Blue Moon

Once in a Blue Moon
"Blue moon" appears to have been a colloquial expression long before it developed its calendrical senses. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the first reference to a blue moon comes from a proverb recorded in 1528:
If they say the moon is blue,
We must believe that it is true.
Saying the moon was blue was equivalent to saying the moon was made of green (or cream) cheese; it indicated an obvious absurdity. In the 19th century, the phrase until a blue moon developed, meaning "never." The phrase, once in a blue moon today has come to mean "every now and then" or "rarely"—whether it gained that meaning through association with the lunar event remains uncertain." This information came from www.infoplease.com.
Tonight when you look at the moon you are supposedly looking at a "Blue Moon". It was supposed to refer to the 3rd full moon in a season of 4 full moons. (what??) or the second full moon in one month-that is tonight!
I hope I never cease to be amazed at the world that God created. I love to look at creation and think about how He made it from nothing in six days!
Genesis 1:14-19
"And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
 And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day."
As I live one day at a time I don't ever want to take the world we live in for granted. There are so many gorgeous places here in the United States-the Grand Canyon, the Rocky Mountains, The Atlantic Ocean, the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River, the Appalachian Mountains, Hoover Dam, the Redwood Forest. Don't let it be only 'once in a blue moon' that you thank God for the amazing world He created, for placing us here on earth, and then giving us the opportunity to receive salvation and be saved from an eternity separated from Him.
Psalm 8:3-4
"When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?"

What? I Don't Care...

I think one of the saddest attitudes in today's society is apathy.

You can find it on bumper stickers and even on shirts like this one.

I think how sad it is that no one cares anymore. Some don't take pride in their country, their homes, their jobs, their families, and even themselves. 

As Christians we need to be concerned. We need to take the time to be involved-with those around us and with what is going on in our country. It is our responsibility.

Mark 12:31

"And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. " We have to care in order to love. It takes time and sacrifice in order to be involved. But it is what God wants us to do. We may not agree with what is going on around us so we must stand for truth and righteousness.

God is truth and we need to share that with those we come in contact with. For when they know the true God and accept the truth then they will be free.

John 8:32

"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

As we live one day at a time, take the time to care. People want to be loved. A lot of people are searching and have a void in their lives that only God can fill. 

Apathy should not be a word in a Christian's vocabulary. What if God had not cared? What if when Adam sinned God would have said, "Oh well, I don't care?" Praise the Lord He didn't say that! I'm so thankful that He loved us and cared enough to send His Son to die on the cross so that our relationship could be restored.

"Care" is a verb-to show concern or interest; attach importance to something. Strive to live that verb out in your life daily.

I'd Like to Teach the World a Song...

Some of us remember when Coke came out with a commercial that focused around the song "I'd Like to Teach the Word to Sing..."

It was a song sung originally in the 70s by a group called the New Seekers.

"I'd like to build a world a home

and furnish it with love.

Grow apple trees and honey bees

and snow white turtle doves.

I'd like to teach the world to sing

in perfect harmony.

I'd like to hold it in my arms,

and keep it company

I'd like to see the world for once

all standing hand in hand.

And hear them echo through the hills

for peace throughout the land.

It's the real thing

what the world wants today,

That's the way it'll stay

with the real thing.

I'd like to teach the world to sing

in perfect harmony.

A song of peace that echoes on

and never goes away.

Put your hand in my hand

let's begin today,

With your hand in my hand

help me find a way.

I'd like to see the world for once

all standing hand in hand.

And hear them echo through the hills

for peace throughout the land.

I'd like to teach the world to sing,

in perfect harmony.

A song of peace that echos on,

and never goes away."

We do know that as Christians, this cannot happen here on earth until Christ comes back to reign on earth. It's funny how a soda pop commercial can put a jingle in your mind so that you are singing or humming it when you don't even think about it. We have to be careful what we put into our minds through our eyes and ears because it will come out of our mouths or on paper. God knows our thoughts already and we should strive to think pure thoughts and motives.

Psalm 139:23

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:"

But we must continue doing what God placed us here on earth to do one day at a time until He comes back. 

Matthew 5:14-16

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it gives light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

We are told in Romans 12:18-

"If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." We can have harmony in our lives if we do what God wants us to do. And look forward to the day that Christ will come and reign and we will have complete harmony!

