knowing God: you can trust God's promises

knowing God: you can trust God's promises by ric gustafson


The truth is God always keeps his word. If he gives you a promise, he will fulfill it. It may not be according to our timetable. It will be according to God's will for our life. We want things to change right now. We need to trust God by faith. When we accept his Son, God gives us hope and an eternal promise. We will be with God forever. God will never leave or forsake us. When we sin, broken separation from God happens. We have pride and shame and then death.
God always keeps his promises. That is a promise from God. Praise God.


research help: ' In Step with God' by Charles Stanley


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

who's coming page 2

who's coming page 2 by ric gustafson


" Jesus of course". Moochie downed a glass of punch. " He's coming".
Franklin bit into a pickle from a vegetable tray. " I don't believe in God or Jesus".
John bit into a cracker with hummus on top. " We need to get ready to meet Jesus".
" Please" Franklin exclaimed. He pointed at the food and drinks table. " Enjoy my New Year's Eve party".
" Yes". John took off his party hat. " We need to get ready to meet him".
" Please put the hat back on". Franklin poured himself some punch. " Please enjoy my party".
Moochie was smiling as he ran around the room. " Jesus is coming".
" Moochie, stop doing that". Franklin sat down. He was starting to get a headache.


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knowing God: God's way

knowing God: God's way by ric gustafson


We do not know why God moves in a certain direction. If we are willing, the Holy Spirit will give us a desire to learn his ways. If we want to know God's ways, we need to be alone with him. God's ways and his plans are perfect. Some people get scared at the notion of knowing God. God asks us to surrender to him. God desires our fellowship. God asks that we pursue him. I pray that we will do that. Praise God.


research help: ' In step with God' by Charles Stanley


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who's coming? page 1

who's coming? page 1 by ric gustafson


The doorbell rang. Franklin Munche walked over and opened the door. An older couple smiled at him.
" Hello John and Doreen". He ushered them into his decorated foyer. " Welcome to my New Year's Eve party".
" Franklin, we would not miss it". They handed him their coats. They walked over to talk to some guests.
Franklin walked upstairs and put their coats on his bed. As he came back downstairs, the doorbell rang again. He opened the door.
" Happy New Year Franklin" exclaimed George Kimball. His wife Margaret was standing next to him. They were ushered into the foyer. " How's the party going?".
" Ok". He took their coats. " It's even better now that you and Margaret are here".
He took their coats and put them on the bed. As he came back downstairs, the doorbell rang again.
He opened the door.
His friend Moochie was standing there smiling.
" Happy New Year Moochie".
His friend ran in. " He's coming".
Franklin gave his friend a strange look. " Who's coming?".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

knowing God: intimacy with God

knowing God: intimacy with God by ric gustafson


Do you know who God is?. Do you know his ways?. True intimacy is fellowship with others. God wants a close personal and intimate relationship with us. We were created to have fellowship with God. God loves us. He loves the sinner. Fellowship with God needs to be the core of our being. We need to have a heart for God. God says know me and I will be with you forever.


research help: ' In step with God' by Charles Stanley


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Christmas: Matthew 2: 7-8

Christmas: Matthew 2: 7-8 by ric gustafson


A group of wise men from the East had knowledge of Jesus's birth. They asked King Herod if he knew where he was to be born?. Herod told these Magi that he too wanted to honor the birth of this child. He told these wise men to find the child and then to tell him where he is. The wise men were according to legend as Balthasar, Melchior and Gaspar. The intentions of Herod were evil.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Matthew 2: 3-6

Christmas: Matthew 2: 3-6 by ric gustafson


Not everyone celebrated the birth of Jesus. King Herod was not pleased to hear that a child just born was being called the Messiah. To Herod, he was a threat. Herod was frightened. Herod gathered all the chief priests and scribes. He wanted to know where this new Messiah was to be born. He was told Bethlehem of Judaea. This was predicted by the prophets. Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 2: 17-19

Christmas: Luke 2: 17-19 by ric gustafson


The shepherds are so excited about the child that they leave and proclaim his name. Christmas carols have been written about this joy they felt. Mary treasured the words of the shepherds. Mary also pondered in her heart the words of the shepherds. Mary was thoughtful and modest. We need to adopt Mary's heart. We need to quietly and reverently obey and love God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Oz80 page 9

Oz80 page 9 by ric gustafson


Born in August of 1884, Billie Burke was the daughter of circus performers. She studied ballet and took singing lessons. Burke married producer Florenz Ziegfeld in 1914. Billie made her feature film debut in 1916. She was the only choice to play Glinda in the Wizard of Oz. She was the Good Witch of the North. She was adored by all.

