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
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