the great egg soufflé caper page 3 by ric Gustafson
Elnora looked at her watch. There was only twenty minutes to go.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Sylvia Chase said with s smile. She was carrying an egg soufflé dish. " The egg soufflé is here".
Not long after, a couple more church members brought egg soufflé dishes.
Elnora warmed up the hot cross buns.
Some church members poured orange juice into paper cups.
Elnora began to feel a weight coming off her shoulders.
The first of the sunrise service parishoners began to come down the stairs.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Mildred Gerch exclaimed as she hugged her friend. " Christ is risen".
" Christ is risen indeed". She handed her friend a plate of egg soufflé and a hot cross bun.
The sunrise crowd was small. Elnora had just enough egg soufflé to go around. When the traffic had died down, Elnora sat down to rest.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, January 31, 2016
longings of the heart: Trust
longings of the heart: Trust by ric Gustafson
Luke 12: 22-28 tells us that we are not to worry about our life at all. God will take care of all of our needs. Instead of trusting God, we often fail. This is because of greed. Instead of God, we trust in money and status. God wants us to trust him and be held in his protective arms.
Instead of greed, God wants us to be generous to others. Giving is between us and God. When we give our money and time, we are trusting God.
When we totally trust God, we can stop worrying. God is in total control of our lives and we can trust him with that.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Luke 12: 22-28 tells us that we are not to worry about our life at all. God will take care of all of our needs. Instead of trusting God, we often fail. This is because of greed. Instead of God, we trust in money and status. God wants us to trust him and be held in his protective arms.
Instead of greed, God wants us to be generous to others. Giving is between us and God. When we give our money and time, we are trusting God.
When we totally trust God, we can stop worrying. God is in total control of our lives and we can trust him with that.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, January 30, 2016
longings of the heart: Peace
longings of the heart: Peace by ric Gustafson
Peace. It is something we all want. In this life there is conflict, chaos, conflict and noise. Deep in our hearts is a longing for peace. It is hard work to have peace. Sloth is one of the deadly sins. Sloth is indifference of choosing not to improve a relationship or situation.
To defeat sloth, we must be diligent to long for peace. When we are diligent, we must stay the course. God promises us peace. That makes our heart happy.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Peace. It is something we all want. In this life there is conflict, chaos, conflict and noise. Deep in our hearts is a longing for peace. It is hard work to have peace. Sloth is one of the deadly sins. Sloth is indifference of choosing not to improve a relationship or situation.
To defeat sloth, we must be diligent to long for peace. When we are diligent, we must stay the course. God promises us peace. That makes our heart happy.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, January 29, 2016
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 22
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 22 by ric Gustafson
The Roman Govenor could not believe what he was hearing.
" My Kingdom is not from here".
Pilate stared at Jesus. " Are you a King?".
" You say rightly that I am a King, for this reason I was born and came into this world". Jesus looked intently at Pilate. " Everyone of the truth hears my voice".
Pilate was silent. He stared at Flavius because he wasn't sure what to say next. He knew that this prisoner was no threat. He also knew that there was no truth to the charges". He also knew that he had to please the growing mob outside.
Pilate looked at Jesus. " What is truth?". Before he let him answer, he walked up the steps to the open balcony. He looked out at the hostile crowd. " I find no fault in him".
Many in the crowd shook their fists. " He stirs up the people". Someone shouted. " He teaches all over Judea starting from Galilee".
Pilate gave the crowd a startled look. " Is this man a Galilean?". He clapped his hands.
Flavius heard the clap and ran up the stone steps.
" Centurion, take this prisoner to Herod".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Roman Govenor could not believe what he was hearing.
" My Kingdom is not from here".
Pilate stared at Jesus. " Are you a King?".
" You say rightly that I am a King, for this reason I was born and came into this world". Jesus looked intently at Pilate. " Everyone of the truth hears my voice".
Pilate was silent. He stared at Flavius because he wasn't sure what to say next. He knew that this prisoner was no threat. He also knew that there was no truth to the charges". He also knew that he had to please the growing mob outside.
Pilate looked at Jesus. " What is truth?". Before he let him answer, he walked up the steps to the open balcony. He looked out at the hostile crowd. " I find no fault in him".
Many in the crowd shook their fists. " He stirs up the people". Someone shouted. " He teaches all over Judea starting from Galilee".
Pilate gave the crowd a startled look. " Is this man a Galilean?". He clapped his hands.
Flavius heard the clap and ran up the stone steps.
" Centurion, take this prisoner to Herod".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
longings of the heart: Justice
longings of the heart: Justice by ric Gustafson
Matthew 5:6, Jesus tells us that those who hunger and thirst for justice will be blessed. Justice is making things as they should be as God intended them to be. Justice exists between people and the world.
Our longing for justice began at the dawn of creation. The Fall created a great injustice that still hangs around today. Justice compels us to challenge the injustice in our lives. In order to practice justice, we need patience. Patience is good for our souls and our lives.
Through the cross of Jesus, God will give us victory and justice.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Matthew 5:6, Jesus tells us that those who hunger and thirst for justice will be blessed. Justice is making things as they should be as God intended them to be. Justice exists between people and the world.
Our longing for justice began at the dawn of creation. The Fall created a great injustice that still hangs around today. Justice compels us to challenge the injustice in our lives. In order to practice justice, we need patience. Patience is good for our souls and our lives.
Through the cross of Jesus, God will give us victory and justice.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page2
the great egg soufflé caper page 2 by ric Gustafson
Roger finished setting up the chairs. He then put the rolling rack into a corner. " Marjorie is upstairs getting everything in order".
" Good". She set up a basket on the serving table for a freewill offering.
" Happy Easter Elnora".
She turned around. " Pastor Greerson, I did not hear you come down".
" I just came down to see how you were doing". He quickly glanced around the room. " The sunrise service is about to begin".
Elnora smiled. " Marjorie is handling upstairs and we are doing fine down here".
" Good". He walked back upstairs.
After she and Roger had finished setting up the two long serving tables, she looked at her watch. She wanted to see when she had to start warming up the hot cross buns.
She sat down and began to worry if help would come and if egg soufflé dishes would arrive in time. She began to pray that the morning would be uneventful.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Roger finished setting up the chairs. He then put the rolling rack into a corner. " Marjorie is upstairs getting everything in order".
" Good". She set up a basket on the serving table for a freewill offering.
" Happy Easter Elnora".
She turned around. " Pastor Greerson, I did not hear you come down".
" I just came down to see how you were doing". He quickly glanced around the room. " The sunrise service is about to begin".
Elnora smiled. " Marjorie is handling upstairs and we are doing fine down here".
" Good". He walked back upstairs.
After she and Roger had finished setting up the two long serving tables, she looked at her watch. She wanted to see when she had to start warming up the hot cross buns.
She sat down and began to worry if help would come and if egg soufflé dishes would arrive in time. She began to pray that the morning would be uneventful.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, January 28, 2016
the great egg souffle caper page 1
the great egg soufflé caper page 1 by ric Gustafson
Elnora Jensen walked quietly down the carpeted steps and turned on the lights. The large downstairs room was used as a youth room, confirmation classes and this morning Easter breakfast. She walked over and opened the heavy purple curtains. It was a beautiful Easter morning. As she turned around, she noticed the smiling face of Roger Corby. He was the church's custodian.
" Happy Easter Roger" she said as she checked the refrigerator to make sure they had plenty of orange juice.
" Happy Easter to you too Elnora". He pulled up a rolling rack of folding chairs and began to set them up.
" Did the hot cross buns get here from the store?".
" Yes, they did". He kept setting up the chairs. " And we should have plenty of napkins and paper plates too".
" Good". She began to set up the coffee pots. She put napkins, paper plates and paper cups on a serving table. " How is the upstairs doing?".
Roger smiled. " Just fine".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Elnora Jensen walked quietly down the carpeted steps and turned on the lights. The large downstairs room was used as a youth room, confirmation classes and this morning Easter breakfast. She walked over and opened the heavy purple curtains. It was a beautiful Easter morning. As she turned around, she noticed the smiling face of Roger Corby. He was the church's custodian.
" Happy Easter Roger" she said as she checked the refrigerator to make sure they had plenty of orange juice.
" Happy Easter to you too Elnora". He pulled up a rolling rack of folding chairs and began to set them up.
" Did the hot cross buns get here from the store?".
" Yes, they did". He kept setting up the chairs. " And we should have plenty of napkins and paper plates too".
" Good". She began to set up the coffee pots. She put napkins, paper plates and paper cups on a serving table. " How is the upstairs doing?".
Roger smiled. " Just fine".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
longings of the heart: Dignity
longings of the heart: Dignity by ric Gustafson
Our dignity is rooted in the fact that we are loved by God. Our dignity is not tied up in possessions, accomplishments, status or position. These things do not matter in the eyes of God. Our dignity and value as a person is anchored in God's love for us. When other people's love for us fails, God's love will not.
We were made to be loved by God. Envy distorts our longing for dignity. Envy teaches us that we might lose what we have. Envy is a sin and must be dealt with. The antidote for envy is kindness. When we are kind to someone else, it becomes the center of our dignity. When we are kind to others, they will have dignity in themselves.
Praise God that because he loves us so much, we can have dignity.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Our dignity is rooted in the fact that we are loved by God. Our dignity is not tied up in possessions, accomplishments, status or position. These things do not matter in the eyes of God. Our dignity and value as a person is anchored in God's love for us. When other people's love for us fails, God's love will not.
We were made to be loved by God. Envy distorts our longing for dignity. Envy teaches us that we might lose what we have. Envy is a sin and must be dealt with. The antidote for envy is kindness. When we are kind to someone else, it becomes the center of our dignity. When we are kind to others, they will have dignity in themselves.
Praise God that because he loves us so much, we can have dignity.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
longings of the heart: Abundance
longings of the heart: Abundance by ric Gustafson
God cares deeply about our happiness. John 10:10 says that I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly. God has a great plan for our happiness. So what is the good life?. Some say it is deep, close, healthy and supportive relationships. Some say it is virtue which is the ability to strive no matter what happens in our lives. Some say that we can achieve abundance by connecting with others.
One source of abundance is humility. When God gives us abundance, we want to share to share it with others. God does not want us to close our ears and our heart in regard to others.
Praise God for his abundance to us so that we can share it with others.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God cares deeply about our happiness. John 10:10 says that I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly. God has a great plan for our happiness. So what is the good life?. Some say it is deep, close, healthy and supportive relationships. Some say it is virtue which is the ability to strive no matter what happens in our lives. Some say that we can achieve abundance by connecting with others.
One source of abundance is humility. When God gives us abundance, we want to share to share it with others. God does not want us to close our ears and our heart in regard to others.
Praise God for his abundance to us so that we can share it with others.
research help: ' Broken Gods' by Gregory Popcak
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 21
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 21 by ric Gustafson
Flavius led Jesus up the steps and through the entrance door of the Praetorium. As they went through the doorway, he led Jesus into a small room.
Pilate entered the sparsely furnished room. He walked up to the centurion and the prisoner. He saw before him a tired young man who had already suffered physical and emotional abuse. To Pilate, this young man did not look like a King. " Are you the King of the Jews?".
" Are you speaking for yourself or did others tell you concerning me?".
" Am I a Jew". His voice hesitated. " Your own nation and chief priests have delivered you to me". He looked intently at Jesus. " What have you done?".
" My Kingdom is not of this world".
Pilate gave Jesus a confused look.
" If my Kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius led Jesus up the steps and through the entrance door of the Praetorium. As they went through the doorway, he led Jesus into a small room.
Pilate entered the sparsely furnished room. He walked up to the centurion and the prisoner. He saw before him a tired young man who had already suffered physical and emotional abuse. To Pilate, this young man did not look like a King. " Are you the King of the Jews?".
" Are you speaking for yourself or did others tell you concerning me?".
" Am I a Jew". His voice hesitated. " Your own nation and chief priests have delivered you to me". He looked intently at Jesus. " What have you done?".
" My Kingdom is not of this world".
Pilate gave Jesus a confused look.
" If my Kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, January 25, 2016
the Great Oz page 9
the Great Oz page 9 by ric Gustafson
They stopped walking as they reached a clearing.
Oscar started a fire. Then he stared at the beautiful woman with him. " How wicked is this witch?".
" She poisoned her own father". She grinned at Oscar. " My sister can't wait to meet you".
The next morning, they continued their walk.
Just then, they heard a shout for help. They ran to find a monkey dressed like a bell hop. He was wrapped up in a large vine.
Oscar tried to cut the vine with a knife.
Just then, a lion landed next to them. The lion roared loudly.
Oscar reached into his jacket and pulled out some smoke pellets. He threw them on the ground and scared the lion. He ran away.
Theodora smiled. " You are wonderful Wizard".
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
They stopped walking as they reached a clearing.
Oscar started a fire. Then he stared at the beautiful woman with him. " How wicked is this witch?".
" She poisoned her own father". She grinned at Oscar. " My sister can't wait to meet you".
The next morning, they continued their walk.
Just then, they heard a shout for help. They ran to find a monkey dressed like a bell hop. He was wrapped up in a large vine.
Oscar tried to cut the vine with a knife.
Just then, a lion landed next to them. The lion roared loudly.
Oscar reached into his jacket and pulled out some smoke pellets. He threw them on the ground and scared the lion. He ran away.
Theodora smiled. " You are wonderful Wizard".
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 20
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 20 by ric Gustafson
Flavius led Jesus to the entrance of the Praetorium. He could not take him inside because of a Rabbinical tradition.
The Sanhedrin demanded to see Pilate outside the residence.
Flavius watched as the Roman Govenor appeared on the balcony above them. He looked tired after being woken up at the early hour.
Pilate stared at the crowd below him. " What accusation do you have against this man?".
" If he were not an evildoer, we would not have delivered him to you".
Pilate scratched his head. " You take him and judge him according to your law".
" It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death".
Pilate could sense that this situation was starting to get out of hand.
" We found this person perverting the nation".
Pilate knew this was not true.
" He does not pay taxes to Caesar".
Pilate knew the Sanhedrin would not charge him with that.
" He calls himself the Christ a King".
A worried look came over Pilate's face. He decided to bring the prisoner inside and examine him himself.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius led Jesus to the entrance of the Praetorium. He could not take him inside because of a Rabbinical tradition.
The Sanhedrin demanded to see Pilate outside the residence.
Flavius watched as the Roman Govenor appeared on the balcony above them. He looked tired after being woken up at the early hour.
Pilate stared at the crowd below him. " What accusation do you have against this man?".
" If he were not an evildoer, we would not have delivered him to you".
Pilate scratched his head. " You take him and judge him according to your law".
" It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death".
Pilate could sense that this situation was starting to get out of hand.
" We found this person perverting the nation".
Pilate knew this was not true.
" He does not pay taxes to Caesar".
Pilate knew the Sanhedrin would not charge him with that.
" He calls himself the Christ a King".
A worried look came over Pilate's face. He decided to bring the prisoner inside and examine him himself.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, January 24, 2016
it is your destiny page 11
it is your destiny page 11 by ric Gustafson
What is God's will for our life?. Sometimes we give up trying to understand it. Sometimes we feel that this will will ruin our lives. Some people go on a spiritual quest to figure out God's will. Some people who resist God's will is because they simply don't understand it. Some people would rather pursue their own desires than God's will.
Resisting God's will is rebelling against God. People resist God's will by choice. God's will is always good and is for our eternal good. His will is to lead us, build us, plant us and fellowship with us. God reveals his will small pieces. To hear his will we need to have a listening heart and mind. If we seriously desire God's will, we will find it. We must seek God's will first.
How do we seek God?. We must meditate on God's Word, spend time with God in prayer, go to church, read Christian books, listen to Christian music. Lastly,we must surrender to his will completely.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
What is God's will for our life?. Sometimes we give up trying to understand it. Sometimes we feel that this will will ruin our lives. Some people go on a spiritual quest to figure out God's will. Some people who resist God's will is because they simply don't understand it. Some people would rather pursue their own desires than God's will.
Resisting God's will is rebelling against God. People resist God's will by choice. God's will is always good and is for our eternal good. His will is to lead us, build us, plant us and fellowship with us. God reveals his will small pieces. To hear his will we need to have a listening heart and mind. If we seriously desire God's will, we will find it. We must seek God's will first.
How do we seek God?. We must meditate on God's Word, spend time with God in prayer, go to church, read Christian books, listen to Christian music. Lastly,we must surrender to his will completely.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, January 23, 2016
it is your destiny page 10
it is your destiny page 10 by ric Gustafson
We are used to leaning on our own understanding according to Proverbs 3: 5-6. We believe that our perspective is the right perspective. It is possible to lead ourselves into sin and pain. Romans 7 teaches us that there is a battle going on in us. A battle between Christian desires and sinful flesh. We need Jesus to help us to pick rightful thoughts instead of sinful ones.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We are used to leaning on our own understanding according to Proverbs 3: 5-6. We believe that our perspective is the right perspective. It is possible to lead ourselves into sin and pain. Romans 7 teaches us that there is a battle going on in us. A battle between Christian desires and sinful flesh. We need Jesus to help us to pick rightful thoughts instead of sinful ones.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 19
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 19 by ric Gustafson
Judas stood outside the hall. He peeked around the corner and saw what was happening. He heard Caiaphas the chief priest condemn the man he had betrayed. He began to realize the enormity of what he had done. He had betrayed an innocent man and now he had been condemned by the Sanhedrin. As he held onto the sack containing thirty pieces of silver, he knew what he had to do.
After Flavius had led Jesus out of the hall, Judas walked in. He walked up to the chief priest.
" I have sinned by betraying innocent blood".
Caiaphas pointed a bony finger at Judas. " What is that to us". He gave him a long stare. " You see to it".
Frustrated at the response, Judas threw the sack containing the silver at the chief priest's feet. Then he stormed out.
Flavius later learned that the young man had gone and hanged himself.
Caiaphas picked up the sack. " It is not lawful to put this into the treasury because they are the price of blood".
The chief priest and the others decided to use the money the potters field to bury strangers in.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Judas stood outside the hall. He peeked around the corner and saw what was happening. He heard Caiaphas the chief priest condemn the man he had betrayed. He began to realize the enormity of what he had done. He had betrayed an innocent man and now he had been condemned by the Sanhedrin. As he held onto the sack containing thirty pieces of silver, he knew what he had to do.
After Flavius had led Jesus out of the hall, Judas walked in. He walked up to the chief priest.
" I have sinned by betraying innocent blood".
Caiaphas pointed a bony finger at Judas. " What is that to us". He gave him a long stare. " You see to it".
Frustrated at the response, Judas threw the sack containing the silver at the chief priest's feet. Then he stormed out.
Flavius later learned that the young man had gone and hanged himself.
Caiaphas picked up the sack. " It is not lawful to put this into the treasury because they are the price of blood".
The chief priest and the others decided to use the money the potters field to bury strangers in.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, January 22, 2016
Batman page 3
Batman page 3 by ric Gustafson
Warner Bros Studios announced in 1988 that a big screen version of the comic book character was coming to the big screen. A huge backlash started with Tim Burton's choice for the caped crusader. When Michael Keaton was cast as Batman, negative remarks began to pour in to the studio. People said Keaton lacked the physique and good looks of a superhero.
Born in 1951, Keaton was the youngest of seven children. He tried his hand at stand up and eventually moved to Pittsburgh. He moved to Los Angeles and landed bit parts in different TV shows.
Director Tim Burton had worked with Keaton in ' Beetlejuice'. Batman was released in June 1989 and was a smash. It was the biggest film that summer and proved his critics wrong.
Jack Nicholson played the Joker and Kim Basinger played Vicki Vale.
Burton and Keaton came back in 1992 for ' Batman Returns'. The Penguin was played by Danny DeVito and Catwoman was played by Michelle Pfeiffer. Max Screck was played by Christopher Walken. A third film was talked about but never done.
research help: ' Batman the 50th anniversary' by Harris Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Warner Bros Studios announced in 1988 that a big screen version of the comic book character was coming to the big screen. A huge backlash started with Tim Burton's choice for the caped crusader. When Michael Keaton was cast as Batman, negative remarks began to pour in to the studio. People said Keaton lacked the physique and good looks of a superhero.
Born in 1951, Keaton was the youngest of seven children. He tried his hand at stand up and eventually moved to Pittsburgh. He moved to Los Angeles and landed bit parts in different TV shows.
Director Tim Burton had worked with Keaton in ' Beetlejuice'. Batman was released in June 1989 and was a smash. It was the biggest film that summer and proved his critics wrong.
Jack Nicholson played the Joker and Kim Basinger played Vicki Vale.
Burton and Keaton came back in 1992 for ' Batman Returns'. The Penguin was played by Danny DeVito and Catwoman was played by Michelle Pfeiffer. Max Screck was played by Christopher Walken. A third film was talked about but never done.
research help: ' Batman the 50th anniversary' by Harris Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 18
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 18 by ric Gustafson
Flavius closed his tires eyes as he sat outside the small dungeon. He looked over and noticed that his prisoner was sitting in a corner of the cell. After watching the prisoner heal Caiaphas's servant's ear, the centurion was beginning to see him in a different light.
After a while, Flavius was awakened by another of the chief priest's servants. He told him that the Sanhedrin had reconvened upstairs and was waiting for the prisoner.
Flavius bound Jesus's hands but did not tighten the ropes as he had before. He led Jesus upstairs to the hall where he was the night before. He stopped Jesus so he was standing right in front of his accusers.
Someone stood up. " Are you the Christ?".
Jesus stared at his accusers. " If I tell you you will not believe and if I ask you you will not answer or let me go". He stared at the one who accused him. " The Son of Man will sit on the right side of the power of God".
Another accuser stood up. " Are you then the Son of God?".
Jesus looked at his accuser. " You rightly say that I am".
Several people stood up and pointed fingers at Jesus. " What more testimony do we need?".
Caiaphas stood up. " This trial is closed".
He pointed at Flavius. " Take this prisoner to the Govenor Pontius Pilate".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius closed his tires eyes as he sat outside the small dungeon. He looked over and noticed that his prisoner was sitting in a corner of the cell. After watching the prisoner heal Caiaphas's servant's ear, the centurion was beginning to see him in a different light.
After a while, Flavius was awakened by another of the chief priest's servants. He told him that the Sanhedrin had reconvened upstairs and was waiting for the prisoner.
Flavius bound Jesus's hands but did not tighten the ropes as he had before. He led Jesus upstairs to the hall where he was the night before. He stopped Jesus so he was standing right in front of his accusers.
Someone stood up. " Are you the Christ?".
Jesus stared at his accusers. " If I tell you you will not believe and if I ask you you will not answer or let me go". He stared at the one who accused him. " The Son of Man will sit on the right side of the power of God".
Another accuser stood up. " Are you then the Son of God?".
Jesus looked at his accuser. " You rightly say that I am".
Several people stood up and pointed fingers at Jesus. " What more testimony do we need?".
Caiaphas stood up. " This trial is closed".
He pointed at Flavius. " Take this prisoner to the Govenor Pontius Pilate".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Spiritual Civil War page 1
the Spiritual Civil War page 1 by ric Gustafson
Recruit Arnold Ferguson walked up to the information desk. He stopped in front of a young woman holding a clipboard. She did not look up. " Name".
" Recruit Arnold Ferguson". His voice hesitated. " Fireside Vermont".
She did not look up. " Badge number".
Arnold looked at his badge. " 3427".
She wrote it down and then stamped the paper. She handed it to Arnold. " Take any open seat in the briefing room". She grinned. " The CIC will be in shortly".
Arnold entered the large classroom and sat down in an open chair. Two days ago, he gave his life to Jesus Christ. A day later, he received a card inviting him to the briefing.
Fifteen minutes later, a young man walked in. " Recruits, please stand for the CIC". An old man wearing a white suit walked in.
" Please sit down". He walked over to a nearby podium. " First of all, thank you for making the most important decision of your life". He smiled. " As new spiritual recruits, we invited you to this briefing to tell you a few things". He took a sip of bottled water. " Are there any questions so far?".
A young recruit stood up. " Yes, I have a question". He hesitated. " Your invitation mentioned something about a Spiritual Civil War". He gave the CIC a puzzled look. " Sir, what exactly is a Spiritual Civil War?".
" Good question recruit". God walked over to a large chalkboard and picked up a big piece of white chalk. " Again thank you for becoming followers of mine". At the top of the board he wrote out ' the Spiritual Civil War'. " And now that you are a follower of mine". He gave them a concerned stare. " You will encounter what I call the Spiritual Civil War".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Recruit Arnold Ferguson walked up to the information desk. He stopped in front of a young woman holding a clipboard. She did not look up. " Name".
" Recruit Arnold Ferguson". His voice hesitated. " Fireside Vermont".
She did not look up. " Badge number".
Arnold looked at his badge. " 3427".
She wrote it down and then stamped the paper. She handed it to Arnold. " Take any open seat in the briefing room". She grinned. " The CIC will be in shortly".
Arnold entered the large classroom and sat down in an open chair. Two days ago, he gave his life to Jesus Christ. A day later, he received a card inviting him to the briefing.
Fifteen minutes later, a young man walked in. " Recruits, please stand for the CIC". An old man wearing a white suit walked in.
" Please sit down". He walked over to a nearby podium. " First of all, thank you for making the most important decision of your life". He smiled. " As new spiritual recruits, we invited you to this briefing to tell you a few things". He took a sip of bottled water. " Are there any questions so far?".
A young recruit stood up. " Yes, I have a question". He hesitated. " Your invitation mentioned something about a Spiritual Civil War". He gave the CIC a puzzled look. " Sir, what exactly is a Spiritual Civil War?".
" Good question recruit". God walked over to a large chalkboard and picked up a big piece of white chalk. " Again thank you for becoming followers of mine". At the top of the board he wrote out ' the Spiritual Civil War'. " And now that you are a follower of mine". He gave them a concerned stare. " You will encounter what I call the Spiritual Civil War".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, January 21, 2016
culture shock: confusion and pain
culture shock: confusion and pain by ric Gustafson
People in this fallen world need a culture shock treatment. This confused, pained need to see Jesus. Jesus came to earth to represent his Father. People have rejected God's truth which leads to confusion and pain. God wants us to tell people about his Word. Because of the pain in this world, we need the God of peace. Because of despair in this world, we need the God of hope. When we are going through tribulation, we need the God of comfort. When we feel lost, we need the God of heaven.
Jesus is the best culture shock treatment in the world.
We need to focus on Jesus and study his word. We need to concentrate on prayer and meditation. God wants us to look for the confused and pained and show them Jesus.
The End
research help: Turning Points February 2016
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
People in this fallen world need a culture shock treatment. This confused, pained need to see Jesus. Jesus came to earth to represent his Father. People have rejected God's truth which leads to confusion and pain. God wants us to tell people about his Word. Because of the pain in this world, we need the God of peace. Because of despair in this world, we need the God of hope. When we are going through tribulation, we need the God of comfort. When we feel lost, we need the God of heaven.
Jesus is the best culture shock treatment in the world.
We need to focus on Jesus and study his word. We need to concentrate on prayer and meditation. God wants us to look for the confused and pained and show them Jesus.
The End
research help: Turning Points February 2016
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Batman page 2
Batman page 2 by ric Gustafson
From 1966 to 1968, actor Adam West was Batman. Today the 87 year old with salty gray hair still has the charisma. West's original name was William West Anderson. West was doing commercials when ABC and Fox noticed him. He tested with Sparky Gervis who became Burt Ward. He felt embarrassment and trepidation at first with the Batman costume. West enjoyed the Bat boat and the Bat cycle. West's favorite villains were the Riddler and the Penguin. Batman's foes included Julie Newmar and Eartha Kitt as Catwoman. Frank Gorshin as the Riddler. David Wayne as the Mad Hatter. Otto Preminger as Mr Freeze. Vincent Price played Egghead. Cesar Romero played the Joker. Burgess Meredith played the Penguin.
research help: ' Batman the 50th anniversary' by Harris Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
From 1966 to 1968, actor Adam West was Batman. Today the 87 year old with salty gray hair still has the charisma. West's original name was William West Anderson. West was doing commercials when ABC and Fox noticed him. He tested with Sparky Gervis who became Burt Ward. He felt embarrassment and trepidation at first with the Batman costume. West enjoyed the Bat boat and the Bat cycle. West's favorite villains were the Riddler and the Penguin. Batman's foes included Julie Newmar and Eartha Kitt as Catwoman. Frank Gorshin as the Riddler. David Wayne as the Mad Hatter. Otto Preminger as Mr Freeze. Vincent Price played Egghead. Cesar Romero played the Joker. Burgess Meredith played the Penguin.
research help: ' Batman the 50th anniversary' by Harris Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Batman page 1
Batman page 1 by ric Gustafson
The year was 1938 and Superman was supreme of the readers of comic books. National Publications was so happy with it's hero that it decided to come up with another one. Cartoonist Bob Kane sketched some concept drawings for a new character. He called the new character Batman and showed it to a friend at work Bill Finger. Finger suggested that the new character wear a cape, a cowl and wear gloves. Finger chose the name Bruce Wayne for the character. They developed Batman without using any superpowers to use his wealth, cunning and steely resolve to fight crime. The first story hit the newsstands on March 30 1939.
The backstory began to come out that Bruce Wayne as a young child witnessed the murder of his parents. After they were laid to rest, Wayne vowed to avenge their deaths. Bruce was cared for by the family's loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth. Later, Bruce studied chemistry, criminology, forensics and the art of escape and disguise. He needed a disguise and one night a bat crashed through a window thus Batman was born. Batman had two powerful friends in Gotham. District Attorney Harvey Dent and Police Commissioner James Gordon. Later, Batman obtained a sidekick named Robin. Robin who's real name was Dick Grayson also had parents who were murdered.
research help: ' The best of Batman 50th anniversary' by Harris Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The year was 1938 and Superman was supreme of the readers of comic books. National Publications was so happy with it's hero that it decided to come up with another one. Cartoonist Bob Kane sketched some concept drawings for a new character. He called the new character Batman and showed it to a friend at work Bill Finger. Finger suggested that the new character wear a cape, a cowl and wear gloves. Finger chose the name Bruce Wayne for the character. They developed Batman without using any superpowers to use his wealth, cunning and steely resolve to fight crime. The first story hit the newsstands on March 30 1939.
The backstory began to come out that Bruce Wayne as a young child witnessed the murder of his parents. After they were laid to rest, Wayne vowed to avenge their deaths. Bruce was cared for by the family's loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth. Later, Bruce studied chemistry, criminology, forensics and the art of escape and disguise. He needed a disguise and one night a bat crashed through a window thus Batman was born. Batman had two powerful friends in Gotham. District Attorney Harvey Dent and Police Commissioner James Gordon. Later, Batman obtained a sidekick named Robin. Robin who's real name was Dick Grayson also had parents who were murdered.
research help: ' The best of Batman 50th anniversary' by Harris Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
culture shock: not of this world
culture shock: not of this world by ric Gustafson
We can help people knowing that we are not of this world. God wants us in this world to make a difference for him. God wants us to understand that we are citizens of heaven traveling through the earth. God has called us to be separate, consecrated, holy and set aside for his purposes. We are in this world yet we are not of this world.
No matter what happens in this fallen world, we must live for God and his glory. God wants us to be an ambassador for God. We need to be messengers of God's truth and an ambassador of God's love.
God wants us to be an ambassador for him, stand up and seize our calling.
research help: Turning Points February 2016
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We can help people knowing that we are not of this world. God wants us in this world to make a difference for him. God wants us to understand that we are citizens of heaven traveling through the earth. God has called us to be separate, consecrated, holy and set aside for his purposes. We are in this world yet we are not of this world.
No matter what happens in this fallen world, we must live for God and his glory. God wants us to be an ambassador for God. We need to be messengers of God's truth and an ambassador of God's love.
God wants us to be an ambassador for him, stand up and seize our calling.
research help: Turning Points February 2016
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Titanic 2016 page 5
Titanic 2016 page 5 by ric Gustafson
On the Boat Deck, women and children were hesitant to get on the swinging life boats. Some people thought that the problems with the ship would be short lived. John Jacob Astor and his wife refused to get on the first life boat. The life boats on the port side of the ship hit the water without capsizing. Four life boats including one of the collapsible ones were capsized.
The order went out all men stand back and women gather in the smoking room on B deck. The boats were lowered to B deck and the women and children got on. When the boat was filled, it was slowly lowered to the dark water below. Somehow Bruce Ismay got into a life boat and survived.
Heart breaking scenes were beginning to happen. Fathers were saying goodbye to their children. Men were kissing their wives goodbye. They were telling them that they would join them shortly. Some men tried to get on the life boats but were pulled back. An engineer and some stokers rushed up to the deck and tried to get into a life boat.
Mr and Mrs Isidor Straus decided to stay on the deck together. Three steerage passengers were shot for trying to get onto a life boat. K Whiteman, who was the Titanic's barber, was blown off the liner by one of the explosions. He was rescued in the water by a life boat. Some men jumped into the water when the ship began to settle to starboard.
Hundreds of men were still on deck heeding to the order women and children first.
research help: ' On Board The Titanic' by Dover Publications.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
On the Boat Deck, women and children were hesitant to get on the swinging life boats. Some people thought that the problems with the ship would be short lived. John Jacob Astor and his wife refused to get on the first life boat. The life boats on the port side of the ship hit the water without capsizing. Four life boats including one of the collapsible ones were capsized.
The order went out all men stand back and women gather in the smoking room on B deck. The boats were lowered to B deck and the women and children got on. When the boat was filled, it was slowly lowered to the dark water below. Somehow Bruce Ismay got into a life boat and survived.
Heart breaking scenes were beginning to happen. Fathers were saying goodbye to their children. Men were kissing their wives goodbye. They were telling them that they would join them shortly. Some men tried to get on the life boats but were pulled back. An engineer and some stokers rushed up to the deck and tried to get into a life boat.
Mr and Mrs Isidor Straus decided to stay on the deck together. Three steerage passengers were shot for trying to get onto a life boat. K Whiteman, who was the Titanic's barber, was blown off the liner by one of the explosions. He was rescued in the water by a life boat. Some men jumped into the water when the ship began to settle to starboard.
Hundreds of men were still on deck heeding to the order women and children first.
research help: ' On Board The Titanic' by Dover Publications.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, January 18, 2016
Heaven Bound Airlines
Heaven Bound Airlines by ric Gustafson
Charlie woke up, opened his eyes and tried to focus on his surroundings.
" Charlie".
He turned his head and noticed a stewardess staring at him.
She smiled at him. " Charlie".
" Yes" he replied as he looked around. It appeared that he was on an airplane.
" Charlie, can I get you anything?".
" How do you know my name?".
She smiled again. " I know everybody on this flight".
He noticed her nametag. " Where am I Angeline?".
" You are on Heaven Bound Airlines". Her voice hesitated. " We are heading home".
She put a pillow behind his tired head.
" Where is home?".
" Heaven of course". She looked around the full cabin. " Everyone on this flight is going to the same destination".
" Who are these other people?".
" Christians like yourself going home".
Charlie remembered that right before he woke up on the plane, he was in a hospital bed surrounded by family.
She put his seat tray down and put some orange juice and pretzels on it. " I thought you might want a little snack before our plane lands".
" Thank you". Charlie looked around the cabin and noticed that everyone was happy to be on the flight.
When he was done, she threw away his trash and closed his tray.
Charlie closed his eyes.
Later, she shook his shoulder. " Charlie, the plane is landing".
" Thank you Angeline".
" You are welcome Charlie".
Charlie and the other passengers left the plane with smiles on their faces.
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Charlie woke up, opened his eyes and tried to focus on his surroundings.
" Charlie".
He turned his head and noticed a stewardess staring at him.
She smiled at him. " Charlie".
" Yes" he replied as he looked around. It appeared that he was on an airplane.
" Charlie, can I get you anything?".
" How do you know my name?".
She smiled again. " I know everybody on this flight".
He noticed her nametag. " Where am I Angeline?".
" You are on Heaven Bound Airlines". Her voice hesitated. " We are heading home".
She put a pillow behind his tired head.
" Where is home?".
" Heaven of course". She looked around the full cabin. " Everyone on this flight is going to the same destination".
" Who are these other people?".
" Christians like yourself going home".
Charlie remembered that right before he woke up on the plane, he was in a hospital bed surrounded by family.
She put his seat tray down and put some orange juice and pretzels on it. " I thought you might want a little snack before our plane lands".
" Thank you". Charlie looked around the cabin and noticed that everyone was happy to be on the flight.
When he was done, she threw away his trash and closed his tray.
Charlie closed his eyes.
Later, she shook his shoulder. " Charlie, the plane is landing".
" Thank you Angeline".
" You are welcome Charlie".
Charlie and the other passengers left the plane with smiles on their faces.
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Titanic 2016 page 4
Titanic 2016 page 4 by ric Gustafson
It was 11:40 pm Sunday night April 14 1912. The Titanic had entered 41.46 north latitude and 50.14 west longitude. According to survivors, the sea was placid, the night was clear and stars were visible. Some of the passengers were already asleep and some had retired for the night because of the frigid temperature outside.
There were passengers at that late hour still enjoying the saloons and smoking rooms. Pierre Marechal, Lucien Smith, Paul Chevre and A F Ormont were in the Café Parisien playing bridge. They heard the vibration and went out on deck. They looked over the rail and then returned to their game. They did not realize that the bow of the huge liner was already going down into the black water. Colonel Astor and his wife were in their room and saw the ice go by. Leisurely, they dressed and then came out on deck. William Stead who was a London journalist came out on deck and wondered what was going on. Someone told him it was not serious so he went back to his cabin.
Fear and panic started when passengers were told to put on life preservers and come up to the deck. Husbands looked for wives and children. People who were asleep woke up, hastily put on some clothes and then rushed up to the deck.
On the steerage deck below, confusion was the norm. Officers told men to stand in the back and women and children to the front.
On the top deck, confusion prevailed. Only when the canvas covers came off the life boats did panic and worry get worse.
research help: ' On Board the Titanic' by Dover Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It was 11:40 pm Sunday night April 14 1912. The Titanic had entered 41.46 north latitude and 50.14 west longitude. According to survivors, the sea was placid, the night was clear and stars were visible. Some of the passengers were already asleep and some had retired for the night because of the frigid temperature outside.
There were passengers at that late hour still enjoying the saloons and smoking rooms. Pierre Marechal, Lucien Smith, Paul Chevre and A F Ormont were in the Café Parisien playing bridge. They heard the vibration and went out on deck. They looked over the rail and then returned to their game. They did not realize that the bow of the huge liner was already going down into the black water. Colonel Astor and his wife were in their room and saw the ice go by. Leisurely, they dressed and then came out on deck. William Stead who was a London journalist came out on deck and wondered what was going on. Someone told him it was not serious so he went back to his cabin.
Fear and panic started when passengers were told to put on life preservers and come up to the deck. Husbands looked for wives and children. People who were asleep woke up, hastily put on some clothes and then rushed up to the deck.
On the steerage deck below, confusion was the norm. Officers told men to stand in the back and women and children to the front.
On the top deck, confusion prevailed. Only when the canvas covers came off the life boats did panic and worry get worse.
research help: ' On Board the Titanic' by Dover Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, January 17, 2016
Titanic 2016 page 3
Titanic 2016 page 3 by ric Gustafson
There were many notable passengers on the Titanic. Major Archibald Butt was the military aide to President Taft. He was returning from Europe where he called on the Pope on behalf of President Taft. His friend Francis Millet went with him and perished in the sinking.
John Jacob Astor was returning from Egypt with a new bride 19 year old Madeline Force. He was one of the world's richest men. He managed his family's estates and built the Astor Hotel in New York City.
Benjamin Guggenheim was the son of M Guggenheim. The elder Guggenheim started the firm of Guggenheim and Sons. Benjamin started the American Smelting and Refining Company. In 1894, the younger Guggenheim married Floretta Seligman. Her father was James Seligman a New York banker.
Isidor Straus was a brother to Nathan and Oscar Straus. These brothers started Macy and Company and Straus and Sons. Isidor was active in politics and charity work.
George Widener was well known as part of Philadelphia finance.
Colonel Roebling was President of an iron and steel wire rope company.
William Stead was well known in literature and journalism circles.
Jacques Futrelle was an author of short stories.
Henry Harris was a famous theatre manager.
Henry Harper was part of the Harper publishing business.
Francis Millet was a well known painter.
Charles M Hays was President of the Grand Trunk Pacific railway.
research help: ' On Board The Titanic' by Dover Publications.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There were many notable passengers on the Titanic. Major Archibald Butt was the military aide to President Taft. He was returning from Europe where he called on the Pope on behalf of President Taft. His friend Francis Millet went with him and perished in the sinking.
John Jacob Astor was returning from Egypt with a new bride 19 year old Madeline Force. He was one of the world's richest men. He managed his family's estates and built the Astor Hotel in New York City.
Benjamin Guggenheim was the son of M Guggenheim. The elder Guggenheim started the firm of Guggenheim and Sons. Benjamin started the American Smelting and Refining Company. In 1894, the younger Guggenheim married Floretta Seligman. Her father was James Seligman a New York banker.
Isidor Straus was a brother to Nathan and Oscar Straus. These brothers started Macy and Company and Straus and Sons. Isidor was active in politics and charity work.
George Widener was well known as part of Philadelphia finance.
Colonel Roebling was President of an iron and steel wire rope company.
William Stead was well known in literature and journalism circles.
Jacques Futrelle was an author of short stories.
Henry Harris was a famous theatre manager.
Henry Harper was part of the Harper publishing business.
Francis Millet was a well known painter.
Charles M Hays was President of the Grand Trunk Pacific railway.
research help: ' On Board The Titanic' by Dover Publications.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
culture shock: in the world
culture shock: in the world by ric Gustafson
Jesus Christ experienced culture shock when he left heaven and came to earth. Jesus left the glory of heaven and came to a planet covered by sin. The Apostle Paul writes that though he was rich he became poor. Jesus encountered culture shock living in a fallen world.
We encounter culture shock in this world being a follower of Jesus. We need to do what other followers of Jesus have done through the centuries. We need to be in the world and not of the world.
So how do we do that?. We need to remember the sick, remember the beauty of Jesus, remember the dangers of sin, remember the truth of God's Word and to remember our priorities in Jesus.
Praise God.
research help: Turning Points February 2016
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus Christ experienced culture shock when he left heaven and came to earth. Jesus left the glory of heaven and came to a planet covered by sin. The Apostle Paul writes that though he was rich he became poor. Jesus encountered culture shock living in a fallen world.
We encounter culture shock in this world being a follower of Jesus. We need to do what other followers of Jesus have done through the centuries. We need to be in the world and not of the world.
So how do we do that?. We need to remember the sick, remember the beauty of Jesus, remember the dangers of sin, remember the truth of God's Word and to remember our priorities in Jesus.
Praise God.
research help: Turning Points February 2016
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, January 16, 2016
it is your destiny page 9
it is your destiny page 9 by ric Gustafson
In order to fulfill your destiny, you must be willing to live by faith. Hebrews 11: 1 says now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. Faith is the evidence for things we cannot see. Things we cannot see we believe exist in God's eyes. By faith we let God reveal his eternal purpose for us. When we trust God by faith, he is pleased and will honor that. No matter what happens to us in this life, God wants us to trust him by faith. He wants to help us with decisions and be our guide.
Outside of time, God has an eternal purpose for each of us. When everything is going our way, it's easy to believe and trust God. God wants us to live by faith.
Faith is always rewarded by God.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In order to fulfill your destiny, you must be willing to live by faith. Hebrews 11: 1 says now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. Faith is the evidence for things we cannot see. Things we cannot see we believe exist in God's eyes. By faith we let God reveal his eternal purpose for us. When we trust God by faith, he is pleased and will honor that. No matter what happens to us in this life, God wants us to trust him by faith. He wants to help us with decisions and be our guide.
Outside of time, God has an eternal purpose for each of us. When everything is going our way, it's easy to believe and trust God. God wants us to live by faith.
Faith is always rewarded by God.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Titanic 2016 page 2
Titanic 2016 page 2 by ric Gustafson
The Titanic was designed for comfort and stability. The designers of the huge liner never considered the possibility of a tragedy that occurred. The liner had fifteen water tight compartments. The bulkheads were heavy sheet metal that started at the bottom of the liner and stopped at the top side. The bulkhead openings were the size of a doorway. They were held in place by friction clutches. On the bridge was a switch that connected to an electric magnet at the side of the opening. This switch released the friction clutch which closed the door in a second.
On Wednesday April 10 1912 at 12 noon, the Titanic steamed out of the port of Southampton England. Eager watchers gathered to watch the departure. Loved ones of the passengers gathered also.
Commanding the huge ship was Captain E J Smith. He was a sea veteran and an Admiral of the White Star Line fleet. There were six officers and two wireless operators. The only thing that happened as it left was that an American liner the New York came apart from it's mooring and began to float toward the Titanic. Luckily two tugs stopped the liner in time and towed it away.
The Titanic made 484 miles it's first day even though there was trouble in the coal bunkers. A fire had started in coal bunker number 6. Dry coal had been smoldering for days and flames were raging from the bottom of the bunkers. The stokers tried the entire voyage to put it out but could not. It was one of the many mysteries that surrounded the ill fated voyage.
Starting Sunday afternoon April 14 1912, ice warnings began to arrive in the wireless office.
research help: ' On Board the Titanic' by Dover Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Titanic was designed for comfort and stability. The designers of the huge liner never considered the possibility of a tragedy that occurred. The liner had fifteen water tight compartments. The bulkheads were heavy sheet metal that started at the bottom of the liner and stopped at the top side. The bulkhead openings were the size of a doorway. They were held in place by friction clutches. On the bridge was a switch that connected to an electric magnet at the side of the opening. This switch released the friction clutch which closed the door in a second.
On Wednesday April 10 1912 at 12 noon, the Titanic steamed out of the port of Southampton England. Eager watchers gathered to watch the departure. Loved ones of the passengers gathered also.
Commanding the huge ship was Captain E J Smith. He was a sea veteran and an Admiral of the White Star Line fleet. There were six officers and two wireless operators. The only thing that happened as it left was that an American liner the New York came apart from it's mooring and began to float toward the Titanic. Luckily two tugs stopped the liner in time and towed it away.
The Titanic made 484 miles it's first day even though there was trouble in the coal bunkers. A fire had started in coal bunker number 6. Dry coal had been smoldering for days and flames were raging from the bottom of the bunkers. The stokers tried the entire voyage to put it out but could not. It was one of the many mysteries that surrounded the ill fated voyage.
Starting Sunday afternoon April 14 1912, ice warnings began to arrive in the wireless office.
research help: ' On Board the Titanic' by Dover Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, January 15, 2016
Titanic 2016 page 1
Titanic 2016 page 1 by ric Gustafson
In the summer of 1909, a keel was laid at the Belfast yard of Harland and Wolff. Lord Pirrie, who was an authority on shipbuilding, was the designer. The ship was launched on May 31 1911 and was completed in February 1912. The cost was ten million dollars.
The name of the ship was the Titanic.
Titanic became the largest liner in commission and was a sister ship of the Olympic. Captain E J Smith commanded the ship. The huge liner was 882 and a half feet long and was 5000 tons larger than a battleship. The liner was a four funneled vessel with eleven decks. The huge liner could accommodate 2500 passengers. The liner was divided by compartments and was separated by fifteen bulkheads. She had a gymnasium, swimming pool, an operating hospital, a grill and a palm garden.
Titanic's tonnage was 45,000 and her crew numbered 860. The liner's hull plates were 36 feet long and weighed four and a half tons. The rudder weighed 100 tons and the anchors 15 and a half tons each.
3 million rivets held the plates of steel together. Traveling cranes held seven ton riveting machines. The rivets were put in by hydraulic power.
Some of the decks had private promenades with the highest going for $ 4,350 and private suites for $ 2300. Some of the sitting rooms were 15 by 15 feet. The most expensive suites had a sitting room, two bedrooms and a bath. It was the most expensive rooms of it's day.
The engine room was divided into two sections with turbines and reciprocating engines. In the bowels of the ship was a steam generating plant and coal bunkers. There were twenty four double end boilers and five single end boilers. Coal was stored in bunker space along the side of the ship between decks. Stokers put the coal into the furnaces. A refrigerating plant helped with ice making and things like beef, mutton, poultry and fish.
research help: ' On Board the Titanic' by Dover Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In the summer of 1909, a keel was laid at the Belfast yard of Harland and Wolff. Lord Pirrie, who was an authority on shipbuilding, was the designer. The ship was launched on May 31 1911 and was completed in February 1912. The cost was ten million dollars.
The name of the ship was the Titanic.
Titanic became the largest liner in commission and was a sister ship of the Olympic. Captain E J Smith commanded the ship. The huge liner was 882 and a half feet long and was 5000 tons larger than a battleship. The liner was a four funneled vessel with eleven decks. The huge liner could accommodate 2500 passengers. The liner was divided by compartments and was separated by fifteen bulkheads. She had a gymnasium, swimming pool, an operating hospital, a grill and a palm garden.
Titanic's tonnage was 45,000 and her crew numbered 860. The liner's hull plates were 36 feet long and weighed four and a half tons. The rudder weighed 100 tons and the anchors 15 and a half tons each.
3 million rivets held the plates of steel together. Traveling cranes held seven ton riveting machines. The rivets were put in by hydraulic power.
Some of the decks had private promenades with the highest going for $ 4,350 and private suites for $ 2300. Some of the sitting rooms were 15 by 15 feet. The most expensive suites had a sitting room, two bedrooms and a bath. It was the most expensive rooms of it's day.
The engine room was divided into two sections with turbines and reciprocating engines. In the bowels of the ship was a steam generating plant and coal bunkers. There were twenty four double end boilers and five single end boilers. Coal was stored in bunker space along the side of the ship between decks. Stokers put the coal into the furnaces. A refrigerating plant helped with ice making and things like beef, mutton, poultry and fish.
research help: ' On Board the Titanic' by Dover Publications
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Great Oz page 8
the Great Oz page 8 by ric Gustafson
They ran across ravines and down hills. They stopped at a ledge by a waterfall. They crouched and entered the space underneath to hide. The sound of the monkeys diminished.
Oscar frowned. " I don't like witches".
She smiled. " That's interesting".
" Why is that?".
" I am a witch". She grinned. " I'm Theodora the Good".
Just then, a monkey flew overhead as if it sensed they were near.
Oscar took a dove out of his coat and let it fly out.
The monkey flew after it.
Oscar grinned. " We better go".
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
They ran across ravines and down hills. They stopped at a ledge by a waterfall. They crouched and entered the space underneath to hide. The sound of the monkeys diminished.
Oscar frowned. " I don't like witches".
She smiled. " That's interesting".
" Why is that?".
" I am a witch". She grinned. " I'm Theodora the Good".
Just then, a monkey flew overhead as if it sensed they were near.
Oscar took a dove out of his coat and let it fly out.
The monkey flew after it.
Oscar grinned. " We better go".
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
it is your destiny page 8
it is your destiny page 8 by ric Gustafson
To navigate through life as Christians, we need the wisdom of God. Spiritual wisdom is understanding and to see things the way God sees them. Wisdom looks beneath the surface and discerns things. In Isaiah 55: 8-9 it says that my thoughts are not your thoughts neither are your ways my ways. Our view or life is limited. But God can see the beginning and the end. Some people in life seek godly wisdom and advice and some don't. There are two kinds of wisdom. One is the world's and the other is God's. Proverbs 4:7 says to get wisdom. We need to ask for wisdom daily.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
To navigate through life as Christians, we need the wisdom of God. Spiritual wisdom is understanding and to see things the way God sees them. Wisdom looks beneath the surface and discerns things. In Isaiah 55: 8-9 it says that my thoughts are not your thoughts neither are your ways my ways. Our view or life is limited. But God can see the beginning and the end. Some people in life seek godly wisdom and advice and some don't. There are two kinds of wisdom. One is the world's and the other is God's. Proverbs 4:7 says to get wisdom. We need to ask for wisdom daily.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, January 14, 2016
the Great Oz page 7
the Great Oz page 7 by ric Gustafson
" You are here to claim your throne".
Oscar gave her a strange look. " What throne?".
" The prophecy is that a great wizard will descend from heaven and save us all". She stopped and stared at Oscar. " You are the wizard aren't you?".
Oscar thought for a moment. " Yes I am".
Just then, there was a large shriek from the forest. " What was that?".
The woman's face turned ashen. " The Wicked Witch's monkey's". She pointed toward the forest. " She sent them to kill you".
She began to run toward the strange forest.
Oscar followed her.
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" You are here to claim your throne".
Oscar gave her a strange look. " What throne?".
" The prophecy is that a great wizard will descend from heaven and save us all". She stopped and stared at Oscar. " You are the wizard aren't you?".
Oscar thought for a moment. " Yes I am".
Just then, there was a large shriek from the forest. " What was that?".
The woman's face turned ashen. " The Wicked Witch's monkey's". She pointed toward the forest. " She sent them to kill you".
She began to run toward the strange forest.
Oscar followed her.
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 17
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 17 by ric Gustafson
One of the witnesses spoke up. " I heard him say I am able to destroy the Temple of God and to build it in three days".
This is the answer Caiaphas had been waiting for.
Another witness spoke up. " I also heard him say I will destroy this Temple made with hands and in three days I will build another made without hands".
The chief priest noticed that Jesus was still silent and had his head down.
" Do you not answer". Caiaphas stared at this so called King. " What is this that these men testify against you?".
Jesus lifted his head but did not say a word.
" Under oath, tell us if you are the Christ the Son of God".
" I am".
The assembled could not believe what they had just heard.
" It is as you said and you will see the Son of God sitting at the right hand of God". His voice hesitated. " And coming in the clouds of heaven".
Caiaphas tore his clothes and yelled toward the men seated behind him. " You've heard the blasphemy". He looked at Jesus with an angry look. " What do you think?".
Several of the men stood up. " He deserves death". Several of the men walked up to Jesus and spit on him or hit him.
Through all of the abuse, Jesus did not retaliate.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
One of the witnesses spoke up. " I heard him say I am able to destroy the Temple of God and to build it in three days".
This is the answer Caiaphas had been waiting for.
Another witness spoke up. " I also heard him say I will destroy this Temple made with hands and in three days I will build another made without hands".
The chief priest noticed that Jesus was still silent and had his head down.
" Do you not answer". Caiaphas stared at this so called King. " What is this that these men testify against you?".
Jesus lifted his head but did not say a word.
" Under oath, tell us if you are the Christ the Son of God".
" I am".
The assembled could not believe what they had just heard.
" It is as you said and you will see the Son of God sitting at the right hand of God". His voice hesitated. " And coming in the clouds of heaven".
Caiaphas tore his clothes and yelled toward the men seated behind him. " You've heard the blasphemy". He looked at Jesus with an angry look. " What do you think?".
Several of the men stood up. " He deserves death". Several of the men walked up to Jesus and spit on him or hit him.
Through all of the abuse, Jesus did not retaliate.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
the Great Oz page 6
the Great Oz page 6 by ric Gustafson
Oscar stood up.
Standing on the shore was one of the most beautiful women Oscar had ever seen. She was wearing dark pants, a white shirt, riding boots and a long red jacket. She had thick dark hair, big brown eyes and red lips.
" Thank goodness" Oscar exclaimed. " I thought I was a goner".
The woman smiled. " I saw you fall from the sky".
Just then, Oscar felt a stab on one of his legs. " Ouch, what was that?".
" River fairies". She pointed at the water. " I would get out of there if I were you".
He walked out of the water and then felt his leg. Oscar looked around at all the beauty. " Where am I?".
" You're in Oz".
" Really". Oscar grinned. " That's my name".
" It is".
" My name is Oscar Zoroaster Phadrig Isaac Norman Henkle Emmanuel Ambroise Diggs".
" My friends call me Oz".
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Oscar stood up.
Standing on the shore was one of the most beautiful women Oscar had ever seen. She was wearing dark pants, a white shirt, riding boots and a long red jacket. She had thick dark hair, big brown eyes and red lips.
" Thank goodness" Oscar exclaimed. " I thought I was a goner".
The woman smiled. " I saw you fall from the sky".
Just then, Oscar felt a stab on one of his legs. " Ouch, what was that?".
" River fairies". She pointed at the water. " I would get out of there if I were you".
He walked out of the water and then felt his leg. Oscar looked around at all the beauty. " Where am I?".
" You're in Oz".
" Really". Oscar grinned. " That's my name".
" It is".
" My name is Oscar Zoroaster Phadrig Isaac Norman Henkle Emmanuel Ambroise Diggs".
" My friends call me Oz".
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
it is your destiny page 7
it is your destiny page 7 by ric Gustafson
For our destiny to come true, we must need a pure heart. You need your heart to make decisions. Our heart was given to us for a specific purpose. With our heart, we feel emotions, desires and life's direction. Our heart is our mind, will and emotions. When we make a decision, our heart gives us advice. Our heart sifts through information deciding whether to accept it or not. Our heart is the seat of our conscience.
The danger is that our heart can also stray us away from God. Matthew 5:8 says blessed are the pure in heart. for they shall see God. Our heart can also interact with God, his Word and his Spirit. Our heart needs to be purified and cleansed. God wants us to be cleansed and to have a pure heart.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
For our destiny to come true, we must need a pure heart. You need your heart to make decisions. Our heart was given to us for a specific purpose. With our heart, we feel emotions, desires and life's direction. Our heart is our mind, will and emotions. When we make a decision, our heart gives us advice. Our heart sifts through information deciding whether to accept it or not. Our heart is the seat of our conscience.
The danger is that our heart can also stray us away from God. Matthew 5:8 says blessed are the pure in heart. for they shall see God. Our heart can also interact with God, his Word and his Spirit. Our heart needs to be purified and cleansed. God wants us to be cleansed and to have a pure heart.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 16
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 16 by ric Gustafson
Flavius held tightly onto the rope as he led Jesus across the open courtyard. It was dark and cold and Flavius noticed a coal fire that was in a corner of the courtyard. His keen eye noticed two men standing next to it. One was big, burly and looked like a fisherman. He looked familiar to Flavius.
He led Jesus into the large meeting hall.
Caiaphas noticed the Rabbi. He raised a hand to quiet the men behind him. Instead of a so called King, he looked upon a young bearded man who's face looked swollen from being struck.
Flavius led Jesus so he would be right in front of the chief priest.
His head was down and he was silent.
Several people came forward and said all kinds of accusations against him.
Caiaphas knew that their statements would not sustain a charge against the prisoner. He waited patiently to hear the last two accusers.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius held tightly onto the rope as he led Jesus across the open courtyard. It was dark and cold and Flavius noticed a coal fire that was in a corner of the courtyard. His keen eye noticed two men standing next to it. One was big, burly and looked like a fisherman. He looked familiar to Flavius.
He led Jesus into the large meeting hall.
Caiaphas noticed the Rabbi. He raised a hand to quiet the men behind him. Instead of a so called King, he looked upon a young bearded man who's face looked swollen from being struck.
Flavius led Jesus so he would be right in front of the chief priest.
His head was down and he was silent.
Several people came forward and said all kinds of accusations against him.
Caiaphas knew that their statements would not sustain a charge against the prisoner. He waited patiently to hear the last two accusers.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
it is your destiny page 6
it is your destiny page 6 by ric Gustafson
I Peter 1:13 says to gird up the loins of your mind. God wants us to get serious about our life and our destiny. I Peter 5:8 says to be sober and vigilant. This verse talks about Satan as a roaring lion. God wants to bless and care for us. Satan wants to devour and destroy us.
God wants us to be serious about our life. I Thessalonians 5:6 says to not sleep but to watch and be sober. We live in a world of spiritually asleep people. I pray that we will be different.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Peter 1:13 says to gird up the loins of your mind. God wants us to get serious about our life and our destiny. I Peter 5:8 says to be sober and vigilant. This verse talks about Satan as a roaring lion. God wants to bless and care for us. Satan wants to devour and destroy us.
God wants us to be serious about our life. I Thessalonians 5:6 says to not sleep but to watch and be sober. We live in a world of spiritually asleep people. I pray that we will be different.
research help: ' Discover Your Destiny' by Cary Schmidt
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 15
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 15 by ric Gustafson
Annas was resting on some big cushions when a servant came in. " Sire, I just heard that someone very important is coming".
He began to munch on a grape. " Who is that?".
" Remember that Rabbi from Galilee who caused all that trouble in the Temple that day".
Annas winced because he knew who he was talking about. A lot of his wealth came from license fees that he charged the moneychangers tables. He lost a lot of money that day because of that man's actions. Even though he was the former chief priest, he still held great power.
Flavius led Jesus into the torch lit room.
Annas could not believe what he was looking at. In front of him stood a young bearded man in tattered clothes and who's face looked like it had been roughed up.
Annas smiled. " Tell me about your disciples and your doctrine".
Jesus looked up at the former chief priest. " I spoke openly to the world, why do you ask me?". His voice hesitated. " Ask those who have heard me".
One of the soldiers next to Jesus struck him with the palm of his hand. " Do you answer the high priest like that?".
Jesus turned toward the soldier. " If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil" His voice hesitated again. " If well, why do you strike me?".
After a while of trying to get some answers from Jesus, Annas motioned for Flavius. " Take him through the courtyard to Caiaphas's house".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Annas was resting on some big cushions when a servant came in. " Sire, I just heard that someone very important is coming".
He began to munch on a grape. " Who is that?".
" Remember that Rabbi from Galilee who caused all that trouble in the Temple that day".
Annas winced because he knew who he was talking about. A lot of his wealth came from license fees that he charged the moneychangers tables. He lost a lot of money that day because of that man's actions. Even though he was the former chief priest, he still held great power.
Flavius led Jesus into the torch lit room.
Annas could not believe what he was looking at. In front of him stood a young bearded man in tattered clothes and who's face looked like it had been roughed up.
Annas smiled. " Tell me about your disciples and your doctrine".
Jesus looked up at the former chief priest. " I spoke openly to the world, why do you ask me?". His voice hesitated. " Ask those who have heard me".
One of the soldiers next to Jesus struck him with the palm of his hand. " Do you answer the high priest like that?".
Jesus turned toward the soldier. " If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil" His voice hesitated again. " If well, why do you strike me?".
After a while of trying to get some answers from Jesus, Annas motioned for Flavius. " Take him through the courtyard to Caiaphas's house".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, January 11, 2016
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 14
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 14 by ric Gustafson
The group yelled again. " Jesus of Nazareth".
" If it is I you are seeking". Jesus pointed at his followers. " Then let these others go their way".
A big man, who looked like a fisherman, stood next to Jesus. All of a sudden, he pulled out a sword and struck the ear of Caiaphas's servant.
Malchus fell to the ground. He held onto his ear and screamed in pain.
Jesus gave Peter a stern look. " Put that sword away". His voice hesitated. " Shall I not drink the cup given by my Father". He knelt down and put his hand over Malchus's ear.
As Flavius watched in disbelief, Jesus healed the servant's ear. Jesus stood up.
Flavius shook his head over the miracle he had just witnessed. Just then, he remembered what he and the others were doing there.
" Seize him" he said loudly.
Some soldiers came forward and bound Jesus with tight ropes.
Malchus was still on the ground holding onto his now healed ear.
Flavius and the others led Jesus away.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The group yelled again. " Jesus of Nazareth".
" If it is I you are seeking". Jesus pointed at his followers. " Then let these others go their way".
A big man, who looked like a fisherman, stood next to Jesus. All of a sudden, he pulled out a sword and struck the ear of Caiaphas's servant.
Malchus fell to the ground. He held onto his ear and screamed in pain.
Jesus gave Peter a stern look. " Put that sword away". His voice hesitated. " Shall I not drink the cup given by my Father". He knelt down and put his hand over Malchus's ear.
As Flavius watched in disbelief, Jesus healed the servant's ear. Jesus stood up.
Flavius shook his head over the miracle he had just witnessed. Just then, he remembered what he and the others were doing there.
" Seize him" he said loudly.
Some soldiers came forward and bound Jesus with tight ropes.
Malchus was still on the ground holding onto his now healed ear.
Flavius and the others led Jesus away.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, January 9, 2016
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 13
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 13 by ric Gustafson
Maeiminus noticed a young lad next to the centurion. " Flavius, who is that?".
" This is Malchus". He patted the young lad's shoulder. " He is a servant of the chief priest and he asked that I bring him along".
The group quietly walked through the entrance of a grove of olive trees. Flavius noticed some men milling around as if they had just woken up from a nap. All of sudden, coming toward them was a tall young man who wore a dark beard.
Judas smiled and then walked up to Jesus. He kissed him on the cheek.
Jesus stared at Judas. " Are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?". Jesus turned toward the mob. " Whom do you seek?".
The group roared back. " Jesus of Nazareth".
" I am he".
The group stepped back and fell to the ground.
" Whom do you seek?".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Maeiminus noticed a young lad next to the centurion. " Flavius, who is that?".
" This is Malchus". He patted the young lad's shoulder. " He is a servant of the chief priest and he asked that I bring him along".
The group quietly walked through the entrance of a grove of olive trees. Flavius noticed some men milling around as if they had just woken up from a nap. All of sudden, coming toward them was a tall young man who wore a dark beard.
Judas smiled and then walked up to Jesus. He kissed him on the cheek.
Jesus stared at Judas. " Are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?". Jesus turned toward the mob. " Whom do you seek?".
The group roared back. " Jesus of Nazareth".
" I am he".
The group stepped back and fell to the ground.
" Whom do you seek?".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Giving Thanks: are we ready to listen?
Giving Thanks: are we ready to listen? by ric Gustafson
Is our spiritual life empty and dry?. Living in this sin filled world sometimes leaves us with a dulling sense. Sometimes we seek other things and pleasures instead of Jesus. This could rob us of the joy and satisfaction of a close relationship with Jesus.
So how do we have a new encounter with Jesus?. First, the encounter will be unexpected. Second, it will initiated by Jesus. When we do encounter Jesus, certain things will happen. We will be aware of his presence, We will be aware of his holiness. We will be aware of his forgiveness. Jesus will call us to action.
How do we prepare for this encounter?. We need to spend time each day studying his Word and praying. Then when that encounter happens, we can say with boldness ' here I am send me'.
research help: In Touch January 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Is our spiritual life empty and dry?. Living in this sin filled world sometimes leaves us with a dulling sense. Sometimes we seek other things and pleasures instead of Jesus. This could rob us of the joy and satisfaction of a close relationship with Jesus.
So how do we have a new encounter with Jesus?. First, the encounter will be unexpected. Second, it will initiated by Jesus. When we do encounter Jesus, certain things will happen. We will be aware of his presence, We will be aware of his holiness. We will be aware of his forgiveness. Jesus will call us to action.
How do we prepare for this encounter?. We need to spend time each day studying his Word and praying. Then when that encounter happens, we can say with boldness ' here I am send me'.
research help: In Touch January 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, January 8, 2016
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 12
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 12 by ric Gustafson
Maeiminus waited with the large mob while Flavius and Judas walked up the slope to converse. After a short time, Flavius came back and motioned for the group to resume walking. With Judas in front, they began walking up the slope.
" Maeiminus" Flavius said in a hushed voice. " I just had a talk with this Judas". He pointed up the hill. " He told me we were coming up to a garden of olive trees called Gethsemane". He began to talk even softer. " There we will find this Rabbi from Galilee".
His second in command scratched his chin. " How will we know which one he is?".
" He told me that the one that he kisses is the one we are to seize".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Maeiminus waited with the large mob while Flavius and Judas walked up the slope to converse. After a short time, Flavius came back and motioned for the group to resume walking. With Judas in front, they began walking up the slope.
" Maeiminus" Flavius said in a hushed voice. " I just had a talk with this Judas". He pointed up the hill. " He told me we were coming up to a garden of olive trees called Gethsemane". He began to talk even softer. " There we will find this Rabbi from Galilee".
His second in command scratched his chin. " How will we know which one he is?".
" He told me that the one that he kisses is the one we are to seize".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Giving Thanks: giving thanks for everything
Giving Thanks: giving thanks for everything by ric Gustafson
I Thessalonians 5:18 says in everything give thanks for this is God's will. It's easy to be grateful in good times but what about in bad times.
Why is gratitude important in our life?. First, it keeps us aware that Jesus is near. Second, it motivates us to look for Jesus's purposes. Third, it helps bring our will into submission with Jesus's. Fourth, it reminds us of our reliance upon Jesus. Fifth, gratitude is a key ingredient for joy. Sixth, giving thanks helps strengthens our witnessing to unbelievers. Seventh, giving thanks focuses our attention on Jesus not ourselves. Lastly, giving thanks changes our anxiety to peace.
research help: In Touch November 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Thessalonians 5:18 says in everything give thanks for this is God's will. It's easy to be grateful in good times but what about in bad times.
Why is gratitude important in our life?. First, it keeps us aware that Jesus is near. Second, it motivates us to look for Jesus's purposes. Third, it helps bring our will into submission with Jesus's. Fourth, it reminds us of our reliance upon Jesus. Fifth, gratitude is a key ingredient for joy. Sixth, giving thanks helps strengthens our witnessing to unbelievers. Seventh, giving thanks focuses our attention on Jesus not ourselves. Lastly, giving thanks changes our anxiety to peace.
research help: In Touch November 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, January 7, 2016
disciples of the Wolf: Rudolf Hoess
disciples of the Wolf: Rudolf Hoess by ric Gustafson
Each morning Rudolf Hoess buttoned his tunic, straightened his cap and kissed his wife before going to work. He had two rules at home. No one talked about his work and the children were not allowed past the gate. His son Klaus knew something was strange beyond the gate. From an open window, he could see smoke coming from chimneys and that black ash filled their garden.
So what was Rudolf Hoess's job. He was responsible for the deaths of an estimated 2.5 million people at Auschwitz. He boasted that his camp could eliminate 10,000 people in 24 hours. In his job he saw nothing criminal in it. He placed great faith in duty and was rewarded for his duty in the death camp. Hoess's religion was Nazi ideology and he never questioned an order. Hoess was captured after the war and brought back to Auschwitz in April 1947. He was hanged in the camp.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Each morning Rudolf Hoess buttoned his tunic, straightened his cap and kissed his wife before going to work. He had two rules at home. No one talked about his work and the children were not allowed past the gate. His son Klaus knew something was strange beyond the gate. From an open window, he could see smoke coming from chimneys and that black ash filled their garden.
So what was Rudolf Hoess's job. He was responsible for the deaths of an estimated 2.5 million people at Auschwitz. He boasted that his camp could eliminate 10,000 people in 24 hours. In his job he saw nothing criminal in it. He placed great faith in duty and was rewarded for his duty in the death camp. Hoess's religion was Nazi ideology and he never questioned an order. Hoess was captured after the war and brought back to Auschwitz in April 1947. He was hanged in the camp.
research help: ' The Nazi Files' by Paul Roland
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 11
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 11 by ric Gustafson
Flavius checked his helmet, his uniform and made sure he had his sword with him. He looked over at his friend and second in command Maeiminus to make sure he had his club. Flavius had handpicked a large detachment of his best soldiers and made sure each had a club or sword.
The tall lanky man named Judas walked up to Flavius and Maeiminus and stood next to them.
With Judas in front, Flavius motioned with his hand and the entire group began walking. Most of the soldiers carried torches and the walked quietly past the Temple Mount. They walked past pilgrims who had finished their Passover meals. They walked past local citizens who were preparing for Passover the next evening. The group quietly walked through the Garden Gate and then toward a brook that flowed through the Kidron Valley.
" Where are we going Flavius?" Maeiminus asked as they walked across a wooden bridge that went over the Kidron brook.
" I'm not sure" was his quick reply. Flavius noticed how high the water level of the brook was. " I was told to follow this Judas because he knows where this Rabbi from Galilee is".
The group crossed the brook and then began to walk up the western slope of the Mount of Olives.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius checked his helmet, his uniform and made sure he had his sword with him. He looked over at his friend and second in command Maeiminus to make sure he had his club. Flavius had handpicked a large detachment of his best soldiers and made sure each had a club or sword.
The tall lanky man named Judas walked up to Flavius and Maeiminus and stood next to them.
With Judas in front, Flavius motioned with his hand and the entire group began walking. Most of the soldiers carried torches and the walked quietly past the Temple Mount. They walked past pilgrims who had finished their Passover meals. They walked past local citizens who were preparing for Passover the next evening. The group quietly walked through the Garden Gate and then toward a brook that flowed through the Kidron Valley.
" Where are we going Flavius?" Maeiminus asked as they walked across a wooden bridge that went over the Kidron brook.
" I'm not sure" was his quick reply. Flavius noticed how high the water level of the brook was. " I was told to follow this Judas because he knows where this Rabbi from Galilee is".
The group crossed the brook and then began to walk up the western slope of the Mount of Olives.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Grace: the surprise of grace
Grace: the surprise of grace by ric Gustafson
Grace can be grand and it should be. And on the other hand, grace can be immediate and surprising. Grace is powerful and surprising. God gives grace to the sick and the broken. This means that grace comes to all of us. Grace is an invitation from God to be forgiven when we've done nothing wrong. Grace is to be freed when bound. Grace is to receive kindness when we should be reprimanded.
Because of grace, God showers on us unrelenting love.
Praise God for that.
The End.
research help: In Touch February 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Grace can be grand and it should be. And on the other hand, grace can be immediate and surprising. Grace is powerful and surprising. God gives grace to the sick and the broken. This means that grace comes to all of us. Grace is an invitation from God to be forgiven when we've done nothing wrong. Grace is to be freed when bound. Grace is to receive kindness when we should be reprimanded.
Because of grace, God showers on us unrelenting love.
Praise God for that.
The End.
research help: In Touch February 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Grace: seeking God
Grace: seeking God by ric Gustafson
How is our relationship with God?. Do we know him personally or is he a vague concept?. God desires for us to have a meaningful personal relationship with him. We must relate to God as a person. God wants to know us personally. God loves us so much he reveals himself in a personal way.
God wants our relationship with him to grow. This way through us he can accomplish his will and purpose. Our relationship with God is a process. God wants us to spend time with him, share his love with others, to listen to him, keep our attention on him, be open with him and to trust him.
research help: In Touch February 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
How is our relationship with God?. Do we know him personally or is he a vague concept?. God desires for us to have a meaningful personal relationship with him. We must relate to God as a person. God wants to know us personally. God loves us so much he reveals himself in a personal way.
God wants our relationship with him to grow. This way through us he can accomplish his will and purpose. Our relationship with God is a process. God wants us to spend time with him, share his love with others, to listen to him, keep our attention on him, be open with him and to trust him.
research help: In Touch February 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 10
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 10 by ric Gustafson
Flavius saw the man step out of the shadows and walk slowly toward Caiaphas. He drew his sword and walked quickly to get in between the two. Caiaphas raised his hand that he was alright.
" Again, what are you willing to give me if I deliver him to you?".
" Who are you" Caiaphas asked.
" My name is Judas Iscariot". The young man stared at the chief priest. " I believe that we have a common interest".
" And what interest is that?".
" The Rabbi from Galilee".
" Ah yes, the Rabbi from Galilee" Caiaphas exclaimed as he sat down in his chair. " And how can you help with that situation?".
" I was treasurer for their group". His eyes darted around the room. " I know him and know where he goes and can take you to him".
" Why are you doing this?". The chief priest stared at Judas. " What is in it for you?".
" I have my reasons". He grinned. " I assume I will be compensated financially".
" Ah yes financially". Caiaphas scratched his chin in thought. " Wait here while I talk to the others".
Caiaphas walked over to the table and quietly conferred with the other priests. After a while, he motioned for Flavius to follow him into a small room.
The chief priest handed Flavius a bag of coins. " Give this to that Judas as his compensation". He smiled at his centurion. " Follow him with a detachment of your best soldiers". His voice hesitated. " Arrest this Rabbi and bring him to me". He put a hand on Flavius's shoulder. " Be careful, I hear he might be dangerous".
" It will be done".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius saw the man step out of the shadows and walk slowly toward Caiaphas. He drew his sword and walked quickly to get in between the two. Caiaphas raised his hand that he was alright.
" Again, what are you willing to give me if I deliver him to you?".
" Who are you" Caiaphas asked.
" My name is Judas Iscariot". The young man stared at the chief priest. " I believe that we have a common interest".
" And what interest is that?".
" The Rabbi from Galilee".
" Ah yes, the Rabbi from Galilee" Caiaphas exclaimed as he sat down in his chair. " And how can you help with that situation?".
" I was treasurer for their group". His eyes darted around the room. " I know him and know where he goes and can take you to him".
" Why are you doing this?". The chief priest stared at Judas. " What is in it for you?".
" I have my reasons". He grinned. " I assume I will be compensated financially".
" Ah yes financially". Caiaphas scratched his chin in thought. " Wait here while I talk to the others".
Caiaphas walked over to the table and quietly conferred with the other priests. After a while, he motioned for Flavius to follow him into a small room.
The chief priest handed Flavius a bag of coins. " Give this to that Judas as his compensation". He smiled at his centurion. " Follow him with a detachment of your best soldiers". His voice hesitated. " Arrest this Rabbi and bring him to me". He put a hand on Flavius's shoulder. " Be careful, I hear he might be dangerous".
" It will be done".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 9
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 9 by ric Gustafson
" Before we get to the very important matter which is why we are here". Caiaphas motioned to Flavius. " This is Flavius Artemis".
Flavius knelt down before the chief priest and clenched a fist over his heart.
" On recommendation of Pilate and myself". He smiled. " Artemis is now the garrison centurion for the Fortress".
" I give you my complete loyalty" Flavius replied quietly. He stood up and walked over to a side wall.
Caiaphas sat down in his chair. " Let us begin this special council meeting".
One of the priests stood up. " What are we doing, this man is performing many signs".
Another priest banged a fist on the table. " If we let this man continue like this, all men will believe in him".
A third priest stood up. " The Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation".
Caiaphas raised his arm to quiet them. " All of you know nothing at all". He looked around the table. " Nor do you take into account that it is expedient for you that one man die for the people". His voice hesitated. " And that the whole nation not perish".
At that moment, Flavius noticed the tall slender hooded man uncover his face.
" What are you willing to give me if I deliver him to you?".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" Before we get to the very important matter which is why we are here". Caiaphas motioned to Flavius. " This is Flavius Artemis".
Flavius knelt down before the chief priest and clenched a fist over his heart.
" On recommendation of Pilate and myself". He smiled. " Artemis is now the garrison centurion for the Fortress".
" I give you my complete loyalty" Flavius replied quietly. He stood up and walked over to a side wall.
Caiaphas sat down in his chair. " Let us begin this special council meeting".
One of the priests stood up. " What are we doing, this man is performing many signs".
Another priest banged a fist on the table. " If we let this man continue like this, all men will believe in him".
A third priest stood up. " The Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation".
Caiaphas raised his arm to quiet them. " All of you know nothing at all". He looked around the table. " Nor do you take into account that it is expedient for you that one man die for the people". His voice hesitated. " And that the whole nation not perish".
At that moment, Flavius noticed the tall slender hooded man uncover his face.
" What are you willing to give me if I deliver him to you?".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Grace: the logistics of it
Grace: the logistics of it by ric Gustafson
God's grace in the lives of believers is matchless. We are dependent on him for everything we need. We try to succeed on our own to no avail. We try to walk through life with loss, illness, financial hardship and other troubles. Yet, God provides the grace we need to pass through these tough times.
God will provide in our darkest moments but we must seek it. Before difficulties happen, God is already at work providing what we need to get through it.
God is the logistician and will always take care of us his beloved people.
research help: In Touch February 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God's grace in the lives of believers is matchless. We are dependent on him for everything we need. We try to succeed on our own to no avail. We try to walk through life with loss, illness, financial hardship and other troubles. Yet, God provides the grace we need to pass through these tough times.
God will provide in our darkest moments but we must seek it. Before difficulties happen, God is already at work providing what we need to get through it.
God is the logistician and will always take care of us his beloved people.
research help: In Touch February 2013
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, January 4, 2016
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 8
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 8 by ric Gustafson
Flavius nervously adjusted his helmet and straightened the medals that were on the front of his uniform. The medals mostly were for bravery in battle. He was proud of them. He stood against a wall of one of the palace rooms of Caiaphas. He was the chief priest in Jerusalem that year.
The dimly lit room did not contain much other than a large chair for the chief priest and a long wooden table for the Sanhedrin council meetings. Flavius watched as several of the high priests and some important Pharisees walked in and sat down. Flavius watched a tall dark haired man, wearing a hooded cloak covering his face, enter the room and stand against a back wall.
Caiaphas was the last to enter the room. He wielded enormous authority partly because his father in law was the former chief priest.
Caiaphas loudly banged his fist on his chair. " Let's get started".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius nervously adjusted his helmet and straightened the medals that were on the front of his uniform. The medals mostly were for bravery in battle. He was proud of them. He stood against a wall of one of the palace rooms of Caiaphas. He was the chief priest in Jerusalem that year.
The dimly lit room did not contain much other than a large chair for the chief priest and a long wooden table for the Sanhedrin council meetings. Flavius watched as several of the high priests and some important Pharisees walked in and sat down. Flavius watched a tall dark haired man, wearing a hooded cloak covering his face, enter the room and stand against a back wall.
Caiaphas was the last to enter the room. He wielded enormous authority partly because his father in law was the former chief priest.
Caiaphas loudly banged his fist on his chair. " Let's get started".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by John Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
walking the narrow path: to be a servant
walking the narrow path: to be a servant by ric Gustafson
The men who followed Jesus according to I Corinthians 4:1 now considered themselves servants of Jesus. In the time of Jesus, a servant had a master and acted in response to their wishes and directives. Instead of their own glory, the apostles only now wanted to serve Jesus. To please God as servants we trust him to direct our work and also to judge it. The apostles faced death for Jesus by having great faith. To be a servant of God we need to abandon earthly rewards.
God rewards faithful servants. We will face hardships and humiliations in this life. Like Paul, at the end of our journey here on this earth we can say that we kept the faith and finished well.
The End
research help: In Touch June 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The men who followed Jesus according to I Corinthians 4:1 now considered themselves servants of Jesus. In the time of Jesus, a servant had a master and acted in response to their wishes and directives. Instead of their own glory, the apostles only now wanted to serve Jesus. To please God as servants we trust him to direct our work and also to judge it. The apostles faced death for Jesus by having great faith. To be a servant of God we need to abandon earthly rewards.
God rewards faithful servants. We will face hardships and humiliations in this life. Like Paul, at the end of our journey here on this earth we can say that we kept the faith and finished well.
The End
research help: In Touch June 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, January 2, 2016
walking the narrow path: ready to launch
walking the narrow path: ready to launch by ric Gustafson
When we are walking down the narrow path, God will open doors for us and connect us to people we have never imagined. Sometimes God directs us in ways that seem counter productive. But in fact, it is essential to going forward. God wants us to withhold nothing from him and to trust him with everything.
When God's instructions seem counter intuitive, more is at stake than a test of devotion. Our role must be humility. We need to abide in God, listen to his voice and submit to his guidance.
research help: In Touch June 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When we are walking down the narrow path, God will open doors for us and connect us to people we have never imagined. Sometimes God directs us in ways that seem counter productive. But in fact, it is essential to going forward. God wants us to withhold nothing from him and to trust him with everything.
When God's instructions seem counter intuitive, more is at stake than a test of devotion. Our role must be humility. We need to abide in God, listen to his voice and submit to his guidance.
research help: In Touch June 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 7
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 7 by ric Gustafson
Suddenly, Mary walked back into the room carrying a very expensive alabaster flask. She walked up to Jesus. She slowly opened the flask and poured the oil and ointment on Jesus's head and feet. As the fragrant perfume seeped through the floor, Mary knelt down and started to wipe the perfume from Jesus's feet with her hair.
As the incident was going on, Simon and the disciples were looking at Jesus and Mary in horror. Simon was shocked that his perfect dinner party had been ruined.
Judas, who was the treasurer of Jesus's group, spoke up for the disciples and Simon. " Why all this waste". He had a stern look on his face. " This perfume could of been sold for a lot and given to the poor". He knew about money and that the perfume was worth about 300 denarii. This was about a year's wage for a common laborer.
Jesus looked around the room at everybody and knew what all of them were thinking. " Why do you trouble with this woman?". He gave them a serious stare. " She has a done a good work for me". He helped Mary to her feet. " You will always have the poor but me you will not always have". He smiled. " For in pouring this oil on my body". His voice hesitated. " She did it for my burial". He smiled again. " And what this woman did will be a memorial to her".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by James Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Suddenly, Mary walked back into the room carrying a very expensive alabaster flask. She walked up to Jesus. She slowly opened the flask and poured the oil and ointment on Jesus's head and feet. As the fragrant perfume seeped through the floor, Mary knelt down and started to wipe the perfume from Jesus's feet with her hair.
As the incident was going on, Simon and the disciples were looking at Jesus and Mary in horror. Simon was shocked that his perfect dinner party had been ruined.
Judas, who was the treasurer of Jesus's group, spoke up for the disciples and Simon. " Why all this waste". He had a stern look on his face. " This perfume could of been sold for a lot and given to the poor". He knew about money and that the perfume was worth about 300 denarii. This was about a year's wage for a common laborer.
Jesus looked around the room at everybody and knew what all of them were thinking. " Why do you trouble with this woman?". He gave them a serious stare. " She has a done a good work for me". He helped Mary to her feet. " You will always have the poor but me you will not always have". He smiled. " For in pouring this oil on my body". His voice hesitated. " She did it for my burial". He smiled again. " And what this woman did will be a memorial to her".
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by James Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, January 1, 2016
walking the narrow path: writing your success story
walking the narrow path: writing your success story by ric Gustafson
God wants us to live our story. God wants us to experience the good times and the bad times of our story. Jesus's story included conflict but victory was the end result. Jesus wanted his disciples to have similar stories. His goal was for his disciples to be more like him.
When Jesus redeems us, he claims us as his own. One day we will stand before God's throne. We will be asked to give an account for our life here. Jesus invites us to live a great story in him.
research help: In Touch June 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God wants us to live our story. God wants us to experience the good times and the bad times of our story. Jesus's story included conflict but victory was the end result. Jesus wanted his disciples to have similar stories. His goal was for his disciples to be more like him.
When Jesus redeems us, he claims us as his own. One day we will stand before God's throne. We will be asked to give an account for our life here. Jesus invites us to live a great story in him.
research help: In Touch June 2012
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 6
Flavius Artemis the centurion page 6 by ric Gustafson
It was a beautiful day in Bethany. The town is on the eastern outskirts of Jerusalem. As evening came, a dinner party was about to begin. Simon, with a smile on his face, had been looking forward to this evening for some time now. With tears in his eyes, he thought about the time that he had that dreadful disease called leprosy. It normally gets worse and then the person is shunned from society. Later, the person dies an agonizing death.
One day, a Rabbi from Galilee named Jesus came and put his hands on him. At that instant, he was completely healed. This dinner party was Simon's way of thanking Jesus for the miracle he did for him.
Later, Jesus and his disciples came to Simon's house. They reclined at a low wooden table. Three friends of Simon's were also there. Their names were Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Simon had asked Martha if she would help with the meal. So far everything was going according to plan.
Then Mary excused herself and walked away.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by James Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It was a beautiful day in Bethany. The town is on the eastern outskirts of Jerusalem. As evening came, a dinner party was about to begin. Simon, with a smile on his face, had been looking forward to this evening for some time now. With tears in his eyes, he thought about the time that he had that dreadful disease called leprosy. It normally gets worse and then the person is shunned from society. Later, the person dies an agonizing death.
One day, a Rabbi from Galilee named Jesus came and put his hands on him. At that instant, he was completely healed. This dinner party was Simon's way of thanking Jesus for the miracle he did for him.
Later, Jesus and his disciples came to Simon's house. They reclined at a low wooden table. Three friends of Simon's were also there. Their names were Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Simon had asked Martha if she would help with the meal. So far everything was going according to plan.
Then Mary excused herself and walked away.
research help: ' The Murder of Jesus' by James Macarthur
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Great Oz page 5
the Great Oz page 5 by ric Gustafson
Oscar opened his eyes. The twister had stopped and so had the wind. He sat up and looked over the edge of the basket. The balloon was floating toward some strange shaped mountains.
Just then, the balloon fell through the clouds. Oscar hung unto the edge of the basket as it began to fall toward some rock formations.
The balloon dropped into a rushing river. It began to float toward the edge of a waterfall. It went over the edge.
Oscar closed his eyes. " Please help me".
He felt the balloon hit the bottom and then stop.
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Happy New Year. Love Ric
Oscar opened his eyes. The twister had stopped and so had the wind. He sat up and looked over the edge of the basket. The balloon was floating toward some strange shaped mountains.
Just then, the balloon fell through the clouds. Oscar hung unto the edge of the basket as it began to fall toward some rock formations.
The balloon dropped into a rushing river. It began to float toward the edge of a waterfall. It went over the edge.
Oscar closed his eyes. " Please help me".
He felt the balloon hit the bottom and then stop.
research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Disney Press
Peace and God's blessings. Happy New Year. Love Ric
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