Friday, January 31, 2014

attributes of God: the sovereignty of God

attributes of God: the sovereignty of God by ric gustafson


Why do we worship God?. The reason is that he is before all things, he created all things, he is above all things and he is in control of all things. That is why we believe in and worship him. He is infinite, eternal, he is over all and worthy above all.
God is the Alpha and Omega and he alone is immortal. He created everything in heaven and on earth. He sustains everything and held together by his Word. He is above all things and knows all things. He knows everything and is not a limited God. He can do all things and nothing is impossible for him. He accomplishes all things and rules over all things. Above all, he is in control of all things. Because God is sovereign, he is without equal. How has God revealed his sovereignty, through his titles, through history, through fulfilled prophecy, through his Son Jesus. How do we respond to a sovereign God?, we bow before him, we believe that he is totally in our lives, we behold his majesty and his mystery and reflect in his Word.


research help: ' God as he longs for you to see him' by Chip Ingram


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Noah's wife page 11

Noah's wife page 11 by ric gustafson


I watched as villagers stole the gopher wood that my husband's cousins brought.
" What do you need this wood for?" the villagers taunted as they threw rocks at us. " We will put this wood to better use".
" My husband" I asked as rocks flew by my head. " How can we build this boat without wood?".
Noah smiled at me. " My cousin will bring his mammoth tomorrow to help us".
The stones never hurt me, my husband or my sons but the mammoth was hit several times. One day, I noticed that the huge beast had been struck down dead from flying rocks.
I noticed that the jeering throng of villagers had grown larger every day.
One man yelled at Noah. " Where is this sea that you will sail on with this boat?".
Noah looked up into the sky. " It waits in the sky for the boat to be finished".
One day, my husband hurt his thumb badly and I knew that his lack of eyesight was getting worse.


research help: ' Sinners and the Sea' by Rebecca Kanner


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Production #1060 page 9

Production #1060 page 9 by ric gustafson


The longest search was for just the right dog to play Toto. The Property Department was given a copy of Baum's book and was told to find a dog that looked like the one in the book. A Hollywood animal trainer named Carl Spitz was called and he was asked if he had an animal that might work. He told them that he had just acquired a female Cairn terrier four years earlier.
An MGM director named Clarence Brown went to the kennel and spent time with the terrier. Spitz agreed to a salary of $125 a week for the dog. The dog was selected to play Toto. Terry the Terrier was paid the least of all the actors. Judy Garland got $500, Grapewin and Blandick $750, Billie Burke $766, Margaret Hamilton $1000, Ebsen $1,500, Bert Lahr and Frank Morgan $2,500, Haley and Bolger got $3,000 a week.


research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Thursday, January 30, 2014

the People's Car 2014 page 3

the People's Car 2014 page 3 by ric gustafson


On July 30 1938, Henry Ford celebrated his seventy fifth birthday. The German consul in Cleveland gave him a special gift from Adolf Hitler. Hitler awarded Ford the Grand Cross of the Order of the German Eagle. Hitler held Ford in high esteem for many years. He admired the auto tycoon from Detroit and even had his portrait in his Munich private office.
Starting in 1936, German delegations had consulted Ford about plans for mass motorization. One of Hitler's ideas was for a ' people's car that would hopefully help remodel German society. Hitler's fascination with automobiles led him to open an international automobile and motorcycle exhibition in Berlin just two weeks after taking office. Hitler was a car enthusiast who never learned how to drive. He enjoyed traveling in the high powered Mercedes limos at his disposal. His idea of a car friendly population led to his idea of a ' people's car'.
Another idea of Hitler's was the construction of a four lane long distance autobahn that was dubbed the ' pyramids of the Reich'. This autobahn will link people across Germany and provide the start of national regeneration. The autobahn project provided needed jobs for over 300,000 unemployed workers. The project also injected over five billion reichsmarks into the local economy. In November of 1938 after Kristallnacht, Jewish drivers were banned from the nation's roads.


research help: ' The People's Car' by Bernhard Rieger


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mary of Magdala page 14

Mary of Magdala page 14 by ric gustafson


Jared walked up to Mary quietly. " It seems a certain young man feels very strongly about marrying you?". He smiled at his daughter. " Would you be agreeable?".
" Abba, is it Nathan?".
" Yes my daughter it is".
She stood up beaming with happiness. She gave her father a large embrace. " Yes Father Yes".
Jared and Nathan set the wedding date for the fall when the boatbuilding business began to slow down.
One day, Jared walked up to Nathan as he was fitting a boat's hull. " Nathan, are you going to miss working on these boats?".
" Yes, I enjoy working with my hands".
All of a sudden, Jared began coughing and doubled over in pain.
Nathan helped him up and he sat down on a nearby bench." Are you all right?".
" It will pass". He put a cloth up to his mouth and noticed that some blood came out. " It will pass". He gave his future son in law a weak grin. " Tomorrow, I will show you how to order supplies".
" Ok".
" Come to our evening meal and we can talk about the wedding".


research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Production #1060 page 8

Production #1060 page 8 by ric gustafson


After Margaret Hamilton was selected as the Wicked Witch of the West and Miss Gulch, the search started for casting of Glinda the Witch of the North. There were eight suitable candidates that were under contract. These included Fanny Brice, Gracie Fields, Una Merkel and Helen Troy. Everyone agreed that the best candidate for the role was Billy Burke.
Mary William Ethelbert Appleton Burke was the daughter of a Barnum and Bailey circus clown. She married Florenz Ziegfeld in 1914 and concentrated on her marriage. He died in 1932 and Burke began to play matron roles to pay off his debts.
Billy Burke won the part and the rest was history.
It was Yip Harburg who suggested that burlesque comedian Bert Lahr would be perfect to play the Cowardly Lion. Harburg had worked with Lahr and knew that he was a very funny man. MGM gave him five weeks guaranteed and he won the part. Actually, Lahr worked on the production for six months. Five weeks of that time was spent on ' The Jitter Bug' which was a musical number eventually cut from the finished film.


research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the People's Car 2014 page 2

the People's Car 2014 page 2 by ric Gustafson


The most important obstacle to a stable German auto industry was the state of the German economy. Because of the First World War, political upheaval and hyperinflation the country and it's population was severely depressed. In 1925, only half of the country's industrial workers brought home the minimum annual wage. The majority of drivers in Germany at that time were the middle class. The elite middle class such as bankers and high level managers were able to save their assets, this was not the case with the bulk of the middle class. Shopkeepers, tradesmen and civil servants lost their investments in war loans and their savings evaporated.
Two cars were popular at this time. The first was a small car produced by Opel. It was nicknamed the ' tree frog' because of it's green color. It was a fourteen horsepower vehicle and reached a top speed of thirty eight miles per hour. It came with two or four seats and cost between 2,300 and 3,200 reichsmarks. The other car was produced by Hanomag between 1925 and 1928. It was nicknamed the ' rolling bread loaf' because of it's rounded front and back. It retailed around 2,000 reichsmarks. German motorists spent more for gasoline and paid more for road tax than most Americans. Another problem was that motorists had to have a garage to stow the vehicle which was expensive.


research help: ' The People's Car' by Bernhard Rieger


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Mary of Magdala page 13

Mary of Magdala page 13 by ric gustafson


Asa gave Jared a mean stare. " You were going to give me a sick woman for a wife".
" She does have seizures but between them she is perfectly normal".
" I do not want to go through with the betrothal". He stood up from the table. " I wish to return to Hebron as soon as possible".
Neighbors began to talk about the betrothal that was not going to take place.
Mary was happy because she did not want to marry him anyway.
Rachel cried out loud. " Is Mary going to remain a virgin her whole life?". She held onto Jared. " Will we get any grandchildren at all?".
Jared began to notice that Nathan enjoyed spending time with Mary. He found him working on one of the fishing boats. " Nathan, I wish to speak with you". They sat down under a tree. " Is there something going on between you and Mary?".
" Actually Sir, I love her".
" Does Mary have the same feelings for you?".
" I believe she does".
Jared smiled and clapped him on the shoulder. " I will agree to the marriage".
" Thanks be to HaShem".


research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric



the Peoples's Car 2014 page 1

the People's Car 2014 page 1 by ric gustafson


In fall 1927, a small car club was founded in the Berlin suburb of Oberschoneweide.  The Small Car Club of Germany had lots of ambition and a sense of mission. It demanded measures for the purchase and maintenance of small cars so that car ownership could be reached by every German. It's reasoning was that to afford an automobile would raise the social level of the German people.
In the late 1920's, car ownership was a rare sight on German roads. The ratio was one passenger vehicle for 242 residents. Germany was famous for producing the first horseless carriages that were propelled by a combustion engine. In 1929, Carl Benz died and was hailed as a genius. The country's lack of car ownership was dwarfed by it's economic and social problems.
Many factors were involved in Germany's slow use of automobiles. One reason was that small companies were unable to shoulder the investments necessary for mass production. In 1927, twenty seven automakers operated in Germany. Both Daimler and Benz had over two thousand workers on their payroll. They averaged between 4 and 5 cars daily. When the two companies merged in 1926 and became Daimler Benz AG, their production costs were higher than companies in the US. Opel, which was the largest car producer in Germany had twelve thousand workers in the late twenties. The company introduced production modes to reduce costs and increase capacity. Foreign producers began to view Germany as a promising automobile market.


research help: ' The People's Car' by Bernhard Rieger


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Monday, January 27, 2014

Production #1060 page 7

Production #1060 page 7 by ric gustafson


In 1936, Mervyn Leroy directed Gale Sondergaard in ' Anthony Adverse'. She won the Academy Award that year for Best Supporting Actress. MGM gave her a one year contract and she was cast in ' Dramatic School'. One day, LeRoy asked her to try on a witch's wardrobe. She tried on a sequined black dress and a black sequined hat. Later, LeRoy said that they needed a wicked hateful witch and that she was too pretty for the role. She agreed with LeRoy.
In 1938, Margaret Hamilton was 36 years old, newly divorced and had a three year old son. She drifted from studio to studio accepting roles without being on a contract. LeRoy found out about her from her work with the Cleveland Ohio Playhouse. She was asked to do a screen test and she wore the most rumpled clothes she could find and cackled and screamed some lines.
She got the part of the Wicked Witch of the West and Miss Gulch.
She got a six week guarantee and worked on the production for four months.


research help: ' The Making of the Wizard of Oz' by Aljean Harmetz


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 27

Jesus Calling 27 by ric gustafson


Proverbs 3:5- ' Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding'.


Complete trust in Jesus is a pathway to heaven. His glorious light shines brighter on those who follow his path of life. He wants us to walk on the high road which is a direct route to heaven. The low road twists and turns in knots. On that low road lies heavy and dark clouds. Relying on our own understanding will weigh us down. Jesus says to us to trust in him totally. When we do this, he will make our paths straight.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Sunday, January 26, 2014

Titanic 2014: Genesis page 2

Titanic 2014: Genesis page 2 by ric gustafson


The Harland and Wolff Company dates back to the 1840's when a deep water passage was dredged in the River Lagan. A man named Robert Hickson built a shipyard on the new island and began to construct iron ships. Edward J Harland came and became a manager in 1854. Gustav Wolff joined Harland in 1861. In 1862, the yard was known as Harland and Wolff.
Gustav Wolff was a nephew of Gustavus Schwabe a Hamburg financier. Schwabe loaned Harland 5,000 to buy Hickson's shipyard.
Edward Harland had a talent for engineering and it showed with his shipbuilding. First, he eliminated clutter from steamship design. Second, he squared off bilges on ship's hulls which made them cut through the water better. Third, he replaced wood in the upper decks with iron which strengthened the hull of the ship. Lastly, they also produced their own heavy machinery, turbines, boilers and other equipment. This eliminated the need for subcontracting which saved the company money.


research help: ' Unsinkable' by Daniel Allen Butler


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Jesus Calling 25

Jesus Calling 25 by ric gustafson


Hebrews 13:15- ' By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name'.


Jesus wants us to let his love enfold us in the radiance of his glory. He wants us to sit still in his light to receive his presence and peace. He wants us to sacrifice our time for him. When we do that, Jesus will bless us and those close to us.
Jesus wants to transform us from the inside out. As we keep our focus on him, he will form us into what he wants us to be. Jesus wants us to have a God breathed life. He wants to hold his hand in child like trust and he will walk with us step by step.
Jesus is calling. Will we answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Friday, January 24, 2014

Titanic 2014: Genesis page 1

Titanic 2014: Genesis page 1 by ric gustafson


On a warm summer evening in 1907, a Daimler Benz stops at 27 Chelsea Street in London. Mr and Mrs Joseph Bruce Ismay get in and drive to Downshire House. This was the home of Lord and Lady Pirrie. Ismay was the Managing Director of the White Star Line. Pirrie was the senior partner and chairman of the board of Harland and Wolff, a Belfast Ireland shipyard.
Joseph Bruce Ismay was the eldest son of Thomas H Ismay who was a shipping magnate and Mayport boat builder. Thomas Ismay acquired the White Star Line in 1867 and then called it the Oceanic Steam Navigation Company. The elder Ismay knew that the profit for the company would come from the North Atlantic transatlantic passenger run. In 1870, Thomas Ismay created a holding company called Ismay Imrie and Company. One of it's first contracts was for Harland and Wolff of Belfast to build a fleet of iron steamships for White Star.


research help: ' Unsinkable' by Daniel Allen Butler


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mary of Magdala page 12

Mary of Magdala page 12 by ric gustafson


Jared looked at Asa. " You are twenty five".
" That is correct sir".
Jared stroked his chin in thought. " How is it you have not married sooner?".
Asa shrugged his shoulders. " I was married but she was not suitable".
" So what did you do?".
" I divorced her and sent her back to her parents".
" Before I arrange the ceremony, there is something I need to tell you".
" Oh yes, the dowry".
Jared sat down next to Asa.
" Something happened to Mary a couple of years ago".
He gave Jared a concerned stare. " She is not a virgin".
" Do not worry she is still a virgin".
" Then what?".
" She was kidnapped and held for ransom".
" Was she physically harmed Jared?".
" No but she has a lot of violent nightmares".


research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Noah's wife page 10

Noah's wife page 10 by ric gustafson


My husband took his staff and drew an outline through the sand. At first, people from the village came and with their feet made the lines go away. My husband outlined it again and showed it to me when he was totally finished. The outline was a long and narrow rectangle with three levels.
Ham stared at his father. " Why does the boat have a flat bottom?".
" It will be weighted on the lowest level by the large beasts". He grinned at me. " The diagonal line between levels was going to be a ramp and there was going to be a long window all around the boat".
The next day, I woke up to the sound of laughter coming from outside the tent. I woke up my husband and we quietly tiptoed to the edge of the tent. We peeked out to see villagers laughing at my husband's outline in the sand.
My husband picked up his staff and walked out toward the growing mob of people. " What's going on?".
He noticed that somebody had covered his outline with rocks.
He gave the mob an angry look. " Why did you do this?".
Someone spoke up. " Your boat will be sunk on a bed of rocks".
My husband came back into the tent.
" What are we going to do?" I asked him with a worried stare.
" We do not need an outline because God will guide us".


research help: ' Sinners and the Sea' by Rebecca Kanner


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mary of Magdala page 11

Mary of Magdala page 11 by ric gustafson


The next day, two strangers appeared. Eliab walked up to confront them.
" I am Asa, son of Abirim". He smiled and pointed to the man next to him. " This is my friend Jonah".
Eliab opened the gate and led them to a nearby bench.
Rachel pointed at the slave. " Eliab, go fetch Jared".
Jared came into the courtyard and sat with the men under a sycamore tree.
Mary listened from inside the house. Her future husband was tall, thin and hardly smiled.
Jared turned toward his wife. " Rachel, can you get Mary?".
She walked in and brought Mary. She kept her head down out of respect.
Jared grinned. " This is my daughter Mary".
Asa studied Mary. " She is beautiful". He glanced at Jared. " When can we arrange the betrothal?".
" Two days from now".


research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 22

Jesus Calling 22 by ric gustafson


Psalm 52:8- ' But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God, I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever'.


Jesus wants us to strive to trust him in more areas of our life. Instead of running away from our daily problems, he wants us to embrace them. In the difficulties blessings can be gained. When we believe that Jesus is sovereign totally in our lives, we can fully believe in his trust. Jesus wants us to think about the present not the past.
We need to trust him as we journey uphill. Jesus is a staff that we can lean on. When we totally trust Jesus, he as a staff will bear our weight. He says to lean on him, trust him and be confident in him with all of our heart and mind.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Mary of Magdala page 10

Mary of Magdala page 10 by ric gustafson


As the family prepared for Hanukkah, Mary helped her mother with special potato pancakes called latkes and fritters called bimuelos. That night, strange voices invaded her head. She prayed and begged HaShem to heal her.
On sunset the first day of Hanukkah, Jared lit the shamash candle. One more candle was lit each night. By the last night, all the candles were lit. Mary's father gave her gold coins each night. She put them into a leather box she was given for a birthday two years earlier.
As her father read the 30th Psalm, Mary pondered some thoughts. When would HaShem heal her?. Is HaShem angry with her?. Why doesn't he heal her now?. One day, she found Eliab. " Eliab, how did Father find me ?".
" A slave led us to the house where you were".
" What did you see?".
" We went to the house and saved you from your kidnapper".
I found out from Father that my future husband was coming tomorrow.


research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Monday, January 20, 2014

Mary of Magdala page 9

Mary of Magdala page 9 by ric gustafson


When Mary turned thirteen, her body was changing into young womanhood. When she became fourteen, she learned the Shema in Hebrew and knew the Mishnah. One day while she was reading the Torah, one of her massive headaches occurred. Nathan and her mother had to hold her arms tightly
One day, my father gave me a hug. " My daughter, you will soon be a bride".
" That's good Father".
" I have arranged a marriage for you to Asa, the son of my cousin Abirim".
" How old is he Father?".
" He is ten years older than you".
As Mary's house prepared for Hanukkah, her violent headaches continued.


research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Mary of Magdala page 8

Mary of Magdala page 8 by ric gustafson


Mary quietly walked with her parents into the synagogue. She kept her head down in fear of what was about to happen. They told her to sit on a small stool in the center of the group. The Rabbi had the group recite Psalm 91 three times. As they did this, Mary listened to the words and hoped that God would send his angels to watch over her. When the Rabbi blew on the shofar, it scared her. As the men tried to drive the spirit out, she felt the same.
" Stop". The Rabbi put a hand on Jared's shoulder. " Jared, take your daughter home".

research help: ' Mary Magdalene' by Diana Wallis Taylor


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Midlands International Auto Show: Acura MDX

Midlands International Auto Show: Acura MDX by ric gustafson


Acura is rolling out a new RLX. It is comparable to more established luxury brands in terms of style and content. The revamped MDX is lighter, stronger, quicker and more fuel efficient. The MDX tall wagon gets a serious refresh making it lighter and better on gas.
The 2014 MDX is a seven passenger wagon and breaks new ground in content, technology and fuel efficiency. It has a slightly lower roofline and two inches more in general length.
The 2014 Acura MDX is a midsize sport utility wagon and starts at $ 43, 200


research help: The Omaha World Herald auto show preview


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Noah's wife page 9

Noah's wife page 9 by ric gustafson


I watched as my husband squatted in the dirt drawing with a stick. He was making a hasty design of an ark in which he had no tools or timber to build.
Japheth one day asked his father a question. " What will be with us in this ark?".
Noah gave his son a smile. " The Lord has commanded me to take clean animals, animals that are not clean and things that creep on the ground".
One day, Ham complained. " Father, why three hundred by fifty?".
" God gave me specific instructions". He walked out of the tent to go meet Manosh. " Manosh, I need three hundred by fifty of land for something special".
" You can't tell me".
" Not right now".
" The price is hundreds of goats".
" Sold".
Japheth, Ham and Shem helped to pull down tent stakes and get the land ready.


research help: ' Sinners and the Sea' by Rebecca Kanner


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 18

Jesus Calling 18 by ric gustafson


II Corinthians 4:17- ' For our light affliction which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory'.


Jesus leads us on the road of life. Along this road are ascents and descents. He wants us to hold his hand and not to take shortcuts. He wants us to follow him and let him direct our steps.
When things in our lives go wrong, Jesus says to trust him. Accepting our trials brings blessings into our lives. Jesus wants to always hold our hand. He has planned every step of our spiritual journey. Even though the path gets rocky and steep, Jesus holds tightly onto our hand.
Jesus is calling. Will we answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Friday, January 17, 2014

Jesus Calling 17

Jesus Calling 17 by ric gustafson


Psalm 118:24- ' This is the day which the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it'.


Jesus asks that we come to him with a thankful heart. If we do this, we can enjoy his presence. Jesus says that this is the day that I have made. He wants us to rejoice today and not to worry about tomorrow. He wants us to prepare for difficulties and abundant blessings.
Jesus wants us to come to him with our needs and know that his riches are more than adequate for us. He wants us to stay in constant communication even in the midst of problems. Jesus tells us to present our requests to him with thanksgiving. His peace which surpasses all comprehension will guard our heart and mind.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Noah's wife page 8

Noah's wife page 8 by ric gustafson


One day after my husband had come back, we were eating around a campfire.
" Wife, the world is ending".
I looked at my husband with a perplexed look. " What do you mean it's coming to an end?".
" God has seen man's wickedness on this earth and has decided to destroy them".
Shem stared at his father. " Father, which man?".
" All men my son". He sighed. " God wants me to make an ark out of gopher wood and cover it with pitch".
" My husband, you need to rest after your long journey".
Japheth stared at his father. " Father, how big will this ark be?".
" Three hundred cubits long, fifty across and thirty high".
Nobody asked any more questions.


research help: ' Sinners and the Sea' by Rebecca Kanner


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Jesus Calling 16

Jesus Calling 16 by ric gustafson


Matthew 11:28- ' Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest'.


Jesus says come to me and rest in his presence. Each day brings it's own difficulties and we try to solve them ourselves. Jesus is with us now and always. He wants us to come to him and relax in his peace. He will strengthen us and prepare us for each day. He will give us trust when we give him our fear.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Noah's wife page 7

Noah's wife page 7 by ric gustafson


Noah was so enthralled with the sinful lives of the townspeople that he did not notice that his sons were approaching manhood. He spent all of his time telling the people that they needed to repent and change their ways.
I was worried about my son Shem. Women were starting to notice him and try to persuade him to come into their tents. One night at supper, my husband was slopping his stew over his bowl.
" Every man, woman and child in this village is evil". One day, he gave me a big hug. " I am going away".
" How long will you be gone?".
" I will be back by the next moon".
" Where will you go?".
" Wherever the God of Adam sends me".
I got together provisions for him. He was taking the same donkey I rode on.


research help: ' Sinners and the Sea' by Rebecca Kanner


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Jesus Calling 15

Jesus Calling 15 by ric gustafson


Philippians 4:7- ' And the peace of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus'.


Jesus's face is always shining upon us. It reveals a peace that transcends understanding. Even though sometimes we are bogged down by problems, Jesus showers us with his peace. We are safe as long as we focus on him. When our problems begin to sink us, we need to cry out ' help me Jesus'. Then he will lift us up to safety.
The closer to Jesus we are, the most safe we will be. Jesus tells us to focus our eyes on him. He is always beside us, holding our hand and keeping us safe.
Jesus is calling. Will we answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Jesus Calling 14

Jesus Calling 14 by ric gustafson


I Samuel 16:7- ' For the Lord seeth not as man seeth, for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart'.


