Mark page 8

Mark page 8 by ric Gustafson


John Mark came out of hiding after Peter and the others had fled.
A soldier noticed him. " You there". Another soldier grabbed John Mark by the edge of his garment , spun him around, the garment slid off.
Naked, John Mark ran off into the dark night as fast as he could. He found some old wool rags and covered himself. Eventually, he came to the courtyard gate of the high priest.
A young woman was letting people inside. John Mark noticed that John was able to get in.
John pointed at Peter. " He is with me".
She pointed at Peter. " You are one of this man's disciples".
Peter looked at her. " I am not".
Someone else pointed at Peter. " You are also one of his disciples".
Peter cursed. " I am not".
A servant spoke up. " That was my cousin whose ear you cut off". He stared at Peter. " Did I not see you in the garden with him?".
Peter began to swear. " I do not know him".
A rooster crowed.



research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Deborah

people in the Bible: Deborah by ric Gustafson


Their was a Canaanite king by the name of Jabin. He was a very powerful enemy to Israel. He had nine hundred iron chariots and a huge army.
Deborah was a homemaker. She and her husband Lapidoth lived in Ephraim. Deborah was a prophetess. People would come to her for advice. Her advice was that Barak assemble an army of ten thousand and attack Jabin.  Based on her advice, the poorly equipped Israelites defeated the Canaanites at Esdraelon. God is always looking for men and women to serve him and meet challenges for him. /Deborah was the right person for the job. Are you?.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the empty box page 2

the empty box page 2 by ric Gustafson


I looked around. I noticed a young man in white sitting next to my Aunt and Uncle. He was smiling at me.
" You can hear me".
" Of course". He stood up and walked toward the box. " No one else can".
" Who are you?".
" My name is Marcus". He pointed toward the box. " Look inside".
I walked up to the edge of the box. I peered inside. Horror came over my face. " That's me".
Marcus looked toward the center of the room. A light was coming down from the ceiling.
" Why am I in that box?".
" Your life has come to an earthly end".
I peered inside. " I look peaceful".
He smiled. " You knew where you were going". He frowned. " Some people don't".
I gave him a puzzling stare. " Marcus, why are you here?".
" I am one of your guardian angels". He looked at the light. " I am here to take you home".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the empty box page 1

the empty box page 1 by ric Gustafson


I woke up. I looked around to see where I was. It looked like a long red box with white on the inside. I glanced next to me to see a young gentleman lying there with his hands folded. The person looked happy as if he knew where he was going.
I put my feet over the side of the box. I looked around the large room. To my right, I noticed several bouquets of flowers. I thought they looked beautiful. Somebody nearby was crying and was being held by someone.
I glanced toward a couple to my left. The female was crying. The male was trying to console her. I smiled because I recognized them.
" Hello, Uncle Louie".
No response.
I waved my arms. " Uncle Louie, it's me Ernie".
" He can't hear you".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mark page 7

Mark page 7 by ric Gustafson


Jesus asked the mob again. " Whom are you seeking?".
One soldier yelled. " Jesus of Nazareth".
" I have told you that I am he". His voice hesitated. " If you seek me, let these go their way".
All of a sudden, Peter drew a sword and flailed at a servant standing next to a high priest.
Malchus dropped to his knees screaming. His ear had been severed.
Jesus gave the burly fisherman a stern look. " Peter, put away your sword". He shook his head. " Shall I not drink the cup which my Father has given me". He knelt down, put his hands on the young servants head. His ear was immediately restored. Jesus stared at the mob. " Have you come out as against a robber with swords and clubs to take me". His voice hesitated. " I was daily with you in the temple teaching and you did not seize me". He sighed. " The Scriptures must be fulfilled".
The mob bound Jesus and led him away.


research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 4

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 4 by ric Gustafson


The Creator smiled. " I put the bow in the rain clouds so that when it rains". His voice hesitated. " I will remember my covenant  with my people".
I threw my ball and knocked down seven pins. " So the rainbow has to do with the Flood?".
" Yes, I was sick and tired of the earth  with everybody seeking other gods". He threw his ball and got another strike. " Only Noah and his family pleased me". He smiled again. " So I asked him to build me a big boat".
" The ark".
" Yes, he and his family and lots of animals were saved. His voice hesitated again. " After the flood, I put the bow in the sky to remind myself  of the covenant with my people not to send another one".
I threw my ball and picked up the spare. " Thank you, I'm beginning to understand". I threw one more ball. I noticed the game was over.
" Thank you for bowling with me Ric". He smiled. " And thank you for caring about my creations".
He hugged me. He walked up to the counter to pay for the bowling.
The Creator and I walked outside. The rain had stopped. I glanced up at the rain clouds. Just then, a beautiful rainbow of different colors appeared.
" So that bow reminds you of your covenant with your people".
" That's right". He smiled. " It's a reminder to me and a promise to those who look at it".
" Like me".
" Joy comes to my heart when I see people enjoying my creations".
The Creator hugged me again. " Go in peace".
Ric got into the Saturn and drove off into beautiful sunshine.

The End


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

my battles: find your strength in God

my battles: find your strength in God by ric Gustafson


When problems in my life become battles, we should not measure them against our limited power, wisdom and resources. Instead, we should judge them in terms of what Jesus can do. Our heavenly Father is all powerful, full of wisdom and loves us. If we walk in his will, he will be our rock, deliverer, stronghold and shield. Praise God.


research help: ' Courageous Faith' by Charles F Stanley


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 3

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 3 by ric Gustafson


I walked in and noticed how busy it was. It looked like all the lanes were full of kids, families and birthday parties. I glanced at Lane 15. I smiled because I knew who was bowling. It was the Creator. He was an elderly gentleman with a gray beard. He smiled at me. He waved me over to his lane.
" Hi Ric". He gave me a big hug. " Would you like to bowl with me?". He threw his ball and got a strike. " I don't like to bowl alone".
" Sure". I took out my bowling ball and put it in the ball return. I put on my bowling shoes. " There's something I wanted to ask you about".
He threw his ball and got another strike. " What's that?".
I threw my ball and got seven pins. " I wanted to ask you about the beautiful rainbow I saw as I came in".
" I'm glad you asked". He frowned.  " Most people don't even pay much attention to it".
I threw my ball and picked up the spare. " It's so beautiful to look at after it rains".
He threw his ball and got another strike. " I'll answer your question Ric".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: David

people in the Bible:  David by ric Gustafson


David means ' Beloved'. God is always looking for men and women who have a heart for him. According to Revelation 5:9, he is searching through every tribe, tongue, people and nation. David was the person God was looking for. He exclaimed O God you are my God. If you want to become more intimate with God, develop a thirst for him. Daily read his Word. Make sure that you have clean hands and a pure heart. Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Daniel

people in the Bible:  Daniel by ric Gustafson


When Daniel was a teenager, he was abducted by Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel and his friends refused to eat the king's meat and drink the king's wine. Instead they ate only vegetables and drank nothing but water for ten days. They believed that God would sustain them. He did. They stood up for what they believed in.
Today if you need to take a stand for something, learn from Daniel. Do the right thing. God will bless your integrity as you take a stand for him. Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 2

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 2 by ric Gustafson


As I drove toward Rainbow Lanes, I looked through the windshield. Up above was a dark and stormy sky. I had decided to come and do some open bowling. Halfway to the bowling center, big drops of rain had begun to hit the windshield of my silver Saturn. As I pulled into the parking lot of the bowling center, the rain was already beginning to stop.
I stopped the car, got out and looked up into the sky. All these years after it had rained, the same thing happened. Until now gazing at it, I had really never noticed it until now. The bow I was looking at in the sky was in the shape of many colors. This beautiful rainbow of many colors was filling me with peace and joy.
I took my bowling bag out of the trunk. I walked toward the entrance. I was hoping that the Creator would be there. I wanted to ask him about what I had just witnessed.


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Cleopas

people in the Bible:  Cleopas by ric Gustafson


Cleopas and a friend were returning to Emmaus. They had been in Jerusalem for Passover. While there, they encountered the crucifixion of Jesus. They were hoping that Jesus would declare himself to be the Messiah. Instead he was humiliated and put to death. Their hopes were dashed and their faith was in shambles.
As they walked home, a stranger asked what they were talking about. Not knowing it was Jesus, Cleopas told him all the events that had happened. Jesus explained to them that it was all part of God's plan. When they realized that it was Jesus, he was gone. If we are disappointed with God, Jesus will listen to us. We worship a living Lord.
Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 1

the closing of Rainbow Lanes page 1 by ric Gustafson


I turned right into the parking lot. I could not believe what I was seeing. Tiny drops of rain spitted down on the windshield as I drove into an empty stall. I noticed that there were no cars in the parking lot. There was a large For Sale sign near the front entrance. As rain began to fall, tears of sorrow came to my eyes. I turned off the car.
I smiled as I noticed an elderly man sitting under an overhang by the front door. It was the Creator. I got out of the Saturn and walked up to him.
" Don't be sad Ric". He smiled at me. " Here, sit next to me".
I smiled and sat down.
" I have not seen you around here for awhile".
" I've been involved in local theatre for the last four years".
" I remember the last time you were here". The rain intensified. " You bowled with me".
As we sat watching the rain come down, memories of that Saturday afternoon began to come back.


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

my battles: obeying God no matter what

my battles:  obeying God no matter what by ric Gustafson


This principle must be decided before a battle even begins. We cannot wait for the battle to begin before we make the decision to obey God. We must have a mindset of obeying God before our battles even begin. We must be the person who obeys God and will put his Word into practice. When we do this, we will be before the throne of grace and in the center of God's will.

research help: ' Courageous Faith' by Charles F Stanley


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Caleb

people in the Bible:  Caleb by ric Gustafson


Twelve spies were sent on a reconnaissance mission into Canaan. Of these twelve, only two returned. Joshua and Caleb came back with a positive report. But because of giants called Anakim, Israel did not enter the Promised Land for forty years. Caleb was eighty five when Canaan was finally occupied. As unfinished business, Caleb eventually did defeat the Anakim.
Do you have unfinished business in your life?. Adopt the attitude of Caleb.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Caiaphas

people in the Bible:  Caiaphas by ric Gustafson


Caiaphas means ' He who Seeks'. Caiaphas was appointed high priest of Israel in AD 18. He became the official head of the Jewish State. He also presided over the Sanhedrin which was Israel's highest court.
After Jesus raised Lazarus from the grave, to Caiaphas he was becoming a threat. Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin planned Jesus's death and gave him an illegal trial.
In AD 36, Caiaphas was removed from office. Nothing more is heard from him again. Jesus, whom he killed, has been reigning in our lives for two thousand years. Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mark page 6

Mark page 6 by ric Gustafson


John Mark watched as Jesus fell to the ground again. As he prayed, he was groaning and crying. After a while, Jesus stood up and returned to his friends. He noticed that they were dozing again. " My friends". Jesus fell on the ground a third time. This time, John Mark noticed that he was sweating heavily.
After a while, he quietly stood up and walked over to his friends. " Are you still sleeping?". He stared at the three. " The Son of Man is being betrayed". He looked into the darkness. " See, my betrayer is at hand".
John Mark watched as an armed group carrying torches approached. In the front was Judas Iscariot.
Judas walked up to Jesus. " Rabbi, Rabbi". He kissed him.
" Friend, why have you come?". Jesus gave Judas a sorrowful look. " You would betray the Son of Man with a kiss".
Jesus looked at the crowd. " Whom are you seeking?".
" Jesus of Nazareth".
" I am he".


research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Bathsheba

people in the Bible:  Bathsheba by ric Gustafson


God can bring good out of something evil. Bathsheba was beautiful and was the wife of Uriah the Hittite. Uriah was one of David's most loyal soldiers. One day, David was watching her take a bath. Knowing what he was doing, he brought her to his palace, slept with her and she became pregnant. To hide the sin, he had Uriah killed on the battlefield.
Later, David confessed and repented of his sin. God can bring good from evil. Even though their child died, later they had seven sons including Solomon. Sin can be deadly. But because of God's grace, good can come from evil. Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mark page 5

Mark page 5 by ric Gustafson


John Mark watched from behind an olive tree.
Jesus stared at his friends. " My soul is sorrowful even to death". He sighed. " Stay here and watch".
The three watched as Jesus fell to the ground.
" If it is possible". He began to weep. " Allow this hour to pass from me".
John Mark could not believe what he was witnessing.
" Alla Father, all things are possible for you". Jesus lay prostate. " Take this cup away from me". His forehead was resting on his hands in the dirt. " Not what I will but what you will".
Jesus stood up and returned to his three friends. " Simon, are you sleeping?". He gave him a stern look. " Could you not watch one hour?".
Peter stood up. " Lord, I am here".
James and John stood up.
" Watch and pray lest you enter into temptation". He looked at his friends with love in his eyes. " The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak".
Jesus walked away.
Peter nudged James and John. " Nudge me if I doze again".
John Mark kept watching.


research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mark page 4

Mark page 4 by ric Gustafson


John Mark followed several paces behind the group as it exited the city. The group began to walk toward a grove of olive trees. The group crossed a brook which was little more than a stream. The brook ran through the Kidron Valley.
John Mark was close enough to hear Jesus speak.
" All of you will be made to stumble because of me this night".
Peter spoke up. " Master, even if all are made to stumble". He stared at Jesus. " I will not".
Jesus stopped. He gave the burly fisherman a sad look. " Assuredly, I say to you that even this night before the rooster crows twice". He sighed. " You will deny me three times".
Peter spoke up. " If I have to die with you, I will not deny you".
All of the disciples spoke up. " Not me, I will stand with you".
John Mark followed the group to a beautiful garden called Gethsemane. This garden was enclosed by a low stone wall.
They entered the gate.
" Peter, James and John". Jesus sighed. " Follow me".
John Mark followed Jesus and the three men.


research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

my battles: fight on your knees

my battles: fight on your knees by ric Gustafson


So how do we fight our battles?. First, we must fight them on our knees. We must not try to do combat on our own strength. According to Ephesians 6:12, our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the world forces of this darkness. Jesus our Defender is working to deliver us in the unseen. Jesus knows the route to success more than we do. We must fight our battles on our knees. We must trust God to lead us to triumph through prayer and in his Word.


research help: ' Courageous Faith' by Charles F Stanley


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Philippians: Philippians 1: 22-24

Philippians: Philippians 1: 22-24 by ric Gustafson


In these bible verses, Paul is asking us if we want to get away?. We think about heaven and how blessed it will be. Then we think about this life and that we are loved and wanted here. We want to go to heaven and yet we want to stay here. Paul in these verses is torn between the two.
God does want us here for a time to be of fruitful labor for him. On the other hand, we want to be with Jesus. To Paul, being with Jesus is far better than here. For those like me who follow Jesus, it is the same. We want to be with Jesus forever.


research help: ' Stand Firm' by Dave Branon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mark page 3

Mark page 3 by ric Gustafson


John Mark was sitting at the top of the stairs. He wanted to listen to the conversation. He could hear Jesus.
" Assuredly I say to you one of you who eats with me will betray me".
All of them asked Jesus ' is it I?".
" It is the one who dips with me in the dish".
The disciples gasped.
" Woe to that man whom the Son of Man is betrayed". Jesus's voice hesitated. " It would be good for that man if he had never been born".
John Mark quietly watched as Judas Iscariot walked down the stairs. Then, he heard bowls being passed around. " Take eat, this is my body".
He heard the clink of a wine goblet.
" This is my blood of the new covenant". More clinking. " Which is shed for many".
' What is he talking about' John Mark thought.
" I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the Kingdom of God".  " I have washed your feet".
' We washed them earlier' he thought to himself.
" You also ought to wash one another's feet".
Later, Jesus prayed. He opened his eyes. " After we sing, please join me at the Mount of Olives".
The group left.


research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Barnabas

people in the Bible:  Barnabas by ric Gustafson


Barnabas means ' Son of Encouragement'. Barnabas in the bible was an encourager. He was a Levite from the island of Cyprus. He was known as Joseph or Joses but his nickname was Barnabas. He sold some land and gave the money to the Jerusalem apostles. Later, he went to Antioch to instruct others in the Word. He went to Tarsus to find help. There he met Paul.
Do you need encouragement today?. Do others you know need encouragement today?.
Be that person like Barnabas. Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mark page 2

Mark page 2 by ric Gustafson


John Mark frowned as he filled water from the well. He still did not understand what he was doing there. At the appointed time, the two men approached. On the shoulder of a burly fisherman was a dead lamb. They followed behind John Mark. As they approached a house, they smiled as Mary came out to greet them.
Mary took them inside to a great room. She poured water into a basin and washed their feet. She dried them with a towel. They put their sandals back on.
Peter smiled at Mary. " The Teacher asks where is the guest room in which he may eat Passover with his disciples?".
John Mark led the two up an outer staircase to a large upper room. Servants were setting up a wooden preparation table filled with knives, bread dough, wine and bitter herbs. Servants brought dried fruits, spices, nuts, dates and a goblet of vinegar.
Simon, Thomas and Philip arrived first. Then Matthew and Judas Iscariot. Then James, the other Judas and then Bartholomew came. Then Jesus, Andrew and the other James arrived.


research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins.


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Augustus

people in the Bible:  Augustus by ric Gustafson


Augustus means ' the Revered One'. In 27 BC, Octavian took the title ' Augustus' as a part of emperor worship. He decreed that a taxation census should be made for everyone living in the empire. Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem where Jesus was born. Jesus is the revered one because he died on a cross for our sins. Only Jesus can be called ' the Revered One'.  Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Athaliah

people in the Bible:  Athaliah by ric Gustafson


Athaliah means ' The Time of Jehovah'. Athaliah was married to King Jehoram. Athaliah was the daughter of King Ahab and his wicked wife Jezebel. Like her mother Athaliah worshiped Baal. After Jehoram died, Athaliah's son Ahaziah became king. Her son was killed after one year as king. Athaliah tried to become queen of Judah by killing her own male grandchildren. Athaliah's daughter Jehoseba hid one of the grandchildren named Joash. He was crowned king in a secret ceremony. Athaliah was executed for her crimes.
What will we be remembered for?.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Apollos

people in the Bible:  Apollos by ric Gustafson


Apollos means ' Destroyer'. Apollos was a Jew from Alexandria Egypt. He was a disciple of John the Baptist and really knew the Old Testament. He did not know the teachings of Jesus. He came to Ephesus and was taught God's Word by Priscilla and Aquila. He took this new knowledge to Achaia to prove that Jesus is the Messiah.
When we study God's Word, we can share that with others who may not know.
Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Anna

people in the Bible: Anna by ric Gustafson


Anna means ' Favor'. Anna was a senior who had decided to be active and live rightly. Her husband died after they were married only seven years. She remained a widow for the rest of her life. At age 84, she worshiped God every day in the Temple. She prayed and fasted. When Jesus was presented by his parents in the Temple, Anna approached and spoke highly of the baby. No matter what our age, we can serve God with joy and praise.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Philippians: Philippians 1: 19-20

Philippians:  Philippians 1: 19-20 by ric Gustafson


What is comforting about these bible verses is Paul's lesson. That lesson is that he did not know what the Romans were going to do to him. And yet he refused to give in to despair and fear. In these verses, there are prayers from fellow believers. There is help from the Holy Spirit. There is confidence in God's deliverance. There is expectation of shame free living. These are the building blocks of a foundation in God in our lives. Paul knew he had victory in Christ. To die is gain. Either way comes victory. Praise God.


research help: ' Stand Firm' by Dave Branon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mark page 1

Mark page 1 by ric Gustafson


Sixteen year old John Mark was trying to listen to his mother.
" We have been assigned an important hospitality today".
He smiled. " Who is coming?".
" They are not here to visit". She gave him a stern look. " We are to serve them".
He fidgeted. " I'm just curious who is coming?".
" Several guests". She looked at her teenage son. " We are offering them our dining room upstairs". Their large house was just inside the walls of Jerusalem. " They will be cooking their own meal".
A confused look came over his young face. " They are".
" I need you to carry a water pitcher near the Water Gate".
" Why can't I use a water skin?".
" From there two men will follow you back to here".
John Mark scratched his young chin. " How will I know who they are?".
His mother smiled. " Their names are Peter and John".



research help: ' Mark's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Matthew page 15

Matthew page 15 by ric Gustafson


Levi was in his tax office working on the fisherman's agreement. All of a sudden, he heard a noise from outside. He could hear a crowd walking by. He knew that there was only one reason for that. He stood up and walked over to the open window. He opened the drape to see Jesus outside of the window smiling at him.
" Follow me".
Right away, Levi walked over and picked up his papyrus and sack of supplies.
He walked outside.
Jesus embraced him. " From now on I shall call you Matthew". He smiled. " Which means gift from God".
Matthew smiled.

The End.



research help: ' Matthew's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Matthew page 14

Matthew page 14 by ric Gustafson


Matthew was in a crowd looking for Jesus. Nobody knew where he was.
" Does anybody know where Jesus is?".
A young man spoke up. " I had heard that he healed Simon's mother in law of a fever by touching her hand".
The crowd murmured.
An older woman spoke up. " Last evening, I saw him cast out spirits and heal all who were sick".
Levi returned to his tax office.
All of a sudden, standing in the doorway was a burly fisherman.
" Simon". Levi walked over and embraced him. " Where is your master?".
The fisherman smiled. " At my house resting".
Levi put a hand on his shoulder. " May I see him?".
" In due time Levi". He smiled. " Do you know what people are calling him?".
" No".
" Son of God".


research help: ' Matthew's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Andrew

people in the Bible:  Andrew by ric Gustafson


Andrew means ' Manly'. Andrew was the brother of Simon Peter. He was a disciple of John the Baptist. When Andrew heard about Jesus, he left John to follow him. He told his brother that he had found the Messiah. He brought Simon Peter to Jesus. Tradition says that Andrew was crucified on an X shaped cross. Because of his work north of the Black Sea, he has become the patron saint of Russia and Scotland.
Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Amos

people in the Bible:  Amos by ric Gustafson


The name Amos means ' Carry'. The prophet Amos was one of God's humble servants. He had humble beginnings. He was a shepherd in the village of Tekoa. This village was ten miles south of Jerusalem. God spoke to Amos in a vision. That vision was to denounce idol worship and the corruption of Israel. A herdsman and a shepherd became a prophet for God and spoke with high authority. It doesn't matter to God who or what we are. All that matters to God is that we are willing to do what he asks us to do for him.
Praise God


research help:  ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll



Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Adam

people in the Bible:  Adam by ric Gustafson


The first man in history was Adam. He was created in the image of God. He was placed in a perfect environment. When he became lonely, God created a woman. So what happened?. Adam sinned. He died in every sense of the word. Physically, spiritually and emotionally he died. Because he sinned, death is passed on to us all.
Jesus saved us from death by dying for us on a cross. Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Philippians: Philippians 1: 15-18

Philippians:  Philippians 1: 15-18 by ric Gustafson


In this bible passage, the Apostle Paul talks about two different kinds of preachers. There are preachers with good motives and some who do not. Paul knew that preachers with bad motives would be doing their thing. All that concerned Paul is that Jesus was preached to others. As long as souls are saved for Jesus, Paul did not care how it was done. People might have a passion for preaching the gospel but have a different way of doing it. We cannot think that our way is the only way. The most important thing is that God's Word is being preached to people who need it.


research help:  ' Stand Firm' by Dave Branon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Achan

people in the Bible:  Achan by ric Gustafson


The name Achan means ' Trouble'. When we sin, we cannot hide it from God. When Israel defeated Jericho, God gave them instructions not to confiscate any of the spoils. Then came the city of Ai. According to Joshua chapter 7, a man named Achan took some of the Babylonian garments, silver and gold. He tried to hide them under his tent. You cannot hide your sin from God. He disobeyed God and Israel was defeated trying to capture the city. We cannot hide our sin from God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Matthew page 13

Matthew page 13 by ric Gustafson


As Levi was walking back to his tax office, he noticed a leper bowing down before the carpenter.
" Lord, if you are willing". Emotion came to his diseased face. " You can make me clean".
" I am willing". Jesus touched him. " Be cleansed".
Immediately, the man was healed.
As they entered Capernaum, Levi noticed a centurion coming up to Jesus. " Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed and tormented".
Jesus smiled. " I will come and heal him".
The centurion stopped him. " I am not worthy that you should come under my roof". His strong voice hesitated. " Just speak a word and my servant will be healed".
Jesus turned toward the crowd. " I have not found such great faith not even in Israel". He smiled at the centurion. " Go your way". He smiled. " As you have believed so let it be done for you".


research help: ' Matthew's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Philippians: Philippians 1:14

Philippians:  Philippians 1:14 by ric Gustafson


The Apostle Paul is in chains. In this bible passage, Paul wants his brothers and sisters to proclaim the Gospel without fear. Paul wants something good to come out of our trials. Instead of being bitter about his chains, Paul wants us to have a different approach. Hardships will come our way. Our hardships can be used for God's glory. We can use our chains and proclaim God's goodness.
Praise God.


research help: ' Stand Firm' by Dave Branon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Abraham

people in the Bible:  Abraham by ric Gustafson


Abraham means ' Father of a Multitude'. Abraham was the original man of faith. He was the first great patriarch of Israel. God called him to leave everything and go to a strange land. Abraham trusted God and was tested at Mt Moriah. There God asked him to sacrifice his son Isaac. He was going to do what God asked him to do when instead a substitute sacrifice was given. Abraham passed the test of faith.
All of us have tests of faith every day. My prayer is that we identify and then pass them.
Praise God.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Philippians: Philippians 1:12

Philippians:  Philippians 1:12 by ric Gustafson


Life is hard. We can handle it in two ways. We can say why God? and be in a state of Godlessness and chaos. Or we can use the trial for our benefit and good. The Apostle Paul used his trials for good and pointed others toward God. God comforts us in our trials so we can help others. God uses the Holy Spirit to comfort and help us so we can be a blessing to others. God uses our horrible situations in life to help us so we can help others. Praise God.


research help: ' Stand Firm' by Dave Branon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Abigail

people in the Bible:  Abigail by ric Gustafson


The name of Abigail means ' Father of Joy'. Nabal was the husband of Abigail. He was no prize. He was a wealthy sheep owner. He also was ill tempered and drank too much. Nabal refused to help David with supplies and he took some men to kill him. Abigail gave David the supplies and apologized for the actions of her husband. Nabal was so mad at his wife that ten days later he suffered a stroke and died. David later married Abigail.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Matthew page 12

Matthew page 12 by ric Gustafson


" Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven".
" Kingdom of Heaven" Levi muttered to himself.
" Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted".
' Comfort me' Levi thought to himself. ' I've been mourning for decades'.
" Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth".
Levi thought to himself. ' I am a Publican not meek'.
" Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be filled".
Levi exclaimed. " Filled with righteousness?".
" Blessed are the merciful for they shall receive mercy".
Levi knew a Publican was not merciful very often.
" Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God".
Tears began to form in Levi's eyes. He wanted to see God.
" Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God".
More tears flowed down Levi's face. " God please forgive me".
Levi wiped the tears away. He looked up to see the carpenter smiling at him with love in his eyes.
' Does he know my heart' Levi thought to himself.



research help: ' Matthew's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins



Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

people in the Bible: Aaron

people in the Bible:  Aaron by ric Gustafson


Aaron means Exalted or High Mountain. Aaron was Moses's older brother and was Moses's official spokesman. When the brothers confronted Pharaoh Aaron was 83 years old. Moses consecrated his brother as the first high priest of Israel. Aaron made the grave mistake of giving the people a golden image of a calf. God wanted to destroy the people. Moses interceded for them and they were spared. I pray that the Holy Spirit will control my thoughts, emotions and actions.


research help: ' People in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Philippians: Philippians 1:9

Philippians: Philippians 1:9 by ric Gustafson


This bible verse is a prayer from the Apostle Paul. He is asking that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight. Love grows in knowledge and flows into insight. Love expands and widens by the knowledge of God's will. The knowledge of love is a never ending quest. Love never fails. Love is a testimony. God wants us to love others just like he loves us. We are to follow God's example, love others and walk in the way of love.


research help: ' Stand Firm' by Dave Branon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Matthew page 11

Matthew page 11 by ric Gustafson


Efah ran into Levi. The senior tax collector was quickly leaving the office.
" Where are you going?".
Levi pointed toward the crowd running by. " To hear that carpenter from Nazareth speak".
Efah gave him a big frown. " What about our business today?".
" It'll wait". He ran out and joined the growing crowd.
At the foothills, Levi finally noticed the carpenter. He was surrounded by twenty men. Some of them were the fishermen that he had made that special deal with. Now, he was able to closely study this man. He was plain looking, medium height and build. He had long hair and a beard. To Levi, this man did not appear to be striking or handsome.
Levi was sitting next to a large rock.
All of a sudden, Jesus and some of his followers were standing next to him.
Jesus smiled. " Would you mind if I sit here and address this crowd?".
" Of course not". Levi stood up and moved to a different rock nearby. He was now only four feet from the carpenter
Levi was now anxious. The carpenter was about ready to speak.


research help: ' Matthew's Story' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric