I Want To Be M.A.D.

Katie's Kisses

2011-10-23T01:36:00.000-07:00

I am totally blown away at this young lady's insights and willingness to be a vessel for the Lord. Total commitment, no holding back. Impacting the world in a very real way. It is my prayer that I will be this willing to make a difference for Him.

Invisible Children

2011-04-18T20:07:00.000-07:00

'Break the Silence' Details from INVISIBLE CHILDREN on Vimeo.

Give Water. Change Everything.

2011-01-22T15:35:00.000-08:00

Nearly 1 billion people suffer needlessly without access to safe water. I am convinced this can change - one village at a time.

To make a difference go to www.thewaterproject.org!

Save A Life Week

2010-08-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

A movie can't change the world, but the people watching it can. I wish that I had watched this movie in high school. Make a difference and don't just walk by. You could save someone's life today.

Help Save A Child's Life

2010-05-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

You may seldom think about children who live with constant diarrhea due to foul water and poor sanitation. You and I are so blessed to have clean, drinkable water in our homes. And we have bathrooms with toilets and sinks. Soap is readily available. Nutritious food is easily obtained. These are simple things that we often take for granted. Yet for much of the world, these are unattainable luxuries.

ADRA’s child survival programs teach the importance of clean water, of keeping water covered, and of bathing and keeping children clean. We teach mothers a simple intervention called oral rehydration therapy. This solution combining water, salts, and a form of sugar saves the lives of millions of children from the ravages of diarrhea.

ADRA’s child survival programs mean the difference between life and death. That is a harsh reality, yet it is one that you can make happen. Through ADRA’s programs worldwide, you have the power to save a child’s life.

Your support makes the difference. Children whom you may never hold in your arms are held in your heart when you make a gift to ADRA’s child survival programs. What’s more, whatever amount you send today will be matched fivefold, allowing you to help five times as many children live healthy lives.

You and I, who are blessed in so many ways, have the opportunity to share and make a difference in the lives of those living without hope.

Make a difference at www.ADRA.org

enditnow - Make A Change

2010-04-15T21:36:00.001-07:00

"Together we can make a difference in the lives of our sisters and mothers around the world."

About enditnow
a campaign to stop violence against women
enditnow is a global campaign to raise awareness and advocate for the end of violence against women and girls around the world.

This campaign, which extends to more than 200 countries and territories, was launched in October 2009 in partnership between the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA)-a prominent humanitarian organization-and the Department of Women's Ministries of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, two entities that are representative of the Adventist Church.

enditnow seeks to extend God's vision of love and compassion for all His children.
While enditnow focuses on violence against women and girls, abuse of any kind should never occur against men or women. This campaign aims to highlight abuse against women because the majority of victims of gender-based violence are indisputably women.

enditnow - Make A Change

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Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-12T21:54:00.000-08:00

Make sure you know the AUTHOR of love!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTY4a4qLKLY

Help for Haiti

2010-01-13T19:48:00.000-08:00

You can help the victims of countless crises, like the recent earthquake in Haiti, around the world each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in need. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster, please do so at the time of your donation by mailing your donation with the designation to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, D.C. 20013 or to your local American Red Cross chapter. Donations to the International Response Fund can be made by phone at 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish) or online at www.redcross.org. Send a $10 Donation by Texting ‘Haiti’ to 90999

Feed America for Christmas

2009-12-10T21:53:00.000-08:00

Our Holiday Shopping List: 3.3 million bags of groceries

The holidays always take a toll on struggling families. But now, because of the recession, things are worse than ever, Our member food banks are running out of resources.

Every $5 provides 20 bags!

$50 will provide 200 bags.

$75 provides 300 bags.

And an extra-generous gift of $100 will provide 400 bags of food and groceries!

In this rough economy, so many families need our help. Please give what you can today!

www.FeedingAmerica.org

Orphan Sunday

2009-10-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you Lord for picking my sweet orphans out for me - I am eternally grateful for weaving our lives together. If you have EVER considered adding to your family please consider adoption! If not - please at least pray and/or financially contribute to an orphan organization. I know that in Russia alone 80% of the orphans will become homeless. Their plight is not a positive one without YOUR help!

Orphan Sunday from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo.

http://www.guideposts.com/frog

2009-10-02T22:09:00.001-07:00

http://www.guideposts.com/frog

Shared via AddThis

Encouraging Word

2009-10-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

"Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying."

~ Romans 12:12, NLT

God Doesn't Make Junk

2009-08-31T21:31:00.000-07:00

We are all so precious in His sight. We talk ourselves out of a relationship with God because we keep forgetting that He will love us in spite of our downfalls and ugliness - unlike some of the people in our lives. He totally understands us. This video is a reminder to me that "God doesn't make junk!"

Think Twice

2009-07-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking twice about my next purchase lately. Whether it is a Coke or a trip to the latest movie. The Lord has been pricking my heart and reminding me of the Golden Rule - to love others as I would would want to be loved. I think this means some "sacrifice" on my part to help my brothers and sisters.

Buzzard, Bat & Bumblebee

2009-06-26T04:35:00.000-07:00

THE BUZZARD:
If you put a buzzard in a pen that is 6 feet by 8 feet and is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit, it will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.

THE BAT:
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkable nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash.

THE BUMBLEBEE:
bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.

PEOPLE:
In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee. We struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up! That's the answer, the escape route and the solution to any problem! Just look up.

Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, But faith looks up! Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and trust in our Creator who loves us.

Are you Jesus?

2009-05-26T22:04:00.000-07:00

A few years ago a group of salesmen went to a regional
sales convention in Chicago. They had assured their wives
that they would be home in plenty of time for Friday night's
dinner. In their rush, with tickets and briefcases, one of these
salesmen inadvertently kicked over a table which held a display
of apples. Apples flew everywhere. Without stopping or looking
back, they all managed to reach the plane in time for their nearly
missed boarding.

ALL BUT ONE! He paused, took a deep breath, got in touch
with his feelings, and experienced a twinge of compassion for
the girl whose apple stand had been overturned.

He told his buddies to go on without him, waved good-bye, told
one of them to call his wife when they arrived at their home
destination and explain his taking a later flight. Then he returned
to the terminal where the apples were all over the terminal floor.

He was glad he did.

The 16-year-old girl was totally blind! She was softly crying,
tears running down her cheeks in frustration, and at the same
time helplessly groping for her spilled produce as the crowd
swirled about her, no one stopping and no one to care for her
plight.

The salesman knelt on the floor with her, gathered up the
apples, put them back on the table and helped organize her
display. As he did this, he noticed that many of them had
become battered and bruised; these he set aside in another
basket.

When he had finished, he pulled out his wallet and said to
the girl, "Here, please take this $40 for the damage we did.
Are you okay?" She nodded through her tears. He continued
on with, "I hope we didn't spoil your day too badly."

As the salesman started to walk away, the bewildered blind
girl called out to him, "Mister...." He paused and turned to
look back into those blind eyes. She continued,

"Are you Jesus?"

He stopped in mid-stride, and he wondered. Then slowly he
made his way to catch the later flight with that question burning
and bouncing about in his soul: "Are you Jesus?"

Do people mistake you for Jesus?

That's our destiny, is it not? To be so much like Jesus that
people cannot tell the difference as we live and interact with
a world that is blind to His love, life and grace.

If we claim to know Him, we should live, walk and act as He
would.

Knowing Him is more than simply quoting Scripture and going
to church. It's actually living the Word as life unfolds day to day.

You are the apple of His eye even though we, too, have been
bruised by a fall. He stopped what He was doing and picked
you and me up on a hill called Calvary and paid in full for our
damaged fruit.

Yes you CAN!

2009-04-29T21:25:00.000-07:00

There will be days when you are struggling with a physical, mental or spiritual trial or seemingly insurmountable obstacle. Watch this and remember God's promises to get you through each day - moment by moment.

Answered Prayers

2009-03-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

This beautiful story was written by a doctor who worked in Central Africa

One night I had worked hard to help a mother in the labor ward; but in spite of all we could do, she died, leaving us with a tiny, premature baby and a crying two-year-old daughter. We would have difficulty keeping the baby alive; as we had no incubator (we had no electricity to run an incubator). We also had no special feeding facilities.

Although we lived on the equator, nights were often chilly with treacherous drafts. One student midwife went for the box we had for such babies and the cotton wool that the baby would be wrapped in. Another went to stoke up the fire and fill a hot water bottle. She came back shortly in distress to tell me that in filling the bottle, it had burst (rubber perishes easily in tropical climates).
"And it is our last hot water bottle!" she exclaimed. As in the West, it is no good crying over spilled milk, so in Central Africa it might be considered no good crying over burst water bottles. They do not grow on trees, and there are no drugstores down forest pathways.

"All right," I said, "put the baby as near the fire as you safely can, and sleep between the baby and the door to keep it free from drafts. Your job is to keep the baby warm."

The following noon, as I did most days, I went to have prayers with any of the orphanage children who chose to gather with me. I gave the youngsters various suggestions of things to pray about and told them about the tiny baby. I explained our problem about keeping the baby warm enough, mentioning the hot water bottle, and that the baby could so easily die if it got chills.. I also told them of the two-year-old sister, crying because her mother had died.

During prayer time, one ten-year-old girl, Ruth, prayed with the usual blunt conciseness of our African children. "Please, God" she prayed, "Send us a hot water bottle today . It'll be no good tomorrow, God, as the baby will be dead, so please send it this afternoon."
While I gasped inwardly at the audacity of the prayer, she added, "And while You are about it, would You please send a dolly for the little girl so she'll know You really love her?"

As often with children's prayers, I was put on the spot. Could I honestly say "Amen"? I just did not believe that God could do this. Oh, yes, I know that He can do everything; the Bible says so. But there are limits, aren't there? The only way God could answer this particular prayer would be by sending me a parcel from the homeland. I had been in Africa for almost four years at that time, and I had never, ever, received a parcel from home.

Anyway, if anyone did send me a parcel, who would put in a hot water bottle? I lived on the equator!

Halfway through the afternoon, while I was teaching in the nurses' training school, a message was sent that there was a car at my front door. By the time I reached home, the car had gone, but there on the porch was a large 22-pound parcel. I felt tears pricking my eyes. I could not open the parcel alone, so I sent for the orphanage children. Together we pulled off the string, carefully undoing each knot. We folded the paper, taking care not to tear it unduly... Excitement was mounting. Some thirty or forty pairs of eyes were focused on the large cardboard box.

From the top, I lifted out brightly-colored, knitted jerseys. Eyes sparkled as I gave them out. Then there were the knitted bandages for the leprosy patients, and the children looked a little bored. Then came a box of mixed raisins and sultanas - that would make a batch of buns for the weekend.

Then, as I put my hand in again, I felt the..... could it really be?

I grasped it and pulled it out. Yes, a brand new, rubber hot water bottle. I cried. I had not asked God to send it; I had not truly believed that He could.

Ruth was in the front row of the children. She rushed forward, crying out, "If God has sent the bottle, He must have sent the dolly, too!"

Rummaging down to the bottom of the box, she pulled out the small, beautifully-dressed dolly. Her eyes shone! She had never doubted! Looking up at me, she asked, "Can I go over with you and give this dolly to that little girl, so she'll know that Jesus really loves her?"

"Of course," I replied!

That parcel had been on the way for five whole months, packed up by my former Sunday school class, whose leader had heard and obeyed God's prompting to send a hot water bottle, even to the equator. And one of the girls had put in a dolly for an African child - five months before, in answer to the believing prayer of a ten-year-old to bring it 'that afternoon'.

"Before they call, I will answer." (Isaiah 65:24)

Inspirational!

2009-02-24T19:51:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day - Save a Life

2009-01-30T21:27:00.000-08:00

This Valentine's Day please consider saving a life by donating blood. I would like to personally thank anyone who has donated previously. You may have saved my life! I would not be here today if it weren't for the selfless act of someone donating their blood. Thank you with all of my heart!

http://www.givelife.org/

Ronald McDonald House

2009-01-15T21:56:00.001-08:00

We believe that when you change a child’s life, you change a family’s, which can change a community, and ultimately the world.

We strive to be part of that change and part of the solution in improving the lives of children and their families. We extend our reach and impact by leveraging our 35 years of experience and strong relationships with local communities and people in the field to continually establish Chapters across the globe. We continually work to improve and expand our core programs, while also developing new services to address the unique needs of the communities we serve.

We don’t do it alone. We rely on our Chapters to identify needs and carry out our mission on the ground. We rely on our strong relationships with the medical community to provide access to health care. We rely on strategic alliances with organizations that have the knowledge and infrastructure to extend our reach. We rely on you – our donors, volunteers, staff and friends.

A little can change a lot, and all of your donations matter.
They help families stay together during a child’s illness. They provide a refuge when it’s needed in the hospital. They help bring medical attention to children in underserved communities.

And it’s individual donors like you who make it possible. No matter the size, the cumulative impact of the gifts you give – whether monetary, in kind, or volunteer hours – is profound.

http://www.rmhc.org/

The Most Amazing Gift Ever

2008-12-18T20:25:00.000-08:00

Redefine Christmas

2008-12-18T19:59:00.000-08:00

Consider that the amount of money spent on candy alone during the 4th quarter of the year is greater than the annual budgets of the American Cancer Society, The American Heart Association and Habitat for Humanity combined.

It's not about reinventing the holiday. It's about changing the way we look at gift giving and receiving. It's taking money we usually spend on obligatory gifts with little meaning, and creating gifts of charity that give in multiple ways, to the receiver, the giver, and people who truly need.

There is no question we are in the midst of difficult financial times. And if it has you feeling unsure or uncomfortable this holiday season, imagine how purely difficult it's becoming for people who already, or are about to, depend on the generosity of others for the things that only a donation can provide.

As we consider our individual place in this world we can be of help to others with a simple gesture that bestows the gift of charity on those who are in need, on behalf of the ones we care about. If this sounds like a good idea to you, redefine Christmas by giving others donations to their favorite charities, request that others do the same for you, and use this site to share this message with as many people as you can think of. Chances are, you'll like the way it feels.

www.redefinechristmas.org

Turn off the TV

2008-11-23T18:14:00.000-08:00

What Happy People Don’t Do
By RONI CARYN RABIN
Published: November 19, 2008 New York Times

Happy people spend a lot of time socializing, going to church and reading newspapers — but they don’t spend a lot of time watching television, a new study finds.

That’s what unhappy people do.

Although people who describe themselves as happy enjoy watching television, it turns out to be the single activity they engage in less often than unhappy people, said John Robinson, a professor of sociology at the University of Maryland and the author of the study, which appeared in the journal Social Indicators Research.

While most large studies on happiness have focused on the demographic characteristics of happy people — factors like age and marital status — Dr. Robinson and his colleagues tried to identify what activities happy people engage in. The study relied primarily on the responses of 45,000 Americans collected over 35 years by the University of Chicago’s General Social Survey, and on published “time diary” studies recording the daily activities of participants.

“We looked at 8 to 10 activities that happy people engage in, and for each one, the people who did the activities more — visiting others, going to church, all those things — were more happy,” Dr. Robinson said. “TV was the one activity that showed a negative relationship. Unhappy people did it more, and happy people did it less.”

But the researchers could not tell whether unhappy people watch more television or whether being glued to the set is what makes people unhappy. “I don’t know that turning off the TV will make you more happy,” Dr. Robinson said.

Still, he said, the data show that people who spend the most time watching television are least happy in the long run.

Since the major predictor of how much time is spent watching television is whether someone works or not, Dr. Robinson added, it’s possible that rising unemployment will lead to more TV time.

A Father's Love

2008-11-09T18:28:00.000-08:00

A Cinematic Story of a Father's Love...
Faced With an Unfathomable
Circumstance and Choice.

Please watch - it might change your life.

http://www.maximumreferrals.com/videos/bridge/bridge.html

I Care About Orphans

2008-10-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

When you hear the word "orphan,"
what do you think of? China? Russia? Africa?
United States?

UNICEF defines orphans as “any child under age 18 who has lost one or both parents.” But they are also the children of God because in Psalm 68.5, it says that He is “a father to the fatherless.”

Around the world are more than 130 million orphans. They are living on the streets, in train and bus stations, and often taking care of younger brothers and sisters. Here in the United States, approximately 510,000 are living in the foster care system. The majority of these children are hoping to be reunited with their parents or another family member, but 127,000 of these waiting children are hoping to be adopted. In addition, more than 20,000 teens age out of the foster care system each year. They are forced to try and make it on their own with no support or guidance.

When looking at the number of orphaned and waiting children, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. In situations like this, we often bow out before the fight begins because we already feel defeated. Jeremiah 32.27 says,

I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?

We may feel like this is a problem too big for us, and, in all honesty, it is. But when the God of the universe stirs the hearts of His people to fulfill His purposes, who can stop Him?

Instead of bowing out, maybe we should try bowing down to the One who proclaims human life as holy.

Christians have a clear command to care for orphans, and there are many ways to get involved-like praying, giving, mobilizing your church, or adopting. So embrace the call, avoid the trap of thinking "someone else will help," and let's make the US a place where every orphan waiting in foster care has a family.

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27

www.iCareAboutOrphans.org

World Food Day - October 16th

2008-09-28T19:54:00.000-07:00

Each year on October 16, World Food Day highlights the plight of hungry people across the globe in an effort to increase awareness and call people to action. Created by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), at their Twentieth General Conference in November 1979, World Food Day is now observed in some 150 countries.

Run in the Rain

2008-09-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in Target. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all stood there under the awning and just inside the door of the Target. We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day. The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in

"Mom let's run through the rain," she said."What?" Mom asked."Lets run through the rain!" She repeated."No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit," Mom replied. This young child waited about another minute and repeated: "Mom, let's run through the rain," "We'll get soaked if we do," Mom said."No, we won't, Mom. That's not what you said this morning," the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom's arm. This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?" "Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer,you said, 'If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything!"

The entire crowd stopped dead silent. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the rain. We all stood silently. No one came or left in the next few minutes. Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith. "Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If God let's us get wet, well maybe we just needed washing," Mom said. Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars. And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.

Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories...So, don't forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday. To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven. I HOPE YOU STILL TAKE THE TIME TO RUN THROUGH THE RAIN.

Smile

2008-08-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

One of the most beautiful things in the world is a heartfelt smile. Unfortunately many children are born into this world without having that chance because of a cleft.

These children are suffering not because they are born with a cleft, but because they are born too poor to ever afford surgery. Being born with a cleft in a developing country is truly a curse. In fact, every baby born in Uganda with a cleft is given the name Ajok which means literally, “cursed by God.” And no one knows how many newborns with clefts are killed or abandoned right after birth. And the ones who are lucky enough to find a Smile Train free cleft surgery program, not only survive, they thrive. After a 45 minute surgery hands them back their future, and a second chance at life that they never thought they'd get.

In her first eleven years, Yi Yun faced a lifetime of heartbreak and disappointment. Because of her cleft, her parents abandoned her soon after she was born. Adopted by her uncle, Yi Yun lives in a home where grinding poverty requires her to work very hard. School was never an option. Her cleft greatly affected her speech and it made it almost impossible for her to communicate. All the children in her village taunted and teased her. One day, she received news that she had been chosen to receive free surgery from The Smile Train. This surgery has changed her life. For the first time in her life she can go to school and speech training is helping her learn how to speak properly. Some of her first words after surgery were a heartfelt “thank you” to her surgeon.

It just might be the most effective, impactful donation to a charity you ever make. The free cleft surgery your donation will help provide, is a true, modern-day medical miracle: it costs as little as $250 and takes as little as 45 minutes. That’s all it takes to give a desperate child not just a new smile, but a new life. When you see the impact your donation has, you’ll end up smiling too.

http://www.smiletrain.org/

The Perfect Resume

2008-07-16T06:14:00.000-07:00

The Resume of Jesus Christ

Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13

Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications
I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

Occupational Background
I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49).
I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)

Experience
Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).
I am Wonderful, Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).
Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)

Educational Background
I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a lamp unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).

Major Accomplishments
I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).
I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).
I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).
I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can about them in my book: The Bible.

References
The great teacher- my father, Jehovah (Psalms 83:18)
Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance

Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15). Send this resume to everyone you know, you never know who may have an opening! Thanks for your help and may God bless you!

I am Going to Miss You Mom

2008-06-30T23:39:00.000-07:00

Hugs, smiles, memories, pictures, conversations

Locked into my heart and senses

Laughter, walks, holidays, celebrations

Never forgotten

Tears, fears, pain, brokenness

No more

Prayers, songs, praises, love

Forever

The pain of losing a parent is sometimes unbearable. I hold to the promises in Revelation 21:4 "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

Overflowing thankfulness to Hospice for making this journey sacred and peaceful. Please consider donating to them. http://www.hospicenet.org/

The Home Foundation

2008-06-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

The Home Foundation is a non-profit charitable foundation dedicated to the eradication of human trafficking both domestically and abroad. Through advocacy, education and relief efforts, the Home Foundation is committed to end the suffering of women and children sold into sexual slavery. http://www.thehomefoundation.net/

* As many as 10 million people are victims of human trafficking.

* No country is immune from human trafficking. Each year, an estimated 600,000-800,000 men, women, and children are trafficked across international borders (some international and non-governmental organizations place the number far higher), and the trade is growing. This figure is in addition to a far larger yet indeterminate number of people trafficked within countries. Victims are forced into prostitution, or to work in quarries and sweatshops, on farms, as domestics, as child soldiers, and in many forms of involuntary servitude.

* 80 percent of the victims trafficked across international borders are female and 70 percent of those females are trafficked for sexual exploitation.

* The International Organization for Migration estimates that each year 500,000 women are sold (trafficked) to local prostitution markets in Europe.

* Sex trafficking is a modern-day form of slavery in which a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud, or coercion, or in which the person induced to perform such an act is under the age of 18 years.

* Traffickers use psychological as well as physical coercion and bondage, and it defines coercion to include: threats of serious harm to or physical restraint against any person; any scheme, plan, or pattern intended to cause a person to believe that failure to perform an act would result in serious harm to or physical restraint against any person; or the abuse or threatened abuse of the legal process.

* Victims of sex trafficking can be women or men, girls or boys, but the majority are women and girls. There are a number of common patterns for luring victims into situations of sex trafficking, including: • A promise of a good job in another country • A false marriage proposal turned into a bondage situation • Being sold into the sex trade by parents, husbands, boyfriends • Being kidnapped by traffickers

* Sex traffickers frequently subject their victims to debt-bondage, an illegal practice in which the traffickers tell their victims that they owe money (often relating to the victims’ living expenses and transport into the country) and that they must pledge their personal services to repay the debt.

* Sex traffickers use a variety of methods to “condition” their victims including starvation, confinement, beatings, physical abuse, rape, gang rape, threats of violence to the victims and the victims’ families, forced drug use and the threat of shaming their victims by revealing their activities to their family and their families’ friends.

*information taken from the Trafficking In Persons Report, 2004. For more information and statistics, visit www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2004/

Help Myanmar

2008-05-07T17:12:00.000-07:00

With winds of up to 120 miles per hour, Cyclone Nargis devastated entire villages, flattening thousands of buildings, destroying power lines, and uprooting trees that are now blocking roads.
The cyclone took more than 22,000 lives and left more than one million homeless and without drinking water.
And these numbers are expected to increase.
ADRA is already responding. Help us.
ADRA is onsite assessing critical needs and implementing an immediate response. Once the current urgent needs of shelter, clean drinking water, and basic food are met, the long-term effects of the storm on family livelihoods will also need to be addressed.
The people of Myanmar are in mourning and in desperate need. ADRA has committed itself to assist in relief and rebuilding efforts.
Help ADRA bring comfort and hope to the survivors of Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar.

http://www.adra.org/

Share Our Strength

2008-04-22T20:25:00.000-07:00

All of us have at one time or another experienced hunger. We’ve all craved a midnight snack, wanted something salty or needed some chocolate. But there’s a big difference between trying to satisfy a brief craving or stomach growl and wondering where your next meal will come from.

The reality is that more than 12.6 million children in America—that’s one in six—are at risk of hunger. And it’s likely that these children will endure lifelong consequences as a result of having limited access to nutritious foods.

13.4 million children in America live in poverty today, representing roughly 1 in 6 children.

More than 13% of Americans – 38 million – live below the poverty threshold of $19,800 for a family of four.

35 million Americans – including 12.4 million children – are food-insecure.

Food banks and food-rescue organizations provide emergency hunger-relief to 9% of all Americans-about 25 million persons.

More than one-third of individuals served by food banks are children under 18.

Share Our Strength^® is a national organization that works hard to make sure no kid in America grows up hungry.

http://www.strength.org/

Thorns

2008-04-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

Sandra felt as low as the heels of her shoes when she pulled open the florist shop door, against a November gust of wind. Her life had been as sweet as a spring breeze and then, in the fourth month of her second pregnancy, a 'minor' automobile accident stole her joy. This was Thanksgiving week and the time she should have delivered their infant son. She grieved over their loss. Troubles had multiplied. Her husband's company 'threatened' to transfer his job to a new location. Her sister had called to say that she could not come for her long awaited holiday visit. What's worse, Sandra's friend suggested that Sandra's grief was a God-given path to maturity that would allow her to empathize with others who suffer. 'She has no idea what I'm feeling,' thought Sandra with a shudder. 'Thanksgiving? Thankful for what?' she wondered. 'For a careless driver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended her? For an airbag that saved her life, but took her child's?

''Good afternoon, can I help you?'Sandra was startled by the approach of the shop clerk. 'I . . . I need an arrangement,' stammered Sandra. 'For Thanksgiving? I'm convinced that flowers tell stories,' she continued. 'Are you looking for something that conveys 'gratitude' this Thanksgiving?''Not exactly!' Sandra blurted out. 'In the last five months, everything that could go wrong has gone wrong.' Sandra regretted her outburst, and was surprised when the clerk said, 'I have the perfect arrangement for you.'Then the bell on the door rang, and the clerk greeted the new customer, 'Hi, Barbara, let me get your order.' She excused herself and walked back to a small workroom, then quickly reappeared, carrying an arrangement of greenery, bows, and what appeared to be long-stemmed thorny roses. Except the ends of the rose stems were neatly snipped: there were no flowers. 'Do you want these in a box?' asked the clerk. Sandra watched - was this a joke? Who would want rose stems with no flowers!

She waited for laughter, but neither woman laughed. 'Yes, please,' Barbara replied with an appreciative smile. 'You'd think after three years of getting the special, I wouldn't be so moved by its significance, but I can feel it right here, all over again,' she said, as she gently tapped her chest..Sandra stammered, 'Ah, that lady just left with . . . uh . . . she left with no flowers!'' That's right,' said the clerk. 'I cut off the flowers. That's the 'Special'. I call it the Thanksgiving Thorns Bouquet.. Barbara came into the shop three years ago, feeling much as you do today,' explained the clerk. 'She thought she had very little to be thankful for. She had just lost her father to cancer; the family business was failing; her son had gotten into drugs; and she was facing major surgery. That same year I had lost my husband,' continued the clerk. 'For the first time in my life, I had to spend the holidays alone. I had no children, no husband, no family nearby, and too much debt to allow any travel. ''So what did you do?' asked Sandra.' I learned to be thankful for thorns,' answered the clerk quietly. 'I've always thanked God for the good things in my life and I never questioned Him why those good things happened to me, but when the bad stuff hit, I cried out, 'Why? Why me?!' It took time for me to learn that the dark times are important to our faith! I have always enjoyed the 'flowers' of my life, but it took the thorns to show me the beauty of God's comfort! You know, the Bible says that God comforts us when we're afflicted, and from His consolation we learn to comfort others.'

Sandra sucked in her breath, as she thought about what her friend had tried to tell her. 'I guess the truth is I don't want comfort. I've lost a baby and I'm angry with God. Just then someone else walked in the shop. 'Hey, Phil!' the clerk greeted the balding, rotund man.' My wife sent me in to get our usual Thanksgiving arrangement .. . . twelve thorny, long-stemmed stems!' laughed Phil as the clerk handed him a tissue wrapped arrangement from the refrigerator.'Those are for your wife?' asked Sandra incredulously. 'Do you mind telling me why she wants a bouquet that looks like that?''Four years ago, my wife and I nearly divorced,' Phil replied. 'After forty years, we were in a real mess, but with the Lord's grace and guidance, we trudged through problem after problem, the Lord rescued our marriage. Jenny here (the clerk) told me she kept a vase of rose stems to remind her of what she had learned from 'thorny' times. That was good enough for me. I took home some of those stems. My wife and I decided to label each one for a specific 'problem' and give thanks for what that problem taught us.' As Phil paid the clerk, he said to Sandra, 'I highly recommend the Special!''

I don't know if I can be thankful for the thorns in my life' Sandra said to the clerk. 'It's all too . . . fresh.''Well,' the clerk replied carefully, 'my experience has shown me that the thorns make the roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care more during trouble than at any other time. Remember that it was a crown of thorns that Jesus wore so we might know His love. Don't resent the thorns.' Tears rolled down Sandra's cheeks. For the first time since the accident, she loosened her grip on her resentment. 'I'll take those twelve long-stemmed thorns, please,' she managed to choke out. 'I hoped you would,' said the clerk gently. 'I'll have them ready in a minute.''Thank you. What do I owe you?'' Nothing. Nothing but a promise to allow God to heal your heart. The first year's arrangement is always on me.' The clerk smiled and handed a card to Sandra. 'I'll attach this card to your arrangement, but maybe you would like to read it first.'

It read:'My God, I have never thanked You for my thorns. I have thanked You a thousand times for my roses, but never once for my thorns. Teach me the glory of the cross I bear; teach me the value of my thorns. Show me that I have climbed closer to You along the path of pain. Show me that, through my tears, the colors of Your rainbow look much more brilliant.' Praise Him for the roses; thank Him for the thorns. God Bless all of you. Be thankful for all that the Lord does for you.' Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, and leave the rest to God.' We often try to fix problems with WD-40 and Duct tape. God did it with nails.

The Lord's Prayer

2008-04-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

No wonder Jesus said, ""Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AR4PQ30VkBk

ASAP

2008-04-02T21:02:00.000-07:00

Adventist Southeast Asia Projects help the people of Southeast Asia through humanitarian and evangelistic efforts. You can feed an entire family for a week with a 50kg sack of rice. Cost: $20. Crazy, since I just spent over $200 at the grocery store. Start a mission jar in your home where you collect your spare change at the end of the day. You won't miss it - but that spare change could really help someone else out.

http://www.asapministries.org/index.php

“Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor
to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all
things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready
to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for
the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.”
1 Timothy 6:17-19

The Greatest Man in History

2008-03-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Greatest Man in History Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master. Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today. I feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us!

I Am

2008-03-11T20:02:00.000-07:00

While Praying One Day A Woman Asked, "Who Are You Lord?

He Answered, "I am" "But Who Is I am? She Said. And He Replied...

"I Am love, I Am Peace, I Am Grace, I Am Joy, I Am The Way, Truth, And The Light...I Am The Comforter, I Am Strength, I Am Safety, I Am Shelter, I Am Power, I Am The Creator, I Am The Beginning And The End,I Am The Most High."

The Girl With Tears In Her Eyes Looked Toward Heaven And Said,

"Now I Understand. But Lord, Who Am I?"
Then God Tenderly Wiped The Tears From Her Eyes And Whispered,

"You Are Mine."

Dancing in the Rain

2008-03-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass... It's about learning to dance in the rain.

Mayonnaise Jar & Coffee

2008-02-23T15:23:00.000-08:00

When things in your lives seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 cups of coffee.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was. The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with an unanimous "yes."The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.

"Now," said the professor as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things--your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions--and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car.The sand is everything else--the small stuff. "If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you.

"Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your spouse out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first--the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand ."

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented. The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."

Magnolias

2008-02-11T19:09:00.000-08:00

MAGNOLIAS By Edna Ellison
I spent the week before my daughter's June wedding running last-minute trips to the caterer, florist, tuxedo shop, and the church about forty miles away. As happy as I was that Patsy was marrying a good Christian young man, I felt laden with responsibilities as I watched my budget dwindle . . So many details, so many bills, and so little time. My son Jack was away at college, but he said he would be there to walk his younger sister down the aisle, taking the place of his dad who had died a few years before. He teased Patsy, saying he'd wanted to give her away since she was about three years old!
To save money, I gathered blossoms from several friends who had large magnolia trees. Their luscious, creamy-white blooms and slick green leaves would make beautiful arrangements against the rich dark wood inside the church.
After the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding, we banked the podium area and choir loft with magnolias. As we left just before midnight, I felt tired but satisfied this would be the best wedding any bride had ever had! The music, the ceremony, the reception - and especially the flowers - would be remembered for years.

The big day arrived - the busiest day of my life - and while her bridesmaids helped Patsy to dress, her fiance, Tim, walked with me to the sanctuary to do a final check. When we opened the door and felt a rush of hot air, I almost fainted; and then I saw them - all the beautiful white flowers were black. Funeral black. An electrical storm during the night had knocked out the air conditioning system, and on that hot summer day, the flowers had wilted and died.
I panicked, knowing I didn't have time to drive back to our hometown, gather more flowers, and return in time for the wedding. Tim turned to me. 'Edna, can you get more flowers? I'll throw away these dead ones and put fresh flowers in these arrangements.'
I mumbled, 'Sure,' as he be-bopped down the hall to put on his cuff links. Alone in the large sanctuary, I looked up at the dark wooden beams in the arched ceiling. 'Lord,' I prayed, 'please help me. I don't know anyone in this town. Help me find someone willing to give me flowers - in a hurry!' I scurried out praying for four things: the blessing of white magnolias, courage to find them in an unfamiliar yard, safety from any dog that may bite my leg, and a nice person who would not get out a shotgun when I asked to cut his tree to shreds.
As I left the church, I saw magnolia trees in the distance. I approached a house... No dog in sight. I knocked on the door and an older man answered. So far so good . . . No shotgun. When I stated my plea the man beamed, 'I'd be happy to!'
He climbed a stepladder and cut large boughs and handed them down to me. Minutes later, as I lifted the last armload into my car trunk, I said, 'Sir, you've made the mother of a bride happy today.'
'No, Ma'am,' he said. 'You don't understand what's happening here.' 'What?' I asked.
'You see, my wife of sixty-seven years died on Monday. On Tuesday I received friends at the funeral home, and on Wednesday . . . He paused. I saw tears welling up in his eyes. 'On Wednesday I buried her.' He looked away. 'On Thursday most of my out-of-town relatives went back home, and on Friday - yesterday - my children left.'
I nodded.
'This morning,' he continued, 'I was sitting in my den crying out loud. I miss her so much. For the last sixteen years, as her health got worse, she needed me. But now nobody needs me. This morning I cried, 'Who needs an eighty-six-year-old wore-out man? Nobody!' I began to cry louder. 'Nobody needs me!' About that time, you knocked, and said, 'Sir,I need you.'
I stood with my mouth open.
He asked, 'Are you an angel? The way the light shone around your head into my dark living room...'
I assured him I was no angel.
He smiled. 'Do you know what I was thinking when I handed you those magnolias?'
'No.'
'I decided I'm needed. My flowers are needed. Why, I might have a flower ministry! I could give them to everyone! Some caskets at the funeral home have no flowers. People need flowers at times like that and I have lots of them. They're all over the backyard! I can give them to hospitals, churches - all sorts of places. You know what I'm going to do? I'm going to serve the Lord until the day He calls me home!'
I drove back to the church, filled with wonder. On Patsy's wedding day, if anyone had asked me to encourage someone who was hurting, I would have said, 'Forget it! It's my only daughter's wedding, for goodness' sake! There is no way I can minister to anyone today.'
But God found a way -- through dead flowers.
-------------
'Life is not the way it's supposed to be. It's the way it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.'

Random Acts of Kindness Week

2008-02-06T11:40:00.000-08:00

Did you know that February 11-17 is Random Acts of Kindness Week? My daughter has already made the janitor in our apartment complex a Thank You card because he always does a nice job. I am sending notes to my friends telling them how much I appreciate them. I think I will also make some goodies to hand out next week to my neighbors. It is a nice reminder to be kind. Hand out lots of hugs and smiles too!

I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore there be any kindness I can show...let me do it now.- William Penn

No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.- Aesop

I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do.- Helen Keller

How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single minute before starting to improve the world.- Anne Frank

http://www.actsofkindness.org/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHozenoswcI

http://www.wakw.com/

Share Your Soles

2008-01-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

I read about this organization recently and thought - "Wow. What a simple way to make a huge difference."

What if you could change the world?Would you?In 1999, Mona Purdy traveled through Central America, and saw children painting tar on the soles of their bare feet so they could run a race during their village's festival. She happened to meet an American orthopedic surgeon who was visiting the village. He told Mona that if these children had shoes to wear, there would be a lot less need for him to regularly travel to the region to perform amputations of children's infected limbs.

It was really very simple.When Mona got home, she thought it would be a good idea to go around to some neighborhood schools and ask families to donate any used children's shoes they might have. She collected some and brought them to an orphanage in Honduras. She figured she'd done a good deed and that her work was done. When she was about to leave, one of the workers at the orphanage asked,"When are you coming back?"

Our work will be finished someday when every needy person in every distressed corner of the world has a pair of shoes.

Check out the organization at: http://www.shareyoursoles.org/

Look through those closets - I am sure you have a pair or two of shoes that have been sitting there awhile - why not donate them and they'll be walking again soon!

Nothing but Nets

2008-01-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

Recently I watched a program about malaria and its deadly affects, especially on developing nations. A mosquito net could reduce these deaths by 50%. The problem is that the people in these countries can't afford them.

Each year, malaria afflicts approximately a half-billion people (roughly the population of the United States, Canada, and Mexico combined).
Malaria kills more than a million people per year; 90 percent of those who die are African children.
Every 30 seconds in Africa a child dies of malaria.
Malaria incapacitates people, keeping countries poor. In addition to the health burden, malaria illness and death cost Africa about $12 billion per year. Although insecticide-treated nets can reduce malaria by 50 percent in areas of high transmission, less than five percent of children in Africa sleep under a bed net.

Please visit this website and for only $10 you could save a family of four from this devasting disease. Make A Difference!

http://www.nothingbutnets.net/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMmt1ev6-bQ&NR=1

2008 Challenge

2008-01-06T17:03:00.000-08:00

"I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil." Psalms 119:162

"I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word." Psalms 119:16

This year I would like to challenge myself and anyone who is reading this to study their Bibles - either for the first time or for veterans - more than ever before.

The Bible is the greatest book ever written. In it God Himself speaks to humankind. It is a book of divine instruction. It offers comfort in sorrow, guidance in perplexity, advice for our problems, rebuke for our sins, and daily inspiration for our every need.
The Bible is not simply one book. It is an entire library of books covering the whole range of literature. It includes history, poetry, drama, biography, prophecy, philosophy, science, and inspirational reading. Little wonder, then, that all or part of the Bible has been translated into more than 1,200 languages, and every year more copies of the Bible are sold than of any other single book.
The Bible alone truly answers the greatest questions that people of all ages have asked: "Where have I come from?" "Where am I going?" "Why am I here?" "How can I know the truth?" For the Bible reveals the truth about God, explains the origin of human beings, points out the only way to salvation and eternal life, and explains the age-old problem of sin and suffering. (copy taken from The Open Bible®)

For free Bible studies go to this link - it will change your life!
http://www.amazingfacts.org/FreeStuff/BibleStudies/FreeOnlineBibleSchool/tabid/103/Default.aspx

Let's Say Thanks

2007-12-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

No matter how you feel about the war - I think we can agree that we need to uplift and thank our men and women in the services. Xerox has a neat website where you can pick a card and they will send it to a soldier currently serving. It's FREE and only takes a minute.
www.LetsSayThanks.com

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2007-12-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=00c072f5447ed37300b1

Perseverance

2007-12-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4

The young man in this video really inspired me - I hope he does you too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUSbWQ3rZAs

Paid In Full

2007-12-03T21:16:00.000-08:00

After living what I felt was a "decent" life, my time on earth came to the end. The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house. The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table. As I looked around I saw the "prosecutor." He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me. He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen. I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney,a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar tome, I felt I knew Him.

The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in fullflowing robes. He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room I couldn't take my eyes off of Him. As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, "Let us begin." The prosecutor rose and said,"My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this woman belongs in hell." He proceeded to tell of lies that I told, things that I stole, and in the past when I cheated others Satan told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank. I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told of sins that even I had completely forgotten about.

As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things aboutme, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not offering any form of defense at all. I know I had been guilty of those things, but I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done? Satan finished with a fury and said, "This woman belongs in hell, she is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a personwhocan prove otherwise."

When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench. The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan and beckoned Him to come forward. As He got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty. I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior! He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, "Hi, Dad," and then He turned to address the court." Satan was correct in saying that this woman had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations. And, yes, the wage of sin is death, and this woman deserves to be punished."

Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father withoutstretched arms and proclaimed, "However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and she has obeyed the gospel plan of salvation, so she is Mine." My Lord continued with, "Her name is written in the Book of Life,and no one can snatch her from Me. Satan still does not understand yet. This woman is not to be given justice, but rather mercy." As Jesus sat down, He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said,"There is nothing else that needs to be done." "I've done it all." The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down. The following words bellowed from His lips... "This woman is free. The penalty for her has already been paid in full. Case dismissed." As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and raving, "I won't give up, I will win the next one." I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, "Have you ever lost a case?" Christ lovingly smiled and said,"Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them has received the same verdict as you, ~Paid In Full~

Cry of the Orphan

2007-11-23T21:03:00.000-08:00

Today there are more than 143 million orphans in the world. That's approximately one-half of the population of the U.S.! Most of these children live in poverty, are malnourished and experience daily rejection.

For this reason, FamilyLife(TM), Focus on the Family® and Shaohannah's Hope are joining hands and voices with more than 75 orphan care providers, church-based orphan ministries and adoption agencies to plead the cause of orphans in need. But we can't do it alone.
No matter who you are, where you live or what you do, you can make a difference. From praying for orphans, to going on mission trips, from mentoring a child, to adopting one (or more), there is a place for everyone because you are God's Plan for the orphan.

The Cry of the Orphan campaign represents a group of Christian organizations and churches that are joining voices to make caring for every orphan a reality.
Be a part of God's movement to show fatherless and waiting children His love. Learn More about why this matters, and become part of God's plan to care for orphans through one of the avenues shown here. http://www.cryoftheorphan.org/

To listen to different broadcasts about this subject go to: http://www.oneplace.com/Ministries/Search.aspx?q=orphans&ddlSearch=oneplace&submit1=SEARCH

A Child's Faith

2007-11-17T13:53:00.000-08:00

"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." Luke 18:16

Children can teach us so much. Their faith is staggering sometimes. I hope you are inspired by this little boy's faith as much as I was.

This is a real message and you can find it on the radio's website. The boy's name is Logan and he lives in Nebraska. He listens to the station on Sky Angel satellite dish. You might need to cut and paste on your browser. A remarkable phone call from a 12-yr old boy to Houstonradio station KSBJ FM 89.3. So profound, the station has it posted on their website. Click below to listen to it. It's short.http://www.ksbj.org/eblogs/morningShow/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/logan-calf-story.mp3

His Eye Is On The Sparrow

2007-11-11T21:17:00.000-08:00

It was chilly in Manhattan but warm inside the Starbucks shop on 51st Street and Broadway, just a skip up from Times Square. Early November weather in New York City holds only the slightest hint of the bitter chill of late December and January, but it's enough to send the masses crowding indoors to vie for available space and warmth.

For a musician, it's the most lucrative Starbucks location in the world, I'm told, and consequently, the tips can be substantial if you play your tunes right. Apparently, we were striking all the right chords that night, because our basket was almost overflowing.

It was a fun, low-pressure gig - I was playing keyboard and singing backup for my friend who also added rhythm with an arsenal of percussion instruments. We mostly did pop songs from the '40s to the '90s with a few original tunes thrown in. During our em otional rendition of the classic, "If You Don't Know Me by Now," I noticed a lady sitting in one of the lounge chairs across from me. She was swaying to the beat and singing along.

After the tune was over, she approached me. "I apologize for singing along on that song. Did it bother you?" she asked.

"No," I replied. "We love it when the audience joins in. Would you like to sing up front on the next selection?"

To my delight, she accepted my invitation.

"You choose," I said. "What are you in the mood to sing?"

"Well. ... do you know any hymns?"

Hymns? This woman didn't know who she was dealing with. I cut my teeth on hymns. Before I was even born, I was going to church. I gave our guest singer a knowing look. "Name one."

"Oh, I don't know. There are so many good ones. You pick one."

"Okay," I replied. "How about 'His Eye is on the Sparrow'?"

My new friend was silent, her eyes averted. Then she fixed her eyes on mine again and said, "Yeah. Let's do that one."

She slowly nodded her head, put down her purse, straightened her jacket and faced the center of the shop. With my two-bar setup, she began to sing.

Why should I be discouraged?
Why should the shadows come?

The audience of coffee drinkers was transfixed. Even the gurgling noises of the cappuccino machine ceased as the employees stopped what they were doing to listen. The song rose to its conclusion.

I sing because I'm happy;
I sing because I'm free.
For His eye is on the sparrow
And I know He watches me.

When the last note was sung, the applause crescendoed to a deafening roar that would have rivaled a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall. Embarrassed, the woman tried to shout over the din, "Oh, y'all go back to your coffee! I didn't come in here to do a concert! I just came in here to get somethin' to drink, just like you!" But the ovation continued. I embraced my new friend. "You, my dear, have made my whole year! That was beautiful!"

"Well, it's funny that you picked that particular hymn," she said.

"Why is that?"

"Well . ..." she hesitated again, "that was my daughter's favorite song."

"Really!" I exclaimed.

"Yes," she said, and then grabbed my hands. By this time, the applause had subsided and it was business as usual. "She was 16. She died of a brain tumor last week."

I said the first thing that found its way through my stunned silence.

"Are you going to be okay?"

She smiled through tear-filled eyes and squeezed my hands. "I'm gonna be okay. I've just got to keep trusting the Lord and singing his songs, and everything's gonna be just fine." She picked up her bag, gave me her card, and then she was gone.

Was it just a coincidence that we happened to be singing in that particular coffee shop on that particular November night? Coincidence that this wonderful lady just happened to walk into that particular shop? Coincidence that of all the hymns to choose from, I just happened to pick the very hymn that was the favorite of her daughter, who had died just the week before? I refuse to believe it.

God has been arranging encounters in human history since the beginning of time, and it's no stretch for me to imagine that he could reach into a coffee shop in midtown Manhattan and turn an ordinary gig into a revival. It was a great reminder that if we keep trusting him and singing his songs, everything's gonna be okay.

One Child Every 6 Seconds Dies of Malnutrition

2007-10-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

Every year, malnutrition kills five million children -- that's one child every six seconds. But now, the Nobel Prize-winning relief group "Doctors Without Borders" says it finally has something that can save millions of these children. It's cheap, easy to make and even easier to use. What is this miraculous cure? As CNN's Anderson Cooper reports, it's a ready-to-eat, vitamin-enriched concoction called "Plumpynut," an unusual name for a food that may just be the most important advance ever to cure and prevent malnutrition.

No kids need it more than a group of children 60 Minutes saw in Niger, a desperately poor country in West Africa, where child malnutrition is so widespread that most mothers have watched at least one of their children die. Why are so many kids dying? Because they can't get the milk, vitamins and minerals their young bodies need. Mothers in these villages can't produce enough milk themselves and can't afford to buy it. Even if they could, they can't store it -- there’s no electricity, so no refrigeration. Powdered milk is useless because most villagers don't have clean water. Plumpynut was designed to overcome all these obstacles.

Please watch this video http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/10/19/60minutes/main3386661.shtml and if you feel moved to help I have a friend that has set up a website to take donations http://www.firstgiving.com/dandenaultfamily.

This puts life and any obstacles I have in perspective for me. Let's be M.A.D. (Make A Difference)!

Let Me Re-Introduce You to Jesus

2007-10-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

This video speaks for itself.

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ac7b677e7241a531b617

Leaning on God's Heart

2007-10-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

I have been reading, "Leaning on God's Heart," by Carolyn Sutton. It is her experience through breast cancer -appropro - since this is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On the cover of the book it says, "When nothing is left, you still have God." So true! It has been a very uplifting read - if you are going through a struggle of any kind - this is a great book - and will encourage your faith. I love this verse she points out, "Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and earth by your great power and outstretched arm. NOTHING is too hard for you," Jeremiah 32:17. She says that God invites us to lean on His heart, especially during our darkest times. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will you rest," Matthew 11:28.

Sooner or later, everyone faces a “cancer” in their life. It may not be intraductal carcinoma or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It may be infertility. The aftermath of an abusive childhood. The death of a loved one. An eroding financial crisis. Divorce. Alzheimer’s. The aging process. We are all reeling from the physical, emotional, and spiritual side effects of the cancer of sin and its cruelty. The ultimate choice is Do we turn away from God--or run to Him?
When nothing is left, you still have God. When stripped of everything, God remains. Only God can make a real difference. http://www.rhpa.org/newproducts/product.pl?type=sku&sku=9780812704334

God is ALWAYS there for us!

2007-10-08T18:48:00.000-07:00

Feeling a little down today. But I watched this video on Godtube http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ee73e63418003b47d7d5 and it reminded me AGAIN that God is ALWAYS there for us and will never let the things of this world overtake us. He promised in Romans 8:38, 39 - "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." What an awesome promise!

Easy way to be M.A.D.

2007-10-03T11:41:00.000-07:00

I found an easy way to Make A Differance that is dear to my heart. My grandmother died from complications of breast cancer and my mother is now fighting bone cancer after already having breast cancer. Please take a moment at the Bake for the Cure website.

Bake for the Cure is supporting the fight against breast cancer the way we know best... Baking!
Tired of looking through the same old recipes in your cook books at home? Bake for the Cure’s Recipe Exchange offers a unique area for you to find all sorts of recipes, and, best of all, taking action – like submitting a recipe, sharing a recipe, or registering a product- supports the fight against breast cancer!
There are several ways to take action in the Recipe Exchange:
Search through Signature recipes submitted from Bake for the Cure sponsors. If you find one you like, send the recipe to a friend and 10¢ will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Search through recipes that have been submitted by people just like you. You can also send these recipes to friends and for each friend you send a recipe to 10¢ will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Want to share a recipe with the world? Submit your own great recipe and 10¢ will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
ACH Foods will make a minimum guaranteed donation of $250,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure (Maximum donation of $350,000). http://www.bakeforthecure.com/RecipeExchange.aspx

Beyond The Gates

2007-10-02T20:13:00.000-07:00

I just recently watched the movie, "Beyond the Gates." Not a movie to watch if you have a weak stomach or in the mood for a comedy. This is a movie that is based on the events of the Rwandan genocide.

Based on true events and filmed in Rwanda with genocide survivors as cast and crew, BEYOND THE GATES tells their shared story of humanity in the most inhumane circumstances. In April 1994, a secondary school in Kigali, Rwanda called the Ecole Technique Officielle (ETO), being used as a UN army base, became a refugee camp. Belgian UN troops, school children, NGO workers and over 2,500 Tutsi citizens and their sympathizers took refuge against a raging genocide while the Hutu militia, clad with machetes, clamored outside the school gates.
Five days later, the UN troops withdrew from the school, taking the whites with them. Within hours, almost all of the Rwandans were dead.

I cried and cried while watching this movie. This only happened 13 years ago. And it is happening again all over the world - Sudan, Darfur, Burma, ... What can I do to make a difference and what can I do to help prevent these tragedies? If you go to the movie's website http://www.beyondthegates-movie.com/ there is a link to many human rights websites where you can make donations.

In Ezekial 16:49 it says, "Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy.

James 1:27 says "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

I will do what I can for the people across the world - prayers and donations. But is there something I can do for the people who live down the street or maybe in the next house? I am challenging myself, with God's help, to make a difference in the lives of the people in my own neighborhood, city, work place, etc... A smile, hug, plate of cookies, hand-me-downs, ride to work, bag of groceries, note of encouragement, ... I would love to hear of any ideas you have to help others - please join me in this resolution.

"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:12.

Golden Rule - Make A Difference (M.A.D.)

2007-09-27T19:47:00.000-07:00

The man slowly looked up. This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new. She looked like that she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before."Leave me alone," he growled. To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows."Are you hungry?" she asked."No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president. Now go away."The woman's smile became even broader. Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. "What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily. "I said to leave me alone."Just then a policeman came up. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked. "No problem here, officer," the woman answered. "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?"The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?""See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile.""Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!"Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up."Let me go, officer. I didn't do anything.""This is a good deal for you, Jack," the officer answered."Don't blow it."Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived. The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by he table."What's going on here, officer?" he asked. "What is all this. Is this man in trouble?" "This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered."Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business."Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place."The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?""Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms.""And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?""What business is that of yours?""I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company.""Oh."The woman smiled again. "I thought that might make a difference." She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a giggle. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and ameal, officer?""No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty.""Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?""Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice."The cafeteria manager turned on his heel. "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer."The officer watched him walk away. "You certainly put him in his place," he said."That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this."She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest.She stared at him intently. "Jack, do you remember me?"Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes "I think so-- mean you do look familiar.""I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry.""Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believethat such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry."I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to thecity looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I wasdown to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat."Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy.""I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. Then, when I looked over, I saw you put the price of my food in the cash register. I knew then that everything would be alright.""So you started your own business?" Old Jack said."I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. EventuallyI started my own business, that, with the help of God, prospered."She opened her purse and pulled out a business card "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office."She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you alittle advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet. If you ever need anything, my door is always open to you." There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you? " he said."Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory.Thank Jesus. He led me to you."Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways. "Thank you for all your help, officer," she said."On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget. And I thank you for the coffee."

If you have missed knowing me, you have missed nothing. If you have missed some of my emails, you have missed a laugh. But, if you have missed knowing my LORD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST, you have missed everything in the world. Have a Wonderful Day And May God Bless You Always ~~ "A day without the presence of God is a wasteful day."~

Christ Is Our Example

2007-09-19T12:11:00.000-07:00

We are forming characters for heaven. No character can be complete without trial and suffering. We must be tested, we must be tried. Christ bore the test of character in our behalf that we might bear this test in our own behalf through the divine strength He has brought to us. Christ is our example in patience, in forbearance, in meekness and lowliness of mind. He was at variance and at war with the whole ungodly world, yet He did not give way to passion and violence manifested in words and actions, although receiving shameful abuse in return for good works. He was afflicted, He was rejected and despitefully treated, yet He retaliated not. He possessed self-control, dignity, and majesty. He suffered with calmness and for abuse gave only compassion, pity, and love.

Imitate your Redeemer in these things. Do not get excited when things go wrong. Do not let self arise, and lose your self-control because you fancy things are not as they should be. Because others are wrong is no excuse for you to do wrong. Two wrongs will not make one right. You have victories to gain in order to overcome as Christ overcame. -By Ellen G. White

Feeling down? Look up!

2007-09-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

WOW - I just read this verse and had to share it!

But me he caught—reached all the way
from sky to sea; he pulled me out
Of that ocean of hate, that enemy chaos,
the void in which I was drowning.
They hit me when I was down,
but God stuck by me.
He stood me up on a wide-open field;
I stood there saved—surprised to be loved!

Psalms 18: 16-19

Cookies For The Soul & Stomach

2007-09-13T19:22:00.001-07:00

Sometimes a simple thought can really touch you, make you smile, ponder, share... Here are some that I liked followed by a scrumptious recipe. Share the thoughts and cookies with someone else - make a difference. (Be M.A.D.)

* Courage is contagious. When a brave person takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened.
-Billy Graham

* If you think you are too small to make a difference, you haven't been in bed with a mosquito.
-Anita Roddick

* The best thing to do behind a friend's back is pat it.
-Ruth Brillhart

* A smile is contagious; be a carrier.

* It is easier to go down a hill than up, but the view is from the top.

* The best way to forget your own problems is to help someone else solve theirs.

* Be kind. Every person you meet is fighting a hard battle.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Blonde-Brownies-I/Detail.aspx

World-Washed

2007-09-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

Children are SO amazing. I get to see this in action every day with 4 of my own. This week one of my sons saw a beautiful sunset with sunrays streaming through the clouds and said, "I wish that was Jesus coming in the clouds to take us home." I think that children have not been "world-washed" and are able to connect to God in a way that is elusive to us sometimes. You know the saying, "Stop and smell the roses." I think that we should change it to, "Stop and experience the world through a child's eyes, ears, nose and touch."

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=9e7c4b40cf5a13cea6ca

Rainbows

2007-09-04T11:17:00.000-07:00

Whatever your cross, whatever your pain, here will always be sunshine,
after the rain ....
Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall, But God's always ready,
To answer your call ...
He knows every heartache, sees every tear, A word from His lips,
can calm every fear ...
Your sorrows may linger, throughout the night, But suddenly vanish,
dawn's early light ...
The Savior is waiting, somewhere above, To give you His grace,
and send you His love ..
Whatever your cross, whatever your pain,"God always sends rainbows ....
after the rain ... "

You are special to God.

2007-09-01T20:41:00.001-07:00

Went to the Andrew's University Church this past weekend where Dwight Nelson is the pastor. He gave a superb sermon. The topic was "The Chosen: Why You Are the Most Unique Person on Earth." He gave some great analogies and bible verses to show us just how special we are to God. For example in Deuteronomy 7:6-9 it talks about how God chose us and in Galatians 1:15 "For it pleased God in His kindness to choose me and call me even before I was born." To hear this sermon and to follow the entire series you can go to http://www.pmchurch.tv/. At the bottom of the study page this was written, "When you've been chosen by God to live, You have everything to live for with God."

September Charity

2007-08-30T20:08:00.000-07:00

I recently saw the documentary called, "God Grew Tired Of Us." It is about the lost boys of Sudan. It is a very moving and life-changing movie that I would like to encourage everyone to watch. One of the main characters in the movie is Jon Dau. He has started an organization to help his people. The is going to by my "Charity of the Month." For more information you can to the website at http://www.johndaufoundation.org/ You can also go to http://www.godgrewtiredofus.com/.

I Want To Be M.A.D.

2007-08-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

"I want to be M.A.D." might sound like a strange thing to say but what I really want to say is that "I want to be making a differance." In the bible it says to love your neighbor as yourself. Well, I know that many of my worldly neighbors are not being treated or living in conditions that I would want. So I feel an urgency to make a difference. Once a month I would like to highlight a charity that I will be focusing on and giving to.