Jesus blesses us daily with his grace and peace. He wants us to open our heart and mind to receive all that he has for us. He wants us to empty ourselves spiritually so we can be filled with his peace.
We can concentrate on our outward appearance and attempt to look good. Jesus can see right through us into the depths of our being. He wants us to tell him about our struggles and trials. He will transform our struggles into strengths. He always gives us abundant grace and nothing can separate us from his presence.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Monday, January 13, 2014

Noah's wife page 6

Noah's wife page 6 by ric gustafson


Javan was there to help me with the birth. Shem came out perfect with no mark on his forehead. He always wanted to be held and cried a lot. Japheth came next screaming for his mother. Ham was born laughing with eyes blazing with happiness. All three boys had brows with no marks.
As they grew up, I could tell that Japheth was going to be handsome. He had beautiful brown eyes and he enjoyed following his father around the tent and village.
One day, eight year old Ham entered the tent. " Is the mark on your brow from a demon?".
" Ham, where did you hear that?".
" From some of the villagers".
I patted his head. " Son, I am your mother not a demon".
" Good". He ran out to play with his brothers.
Every day, Noah would tell me about the growing sin and filth in our village.


research help: ' Sinners and the Sea' by Rebecca Kanner


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 13

Jesus Calling 13 by ric gustafson


Psalm 118:24- ' This is the day which the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it'.


Jesus wants us to treat each day like an adventure. He wants to plan every aspect of it. He does not want us to plan it according to our will but his. He wants us to thank him for each day and recognize that it is a gift from him. We need to trust him that he is with us every moment of every day. We need to have a thankful and trusting attitude each day that is given to us.
Jesus promises that life will never be dull or predictable. He wants us to follow him wherever he leads us. No matter how rocky or steep the journey is, Jesus is always holding our hand.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Sunday, January 12, 2014

New Year Joy: the joy of ministry

New Year Joy: the joy of ministry by ric gustafson


The Apostle Paul was a model of ministry. He was a model of selflessness for several reasons. First, he was selfless in the discipline of his own life. He was selfless in disciplining Timothy. He was selfless in dealing with the Philippian Christians. He was selfless in determining God's Will and considered himself God's slave.
Timothy was a model of ministry. He traveled with Paul on his missionary journeys. He served and had concerns for others. He served because of his commitment to the Gospel.


research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 12

Jesus Calling 12 by ric gustafson


John 15:4- ' Abide in me and I in you'.


Jesus knows about our day before we do. Jesus knows what our day will contain. We wish that he would give us a map showing us what is going to happen to us every day. Jesus says that there is a better way than that. Jesus simply says to spend quality time with him.
Jesus says to us that he will not show us what is coming each day. But he thoroughly equips us to handle each day. His presence is enough for each step of our spiritual journey. We need to whisper his name and stay in close communication with him daily. Jesus wants us to walk each day with our focus on him. The best road map is Jesus's presence in our lives.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Saturday, January 11, 2014

Noah's wife page 5

Noah's wife page 5 by ric gustafson


I asked my husband who Nephilim were.
" They are creatures that fell from heaven". He gave me a strange look. " They are angry at humans and hungry".
We came to a beautiful area of trees. " Husband, are these your trees?".
" Yes" he replied as he stared at several date and nut trees. He stopped in the deepest shade of the palm trees. " Wife, we are home".
I got off the donkey,
He tied it to a tree. He led me past several strange men and then entered a dark and cold tent.
As in my father's tent, I never left that tent except to draw water from the nearby well.
A girl named Herai became my only friend in the village. Why her father called her a simpleton I'll never know. I thanked the God of Adam for one friend in this dreadful place. Villagers call me a devil woman because of the mark on my forehead.
Lately, I have not been feeling well and my belly is getting bigger.


research help: ' Sinners and the Sea' by Rebecca Kanner


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

New Year Joy: the joy of responsibility

New Year Joy: the joy of responsibility by ric gustafson


When the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippian Christians, he was concerned about their moral character. He wanted them to have the mind of Christ and develop moral discipline. The first discipline is that we need to do our part and work on our own salvation. There needs to be a balance between God's role and our role. Another discipline is that we need to always depend on God. Another discipline is that we need to be different from the world. In a sinful world we need to have cheerful, straight and radiant living.


research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 11

Jesus Calling 11 by ric gustafson


Psalm 46:10- ' Be still and know that I am God, I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth'.


Jesus wants us to trust him by putting our control into his hands. He tells us to let go and recognize that he is God. Jesus made this world and controls it. He searches for those who will be receptive to him.
Jesus wants us to bring our prayer requests to him. He wants to know our concerns and for us to lay them on him. He wants us to speak candidly to him and pour out our hearts. When he does answer our prayers, we need to tell him thanks.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Friday, January 10, 2014

New Year Joy: the joy of unity

New Year Joy: the joy of unity by ric gustafson


The Apostle Paul reminded the Philippian Christians to be like minded and of one mind. He reminds us to stand fast in one spirit and one mind. When we unite in Christ, we experience Christ's life. Jesus's life consisted of helping and encouraging others. When we unite in Christ, we become an example of Christ's love. When we unite in Christ, we want to spend time with fellow believers. Lastly, to unite in Christ is an expression of Christ's compassion.
For Christian unity, we need to be in harmony and one in mind. We need to have humility and not to have a selfish spirit. Lastly, we need to help others and have a spirit of humble mindedness.
The role model for Christian unity is Jesus Christ.


research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 10

Jesus Calling 10 by ric gustafson


Psalm 56:3- ' What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee'.


When we put our trust in Jesus, we put a coin into his treasury. When trouble comes our way, equity is given to us. All trust in Jesus is kept safely in his heart. The more we trust Jesus, the eagerness to do so increases. We need to trust him even in the quiet days. When the days come where there are storms, his trust is sufficient. We need to store up treasure in heaven. When we do this, Jesus will keep us in his peace.
Jesus is calling. Will we answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Jesus Calling 9

Jesus Calling 9 by ric gustafson


Romans 8:31- ' What shall we then say to these things, If God be for us who can be against us'.


Jesus is always for us and with us. When our lives are in line with his will, nothing in heaven or on earth can stop us. As we strive toward our goals, obstacles will occur. Jesus does not want us to get discouraged when this happens. He tells us to never give up and with his help we can get past those obstacles. Jesus knows our journey will not be easy. Because of that, we have an ever present helper. As we strive toward our goals, Jesus says to us slow down and enjoy the journey in him.
Jesus is calling. Will we hear his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young.


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

through the eyes of a child revision page 19

through the eyes of a child revision page 19 by ric gustafson


He put the phone down as Kelly squirmed in the bed.
" I need to go to the bathroom". She stared at her kidnapper. " It's hard to ask when I don't know your name".
" Ok". He walked over and untied her. " Come right back because you can't escape".
She got up and tiptoed down the wooden hallway. She noticed that the front door was locked up. She also noticed that all the windows were boarded up.
She went to the bathroom and then walked back to the bedroom.
" See I told you". He grinned as he only tied up one arm and leg. " I told you escaping was impossible".
After a while, she looked at her captor. " Can I study my bible for awhile?".
" Why do you want to read that garbage?".
" Because I'm a Christian and I want to".
He shook his head, walked over to the dresser and opened it. He took out a worn black bible and without a word handed it to her.
" Thank you". She opened it to the book of Psalms. " Would you like me to read some scriptures to you?".
" No" he sneered as he picked up the rifle and began to walk out of the room. " Maurice".

Jesus Calling 8

Jesus Calling 8 by ric gustafson


Psalm 46:1- ' God is our refuge and strength a very present help in trouble'.


Jesus announces his presence softly and quietly. He tries to tap into our consciousness seeking entrance. Even though he has all the power in heaven and on earth, he is tender with us. He wants our weaknesses to be a door to his presence. When we feel inadequate, his ever present help is near. We can be protected from depression and self pity when we have hope in Jesus. Jesus wants us to cling to him always and he will never let go.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Monday, January 6, 2014

Jesus Calling 6

Jesus Calling 6 by ric gustafson


Romans 8:6- ' For to be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is life and peace'.


When we come to Jesus with expectations, there is no limit to what he can do. He can do far more than we could ever imagine. When the Holy Spirit controls our mind, we can think great thoughts of Jesus. Jesus wants us to wait on him and all of our prayers will be answered. He will send his power and glory to work in our situation. Instead of worrying, Jesus will intervene and take care of our difficulties. We need to keep our eyes and our mind on Jesus at all times.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Sunday, January 5, 2014

crimes of the century: the Night Stalker

crimes of the century: the Night Stalker by ric gustafson


During the summer of 1985, terror swept through Southern California. Someone was entering homes and murdering, raping and mutilating. At least 13 died at the person's hands. A devil worshiping drifter named Richard Ramirez was arrested. On September 20 1989, he was convicted for 13 murders and 30 other felonies. He was sentenced to die in the gas chamber. Due to legal challenges, the execution was never carried out. Ramirez died in prison on June 7 2013 from blood cancer.


research help: Enquirer Special Investigation


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 5

Jesus Calling 5 by ric gustafson


II Corinthians 5:7- ' For we walk by faith not by sight'.


Jesus wants us to have a victorious life through him. The bad news is that we try to be successful on our own strength and go our own way. People begin to forget about Jesus and think more about themselves. Jesus wants us to rely on him through our weaknesses and our storms in life.
Jesus wants us to come to him with an open heart and mind. He wants to plant his desires in us. He wants to give us dreams and rely on him to reach them. It is a faith walk taken one step at a time. Our failures in life makes us rely on him more.
Jesus is calling. Will we answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Saturday, January 4, 2014

crimes of the century: John Hinckley Jr

crimes of the century: John Hinckley Jr by ric gustafson


A 1976 movie named ' Taxi Driver' influenced a young man named John Hinckley Jr. The movie starring Robert DeNiro and Jodi Foster involved a plot to assassinate a politician though thwarted by bodyguards. Hinckley was obsessed with Foster and tried to play out the movie in real life.
On March 30 1981, he waited outside a Washington DC hotel for President Ronald Reagan to emerge. When he did, Hinckley fired 6 bullets and one hit Reagan in an arm, entered a lung but missed his heart. Three others were injured including Press Secretary James Brady.
Hinckley Jr was found not guilty by reason of insanity and resides to this day in a Washington DC mental hospital.


research help: Enquirer Special Investigation


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 4

Jesus Calling 4 by ric gustafson


Psalm 63:2- ' To see thy power and thy glory so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary'.


Jesus wants us to trust him no matter the situation we are in. He loves us more than anything else. His power and glory are enormous and enough for us. Jesus will help us in every situation and we need to acknowledge his control over the universe. His universal presence should make fear lose it's grip in us. Jesus's hand of grace showers us with daily blessings. Jesus wants us to always trust him and he will always keep us close to him.
Jesus is calling. Will you answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Friday, January 3, 2014

crimes of the century: the death of John Lennon

crimes of the century: the death of John Lennon


On December 8 1980, John Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono were returning home to the Dakota Apartments. Mark David Chapman was waiting for the musician to come back. Lennon and Ono walked past Chapman to enter the apartment building. Chapman turned and shot Lennon four times killing him almost immediately.
The Doorman screamed " do you know what you have done?". Chapman calmly said that he had just shot John Lennon. He was sentenced to twenty years to life. He has been denied parole seven times and Yoko vows that he will never be released in her lifetime.


research help: Enquirer Special Investigation


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 3

Jesus Calling 3 by ric gustafson


John 16:33- ' These things I have spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace, in the world ye shall have tribulation but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world'.


Jesus wants us to refresh ourselves in the peace of his presence. This peace can be ours at all times  and in all circumstances. Jesus wants us to hide in the secret of his presence. Jesus is our constant companion and always walks with us. Jesus does not want our problems and unresolved issues to weigh down our walk with him. In this short life here on earth, we will have trials and distress. Jesus does not want those to get us down. In Jesus, we can have confident peace.
Jesus is calling. Will we answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Famous Fords: 1908 Model T

Famous Fords: 1908 Model T by ric gustafson


Henry Ford started his own motor company. In October of 1908, The first massed produced automobile was started. The Model T was the first affordable car for the masses. Producing this vehicle brought the first assembly line in automobile history. This car was produced for the mass market to enjoy. On May 26 1927, the fifteenmillionith Model T was brought down the assembly line.
The Model T was the first mass produced automobile with interchangeable parts. It had a four cylinder engine, a rear wheel drive and a three speed transmission.


research help: Wikopedia.org


Peace and Love. Love Ric

Jesus Calling 2

Jesus Calling 2 by ric gustafson


Psalm 105:4 - ' Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face evermore'


Jesus in this passage promises that we can relax in his healing presence. We tend to think about our plans and problems more than our spiritual lives. Jesus wants us to come to him for refreshment and renewal. He wants his light to soak into us and wants us to focus on him. Jesus does not want us to skimp on our time with him. Jesus proclaims that when we have chosen what is better, it will not be taken away from us.
Jesus is calling. Will we answer his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling a 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and Joy. Love Ric

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Jesus Calling 1

Jesus Calling 1 by ric gustafson


Romans 12:2- ' And be not conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God'


Jesus is calling to you to have a teachable heart and eager to be changed. A close walk with Jesus is a life of continual newness. Jesus does not want us to cling to our old ways but to step out into a new life. He wants us to seek his face with an open mind. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can be transformed by the renewing of our mind. Jesus is saying to us I know the plans I have for you and these plans are for a new year of hope and a bright future.
Jesus is calling, will you listen to his call?.


research help: ' Jesus Calling the 365 devotional' by Sarah Young


Peace and Love always. Love Ric

crimes of the century: Jonestown

crimes of the century: Jonestown by ric Gustafson


On November 18 1978, Congressman Leo Ryan and four members of his group were ambushed and killed in Guyana as they investigated human rights abuses at the compound of cult leader Jim Jones. Fearing reprisals for the murders, Jones told his followers that they must commit suicide. A large table was set up with a metal vat on top. A brew of tranquilizers, cyanide and grape juice were given to everyone to drink. 913 people including 276 children drank it.
Only 33 people escaped with their lives. Jones shot himself in the head.


research help: Enquirer Special Investigation

Peace and Joy. Love Ric

New Year Joy: the joy of integrity

New Year Joy: the joy of integrity by ric Gustafson


When the Apostle Paul was writing to the Philippian believers, he was concerned about their willingness to stand against persecution. He gave them four priorities for success against the enemy.
The first thing he mentioned was that they let their conduct be worthy of the gospel. Philippians 3:20 says that our citizenship is in heaven.
The second thing he mentions is to be consistent with our integrity. The third point Paul says is to be in cooperation with fellow believers. The fourth thing he mentions is to have courage even when we are persecuted.
The Apostle Paul regarded suffering for Christ a privilege. He referred to persecution as a gift from God.

research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric