never never never: Never Forgotten by ric Gustafson
To God there is only one thing. That everything done in the name of his son Jesus has eternal value. When we witness we share Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit and leave the results to God. The Christian life is following Jesus obediently knowing that everything done in his name has eternal value. Our acts of faithfulness are never forgotten by God.
As far as witnessing, some may say why bother what good would it do. The answer is that God knows and God cares. Everything done for Jesus has eternal ramifications. Nothing done for Jesus is done in vain. When we sow seeds of righteousness, a harvest will come in due time. God's Word changes people and situations.
It's easy to say who cares. But the truth is God does care and our Christian acts do ripple in heaven. There will be a reward in heaven for our faithfulness. The reward is a crown that we will cast before the throne of God. Our life for Jesus does count and will not be forgotten.
Praise God.
research help: Turning Points August 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 30, 2015
the free gift page 1
the free gift page 1 by ric Gustafson
Kirby McGhee looked out from the frosty window of the red and white cab. He missed the neighborhood and the memories of his youth. The snow under the tires crunched as the cab turned right unto Green River Road. The familiar house came into view. He played sports with the other boys on that street.
" Fourth house on the right" he said as he pointed.
They passed the Francis's, the Randolph's and the Morgan's.
Kirby pointed to a light blue house with a white picket fence. " It's right here 2171".
The cab slowly pulled up to the curb and then stopped.
He looked at the two story home that held a lot of memories.
He smiled, got out and walked over to the driver's now open window. He pulled out some money from a pant pocket and paid him.
" Are you going to surprise the family this early Thanksgiving morning?".
" I sure am" he replied as he walked through the gate of the picket fence. " Happy Thanksgiving".
The driver smiled and then drove off.
As Kirby walked toward the front door, a thought came to his mind. He remembered the good luck of being able to get the first job he interviewed for the day before.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Kirby McGhee looked out from the frosty window of the red and white cab. He missed the neighborhood and the memories of his youth. The snow under the tires crunched as the cab turned right unto Green River Road. The familiar house came into view. He played sports with the other boys on that street.
" Fourth house on the right" he said as he pointed.
They passed the Francis's, the Randolph's and the Morgan's.
Kirby pointed to a light blue house with a white picket fence. " It's right here 2171".
The cab slowly pulled up to the curb and then stopped.
He looked at the two story home that held a lot of memories.
He smiled, got out and walked over to the driver's now open window. He pulled out some money from a pant pocket and paid him.
" Are you going to surprise the family this early Thanksgiving morning?".
" I sure am" he replied as he walked through the gate of the picket fence. " Happy Thanksgiving".
The driver smiled and then drove off.
As Kirby walked toward the front door, a thought came to his mind. He remembered the good luck of being able to get the first job he interviewed for the day before.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 2
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 2 by ric Gustafson
The Christmas jack in the box bounced onto a folding chair. " I call this meeting to order". He stared at the other ornaments. " I have been hearing about grumblings among the ornaments".
One of the sand dollars spoke up. " We're not sure why we are here on this tree?".
" What do you mean?".
" We were enjoying being on the beach in Florida". The ornament paused. " Next thing I know somebody picks us up and brings us here". The sand dollar looks at the jack in the box. " Are we here by accident?".
" Well my pretty, I can cause accidents too".
" Miss Gulch, please".
" All of you who are not sure why you are here". The ornament hesitates. " Please raise your hooks".
All of them raised their hooks.
" Ok, I will explain why you are all here".
" These things must be done delicately".
" Miss Gulch please".
All of the ornaments moved closer to the jack in the box to listen.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Christmas jack in the box bounced onto a folding chair. " I call this meeting to order". He stared at the other ornaments. " I have been hearing about grumblings among the ornaments".
One of the sand dollars spoke up. " We're not sure why we are here on this tree?".
" What do you mean?".
" We were enjoying being on the beach in Florida". The ornament paused. " Next thing I know somebody picks us up and brings us here". The sand dollar looks at the jack in the box. " Are we here by accident?".
" Well my pretty, I can cause accidents too".
" Miss Gulch, please".
" All of you who are not sure why you are here". The ornament hesitates. " Please raise your hooks".
All of them raised their hooks.
" Ok, I will explain why you are all here".
" These things must be done delicately".
" Miss Gulch please".
All of the ornaments moved closer to the jack in the box to listen.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the disciples of the Wolf: Adolf Eichmann
the disciples of the Wolf: Adolf Eichmann by ric Gustafson
Adolf Eichmann was born on March 19 1906 in Solingen Germany. In a Jerusalem courtroom, a balding man wearing thick black frame glasses listened as a witness testified against him. More than one hundred came forward to relieve nightmares that would haunt them to their graves. He made careful notes but appeared detached and acted like he was resigned to his fate. The former Obersturmbannfuhrer had been indicted on fifteen counts. These included crimes against humanity, crimes against the Jewish people and others which he denied. He was accused of coordinating the deportation of Jews from all over Europe to extermination camps. When he did speak during the trial, he denied everything and all the charges brought against him.
Eichmann was smuggled out of Argentina in 1960 by the Mossad which was the Israeli Intelligence and Special Operations. He was described as obsessive compulsive, driven by uncontrollable forces and was the only Nazi to learn Hebrew. He enjoyed his work and was proud to be a efficient administrator. He denied being the architect of the ' Final Solution'. Instead he portrayed himself as a transportation officer in charge of logistics. He was described as thorough, methodical and a tyrant.
When he was not in court, he was in his cell working on his memoir. After the trial had ended, he was found guilty on all counts.
Adolf Eichmann was hanged just after midnight on May 31 1962.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Adolf Eichmann was born on March 19 1906 in Solingen Germany. In a Jerusalem courtroom, a balding man wearing thick black frame glasses listened as a witness testified against him. More than one hundred came forward to relieve nightmares that would haunt them to their graves. He made careful notes but appeared detached and acted like he was resigned to his fate. The former Obersturmbannfuhrer had been indicted on fifteen counts. These included crimes against humanity, crimes against the Jewish people and others which he denied. He was accused of coordinating the deportation of Jews from all over Europe to extermination camps. When he did speak during the trial, he denied everything and all the charges brought against him.
Eichmann was smuggled out of Argentina in 1960 by the Mossad which was the Israeli Intelligence and Special Operations. He was described as obsessive compulsive, driven by uncontrollable forces and was the only Nazi to learn Hebrew. He enjoyed his work and was proud to be a efficient administrator. He denied being the architect of the ' Final Solution'. Instead he portrayed himself as a transportation officer in charge of logistics. He was described as thorough, methodical and a tyrant.
When he was not in court, he was in his cell working on his memoir. After the trial had ended, he was found guilty on all counts.
Adolf Eichmann was hanged just after midnight on May 31 1962.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 29, 2015
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 1
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 1 by ric Gustafson
The Christmas jack in the box bounced up to the podium. " Are we all here?". He studied his list. " Sand dollars".
" Here here here" was their reply.
" Christmas dog".
" Woof Woof".
" Red Christmas choo choo".
" Choo Choo".
" White Nutcracker".
He bounced into the room. " Here".
" Miss Gulch".
All the ornaments looked around the room.
" Has anyone seen the new Hallmark Christmas ornament?".
" I'll get you my pretty".
" It sounds like Miss Gulch has arrived".
" And your little dog too".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Christmas jack in the box bounced up to the podium. " Are we all here?". He studied his list. " Sand dollars".
" Here here here" was their reply.
" Christmas dog".
" Woof Woof".
" Red Christmas choo choo".
" Choo Choo".
" White Nutcracker".
He bounced into the room. " Here".
" Miss Gulch".
All the ornaments looked around the room.
" Has anyone seen the new Hallmark Christmas ornament?".
" I'll get you my pretty".
" It sounds like Miss Gulch has arrived".
" And your little dog too".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
never never never: Never Alone
never never never: Never Alone by ric Gustafson
God's Word is living and powerful according to Hebrews 4: 12. We were created for company and relationships. We were created for interaction and love. We may drift away from God by our own choosing.
The fact is we are never alone with Jesus. Sometimes we feel alone in life. When we feel that way, we need to cry out to God. God wants us to enjoy his company and the company of others. We are never alone because God is always with us. Jesus promises to be with us until the end of the age. God will never leave nor forsake us. God wants us to have constant faith in him.
research help: Turning Points August 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God's Word is living and powerful according to Hebrews 4: 12. We were created for company and relationships. We were created for interaction and love. We may drift away from God by our own choosing.
The fact is we are never alone with Jesus. Sometimes we feel alone in life. When we feel that way, we need to cry out to God. God wants us to enjoy his company and the company of others. We are never alone because God is always with us. Jesus promises to be with us until the end of the age. God will never leave nor forsake us. God wants us to have constant faith in him.
research help: Turning Points August 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 28, 2015
never never never: Never Remembered
never never never: Never Remembered by ric Gustafson
Every human being is a sinner. Romans 3 says that there is none righteous. Our sins produce guilt which creates in us shame. We need God's forgiveness and forgiveness from others. We want to be forgiven. We want God to wash away our sins. God does that through his son Jesus.
God gives us his grace and our forgiven sins are forgotten. So how are our sins forgiven?. First, we must confess our sins to God and be willing to turn from them. We must acknowledge our sins to God through prayer. We must tell God that we are sorry, ask for forgiveness and tell him that we are willing to turn from sin.
Second, we must by faith claim God's promises about forgiveness. Will God forgive and forget my sins?.
According to God, confessed and forgiven sin is never recalled and never remembered. God does not want us to live in guilt or shame. Praise God.
research help: Turning Points August 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Every human being is a sinner. Romans 3 says that there is none righteous. Our sins produce guilt which creates in us shame. We need God's forgiveness and forgiveness from others. We want to be forgiven. We want God to wash away our sins. God does that through his son Jesus.
God gives us his grace and our forgiven sins are forgotten. So how are our sins forgiven?. First, we must confess our sins to God and be willing to turn from them. We must acknowledge our sins to God through prayer. We must tell God that we are sorry, ask for forgiveness and tell him that we are willing to turn from sin.
Second, we must by faith claim God's promises about forgiveness. Will God forgive and forget my sins?.
According to God, confessed and forgiven sin is never recalled and never remembered. God does not want us to live in guilt or shame. Praise God.
research help: Turning Points August 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the disciples of the Wolf: Eva Braun
the disciples of the Wolf: Eva Braun by ric Gustafson
Eva Braun was born on February 6 1912 in Munich Bavaria. Eva was not a heroine or a matriarch which were two qualities Hitler admired. She was devoted, patient and understanding and was the picture of Aryan maidenhood. She was the middle daughter of a Munich schoolmaster. She was a shallow self obsessed young woman. She was servile, emotionally immature, compliant, obedient and loved to be by Hitler's side.
Eva met Hitler when she was a secretary for the Nazi Party's official photographer Heinrich Hoffman. She was only 17 at the time. She was by his side until the end April 30 1945.
Both committed suicide and their bodies were burned afterwards.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Eva Braun was born on February 6 1912 in Munich Bavaria. Eva was not a heroine or a matriarch which were two qualities Hitler admired. She was devoted, patient and understanding and was the picture of Aryan maidenhood. She was the middle daughter of a Munich schoolmaster. She was a shallow self obsessed young woman. She was servile, emotionally immature, compliant, obedient and loved to be by Hitler's side.
Eva met Hitler when she was a secretary for the Nazi Party's official photographer Heinrich Hoffman. She was only 17 at the time. She was by his side until the end April 30 1945.
Both committed suicide and their bodies were burned afterwards.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
do you see what I see: seeing others
do you see what I see: seeing others by ric Gustafson
Is Christmas all about presents, eggnog and Christmas parties. In God's loving eyes, the answer is no. God looks through the windowpanes of heaven and sees a world in need. God sees a self destructive world. He sees an angry world and a world ruled by Satan. God did something about it. He sent his son to save us from destruction.
God wants us to seek the lost who need his Word. God wants us to seek the imprisoned who need attention. God wants us to help the sick and those in nursing homes and hospitals. Lastly, God wants us to love children who need him.
I pray that God will open our hearts this Christmas season.
research help: Turning Points December 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Is Christmas all about presents, eggnog and Christmas parties. In God's loving eyes, the answer is no. God looks through the windowpanes of heaven and sees a world in need. God sees a self destructive world. He sees an angry world and a world ruled by Satan. God did something about it. He sent his son to save us from destruction.
God wants us to seek the lost who need his Word. God wants us to seek the imprisoned who need attention. God wants us to help the sick and those in nursing homes and hospitals. Lastly, God wants us to love children who need him.
I pray that God will open our hearts this Christmas season.
research help: Turning Points December 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 27, 2015
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 2
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 2 by ric Gustafson
The next time I encountered the elderly Apostle, the city of Rome was in flames. Followers of Christos were beginning to believe that the end of the world was here. People were flocking to the elderly fisherman who spoke of love and forgiveness. People walked up to the elderly man to kiss his hands or to touch the hem of his robe.
He smiled at me. " Peace be with you".
People flocked to him.
" Love men as your own brother". He grinned. " Only with love may you serve him".
I knew that these Christians lived in fear. I approached the elderly fisherman. " Rome is burning because of Caesar".
The elderly Apostle looked at me. " I know".
" Because of Nero, people are killing each other".
" I was with the Lord" he replied. " I am not afraid".
I was amazed at how much this elderly fisherman loved a man who died years ago.
research help: ' Quo Vadis' by Henryk Sienkiewicz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The next time I encountered the elderly Apostle, the city of Rome was in flames. Followers of Christos were beginning to believe that the end of the world was here. People were flocking to the elderly fisherman who spoke of love and forgiveness. People walked up to the elderly man to kiss his hands or to touch the hem of his robe.
He smiled at me. " Peace be with you".
People flocked to him.
" Love men as your own brother". He grinned. " Only with love may you serve him".
I knew that these Christians lived in fear. I approached the elderly fisherman. " Rome is burning because of Caesar".
The elderly Apostle looked at me. " I know".
" Because of Nero, people are killing each other".
" I was with the Lord" he replied. " I am not afraid".
I was amazed at how much this elderly fisherman loved a man who died years ago.
research help: ' Quo Vadis' by Henryk Sienkiewicz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
do you see what I see: seeing yourself
do you see what I see: seeing yourself by ric Gustafson
God planned every detail of the first Christmas in advance. He recorded his plans in Old Testament prophecies. The Christ child arrived right on schedule. Christmas needs to be a time of worship and witness. First, we need an attitude of worship. We worship by being still and exulting in the wonder of who Jesus is. We can express our wonder in praise and prayer. Second, we need to set boundaries. We need to budget our time and money and sometimes say no. We need tine for reflection and rest. Thirdly, we need to seek a spiritual connection with Jesus. To God, Christmas is love, thankfulness and worship.
We need to have an attitude of worship, set boundaries and focus on Jesus.
research help: Turning Points December 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God planned every detail of the first Christmas in advance. He recorded his plans in Old Testament prophecies. The Christ child arrived right on schedule. Christmas needs to be a time of worship and witness. First, we need an attitude of worship. We worship by being still and exulting in the wonder of who Jesus is. We can express our wonder in praise and prayer. Second, we need to set boundaries. We need to budget our time and money and sometimes say no. We need tine for reflection and rest. Thirdly, we need to seek a spiritual connection with Jesus. To God, Christmas is love, thankfulness and worship.
We need to have an attitude of worship, set boundaries and focus on Jesus.
research help: Turning Points December 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: Nathanael/ Bartholomew
Meet the Apostles: Nathanael/ Bartholomew by ric Gustafson
Bartholomew is mentioned in lists with Philip. Biblical scholars believe that Nathanael is actually Bartholomew.
In John 1: 44-51, Philip tells Nathanael that he had met Jesus. Nathanael was not impressed. His response was " can anything good come from Nazareth". Philip told him to come and see. Jesus said that he was a man of complete integrity.
Nathanael is not mentioned again in Scripture.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Bartholomew is mentioned in lists with Philip. Biblical scholars believe that Nathanael is actually Bartholomew.
In John 1: 44-51, Philip tells Nathanael that he had met Jesus. Nathanael was not impressed. His response was " can anything good come from Nazareth". Philip told him to come and see. Jesus said that he was a man of complete integrity.
Nathanael is not mentioned again in Scripture.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 26, 2015
do you see what I see: seeing Jesus
do you see what I see: seeing Jesus by ric Gustafson
Christmas is the season of lights. The first Christmas light was the star the Magi saw in the East. They followed that star to the Christ child and worshiped him with their gifts. According to John 1:9 says that the true light gave light to every man coming into the world.
Jesus Christ is that true light and it is our task to keep our eyes on the Babe who was born. Christmas is Christ and everything needs to reflect that. God wants us to help those who are lost at this time of the season. God wants us to love everyone no matter where in the world they live. God wants us to pray and stay focused at this time of year. God wants us to remember what Jesus has done for us and always remember the true meaning of Christmas.
research help: Turning Points December 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Christmas is the season of lights. The first Christmas light was the star the Magi saw in the East. They followed that star to the Christ child and worshiped him with their gifts. According to John 1:9 says that the true light gave light to every man coming into the world.
Jesus Christ is that true light and it is our task to keep our eyes on the Babe who was born. Christmas is Christ and everything needs to reflect that. God wants us to help those who are lost at this time of the season. God wants us to love everyone no matter where in the world they live. God wants us to pray and stay focused at this time of year. God wants us to remember what Jesus has done for us and always remember the true meaning of Christmas.
research help: Turning Points December 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the disciples of the Wolf: Geli Raubal
the disciples of the Wolf: Geli Raubal by ric Gustafson
Angela [ Geli] Raubal was born on June 4 1908 in Linz Austria. Her Mother Angela was Hitler's housekeeper when the girl was seventeen. Her mother was Hitler's half sister and the two of them stayed with Hitler at the Berghof. Hitler began seeing Geli on a constant basis and was very protective of her.
At one point, she was banished to Hitler's apartment in Munich. She was not allowed to do much and she began to resent it. Hitler refused to let her study singing in Vienna or to see a young driver that caught her eye.
On September 17 1931, Geli was found dead from a single gunshot to the heart. Hitler's pistol lay next to her body. Rumors began to appear. Was it a suicide? or was it something else?. Hitler took it very hard and was inconsolable for a long time. He kept a portrait of her in his bedroom.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Angela [ Geli] Raubal was born on June 4 1908 in Linz Austria. Her Mother Angela was Hitler's housekeeper when the girl was seventeen. Her mother was Hitler's half sister and the two of them stayed with Hitler at the Berghof. Hitler began seeing Geli on a constant basis and was very protective of her.
At one point, she was banished to Hitler's apartment in Munich. She was not allowed to do much and she began to resent it. Hitler refused to let her study singing in Vienna or to see a young driver that caught her eye.
On September 17 1931, Geli was found dead from a single gunshot to the heart. Hitler's pistol lay next to her body. Rumors began to appear. Was it a suicide? or was it something else?. Hitler took it very hard and was inconsolable for a long time. He kept a portrait of her in his bedroom.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: a man of sorrows
Meet the Apostles: a man of sorrows by ric Gustafson
The Old Testament prophet Isaiah predicted the Messiah in Isaiah 53: 2-3. The prophet said that he was despised, rejected a man of sorrows.
Philip told his friend Nathanael that they had found who Moses and the prophets were writing about. He said that his name was Jesus and that he was the son of Joseph from Nazareth. According to John 1: 45-46 Nathanael replied " can anything good come from Nazareth?. Luckily, because of Philip's insistence Nathanael joined Jesus's group. According to John 1: 47-49, Nathanael's attitude about Jesus changed in seconds.
Thank God we believe in Jesus, know him and follow him.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Old Testament prophet Isaiah predicted the Messiah in Isaiah 53: 2-3. The prophet said that he was despised, rejected a man of sorrows.
Philip told his friend Nathanael that they had found who Moses and the prophets were writing about. He said that his name was Jesus and that he was the son of Joseph from Nazareth. According to John 1: 45-46 Nathanael replied " can anything good come from Nazareth?. Luckily, because of Philip's insistence Nathanael joined Jesus's group. According to John 1: 47-49, Nathanael's attitude about Jesus changed in seconds.
Thank God we believe in Jesus, know him and follow him.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 1
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 1 by ric Gustafson
My name is Flavius Artemis. I am a centurion. I was assigned to a post in Rome years ago. Before that I served a post in Jerusalem under Pontius Pilate.
Recently, I was asked to come to the Via Nomentana where the hills were full of graveyards. When I got there with some soldiers under me, it was completely dark out. Then I noticed dark forms approaching carrying lanterns.
I asked an old man who was near me " why are they in the dark gathering in this graveyard?".
The old man smiled. " We are Christians and we have to gather in secret".
" Why is that?".
" Jews and the population at large accuse us of crimes and hate us".
Just then, an old man appeared near a fire.
The old man smiled and pointed. " He is here".
Flavius scratched his chin. " Who is here?".
" Peter the fisherman".
Those present fell on their knees.
" He was with Christos".
" Christos?".
" Jesus the Nazarene".
Memories of when he served under Pontius Pilate began to flood Flavius's mind.
research help: ' Quo Vadis' by Henryk Sienkiewicz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
My name is Flavius Artemis. I am a centurion. I was assigned to a post in Rome years ago. Before that I served a post in Jerusalem under Pontius Pilate.
Recently, I was asked to come to the Via Nomentana where the hills were full of graveyards. When I got there with some soldiers under me, it was completely dark out. Then I noticed dark forms approaching carrying lanterns.
I asked an old man who was near me " why are they in the dark gathering in this graveyard?".
The old man smiled. " We are Christians and we have to gather in secret".
" Why is that?".
" Jews and the population at large accuse us of crimes and hate us".
Just then, an old man appeared near a fire.
The old man smiled and pointed. " He is here".
Flavius scratched his chin. " Who is here?".
" Peter the fisherman".
Those present fell on their knees.
" He was with Christos".
" Christos?".
" Jesus the Nazarene".
Memories of when he served under Pontius Pilate began to flood Flavius's mind.
research help: ' Quo Vadis' by Henryk Sienkiewicz
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: learning from their mistakes
Meet the Apostles: learning from their mistakes by ric Gustafson
Jesus because he was God never sinned. The disciples being fully human did sin. Because they were totally human, we can relate to their struggles with sin. We can relate to the questions that they asked and their reactions in different situations. The Gospels describe them as petty, selfish, vengeful and insecure. We can relate. These simple men were human and sinful.
Jesus was quick to rebuke them. Jesus reprimanded them when he had to. Yet Jesus saw good in them and recognized their eagerness to serve him. Jesus loved them as much as he loves us. Jesus corrected them and encouraged them.
The disciples, other than Judas Iscariot, repented of their mistakes and learned from them. They became role models for us Jesus's followers today. Praise God.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus because he was God never sinned. The disciples being fully human did sin. Because they were totally human, we can relate to their struggles with sin. We can relate to the questions that they asked and their reactions in different situations. The Gospels describe them as petty, selfish, vengeful and insecure. We can relate. These simple men were human and sinful.
Jesus was quick to rebuke them. Jesus reprimanded them when he had to. Yet Jesus saw good in them and recognized their eagerness to serve him. Jesus loved them as much as he loves us. Jesus corrected them and encouraged them.
The disciples, other than Judas Iscariot, repented of their mistakes and learned from them. They became role models for us Jesus's followers today. Praise God.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Meet the Apostles: a heavenly home
Meet the Apostles: a heavenly home by ric Gustafson
According to John 14: 1-3, Jesus gives his disciples a huge promise. He tells them that he is going to prepare a place for them in his heavenly kingdom. In Matthew 19:28, he uses royal imagery to describe their place of honor in his kingdom. He promises that they will sit on twelve thrones and judge the twelve tribes of Israel.
After Jesus ascended into heaven, the disciples held on to his promise. They clung unto his words for strength, encouragement and motivation. The disciples knew what their future held. They faced martyrdom with joy. They had little to lose and everything to gain.
Followers of Jesus today can find comfort and strength in Jesus's promises. No matter what happens in our lives, we know we will someday see Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to John 14: 1-3, Jesus gives his disciples a huge promise. He tells them that he is going to prepare a place for them in his heavenly kingdom. In Matthew 19:28, he uses royal imagery to describe their place of honor in his kingdom. He promises that they will sit on twelve thrones and judge the twelve tribes of Israel.
After Jesus ascended into heaven, the disciples held on to his promise. They clung unto his words for strength, encouragement and motivation. The disciples knew what their future held. They faced martyrdom with joy. They had little to lose and everything to gain.
Followers of Jesus today can find comfort and strength in Jesus's promises. No matter what happens in our lives, we know we will someday see Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 23, 2015
Esther page 1
Esther page 1 by ric Gustafson
At fourteen years of age, I ran away from the road and the sounds of the other girls crying. I woke up from sleep to a strange man putting a hand over my mouth. He dragged me out of bed and then outside. I knew they were Xerxes's soldiers and one of them was dragging me along the ground.
I joined a whole line of crying girls. We walked down a road. When we stopped, I made a dash for it. I did not get far before a soldier yanked my tunic and dragged me back to the road.
On the road I began to plead.
" If you will let me go". My voice hesitated. " My cousin will give you gold coins".
A soldier sneered. " We will take you and your cousin's coins".
Huts were ransacked until a hundred girls were found.
Then we began to march our wrists tied with ropes.
Where Xerxes's soldiers were taking us, I don't know.
research help: ' Esther' by Rebecca Kanner
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
At fourteen years of age, I ran away from the road and the sounds of the other girls crying. I woke up from sleep to a strange man putting a hand over my mouth. He dragged me out of bed and then outside. I knew they were Xerxes's soldiers and one of them was dragging me along the ground.
I joined a whole line of crying girls. We walked down a road. When we stopped, I made a dash for it. I did not get far before a soldier yanked my tunic and dragged me back to the road.
On the road I began to plead.
" If you will let me go". My voice hesitated. " My cousin will give you gold coins".
A soldier sneered. " We will take you and your cousin's coins".
Huts were ransacked until a hundred girls were found.
Then we began to march our wrists tied with ropes.
Where Xerxes's soldiers were taking us, I don't know.
research help: ' Esther' by Rebecca Kanner
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the disciples of the Wolf: Unity Mitford
the disciples of the Wolf: Unity Mitford by ric Gustafson
Unity Mitford was born on August 8 1914 in London England. It was a fact that Hitler had power over women. Millions of women worshipped him. Newsreels showed women fainting, crying with emotion at the sight of him. Unity was the daughter of the 2nd Baron Redesdale who was a wealthy landowner. Unity had five sisters and decorated her bedroom walls with swastikas.
She joined the British Union of Fascists and in 1933 traveled to Germany to attend the annual Nuremberg Party rally. As a teen, she finally got to meet Hitler at a Munich café. Unity was attracted to Hitler and called him ' Wolf'. Hitler's mistress Eva Braun felt threatened by Mitford and attempted suicide in May 1935. He distanced himself from Unity and spent more time with Eva. At the 1936 Olympic Games, Hitler gave Unity a gold Party badge and a private box to watch the Games. When war was declared between Britain and Germany, Unity tried to commit suicide by shooting herself in the head. She survived but died in 1948 from an infection caused by the shooting.
Eva Braun now had the Wolf's complete and undivided attention.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Unity Mitford was born on August 8 1914 in London England. It was a fact that Hitler had power over women. Millions of women worshipped him. Newsreels showed women fainting, crying with emotion at the sight of him. Unity was the daughter of the 2nd Baron Redesdale who was a wealthy landowner. Unity had five sisters and decorated her bedroom walls with swastikas.
She joined the British Union of Fascists and in 1933 traveled to Germany to attend the annual Nuremberg Party rally. As a teen, she finally got to meet Hitler at a Munich café. Unity was attracted to Hitler and called him ' Wolf'. Hitler's mistress Eva Braun felt threatened by Mitford and attempted suicide in May 1935. He distanced himself from Unity and spent more time with Eva. At the 1936 Olympic Games, Hitler gave Unity a gold Party badge and a private box to watch the Games. When war was declared between Britain and Germany, Unity tried to commit suicide by shooting herself in the head. She survived but died in 1948 from an infection caused by the shooting.
Eva Braun now had the Wolf's complete and undivided attention.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: faith like a mustard seed
Meet the Apostles: faith like a mustard seed by ric Gustafson
Jesus used the imagery of a mustard seed to talk about the Apostles faith. Faith like a mustard seed starts small with humble beginnings. Then as their faith grew, they began to break out in ministry. According to Mark 6, Jesus sent them out in pairs to preach from village to village. They were to take no money or food. They could only take a walking stick, a pair of sandals and a coat. They had no bibles all they had was what Jesus had taught them. They depended on those to whom they preached for to obtain food and shelter.
After a while like the mustard seed, they blossomed and produced fruit.
God can take us like a mustard seed, nurture us to grow and blossom into what he wants us to be.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus used the imagery of a mustard seed to talk about the Apostles faith. Faith like a mustard seed starts small with humble beginnings. Then as their faith grew, they began to break out in ministry. According to Mark 6, Jesus sent them out in pairs to preach from village to village. They were to take no money or food. They could only take a walking stick, a pair of sandals and a coat. They had no bibles all they had was what Jesus had taught them. They depended on those to whom they preached for to obtain food and shelter.
After a while like the mustard seed, they blossomed and produced fruit.
God can take us like a mustard seed, nurture us to grow and blossom into what he wants us to be.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 22, 2015
the disciples of the Wolf: Martin Bormann
the disciples of the Wolf: Martin Bormann by ric Gustafson
Martin Bormann was born on June 17 1900 in Wegeleben Prussia. His wife's name was Gerda and they had ten children.
Bormann was despised by other Nazi leaders and was nicknamed the ' brown eminence'. He had the most access to Hitler and allowed few to be near him. Bormann was the personal secretary to Rudolf Hess but later became Hitler's. He helped build the Berghof and purchased Hitler's birthplace at Braunau and gave it to him as a present.
Bormann was short squat with a moon face. He was course and banal. He did not smoke, drink and was a vegetarian. As Hitler's office manager, he demanded blind obedience and was a yes man.
What happened to Bormann at the end of the war is a mystery. Some people thought that he had escaped to South America. In 1972 near the Lehrter railway station, remains were found. In 1998, DNA confirmed that those remains were those of Hitler's secretary.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Martin Bormann was born on June 17 1900 in Wegeleben Prussia. His wife's name was Gerda and they had ten children.
Bormann was despised by other Nazi leaders and was nicknamed the ' brown eminence'. He had the most access to Hitler and allowed few to be near him. Bormann was the personal secretary to Rudolf Hess but later became Hitler's. He helped build the Berghof and purchased Hitler's birthplace at Braunau and gave it to him as a present.
Bormann was short squat with a moon face. He was course and banal. He did not smoke, drink and was a vegetarian. As Hitler's office manager, he demanded blind obedience and was a yes man.
What happened to Bormann at the end of the war is a mystery. Some people thought that he had escaped to South America. In 1972 near the Lehrter railway station, remains were found. In 1998, DNA confirmed that those remains were those of Hitler's secretary.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Twelve: Jonah
the Twelve: Jonah by ric Gustafson
Jonah tried to run away from God. He found out the hard way it is impossible. God called him to preach to the people of Nineveh. He rebelled against God's call. He disobeyed God and did what he thought was right.
He boarded a ship which was nearly capsized. The crew threw him overboard and he ended up in the belly of a big fish. Three days later, he was coughed up on shore. He became repentant and went to Nineveh. The king heard Jonah's message and asked for complete repentance. God heard the people's cries and relented of his judgment. Salvation came to that city. Jonah turned from rebellion and received God's forgiveness. Because of that, great things happened.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jonah tried to run away from God. He found out the hard way it is impossible. God called him to preach to the people of Nineveh. He rebelled against God's call. He disobeyed God and did what he thought was right.
He boarded a ship which was nearly capsized. The crew threw him overboard and he ended up in the belly of a big fish. Three days later, he was coughed up on shore. He became repentant and went to Nineveh. The king heard Jonah's message and asked for complete repentance. God heard the people's cries and relented of his judgment. Salvation came to that city. Jonah turned from rebellion and received God's forgiveness. Because of that, great things happened.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: Philip
Meet the Apostles: Philip by ric Gustafson
When Jesus invited Philip to follow him, he eagerly accepted. Philip introduced his friend Nathanael to Jesus. Philip like the other Apostles struggled to grasp the true nature of Jesus's power and identity. During the feeding of the five thousand, Philip was not sure if a miracle could happen.
Philip is not mentioned much in the Gospels. After Jesus's ascension, it was said that Philip ended up in Hierapolis Pamukkale Turkey. They say that he was buried in the center of the building. He was martyred by being crucified upside down.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When Jesus invited Philip to follow him, he eagerly accepted. Philip introduced his friend Nathanael to Jesus. Philip like the other Apostles struggled to grasp the true nature of Jesus's power and identity. During the feeding of the five thousand, Philip was not sure if a miracle could happen.
Philip is not mentioned much in the Gospels. After Jesus's ascension, it was said that Philip ended up in Hierapolis Pamukkale Turkey. They say that he was buried in the center of the building. He was martyred by being crucified upside down.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 21, 2015
the Twelve: Obadiah
the Twelve: Obadiah by ric Gustafson
This book of the Old Testament is the shortest. This book records the judgment against the people of Edom. In Obadiah 1: 3-4, the Lord warns us to repent or get ready for judgment. The Lord reminded the people of Edom of their sin. Obadiah 1:15 says that as you have done, it shall be done to you. No one can escape the judgment of God. Obadiah 1:20 says return to him. Obadiah 1:21 says that God's eternal promises will come to pass.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This book of the Old Testament is the shortest. This book records the judgment against the people of Edom. In Obadiah 1: 3-4, the Lord warns us to repent or get ready for judgment. The Lord reminded the people of Edom of their sin. Obadiah 1:15 says that as you have done, it shall be done to you. No one can escape the judgment of God. Obadiah 1:20 says return to him. Obadiah 1:21 says that God's eternal promises will come to pass.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 20, 2015
the Twelve: Amos
the Twelve: Amos by ric Gustafson
The prophet Amos came to warn people about their rejection of the Lord. Amos was a shepherd in a barren rocky place called Tekoa. He had a flaming and burning message for the people. Israel had security, comfort and wealth but inside their spiritual health was declining.
Because of their arrogance, God called Amos. The people worshiped outwardly but disobeyed inwardly. They ignored God's law. God had no use for their festivals and rich offerings. The people rejected him and God rejected their phony worship. Amos's message was about their rejection of God. Amos 4: 12 - 5:14 says to prepare to meet your God O Israel.
How do we prepare to meet God?. We must repent of our sin. Instead of rejecting God we need to receive him.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The prophet Amos came to warn people about their rejection of the Lord. Amos was a shepherd in a barren rocky place called Tekoa. He had a flaming and burning message for the people. Israel had security, comfort and wealth but inside their spiritual health was declining.
Because of their arrogance, God called Amos. The people worshiped outwardly but disobeyed inwardly. They ignored God's law. God had no use for their festivals and rich offerings. The people rejected him and God rejected their phony worship. Amos's message was about their rejection of God. Amos 4: 12 - 5:14 says to prepare to meet your God O Israel.
How do we prepare to meet God?. We must repent of our sin. Instead of rejecting God we need to receive him.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Sweet By and By Inn page 5
the Sweet By and By Inn page 5 by ric Gustafson
Zeke opened the door and walked into the small pizza restaurant. He noticed his co worker sitting in a booth in the back. He walked up and shook his hand. " Fred, this is an interesting place".
" I was hoping you would like it" Fred Holman replied as he began to look at a menu. " What kind of pizza do you like?".
Zeke sat down and took a menu to look at. " I really like ham and pineapple". He began to study it. " Plus I'll have a Mountain Dew".
Fred looked toward the front. " It looks like we need to order from up front". After they ordered, they sat down with their soda drinks.
Fred raised his cup. " To success in the next thirty days".
" To success" Zeke replied as he raised his Mountain Dew.
A half hour later, their large half and half pizza arrived.
Fred took a slice of ham and pineapple pizza and took a bite. " So where are you staying?". He wiped off his mouth with a napkin.
" I'm staying at the Sweet By and By Inn".
His friend kept eating the pizza. " I've heard it's a nice place but strange".
" What do you mean?".
" The Inn is always full". He took a sip of Diet Coke. " But I've lived here all my life and have never actually met anyone who has actually stayed there".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Zeke opened the door and walked into the small pizza restaurant. He noticed his co worker sitting in a booth in the back. He walked up and shook his hand. " Fred, this is an interesting place".
" I was hoping you would like it" Fred Holman replied as he began to look at a menu. " What kind of pizza do you like?".
Zeke sat down and took a menu to look at. " I really like ham and pineapple". He began to study it. " Plus I'll have a Mountain Dew".
Fred looked toward the front. " It looks like we need to order from up front". After they ordered, they sat down with their soda drinks.
Fred raised his cup. " To success in the next thirty days".
" To success" Zeke replied as he raised his Mountain Dew.
A half hour later, their large half and half pizza arrived.
Fred took a slice of ham and pineapple pizza and took a bite. " So where are you staying?". He wiped off his mouth with a napkin.
" I'm staying at the Sweet By and By Inn".
His friend kept eating the pizza. " I've heard it's a nice place but strange".
" What do you mean?".
" The Inn is always full". He took a sip of Diet Coke. " But I've lived here all my life and have never actually met anyone who has actually stayed there".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: John
Meet the Apostles: John by ric Gustafson
John was part of Jesus's inner circle. Jesus called John the disciple whom I loved. John was a son of Zebedee and was a brother of James. John and his brother had the nicknames of the ' Sons of Thunder'. John was present during Jesus's transfiguration. John was loyal to Jesus and was close to him.
Jesus asked him to prepare the Passover feast that became the Last Supper. Jesus entrusted him to take care of his mother. After Jesus's ascension, John became one of the first century's church leaders. He performed miracles and spoke to crowds. He was a prolific writer and contributed three short letters and wrote a apocalyptic vision from God called the book of Revelation.
John was the only Apostle who did not die a martyr's death.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John was part of Jesus's inner circle. Jesus called John the disciple whom I loved. John was a son of Zebedee and was a brother of James. John and his brother had the nicknames of the ' Sons of Thunder'. John was present during Jesus's transfiguration. John was loyal to Jesus and was close to him.
Jesus asked him to prepare the Passover feast that became the Last Supper. Jesus entrusted him to take care of his mother. After Jesus's ascension, John became one of the first century's church leaders. He performed miracles and spoke to crowds. He was a prolific writer and contributed three short letters and wrote a apocalyptic vision from God called the book of Revelation.
John was the only Apostle who did not die a martyr's death.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Meet the Apostles: witnessing Jesus's power
Meet the Apostles: witnessing Jesus's power by ric Gustafson
According to Mark 4: 38, the disciples were transporting Jesus across the Sea of Galilee. All of a sudden, a squall arose so quickly they became afraid. Everyone was afraid except for Jesus. He was asleep in the back of the boat.
The disciples woke him up and shouted that they were going to drown in this storm. Jesus woke up, stood up and rebuked the wind. The wind stopped and the Sea was calm. He asked them why they were afraid?. He asked them if they still had no faith.
The disciples were terrified and asked each other who is this man?. Even the wind and waves obey him. The disciples knew that they were sitting in a boat with God himself.
Our faith will grow as we experience Jesus's power and miracles.
Then we will have peace in our lives.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to Mark 4: 38, the disciples were transporting Jesus across the Sea of Galilee. All of a sudden, a squall arose so quickly they became afraid. Everyone was afraid except for Jesus. He was asleep in the back of the boat.
The disciples woke him up and shouted that they were going to drown in this storm. Jesus woke up, stood up and rebuked the wind. The wind stopped and the Sea was calm. He asked them why they were afraid?. He asked them if they still had no faith.
The disciples were terrified and asked each other who is this man?. Even the wind and waves obey him. The disciples knew that they were sitting in a boat with God himself.
Our faith will grow as we experience Jesus's power and miracles.
Then we will have peace in our lives.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
the Sweet By and By Inn page 4
the Sweet By and By Inn page 4 by ric Gustafson
Zeke had both hands on two worn burgundy suitcases. Hardwood stairs creaked as he walked upstairs. He began looking for Room 8 which he was told was on the far right end of the hall. He came up to Room 7. The door opened and an elderly man, who was wearing a silver jogging outfit and a blue baseball cap, walked out.
" Hi, I'm Alan Busby". He happily shook Zeke's hand. " I'm going for a short jog along the river".
Zeke saw Room 8 and opened the door. He walked into a spacious room that had a queen size bed. He walked over to a window and looked out. He could see Crystal's vegetable garden. Along one wall was a small wooden dresser with a mirror above it. On one side of the bed was a small end table with a plain lamp on it. As he opened his suitcases, there was a knock on the door. He opened it to reveal Crystal holding a stack of fresh towels.
She walked over and put them into a closet in the bathroom. " I hope the room is satisfactory".
" The room is very nice". He took a small black bible out of his suitcase and put it on the table near the bed. " I like it, it feels homey".
" Good". She gave him a weary smile. " I'll see you at breakfast in the morning at 7".
" Good night Crystal".
The door closed.
Zeke changed and then left so he could join his co workers for dinner.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Zeke had both hands on two worn burgundy suitcases. Hardwood stairs creaked as he walked upstairs. He began looking for Room 8 which he was told was on the far right end of the hall. He came up to Room 7. The door opened and an elderly man, who was wearing a silver jogging outfit and a blue baseball cap, walked out.
" Hi, I'm Alan Busby". He happily shook Zeke's hand. " I'm going for a short jog along the river".
Zeke saw Room 8 and opened the door. He walked into a spacious room that had a queen size bed. He walked over to a window and looked out. He could see Crystal's vegetable garden. Along one wall was a small wooden dresser with a mirror above it. On one side of the bed was a small end table with a plain lamp on it. As he opened his suitcases, there was a knock on the door. He opened it to reveal Crystal holding a stack of fresh towels.
She walked over and put them into a closet in the bathroom. " I hope the room is satisfactory".
" The room is very nice". He took a small black bible out of his suitcase and put it on the table near the bed. " I like it, it feels homey".
" Good". She gave him a weary smile. " I'll see you at breakfast in the morning at 7".
" Good night Crystal".
The door closed.
Zeke changed and then left so he could join his co workers for dinner.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Sweet By and By Inn page 3
the Sweet By and By Inn page 3 by ric Gustafson
" What brings you to these parts?".
They walked through the front door into a large dining room. The room contained a spacious wooden table that could seat ten people.
" Our company is doing a lot of business in Riverton".
They walked up to an antique desk where she kept the guest register.
" Please sign here".
Zeke signed the register. Just then, he heard six bongs of an antique clock that sat on a cherry hutch.
Crystal looked at the register. " Williams, interesting last name". She put it in a drawer.
He walked to a nearby window and looked out. Fog kept him from looking across. " The river is calm and quiet this evening".
She began to put place settings around the table. " It's always that way". She grinned. " That's why I built this bed and breakfast here".
Zeke noticed that the foot bridge stopped at the edge of the fog.
" I forgot to tell you" she exclaimed as she finished putting ten fancy plates around the table. " I don't provide dinner".
" Oh!".
" I will serve a huge breakfast in the morning at 7 sharp".
Zeke smiled. " I'll probably go into town and get some dinner".
" I'll see you at breakfast Mr Williams".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" What brings you to these parts?".
They walked through the front door into a large dining room. The room contained a spacious wooden table that could seat ten people.
" Our company is doing a lot of business in Riverton".
They walked up to an antique desk where she kept the guest register.
" Please sign here".
Zeke signed the register. Just then, he heard six bongs of an antique clock that sat on a cherry hutch.
Crystal looked at the register. " Williams, interesting last name". She put it in a drawer.
He walked to a nearby window and looked out. Fog kept him from looking across. " The river is calm and quiet this evening".
She began to put place settings around the table. " It's always that way". She grinned. " That's why I built this bed and breakfast here".
Zeke noticed that the foot bridge stopped at the edge of the fog.
" I forgot to tell you" she exclaimed as she finished putting ten fancy plates around the table. " I don't provide dinner".
" Oh!".
" I will serve a huge breakfast in the morning at 7 sharp".
Zeke smiled. " I'll probably go into town and get some dinner".
" I'll see you at breakfast Mr Williams".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: witnessing Jesus's compassion
Meet the Apostles: witnessing Jesus's compassion by ric Gustafson
According to John 9: 1-2, Jesus and his disciples were walking when they observed a man who had been blind since birth. They asked him why was this man was born blind?. They asked if it was because of his own sins or his parents sin. Jesus healed the man while he answered their question. He recognized the need and addressed it.
According to Acts 3: 1-11, Peter and John encountered a man who had been lame since birth. The man asked for money. They gave him something better. He told the man in the name of Jesus to get up and walk. He did so and walked, leaped and praised God.
We need to be like Jesus and care for all people in need.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to John 9: 1-2, Jesus and his disciples were walking when they observed a man who had been blind since birth. They asked him why was this man was born blind?. They asked if it was because of his own sins or his parents sin. Jesus healed the man while he answered their question. He recognized the need and addressed it.
According to Acts 3: 1-11, Peter and John encountered a man who had been lame since birth. The man asked for money. They gave him something better. He told the man in the name of Jesus to get up and walk. He did so and walked, leaped and praised God.
We need to be like Jesus and care for all people in need.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
the Sweet By and By Inn page 2
the Sweet By and By Inn page 2 by ric Gustafson
The green Aura slowed as Zeke saw the sign. It read ' Riverton 1 mile". Just then, he noticed a second sign that read ' Sweet By and By Inn 1 mile". It pointed toward a gravel road. He eased the speed and noticed how beautiful the colors of the trees were. He drove on the gravel road until it stopped. He had to turn left or right. He turned right and ended up at a river's edge. The water looked peaceful and calm. Up ahead, he noticed a full length wooden footbridge that stretched all the way across to the other side.
He drove until he noticed a small wooden sign that said ' the Sweet By and By Inn'. He turned into a small circuliar driveway. An elderly woman , wearing a straw hat and white shorts, was pulling some weeds out of what looked like a vegetable garden.
He got out of the car and walked down a cobblestoned path toward her. " Excuse me". He looked at her. " Is this the Sweet By and By Inn?".
" It sure is" Crystal Manning replied with a grin as she put down her dirt digging tool. " How can I help you?".
" I am working nearby on business". His voice hesitated. " I was wondering if you had a room I could rent while I am here?".
" You are in luck". She took off her straw hat and wiped sweat from her brow. " I have one room left that is not occupied".
Zeke smiled. " I'll take it".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The green Aura slowed as Zeke saw the sign. It read ' Riverton 1 mile". Just then, he noticed a second sign that read ' Sweet By and By Inn 1 mile". It pointed toward a gravel road. He eased the speed and noticed how beautiful the colors of the trees were. He drove on the gravel road until it stopped. He had to turn left or right. He turned right and ended up at a river's edge. The water looked peaceful and calm. Up ahead, he noticed a full length wooden footbridge that stretched all the way across to the other side.
He drove until he noticed a small wooden sign that said ' the Sweet By and By Inn'. He turned into a small circuliar driveway. An elderly woman , wearing a straw hat and white shorts, was pulling some weeds out of what looked like a vegetable garden.
He got out of the car and walked down a cobblestoned path toward her. " Excuse me". He looked at her. " Is this the Sweet By and By Inn?".
" It sure is" Crystal Manning replied with a grin as she put down her dirt digging tool. " How can I help you?".
" I am working nearby on business". His voice hesitated. " I was wondering if you had a room I could rent while I am here?".
" You are in luck". She took off her straw hat and wiped sweat from her brow. " I have one room left that is not occupied".
Zeke smiled. " I'll take it".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: loving your neighbors and enemies
Meet the Apostles: loving your neighbors and enemies by ric Gustafson
Luke 10:27 says love your neighbor as yourself. The question we ask next is who is my neighbor?. Jesus was asked that very question. He answered that question with a parable. It was about a Jewish man who was attacked on a road and left for dead. Two people walked, saw him and went their way. A third a Samaritan stopped, saw him and tended to his wounds. Jesus next asked his own question. He asked which of the three who saw the injured man was a neighbor. Someone replied the one who showed him mercy. Jesus said yes now go and do likewise.
As followers of Jesus, we are to love and accept others regardless of differences. Jesus loves and accepts all people. As followers of Jesus, we are to do the same.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Luke 10:27 says love your neighbor as yourself. The question we ask next is who is my neighbor?. Jesus was asked that very question. He answered that question with a parable. It was about a Jewish man who was attacked on a road and left for dead. Two people walked, saw him and went their way. A third a Samaritan stopped, saw him and tended to his wounds. Jesus next asked his own question. He asked which of the three who saw the injured man was a neighbor. Someone replied the one who showed him mercy. Jesus said yes now go and do likewise.
As followers of Jesus, we are to love and accept others regardless of differences. Jesus loves and accepts all people. As followers of Jesus, we are to do the same.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 16, 2015
the Twelve: Joel
the Twelve: Joel by ric Gustafson
Joel preached repentance and the repenting of sin. Joel 2:1 says for the day of the Lord is coming. The prophet predicted that something worse than swarms of locusts were coming. Joel 2:11 says that the day of the Lord is an awesome terrible thing. The prophet was talking about the Day of Judgment.
Yet God gives the people a chance to repent. Joel 2:12-13 says turn to me while there is still time.
Joel 2: 32 says that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. God forgives sin. The Day of the Lord will be glorious when Jesus comes to bring peace. Joel 2:26 says repent and praise the name of the Lord your God.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Joel preached repentance and the repenting of sin. Joel 2:1 says for the day of the Lord is coming. The prophet predicted that something worse than swarms of locusts were coming. Joel 2:11 says that the day of the Lord is an awesome terrible thing. The prophet was talking about the Day of Judgment.
Yet God gives the people a chance to repent. Joel 2:12-13 says turn to me while there is still time.
Joel 2: 32 says that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. God forgives sin. The Day of the Lord will be glorious when Jesus comes to bring peace. Joel 2:26 says repent and praise the name of the Lord your God.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: following the radical teachings of Jesus
Meet the Apostles: following the radical teachings of Jesus by ric Gustafson
The Apostles like most people had lived by certain principles. They knew nothing different until they met Jesus. Jesus urged his followers to think outside the box. Jesus urged them to embrace a more radical approach to the world.
Jesus taught things that would set his followers apart from others. Jesus taught by love and service. Jesus taught that no one earns their way into God's favor. Salvation is not determined by net worth or good deeds.
Jesus challenges his followers to show love and sacrifice beyond their comfort zone. Such thinking does not come easy.
Jesus calls us to rethink our ideas and to follow his radical thinking.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Apostles like most people had lived by certain principles. They knew nothing different until they met Jesus. Jesus urged his followers to think outside the box. Jesus urged them to embrace a more radical approach to the world.
Jesus taught things that would set his followers apart from others. Jesus taught by love and service. Jesus taught that no one earns their way into God's favor. Salvation is not determined by net worth or good deeds.
Jesus challenges his followers to show love and sacrifice beyond their comfort zone. Such thinking does not come easy.
Jesus calls us to rethink our ideas and to follow his radical thinking.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 15, 2015
the Twelve: Hosea
the Twelve: Hosea by ric Gustafson
The Book of Hosea talks about the consequences of sin. Israel was immersed in idolatry. Israel loved other gods. It loved shame more than honor. Hosea 11:7 says that my people are bent on backsliding from me. Some people claim to know Jesus but don't commit to him. Some are lured by temptation into sin. This causes unbelievers to mock the Gospel. The greatest evil is unbelief in Jesus. In Hosea 9:10, God tells the people that they had become as vile as the gods they worshiped.
In Hosea 14: 1-4, God invites them to return to the Lord your God. Then God says that he will heal them of their faithfulness.
Praise God that he will do the same for us when we stray away from him.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Book of Hosea talks about the consequences of sin. Israel was immersed in idolatry. Israel loved other gods. It loved shame more than honor. Hosea 11:7 says that my people are bent on backsliding from me. Some people claim to know Jesus but don't commit to him. Some are lured by temptation into sin. This causes unbelievers to mock the Gospel. The greatest evil is unbelief in Jesus. In Hosea 9:10, God tells the people that they had become as vile as the gods they worshiped.
In Hosea 14: 1-4, God invites them to return to the Lord your God. Then God says that he will heal them of their faithfulness.
Praise God that he will do the same for us when we stray away from him.
research help: ' Where I Am' by Billy Graham
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: those who chose not to follow
Meet the Apostles: those who chose not to follow by ric Gustafson
Most Pharisees, Sadducees and teachers of the law rejected following Jesus. Jesus did not comply with their man made rules. People in Samaria rejected Jesus because he was Jewish. This made him a natural enemy of the Samaritans. In villages that knew Jesus, some rejected him because they knew him. When Jesus was rejected, the Apostles were rejected too. People had seen him grow up the son of a carpenter. People could not accept him as a great spiritual leader or Messiah. According to Luke 4: 16-20, people were so upset with Jesus, they tried to throw him off a cliff.
When the world knows that we are a follower of Jesus, the world will take notice.
research help: ' The Twelve Disciples' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Most Pharisees, Sadducees and teachers of the law rejected following Jesus. Jesus did not comply with their man made rules. People in Samaria rejected Jesus because he was Jewish. This made him a natural enemy of the Samaritans. In villages that knew Jesus, some rejected him because they knew him. When Jesus was rejected, the Apostles were rejected too. People had seen him grow up the son of a carpenter. People could not accept him as a great spiritual leader or Messiah. According to Luke 4: 16-20, people were so upset with Jesus, they tried to throw him off a cliff.
When the world knows that we are a follower of Jesus, the world will take notice.
research help: ' The Twelve Disciples' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 14, 2015
July 2 1881 page 3
July 2 1881 page 3 by ric Gustafson
One day, Charles Guiteau surprised Illinois Senator John Logan at 8:00 am and began to talk to him. Logan did not know him but talked to him out of courtesy. Guiteau handed him the speech he had given to President Garfield. Logan noticed Guiteau's rumpled clothing and wore no coat. He told Logan that he came from Chicago and lived on State Street. He pleaded with the Senator for a recommendation. The next day, he came back and pleaded with the Senator again. He told Guiteau that he would talk to the Secretary of State. That satisfied Guiteau.
One Saturday, The Garfield's held their first open public reception in the White House. Lucretia Garfield shook hands of guest after guest. At one point, she turned to see a small man with dark hair standing next to her. It was Charles Guiteau. She shook his hand as he greeted her. For this White House reception, he had sneaked past the ushers who knew him. He had patiently waited in line to meet Mrs Garfield. He told her that he was from Chicago and was active in New York politics.
Guiteau waited until March of 1881 to visit the State Department about his application for the Paris consulship with Secretary of State James Blaine.
research help: ' Dark Horse' by Kenneth Ackerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
One day, Charles Guiteau surprised Illinois Senator John Logan at 8:00 am and began to talk to him. Logan did not know him but talked to him out of courtesy. Guiteau handed him the speech he had given to President Garfield. Logan noticed Guiteau's rumpled clothing and wore no coat. He told Logan that he came from Chicago and lived on State Street. He pleaded with the Senator for a recommendation. The next day, he came back and pleaded with the Senator again. He told Guiteau that he would talk to the Secretary of State. That satisfied Guiteau.
One Saturday, The Garfield's held their first open public reception in the White House. Lucretia Garfield shook hands of guest after guest. At one point, she turned to see a small man with dark hair standing next to her. It was Charles Guiteau. She shook his hand as he greeted her. For this White House reception, he had sneaked past the ushers who knew him. He had patiently waited in line to meet Mrs Garfield. He told her that he was from Chicago and was active in New York politics.
Guiteau waited until March of 1881 to visit the State Department about his application for the Paris consulship with Secretary of State James Blaine.
research help: ' Dark Horse' by Kenneth Ackerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: loving and serving Jesus
Meet the Apostles: loving and serving Jesus by ric Gustafson
The Apostles helped Jesus in many ways. They helped prepare meals and make housing arrangements. As more and more people came to hear Jesus, the Apostles helped with crowd control and attending to the masses.
Jesus sent Peter and John to find a place where they could share a final meal. He sent two of them to procure transportation into Jerusalem. Jesus included the Apostles in his miracles. They helped with the feeding of the five thousand. Most of the time they served Jesus with their companionship.
Today we can serve Jesus by loving others and helping people in need. We can spend time with Jesus and spend time with other believers.
Our spiritual journey includes doing for Jesus and being with Jesus.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Apostles helped Jesus in many ways. They helped prepare meals and make housing arrangements. As more and more people came to hear Jesus, the Apostles helped with crowd control and attending to the masses.
Jesus sent Peter and John to find a place where they could share a final meal. He sent two of them to procure transportation into Jerusalem. Jesus included the Apostles in his miracles. They helped with the feeding of the five thousand. Most of the time they served Jesus with their companionship.
Today we can serve Jesus by loving others and helping people in need. We can spend time with Jesus and spend time with other believers.
Our spiritual journey includes doing for Jesus and being with Jesus.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 13, 2015
Meet the Apostles: James
Meet the Apostles: James by ric Gustafson
James had a prosperous fishing business with his father Zebedee and his brother John. One day, Jesus came and said ' follow me'. James left everything to follow Jesus. Jesus nicknamed James and his brother John ' the Sons of Thunder'.
James became one of Jesus's inner circle along with his brother John and Simon Peter. The three accompanied Jesus at many critical moments in his ministry. When Jairus's daughter was healed, when Jesus unveiled his divine glory, when he withdrew to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray before he was arrested.
The book of Acts reveals that James was active in establishing the church. James became a martyr at the hands of Herod Agrippa.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
James had a prosperous fishing business with his father Zebedee and his brother John. One day, Jesus came and said ' follow me'. James left everything to follow Jesus. Jesus nicknamed James and his brother John ' the Sons of Thunder'.
James became one of Jesus's inner circle along with his brother John and Simon Peter. The three accompanied Jesus at many critical moments in his ministry. When Jairus's daughter was healed, when Jesus unveiled his divine glory, when he withdrew to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray before he was arrested.
The book of Acts reveals that James was active in establishing the church. James became a martyr at the hands of Herod Agrippa.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 12, 2015
July 2 1881 page 2
July 2 1881 page 2 by ric Gustafson
On March 8 1881, Guiteau joined more than one hundred people as they waited to visit the new President. He waited for hours to no avail and then left. He walked to the Riggs House on Fifteenth Street to receive his mail. He sat at a desk and wrote President Garfield a letter saying that he had come to see him.
A few days later, he again waited to see the President and this time had better luck. Joe Stanley Brown, President Garfield's private secretary led him into the President's room. Entering the private office, Guiteau encountered a large, husky full bearded man. Garfield was speaking to Levi Morton and General Tyner. He handed the President a speech that he had written. He also told the President that he was a candidate for the Paris consulship post. President Garfield promised to send his application through the appropriate channels.
Satisfied, Guiteau left.
research help: ' Dark Horse' by Kenneth Ackerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
On March 8 1881, Guiteau joined more than one hundred people as they waited to visit the new President. He waited for hours to no avail and then left. He walked to the Riggs House on Fifteenth Street to receive his mail. He sat at a desk and wrote President Garfield a letter saying that he had come to see him.
A few days later, he again waited to see the President and this time had better luck. Joe Stanley Brown, President Garfield's private secretary led him into the President's room. Entering the private office, Guiteau encountered a large, husky full bearded man. Garfield was speaking to Levi Morton and General Tyner. He handed the President a speech that he had written. He also told the President that he was a candidate for the Paris consulship post. President Garfield promised to send his application through the appropriate channels.
Satisfied, Guiteau left.
research help: ' Dark Horse' by Kenneth Ackerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: Andrew
Meet the Apostles: Andrew by ric Gustafson
Andrew was a quiet man who has a major distinction. He was the first disciple called by Jesus. He introduced his brother Simon Peter to Jesus.
Andrew was a follower of John the Baptist. According to John 1:29, one day John pointed at Jesus and declared " look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world". That same day, Andrew became a follower of Jesus.
Andrew became a buffer between Jesus and crowds. He told Jesus about the meager provisions that they had to feed a hungry crowd of over five thousand. It was Andrew and Philip who approached Jesus about a delegation of Greek visitors according to John 12: 20-26
Many scholars believe that Andrew and Peter paired together for ministry excursions.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles ' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Andrew was a quiet man who has a major distinction. He was the first disciple called by Jesus. He introduced his brother Simon Peter to Jesus.
Andrew was a follower of John the Baptist. According to John 1:29, one day John pointed at Jesus and declared " look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world". That same day, Andrew became a follower of Jesus.
Andrew became a buffer between Jesus and crowds. He told Jesus about the meager provisions that they had to feed a hungry crowd of over five thousand. It was Andrew and Philip who approached Jesus about a delegation of Greek visitors according to John 12: 20-26
Many scholars believe that Andrew and Peter paired together for ministry excursions.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles ' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
July 2 1881 page 1
July 2 1881 page 1 by ric Gustafson
Charles Guiteau boarded a train on March 5 1881. It left New York City and traveled south to Washington D.C. Guiteau was short, dark haired had a black beard and wore rumpled clothes. He told people that he worked beside Chester Arthur, Roscoe Conkling and other New York stalwarts. He was hoping to get a major diplomatic post.
When he reached Pennsylvania Avenue, he headed downtown. With a carpetbag in hand and no winter coat, he found lodging at a boarding house just six blocks from the White House. With no money, he was banking on getting a political appointment in the new administration. Guiteau waited patiently for Tuesday March 8 when he would personally meet the new President of the United States James Garfield.
research help: ' Dark Horse' by Kenneth Ackerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Charles Guiteau boarded a train on March 5 1881. It left New York City and traveled south to Washington D.C. Guiteau was short, dark haired had a black beard and wore rumpled clothes. He told people that he worked beside Chester Arthur, Roscoe Conkling and other New York stalwarts. He was hoping to get a major diplomatic post.
When he reached Pennsylvania Avenue, he headed downtown. With a carpetbag in hand and no winter coat, he found lodging at a boarding house just six blocks from the White House. With no money, he was banking on getting a political appointment in the new administration. Guiteau waited patiently for Tuesday March 8 when he would personally meet the new President of the United States James Garfield.
research help: ' Dark Horse' by Kenneth Ackerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Meet the Apostles: counting the cost
Meet the Apostles: counting the cost by ric Gustafson
When we look at the Apostles, we need to think about what it cost them to all of a sudden leave everything and follow him. They had to make some difficult sacrifices.
First, they had to sacrifice time with their families. Some completely left their families. Their is a hint in the bible that Peter's wife may have traveled with them. It is possible that some of the others may have had family members with them as well. The Apostle's time with Jesus curtailed time and involvement with their families.
Second, they sacrificed their careers. Andrew, Peter, James and John were fishermen. Matthew was a tax collector. We do not know much about the others as far as occupations. They all gave up their jobs to follow Jesus. Thirdly, they sacrificed their former lives. Because of what they heard, saw and witnessed with Jesus, their lives were transformed forever.
When we encounter Jesus, our lives are transformed. Our attitudes, priorities and actions change.
Let us remember that with great sacrifice comes greater reward.
Read Matthew 19:27.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When we look at the Apostles, we need to think about what it cost them to all of a sudden leave everything and follow him. They had to make some difficult sacrifices.
First, they had to sacrifice time with their families. Some completely left their families. Their is a hint in the bible that Peter's wife may have traveled with them. It is possible that some of the others may have had family members with them as well. The Apostle's time with Jesus curtailed time and involvement with their families.
Second, they sacrificed their careers. Andrew, Peter, James and John were fishermen. Matthew was a tax collector. We do not know much about the others as far as occupations. They all gave up their jobs to follow Jesus. Thirdly, they sacrificed their former lives. Because of what they heard, saw and witnessed with Jesus, their lives were transformed forever.
When we encounter Jesus, our lives are transformed. Our attitudes, priorities and actions change.
Let us remember that with great sacrifice comes greater reward.
Read Matthew 19:27.
research help: ' The Twelve Apostles' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 4
our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 4 by ric Gustafson
Fran stood behind a tree and watched as customers walked out of Wilma's store. She noticed that people were coming out with smiles on their faces but with hardly any bread in their hands. She thought that was odd.
She stopped a customer as they walked out. " If this is a bread store, why is it that you are not carrying out a lot of bread?".
" You should go in and find out for yourself".
She quietly walked in and was amazed at what she saw. Hardly anything inside looked like an actual bread store. She noticed only a couple racks of wheat bread in one corner.
Wilma walked out of a backroom holding a bible in one hand.
Fran had a surprised stare on her face. " Wilma, why is there hardly any bread being sold in this bread store?".
Wilma smiled and opened the bible to a specific page. " Give us this day our daily bread".
Fran stomped a foot. " What are you talking about?".
" Daily bread involves more than just daily physical bread".
She scratched her head in confusion. " It does".
" Our daily bread includes our physical, spiritual and our general well being".
Fran looked at the bread racks. " What about our hunger?".
" Our daily bread provides what we need from day to day". She walked over and picked up a loaf of wheat bread. She put the bread and the bible into a sack. " I'm giving you my bible so you can read about our daily bread for yourself".
Fran smiled as she left with the sack.
A customer walked in. Jesus smiled. " Welcome to our Daily Bread Store".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Fran stood behind a tree and watched as customers walked out of Wilma's store. She noticed that people were coming out with smiles on their faces but with hardly any bread in their hands. She thought that was odd.
She stopped a customer as they walked out. " If this is a bread store, why is it that you are not carrying out a lot of bread?".
" You should go in and find out for yourself".
She quietly walked in and was amazed at what she saw. Hardly anything inside looked like an actual bread store. She noticed only a couple racks of wheat bread in one corner.
Wilma walked out of a backroom holding a bible in one hand.
Fran had a surprised stare on her face. " Wilma, why is there hardly any bread being sold in this bread store?".
Wilma smiled and opened the bible to a specific page. " Give us this day our daily bread".
Fran stomped a foot. " What are you talking about?".
" Daily bread involves more than just daily physical bread".
She scratched her head in confusion. " It does".
" Our daily bread includes our physical, spiritual and our general well being".
Fran looked at the bread racks. " What about our hunger?".
" Our daily bread provides what we need from day to day". She walked over and picked up a loaf of wheat bread. She put the bread and the bible into a sack. " I'm giving you my bible so you can read about our daily bread for yourself".
Fran smiled as she left with the sack.
A customer walked in. Jesus smiled. " Welcome to our Daily Bread Store".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 9, 2015
Meet the Apostles: the calling
Meet the Apostles: the calling by ric Gustafson
What would compel ordinary men to drop everything and follow a man they had just met. They recognized something in this man that demanded their immediate attention and action.
What did Jesus recognize in these ordinary men?. Jesus was able to see past their outside selves and see something no one else could. He knew what these simple men would become.
These men could see something in Jesus that others could not see. Jesus just said two words ' follow me'.
We have the opportunity to do the same as these simple men and respond to Jesus when he asks those two simple words ' follow me'. Read John 15:16.
Our spiritual journey starts when we accept God's invitation and Jesus's two words ' follow me'.
research help: ' The Twelve Disciples' by Time Inc Books
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 3
our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 3 by ric Gustafson
Fran sipped some coffee as she noticed how beautiful the day was. As she stood just outside the front door of her business, she stared across Highway 86. She could not believe Wilma Anderson could open a rival bread store and call it ' our Daily Bread Store'. What made her more mad was that some of her regular customers were now going across the Highway to Wilma's store.
She smiled as two of her regulars were walking out. " Good morning Walt".
" Good morning Fran" the elderly man said as he held open the door for his wife. " It's a beautiful morning today".
" That it is". She smiled at her long time customers. " Thanks for coming in this morning".
Doris held up their sack. " We love your homemade white bread".
" I'm glad to hear that".
" To be honest Fran" he said as he helped his wife get into their car. " Earlier, we had to go over and get some of Wilma's special holiday bread ".
" Special holiday bread".
The elderly couple waved as they drove off.
Anger came over Fran's face. She stared across Highway 86.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Fran sipped some coffee as she noticed how beautiful the day was. As she stood just outside the front door of her business, she stared across Highway 86. She could not believe Wilma Anderson could open a rival bread store and call it ' our Daily Bread Store'. What made her more mad was that some of her regular customers were now going across the Highway to Wilma's store.
She smiled as two of her regulars were walking out. " Good morning Walt".
" Good morning Fran" the elderly man said as he held open the door for his wife. " It's a beautiful morning today".
" That it is". She smiled at her long time customers. " Thanks for coming in this morning".
Doris held up their sack. " We love your homemade white bread".
" I'm glad to hear that".
" To be honest Fran" he said as he helped his wife get into their car. " Earlier, we had to go over and get some of Wilma's special holiday bread ".
" Special holiday bread".
The elderly couple waved as they drove off.
Anger came over Fran's face. She stared across Highway 86.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 8, 2015
where in the world is Lucas the turkey? page 1
where in the world is Lucas the turkey? page 1 by ric Gustafson
" So did you go back to see the witch?" Todd Reed asked with a yawn. He was looking over the hill for the city bus.
" No". Martin Gardner replied. He sat down on the worn wooden bus bench. " I spent an hour walking up and down Main Street looking for a turkey somebody thought they saw".
" I'm going to walk down the sidewalk and wait for the bus".
Gobble Gobble
Martin heard the noise and turned around. " What was that?". He turned around when he saw nothing.
Gobble Gobble
He turned again to see a large bush behind the bus bench. " Did you hear that noise Todd?".
" What noise?".
He shook his head and turned around again.
Gobble Gobble Hey you
Martin turned to see a pair of scared eyes peeking through the bush.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" So did you go back to see the witch?" Todd Reed asked with a yawn. He was looking over the hill for the city bus.
" No". Martin Gardner replied. He sat down on the worn wooden bus bench. " I spent an hour walking up and down Main Street looking for a turkey somebody thought they saw".
" I'm going to walk down the sidewalk and wait for the bus".
Gobble Gobble
Martin heard the noise and turned around. " What was that?". He turned around when he saw nothing.
Gobble Gobble
He turned again to see a large bush behind the bus bench. " Did you hear that noise Todd?".
" What noise?".
He shook his head and turned around again.
Gobble Gobble Hey you
Martin turned to see a pair of scared eyes peeking through the bush.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 2
our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 2
With anger in her eyes, Fran stared across Highway 86. " What nerve of that woman"." I thought you told me she used to be your best friend" her grandson George replied as he buttered a slice of fresh baked white bread.
" When we were kids" she replied in a sarcastic tone of voice. " We stopped being friends when she and her family became Christians".
" Why are you so angry?".
" The nerve of that woman for opening a bread store across the street from my dream business".
" I wouldn't worry about her".
" And why not". She gave him an angry stare. " She even has the nerve to offer a holiday special".
" Your store is established" he replied with a grin. " Your sales are better than we expected".
She stared across the highway. " The nerve of that Wilma Anderson".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
With anger in her eyes, Fran stared across Highway 86. " What nerve of that woman"." I thought you told me she used to be your best friend" her grandson George replied as he buttered a slice of fresh baked white bread.
" When we were kids" she replied in a sarcastic tone of voice. " We stopped being friends when she and her family became Christians".
" Why are you so angry?".
" The nerve of that woman for opening a bread store across the street from my dream business".
" I wouldn't worry about her".
" And why not". She gave him an angry stare. " She even has the nerve to offer a holiday special".
" Your store is established" he replied with a grin. " Your sales are better than we expected".
She stared across the highway. " The nerve of that Wilma Anderson".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 1
Our Daily Bread Store holiday special page 1 by ric Gustafson
Fran took a sip of her coffee and stared across Highway 86. " What do you think George?".
" Well, as your grandson and your accountant" the young man said as the sun beat down on him. " It's possible".
" Great". She smiled at her grandson. " I've wanted to own my own bread store since I was a little girl".
He wiped his brow. " Did your mother enjoy baking bread?".
" Oh yes". She adjusted her red hat and stared across the busy highway. " Every day I would come home from school, I would smell fresh bread".
" And that has always been your dream?".
" Yes". She kissed her grandson on the cheek. " Thank you for helping me fulfill my dream".
" You're welcome Grandma".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Fran took a sip of her coffee and stared across Highway 86. " What do you think George?".
" Well, as your grandson and your accountant" the young man said as the sun beat down on him. " It's possible".
" Great". She smiled at her grandson. " I've wanted to own my own bread store since I was a little girl".
He wiped his brow. " Did your mother enjoy baking bread?".
" Oh yes". She adjusted her red hat and stared across the busy highway. " Every day I would come home from school, I would smell fresh bread".
" And that has always been your dream?".
" Yes". She kissed her grandson on the cheek. " Thank you for helping me fulfill my dream".
" You're welcome Grandma".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 6, 2015
The Bread of Life: free bread at Ragu's
The Bread of Life: free bread at Ragu's by ric Gustafson
The young waiter, wearing a dark beard and a pure white apron, walked up to the middle aged couple. " Good evening, welcome to Ragu's". He smiled. " Here are some menu's".
" Thank you" replied Henry Carlson. He opened the menu. " We heard that your Italian cuisine and your bread are world famous".
" Thank you I will tell the chef that". He poured water into their goblets. " Actually the bread comes from a store just down the highway from here".
Agnes Carlson smiled. " What store is that?".
The waiter grinned. " It's called Our Daily Bread Store and it's owned by a good friend of mine".
" We heard that Wednesday is free bread night here".
" It sure is". He grinned. " That's why it is packed here tonight". He looked at the couple. " Did you need more time deciding what you want?".
" No, I will have spaghetti and meatballs". He looked at his wife. " And my wife will have the ravioli". He hesitated. " And of course plenty of bread".
Halfway through their meal.
Agnes smiled. " Oh young man, can we have some more of that fabulous bread?".
The waiter smiled. " Of course, I am the Bread of Life".
Later, the waiter brought their bill. " Is there anything else I can get you?".
Henry handed him a credit card. " Yes, can we get a large order of that bread to go?".
" Sure, he who comes to me will never go hungry". He brought back their credit card and a box with their bread in it. " Thank you for coming to Ragu's".
" Thank you" Agnes replied as they stood up to leave.
" Thank you young man" Henry said as he shook the young waiter's hand. " Your free bread was worth the trip here".
" Thank you and don't forget to visit my friend's bread store".
The couple left.
Jesus picked up some menus as another party walked in. " Welcome to Ragu's".
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The young waiter, wearing a dark beard and a pure white apron, walked up to the middle aged couple. " Good evening, welcome to Ragu's". He smiled. " Here are some menu's".
" Thank you" replied Henry Carlson. He opened the menu. " We heard that your Italian cuisine and your bread are world famous".
" Thank you I will tell the chef that". He poured water into their goblets. " Actually the bread comes from a store just down the highway from here".
Agnes Carlson smiled. " What store is that?".
The waiter grinned. " It's called Our Daily Bread Store and it's owned by a good friend of mine".
" We heard that Wednesday is free bread night here".
" It sure is". He grinned. " That's why it is packed here tonight". He looked at the couple. " Did you need more time deciding what you want?".
" No, I will have spaghetti and meatballs". He looked at his wife. " And my wife will have the ravioli". He hesitated. " And of course plenty of bread".
Halfway through their meal.
Agnes smiled. " Oh young man, can we have some more of that fabulous bread?".
The waiter smiled. " Of course, I am the Bread of Life".
Later, the waiter brought their bill. " Is there anything else I can get you?".
Henry handed him a credit card. " Yes, can we get a large order of that bread to go?".
" Sure, he who comes to me will never go hungry". He brought back their credit card and a box with their bread in it. " Thank you for coming to Ragu's".
" Thank you" Agnes replied as they stood up to leave.
" Thank you young man" Henry said as he shook the young waiter's hand. " Your free bread was worth the trip here".
" Thank you and don't forget to visit my friend's bread store".
The couple left.
Jesus picked up some menus as another party walked in. " Welcome to Ragu's".
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 5, 2015
The Bread of Life: Capernaum b
The Bread of Life: Capernaum b by ric Gustafson
Someone yelled at the Rabbi. " Please Sir, give us this bread".
Jesus grinned. " I am the Bread of Life, he who comes to me will never go hungry". Jesus looked at the crowd with love in his eyes. " I have come down from heaven not to do my will but the will of him who sent me".
Some of the people in the crowd began to grumble.
Someone yelled. " Is this not the son of Joseph of Nazareth". " How can he say that he came down from heaven?".
Jesus smiled again. " I am the Bread of Life, your forefathers ate the manna but died".
More people began to grumble.
" The bread I give is from heaven". Jesus hesitated. " Whoever eats this bread will not die".
Someone yelled. " How can this be?".
" I am the living bread that came down from heaven". He grinned. " This bread is my flesh which I gave for the life of the world".
Someone yelled. " How can you give us your flesh to eat?".
Jesus sighed. " Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life and will be with me forever".
The crowd dispersed.
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Someone yelled at the Rabbi. " Please Sir, give us this bread".
Jesus grinned. " I am the Bread of Life, he who comes to me will never go hungry". Jesus looked at the crowd with love in his eyes. " I have come down from heaven not to do my will but the will of him who sent me".
Some of the people in the crowd began to grumble.
Someone yelled. " Is this not the son of Joseph of Nazareth". " How can he say that he came down from heaven?".
Jesus smiled again. " I am the Bread of Life, your forefathers ate the manna but died".
More people began to grumble.
" The bread I give is from heaven". Jesus hesitated. " Whoever eats this bread will not die".
Someone yelled. " How can this be?".
" I am the living bread that came down from heaven". He grinned. " This bread is my flesh which I gave for the life of the world".
Someone yelled. " How can you give us your flesh to eat?".
Jesus sighed. " Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life and will be with me forever".
The crowd dispersed.
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Bread of Life: Capernaum a
The Bread of Life: Capernaum a by ric Gustafson
I got off the boat along with a crowd of people. They were running toward Capernaum in search of the Rabbi. The day before, we had witnessed where probably five thousand people were in one place and very hungry. The Rabbi had us sit down then he held up a knapsack and blessed it. Out of this knapsack, the Rabbi's followers pulled out loaf after loaf of bread and passed it around. We ate this bread and some fish until we were satisfied. Then the Rabbi's followers collected twelve baskets of pieces that were left over.
After witnessing this miracle, we wanted to make him our king. We tried to find him but he disappeared. We found out that he had taken a boat across the lake to Capernaum. The next day, we got on a boat and went looking for him. Finally, we found him in a synagogue. We asked him when he had gotten there.
Jesus looked at them. " You are looking for me not because of a miraculous sign but because of the bread that had just filled you".
Someone yelled. " What sign are you going to do for us?".
Jesus stared at the crowd.
" Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert".
" It was not Moses who gave you the bread but my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I got off the boat along with a crowd of people. They were running toward Capernaum in search of the Rabbi. The day before, we had witnessed where probably five thousand people were in one place and very hungry. The Rabbi had us sit down then he held up a knapsack and blessed it. Out of this knapsack, the Rabbi's followers pulled out loaf after loaf of bread and passed it around. We ate this bread and some fish until we were satisfied. Then the Rabbi's followers collected twelve baskets of pieces that were left over.
After witnessing this miracle, we wanted to make him our king. We tried to find him but he disappeared. We found out that he had taken a boat across the lake to Capernaum. The next day, we got on a boat and went looking for him. Finally, we found him in a synagogue. We asked him when he had gotten there.
Jesus looked at them. " You are looking for me not because of a miraculous sign but because of the bread that had just filled you".
Someone yelled. " What sign are you going to do for us?".
Jesus stared at the crowd.
" Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert".
" It was not Moses who gave you the bread but my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
The Bread of Life: the five thousand b
The Bread of Life: the five thousand b by ric Gustafson
Aron saw a young tall black bearded man pointing at the huge crowd. He saw other men throwing up their hands in desperation.
Jesus looked at Philip. " Where shall we buy bread for all these people to eat?".
He stared at Jesus with a look of frustration. " Wages earned for eight months would not be enough to buy enough bread for everyone to have one bite".
Andrew noticed Aron and walked toward him. " Boy, what's your name?".
" Aron".
" What's in your knapsack?".
" Five small barley loaves and two small fish".
Andrew smiled. " Please come with me".
Andrew and Aron walked up to Jesus.
Jesus gave Aron a big smile.
" Master, this is Aron and he has five small barley loaves and two small fish in his knapsack". He frowned. " But how far will that go with so many people?".
" Tell the people to sit down". He looked at Aron. " Thank you Aron, may God bless you".
Jesus lifted the knapsack toward heaven and blessed it.
Aron started to walk home. He knew in his young heart that something wonderful had just happened".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Aron saw a young tall black bearded man pointing at the huge crowd. He saw other men throwing up their hands in desperation.
Jesus looked at Philip. " Where shall we buy bread for all these people to eat?".
He stared at Jesus with a look of frustration. " Wages earned for eight months would not be enough to buy enough bread for everyone to have one bite".
Andrew noticed Aron and walked toward him. " Boy, what's your name?".
" Aron".
" What's in your knapsack?".
" Five small barley loaves and two small fish".
Andrew smiled. " Please come with me".
Andrew and Aron walked up to Jesus.
Jesus gave Aron a big smile.
" Master, this is Aron and he has five small barley loaves and two small fish in his knapsack". He frowned. " But how far will that go with so many people?".
" Tell the people to sit down". He looked at Aron. " Thank you Aron, may God bless you".
Jesus lifted the knapsack toward heaven and blessed it.
Aron started to walk home. He knew in his young heart that something wonderful had just happened".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Friday April 14 1865 page 10
Friday April 14 1865 page 10 by ric Gustafson
President Abraham Lincoln slumped forward in his rocking chair. Major Rathbone hears the derringer and is up on his feet.
John Wilkes Booth drops the derringer and switches the knife to his right hand. Rathbone tries to reach Booth with his left arm but is cut to the bone by the knife. Booth steps up to the front of the box.
" Freedom" he yells. He jumps over the railing. As he falls to the floor, he gets caught in a portrait of President Washington with one of his boot spurs. He tumbles to the floor. Booth tries to get up but feels the pain coming from his lower leg fibula. He could tell it was fractured. He hobbles to the middle of the stage where actor Harry Hawk is standing.
" Sic semper tyrannis" Booth screams to the audience. He begins to hobble off stage.
" Stop that man!" yelled Major Rathbone.
" What is the matter?" cried somebody from the audience.
" The President has been shot" yelled Clara Harris.
Booth reached the stage door at the same time as set carpenter Jake Ritterspaugh. Booth tries to cut him with the knife. He squeezes past the door and jumps into the saddle of his horse.
Peanut John was waiting for his money watching Booth's horse. Instead of money, he is kicked to the ground by Booth. Booth hears a procession going on Tenth Street. He decides to escape down F Street and avoid the trouble.
John Wilkes Booth disappears into the night.
The End
research help: ' Lincoln's Last Days' by Bill O'Reilly and Dwight Zimmerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
President Abraham Lincoln slumped forward in his rocking chair. Major Rathbone hears the derringer and is up on his feet.
John Wilkes Booth drops the derringer and switches the knife to his right hand. Rathbone tries to reach Booth with his left arm but is cut to the bone by the knife. Booth steps up to the front of the box.
" Freedom" he yells. He jumps over the railing. As he falls to the floor, he gets caught in a portrait of President Washington with one of his boot spurs. He tumbles to the floor. Booth tries to get up but feels the pain coming from his lower leg fibula. He could tell it was fractured. He hobbles to the middle of the stage where actor Harry Hawk is standing.
" Sic semper tyrannis" Booth screams to the audience. He begins to hobble off stage.
" Stop that man!" yelled Major Rathbone.
" What is the matter?" cried somebody from the audience.
" The President has been shot" yelled Clara Harris.
Booth reached the stage door at the same time as set carpenter Jake Ritterspaugh. Booth tries to cut him with the knife. He squeezes past the door and jumps into the saddle of his horse.
Peanut John was waiting for his money watching Booth's horse. Instead of money, he is kicked to the ground by Booth. Booth hears a procession going on Tenth Street. He decides to escape down F Street and avoid the trouble.
John Wilkes Booth disappears into the night.
The End
research help: ' Lincoln's Last Days' by Bill O'Reilly and Dwight Zimmerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The SWEET By and BY Inn page 1
The SWEET By and BY Inn page 1 by ric Gustafson
Zeke Williams felt the green Aura start to shake. He slowly eased it to the side of the road. He had not seen another car for miles. It was a quiet highway and he was beginning to worry. He got out and noticed that the left rear tire was flat. He frowned as he opened the trunk and removed the miniature lug nut wrench. He put the donut spare tire next to the flat one. He frowned again as he was hoping to reach Riverton by nightfall.
He slowly removed the rusty lug nuts and took off the flat tire. Just then, he heard the loud noise of an old pickup truck. The rusty blue truck stopped in front of Zeke. An elderly gentleman, wearing a greasy red ball cap and blue coveralls, got out of the driver's side.
" Need some help".
" Yes" he said as he tried to take the tire off. " I'm trying to change this tire".
He smiled. " I'll help you with that".
Between the strength of both men, the tire came off.
" Where are you headed?" he asked as they put the donut tire on.
" Riverton". He put the lug nuts back on and tightened them.
The stranger took off his ball cap and wiped the sweat off his forehead with a handkerchief. " Riverton is just five miles down the road".
" Thank you" Zeke said as he put the flat tire and the wrench back into the trunk and closed it. He shook the stranger's hand.
" Do you have a place to stay?". He opened the driver's door and got in.
" No, I don't".
" My suggestion is the SWEET BY and BY Inn". He started the truck and then rolled down the driver's window. " It's a beautiful place right at the edge of the river".
Zeke watched as the stranger waved and then the truck bounced and then rattled down the road.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Zeke Williams felt the green Aura start to shake. He slowly eased it to the side of the road. He had not seen another car for miles. It was a quiet highway and he was beginning to worry. He got out and noticed that the left rear tire was flat. He frowned as he opened the trunk and removed the miniature lug nut wrench. He put the donut spare tire next to the flat one. He frowned again as he was hoping to reach Riverton by nightfall.
He slowly removed the rusty lug nuts and took off the flat tire. Just then, he heard the loud noise of an old pickup truck. The rusty blue truck stopped in front of Zeke. An elderly gentleman, wearing a greasy red ball cap and blue coveralls, got out of the driver's side.
" Need some help".
" Yes" he said as he tried to take the tire off. " I'm trying to change this tire".
He smiled. " I'll help you with that".
Between the strength of both men, the tire came off.
" Where are you headed?" he asked as they put the donut tire on.
" Riverton". He put the lug nuts back on and tightened them.
The stranger took off his ball cap and wiped the sweat off his forehead with a handkerchief. " Riverton is just five miles down the road".
" Thank you" Zeke said as he put the flat tire and the wrench back into the trunk and closed it. He shook the stranger's hand.
" Do you have a place to stay?". He opened the driver's door and got in.
" No, I don't".
" My suggestion is the SWEET BY and BY Inn". He started the truck and then rolled down the driver's window. " It's a beautiful place right at the edge of the river".
Zeke watched as the stranger waved and then the truck bounced and then rattled down the road.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the prize in the cheerio box page 2
the prize in the cheerio box page 2 by ric Gustafson
The female walked up to the easel. She put her presentation on it. " Hello my name is Esther Jones". Her voice hesitated. " Thank you for listening to my presentation". She handed it out to those at the table. " My proposal is that since DVD's are so popular right now that we could put them into the boxes". She smiled. " The movie companies will get exposure and your sales will go up".
Rico smiled. " Thank you Miss Jones for your presentation".
She sat down and the other gentleman stood up. " Hello my name is Frank Bensen and here is my presentation". He handed a copy to those at the table. " My proposal is to put small toys into the boxes such as small little racecars". He held up one of the small die cast racecars. " Kids will want to collect these and your sales will increase".
Rico grinned. " Thank you Mr Bensen for your presentation". He pointed at me. " Ok your next".
I got up and walked over to the easel. I put my presentation on it and then handed one to those at the table. " Hello my name is Richard Franklin". I hesitated. " My proposal is a completely different approach". I pulled out a bible from my briefcase and opened it to Philippians 3:14. " Based on what this bible passage says". I pointed at the verse. " I propose that you put a small card into the box that simply says ' your prize is being in heaven forever with the Lord". I looked around the room and noticed that everyone was staring at me with disbelief.
Rico looked at me with a stunned look. " I beg your pardon".
" Everyone is looking for material things like prizes in cheerio boxes". I smiled. " Instead they should be looking for the most important prize of all".
" What's that?" Rico asked.
" The most important prize of all is that we will be in heaven forever with Jesus".
" Thank you Mr Franklin for that presentation". Rico gave a frown. " I'm sorry but that was not what this committee had in mind".
" I know". I put my presentation back into my briefcase. I walked out to the elevator and pushed the button. I got out and walked toward the front glass door.
I was smiling as I walked out.
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The female walked up to the easel. She put her presentation on it. " Hello my name is Esther Jones". Her voice hesitated. " Thank you for listening to my presentation". She handed it out to those at the table. " My proposal is that since DVD's are so popular right now that we could put them into the boxes". She smiled. " The movie companies will get exposure and your sales will go up".
Rico smiled. " Thank you Miss Jones for your presentation".
She sat down and the other gentleman stood up. " Hello my name is Frank Bensen and here is my presentation". He handed a copy to those at the table. " My proposal is to put small toys into the boxes such as small little racecars". He held up one of the small die cast racecars. " Kids will want to collect these and your sales will increase".
Rico grinned. " Thank you Mr Bensen for your presentation". He pointed at me. " Ok your next".
I got up and walked over to the easel. I put my presentation on it and then handed one to those at the table. " Hello my name is Richard Franklin". I hesitated. " My proposal is a completely different approach". I pulled out a bible from my briefcase and opened it to Philippians 3:14. " Based on what this bible passage says". I pointed at the verse. " I propose that you put a small card into the box that simply says ' your prize is being in heaven forever with the Lord". I looked around the room and noticed that everyone was staring at me with disbelief.
Rico looked at me with a stunned look. " I beg your pardon".
" Everyone is looking for material things like prizes in cheerio boxes". I smiled. " Instead they should be looking for the most important prize of all".
" What's that?" Rico asked.
" The most important prize of all is that we will be in heaven forever with Jesus".
" Thank you Mr Franklin for that presentation". Rico gave a frown. " I'm sorry but that was not what this committee had in mind".
" I know". I put my presentation back into my briefcase. I walked out to the elevator and pushed the button. I got out and walked toward the front glass door.
I was smiling as I walked out.
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Bread of Life: the five thousand a
The Bread of Life: the five thousand a by ric Gustafson
Aron ran out the front door of the house. He went around a corner of the house to where his mother was working in a small vegetable garden.
" Mother, can I go fishing down at the Sea?".
" Sure". She smiled at her young son. " I'll make you a little lunch so you can take it with you".
He ran and picked up his fishing stick which was lying alongside the house. He ran back to the front. His mother came out with a small knapsack. " Here are five small barley loaves you can have for your lunch".
" Thanks Mother". He hugged her and then began to walk down the dusty road.
" And if you catch any fish" she yelled as he kept walking. " You can have those too".
It did not take him long to reach the Sea of Tiberias. He found a spot where he could fish. He stretched out on a large rock. Soon after he put his stick in the water, he caught a small fish. He put his stick back in and closed his eyes to rest. Soon, his stick tugged and he pulled in another small fish.
After this, he stood up and decided to walk to another spot to eat his lunch. He put the two small fish into his knapsack.
As he walked, he noticed a huge number of people gathering on a mountain side by the Sea.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Aron ran out the front door of the house. He went around a corner of the house to where his mother was working in a small vegetable garden.
" Mother, can I go fishing down at the Sea?".
" Sure". She smiled at her young son. " I'll make you a little lunch so you can take it with you".
He ran and picked up his fishing stick which was lying alongside the house. He ran back to the front. His mother came out with a small knapsack. " Here are five small barley loaves you can have for your lunch".
" Thanks Mother". He hugged her and then began to walk down the dusty road.
" And if you catch any fish" she yelled as he kept walking. " You can have those too".
It did not take him long to reach the Sea of Tiberias. He found a spot where he could fish. He stretched out on a large rock. Soon after he put his stick in the water, he caught a small fish. He put his stick back in and closed his eyes to rest. Soon, his stick tugged and he pulled in another small fish.
After this, he stood up and decided to walk to another spot to eat his lunch. He put the two small fish into his knapsack.
As he walked, he noticed a huge number of people gathering on a mountain side by the Sea.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 2, 2015
Friday April 14 1865 page 9
Friday April 14 1865 page 9 by ric Gustafson
It is now 10:07 pm. John Wilkes Booth climbs a staircase to the dress circle. This leads to a hallway that goes to the Presidential box. The dress circle lobby is behind the seats of the second level audience. Booth approaches the door which led to the state box hallway. Booth encounters Charles Forbes who was sitting in John Parker's chair. Somehow, he convinces him to let him pass. He closes the door and puts a wooden music stand to jam it so no one can get in.
Booth quietly walks down the hallway and peeks through a peep hole into the box. He could see that Clara Harris and Major Rathbone are sitting along the wall to the far right. And then he notices the Lincoln's sitting along the railing.
Booth could hear the play and knew that his cue to act was coming up very soon. When he hears the line he was waiting for, he quietly opens the door and steps inside. He takes out a derringer and puts it into his right fist. He takes out a knife and puts into his left hand. From the shadows, he puts out his right arm and aims for the back of President Lincoln's head.
Booth squeezes the trigger.
The time was 10:15 pm.
research help: ' Lincoln's Last Days' by Bill O'Reilly and Dwight Zimmerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is now 10:07 pm. John Wilkes Booth climbs a staircase to the dress circle. This leads to a hallway that goes to the Presidential box. The dress circle lobby is behind the seats of the second level audience. Booth approaches the door which led to the state box hallway. Booth encounters Charles Forbes who was sitting in John Parker's chair. Somehow, he convinces him to let him pass. He closes the door and puts a wooden music stand to jam it so no one can get in.
Booth quietly walks down the hallway and peeks through a peep hole into the box. He could see that Clara Harris and Major Rathbone are sitting along the wall to the far right. And then he notices the Lincoln's sitting along the railing.
Booth could hear the play and knew that his cue to act was coming up very soon. When he hears the line he was waiting for, he quietly opens the door and steps inside. He takes out a derringer and puts it into his right fist. He takes out a knife and puts into his left hand. From the shadows, he puts out his right arm and aims for the back of President Lincoln's head.
Booth squeezes the trigger.
The time was 10:15 pm.
research help: ' Lincoln's Last Days' by Bill O'Reilly and Dwight Zimmerman
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the prize in the cheerio box page 1
the prize in the cheerio box page 1 by ric Gustafson
I walked through the revolving front door of the General Mills Headquarters building. I walked into the men's restroom to check my clothes and tried to relax. In my mind, I tried to picture the presentation I was planning to do. Sales of Cheerios had been shrinking in recent years. A massive advertising campaign had just started. The committee had come up with the idea of putting prizes in the boxes. I walked out of the restroom and got onto the elevator. In the elevator, I checked to make sure I had my presentation. I got off the elevator and walked into the Corporate Suites of General Mills.
I walked up to the receptionist and told her who I was.
" Yes, there are two others with presentations also". She pointed toward a chair. " They will be calling you in shortly".
A short time later, the three of us were ushered into a large conference room.
Several people walked in and sat down.
The person at the head of the table stood up. " Hello, my name is Rico Johnson". He smiled. " I am the head of cereal development here at General Mills". He stared at us. " Sales of Cheerios has been declining and we have come up with an idea of putting prizes into the boxes and hopefully boost sales".
He smiled at us again. " We would like to hear your presentations now".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I walked through the revolving front door of the General Mills Headquarters building. I walked into the men's restroom to check my clothes and tried to relax. In my mind, I tried to picture the presentation I was planning to do. Sales of Cheerios had been shrinking in recent years. A massive advertising campaign had just started. The committee had come up with the idea of putting prizes in the boxes. I walked out of the restroom and got onto the elevator. In the elevator, I checked to make sure I had my presentation. I got off the elevator and walked into the Corporate Suites of General Mills.
I walked up to the receptionist and told her who I was.
" Yes, there are two others with presentations also". She pointed toward a chair. " They will be calling you in shortly".
A short time later, the three of us were ushered into a large conference room.
Several people walked in and sat down.
The person at the head of the table stood up. " Hello, my name is Rico Johnson". He smiled. " I am the head of cereal development here at General Mills". He stared at us. " Sales of Cheerios has been declining and we have come up with an idea of putting prizes into the boxes and hopefully boost sales".
He smiled at us again. " We would like to hear your presentations now".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Bread of Life: what is it?
The Bread of Life: what is it? by ric Gustafson
Moses and Aaron stood on a rock. Down below they could hear the people grumbling.
Moses frowned. " Now what are they grumbling about?".
" They are complaining that in Egypt they had pots of meat and bread as much as they wanted". He sighed. " Here they are starving".
" God has heard their grumbling and has told me what he is going to do". He grinned at Aaron. " Gather the people together".
Aaron gathered the people.
" God has heard your grumbling and he will give you plenty of meat to eat in the evening and bread to eat in the morning". He gave them a stern look. " There is one specific instruction God gave me".
The people listened very intently.
" You are to gather enough for one day's worth of bread at a time except for Friday when you can gather twice as much".
One evening, Moses and Aaron were talking to the people when the glory of the Lord appeared in a cloud. God in the cloud told Moses that at twilight they will have meat and in the morning bread. That night, quails came and covered the camp. In the morning, dew covered the camp. After the dew evaporated, a white flake which looked like frost covered the ground.
When the people saw this they pointed at Moses and Aaron. ' What is it?'.
Moses told the people this was the bread that the Lord had promised. Moses warned the people again to only gather what their family could use each day no more no less. He also reminded them that they could gather twice as much on Friday. The reason for that is none could be on the ground in honor of the Sabbath.
The people named this bread Manna. It was white and tasted like wafers with honey.
Aaron took some of the Manna, put it into a jar and placed it before the Lord.
research help: the Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Moses and Aaron stood on a rock. Down below they could hear the people grumbling.
Moses frowned. " Now what are they grumbling about?".
" They are complaining that in Egypt they had pots of meat and bread as much as they wanted". He sighed. " Here they are starving".
" God has heard their grumbling and has told me what he is going to do". He grinned at Aaron. " Gather the people together".
Aaron gathered the people.
" God has heard your grumbling and he will give you plenty of meat to eat in the evening and bread to eat in the morning". He gave them a stern look. " There is one specific instruction God gave me".
The people listened very intently.
" You are to gather enough for one day's worth of bread at a time except for Friday when you can gather twice as much".
One evening, Moses and Aaron were talking to the people when the glory of the Lord appeared in a cloud. God in the cloud told Moses that at twilight they will have meat and in the morning bread. That night, quails came and covered the camp. In the morning, dew covered the camp. After the dew evaporated, a white flake which looked like frost covered the ground.
When the people saw this they pointed at Moses and Aaron. ' What is it?'.
Moses told the people this was the bread that the Lord had promised. Moses warned the people again to only gather what their family could use each day no more no less. He also reminded them that they could gather twice as much on Friday. The reason for that is none could be on the ground in honor of the Sabbath.
The people named this bread Manna. It was white and tasted like wafers with honey.
Aaron took some of the Manna, put it into a jar and placed it before the Lord.
research help: the Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Sergius Paulus and Elymas page 3
Sergius Paulus and Elymas page 3 by ric Gustafson
Sergius was working on some official business with Elymas.
An aide walked into the room and whispered into the ear of the proconsul.
He grinned. " The Jewish evangelists I wanted to talk to are here".
" Like I warned you, stay away from these men".
The aide showed the three men into the court room.
Barnabas, Paul and John Mark walked over and now stood in front of the proconsul.
Paul looked over and saw Elymas sitting in a corner of the room. " We were told that you wanted to meet with us".
Elymas stood up. " No, we do not want to talk to any of you".
Sergius sighed at his court advisor's antics. " I wanted to find out what you were telling the people".
" Nobody on this island wants to hear your lies". He pointed a bony finger at Paul. " Leave and do not come back".
Paul walked over to Elymas. " You are a child of the devil and full of deceit". " Will you never stop perverting the ways of the Lord". Paul pointed a finger at the court advisor. " The hand of the Lord is upon you". His voice hesitated. " You will be blind and not see the sun for a while".
Immediately, a mist and a darkness came over the court advisor. He tried to reach Sergius's desk but stumbled and fell over it.
Elymas began to scream. " What has happened to me?".
An aide ran in and led him out the court door.
Sergius, after observing the whole scene unfolding in front of him, turned toward the three. " I saw and I believed".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sergius was working on some official business with Elymas.
An aide walked into the room and whispered into the ear of the proconsul.
He grinned. " The Jewish evangelists I wanted to talk to are here".
" Like I warned you, stay away from these men".
The aide showed the three men into the court room.
Barnabas, Paul and John Mark walked over and now stood in front of the proconsul.
Paul looked over and saw Elymas sitting in a corner of the room. " We were told that you wanted to meet with us".
Elymas stood up. " No, we do not want to talk to any of you".
Sergius sighed at his court advisor's antics. " I wanted to find out what you were telling the people".
" Nobody on this island wants to hear your lies". He pointed a bony finger at Paul. " Leave and do not come back".
Paul walked over to Elymas. " You are a child of the devil and full of deceit". " Will you never stop perverting the ways of the Lord". Paul pointed a finger at the court advisor. " The hand of the Lord is upon you". His voice hesitated. " You will be blind and not see the sun for a while".
Immediately, a mist and a darkness came over the court advisor. He tried to reach Sergius's desk but stumbled and fell over it.
Elymas began to scream. " What has happened to me?".
An aide ran in and led him out the court door.
Sergius, after observing the whole scene unfolding in front of him, turned toward the three. " I saw and I believed".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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