grace May 31

grace May 31 by ric Gustafson


With all the trials in our life, it is easy to have anxiety. Our spirit is greatly affected. Fear and doubt can enter our heart and spirit. Jesus says give your fear and anxiety to me. We need to turn to Jesus every day. We need to read God's Word, reflect on our life and turn to Jesus. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to cleanse our hearts and make them pure again. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 30

grace May 30 by ric Gustafson


It is easy to feel frustrated and hurt when someone does us wrong. Hate can enter our hearts. This can leave Jesus's love out. Jesus says to give me our hurts and worries. Jesus wants us to love others even if they do us wrong. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with joy and peace.
Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: God's presence

favor: God's presence by ric Gustafson


We feel peace in our heart knowing God is with us. Jesus wants to be involved in every aspect and situation in our life. In everything in our life, Jesus will give us peace. God knows everything about us good and bad. Nothing we do surprises him. Jesus is with us to direct, guide and lead us into becoming more like him. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 apprection banquet page 11

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 11 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took a sip of water.
" Our next honoree was a soldier of honor".
Jesus smiled. " He understood the authority of my Father".
" He took 10,000 soldiers to fight for my Father".
Jesus walked over to the man. " He listened to my Father".
" He destroyed Jabin the king of Canaan".
" Barak, please stand up".
Jesus gave him a hug.
" My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 29

grace May 29 by ric Gustafson


Jesus wants us to be pure in heart. But it may not lead to an outcome we desire. When we try to open the hearts and minds of others, the outcome may not be what we desire. We are not called to worldly success, we are called to love. Love to all is the highest good. Jesus sends us the Holy Spirit to help us gain a pure, open and loving heart. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: Jesus is Immanuel

favor: Jesus is Immanuel by ric Gustafson


Jesus is Immanuel which means the Almighty God is with us. Our loving Father is always with us. We struggle with our sins. Our transformation begins when we turn to Jesus for help. We are successful when Jesus is with us. Jesus is there to help us, assist us, turn things around and make good things happen for us. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 10

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 10 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took a sip of water.
" Our next honoree lived during a time of great moral decline".
" My Father called him a mighty man of valor".
Jesus smiled at the man.
" He faithfully destroyed a town's altar built for Baal".
" He fought my Father's foes with only 300 men".
He walked over to the man.
" My Father confirmed his calling".
" Gideon, please stand up".
He gave him a hug.
" My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 28

grace May 28 by ric Gustafson


Those who sacrifice for others are rewarded in heaven. If someone has lost someone who served it is hard sometimes on Memorial Day. But according to John 11, Jesus proclaims that he is the resurrection and the life he who believes in me though he may die he shall live.
Jesus gives us his love daily. He says give me your doubts and worries. Our loved ones are safe and sound in Jesus's peace. That is a comforting thought on Memorial Day. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 8

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 8 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took a sip of water.
" Our next honoree is a woman who remembered my Father's promises".
Jesus frowned. " Pharaoh was doing evil things to my Father's children".
Jesus smiled. " Then this honoree saved a special boy who would rescue my Father's people later".
" This special woman executed and acted by faith".
" She was blessed by my Father because of her obedience".
He walked over to the woman. " Jochebed, please stand up".
He gave her a hug.
" My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 26

grace May 26 by ric Gustafson


When we live in fear, our spirit gasps for air. Our spirit wants to breathe in joy. Isaiah 41:10 says do not fear for I am with you. We have Jesus's victory. Jesus defeated death so we can be with him and God forever. We can feel Jesus in our heart. In Jesus we are safe, victorious and protected. Jesus says abide in me I will abide in you. The Holy Spirit will keep us safe. Praise God


