Lent 2017: Galatians 6: 6-10 by ric Gustafson
During Lent, it is easy after a while to feel tired and discouraged. The Apostle Paul in today's bible reading encourages the Galatian Christians to not get tired of doing good. Paul says that in time we'll have a harvest if we don't give up. The Galatian Christians kept preaching, teaching, and serving because they believed that a harvest of eternal life was coming. Eternal life with God is a bountiful and joyful harvest. We share Jesus, love and care for others and live to the glory of God. The Holy Spirit is always working in us. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Friday, March 31, 2017
the miracle on Titanic page 31
the miracle on Titanic page 31 by ric Gustafson
Sun April 14 1912 10:10 am
Reverend Rossup entered the first class dining room. He noticed David and Charlene sitting at one of the tables. " Good morning to the two of you".
" Reverend" Charlene replied as she held tightly onto one of David's arms. " David would like to ask you something".
He turned toward the young man. " What did you want to ask me?".
" Reverend Rossup". His voice hesitated. " After the service ends, I want to give my life to Jesus".
The Reverend smiled. " It will be an honor to witness that".
The ship's orchestra provided the music. Captain Smith had everyone sing a hymn of the Sea.
After the service, David knelt next to Charlene and Reverend Rossup.
" David, just simply say Lord please come into my life".
" Lord, please come into my life".
" Lord, I give you my life please make it your own".
" Lord, I give you my life please make it your own".
" Lord, I repent of all of my sins".
" Lord, I repent of all of my sins".
" Lord, you are in charge of my life from this day forward".
" Lord, you are in charge of my life from this day forward".
" Amen".
" Amen".
David looked up at Charlene. Tears were running down his face.
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Sun April 14 1912 10:10 am
Reverend Rossup entered the first class dining room. He noticed David and Charlene sitting at one of the tables. " Good morning to the two of you".
" Reverend" Charlene replied as she held tightly onto one of David's arms. " David would like to ask you something".
He turned toward the young man. " What did you want to ask me?".
" Reverend Rossup". His voice hesitated. " After the service ends, I want to give my life to Jesus".
The Reverend smiled. " It will be an honor to witness that".
The ship's orchestra provided the music. Captain Smith had everyone sing a hymn of the Sea.
After the service, David knelt next to Charlene and Reverend Rossup.
" David, just simply say Lord please come into my life".
" Lord, please come into my life".
" Lord, I give you my life please make it your own".
" Lord, I give you my life please make it your own".
" Lord, I repent of all of my sins".
" Lord, I repent of all of my sins".
" Lord, you are in charge of my life from this day forward".
" Lord, you are in charge of my life from this day forward".
" Amen".
" Amen".
David looked up at Charlene. Tears were running down his face.
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Thursday, March 30, 2017
Matthew page 2
Matthew page 2 by ric Gustafson
Levi's teacher was tall, clean shaven and had short wavy hair. " My first rule is that you remain silent at first".
Levi grinned. " Ok".
" I want you to observe and listen".
" Ok".
" Your training will show us if you are mean't for this type of work".
Levi shook his head. " I'm ready for it".
Divri smiled. " You seem very confident".
" Try me".
" Ok". He thought for a moment. " A man brought five wagons, 70 head of cattle, three dozen sheep and fifty bushels of wheat".
Levi thought for a minute. He grinned and wrote down a number. He handed it to his teacher.
Divri smirked. " That is not the number I had".
Levi grinned again. " I added in my 20%".
" You start tomorrow with Efah".
research help: ' Matthew's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Levi's teacher was tall, clean shaven and had short wavy hair. " My first rule is that you remain silent at first".
Levi grinned. " Ok".
" I want you to observe and listen".
" Ok".
" Your training will show us if you are mean't for this type of work".
Levi shook his head. " I'm ready for it".
Divri smiled. " You seem very confident".
" Try me".
" Ok". He thought for a moment. " A man brought five wagons, 70 head of cattle, three dozen sheep and fifty bushels of wheat".
Levi thought for a minute. He grinned and wrote down a number. He handed it to his teacher.
Divri smirked. " That is not the number I had".
Levi grinned again. " I added in my 20%".
" You start tomorrow with Efah".
research help: ' Matthew's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Psalm 4
Lent 2017: Psalm 4 by ric Gustafson
God desires a relationship with us. God's Word shows this over and over again. Starting with Adam and Eve. Through covenants, prophets, and leaders God reached out to people. In his Son Jesus God desires a relationship with us. God desires that we pray to him. In Psalm 4:3, the Lord will hear me when I cry out to him. God listens and answers our prayers.
When we pray, we are talking to God. In prayer, we seek God's help. We praise God in prayer of gratitude for blessings received. Prayer is our lifeline to God. Praise his name.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
God desires a relationship with us. God's Word shows this over and over again. Starting with Adam and Eve. Through covenants, prophets, and leaders God reached out to people. In his Son Jesus God desires a relationship with us. God desires that we pray to him. In Psalm 4:3, the Lord will hear me when I cry out to him. God listens and answers our prayers.
When we pray, we are talking to God. In prayer, we seek God's help. We praise God in prayer of gratitude for blessings received. Prayer is our lifeline to God. Praise his name.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
Matthew page 1
Matthew page 1 by ric Gustafson
The head of the Publican Training Group shook Levi's hand. Chaklai was a large man with a beard and a moustache. " Your family is not keen on you coming here".
Levi frowned. " Not really".
" I see that you are fluent in Aramaic and Greek".
" I am".
Chaklai grinned. " That will help".
" Sir, I am anxious to learn about taxes".
The big man chuckled. " Good Good".
" I'm hoping eventually to have my own tax area and office".
" Good". His voice hesitated. " I'm going to have you taught by Divri". His voice hesitated. " He is my best teacher".
Levi grinned. " I am ready to learn".
" That's good". He began to walk away. " Come with me".
research help: ' Matthew's story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Happy Lent. Love Ric
The head of the Publican Training Group shook Levi's hand. Chaklai was a large man with a beard and a moustache. " Your family is not keen on you coming here".
Levi frowned. " Not really".
" I see that you are fluent in Aramaic and Greek".
" I am".
Chaklai grinned. " That will help".
" Sir, I am anxious to learn about taxes".
The big man chuckled. " Good Good".
" I'm hoping eventually to have my own tax area and office".
" Good". His voice hesitated. " I'm going to have you taught by Divri". His voice hesitated. " He is my best teacher".
Levi grinned. " I am ready to learn".
" That's good". He began to walk away. " Come with me".
research help: ' Matthew's story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Happy Lent. Love Ric
the miracle on Titanic page 30
the miracle on Titanic page 30 by ric Gustafson
Sun April 14 1912 8:45 am
Jack Phillips took the wire out of his pocket. He knew he was in big trouble. He walked onto the bridge. He handed it to Captain Smith. " Captain, I have an ice warning for you".
He opened the wire and read it. " It is a warning from the Caronia". He frowned at the scared wireless operator. " Any more ice warnings need to be given to me at once".
" Aye Sir". He quietly walked away.
Captain Smith shook his head in frustration. " That warning was dated two days ago".
Phillips walked back to the cramped wire room. Bride was busy tapping out personal messages. " What are you doing?".
" Look at this whole stack of messages I have to send out". The younger operator sighed. " The machine had broken down until 5 this morning". He threw up his hands. " I have all these messages to catch up on".
" If you get any more ice warnings". The senior operator sat down in a chair. " Captain Smith wants to see them right away".
" Ok". The younger operator went back to tapping out passenger messages.
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Sun April 14 1912 8:45 am
Jack Phillips took the wire out of his pocket. He knew he was in big trouble. He walked onto the bridge. He handed it to Captain Smith. " Captain, I have an ice warning for you".
He opened the wire and read it. " It is a warning from the Caronia". He frowned at the scared wireless operator. " Any more ice warnings need to be given to me at once".
" Aye Sir". He quietly walked away.
Captain Smith shook his head in frustration. " That warning was dated two days ago".
Phillips walked back to the cramped wire room. Bride was busy tapping out personal messages. " What are you doing?".
" Look at this whole stack of messages I have to send out". The younger operator sighed. " The machine had broken down until 5 this morning". He threw up his hands. " I have all these messages to catch up on".
" If you get any more ice warnings". The senior operator sat down in a chair. " Captain Smith wants to see them right away".
" Ok". The younger operator went back to tapping out passenger messages.
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: I Peter 4: 7-11
Lent 2017: I Peter 4: 7-11 by ric Gustafson
We receive many blessings in life. Some are physical and some are spiritual. As God's people, we need to be grateful for God's blessings in our life. We do not earn or deserve blessings. Yet God blesses us daily. When blessings are given to us, we need to bless others. We are nothing and can do nothing. All that we are is through God. I keep nothing for myself but serve others. We serve others as good managers of God's diverse gifts. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
We receive many blessings in life. Some are physical and some are spiritual. As God's people, we need to be grateful for God's blessings in our life. We do not earn or deserve blessings. Yet God blesses us daily. When blessings are given to us, we need to bless others. We are nothing and can do nothing. All that we are is through God. I keep nothing for myself but serve others. We serve others as good managers of God's diverse gifts. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Monday, March 27, 2017
Revival: revival through us
Revival: revival through us by ric Gustafson
During revival, we call to God because we are distressed over our sins. God hears our voice and ignites a revival in our hearts. Psalm 139 says search me O God and know my heart. God's Word tells us to pray for revival. Revival never occurs outside of prayer. Revival happens when the presence of the Holy Spirit is there. Finally, we need a submissive heart for revival to come. Praise God
The End
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
During revival, we call to God because we are distressed over our sins. God hears our voice and ignites a revival in our hearts. Psalm 139 says search me O God and know my heart. God's Word tells us to pray for revival. Revival never occurs outside of prayer. Revival happens when the presence of the Holy Spirit is there. Finally, we need a submissive heart for revival to come. Praise God
The End
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Sunday, March 26, 2017
Revival: revival at any time
Revival: revival at any time by ric Gustafson
One question that arises is when does revival happen?. It happens when God's people are prepared. It happens when we have humble spirits and tender hearts. Far reaching revivals are God's work. Our hearts must be prepared for whatever he wants to do through us. As God's people, we need to be ready when he calls us. We need to be ready with God's Word.
We need to be ready, available and willing.
Praise God
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
One question that arises is when does revival happen?. It happens when God's people are prepared. It happens when we have humble spirits and tender hearts. Far reaching revivals are God's work. Our hearts must be prepared for whatever he wants to do through us. As God's people, we need to be ready when he calls us. We need to be ready with God's Word.
We need to be ready, available and willing.
Praise God
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Saturday, March 25, 2017
Revival: revival with others
Revival: revival with others by ric Gustafson
The first Christian revival happened on the Day of Pentecost. Revival starts person to person. Then church to church. Then city to city. Then country to country. Revival starts with us and then through others. Revival overtakes us and then strengthens the body of Christ.
A bitter spirit can thwart a personal revival. Bitterness and then sin can pollute revival. We need to let Jesus deal with bitterness in our hearts. When revival comes, the body of Christ can prosper. Then a new group of followers of Jesus will take his message into the future. Praise God
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
The first Christian revival happened on the Day of Pentecost. Revival starts person to person. Then church to church. Then city to city. Then country to country. Revival starts with us and then through others. Revival overtakes us and then strengthens the body of Christ.
A bitter spirit can thwart a personal revival. Bitterness and then sin can pollute revival. We need to let Jesus deal with bitterness in our hearts. When revival comes, the body of Christ can prosper. Then a new group of followers of Jesus will take his message into the future. Praise God
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Friday, March 24, 2017
Revival: revival in our heart
Revival: revival in our heart by ric Gustafson
Being revived by God leads to revival. What God does in our life needs to be shared with others. Revival starts in our heart when we cry to God for help. Psalm 51 was King David's cry for help. David cried for mercy. In Psalm 139, David says search me O God and know my heart. Revival starts in our heart. Then we begin searching for renewed righteousness. Revival begins with conviction of sin.
The Holy Spirit speaks to us about the condition of our heart. Without obedience there is no personal revival. The Holy Spirit brings conviction. Then we repent and then are revived. We need to read God's Word and ask Jesus to open our eyes.
I pray that our hearts are open for revival. Praise God
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Being revived by God leads to revival. What God does in our life needs to be shared with others. Revival starts in our heart when we cry to God for help. Psalm 51 was King David's cry for help. David cried for mercy. In Psalm 139, David says search me O God and know my heart. Revival starts in our heart. Then we begin searching for renewed righteousness. Revival begins with conviction of sin.
The Holy Spirit speaks to us about the condition of our heart. Without obedience there is no personal revival. The Holy Spirit brings conviction. Then we repent and then are revived. We need to read God's Word and ask Jesus to open our eyes.
I pray that our hearts are open for revival. Praise God
research help: Turning Points April 2017
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Thursday, March 23, 2017
the miracle on Titanic page 29
the miracle on Titanic page 29 by ric Gustafson
Sat April 13 1912 8:20 pm
Second Officer Lightoller stood over the bridge railing. He stared at the calm ocean. Fourth Officer Boxhall was studying some charts. " Have we had any reports of ice?".
" Two so far" replied the young officer. He put the charts down. " Including one about a French liner that sustained minor damage".
" Where was that?".
The young officer picked up a chart and glanced at it. " There is a large ice field at 46 degrees North to 41 degrees North". His voice hesitated. " And then 46 degrees West to 50 degrees West".
" Our ship will be passing right through that ice field".
" According to our present course". Boxhall stared at the older officer. " Yes we will be".
Just then, Captain Smith stepped onto the deck. " How is everything going?".
" Fine Captain". The older officer smiled. " The ocean tonight is a quiet one".
" Good". The Captain patted his hound's head. " Any new reports of ice?".
Boxhall grinned. " No Sir".
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Sat April 13 1912 8:20 pm
Second Officer Lightoller stood over the bridge railing. He stared at the calm ocean. Fourth Officer Boxhall was studying some charts. " Have we had any reports of ice?".
" Two so far" replied the young officer. He put the charts down. " Including one about a French liner that sustained minor damage".
" Where was that?".
The young officer picked up a chart and glanced at it. " There is a large ice field at 46 degrees North to 41 degrees North". His voice hesitated. " And then 46 degrees West to 50 degrees West".
" Our ship will be passing right through that ice field".
" According to our present course". Boxhall stared at the older officer. " Yes we will be".
Just then, Captain Smith stepped onto the deck. " How is everything going?".
" Fine Captain". The older officer smiled. " The ocean tonight is a quiet one".
" Good". The Captain patted his hound's head. " Any new reports of ice?".
Boxhall grinned. " No Sir".
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
666 Landmine Plaza page 10
666 Landmine Plaza page 10 by ric Gustafson
Regis and Slothfulness walked into another conference room. Regis noticed Pride, Jealousy and Envy, Insecurity, Compromise, Unforgiveness, Disappointment, Fear sitting around a conference table.
Pride spoke up. " Mr Monroe, we have been discussing your file".
" Yes".
Insecurity now spoke up. " We believe that you are not the right candidate for this position".
Regis smiled. " You are right, I'm not".
Fear gave him a strange look. " What do you mean?".
" Because I am a Christian". His voice hesitated. " I'm not right for this position".
Compromise grinned. " Thank you for coming in today".
Regis smiled and walked out.
The End
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Regis and Slothfulness walked into another conference room. Regis noticed Pride, Jealousy and Envy, Insecurity, Compromise, Unforgiveness, Disappointment, Fear sitting around a conference table.
Pride spoke up. " Mr Monroe, we have been discussing your file".
" Yes".
Insecurity now spoke up. " We believe that you are not the right candidate for this position".
Regis smiled. " You are right, I'm not".
Fear gave him a strange look. " What do you mean?".
" Because I am a Christian". His voice hesitated. " I'm not right for this position".
Compromise grinned. " Thank you for coming in today".
Regis smiled and walked out.
The End
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Isaiah 6: 1-8
Lent 2017: Isaiah 6: 1-8 by ric Gustafson
During Lent, we listen for God's Word and Spirit to lead us. We need to examine our lives and our Christian discipleship. We need to commit to service to God through Jesus. We need the Holy Spirit to guide us and to lead us. Without the Holy Spirit, we would not bear fruit.
This starts by our answering of God's call. In today's bible reading, the prophet Isaiah replied to the call by saying " I'm here send me". As God's people, we need to be ready to answer God's call. We need to pray and say to God " here I am send me".
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
During Lent, we listen for God's Word and Spirit to lead us. We need to examine our lives and our Christian discipleship. We need to commit to service to God through Jesus. We need the Holy Spirit to guide us and to lead us. Without the Holy Spirit, we would not bear fruit.
This starts by our answering of God's call. In today's bible reading, the prophet Isaiah replied to the call by saying " I'm here send me". As God's people, we need to be ready to answer God's call. We need to pray and say to God " here I am send me".
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
the miracle on Titanic page 28
the miracle on Titanic page 28 by ric Gustafson
Sat April 13 1912 4:30 pm
David walked toward the entrance to the first class lounge. Just then, he noticed an older couple walking up toward him.
" Mr Sharpston" replied the female as she waved at him. " I am Lady Lucy Duff". She pointed to the man next to her. " This is my husband Cosmo".
" Sharpston" he replied as he shook David's hand. " As in the Sharpston Steel Corp".
David grinned. " Yes, my father started the company".
David opened the door. Captain Smith and Fourth Officer Boxhall walked out.
Captain Smith smiled. " Good afternoon Mr Sharpston". His hound was sitting by his side.
" Afternoon Captain". His voice hesitated. " Any reports of ice?".
Captain Smith turned to his officer. " Boxhall, have we received any reports of ice?".
The young officer shook his head. " Not yet Sir".
" Mr Boxhall, how many miles did we do yesterday?".
" I believe 519 miles Sir".
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Sat April 13 1912 4:30 pm
David walked toward the entrance to the first class lounge. Just then, he noticed an older couple walking up toward him.
" Mr Sharpston" replied the female as she waved at him. " I am Lady Lucy Duff". She pointed to the man next to her. " This is my husband Cosmo".
" Sharpston" he replied as he shook David's hand. " As in the Sharpston Steel Corp".
David grinned. " Yes, my father started the company".
David opened the door. Captain Smith and Fourth Officer Boxhall walked out.
Captain Smith smiled. " Good afternoon Mr Sharpston". His hound was sitting by his side.
" Afternoon Captain". His voice hesitated. " Any reports of ice?".
Captain Smith turned to his officer. " Boxhall, have we received any reports of ice?".
The young officer shook his head. " Not yet Sir".
" Mr Boxhall, how many miles did we do yesterday?".
" I believe 519 miles Sir".
research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker
Happy Lent. Love Ric
666 Landmine Plaza page 9
666 Landmine Plaza page 9 by ric Gustafson
Fear walked out of the room.
Another man in red walked in. He picked up Regis's file and began to skim through it. " I see that you are a believer". He grinned. " My name is Slothfulness".
" My name is Regis Monroe".
The man in red closed the file. " I am the last interviewer you are going to see today".
Regis smiled. " As a Christian, I know all about you".
" You do".
" You try to rob me of my purpose and motivation".
Slothfulness raised his voice. " Now why would I do that for?".
" You try to get me to procrastinate and be lazy".
Slothfulness yelled. " That is not true".
Regis grinned. " But I know how to defeat you".
The man in red stared at Regis. " How?".
" God has created me for a purpose". Regis cleared his throat. " He is my only source of victory".
" I've heard enough". He stood up and began to scream. " Follow me".
Regis picked up his file. They left the room.
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Fear walked out of the room.
Another man in red walked in. He picked up Regis's file and began to skim through it. " I see that you are a believer". He grinned. " My name is Slothfulness".
" My name is Regis Monroe".
The man in red closed the file. " I am the last interviewer you are going to see today".
Regis smiled. " As a Christian, I know all about you".
" You do".
" You try to rob me of my purpose and motivation".
Slothfulness raised his voice. " Now why would I do that for?".
" You try to get me to procrastinate and be lazy".
Slothfulness yelled. " That is not true".
Regis grinned. " But I know how to defeat you".
The man in red stared at Regis. " How?".
" God has created me for a purpose". Regis cleared his throat. " He is my only source of victory".
" I've heard enough". He stood up and began to scream. " Follow me".
Regis picked up his file. They left the room.
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Philippians 4: 4-7
Lent 2017: Philippians 4: 4-7 by ric Gustafson
We go through many ups and downs in this earthly life. We go through joys, sorrows, blessings and afflictions. We need something to bring us peace. When things are going well, we think we have peace. What happens when life's storms come?. We need a better peace, the peace of God. This bible verse tells us that the peace of God is tranquility, security and a joy of the Spirit. God's peace is a deep peace that we can experience right now. The Apostle Paul wrote that the peace of God exceeds all understanding. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
We go through many ups and downs in this earthly life. We go through joys, sorrows, blessings and afflictions. We need something to bring us peace. When things are going well, we think we have peace. What happens when life's storms come?. We need a better peace, the peace of God. This bible verse tells us that the peace of God is tranquility, security and a joy of the Spirit. God's peace is a deep peace that we can experience right now. The Apostle Paul wrote that the peace of God exceeds all understanding. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 8
666 Landmine Plaza page 8 by ric Gustafson
Disappointment left the room.
Another man in red walked in. He sat down and opened Regis's file. " Hello, my name is Fear".
" I'm Regis Monroe". His voice hesitated. " I know you".
Fear closed the file. " You do?".
" Yes, you try to prevent me from experiencing the blessings of God".
Fear frowned. " Well, that is not true".
" You try to divide my mind and give me a poor self image".
Fear threw Regis's file on the desk. " I do not!".
Regis smiled. " But I know how to defeat you".
" You do". Fear gave a scary grin. " How".
" I will not fear".
Fear frowned again. " Why?".
" God has chosen me to fulfill his will".
" Fine". He threw Regis's file at a nearby wall. " Wait for the last interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Disappointment left the room.
Another man in red walked in. He sat down and opened Regis's file. " Hello, my name is Fear".
" I'm Regis Monroe". His voice hesitated. " I know you".
Fear closed the file. " You do?".
" Yes, you try to prevent me from experiencing the blessings of God".
Fear frowned. " Well, that is not true".
" You try to divide my mind and give me a poor self image".
Fear threw Regis's file on the desk. " I do not!".
Regis smiled. " But I know how to defeat you".
" You do". Fear gave a scary grin. " How".
" I will not fear".
Fear frowned again. " Why?".
" God has chosen me to fulfill his will".
" Fine". He threw Regis's file at a nearby wall. " Wait for the last interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Isaiah 65: 17-25
Lent 2017: Isaiah 65: 17-25 by ric Gustafson
As Christians we need to believe that God's promises are sure. God's Word can be trusted. God's promises can always be trusted. God promises to hear and answer our prayers. God promises to the prophet Isaiah that he will hear and answer. That promise was true and is true now. When we call, God will answer. God hears when we speak to him. As God's people, we pray and believe.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
As Christians we need to believe that God's promises are sure. God's Word can be trusted. God's promises can always be trusted. God promises to hear and answer our prayers. God promises to the prophet Isaiah that he will hear and answer. That promise was true and is true now. When we call, God will answer. God hears when we speak to him. As God's people, we pray and believe.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Sunday, March 19, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 7
666 Landmine Plaza page 7 by ric Gustafson
Compromise left the room.
Another man in red entered and sat down. " Hello, my name is Disappointment".
" I'm Regis Monroe". He picked up his file from the floor. He handed it to the man. " Here's my file".
The man in red quickly glanced through it. " I see that you are a Christian".
Regis smiled. " I am".
The man frowned. " Do you already know me?".
Regis grinned. " I do".
" What do you know?".
" You try to make me focus on the negative aspects of my life".
Disappointment hit a fist on the desk. " That is not true".
" You try to keep me from praying and make me feel depressed". Then Regis smiled. " But I know how to defeat you".
" How".
Regis grinned. " I'm going to have hope and know that God has a plan for my life".
Disappointment stood up. He threw Regis's file against a nearby wall. " You have two interviewers left to go".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Compromise left the room.
Another man in red entered and sat down. " Hello, my name is Disappointment".
" I'm Regis Monroe". He picked up his file from the floor. He handed it to the man. " Here's my file".
The man in red quickly glanced through it. " I see that you are a Christian".
Regis smiled. " I am".
The man frowned. " Do you already know me?".
Regis grinned. " I do".
" What do you know?".
" You try to make me focus on the negative aspects of my life".
Disappointment hit a fist on the desk. " That is not true".
" You try to keep me from praying and make me feel depressed". Then Regis smiled. " But I know how to defeat you".
" How".
Regis grinned. " I'm going to have hope and know that God has a plan for my life".
Disappointment stood up. He threw Regis's file against a nearby wall. " You have two interviewers left to go".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Matthew 28: 16-20
Lent 2017: Matthew 28: 16-20 by ric Gustafson
What is God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit doing in your heart?. What is God calling you to do to express his faith and love?. In today's bible passage, Jesus gives his disciples a great commission. He tells them to go and make disciples of all nations. They were to go proclaim Jesus, call people to faith and to follow Jesus as their Lord and Savior. To God, this world is his parish. In this evil and sinful world, we live and serve God. God wants us to share his gospel everywhere and to everyone.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
What is God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit doing in your heart?. What is God calling you to do to express his faith and love?. In today's bible passage, Jesus gives his disciples a great commission. He tells them to go and make disciples of all nations. They were to go proclaim Jesus, call people to faith and to follow Jesus as their Lord and Savior. To God, this world is his parish. In this evil and sinful world, we live and serve God. God wants us to share his gospel everywhere and to everyone.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Saturday, March 18, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 6
666 Landmine Plaza page 6 by ric Gustafson
Compromise left the room.
Another man in red entered. He picked up Regis's file and then sat down at the desk. " Hello, my name is Unforgiveness".
" I am Regis Monroe".
He opened Regis's file. " I see on here that you are a believer".
" Yes, I am".
" Mr Monroe, do you know who I am?".
Regis sighed. " Yes, I do".
" What do you know about me?".
" You try to get me not to forgive someone".
The man in red frowned. " That is not true".
" You try to keep me from being the person God wants me to be".
Unforgiveness's face got red. " You do not know what you are talking about".
" But". Regis's voice hesitated. " I know how to defeat you".
" How".
" By praying".
The man in red frowned. " That's disgusting".
Regis smiled. " And then I will receive joy and peace".
Unforgiveness threw Regis's file against a wall. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Compromise left the room.
Another man in red entered. He picked up Regis's file and then sat down at the desk. " Hello, my name is Unforgiveness".
" I am Regis Monroe".
He opened Regis's file. " I see on here that you are a believer".
" Yes, I am".
" Mr Monroe, do you know who I am?".
Regis sighed. " Yes, I do".
" What do you know about me?".
" You try to get me not to forgive someone".
The man in red frowned. " That is not true".
" You try to keep me from being the person God wants me to be".
Unforgiveness's face got red. " You do not know what you are talking about".
" But". Regis's voice hesitated. " I know how to defeat you".
" How".
" By praying".
The man in red frowned. " That's disgusting".
Regis smiled. " And then I will receive joy and peace".
Unforgiveness threw Regis's file against a wall. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: II Corinthians 5: 16-21
Lent 2017: II Corinthians 5: 16-21 by ric Gustafson
God's Son Jesus Christ came to earth to die for us so we can have salvation. This passage from II Corinthians talks about being a new creature in Jesus. When we receive Jesus into our lives, we are saved and reconciled.
We must be born of God. We must be converted and changed so we can become a new creature in Jesus. We need Jesus to be in us and us in Jesus. In Christ, we are a new creature. Then our sins are forgiven and then we can seek Jesus in everything that we do. We are born anew.
Praise God
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
God's Son Jesus Christ came to earth to die for us so we can have salvation. This passage from II Corinthians talks about being a new creature in Jesus. When we receive Jesus into our lives, we are saved and reconciled.
We must be born of God. We must be converted and changed so we can become a new creature in Jesus. We need Jesus to be in us and us in Jesus. In Christ, we are a new creature. Then our sins are forgiven and then we can seek Jesus in everything that we do. We are born anew.
Praise God
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Friday, March 17, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 5
666 Landmine Plaza page 5 by ric Gustafson
Insecurity left the room.
Another man in red entered. He sat down at the desk. " Hello, my name is Compromise".
" I'm Regis Monroe".
He opened Regis's file. " You are a believer".
Regis grinned. " Yes, I am".
Compromise smiled and closed the file. " So you already know about me?".
" Because I am a Christian". Regis's voice hesitated. " Yes".
" What do you know?".
" You quietly put landmines in my path and tempt me until I give in".
Compromise frowned. " I do not".
" You quietly lead me away from God and to destruction".
Compromise gave Regis a stern look. " That is not true".
" You try to weaken my character and lead me away from God's Word".
Compromise stood up and threw Regis's file on top of the desk. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Insecurity left the room.
Another man in red entered. He sat down at the desk. " Hello, my name is Compromise".
" I'm Regis Monroe".
He opened Regis's file. " You are a believer".
Regis grinned. " Yes, I am".
Compromise smiled and closed the file. " So you already know about me?".
" Because I am a Christian". Regis's voice hesitated. " Yes".
" What do you know?".
" You quietly put landmines in my path and tempt me until I give in".
Compromise frowned. " I do not".
" You quietly lead me away from God and to destruction".
Compromise gave Regis a stern look. " That is not true".
" You try to weaken my character and lead me away from God's Word".
Compromise stood up and threw Regis's file on top of the desk. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Hebrews 1: 1-4
Lent 2017: Hebrews 1: 1-4 by ric Gustafson
There is a question all Christians ponder. " How do I know the will of God?". The place to begin is with Jesus Christ. Jesus is the full expression of God. According to Hebrews 1:3, Jesus is the light of God's glory. Jesus is the imprint of God's being.
When we look at Jesus, we see life. By looking at Jesus, we know the will of God. Jesus gives us values and orientation for our lives. When a situation comes up, we need to ask ourselves would Jesus do this or not. This will help us find the will of God. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
There is a question all Christians ponder. " How do I know the will of God?". The place to begin is with Jesus Christ. Jesus is the full expression of God. According to Hebrews 1:3, Jesus is the light of God's glory. Jesus is the imprint of God's being.
When we look at Jesus, we see life. By looking at Jesus, we know the will of God. Jesus gives us values and orientation for our lives. When a situation comes up, we need to ask ourselves would Jesus do this or not. This will help us find the will of God. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 4
666 Landmine Plaza page 4 by ric Gustafson
Jealousy and Envy left the room.
Another man dressed in red entered the room. " Hello my name is Insecurity".
" My name is Regis Monroe".
Insecurity opened Regis's file. He studied it and then put it on the desk. " Do you know a lot about me?".
Regis grinned. " As a Christian, yes I do".
" What do you know about me?".
Regis stared at the man in red. " You try to convince me that I cannot do anything well".
Insecurity frowned. " That is not true".
" You try to make me feel insecure about myself".
Insecurity's voice got louder. " No I don't".
" You try to threaten me and throw me off balance".
Insecurity began to yell. " That is false".
Regis smiled. " God has shown me what to do with you".
" And what is that?".
Regis smiled again. " I set my focus on Jesus and I will receive the victory".
Insecurity threw Regis's file on the floor. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Jealousy and Envy left the room.
Another man dressed in red entered the room. " Hello my name is Insecurity".
" My name is Regis Monroe".
Insecurity opened Regis's file. He studied it and then put it on the desk. " Do you know a lot about me?".
Regis grinned. " As a Christian, yes I do".
" What do you know about me?".
Regis stared at the man in red. " You try to convince me that I cannot do anything well".
Insecurity frowned. " That is not true".
" You try to make me feel insecure about myself".
Insecurity's voice got louder. " No I don't".
" You try to threaten me and throw me off balance".
Insecurity began to yell. " That is false".
Regis smiled. " God has shown me what to do with you".
" And what is that?".
Regis smiled again. " I set my focus on Jesus and I will receive the victory".
Insecurity threw Regis's file on the floor. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Psalm 50
Lent 2017: Psalm 50 by ric Gustafson
We have resources when we are in need. We have friends and family who can help. But what is the best resource of all?. It is praying to God. In Psalm 50, The writer says to cry out to me whenever you are in trouble. He will deliver you then you will honor me. In hard times, God says to cry out to him. God commands us seek his aid. God says to call upon him and he will deliver us. God will help us and save us. That is his promise to us. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
We have resources when we are in need. We have friends and family who can help. But what is the best resource of all?. It is praying to God. In Psalm 50, The writer says to cry out to me whenever you are in trouble. He will deliver you then you will honor me. In hard times, God says to cry out to him. God commands us seek his aid. God says to call upon him and he will deliver us. God will help us and save us. That is his promise to us. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Lent 2017: Philippians 1: 12-14
Lent 2017: Philippians 1: 12-14 by ric Gustafson
At the time this bible passage was written, the Apostle Paul was in prison. Instead of being negative about his situation, Paul writes the opposite. He declares that the events happening to him are advancing the gospel. Even confined in a prison, Paul is still spreading God's message.
Everyone including the guards knew that Paul was in prison for Jesus. God took care of Paul and people continued to hear his message. God will help us in our worst trials. He has promised that he would. He will help us beyond our imagination. Praise God
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
At the time this bible passage was written, the Apostle Paul was in prison. Instead of being negative about his situation, Paul writes the opposite. He declares that the events happening to him are advancing the gospel. Even confined in a prison, Paul is still spreading God's message.
Everyone including the guards knew that Paul was in prison for Jesus. God took care of Paul and people continued to hear his message. God will help us in our worst trials. He has promised that he would. He will help us beyond our imagination. Praise God
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Monday, March 13, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 3
666 Landmine Plaza page 3 by ric Gustafson
Pride walked out.
Another man in red walked in and sat down. " Hello, I'm Jealousy and Envy".
" I am Regis Monroe".
He opened Regis's file. " I see that you are a believer".
" Yes, I am".
Jealousy and Envy smiled. " Do you know a lot about me?".
Regis grinned. " As a matter of fact, I do".
" And what is that?".
" You are very harmful to my faith". His voice hesitated. " And you try to prevent me from enjoying God's blessings".
The man in red frowned. " That is not true".
" You try to trap me and tempt me".
Anger came to Jealousy and Envy's face. " That is not true".
" You use cynicism, anger and bitterness to try to trap me".
He yelled at Regis. " That is not true".
Regis then smiled. " But I know how to get rid of you".
" How?".
" I surrender my feelings to God and allow him to change my attitude toward others".
Jealousy and Envy slammed the file on the desk. " Wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Pride walked out.
Another man in red walked in and sat down. " Hello, I'm Jealousy and Envy".
" I am Regis Monroe".
He opened Regis's file. " I see that you are a believer".
" Yes, I am".
Jealousy and Envy smiled. " Do you know a lot about me?".
Regis grinned. " As a matter of fact, I do".
" And what is that?".
" You are very harmful to my faith". His voice hesitated. " And you try to prevent me from enjoying God's blessings".
The man in red frowned. " That is not true".
" You try to trap me and tempt me".
Anger came to Jealousy and Envy's face. " That is not true".
" You use cynicism, anger and bitterness to try to trap me".
He yelled at Regis. " That is not true".
Regis then smiled. " But I know how to get rid of you".
" How?".
" I surrender my feelings to God and allow him to change my attitude toward others".
Jealousy and Envy slammed the file on the desk. " Wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Genesis 12: 1-3
Lent 2017: Genesis 12: 1-3 by ric Gustafson
In the passage for today, Abram and Sarai are called by God. They are asked to leave their country, their family and their home for a land that they will be shown. God tells them to leave everything and they do. God blessed them as a couple. God promised that they would be a blessing to others. God promised that all the families of the earth would be blessed because of them.
To be blessed, we need to do the will of God. God wants us to be models of faith. We need to do God's will, obey God's Word and seek God's glory. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
In the passage for today, Abram and Sarai are called by God. They are asked to leave their country, their family and their home for a land that they will be shown. God tells them to leave everything and they do. God blessed them as a couple. God promised that they would be a blessing to others. God promised that all the families of the earth would be blessed because of them.
To be blessed, we need to do the will of God. God wants us to be models of faith. We need to do God's will, obey God's Word and seek God's glory. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Lent 2017: Romans 6: 15-23
Lent 2017: Romans 6: 15-23 by ric Gustafson
All of us are sinners. It is our human condition. Because of sin, we are separated and alienated from God. The Apostle Paul says that we are slaves to sin. But we have a way out. Jesus's death provides reconciliation with God. Instead of slaves to sin, we are now slaves to righteousness. Being a slave of righteousness, will make our lives holy. God wants us to love him and serve him.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
All of us are sinners. It is our human condition. Because of sin, we are separated and alienated from God. The Apostle Paul says that we are slaves to sin. But we have a way out. Jesus's death provides reconciliation with God. Instead of slaves to sin, we are now slaves to righteousness. Being a slave of righteousness, will make our lives holy. God wants us to love him and serve him.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Friday, March 10, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 2
666 Landmine Plaza page 2 by ric Gustafson
Regis knocked again.
" Come in".
He opened the door and walked into a spacious well furnished office. Fancy paintings adorned the walls.
A middle aged man wearing a red sport coat and red dress shoes walked over. " Hello, you must be here for the interview".
" I am". He shook his hand. " Regis Monroe".
The man in red grinned. " My name is Pride".
Regis gave him a strange look. " Pride?".
He pointed toward a nearby chair. " Please have a seat".
Regis sat down.
Pride sat down at a desk. He opened a file. " As we're waiting for the other interviewers, I thought that I would ask you a couple of questions".
" Ok".
Pride stared at Regis. " Are you a believer?".
" Yes".
He smiled. " Do you sometimes feel self centered and inadequate?".
Regis wanted to be honest. " Sometimes".
Pride grinned. " Do you ever act on it?".
" I try not to". His voice hesitated. " I pray to Jesus that you will go away".
" And why is that?".
" Because God hates Pride".
Pride threw the file on the desk. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Regis knocked again.
" Come in".
He opened the door and walked into a spacious well furnished office. Fancy paintings adorned the walls.
A middle aged man wearing a red sport coat and red dress shoes walked over. " Hello, you must be here for the interview".
" I am". He shook his hand. " Regis Monroe".
The man in red grinned. " My name is Pride".
Regis gave him a strange look. " Pride?".
He pointed toward a nearby chair. " Please have a seat".
Regis sat down.
Pride sat down at a desk. He opened a file. " As we're waiting for the other interviewers, I thought that I would ask you a couple of questions".
" Ok".
Pride stared at Regis. " Are you a believer?".
" Yes".
He smiled. " Do you sometimes feel self centered and inadequate?".
Regis wanted to be honest. " Sometimes".
Pride grinned. " Do you ever act on it?".
" I try not to". His voice hesitated. " I pray to Jesus that you will go away".
" And why is that?".
" Because God hates Pride".
Pride threw the file on the desk. " Please wait for the next interviewer".
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Colossians 4: 10-18
Lent 2017: Colossians 4: 10-18 by ric Gustafson
Colossians is a wonderful book in the Bible. It talks about the supremacy of Jesus, the fullness of life in Jesus and new life in Jesus. The Apostle Paul said a final greeting and benediction to a slave of Jesus named Epaphras. This slave of Jesus was a prayer warrior. Epaphras prayed for the Colossian Christians. He prayed for their faith and perseverance. God wants us to pray for others.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Colossians is a wonderful book in the Bible. It talks about the supremacy of Jesus, the fullness of life in Jesus and new life in Jesus. The Apostle Paul said a final greeting and benediction to a slave of Jesus named Epaphras. This slave of Jesus was a prayer warrior. Epaphras prayed for the Colossian Christians. He prayed for their faith and perseverance. God wants us to pray for others.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Thursday, March 9, 2017
666 Landmine Plaza page 1
666 Landmine Plaza page 1 by ric Gustafson
Regis Monroe walked up to the steel door. He looked up. Then he stared at the piece of paper in his right hand. " 666" he mumbled to himself. " That's a strange number for an office building". He opened the door and walked inside.
A young woman wearing a red business outfit was sitting at an open desk. She looked up at Regis. " Can I help you?".
Regis smiled. " Yes, I have a 9:00 job interview for the Administrator position".
Suzie Willis opened up a day planner that was on the desk. " Can I have your name please?".
" Regis Monroe".
" Oh yes". She pointed at the ledger. " I have you right here". She pointed toward a nearby office. " The first person to interview you today is Pride".
Regis gave her a strange stare. " Pride?".
She smiled and pointed toward the office. " Good luck to you Mr Monroe".
" Thanks". He walked to the office door. He stopped to pray a silent prayer to God for wisdom and strength. He knocked on the door.
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Regis Monroe walked up to the steel door. He looked up. Then he stared at the piece of paper in his right hand. " 666" he mumbled to himself. " That's a strange number for an office building". He opened the door and walked inside.
A young woman wearing a red business outfit was sitting at an open desk. She looked up at Regis. " Can I help you?".
Regis smiled. " Yes, I have a 9:00 job interview for the Administrator position".
Suzie Willis opened up a day planner that was on the desk. " Can I have your name please?".
" Regis Monroe".
" Oh yes". She pointed at the ledger. " I have you right here". She pointed toward a nearby office. " The first person to interview you today is Pride".
Regis gave her a strange stare. " Pride?".
She smiled and pointed toward the office. " Good luck to you Mr Monroe".
" Thanks". He walked to the office door. He stopped to pray a silent prayer to God for wisdom and strength. He knocked on the door.
research help: ' Landmines in the path of the believer' by Charles F Stanley
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Lent 2017: Galatians 1: 1-5
Lent 2017: Galatians 1: 1-5 by ric Gustafson
We are identified by the groups we belong to. Church groups, political groups and civic groups identify us. The center and core of the gospel is that Jesus died for us. The Apostle Paul in today's bible verse proclaims that Jesus gave himself for our sins. Jesus died in order to prepare a people for himself. We belong to Jesus. We serve Jesus in holiness and righteousness. Jesus died for us.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
We are identified by the groups we belong to. Church groups, political groups and civic groups identify us. The center and core of the gospel is that Jesus died for us. The Apostle Paul in today's bible verse proclaims that Jesus gave himself for our sins. Jesus died in order to prepare a people for himself. We belong to Jesus. We serve Jesus in holiness and righteousness. Jesus died for us.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 6
the great egg soufflé caper page 6 by ric Gustafson
Elnora ran upstairs into the small kitchen. " Marjorie, I sent a young man up here with my last egg soufflé dish".
" I haven't seen him". Tiredly, she was getting ready some hot cross buns. " I sure could use it right now".
Dumbfounded, Elnora began to walk back downstairs. Just then, she noticed the back door to the church was ajar. She walked out onto a small sidewalk. She looked around and noticed the young man who had taken the hot dish. He was standing next to a green dumpster across the street. She quickly walked across the street. She walked up to the dumpster. She peeked around the corner. She could not believe what she was seeing. The young man, a young woman and four young children were eating the hot dish as if they hadn't eaten in days.
" What are you doing eating our egg soufflé dish?". She pulled out her cell phone to call the police.
" Please don't call". Tears came to the young man's face. " You have everything". He pointed at his family. " We have nothing".
Elnora put her cell phone away.
" I figured you would not miss it".
With tears in her eyes, Elnora walked back into church. They did end up with plenty of egg soufflé to go around. When it was all over, Elnora knew that what had just happened to her was God showing her the true meaning of Easter.
The End.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Elnora ran upstairs into the small kitchen. " Marjorie, I sent a young man up here with my last egg soufflé dish".
" I haven't seen him". Tiredly, she was getting ready some hot cross buns. " I sure could use it right now".
Dumbfounded, Elnora began to walk back downstairs. Just then, she noticed the back door to the church was ajar. She walked out onto a small sidewalk. She looked around and noticed the young man who had taken the hot dish. He was standing next to a green dumpster across the street. She quickly walked across the street. She walked up to the dumpster. She peeked around the corner. She could not believe what she was seeing. The young man, a young woman and four young children were eating the hot dish as if they hadn't eaten in days.
" What are you doing eating our egg soufflé dish?". She pulled out her cell phone to call the police.
" Please don't call". Tears came to the young man's face. " You have everything". He pointed at his family. " We have nothing".
Elnora put her cell phone away.
" I figured you would not miss it".
With tears in her eyes, Elnora walked back into church. They did end up with plenty of egg soufflé to go around. When it was all over, Elnora knew that what had just happened to her was God showing her the true meaning of Easter.
The End.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Lent 2017: Philippians 1: 3-11
Lent 2017: Philippians 1: 3-11 by ric Gustafson
What is true happiness?. Is it happiness and joy?. As a believer, our true happiness and joy is found in God. God is the beginning and the end of all things. In our life, God is always there and always at work. The Apostle Paul wrote that the one who started a good work in you will stay with you. God started the good work of salvation. God will complete the work of salvation. God gives us the gift of salvation through his Son. We do not earn it. God freely gives it to us. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
What is true happiness?. Is it happiness and joy?. As a believer, our true happiness and joy is found in God. God is the beginning and the end of all things. In our life, God is always there and always at work. The Apostle Paul wrote that the one who started a good work in you will stay with you. God started the good work of salvation. God will complete the work of salvation. God gives us the gift of salvation through his Son. We do not earn it. God freely gives it to us. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Monday, March 6, 2017
Lent 2017: James 2: 14-26
Lent 2017: James 2: 14-26 by ric Gustafson
Good works are fruits of faith. Our salvation is by God's grace. The gift of faith is by the work of the Holy Spirit. When we have faith in Jesus Christ, we are motivated to do good works. As disciples of Jesus, we want to express our faith. Good works do not save us. Because we are saved, we want to do good works. Faith and good works go together. Our faith impels us to give glory to God and to benefit others. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary of Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Good works are fruits of faith. Our salvation is by God's grace. The gift of faith is by the work of the Holy Spirit. When we have faith in Jesus Christ, we are motivated to do good works. As disciples of Jesus, we want to express our faith. Good works do not save us. Because we are saved, we want to do good works. Faith and good works go together. Our faith impels us to give glory to God and to benefit others. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary of Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 5
the great egg soufflé caper page 5 by ric Gustafson
" Elnora, we're getting a lot more people than expected" Lucille Gass said loudly as she gave a loaded plate to a church member.
She glanced at the long line still coming through. " How are the hot cross buns and orange juice doing?".
" Fine".
A worried look overcame Elnora's tired face. She remembered that she had given her only extra egg soufflé dish for upstairs.
" Elnora, we need some more egg soufflé upstairs?".
In disbelief, she turned to see her friend George Weiler.
" I gave the dish to someone to bring up there". Her voice hesitated. " You never got it".
" No".
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
" Elnora, we're getting a lot more people than expected" Lucille Gass said loudly as she gave a loaded plate to a church member.
She glanced at the long line still coming through. " How are the hot cross buns and orange juice doing?".
" Fine".
A worried look overcame Elnora's tired face. She remembered that she had given her only extra egg soufflé dish for upstairs.
" Elnora, we need some more egg soufflé upstairs?".
In disbelief, she turned to see her friend George Weiler.
" I gave the dish to someone to bring up there". Her voice hesitated. " You never got it".
" No".
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Sunday, March 5, 2017
Lent 2017: Psalm 119: 105- 112
Lent 2017: Psalm 119: 105- 112 by ric Gustafson
The Bible is different things to different people. To some it is a collection of ancient wisdom. To some it is a perfect book inspired by God. In the Bible we encounter God's Word. Scripture points us toward what to believe. Then God tells us how we should live. Psalm 119 tells us that God's Word is a lamp before his feet and a light for his journey. Scripture points us to God's great mercy and our redemption. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
The Bible is different things to different people. To some it is a collection of ancient wisdom. To some it is a perfect book inspired by God. In the Bible we encounter God's Word. Scripture points us toward what to believe. Then God tells us how we should live. Psalm 119 tells us that God's Word is a lamp before his feet and a light for his journey. Scripture points us to God's great mercy and our redemption. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Lent 2017: Mark 12: 28-34
Lent 2017: Mark 12: 28-34 by ric Gustafson
Jesus was asked which commandment was the most important of all. Jesus replied that we are to love God with all that is in us and then to love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus lived the commandments.
During Lent, we need to love God and our neighbors. If we love Jesus, we should love our neighbors too. We need to follow Jesus. We need to love our neighbors. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Jesus was asked which commandment was the most important of all. Jesus replied that we are to love God with all that is in us and then to love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus lived the commandments.
During Lent, we need to love God and our neighbors. If we love Jesus, we should love our neighbors too. We need to follow Jesus. We need to love our neighbors. Praise God.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 4
the great egg soufflé caper page 4 by ric Gustafson
After the 8:00 service started, more egg soufflé came. Elnora and the others warmed up more hot cross buns and poured more orange juice. She realized that she only had one extra egg soufflé dish in case the crowd was larger than expected.
When the service ended, a line began to form down the stairs.
" How is it going Elnora?".
She turned to see the smiling face of Pastor Greerson.
" We're doing fine so far".
" I got in line because I'm hungry". He filled a plate and then sat down.
" We need some more egg soufflé upstairs".
She turned to find a young man who was dressed casually in jeans and a t shirt. She did not recognize him. She figured that he was helping Marjorie upstairs. " I have an extra egg soufflé dish warming up". She wiped the sweat from her brow. " You can take it". She got the dish and carefully handed it to the young man.
" Thank you". He ran up the stairs.
After the crowd had died down, Elnora began to pray that more egg soufflé would be coming.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
After the 8:00 service started, more egg soufflé came. Elnora and the others warmed up more hot cross buns and poured more orange juice. She realized that she only had one extra egg soufflé dish in case the crowd was larger than expected.
When the service ended, a line began to form down the stairs.
" How is it going Elnora?".
She turned to see the smiling face of Pastor Greerson.
" We're doing fine so far".
" I got in line because I'm hungry". He filled a plate and then sat down.
" We need some more egg soufflé upstairs".
She turned to find a young man who was dressed casually in jeans and a t shirt. She did not recognize him. She figured that he was helping Marjorie upstairs. " I have an extra egg soufflé dish warming up". She wiped the sweat from her brow. " You can take it". She got the dish and carefully handed it to the young man.
" Thank you". He ran up the stairs.
After the crowd had died down, Elnora began to pray that more egg soufflé would be coming.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Friday, March 3, 2017
I Will: I will serve
I Will: I will serve by ric Gustafson
What would Jesus do?. The mother of James and John asked Jesus for a favor. She asked Jesus to promise that her two sons could sit on either side of him in their Kingdom. Jesus replied that she had no idea what she was talking about. Jesus then explained to his followers that they should serve others first and their desires last. Jesus explained that he came to earth to serve. He served others all the way to the cross.
Instead of saying I want we should say I will. We can serve through small groups. God wants and expects us to serve others. I pray that we do that always.
research help: ' I Will' by Thom Rainer
Happy Lent. Love Ric
What would Jesus do?. The mother of James and John asked Jesus for a favor. She asked Jesus to promise that her two sons could sit on either side of him in their Kingdom. Jesus replied that she had no idea what she was talking about. Jesus then explained to his followers that they should serve others first and their desires last. Jesus explained that he came to earth to serve. He served others all the way to the cross.
Instead of saying I want we should say I will. We can serve through small groups. God wants and expects us to serve others. I pray that we do that always.
research help: ' I Will' by Thom Rainer
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Lent 2017: Ephesians 2: 1-10
Lent 2017: Ephesians 2: 1-10 by ric Gustafson
Salvation comes through faith. We are saved by God's grace through faith. God gives us faith and then applied to our heart by the Holy Spirit.
The question pondered by our text today is what faith are we saved?. Faith is a disposition of the heart. Faith is what we believe. Faith involves the head and the heart. We believe in Jesus and we love him. Our feelings are focused on Jesus.
By God's grace we have received the gift of faith.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Salvation comes through faith. We are saved by God's grace through faith. God gives us faith and then applied to our heart by the Holy Spirit.
The question pondered by our text today is what faith are we saved?. Faith is a disposition of the heart. Faith is what we believe. Faith involves the head and the heart. We believe in Jesus and we love him. Our feelings are focused on Jesus.
By God's grace we have received the gift of faith.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 3
the great egg soufflé caper page 3 by ric Gustafson
Elnora looked at her watch.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Sylvia Chase exclaimed with a smile. She was carrying an egg soufflé dish. " The egg soufflé is here".
Soon, more egg soufflé dishes came. Some people warmed up hot cross buns. Some people poured orange juice.
Elnora began to feel as if a great weight was coming off her shoulders.
The first of the sunrise service crowd was starting to come down the stairs.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Mildred Gerch said as she hugged her friend. " Christ is risen".
Elnora smiled. " Christ is risen indeed". She handed her friend a plate of egg soufflé and a hot cross bun.
The sunrise service crowd was small. Elnora had just enough egg soufflé and hot cross buns to go around. When the traffic had died down, she sat down to rest.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Elnora looked at her watch.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Sylvia Chase exclaimed with a smile. She was carrying an egg soufflé dish. " The egg soufflé is here".
Soon, more egg soufflé dishes came. Some people warmed up hot cross buns. Some people poured orange juice.
Elnora began to feel as if a great weight was coming off her shoulders.
The first of the sunrise service crowd was starting to come down the stairs.
" Happy Easter Elnora" Mildred Gerch said as she hugged her friend. " Christ is risen".
Elnora smiled. " Christ is risen indeed". She handed her friend a plate of egg soufflé and a hot cross bun.
The sunrise service crowd was small. Elnora had just enough egg soufflé and hot cross buns to go around. When the traffic had died down, she sat down to rest.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Thursday, March 2, 2017
Lent 2017: I Corinthians 10: 23-33
Lent 2017: I Corinthians 10: 23-33 by ric Gustafson
The big question of life is why are we here?. We ponder and try to figure out who God wants us to be. God wants us to serve him with body and soul. We are body and soul. Our body and soul is directed toward serving the glory of God. God wants us to totally commit to him. God's purpose for us is for his glory. Our time, talents and resources are all for the glory of God. God wants us to help others. We are in this world to serve God with body and soul.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
The big question of life is why are we here?. We ponder and try to figure out who God wants us to be. God wants us to serve him with body and soul. We are body and soul. Our body and soul is directed toward serving the glory of God. God wants us to totally commit to him. God's purpose for us is for his glory. Our time, talents and resources are all for the glory of God. God wants us to help others. We are in this world to serve God with body and soul.
research help: ' The Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Lent. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 2
the great egg soufflé caper page 2 by ric Gustafson
Roger put the rolling rack into a corner of the large room. Elnora was setting up a basket on the serving table for a freewill offering.
" Happy Easter Elnora".
She turned around. " Pastor Greerson". She smiled. " I did not here you come down".
" I just came down to see how you were doing". He quickly glanced around the room. " The sunrise service is about to begin".
" Marjorie is handling upstairs". She smiled again. " We are doing fine down here".
" Good". He walked back upstairs.
She looked at her watch. She wanted to get an idea when she had to start warming up the hot cross buns. She wondered where her help was and when the egg soufflé dishes would start coming. She began to pray that the morning would be uneventful.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Roger put the rolling rack into a corner of the large room. Elnora was setting up a basket on the serving table for a freewill offering.
" Happy Easter Elnora".
She turned around. " Pastor Greerson". She smiled. " I did not here you come down".
" I just came down to see how you were doing". He quickly glanced around the room. " The sunrise service is about to begin".
" Marjorie is handling upstairs". She smiled again. " We are doing fine down here".
" Good". He walked back upstairs.
She looked at her watch. She wanted to get an idea when she had to start warming up the hot cross buns. She wondered where her help was and when the egg soufflé dishes would start coming. She began to pray that the morning would be uneventful.
research help: original story
Happy Lent. Love Ric
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Lent 2017: Ezekiel 18:25-32
Lent 2017: Ezekiel 18: 25-32 by ric Gustafson
The prophet Ezekiel preached to the people of Israel. The people had lost their nation and their homeland. God wanted to turn them around and guide them back to how he wanted them to live. If they did not listen to the prophet, they would face the judgment of God.
In Lent, we need to listen to that message too. We need to listen for the Holy Spirit. We need to read, meditate and hear God's Word. We must humble ourselves. We need to return to God. We need to repent and confess our sins to God.
research help: ' Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Ash Wednesday. Love Ric
The prophet Ezekiel preached to the people of Israel. The people had lost their nation and their homeland. God wanted to turn them around and guide them back to how he wanted them to live. If they did not listen to the prophet, they would face the judgment of God.
In Lent, we need to listen to that message too. We need to listen for the Holy Spirit. We need to read, meditate and hear God's Word. We must humble ourselves. We need to return to God. We need to repent and confess our sins to God.
research help: ' Sanctuary for Lent 2017' by Donald McKim
Happy Ash Wednesday. Love Ric
the great egg souffle caper page 1
the great egg soufflé caper page 1 by ric Gustafson
Elnora Jensen walked quietly down the carpeted steps. She turned on the lights. The large downstairs room was used as a youth room, confirmation classes and this morning Easter breakfast. She walked over and opened the heavy purple curtains. She smiled at the beautiful Easter sky. As she turned around, she noticed the smiling face of Roger Corby. He was the church's custodian and handy man.
" Happy Easter Roger" she said as she opened the refrigerator. She wanted to check on the orange juice.
" Happy Easter to you too". He pulled up a rolling rack of folding chairs. " It is a beautiful Easter morning".
" Yes it is". She glanced at the long tables that had already been set up by Roger. " Did the hot cross buns get here from the store?".
" Yes, they did". He kept putting up the chairs. " We should have plenty of napkins and paper plates too".
" Good" She began to set up the coffee pots. " How is Marjorie doing upstairs?".
" Just fine".
research help: original story
Happy Ash Wednesday. Love Ric
Elnora Jensen walked quietly down the carpeted steps. She turned on the lights. The large downstairs room was used as a youth room, confirmation classes and this morning Easter breakfast. She walked over and opened the heavy purple curtains. She smiled at the beautiful Easter sky. As she turned around, she noticed the smiling face of Roger Corby. He was the church's custodian and handy man.
" Happy Easter Roger" she said as she opened the refrigerator. She wanted to check on the orange juice.
" Happy Easter to you too". He pulled up a rolling rack of folding chairs. " It is a beautiful Easter morning".
" Yes it is". She glanced at the long tables that had already been set up by Roger. " Did the hot cross buns get here from the store?".
" Yes, they did". He kept putting up the chairs. " We should have plenty of napkins and paper plates too".
" Good" She began to set up the coffee pots. " How is Marjorie doing upstairs?".
" Just fine".
research help: original story
Happy Ash Wednesday. Love Ric
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