bible verses: Philippians 2:3 by ric Gustafson
The Apostle Paul in this verse is telling the Philippian Christians what is happening to him in Rome. Paul knows that the final outcome of his life here is eternal in heaven. In this book of Philippians, he covers salvation, unity and stewardship. In this second chapter, he is talking about humility. He tells the people to do nothing out of rivalry or conceit. He stressed to consider others before yourself. Also to consider the interests of others.
Paul is also talking to us. We are to show humility like Jesus did. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, December 30, 2018
Friday, December 28, 2018
the Alamo miracle page 6
the Alamo miracle page 6 by ric Gustafson
Captain Morales looked at his watch. It was about 11:30. He was standing only 200 yards from the Alamo. He noticed only two camp fires from behind their walls. He smiled. He was hoping that the rebels were asleep.
He had ordered that part of his troops get into position near the south wall. He told his men to eat and try to sleep. The only food they had was hardtack.
Officer Ordaz walked up.
" Sergeant". Morales grinned. " You should be sleeping".
" I'm just restless right now".
" How are the men doing?".
" Fine Sir". His voice hesitated. " They all know the battle is tomorrow".
" Try and get some sleep Sergeant". Morales smiled. " We attack at 4".
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Captain Morales looked at his watch. It was about 11:30. He was standing only 200 yards from the Alamo. He noticed only two camp fires from behind their walls. He smiled. He was hoping that the rebels were asleep.
He had ordered that part of his troops get into position near the south wall. He told his men to eat and try to sleep. The only food they had was hardtack.
Officer Ordaz walked up.
" Sergeant". Morales grinned. " You should be sleeping".
" I'm just restless right now".
" How are the men doing?".
" Fine Sir". His voice hesitated. " They all know the battle is tomorrow".
" Try and get some sleep Sergeant". Morales smiled. " We attack at 4".
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, December 27, 2018
Jonah page 4
Jonah page 4 by ric Gustafson
When the sailors figure out that Jonah is the cause of the storm, they are not sure what to do. They inquire Jonah as to what they should do. Jonah said hurl me into the sea. At this point, he is starting to take responsibility for his situation. He's thinking about the sailors. His first step to redemption is thinking about someone else. As soon as Jonah was thrown overboard, the storm ceased. Even though Jonah was running away from God and disobeying him, God still saved him.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When the sailors figure out that Jonah is the cause of the storm, they are not sure what to do. They inquire Jonah as to what they should do. Jonah said hurl me into the sea. At this point, he is starting to take responsibility for his situation. He's thinking about the sailors. His first step to redemption is thinking about someone else. As soon as Jonah was thrown overboard, the storm ceased. Even though Jonah was running away from God and disobeying him, God still saved him.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Carpenter's Son: Jesus changed everything
the Carpenter's Son: Jesus changed everything by ric Gustafson
He was a carpenter's son. He came with a radical inspiring philosophy. He was a challenge to political authority. He developed a following and after he died, a cult. This cult became the world's largest religion.
Who was this man?. For some, he was the fulfilment of a promise. For some, he answered some of life's biggest questions. For some, he is Jesus the Son of God. He was born to a virgin more than 2000 years ago. For some, he is just a man. For some, he is a myth.
For some, he is a son, sage and martyr. What matters the most is that Jesus is here right now. He always has been here and will always be here.
Let us start with the prophets who foretold of this great man's coming.
research help: ' Jesus Who do you say that I am?' by Time Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
He was a carpenter's son. He came with a radical inspiring philosophy. He was a challenge to political authority. He developed a following and after he died, a cult. This cult became the world's largest religion.
Who was this man?. For some, he was the fulfilment of a promise. For some, he answered some of life's biggest questions. For some, he is Jesus the Son of God. He was born to a virgin more than 2000 years ago. For some, he is just a man. For some, he is a myth.
For some, he is a son, sage and martyr. What matters the most is that Jesus is here right now. He always has been here and will always be here.
Let us start with the prophets who foretold of this great man's coming.
research help: ' Jesus Who do you say that I am?' by Time Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Alamo miracle page 5
the Alamo miracle page 5 by ric Gustafson
Alan and Felipe stood with Mr Crockett at the palisade wall. They stared toward the Mexican camp to the south.
Crockett yawned. " Fewer campfires burning over there tonight".
Alan scratched his chin. " That's not good".
" No". Crockett yawned again. " I usually see twice as many".
They noticed that bags of grapeshot were being stacked near the twin cannons facing the front gate.
Alan and Felipe walked down and joined those eating corn mush near a camp fire.
Felipe took a bite. " Alan, do you think God would welcome me into his kingdom?".
Alan smiled. " Of course".
" How do you know?".
" He welcomed me". He took a little pocket bible from a shirt pocket. " John 3:16".
Felipe grinned. " Later, you can explain that passage to me in detail".
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Alan and Felipe stood with Mr Crockett at the palisade wall. They stared toward the Mexican camp to the south.
Crockett yawned. " Fewer campfires burning over there tonight".
Alan scratched his chin. " That's not good".
" No". Crockett yawned again. " I usually see twice as many".
They noticed that bags of grapeshot were being stacked near the twin cannons facing the front gate.
Alan and Felipe walked down and joined those eating corn mush near a camp fire.
Felipe took a bite. " Alan, do you think God would welcome me into his kingdom?".
Alan smiled. " Of course".
" How do you know?".
" He welcomed me". He took a little pocket bible from a shirt pocket. " John 3:16".
Felipe grinned. " Later, you can explain that passage to me in detail".
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
the Alamo miracle page 4
the Alamo miracle page 4 by ric Gustafson
Morales and his company commanders were studying the South wall. " We will attack that wall at 4 in the morning", He smiled. " His Excellency believes the rebels will be sleeping at that time".
They all chuckled.
" The rebels have a canon guarding the open ground". Morales pointed. " The other canon faces east".
Captain Reyes pointed. " What about the palisade?".
" We will attack it with a fifth of our force".
" What about the lunette?".
" We will attack that with a fifth of our force".
Captain Victoria spoke up. " What about prisoners?".
" His Excellency was very specific about that". He stared at his officers. " No prisoners".
The officers left.
Morales listened to the quietness.
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God' s blessings. Love Ric
Morales and his company commanders were studying the South wall. " We will attack that wall at 4 in the morning", He smiled. " His Excellency believes the rebels will be sleeping at that time".
They all chuckled.
" The rebels have a canon guarding the open ground". Morales pointed. " The other canon faces east".
Captain Reyes pointed. " What about the palisade?".
" We will attack it with a fifth of our force".
" What about the lunette?".
" We will attack that with a fifth of our force".
Captain Victoria spoke up. " What about prisoners?".
" His Excellency was very specific about that". He stared at his officers. " No prisoners".
The officers left.
Morales listened to the quietness.
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God' s blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, December 25, 2018
I Am: I Am complete
I Am: I Am complete by ric Gustafson
According to Colossians 2, and in him you have been made complete. It is easy to compare ourselves to others. Jesus says do not compare yourself to someone else. In Jesus we are complete. When we are weak, Jesus is strong. Jesus protects us and is our constant companion. Jesus is everything that we need. Because of Jesus, we are complete. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible say I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to Colossians 2, and in him you have been made complete. It is easy to compare ourselves to others. Jesus says do not compare yourself to someone else. In Jesus we are complete. When we are weak, Jesus is strong. Jesus protects us and is our constant companion. Jesus is everything that we need. Because of Jesus, we are complete. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible say I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Alamo miracle page 3
the Alamo miracle page 3 by ric Gustafson
Alan and Felipe were sharing a plate of corn stew. They were standing near a ditch that ran the length of the compound. They quietly watched as some Mexican cavalry were forming in some woods near the compound.
" Alan, why do you read your bible so much?".
He smiled at his friend. " It's God's Word and I am one of his followers".
Felipe ate more of the corn mush. " Alan, are you afraid to die?".
" No". He grinned. " I know where I'm going after I die".
" I think about heaven sometimes". He took another bite of the mush. " I sure wish we had some meat to eat".
From the nearby plaza, Colonel Morales and Colonel Romero watched things get quiet at the Alamo.
They shared wine together. Then they shook hands and mounted their horses.
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Alan and Felipe were sharing a plate of corn stew. They were standing near a ditch that ran the length of the compound. They quietly watched as some Mexican cavalry were forming in some woods near the compound.
" Alan, why do you read your bible so much?".
He smiled at his friend. " It's God's Word and I am one of his followers".
Felipe ate more of the corn mush. " Alan, are you afraid to die?".
" No". He grinned. " I know where I'm going after I die".
" I think about heaven sometimes". He took another bite of the mush. " I sure wish we had some meat to eat".
From the nearby plaza, Colonel Morales and Colonel Romero watched things get quiet at the Alamo.
They shared wine together. Then they shook hands and mounted their horses.
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, December 24, 2018
bible verses: Micah 6:8
bible verses: Micah 6:8 by ric Gustafson
The Prophet Micah told the people of Israel the sins they had fallen into and pleaded with them to come back to God's Law. Micah reminded the people of what the Lord had done for the people. The Lord told them what he expects from their heart. This includes high moral character. They were to love fathfulness. They were to be obedient and walk humbly. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Prophet Micah told the people of Israel the sins they had fallen into and pleaded with them to come back to God's Law. Micah reminded the people of what the Lord had done for the people. The Lord told them what he expects from their heart. This includes high moral character. They were to love fathfulness. They were to be obedient and walk humbly. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Am: I Am redeemed
I Am: I Am redeemed by ric Gustafson
In Ephesians 1, it says that in him we have redemption through his blood. To redeem something is to gain or regain something in exchange for payment. So what do we mean when we say that we are redeemed?. The simple truth is that God bought us back. God sent his only Son Jesus to pay the price of sin and redeem us. Because of Adam, we were doomed to sin and death. God bought us back. We have been redeemed. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Ephesians 1, it says that in him we have redemption through his blood. To redeem something is to gain or regain something in exchange for payment. So what do we mean when we say that we are redeemed?. The simple truth is that God bought us back. God sent his only Son Jesus to pay the price of sin and redeem us. Because of Adam, we were doomed to sin and death. God bought us back. We have been redeemed. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, December 23, 2018
followers of the star page 10
followers of the star page 10 by ric Gustafson
The three Magi stopped in front of a sign at the edge of the quiet village.
" Where are we Zele?".
The Magi got off his camel and looked at the sign. " The sign says Nazareth".
Reme looked up. He noticed that the star shone brightly above them.
They stopped at a house next to the city well.
Paton looked up. " Reme, the star has stopped right over this house".
Reme got down and walked up to the front door. He knocked while the other two watched from a distance. A young man answered the door. Reme talked to him for a while. He walked back. " The one who lives here is Yoseph and he is a carpenter". He smiled at his friends. " I believe in my heart that their young son is the Deliverer".
The camel with the treasures was brought up to the front door. Paton brought in the box of frankincense. Zele brought in the box of myrrh. Reme brought in the pouches of gold.
The men put the treasures on the floor. They followed the young man into a back room where a young woman was holding a young boy.
Reme walked over and kneeled before the boy. " What is the name of the child?".
" Yehoshua".
" We have brought gifts for the child". The three went out and brought them in. They put them by the mother's feet. " We have brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh".
Yoseph and the young mother began to cry. " Thank you".
" We need to go Reme" Paton said in fear. " Herod will be looking for us and the child".
" Be careful". Reme shook the young carpenter's hand. " I was instructed in a dream for us to go home a different way".
The three quickly and quietly left.
Later that night, Yoseph had a dream. He was instructed to flee to Egypt with the mother and child because Herod wanted to kill Yehoshua.
Around midnight, Joseph and Mary fled to Egypt with Jesus until it was safe to return.
The Beginning
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The three Magi stopped in front of a sign at the edge of the quiet village.
" Where are we Zele?".
The Magi got off his camel and looked at the sign. " The sign says Nazareth".
Reme looked up. He noticed that the star shone brightly above them.
They stopped at a house next to the city well.
Paton looked up. " Reme, the star has stopped right over this house".
Reme got down and walked up to the front door. He knocked while the other two watched from a distance. A young man answered the door. Reme talked to him for a while. He walked back. " The one who lives here is Yoseph and he is a carpenter". He smiled at his friends. " I believe in my heart that their young son is the Deliverer".
The camel with the treasures was brought up to the front door. Paton brought in the box of frankincense. Zele brought in the box of myrrh. Reme brought in the pouches of gold.
The men put the treasures on the floor. They followed the young man into a back room where a young woman was holding a young boy.
Reme walked over and kneeled before the boy. " What is the name of the child?".
" Yehoshua".
" We have brought gifts for the child". The three went out and brought them in. They put them by the mother's feet. " We have brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh".
Yoseph and the young mother began to cry. " Thank you".
" We need to go Reme" Paton said in fear. " Herod will be looking for us and the child".
" Be careful". Reme shook the young carpenter's hand. " I was instructed in a dream for us to go home a different way".
The three quickly and quietly left.
Later that night, Yoseph had a dream. He was instructed to flee to Egypt with the mother and child because Herod wanted to kill Yehoshua.
Around midnight, Joseph and Mary fled to Egypt with Jesus until it was safe to return.
The Beginning
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, December 22, 2018
the Alamo miracle page 2
the Alamo miracle page 2 by ric Gustafson
Travis asked who wanted to fight and who did not. Only one man refused. He left later that night.
In the distance, Colonel Juan Morales was watching the Alamo. His friend Colonel Jose Romero walked up to him. " His Excellency is asking for you".
They walked into a large room. Sitting at a table was Santa Anna. He had a wide forehead and was holding a wine goblet in one hand.
" The time has come to punish these norteamericanos".
Colonel Almante smiled. " We await your orders my Excellency".
Santa Anna looked at his officers. " We attack at 4 tomorrow morning". He smiled. " We will surprise them as they sleep".
Romero spoke up. " Your Excellency, our 12 pound cannons will not be here until tomorrow".
Santa Anna frowned. " I cannot wait any longer".
" Excellency, can we take prisoners?".
Santa Anna grinned. " No".
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Travis asked who wanted to fight and who did not. Only one man refused. He left later that night.
In the distance, Colonel Juan Morales was watching the Alamo. His friend Colonel Jose Romero walked up to him. " His Excellency is asking for you".
They walked into a large room. Sitting at a table was Santa Anna. He had a wide forehead and was holding a wine goblet in one hand.
" The time has come to punish these norteamericanos".
Colonel Almante smiled. " We await your orders my Excellency".
Santa Anna looked at his officers. " We attack at 4 tomorrow morning". He smiled. " We will surprise them as they sleep".
Romero spoke up. " Your Excellency, our 12 pound cannons will not be here until tomorrow".
Santa Anna frowned. " I cannot wait any longer".
" Excellency, can we take prisoners?".
Santa Anna grinned. " No".
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
followers of the star page 9
followers of the star page 9 by ric Gustafson
The three Magi were waiting in a gold covered room. A guard came and led them to a bathing area. They cleaned up and put on clean robes. Then they were led to a council room. King Herod was lying on a purple royal cushion.
" Magi". He walked up to a small window. " Please show me the star that guided you here".
" I'm sorry King Herod" Reme replied. " The star disappeared while we have been on our journey".
Herod walked over to the three. " A scroll told me that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem".
Paton gave Herod a quizzical look. " Is there something you would like from us?".
" Yes". He clapped his hands with joy. " When you find the child, come back and tell me so that I may go and worship him also".
Shortly after, the four camels left through the southern gate. Later, they came up to a crossroads. Reme looked up and smiled. " The star has come back".
The three Magi got off their camels and embraced.
" Reme". Zele pointed at the star. " The star is pointing north instead of south".
They got back on their camels.
" We must go where the star leads us".
The three Magi headed north.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The three Magi were waiting in a gold covered room. A guard came and led them to a bathing area. They cleaned up and put on clean robes. Then they were led to a council room. King Herod was lying on a purple royal cushion.
" Magi". He walked up to a small window. " Please show me the star that guided you here".
" I'm sorry King Herod" Reme replied. " The star disappeared while we have been on our journey".
Herod walked over to the three. " A scroll told me that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem".
Paton gave Herod a quizzical look. " Is there something you would like from us?".
" Yes". He clapped his hands with joy. " When you find the child, come back and tell me so that I may go and worship him also".
Shortly after, the four camels left through the southern gate. Later, they came up to a crossroads. Reme looked up and smiled. " The star has come back".
The three Magi got off their camels and embraced.
" Reme". Zele pointed at the star. " The star is pointing north instead of south".
They got back on their camels.
" We must go where the star leads us".
The three Magi headed north.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, December 21, 2018
the Alamo miracle page 1
the Alamo miracle page 1 by ric Gustafson
My name is Private Alan Hanson. I am here with my friend Felipe. We both hail from the East coast. We both heard about the plight here and came. We were gathered here in the courtyard to listen to Colonel William Barrett Travis. I am a Christian and Felipe is not.
Travis was wearing a blue coat with a red sash around the waist. He wore black boots, a black bow tie and a tall silk hat. He had left his family in Alabama to keep this garrison going. He had just given us bad news that 400 troops were not coming to help us.
A man in a coonskin cap stopped me. " Private Hanson".
I smiled. " David Crockett".
" We are going to defend the wooden palisade".
Felipe looked at me. " Do we have a chance against the whole Mexican army?".
" The walls of the Alamo are two to three feet thick and made of adobe bricks". I smiled at my friend. " Also the four chapel saints are looking out for us".
Felipe began to feel better.
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
My name is Private Alan Hanson. I am here with my friend Felipe. We both hail from the East coast. We both heard about the plight here and came. We were gathered here in the courtyard to listen to Colonel William Barrett Travis. I am a Christian and Felipe is not.
Travis was wearing a blue coat with a red sash around the waist. He wore black boots, a black bow tie and a tall silk hat. He had left his family in Alabama to keep this garrison going. He had just given us bad news that 400 troops were not coming to help us.
A man in a coonskin cap stopped me. " Private Hanson".
I smiled. " David Crockett".
" We are going to defend the wooden palisade".
Felipe looked at me. " Do we have a chance against the whole Mexican army?".
" The walls of the Alamo are two to three feet thick and made of adobe bricks". I smiled at my friend. " Also the four chapel saints are looking out for us".
Felipe began to feel better.
research help: ' Line of Glory' by Thomas D Clagett
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
christmas trees
Christmas trees by ric Gustafson
What is the origin of the first Christmas tree?. The exact origin is not known. People have decorated trees for centuries. In ancient Rome it was during the festival of Saturn beginning on Dec 17. During the Middle Ages, it was a fir tree decorated with red apples.
Instead of candles, electric lights were introduced to decorate trees. Lights were introduced in 1882. The light bulb was invented by Thomas Edison. Firs, spruces and pines made good trees. Christmas and Christmas trees don't last forever. Some people have one going all year round.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
What is the origin of the first Christmas tree?. The exact origin is not known. People have decorated trees for centuries. In ancient Rome it was during the festival of Saturn beginning on Dec 17. During the Middle Ages, it was a fir tree decorated with red apples.
Instead of candles, electric lights were introduced to decorate trees. Lights were introduced in 1882. The light bulb was invented by Thomas Edison. Firs, spruces and pines made good trees. Christmas and Christmas trees don't last forever. Some people have one going all year round.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
followers of the star page 8
followers of the star page 8 by ric Gustafson
Leth scratched his grey beard. " Why did you travel such a long way just to ask that question?".
Reme stared at the Rabbi. " From our eastern land, we saw a great star in the sky".
" A star!".
" It was the star of the promised one" Zele replied. " We have come to worship him".
Anger came over Leth's face. " Herod is our King". He pointed at a soldier. " Guard them while I talk to the King".
Leth walked away. He entered Herod's hall. The aging King was lying on a cushion being fanned by a servant.
Herod raised a finger for the slave to stop. " What is all the commotion Leth?".
" Three Parthians outside would like to speak with you".
" What about?".
" They said that a star led them here".
" A star!". Herod frowned. " Do you believe their story?".
Leth looked at his King. " That is what the scroll of Micah proclaims".
" What did the scroll foretold?".
" That the Deliverer would be born in Bethlehem of Judea".
Herod thought for a moment. " And where is this Bethlehem?".
" The village is just south of here".
" Leth, bring them in here".
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Leth scratched his grey beard. " Why did you travel such a long way just to ask that question?".
Reme stared at the Rabbi. " From our eastern land, we saw a great star in the sky".
" A star!".
" It was the star of the promised one" Zele replied. " We have come to worship him".
Anger came over Leth's face. " Herod is our King". He pointed at a soldier. " Guard them while I talk to the King".
Leth walked away. He entered Herod's hall. The aging King was lying on a cushion being fanned by a servant.
Herod raised a finger for the slave to stop. " What is all the commotion Leth?".
" Three Parthians outside would like to speak with you".
" What about?".
" They said that a star led them here".
" A star!". Herod frowned. " Do you believe their story?".
Leth looked at his King. " That is what the scroll of Micah proclaims".
" What did the scroll foretold?".
" That the Deliverer would be born in Bethlehem of Judea".
Herod thought for a moment. " And where is this Bethlehem?".
" The village is just south of here".
" Leth, bring them in here".
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, December 20, 2018
I Am: I Am an Ambassador
I Am: I Am an Ambassador by ric Gustafson
God's Word proclaims that we are his Ambassadors. God makes his appeal through us to a lost world. We are God's personal representatives. We represent Jesus on this sinful earth. We are Ambassadors for the Kingdom of Heaven. Through God, we touch the brokenhearted and bring healing to those hurting. We are to walk in love and walk in God and his Son. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God's Word proclaims that we are his Ambassadors. God makes his appeal through us to a lost world. We are God's personal representatives. We represent Jesus on this sinful earth. We are Ambassadors for the Kingdom of Heaven. Through God, we touch the brokenhearted and bring healing to those hurting. We are to walk in love and walk in God and his Son. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
followers of the star page 7
followers of the star page 7 by ric Gustafson
Reme, Paton and Zele walked toward the Temple. Reme yawned because he did not sleep well. He had a bad dream where somebody with a crown was trying to kill him. They had paid someone to watch the camels and their belongings. They walked into the upper courtyard. Two Roman soldiers were at the top of a flight of stairs.
A soldier pointed at Reme. " What do you want?".
" We would like to speak to your High Priest".
The other soldier mocked him. " He wants to speak to the High Priest".
A Rabbi appeared wearing a black robe. " What's going on here?".
A guard pointed at the three. " Rabbi, these three foreigners want to speak to the High Priest".
" I help the High Priest with important matters". He stared at the men. " Why do you wish to see him?".
Paton smiled. " We have come a long way to ask him a question".
" What question is that?".
" We seek the identity of the Deliverer". His voice hesitated. " That was foretold to us".
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Reme, Paton and Zele walked toward the Temple. Reme yawned because he did not sleep well. He had a bad dream where somebody with a crown was trying to kill him. They had paid someone to watch the camels and their belongings. They walked into the upper courtyard. Two Roman soldiers were at the top of a flight of stairs.
A soldier pointed at Reme. " What do you want?".
" We would like to speak to your High Priest".
The other soldier mocked him. " He wants to speak to the High Priest".
A Rabbi appeared wearing a black robe. " What's going on here?".
A guard pointed at the three. " Rabbi, these three foreigners want to speak to the High Priest".
" I help the High Priest with important matters". He stared at the men. " Why do you wish to see him?".
Paton smiled. " We have come a long way to ask him a question".
" What question is that?".
" We seek the identity of the Deliverer". His voice hesitated. " That was foretold to us".
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Church of the Nativity
Church of the Nativity by ric Gustafson
A miracle is happening in Bethlehem right before Christmas. A historic renovation of the Church of the Nativity is happening. Ancient mosaics and columns have been restored to their original glory for the first time in 500 years.
The traditional birthplace of Jesus is hoping the renovation will bring Christians back and boost tourism. Christians have been leaving the area because of lack of peace and economic hardships. The renovation started in 2013. Money for the project has come from the Palestinian Authority and Muslim and Christian businesses. Some of the money has come from foreign donors.
The church was built in the 4th century by St Helena over the spot where Mary was said to have given birth. The church had been neglected for decades. After five years, the church has been transformed. Praise God.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
A miracle is happening in Bethlehem right before Christmas. A historic renovation of the Church of the Nativity is happening. Ancient mosaics and columns have been restored to their original glory for the first time in 500 years.
The traditional birthplace of Jesus is hoping the renovation will bring Christians back and boost tourism. Christians have been leaving the area because of lack of peace and economic hardships. The renovation started in 2013. Money for the project has come from the Palestinian Authority and Muslim and Christian businesses. Some of the money has come from foreign donors.
The church was built in the 4th century by St Helena over the spot where Mary was said to have given birth. The church had been neglected for decades. After five years, the church has been transformed. Praise God.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
followers of the star page 6
followers of the star page 6 by ric Gustafson
The four camels slowly came around a corner of rocks. Reme pointed south. " There is the great Salt Sea". He looked north. " Now we need to cross the Jordan". Luckily, they were able to cross with four heavy laden camels. Eventually, they arrived at Jericho. They stayed the night there. The next morning, they departed for steep canyons. Reme was worried about bandits. After a period of time, they came up to a crossroads where shepherds were attending sheep. They were from Bethany. They told Reme that the Holy City was just over the next hill.
After an hour, the three Magi entered the Holy City through the Water Gate. They led the camels toward the valley of the cheesemakers. This area contained shops and homes. Based on a large tribute, they were able to get a nice room and a warm meal. That night, Reme noticed that his star was still missing.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The four camels slowly came around a corner of rocks. Reme pointed south. " There is the great Salt Sea". He looked north. " Now we need to cross the Jordan". Luckily, they were able to cross with four heavy laden camels. Eventually, they arrived at Jericho. They stayed the night there. The next morning, they departed for steep canyons. Reme was worried about bandits. After a period of time, they came up to a crossroads where shepherds were attending sheep. They were from Bethany. They told Reme that the Holy City was just over the next hill.
After an hour, the three Magi entered the Holy City through the Water Gate. They led the camels toward the valley of the cheesemakers. This area contained shops and homes. Based on a large tribute, they were able to get a nice room and a warm meal. That night, Reme noticed that his star was still missing.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
followers of the star page 5
followers of the star page 5 by ric Gustafson
" If there is no star" one of the Magi proclaimed. " I'm going back".
" We've come too far already" Reme replied. " We can't go back now".
" Tarch is right" replied another Magi. " If there is no star there must be no Deliverer either".
Both Magi handed their pouches of gold to Reme.
They walked away.
" Is there anybody who will continue with me?". He looked at the others. " I know the star will come back".
Zele was feeding bread to one of the camels. " I will continue with you".
Paton walked up to his friend. " So will I".
The other Magi handed Reme their gold pouches and left.
Reme put the frankincense, myrrh and supplies on the fourth camel.
The three Magi turned onto the Jericho Road and stayed there until they stopped at Mount Nebo for the night.
Reme later looked up hoping the bright star would return.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" If there is no star" one of the Magi proclaimed. " I'm going back".
" We've come too far already" Reme replied. " We can't go back now".
" Tarch is right" replied another Magi. " If there is no star there must be no Deliverer either".
Both Magi handed their pouches of gold to Reme.
They walked away.
" Is there anybody who will continue with me?". He looked at the others. " I know the star will come back".
Zele was feeding bread to one of the camels. " I will continue with you".
Paton walked up to his friend. " So will I".
The other Magi handed Reme their gold pouches and left.
Reme put the frankincense, myrrh and supplies on the fourth camel.
The three Magi turned onto the Jericho Road and stayed there until they stopped at Mount Nebo for the night.
Reme later looked up hoping the bright star would return.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, December 17, 2018
followers of the star page 4
followers of the star page 4 by ric Gustafson
The caravan slowly headed toward the Salt Sea. They stopped in a strange flat land. Reme and Paton got off their camels and fed them some bread. They sat down under a nearby tree.
Paton munched on a fig. " This is a strange land".
" Actually the crunchy soil is due to a volcano".
Paton had trouble keeping his eyes open. " I can't wait to reach our destination".
" My calculation is that it will take five days to reach the holy city". He closed his eyes. " Shortly we will be coming up to Gilead and then Gerasa".
Paton tiredly looked up. " Reme, wake up".
Reme opened his eyes. " What's wrong?".
" The star is gone".
Zele ran over. " What do you mean it's gone?".
They all gazed up into the sky.
The bright star that was pointing them toward Judea was now gone.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric.
The caravan slowly headed toward the Salt Sea. They stopped in a strange flat land. Reme and Paton got off their camels and fed them some bread. They sat down under a nearby tree.
Paton munched on a fig. " This is a strange land".
" Actually the crunchy soil is due to a volcano".
Paton had trouble keeping his eyes open. " I can't wait to reach our destination".
" My calculation is that it will take five days to reach the holy city". He closed his eyes. " Shortly we will be coming up to Gilead and then Gerasa".
Paton tiredly looked up. " Reme, wake up".
Reme opened his eyes. " What's wrong?".
" The star is gone".
Zele ran over. " What do you mean it's gone?".
They all gazed up into the sky.
The bright star that was pointing them toward Judea was now gone.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric.
Sunday, December 16, 2018
followers of the star page 3
followers of the star page 3 by ric Gustafson
Reme had just led the weary camels through the cold water of the Barada River. The caravan stopped outside an olive grove outside Damascus. He looked into the distance and saw the snowy slopes of Mount Hermon. He led the group past the grand triple archway toward the main east west thoroughfare. This was where a lot of the city's trading went on.
Reme and Paton began to look for a temple to hopefully find out some information about the Deliverer.
As they approached a synagogue, a large Nabatean guard was in their path.
" You Parthians are going to stir up trouble". He stared at Paton. " I just know it".
Reme noticed more soldiers approaching. He pulled out some coins from his pocket. He handed them to the soldier. " Is this enough to keep everyone quiet?".
The guard nodded his head yes.
Paton grinned. " How do we get out of this city?".
The guard pointed west. " That road will take you to Jericho".
The caravan left the city.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Reme had just led the weary camels through the cold water of the Barada River. The caravan stopped outside an olive grove outside Damascus. He looked into the distance and saw the snowy slopes of Mount Hermon. He led the group past the grand triple archway toward the main east west thoroughfare. This was where a lot of the city's trading went on.
Reme and Paton began to look for a temple to hopefully find out some information about the Deliverer.
As they approached a synagogue, a large Nabatean guard was in their path.
" You Parthians are going to stir up trouble". He stared at Paton. " I just know it".
Reme noticed more soldiers approaching. He pulled out some coins from his pocket. He handed them to the soldier. " Is this enough to keep everyone quiet?".
The guard nodded his head yes.
Paton grinned. " How do we get out of this city?".
The guard pointed west. " That road will take you to Jericho".
The caravan left the city.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, December 15, 2018
followers of the star page 2
followers of the star page 2 by ric Gustafson
Reme raised his right arm to stop the caravan. He glanced up toward the star. " We stop here". He smiled. " Zele, can you make sure the camels are tied together and give them a little cake of bread".
Reme and Paton sat down on the cold ground. They began to munch on some dates and figs.
" One of the Magi has already headed for home". He frowned. " But he did leave his pouch of gold".
They were so tired, they fell asleep on the hard ground/
They traveled toward the Euphrates and the Syrian Desert. At the Euphrates, they took a camel ford and found a road on the other side. This road would lead them through Roman controlled Syria.
At night, Reme always made sure the bright star was present.
One day, the caravan stopped in Palmyra. Paton fed bread to the camels. " My friend". He smiled. " How far to Jerusalem?".
" Possibly fourteen days". Reme grinned as he tied up the camels. " More than likely twelve".
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Reme raised his right arm to stop the caravan. He glanced up toward the star. " We stop here". He smiled. " Zele, can you make sure the camels are tied together and give them a little cake of bread".
Reme and Paton sat down on the cold ground. They began to munch on some dates and figs.
" One of the Magi has already headed for home". He frowned. " But he did leave his pouch of gold".
They were so tired, they fell asleep on the hard ground/
They traveled toward the Euphrates and the Syrian Desert. At the Euphrates, they took a camel ford and found a road on the other side. This road would lead them through Roman controlled Syria.
At night, Reme always made sure the bright star was present.
One day, the caravan stopped in Palmyra. Paton fed bread to the camels. " My friend". He smiled. " How far to Jerusalem?".
" Possibly fourteen days". Reme grinned as he tied up the camels. " More than likely twelve".
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, December 14, 2018
I Am: I am loved
I Am: I Am loved by ric Gustafson
Romans 8 proclaims that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God. We always sin and we are far from perfect. Yet God loves us more than anything else. God will never stop loving us. Nothing that we do will make God love us less. God loves us so much he sent his only Son to die on a cross for us. This is so that we have a chance to live with him forever. Praise God.
research help: ' I am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Romans 8 proclaims that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God. We always sin and we are far from perfect. Yet God loves us more than anything else. God will never stop loving us. Nothing that we do will make God love us less. God loves us so much he sent his only Son to die on a cross for us. This is so that we have a chance to live with him forever. Praise God.
research help: ' I am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jonah page 3
Jonah page 3 by ric Gustafson
The sailors on the ship were scared. They had never witnessed a storm like this. Jonah was sleeping in the hold of the ship. The sailors pray to Jonah's God. The captain wakes up Jonah. Lots were cast. Jonah lost. They implore Jonah to explain why this calamity is happening to them. Jonah explains that he is a Hebrew and that he fears the Lord. Then he told them that he was fleeing from God. Then the sailors asked him why he had done this?. Then the sailors had to make a decision.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The sailors on the ship were scared. They had never witnessed a storm like this. Jonah was sleeping in the hold of the ship. The sailors pray to Jonah's God. The captain wakes up Jonah. Lots were cast. Jonah lost. They implore Jonah to explain why this calamity is happening to them. Jonah explains that he is a Hebrew and that he fears the Lord. Then he told them that he was fleeing from God. Then the sailors asked him why he had done this?. Then the sailors had to make a decision.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
followers of the star page 1
followers of the star page 1 by ric Gustafson
Reme looked at the line of camels that were being lined up. They were on the ground as decorative boxes containing frankincense and myrrh were being tied onto them. A fellow Magi, Zele was loading some of the camels with dates, cheese, bread and figs.
Another Magi, Paton was loading cooking items and medicines to the last two camels. " Reme, what did you see up in the sky?".
" I saw a star up in the sky brighter than anything I had ever seen". He handed a pouch to each of the Magi. " Each of you now has a portion of the tribute gold". Reme patted the head of one of the camels. " This gold is for the one we seek".
When all the camels had been loaded and the Magi were ready to go, Reme looked up at the sky. " See Paton, the star is leading us somewhere".
The procession to find the Deliverer began.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Reme looked at the line of camels that were being lined up. They were on the ground as decorative boxes containing frankincense and myrrh were being tied onto them. A fellow Magi, Zele was loading some of the camels with dates, cheese, bread and figs.
Another Magi, Paton was loading cooking items and medicines to the last two camels. " Reme, what did you see up in the sky?".
" I saw a star up in the sky brighter than anything I had ever seen". He handed a pouch to each of the Magi. " Each of you now has a portion of the tribute gold". Reme patted the head of one of the camels. " This gold is for the one we seek".
When all the camels had been loaded and the Magi were ready to go, Reme looked up at the sky. " See Paton, the star is leading us somewhere".
The procession to find the Deliverer began.
research help: ' Magi' by Daniel L Gilbert
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, December 13, 2018
I Am: I Am righteous
I Am: I am righteous by ric Gustafson
According to II Corinthians 5, so that in and through him we might become viewed as examples of the righteousness of God. We are the righteousness of Christ. When Jesus died on the cross for us, he paid the cost of our sins. He replaced them with righteousness. Jesus did this so we could be with him forever. God sees us like he sees his Son. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to II Corinthians 5, so that in and through him we might become viewed as examples of the righteousness of God. We are the righteousness of Christ. When Jesus died on the cross for us, he paid the cost of our sins. He replaced them with righteousness. Jesus did this so we could be with him forever. God sees us like he sees his Son. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jonah page 2
Jonah page 2 by ric Gustafson
Jonah entered a ship at Joppa to flee to Tarshish. As it was sailing, God hurled a great wind upon the sea. God caused a tempest around Jonah's boat. Every time we disobey God, a storm comes. Sin will bring us calamity. There are consequences to our actions. God punishes sin.
We were created to live for God. God directs a storm right at Jonah. This is not a normal storm. The storm was the consequence of Jonah's sin. To Jonah, the situation looked helpless. To the sailors on board, something had to be done.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jonah entered a ship at Joppa to flee to Tarshish. As it was sailing, God hurled a great wind upon the sea. God caused a tempest around Jonah's boat. Every time we disobey God, a storm comes. Sin will bring us calamity. There are consequences to our actions. God punishes sin.
We were created to live for God. God directs a storm right at Jonah. This is not a normal storm. The storm was the consequence of Jonah's sin. To Jonah, the situation looked helpless. To the sailors on board, something had to be done.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the lonely fruitcake page 2
the lonely fruitcake page 2 by ric Gustafson
I watched as the cranberry salad was passed around.
People were still snickering and pointing at me.
What's wrong with me.
After dinner, the ambrosia cheesecake was passed around.
Then people started clearing off the table.
I began to panic.
Then I heard the word ' Open Door Mission'.
I smiled.
I was put into a container with other leftovers.
I was finally happy.
I was not lonely any longer.
The End
research help: Bing.com MyRecipes.com
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I watched as the cranberry salad was passed around.
People were still snickering and pointing at me.
What's wrong with me.
After dinner, the ambrosia cheesecake was passed around.
Then people started clearing off the table.
I began to panic.
Then I heard the word ' Open Door Mission'.
I smiled.
I was put into a container with other leftovers.
I was finally happy.
I was not lonely any longer.
The End
research help: Bing.com MyRecipes.com
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Jonah page 1
Jonah page 1 by ric Gustafson
Jonah's story begins when the Word of the Lord came. God called Jonah to go to Nineveh and proclaim. It was strange for a Hebrew prophet to be sent to a Gentile city. It was also strange that God wanted to warn Nineveh of impending doom. Their Emperor Shalmaneser was known for torture and gruesome killing of enemies. Yet God wanted to reach out to this nation.
Instead of doing what God wanted, Jonah went to Tarshish. He went as far away from God as he could. He could not see the point in doing what God wanted. So Jonah ran away from God.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jonah's story begins when the Word of the Lord came. God called Jonah to go to Nineveh and proclaim. It was strange for a Hebrew prophet to be sent to a Gentile city. It was also strange that God wanted to warn Nineveh of impending doom. Their Emperor Shalmaneser was known for torture and gruesome killing of enemies. Yet God wanted to reach out to this nation.
Instead of doing what God wanted, Jonah went to Tarshish. He went as far away from God as he could. He could not see the point in doing what God wanted. So Jonah ran away from God.
research help: ' The Prodigal Prophet' by Timothy Keller
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: Ephesians 4:32
bible verses: Ephesians 4:32 by ric Gustafson
The Apostle Paul reminds this church that they were once dead in their sin. Then he tells them that God made them alive in Jesus. He tells them the life they should have in Jesus. He reminds this church to be kind and compassionate. As believers, we have been given a new life in Jesus. God says to us to give up anger, malice and deceit. Paul reminds us to forgive and have compassion towards others. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Apostle Paul reminds this church that they were once dead in their sin. Then he tells them that God made them alive in Jesus. He tells them the life they should have in Jesus. He reminds this church to be kind and compassionate. As believers, we have been given a new life in Jesus. God says to us to give up anger, malice and deceit. Paul reminds us to forgive and have compassion towards others. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
the pure one
the pure one by ric Gustafson
The name Zacchaeus means ' pure one'. Nobody called him by that name. According to Luke 19, he was a tax collector in Jericho. He was the chief tax collector and was hated. One day, Jesus came to town. Zacchaeus was a short man. He climbed a tree so he could see Jesus. Jesus stopped, saw him and told him he was coming to his house. Those in the crowd wondered why Jesus wanted to spend time with a chief tax collector. Jesus loves everyone. Praise God.
research help: ' Next Level Thinking' by Joel Osteen
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The name Zacchaeus means ' pure one'. Nobody called him by that name. According to Luke 19, he was a tax collector in Jericho. He was the chief tax collector and was hated. One day, Jesus came to town. Zacchaeus was a short man. He climbed a tree so he could see Jesus. Jesus stopped, saw him and told him he was coming to his house. Those in the crowd wondered why Jesus wanted to spend time with a chief tax collector. Jesus loves everyone. Praise God.
research help: ' Next Level Thinking' by Joel Osteen
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, December 10, 2018
bible verses: I John 3:16
bible verses: I John 3:16 by ric Gustafson
In this verse, the Apostle John talks about love and biblical truth. God commands us to love, where it comes from and what it means to love. God gives us clear instructions and a perfect example to follow. Jesus shows us true love. God imparts to us true love. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In this verse, the Apostle John talks about love and biblical truth. God commands us to love, where it comes from and what it means to love. God gives us clear instructions and a perfect example to follow. Jesus shows us true love. God imparts to us true love. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Am: I Am Chosen
I Am: I Am Chosen by ric Gustafson
According to I Peter 2, but you are the ones chosen by God. God chose us before we were born. God handpicked us, we are God's elect. We have a purpose on this earth. No matter our life before, God picked us to be his own. He has big plans for our life. God will give us wisdom, joy and peace. He will give us the strength to help other people. God has given us talents and gifts. The truth is that God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to I Peter 2, but you are the ones chosen by God. God chose us before we were born. God handpicked us, we are God's elect. We have a purpose on this earth. No matter our life before, God picked us to be his own. He has big plans for our life. God will give us wisdom, joy and peace. He will give us the strength to help other people. God has given us talents and gifts. The truth is that God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the 12 days of Christmas
the 12 days of Christmas by ric Gustafson
The cost of the 12 days of Christmas has gone up slightly from last year. The total cost is more than $ 39,000. Gold rings has been affected by plunging gold prices. Eight maids a milking is affected by dairy prices. I partridge in a pear tree $ 220.13 Two turtle doves $ 375. 3 French hens $ 181.50. 4 calling birds $ 599.96. 5 gold rings $ 750. 6 geese a laying $ 390. 7 swans a swimming $ 13,125. 8 maids a milking $58. 9 ladies dancing $ 7,552.84. 10 lords a leaping $10,000. 11 pipers piping $ 2,804.40. 12 drummers drumming $3,038.10.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The cost of the 12 days of Christmas has gone up slightly from last year. The total cost is more than $ 39,000. Gold rings has been affected by plunging gold prices. Eight maids a milking is affected by dairy prices. I partridge in a pear tree $ 220.13 Two turtle doves $ 375. 3 French hens $ 181.50. 4 calling birds $ 599.96. 5 gold rings $ 750. 6 geese a laying $ 390. 7 swans a swimming $ 13,125. 8 maids a milking $58. 9 ladies dancing $ 7,552.84. 10 lords a leaping $10,000. 11 pipers piping $ 2,804.40. 12 drummers drumming $3,038.10.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, December 8, 2018
I Am: I Am a child of God
I Am: I Am a child of God by ric Gustafson
According to I John 3, our Father loves us for he calls us his children. Why does God love us when we sin against him constantly?. Why would God send his only Son to die for me?. The reason is that God has always wanted us to be a son or daughter. Even when we sin all the time, God loves us. God wants to be close to us and spend time with us. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to I John 3, our Father loves us for he calls us his children. Why does God love us when we sin against him constantly?. Why would God send his only Son to die for me?. The reason is that God has always wanted us to be a son or daughter. Even when we sin all the time, God loves us. God wants to be close to us and spend time with us. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, December 7, 2018
I Am: I Am an overcomer
I Am: I Am an overcomer by ric Gustafson
According to I John 5, everyone born of God is victorious and overcomes the world. This sinful world is not an easy place to live. There is a lot of suffering and tribulation. But God says that we are overcomers. It is so because God tells us that in his Word. But we must believe, receive and act on it. We must choose life and act on our gifts. We overcome by having faith in God's Word. We must dare to overcome. Then let God take care of the rest. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to I John 5, everyone born of God is victorious and overcomes the world. This sinful world is not an easy place to live. There is a lot of suffering and tribulation. But God says that we are overcomers. It is so because God tells us that in his Word. But we must believe, receive and act on it. We must choose life and act on our gifts. We overcome by having faith in God's Word. We must dare to overcome. Then let God take care of the rest. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the lonely fruitcake page 1
the lonely fruitcake page 1 by ric Gustafson
I sat in the middle of the elegant dining room table.
I was sitting next to some mashed potatoes. Surely, I will be picked today.
The family said grace.
The pork tenderloin was passed around.
The mashed potatoes next to me was passed around. Surely, they must of seen me.
Someone snickered and pointed at me.
' What's wrong with me' I thought to myself. " I'm full of candied fruit, nuts and spices".
The family was enjoying being together.
Sitting there, I was getting very lonely.
research help: Bing.com MyRecipes.com
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I sat in the middle of the elegant dining room table.
I was sitting next to some mashed potatoes. Surely, I will be picked today.
The family said grace.
The pork tenderloin was passed around.
The mashed potatoes next to me was passed around. Surely, they must of seen me.
Someone snickered and pointed at me.
' What's wrong with me' I thought to myself. " I'm full of candied fruit, nuts and spices".
The family was enjoying being together.
Sitting there, I was getting very lonely.
research help: Bing.com MyRecipes.com
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
C Davis page 2
C Davis page 2 by ric Gustafson
Chip Davis became the music director at Sound Recorders. There he met Bill Fries. Fries was a creative director for an Omaha advertising agency. Fries wrote commercials for Old Home Bread. Fries wrote about a fictional trucker named C.W. McCall. Davis began writing songs for the commercials. Two C.W. McCall albums that included the hits Wolf Creek Pass and Convoy took off.
With the money from the recent success, Davis began his first Steamroller project named Fresh Aire I. To Davis, his new sound was classical music blended with rock and roll. He decided to be a musician and a businessman.
How well has he done?. To date, around 50 million sold. But that is not all. Mannheim Steamroller includes food lines, casual clothing, holiday books and comfort items. With Mannheim Steamroller, Davis has traveled all over the world and seen a lot of things. Most of all, Davis is grateful for the gift of music and the chance to share it. He feels obligated to do that.
The End.
research help: New Horizons December 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Chip Davis became the music director at Sound Recorders. There he met Bill Fries. Fries was a creative director for an Omaha advertising agency. Fries wrote commercials for Old Home Bread. Fries wrote about a fictional trucker named C.W. McCall. Davis began writing songs for the commercials. Two C.W. McCall albums that included the hits Wolf Creek Pass and Convoy took off.
With the money from the recent success, Davis began his first Steamroller project named Fresh Aire I. To Davis, his new sound was classical music blended with rock and roll. He decided to be a musician and a businessman.
How well has he done?. To date, around 50 million sold. But that is not all. Mannheim Steamroller includes food lines, casual clothing, holiday books and comfort items. With Mannheim Steamroller, Davis has traveled all over the world and seen a lot of things. Most of all, Davis is grateful for the gift of music and the chance to share it. He feels obligated to do that.
The End.
research help: New Horizons December 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, December 6, 2018
C Davis page 1
C Davis page 1 by ric Gustafson
To say that music runs in Chip Davis's life, is an understatement. The only child of Louis and Betty Davis started playing piano at age 4. At 6, he composed his first music. His father Louis played saxophone in the Glenn Miller touring band. His father taught him music theory and was his main teacher. His mother Betty played trombone in the NBC Symphony.
In college, Davis went to the University of Michigan and their famed music school. He sang in the glee club and played drums in the marching band. His friends listened to Motown and British rock bands. Davis listened to classical music.
Chip Davis's life changed when he joined the Norman Luboff Choir. He was impressed by Luboff's musical appreciation and experimenting with music. Davis's life again changed greatly when he came to Omaha in the early 1970's. He became a musical director and then met some men from Sound Recorders. Chip Davis's life would never be the same.
research help: A New Horizons Dec 2018 article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
To say that music runs in Chip Davis's life, is an understatement. The only child of Louis and Betty Davis started playing piano at age 4. At 6, he composed his first music. His father Louis played saxophone in the Glenn Miller touring band. His father taught him music theory and was his main teacher. His mother Betty played trombone in the NBC Symphony.
In college, Davis went to the University of Michigan and their famed music school. He sang in the glee club and played drums in the marching band. His friends listened to Motown and British rock bands. Davis listened to classical music.
Chip Davis's life changed when he joined the Norman Luboff Choir. He was impressed by Luboff's musical appreciation and experimenting with music. Davis's life again changed greatly when he came to Omaha in the early 1970's. He became a musical director and then met some men from Sound Recorders. Chip Davis's life would never be the same.
research help: A New Horizons Dec 2018 article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: Isaiah 53:5
bible verses: Isaiah 53:5 by ric Gustafson
The prophet Isaiah was from the eighth century BC. In this verse, he is talking about the coming of Jesus. He is also talking about the restoration of God's people. He says that Jesus the Messiah would suffer for others.
God sent his Son to pay the price for our sin. Jesus suffered for us so we can be with him forever. I love God and his Son more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The prophet Isaiah was from the eighth century BC. In this verse, he is talking about the coming of Jesus. He is also talking about the restoration of God's people. He says that Jesus the Messiah would suffer for others.
God sent his Son to pay the price for our sin. Jesus suffered for us so we can be with him forever. I love God and his Son more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God: he is intimate
God: he is intimate by ric Gustafson
God is intimate. He knows my fears and my spirit. He wants to speak intimately to me. He has forgotten my sin. He has buried my transgressions. He wants to heal and mend me.
It is easy to fear and worry. But God says run and hide in him. We are a living spirit and were created in the image of God. God is spirit and truth. Faith apart from works is dead.
I love God more than anything else.
research help: ' Adamant' by Lisa Bevere
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God is intimate. He knows my fears and my spirit. He wants to speak intimately to me. He has forgotten my sin. He has buried my transgressions. He wants to heal and mend me.
It is easy to fear and worry. But God says run and hide in him. We are a living spirit and were created in the image of God. God is spirit and truth. Faith apart from works is dead.
I love God more than anything else.
research help: ' Adamant' by Lisa Bevere
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
the Anne Frank house
the Anne Frank house by ric Gustafson
It was a secret annex in a canal side house in Amsterdam. This was the house of Anne Frank and her family. This famous house has been renovated to tell their tragic story to a new generation.
Anne, her sister and parents hid in their secret annex from July 1942 until they were arrested in August 1944. The whole family was deported. Only Otto Frank survived. A diary written by Anne tells the story of their hiding. Otto published his daughter's diary after the war. The diary became a symbol of hope that has been translated into 70 languages. The house became a museum in 1960.
research help: Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It was a secret annex in a canal side house in Amsterdam. This was the house of Anne Frank and her family. This famous house has been renovated to tell their tragic story to a new generation.
Anne, her sister and parents hid in their secret annex from July 1942 until they were arrested in August 1944. The whole family was deported. Only Otto Frank survived. A diary written by Anne tells the story of their hiding. Otto published his daughter's diary after the war. The diary became a symbol of hope that has been translated into 70 languages. The house became a museum in 1960.
research help: Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
bible verses: Matthew 22:37
bible verses: Matthew 22:37 by ric Gustafson
The Pharisees had come to trap Jesus. They asked him what the greatest commandment was?. Jesus knew what they were trying to do. He quoted Deuteronomy 6: 4-5. Then he gives them a second commandment, Jesus said to love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus also told them that all the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands. Jesus tells us love God and love others. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Pharisees had come to trap Jesus. They asked him what the greatest commandment was?. Jesus knew what they were trying to do. He quoted Deuteronomy 6: 4-5. Then he gives them a second commandment, Jesus said to love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus also told them that all the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands. Jesus tells us love God and love others. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, December 3, 2018
bible verses: Psalm 37:4
bible verses: Psalm 37:4 by ric Gustafson
A psalm is a song of praise. Psalm 37 was written by King David. He wanted to impart wisdom to people. The Holy Spirit gives us wisdom. We get wisdom also from other believers. When we take delight in the Lord. he will grant the desires of our heart. If our will is God's Will, our desires will be fulfilled. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
A psalm is a song of praise. Psalm 37 was written by King David. He wanted to impart wisdom to people. The Holy Spirit gives us wisdom. We get wisdom also from other believers. When we take delight in the Lord. he will grant the desires of our heart. If our will is God's Will, our desires will be fulfilled. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, December 2, 2018
bible verses: Hebrews 12:1
bible verses: Hebrews 12:1 by ric Gustafson
It is not sure who wrote this letter. It was received by the early church. Sin can slow or even stop our race through life. This bible verse reassures us that those in heaven who came before are encouraging us. This large cloud of witnesses surrounds us and encourages us not to give up. It is easy to get discouraged by life but this cloud of witnesses encourages us to keep going and not give up.
Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is not sure who wrote this letter. It was received by the early church. Sin can slow or even stop our race through life. This bible verse reassures us that those in heaven who came before are encouraging us. This large cloud of witnesses surrounds us and encourages us not to give up. It is easy to get discouraged by life but this cloud of witnesses encourages us to keep going and not give up.
Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, December 1, 2018
bible verses: I Thessalonians 5:18
bible verses: I Thessalonians 5:18 by ric Gustafson
The Apostle Paul started a church in Thessalonica. After Paul left, the new church had questions. So he wrote back to them to give them guidance. He tells the young church how they should live. He encourages this young church to do what is good and stay away from evil. In this verse, Paul writes for the church to give thanks in everything. He also tells them that this is God's Will for them in Christ Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Apostle Paul started a church in Thessalonica. After Paul left, the new church had questions. So he wrote back to them to give them guidance. He tells the young church how they should live. He encourages this young church to do what is good and stay away from evil. In this verse, Paul writes for the church to give thanks in everything. He also tells them that this is God's Will for them in Christ Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 30, 2018
New Christian 101 page 9
New Christian 101 page 9 by ric Gustafson
The students quietly came in and took their seats.
Mr McCoy glanced at the clock. " It's 6:00 let's start". He smiled at the students. " I hope all of you had a good Thanksgiving".
All of the students nodded their heads yes.
" Tonight's question is How did we get the Bible?".
A male raised his hand. " I can't remember when I did not have one".
" The Bible is revealed by God".
A female raised her hand. " So God wrote the whole thing?".
" Actually God's Word was written over 1500 years by over forty different writers".
A male raised his hand. " That is a lot of authors".
" The Bible was also inspired by God".
A female raised her hand. " What do you mean?".
" All the words, ideas and concepts are inspired by God".
He looked at the clock. " It is 8:00". He stared at the students. " I leave you with one final thought".
" What is that Mr McCoy?".
" God's Word is recognized by the church as the Canon".
research help: ' New Christian's Handbook' by Max Anders
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The students quietly came in and took their seats.
Mr McCoy glanced at the clock. " It's 6:00 let's start". He smiled at the students. " I hope all of you had a good Thanksgiving".
All of the students nodded their heads yes.
" Tonight's question is How did we get the Bible?".
A male raised his hand. " I can't remember when I did not have one".
" The Bible is revealed by God".
A female raised her hand. " So God wrote the whole thing?".
" Actually God's Word was written over 1500 years by over forty different writers".
A male raised his hand. " That is a lot of authors".
" The Bible was also inspired by God".
A female raised her hand. " What do you mean?".
" All the words, ideas and concepts are inspired by God".
He looked at the clock. " It is 8:00". He stared at the students. " I leave you with one final thought".
" What is that Mr McCoy?".
" God's Word is recognized by the church as the Canon".
research help: ' New Christian's Handbook' by Max Anders
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 3
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 3 by ric Gustafson
" We are on that tree to represent gifts that the wise men brought for the baby".
" Woof Woof the baby Jesus" exclaimed Christmas Dog.
Jack in the Box smiled. " That's right".
One of the sand dollars nodded. " It just took me a long time to understand".
" Long, you call that long".
" Miss Gulch, please".
" Why, you've only just begun".
" So let's get back on that tree". The voice hesitated. " And remember why we are here for".
All the ornaments yelled out " Baby Jesus came to save us".
With joy in their hearts, the ornaments jumped onto that Christmas tree.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" We are on that tree to represent gifts that the wise men brought for the baby".
" Woof Woof the baby Jesus" exclaimed Christmas Dog.
Jack in the Box smiled. " That's right".
One of the sand dollars nodded. " It just took me a long time to understand".
" Long, you call that long".
" Miss Gulch, please".
" Why, you've only just begun".
" So let's get back on that tree". The voice hesitated. " And remember why we are here for".
All the ornaments yelled out " Baby Jesus came to save us".
With joy in their hearts, the ornaments jumped onto that Christmas tree.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 29, 2018
bible verses: Philippians 4:6
bible verses: Philippians 4:6 by ric Gustafson
At the time the Apostle Paul was writing this, he was in prison. He was writing this to the young church in Philippi. He loved this young church and they were a support system for him. He was basically telling this church not to worry. He encouraged them to pray and get peace from Jesus. He told them to be thankful to God and not to worry or have stress. We need the same encouragement.
Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
At the time the Apostle Paul was writing this, he was in prison. He was writing this to the young church in Philippi. He loved this young church and they were a support system for him. He was basically telling this church not to worry. He encouraged them to pray and get peace from Jesus. He told them to be thankful to God and not to worry or have stress. We need the same encouragement.
Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 2
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 2 by ric Gustafson
The Jack in the Box jumped onto the folding chair. " I called this meeting because I heard there were grumblings among the ornaments".
One of the sand dollars spoke up. " Were not sure why we are here?".
" What do you mean?".
" One day we were enjoying being on a tree in Florida". The voice quivered. " The next day we came here and put on this tree".
" Well my pretty, I can cause accidents too".
" Miss Gulch, please".
" All those not sure why you are here raise your hooks".
All the ornaments raised their hooks.
" Ok, I will explain why you are all here".
" These things must be done delicately".
" Miss Gulch, please".
All of the ornaments moved closer to the Jack in the Box to listen.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Jack in the Box jumped onto the folding chair. " I called this meeting because I heard there were grumblings among the ornaments".
One of the sand dollars spoke up. " Were not sure why we are here?".
" What do you mean?".
" One day we were enjoying being on a tree in Florida". The voice quivered. " The next day we came here and put on this tree".
" Well my pretty, I can cause accidents too".
" Miss Gulch, please".
" All those not sure why you are here raise your hooks".
All the ornaments raised their hooks.
" Ok, I will explain why you are all here".
" These things must be done delicately".
" Miss Gulch, please".
All of the ornaments moved closer to the Jack in the Box to listen.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
bible verses: Matthew 11:28
bible verses: Matthew 11:28 by ric Gustafson
This bible verse comes after Jesus describes who he is and the relationship between himself and his Father. This bible verse gives freedom. Jesus is wisdom. Jesus gives rest to the weary. We do not have to have all the answers. The only answer we need is Jesus. Jesus will carry our heavy load. Satan and the worries of life weigh us down. Jesus will carry our heavy load. The truth is that Jesus loves us more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This bible verse comes after Jesus describes who he is and the relationship between himself and his Father. This bible verse gives freedom. Jesus is wisdom. Jesus gives rest to the weary. We do not have to have all the answers. The only answer we need is Jesus. Jesus will carry our heavy load. Satan and the worries of life weigh us down. Jesus will carry our heavy load. The truth is that Jesus loves us more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' 52 bible verses you should have in your heart' by B and H Publishing Group
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
a cup: a cup of security
a cup: a cup of security by ric Gustafson
We are worried about life and death. We have fear about the future and where we are going after we die. But God says do not worry. We gave our life to Jesus and we are going to be with him forever. That is a promise from God. That promise will never be broken or changed. Our future in heaven is sealed and secured. Praise God
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We are worried about life and death. We have fear about the future and where we are going after we die. But God says do not worry. We gave our life to Jesus and we are going to be with him forever. That is a promise from God. That promise will never be broken or changed. Our future in heaven is sealed and secured. Praise God
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 1
the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 1 by ric Gustafson
The Christmas Jack in the Box bounced up to the podium. He looked around at those in front of him. " Are we all here?".
" Sand dollars".
" Here Here Here".
" Christmas Dog".
" Woof Woof".
" Red Christmas Choo Choo".
" Choo Choo".
" White Nutcracker".
He bounced into the room. " Here".
" Miss Gulch".
All of the ornaments looked around the room.
" Has anybody seen the new Hallmark Christmas ornament?".
" I'll get you my pretty".
Jack in the Box smiled. " It appears that Miss Gulch has arrived".
" And your little dog too".
" Thank you Miss Gulch". His voice hesitated. " Let's start the meeting".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Christmas Jack in the Box bounced up to the podium. He looked around at those in front of him. " Are we all here?".
" Sand dollars".
" Here Here Here".
" Christmas Dog".
" Woof Woof".
" Red Christmas Choo Choo".
" Choo Choo".
" White Nutcracker".
He bounced into the room. " Here".
" Miss Gulch".
All of the ornaments looked around the room.
" Has anybody seen the new Hallmark Christmas ornament?".
" I'll get you my pretty".
Jack in the Box smiled. " It appears that Miss Gulch has arrived".
" And your little dog too".
" Thank you Miss Gulch". His voice hesitated. " Let's start the meeting".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Am: I Am a light in the darkness
I Am: I Am a light in the darkness by ric Gustafson
According to Matthew 5, you are the light of the world. Darkness is all around us. It seeks to devour our peace and destroy our hope. But Jesus has made us to be an example for him. He wants his love and joy to shine through us to a dark sinful world.
Darkness can include depression, hurt, pain and make us lonely. Jesus comes into our darkness as the light. He wants us to be beacons of lights to others in this dark cold sinful world. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to Matthew 5, you are the light of the world. Darkness is all around us. It seeks to devour our peace and destroy our hope. But Jesus has made us to be an example for him. He wants his love and joy to shine through us to a dark sinful world.
Darkness can include depression, hurt, pain and make us lonely. Jesus comes into our darkness as the light. He wants us to be beacons of lights to others in this dark cold sinful world. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
I Am: I Am Strong
I Am: I Am Strong by ric Gustafson
According to Ephesians 6:10, in conclusion be strong in the Lord. Sometimes life wears us out. We can get wearied and fatigued. Mentally and emotionally it can zap our energy. When this happens, Jesus says look to me. Jesus will give us strength and we can have joy. The Word of God can be our foundation. When we read and think about God's Word, strength will come to us. We can walk with Jesus and he will give the strength we need. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to Ephesians 6:10, in conclusion be strong in the Lord. Sometimes life wears us out. We can get wearied and fatigued. Mentally and emotionally it can zap our energy. When this happens, Jesus says look to me. Jesus will give us strength and we can have joy. The Word of God can be our foundation. When we read and think about God's Word, strength will come to us. We can walk with Jesus and he will give the strength we need. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Is there anything in that bag for me?
Is there anything in that bag for me? by ric Gustafson
I stood in a quiet corner of the mall. I was watching a man at work. He was not dressed like Santa Claus. He was young, black bearded and dressed in white. There was a long line of children getting on his knee. He was handing out presents from a never ending bag. I was not a Christian and did not believe in Christmas. But I could tell that this man was different.
It was Christmas Eve and it seemed as if the line would never end. This man was never irritable and always had a smile. He was a natural with children.
The last child had left. This man motioned for me to get on his knee. Why would he want a 24 year old man getting on his knee?.
I walked over and got on his knee. " Is there anything in that bag for me?".
Jesus smiled at me. " The gift I want to give you is not in this bag".
I gave him a strange look. " What gift is that?".
Jesus gave me a hug. " The free gift of eternal life".
I got off his knee, walked out of the mall and then pondered about this free gift.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I stood in a quiet corner of the mall. I was watching a man at work. He was not dressed like Santa Claus. He was young, black bearded and dressed in white. There was a long line of children getting on his knee. He was handing out presents from a never ending bag. I was not a Christian and did not believe in Christmas. But I could tell that this man was different.
It was Christmas Eve and it seemed as if the line would never end. This man was never irritable and always had a smile. He was a natural with children.
The last child had left. This man motioned for me to get on his knee. Why would he want a 24 year old man getting on his knee?.
I walked over and got on his knee. " Is there anything in that bag for me?".
Jesus smiled at me. " The gift I want to give you is not in this bag".
I gave him a strange look. " What gift is that?".
Jesus gave me a hug. " The free gift of eternal life".
I got off his knee, walked out of the mall and then pondered about this free gift.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 26, 2018
a cup: a cup of honesty
a cup: a cup of honesty by ric Gustafson
Sometimes I want to feel superior over someone. But Jesus wants me to be more like him. He wants us to be truthful about ourselves. We are not super Christians. Jesus wants us to be honest about who we are. Jesus loves us just the way we are. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes I want to feel superior over someone. But Jesus wants me to be more like him. He wants us to be truthful about ourselves. We are not super Christians. Jesus wants us to be honest about who we are. Jesus loves us just the way we are. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Am: I Am Free
I Am: I Am Free by ric Gustafson
According to John 8:36, so if the Son liberates you then you are really and unquestionably free. When the Spirit of the Lord is near, we have freedom. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we are free. Sin does not have us shackled for it has lost it's power over us.
God will never leave nor forsake us. We are no longer slaves to sin. We need not worry for God is in charge of our life. Because Jesus died on a cross for me, I have freedom from sin. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to John 8:36, so if the Son liberates you then you are really and unquestionably free. When the Spirit of the Lord is near, we have freedom. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we are free. Sin does not have us shackled for it has lost it's power over us.
God will never leave nor forsake us. We are no longer slaves to sin. We need not worry for God is in charge of our life. Because Jesus died on a cross for me, I have freedom from sin. Praise God.
research help: ' I Am what the Bible says I Am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 25, 2018
a cup: a cup of appreciation
a cup: a cup of appreciation by ric Gustafson
Sometimes I feel that I deserve appreciation. But I want a thankful heart. I want to be thankful and appreciate people more.
I pray to the Holy Spirit for wisdom and to thank God for everything. I want the faith to believe and the strength to always be thankful. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes I feel that I deserve appreciation. But I want a thankful heart. I want to be thankful and appreciate people more.
I pray to the Holy Spirit for wisdom and to thank God for everything. I want the faith to believe and the strength to always be thankful. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Am: I Am New
I Am: I Am New by ric Gustafson
According to II Corinthians 5:17, therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature old things are passed away behold all things are become new. When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we experience a miracle. God forgives us of everything. Never to be remembered again. We are a new person in Jesus. Now in Jesus, we choose to do what is right and good. We begin to choose God's life over our own. We become new on the inside. Praise God.
research help: ' I am what the Bible says I am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to II Corinthians 5:17, therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature old things are passed away behold all things are become new. When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we experience a miracle. God forgives us of everything. Never to be remembered again. We are a new person in Jesus. Now in Jesus, we choose to do what is right and good. We begin to choose God's life over our own. We become new on the inside. Praise God.
research help: ' I am what the Bible says I am' by Jake and Keith Provance
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 24, 2018
a cup: a cup of identity
a cup: a cup of identity by ric Gustafson
It is easy to feel as if we are slaves to sin. We do habitual sin every day. Sometimes it feels as if sin defines us. But Jesus proclaims that we are not defined by our sins. We are princes and princesses of the King. We are adopted sons and daughters of God. According to Romans 8, nothing not even sins can separate us from the love of God. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is easy to feel as if we are slaves to sin. We do habitual sin every day. Sometimes it feels as if sin defines us. But Jesus proclaims that we are not defined by our sins. We are princes and princesses of the King. We are adopted sons and daughters of God. According to Romans 8, nothing not even sins can separate us from the love of God. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 22, 2018
giving thanks
giving thanks by ric Gustafson
Today was Thanksgiving. As I spent time with family, my mind began to ponder. In my mind, I began to thank God for many things. I thanked God for family which I believe is a gift from God. I thanked God for all of the blessings that he gives to me. I think that Thanksgiving is for giving thanks. Thanks for family, friends, good health. But most of all, I give thanks that I am one of God's followers. I thank God that I will be with him and Jesus for all of eternity. Praise God.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Today was Thanksgiving. As I spent time with family, my mind began to ponder. In my mind, I began to thank God for many things. I thanked God for family which I believe is a gift from God. I thanked God for all of the blessings that he gives to me. I think that Thanksgiving is for giving thanks. Thanks for family, friends, good health. But most of all, I give thanks that I am one of God's followers. I thank God that I will be with him and Jesus for all of eternity. Praise God.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
the amnesty of Lucas the turkey
the amnesty of Lucas the turkey by ric Gustafson
Martin lovingly put Lucas into a chair. " Lucas, I am very upset with you".
Gobble Gobble
" I'm upset about what you did at the homeless shelter".
Gobble Gobble
" I also heard about what you did at the YMCA".
Gobble Gobble my fellow turkeys needed help.
" But since tomorrow is Thanksgiving".
Gobble Gobble Yes!
" I'm going to give you amnesty".
Gobble Gobble what's amnesty
" My friend". He gave Lucas a hug.
Gobble Gobble Yes
" Please go before you end up on someone's table tomorrow".
Gobble Gobble you want me to leave
" Tomorrow is Thanksgiving". He gave him another hug. " I can't protect you any longer".
Lucas got off the chair and ran out of the room.
Martin began to cry.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Martin lovingly put Lucas into a chair. " Lucas, I am very upset with you".
Gobble Gobble
" I'm upset about what you did at the homeless shelter".
Gobble Gobble
" I also heard about what you did at the YMCA".
Gobble Gobble my fellow turkeys needed help.
" But since tomorrow is Thanksgiving".
Gobble Gobble Yes!
" I'm going to give you amnesty".
Gobble Gobble what's amnesty
" My friend". He gave Lucas a hug.
Gobble Gobble Yes
" Please go before you end up on someone's table tomorrow".
Gobble Gobble you want me to leave
" Tomorrow is Thanksgiving". He gave him another hug. " I can't protect you any longer".
Lucas got off the chair and ran out of the room.
Martin began to cry.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
I Peter: I Peter 1: 18-19
I Peter: I Peter 1: 18-19 by ric Gustafson
The Apostle Peter describes Jesus as a sacrificed lamb. Peter does not want us to dwell in foolish living. Foolish living includes not thinking about God. Sinners neglect to give God his due. So how do we get away from sinning and get right with God?. The answer is Jesus. Because of Jesus, we have been set free and redeemed. We are redeemed because of the blood of Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A.W. Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Apostle Peter describes Jesus as a sacrificed lamb. Peter does not want us to dwell in foolish living. Foolish living includes not thinking about God. Sinners neglect to give God his due. So how do we get away from sinning and get right with God?. The answer is Jesus. Because of Jesus, we have been set free and redeemed. We are redeemed because of the blood of Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A.W. Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
a cup: a cup of self control
a cup: a cup of self control by ric Gustafson
When my temper gets the better of me, an alarm inside goes off. I have anxiety, my blood pressure rises and I feel detached from God. Trying to control my emotions myself does not work. Trying to do this on our own leaves us unsatisfied.
Jesus says rely on me. Jesus says rely on me instead of yourself. We are called to a life in faith. Instead of arguing, we can smile, say a kind word and stay calm. Self control is a gift from God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When my temper gets the better of me, an alarm inside goes off. I have anxiety, my blood pressure rises and I feel detached from God. Trying to control my emotions myself does not work. Trying to do this on our own leaves us unsatisfied.
Jesus says rely on me. Jesus says rely on me instead of yourself. We are called to a life in faith. Instead of arguing, we can smile, say a kind word and stay calm. Self control is a gift from God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 19, 2018
I Peter: I Peter 1:10-12
I Peter: I Peter 1:10-12 by ric Gustafson
There is a lot of truth in God's Word. Singular truth influenced the Old Testament prophets. These prophets reported on things they did not understand. There is rare truth in this bible verse. Old Testament prophets had the Holy Ghost in them and on them. The reassuring truth of God's Word is that even though we have stained souls, Jesus died on a cross so that we could be with him forever. Praise God.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A.W. Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There is a lot of truth in God's Word. Singular truth influenced the Old Testament prophets. These prophets reported on things they did not understand. There is rare truth in this bible verse. Old Testament prophets had the Holy Ghost in them and on them. The reassuring truth of God's Word is that even though we have stained souls, Jesus died on a cross so that we could be with him forever. Praise God.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A.W. Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
a cup: a cup of comfort
a cup: a cup of comfort by ric Gustafson
Some people think that our suffering is because of our judgment from God for past sin. The truth is that our sins have been washed away. All of our sins. Past, Present and Future. According to Psalm 103, our sins are put as far as the east is from the west. Our sins are paid in full by Jesus. Jesus did not die in vain. God is our Father not accuser. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Some people think that our suffering is because of our judgment from God for past sin. The truth is that our sins have been washed away. All of our sins. Past, Present and Future. According to Psalm 103, our sins are put as far as the east is from the west. Our sins are paid in full by Jesus. Jesus did not die in vain. God is our Father not accuser. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 3
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 3 by ric Gustafson
" No". Mr Morgan stared at the stranger. " And it doesn't sound like there will be either".
" That's too bad". The stranger sighed. " I was looking forward to it".
" So were our residents".
The stranger smiled. " Do you have any turkey at all?".
Sunday pointed at a nearby pan. " We have maybe four or five slices left".
The stranger smiled again. " Have the residents sit down".
45 minutes later, the residents had all taken their seats at the tables.
Jesus began to pray over the remaining turkey. Then he looked at the others. " Go ahead and serve your meal".
After everyone was fed and satisfied, 12 trays of leftovers were gathered.
Just then, Martin walked in. " I can't find Lucas anywhere".
Mr Morgan turned to thank the stranger. But Jesus was gone. He sat down in a chair and pondered the miracle he had just witnessed.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
" No". Mr Morgan stared at the stranger. " And it doesn't sound like there will be either".
" That's too bad". The stranger sighed. " I was looking forward to it".
" So were our residents".
The stranger smiled. " Do you have any turkey at all?".
Sunday pointed at a nearby pan. " We have maybe four or five slices left".
The stranger smiled again. " Have the residents sit down".
45 minutes later, the residents had all taken their seats at the tables.
Jesus began to pray over the remaining turkey. Then he looked at the others. " Go ahead and serve your meal".
After everyone was fed and satisfied, 12 trays of leftovers were gathered.
Just then, Martin walked in. " I can't find Lucas anywhere".
Mr Morgan turned to thank the stranger. But Jesus was gone. He sat down in a chair and pondered the miracle he had just witnessed.
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 16, 2018
I Peter: I Peter 1:3
I Peter: I Peter 1:3 by ric Gustafson
This bible verse starts with the words ' Blessed be'. This bible verse centers upon worship. It talks about the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is a verse about joy. Jesus has given us a new birth into a living hope. This is a verse of victory because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This verse talks about God's great mercy. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This bible verse starts with the words ' Blessed be'. This bible verse centers upon worship. It talks about the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is a verse about joy. Jesus has given us a new birth into a living hope. This is a verse of victory because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This verse talks about God's great mercy. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 2
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner by ric Gustafson
Martin ladled mashed potatoes into a large pan.
Just then, the kitchen door opened. Sunday ran in. Fear was in her eyes. " The carved turkey is gone".
" What?" Mr Morgan exclaimed. " I just put the pans into the warmers and the serving wells".
" I think I saw Martin's friend run out the door with them in a cart".
" Oh no!". Martin ran out the door. " Lucas". As he got to the front door, he noticed a cart going down the hill.
Gobble Gobble
Mr Morgan ran out of the kitchen. " Martin, what just happened?".
" I'm sorry Mr Morgan". Martin opened the front door. " I need to go find my friend". He ran out.
Mr Morgan sat down in a chair. " Now what am I gonna do?". Tears came to his face. " The residents are coming for a Thanksgiving dinner". More tears came down his face. " And I have no turkey to serve them".
Just then, the front door opened. A tall black bearded man wearing white walked in. " Has the Thanksgiving meal started yet?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Martin ladled mashed potatoes into a large pan.
Just then, the kitchen door opened. Sunday ran in. Fear was in her eyes. " The carved turkey is gone".
" What?" Mr Morgan exclaimed. " I just put the pans into the warmers and the serving wells".
" I think I saw Martin's friend run out the door with them in a cart".
" Oh no!". Martin ran out the door. " Lucas". As he got to the front door, he noticed a cart going down the hill.
Gobble Gobble
Mr Morgan ran out of the kitchen. " Martin, what just happened?".
" I'm sorry Mr Morgan". Martin opened the front door. " I need to go find my friend". He ran out.
Mr Morgan sat down in a chair. " Now what am I gonna do?". Tears came to his face. " The residents are coming for a Thanksgiving dinner". More tears came down his face. " And I have no turkey to serve them".
Just then, the front door opened. A tall black bearded man wearing white walked in. " Has the Thanksgiving meal started yet?".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 15, 2018
I Peter: I Peter 1:8
I Peter: I Peter 1:8 by ric Gustafson
I Peter was written by the Apostle Peter. In this bible verse, Christians now cannot see Jesus. But by faith, even though we cannot see Jesus we believe in him. Because we are sprinkled with the blood of Jesus, we believe in someone we cannot see. We Christians believe in the invisible. Not only do Christians believe in what they cannot see, we count on it. Like Peter, I look forward to heaven.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A.W. Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I Peter was written by the Apostle Peter. In this bible verse, Christians now cannot see Jesus. But by faith, even though we cannot see Jesus we believe in him. Because we are sprinkled with the blood of Jesus, we believe in someone we cannot see. We Christians believe in the invisible. Not only do Christians believe in what they cannot see, we count on it. Like Peter, I look forward to heaven.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A.W. Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 1
the $ 2.15 Thanksgiving dinner page 1 by ric Gustafson
John Morgan was carrying in a large pan of carved turkey. He smiled as he noticed the people walking in. " Welcome Gardner family". He put the pan in one of the serving wells. " I'm just about done getting the turkey ready".
Gobble Gobble Gobble.
" What was that?".
" Sorry Mr Morgan". Martin smiled. " My friend Lucas just wanted to say hi".
The shelter director held out his hand. " Hello Lucas".
Gobble Gobble I don't have arms or hands.
" What did your friend say?".
" He said glad to meet you".
Just then, a young woman brought out a pan of cranberry sauce.
" Oh Sunday". He put the pan into the server. " The Gardner family is going to help us serve".
Gobble Gobble
" And this is their friend Lucas".
" Nice to meet you all". She walked back into the kitchen.
" She's a hard worker". He began to brew some coffee. " Her and her mother have been residents here for a long time".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John Morgan was carrying in a large pan of carved turkey. He smiled as he noticed the people walking in. " Welcome Gardner family". He put the pan in one of the serving wells. " I'm just about done getting the turkey ready".
Gobble Gobble Gobble.
" What was that?".
" Sorry Mr Morgan". Martin smiled. " My friend Lucas just wanted to say hi".
The shelter director held out his hand. " Hello Lucas".
Gobble Gobble I don't have arms or hands.
" What did your friend say?".
" He said glad to meet you".
Just then, a young woman brought out a pan of cranberry sauce.
" Oh Sunday". He put the pan into the server. " The Gardner family is going to help us serve".
Gobble Gobble
" And this is their friend Lucas".
" Nice to meet you all". She walked back into the kitchen.
" She's a hard worker". He began to brew some coffee. " Her and her mother have been residents here for a long time".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: Isaiah 53:5
bible verses: Isaiah 53:5 by ric Gustafson
The cross is at the center of Isaiah 53. This bible verse gives us a look at the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Prophet explains the meaning of the cross. Jesus was crushed, pierced, wounded and punished. His death was gruesome.
The good news is that we are healed by his wounds. Our peace was on him, we are healed.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The cross is at the center of Isaiah 53. This bible verse gives us a look at the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Prophet explains the meaning of the cross. Jesus was crushed, pierced, wounded and punished. His death was gruesome.
The good news is that we are healed by his wounds. Our peace was on him, we are healed.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
bible verses: Isaiah 26:3
bible verses: Isaiah 26:3 by ric Gustafson
Isaiah 26 was written by the Prophet for the land of Judah. One of the blessings of this verse is perfect peace. Another blessing is having a stayed mind. When we fix our eyes on Jehovah, all other concerns shrink. Another blessing is abiding trust. When we do this, we trust God more and more. Another blessing is everlasting strength. When our minds are set on God, we find daily strength.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Isaiah 26 was written by the Prophet for the land of Judah. One of the blessings of this verse is perfect peace. Another blessing is having a stayed mind. When we fix our eyes on Jehovah, all other concerns shrink. Another blessing is abiding trust. When we do this, we trust God more and more. Another blessing is everlasting strength. When our minds are set on God, we find daily strength.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
a cup: a cup of freedom
a cup: a cup of freedom by ric Gustafson
Sometimes I don't have a very good opinion of myself. I lose my confidence in myself when I hear other's opinions of me. I feel embarrassed when I make a mistake or give a wrong answer. I feel like I am in bondage with the expectations of others.
The truth is that God loves us no matter how we act. God loves us just the way we are.
Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes I don't have a very good opinion of myself. I lose my confidence in myself when I hear other's opinions of me. I feel embarrassed when I make a mistake or give a wrong answer. I feel like I am in bondage with the expectations of others.
The truth is that God loves us no matter how we act. God loves us just the way we are.
Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
bible verses: John 14:27
bible verses: John 14:27 by ric Gustafson
Right before this verse, the disciples are scared and worried. Jesus has told them that he has to leave them. But he reassures them by telling them that he leaves his peace with them. He says my peace I give to you. He tells them that the peace he leaves is not of this world. He tells his disciples not to be troubled or fearful. We need that reassurance today. Praise God
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Right before this verse, the disciples are scared and worried. Jesus has told them that he has to leave them. But he reassures them by telling them that he leaves his peace with them. He says my peace I give to you. He tells them that the peace he leaves is not of this world. He tells his disciples not to be troubled or fearful. We need that reassurance today. Praise God
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 12, 2018
bible verses: John 14:6
bible verses: John 14:6 by ric Gustafson
When we come up to a crossroads, we can go one way or another. The truth is that Jesus is the only way to God his Father. Jesus is the only way of salvation. In this bible verse, Jesus proclaims that he is the way, truth and the life. Jesus also proclaims that no one can come to God except through his Son. That is very comforting. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When we come up to a crossroads, we can go one way or another. The truth is that Jesus is the only way to God his Father. Jesus is the only way of salvation. In this bible verse, Jesus proclaims that he is the way, truth and the life. Jesus also proclaims that no one can come to God except through his Son. That is very comforting. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
a cup: a cup of unknowing
a cup: a cup of unknowing by ric Gustafson
We look at the tv and see suffering every day. We see fires out of control in California. We see mass shootings all the time. We witness floods, famines and suffering every day. After witnessing all of this every day, it is easy to question God. Why God? where are you?. Do you care?.
The truth is that God loves us more than anything else. Suffering is a mystery. We can also see love in our suffering. God's love surrounds us. God loves us more than anything.
Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We look at the tv and see suffering every day. We see fires out of control in California. We see mass shootings all the time. We witness floods, famines and suffering every day. After witnessing all of this every day, it is easy to question God. Why God? where are you?. Do you care?.
The truth is that God loves us more than anything else. Suffering is a mystery. We can also see love in our suffering. God's love surrounds us. God loves us more than anything.
Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, November 11, 2018
Diabetes Prayer Day
Diabetes Prayer Day by ric Gustafson
My name is Ric and I have diabetes. It is something I have lived with since I turned 49. Today is Diabetes Prayer Day. Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starch and other food into energy.
Complications from this disease include eye damage and blindness. Kidney failure, nerve damage and heart disease.
My prayer for this disease is for those like myself suffering from it. I know that God will be with them and will put his healing hands on them. Lord, help us with your wisdom and strength/
Praise God.
research help: information from LCM.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
My name is Ric and I have diabetes. It is something I have lived with since I turned 49. Today is Diabetes Prayer Day. Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starch and other food into energy.
Complications from this disease include eye damage and blindness. Kidney failure, nerve damage and heart disease.
My prayer for this disease is for those like myself suffering from it. I know that God will be with them and will put his healing hands on them. Lord, help us with your wisdom and strength/
Praise God.
research help: information from LCM.
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 10, 2018
crossing my Jordan River
crossing my Jordan River by ric Gustafson
I stood at the edge of the river. I was scared. The river looked deep and impossible to walk through.
" What are you afraid of?".
I turned to see a young bearded man standing next to me. " I'm afraid to try and cross it".
" Don't be afraid". He smiled. " I will cross it with you".
I took two steps into the water. It was cold and went up to my ankles. " I can't do it".
" Hold my hand". Jesus held out one of his nail scarred hands. " Just believe".
I took his hand and we started walking through the water. At one point, I began to worry about my life. I stopped.
Jesus smiled. " What's wrong?".
" I'm scared about things happening in my life".
" Don't be". Jesus held tighter to my hand. " I will always hold your hand".
After a while, we reached the other side.
We hugged.
" Always remember". He smiled. " I will always hold your hand through your River Jordan's".
I turned and saw that he was already gone.
I walked away with peace in my heart.
research help: An LCM sermon
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I stood at the edge of the river. I was scared. The river looked deep and impossible to walk through.
" What are you afraid of?".
I turned to see a young bearded man standing next to me. " I'm afraid to try and cross it".
" Don't be afraid". He smiled. " I will cross it with you".
I took two steps into the water. It was cold and went up to my ankles. " I can't do it".
" Hold my hand". Jesus held out one of his nail scarred hands. " Just believe".
I took his hand and we started walking through the water. At one point, I began to worry about my life. I stopped.
Jesus smiled. " What's wrong?".
" I'm scared about things happening in my life".
" Don't be". Jesus held tighter to my hand. " I will always hold your hand".
After a while, we reached the other side.
We hugged.
" Always remember". He smiled. " I will always hold your hand through your River Jordan's".
I turned and saw that he was already gone.
I walked away with peace in my heart.
research help: An LCM sermon
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
a cup: a cup of dependence
a cup: a cup of dependence by ric Gustafson
We like to be in charge. We want to be in charge of our lives. We try so hard to be in control. The problem is that we fail miserably. We find out that trying to be in charge of our lives will hurt us more than help us.
God wants to be in charge of our lives. Instead of being angry, weary or frustrated trying to be in charge, why not let God be in charge?. Our life would be so much better and less stressful. Let God pilot your life. He wants to very much.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We like to be in charge. We want to be in charge of our lives. We try so hard to be in control. The problem is that we fail miserably. We find out that trying to be in charge of our lives will hurt us more than help us.
God wants to be in charge of our lives. Instead of being angry, weary or frustrated trying to be in charge, why not let God be in charge?. Our life would be so much better and less stressful. Let God pilot your life. He wants to very much.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: John 14:3
bible verses: John 14:3 by ric Gustafson
In the previous verse, Jesus is telling his disciples that he is leaving to go prepare a place for them. The disciples were troubled, scared and trying to find out where he was going. He tells them to not have a troubled heart. He told them that he was leaving for the express reason of preparing a place for them. In John 14:3, Jesus tells us that he will come back and get us. He promises to return and where he is, we will always be. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In the previous verse, Jesus is telling his disciples that he is leaving to go prepare a place for them. The disciples were troubled, scared and trying to find out where he was going. He tells them to not have a troubled heart. He told them that he was leaving for the express reason of preparing a place for them. In John 14:3, Jesus tells us that he will come back and get us. He promises to return and where he is, we will always be. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 9, 2018
the Butterball Turkey fitness class
the Butterball Turkey fitness class by ric Gustafson
Anita Cobb nervously bit her fingernails as she waited by the front desk. She smiled as a young woman entered carrying a blue workout bag. She shook her hand. " Hi, I'm Pamela Cross".
" Anita" she replied. She walked over to the stairs leading downstairs. " We're so glad you are here to teach the class at the last minute".
" I'm not sure what the class is". They walked down the stairs. " But here I am".
They walked into a nearby room.
Pamela did not see anybody except six loud gobbling turkeys. She turned toward Anita. " Where's the fitness class?".
Anita pointed at the turkeys.
" They are turkeys". She frowned at Anita. " What's the joke?".
" Not so loud". She spoke quietly. " Butterball has a mystery on their hands".
" What do you mean?".
" These turkeys did not get plump enough for Thanksgiving".
" You mean skinny turkeys".
" Keep your voice down". The turkeys gobbled louder. " They are very self conscious".
Pamela gave her a strange look. " Butterball doesn't know what happened?".
" No" she replied in a hushed tone. " Could be antibiotics, they are not sure".
" Great, no turkey for Thanksgiving".
The turkeys gobbled loudly and then ran out.
" Great". Anita gave her a pained stare. " Butterball is not going to be happy".
Pamela left later with a puzzled look on her face.
The End
research help: an article on the Internet
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Anita Cobb nervously bit her fingernails as she waited by the front desk. She smiled as a young woman entered carrying a blue workout bag. She shook her hand. " Hi, I'm Pamela Cross".
" Anita" she replied. She walked over to the stairs leading downstairs. " We're so glad you are here to teach the class at the last minute".
" I'm not sure what the class is". They walked down the stairs. " But here I am".
They walked into a nearby room.
Pamela did not see anybody except six loud gobbling turkeys. She turned toward Anita. " Where's the fitness class?".
Anita pointed at the turkeys.
" They are turkeys". She frowned at Anita. " What's the joke?".
" Not so loud". She spoke quietly. " Butterball has a mystery on their hands".
" What do you mean?".
" These turkeys did not get plump enough for Thanksgiving".
" You mean skinny turkeys".
" Keep your voice down". The turkeys gobbled louder. " They are very self conscious".
Pamela gave her a strange look. " Butterball doesn't know what happened?".
" No" she replied in a hushed tone. " Could be antibiotics, they are not sure".
" Great, no turkey for Thanksgiving".
The turkeys gobbled loudly and then ran out.
" Great". Anita gave her a pained stare. " Butterball is not going to be happy".
Pamela left later with a puzzled look on her face.
The End
research help: an article on the Internet
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
a cup: a cup of abundance
a cup: a cup of abundance by ric Gustafson
I don't want to admit it. I want more. More success, a bigger house and a faster car. My want list is huge. I want more because the world wants more. But wanting more is my own thinking. Wanting more is my sinful heart. Wanting more all the time is from Satan.
Having Jesus is enough for me. Jesus provides us with everything I need. We do not need more because Jesus provides us with all that we need. The Holy Spirit will take our more away. John 10:10 says I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I don't want to admit it. I want more. More success, a bigger house and a faster car. My want list is huge. I want more because the world wants more. But wanting more is my own thinking. Wanting more is my sinful heart. Wanting more all the time is from Satan.
Having Jesus is enough for me. Jesus provides us with everything I need. We do not need more because Jesus provides us with all that we need. The Holy Spirit will take our more away. John 10:10 says I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: John 14:2
bible verses: John 14:2 by ric Gustafson
There have been many words to describe heaven. Mansions and rooms are two of them. In this verse, Jesus uses the word dwelling places to describe what he is preparing for us. We can have joy knowing that he has gone to prepare a place for us. He is preparing a special place for us in heaven. Then when it is done, he will come and get us. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There have been many words to describe heaven. Mansions and rooms are two of them. In this verse, Jesus uses the word dwelling places to describe what he is preparing for us. We can have joy knowing that he has gone to prepare a place for us. He is preparing a special place for us in heaven. Then when it is done, he will come and get us. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 8, 2018
a cup: a cup of grace
a cup: a cup of grace by ric Gustafson
I've tried but I can't. I haven't loved God with all of my heart, soul and mind. I've tried to love my neighbors as myself. I've tried to make my Christian life work. I've tried and failed miserably.
But praise to God who has freed me. Jesus on the cross saved me so that I can be with him forever. The Holy Spirit helps me with my weaknesses. I bring everything to the cross. The Good News pours all over me. Jesus Christ lives in me. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I've tried but I can't. I haven't loved God with all of my heart, soul and mind. I've tried to love my neighbors as myself. I've tried to make my Christian life work. I've tried and failed miserably.
But praise to God who has freed me. Jesus on the cross saved me so that I can be with him forever. The Holy Spirit helps me with my weaknesses. I bring everything to the cross. The Good News pours all over me. Jesus Christ lives in me. Praise God.
research help: ' 101 cups of water' by C.D. Baker
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: John 14:1
bible verses: John 14:1 by ric Gustafson
At the end of John 13, Jesus is spending time with his disciples before his death. He tells them that he is leaving this world. They ask him where are you going?. He tells them they cannot come with him now but later. They are distraught at the sudden news.
Jesus tries to calm their troubled minds. John 14:1, Jesus tells them to not have a troubled heart. He tells them to believe in God and to believe in him. When our lives here on this sin filled earth are troubled, this bible verse reassures us that everything will be all right. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
At the end of John 13, Jesus is spending time with his disciples before his death. He tells them that he is leaving this world. They ask him where are you going?. He tells them they cannot come with him now but later. They are distraught at the sudden news.
Jesus tries to calm their troubled minds. John 14:1, Jesus tells them to not have a troubled heart. He tells them to believe in God and to believe in him. When our lives here on this sin filled earth are troubled, this bible verse reassures us that everything will be all right. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Production 1060: Buddy Ebsen
Production 1060: Buddy Ebsen by ric Gustafson
Jack Haley was not the first Tin Woodman in the Wizard of Oz. Actor Buddy Ebsen was originally cast as the Scarecrow. Later, he and Ray Bolger switched roles. Part of Ebsen's makeup for the Tin Woodman was aluminum dust. Filming began on October 12 1938. After nine days of breathing large amounts of aluminum dust, disaster happened on October 21. All of a sudden, Ebsen was out of breath. He was rushed to a hospital and placed inside an oxygen tent. Due to an aluminum overdose, he remained in the hospital for two weeks and at home for a month. He was replaced in the Wizard of Oz by Jack Haley. After Oz, Ebsen was active in TV including the Beverly Hillbillies and Barnaby Jones. Buddy Ebsen passed away in 2003.
The End
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jack Haley was not the first Tin Woodman in the Wizard of Oz. Actor Buddy Ebsen was originally cast as the Scarecrow. Later, he and Ray Bolger switched roles. Part of Ebsen's makeup for the Tin Woodman was aluminum dust. Filming began on October 12 1938. After nine days of breathing large amounts of aluminum dust, disaster happened on October 21. All of a sudden, Ebsen was out of breath. He was rushed to a hospital and placed inside an oxygen tent. Due to an aluminum overdose, he remained in the hospital for two weeks and at home for a month. He was replaced in the Wizard of Oz by Jack Haley. After Oz, Ebsen was active in TV including the Beverly Hillbillies and Barnaby Jones. Buddy Ebsen passed away in 2003.
The End
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
bible verses: I John 5:12
bible verses: I John 5:12 by ric Gustafson
This verse has a very simple message. The one who has the Son has life. Our eternal future depends on whether we have Jesus as our Savior and Lord. The one who does not have the Son of God does not have life. It is as simple as that. If we love Jesus, we will be with him forever. If not, we won't.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This verse has a very simple message. The one who has the Son has life. Our eternal future depends on whether we have Jesus as our Savior and Lord. The one who does not have the Son of God does not have life. It is as simple as that. If we love Jesus, we will be with him forever. If not, we won't.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production 1060: Shirley Temple
Production 1060: Shirley Temple by ric Gustafson
Judy Garland was not MGM's first choice for the role of Dorothy. Their first choice was a ten year old girl who at the time was America's number one box office star. Her name was Shirley Temple. She was born in Southern California in 1928. Her mother pushed her into show business when she was only two years old. Her career peaked between 1934 and 1938. MGM originally wanted her to play Dorothy. Then the studio realized that she lacked the sophistication needed for the role. Then Judy Garland became Dorothy. The rest is movie history.
Shirley Temple retired from acting in 1949. She changed her name to Shirley Temple Black. Years later, She became a U S delegate to the United Nations. Shirley Temple Black died in 2014.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Judy Garland was not MGM's first choice for the role of Dorothy. Their first choice was a ten year old girl who at the time was America's number one box office star. Her name was Shirley Temple. She was born in Southern California in 1928. Her mother pushed her into show business when she was only two years old. Her career peaked between 1934 and 1938. MGM originally wanted her to play Dorothy. Then the studio realized that she lacked the sophistication needed for the role. Then Judy Garland became Dorothy. The rest is movie history.
Shirley Temple retired from acting in 1949. She changed her name to Shirley Temple Black. Years later, She became a U S delegate to the United Nations. Shirley Temple Black died in 2014.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, November 5, 2018
Production 1060: Arthur Freed
Production 1060: Arthur Freed by ric Gustafson
MGM asked Arthur Freed to be the associate producer for the Wizard of Oz. Freed was 44 when he was asked to help Mervyn LeRoy on the film. Freed picked E Y Harburg to be the lyricist for the film. Freed helped with the script and made sure it had an emotional center. Freed was born in 1894 in South Carolina. After Oz, Freed produced many musicals for MGM in the 1940's and 1950's.
Arthur Freed died in 1973.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
MGM asked Arthur Freed to be the associate producer for the Wizard of Oz. Freed was 44 when he was asked to help Mervyn LeRoy on the film. Freed picked E Y Harburg to be the lyricist for the film. Freed helped with the script and made sure it had an emotional center. Freed was born in 1894 in South Carolina. After Oz, Freed produced many musicals for MGM in the 1940's and 1950's.
Arthur Freed died in 1973.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: I John 5:11
bible verses: I John 5:11 by ric Gustafson
In this verse, God declares that this is the testimony. God gives us the truth and the facts. God has given us eternal life, it is done and accomplished. The Apostle John used the fact of eternal life twenty three times in his writing. Jesus is the source and Creator of life. He died to conquer death and to give us the chance to be with him forever. That is God's promise in this verse. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In this verse, God declares that this is the testimony. God gives us the truth and the facts. God has given us eternal life, it is done and accomplished. The Apostle John used the fact of eternal life twenty three times in his writing. Jesus is the source and Creator of life. He died to conquer death and to give us the chance to be with him forever. That is God's promise in this verse. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, November 3, 2018
Production 1060: Mervyn LeRoy
Production 1060: Mervyn LeRoy by ric Gustafson
Mervyn LeRoy was born in San Francisco in 1900. He started in vaudeville before he was sixteen. In 1923, he was in a short and then moved to Hollywood. He started out as a Hollywood wardrobe handler. He directed his first movie ' No Place To Go' in 1927. His career at MGM started with directing ' Tugboat Annie' in 1933.
LeRoy became a close associate to Louis B Mayer. LeRoy was chosen by Mayer to produce the Wizard of Oz. The budget for the film was set at $ 3.7 million. Making the film was difficult and the shoot took twenty two weeks.
After Oz, LeRoy became an independent producer. Mervyn LeRoy passed away in 1987.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Mervyn LeRoy was born in San Francisco in 1900. He started in vaudeville before he was sixteen. In 1923, he was in a short and then moved to Hollywood. He started out as a Hollywood wardrobe handler. He directed his first movie ' No Place To Go' in 1927. His career at MGM started with directing ' Tugboat Annie' in 1933.
LeRoy became a close associate to Louis B Mayer. LeRoy was chosen by Mayer to produce the Wizard of Oz. The budget for the film was set at $ 3.7 million. Making the film was difficult and the shoot took twenty two weeks.
After Oz, LeRoy became an independent producer. Mervyn LeRoy passed away in 1987.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz FAQ' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: I John 5:15
bible verses: I John 5:15 by ric Gustafson
Just like the previous verse, this bible verse talks about prayer. The Apostle John stresses that he hears whatever we ask. We know that we have what we have asked for. This verse says that we can have confidence and we know. We can have confidence in whatever we ask and whenever we ask. We can ask anything according to his will. Jesus always hears our prayers. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Just like the previous verse, this bible verse talks about prayer. The Apostle John stresses that he hears whatever we ask. We know that we have what we have asked for. This verse says that we can have confidence and we know. We can have confidence in whatever we ask and whenever we ask. We can ask anything according to his will. Jesus always hears our prayers. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, November 2, 2018
bible verses: I John 5:14
bible verses: I John 5:14 by ric Gustafson
This bible verse talks about prayer. This verse talks about coming before him. In prayer, we come before him with confidence. We ask according to his will. We ask knowing that he hears us. The Apostle John wanted us to know something about the promises of prayer. He stresses that prayer is according to his will. God knows what's best for us. We know with confidence that prayer is according to God's Will.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This bible verse talks about prayer. This verse talks about coming before him. In prayer, we come before him with confidence. We ask according to his will. We ask knowing that he hears us. The Apostle John wanted us to know something about the promises of prayer. He stresses that prayer is according to his will. God knows what's best for us. We know with confidence that prayer is according to God's Will.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
calms for cares: The Door Man
calms for cares: The Door Man by ric Gustafson
One day, I was standing next to a plain looking door. All of a sudden, I heard a knock. I opened the door. Standing there was a young bearded man. He was holding a vast key ring.
I gave him a startled look. " Who are you?".
Jesus smiled. " I am a door man".
I gave him a strange stare. " You are in charge of this door?".
" Actually, I am this door". Jesus smiled again. He stepped out of the doorway and locked the door.
" Why did you do that for?".
" When the time is right". He grinned at me. " I will open it for you".
I looked at my watch. " What do I do in the meantime?".
" Keep my Word and my commands". He gave me a hug. " And stay faithful".
I turned. Jesus was already gone.
I left with joy in my heart.
The End
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
One day, I was standing next to a plain looking door. All of a sudden, I heard a knock. I opened the door. Standing there was a young bearded man. He was holding a vast key ring.
I gave him a startled look. " Who are you?".
Jesus smiled. " I am a door man".
I gave him a strange stare. " You are in charge of this door?".
" Actually, I am this door". Jesus smiled again. He stepped out of the doorway and locked the door.
" Why did you do that for?".
" When the time is right". He grinned at me. " I will open it for you".
I looked at my watch. " What do I do in the meantime?".
" Keep my Word and my commands". He gave me a hug. " And stay faithful".
I turned. Jesus was already gone.
I left with joy in my heart.
The End
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, November 1, 2018
Production 1060: Louis B Mayer
Production 1060: Louis B Mayer. by ric Gustafson
One man made MGM what it was. His name was Louis B Mayer. He was short, barrel chested and made great movies. He was born in 1884. He helped in his father's scrap metal business. In 1915, he started his own film distribution corporation. In 1924, he started MGM. He made wholesome films with family appeal. His right hand man was Irving Thalberg. He died in 1937. Mayer okayed Production 1060 The Wizard of Oz. The movie became part of American life.
Louis B Mayer passed away October 29 1957.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
One man made MGM what it was. His name was Louis B Mayer. He was short, barrel chested and made great movies. He was born in 1884. He helped in his father's scrap metal business. In 1915, he started his own film distribution corporation. In 1924, he started MGM. He made wholesome films with family appeal. His right hand man was Irving Thalberg. He died in 1937. Mayer okayed Production 1060 The Wizard of Oz. The movie became part of American life.
Louis B Mayer passed away October 29 1957.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by David J Hogan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: Hebrews 4:16
bible verses: Hebrews 4:16 by ric Gustafson
This bible verse tells us everything about prayer. This verse tells us that we can approach the throne of grace with boldness. Jesus opens up the throne room for us. We can approach God in prayer. In prayer we can be near the King. We can approach the throne of God. The throne of grace is a glorious seat of power. God desires fellowship with us. From God, we receive mercy and grace.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This bible verse tells us everything about prayer. This verse tells us that we can approach the throne of grace with boldness. Jesus opens up the throne room for us. We can approach God in prayer. In prayer we can be near the King. We can approach the throne of God. The throne of grace is a glorious seat of power. God desires fellowship with us. From God, we receive mercy and grace.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
calms for cares: At the edge of the river
calms for cares: At the edge of the river by ric Gustafson
I stood at the edge of the huge river. There was a sign at the edge. It read ' If Only River'. As I stood there, I began to ponder my life. If only I had tried for a better position at work, I would have a good life. If only I had taken better care of myself, I would have had a good life.
All of a sudden, I noticed someone standing next to me. It was a young dark bearded man. He smiled at me. " Isn't this river beautiful?".
" I guess". I frowned at him. " Sometimes I think about If Only in my life".
Jesus smiled. " Be anxious for nothing".
I looked at him. " I try to".
He smiled. " The peace of God will guard your hearts and minds".
I looked toward him. He was gone.
I stared at the river. Peace began to fill my heart.
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I stood at the edge of the huge river. There was a sign at the edge. It read ' If Only River'. As I stood there, I began to ponder my life. If only I had tried for a better position at work, I would have a good life. If only I had taken better care of myself, I would have had a good life.
All of a sudden, I noticed someone standing next to me. It was a young dark bearded man. He smiled at me. " Isn't this river beautiful?".
" I guess". I frowned at him. " Sometimes I think about If Only in my life".
Jesus smiled. " Be anxious for nothing".
I looked at him. " I try to".
He smiled. " The peace of God will guard your hearts and minds".
I looked toward him. He was gone.
I stared at the river. Peace began to fill my heart.
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
bible verses: Hebrews 4:12
bible verses: Hebrews 4:12 by ric Gustafson
The Word of God is living not dead. The Word of God is effective and full of energy. The Word of God is a double edged sword. The Word of God penetrates our hearts and souls. The Word of God judges the thoughts and intent of our hearts. The Word of God is the critic of the heart.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Word of God is living not dead. The Word of God is effective and full of energy. The Word of God is a double edged sword. The Word of God penetrates our hearts and souls. The Word of God judges the thoughts and intent of our hearts. The Word of God is the critic of the heart.
Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
calms for cares: The Waiting Room
calms for cares: The Waiting Room by ric Gustafson
I walked into the large spacious waiting room. I sat down. Across from me on the far wall was a plaque. It read ' Be still and know that I am God'. As I watched others waiting to see the doctor, my mind began to wander. I was concerned about a possible procedure I might have to have.
After a while, my name was called. A young bearded man was standing in the doorway holding a chart. He smiled at me. I walked up to him.
" And how are you today?".
I frowned at him. " I'm concerned what the doctor is going to tell me".
" You don't have to worry about that". He smiled. " My Father is always at work".
I gave him a strange look. " What do you mean by that?".
Jesus smiled. " My Father never stops or takes a vacation".
We walked into that exam room with calm in my heart.
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I walked into the large spacious waiting room. I sat down. Across from me on the far wall was a plaque. It read ' Be still and know that I am God'. As I watched others waiting to see the doctor, my mind began to wander. I was concerned about a possible procedure I might have to have.
After a while, my name was called. A young bearded man was standing in the doorway holding a chart. He smiled at me. I walked up to him.
" And how are you today?".
I frowned at him. " I'm concerned what the doctor is going to tell me".
" You don't have to worry about that". He smiled. " My Father is always at work".
I gave him a strange look. " What do you mean by that?".
Jesus smiled. " My Father never stops or takes a vacation".
We walked into that exam room with calm in my heart.
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
calms for cares: The Parking Place
calms for cares: The Parking Place by ric Gustafson
I drove my red Fusion into the parking stall. I noticed a sign in front of it. It read ' Tomorrow's Problems'.
My mind wandered to work. " I hope I satisfy the committee tomorrow".
" This is the day the Lord has made".
I turned to see a young bearded man smiling at me. " Who are you?".
" My name is POP". He shook my hand. " I'm in charge of this parking garage".
I shook his hand.
" It sounded like you were concerned about something happening tomorrow".
" Yes". My voice hesitated. " I'm worried about a work presentation I'm doing tomorrow".
Jesus smiled. " My Father says rejoice and be glad today".
I thought for a moment. " I don't have to worry about tomorrow".
" Nope". He turned to leave. " Leave yesterday and tomorrow to me".
I turned to see that he was gone.
I decided right there to take his advice.
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I drove my red Fusion into the parking stall. I noticed a sign in front of it. It read ' Tomorrow's Problems'.
My mind wandered to work. " I hope I satisfy the committee tomorrow".
" This is the day the Lord has made".
I turned to see a young bearded man smiling at me. " Who are you?".
" My name is POP". He shook my hand. " I'm in charge of this parking garage".
I shook his hand.
" It sounded like you were concerned about something happening tomorrow".
" Yes". My voice hesitated. " I'm worried about a work presentation I'm doing tomorrow".
Jesus smiled. " My Father says rejoice and be glad today".
I thought for a moment. " I don't have to worry about tomorrow".
" Nope". He turned to leave. " Leave yesterday and tomorrow to me".
I turned to see that he was gone.
I decided right there to take his advice.
research help: ' Trade your cares for calm' by Max Lucado
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, October 29, 2018
bible verses: Deuteronomy 6:6-7
bible verses: Deuteronomy 6:6-7 by ric Gustafson
This bible verse has three truths to it. The first is that we are commanded to love our God with all of our heart, our soul and our strength. The second truth is that God's Word must be on our hearts. The third truth is that we must impart God's Word on our children. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 Bible Verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This bible verse has three truths to it. The first is that we are commanded to love our God with all of our heart, our soul and our strength. The second truth is that God's Word must be on our hearts. The third truth is that we must impart God's Word on our children. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 Bible Verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, October 28, 2018
Production 1060: the Munchkins
Production 1060: the Munchkins by ric Gustafson
In Baum's novel, the Munchkins were described as tall as Dorothy, many years older and oddly dressed. To play these little people, MGM hired the Singer Midgets. Under Leo Singer, they played at carnivals, vaudeville and circuses. They were brought to MGM in 1938 and housed in hotels near the studio. Key Munchkins were the Mayor, the Coroner and the Lollipop Guild. Jerry Maren was the last Munchkin to pass away.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Baum's novel, the Munchkins were described as tall as Dorothy, many years older and oddly dressed. To play these little people, MGM hired the Singer Midgets. Under Leo Singer, they played at carnivals, vaudeville and circuses. They were brought to MGM in 1938 and housed in hotels near the studio. Key Munchkins were the Mayor, the Coroner and the Lollipop Guild. Jerry Maren was the last Munchkin to pass away.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, October 26, 2018
Habakkuk: it seems unfair
Habakkuk: it seems unfair by ric Gustafson
God knows that this sinful life is unfair. When we think that our life here is unfair, we need to think about God and his Son. God had to send his only Son to die on a cross so we can be with him forever. A perfect, holy and Just God had to send his Son to be a bridge so we could be with God forever. We are sinful people loved by God more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' Hope in the Dark' by Craig Groeschel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God knows that this sinful life is unfair. When we think that our life here is unfair, we need to think about God and his Son. God had to send his only Son to die on a cross so we can be with him forever. A perfect, holy and Just God had to send his Son to be a bridge so we could be with God forever. We are sinful people loved by God more than anything else. Praise God.
research help: ' Hope in the Dark' by Craig Groeschel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: Psalm 119:11
bible verses: Psalm 119:11 by ric Gustafson
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in God's Word. It was written into 22 stanzas of eight verses each. Every verse in this chapter starts with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Just about every verse of this chapter talks about the Word of God. This chapter promises that if we hide God's Word in our hearts, it will retard the development of sin in our lives. We are all tempted to sin. But we can fight them. When Jesus was tempted, he quoted Scripture. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in God's Word. It was written into 22 stanzas of eight verses each. Every verse in this chapter starts with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Just about every verse of this chapter talks about the Word of God. This chapter promises that if we hide God's Word in our hearts, it will retard the development of sin in our lives. We are all tempted to sin. But we can fight them. When Jesus was tempted, he quoted Scripture. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production 1060: Pat Walshe
Production 1060: Pat Walshe by ric Gustafson
The Wicked Witch of the West had a companion. His name was Nikko and he was a flying monkey. Pat Walshe was born on July 26 1900. At the age of 10, Pat joined Ringling Bros Circus. He performed on Broadway with Mary Pickford but his calling was playing monkeys. Being only 3 foot 10, he was very convincing. He had no lines in the Wizard of Oz but received a on screen credit. After Oz, he kept performing with the circus. Pat Walshe died in 1991 at the age of 91
At the time of his death, he was the last surviving Oz cast member.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's Blessings. Love Ric
The Wicked Witch of the West had a companion. His name was Nikko and he was a flying monkey. Pat Walshe was born on July 26 1900. At the age of 10, Pat joined Ringling Bros Circus. He performed on Broadway with Mary Pickford but his calling was playing monkeys. Being only 3 foot 10, he was very convincing. He had no lines in the Wizard of Oz but received a on screen credit. After Oz, he kept performing with the circus. Pat Walshe died in 1991 at the age of 91
At the time of his death, he was the last surviving Oz cast member.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's Blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Habakkuk: why aren't you doing something?
Habakkuk: why aren't you doing something? by ric Gustafson
Life is not a sitcom even though we wish it would. Our story does not play out the way we want it to. But God knows our story from beginning to end. What would happen if we did know our whole story?. We want God to do something for us right now. We want God to answer our prayers right now. God wants to be in charge of our story. We need to love him, respect him and let him take care of us. He will but we must let him have 100 percent of us. God wants us to pour our hearts to him. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' Hope in the Dark' by Craig Groeschel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Life is not a sitcom even though we wish it would. Our story does not play out the way we want it to. But God knows our story from beginning to end. What would happen if we did know our whole story?. We want God to do something for us right now. We want God to answer our prayers right now. God wants to be in charge of our story. We need to love him, respect him and let him take care of us. He will but we must let him have 100 percent of us. God wants us to pour our hearts to him. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' Hope in the Dark' by Craig Groeschel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: Joshua 1:8
bible verses: Joshua 1:8 by ric Gustafson
This bible verse contains three commands. The first command is that this book of the law must not depart from your mouth. We must keep reading it, repeating it, hearing it and speaking it. The second command is that we meditate on God's Word day and night. Our minds must focus on God's Word at all times. The third command is that we put God's Word into practice and obey it.
If we obey God's law, we will prosper. If we obey God's law, we will succeed.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This bible verse contains three commands. The first command is that this book of the law must not depart from your mouth. We must keep reading it, repeating it, hearing it and speaking it. The second command is that we meditate on God's Word day and night. Our minds must focus on God's Word at all times. The third command is that we put God's Word into practice and obey it.
If we obey God's law, we will prosper. If we obey God's law, we will succeed.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production 1060: Charley Grapewin
Production 1060: Charley Grapewin by ric Gustafson
Dorothy had an uncle by the name of Uncle Henry. Charley Grapewin was born on Dec 20 1869. He ran away from home to join the circus. He became an acrobat with P T Barnum. He first appeared in the 1903 stage production of the Wizard of Oz. By the time he appeared in the 1939 film, he had already acted with other members of the cast in several films. A street was named after him in Corona California. Charley Grapewin passed away in 1956 at the age of 86.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Dorothy had an uncle by the name of Uncle Henry. Charley Grapewin was born on Dec 20 1869. He ran away from home to join the circus. He became an acrobat with P T Barnum. He first appeared in the 1903 stage production of the Wizard of Oz. By the time he appeared in the 1939 film, he had already acted with other members of the cast in several films. A street was named after him in Corona California. Charley Grapewin passed away in 1956 at the age of 86.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
bible verses: II Timothy 3:16
bible verses: II Timothy 3:16 by ric Gustafson
This bible verse talks about the authority and usefulness of God's Word. Scripture is inspired by God. II Timothy 3:16 talks about the Scripture. Scripture is called the Word. Scripture is the written Word. This bible verse is unique because Jesus is like no other person. God's Word is like no other book that has ever been written. Jesus was both human and divine. God's Word is without error.
God's Word was given so we can be saved. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
This bible verse talks about the authority and usefulness of God's Word. Scripture is inspired by God. II Timothy 3:16 talks about the Scripture. Scripture is called the Word. Scripture is the written Word. This bible verse is unique because Jesus is like no other person. God's Word is like no other book that has ever been written. Jesus was both human and divine. God's Word is without error.
God's Word was given so we can be saved. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production 1060: Clara Blandick
Production 1060: Clara Blandick by ric Gustafson
Dorothy's Aunt loved her very much. Clara Blandick was born on June 4 1876 in Hong Kong. In 1880, Clara's family had moved to Quincy Mass. Clara made her stage debut in 1900. In 1929, she moved to Hollywood and worked at all the major studios. She was selected to be in the Wizard of Oz after several actresses refused. After Oz, she acted on a regular basis.
Clara Blandick died at the age of 85 from an overdose of sleeping pills.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Dorothy's Aunt loved her very much. Clara Blandick was born on June 4 1876 in Hong Kong. In 1880, Clara's family had moved to Quincy Mass. Clara made her stage debut in 1900. In 1929, she moved to Hollywood and worked at all the major studios. She was selected to be in the Wizard of Oz after several actresses refused. After Oz, she acted on a regular basis.
Clara Blandick died at the age of 85 from an overdose of sleeping pills.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
Habakkuk: why don't you care
Habakkuk: why don't you care? by ric Gustafson
Under the reign of King Jehoiakim, the prophet Habakkuk witnessed scandal, corruption and violence. There were criminals and crime galore. It is the same as today. The prophet asks how long Lord must I call for help. Then he says " but you do not listen?". The prophet knows that God is a just God. The Prophet knows that even when things get worse, God will be there. Habakkuk knows.
research help: ' Hope in the Dark' by Craig Groeschel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Under the reign of King Jehoiakim, the prophet Habakkuk witnessed scandal, corruption and violence. There were criminals and crime galore. It is the same as today. The prophet asks how long Lord must I call for help. Then he says " but you do not listen?". The prophet knows that God is a just God. The Prophet knows that even when things get worse, God will be there. Habakkuk knows.
research help: ' Hope in the Dark' by Craig Groeschel
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: John 3:16
bible verses: John 3:16 by ric Gustafson
John 3:16 is the most well known verse in the bible. God loved us the world so much that he gave his one and only Son. So that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God did not want us to be separate from him for all of eternity. So what did he do?. He gave his only Son to die on a cross so we can be with him forever. God loves us that much.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
John 3:16 is the most well known verse in the bible. God loved us the world so much that he gave his one and only Son. So that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God did not want us to be separate from him for all of eternity. So what did he do?. He gave his only Son to die on a cross so we can be with him forever. God loves us that much.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production 1060: Billie Burke
Production 1060: Billie Burke by ric Gustafson
Actress Billie Burke was born Mary William Ethelbert Appleton Burke on Aug 7 1884. Her father William was a circus clown with Barnum and Bailey. In 1903, Burke made her stage debut in the ' The School Girl'. In 1914, she married Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. In 1916, she had her film debut in ' Peggy'.
By 1932, the stock market crash of 1929 had hurt Burke's finances. To pay the bills, she worked steadily. In 1938, she was asked to play Glinda the Good Witch in the Wizard of Oz. After Oz, Burke appeared in films, a talk show and her own radio show.
Billie Burke passed away from natural causes at the age of 85.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Actress Billie Burke was born Mary William Ethelbert Appleton Burke on Aug 7 1884. Her father William was a circus clown with Barnum and Bailey. In 1903, Burke made her stage debut in the ' The School Girl'. In 1914, she married Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. In 1916, she had her film debut in ' Peggy'.
By 1932, the stock market crash of 1929 had hurt Burke's finances. To pay the bills, she worked steadily. In 1938, she was asked to play Glinda the Good Witch in the Wizard of Oz. After Oz, Burke appeared in films, a talk show and her own radio show.
Billie Burke passed away from natural causes at the age of 85.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, October 20, 2018
Production 1060: Frank Morgan
Production 1060: Frank Morgan by ric Gustafson
Actor Frank Morgan was born Francis Phillip Wupperman on June 1 1890. He was the youngest of 11 children. He attended Cornell University but dropped out. His brother Ralph suggested he try acting. Morgan started on Broadway in 1914 with ' A Woman Killed With Kindness'. When he moved to Hollywood, he worked steadily in film and radio. After his first Oscar nomination, MGM noticed him. He was offered the role of the Wizard and Professor Marvel. Morgan also played the gatekeeper, a guard and the carriage driver. After Oz, Morgan was in several films.
Frank Morgan passed away on Sept 18 1949 from a heart attack.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Actor Frank Morgan was born Francis Phillip Wupperman on June 1 1890. He was the youngest of 11 children. He attended Cornell University but dropped out. His brother Ralph suggested he try acting. Morgan started on Broadway in 1914 with ' A Woman Killed With Kindness'. When he moved to Hollywood, he worked steadily in film and radio. After his first Oscar nomination, MGM noticed him. He was offered the role of the Wizard and Professor Marvel. Morgan also played the gatekeeper, a guard and the carriage driver. After Oz, Morgan was in several films.
Frank Morgan passed away on Sept 18 1949 from a heart attack.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
bible verses: John 1:14
bible verses: John 1:14 by ric Gustafson
We have been called a tent of our body. We await resurrection day when we will receive a permanent glorified body. This bible verse states that Jesus took on flesh. He pitched his tent among us. This bible verse talks about incarnation. The Word became flesh. Jesus pitched his tent among us. We observed that Jesus is full of grace and truth. Jesus is our friend and he dwells among us. Jesus pitched his tent and tabernacles among us. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
We have been called a tent of our body. We await resurrection day when we will receive a permanent glorified body. This bible verse states that Jesus took on flesh. He pitched his tent among us. This bible verse talks about incarnation. The Word became flesh. Jesus pitched his tent among us. We observed that Jesus is full of grace and truth. Jesus is our friend and he dwells among us. Jesus pitched his tent and tabernacles among us. Praise God.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, October 18, 2018
bible verses: John 1:1
bible verses: John 1:1 by ric Gustafson
There is a mystery at the heart of this bible verse. Jesus was God. Jesus was with God in the beginning. Jesus was God. Jesus was also distinct from God. In the beginning was the Word. The Word was with God. The Word was God. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There is a mystery at the heart of this bible verse. Jesus was God. Jesus was with God in the beginning. Jesus was God. Jesus was also distinct from God. In the beginning was the Word. The Word was with God. The Word was God. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
bible verses: Genesis 1:1
bible verses: Genesis 1:1 by ric Gustafson
All of God's Word begins with these ten words. This verse is the bed rock of the bible. This verse is the foundation of God's Word. This verse tells us that God creates, God speaks and that God is. This verse gives us biblical roots. This verse gives us a biblical route. God has a purpose and plan for time and eternity. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
All of God's Word begins with these ten words. This verse is the bed rock of the bible. This verse is the foundation of God's Word. This verse tells us that God creates, God speaks and that God is. This verse gives us biblical roots. This verse gives us a biblical route. God has a purpose and plan for time and eternity. God loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' 100 bible verses' by Robert J Morgan
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Devil's Food page 3
Devil's Food page 3 by ric Gustafson
Roy was reading the newspaper when he heard the doorbell ring. He opened the door to reveal a young boy dressed as a pirate and a young girl dressed like a princess.
" Trick or Treat" they both yelled. They both stuck out an orange pail.
Roy picked up both baskets. He opened the screen door. " Would you like a candy bar or a Devil's Food zinger?".
Then Roy heard the voice.
" Roy, what are you doing?".
He smiled at the children. " Handing out Halloween treats".
She walked toward the door. " Put down those zingers!". She gave him a stern stare. " Think about those children's interests instead of your own".
He put down the basket of zingers. He put a candy bar into their pails.
" Thank You". They ran toward their parents waiting for them at the edge of the driveway.
The next morning, Roy was handing out Devil's Food zingers to his co workers/
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Roy was reading the newspaper when he heard the doorbell ring. He opened the door to reveal a young boy dressed as a pirate and a young girl dressed like a princess.
" Trick or Treat" they both yelled. They both stuck out an orange pail.
Roy picked up both baskets. He opened the screen door. " Would you like a candy bar or a Devil's Food zinger?".
Then Roy heard the voice.
" Roy, what are you doing?".
He smiled at the children. " Handing out Halloween treats".
She walked toward the door. " Put down those zingers!". She gave him a stern stare. " Think about those children's interests instead of your own".
He put down the basket of zingers. He put a candy bar into their pails.
" Thank You". They ran toward their parents waiting for them at the edge of the driveway.
The next morning, Roy was handing out Devil's Food zingers to his co workers/
The End
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production 1060: Toto
Production 1060: Toto by ric Gustafson
There was a beloved dog with Dorothy as she traveled to find the Wizard. Toto was a female cairn terrier named Terry. Terry was born in 1933. She was trained by Hollywood animal trainer Carl Spitz. Terry was hired to play Toto for $ 125 a week. Toto was stepped on by a Winkie guard and broke a foot. Terry was also scared of the wind machines. All the actors loved Terry. Terry died in 1945. The terrier was buried on her trainer's ranch. Later, the beloved terrier was buried at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. And Toto too.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There was a beloved dog with Dorothy as she traveled to find the Wizard. Toto was a female cairn terrier named Terry. Terry was born in 1933. She was trained by Hollywood animal trainer Carl Spitz. Terry was hired to play Toto for $ 125 a week. Toto was stepped on by a Winkie guard and broke a foot. Terry was also scared of the wind machines. All the actors loved Terry. Terry died in 1945. The terrier was buried on her trainer's ranch. Later, the beloved terrier was buried at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. And Toto too.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, October 15, 2018
Production 1060: Margaret Hamilton
Production 1060: Margaret Hamilton by ric Gustafson
She was a wicked witch in search of Dorothy's slippers. Margaret Hamilton was born on Dec 9 1902. She was born and raised in Cleveland Ohio. She was born to Walter and Mary Jane Hamilton. She was a lifelong reader of the Oz books performing as the Wicked Witch of the West when she was 21. Margaret became a teacher in Rye NY. In June of 1931, she married Paul Meserve. In 1932, she appeared on Broadway in ' Another Language'. MGM bought the rights and Margaret headed to Hollywood to appear in the film version. In 1933, she began to appear in films for MGM. She divorced her husband in 1938 and had to keep working to support her 3 year old son. She won the Oz role because of Mervyn LeRoy. After Oz, Margaret appeared in films and TV roles.
Margaret Hamilton died on May 16 1985 after suffering a heart attack.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
She was a wicked witch in search of Dorothy's slippers. Margaret Hamilton was born on Dec 9 1902. She was born and raised in Cleveland Ohio. She was born to Walter and Mary Jane Hamilton. She was a lifelong reader of the Oz books performing as the Wicked Witch of the West when she was 21. Margaret became a teacher in Rye NY. In June of 1931, she married Paul Meserve. In 1932, she appeared on Broadway in ' Another Language'. MGM bought the rights and Margaret headed to Hollywood to appear in the film version. In 1933, she began to appear in films for MGM. She divorced her husband in 1938 and had to keep working to support her 3 year old son. She won the Oz role because of Mervyn LeRoy. After Oz, Margaret appeared in films and TV roles.
Margaret Hamilton died on May 16 1985 after suffering a heart attack.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Devil's Food page 2
Devil's Food page 2 by ric Gustafson
Roy looked down at the steel wheels of the cart. It was making an irritating noise. " Oh great" he muttered. " It's the only cart left". He quickly walked past the produce area. He began to walk down the Halloween candy aisle. He noticed that the candy bar minatures were on sell. He put some into his cart.
He was about to leave when he noticed the white display at the end of the aisle. He quickly walked up to it. " Hostess" he exclaimed with joy. He noticed the crumb cakes and the little donuts. Then he noticed the familiar package. " Devil's Food zingers". Then an idea came to him. " I wonder if trick or treaters would like them also".
He knew he was only supposed to get minature candy bars. He loved the chocolate outside and creamy filling inside. " I'll just buy a couple boxes and mix them with the candy bars". He put them into the cart. With a sense of accomplishment, he paid for the groceries and left the store.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Roy looked down at the steel wheels of the cart. It was making an irritating noise. " Oh great" he muttered. " It's the only cart left". He quickly walked past the produce area. He began to walk down the Halloween candy aisle. He noticed that the candy bar minatures were on sell. He put some into his cart.
He was about to leave when he noticed the white display at the end of the aisle. He quickly walked up to it. " Hostess" he exclaimed with joy. He noticed the crumb cakes and the little donuts. Then he noticed the familiar package. " Devil's Food zingers". Then an idea came to him. " I wonder if trick or treaters would like them also".
He knew he was only supposed to get minature candy bars. He loved the chocolate outside and creamy filling inside. " I'll just buy a couple boxes and mix them with the candy bars". He put them into the cart. With a sense of accomplishment, he paid for the groceries and left the store.
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, October 14, 2018
St Patrick's prayer: Christ Before Me
St Patrick's prayer: Christ Before Me by ric Gustafson
Wherever we go, Jesus is there waiting for us. Psalm 139 describes this in detail. We are never out of God's reach and can not run away from him. God wants us to listen for his quiet voice. God is the God of time. Revelation 4:8 says God is the one who was who is and is to come. Not only does God go before us but also beside us. Jesus loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' Christ my companion' by Marilyn Chandler McEntyre
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wherever we go, Jesus is there waiting for us. Psalm 139 describes this in detail. We are never out of God's reach and can not run away from him. God wants us to listen for his quiet voice. God is the God of time. Revelation 4:8 says God is the one who was who is and is to come. Not only does God go before us but also beside us. Jesus loves us more than anything else.
research help: ' Christ my companion' by Marilyn Chandler McEntyre
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Production 1060: Judy Garland
Production 1060: Judy Garland by ric Gustafson
She was a girl trying to find her home. Her name was Frances Ethel Gumm. She was born on June 10 1922. She was born to Frank and Ethel Gumm. Her father ran a theater in Grand Rapids Minnesota. The family moved to Lancaster California and Judy joined her older sisters in a singing trio. When 13 year old Judy now Garland got a contract at MGM. The studio wasn't sure what to do with her. She was too old for child parts and too young for older roles. The studio wanted her to lose weight.
Only three months after joining MGM, her father died. Shirley Temple was the first choice for Dorothy. Producer Mervyn LeRoy wanted Judy for the iconic role. He won. For the role, Judy won a special Academy award. After Oz, she was busy with musicals, films and personal appearances. Judy Garland died on June 22 1969 from a accidental overdose. She was just 47.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
She was a girl trying to find her home. Her name was Frances Ethel Gumm. She was born on June 10 1922. She was born to Frank and Ethel Gumm. Her father ran a theater in Grand Rapids Minnesota. The family moved to Lancaster California and Judy joined her older sisters in a singing trio. When 13 year old Judy now Garland got a contract at MGM. The studio wasn't sure what to do with her. She was too old for child parts and too young for older roles. The studio wanted her to lose weight.
Only three months after joining MGM, her father died. Shirley Temple was the first choice for Dorothy. Producer Mervyn LeRoy wanted Judy for the iconic role. He won. For the role, Judy won a special Academy award. After Oz, she was busy with musicals, films and personal appearances. Judy Garland died on June 22 1969 from a accidental overdose. She was just 47.
research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by American Media Inc
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, October 13, 2018
Devil's Food page 1
Devil's Food page 1
Roy McReed pressed the white garage door button to shut the garage door. He opened the kitchen door. He stepped into a spacious newly remodeled kitchen. " Hi sweetie".
" Hi honey" Margaret McReed replied as she put down a carving knife. " I'm just finishing up our Halloween pumpkin.
He yawned as he put his brown briefcase on top of their wooden hutch. " Work was really busy today". He opened up their white refrigerator. He peered inside. " Have you seen my Hostess treats?".
" Yes, next to the cheese slices".
He noticed the familiar red white and blue package. He opened one and took a bite. " I love these things".
" What are they?".
He smiled. " Hostess Devil's Food zingers".
She remembered something. " Oh, I need you to do me a favor".
He gave her a peck on the cheek. " Anything".
" I need you to go and purchase our Halloween candy for tomorrow".
" Ok".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Roy McReed pressed the white garage door button to shut the garage door. He opened the kitchen door. He stepped into a spacious newly remodeled kitchen. " Hi sweetie".
" Hi honey" Margaret McReed replied as she put down a carving knife. " I'm just finishing up our Halloween pumpkin.
He yawned as he put his brown briefcase on top of their wooden hutch. " Work was really busy today". He opened up their white refrigerator. He peered inside. " Have you seen my Hostess treats?".
" Yes, next to the cheese slices".
He noticed the familiar red white and blue package. He opened one and took a bite. " I love these things".
" What are they?".
He smiled. " Hostess Devil's Food zingers".
She remembered something. " Oh, I need you to do me a favor".
He gave her a peck on the cheek. " Anything".
" I need you to go and purchase our Halloween candy for tomorrow".
" Ok".
research help: original story
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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