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreciation banquet page 8

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreciation banquet page 8 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took a sip of water.
" Our next honoree had a hard life".
He smiled at her. " But this woman risked everything to help my Father's people".
Jesus smiled again. " She exhibited something that my Father is searching for in people".
He walked up to the woman. " She exhibited audacious faith".
" This woman's past did not stop her from serving my Father".
" Rahab, please stand up".
Jesus gave her a hug.
" My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: God's love is personal

favor: God's love is personal by ric Gustafson


Jesus cares for us. It is in God's Word. God is involved in every moment of our lives. We could think that Jesus does not care what happens to us. The truth is that Jesus loves us more than anything else in the world. According to Matthew 10:29, we are of more value than a sparrow. Jesus calls us by name. Nothing is more important to Jesus than us. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical finds: Gedaliah's seal

biblical finds: Gedaliah's seal by ric Gustafson


You probably have never heard of Gedaliah. During the time of Jeremiah the prophet, the people of Judah were rebellious. They worshipped idols and consulted the stars. Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon destroyed Jerusalem. He put Gedaliah there as governor over the poor. He was murdered there. In 1935, a clay seal was found in Lachish Israel. The inscription on it reads ' belonging to Gedaliah'. Praise God.


research help: ' Etched in Stone' by Lisette Bassett Brody


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 25

grace May 25 by ric Gustafson


Trials happen in our lives that we can not control. People close to us pass away. When we should be happy and joyful, sorrow and pain sets in. There is one eternal thing that will never change. And that is Jesus's love for us. Not only does Jesus give us his love on a daily basis, he also wants us to love others the same. Spreading Jesus's love to others will flood our hearts with peace. Yes we will have sadness in this life. But with Jesus's love we will have joy. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 7

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 7 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took another sip of water.
" Our next honoree had hopes and dreams since he was a teenager".
Jesus smiled at the man. " He endured many trials including being betrayed by his brothers and sold as a slave".
Jesus smiled again. " Yet among all these trials, he was faithful to my Father".
" He trusted my Father". His voice hesitated. " That simple act of faith is the most important thing to my Father".
He walked over to the man.
" Joseph, please stand up".
He gave him a hug.
" My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: God is able and willing

favor: God is able and willing by ric Gustafson


According to Matthew 8: 1-3, a leper came to Jesus. He said Lord if you are willing you can make me clean. Jesus replied " I am willing be cleansed". Jesus always says I am willing. It's easy to doubt and ask God why would you bless me?. We need to believe in God's goodness and receive good from him. He touched the leper which was unheard of. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical finds: the Edomites pottery vessels

biblical finds: the Edomites pottery vessels by ric Gustafson


The Edomites were descendants of Esau. Their territory was called Edom. Around 586 BC, the word came down from the Lord that Edom would be cut off and there would be no survivors. Between 1938 and 1940, pottery vessels were discovered near Aqaba Jordan. One of the vessels read ' Qosgeber King of Edom'. Praise God.


research help: ' Etched in Stone' by Lisette Bassett Brody


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 24

grace May 24 by ric Gustafson


Jesus wants to hold our hand and walk with us through life. According to John 14:1, Jesus says do not let your heart be troubled. We need to surrender ourselves and let Jesus take control. Jesus says let go of what binds us and let him take care of it. We need to relax in Jesus's arms.
Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical finds: David's stone slab

biblical finds: David's stone slab by ric Gustafson


King David was the son of Jesse and the youngest of eight brothers. He was a shepherd by trade and defeated Goliath. The prophet Samuel anointed him as king. David had eight wives. According to Acts 13:22, David was a man after God's own heart. In 1993, a basalt stone slab was discovered in the Golan Heights. On the slab was the inscription ' the House of David'. The stone slab now resides at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.


research help: ' Etched in Stone' by Lisette Bassett Brody


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: Jesus's job description

favor: Jesus's job description by ric Gustafson


Jesus is my Savior. When we call the name of Jesus, we are calling God himself. Saving us is Jesus's job description. No matter what trials we are going through, we need to call on Jesus. God will save us. Jesus wants to save us. He loves us more than anything else in this world. Jesus is our Savior.
Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical finds: Cyrus's clay cylinder

biblical finds: Cyrus's clay cylinder by ric Gustafson


Cyrus was the king of Persia  and reigned from 559 to 530 BC. At the time, his empire was the largest in the world. According to Ezra chapter 1, Cyrus returned Temple articles belonging to the Lord. This included more than five thousand items of silver and gold. A nine inch clay cylinder was discovered in present day Iraq. The cylinder read ' I am Cyrus'.


research help: ' Etched in Stone' by Lisette Bassett Brody


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 22

grace May 22 by ric Gustafson


It is easy to be jealous. We can envy what somebody else has. We can envy someone's job, bank account or marriage. Jesus does not want us to act this way. Jesus gives us himself. What Jesus gives to us is perfect, beautiful and eternal. Jesus wants us to live in eternal peace and joy. The Holy Spirit will flood our heart with Jesus's joy. Jesus says surrender to me. Praise God


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: Jesus our perfect hero

favor: Jesus our perfect hero by ric Gustafson


We can be real with Jesus. We can be with him and be ourselves. We can talk to Jesus about anything. We can talk to him about our hopes and dreams. He wants to help us with our daily trials. He wants to weep and rejoice with us. Jesus says turn away from ourselves and turn to me. Jesus was all man and all God. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 21

grace May 21 by ric Gustafson


When we have trials in our life, sometimes we can feel pain and distress. Jesus reminds us that we are not alone. He will send the Holy Spirit to comfort us. Jesus paid a heavy price for us. Jesus wants us to be filled with the Holy Spirit every day. Jesus wants the Holy Spirit to fill up our heart every day. Jesus loves us now and forever. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: who you have

favor: who you have by ric Gustafson


Would you consider yourself a successful person?. God's definition of success is different than the world's definition. It is not based on God but based on us. The good life on this earth is temporal and can end just as fast. Genesis 39:2 says it is not what you have  but who you have. Joseph had everything because he had God. We need to pursue God. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical finds: Caiaphas's ossuary

biblical finds: Caiaphas's ossuary by ric Gustafson


Caiaphas was high priest during the time of Pontius Pilate. He was the leader of the Sadducees and the head of the Sanhedrin. Caiaphas was able to arrest Jesus with the help of Judas Iscariot. Caiaphas was a key figure in the final events of Jesus's life.
In 1990 while building a water park south of the Temple Mount, a hidden burial room was discovered. Twelve limestone ossuaries were discovered. The name ' Caiaphas' was inscribed on one of them.


research help: ' Etched in Stone' by Lisette Bassett Brody


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 20

grace May 20 by ric Gustafson


We want Jesus to have 100 percent of out life. The problem is that we hold a little back so that we are still in charge a little bit. Our sinful self wants to be in charge of our life. But Jesus wants 100 percent of us all the time. Jesus wants us to take five minutes and surrender to him. Allow our thoughts and worries to be taken to Jesus and let him take care of it for us. He will send the Holy Spirit to cleanse our heart and let Jesus have 100 percent of it. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical finds: the Ammonites Ostraca

biblical finds: the Ammonites Ostraca by ric Gustafson


In Genesis 19, Lot is visited by two angels. He is told that Sodom and Gomorrah was going to be destroyed. Lot, his wife and daughters flee to nearby Zoar. There were many wars between the Ammonites and the Israelites. This feud continued through Saul and King David.
One expedition to Tell Hesban Jordan revealed potsherds from the Ammonite period of 586 BC. Frank Cross confirmed the potsherds as being authentic.
Amman is still the name of the capital of Jordan.


research help: ' Etched in Stone' by Lisette Bassett Brody


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical finds: the clay seal of Ahaz

biblical finds: the clay seal of Ahaz by ric Gustafson


Ahaz was the son of Jotham. Jotham was the king of Judah. Ahaz was twenty years old when he became king according to II Kings 16: 1-2. Ahaz was king in Jerusalem for sixteen years. He was king of the southern tribes from 732 to 716 BC.  Robert Deutsch confirmed the finding of the seal in the southern part of the West Bank. The seal reads ' belonging to Ahaz son of Yotam King of Judah'.


research help: ' Etched in Stone' by Lisette Bassett Brody


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 6

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 6 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took another sip of water.
" Our next honoree survived his spiritual race in grace".
He frowned. " But he did not start his race very well".
" First, he cheated his brother Esau of his first born birthright". His voice hesitated. " Then he tried to destroy his brother's future again".
Jesus frowned at the man. " Then he ran".
Jesus then smiled. " Then he stopped running and sought my Father".
He walked over to the man. " He wrestled and suffered to reach the finish line".
" Jacob, please stand up".
He gave him a hug.
" My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 17

grace May 17 by ric Gustafson


It is easy to go back to old habits when stressed out or worried about things. But instead of going back to destructive habits of the flesh, Jesus says come to me. He will send the Holy Spirit to soothe our heart and give us true relief. Because we cannot see Jesus, we need to trust him by faith. We need to study God's Word and listen for Jesus's voice. If we turn to Jesus instead, we do not have to go back to old destructive habits. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 5

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 5 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took another sip of water.
" Our next honoree was selected for this banquet by the Holy Spirit".
He smiled at the man. " He was marked by faith".
Jesus smiled again. " He blessed his sons".
" Not only did he bless his son Jacob".
Jesus smiled again. " He also blessed his son Esau as well".
He walked over to the man. " Isaac, please stand up".
He gave him a hug.
" My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 16

grace May 16 by ric Gustafson


When we take care of another person, we can feel at times tired and angry. When we are a caregiver for someone, we can suffer negatively also. Jesus says that we will also experience joy. The Holy Spirit will keep our heart connected to Jesus. The Holy Spirit will transform our life with moments of eternal joy.
So how do we stay connected to Jesus?. We let the Holy Spirit fill us with love and joy. We need to soak up Jesus's love. We need to pray and spend time with Jesus every day. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 4

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreciation banquet page 4 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took a sip of water.
" Next, we are honoring a couple who obeyed my Father by faith".
Jesus smiled. " This couple left their home and everything to go to a new land in Canaan".
" Then the wife conceived a promised child at age 91".
Jesus smiled at the husband.
" He was willing to sacrifice his son's life for my Father".
Jesus smiled at the man. " He had the faith to trust and obey". His voice hesitated. " He had righteousness".
Jesus walked over to the couple.
" Abraham and Sarah, please stand up".
He gave them both a hug.
" My Father and I love you both".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 14

grace May 14 by ric Gustafson


Jesus desires us to have a pure and giving heart. But pride holds us back. Jesus says give your pride to me. Jesus wants to take all of our stress and worries away from us. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to us to fill our heart with love and joy. The Holy Spirit will bring us into communion with Jesus.
Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreciation banquet page 3

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreciation banquet page 3 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took another sip of water.
" Our next honoree was a righteous man who feared my Father".
Jesus then frowned. " The earth at that time was evil and wicked". His voice hesitated. " My Father decided to destroy it".
Jesus then smiled. " Then my Father looked to one man for an assignment that seemed impossible".
He pointed at the man. " This man built a giant ark for my Father based on specific instructions".
He walked over to the man. " Because he listened to my Father and accomplished what he was asked to do".
He put a hand on his shoulder. " He and his family were saved".
" Noah, please stand up".
Jesus gave him a hug. " My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 13

grace May 13 by ric Gustafson


The trials we face in this human life can make us feel devastated at times. Jesus knows that. He says come to me, I will not fail you. When a loved one disappoints us, we can feel resentment. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to mend our hearts and heal them. Jesus will release his love to us and we will be cleansed like the leper in Matthew 8: 2-3. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 12

grace May 12 by ric Gustafson


We face pain and suffering every day. If it continues day after day, it is easy to say to God why?. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says come to me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest.
Through suffering, we gain strength and share in God's glory. Our trials in life are not punishments. They are invitations to wholeness. Jesus is always with us that is our reward. Jesus says rest in my arms and know that we will always be safe. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

favor: it matters to Jesus

favor: it matters to Jesus by ric Gustafson


Jesus loves to bless us. He is interested in our total well being. There is no limit to blessings in our life. We are important to Jesus. Jesus knows, accepts and loves us perfectly. Jesus gives us unmerited favor. He gives us favor we do not deserve. Jesus's unmerited favor will protect, deliver, prosper and restore us. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 2

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaction banquet page 2 by ric Gustafson


Jesus took another sip of water.
" The next person we will be honoring tonight pleased my Father".
Jesus smiled at him. " This person pleased my Father so much". His voice hesitated. " He couldn't wait to have him with him".
He smiled again.
" He is unique because he was taken to heaven before dying on this earth".
Jesus frowned. " The earth before the flood was filled with evil people with evil in their hearts".
Jesus walked over to the man. " Enoch, please stand up".
He hugged him. " My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 11

grace May 11 by ric Gustafson


When we have a hole in our heart, we try to fill it with something. Because we do not feel complete we feel that something is missing. Our heart feels empty and we feel that something is missing.
Jesus tells us come to me and I will make your heart complete. He will send the Holy Spirit to mend and fill our hearts with joy and completeness. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Favor: meditate on Jesus

Favor: meditate on Jesus by ric Gustafson


When we meditate on God's Word, we meditate on Jesus. Jesus is the Word made flesh. Jesus is our Shepherd. The Shepherd provides, feeds and protects his sheep. Jesus is always present with us. When we meditate on Jesus, our soul is nourished. Jesus will direct our steps. When we meditate on Jesus, according to Joshua 1:8, you will make your way prosperous  and then you will have good success. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 10

grace May 10 by ric Gustafson


Jesus made the greatest sacrifice for us. He promised us that he would return to take us home. Even though physically he is not present, he is with us here today. Through our hearts, we know that Jesus is here among us. Jesus wants us to feel him and his love. He will send the Holy Spirit to comfort our hearts and souls. Jesus is always with us. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreaciation banquet page 1

the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreciation banquet page 1 by ric Gustafson


Jesus stood up and walked to the podium. He took a sip of bottled water that was sitting nearby. He waited until the applause died down.
" Welcome to the 2018 Hebrews 11 appreciation banquet". He smiled. " Michael is watching the door so we will begin".
" Our first man of faith tonight offered to my Father a more acceptable sacrifice than his brother".
Jesus smiled. " He has been commended as righteous". His voice hesitated. " My Father commended him by accepting his gifts".
Jesus smiled at the man. " And through his faith though he died he still speaks".
Jesus walked over to the man. " Abel, please stand up". He hugged him. " My Father and I love you".


research help: ' Marathon Faith' by John Van Pay


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Schindler page 2

Schindler page 2 by ric Gustafson


By March 1941, there was room for up to 15,000 Jews in the Krakow ghetto. Between June and October 1942, 11,000 of these Jews were sent to the Belzec death camp. On March 13 1943, Untersturmfuhrer Amon Goeth liquidated the camp. Those not killed were sent to a nearby labor camp. This camp run by Amon Goeth was called Krakow Plaszow. Schindler's workers were marched from this labor camp to his factory each day.
In August of 1944, Schindler had to reduce his work force. In October of 1944, Schindler moved his factory to Brinnlitz Czechoslovakia. Only 300 of his original workers were left. On the way to Brinnlitz, the male workers stopped at a camp called Gross Rosen. The female workers had to stay for about three weeks at Auschwitz. All of the workers male and female were protected because they were Schindler's.


research help: ' Schindler's Legacy' by Elinor Brecher


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John 3:16 the world

John 3:16  the world by ric Gustafson


The sixth word of this famous bible verse we find the object of God's love. God loves the world. God's love is for all mankind. God is love. God loves the lovable and the unlovable. God loves all the people of the world. God loves every individual. God's love is more deeper and more profound than any love I have. God's love is perfect and infinite. Praise God.


research help: ' God loves you' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 9

grace May 9 by ric Gustafson


When someone breaks our trust, it is hard to trust them again. Peter denied Jesus three times. Jesus forgave him. When you feel betrayed, Jesus says come to me. He will send the Holy Spirit to comfort our heart and heal it. The Holy Spirit brings the truth and also brings God's love. Love and joy will replace betrayal and mistrust. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Favor: Looking to Jesus

Favor: Looking to Jesus by ric Gustafson


Jesus wants us to look at him instead of ourselves. When we keep our eyes on Jesus, miracles happen. Peter got out of a boat and walked on water toward Jesus. It was only when his eyes left Jesus that he began to sink. When we keep our focus on Jesus, we will be transformed into his image from glory to glory. There is power when we look at Jesus. Praise God.


research help: ' 100 days of favor' by Joseph Prince


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John 3:16 For God so loved

John 3:16  For God so loved by ric Gustafson


All people in their hearts believe that they are unworthy sinners. But Christians know John 3:16. At the start of this famous bible verse, God proclaims that he loves us. He says that he so loves the world. God loves us and tells us this. God did not just say I love you. God loves us so much he sent his only Son to die for us so we can be with him forever. Praise God.


research help: ' God loves you' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Schindler page 1

Schindler page 1 by ric Gustafson


Oskar Schindler was born in the Sudetenland in 1908. He applied for Nazi Party membership on Feb 10 1939. Before that, he was briefly jailed for a being a spy for the Czechs. In Krakow Poland, he took over an enamelware plant at 4 Lipowa Street.  He renamed the plant Deutsche Enamelware Fabrik. He began producing pots, pans and mess kits for the German army. In March 1941, the Nazi governor of the Krakow District Hans Frank established the Krakow Ghetto. By the end of 1942, Schindler was employing 370 Jewish workers. Word was spreading that his factory was a safe haven.


research help: ' Schindler's Legacy' by Elinor Brecher


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 8

grace May 8 by ric Gustafson


We can look into a mirror and shudder at what we see. We see an aging body that frightens us. In Song of Solomon 4:7 it says you are altogether beautiful there is no flaw in you.
We have a physical self and an inner spiritual self. The truth is God does not look at our physical self. God looks into our inner spiritual self. And what he sees is someone who is beautiful and handsome. The truth is God loves us more than anything else in this world. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 5

grace May 5 by ric Gustafson


Sometimes Jesus was treated like a black sheep. Jesus was the lamb without a blemish. Jesus understood the pain of rejection. We see what is in front of us. We cannot see the whole picture of our life. God can see our entire life. What we want is not always what God has for us. The Holy Spirit will give us spiritual truth. Rest in God. It is a great place to be. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wallenberg page 9

Wallenberg page 9 by ric Gustafson


In early December 1944, Wallenberg wrote to his mother. He did not tell her that he was being targeted by the Arrow Cross. They were breaking into Swedish Embassy buildings and arresting people. With the Soviets near the Majestic Hotel, Eichmann fled the city. There were only two hundred Jews hiding at Wallenberg's headquarters. The Arrow Cross was killing Jews wherever they could find them.
On January 6 1945, Wallenberg knew the end was near. The Soviet army had enclosed Budapest. Wallenberg looked tired and pale. The next day, he began to fear for his own life. The Arrow Cross were murdering people all over Budapest. On January 17, Wallenberg knew what he had to do. He told his staff that he was going to visit the Soviet army headquarters. He left with two Red army soldiers. He was never seen again. What happened to him is a mystery to this day.
When the Soviets totally liberated Budapest, only 124,000 Jews were left. It is said that 100,000 of those Jews were saved by Raoul Wallenberg.

The End


research help: ' The Envoy' by Alex Kershaw


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wallenberg page 8

Wallenberg page 8 by ric Gustafson


When Jews were forced to march to Hegyeshalom, Wallenberg saved two hundred. He knew that Eichmann was getting fed up by his actions. It was now November of 1944. Wallenberg had 550 Jews helping him with his rescue efforts. The International Red Cross and the Swedish Legation was also helping Wallenberg.
On November 23 1944, Wallenberg and his aides arrived at Hegyeshalom at 7 am. Eichmann was already there filling boxcars with Jews. Wallenberg tried to intervene. Eichmann ignored his pleas and ordered his deputy to deal with the Swedish diplomat. Wallenberg was able to save three hundred deportees that day.  That night, Eichmann celebrated the deportations. For the few saved by Wallenberg, thousands upon thousands were being deported to their deaths.
Physically, the stress was starting to get to the Swedish diplomat.


research help: ' The Envoy' by Alex Kershaw


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

come to the table: table talk

come to the table: table talk by ric Gustafson


According to Colossians 4:6, the Apostle Paul instructs us that our conversation be gracious and attractive. Paul talked about it because he thought it was important. Conversation is important because it is personal and a way to share our faith. Jesus wants our conversation around the table to be holy, sharing and a gift of words. Praise God.


research help: ' The Life Giving Table' by Sally Clarkson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 4

grace May 4 by ric Gustafson


As we get older, our body changes. Our body is getting weaker and our mind is not as sharp. As we get older, we can become bitter and discouraged. Instead of concentrating on our physical bodies, we should think about eternity. We should think about God's Kingdom and the joy we will experience there. The Holy Spirit gives us spiritual food. Jesus is the spiritual food that we need for eternity. The Holy Spirit will lift our worried hearts. Praise God


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

come to the table: a table of hospitality

come to the table: a table of hospitality by ric Gustafson


When we show hospitality, we are caring for the needs of others. When we welcome others to our home, we welcome them to the table. Romans 12:13 tells us as God's people to always be eager to practice hospitality. Jesus wants us to be stewards of our home and minister to the needs of others. If we do this daily, Jesus will bless us. Praise God.


research help: ' The Life Giving Table' by Sally Clarkson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 3

grace May 3 by ric Gustafson


According to Luke 14:11, Jesus says for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted. Jesus does not want us to elevate ourselves above others. Jesus said that the first will be last. Jesus does not want us to boast. We must be very careful about our words and what we say. With our pride, there is no room for Jesus's love, peace and joy. Jesus will turn our suffering to joy. That is his promise. Praise God.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 71: 17-18

Psalms: Psalm 71: 17-18 by ric Gustafson


King David is now old. He proclaims that he does not want God to forget him. He is not worried. He knows that God has protected him his whole life. He knows that God will not forget him on the last leg of his earthly journey. David wants to teach more lessons to the youth. I pray on the last leg of my earthly journey that God will not forget me. Praise God.


research help: ' Living the Ancient Psalms' by Judith Galas


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wallenberg page 7

Wallenberg page 7 by ric Gustafson


Thousands of Jews were now being put into synagogues and given no food or water. Wallenberg's car was stolen and his driver arrested. He and Charles Lutz went to the Dohay Street synagogue and was able to get released several hundred Jews being held. Most of the Jews hiding in Wallenberg's safe houses did survive the war.
On October 18 1944, the Arrow Cross tried to formally end Wallenberg's attempts to save Jews. The Arrow Cross began a reign of terror across Budapest. The Gestapo and the SS also tried to stop Wallenberg's efforts. All of the Jews protected by Wallenberg were stripped of their protection. Frustrated, Wallenberg went to the wife of Hungary's new foreign minister Galor Kemeny. On October 22 1944, the protective status of Wallenberg's Jews was restarted.
At Wallenberg's office alone, 300 Jews were taking refuge there.


research help: ' The Envoy' by Alex Kershaw


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

come to the table: the home table

come to the table: the home table by ric Gustafson


Yes we can eat at our home table. But it is much more than that. We also dwell on God's Word that will strengthen our hearts and minds. We create and cultivate a life giving table. We gather and come together around the table. The word koinonia comes from Christians gathering around a table. We bless and thank God for the meal we are about to eat. We eat together and break bread. We open our hearts and share a meal with others. Lastly, we can serve and give of ourselves.


research help: ' The Life Giving Table' by Sally Clarkson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 2

grace May 2 by ric Gustafson


Sometimes we hold grudges, hates and anger in our hearts. According to Matthew 6:26, we are of more value than the birds of the air. God wants us to have love in our hearts not hate. When our love for others increase, God's love for us increases. God will send the Holy Spirit to clear out the negative junk from our heart and fill it with his love. That is God's promise to us.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Let's Sing: singing with the local church

Let's Sing: singing with the local church by ric Gustafson


God wants us to sing together as the local church. We are united in God and filled by the Holy Spirit. We are one church in God and we offer our praise to him. God wants us to sing together. We show our creativity through singing. We show communication through singing. We show community through singing. Lastly, we witness by singing together. Praise God.

The End


research help: ' Sing' by Keith and Kristyn Getty


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

grace May 1

grace May 1 by ric Gustafson


Sometimes we can feel that God simply is not there. We can doubt if God loves us or not. God wants us to know that he is always there. Even if we do not always feel his presence, he is always there. We can feel God when we help someone in need. We can feel God when we forgive someone who has wronged us. When we give love, God pours out his love for us. We abide in God's love. The truth is God loves us more than anything else in this world.


research help: Simple Grace May 2018


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric