Dust to Dust page 3 by ric Gustafson
" I did not know I came from dust". Orlando's stomach growled. " What I really need right now is a job".
The young man walked over to a desk and opened up a drawer. He pulled out a burgundy day planner and opened it. He went, got a pen and a post it note. He began to write. " See my friend Mavis Pickrell at this address". He handed Orlando the post it note. " She'll find you a job".
" Thank you" Orlando said as he shook the young man's hand. " I was tired of standing at that corner holding that sign".
" Your welcome Orlando". Jesus smiled as he walked out the door.
research help: ' Beloved Dust' by Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, March 30, 2015
Dust to Dust page 2
Dust to Dust page 2 by ric Gustafson
Orlando stared at the young man. " Ok, so where did I come from?".
He opened up the bible on the table. " Genesis 2:7 explains it".
Orlando scratched his chin. " Sorry, I don't know the bible very well".
He grinned. " The Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground".
" I came from dust?".
" Yes, dust is a sign that we are created".
" But I breathe".
" God breathed into us the breath of life".
Orlando looked at the young man. " So why am I here?".
He smiled. " You were created to have a relationship with God".
" But I'm still dust".
He held up the jar of dust. " We are dust, earthy and temporal".
research help" ' Beloved Dust' by Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Orlando stared at the young man. " Ok, so where did I come from?".
He opened up the bible on the table. " Genesis 2:7 explains it".
Orlando scratched his chin. " Sorry, I don't know the bible very well".
He grinned. " The Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground".
" I came from dust?".
" Yes, dust is a sign that we are created".
" But I breathe".
" God breathed into us the breath of life".
Orlando looked at the young man. " So why am I here?".
He smiled. " You were created to have a relationship with God".
" But I'm still dust".
He held up the jar of dust. " We are dust, earthy and temporal".
research help" ' Beloved Dust' by Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, March 29, 2015
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 7
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 7 by ric Gustafson
Billy took Bruce's credit card and then handed it back to him. " All of these weapons have no cost".
" No cost" he exclaimed as he put the credit card back into his wallet. " Why is that?".
" God wants you to have all of these for protection against Satan". He smiled. " Would you like me to box them up for you?".
" Please".
He stopped packing after all the items were in a box. " I would like to put one more thing into the box". He held up a green bible. " The Sword of the Spirit".
" A bible".
" Yes, the Word of God".
" Ok". Billy put the bible into the box and finished taping it up.
A worker from the mall came with a two wheel cart.
" Thank you Billy" Bruce said as he gave him a hug. " Thank you for the weapons of the Spirit".
He watched as the two walked out with the cart. " Your welcome".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Billy took Bruce's credit card and then handed it back to him. " All of these weapons have no cost".
" No cost" he exclaimed as he put the credit card back into his wallet. " Why is that?".
" God wants you to have all of these for protection against Satan". He smiled. " Would you like me to box them up for you?".
" Please".
He stopped packing after all the items were in a box. " I would like to put one more thing into the box". He held up a green bible. " The Sword of the Spirit".
" A bible".
" Yes, the Word of God".
" Ok". Billy put the bible into the box and finished taping it up.
A worker from the mall came with a two wheel cart.
" Thank you Billy" Bruce said as he gave him a hug. " Thank you for the weapons of the Spirit".
He watched as the two walked out with the cart. " Your welcome".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, March 28, 2015
who took my Cadbury Creme Egg?
who took my Cadbury Crème Egg? by ric Gustafson
I yawned as I walked into the break room. It was 6:04 and I was still tired. I was looking forward to a Crème Egg before I started working. I opened up the refrigerator and looked for my Bakers sack. " Where is it" I said out loud as I moved things around. " Who would take my Crème Eggs?".
Just then, a young dark bearded man walked in. He looked like a night supervisor. " Something wrong?".
" Yes" I said out loud as I kept searching. " Somebody took my Easter Cadbury Crème Eggs".
" That happens a lot" he replied as he poured himself a cup of coffee and sat down. " We've been trying to crack down on that".
" I love those things" I replied as I sat down. I wanted to cry. " Those Crème Eggs are my most favorite thing at Easter time".
He put a small silver cross on the table. " Rico, this is the real meaning of Easter".
I gave him a stern look. " How did you know my name was Rico?".
He looked at the time on his watch. " I need to go". He stood up and smiled. " Always remember the cross and what happened on it is the most important thing about Easter".
He stood up.
" Not my love for Cadbury Crème Eggs".
He smiled and walked out.
A minute later, a night associate walked in and sat down.
" Can you believe that night supervisor?".
" What night supervisor?" he said as he yawned.
" The one I was just talking to".
" The only night supervisor tonight is me". He yawned again. " I have no clue who you were talking to".
He left. The rest of the day I pondered what had just happened.
The End
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I yawned as I walked into the break room. It was 6:04 and I was still tired. I was looking forward to a Crème Egg before I started working. I opened up the refrigerator and looked for my Bakers sack. " Where is it" I said out loud as I moved things around. " Who would take my Crème Eggs?".
Just then, a young dark bearded man walked in. He looked like a night supervisor. " Something wrong?".
" Yes" I said out loud as I kept searching. " Somebody took my Easter Cadbury Crème Eggs".
" That happens a lot" he replied as he poured himself a cup of coffee and sat down. " We've been trying to crack down on that".
" I love those things" I replied as I sat down. I wanted to cry. " Those Crème Eggs are my most favorite thing at Easter time".
He put a small silver cross on the table. " Rico, this is the real meaning of Easter".
I gave him a stern look. " How did you know my name was Rico?".
He looked at the time on his watch. " I need to go". He stood up and smiled. " Always remember the cross and what happened on it is the most important thing about Easter".
He stood up.
" Not my love for Cadbury Crème Eggs".
He smiled and walked out.
A minute later, a night associate walked in and sat down.
" Can you believe that night supervisor?".
" What night supervisor?" he said as he yawned.
" The one I was just talking to".
" The only night supervisor tonight is me". He yawned again. " I have no clue who you were talking to".
He left. The rest of the day I pondered what had just happened.
The End
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 6
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 6 by ric Gustafson
Bruce put all of the weapons down on the floor next to the cash register. He took out a tan billfold from a back pocket. He handed Billy a credit card. " Billy, I would like to purchase these now".
Billy stared at the young man. " Bruce, how well do you protect your mind?".
" Protect my mind?".
Billy picked up a helmet from a nearby table. " Bruce, you need the Helmet of Salvation".
He sighed and then put it on.
" Billy, why do I need this helmet?".
" Do you have hope Bruce?".
" I try to".
" Good, because hope safeguards our minds".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Bruce put all of the weapons down on the floor next to the cash register. He took out a tan billfold from a back pocket. He handed Billy a credit card. " Billy, I would like to purchase these now".
Billy stared at the young man. " Bruce, how well do you protect your mind?".
" Protect my mind?".
Billy picked up a helmet from a nearby table. " Bruce, you need the Helmet of Salvation".
He sighed and then put it on.
" Billy, why do I need this helmet?".
" Do you have hope Bruce?".
" I try to".
" Good, because hope safeguards our minds".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, March 26, 2015
American Dream: AC Cobra
American Dream: AC Cobra by ric Gustafson
In 1962 Texas race car driver Carroll Shelby put a Ford V8 into a AC Ace chassis. The first Cobra was introduced at the New York Motor Show. Shelby built a Daytona coupe and a 427 Cobra. In 1965, a Daytona Cobra wins the World Sports Car Championship. In 1966, Shelby quits making his Cobras. The Baby Cobra 289 went from 0-60 in 5.7 seconds.
The Cobra 427 had a 427 cubic big block V8. It had Halibrand alloy wheels and a quick release fuel filter. It had a roll over hoop and alloy bodywork. It had flared wheel arches, side exhausts and a coil spring suspension.
research help: ' American Cars' by Chartwell Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In 1962 Texas race car driver Carroll Shelby put a Ford V8 into a AC Ace chassis. The first Cobra was introduced at the New York Motor Show. Shelby built a Daytona coupe and a 427 Cobra. In 1965, a Daytona Cobra wins the World Sports Car Championship. In 1966, Shelby quits making his Cobras. The Baby Cobra 289 went from 0-60 in 5.7 seconds.
The Cobra 427 had a 427 cubic big block V8. It had Halibrand alloy wheels and a quick release fuel filter. It had a roll over hoop and alloy bodywork. It had flared wheel arches, side exhausts and a coil spring suspension.
research help: ' American Cars' by Chartwell Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 5
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 5 by ric Gustafson
Bruce walked toward the cash register. On his feet were the Shoes of the Gospel, around his middle was the Breastplate of Righteousness and the Belt of Truth was tightly around him. " Can I check out now?".
Billy walked over to a large shield that was by a suit rack. " Bruce, I feel you may need the Shield of Faith".
" Why do I need a large shield for?".
Billy handed it to him. He held it in front of himself.
" Does Satan try to attack you?".
" All the time".
" With fiery darts".
" Sometimes". He held the shield in front of himself.
" You need the protection of this shield to ward off all of Satan's fiery darts".
Bruce looked at his wife and then smiled. " Ok, I'll take it".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Bruce walked toward the cash register. On his feet were the Shoes of the Gospel, around his middle was the Breastplate of Righteousness and the Belt of Truth was tightly around him. " Can I check out now?".
Billy walked over to a large shield that was by a suit rack. " Bruce, I feel you may need the Shield of Faith".
" Why do I need a large shield for?".
Billy handed it to him. He held it in front of himself.
" Does Satan try to attack you?".
" All the time".
" With fiery darts".
" Sometimes". He held the shield in front of himself.
" You need the protection of this shield to ward off all of Satan's fiery darts".
Bruce looked at his wife and then smiled. " Ok, I'll take it".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
the Sound of Music page 2
the Sound of Music page 2 by ric Gustafson
Who was Maria von Trapp?
She was born on Jan 25 1905. Her mother Augusta died when Maria was just two years old. She was raised by her father's cousin. Her father Karl died when she was nine years old. She was then raised by an uncle who was stern and abusive. In school, she was outspoken.
After high school, she enrolled at a teacher's college because she wanted to become a teacher. In 1923 as she hiked with some friends, a revelation came over her. She decided to devote her life to God. She went to Salzburg and announced at Nonnberg Abbey that she wanted to become a nun. She became a postulant which was the first stage in joining a convent.
In October 1926, she came to the home of Captain Georg von Trapp who was a former commander in the Austrian navy. Trapp's wife Agathe had died in 1922 and he was raising his seven children. Maria bonded with the children by singing music to them. Trapp had planned to marry Princess Yvonne but fell in love with Maria. They married on November 26 1927 and had two children together.
At a Salzburg Music Festival, the family now singing as the Trapp Chamber Choir won the competition. The group toured Europe until Austria was annexed by Hitler in 1938. Trapp was offered a commission in the navy. They went on a tour of America and their son Johannes was born in 1939. Maria had a visa for the family and they stayed in the US. They changed their name to the Trapp Family Singers and a bought a farm in Vermont which became the Trapp Family Lodge.
Maria wrote her autobiography in 1949 and it became a bestseller. Maria sold the rights to her story and the Sound of Music became a hit on stage and screen. Their lodge burned to the ground in 1980 but was rebuilt in 1983.
Georg von Trapp died of lung cancer in 1947.
Maria von Trapp died on March 28 1987. She was 82
research help: ' the Sound of Music' by I-5 Publishing
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Who was Maria von Trapp?
She was born on Jan 25 1905. Her mother Augusta died when Maria was just two years old. She was raised by her father's cousin. Her father Karl died when she was nine years old. She was then raised by an uncle who was stern and abusive. In school, she was outspoken.
After high school, she enrolled at a teacher's college because she wanted to become a teacher. In 1923 as she hiked with some friends, a revelation came over her. She decided to devote her life to God. She went to Salzburg and announced at Nonnberg Abbey that she wanted to become a nun. She became a postulant which was the first stage in joining a convent.
In October 1926, she came to the home of Captain Georg von Trapp who was a former commander in the Austrian navy. Trapp's wife Agathe had died in 1922 and he was raising his seven children. Maria bonded with the children by singing music to them. Trapp had planned to marry Princess Yvonne but fell in love with Maria. They married on November 26 1927 and had two children together.
At a Salzburg Music Festival, the family now singing as the Trapp Chamber Choir won the competition. The group toured Europe until Austria was annexed by Hitler in 1938. Trapp was offered a commission in the navy. They went on a tour of America and their son Johannes was born in 1939. Maria had a visa for the family and they stayed in the US. They changed their name to the Trapp Family Singers and a bought a farm in Vermont which became the Trapp Family Lodge.
Maria wrote her autobiography in 1949 and it became a bestseller. Maria sold the rights to her story and the Sound of Music became a hit on stage and screen. Their lodge burned to the ground in 1980 but was rebuilt in 1983.
Georg von Trapp died of lung cancer in 1947.
Maria von Trapp died on March 28 1987. She was 82
research help: ' the Sound of Music' by I-5 Publishing
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the spiritual armor store page 4
the spiritual armor store page 4 by ric Gustafson
" Ok, we will take these" Bruce said as he walked toward the cash register with the suit, pants, Belt of Truth and the Breastplate of Righteousness.
Billy stopped him and pointed at his shoes. " You need a new pair of shoes".
He looked at his wife and then Billy. " These shoes are just fine".
" You'll love them" he replied. " I'll go get them".
He came back with a nice pair. " Try these on".
I quickly sat down and tried them on. " They are comfortable".
" These shoes are called the Shoes of the Gospel".
" Shoes of the Gospel?".
Billy smiled. " Do you have peace in your heart?".
" Yes, with this breastplate protecting me".
" Do you believe in the Bible the Holy Scriptures?".
" Yes".
" With the Shoes of the Gospel on our feet" he said as he pointed at his own shoes. " We can find and point people to the truth of God's Word".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" Ok, we will take these" Bruce said as he walked toward the cash register with the suit, pants, Belt of Truth and the Breastplate of Righteousness.
Billy stopped him and pointed at his shoes. " You need a new pair of shoes".
He looked at his wife and then Billy. " These shoes are just fine".
" You'll love them" he replied. " I'll go get them".
He came back with a nice pair. " Try these on".
I quickly sat down and tried them on. " They are comfortable".
" These shoes are called the Shoes of the Gospel".
" Shoes of the Gospel?".
Billy smiled. " Do you have peace in your heart?".
" Yes, with this breastplate protecting me".
" Do you believe in the Bible the Holy Scriptures?".
" Yes".
" With the Shoes of the Gospel on our feet" he said as he pointed at his own shoes. " We can find and point people to the truth of God's Word".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
the spiritual armor store page 3
the spiritual armor store page 3 by ric Gustafson
" Let's check out" Bruce said to his wife. He walked toward the cash register with his suit, pants and new belt.
" Before you go" Billy said as he stepped in front of the two. " Have you heard of the Breastplate of Righteousness?".
" No, what is it?".
" I'll go get it". He walked back to the backroom and brought out something that looked like a Roman soldier would wear.
Billy put the heavy thing on the front of Bruce. " You have the Belt of Truth but now you need something to protect your heart".
" Protect my heart".
Billy smiled at the couple. " Our heart determines the course of our lives".
Bruce looked at his wife and then turned to Billy. " What does God want in our lives?".
" Faith and love".
" Ok, I'll take it".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" Let's check out" Bruce said to his wife. He walked toward the cash register with his suit, pants and new belt.
" Before you go" Billy said as he stepped in front of the two. " Have you heard of the Breastplate of Righteousness?".
" No, what is it?".
" I'll go get it". He walked back to the backroom and brought out something that looked like a Roman soldier would wear.
Billy put the heavy thing on the front of Bruce. " You have the Belt of Truth but now you need something to protect your heart".
" Protect my heart".
Billy smiled at the couple. " Our heart determines the course of our lives".
Bruce looked at his wife and then turned to Billy. " What does God want in our lives?".
" Faith and love".
" Ok, I'll take it".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, March 23, 2015
Real Christianity: Be Expectant
Real Christianity: Be Expectant by ric Gustafson
Colossians 4:3 tells us that we should ask God to open doors to speak to others about him. God wants to use us and to cross paths with those who need him. In the book of Acts, the early believers looked for ways to share their newfound faith. They were active and searched for ways to reach others.
When God burdens us, he blesses us. When he blesses us, he uses us. We need to pray for the lost and bring revival into people's lives. God will answer in his own time and in his own way.
God will bring people across our path. God will open doors for us to witness. God will use us beyond our imagination.
Our job is to look for ways to change the world for Jesus one person at a time.
research help: Turning Points April 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Colossians 4:3 tells us that we should ask God to open doors to speak to others about him. God wants to use us and to cross paths with those who need him. In the book of Acts, the early believers looked for ways to share their newfound faith. They were active and searched for ways to reach others.
When God burdens us, he blesses us. When he blesses us, he uses us. We need to pray for the lost and bring revival into people's lives. God will answer in his own time and in his own way.
God will bring people across our path. God will open doors for us to witness. God will use us beyond our imagination.
Our job is to look for ways to change the world for Jesus one person at a time.
research help: Turning Points April 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 2
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 2 by ric Gustafson
Billy McGee heard the bell ring and knew that someone had walked in. He adjusted his nametag and then walked out. He walked over to the young couple who were looking at the men's clothes. " Welcome to the Spiritual Armor Store". He smiled. " How can I help you?".
" My husband needs a new suit and pants for a work conference" she said with a grin. " Can you help us?".
" Sure, follow me over to this rack".
They stopped at a rack and began to look at the suits.
" I like this one" Bruce replied. He showed Billy a suit and pants. " I'll need a belt too".
" I have just the belt". He walked into the backroom and then came out with the strangest looking belt Bruce had ever seen.
" Try this one".
Bruce took the clothes and belt into the fitting room. He came out smiling and showing Billy the belt. " This belt fits perfectly".
He showed the belt to his wife for approval. " What's the belt called?".
" The Belt of Truth".
" Why is it called that?".
" It represents truth, honesty and sincerity".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Billy McGee heard the bell ring and knew that someone had walked in. He adjusted his nametag and then walked out. He walked over to the young couple who were looking at the men's clothes. " Welcome to the Spiritual Armor Store". He smiled. " How can I help you?".
" My husband needs a new suit and pants for a work conference" she said with a grin. " Can you help us?".
" Sure, follow me over to this rack".
They stopped at a rack and began to look at the suits.
" I like this one" Bruce replied. He showed Billy a suit and pants. " I'll need a belt too".
" I have just the belt". He walked into the backroom and then came out with the strangest looking belt Bruce had ever seen.
" Try this one".
Bruce took the clothes and belt into the fitting room. He came out smiling and showing Billy the belt. " This belt fits perfectly".
He showed the belt to his wife for approval. " What's the belt called?".
" The Belt of Truth".
" Why is it called that?".
" It represents truth, honesty and sincerity".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Real Christianity: Be Ready
Real Christianity: Be Ready by ric Gustafson
Peter in I Peter 3:15 reveals to us that we should be ready to give a defense to everyone. When opposition comes, will we be ready to defend the faith. We need to be ready to tell others why we believe. God wants us to be bold and brave in the face of opposition.
In the book of Acts, the apostles were bold and spoke out in words and deeds. The apostles delivered healing and mercy to those in need. They shared their belongings with those in need. They took care of widows who needed daily bread. The apostles were ready to show their faith and demonstrate it to all who needed it.
research help: Turning Points April 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Peter in I Peter 3:15 reveals to us that we should be ready to give a defense to everyone. When opposition comes, will we be ready to defend the faith. We need to be ready to tell others why we believe. God wants us to be bold and brave in the face of opposition.
In the book of Acts, the apostles were bold and spoke out in words and deeds. The apostles delivered healing and mercy to those in need. They shared their belongings with those in need. They took care of widows who needed daily bread. The apostles were ready to show their faith and demonstrate it to all who needed it.
research help: Turning Points April 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
welcome to the spiritual armor store page 1
welcome to the Spiritual Armor Store page 1 by ric Gustafson
Bruce Wilson yawned as he watched his wife walk into the candle store. ' I hate shopping' he thought as people were rushing around the mall for Easter bargains. He hated shopping and would rather be home watching football. He watched in amazement as she quickly walked back out.
" I did not see anything interesting".
As they walked, Bruce thought of something and shook his head. " I forgot I need a new suit for the conference".
" Hopefully, there is a men's clothing store in this mall".
After walking for a while, Irene Wilson stopped and pointed. " This store looks like a men's clothing store".
Bruce looked at the front sign. It read ' The Spiritual Armor Store'.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Bruce Wilson yawned as he watched his wife walk into the candle store. ' I hate shopping' he thought as people were rushing around the mall for Easter bargains. He hated shopping and would rather be home watching football. He watched in amazement as she quickly walked back out.
" I did not see anything interesting".
As they walked, Bruce thought of something and shook his head. " I forgot I need a new suit for the conference".
" Hopefully, there is a men's clothing store in this mall".
After walking for a while, Irene Wilson stopped and pointed. " This store looks like a men's clothing store".
Bruce looked at the front sign. It read ' The Spiritual Armor Store'.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, March 21, 2015
the ding ding man
the ding ding man by ric Gustafson
The summer was hot. I heard the ding ding bell. I ran across the street to the little pure white truck. The truck stopped and the little window opened. A man wearing white peered out. He had a dark beard and was smiling. " Can I help you?".
Sweat was dripping into my eyes and stung them. " I'm looking for ice cream".
He grinned. " I'm not selling ice cream".
" So what are you selling?".
" That people would simply believe in me, repent of their sins and they will be with me forever".
I kept wiping sweat from my eyes. " Not selling ice cream".
" Nope, just the free gift of salvation".
" Why do you ding ding that bell but yet you don't sell any ice cream?".
" I ding ding for the lost and anybody willing to listen to my simple message".
" Sorry". I walked away from the truck.
Jesus watched with tears in his eyes and sadness in his heart. He dinged dinged the bell. The little pure white truck traveled on in search of the spiritually lost.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The summer was hot. I heard the ding ding bell. I ran across the street to the little pure white truck. The truck stopped and the little window opened. A man wearing white peered out. He had a dark beard and was smiling. " Can I help you?".
Sweat was dripping into my eyes and stung them. " I'm looking for ice cream".
He grinned. " I'm not selling ice cream".
" So what are you selling?".
" That people would simply believe in me, repent of their sins and they will be with me forever".
I kept wiping sweat from my eyes. " Not selling ice cream".
" Nope, just the free gift of salvation".
" Why do you ding ding that bell but yet you don't sell any ice cream?".
" I ding ding for the lost and anybody willing to listen to my simple message".
" Sorry". I walked away from the truck.
Jesus watched with tears in his eyes and sadness in his heart. He dinged dinged the bell. The little pure white truck traveled on in search of the spiritually lost.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, March 20, 2015
Psalm 117
Psalm 117 by ric Gustafson
This chapter in Psalms is the shortest chapter in the Bible
Psalm 117:1- ' Praise the Lord, all nations, Laud him all peoples'.
We need to praise the Lord at all times and in all places. All the nations and peoples should praise the Lord.
Psalm 117:2- ' For his loving kindness is great toward us and the truth of the Lord is everlasting, Praise the Lord'.
Praise the Lord always and forever.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This chapter in Psalms is the shortest chapter in the Bible
Psalm 117:1- ' Praise the Lord, all nations, Laud him all peoples'.
We need to praise the Lord at all times and in all places. All the nations and peoples should praise the Lord.
Psalm 117:2- ' For his loving kindness is great toward us and the truth of the Lord is everlasting, Praise the Lord'.
Praise the Lord always and forever.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lent 2015 March 20
Lent 2015 March 20 by ric Gustafson
John 15:15 Jesus proclaims ' Instead I call you friends'.
Jesus is our friend. Jesus invites us into a relationship of love and working together to bring forth God's Kingdom.
Understanding Jesus as our friend means that he provides compassion and a refuge. Jesus wants to know our hurts and pains and our hopes and dreams. He wants to grieve with us and celebrate in our joys. Like a true friend, Jesus wants to be part of our lives all the time.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 15:15 Jesus proclaims ' Instead I call you friends'.
Jesus is our friend. Jesus invites us into a relationship of love and working together to bring forth God's Kingdom.
Understanding Jesus as our friend means that he provides compassion and a refuge. Jesus wants to know our hurts and pains and our hopes and dreams. He wants to grieve with us and celebrate in our joys. Like a true friend, Jesus wants to be part of our lives all the time.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, March 19, 2015
the great egg souffle caper page 6
the great egg soufflé caper page 6 by ric Gustafson
Elnora ran upstairs into the small kitchen. " Marjorie, I sent a young man up here with my last egg soufflé dish".
" I haven't seen him". Tiredly, she was heating up some hot cross buns. " I sure could use it right now".
Dumbfounded, Elnora began to walk back downstairs when she noticed the back door to the church was ajar. She walked out onto a small sidewalk. Across the street, she noticed the young man who had taken the hot dish. He was standing next to a green dumpster.
She walked across the street and up to the dumpster. She peeked around it and could not believe what she was seeing. She noticed the young man, a young woman and four young children eating the hot dish as if they hadn't eaten in days.
" What are you doing eating our hot dish?". She pulled out her cell phone to call the police.
" Please don't call" the young man pleaded as tears came to his eyes. " You have everything and we have nothing".
Elnora put her cell phone away.
" I figured you would not miss it".
With tears in her eyes, Elnora walked back into the church. They did end up with plenty of egg soufflé to go around. When it was all over, Elnora knew that what had just happened to her was God showing her the true meaning of Easter.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Elnora ran upstairs into the small kitchen. " Marjorie, I sent a young man up here with my last egg soufflé dish".
" I haven't seen him". Tiredly, she was heating up some hot cross buns. " I sure could use it right now".
Dumbfounded, Elnora began to walk back downstairs when she noticed the back door to the church was ajar. She walked out onto a small sidewalk. Across the street, she noticed the young man who had taken the hot dish. He was standing next to a green dumpster.
She walked across the street and up to the dumpster. She peeked around it and could not believe what she was seeing. She noticed the young man, a young woman and four young children eating the hot dish as if they hadn't eaten in days.
" What are you doing eating our hot dish?". She pulled out her cell phone to call the police.
" Please don't call" the young man pleaded as tears came to his eyes. " You have everything and we have nothing".
Elnora put her cell phone away.
" I figured you would not miss it".
With tears in her eyes, Elnora walked back into the church. They did end up with plenty of egg soufflé to go around. When it was all over, Elnora knew that what had just happened to her was God showing her the true meaning of Easter.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Dust to Dust page 1
Dust to Dust page 1 by ric Gustafson
The young man opened the heavy glass door. " Here's my store".
Orlando glanced at the sign above the door. " Dust to Dust".
He smiled and walked in. " My friend Jean owns the shoppe next door". He turned on a light switch.
" It's called The Filthy Rag Shoppe".
They walked into a large room which contained two tables. One table had a large bible on top and the other two large urns.
" What kind of business are you in?" Orlando asked as he felt the air conditioning beginning to cool himself off.
" I explain the bible and what is in these two urns".
" What is in those two urns?".
" Dust and Dirt".
research help: ' Beloved Dust' by Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The young man opened the heavy glass door. " Here's my store".
Orlando glanced at the sign above the door. " Dust to Dust".
He smiled and walked in. " My friend Jean owns the shoppe next door". He turned on a light switch.
" It's called The Filthy Rag Shoppe".
They walked into a large room which contained two tables. One table had a large bible on top and the other two large urns.
" What kind of business are you in?" Orlando asked as he felt the air conditioning beginning to cool himself off.
" I explain the bible and what is in these two urns".
" What is in those two urns?".
" Dust and Dirt".
research help: ' Beloved Dust' by Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 5
the great egg soufflé caper page 5 by ric Gustafson
" Elnora, we're getting a lot more people than expected" Lucille Gass said loudly as she gave a loaded plate to a church member.
Elnora quickly surveyed the long line still coming through. " How are the hot cross buns and orange juice doing?".
" Fine".
" Elnora, we need some more egg soufflé upstairs".
In disbelief, she turned around to see her friend George Weiler.
" I gave the dish to someone to bring up there". An expression of horror came over her tired face. " You never got it".
" No".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" Elnora, we're getting a lot more people than expected" Lucille Gass said loudly as she gave a loaded plate to a church member.
Elnora quickly surveyed the long line still coming through. " How are the hot cross buns and orange juice doing?".
" Fine".
" Elnora, we need some more egg soufflé upstairs".
In disbelief, she turned around to see her friend George Weiler.
" I gave the dish to someone to bring up there". An expression of horror came over her tired face. " You never got it".
" No".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
on the corner of hopelessness and despair page 2
on the corner of hopelessness and despair page 2 by ric Gustafson
Orlando turned to see a young man who was wearing white pants and a white shirt. He was holding a large red solo cup.
" I'm very thirsty" he replied as he wiped sweat from his brow. " I've been standing in this blazing sun for hours.
The young man handed the cup to Orlando. " Drink deeply my friend".
Orlando drank every drop until it was gone. He handed him the now empty cup. " Thank you".
" Orlando, my store is just right over there". The young man pointed a finger toward the nearby strip mall. " Plus it is air conditioned".
Orlando thought for a moment as he glanced up at the unrelenting sun. " Ok". Then he thought of something. " By the way, how did you know my name is Orlando?".
The young man smiled and took Orlando's sign. " I don't think you'll need this any longer".
They began to walk toward the strip mall.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Orlando turned to see a young man who was wearing white pants and a white shirt. He was holding a large red solo cup.
" I'm very thirsty" he replied as he wiped sweat from his brow. " I've been standing in this blazing sun for hours.
The young man handed the cup to Orlando. " Drink deeply my friend".
Orlando drank every drop until it was gone. He handed him the now empty cup. " Thank you".
" Orlando, my store is just right over there". The young man pointed a finger toward the nearby strip mall. " Plus it is air conditioned".
Orlando thought for a moment as he glanced up at the unrelenting sun. " Ok". Then he thought of something. " By the way, how did you know my name is Orlando?".
The young man smiled and took Orlando's sign. " I don't think you'll need this any longer".
They began to walk toward the strip mall.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 4
the great egg soufflé caper page 4 by ric Gustafson
After the 8:00 service started, more egg soufflé came. Elnora and the others warmed up more hot cross buns and poured more orange juice. She figured that she had just enough for the crowd that was coming. But she knew that she only had one extra egg soufflé dish in case the crowd was larger.
When the service ended, the line began to form down the stairs.
" How is it going Elnora?".
She turned to see Pastor Greerson. He was one of the first in line.
" We're doing fine so far".
" I got in line because I'm hungry". He filled a plate and sat down.
" We need some more egg soufflé upstairs".
Elnora turned to notice a young man wearing torn jeans and a dirty t shirt. She did not recognize him but assumed he was helping Marjorie upstairs. " I have an extra egg soufflé dish warming up". She wiped the sweat from her brow. " You can take it". She got the dish and handed it to the young man.
He smiled. " Thank you". He ran up the stairs.
As the crowd died down, Elnora prayed that more egg soufflé would be coming.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
After the 8:00 service started, more egg soufflé came. Elnora and the others warmed up more hot cross buns and poured more orange juice. She figured that she had just enough for the crowd that was coming. But she knew that she only had one extra egg soufflé dish in case the crowd was larger.
When the service ended, the line began to form down the stairs.
" How is it going Elnora?".
She turned to see Pastor Greerson. He was one of the first in line.
" We're doing fine so far".
" I got in line because I'm hungry". He filled a plate and sat down.
" We need some more egg soufflé upstairs".
Elnora turned to notice a young man wearing torn jeans and a dirty t shirt. She did not recognize him but assumed he was helping Marjorie upstairs. " I have an extra egg soufflé dish warming up". She wiped the sweat from her brow. " You can take it". She got the dish and handed it to the young man.
He smiled. " Thank you". He ran up the stairs.
As the crowd died down, Elnora prayed that more egg soufflé would be coming.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, March 16, 2015
Lent 2015 March 16
Lent 2015 March 16 by ric Gustafson
John 11:25 Jesus says that ' I am the resurrection and the life'.
Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Jesus healed many people. Martha's brother Lazarus died. Martha complained that if Jesus had come earlier, Jesus could have healed her brother.
Jesus has the power of life over death. When we claim Jesus, we have life now and forever more.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 11:25 Jesus says that ' I am the resurrection and the life'.
Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Jesus healed many people. Martha's brother Lazarus died. Martha complained that if Jesus had come earlier, Jesus could have healed her brother.
Jesus has the power of life over death. When we claim Jesus, we have life now and forever more.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
on the corner of hopelessness and despair page 1
on the corner of hopelessness and despair page 1 by ric Gustafson
The sun was beating down on Orlando's sweat streaked brow. He looked up and licked his parched lips. " Who needs you". His gnarled hands held tightly onto the small cardboard sign. He watched as car after car drove past him. People stopping at the light on the corner stared at his sign.
" Go ahead do it" yelled a driver as he drove past him.
He picked this corner because of the large number of cars that drove past him.
" Go ahead, kill yourself" yelled a female driver as she drove past him.
After hours in the sun with no one stopping, he was about to do what he had on his sign.
" Thirsty Orlando".
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The sun was beating down on Orlando's sweat streaked brow. He looked up and licked his parched lips. " Who needs you". His gnarled hands held tightly onto the small cardboard sign. He watched as car after car drove past him. People stopping at the light on the corner stared at his sign.
" Go ahead do it" yelled a driver as he drove past him.
He picked this corner because of the large number of cars that drove past him.
" Go ahead, kill yourself" yelled a female driver as she drove past him.
After hours in the sun with no one stopping, he was about to do what he had on his sign.
" Thirsty Orlando".
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Lent 2015 March 15
Lent 2015 March 15 by ric Gustafson
John 10:11 says ' I am the good shepherd, the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep'.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Psalm 23 begins with ' the Lord is my shepherd'. The good shepherd shows love for his sheep. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus is willing to die for his sheep. Jesus sacrificed himself for us his sheep. John 10:10 says ' I came so that they could have life'. Jesus defeated Satan and sin through his death and resurrection. Jesus did this for us, his sheep.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 10:11 says ' I am the good shepherd, the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep'.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Psalm 23 begins with ' the Lord is my shepherd'. The good shepherd shows love for his sheep. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus is willing to die for his sheep. Jesus sacrificed himself for us his sheep. John 10:10 says ' I came so that they could have life'. Jesus defeated Satan and sin through his death and resurrection. Jesus did this for us, his sheep.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 3
the great egg soufflé caper page 3 by ric Gustafson
Elnora looked at her watch and knew there was only twenty minutes to go.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Sylvia Chase said with a smile as she carried in her hands an egg soufflé dish. " The egg soufflé is here".
Soon, a couple more church members brought more egg soufflé and then helped warm up the hot cross buns. She began to feel a weight coming off her shoulders.
The first of the sunrise service parishoners started to come down the stairs.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Mildred Gerch said as she hugged her friend. " Christ is risen".
" Christ is risen indeed". She handed her friend a plate of egg soufflé and a hot cross bun.
The sunrise service crowd was small. Elnora had just enough egg soufflé and hot cross buns to go around. When the traffic had slowed down, she sat down to rest.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Elnora looked at her watch and knew there was only twenty minutes to go.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Sylvia Chase said with a smile as she carried in her hands an egg soufflé dish. " The egg soufflé is here".
Soon, a couple more church members brought more egg soufflé and then helped warm up the hot cross buns. She began to feel a weight coming off her shoulders.
The first of the sunrise service parishoners started to come down the stairs.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Mildred Gerch said as she hugged her friend. " Christ is risen".
" Christ is risen indeed". She handed her friend a plate of egg soufflé and a hot cross bun.
The sunrise service crowd was small. Elnora had just enough egg soufflé and hot cross buns to go around. When the traffic had slowed down, she sat down to rest.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, March 14, 2015
the great egg souffle caper page 2
the great egg soufflé caper page 2 by ric Gustafson
Roger finished setting up the chairs and then put the rolling rack into a corner. " Marjorie is upstairs getting everything in order".
" Good". She set up a basket on the serving table for a freewill offering.
" Happy Easter Elnora".
She turned around. " Pastor Greerson, I did not hear you come down".
" I just came down to see how you were doing". He quickly glanced around the room. " The sunrise service is about to begin".
" Marjorie is handling upstairs and we are doing fine down here".
" Good". He walked back upstairs.
After she and Roger had finished setting up the two long serving tables, she looked at her watch. She wanted to see when she had to start warming up the hot cross buns. She sat down and began to wait for her help and the egg soufflé dishes to arrive. She began to pray that the morning would be uneventful.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Roger finished setting up the chairs and then put the rolling rack into a corner. " Marjorie is upstairs getting everything in order".
" Good". She set up a basket on the serving table for a freewill offering.
" Happy Easter Elnora".
She turned around. " Pastor Greerson, I did not hear you come down".
" I just came down to see how you were doing". He quickly glanced around the room. " The sunrise service is about to begin".
" Marjorie is handling upstairs and we are doing fine down here".
" Good". He walked back upstairs.
After she and Roger had finished setting up the two long serving tables, she looked at her watch. She wanted to see when she had to start warming up the hot cross buns. She sat down and began to wait for her help and the egg soufflé dishes to arrive. She began to pray that the morning would be uneventful.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, March 13, 2015
the great egg souffle caper page 1
the great egg soufflé caper page 1 by ric Gustafson
Elnora Jensen walked quietly down the carpeted steps and turned on the lights. The large downstairs room was used as a youth room, confirmation classes and this morning Easter breakfast. She walked over and opened the heavy purple curtains to show a beautiful Easter sky. As she turned around, she noticed the smiling face of Roger Corby the church's custodian and handy man.
" Happy Easter Roger". She walked and checked the refrigerator to make sure that they had plenty of orange juice.
" Happy Easter to you too Elnora". He pulled up a rolling rack of folding chairs and began to set them up.
She glanced at the long tables as he set them up. " Did the hot cross buns get here from the store?".
" Yes, they did". He began to set up chairs at the tables. " And we should have plenty of napkins and paper plates also".
" Good". She began to set up the coffee pots and put the napkins, paper plates and paper cups on the serving table. " How is the upstairs doing?".
" Just fine".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Elnora Jensen walked quietly down the carpeted steps and turned on the lights. The large downstairs room was used as a youth room, confirmation classes and this morning Easter breakfast. She walked over and opened the heavy purple curtains to show a beautiful Easter sky. As she turned around, she noticed the smiling face of Roger Corby the church's custodian and handy man.
" Happy Easter Roger". She walked and checked the refrigerator to make sure that they had plenty of orange juice.
" Happy Easter to you too Elnora". He pulled up a rolling rack of folding chairs and began to set them up.
She glanced at the long tables as he set them up. " Did the hot cross buns get here from the store?".
" Yes, they did". He began to set up chairs at the tables. " And we should have plenty of napkins and paper plates also".
" Good". She began to set up the coffee pots and put the napkins, paper plates and paper cups on the serving table. " How is the upstairs doing?".
" Just fine".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Lent 2015 March 12
Lent 2015 March 12 by ric Gustafson
John 8:12 says ' I am the light of the world'.
Jesus is the light of the world. The Festival of Booths or Sukkoth is the most joyous of Jewish holidays during the time of Jesus. People danced with torches and the light lit up the entire city. It was in the Temple on Sukkoth that Jesus made this statement.
In Scripture, light is associated with the presence of God.
Jesus is the light of the world. I pray that his light will always penetrate the darkness in my life.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 8:12 says ' I am the light of the world'.
Jesus is the light of the world. The Festival of Booths or Sukkoth is the most joyous of Jewish holidays during the time of Jesus. People danced with torches and the light lit up the entire city. It was in the Temple on Sukkoth that Jesus made this statement.
In Scripture, light is associated with the presence of God.
Jesus is the light of the world. I pray that his light will always penetrate the darkness in my life.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Titanic 2015 page 1
Titanic 2015 page 1 by ric Gustafson
In 1839, Samuel Cunard secured a contract with the British government to provide a mail service from Liverpool to Boston. In the next year, the Cunard Line produced the first purpose built ocean liner. The liner's name was Britannia. Soon after, the Acadia, the Caledonia and the Columbia were built. For three decades, the Cunard Line remained unchallenged.
In 1867, the White Star Line was taken over by Thomas Henry Ismay. The line formed a business partnership with a Belfast shipbuilder named Harland and Wolff. The first ship built was the Oceanic which was completed in 1871. Within a few years, the Adriatic, the Baltic and the Germanic were built. For the next twenty years, Cunard and White Star competed for ship building honors. Cunard built the Campania and Lucania. White Star built the Teutonic and the Majestic. Germany built the Kaiser Wilhelm der Grosse which featured four funnels for the first time.
research help: ' Book of the Titanic' by Imagine Publishing
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In 1839, Samuel Cunard secured a contract with the British government to provide a mail service from Liverpool to Boston. In the next year, the Cunard Line produced the first purpose built ocean liner. The liner's name was Britannia. Soon after, the Acadia, the Caledonia and the Columbia were built. For three decades, the Cunard Line remained unchallenged.
In 1867, the White Star Line was taken over by Thomas Henry Ismay. The line formed a business partnership with a Belfast shipbuilder named Harland and Wolff. The first ship built was the Oceanic which was completed in 1871. Within a few years, the Adriatic, the Baltic and the Germanic were built. For the next twenty years, Cunard and White Star competed for ship building honors. Cunard built the Campania and Lucania. White Star built the Teutonic and the Majestic. Germany built the Kaiser Wilhelm der Grosse which featured four funnels for the first time.
research help: ' Book of the Titanic' by Imagine Publishing
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lent 2015 March 10
Lent 2015 March 10 by ric Gustafson
Colossians 1:15 says ' The Son is the image of the invisible God, the one who is first over all creation'.
Jesus is the image of God. Through Jesus we can see and understand God who is our Creator. In John 14:9, Jesus says whoever has seen me has seen the Father.
Jesus is God come to earth. What we know about Jesus is also true about God. When we learn, love and follow Jesus, we learn about God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Colossians 1:15 says ' The Son is the image of the invisible God, the one who is first over all creation'.
Jesus is the image of God. Through Jesus we can see and understand God who is our Creator. In John 14:9, Jesus says whoever has seen me has seen the Father.
Jesus is God come to earth. What we know about Jesus is also true about God. When we learn, love and follow Jesus, we learn about God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, March 9, 2015
Wells Fargo page 2
Wells Fargo page 2 by ric Gustafson
Wells Fargo was established in New York as a joint stock association. Edwin B Morgan was named it's first president. Henry Wells and William Fargo became members of the board of directors. Both men took an active part in the affairs of American Express. Fargo passed away in 1881.
It was decided by Wells Fargo to expand into California. Two agents arrived in San Francisco in the summer of 1852. Samuel Carter started the express business and Reuben Washburn handled the monetary transactions. The company opened their office at 424 Montgomery Street. Wells Fargo was not the only bank to open. Fourteen other banks were listed in the Register of First Class Business Houses. In 1852, the company spent a lot of money on twelve branch offices, agents and advertising. Wells Fargo paid close attention to marketing and public relations. At this time, Gold was the bedrock of business.in California.
research help: ' Stagecoach' by Philip Fradkin and Andy Anderson
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wells Fargo was established in New York as a joint stock association. Edwin B Morgan was named it's first president. Henry Wells and William Fargo became members of the board of directors. Both men took an active part in the affairs of American Express. Fargo passed away in 1881.
It was decided by Wells Fargo to expand into California. Two agents arrived in San Francisco in the summer of 1852. Samuel Carter started the express business and Reuben Washburn handled the monetary transactions. The company opened their office at 424 Montgomery Street. Wells Fargo was not the only bank to open. Fourteen other banks were listed in the Register of First Class Business Houses. In 1852, the company spent a lot of money on twelve branch offices, agents and advertising. Wells Fargo paid close attention to marketing and public relations. At this time, Gold was the bedrock of business.in California.
research help: ' Stagecoach' by Philip Fradkin and Andy Anderson
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lent 2015 March 9
Lent 2015 March 9 by ric Gustafson
I Timothy 1:1 says ' And of Christ Jesus our hope'.
Jesus is our hope. We have hope about our personal salvation and Jesus is the hope for this sinful world. According to Revelation 21:4, Jesus will return and the former things will pass away. God's Kingdom will be established and Jesus will rule by justice and mercy.
We can show mercy and help others. That will bring hope to the world.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Timothy 1:1 says ' And of Christ Jesus our hope'.
Jesus is our hope. We have hope about our personal salvation and Jesus is the hope for this sinful world. According to Revelation 21:4, Jesus will return and the former things will pass away. God's Kingdom will be established and Jesus will rule by justice and mercy.
We can show mercy and help others. That will bring hope to the world.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, March 7, 2015
Lent 2015 March 7
Lent 2015 March 7 by ric Gustafson
John 1:49, Nathanael says ' Rabbi, you are God's Son.
Jesus is God's Son. In this verse, he also says ' You are the king of Israel'. Nathanael knew that there was more to this son of a carpenter from Nazareth. Jesus is not just the Messiah, he is also the only begotten Son of God. As God's only begotten Son, Jesus came to earth for our salvation.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 1:49, Nathanael says ' Rabbi, you are God's Son.
Jesus is God's Son. In this verse, he also says ' You are the king of Israel'. Nathanael knew that there was more to this son of a carpenter from Nazareth. Jesus is not just the Messiah, he is also the only begotten Son of God. As God's only begotten Son, Jesus came to earth for our salvation.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, March 6, 2015
Lent 2015 March 6
Lent 2015 March 6 by ric Gustafson
Matthew 12:18 says ' Look my Servant whom I chose'. Jesus is the servant whom God has chosen. Isaiah 42:1-4 talks about a gentle servant who cares about helpless and unwanted people. Matthew is quoting this scripture because Jesus healed the sick after confronting the Pharisees.
The true strength of Jesus is his mercy and love. Jesus as the Servant cares for us daily and loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Matthew 12:18 says ' Look my Servant whom I chose'. Jesus is the servant whom God has chosen. Isaiah 42:1-4 talks about a gentle servant who cares about helpless and unwanted people. Matthew is quoting this scripture because Jesus healed the sick after confronting the Pharisees.
The true strength of Jesus is his mercy and love. Jesus as the Servant cares for us daily and loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, March 5, 2015
Lent 2015 March 5
Lent 2015 March 5 by ric Gustafson
Matthew 11:19 talks about the Human One being a friend of tax collectors and sinners.
Jesus is a friend of sinners. Jesus ate, drank and spent time with sinners. Jesus relates to every person as a valued individual. We struggle with sin in our lives on a daily basis. Jesus laughs with us, listens to us and understands our pain.
Even though we are a sinner, Jesus wants to know us.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Matthew 11:19 talks about the Human One being a friend of tax collectors and sinners.
Jesus is a friend of sinners. Jesus ate, drank and spent time with sinners. Jesus relates to every person as a valued individual. We struggle with sin in our lives on a daily basis. Jesus laughs with us, listens to us and understands our pain.
Even though we are a sinner, Jesus wants to know us.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Lent 2015 March 4
Lent 2015 March 4 by ric Gustafson
Luke 9:22 says that the Human One must suffer many things and be rejected.
Jesus is the Human One. Some translations refer to Jesus as the Son of Man. Jesus used this term for himself many times in the Gospels.
Jesus has the title of the ' Human One'. Jesus is God with a human appearance. The Human One is God come to earth, made flesh and lived among us within the human experience.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Luke 9:22 says that the Human One must suffer many things and be rejected.
Jesus is the Human One. Some translations refer to Jesus as the Son of Man. Jesus used this term for himself many times in the Gospels.
Jesus has the title of the ' Human One'. Jesus is God with a human appearance. The Human One is God come to earth, made flesh and lived among us within the human experience.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Lent 2015 March 3
Lent 2015 March 3 by ric Gustafson
In Luke 9:20, Jesus asks Peter ' Who do you say that I am?'. Peter replies ' The Christ sent from God".
Jesus is the Christ. The name Christ comes from the Greek word Christos and means ' anointed one'.
Jesus claimed to be the Christ and was condemned to die. His accusers wanted a Jewish King who would overthrow political powers. Instead Jesus came to overthrow the powers of evil. Jesus came to end the rule of sin once and for all.
Jesus is the only route to salvation and eternal life. Jesus Christ is the Messiah.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Luke 9:20, Jesus asks Peter ' Who do you say that I am?'. Peter replies ' The Christ sent from God".
Jesus is the Christ. The name Christ comes from the Greek word Christos and means ' anointed one'.
Jesus claimed to be the Christ and was condemned to die. His accusers wanted a Jewish King who would overthrow political powers. Instead Jesus came to overthrow the powers of evil. Jesus came to end the rule of sin once and for all.
Jesus is the only route to salvation and eternal life. Jesus Christ is the Messiah.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, March 2, 2015
Wells Fargo page 1
Wells Fargo page 1 by ric Gustafson
A company started as the younger sibling of the American Express Company. The American West which lay beyond the Mississippi River was strange and new in the mid 19th century. Rainfall was lacking, the landscape had tremendous diversity and mineral riches was just underneath the surface. There was a big opportunity for an express mail service to the West. For this to occur you needed reliable communications, a speedy transportation and secure banking. In the country at this time, mail was the principal means of communication.
In 1840, it cost eighteen cents to mail a letter from New York to Troy New York. Because of the Postal Service high prices, private express services were becoming popular. These express services started with bare feet runners and riders on horses.
In 1845, Henry Wells and William G Fargo joined forces to create their own express service. They started in upstate New York and expanded as far west as Chicago and St Louis. In 1850, the two men founded the American Express Company. In 1852, Wells Fargo and Company was formed.
research help: ' Stagecoach' by Philip L Fradkin
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
A company started as the younger sibling of the American Express Company. The American West which lay beyond the Mississippi River was strange and new in the mid 19th century. Rainfall was lacking, the landscape had tremendous diversity and mineral riches was just underneath the surface. There was a big opportunity for an express mail service to the West. For this to occur you needed reliable communications, a speedy transportation and secure banking. In the country at this time, mail was the principal means of communication.
In 1840, it cost eighteen cents to mail a letter from New York to Troy New York. Because of the Postal Service high prices, private express services were becoming popular. These express services started with bare feet runners and riders on horses.
In 1845, Henry Wells and William G Fargo joined forces to create their own express service. They started in upstate New York and expanded as far west as Chicago and St Louis. In 1850, the two men founded the American Express Company. In 1852, Wells Fargo and Company was formed.
research help: ' Stagecoach' by Philip L Fradkin
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lent 2015 March 2
Lent 2015 March 2 by ric Gustafson
John 1:41 says that John found his brother Simon and told him ' We have found the Messiah'. Then he led him to Jesus.
Jesus is the Messiah. Messiah is translated in Hebrew as Mashiach or ' anointed one'. After Israel was conquered and did not have a king, the people hoped and prayed for the Messiah or one true king. Stories of a Messiah abounded of one with great insight, great powers and a deep connection with God.
There have also been many false messiahs. When they were followed, uprisings ended in bloodshed. When Jesus was introduced as the Messiah, excitement and fear occurred in the new disciples. They probably pondered two things. The first was is this just another pretender. The second was is this carpenter from Nazareth actually the one they have been waiting for.
Jesus told them ' Come and see'.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 1:41 says that John found his brother Simon and told him ' We have found the Messiah'. Then he led him to Jesus.
Jesus is the Messiah. Messiah is translated in Hebrew as Mashiach or ' anointed one'. After Israel was conquered and did not have a king, the people hoped and prayed for the Messiah or one true king. Stories of a Messiah abounded of one with great insight, great powers and a deep connection with God.
There have also been many false messiahs. When they were followed, uprisings ended in bloodshed. When Jesus was introduced as the Messiah, excitement and fear occurred in the new disciples. They probably pondered two things. The first was is this just another pretender. The second was is this carpenter from Nazareth actually the one they have been waiting for.
Jesus told them ' Come and see'.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Lent 2015 March 1
Lent 2015 March 1 by ric Gustafson
John 1: 38-39 the people asked the Teacher where he was staying. Jesus replied ' Come and see'.
Jesus is the Teacher. Jesus was a great teacher. He was engaging, stimulating and never boring. Jesus drew his followers by saying ' come and see'. Jesus taught with authority and his views were fresh. Jesus challenged his students and followers and his teaching spoke to the moment.
Jesus lived what he taught ands asks people today to reexamine their lives.
Jesus smiles at us today and says to us ' come and see'.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 1: 38-39 the people asked the Teacher where he was staying. Jesus replied ' Come and see'.
Jesus is the Teacher. Jesus was a great teacher. He was engaging, stimulating and never boring. Jesus drew his followers by saying ' come and see'. Jesus taught with authority and his views were fresh. Jesus challenged his students and followers and his teaching spoke to the moment.
Jesus lived what he taught ands asks people today to reexamine their lives.
Jesus smiles at us today and says to us ' come and see'.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2015' by Sue Mink
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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