Grace: that saved a wretch like me by ric Gustafson
What and who is a wretch?. Wretch is a term for a sinner like me. Wretch in the Old English means someone who is miserable an exile. We are miserable human beings in a self imposed exile. The Apostle Paul points out in Romans 3 that we are ruined and helpless in the sight of God. Paul points out that no one is righteous not one. Grace is apart from works. Grace is accepted by faith. Grace is available to all who believe. Grace is attained by justification. Grace is awarded freely. Grace is acquired through redemption.
research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
a healing touch page 4
a healing touch page 4 by ric Gustafson
One day, a man named Calvus showed up at my door. At one time, we were to be married. He married someone else. Now he tells me that he divorced her and loves me instead. One day, my old flame Ethan showed up on my doorstep. He asked me how long my bleeding had gone on. I told him it had been eleven years now. I told him that I had tried everything possible and had seen lots of doctors. I also told him that I had grown closer to God through my affliction.
Ethan said he was sorry for leaving me all those years ago. We talked about our quiet divorce and the years that followed. He told me about his eight year old daughter Viriato and her many activities. I reminded him again that I was unclean. He left. I did not tell him that my money was about gone. After one more month financially, I did not know what I was going to do.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
One day, a man named Calvus showed up at my door. At one time, we were to be married. He married someone else. Now he tells me that he divorced her and loves me instead. One day, my old flame Ethan showed up on my doorstep. He asked me how long my bleeding had gone on. I told him it had been eleven years now. I told him that I had tried everything possible and had seen lots of doctors. I also told him that I had grown closer to God through my affliction.
Ethan said he was sorry for leaving me all those years ago. We talked about our quiet divorce and the years that followed. He told me about his eight year old daughter Viriato and her many activities. I reminded him again that I was unclean. He left. I did not tell him that my money was about gone. After one more month financially, I did not know what I was going to do.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Grace: amazing grace how sweet the sound
Grace: amazing grace how sweet the sound by ric Gustafson
As humans, we want our own way. If somebody does something to us, we want to get even. Grace changes the wisdom of human behavior. A good example of grace is the Apostle Paul. Here was a man who seized Christians and took them away. Grace came knocking on Saul's door. He changed his name to Paul and his person. This Apostle wrote 130 references to grace in the New Testament.
The Greek word for grace is charis. Grace is favor. Grace happens. Grace can only come from God. God is the God of all grace.
research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
As humans, we want our own way. If somebody does something to us, we want to get even. Grace changes the wisdom of human behavior. A good example of grace is the Apostle Paul. Here was a man who seized Christians and took them away. Grace came knocking on Saul's door. He changed his name to Paul and his person. This Apostle wrote 130 references to grace in the New Testament.
The Greek word for grace is charis. Grace is favor. Grace happens. Grace can only come from God. God is the God of all grace.
research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Grace: a grace giver
Grace: a grace giver by ric Gustafson
We as Christians have received divine clemency. We need to live out our gratitude for God's grace. When God saved us from eternal damnation, he put his Holy Spirit into us. Our calling is to live in a matter worthy of Jesus. Because God showers us with grace, he wants to do the same to others.
Grace originates from God. We must learn to think as God does. When God is at work, grace will abound. Grace is a gift and will change your life. We need to ask God to fill our heart with grace.
As grace givers, we need to find ways to show kindness to others.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
We as Christians have received divine clemency. We need to live out our gratitude for God's grace. When God saved us from eternal damnation, he put his Holy Spirit into us. Our calling is to live in a matter worthy of Jesus. Because God showers us with grace, he wants to do the same to others.
Grace originates from God. We must learn to think as God does. When God is at work, grace will abound. Grace is a gift and will change your life. We need to ask God to fill our heart with grace.
As grace givers, we need to find ways to show kindness to others.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Saturday, November 26, 2016
a healing touch page 3
a healing touch page 3 by ric Gustafson
It was now nine years since my bleeding started. I had found out that Herod Antipas had fallen in love with his brother's wife Herodias. .I was forced to sell some of my furnishings in order to pay for doctors.
One day, I went to a doctor in Perea. He diagnosed that I had acute effwium of blood. He examined me with metal instruments. The doctor gave me a poulette. Part of the doctor's treatment for me was to go to the Jordan River. Along the river bank, I accidently fell in.
After the failure with this doctor, my bleeding got worse. I felt more horrible than before.
After nine years of this constant bleeding, I did not know what to do.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
It was now nine years since my bleeding started. I had found out that Herod Antipas had fallen in love with his brother's wife Herodias. .I was forced to sell some of my furnishings in order to pay for doctors.
One day, I went to a doctor in Perea. He diagnosed that I had acute effwium of blood. He examined me with metal instruments. The doctor gave me a poulette. Part of the doctor's treatment for me was to go to the Jordan River. Along the river bank, I accidently fell in.
After the failure with this doctor, my bleeding got worse. I felt more horrible than before.
After nine years of this constant bleeding, I did not know what to do.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Friday, November 25, 2016
Grace: spending time with unbelievers
Grace: spending time with unbelievers by ric Gustafson
God wants us to show grace to others. Grace is from God. Christians are ambassadors of grace. Sometimes we don't recognize opportunities to show grace to others. God wants us to demonstrate grace to unbelievers in this world. Grace draws people to God.
Sin drives unbelievers to destructive habits. To escape sin, we need to be spiritually crucified with Jesus. This world is full of hurting people. We feel betrayed and rejected. A gift of grace can heal a wounded soul. Life can be horrible if one does not believe in God. Grace is a gift. Grace brings hope and joy. Grace mends what is broken. Grace draws people to God.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
God wants us to show grace to others. Grace is from God. Christians are ambassadors of grace. Sometimes we don't recognize opportunities to show grace to others. God wants us to demonstrate grace to unbelievers in this world. Grace draws people to God.
Sin drives unbelievers to destructive habits. To escape sin, we need to be spiritually crucified with Jesus. This world is full of hurting people. We feel betrayed and rejected. A gift of grace can heal a wounded soul. Life can be horrible if one does not believe in God. Grace is a gift. Grace brings hope and joy. Grace mends what is broken. Grace draws people to God.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
a healing touch page 2
a healing touch page 2 by ric Gustafson
I have been bleeding for over two years now. It has made me thinner and often tired. I am also lonely for just a touch or an embrace. My sister Joanna had just informed me that she is going to have a baby.
In the third year of my bleeding, Doctor Sira brought me a crocus from Greece. This medicine was a mixture of cumin and fenugreek. He boiled it in water. Then he gave it to me to drink. The concoction did not work. One time, I reached six days without bleeding. On the seventh day, the bleeding began again. I could not go to the well to draw water because of the taunts and bad things the women were saying of me.
During the fourth year of my bleeding, I went to Jerusalem to visit Gamaliel. He was a member of the Sanhedrin. He asked me if I had passed judgment on God. I said no I had not. He told me to repent my sins to God. That night, I did just that.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
I have been bleeding for over two years now. It has made me thinner and often tired. I am also lonely for just a touch or an embrace. My sister Joanna had just informed me that she is going to have a baby.
In the third year of my bleeding, Doctor Sira brought me a crocus from Greece. This medicine was a mixture of cumin and fenugreek. He boiled it in water. Then he gave it to me to drink. The concoction did not work. One time, I reached six days without bleeding. On the seventh day, the bleeding began again. I could not go to the well to draw water because of the taunts and bad things the women were saying of me.
During the fourth year of my bleeding, I went to Jerusalem to visit Gamaliel. He was a member of the Sanhedrin. He asked me if I had passed judgment on God. I said no I had not. He told me to repent my sins to God. That night, I did just that.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Thursday, November 24, 2016
Grace: spending time with other believers
Grace: spending time with other believers by ric Gustafson
Sometimes grace is in short supply even among believers of God. One possible reason is that we lose sight of our daily need for grace. We take our salvation for granted. We forget that we are sinners saved by grace. Our heart becomes oblivious to God's grace. God's grace goes out to everyone outcasts and unacceptable people alike. God wants our churches to be churches of grace. God wants us to be people of grace. Everyone needs grace. People of grace focus on God not themselves.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
Sometimes grace is in short supply even among believers of God. One possible reason is that we lose sight of our daily need for grace. We take our salvation for granted. We forget that we are sinners saved by grace. Our heart becomes oblivious to God's grace. God's grace goes out to everyone outcasts and unacceptable people alike. God wants our churches to be churches of grace. God wants us to be people of grace. Everyone needs grace. People of grace focus on God not themselves.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
a healing touch page 1
a healing touch page 1 by ric Gustafson
My name is Elianna. Twelve months ago I started bleeding. Sometimes it would stop but then it would start again. According to the Law, seven uninterrupted days must pass before one could be considered clean once again. I rarely left the house because the pain was so bad.
I have seen three physicians already. No one is sure what to do with me. Anytime I get up from a couch, I consider it unclean. For a whole year, this bleeding sickness has plagued me. The third doctor I saw gave me a concoction that made me vomit for three days. One doctor named Sira instructed me to stand at an intersection of two small roads. After seeing so many doctors, I began to wonder if I was ever going to be healed of this bleeding.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
My name is Elianna. Twelve months ago I started bleeding. Sometimes it would stop but then it would start again. According to the Law, seven uninterrupted days must pass before one could be considered clean once again. I rarely left the house because the pain was so bad.
I have seen three physicians already. No one is sure what to do with me. Anytime I get up from a couch, I consider it unclean. For a whole year, this bleeding sickness has plagued me. The third doctor I saw gave me a concoction that made me vomit for three days. One doctor named Sira instructed me to stand at an intersection of two small roads. After seeing so many doctors, I began to wonder if I was ever going to be healed of this bleeding.
research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
the tangled vines page 6
the tangled vines page 6 by ric Gustafson
Mitchell Vine walked up to his wife as she put bread into the toaster. " Morning sweetheart".
" Morning". She yawned as she took orange juice out of the refrigerator. She filled three glasses. " You know that Jimmy's game is this afternoon".
" I sure do". He winked at his son. " In fact, I've cleared my schedule so I can go to it".
The doorbell rang.
" That's great Dad". Jimmy opened the front door. It was Mr Nates.
" Sorry to interrupt breakfast". He smiled. " I'm done pruning that tangled bush".
" That's great". She walked out of the room. She came back holding a check. " Here's the money we owe you".
Mitchell grinned. " Mr Nates, we owe you a ton of thanks".
" Why is that?".
He hugged Louise and Jimmy. " Mr Nates, since you've been here working on that bush, my relationship with my wife and son has greatly improved".
Louise smiled at Mr Nates. " My relationship with my husband has greatly improved".
Jimmy put his arms around his parents. " I'm going to be more open about my feelings".
Jack glanced at the check. He handed it back to Louise. " The great things that have happened to this family is payment enough".
" Are you sure Mr Nates?".
" Absolutely". He looked at his watch. " It's time for me to go to my next job".
Jesus hugged all three of them. He walked out to his truck. He drove off with a smile on his face.
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Mitchell Vine walked up to his wife as she put bread into the toaster. " Morning sweetheart".
" Morning". She yawned as she took orange juice out of the refrigerator. She filled three glasses. " You know that Jimmy's game is this afternoon".
" I sure do". He winked at his son. " In fact, I've cleared my schedule so I can go to it".
The doorbell rang.
" That's great Dad". Jimmy opened the front door. It was Mr Nates.
" Sorry to interrupt breakfast". He smiled. " I'm done pruning that tangled bush".
" That's great". She walked out of the room. She came back holding a check. " Here's the money we owe you".
Mitchell grinned. " Mr Nates, we owe you a ton of thanks".
" Why is that?".
He hugged Louise and Jimmy. " Mr Nates, since you've been here working on that bush, my relationship with my wife and son has greatly improved".
Louise smiled at Mr Nates. " My relationship with my husband has greatly improved".
Jimmy put his arms around his parents. " I'm going to be more open about my feelings".
Jack glanced at the check. He handed it back to Louise. " The great things that have happened to this family is payment enough".
" Are you sure Mr Nates?".
" Absolutely". He looked at his watch. " It's time for me to go to my next job".
Jesus hugged all three of them. He walked out to his truck. He drove off with a smile on his face.
The End.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Grace: a person of grace
Grace: a person of grace by ric Gustafson
God wants us to be a messenger of grace. God wants us to be involved in his miraculous work. God wants us to be gracious with grace. He wants us to choose our words carefully. He wants us to be accountable for every word we say. Words hold power and God wants only good words to come out of our mouths. Our words have the power to give life to others. Words of grace from God can give people hope. Giving grace to others is not easy.
Human relationships depend on communication. Our words affect those relationships. God can transform anyone into a person of grace.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
God wants us to be a messenger of grace. God wants us to be involved in his miraculous work. God wants us to be gracious with grace. He wants us to choose our words carefully. He wants us to be accountable for every word we say. Words hold power and God wants only good words to come out of our mouths. Our words have the power to give life to others. Words of grace from God can give people hope. Giving grace to others is not easy.
Human relationships depend on communication. Our words affect those relationships. God can transform anyone into a person of grace.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
the tangled vines page 5
the tangled vines page 5 by ric Gustafson
Mitchell was finishing up a presentation. The desk phone buzzed. He pushed the talk button. " Yes Lisa".
" I'm sorry to bother you Mr Vine". The voice hesitated. " There is somebody out here to see you".
' I wonder who that is' he thought to himself as he scratched his chin in thought. He was not expecting anyone. " Ok, send them in".
Jack Nates walked in and sat down.
" Mr Nates" Mitchell replied with a surprised stare. " What are you doing here?".
" I was in the area". He smiled. " I wanted to let you know that I am just about done with your bush".
He gave him a strange look. " You came all the way out here just to tell me that".
" I was talking to your son Jimmy earlier". He quickly glanced around the office. " He was looking forward to his basketball game tomorrow".
" I have a presentation tomorrow". He sighed. " I don't know if I can go or not".
" Jimmy is a good kid". Jack smiled. " Why not surprise him and give him your support".
" I will think about it Mr Nates". He stood up and shook his hand. " Thank you for stopping by".
Jack opened the office door. " You are welcome". He smiled as he walked out.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Mitchell was finishing up a presentation. The desk phone buzzed. He pushed the talk button. " Yes Lisa".
" I'm sorry to bother you Mr Vine". The voice hesitated. " There is somebody out here to see you".
' I wonder who that is' he thought to himself as he scratched his chin in thought. He was not expecting anyone. " Ok, send them in".
Jack Nates walked in and sat down.
" Mr Nates" Mitchell replied with a surprised stare. " What are you doing here?".
" I was in the area". He smiled. " I wanted to let you know that I am just about done with your bush".
He gave him a strange look. " You came all the way out here just to tell me that".
" I was talking to your son Jimmy earlier". He quickly glanced around the office. " He was looking forward to his basketball game tomorrow".
" I have a presentation tomorrow". He sighed. " I don't know if I can go or not".
" Jimmy is a good kid". Jack smiled. " Why not surprise him and give him your support".
" I will think about it Mr Nates". He stood up and shook his hand. " Thank you for stopping by".
Jack opened the office door. " You are welcome". He smiled as he walked out.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Monday, November 21, 2016
Grace: an expression of God's heart
Grace: an expression of God's heart by ric Gustafson
God's nature is perfect and his love is unfailing. Grace is a gift no one deserves. God sent his only Son to pay the price for our pride and selfishness. We have been saved by grace. We need God's grace every day. Because God showers us with grace, we are to show grace to others.
Jesus came to earth full of grace and truth. God's throne is the throne of grace. God's grace is powerful. God has a storeroom full of grace ready for us.
God looks at us through eyes of grace.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
God's nature is perfect and his love is unfailing. Grace is a gift no one deserves. God sent his only Son to pay the price for our pride and selfishness. We have been saved by grace. We need God's grace every day. Because God showers us with grace, we are to show grace to others.
Jesus came to earth full of grace and truth. God's throne is the throne of grace. God's grace is powerful. God has a storeroom full of grace ready for us.
God looks at us through eyes of grace.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
the tangled vines page 4
the tangled vines page 4 by ric Gustafson
Jack was walking back to his truck. He noticed a teenager shooting baskets. He walked up. He shook his hand. " Hi, I'm Jack Nates".
The teen shot the ball into the basket. " I'm Jimmy Vines".
" You don't look very happy Jimmy".
" I have a lot on my mind right now". He shot the ball in the basket. " School, a girlfriend, things like that".
Jack smiled. " Have you talked to your parents about these things?".
" They won't listen". He did an easy layup. " They never do".
" Jimmy, your parents are good people". He took some lawn bags out of his truck. " You should talk to them and give them a chance". He smiled again. " They might surprise you".
" Ok". He took one more shot with the ball. " I will talk to them". He walked into the garage.
Jack smiled as he took the bags and went back to work.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Jack was walking back to his truck. He noticed a teenager shooting baskets. He walked up. He shook his hand. " Hi, I'm Jack Nates".
The teen shot the ball into the basket. " I'm Jimmy Vines".
" You don't look very happy Jimmy".
" I have a lot on my mind right now". He shot the ball in the basket. " School, a girlfriend, things like that".
Jack smiled. " Have you talked to your parents about these things?".
" They won't listen". He did an easy layup. " They never do".
" Jimmy, your parents are good people". He took some lawn bags out of his truck. " You should talk to them and give them a chance". He smiled again. " They might surprise you".
" Ok". He took one more shot with the ball. " I will talk to them". He walked into the garage.
Jack smiled as he took the bags and went back to work.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Saturday, November 19, 2016
the tangled vines page 3
the tangled vines page 3 by ric Gustafson
Louise Vine looked through the kitchen window at Mr Nates. She watched as he carefully pruned away the tangled vines. He cut them up and put them into a recycle lawn bag.
' He must be cold out there' she thought. She took two packets of hot cocoa out of the pantry. " I'll bring him a cup of hot cocoa so he can warm up". She walked outside. She walked up to him. " Morning Mr Nates".
" Good morning Mrs Vine". He stopped what he was doing. He blew on his hands. " It's nippy out this morning".
" It sure is". She handed him one of the mugs she had. " I brought you some hot chocolate that I just heated up".
" Thank you".
They both took a sip of the warm liquid.
He began to prune one of the tangled vines. " You seem tense Mrs Vine".
" I've been upset at my husband lately". She pointed at the bush. " One reason is that bush".
" Mitchell is a good man" he replied as kept pruning away. " He tries hard to take care of you and your son".
" I know". She took another sip of her hot chocolate. " I'm going to tell him that I'm sorry".
He kept pruning. " I'm glad to hear that". He handed her his mug. " Thanks for the hot chocolate".
She began to walk back toward the house. " Good luck with that bush".
Nate smiled as he began pruning again.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Louise Vine looked through the kitchen window at Mr Nates. She watched as he carefully pruned away the tangled vines. He cut them up and put them into a recycle lawn bag.
' He must be cold out there' she thought. She took two packets of hot cocoa out of the pantry. " I'll bring him a cup of hot cocoa so he can warm up". She walked outside. She walked up to him. " Morning Mr Nates".
" Good morning Mrs Vine". He stopped what he was doing. He blew on his hands. " It's nippy out this morning".
" It sure is". She handed him one of the mugs she had. " I brought you some hot chocolate that I just heated up".
" Thank you".
They both took a sip of the warm liquid.
He began to prune one of the tangled vines. " You seem tense Mrs Vine".
" I've been upset at my husband lately". She pointed at the bush. " One reason is that bush".
" Mitchell is a good man" he replied as kept pruning away. " He tries hard to take care of you and your son".
" I know". She took another sip of her hot chocolate. " I'm going to tell him that I'm sorry".
He kept pruning. " I'm glad to hear that". He handed her his mug. " Thanks for the hot chocolate".
She began to walk back toward the house. " Good luck with that bush".
Nate smiled as he began pruning again.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Friday, November 18, 2016
Grace: upgraded Christians
Grace: upgraded Christians by ric Gustafson
As Christians, we are always heading toward God. When we are upgraded, according to Ephesians 2:3-10, God reroutes us to a better place. Now, the Holy Spirit guides us to receive everything that God has prepared for us. We were going our own way spiritually dead. God made us alive and we are now free.
Sometimes Christians will stray off of their spiritual paths. They will become graceless and self centered. What happens is that we lose sight of grace. When this happens, we need to confess to God that we are a sinner. When we seek God's mercy, God will forgive us. When God forgives us, we should forgive others.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
As Christians, we are always heading toward God. When we are upgraded, according to Ephesians 2:3-10, God reroutes us to a better place. Now, the Holy Spirit guides us to receive everything that God has prepared for us. We were going our own way spiritually dead. God made us alive and we are now free.
Sometimes Christians will stray off of their spiritual paths. They will become graceless and self centered. What happens is that we lose sight of grace. When this happens, we need to confess to God that we are a sinner. When we seek God's mercy, God will forgive us. When God forgives us, we should forgive others.
research help: ' Putting a Face on Grace' by Richard Blackaby
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
the tangled vines page 2
the tangled vines page 2 by ric Gustafson
" I'm not sure if I can go to Jimmy's game or not" Mitchell said as he heard the doorbell ring. " I have a lot of work to do this afternoon". It was 7:30 in the morning. Mitchell wondered who it was this early in the morning.
He opened the door to reveal a young dark bearded man. He was wearing a white sweatshirt and white coveralls.
" Hi, I'm Jack Nates". He pointed toward his truck. " Nates Pruning".
" Oh yes, the big bush in the back". He glanced at his watch. " I wasn't expecting you this early in the morning".
" I like to start early".
He led the young man outside to where the bush was. " Here it is".
Jack studied the tangled vines of the bush. " I'll get started on it right away".
Mitchell stared at the young man's coveralls. " Aren't your clothes going to get dirty?".
Jack smiled. " In all the years that I have been doing this". He grinned at Mitchell. " I have never gotten these white clothes dirty".
" Ok".
research help: original srory
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
" I'm not sure if I can go to Jimmy's game or not" Mitchell said as he heard the doorbell ring. " I have a lot of work to do this afternoon". It was 7:30 in the morning. Mitchell wondered who it was this early in the morning.
He opened the door to reveal a young dark bearded man. He was wearing a white sweatshirt and white coveralls.
" Hi, I'm Jack Nates". He pointed toward his truck. " Nates Pruning".
" Oh yes, the big bush in the back". He glanced at his watch. " I wasn't expecting you this early in the morning".
" I like to start early".
He led the young man outside to where the bush was. " Here it is".
Jack studied the tangled vines of the bush. " I'll get started on it right away".
Mitchell stared at the young man's coveralls. " Aren't your clothes going to get dirty?".
Jack smiled. " In all the years that I have been doing this". He grinned at Mitchell. " I have never gotten these white clothes dirty".
" Ok".
research help: original srory
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Grace: a Son is born
Grace: a Son is born by ric Gustafson
According to Luke 2:11, today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you he is Christ the Lord. It is a simple message that a boy the Savior came to earth as a baby. Why did God do this?. God had to send his Son. Because of our sins, we are separated from God. A perfect Savior and Mediator is needed to bring us together. Only God can do this. Because God sent his Son, our relationship with God is restored. Jesus was the perfect sacrifice because he was sinless. Jesus gave himself on a cross. God accepted his sacrifice and raised him from the dead.
The greatest gift we can ever receive is the gift of Jesus the Son of God.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
According to Luke 2:11, today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you he is Christ the Lord. It is a simple message that a boy the Savior came to earth as a baby. Why did God do this?. God had to send his Son. Because of our sins, we are separated from God. A perfect Savior and Mediator is needed to bring us together. Only God can do this. Because God sent his Son, our relationship with God is restored. Jesus was the perfect sacrifice because he was sinless. Jesus gave himself on a cross. God accepted his sacrifice and raised him from the dead.
The greatest gift we can ever receive is the gift of Jesus the Son of God.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
the tangled vines page 1
the tangled vines page 1 by ric Gustafson
Mitchell Vine took the slice of wheat toast from the small white toaster. He put some butter and apple jelly on it. He put it on a plate and then sat down in a chair at a small island.
" Mitchell" Louise Vine exclaimed as she stared out the large kitchen window. " It's almost Thanksgiving". She poured a cup of coffee and put it next to his plate. " You need to prune that tangled bush before winter comes".
" I know".
She stared at her husband. " You can't put it off any longer".
" I am so busy with work right now". He glanced at his watch. " I just don't have the time".
" Then call someone who prunes bushes to come and do it". She looked out the window at the bush again. " It needs to be done".
" Ok".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Mitchell Vine took the slice of wheat toast from the small white toaster. He put some butter and apple jelly on it. He put it on a plate and then sat down in a chair at a small island.
" Mitchell" Louise Vine exclaimed as she stared out the large kitchen window. " It's almost Thanksgiving". She poured a cup of coffee and put it next to his plate. " You need to prune that tangled bush before winter comes".
" I know".
She stared at her husband. " You can't put it off any longer".
" I am so busy with work right now". He glanced at his watch. " I just don't have the time".
" Then call someone who prunes bushes to come and do it". She looked out the window at the bush again. " It needs to be done".
" Ok".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Grace: bringing good news
Grace: bringing good news by ric Gustafson
The majority of the news we hear today is bad news. Crime, terrorism, war, an economic crisis surrounds us every day. Yet there are times when we hear good news. Two Old Testament prophets came bearing good news to weary people.
One of these prophets was named Nahum. According to Nahum 1:15, a messenger is coming over the mountains with good news. He is bringing a message of peace. At the first Christmas, an angel told the local shepherds to not be afraid that he was bringing good news. A Savior the Messiah Jesus was to be born in Bethlehem the city of David. The best good news we have ever heard is that Jesus the Savior is born.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
The majority of the news we hear today is bad news. Crime, terrorism, war, an economic crisis surrounds us every day. Yet there are times when we hear good news. Two Old Testament prophets came bearing good news to weary people.
One of these prophets was named Nahum. According to Nahum 1:15, a messenger is coming over the mountains with good news. He is bringing a message of peace. At the first Christmas, an angel told the local shepherds to not be afraid that he was bringing good news. A Savior the Messiah Jesus was to be born in Bethlehem the city of David. The best good news we have ever heard is that Jesus the Savior is born.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Grace: giving Jesus first place
Grace: giving Jesus first place by ric Gustafson
According to Luke 1: 49, God the Mighty One has done great things for me. No matter what storms happen during this Christmas season, it should not spoil the real meaning of the holiday. We need to stay focused on Jesus and share his blessings with others. In order to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, we need to give Jesus first place in our lives.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
According to Luke 1: 49, God the Mighty One has done great things for me. No matter what storms happen during this Christmas season, it should not spoil the real meaning of the holiday. We need to stay focused on Jesus and share his blessings with others. In order to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, we need to give Jesus first place in our lives.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 3
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 3 by ric Gustafson
" No". Mr Morgan stared at the stranger. " And it doesn't sound like it will either".
" That's too bad". The stranger sighed. " I was looking forward to it".
" So were our residents".
The stranger smiled. " Do you have any turkey at all?".
Sunday pointed toward a nearby pan. " We have maybe four or five slices left".
Jesus grinned. " Have the residents sit down".
Thirty minutes later, the residents had all taken their places at the tables.
Jesus began to pray over the pan. After a minute, he looked up. " Go ahead and serve like you normally do".
The residents began to form a line table by table. The Gardner family began to serve the turkey and the other food. Turkey kept coming out of the pan.
When everyone was fed and satisfied, the Gardner family picked up twelve trays of leftovers.
Mr Morgan sat down in a chair. He began to contemplate the miracle he had just witnessed.
Jesus smiled and then walked out.
Just then, Martin ran through the front door. " I can't find Lucas anywhere".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
" No". Mr Morgan stared at the stranger. " And it doesn't sound like it will either".
" That's too bad". The stranger sighed. " I was looking forward to it".
" So were our residents".
The stranger smiled. " Do you have any turkey at all?".
Sunday pointed toward a nearby pan. " We have maybe four or five slices left".
Jesus grinned. " Have the residents sit down".
Thirty minutes later, the residents had all taken their places at the tables.
Jesus began to pray over the pan. After a minute, he looked up. " Go ahead and serve like you normally do".
The residents began to form a line table by table. The Gardner family began to serve the turkey and the other food. Turkey kept coming out of the pan.
When everyone was fed and satisfied, the Gardner family picked up twelve trays of leftovers.
Mr Morgan sat down in a chair. He began to contemplate the miracle he had just witnessed.
Jesus smiled and then walked out.
Just then, Martin ran through the front door. " I can't find Lucas anywhere".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Monday, November 14, 2016
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 2
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 2 by ric Gustafson
Martin ladled mashed potatoes into a large pan. The kitchen door opened. Sunday ran in with fear in her eyes.
" The carved turkey is gone".
" What!" Mr Morgan exclaimed as he looked up from coffee pots he was filling. " I just put three pans into the serving wells".
" I think I saw Martin's friend running out the door with them".
" Oh no!" Martin replied. He ran out the kitchen door. " Lucas". He ran toward the front door. He watched as a shopping cart went over a nearby hill.
Gobble Gobble
Mr Morgan ran out the kitchen door. " Martin, what just happened?".
" I'm sorry Mr Morgan" Martin quietly said as he ran out the front door. " I need to go find my friend".
Mr Morgan sat down in a chair. He covered his face with his hands. " Now what am I gonna do?". A tear came down his face. " Our residents are coming soon and I have no turkey to serve them".
Just then, the front door opened. A tall lanky bearded man wearing white walked in. " Has the Thanksgiving meal started yet?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Martin ladled mashed potatoes into a large pan. The kitchen door opened. Sunday ran in with fear in her eyes.
" The carved turkey is gone".
" What!" Mr Morgan exclaimed as he looked up from coffee pots he was filling. " I just put three pans into the serving wells".
" I think I saw Martin's friend running out the door with them".
" Oh no!" Martin replied. He ran out the kitchen door. " Lucas". He ran toward the front door. He watched as a shopping cart went over a nearby hill.
Gobble Gobble
Mr Morgan ran out the kitchen door. " Martin, what just happened?".
" I'm sorry Mr Morgan" Martin quietly said as he ran out the front door. " I need to go find my friend".
Mr Morgan sat down in a chair. He covered his face with his hands. " Now what am I gonna do?". A tear came down his face. " Our residents are coming soon and I have no turkey to serve them".
Just then, the front door opened. A tall lanky bearded man wearing white walked in. " Has the Thanksgiving meal started yet?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Sunday, November 13, 2016
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 1
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 1 by ric Gustafson
John Morgan was bringing out a large pan of carved turkey. He smiled as he noticed the people coming in. " Welcome Gardner family". He put the pan into one of the serving wells. " I'm just about done getting the turkey ready".
Gobble Gobble Gobble
" What was that?".
" Sorry Mr Morgan". Martin smiled. " My friend Lucas just wanted to say hi".
The shelter Director held out a hand. " Hello Lucas".
Gobble Gobble I don't have arms or hands
He scratched his chin. " What did your friend say?".
" He said glad to meet you".
Just then, a young woman brought out a large pan of cranberry sauce.
" Oh Sunday". He smiled as she put the pan in the server. " The Gardner family here is going to help serve".
Gobble Gobble
" And this is their friend Lucas".
" Nice to meet all of you". She walked back into the kitchen.
" She's a hard worker". Mr Morgan began putting hot water into the serving wells. " She and her mother have been residents here for a long time".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
John Morgan was bringing out a large pan of carved turkey. He smiled as he noticed the people coming in. " Welcome Gardner family". He put the pan into one of the serving wells. " I'm just about done getting the turkey ready".
Gobble Gobble Gobble
" What was that?".
" Sorry Mr Morgan". Martin smiled. " My friend Lucas just wanted to say hi".
The shelter Director held out a hand. " Hello Lucas".
Gobble Gobble I don't have arms or hands
He scratched his chin. " What did your friend say?".
" He said glad to meet you".
Just then, a young woman brought out a large pan of cranberry sauce.
" Oh Sunday". He smiled as she put the pan in the server. " The Gardner family here is going to help serve".
Gobble Gobble
" And this is their friend Lucas".
" Nice to meet all of you". She walked back into the kitchen.
" She's a hard worker". Mr Morgan began putting hot water into the serving wells. " She and her mother have been residents here for a long time".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Friday, November 11, 2016
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 6
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 6 by ric Gustafson
Martin walked into his bedroom.
Lucas was hiding in a corner. Gobble Gobble sorry Martin
" That's ok". He smiled at his friend. " I understand".
" Martin, we are going to be leaving soon for the shelter".
" Ok Mom".
Gobble Gobble what's a shelter
" Every year, my family goes to a homeless shelter and helps with a meal".
A short time later.
" Martin, are you ready to go?".
" I'll be right down Mom". He smiled at Lucas. " Would you like to come with us to the shelter?".
Gobble Gobble Sure
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Martin walked into his bedroom.
Lucas was hiding in a corner. Gobble Gobble sorry Martin
" That's ok". He smiled at his friend. " I understand".
" Martin, we are going to be leaving soon for the shelter".
" Ok Mom".
Gobble Gobble what's a shelter
" Every year, my family goes to a homeless shelter and helps with a meal".
A short time later.
" Martin, are you ready to go?".
" I'll be right down Mom". He smiled at Lucas. " Would you like to come with us to the shelter?".
Gobble Gobble Sure
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Grace: God came for me
Grace: God came for me by ric Gustafson
According to I John 4:9, God loved us so much that he sent his one and only Son into the world that we might have eternal life. God is love and he came searching for us. The main reason that Jesus came to earth is because of love for us. The story of Jesus is a story of love. Love does involve pain and disappointment. God will go to any length to get us back to him.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
According to I John 4:9, God loved us so much that he sent his one and only Son into the world that we might have eternal life. God is love and he came searching for us. The main reason that Jesus came to earth is because of love for us. The story of Jesus is a story of love. Love does involve pain and disappointment. God will go to any length to get us back to him.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 5
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 5 by ric Gustafson
" Would you like some mashed potatoes Lucas? Henry Gardner asked. He passed the bowl to the turkey.
Gobble Gobble what are mashed potatoes.
" What did he say?".
" Sometimes he's hard to understand". Martin picked up the bowl. " I'll put some on his plate".
" I heard something strange on the radio earlier" Audra Gardner exclaimed as she put some turkey on her plate. " There's a reward for information on a missing turkey that has been on the loose in town".
Gobble Gobble what's a reward.
" What did you say Lucas?".
Martin grinned. " He said that this has been a wonderful meal".
Audra passed the plate of turkey to Lucas. " Would you like some turkey Lucas?".
Gobble Gobble Gobble No! He jumped off the chair and ran out of the room.
" Martin what's wrong with your friend?".
" The holidays make him very emotional". He dabbed his mouth with a napkin. " May I be excused?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
" Would you like some mashed potatoes Lucas? Henry Gardner asked. He passed the bowl to the turkey.
Gobble Gobble what are mashed potatoes.
" What did he say?".
" Sometimes he's hard to understand". Martin picked up the bowl. " I'll put some on his plate".
" I heard something strange on the radio earlier" Audra Gardner exclaimed as she put some turkey on her plate. " There's a reward for information on a missing turkey that has been on the loose in town".
Gobble Gobble what's a reward.
" What did you say Lucas?".
Martin grinned. " He said that this has been a wonderful meal".
Audra passed the plate of turkey to Lucas. " Would you like some turkey Lucas?".
Gobble Gobble Gobble No! He jumped off the chair and ran out of the room.
" Martin what's wrong with your friend?".
" The holidays make him very emotional". He dabbed his mouth with a napkin. " May I be excused?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
the Good Life: thirsting for God
the Good Life: thirsting for God by ric Gustafson
According to Psalm 42:1, as the deer longs for streams of water so I long for you O God. We desperately thirst for something in this life. God wants us to thirst for him. What do we spend time searching for?. Do we long for something this world cannot provide. When we are thirsty, God wants us to run to him. He alone can give us the water that we need for our thirsty souls. We can drink deeply of this water and be satisfied. God promises that to us every day.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
According to Psalm 42:1, as the deer longs for streams of water so I long for you O God. We desperately thirst for something in this life. God wants us to thirst for him. What do we spend time searching for?. Do we long for something this world cannot provide. When we are thirsty, God wants us to run to him. He alone can give us the water that we need for our thirsty souls. We can drink deeply of this water and be satisfied. God promises that to us every day.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 4
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 4 by ric Gustafson
Martin quietly closed the bedroom door. He pulled the blanket off of Lucas. " You'll be safe here".
Gobble Gobble where are we
" My bedroom". He put a CD into the player. He turned it on.
Gobble Gobble what are you doing
Loud music came out of the box.
" This is one of my favorite music groups".
Gobble Gobble what is music
" Martin, who are you talking to?".
" Just my friend Lucas". His voice hesitated. " Mom".
" Yes".
" Lucas has no where to go tomorrow for Thanksgiving". He looked at his new friend. " Can he eat with us?".
" I'm sorry to hear that".
Martin turned down the volume.
" Of course he can".
Gobble Gobble no turkey
" What did your friend say?".
" Lucas said thank you".
" I need you to come downstairs and help me get ready for tomorrow".
" Ok Mom". He smiled at Lucas. " You'll be safe here".
Gobble Gobble thank you.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Martin quietly closed the bedroom door. He pulled the blanket off of Lucas. " You'll be safe here".
Gobble Gobble where are we
" My bedroom". He put a CD into the player. He turned it on.
Gobble Gobble what are you doing
Loud music came out of the box.
" This is one of my favorite music groups".
Gobble Gobble what is music
" Martin, who are you talking to?".
" Just my friend Lucas". His voice hesitated. " Mom".
" Yes".
" Lucas has no where to go tomorrow for Thanksgiving". He looked at his new friend. " Can he eat with us?".
" I'm sorry to hear that".
Martin turned down the volume.
" Of course he can".
Gobble Gobble no turkey
" What did your friend say?".
" Lucas said thank you".
" I need you to come downstairs and help me get ready for tomorrow".
" Ok Mom". He smiled at Lucas. " You'll be safe here".
Gobble Gobble thank you.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Grace: a new life
Grace: a new life by ric Gustafson
According to John 10:10, God's purpose is to give everyone a rich and satisfying life. Jesus is the reason for the Christmas season. The Christmas message is that God loves the world so much that he gave his only Son to die for us and save us. Christmas goes beyond gifts and parties. Christmas must focus on Jesus Christ. According to John 10:10, Jesus came that we may have a rich and satisfying life.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
According to John 10:10, God's purpose is to give everyone a rich and satisfying life. Jesus is the reason for the Christmas season. The Christmas message is that God loves the world so much that he gave his only Son to die for us and save us. Christmas goes beyond gifts and parties. Christmas must focus on Jesus Christ. According to John 10:10, Jesus came that we may have a rich and satisfying life.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 3
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 3 by ric Gustafson
The bus door slowly opened. Martin walked up to the coin machine. He hung unto Lucas.
Gobble Gobble
" What was that? the driver exclaimed. He stared at Lucas.
" Sorry" Martin replied. He put his money into the machine. " My friend has trouble with his voice".
The driver scratched his chin. " Is your friend going to pay his fare?".
Gobble Gobble I do not know what money is.
" What did he say?".
" He's hard to understand". He took some coins out of a pant pocket. " I'll pay his fare".
The driver kept staring at Lucas. They walked back to some open seats. They sat down.
" Why did you escape from the turkey farm?".
Gobble Gobble I wanted to live.
" I don't blame you for that". He stared at his new friend. " What are you going to do after Thanksgiving?".
Gobble Gobble I don't know.
After a while, Martin pulled the cord. " Lucas, my house is just down the street". He smiled at his new friend. " I will do my best to hide you until after Thanksgiving".
Gobble Gobble thank you.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
The bus door slowly opened. Martin walked up to the coin machine. He hung unto Lucas.
Gobble Gobble
" What was that? the driver exclaimed. He stared at Lucas.
" Sorry" Martin replied. He put his money into the machine. " My friend has trouble with his voice".
The driver scratched his chin. " Is your friend going to pay his fare?".
Gobble Gobble I do not know what money is.
" What did he say?".
" He's hard to understand". He took some coins out of a pant pocket. " I'll pay his fare".
The driver kept staring at Lucas. They walked back to some open seats. They sat down.
" Why did you escape from the turkey farm?".
Gobble Gobble I wanted to live.
" I don't blame you for that". He stared at his new friend. " What are you going to do after Thanksgiving?".
Gobble Gobble I don't know.
After a while, Martin pulled the cord. " Lucas, my house is just down the street". He smiled at his new friend. " I will do my best to hide you until after Thanksgiving".
Gobble Gobble thank you.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Saturday, November 5, 2016
the Good Life: Jesus has risen
the Good Life: Jesus has risen by ric Gustafson
According to Luke 24: 34, the Lord has really risen. Three days after his crucifixion, Jesus approached two travelers heading toward the village of Emmaus. Jesus walked with them and ate dinner with them. Jesus even taught them a lesson from Old Testament prophecy.
Because of this encounter, the two men returned to Jerusalem and proclaimed to the disciples that the Lord had risen.
Praise God that Jesus is alive and saved us from eternal damnation.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
According to Luke 24: 34, the Lord has really risen. Three days after his crucifixion, Jesus approached two travelers heading toward the village of Emmaus. Jesus walked with them and ate dinner with them. Jesus even taught them a lesson from Old Testament prophecy.
Because of this encounter, the two men returned to Jerusalem and proclaimed to the disciples that the Lord had risen.
Praise God that Jesus is alive and saved us from eternal damnation.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Grace: living in the light
Grace: living in the light by ric Gustafson
According to Isaiah 9:2, for those who live in a land of deep darkness a light will shine. Gift bearing wise men and homeless shepherds came to Jesus the light of the world. God points us to the light. God points us to his Son. The light of Jesus is for everyone. This sinful world is a dark place. Jesus being the light of the world will illuminate even our darkest days.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
According to Isaiah 9:2, for those who live in a land of deep darkness a light will shine. Gift bearing wise men and homeless shepherds came to Jesus the light of the world. God points us to the light. God points us to his Son. The light of Jesus is for everyone. This sinful world is a dark place. Jesus being the light of the world will illuminate even our darkest days.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Friday, November 4, 2016
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 2
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 2 by ric Gustafson
Martin stared at the scared pair of eyes. " You are the turkey everyone is looking for".
Gobble Gobble Yes
Todd could hear his friend talking to himself. " Are you ok?".
" Yes, I'm just talking to myself".
He turned to walk away. " I'm going to walk home from here".
Gobble Gobble
He turned around. " What was that?".
" Nothing". Martin waved goodbye to his friend as he walked away. " I'll see you in class in two days".
His friend walked away.
Martin could see the city bus coming down the hill. He looked at the scared turkey. " I'll protect you". He smiled. " But you'll have to come home with me".
Gobble Gobble Ok
The bus pulled up to the curb and opened it's door.
" What's your name?".
Gobble Gobble Lucas
" Lucas, I'm going to put a blanket from my backpack over you".
Lucas walked out from the bush.
" Hopefully, nobody will notice".
Gobble Gobble Ok
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Martin stared at the scared pair of eyes. " You are the turkey everyone is looking for".
Gobble Gobble Yes
Todd could hear his friend talking to himself. " Are you ok?".
" Yes, I'm just talking to myself".
He turned to walk away. " I'm going to walk home from here".
Gobble Gobble
He turned around. " What was that?".
" Nothing". Martin waved goodbye to his friend as he walked away. " I'll see you in class in two days".
His friend walked away.
Martin could see the city bus coming down the hill. He looked at the scared turkey. " I'll protect you". He smiled. " But you'll have to come home with me".
Gobble Gobble Ok
The bus pulled up to the curb and opened it's door.
" What's your name?".
Gobble Gobble Lucas
" Lucas, I'm going to put a blanket from my backpack over you".
Lucas walked out from the bush.
" Hopefully, nobody will notice".
Gobble Gobble Ok
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Grace: I can know God
Grace: I can know God by ric Gustafson
What is the best Christmas gift you have ever received?. For Christians, this gift is Jesus Christ who brought peace and forgiveness to us. According to I Chronicles 16: 8-13, we need to give thanks to Jesus and his greatness. The whole world needs to know what he has done for us. We need to sing his praises and tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. We need to exult, rejoice and worship Jesus's name. We need to continually seek him and thank him for his wonders and miracles.
Praise Jesus's name to all the world.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
What is the best Christmas gift you have ever received?. For Christians, this gift is Jesus Christ who brought peace and forgiveness to us. According to I Chronicles 16: 8-13, we need to give thanks to Jesus and his greatness. The whole world needs to know what he has done for us. We need to sing his praises and tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. We need to exult, rejoice and worship Jesus's name. We need to continually seek him and thank him for his wonders and miracles.
Praise Jesus's name to all the world.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Thursday, November 3, 2016
the Good Life: Jesus paid our debt
the Good Life: Jesus paid our debt by ric Gustafson
Can we beat death and debt. The answer is yes. Jesus paid our debt. The debt of sin is separation from God. Jesus gave up his life and was crucified on a cross. Jesus paid what we owe and lifted us from the crushing debt of our sins.
Jesus removed the sting of death. We have victory over sin and death by repenting. We need to repent and believe in Jesus's death and resurrection. Through Jesus we can beat death.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Can we beat death and debt. The answer is yes. Jesus paid our debt. The debt of sin is separation from God. Jesus gave up his life and was crucified on a cross. Jesus paid what we owe and lifted us from the crushing debt of our sins.
Jesus removed the sting of death. We have victory over sin and death by repenting. We need to repent and believe in Jesus's death and resurrection. Through Jesus we can beat death.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Grace: Immanuel God is with us
Grace: Immanuel God is with us by ric Gustafson
In 735 B.C. the prophet Isaiah named Jesus. This was 730 years before he was born. Isaiah prophesized that a virgin will give birth to a son and name him Immanuel. Immanuel means God is with us. Our focus should be on Jesus's deity.
God came to be with us. God had human skin and wore human clothes. We should not feel alone or afraid. Because God is Immanuel. God is with us always.
Read Isaiah 7: 10-14
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
In 735 B.C. the prophet Isaiah named Jesus. This was 730 years before he was born. Isaiah prophesized that a virgin will give birth to a son and name him Immanuel. Immanuel means God is with us. Our focus should be on Jesus's deity.
God came to be with us. God had human skin and wore human clothes. We should not feel alone or afraid. Because God is Immanuel. God is with us always.
Read Isaiah 7: 10-14
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Grace: a personal relationship with Jesus
Grace: a personal relationship with Jesus by ric Gustafson
Christmas starts with Jesus Christ. God gave us the best Christmas present we could ever receive. This free gift was his Son Jesus. God is not a mystical force. He is a personal God who loves all people of all nations and classes. During this Thanksgiving and Christmas season we need to focus on the real meaning of the holidays. According to John 3: 16-21, that reason is Jesus.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings this holiday season. Love Ric
Christmas starts with Jesus Christ. God gave us the best Christmas present we could ever receive. This free gift was his Son Jesus. God is not a mystical force. He is a personal God who loves all people of all nations and classes. During this Thanksgiving and Christmas season we need to focus on the real meaning of the holidays. According to John 3: 16-21, that reason is Jesus.
research help: ' Gift of Grace' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings this holiday season. Love Ric
the Good Life: the only door to heaven
the Good Life: the only door to heaven by ric Gustafson
Some people believe in many enlightened spiritual leaders. Jesus tells us different. Jesus says that he is the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to God except through Jesus. Jesus is the only way to know God. As the Son of God, Jesus proved his spiritual authority by his death and resurrection. Jesus sacrificed himself on the cross for our sins for all time.
There is no new path to salvation. Jesus is the only way.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Some people believe in many enlightened spiritual leaders. Jesus tells us different. Jesus says that he is the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to God except through Jesus. Jesus is the only way to know God. As the Son of God, Jesus proved his spiritual authority by his death and resurrection. Jesus sacrificed himself on the cross for our sins for all time.
There is no new path to salvation. Jesus is the only way.
research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 1
where in the world is Lucas the turkey page 1 by ric Gustafson
" So did you go back to see the witch?" Todd Reed asked. He yawned as he patiently waited for the city bus to come over the hill.
" No" replied Martin Gardner. He sat down on a worn green bench. " I spent two hours walking up and down Main Street looking for a turkey somebody thought they saw".
" I'm going to walk down the sidewalk and wait for the bus".
Martin kept staring at the incoming traffic for the number 5 to come.
Gobble Gobble
Martin heard the noise and turned around. " What was that?". He turned to watch for the bus.
Gobble Gobble
He turned again toward a large bush that was behind the bench. He shook his head and turned again to wait for the bus.
Gobble Gobble Hey you!
Martin turned his head to see a pair of scared eyes peeking through the bush.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" So did you go back to see the witch?" Todd Reed asked. He yawned as he patiently waited for the city bus to come over the hill.
" No" replied Martin Gardner. He sat down on a worn green bench. " I spent two hours walking up and down Main Street looking for a turkey somebody thought they saw".
" I'm going to walk down the sidewalk and wait for the bus".
Martin kept staring at the incoming traffic for the number 5 to come.
Gobble Gobble
Martin heard the noise and turned around. " What was that?". He turned to watch for the bus.
Gobble Gobble
He turned again toward a large bush that was behind the bench. He shook his head and turned again to wait for the bus.
Gobble Gobble Hey you!
Martin turned his head to see a pair of scared eyes peeking through the bush.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the pumpkin patch page 2
the pumpkin patch page 2 by ric Gustafson
One day, Alex heard a noise. " Someone's coming".
" I hear him" Doreen replied with joy in her voice. " And he's carrying a basket".
The elderly man in white scooped down and picked up Miguel.
" He picked me" he replied in gladness. The man put him into his large basket.
" He picked me too" Doreen squealed. The man put her into his basket.
" He won't pick me". Alex sighed. " Nobody ever does". Just then, he smiled.
The elderly man put him into his basket.
Later, God washed off the pumpkins. He cut off the tops and scooped out all of the insides. He cut a smiling face into each one and then put a candle into each of them. He set them by the front door.
On the night of Halloween.
" Smile everyone" Doreen said with a joyful noise. " The kids are coming".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
One day, Alex heard a noise. " Someone's coming".
" I hear him" Doreen replied with joy in her voice. " And he's carrying a basket".
The elderly man in white scooped down and picked up Miguel.
" He picked me" he replied in gladness. The man put him into his large basket.
" He picked me too" Doreen squealed. The man put her into his basket.
" He won't pick me". Alex sighed. " Nobody ever does". Just then, he smiled.
The elderly man put him into his basket.
Later, God washed off the pumpkins. He cut off the tops and scooped out all of the insides. He cut a smiling face into each one and then put a candle into each of them. He set them by the front door.
On the night of Halloween.
" Smile everyone" Doreen said with a joyful noise. " The kids are coming".
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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