I think the song I would most like to teach the world to sing..."I would love to tell you what I think of Jesus." by Charles Weigle

"I would love to tell you what I think of Jesus,

Since I found in Him a friend so strong and true.

I would tell you how

He changed my life completely;

He did something no other friend could do.

No one ever cared for me like Jesus;

There's no other friend so kind as He.

No one else could take the sin

And darkness from me;

O how much He cared for me.

All my life was full of sin when Jesus found me;

All my heart was full of misery and woe,

Jesus placed His strong arms about me

And He led me in the way I ought to go.

No one ever cared for me like Jesus;

There's no other friend so kind as He.

No one else could take the sin

And darkness from me;

O how much He cared for me.

Ev'ry day He comes to me with new assurance;

More and more I understand His word of love.

But I'll never know just why He came to save me,

Till someday I see His blessed face above.

No one ever cared for me like Jesus;

There's no other friend so kind as He.

No one else could take the sin

And darkness from me;

O how much He cared for me."

Is the Line Open?

Ever try to call someone and the number you dial is no longer in service? That is so aggravating!  The next worse thing is to dial the number over and over only to get a busy signal. We loved seeing these working phone booths in London. You don't see very many public phone booths around anymore since everyone seems to have a cell phone available to them. Every house used to have a thick phone book- (it always made a great booster seat for your little ones!) Now, you can google just about anything and get a phone number or address.

I have an open line to the Lord 24/7 and I am so thankful! His number never changes and it never rings busy! I can go to Him at anytime with anything and He will hear me.

Psalm 116:2

"Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live."

The first prayer He hears is the sinner's prayer asking for forgiveness and repentance. I can then pray and talk to Him about anything and everything. The only time there is interference on the line is when there is unresolved sin in my life. God cannot tolerate sin. I need to be careful to always strive to keep sin out of my life so that my relationship with God will always be open. He will then be able to do great things in my life.

Jeremiah 33:3

"Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."

What better way to start your day then talking with your Lord?

Psalm 5:3

"My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up."

As I live one day at a time, 

Psalm 55:17

"Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice."

What a wonderful promise to claim!

God cares about every aspect and detail in your life. Take the time to share them with Him!

Matthew 21:22

"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."

A Uniform Defines You

J.W.'s team received new uniforms this year for their soccer team! They are great. The material is lightweight so that it will dry quickly. The colors are school colors. They all look great together-as a team-matching and prepared to play their sport. They each have to have cleats and shin guards as part of their uniforms. When you look at the players you can tell what they are prepared for-ready to play soccer.

As a Christian we also have a uniform that prepares us for our battle. God has given us everything we need in order to succeed. As we live one day at a time, we need to be the best Christian we can be-more like Christ each day-witnessing to those we come in contact with.

Ephesians 6:10-19

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel."

What we must remember though is that even though we have all the components to have a complete "uniform" if we don't utilize them for what they are then we won't be able to do the job properly. We have to be in God's Word-memorizing and using it in order for it to effectively work in our lives. It also takes practice. You can put the uniform on and hold a soccer ball but you won't be able to effectively play the game if you don't know the rules, practice the plays and learn the sport. It is the same with the "armor of God".  Put it on and use each of them for the purpose they are given.

Nostalglia

Today we were on our way home from lunch and we saw this van.

So you remember this original show? I used to watch it when I was a child and it has come back around for another generation. The Scooby Doo Show. The whole gang would ride in the mystery van in each episode and they were always solving mysteries. Technology has changed and a lot of t.v. shows and movies that aired 30 years ago look so cheesy now. But I used to enjoy them. We were just talking with my parents about a channel that has been airing "old" series like Adam 12, Emergency, and Bonanza. I miss those "good old days". The shows were clean and they had a moral thread through them. As times goes by, our society has changed and morality does not mean what is once was. Our country does not look to God anymore as we once did in our founding days. I miss a lot of those "old days"-it wasn't so bad when everyone went to church on Sunday and most stores were closed. Schools used to not only pledge to the flag but prayer used to be in school and the Bible was once used for learning. Things won't change unless people change and people won't change from the outside in. It involves a heart change first.

I have been studying the Israelites in my devotions and it was so sad how God chose them as His people and led them out of Egypt, telling them to worship only Him, only to have to save them from themselves time and time again. It was simple. He told them that if they worshiped Him them then He would take care of them.

2 Chronicles 7:14

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

We are humans all born as sinners. To me, the good old days will be the day that I received Christ as my Savior. It will be the days spent with other believers worshiping in church-singing songs of worship and praise. It will also be the days that I can remember my children receiving Christ as their personal Savior as well. We can be nostalgic about days gone by and remember them fondly but I also would not want to be guilty to live so in the past that I would forget to witness to those I come in contact with as I live one day at a time right now, waiting for Christ to return.

"Til Death Do Us Part

I wear these rings on the ring finger of my left hand. They mean something special to me and signify that I am taken-for life.

I received my diamond on the day that my husband proposed to me marriage-asking me to be his wife. We were on a 3 island day cruise close to our home. When we got to the third island-Kelley's Island we were taking a walk along the beach and he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him!

Two months later, I added the gold band to my hand when I promised my life to him one day at a time "for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, 'til death do us part."

One year when we celebrated our anniversary he gave me the diamond band and on one Valentine's Day he gave me the heart ring. These rings hold sentimental value to me as well as showing everyone who sees them that I am married. Yesterday, we celebrated 22 years of marriage. In today's society, 22 years is a lifetime and rare to hear that a couple would stay together that long. And yet I am thankful that I can say I am still married. My parents have been married for almost 46 years and my prayer is that Lord willing, one day I will be able to say the same. 

God instituted marriage in the Bible with Adam and Eve.

Genesis 2:18, 21-24

"And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him'

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."

Marriage is not easy and you will have your ups and downs, but anything worth something takes work. Because we each have distinct and different personalities we won't always agree but marriage means you must be willing to compromise and learn to put your spouse and their needs above your own-Love.

That is why 1 Corinthians 13, titled the Love chapter, is often read at a wedding ceremony. It is a good passage of scripture to memorize and follow as a guideline in your marriage.

I Corinthians 13:1-13

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing.

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not love, it profits me nothing.

Love suffers long, and is kind; love envies not; love vaunts not itself, is not puffed up,

Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil;

Rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

Bears all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Love never fails: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

And now abides faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love."

Sweep it up and Clean it Out!

Today I helped move a dear friend. We were at the house and they loaded a truck with all of his furniture and boxes. When they moved the furniture, it would reveal some dust and dirt underneath. I helped out by sweeping up after them. The goal was to leave a clean house for the new owners. I always feel so much better after I have cleaned my house. There is a sense of satisfaction when you know something is all clean. Sometimes my husband would say that the house looks clean but I know there is dirt and dust that needs to be wiped up and cleaned. Today there weren't any big surprise finds. We did find a few parts of toys and a penny and it reminded me of the parable that Christ told in the New Testament of the woman and the coin.

Luke 15:7-9

" I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?

And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost."

When I lose something and I go to look for it I almost always end up cleaning out the drawers I am going through or cleaning the room I am searching.

But the cleaning process also reminded me of the fact that I am a sinner in need of being cleansed and that can only happen through Christ and His blood.

Psalm 51:10

"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."

As long as we live here on earth, one day at a time, we are human and will still sin and need to be cleansed. We need to be willing to sweep up the "dirt" in our lives and clean it up. When we sin, we need to confess and repent. Christ's blood covers our sins and cleanses us from our sins. Praise the Lord!

2 Corinthians 7:1
"Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God."

Playing Games

When I hear my title spoken I can think of two totally different meanings to it. It can be taken literally-it is always fun to play games-sports games, board games, card games, and other fun activities.

I love playing word games. I enjoy a great game of scrabble, words with friends, of jumble. Games can be fun to play alone or with a friend.

The other meaning is when someone "plays games" with you. It may mean that someone isn't totally up front with you with their feelings or words. They may say things that they think you want to hear.

When you make a friend you don't want someone who plays games with you. You want someone who is genuine and really cares. Someone who strives to learn about you and listens.

Proverbs 18:24

"A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother."

As we live one day at a time, we can be continually thankful that even when our earthly friends let us down we can have someone who is always there and will never let us down. God never plays any games. He sent His son to earth to die on the cross to take our sins. No games-all you have to do is accept the gift of salvation.

Romans 10:9

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."

 If we accept Him as our personal Savior then He has promised to always be there for us. No games-He isn't hiding from us-He is watching over us and loving us and guiding us.

Psalm 121:5

"The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand."

Matthew 10:29-30

" Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.

 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered."

Don't play games when it comes to your life and your eternal destination. Take God at His Word-accept Him as your Savior and receive eternal life-no strings attached. 

Building Blocks

Blocks are always fun to play with when you are a child. (They can be fun to build with sometimes when you are an adult as well.) Kids think it is fun to build tall towers and then it can be as much fun to knock them down. The towers are more solid when the large blocks are on the bottom and the smaller ones are at the top. As we live one day at a time we are building our lives on a foundation. What is your foundation? The best foundation that you can have to build your life on is Christ. He is stable and secure. When you build your life on Him, you will find that if you keep Him as your foundation He can keep you  "tall, stable, and  strong". 

Isaiah 28:16

"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste."

Christ is not only our foundation-He has always "been" before even the foundation on the earth. He is and was and always will be. How much more assurance do we need to have to know that He wants only the best for us?

John 17:24
"Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world."
Thankfully, even if we have lived our lives for ourselves in the past and it seems as though everything has tumbled down around us, Christ can help us rebuild. It's wonderful to know that even when we sin and make mistakes, we can ask for forgiveness and it is covered under the blood.

Psalm 32:1
"Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered."

 What a wonderful promise to have as a Child of God.

Be in His Word and spend time alone with God so that you can learn what is right and be able to continue to build a life that is secure and strong and stable in Christ.

Breakfast of Champions

While my parents were visiting I was able to take a couple of vacation days to spend extra time with them and one morning they took me out to breakfast. We had some good food and of course I thoroughly enjoyed the company. Breakfast is a meal that is eaten at the beginning of your day. I can so remember my mom telling me that you should eat breakfast so that you can fuel your body to successfully get through your day. There was a cereal that advertised itself as the "breakfast of champions". It signified that if you ate that cereal you would be able to perform like the athlete that advertised for them.

As a Christian, we have to have "fuel" as well or we will  become weak and our enemy Satan will be able to trip us up. Our spiritual fuel is God's Word. We need to spend time in His Word-reading and meditating and memorizing it.

Psalm 119:11, 16

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

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

Psalm 119:103, 105
"How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
I find that the more time I spend in God's Word, the more I realize that there is still so much to learn. I do believe that when I neglect my time with God, I am weaker. As we live one day at a time, we need spend time daily with God. Read His Word and live it out in your life. The Bible is still relevant to our lives today.  If you spend some time in His Word each morning you will have the fuel to successfully live for Christ, grow more like Him, and be a witness for him to those you come in contact with.

Generations together

My mom and dad came into town to spend a few days with us and we have been enjoying our time together.

I love having them spend time with us and watching the interaction between my kids and my parents.

Sometimes when you put young adults with older people they don't have much in common and the conversations are stilted. My children have learned a lot from both sides of their grandparents. They have enjoyed sitting and listening to stories about their grandparent's youth and life growing up. My kids are both of the age that they realize how much wisdom their grandparents have and listen to their advice. They truly love both sets of their grandparents and genuinely enjoy spending time with them. I remember when I was little I always loved going to my grandparents' house. I loved eating at their house, playing with the toys they always kept at their house for us, and spending the night with them. One set of grandparents lived in another state and it was always fun to go and stay there for vacation. That is now how it is for my kids. One set of grandparents live pretty close and the other set is 1200 miles away. We treasure all the time together and the memories that are made. I am so thankful for the godly heritage that my parents have had and given to me to pass on to my children. It is wonderful to be able to go to church together and pray together as a family.

Family is important and this relationship is something to be thankful for and not take for granted.

I want to be sure that my children not only love their grandparents but that they always have respect for them and their age and wisdom. It is a blessing to have grandparents involved in your life.

Psalm 145:4

"One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts."

Proverbs 17:6

"Grandchildren are the crown of old men, And the glory of sons is their fathers."

Proverbs 16:31

"A gray head is a crown of glory; It is found in the way of righteousness."

I love my parents and am thankful for their testimony and involvement in my children's lives. As I continue to live one day at a time, I want to follow in their footsteps and have the same positive impact and testimony to my family in the generations to come, so that hopefully my family will speak of my life like Paul speaks of Timothy's mother and grandmother:

2 Timothy 1:5 

"I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well."

Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed!

Tonight was the first night of our 2012-2013 season of A.W.A.N.A. in our home church. You may have never heard of the AWANA program before.

 It is an acronym that stands for Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed. 

The theme verse is 2 Timothy 2:15:

" Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

It is a program that will teach our little ones from the age of 3 all the way through high school. It is broken up in 5 age groups: Cubbies ages 3-5, Sparks ages K5-2nd grade, Truth N Training grades 3-6, Trek grades 7-8, and Journey grades 9-12. We have 3 sessions in the program-there is a game time, a book time where they memorize scripture, and a counsel time where a bible challenge is shared.

It's neat to see the different kids invite their friends and neighbors to come and take part of our group. We start off the evening with pledges, prayer and songs. Then the age groups break off to their separate sessions. 

I appreciate this program not only does it invest time in our young people, the church's next generation, but it is centered around the Bible. It is based on the Bible and you earn your badges and awards by memorizing scriptures and quoting it. We start off with the salvation message. Each clubber hears that God loves THEM and died for their sin-John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son. that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." We then go down the "Romans Road" which are verses that show each of us how we are sinners and when we acknowledge that fact and confess our sins, God will forgive us and become our Savior and we are assured of eternal life with Him in heaven when we die. There are also a few projects to do throughout the year that are service involved and that is good for our young people as well. We also look forward to 2 major events in the year: Bible Quizzing-you test your bible knowledge against other churches that are learning the A.W.A.N.A. sections as well, and the Grand Prix-it's our version of the Pinewood Derby. The kids build wooden cars and decorate them and race them. We have a lot of fun.  This program is a good base for our young people, but the acronym should continue to work for all of us, no matter our age. We should continue to memorize scripture and be able to share the Word with those around us. As we live one day at a time we want to learn more so that we become more like Christ. I want to hear my Savior say at the end of my life,

"Well done my good and faithful servant."

Half of a Century!

Yesterday my husband reached a milestone-he turned 50! It's hard to believe!

A lot of things happen in a fifty year time period. It's amazing to think of the technology that has been introduced to us...the microwave oven, the TV remote, the first successful 707 airliner, cordless tools, and Telstar, LED, and unmanned aerial vehicles! WOW!

There has been a lot of historical events that are remembered over the past 50 years. In the pop world, Rock-n-Roll was introduced, Marilyn Monroe died, and the Beatles became popular. Around the world, JFK was shot, the Civil Rights act passed, Castro became leader in Cuba, the Vietnam war took place, we all experienced and lived 9/11, and so much more. As we live our lives one day at a time we proceed through our lives sometimes not really thinking about all of the events that take place and the impact that we can have in the world around us.

But what we sometimes forget is that we are not promised a certain number of years here on earth. 

Psalm 90:10

"The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away."

We are to live our lives to the honor and glory of God. We can determine to be a blessing while we are here to those around us or we can throw our lives away and waste the time that God has given us.

It's wonderful to know that God has been, is and always will be. He is in control and allows us to live here on earth so that we can share the gospel with those around us. 

Job 36:26

"Behold, God is great, and we know him not, neither can the number of his years be searched out."

He gives us family and friends. We choose vocations and have dreams and live our lives. Live your life so that you are storing up your treasures in heaven. Share the gospel and introduce all of those that you come in contact with to the Lord as their personal Savior.

Matthew 6:19-21

" Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

Happy Birthday Sweetie! Hope you have many more years!! 

And Another Season has Begun

Today finishes our first week back at school. This is "our" last year as J.W. is a senior.

Tonight was the beginning of soccer season starting off with our Alumni game. The team started practicing last week with their conditioning. They have to train and work on moves in order to prepare to play as a team. A lot of running takes place in practice so that when a game is played, the team is able to hold up and endure the entire 90 minutes up and down the field.

As we sat on the sideline and watched the game I thought about how exciting it will be to watch them stretch as a team throughout the season and hopefully grow together. I also thought about how each of them had a position to play and if they played their position well it would only benefit their team as a whole. If every team member tried to be the one to take the ball down the field to score it would be 11 individuals playing for themselves.  This same truth holds true for Christians in a local church.

God has given each of us spiritual gifts. Some of  them are used in the background and others might be visible to those around us. We each must be willing to do our part-use our gifts for God-not ourselves-and we will see a church that not only runs smoothly but will be God-honoring and glorifying to Him.

I Corinthians 12:12-26

 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

For the body is not one member, but many.

If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

And if they were all one member, where were the body?

But now are they many members, yet but one body.

And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:

And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.

For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.

That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it."

It takes us putting Christ as our leader and others before us as we live one day at a time so that we do not become proud and try to do things on our own. Work together as a whole and glorify God. We are on the same team with Christ as our captain!

A Right & a Privilege

Tuesday was the first time that Bethany had the privilege to vote. Yes, it is a privilege. There are still countries where dictators are placed in leadership and the people there don't have a choice. Because we are given the opportunity, it is our responsibility to go and vote. If you are registered then you need to be sure and cast a vote. The people that are placed in office are done so because people have backed them and gone out to vote them in. We need to do our research to see which candidates have values that are close to what we believe and would do a good job of leading our counties and our country.

We may not agree with our leadership and what bills they are signing into law. We need to pray for our leaders-pray for their salvation and wisdom and discernment in their governing. There are ways that we can go about telling our leaders we don't agree. We can write letters to them and call their offices to explain where we stand on the issues.

God has told us that we need to respect those that are above us in leadership.

Matthew 22:21

"Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."

I Timothy 2:1-3

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;"

Romans 13:1-7

"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:

For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.

 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour."

As we live one day at a time we have the opportunity to vote about issues and help place knowledgeable and godly people into leadership. Our country was formed and based on biblical standards. We have our coins stamped "In God We Trust". We still pledge to a flag that is "One Nation Under God". Our prayer should be that our leaders turn back to God. God's Word tells us,

2 Chronicles 7:14

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

Things can change very quickly. If we are not careful, our rights may slip away from us and our country may be very different in the future.

Remember your right and follow through on your privilege in November when we vote for our senators and President.

...You're a Winner!

Isn't it so much fun when you get a call or a letter that says, "you're a winner!" ? 

I love to enter contests and I have won a few. Today I was the first to answer a trivia question and I won four cupcakes from a local bakery. I picked them up and we enjoyed them for dessert after dinner tonight-they were amazing!! I think they tasted even better because I won them!!

I started thinking about the phrase...being a winner. If you have accepted Christ as your personal Savior, you are a true winner. Sin and Satan have been conquered. The Bible  talks about how our Christian walk is a race. We all run for the prize.

Philippians 3:14

"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

As we live one day at a time, it should be lived with the finish line in mind and the purpose and goal worked out. It won't be easy but it will be worth it.

Philippians 3:8

"Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ."

You know what? You may never win a race or photography or cooking contest, but you can be a winner in God's eyes. Accept Him as your Savior and strive to live your life with Him as the center of your life. Be a testimony for Him to those around you and shine the light so that others can also be winners in the race.

The Grass is Always Greener...

Cows always seem to stick their necks through the fence to get the grass on the opposite side from where they are at. Why? Is it always better? No. They are a lot like we humans. We sometimes want something that is either not ours or is unattainable at the time. Why? Discontentment.

I'm sure we have all heard this phrase..."the grass is always greener on the other side."

I am going to use a word that I never let my kids use...that is the stupidest saying I have ever heard!

The only way that that phrase is correct is if a Christian is saying it to an unbeliever-then, yes, by all means it is soooo true. The grass is greener on God's side than on the world. 

Psalm 23:2

"He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters."

But I'm sorry to say that is not how it is used today.

Why is it said? If one feels that they are just in such a bad situation and they look at someone or something else and think that, shame on that person. We are never to compare ourselves. It doesn't do anyone any good and you know what? You don't really know what is going on in that other person's life-it may seem like it is greener pastures but as one of my girlfriends posted tonight, "If the grass seems greener on the other side, it just might just be that they have a whole lot of crud under the surface to fertilize it." (I did substitute a less crude word.) :)  They may seem that way but in reality it almost never is. You can play the "well if I only had" game until the cows come home from the greener pastures but it won't make you any happier. A lot of it boils down to the fact that we need to learn to be content. Be content with what we have. Be content with where the Lord has us-He has a purpose and we must need to learn something. 

James 1:3

"Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience."

If we are Christians, we already are in the greener pastures. God has given it all to us. As we live one day at a time we can claim all of His promises and know that He is there for us.

Psalm 50:10

" For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills."

He owns the cattle on a thousand hills,

The wealth in every mine;

He owns the rivers and the rocks and rills,

The sun and stars that shine.

Wonderful riches, more than tongue can tell -

He is my Father so they're mine as well;

He owns the cattle on a thousand hills -

I know that He will care for me.

~ Words and music by John W. Peterson

A Last First...

Today I prayed my youngest out the door for his last "First Day of School".

I look back and think how quickly time has flown by. I remember the day he was born-Easter Sunday-1995. And now almost 18 years have gone by, in the blink of any eye. I thought about a couple of different lines of thought that I could travel down. One-even when we finish our formal training in school, we should never stop learning. We will never know it all, especially when it comes to the truths in God's Word. We should always be reading and studying it, to learn more of Christ. As we learn more of Him, it will impact our life.

Matthew 11:29

"Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."

The other thought that I had was that as we live one day at a time, we experience a lot of "firsts" in our lives-our first tooth, our first job, our first car, and we experience a lot of "lasts"-our last day of school, our last day as a teenager are just a couple.

We don't know how many years we will be given to live here on earth. One day we will take our "last" breath. Each day is a gift and should be lived to honor and glorify God.

Job 33:4

"The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life."

Days turn into months that turn into years that turn into decades and then half a century, if God allows us that many years. Some even live up to a century. What do we do with the days we are given?  Praise the Lord for each morning we awaken and are able to continue to live for the Lord. Live your life to the fullest with eternity in view.

Psalm 16:11

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."

Our Occupations in Life

What do you do? What is your passion? What is your job? Yes,those last two questions have may different answers. Remember when you were little and you used to dream about what you wanted to be when you grew up? I love to watch little ones play-little girls that play "mommies" or teachers. Little boys that will play that they are policemen or firemen or soldiers. My desire and dream, from the time I was little, was that I always wanted to be a mom. God allowed me to fulfill my dream-I married a wonderful man and am now a mom to two beautiful children. But, sometimes we have to take on other jobs as well. I began watching other children in my home. It allowed me to stay at home while my kids were little. I then had the privilege to substitute teach in my kids' school. It allowed me to work the same hours they were in school and have my summers free. Now that my children are older and college is in the picture I have had to take on another job. God knew my desires and wishes. He provided me a position under a Christian boss. I have one day off a week most of the year, and I love what I do. God is good. God cares about our needs and wants and desires. There are many of us that just get up each morning, dread driving to work, punch the time clock, work the required 8 hours (not a minute longer), clock out, go home, and dread having to do it all over again tomorrow. If you are in that situation, take it to the Lord. He cares. He may open another door of opportunity for you in an area that you really enjoy, or He may keep you where you are and just help you change your heart attitude. If you are following Him and seeking His will, then He has you in your workplace for a reason. Use the opportunities He has given to you to shine the light to those around you.

I visited a family this weekend that took a jump and moved to a farm-milking 30 cows each day-selling the dairy products to the local area. This is their lively hood now. It is hard work but they feel that God has given them this opportunity and they seem to be adjusting to it.

As we live one day at a time. take the time to thank the Lord for the job you are in. Ask Him to help you be the best employee you can be-that should be the goal of every Christian. If you feel you are in a dead end job, take it to the Lord. He can open other doors for you. You may find contentment where you are or a new dream job.
"Cast your cares upon Him, for He cares for you." I Peter 5:7

Jersey Acres Farm

Pictures of their process-cooler for milk and the milkers and jugs

Calves born in the last few weeks-months.

Colossians 3:23-24

"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."

Life is Precious

Today my daughter and I were able to go and support our local pregnancy center by watching a new film that will come out on DVD in mid-September, October Baby.

I am on the board for North River Care Pregnancy Center and when I was interviewed one of the questions asked me was why did I want to be a part of this center? To me, life is sacred and it is a gift given by God.

You may make some bad choices in your life but if you are thinking about an abortion there is another choice. These centers are vital in the communities that they are in. After showing 20 girls their baby on the sonogram they all changed their minds about having an abortion-isn't that amazing??! North River gives them a place to come and feel safe and talk and learn and listen and not feel judged.

Most people are told that when a woman is pregnant it is just tissue, but I believe the Bible teaches that from the time of conception there is a baby there.

Psalm 139:13-16

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body."

Jeremiah 1:5  

 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

If you or someone you know has gone through an abortion you can have forgiveness and healing from God the Father, but if you are pregnant and contemplating what to do-talk to someone. Life is precious.

God can turn things around and make something beautiful out of our mistakes if we ask for forgiveness.

This film is about a girl who finds out she was adopted after her mother tried to abort her. It has a powerful message.

I believe that we all know some stories about someone who was going to be aborted and their mother changed her mind and now they are serving the Lord and living a great Christian testimony. Tim Tebow comes to mind as one who's story has come to light in the last couple of years. As we live one day at a time we all have choices to make and our choices will have consequences. Be in God's Word and talk to Him so that your choices will be influenced by how you are living your life.

The Majesty & Glory...

Tonight our group met at Lido Beach to hang out and watch the sun set. There was a storm brewing to the south and the sky lit up with lightning. A little late a rainbow appeared. All the while, we remained under blue skies watching a beautiful sun set.

Psalm 8:4

"What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?"

The Majesty and Beauty of Your Name

When I gaze

Into the night sky

And see the work

Of Your fingers

The moon and stars

Suspended in space

But what is man

That You are mindful of him?

You have given man

A crown of glory and honor

And have made him

A little lower than the angels

You have put him

In charge of all creation

The beasts of the field

The birds of the air

The fish of the sea

But what is man

Oh, what is man

That You are mindful of him?

O Lord, our God

The majesty and glory

Of Your name

Transcends the earth

And fills the heavens

O Lord, our God

Little children praise Him perfectly

And so would we

And so would we

Alleluia, Alleluia

The majesty and glory of Your name

Alleluia, Alleluia

When we look around us and see all of the beauty in creation it is awe inspiring. God created such an amazing world with so much variety. When you see a beautiful sunset or look up at a rainbow, how can you not give the glory to our creator? As we live one day at a time, take the time to look around you and really see the beautiful creation that God place us in.

When's there's nothing you can do...

As a mom I want to be able to be there for my children-be able to help them, nurture them, and love them.

I have been blessed that I was able to stay at home while they were young. The Lord provided work for me at home and then I was able to substitute teach at their school so that I was involved in their lives.

The part of being a mom that is hard is when you have to discipline them (who likes to do that???) and when they are sick.

When they are sick you can only do so much. You are there to cool down their foreheads with wet cloths, help them sip soda after an upset tummy, and be there to comfort them when they wake up disoriented. But you cannot help them feel better. Their little pitiful voices when they say they are so hot, or their stomach hurts, or they ache all over. I would take their sickness for them if I could.

I am thankful that for the most part, sickness only lasts one-two days, and then they normally start to feel back to their normal self.

This is one big difference between myself as a parent and God. I can only do so much for my kids.

God is able to do ALL. He can take away the worst sickness-both physical and spiritual-

Matthew 9:35

"And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people."

He can save us from our sins. 

Matthew 1:21

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins."

I thank the Lord that even though we live one day at a time and as a parent we may make mistakes, and we can't always take away the hurts or sicknesses from our children, we can point our children to the One who can make the biggest difference in their lives and help them live their lives for Him.

I have had the privilege of leading both of my children to the Lord. It is a special and humbling moment. 

Being able to explain the gospel and have them accept Christ as their personal Savior is better than anything else you can imagine as you raise your children. But you never stop caring, sharing, or loving your children. They will always be your "little ones" in your heart. This is what I pray for them as they continue to grow into wonderful adults.

3 John 4

 "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth."