Merry Christmas from the Birds of the Bible Museum page 2 by ric Gustafson
" Let's move on to the next display". Betty walked up a large display with two sections. " This shows that chickens were prominent in the Bible".
One of the small girls squealed. " I love chicken".
The young husband smiled. " Matthew 23:37".
" That is correct". Betty pointed at the display. " Jesus cried and wanted to gather his children together like a hen gathers her brood". She pointed at the display. " Did you know that roosters were in the Bible?".
One of the little girls squealed. " Crowing loudly in the morning".
" Yes". The wife smiled. " Mark 14".
" Yes, that is the passage where the rooster crowed because Peter denied knowing Jesus three times".
research help: Keyway.ca Leesbird.com
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 30, 2017
the birth of Jesus page 7
the birth of Jesus page 7 by ric Gustafson
An angel surprises Mary one day. Gabriel calls her ' the highly favored one'. Mary was greatly troubled by this. She did not know what it meant. Gabriel tells Mary that she will conceive a son and they will call him Jesus. He will be great and he will be called the Son of the Highest. The angel describes Jesus's kingdom, his throne and that he will share the nature and name of his Father in heaven.
Mary asks the question " how can this be, since I do not know a man?". Gabriel replies that the conception would be a miracle. Jesus's conception and birth would be a miracle by God. Mary replies " let it be to me according to your word".
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
An angel surprises Mary one day. Gabriel calls her ' the highly favored one'. Mary was greatly troubled by this. She did not know what it meant. Gabriel tells Mary that she will conceive a son and they will call him Jesus. He will be great and he will be called the Son of the Highest. The angel describes Jesus's kingdom, his throne and that he will share the nature and name of his Father in heaven.
Mary asks the question " how can this be, since I do not know a man?". Gabriel replies that the conception would be a miracle. Jesus's conception and birth would be a miracle by God. Mary replies " let it be to me according to your word".
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Psalms: Psalm 102:6
Psalms: Psalm 102:6 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist is in deep despair. He speaks about being in a bleak and wasted place. Desolation pervades his spirit.
Sometimes loneliness feels like dying. Alive but not alive. Sometimes we fill our days with empty time. God does not want us to do this. We struggle every day with loneliness and being sad. God wants us to step into his light not darkness. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist is in deep despair. He speaks about being in a bleak and wasted place. Desolation pervades his spirit.
Sometimes loneliness feels like dying. Alive but not alive. Sometimes we fill our days with empty time. God does not want us to do this. We struggle every day with loneliness and being sad. God wants us to step into his light not darkness. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Merry Christmas from the Birds of the Bible Museum page 1
Merry Christmas from the Birds of the Bible Museum page 1 by ric Gustafson
Betty Baker adjusted her name tag. " Claudette". She looked at her best friend and co worker. " Were you able to finish the Christmas decorations?".
" Yes".
A bell rang. Betty smiled. " Here we go". She walked out of the employee lounge. A family of four was standing by the cash register. " Merry Christmas". She smiled. " Welcome to the Birds of the Bible Museum". She smiled again. " Would you like a free tour?".
The young father looked at his wife. " They have a free tour".
The wife smiled. " Sure".
" To begin the tour". She pointed down a hallway. " We'll begin this way".
The parents held onto the hands of two young girls as they followed Betty. They walked down the hallway into an exhibit room. They stopped in front of a large display of a beautiful white bird in flight.
One of the two little girls pointed and screamed. " Daddy, look at that white bird".
" This is a dove". Betty smiled. " This bird is mentioned several times in the Bible".
The wife raised her hand. " Isn't the dove important as far as the baptism of Jesus?".
" Yes, that is true". Betty grinned. " Jesus came out of the water and the Spirit of God descended on him like a dove".
The other little girl squealed. " That little bird is so pretty".
" Doves are harmless peaceful birds and are symbols of the Holy Spirit".
research help: savethedoves.org
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Betty Baker adjusted her name tag. " Claudette". She looked at her best friend and co worker. " Were you able to finish the Christmas decorations?".
" Yes".
A bell rang. Betty smiled. " Here we go". She walked out of the employee lounge. A family of four was standing by the cash register. " Merry Christmas". She smiled. " Welcome to the Birds of the Bible Museum". She smiled again. " Would you like a free tour?".
The young father looked at his wife. " They have a free tour".
The wife smiled. " Sure".
" To begin the tour". She pointed down a hallway. " We'll begin this way".
The parents held onto the hands of two young girls as they followed Betty. They walked down the hallway into an exhibit room. They stopped in front of a large display of a beautiful white bird in flight.
One of the two little girls pointed and screamed. " Daddy, look at that white bird".
" This is a dove". Betty smiled. " This bird is mentioned several times in the Bible".
The wife raised her hand. " Isn't the dove important as far as the baptism of Jesus?".
" Yes, that is true". Betty grinned. " Jesus came out of the water and the Spirit of God descended on him like a dove".
The other little girl squealed. " That little bird is so pretty".
" Doves are harmless peaceful birds and are symbols of the Holy Spirit".
research help: savethedoves.org
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the birth of Jesus page 6
the birth of Jesus page 6 by ric Gustafson
Zacharias knew the ritual by heart. He offered a lamb on the Brazen Altar. He washed his hands and feet. Then with coals in one hand and incense in the other, he approached the Altar of Incense to pray.
All of a sudden, an angel appeared. It was Gabriel and Zacharias was fearful. The angel told him not to fear and that God had answered his prayers. He would have a son with Elizabeth and that they would name him John. The angel explained that he would be the forerunner of Jesus.
Zacharias stayed in the Temple longer than usual that day. When Zacharias was skeptical about if the angel was really Gabriel, the angel temporarily made him mute. When people later asked him what had happened, Zacharias could not speak.
Elizabeth did have a son. They named him John.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Zacharias knew the ritual by heart. He offered a lamb on the Brazen Altar. He washed his hands and feet. Then with coals in one hand and incense in the other, he approached the Altar of Incense to pray.
All of a sudden, an angel appeared. It was Gabriel and Zacharias was fearful. The angel told him not to fear and that God had answered his prayers. He would have a son with Elizabeth and that they would name him John. The angel explained that he would be the forerunner of Jesus.
Zacharias stayed in the Temple longer than usual that day. When Zacharias was skeptical about if the angel was really Gabriel, the angel temporarily made him mute. When people later asked him what had happened, Zacharias could not speak.
Elizabeth did have a son. They named him John.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
the birth of Jesus page 5
the birth of Jesus page 5 by ric Gustafson
In the small town of Nazareth lived a carpenter named Joseph. He was an artisan and a builder. He was of the tribe of Judah. Joseph's family history was traced all the way to the town of Bethlehem. He was a just man because his heart was tender toward God and is was aligned with God's Law.
Mary of Nazareth also descended through King David. She was trained in the Scripture and knew many passages. She grew up in a Jewish household. She was surrounded by family and neighbors.
Mary and Joseph's betrothal was arranged with the consent of the bride. A bridal price would of been agreed. Joseph paid this to Mary's parents. A written covenant would be established. Wine would be shared and then they would be married. Preparing for this event would take a year. Unfaithfulness during this time was harshly dealt with including stoning. When the day arrived, Joseph would of been dressed in fine clothes. Mary would of worn a special dress and then be greeted by her husband.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In the small town of Nazareth lived a carpenter named Joseph. He was an artisan and a builder. He was of the tribe of Judah. Joseph's family history was traced all the way to the town of Bethlehem. He was a just man because his heart was tender toward God and is was aligned with God's Law.
Mary of Nazareth also descended through King David. She was trained in the Scripture and knew many passages. She grew up in a Jewish household. She was surrounded by family and neighbors.
Mary and Joseph's betrothal was arranged with the consent of the bride. A bridal price would of been agreed. Joseph paid this to Mary's parents. A written covenant would be established. Wine would be shared and then they would be married. Preparing for this event would take a year. Unfaithfulness during this time was harshly dealt with including stoning. When the day arrived, Joseph would of been dressed in fine clothes. Mary would of worn a special dress and then be greeted by her husband.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 27, 2017
the birth of Jesus page 4
the birth of Jesus page 4 by ric Gustafson
Their was couple by the name of Zacharias and Elizabeth. They were childless and lived in the hill country south of Jerusalem. Zacharias was a priest and Elizabeth was a daughter of Aaron. The couple traveled to Jerusalem twice a year. Zacharias burned incense in the Temple. The Altar of Incense stood outside the veil that hid the Ark of the Covenant. A priest like Zacharias would first cleanse himself by sacrifice and water. The priest would pour some coals on the altar and then sprinkle incense on top. Then the fragrance of the smoke would fill the Temple.
This privilege of offering incense came one day to Zacharias.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Their was couple by the name of Zacharias and Elizabeth. They were childless and lived in the hill country south of Jerusalem. Zacharias was a priest and Elizabeth was a daughter of Aaron. The couple traveled to Jerusalem twice a year. Zacharias burned incense in the Temple. The Altar of Incense stood outside the veil that hid the Ark of the Covenant. A priest like Zacharias would first cleanse himself by sacrifice and water. The priest would pour some coals on the altar and then sprinkle incense on top. Then the fragrance of the smoke would fill the Temple.
This privilege of offering incense came one day to Zacharias.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 26, 2017
the birth of Jesus page 3
the birth of Jesus page 3 by ric Gustafson
From 37 BC to 4 BC, Herod the Great ruled. He worked hard to expand his rule. He built huge buildings and a temple to Augustus in Caesarea. In Jerusalem, he built a Greek style amphitheater. He built fortresses such as Masada and Herodium. He did not trust his own family and executed his three oldest sons, his wife and mother in law.
Jews made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem at least three times a year for required feasts. The coming Messiah is mentioned 39 times in the Old Testament. From Genesis 22 to Micah 5, a coming Messiah was predicted. That Messiah was Jesus the Son of God.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
From 37 BC to 4 BC, Herod the Great ruled. He worked hard to expand his rule. He built huge buildings and a temple to Augustus in Caesarea. In Jerusalem, he built a Greek style amphitheater. He built fortresses such as Masada and Herodium. He did not trust his own family and executed his three oldest sons, his wife and mother in law.
Jews made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem at least three times a year for required feasts. The coming Messiah is mentioned 39 times in the Old Testament. From Genesis 22 to Micah 5, a coming Messiah was predicted. That Messiah was Jesus the Son of God.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Day 27,376 page 4
Day 27,376 page 4 by ric Gustafson
David dropped his plate of birthday cake. " What!".
" It's Day 27,376". Pierre pulled a piece of paper from a back pocket. He handed it to David. " Your name is number one on my list to go home today".
" I can't go now". He looked over at his grandson. " It's my birthday today".
" Sorry David".
David noticed his name at the top of the paper.
" I have my orders". He took a bite of his cake. " As a Christian, you knew this day was coming".
" I know". He sighed. " I wasn't expecting today on my birthday".
" Only my boss knows what day that is". He looked around. " Would you like to say goodbye to your family before we go?".
David shook his head yes. He walked over to his grandson and began to talk to him. He pointed at Pierre. Rico began to cry. He gave his grandson a big hug. He walked to Pierre. " I'm ready to go".
They walked out through a side door into the light.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
David dropped his plate of birthday cake. " What!".
" It's Day 27,376". Pierre pulled a piece of paper from a back pocket. He handed it to David. " Your name is number one on my list to go home today".
" I can't go now". He looked over at his grandson. " It's my birthday today".
" Sorry David".
David noticed his name at the top of the paper.
" I have my orders". He took a bite of his cake. " As a Christian, you knew this day was coming".
" I know". He sighed. " I wasn't expecting today on my birthday".
" Only my boss knows what day that is". He looked around. " Would you like to say goodbye to your family before we go?".
David shook his head yes. He walked over to his grandson and began to talk to him. He pointed at Pierre. Rico began to cry. He gave his grandson a big hug. He walked to Pierre. " I'm ready to go".
They walked out through a side door into the light.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 25, 2017
the birth of Jesus page 2
the birth of Jesus page 2 by ric Gustafson
When Jesus of Nazareth was born, Judea was booming with construction and trade. The land was occupied under Roman rule. The Judeans suffered under heavy taxation. The area was predominantly Jewish. The land was promised, a gift from God. Scripture had told them that a deliverer would come.
At the time of Jesus, the land was divided into Galilee in the North, Samaria in the middle and Judea to the south. Galilee was a region known for it's orchards, vistas and cities. Samaria was known for it's great trade routes. Jews avoided going through this area. Judea and Jerusalem was known for being at the center of Jewish culture and worship.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When Jesus of Nazareth was born, Judea was booming with construction and trade. The land was occupied under Roman rule. The Judeans suffered under heavy taxation. The area was predominantly Jewish. The land was promised, a gift from God. Scripture had told them that a deliverer would come.
At the time of Jesus, the land was divided into Galilee in the North, Samaria in the middle and Judea to the south. Galilee was a region known for it's orchards, vistas and cities. Samaria was known for it's great trade routes. Jews avoided going through this area. Judea and Jerusalem was known for being at the center of Jewish culture and worship.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 24, 2017
the birth of Jesus page 1
the birth of Jesus page 1 by ric Gustafson
According to Isaiah 9:6, for unto us a child is born unto us a Son was given. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus. This happened at the perfect time and at the perfect place. The Christmas story is rooted in history. The birth of Jesus has left an indelible mark in world history. Christmas finds its roots in God's Word.
God's Word is 66 books in two major sections. The Old Testament is 39 books and dates before the time of Jesus. The New Testament is 27 books and involves the early church. Matthew and Luke tell the story of Jesus's birth. All four Gospels are distinct and different. Mark and John describe the life and teachings of Jesus. None of the Gospel writers give us the whole story.
So here is the story of Jesus's birth. This is the story we call Christmas.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to Isaiah 9:6, for unto us a child is born unto us a Son was given. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus. This happened at the perfect time and at the perfect place. The Christmas story is rooted in history. The birth of Jesus has left an indelible mark in world history. Christmas finds its roots in God's Word.
God's Word is 66 books in two major sections. The Old Testament is 39 books and dates before the time of Jesus. The New Testament is 27 books and involves the early church. Matthew and Luke tell the story of Jesus's birth. All four Gospels are distinct and different. Mark and John describe the life and teachings of Jesus. None of the Gospel writers give us the whole story.
So here is the story of Jesus's birth. This is the story we call Christmas.
research help: ' The Birth of Jesus' by Centennial Media
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 23, 2017
more cranberries please
,more cranberries please by ric Gustafson
This year 2017 has been bountiful for cranberries. Supplies are bountiful and there is a surge in imports. Inventories were huge even before this years crop in September.
Cranberries are popular at Thanksgiving. Twenty percent of annual sales happen at Thanksgiving. Cranberries are native to North America. Wisconsin accounts for more than half of the yearly harvest. Because of the huge inventories, prices will likely fall to 30 to 35 cents a pound.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
This year 2017 has been bountiful for cranberries. Supplies are bountiful and there is a surge in imports. Inventories were huge even before this years crop in September.
Cranberries are popular at Thanksgiving. Twenty percent of annual sales happen at Thanksgiving. Cranberries are native to North America. Wisconsin accounts for more than half of the yearly harvest. Because of the huge inventories, prices will likely fall to 30 to 35 cents a pound.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
Day 27,376 page 3
Day 27,376 page 3 by ric Gustafson
Ricco sat down. He began to eat from a plastic plate. " Great party Grandpa".
David noticed the young stranger filling a plate with nuts, mints and fresh fruit. He noticed that the young man wore a ball cap that said ' Heaven'. David watched as he put the plate on a table and then walk over to the punch bowl. David followed him.
The young man smiled as he poured himself some punch. " Nice birthday party".
" Thank you" He shook his hand. " I don't think we've met".
" Oh I'm sorry". He shook David's hand. " My name is Pierre".
" Are you a friend of someone in my family?".
" No". Pierre grinned. " Actually I came to the party for a specific reason".
" And what is that?".
" To take you home".
research help: original story
Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
Ricco sat down. He began to eat from a plastic plate. " Great party Grandpa".
David noticed the young stranger filling a plate with nuts, mints and fresh fruit. He noticed that the young man wore a ball cap that said ' Heaven'. David watched as he put the plate on a table and then walk over to the punch bowl. David followed him.
The young man smiled as he poured himself some punch. " Nice birthday party".
" Thank you" He shook his hand. " I don't think we've met".
" Oh I'm sorry". He shook David's hand. " My name is Pierre".
" Are you a friend of someone in my family?".
" No". Pierre grinned. " Actually I came to the party for a specific reason".
" And what is that?".
" To take you home".
research help: original story
Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Day 27,376 page 2
Day 27,376 page 2 by ric Gustafson
" Taste this punch" Colleen Rogers said as she put a spoon into the silver punch bowl. " I want to make sure it is just right".
Ronald Rogers put a little bit into a cup. He tasted it. " It needs a little more sugar".
" Rico, will you put a bowl of cashews and mints on the table please?".
" Ok Mom".
Colleen smiled as she looked around the decorated room. She was happy that the retirement center let them have the party in this room.
David Pickering walked in.
Rico walked up and gave him a hug. " Happy Birthday Grandpa". He smiled. " How does it feel to be old?".
" I'm a young 75".
Many people came to the party.
At one point, David started crying. His late wife Arlene would of enjoyed the party. As the party began to end, he noticed a young man he did not recognize.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" Taste this punch" Colleen Rogers said as she put a spoon into the silver punch bowl. " I want to make sure it is just right".
Ronald Rogers put a little bit into a cup. He tasted it. " It needs a little more sugar".
" Rico, will you put a bowl of cashews and mints on the table please?".
" Ok Mom".
Colleen smiled as she looked around the decorated room. She was happy that the retirement center let them have the party in this room.
David Pickering walked in.
Rico walked up and gave him a hug. " Happy Birthday Grandpa". He smiled. " How does it feel to be old?".
" I'm a young 75".
Many people came to the party.
At one point, David started crying. His late wife Arlene would of enjoyed the party. As the party began to end, he noticed a young man he did not recognize.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Grace: a positive influence
Grace: a positive influence by ric Gustafson
As one of Jesus's followers, I ask myself " Am I a good example?". Are we an example of righteousness?. Are we a positive role model for younger people?. Are our actions each day reflect Jesus?. God wants us to be a positive influence on everyone we meet. I pray that my daily actions reflect my love for God and Jesus.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
As one of Jesus's followers, I ask myself " Am I a good example?". Are we an example of righteousness?. Are we a positive role model for younger people?. Are our actions each day reflect Jesus?. God wants us to be a positive influence on everyone we meet. I pray that my daily actions reflect my love for God and Jesus.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I pardon you
I pardon you by ric Gustafson
It is the 70th anniversary of the National Thanksgiving Turkey tradition. The tradition started in 1873 when Ulysses S Grant was President. The National Thanksgiving Turkey tradition started in 1947 when the National Turkey Federation presented a gobbler to President Harry Truman. At that time, the gobblers were destined for dinner.
Formal pardons for the gobblers began with President George H W Bush in 1989. Gobblers had been pardoned since President Lincoln.
This year, two gobblers were sent to the White House from Minnesota. The names of the gobblers for 2017 are Drumstick and Wishbone. 2016's gobblers were Tater and Tot. A few of the gobblers have made it to age 2 which is old age for a gobbler. President Trump pardoned Drumstick and Wishbone. Also attending was his son Barron and his wife Melania.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is the 70th anniversary of the National Thanksgiving Turkey tradition. The tradition started in 1873 when Ulysses S Grant was President. The National Thanksgiving Turkey tradition started in 1947 when the National Turkey Federation presented a gobbler to President Harry Truman. At that time, the gobblers were destined for dinner.
Formal pardons for the gobblers began with President George H W Bush in 1989. Gobblers had been pardoned since President Lincoln.
This year, two gobblers were sent to the White House from Minnesota. The names of the gobblers for 2017 are Drumstick and Wishbone. 2016's gobblers were Tater and Tot. A few of the gobblers have made it to age 2 which is old age for a gobbler. President Trump pardoned Drumstick and Wishbone. Also attending was his son Barron and his wife Melania.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Day 27,376 page 1
Day 27,376 page 1 by ric Gustafson
Albert Hinton walked into his office. He put his lunch into a small white refrigerator on a far wall. He sat down at a large oak desk. He opened up a manila folder. He began to study the names. " A lot of people today". His boss had appointed this post to him he figured a long time ago. There is no time in Heaven.
He pushed a button on the intercom on his desk. " Nancy". His voice hesitated. " Could you please send in Pierre?".
A young man, wearing a ball cap with ' Heaven' on it, walked in and sat down.
" Morning Pierre".
" Good morning Mr Hinton". The young man looked around the spacious office. " Who is my assignment today?".
" The first name on my list". He looked at the manila folder again. " David Pickering age 75". He sighed. " Actually he is celebrating his birthday today". He looked at the folder. " He lives in Townville Kansas". He grinned again. " Have you ever been there?".
" No". He stood up to leave.
" Good luck".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Albert Hinton walked into his office. He put his lunch into a small white refrigerator on a far wall. He sat down at a large oak desk. He opened up a manila folder. He began to study the names. " A lot of people today". His boss had appointed this post to him he figured a long time ago. There is no time in Heaven.
He pushed a button on the intercom on his desk. " Nancy". His voice hesitated. " Could you please send in Pierre?".
A young man, wearing a ball cap with ' Heaven' on it, walked in and sat down.
" Morning Pierre".
" Good morning Mr Hinton". The young man looked around the spacious office. " Who is my assignment today?".
" The first name on my list". He looked at the manila folder again. " David Pickering age 75". He sighed. " Actually he is celebrating his birthday today". He looked at the folder. " He lives in Townville Kansas". He grinned again. " Have you ever been there?".
" No". He stood up to leave.
" Good luck".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
places in the Bible: Jerusalem
places in the Bible: Jerusalem by ric Gustafson
Jerusalem means ' Legacy of Peace'. The city is located in the Judean Mountains. The city dates back to the 4th millennium BC. The city has been besieged about forty times and destroyed more than thirty. In 1948, Israel obtained it's independence and Jerusalem was proclaimed it's capital. Jerusalem is a holy city for Jews, Christians and Muslims.
Psalm 122:6 asks everyone to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jerusalem means ' Legacy of Peace'. The city is located in the Judean Mountains. The city dates back to the 4th millennium BC. The city has been besieged about forty times and destroyed more than thirty. In 1948, Israel obtained it's independence and Jerusalem was proclaimed it's capital. Jerusalem is a holy city for Jews, Christians and Muslims.
Psalm 122:6 asks everyone to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
places in the Bible: Jericho
places in the Bible: Jericho by ric Gustafson
Jericho means in the Hebrew ' City of the Moon God'. The ruins and the modern city of Jericho are on the West Bank on the west side of the Jordan River. References to this city include Jeremiah 39, Joshua 6 and Luke 19. Around 1400 BC, Joshua conquered Jericho at God's direction by marching around the city for seven days. Jesus visited and healed two blind men. Jericho would later be conquered by the Muslims.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jericho means in the Hebrew ' City of the Moon God'. The ruins and the modern city of Jericho are on the West Bank on the west side of the Jordan River. References to this city include Jeremiah 39, Joshua 6 and Luke 19. Around 1400 BC, Joshua conquered Jericho at God's direction by marching around the city for seven days. Jesus visited and healed two blind men. Jericho would later be conquered by the Muslims.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 20, 2017
Grace: say yes to God
Grace: say yes to God by ric Gustafson
Even if we give our life to God, we will still suffer through problems in this sinful life. When we are tempted to stray from God, we will face a spiritual crisis. Some crises will be huge but most will be small everyday decisions. Life here is one test after another. With these crises, we can grow closer to God. I pray that we will always say yes to God no matter what.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Even if we give our life to God, we will still suffer through problems in this sinful life. When we are tempted to stray from God, we will face a spiritual crisis. Some crises will be huge but most will be small everyday decisions. Life here is one test after another. With these crises, we can grow closer to God. I pray that we will always say yes to God no matter what.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
places in the Bible: Gethsemane
places in the Bible: Gethsemane by ric Gustafson
Gethsemane means ' Oil Press'. This special place is believed to be across the Kidron Brook near the foot of the Mount of Olives. At the time of Jesus, this grove of olive trees would of been to the east of Jerusalem. This place is mentioned in Matthew 26, Luke 22 and John 18. In this garden, Jesus prayed to his Father. He had been here before to pray. This special place is still filled with olive trees and is a sacred place for Christian pilgrims.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places of the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Gethsemane means ' Oil Press'. This special place is believed to be across the Kidron Brook near the foot of the Mount of Olives. At the time of Jesus, this grove of olive trees would of been to the east of Jerusalem. This place is mentioned in Matthew 26, Luke 22 and John 18. In this garden, Jesus prayed to his Father. He had been here before to pray. This special place is still filled with olive trees and is a sacred place for Christian pilgrims.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places of the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 19, 2017
Lydia page 9
Lydia page 9 by ric Gustafson
Lydia helped her father recover from the flogging he received.
" Did you find Jason?".
" Yes". She sighed. " He wants your formula".
One day, he gave his daughter a gift. " Happy birthday my daughter".
She grinned. " My birthday?".
" Yes, you are seventeen today". His voice hesitated. " Open your present".
She unwrapped the package. " It's a book". She hugged her father. " Thank you father".
He grinned. " Your mother liked to read".
" How did she die?".
" She died from a wild boar attack". He sighed. " You should go to Philippi". He hugged his daughter. " Live your dream".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lydia helped her father recover from the flogging he received.
" Did you find Jason?".
" Yes". She sighed. " He wants your formula".
One day, he gave his daughter a gift. " Happy birthday my daughter".
She grinned. " My birthday?".
" Yes, you are seventeen today". His voice hesitated. " Open your present".
She unwrapped the package. " It's a book". She hugged her father. " Thank you father".
He grinned. " Your mother liked to read".
" How did she die?".
" She died from a wild boar attack". He sighed. " You should go to Philippi". He hugged his daughter. " Live your dream".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Grace: the cornerstone
Grace: the cornerstone by ric Gustafson
Is Jesus the focus of your life?. God wants us to be an energized Christian. We have the gift of eternal life through Jesus. Because of this free gift, God wants us to focus our thoughts, prayers and our energy on him and his Son. God wants us to follow him above anything else. We need to make God and Jesus our cornerstone in life. I pray that I can be a joyful Christian.
Praise God.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Is Jesus the focus of your life?. God wants us to be an energized Christian. We have the gift of eternal life through Jesus. Because of this free gift, God wants us to focus our thoughts, prayers and our energy on him and his Son. God wants us to follow him above anything else. We need to make God and Jesus our cornerstone in life. I pray that I can be a joyful Christian.
Praise God.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
places in the Bible: Sea of Galilee
places in the Bible: Sea of Galilee by ric Gustafson
This ancient region has several names including Lake Tiberias, Sea of Chinnereth and Lake Gennesaret. This region is the largest freshwater lake in Israel. It is 13 miles long and 7 miles wide. It is located in the Jordan Rift Valley. The Sea of Galilee is recorded in Isaiah 9, Mark 1 and John 21.
Much of Jesus's earthly ministry occurred by this region. Several of Jesus's miracles occurred near the region. Today most of Israel's drinking water comes from this region.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This ancient region has several names including Lake Tiberias, Sea of Chinnereth and Lake Gennesaret. This region is the largest freshwater lake in Israel. It is 13 miles long and 7 miles wide. It is located in the Jordan Rift Valley. The Sea of Galilee is recorded in Isaiah 9, Mark 1 and John 21.
Much of Jesus's earthly ministry occurred by this region. Several of Jesus's miracles occurred near the region. Today most of Israel's drinking water comes from this region.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Museum of the Bible
Museum of the Bible by ric Gustafson
Steve Green, president of Hobby Lobby, wanted to find a way to express his Christian faith. He began collecting biblical artifacts. Recently, he opened a 430,000 square feet museum three blocks from the US Capitol. Artifacts collected by Green include pieces from the Dead Sea scrolls, text from the Gutenberg Bible and a soundscape of the 10 plagues. The exhibits are so massive it would take days to go through.
The Green family plan to sponsor research on the Bible and promote a Bible curriculum. The hope of the Green family is that the museum will inspire someone to explore God's Word and maybe accept Jesus as Lord. Praise God.
The End
research help: an Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Steve Green, president of Hobby Lobby, wanted to find a way to express his Christian faith. He began collecting biblical artifacts. Recently, he opened a 430,000 square feet museum three blocks from the US Capitol. Artifacts collected by Green include pieces from the Dead Sea scrolls, text from the Gutenberg Bible and a soundscape of the 10 plagues. The exhibits are so massive it would take days to go through.
The Green family plan to sponsor research on the Bible and promote a Bible curriculum. The hope of the Green family is that the museum will inspire someone to explore God's Word and maybe accept Jesus as Lord. Praise God.
The End
research help: an Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 17, 2017
Psalms: Psalm 107: 7-8
Psalms: Psalm 107: 7-8 by ric Gustafson
The Hebrews had lots of reasons to lament. They were lost in the desert, ill, imprisoned and tossed about at sea. They called out to God for deliverance. God rescued them.
Sometimes we ask ' Why God'. Things in life disappoint us. But God loves us more than anything else. He hears our cry and rescues us. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Hebrews had lots of reasons to lament. They were lost in the desert, ill, imprisoned and tossed about at sea. They called out to God for deliverance. God rescued them.
Sometimes we ask ' Why God'. Things in life disappoint us. But God loves us more than anything else. He hears our cry and rescues us. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
places in the Bible: Ephesus
places in the Bible: Ephesus by ric Gustafson
Ephesus means ' City of the Mother Goddess'. The ruins of Ephesus are in western Turkey near the city of Selcuk. This ancient city is mentioned in God's Word in Acts 18 and Revelation 2. Ephesus was settled in the tenth century BC. It contained the Temple of Artemis along with theatres and a aqueduct system. During the Roman era, it was a center of trade and commerce.
The Apostle Paul lived there from AD 65-68. While there, Paul had a dispute with the artisans in the temple. It is believed that the Apostle John lived his last years there caring for Jesus's mother Mary.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Ephesus means ' City of the Mother Goddess'. The ruins of Ephesus are in western Turkey near the city of Selcuk. This ancient city is mentioned in God's Word in Acts 18 and Revelation 2. Ephesus was settled in the tenth century BC. It contained the Temple of Artemis along with theatres and a aqueduct system. During the Roman era, it was a center of trade and commerce.
The Apostle Paul lived there from AD 65-68. While there, Paul had a dispute with the artisans in the temple. It is believed that the Apostle John lived his last years there caring for Jesus's mother Mary.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 16, 2017
places in the Bible: En Gedi
places in the Bible: En Gedi by ric Gustafson
In Hebrew, En Gedi means ' Of the Kid'. En Gedi is the largest freshwater oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. This oasis is on the eastern edge of the Judean Desert. This oasis is 35 miles southeast of Jerusalem. This place is mentioned in I Samuel 24, Song of Songs 1 and Ezekiel 47.
King Saul pursued David all the way to this oasis with the plan of killing him. The oasis is now part of En Gedi National Park. Four springs feed into this oasis.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Hebrew, En Gedi means ' Of the Kid'. En Gedi is the largest freshwater oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. This oasis is on the eastern edge of the Judean Desert. This oasis is 35 miles southeast of Jerusalem. This place is mentioned in I Samuel 24, Song of Songs 1 and Ezekiel 47.
King Saul pursued David all the way to this oasis with the plan of killing him. The oasis is now part of En Gedi National Park. Four springs feed into this oasis.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lydia page 8
Lydia page 8 by ric Gustafson
Eumenes stared at his daughter as he was led into the magistrates office. " Is it done?".
" Yes Father". Lydia grinned. " I did everything exactly as you asked".
The magistrate was a large man with small hands.
Lydia recognized him as one of Dione's friends.
He studied a scroll. " This is a serious charge". He gave Eumenes a stern look. " This is a very serious charge".
Lydia stared at the magistrate. " I am his daughter".
He waved the scroll. " Theft against a Roman citizen".
" He is my Father". Tears began to come down her cheek. " Please be lenient".
" Normally my sentence is hard labor". His voice hesitated. " But after talking to Dione". His voice hesitated again. " My sentence is a flogging".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Eumenes stared at his daughter as he was led into the magistrates office. " Is it done?".
" Yes Father". Lydia grinned. " I did everything exactly as you asked".
The magistrate was a large man with small hands.
Lydia recognized him as one of Dione's friends.
He studied a scroll. " This is a serious charge". He gave Eumenes a stern look. " This is a very serious charge".
Lydia stared at the magistrate. " I am his daughter".
He waved the scroll. " Theft against a Roman citizen".
" He is my Father". Tears began to come down her cheek. " Please be lenient".
" Normally my sentence is hard labor". His voice hesitated. " But after talking to Dione". His voice hesitated again. " My sentence is a flogging".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Grace: new and improved
Grace: new and improved by ric Gustafson
According to II Corinthians 5:17, if we are in Christ we are a new creature. Old things are passed away. All things are becoming new. Before Jesus, we were the ' old us'. Now in Jesus, we are the new and improved us. When we welcome Jesus into our lives, we become a new creation. God wants us to behave like a new creation. I pray that we will always every day be like that new and improved creation of Jesus.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to II Corinthians 5:17, if we are in Christ we are a new creature. Old things are passed away. All things are becoming new. Before Jesus, we were the ' old us'. Now in Jesus, we are the new and improved us. When we welcome Jesus into our lives, we become a new creation. God wants us to behave like a new creation. I pray that we will always every day be like that new and improved creation of Jesus.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Grace: a guidebook
Grace: a guidebook by ric Gustafson
God has given us a guidebook for righteous living. It is called the Holy Bible. It contains instructions for fulfillment and salvation. We can choose to live by that. Or we can choose not to which is tragic.
The Bible tells us of God's promises, his power, his wisdom and his love. I pray that we will study God's Word. And that we will conduct our daily lives as an example of being one of God's followers.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God has given us a guidebook for righteous living. It is called the Holy Bible. It contains instructions for fulfillment and salvation. We can choose to live by that. Or we can choose not to which is tragic.
The Bible tells us of God's promises, his power, his wisdom and his love. I pray that we will study God's Word. And that we will conduct our daily lives as an example of being one of God's followers.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 107: 19-20
Psalms: Psalm 107: 19-20 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist has confidence about God's love and support. In spite of captivity, distress and sickness. If we trust in God and are faithful, he will heal us in body and soul. Sometimes I feel weak when I want to feel strong. Sometimes I am fatigued when I want to have energy. Help me God to put my total trust in you. Praise God.
Psalm 107 is a psalm of God's sovereignty over the natural world.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist has confidence about God's love and support. In spite of captivity, distress and sickness. If we trust in God and are faithful, he will heal us in body and soul. Sometimes I feel weak when I want to feel strong. Sometimes I am fatigued when I want to have energy. Help me God to put my total trust in you. Praise God.
Psalm 107 is a psalm of God's sovereignty over the natural world.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
Psalms: Psalm 31:10
Psalms: Psalm 31:10 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist is crying out to God. He's sick, unhappy and he is worried that he will be consumed by sorrow. The psalmist is stressed out. He worries that he is not good enough to make the right decisions. He sings out his despair to God. He pleads for God to help him.
Psalm 31 is a psalm of lament.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist is crying out to God. He's sick, unhappy and he is worried that he will be consumed by sorrow. The psalmist is stressed out. He worries that he is not good enough to make the right decisions. He sings out his despair to God. He pleads for God to help him.
Psalm 31 is a psalm of lament.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Grace: a cheerful heart
Grace: a cheerful heart by ric Gustafson
We should celebrate the Christian life. But sometimes we do not want to celebrate. Sometimes the weight of the world is heavy on our shoulders. As God's children, we are blessed beyond measure. We should give thanks for each and every day.
What will be our attitude today?. God created us in his image. He wants us to experience joy and abundance. Each day, we need to celebrate our life in God. Give thanks to God.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We should celebrate the Christian life. But sometimes we do not want to celebrate. Sometimes the weight of the world is heavy on our shoulders. As God's children, we are blessed beyond measure. We should give thanks for each and every day.
What will be our attitude today?. God created us in his image. He wants us to experience joy and abundance. Each day, we need to celebrate our life in God. Give thanks to God.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 12, 2017
Grace: spiritually rich
Grace: spiritually rich by ric Gustafson
The riches we have in this sinful world are transitory. But spiritual riches are eternal. In this life, financial security is important. Spiritual prosperity is more important. We need the basic necessities to live on this earth. Our real riches are not of this world. When we are rich in spirit, then we are truly rich. Praise God.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The riches we have in this sinful world are transitory. But spiritual riches are eternal. In this life, financial security is important. Spiritual prosperity is more important. We need the basic necessities to live on this earth. Our real riches are not of this world. When we are rich in spirit, then we are truly rich. Praise God.
research help: ' Grace for Each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the First Thanksgiving page 4
the First Thanksgiving page 4 by ric Gustafson
In the autumn of 1620, a ship called the Mayflower left Plymouth England. Aboard were 102 passengers. Some were pious Separatists and some were strangers. They were on a voyage to find new homes in the wilderness of British North America. The Separatists also called Pilgrims were religious dissidents who were fleeing their homeland. They were hoping to find a place where they could live and worship in peace.
On November 9 66 days later, they ended up in New England. They anchored in Cape Cod Harbor on November 11 1620. All of them signed a Mayflower Compact which inspired the United States Constitution. In December 1620, they landed on Plymouth Rock. During the following horrible First Winter, half of all the people who landed died.
research help: ' Thanksgiving' by James W Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In the autumn of 1620, a ship called the Mayflower left Plymouth England. Aboard were 102 passengers. Some were pious Separatists and some were strangers. They were on a voyage to find new homes in the wilderness of British North America. The Separatists also called Pilgrims were religious dissidents who were fleeing their homeland. They were hoping to find a place where they could live and worship in peace.
On November 9 66 days later, they ended up in New England. They anchored in Cape Cod Harbor on November 11 1620. All of them signed a Mayflower Compact which inspired the United States Constitution. In December 1620, they landed on Plymouth Rock. During the following horrible First Winter, half of all the people who landed died.
research help: ' Thanksgiving' by James W Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 69:20
Psalms: Psalm 69:20 by ric Gustafson
Friends of the psalmist have left him. He feels as if he has no one to turn to. He feels as if no one will help him or feel sorry for him. In his sorrow, he turns to God.
People will say that they are your friend. But in the clinch, they will abandon you and are gone. The truth is that God will never abandon you. You can always trust him as a friend.
Psalm 69 is a Messianic Psalm
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friends of the psalmist have left him. He feels as if he has no one to turn to. He feels as if no one will help him or feel sorry for him. In his sorrow, he turns to God.
People will say that they are your friend. But in the clinch, they will abandon you and are gone. The truth is that God will never abandon you. You can always trust him as a friend.
Psalm 69 is a Messianic Psalm
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Grace: where are your accusers?
Grace: where are your accusers? by ric Gustafson
Early one morning, Jesus was again at the Temple. He began to teach before a growing crowd. All of a sudden, the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They said ' Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act'. " What do you say?".
Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust. Then he said " stone her but those who have never sinned throw the first stone". They slowly dropped their stones and left.
Jesus gives grace to everyone. Praise God.
research help: ' Grace' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Early one morning, Jesus was again at the Temple. He began to teach before a growing crowd. All of a sudden, the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They said ' Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act'. " What do you say?".
Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust. Then he said " stone her but those who have never sinned throw the first stone". They slowly dropped their stones and left.
Jesus gives grace to everyone. Praise God.
research help: ' Grace' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 42:11
Psalms: Psalm 42:11 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist is homesick. Perhaps he lives in exile. He is out of his element and away from the routine of his worship. His soul thinks of home. He is homesick for what he loves. He is asking God for comfort. He's asking God for reassurance that this separation will pass. Psalm 42 is one of the Psalms that speak of an ongoing thirst for God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist is homesick. Perhaps he lives in exile. He is out of his element and away from the routine of his worship. His soul thinks of home. He is homesick for what he loves. He is asking God for comfort. He's asking God for reassurance that this separation will pass. Psalm 42 is one of the Psalms that speak of an ongoing thirst for God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 10, 2017
the First Thanksgiving page 3
the First Thanksgiving page 3 by ric Gustafson
According to two eyewitness accounts, there was feasting, game playing and good cheer at that First Thanksgiving. There were many wild turkeys, cod, bass and other fish. A large group of Wampanoag warriors joined the celebration. The warriors brought five deer that they had killed. Like now, the first settlers and the warriors gave thanks for their blessings.
The early Pilgrims practiced gratitude. They gave thanks during daily prayers and before each meal. They sang songs about giving thanks. They gave thanks for being able to practice their religion freely. The Pilgrims were Puritans. They gave thanks for surviving the first winter there. They gave thanks for their friendship with the Wampanoag people.
research help: ' Thanksgiving the holiday at the heart of the American Experience' by Melanie Kirkpatrick
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to two eyewitness accounts, there was feasting, game playing and good cheer at that First Thanksgiving. There were many wild turkeys, cod, bass and other fish. A large group of Wampanoag warriors joined the celebration. The warriors brought five deer that they had killed. Like now, the first settlers and the warriors gave thanks for their blessings.
The early Pilgrims practiced gratitude. They gave thanks during daily prayers and before each meal. They sang songs about giving thanks. They gave thanks for being able to practice their religion freely. The Pilgrims were Puritans. They gave thanks for surviving the first winter there. They gave thanks for their friendship with the Wampanoag people.
research help: ' Thanksgiving the holiday at the heart of the American Experience' by Melanie Kirkpatrick
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 86: 1-2
Psalms: Psalm 86: 1-2 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist says help me God hear me. Despite troubles, the psalmist still has faithfulness to God. With confidence, he entrusts his life to God. He counts on God not only to hear him but to come to his aid.
Life can be hard and bumpy at times. Sometimes our hearts ache and our tears flow. Yet we go to God. We know that God will always be by our side. We can call on God and he will stand beside us. We can call God's name and he will answer. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist says help me God hear me. Despite troubles, the psalmist still has faithfulness to God. With confidence, he entrusts his life to God. He counts on God not only to hear him but to come to his aid.
Life can be hard and bumpy at times. Sometimes our hearts ache and our tears flow. Yet we go to God. We know that God will always be by our side. We can call on God and he will stand beside us. We can call God's name and he will answer. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 9, 2017
the First Thanksgiving page 2
the First Thanksgiving page 2 by ric Gustafson
The first European child born in New England was Peregrine White. It was the son of Susanna and William White. Peregrine was born on the Mayflower. This was late November 1620. Plymouth was chosen by a scouting team to be the Pilgrims permanent settlement. Susanna was one of only 18 Pilgrim wives to come with their husbands on the Mayflower. William White died three months after the birth of his son.
Many of the first Pilgrims died from what was called ' the great sickness'. Many of the first Pilgrims were weak and poorly nourished. In late summer or early autumn of 1621, those Pilgrims who had not died gathered to celebrate the harvest and give thanks.
research help: ' Thanksgiving the holiday at the heart of the American Experience' by Melanie Kirkpatrick
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The first European child born in New England was Peregrine White. It was the son of Susanna and William White. Peregrine was born on the Mayflower. This was late November 1620. Plymouth was chosen by a scouting team to be the Pilgrims permanent settlement. Susanna was one of only 18 Pilgrim wives to come with their husbands on the Mayflower. William White died three months after the birth of his son.
Many of the first Pilgrims died from what was called ' the great sickness'. Many of the first Pilgrims were weak and poorly nourished. In late summer or early autumn of 1621, those Pilgrims who had not died gathered to celebrate the harvest and give thanks.
research help: ' Thanksgiving the holiday at the heart of the American Experience' by Melanie Kirkpatrick
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 19: 1-2
Psalms: Psalm 19: 1-2 by ric Gustafson
If you go outside and stare around you, you realize that God is in control. God is master of this world. Is this world in terrible trouble from human carelessness?. Is the thinning ozone a concern for us?. Is politics hindering our care of this sinful earth. God has given us a great creation. We need to take care of it the best we can. God will take care of the rest.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
If you go outside and stare around you, you realize that God is in control. God is master of this world. Is this world in terrible trouble from human carelessness?. Is the thinning ozone a concern for us?. Is politics hindering our care of this sinful earth. God has given us a great creation. We need to take care of it the best we can. God will take care of the rest.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Grace: a grace shaped life
Grace: a grace shaped life by ric Gustafson
According to Titus 2:11, the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared. Even though we waste part of our lives, God gives us grace. Have we been changed by grace?. Have we been shaped and strengthened by grace?. When grace happens, we get a new heart. When grace happens, Jesus comes in to our heart. We are Jesus's, we belong to him. We need grace always.
research help: ' Grace' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to Titus 2:11, the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared. Even though we waste part of our lives, God gives us grace. Have we been changed by grace?. Have we been shaped and strengthened by grace?. When grace happens, we get a new heart. When grace happens, Jesus comes in to our heart. We are Jesus's, we belong to him. We need grace always.
research help: ' Grace' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the First Thanksgiving page 1
the First Thanksgiving page 1 by ric Gustafson
Psalm 92 says it is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord. How do we picture the first Thanksgiving?. Do we picture Pilgrims and Indians gathered around a long table outside on a beautiful autumn day. In the distance is Plymouth Bay.
According to Patrick Browne who runs the Pilgrim Hall Museum, the original Pilgrims wore bright colors such as reds, blues and greens. The Pilgrim women would have been preparing the food. The first Thanksgiving may have taken place in the late summer when the harvest would have been gathered. It is likely that an elderly Pilgrim would have said grace. Saying grace was very important that first Thanksgiving. Some of the artifacts at the museum include Governor William Bradford's bible. Other artifacts include Myles Standish's sword, Constance Hopkins beaver hat and Peter Brown's beer tankard.
research help: ' Thanksgiving the holiday at the heart of the American Experience' by Melanie Kirkpatrick
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalm 92 says it is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord. How do we picture the first Thanksgiving?. Do we picture Pilgrims and Indians gathered around a long table outside on a beautiful autumn day. In the distance is Plymouth Bay.
According to Patrick Browne who runs the Pilgrim Hall Museum, the original Pilgrims wore bright colors such as reds, blues and greens. The Pilgrim women would have been preparing the food. The first Thanksgiving may have taken place in the late summer when the harvest would have been gathered. It is likely that an elderly Pilgrim would have said grace. Saying grace was very important that first Thanksgiving. Some of the artifacts at the museum include Governor William Bradford's bible. Other artifacts include Myles Standish's sword, Constance Hopkins beaver hat and Peter Brown's beer tankard.
research help: ' Thanksgiving the holiday at the heart of the American Experience' by Melanie Kirkpatrick
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 102: 24
Psalms: Psalm 102:24 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist pleads with God for more time on this earth. He says O my God take me not away in the midst of my days. He does not want his life cut short before he accomplishes what God has before him. If he is faithful, the psalmist is asking for a happy ending here on this sinful earth.
This psalm is one of the Penitential Psalms.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist pleads with God for more time on this earth. He says O my God take me not away in the midst of my days. He does not want his life cut short before he accomplishes what God has before him. If he is faithful, the psalmist is asking for a happy ending here on this sinful earth.
This psalm is one of the Penitential Psalms.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
Psalms: Psalm 37:7
Psalms: Psalm 37:7 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist stresses that we should be still before the Lord. We should not be troubled or fooled by falseness. Instead, we should follow the wisdom of God.
Sometimes we ask ourselves why not me?. When is it my turn to enjoy the good life?. Some days it feels as if life is passing me by. Help me God to always focus on you.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist stresses that we should be still before the Lord. We should not be troubled or fooled by falseness. Instead, we should follow the wisdom of God.
Sometimes we ask ourselves why not me?. When is it my turn to enjoy the good life?. Some days it feels as if life is passing me by. Help me God to always focus on you.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 6, 2017
Psalms: Psalm 40:1
Psalms: Psalm 40:1 by ric Gustafson
This Psalm opens with a song of praise. It says to wait patiently for the Lord. He inclined unto me and heard my cry. We need to be patient and trust. It is very hard to be patient. I want my heartache and sadness to go away. It is easy to say God where are you?. Patience is a part of prayer. It is hard to be patient when I am struggling in life. God I want to listen please speak to me. He will.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This Psalm opens with a song of praise. It says to wait patiently for the Lord. He inclined unto me and heard my cry. We need to be patient and trust. It is very hard to be patient. I want my heartache and sadness to go away. It is easy to say God where are you?. Patience is a part of prayer. It is hard to be patient when I am struggling in life. God I want to listen please speak to me. He will.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 5, 2017
Grace: conquering your frustrations
Grace: conquering your frustrations by ric Gustafson
Life is full of frustrations great and small. Sometimes we lose our temper and sometimes we stay calm. When we lose our temper, sometimes it is over small insignificant events. When we are tempted to lose our temper, we must not give in to that temptation. We need to turn away from frustration, anger, hatred bitterness and regret. Instead we need to turn to God. When we turn to God, we will receive a priceless gift of God, the gift of peace.
research help: ' Grace for Every Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Life is full of frustrations great and small. Sometimes we lose our temper and sometimes we stay calm. When we lose our temper, sometimes it is over small insignificant events. When we are tempted to lose our temper, we must not give in to that temptation. We need to turn away from frustration, anger, hatred bitterness and regret. Instead we need to turn to God. When we turn to God, we will receive a priceless gift of God, the gift of peace.
research help: ' Grace for Every Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 107: 4-5
Psalms: Psalm 107: 4-5 by ric Gustafson
The Israelites were delivered from exile by God. They sang thanks for their safe return to the Promised Land. They were without hope and slaves in a strange land. God had not forgotten them.
Some days I am sad and nothing brings me joy. Sometimes I feel as if my spirit has been kidnapped. Sometimes nothing appeals to me. The Israelites felt like that but God delivered them. Will you deliver me God?. God promises to bring us out of our darkness and into the Promised Land. That is his promise to us. Believe it.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Israelites were delivered from exile by God. They sang thanks for their safe return to the Promised Land. They were without hope and slaves in a strange land. God had not forgotten them.
Some days I am sad and nothing brings me joy. Sometimes I feel as if my spirit has been kidnapped. Sometimes nothing appeals to me. The Israelites felt like that but God delivered them. Will you deliver me God?. God promises to bring us out of our darkness and into the Promised Land. That is his promise to us. Believe it.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 4, 2017
Grace: acknowledge your blessings
Grace: acknowledge your blessings by ric Gustafson
Each day, we need to say thanks for our many blessings. We need to look for things to be thankful for. More than likely, we don't have to look far. When it is time to count our blessings, we need to count them ourselves. Nobody can count them for us. God is always generous, kind and his blessings keep coming and coming. Praise God.
research help: ' Grace for each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Each day, we need to say thanks for our many blessings. We need to look for things to be thankful for. More than likely, we don't have to look far. When it is time to count our blessings, we need to count them ourselves. Nobody can count them for us. God is always generous, kind and his blessings keep coming and coming. Praise God.
research help: ' Grace for each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 65:10
Psalms: Psalm 65:10 by ric Gustafson
The Israelites tilled thirsty ground. They appreciated the rain when it came. We make decisions every day. Some of those decisions are very important. Our decisions not only affect us but others as well. I pray that God's wisdom will invade my heart. When I struggle with my decisions, I am not alone. God is always with me and blesses me. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Israelites tilled thirsty ground. They appreciated the rain when it came. We make decisions every day. Some of those decisions are very important. Our decisions not only affect us but others as well. I pray that God's wisdom will invade my heart. When I struggle with my decisions, I am not alone. God is always with me and blesses me. Praise God.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Psalms: Psalm 102:4
Psalms: Psalm 102:4 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist talks about a song of the afflicted. He pours out his complaint before the Lord. My heart gets broken God and I cannot find the pieces. Sometimes my spirit is like dry grass, shriveling up and exhausted. People will try to comfort me yet I feel empty and alone. If I call out to you God will you hear me?. Can you revive my withered spirt?. I pray that you can.
The Book of Psalms was the hymnal of the Israelites.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist talks about a song of the afflicted. He pours out his complaint before the Lord. My heart gets broken God and I cannot find the pieces. Sometimes my spirit is like dry grass, shriveling up and exhausted. People will try to comfort me yet I feel empty and alone. If I call out to you God will you hear me?. Can you revive my withered spirt?. I pray that you can.
The Book of Psalms was the hymnal of the Israelites.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lydia page 7
Lydia page 7 by ric Gustafson
Lydia stared at her father as he blinked in the sun. His feet were still in chains. She assumed that he was blinking because he had been in a dark cell.
" Father, I could not find Jason or Dione".
" It was Dione who brought the charge against me". He sighed. " She charged me with theft".
She gave him a puzzled stare. " Theft?".
" I heard from a guard that she wants my workshop".
" Father, how can she do that?".
" She gave me a lot of documents to sign". He sighed again. " She must of made me sign a dishonest transaction document".
She put her arms around him. " Father, what does that mean?".
" My workshop could be divided between her and Rome".
" I will find Jason". She hugged her father. " He will fix everything".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lydia stared at her father as he blinked in the sun. His feet were still in chains. She assumed that he was blinking because he had been in a dark cell.
" Father, I could not find Jason or Dione".
" It was Dione who brought the charge against me". He sighed. " She charged me with theft".
She gave him a puzzled stare. " Theft?".
" I heard from a guard that she wants my workshop".
" Father, how can she do that?".
" She gave me a lot of documents to sign". He sighed again. " She must of made me sign a dishonest transaction document".
She put her arms around him. " Father, what does that mean?".
" My workshop could be divided between her and Rome".
" I will find Jason". She hugged her father. " He will fix everything".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
Grace: God's plan not ours
Grace: God's plan not ours by ric Gustafson
We like to be in control. We want things to go according to our plan. But God has another plan for us. God has the final word. We need to make peace with life. It's time to forgive others and to forgive our self. It's time to accept the past and embrace the present. It's time to have faith in the promise of tomorrow. It's time to trust God. It's time to reclaim peace in our life.
God's plan for us is perfect. We need to believe that always.
research help: ' Grace for each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We like to be in control. We want things to go according to our plan. But God has another plan for us. God has the final word. We need to make peace with life. It's time to forgive others and to forgive our self. It's time to accept the past and embrace the present. It's time to have faith in the promise of tomorrow. It's time to trust God. It's time to reclaim peace in our life.
God's plan for us is perfect. We need to believe that always.
research help: ' Grace for each Day' by Worthy Inspired
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Lydia page 6
Lydia page 6 by ric Gustafson
One day, the garden gate flew open. Three burly soldiers ran in.
One of the soldiers looked at Lydia. " Where is Eumenes?".
Lydia's father grinned. " I am Eumenes".
" You are under arrest".
Lydia exclaimed in a loud voice. " For what crime?".
" Stealing".
" Impossible". She stamped a foot in frustration. " My father has never stolen anything in his life".
" Not according to a Roman citizen who brought a charge against him".
The soldiers began to lead him out of the garden.
" Father, I will go to Mistress Dione".
He stared at his daughter.
" She will get you released".
After they left, she went to find Jason's mother".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
One day, the garden gate flew open. Three burly soldiers ran in.
One of the soldiers looked at Lydia. " Where is Eumenes?".
Lydia's father grinned. " I am Eumenes".
" You are under arrest".
Lydia exclaimed in a loud voice. " For what crime?".
" Stealing".
" Impossible". She stamped a foot in frustration. " My father has never stolen anything in his life".
" Not according to a Roman citizen who brought a charge against him".
The soldiers began to lead him out of the garden.
" Father, I will go to Mistress Dione".
He stared at his daughter.
" She will get you released".
After they left, she went to find Jason's mother".
research help: ' Bread of Angels' by Tessa Afshar
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalms: Psalm 90:10
Psalms: Psalm 90:10 by ric Gustafson
The psalmist laments how long life may be. Then he says does it matter if life lasts longer.
Nobody looks forward to growing old. We do not know how many years we will have on this earth. But however number of years, God has a plan and things for us to do for him. Then when it is time, God will cut us free from our earthly bodies and we will fly home to him.
It is believed that Moses wrote Psalm 90. He lived to be 120.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The psalmist laments how long life may be. Then he says does it matter if life lasts longer.
Nobody looks forward to growing old. We do not know how many years we will have on this earth. But however number of years, God has a plan and things for us to do for him. Then when it is time, God will cut us free from our earthly bodies and we will fly home to him.
It is believed that Moses wrote Psalm 90. He lived to be 120.
research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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