heard a minister tell about his airplane adventures. He reminded us of the story of Jesus getting into the boat with His disciples. As Jesus stepped up to enter the boat he spoke these positive words, “Let us go over to the other side.”

His words were bold and optimistic, and they did not include fear that the boat might sink; as the waves were to soon roll over the boat and nearly collapse it into the deep.

Jesus fully expected to arrive at the “other side” unharmed, and safe and sound!!

“Let us go over to the other side!” Just a simple statement! Now I use those words when I step up to an airplane. I use those words when I open my car door even to drive into town. You can even apply these words to your jogging, or your walk in the park.

Expect safety, and expect to arrive at your destination worry free, under the careful protection of the Angels who are always watching over you.

Every one of us is daily, coming closer to arriving at our final destination.

There are only two ultimate final locations.  One I would not wish for anyone to go there! The other place is Heaven. Inviting Jesus into your heart will give you safe access into heaven.

If you have not already done so, it is a simple statement of faith. Say with your mouth: “I believe you died on the cross for my salvation, that you rose from the dead and are alive today, Jesus, come into my heart and I will live my life for you.”  Following Jesus will lead you safely to the other side.

May the God of peace watch over us every one and carry us safely over to “the other side” of Glory.

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This post was shared at: Jen’s site:

SoloGloria Blog Hop http://findingheaventoday.blogspot.com/  

Also shared at: On Your Heart Blog Hop at: http://www.shandaoakleyinspires.com/  

and at:

http://www.lauraboggess.com/2011/08/playdates-with-god-notes-from-sea.html



Pray for Open Doors

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Colossians 4: 2-6 Message Bible

2-4Pray diligently. Stay alert, with your eyes wide open in gratitude. Don't forget to pray for us, that God will open doors for telling the mystery of Christ, even while I'm locked up in this jail. Pray that every time I open my mouth I'll be able to make Christ plain as day to them.

5-6Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don't miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.

At Church on Sunday, our Pastor was completing his series on Colossians, and I share with you here some of my notes from his sermon.

He was reading from The Message Bible created by Eugene H. Peterson.  Pastor explained that this Message Bible causes us to become aware of how PERSONAL our Salvation is. We serve a Personal Savior. Pastor suggested that we secure a copy of this version because there is so much to compare and help us understand what God is saying.

Paul was in jail as he wrote these letters to the church at Colossi. Even as he found himself locked in prison, he was alert to share the gospel at every opportunity. He encouraged Christian brothers and sisters to “not miss a trick,” but to open their mouth and make the plan of salvation as plain as day!

I am reminded that many find themselves in a prison of sorts. Yet we can still be faithful to take every occasion to share about Jesus. Discover ways to communicate God’s love!

Jesus shed his blood so that we might inherit eternal life and upon our death, be reunited with all those who have gone before us. Not just our beloved family and friends, but those saints of old mentioned in God’s word, such as Moses, Elijah, King David, and others who served the Lord. The Old Testament has a crimson thread all through its pages leading us to Jesus Christ and to His life and Death for us.

No greater Love can be shown in that a man would lay down His life for others, even those who were yet sinners. Jesus calls us friends, brothers and sisters, and we are in the family of God. As a father cares for his family, God cares for us each and every one.

He knows the very number of hairs on our head, and if he takes concern about something so simple, then we should understand how much more he cares that you are provided for.

Charles Spurgeon was asked, “What is the most profound message in the Gospel?” He answered with the children’s song; “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.

Once we were useless, now we are in the family of God.

We have communion with God and with our fellow Christians. We have blessed fellowship one with another, as we lovingly worship our Lord, pray together and share our burdens and joys as community.

May the Love of Jesus Christ fill us with His Love and let our daily walk be continually in Him.

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This post was shared at: Hear it on Sunday, Use it on Monday at:

http://nebraskagraceful.blogspot.com/2011/08/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday.html

and also shared at: In and Around Mondays at:

http://seedlingsinstone.blogspot.com/

ZUCCHINI QUICHE

Photo by Hazel

Early this spring we planted zucchini seeds and tomato seeds into aluminum baking pans.

Before long they grew, and we were able to transplant the squash into our garden spot.

The tomato sprouts didn’t look large enough to transplant so my husband sprinkled some Miracle Grow on them, but it was too strong and oops - - they did not make it.

The good news is that both the yellow and the green zucchini began to thrive.

Not to be defeated, a trip to the local grocery store gave us several varieties of tomato 6 pack plants so we were now ready to plant them as well.

Each morning my husband hand watered our darlings and did some weeding with a hoe.

Soon tiny zucchini and tomatoes set on and grew until they were ripe and we ready to begin our harvest.

Now we were puzzled and our big question was; how many ways can you fix zucchini?

Steamed, baked, breaded and fried, into stew, into soup, in omelets, shredded into nut bread, were a few of the ways we began to put them into practice.

Fresh vegetables are such a gift so I took some to church and others have been shared with neighbors.

Perhaps our favorite method is to create a Zucchini Quiche and we like it without a crust.

Here I share it with you. Hope you have zucchini in your garden too!

Or perhaps you have a nice neighbor who will share with you from their bountiful supply.

ZUCCHINI QUICHE without CRUST

4 cups thinly sliced zucchini
1 small chopped onion
1/2 cup salad oil or Olive oil
3/4 cup Bisquick
4 eggs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp parsley flakes
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

Sauté the onion in the oil until soft. Mix all ingredients together. Coat well. Pour into a 9 or 10 inch pie pan or 9 inch quiche pan. Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Serves 8 people. This can be made 2 or 3 days ahead, cooked and then refrigerated. Heat when ready to serve, 1/2 hour at 325 degrees. Serve with green salad with cubed fresh tomatoes.

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/

Do visit her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

Juvenile Pranksters

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It was early evening and my brother was ready! In his arms he had the ammunition; a clean mayonnaise jar filled with water and a red toy water gun.

Because I was the oldest mother always told me, “You should know better,” but this night it made no difference. Summer vacation was ending soon, and being three pre-teens was enough for us to be bored and thinking up things to do.

What happened that evening was my brother’s idea, but my sister and I decided to tag along and watch. The boulevard was only a short walk away and then over one block to the transit bus stop. The buses came every 10 minutes, so our wait wouldn’t be long.

My sister and I stayed back in the shadows, while our brother stepped up to the bus stop.  Here it came and sure enough it pulled over and stopped.  The driver opened the doors and my brother took one step up, aimed his water pistol and shot the bus driver. 

We all three yelled, “Surprise!”

Almost as quickly as the door had opened, it closed again and off went the bus down the street.

We roared with laughter and decided to prank just one more bus before heading for home.

Soon the next bus came, and again my brother stepped up to the open door and unloaded his water pistol.

What we did not notice was a car behind the bus that had pulled over.

Out from the car jumped a man, and since I was the closest within his reach he grabbed my arm, saying, “Get in the car; I am taking you to the police station.”  

My brother and my sister ran off leaving me standing there with the man holding my arm.

This is embarrassing, but since I am telling all; we had been on the boulevard a long time, and after laughing until our belly’s hurt and to top it off, a strange man scaring the living day lights out of me - - I wet my jeans.

Well, there was no way on this earth that I was getting into that car, and I told him so. “I am not getting in that car with you.” I think he may have understood more than he said, because now he had another solution.

He asked, “Are your parents at home?” I told him, “My dad is.” “Then I will walk you home and speak to your dad,” he said. We walked the short distance to our home, and up the steps and into my dad’s bedroom where Dad had gone to bed early.

“Daddy, are you awake?” I asked. “This man wants to talk to you.” The gentleman was soft spoken and explained to my dad what we had done. Dad told him, “thanks for bringing her home, and I will tend to them all.” The gentleman excused himself and left.

Dad must have understood us better than we did ourselves, because he only said, “Did you learn a lesson tonight? And please do not do it again.”

That was enough for us. There would be no more pranks - - at least not with a bus.

As Mother always reminded us:  Numbers 32:23  Be sure your sin will find you out.  

And for some reason, it usually did!

When you were a child did you ever get into mischief and got caught??  Or was it only me?

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Snake Fence

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Hidden in the thick bushes on the neighbors side of our property is a Rattlesnake nest!

Baby rattlesnakes are born live but can be just as menacing as an adult.

Our chain link fence will not keep out the snakes, so my husband has busily been preparing for snaking season. He purchased some fine mesh rolls and has diligently been securing them around the sides and back of our fenced yard. As soon as they are all in place, he plans to pour some cement at the base of the mesh to prevent snakes from crawling under the screen

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Not once, but twice, our curious hound dog has been bitten by a Rattle snake! The first time it was just a baby snake bite. You would not think a tiny snake could do much damage, but it did!

Now, if the snake could just lick my dog maybe that would not hurt him; but no, he had to bite my puppy.

In life, some things appear to be small and innocent enough, but they are best left alone. Often, we observe our friends doing things or going certain places that we know in our own heart would not be right for us. They are tempting and seem innocent enough.

However, I can still hear my Mother saying,  “If your friends jumped off a bridge would you do it too?”

When I was a young girl I remember reading a tract. In part it said, “Other’s May, but You May Not.” It went on to say that some people can get by, or even get away, with just a tiny bite of sin.  Shall we say just a “Snakey-lick”.

When Eve bit the apple that turned Creation upside-down, it was only a small bite! So if you are tempted to take, “only a little bit” or just do something “only this once,”  keep that in mind.

Understand that even a small Snakey-lick or Snake-bite can flip-flop your world in a way you never anticipated! Given a little time, you will be wondering how you got so far off course.

Innocent looking “snakes” can really mess up your life! How do you fence them out?

Daily prayer is the best screen-mesh to surround and protect you from the Snakey-licks of this world.

A must is to attend a Bible Believing church and enroll in their small study groups and classes. 

Lastly and very important, plug up the holes. Cement your life by daily reading a portion of God’s Word.

This post has been shared at “The One Word at a Time” Please visit and check out the other great posts at: http://peterpollock.com/2011/08/fences-blog-carnival/  

Also shared at "A Pause on the Path"  http://www.shandaoakleyinspires.com/

Jesus Is Your Life

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A series from the Book of Colossians is being taught each Sunday by our Pastor Carl.    He is using the Message Bible reading from Colossians chapter 3, which sheds new light on the meaning.  Listening intently I took notes, and here I share some of his thoughts with you.

Colossians 3:1-2

So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective.

Paul illustrates two things side by side: Negative and positive, before and after. We once were dead spiritually, but now we are alive in Christ.

Paul states that we once did not know any better, but now that we do, we are responsible to cast aside all works of unrighteousness, such as a hot temper, irritability, lying, profanity, lust, perversion in any form, and bury it.

We have been changed from sinner to saints, from unbelievers to believers, once filled with fear now strong with His strength.

There is the old and the new, the false and the truth, the ugly old garments, exchanged for a new wardrobe.

We once were wearing ticky-tacky clothes, now we can toss them in the fire and receive a new line of clothing with a label that has His name written there.

We can wear His righteousness with pride. He outfits us with compassion, kindness, even temper, contentment, purity and the greatest gift is Love. We spill over with gratitude and thanksgiving.

Pastor illustrated with a story of a minister who each morning would dress his mind with beautiful Godly clothing for the day. He would visualize himself putting on each of the garments of Salvation and for the day he would wear his spiritual clothing with boldness, honor and grace.

Colossians 3: 15-17 Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.

This post has been shared at: Hear it on Sunday Use it on Monday. Visit and Enjoy! http://nebraskagraceful.blogspot.com/2011/08/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday-yeah.html

Also shared at: In and Around Mondays: http://seedlingsinstone.blogspot.com/  

Count to TEN

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Early in our marriage, my husband decided to begin a new career and it required me to go back to work while he learned his new trade.

My parents had promised to care for our children while I worked, and it was entertaining for them to be with Grandma and Grandpa during the day.

My job search began first by using the newspaper Want Ads. I found an interesting ad at an automobile dealership. They needed someone in their office to do bookkeeping.

The gentleman doing the interview said, “Quickly in your head add these numbers; 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10.”

I was always very good at math, and when I promptly gave him the correct answer - - he sluffed it off by saying, “You probably already knew the answer.”

He ended the interview by telling me to go home and take care of my small children as I might be too over qualified for this job.

I was disappointed, but kept looking for work. Soon, I was hired at a small business that needed an accounts receivable person. It was a two girl office, and we got along well and I enjoyed working there.

One thing that did not happen at this new place of work, - - they never asked me to count to ten!!

Counting to ten is an old fashioned method used to learn to control your temper. By the time you get to ten, supposedly you have cooled off and can remain calm again.

My young Pastor’s wife taught me how to control my children by counting aloud, slowly to ten.  I watched her in our church nursery with her two boys, and when they misbehaved she very slowly began her count.

She only made it to three before all was amazingly still. 

I was counfounded by their response to settle down, and I told her so.  I also remarked that I was going to try this very soon with my own children.

She suggested that first I threaten them with a punishment if I ever get to ten. Provided they changed their behavior early enough they were home scot-free.

It is not a sin to be angry at evil and unjustice. However God desires that we control our anger and not be so quick to loose our temper, and carry it too far into destructive behavior.

Jesus was angry with the money changers in the temple. He was upset with their greed, and their disrespect for God’s house. That day He put on quite a vivid display of Righteous Anger.

It is not a sin to be angry, but do not hold on to it over-night.  According to the Bible - - -

Ephesians 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

Proverbs 14:17 He that is soon angry deals foolishly:

Ecclesiastes 7:9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger rests in the bosom of fools

If you personally are having issues with anger - -

Please count slowly to TEN!

Kombucha Tea and Healing

Praise the Lord for Home Remedies and of course wise Doctors who treat with wisdom.  

I take a step and give thanks to God that I can walk.

It seems like only a few months ago I was on crutches with swollen legs and a diagnosed blood clot.  I listened to my Doctor and took a six months Warfarin treatment and the pain slowly went away, but not the swelling.

After our Doctor took me off medicine, I waited hopfully for the drugs to leave my system.

Then I resorted to a home remedy (Kombucha tea) and it worked.  It took 3 weeks, taking a small glass 3 times a day, but the swelling left in my ankles, and although my knees creak (old age probably) I can walk.

For how to brew Kombucha, please revisit my previous post on Kombucha!

I continue to daily drink the tea that I brew myself, and thank God for old fashioned home remedies that God has shown others and they pass it on through families.

My brother-in-law takes daily a spoon full of apple cider vinegar and honey for his joints and that works for him.

When it comes to pain, you probably know to say with your mouth: "This too shall pass." Positive words spoken are powerful.  (Also negative words have their reversal effect.)

Pain is not in your head, but yet in a sense it is. Your brain sends signals to your body telling you that you hurt. If with your mind, you dwell on the pain and the sickness - - it will intensify.

I do not adhere to cults who chant and say their mantras, but I do accept as truth, the Word of God that tells us that Life and Death is in the power of the tongue.

Along with our treatments, whether they are prescribed by our Doctor, or if they are home remedies, we need to mutter with our mouth and say to ourselves scriptures that encourage us to believe that God is working in our behalf.

Never rule out a miracle even if your Doctor has given you a bad report.

I Peter 2:24 who His own self bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed.

Jesus went about preaching and teaching the gospel and healing all who were sick and oppressed.

Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.

We often sang a song at our church! Here are the words to the song:  Let it encourage your heart.

He can do it again

You may feel down
and feel like God has somehow forgotten

That you are faced with circumstances

that you can't get through

Right now it seems that there's no way out

In the natural you could just go under

But God has proven time and time again

He'll take care of you

Chorus

He'll do it again (God will do it again)

He'll do it again (Yes He will do it again)

Just take a look at where you are now

And where you been

He has always come through for you

He's the same God now as then

(Don't you know God has not changed)

You may not know how

You may not know when

But he'll do it again

God knows the things that you're going through

And how you are hurting

He understands just how your heart has been

broken in two
He's the God of the sun, the stars, the sea

He is your father

He'll calm the storm

He'll find a way

And he'll fix it for you

Chorus

He'll do it again

He'll do it again

You just take a look where you are now

And where you've been

You'll see hasn't He always come through
For you

He's the same God now as then,

You may not know how,

You may not know when

But He'll do it again

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/

Do amble over to her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes, hints and suggestions.