Saturday, December 31, 2016

Heaven: is this paradise?

Heaven: is this paradise? by ric Gustafson


According to Luke 23:43, Jesus promised a thief that today you will be with me in paradise. Jesus was referring to the intermediate heaven as paradise. Paradise has been used to describe the Garden of Eden. It has been used to describe the intermediate heaven and the eternal state of the righteous.
Paradise has been described as an actual place where God and his people live surrounded by physical beauty, great pleasured and happiness.


research help: ' 50 days of Heaven' by Randy Alcorn


Peace and God's blessings. Happy New Year. Love Ric

Friday, December 30, 2016

What on earth are we here for?: because God loves us

What on earth are we here for?: because God loves us by ric Gustafson


According to I John 4:11, since God so loved us we also ought to love one another. We are here on this earth to love God and to love others. God is love and wants us to become more like him. God loves us deeply and unconditionally.
Love is unnatural to us. It is our human nature to think about ourselves first. Real love is putting the needs of others before our own needs. Love is a choice an action and a commitment. Real love focuses on how I can serve others. We must learn to love which is not easy.


research help: ' Better Together' by Rick Warren


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Farewell 2016: Producer George Martin

Farewell 2016: Producer George Martin by ric Gustafson


In 1962, an EMI record producer named George Martin received a demo tape by an unknown pop group. This group was called the Beatles. He was not impressed by the tape. The four lads from Liverpool to him did have an unusual quality of sound and a certain roughness.
Martin was struck by their sense of humor and he signed the unknown group to a contract. The rest they say is history. With Martin at the helm, between 1962 and 1970 the Beatles made 13 albums and 22 singles. The group and Martin transformed the face of music and culture at large.
George Martin passed away on March 8 in England at the age of 90.


research help: ' Life Farewell' by Time Inc


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Sea of Galilee

Sea of Galilee by ric Gustafson


When people visit the Sea of Galilee, they are surprised by how small it actually is. It is only 13 miles long north south and 7.5 miles wide east west. Thousands of years ago, Lisan Lake filled the entire Jordan Valley. Then it retreated leaving the Sea of Galilee in the middle between the Hula Swamp and the Dead Sea. The Sea of Galilee is a freshwater inland lake not an actual sea.
Along the Sea in A.D 20 was the city of Tiberias. It was built by Herod Antipas in honor of Roman Emperor Tiberius. Jesus came to this area to minister to the local Jewish folk. He preached in Capernaum, Chorazin and Bethsaida. The main economy of the Sea of Galilee is fishing. Jesus found two of his early followers along these shores, Simon later called Peter and his brother Andrew. James and John were also fishermen there who joined Jesus's group of followers. From Tiberias you would travel to Magdala which was the home of Mary Magdalene. From there you would go north toward Tabgha where Jesus did the Sermon on the Mount. Then you would travel east to Bethsaida where Philip, Andrew and Peter were from. Then you would travel south along the shore to the land of Gadara. There Jesus encountered the madman.
I hope to visit this place some day.

The End


research help: ' Galilean Seafaring' by Shelley Wachsmann


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Heaven: where God's people go

Heaven: where God's people go by ric Gustafson


When God's children pass away, they immediately go to a place called the intermediate heaven. It is our present heaven. This intermediate heaven is fully heaven and full of God's presence. But it is temporary and not our final destination . It is not the place where we will live forever.
Our final destination is the New Earth which will be resurrected and we will have resurrected bodies. Jesus will return to earth. We will be resurrected and walk on the earth again. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. And we will live with God forever. The intermediate heaven is a temporary dwelling place. It is a wonderful place but it is a stop on our way to the New Earth.
Father in heaven, I look forward to the intermediate heaven and then the New Earth.


research help: ' 50 days of Heaven' by Randy Alcorn


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric



Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Farewell 2016: Director Garry Marshall

Farewell 2016: Director Garry Marshall by ric Gustafson


Writer Director Garry Marshall wrote some of the most memorable TV shows of the past 50 years. Happy Days, Mork and Mindy, Laverne and Shirley starring his sister Penny Marshall. Garry Marshall was born in the Bronx.
On the big screen, Marshall directed the Runaway Bride, the Princess Diaries and Pretty Woman. His sister Penny Marshall directed Big, Awakenings and A League of their Own.
Garry Marshall died on July 19 at the age of 81.


research help: ' Life Farewell' by Time Inc


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Heaven: are we going or not?

Heaven: are we going or not? by ric Gustafson


So are we going to heaven or not?. According to Matthew 7: 13-14, we must enter through a narrow gate. Small is this gate, narrow is the road and few find it. People assume that they are going to heaven but the fact is that sin keeps us out. Sin separates us from a relationship with God. Because we are sinners, we cannot enter heaven. Before we can see God in heaven, something must change.
So how are we saved?. First, Jesus invites us to have him as our Savior. Some people respond to this invitation some do not. When we do invite Jesus into our life, we must confess and then repent our sins. Our confession establishes our forgiveness. We are saved through faith which is a gift of God.
Jesus Christ offers us forgiveness, salvation and eternal life. God gave us this chance by his Son Jesus dying on a cross for us.


research help: ' 50 days of Heaven' by Randy Alcorn


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

our one true hope: our anchor

our one true hope:  our anchor by ric Gustafson


Storms are in our lives every day. Financial, emotional and physical storms batter us around in all directions. We need an anchor to secure us during these turbulent times. The question is what anchor are we going to use?.
We could use the earthly anchor. This world relies on money, success, prestige and education. Or, do we use Jesus Christ as our anchor. When we are anchored to Jesus the rock, we do not need to fear the storms of life. When Jesus is our anchor, we will not drift away in these storms. Being anchored in Jesus will keep us from being capsized in these storms. In stormy weather, hope will be a rope tightened around us to keep us safe. Jesus Christ is our hope and our anchor.

The End


research help:  Turning Points January 2017


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Monday, December 26, 2016

our one true hope: our guide

our one true hope: our guide by ric Gustafson


In this sinful world, we travel through rough seas. We live in a society that has rejected God, bankrupt our values, disrupted our churches and persecutes believers. So we ask ourselves who is at the helm of this ship?. Do we trust in earthly leaders?. We need God to navigate us and lead us to eternity. God will do that because he loves us more than anything else. He has a specific plan for our lives. He guides us for his name sake.
When making a decision we need to study God's Word, look at the circumstances and then think through the decision prayerfully. God will guide us through 2017.
God is ours forever and ever and will guide us and protect us always. Praise God.


research help: Turning Points January 2017


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Heaven: seeking God's face

Heaven: seeking God's face by ric Gustafson


When we long for heaven, we long for God. The heart and soul of heaven is being with God. The greatest gift of heaven is being in the presence of God himself. In heaven, we will see God because we will be righteous and sinless. Our greatest joy in heaven will be seeing God. When we see God's face, we will see beauty. When we see Jesus in heaven, we will be seeing God. When we see Jesus, we will be seeing God. When we see God's face, his name will be on our foreheads.
Praise God that one day we will be in heaven and can see him face to face.


research help: ' 50 days of Heaven' by Randy Alcorn


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Sunday, December 25, 2016

our one true hope: our refuge

our one true hope: our refuge by ric Gustafson


What is a refuge?. According to Nahum 3:11, a refuge is a place or means of safety. It is a place for protection, a stronghold and a hiding place. A refuge is a place for safety and protection.
God wants to be our refuge. According to Psalm 46: 1, God is our refuge and strength. Trouble and change comes into our lives at some point. When trouble comes, we need a refuge. God wants to be our refuge.
We want a refuge that is safe and we fill protected. God is safe, strong and he will always protect us and keep us safe. We want to feel secure and solid.
God wants to be our refuge, will we let him?.


research help: Turning Points January 2017


Peace and God's blessings. Merry Christmas. Love Ric

Heaven: heavenly minded

Heaven:  heavenly minded by ric Gustafson


According to Colossians 3: 1-2, God wants us to set our hearts and minds on heaven. When we think about heaven, our minds must focus on Jesus Christ. As God's people, we long for a better place. We need to set our hearts on heaven. We must pursue heaven. We must keep seeking heaven.
In John 16: 33, Jesus says that we will deal with pain and loss. Jesus tells us to be of great cheer. Jesus has a new house ready for us in heaven. One day soon we will be home.


research help: ' 50 days of Heaven' by Randy Alcorn


Peace and God's blessings. Merry Christmas. Love Ric

Saturday, December 24, 2016

Heaven: i can see the shore

Heaven: i can see the shore by ric Gustafson


Life is not easy. Sometimes we are burdened, discouraged and depressed. We can have optimism in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. When we think about heaven, our painful times can be temporary setbacks. In heaven, our pain and suffering here will be gone. That is Jesus's promise and he always keeps his word. There will be no more pain, death and our tears will be wiped away.
As Christians, we need to be optimistic not pessimistic. Jesus came to take away our fear of death. The truth is that heaven will be never ending joy. We need to place our hope in Jesus and his promises. We need to think yes i can see the shore i can make it.


research help: ' 50 days of Heaven' by Randy Alcorn


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Christmas Eve. Love Ric

POP the bell ringer page 3

POP the bell ringer page 3 by ric Gustafson


David glanced at his fitbit. " I need to go to lunch".
The young man shook David's hand. " Merry Christmas David".
He clocked out and left.
1 hour later
David got out of his car. He walked toward the front door. He noticed that the bell ringer and his kettle were gone. He walked into the store and noticed one of the assistant managers. He was helping a customer.
He ran over to him. " Frank, what happened to the bell ringer?".
The customer began to walk where the assistant manager pointed. He looked at David. " What bell ringer?".
David gave him a confused stare. " The young man in a white robe who was outside ringing that bell".
The assistant manager turned to help another customer. " We stopped having a bell ringer outside two years ago".
David stood there and pondered what POP had told him. It was far better to give than to receive.

The End


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Christmas Eve. Love Ric

Friday, December 23, 2016

the Good Life: God's love for us

the Good Life: God's love for us by ric Gustafson


What is love?. What is more important is what is real love?. According to I John 4:10, this is real love not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. The plain truth is that God loves us very much. Psalm 103 tells us many things that God does for us in love. He forgives our sins and satisfies us with good things. He is slow to get angry and is full of mercy. He never forgets us and removes our sin as far east as west.
So what is love?. God is love and he loves us more than anything else.

The End


research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

POP the bell ringer page 2

POP the bell ringer page 2 by ric Gustafson


David was refilling the farmer's market. He noticed the bell ringer standing in produce trying to stay warm. " You can stay in here and stay warm as long as you want" David replied. He walked over to check the strawberries and grapes.
The young man smiled. " Thank you David".
" I was curious how you knew my name" he asked as he refilled the lemons and oranges.
The young man smiled. He shook David's hand. " My name is POP".
" POP?".
He smiled as he shook the hand of a customer. " It's short for Prince of Peace".
David refilled the limes. " I was curious about something".
" What is that David?".
" I was curious if standing out in the cold ringing that bell is worth it".
The young man smiled. " David, look around you".
He looked around.
" Look at the smiles of people who put coins into my kettle and then come in".
David nodded. " Why is that?".
" It is far better to give than to receive".
" Oh!".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Farewell 2016: golfer Arnold Palmer

Farewell 2016: golfer Arnold Palmer by ric Gustafson


He was a chain smoker, loved Coke and was a TV pitchman. He was the son of a working class groundskeeper and yet he was much more. He turned golf from a gentleman's game into a popular pastime. In his six decade career, he won seven major titles. He was the first TV golf superstar. He had charisma, good looks and a muscular physique. He wore his emotions on his sleeve and usually went for broke. He appealed to everyday golfers. He was nicknamed the King.
Arnold Palmer died on September 25 in Pittsburgh PA at the age of 87.


research help: ' Life Farewell' by Time Inc


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Good Life: rest in Christ

the Good Life: rest in Christ by ric Gustafson


Jesus wants to give us rest. According to Matthew 11:28, Jesus says come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest. We were born and we live for the purpose of knowing and loving God. God is the source of our life. Until we come to him, our hearts are restless. God has planted eternity into our hearts.


research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

the Good Life: a good man

the Good Life: a good man by ric Gustafson


Are we saved by our good works?. The answer to that is no. In Ephesians 2:8, it says that God saved you by his grace when you believed and you can't take credit for this it is a gift from God. Everyone has sinned and fall short of God's standard. The wages of sin is death.
We are saved because Jesus died in our place to pay sin's penalty. We must accept the free gift of God which is eternal life. That is the best gift of all.


research help: ' The Good Life' by Our Daily Bread Ministries


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a List from Schindler page 4

a List from Schindler page 4 by ric Gustafson


Young Oskar Schindler loved motorcycles. He owned a 500cc Galloni and a 250cc Moto Guzzi. He enjoyed being in motorcycle races. Oskar met his future wife Emilie at a party in Zwittau. She was from the nearby village of Alt Molstein and was visiting friends. When they married, Oskar paid a large dowry of a half a million reichmarks.
After they were married, they moves into an apartment in Zwittau. Bad news struck when Oskar's parents went bankrupt and his father Hans left his mother Louisa. When his mother passed away, Oskar was a member of the Sudenten German Party. In 1938, Oskar was approached by Admiral Canaris to join the Foreign Section of the Abwehr.
One night in Cracow, Oskar Schindler met Itzhak Stern. Oskar was interested in starting a new business in Cracow and asked Stern for suggestions. The two men talked about textiles, garments, cabinetmaking and metalwork. Oskar asked Stern about a bankrupt company called Rekord. He did. It was bankrupt and made enamelware. The company made mess kits and field kitchenware for the German army. Oskar asked Stern about his Jewish faith. He was interested in that.


research help: ' Schindler's List' by Thomas Keneally


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Farewell 2016: actress Patty Duke

Farewell 2016:  actress Patty Duke by ric Gustafson


Actress Patty Duke made her Broadway debut as Helen Keller in 1959 The Miracle Worker. At the time she was twelve years old. In 1962, she won the Academy award for the same role in the film version. She had her own television show called the Patty Duke Show. The show ran from 1963 to 1966. She battled bipolar disorder and addiction. She suffered from anxiety attacks, depression and anorexia.
She used those battles to become an advocate for mental health and AIDS awareness. She was married four times. Patty Duke passed away on March 29 at the age of 69.


research help: ' Life Farewell' by Time Inc


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Sunday, December 18, 2016

a List from Schindler page 3

a List from Schindler page 3 by ric Gustafson


In the kitchen of the villa, Schindler met Amon's maid. He found out that her name was actually Helen Hirsch. She was frightened. He told her not to be afraid of him. He kissed the middle of her forehead. She told Oskar about Amon shooting prisoners from his terrace. She gave Oskar some money that was hidden in a brick. She asked him to save her sister who was in the camp.
Oskar Schindler was born on April 28 1908 in Moravia Austria. His hometown was Zwittau. Oskar's father was Hans Schindler. Zwittau was a small city in the mountain range called the Jeseniks. Oskar attended a German grammar school. The family was Catholic Oskar's mother Louisa practiced her faith with gusto. The family lived in a modern villa with it's own garden. Oskar had a sister named Elfriede. He had a few Jewish friends. One neighbor was a rabbi named Dr Felix Kantor.
Race, blood and soil meant little to young Oskar.


research help: ' Schindler's List' by Thomas Keneally


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Farewell 2016: Mr Hockey Gordie Howe

Farewell 2016:  Mr Hockey  Gordie Howe by ric Gustafson


The 2016-2017 Detroit Red Wings have a number 9 on their jerseys. Why?. On June 10 in Sylvania Ohio, Gordie Howe passed away. According to Wayne Gretzky, Howe was the greatest hockey player who had ever lived. Howe played the game longer than anyone else 26 seasons over five decades. He held the record for the most games played. He had humor, humility and also a mean streak. All he wanted from the sport was a little respect.


research help: Life Farewell by Time Inc


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

POP the bell ringer page 1

POP the bell ringer page 1 by ric Gustafson


David Uriah got out of the red Fusion. He locked it and began to walk toward the glass front door.
Ding Ding Ding
He could hear the familiar sound of the Salvation Army bell ringer. He walked up to the young dark bearded man who was wearing a heavy white robe.
As people walked up, the young man smiled from ear to ear.
David walked up to the red kettle. " Merry Christmas David". ' How did he know my name' I wondered as I put some loose coins into the kettle. " Merry Christmas".
The young man smiled at David. " A merry Christmas to you too David".
" I'm in Produce right inside the front door". I pointed. " If you get too cold, come inside".
" I will". He began to clang his bell. " Thank you David".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Saturday, December 17, 2016

Romans 8:28 a conditional promise

Romans 8:28  a conditional promise by ric Gustafson


There is one conditional promise in this bible verse. This promise is for those who love God and are called for his purposes. This promise is for those who are called according to his purpose. We cannot imagine the wonderful gifts God has prepared for us. God has prepared a crown of life for those who love him. God has work for us to do. We must believe in God, love him and receive his call.
God is good and he is working in this world. He uses all things for his purposes and for our good.
My prayer on our walk with God is that we love and adore him. He promises in John 3:16 that who ever believes in him and follows him will have eternal life. Praise God.

The End

research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a healing touch page 10

a healing touch page 10 by ric Gustafson


Crouching behind Jesus, I touched the frayed edge of his cloak. I felt a strange heat rush through me. My bleeding stopped. I slowly got up onto my feet in a daze. I tried to leave before Jesus found out what had happened.
Just then, Jesus stopped. " Who touched me?".
I stopped.
One of Jesus's followers named Peter spoke up. " Master, people are crowding and pressing against you". He stared at his Master. " What do you mean who touched you?".
Jesus looked around. " Someone deliberately touched me".
He kept looking around the large crowd. " I felt healing power go out of me".
I began to tremble from fear. I realized that I could not hide from him. I fell down at his feet. " It was I Master". I could hardly breathe. " Forgive me". I told Jesus the whole story of being unclean for twelve years. I began to cry.
Jesus knelt down next to me. " Daughter, your faith has healed you". He smiled. " Go in peace".
I stood up. I would never be the same again.
Later, Ethan told me that Jairus's daughter was raised from the dead by Jesus.

The End


research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Friday, December 16, 2016

we're off to see the Wizard page 6

we're off to see the Wizard page 6 by ric Gustafson


At age 30, Buddy Ebsen was hired to play the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz. Ray Bolger was hired to play the Tin Woodsman. Bolger wanted to play the Scarecrow instead. Louis Mayer agreed and the two actors switched roles.
Buddy Ebsen was born in 1908 and started dancing when he was young. His father was a dance teacher and Ebsen even learned ballet. In 1928, Ebsen moved to New York City and became a chorus boy in musicals. Ebsen and his sister Vilma worked as a vaudeville act. MGM brought them to California for a screen test. They were hired for the film ' Broadway Melody of 1936'.
After Oz, Ebsen appeared in movies, musicals and comedies during the 1930's and 1940's. Ebsen joined the service and participated in World War II. After the war, he stayed busy with acting. In 1961, Ebsen became Jed Clampett in a show called The Beverly Hillbillies. The show ran from 1961 to 1971. In 1973, Ebsen starred in a detective series called Barnaby Jones. That show ran from 1973 to 1980. Ebsen retired in 1999.
Buddy Ebsen died in 2003.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David Hogan


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a healing touch page 9

a healing touch page 9 by ric Gustafson


The next time I saw Jesus, he was coming off a boat. We were by the Sea of Galilee. His boat had been spotted and a crowd was already waiting for him. As he stepped out of the boat, the crowd descended on him.
As he played with children, a thought came to my mind. If I could only touch his garment, I could be well. I tried to reach him but the crowd was pressing around him. As I reached Jesus, a man arrived. He wore a robe and had gold rings on. He fell at Jesus's feet. He told Jesus that his name was Jairus and he was the leader of the synagogue in Capernaum. I smiled. It was Ethan's relative. He told Jesus that his daughter was dying. He begged Jesus to come to his house and save her. Jesus agreed to go to Jairus's house.
As they began to walk away, I knew my only chance had come.


research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Romans 8:28 a comforting promise

Romans 8:28  a comforting promise by ric Gustafson


God through Scripture tells us of all the good things he wants to give us. God is good and so are his promises. God has given us family, security, friends and interests. God is the giver of all these gifts. We are unworthy but God blesses us anyway. God does not create waste and allows no waste. God has his own timetable and uses all of our experiences good and bad.
God has a goal and path for us. Praise his name.


research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a List from Schindler page 2

a List from Schindler page 2 by ric Gustafson


Oskar entered through some double doors into a dining room. Two brothers were playing music. Henry Rosner was playing the violin and his brother Leo was playing an accordion. Amon Goeth had demanded that they take off their camp clothes and put on evening clothes.
At Amon's table was Julian Scherner who was head of the Cracow SS, Rolf Czurda who was in charge of the Cracow SD and five others. The only person that Oskar really liked was Julius Madritsch who ran the uniform factory in the camp. To the SS men, Oskar was a Sudeten German and they viewed him as different.
As the Rosner's played Strauss melodies, Oskar was introduced to four lovely ladies. Oskar knew that they were Cracow working girls. Before dinner, the talk was of the war. Herr Bosch talked to Oskar and inquired how his factory, Deutsche Emailwaren Fabrik was doing. Poles and Jews called the factory Emalia.
At dinner, Oskar noticed a servant girl serving them. Amon introduced her as Lena. She went back to the kitchen. Later, after dinner was over and Amon had left with one of the women. Oskar quietly headed toward the kitchen where Lena had gone.


research help: ' Schindler's List' by Thomas Keneally


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Thursday, December 15, 2016

we're off to see the Wizard page 5

we're off to see the Wizard page 5 by ric Gustafson



Originally, Buddy Ebsen was cast as the Scarecrow and Ray Bolger was cast to play the Tin Woodsman. Because he was an improvisational dancer, Bolger told Mayer that he thought that he should play the Scarecrow. Mayer agreed and the two actors changed roles.
Ray Bolger was 34 when shooting began. He had a narrow handsome face and expressive eyes and mouth. He had a friendly quality that was perfect for the Scarecrow role. Bolger was born Raymond Bulcao in 1904. His first professional job was at the age of nineteen. He regarded himself as a comic actor. He spent years in vaudeville. He made his film debut in 1926. After Oz, he appeared in movies and stage until he retired in 1985.
Ray Bolger passed away in 1987.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David Hogan


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a List from Schindler page 1

a List from Schindler page 1 by ric Gustafson


It is Autumn 1943 and a tall young man comes out of a Cracow Poland apartment building. He is wearing a double breasted dinner jacket with a gold on black enamel swastika in the lapel. He gets into an Adler limousine. From Straszewskiego Street, the car moved underneath the Wawel Castle where Hans Frank ruled the Government General of Poland. The car drove over the Podgorze Bridge and then along trolley tracks in the former Jewish Ghetto. Oskar Schindler began to chain smoke. Soon, he noticed the entrance to Labor Camp Plaszow which was a barracks town of 20,000 Jews.
The car drove past the Commandant's stables and then stopped 100 meters from the Commandant's villa. The villa was square built with an attic. Attached was a terraced patio with a balcony. An SS sergeant let him in. He had come for a party hosted by the camp's Commandant Amon Goeth.


research help: ' Schindler's List' by Thomas Keneally


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

a healing touch page 8

a healing touch page 8 by ric Gustafson


" I say love your enemies" he exclaimed loudly.
The crowd stared at him in silence.
" Do good to those who hate you".
' How can I love my enemies' I thought to myself.
" Bless those who hate you".
I could not believe what he was saying.
" Pray for those who hurt you".
' How can I pray for Calvus and Avigail' I pondered.
The next time I saw Jesus ministering to the crowd, some elders of a centurion asked for his help. He had a servant who was gravely ill and was about to die. They asked Jesus to come to their aid. The centurion did not need Jesus to come to his house. He simply asked Jesus to just say a word and then he would know that his servant would be saved. Jesus turned to the crowd and exclaimed that he had not seen such faith like this Roman's in all of Israel.
Later, I heard from the innkeeper that the centurion's servant was healed by Jesus at that very moment.


research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

a healing touch page 7

a healing touch page 7 by ric Gustafson


One day, the innkeeper's wife came up to me. " That Jesus you came to see". She spoke in a Galilean accent. " He is on a nearby hillside teaching".
I gave her a surprised look. " He's here now!".
She smiled. " You better go before you miss him".
I frowned. " Can you give me directions?".
" One of our servants is going that way". She swatted at a fly. " You can follow him".
The servant and I reached the hillside. I had never seen so many people in one place. Men, women and children. All were drawn to this one man. I saw him from a distance. To me, he looked ordinary. He wore simple clothes and no jewelry. His voice was deep, strong and showed sweet warmth. I kept my distance from people because I was unclean.


research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

we;re off to see the Wizard page 4

we're off to see the Wizard page 4 by ric Gustafson


Casting for the Wizard of Oz started in 1938. Studio casting director Billy Grady had 120 lead actors and character actors under MGM contract. The first hurdle was who could play the lead character of Dorothy?.
MGM executives thought of Shirley Temple first. Musical arranger Roger Edens quickly realized that Temple was not a very good singer. Edens and Arthur Freed liked Judy Garland who was under contract. Garland was a professional performer. She had been on stage since she was two years old. MGM executives knew that Garland in such a large role was a big gamble.
Producer Arthur Freed loved Garland's natural gifts. Garland was too mature to be a child star and not groomed enough to be a leading lady. With Edens and Freed in her corner, MGM finally agreed for her to play Dorothy.
In September of 1938, she recorded two songs for the picture. She made an impression on her new co workers. She became a close friend to Margaret Hamilton. Garland was paid $ 500 a week which was about the lowest of all the OZ performers.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David Hogan


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Romans 8:28 a comprehensive promise

Romans 8:28  a comprehensive promise by ric Gustafson


This bible verse mentions all things. When someone mentions all things, there is an assurance that there are no limits. There is no fine print and all sales are final. The Apostle Paul discusses his many trials. Paul speaks about his many sufferings and groanings. God uses our hard times for good. God uses our bad things for his plan for our lives. God is a sovereign God. God is the Lord of all. Everything in creation came from his hand.


research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a healing touch page 6

a healing touch page 6 by ric Gustafson


One day, Joanna told me a wild story. She was in Capernaum to hear this new prophet speak. She watched as a paralyzed man was lowered on a mat through the ceiling of a house. I asked her what happened next. She said that he healed the young man in front of everybody. She was eager to go back and hear him speak again. She asked me if I wanted to go with her. I was not sure. Later, I decided to travel alone to Capernaum and hear him speak for myself. Then I will decide if he is for real or not.
When I reached Capernaum, I decided to stay at an Inn. I gave the innkeeper plenty of denarii. The innkeeper told me that this Jesus speaks in different parts of the region from day to day. Nobody knew when he would appear in the city next.
I decided to wait for him to show up again.


research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Monday, December 12, 2016

a Golden Arch Christmas page 3

a Golden Arch Christmas page 3 by ric Gustafson


David took a bite of one of his cheeseburgers. " Even though things look very bad right now, I'm going to remain optimistic.".
She sipped her Coke. " I am glad that we are in here instead of out there in the storm".
He grinned. " God will always protect us and keep us safe".
" Ok David". She sighed. " I will try to remain optimistic".
Just then, the front door opened. A AAA driver walked in. " Sorry about the delay". He smiled. " This snowstorm is causing a lot of havoc this evening".
David shook his hand. " Thank you for coming in this storm".
" I heard about your cell phone". He handed David his phone. " You can use mine to call your brother".
" Thank you". He ran off to do that.
A second AAA driver walked in. " We have your car hooked up to be taken to town to be looked at".
Alice gave him a weak smile.
" We will also arrange a rental car so you can still get to your Christmas Day destination".
" Praise be to God" Alice exclaimed out loud.
David came back with a smile on his face. " My brother found our cell phone".
Alice smiled. " David, let's pray".
They lowered their heads. They prayed to God and silently said thank you for all the blessings God has given to them.

The End


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Sunday, December 11, 2016

a Golden Arch Christmas page 2

a Golden Arch Christmas page 2 by ric Gustafson


David looked at the teenage girl at the register. Her nametag said Sunday on it. " Sunday, I would like three one dollar Mcdoubles and a medium orange". He looked at his wife. " Alice, what would you like?".
She gave him an annoyed stare. " The number one combo". She brought napkins and ketchup back to the table. She sat down.
" 272" Sunday exclaimed out loud. She handed David a tray with their food.
" Thanks Sunday".
He sat down and handed his wife a Big Mac and some fries. He put his cheeseburgers in front of him. He glanced at his watch. " It is now past twelve midnight". He smiled at his wife. " Merry Christmas Alice".
" How could you ever call tonight merry?".
" Sweetheart, things could be worse".
" Worse" she yelled out loud. She threw an empty ketchup packet into the bag. " May I remind you that our car has broken down, we do not know how to get to my parents house and our only cell phone is missing". She pointed a finger at her husband. " How much worse can it get?".
David took a bite out of one of his cheeseburgers. " Even with all those strikes against us". He smiled. " I'm going to be optimistic about everything".
" You can't be serious". She gave him a stern look. " Tonight has been a disaster".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric





Friday, December 9, 2016

Grace: grace for grace

Grace: grace for grace by ric Gustafson


One way to describe grace for grace from John 1:16 is an image of an ocean who's waves are coming in constantly. We do not earn grace and we do not deserve grace. We receive it as a gift from God and then share it with others. We are channels of God's resources.
The Apostle Paul knew that the secret of his ministry was the grace of God. As God's children, we can draw upon God's riches. We can draw upon the riches of his glory, the riches of his mercy, the riches of his wisdom and his unsearchable riches. According to Ephesians 2: 8-9, we are saved by grace through faith. Then God can work in us and through us for his glory.


research help: ' On Being a Servant of God' by Warren Wiersbe


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Thursday, December 8, 2016

12/08/1980

12/08/1980 by ric Gustafson


It was around 11:00 pm on December 8 1980. The emergency room at New York's Roosevelt Hospital was busy as usual. All of a sudden, eyewitnesses could hear people shouting about a patient with a gunshot to the chest. A stretcher escorted by police was rushed into a trauma room. Eyewitnesses heard police officers exclaim that the victim was John Lennon.
On the morning of December 8, John Lennon started his last day by having a photo shoot done by Anne Leibovitz. After that, he did an interview with the RKO Radio Network. Around 4:00 pm, John and Yoko headed outside the Dakota building to get into a car and drive to the Hit Factory. Lennon noticed a young man with his new album who had been hanging around the entrance. He walked up to sign it. Mark David Chapman smiled as he did so.
At the Hit Factory, John and Yoko worked on a final mix for one of Yoko's songs. At about 10:30 pm, they decided to call it a night. The car dropped them off at the front curb of the Dakota. As the couple walked toward the front gate, Mark David Chapman stepped out of the shadows, got into a stance and fired four shots into John Lennon's back. Lennon collapsed in the office of the Dakota's doorman. 911 was called. Two police officers arrived, put Lennon in the back of the car and raced to Roosevelt Hospital. Yoko followed. Chapman was arrested.
Lennon's wounds were massive and he had lost a lot of blood. The trauma staff was unable to save him. John Lennon was pronounced dead at 11:15 pm.
Mark David Chapman remains in prison to this day.

The End


research help: ' John Lennon' by I-5 Publishing


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a Golden Arch Christmas page 1

a Golden Arch Christmas page 1 by ric Gustafson


The storm's cold flakes coated David Munry's face as he slowly opened the heavy frozen door. His wife squeezed in behind him as the wind closed it quickly.
" Did you bring in the map? Alice Munry asked as she rubbed her hands together for warmth. " I can't believe all of our bad luck".
He handed her the map. He felt inside a pant pocket for change. " I'm going to call and find out how soon they can get here". He walked over to the pay phone.
She sat down and then began to stare at the map.
He came back with a sad look on his face. " Because of the blizzard". His voice hesitated. " AAA is not sure when they can get here".
" That's just great" she retorted as she looked up from the map. " It's Christmas Eve and you have no clue which exit it is to my parent's house".
" First of all, I can't find my directions to your parent's new house". He cleared his throat. " Second of all, I must of left our only cell phone at my brother's house".
She stared at her husband. " So what do we do now?".
" This McDonald's is open 24 hours a day". He glanced over at the menu board. " I suggest we eat something and wait for AAA to come".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Romans 8:28 a certain promise

Romans 8:28  a certain promise


Trials will occur at times during our life. But God is good and he will be to protect and be with us. Romans 8:28 is the heart of God's Word, the heart of God's character and all of our lives.
There is a certain promise in this verse from Romans. The Apostle Paul is reminding us that we know that God is in control. God is telling us that he is in control. God is telling us that no matter what is happening in your life right now, God is in complete control. God's plan for us is for the ultimate good. God is working all the time in all things for the good of us his believers.


research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

we're off to see the Wizard page 3

we're off to see the Wizard page 3 by ric Gustafson


On January 26 1934, Sam Goldwyn bought the film rights to Oz for 40,000 from Baum's son Frank. Goldwyn wanted to shoot the picture in three strip Technicolor. Louis B Mayer picked one man to get Oz off the ground. This was Executive Irving Thalberg. He had joined the studio in 1924 and brought intense focus and a steady work ethic. Thalberg was slight, good looking and well dressed. The educated young man married MGM star Norma Shearer and joined Hollywood royalty. Tragically, he was sickly and died in 1936. He was only thirty seven years old.
Mayer picked Mervyn LeRoy to produce the Wizard of Oz. A budget of $ 3.7 million was decided upon for Production 1060. Normal MGM big pictures were shot in eight weeks. Production 1060 ended up to be a 22 week shoot.
44 year old Arthur Freed was picked to be Associate Producer for Production 1060. He read the Oz books since he was a boy and loved the story.
LeRoy and Freed knew that casting was the first hurdle to tackle.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David Hogan


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Grace: through many dangers toils and snares I have already come

Grace: through many dangers toils and snares I have already come by ric Gustafson


A good example of someone going through dangers toils and snares was the Apostle Paul. He survived a murder plot from the Jews and then the Greeks. He was nearly stoned to death and then dragged out of a city.
We go through dangers, toils and snares ourselves. We have lost loved ones, gone through divorces, been out of work and have trouble paying our bills. We go through danger when we are afraid. We go through toil when we have to labor almost beyond endurance. As Christians, we share in eternal glory. As God's people we will have a thorn in the flesh. While we go through tough times, God loves us. God has wonderful things planned for us. God does not always give us what we want. When we pray, we need to listen for God's voice. There is power in the grace of God. God teaches us through our struggles.


research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

we're off to see the Wizard page 2

we're off to see the Wizard page 2 by ric Gustafson


Lyman Frank Baum was born in Chittenango New York in 1856. Baum's father made a fortune in oil and he spent a lot of time with his mother Cynthia, two older sisters and three brothers. Young Baum loved the outdoors and nature. In 1882, L Frank Baum married Maud Gage. They moved to Aberdeen South Dakota Territory in 1888. In 1891, the Baum's moved to Chicago.
Baum was a storyteller and enjoyed reading his stories to children. Oz had been in Baum's mind for years. He wrote The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz. It was published in 1900. Later, the title was shortened to The Wizard of Oz. Baum had to declare bankruptcy in 1911. In order to pay off his debts, he authorized a film version of his novel.
L Frank Baum died in May 1919. He was sixty two years old.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David Hogan


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Grace: the hour I first believed

Grace: the hour I first believed by ric Gustafson


According to the Book of Acts, a young man by the name of Saul was attacking the young church of the Way. According to Acts 8:3, he was dragging away believers to imprisonment. He felt that he had found his calling. He was not satisfied. He goes to the high priest and asks permission to persecute followers of the Way in Damascus.
As Saul approached Damascus, he met Jesus on the road. He asks Saul why he is persecuting him?. Saul is blinded by a light. Saul asks the question " who are you Lord?". Saul is without sight for three days. In that time he did not eat or drink.
A man named Ananias came and put his hands on Saul's eyes. They opened. Grace was given to Saul that day.
Saul became the Apostle Paul.


research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric



Monday, December 5, 2016

we're off to see the Wizard page 1

we're off to see the Wizard page 1 by ric Gustafson


MGM Studios began in 1924. Metro Pictures, Goldwyn Pictures and Louis B Mayer became MGM. The studio was established in Culver City California near Los Angeles. MGM became one of the four major movie studios in Hollywood. The others were 20th Century Fox, Paramount and Warner Bros. Other studios in the area included Universal, Columbia and RKO.
The MGM Studios stretched across 185 acres. During World War II, around 4,000 employees kept the place going. Lot I sat on forty four acres. This included twenty eight sound stages and nearly two hundred permanent buildings. The main office building included publicity, casting, special effects, sound, and the commissary.
Lot II occupied thirty seven acres. Here were the animation department and various false front buildings. Lot III and IV included various period buildings, working zoo and parking lot. Lot V had stables and corrals for horses. Lot VI included the studio nursery. The studio ran on six day workweeks and released one movie per week. Profits soared until 1946 when movie attendance fell dramatically.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David Hogan


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Grace: was blind but now I see

Grace: was blind but now I see by ric Gustafson


When we receive salvation, we become a new person. At first, we feel as if nothing has changed. We still struggle with compulsive habits, temptations and sin. According to Philippians 2:12, we have to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. As time goes on, as a believer we hear the voice of the Holy Spirit more clearly. We begin to think with the mind of Jesus.
We must let the Spirit of God face our sin in our soul. God's judgment is according to integrity. God's judgment is according to opportunity. God's judgment is according to mortality. God's judgment is according to impartiality. God's judgment is according to certainty.


research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Grace: I once was lost but now am found

Grace: I once was lost but now am found by ric Gustafson


Jesus enjoyed telling stories or parables. Some of these stories were about the lost and found. There was a story of a shepherd looking for a lost sheep. Jesus told a story about a lost coin. His last story on this subject is well known as the story of the Prodigal Son. It is a well known story. One day, a son asked his father for his inheritance. It was given to him and he left for a distant land. He spent all of his money and was very hungry and desperate. He decided to come home. He came home and his father was happily waiting for him. A welcome home party happened. The older brother was very jealous. He received condemnation from his father. He was told that his long lost brother was lost and then was found. What joy.


research help: ' Captured by Grace' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric

a healing touch page 5

a healing touch page 5 by ric Gustafson


My life was getting desperate. One day, I decided to sell my beloved tapestry. One day, Ethan came back. He bought my tapestry. He also told me that a new prophet in Galilee was performing miracles. He told me that his wife's cousin named Jairus had heard him speak. One day, my sister Joanna talked about this new prophet . She told me that his name was Jesus of Nazareth.
One day, a letter from Ethan came. He informed me that he wanted to stop so I could meet another one of his daughters. Her name was Rachel. He was to going to Capernaum to visit Jairus his wife's cousin.
I had been bleeding for twelve years now. At this point, I began to wonder if this affliction would ever go away.


research help: ' Land of Silence' by Tessa Afshar


Peace and God's blessings. Happy Holidays. Love Ric