The End


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek


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Christmas: Luke 2: 15-16

Christmas: Luke 2: 15-16 by ric gustafson


After the angels left the shepherds, they decided to go to Bethlehem and see what was taking place. When they found the family, it was exactly as the angels told them. If the shepherds had stayed in the field, they would of missed out on the holy scene. We must put our faith into action. Who knows what blessings await us when we follow God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 2: 13-14

Christmas: Luke 2: 13-14 by ric gustafson


After a celestial display, something else happened. Along with the angel, there was a multitude of the heavenly host. This was an army of angels. The angel and the multitude exclaimed ' glory to God in the Highest'. God's gift to us was his Son Jesus who came to save us.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 2: 10-12

Christmas: Luke 2: 10-12 by ric gustafson


The shepherds were afraid and terrified. Then the angel told them of a holy birth in Bethlehem. The angel proclaims that the Savior is born to you. The good news of Jesus's birth was given to us. The angel brought good news of great joy to us. Jesus the holy child was born and then put into a trough used for the feeding of livestock. We are truly the children of God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Oz80 page 8

Oz80 page 8 by ric gustafson


By the early 1930's, Frank Morgan was an MGM veteran. He had already gotten an Oscar nomination. He said yes right away to being in the Wizard of Oz. He was so excited that he agreed to play more than one role in the soon to be famous movie. He played the Wizard of Oz. He played Professor Marvel. He played the Coachman. He played the Gatekeeper.
After Oz, Morgan acted constantly until he died.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek.


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Christmas: Luke 2: 8-9

Christmas: Luke 2: 8-9 by ric gustafson


Being a shepherd was hard. It was long days in all kinds of weather. Shepherds basically lived in the fields with their flock. One night, an angel appeared among them. The glory of the Lord shown around them. This was different.
Do we react to a religious moment in fear?. These shepherds were in amazement. Would we react the same if it happened to us?. I hope so. Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 2: 4-7

Christmas: Luke 2: 4-7 by ric gustafson


According to Luke 2, Jesus was laid in a manger. A manger was a long open trough used to feed livestock. The couple had to stay in a stable. There was no other place for them to stay. Animals were probably near them.
Jesus entered our history the way we all do. Jesus endured all the pain and sorrow we all experience. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 1: 57-64

Christmas: Luke 1: 57-64 by ric gustafson


The angel told Zechariah and Elizabeth that their child was to be called John. She tells friends and family that John is going to be his name. They are amazed that she is going against Jewish custom. They give her alternate names to use. They ask Zechariah to uphold the tradition. He asks for a writing tablet. He writes that his name is to be John. Then Zechariah's tongue is freed. He praises God for granting them this holy child. Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Oz80 page 7

Oz80 page 7 by ric gustafson


Margaret Hamilton was a kindergarten teacher. In 1932, she got her first break on Broadway. She was asked to reprise her role in a film version. She started doing roles playing women with a heart of gold and a corset of steel. Her directors included Frank Capra, Fritz Lang and Busby Berkeley. She became the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz after Gale Sondergaard dropped out.
In one scene of the famous movie, Hamilton suffered second and third degree burns on her face and hands. She finished her role several weeks later.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek


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Christmas: Luke 1: 46-48

Christmas: Luke 1: 46-48 by ric gustafson


Elizabeth declares a blessing on Mary's womb. Mary is joyful over what Elizabeth says. Mary's response is called the Magnificat. Mary's response has been used in prayers, hymns and choral music. God gives grace and favor to Mary. Mary's soul magnified the Lord. Mary's response comes from her soul. Mary was joyful and praised God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 1: 39-42

Christmas: Luke 1: 39-42 by ric gustafson


Mary takes a trip to see Elizabeth. She spends the last three months of her pregnancy with her. When they greet, the baby in Elizabeth leaped. She exclaims to Mary " blessed are you among women". This is an important part of the Christmas story. These two women share a blessed and holy secret.
Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 1: 36-38

Christmas: Luke 1: 36-38 by ric gustafson


The angel Gabriel told Mary some interesting news. Elizabeth was to also have a child. He tells Mary that nothing is impossible with God. Mary did not argue or resist. She simply said here am I. Let it be with me according to your Word. Mary kept her heart open to God's calling. Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Matthew 1: 20-21

Christmas: Matthew 1: 20-21 by ric gustafson


Not only did Mary receive an angel, so did Joseph. According to Matthew, an angel appeared to Joseph. He appears in one of Joseph's dreams. He tells Joseph that the child Mary is carrying is from God. That his name will be Jesus. And that he would save his people from their sins.
Joseph accepted the role. He became a loving and protective father to Jesus.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 1: 30-35

Christmas: Luke 1: 30-35 by ric gustafson


The angel Gabriel told Mary not to be afraid. He told her that she had found favor with God. She would conceive and bear a son. She was to name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever. His kingdom will have no end.
Mary said to the angel " How can this be?". He told Mary that the child born to her will be holy and will be called the Son of God". God loves you more than anything else.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 1: 26-29

Christmas: Luke 1: 26-29 by ric gustafson


The beginning of Jesus's birth is the appearance of the angel Gabriel. The angel was sent by God. This was in a town called Nazareth. Mary is perplexed . The angel tells her not to be afraid. Mary without hesitation listens to the angel. For one so young, Mary is strong and composed.
We need to accept the will of God. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 1: 19-20

Christmas: Luke 1: 19-20 by ric gustafson


Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth are old. They tried for many years to have children. They could not. They had given up all hope. Then one day, an angel tells Zechariah that his wife will have a child. He told the angel it was unthinkable. For this, Zechariah was struck dumb.
Zechariah and Elizabeth's son John would prepare the way for Jesus and his ministry. The fact is that God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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Christmas: Luke 1-13

Christmas: Luke 1-13 by ric gustafson


Christmas starts with Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth. They were an elderly childless couple. They are visited by an angel. Zechariah was terrified. He showed respect mixed with fear and wonder. God is a powerful force. We should bow our heads and tremble. The Holy Spirit is active in our lives. Zechariah was in the Temple when the angel came.
We need to pray to God for his presence in our life. God loves us more than anything else.
Praise God.


research help: ' The Miracle of Christmas' by Woman's Day


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the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 3

the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 3 by ric gustafson


" We are on that tree to represent gifts that the wise men brought".
" For the baby" exclaimed the ornaments.
" That's right".
" Now I'm beginning to understand" replied one of the sand dollars.
" We had been on that tree for so long" said the Red Christmas Choo Choo.
" Long, you call that long".
" Miss Gulch please".
The Jack in the Box bounced up and down. " Let's get back on that tree and remember why we are here".
The ornaments exclaimed. " Why are we here for?".
" That baby Jesus came to save us".
" Yeah" the ornaments exclaimed.
They picked up their hooks and proudly got back on the tree.

The End.


research help: original story


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The Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 2

the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 2 by ric gustafson


The Christmas Jack in the Box bounced onto a folding chair. " I called this meeting because of grumblings among us ornaments".
One of the sand dollars spoke up. " We're not sure why we are here?".
" What do you mean?".
" We were enjoying being in Florida". The sand dollar hesitated. " Then one day, someone put us into a box and brought us here". The sand dollar stared at the Jack in the Box. " Are we here by accident?".
" Well my pretty, I can cause accidents too".
" Miss Gulch, please".
" All of you who are not sure why you are here". His voice hesitated. " Raise your hooks".
All of them raised their hooks.
" I will try to explain why you are all here".
" These things must be done delicately".
" Miss Gulch, please".
Wanting to hear, the ornaments moved closer to the Jack in the Box.


research help: original story


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the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 1

the Christmas ornaments support group meeting page 1 by ric gustafson


The Christmas jack in the box bounced up to the podium. " Are we all here?".
" Christmas Dog".
" Here".
" Red Christmas Choo Choo".
" Here".
" White Nutcracker".
He bounced into the room. " Here".
" Miss Gulch".
All the ornaments looked around the room.
" Has anyone seen the new Hallmark Christmas ornament?".
" I'll get you my pretty".
" It looks like Miss Gulch has arrived".
" And your little dog too".


research help: original story


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being thankful: we will rejoice

being thankful: we will rejoice by ric gustafson


According to Psalm 118:24, we will rejoice and be glad in it. It is a decision on our part to enjoy the life Jesus has given us. We can decide to be happy and enjoy the life we have now. God wants us to enjoy our journey here now. We need to have a positive mind set that we are going to have joy on our spiritual journey. God loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' The Power of being Thankful' by Joyce Meyer


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

being thankful: change the world

being thankful: change the world by ric gustafson


God wants us to help other people. God wants us to love each other. God will bless us. Helping others can change the world. God wants us to live in love.
Genuine love is different. God's way is gratitude and love. We need to be a blessing to others. We need to put on love. We need to live like Jesus. We need to do good to others.
God loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' The Power of being Thankful' by Joyce Meyer


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

being thankful: God helping us

being thankful: God helping us by ric gustafson


As sinful people, we want to handle our own circumstances. God wants to take care of it for you. We struggle and get frustrated trying to solve our own problems. God says let me change it. God is in control of our lives. He always has. He always will. God encourages us to enjoy the wait. It takes patience to wait on God. When we wait, we honor God. He loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' The Power of being Thankful' by Joyce Meyer


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Oz 80 page 6

Oz 80 page 6 by ric gustafson


Bert Lahr was born and raised in New York City. Lahr's original name was Irving Lahreim. Lahr dropped out of school at 15. He joined a children's theater company. In the 1930's, Lahr headed to California. In Hollywood, Lahr was cast in the Wizard of Oz. His role was the Cowardly Lion. He was a source of comic relief and stole every scene he was in.
After Oz, Lahr was in musical comedies in the 1940's and 1950's. He admitted that he was typecast as a lion.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek


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being thankful: pray say and do

being thankful: pray say and do by ric gustafson


According to Romans 12:3, faith is given to everyone. But that faith needs to be unleashed in order for it to do any good. Are we full of faith?. Are we using our faith?. How do we release our faith?. Our faith is released by praying, saying and doing what God asks us to do. We invite God in by praying. We talk to God by saying. We do what God is asking us to do. We need to be thankful for the faith God has given us. Praise God.


research help: ' The Power of being Thankful' by Joyce Meyer


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

being thankful: plugged in

being thankful: plugged in by ric gustafson


What is the plug into the power of God?. That plug is our faith. A lamp can only give light when it is plugged into a power source. Unplugged, it will not work.
Are we unplugged?. Has fear stolen our faith. God wants us to have a new attitude. God will plug us in with faith, boldness and courage. That is his promise to us. Praise God.


research help: ' The Power of being Thankful' by Joyce Meyer


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Palestine bread: Khubez

Palestine bread: Khubez by ric gustafson


This is a common bread with meals. You need 14 oz of instant yeast. Warm water and sugar. Three and one fourth cups of all purpose flour. Three tablespoons of olive oil. 1-2 teaspoons of sesame seeds.
Mix yeast and warm water in a large bowl. Then add sugar and stir. Add flour and olive oil. Knead into a dough. Let the dough rise for an hour. Preheat oven to 465. Shape dough into balls. Let balls rise for 10 minutes. Flatten balls into pita shape. Bake for 5 minutes. Drizzle with olive oil and then sprinkle with sesame seeds.


research help:  ' Baladi' by Joudie Kalla


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Palestine bread: taboon bread

Palestine bread: taboon bread by ric gustafson


This bread is cooked in a clay oven called a taboon. Some people bake it on hot stones. You need two and a half cups of all purpose flour. One and a half cups bread flour. Instant yeast. Sugar and salt. Warm water. Olive oil.

Combine and mix until a dough forms. Set it aside for 30 to 45 minutes covered with a dish towel. Make 6 balls on a floured surface. Cook the dough in a dry frying pan for 1-2 minutes on each side. When done should be fluffy and soft.


research help: ' Baladi' by Joudie Kalla


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our daily bread store page4

our daily bread store page 4 by ric gustafson


Fran stood behind a tree. She watched as customers walked out of Wilma's store. She watched as they walked by her smiling. What surprised Fran was that hardly anyone was leaving with actual bread.
She stopped a customer. " This is a bread store right?".
" It sure is".
" How come you don't have any bread?".
" You should go in and check it out for yourself".
Fran quietly walked in. She walked past a rack of Palestine bread. She was shocked. Hardly anything looked like an actual bread store.
Wilma walked out of the backroom holding a bible.
" Wilma". She gave her a perplexed stare. " Why is there hardly any actual bread in this bread store?".
Wilma smiled as she opened the bible. " Give us this day our daily bread".
" What are you talking about?".
" Daily bread involves more than just physical bread".
" It does!".
" Daily bread includes our physical and spiritual bread".
" What about our hunger?".
She walked over and got a loaf of the wheat bread. She put it into a sack. " Our daily bread provides what we need from day to day". She put her bible into the sack. " I'm going to give you my bible". She gave Fran a hug. " Study the Lord's Prayer".
Fran picked up the sack and left.
A customer walked in.
" Welcome to Our Daily Bread Store".

The End


research help: the Ryrie Study Bible


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our daily bread store page 3

our daily bread store page 3 by ric gustafson


Fran was fuming as she stared across Highway 86. " The nerve of that Wilma Anderson" she muttered to herself. Just then, two of her favorite customers came out.
" Good morning Fran" Walter Fleming exclaimed as he munched on a slice of fresh bread. " It's a beautiful morning today".
" Yes it is". She smiled. " Thanks for coming in this morning".
" Doris and I love your homemade white bread".
" I'm glad to hear it".
He stared across the Highway. " Have you been over to ' Our Daily Bread Store?".
Fran frowned. " No, I haven't".
" She has some special bread that is out of this world".
" Oh really".
The elderly couple leaves.
Resentment and anger came to Fran's face.


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our daily bread store page 2

our daily bread store page 2 by ric gustafson


With anger in her eyes, Fran stared across Highway 86. " The nerve of that woman".
" I thought she used to be your best friend".
" When we were kids". She frowned at her grandson. " We stopped being friends when she became a Christian".
" Why are you so angry?".
" Because she opened a bread store across the highway from mine".
George smiled. " I would not worry about her".
" And why not?".
" Your store is doing fine". He grinned. " I would not worry about it".
He left.
Deep down inside, anger and rage started to show in Fran's heart.
The nerve of that Wilma Anderson.


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oz 80 page 5

Oz 80 page 5 by ric gustafson


Jack Haley came from Boston. He started out singing in community and church events. At 17, he came to Philadelphia. He worked at a switchboard and as a bellhop. In his off hours, he practiced tap dancing. In vaudeville, he became part of a song and dance duo. In the early 1930's, he came to Hollywood. He made 20 pictures between 1932 and 1938. Then he caught the eye of the producers of the Wizard of Oz. Playing the Tin Man cemented him into film history. His son Jack Haley Jr married Liza Minnelli in 1974. Liza Minnelli was the daughter of Judy Garland.
Next, we will look at the Cowardly Lion.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek


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our daily bread store page 1

our daily bread store page 1 by ric gustafson


Fran took a sip of her coffee. She was staring across Highway 86. " What do you think George?".
" Well, as your grandson and your accountant". He smiled. " It's possible".
" Great". She hugged her grandson. " I've always wanted to own my own bread store". She smiled. " Ever since I was a little girl".
" Your mother enjoyed baking bread".
" Oh yes". She adjusted her red hat. " Every day after school, I would smell fresh bread".
" And that has always been your dream".
" Yes". She hugged him again. " Thank you for helping me fulfill my dream".
" Your welcome Grandma".


research help: original story


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Bread of Life: free bread at Ragu's

the Bread of Life: free bread at Ragu's by ric gustafson


The young waiter, sporting a dark beard and a white apron, walked up to the table. " Good evening,welcome to Ragu's". He handed the couple menus.
" Thank you" replied Henry Carlson. " We heard that your Italian cuisine and your bread are world famous".
" Thank you". He poured water into their glasses.
Louise Carlson smiled. " We also heard that Wednesday is free bread night".
" That's true". He smiled. " A lot of people come just for that". He looked at them. " Do you need a few more minutes to look over the menu?".
" No, we usually order the same thing". He handed the young waiter the menus. " I will have the spaghetti and meatballs". He smiled at Louise. " My wife will have the ravioli". He smiled at the waiter. " And of course plenty of your bread".
He came back with the bread. " Your meals should be out shortly".
Twenty minutes later, their meals came.
" Oh young man, can we have some more bread?".
" Of course, I am the Bread of Life".
Later, the waiter brought their bill. " Is there anything else I can do for you?".
" Yes, can we have an order of bread to go?".
" Sure". Jesus smiled. " He who comes to me will never go hungry". He took their credit card.
He brought back their card and a box with bread in it. " Thank you for coming to Ragu's".
Henry signed the bill. " Thank you for a fine meal and the great bread".
The couple left.
Jesus smiled as another couple walked in.
" Good evening, welcome to Ragu's".

The End


research help: The Ryrie Study Bible


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Bread of Life: Capernaum part 2

The Bread of Life: Capernaum part 2 by ric gustafson


Someone yelled at Jesus. " Please Sir give us this bread".
" I am the Bread of Life". Jesus looked at the crowd with love in his eyes. " He who comes to me will never go hungry". His voice hesitated. " I have come not to do my will but the will of him who sent me".
Some of the people in the crowd began to grumble.
" Is this not the son of Joseph of Nazareth". Someone yelled. " How can he say that he came down from heaven?".
" I am the Bread of Life". Jesus smiled. " Your forefathers ate the manna but died".
More people began to grumble.
" The bread I give is from heaven". He smiled again. " who ever eats this bread will not die".
Someone yelled. " How can this be?".
" I am the living bread that came down from heaven". His voice again hesitated. " This bread is my flesh which I gave for the life of the world".
Someone yelled. " How can you give us your flesh to eat?".
" Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood". Jesus sighed. " This person will have eternal life and will be with me forever".
The crowd dispersed.

The End


research help: the Ryrie Study Bible


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Bread of Life: Capernaum part 1

the Bread of Life: Capernaum part 1 by ric gustafson


I got off the boat along with a crowd of people. All of us were searching for the Rabbi. The day before, five thousand people were in one place and very hungry. The Rabbi had us sit down. He held up a knapsack and then blessed it.
Out of this knapsack came loaf after loaf of bread. We ate this bread and some fish until we were satisfied. Twelve baskets of pieces were collected.
After witnessing this miracle, we wanted to make him our king. We tried to find him but he disappeared. We found out he had left by boat for Capernaum. The next day, we went looking for him. We found him in a synagogue.
" You are looking for me not because of a miraculous sign". Jesus looked at them. " But because of the bread that had just filled you".
Someone yelled. " What sign are you going to do for us?".
Jesus stared at the crowd.
" Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert".
" It was not Moses who gave you the bread". Jesus grinned. " But my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven".


research help: The Ryrie Study Bible


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Bread of Life: the five thousand part 2

the Bread of Life: the five thousand part 2 by ric gustafson


Aron noticed some men pointing at the crowd and throwing up their hands in desperation.
Jesus looked at Phillip. " Where shall we buy bread for all these people to eat?".
Phillip stared back. " Wages earned in eight months". He shook his head. " Would not be enough to buy bread for everyone to have one bite".
Andrew noticed Aron. " Boy, what's your name?".
" Aron".
" What's in your knapsack?"
" Five small barley loaves and two small fish".
" Please come with me".
Andrew and Aron walked up to Jesus.
Jesus gave Aron a big smile.
" Master, this is Aron". Andrew smiled at the boy. " He has five small barley loaves and two small fish in his knapsack".
" Tell the people to sit down". He smiled again at Aron. " Bless you Aron".
Aron started to walk away.
Jesus lifted the knapsack toward heaven and blessed it.
Aron couldn't wait to get home and tell his mother what had just happened.

The End


research help: The Ryrie Study Bible


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defined by God: uniquely designed

defined by God: uniquely designed by ric gustafson


God has made all of us unique. No one is exactly the same as we are. God designed and crafted each one of us according to Psalm 139. We need to appreciate and tell God thanks for making us his own. We are imperfect and our families are imperfect. We are broken people living in a broken world. God wanted us to be born at this time in history. Praise God and thank him for creating us.


research help: ' Defined' by Stephen and Alex Kendrick


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The Bread of Life: the five thousand part 1

The Bread of Life: the five thousand part 1 by ric gustafson


Aron ran out of the front door of the house. His mother was working in a small vegetable garden.
" Mother, can I go fishing down at the Sea?".
" Sure". She smiled at her son. " I'll make you a little lunch to take with you".
He went to the side of the house and picked up his fishing stick.
His mother came out with a little knapsack.
" Here are five small barley loaves".
" Thanks Mother". He began to walk down the dusty road.
It did not take him long to reach the Sea of Tiberias. He found his favorite fishing hole. As he sat on a rock, he caught two small fish. He put them into his knapsack. He got up to find a new fishing spot.
As he walked, he noticed a large amount of people gathered on a mountain side.


research help: the Ryrie Study Bible


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defined by God: source of our identity

defined by God: source of our identity by ric gustafson


Who knows our true identity?. God does. Do we trust him or run away?. Are we trusting ourselves or God?. God has perfect knowledge of us. God has complete ownership of us. God has ultimate authority over us. God proclaims in Exodus 3:14, I am who I am. God is One. God is present. God is powerful. God is pure. God is true. God is light. God is life. God is faithful. God is eternal. The simple truth is that God loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' Defined' by Stephen and Alex Kendrick


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defined by God: a confused identity

defined by God: a confused identity by ric gustafson


What do you and I believe?. Who do we believe in?. Our feelings come from different sources. We are composed by three things. We have a body that is a temple according to I Cor 6:19. We have a soul. It is our mind, will and emotions. It can impact our feelings. We have a spirit. Love, joy and peace are spiritual fruit. God can renew our minds. He can save our souls.  He can restore our souls. Words are very powerful. Jesus loves us more than anything else.
Praise God.


research help: ' Defined' by Stephen and Alex Kendrick


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defined by God: an identity

defined by God: an identity by ric gustafson


Jesus is the priority of identity. Jesus's identity was the priority of heaven. In the desert, Satan attacked Jesus's identity. Jesus's ministry was based on who he was. An identity describes who you are. We are all on an identity journey. An identity is strengths and weaknesses.
Do you know who you are?. In Jesus, we have eternal life. Praise God.


research help: ' Defined' by Stephen and Alex Kendrick


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the Bread of Life: What is it?

the Bread of Life: What is it? by ric gustafson


Moses and Aaron were standing on a rock. The people were grumbling.
Moses frowned. " Now what are they grumbling about?".
" They are complaining that in Egypt they had pots of meat". He shook his head. " Here they are starving".
" God has heard there grumbling and has told me what to do". He grinned at Aaron. " Gather the people together".
Aaron gathered the people.
" God will give you plenty of meat to eat in the evening and bread to eat in the morning". Moses stared at the people. " There is one specific instruction he gave me".
The people listened very intently.
" You are to gather enough for one day at a time". Moses's voice hesitated. " Except for Friday when you can gather twice as much".
One night, quails came and covered the camp. The next morning, dew covered the camp. After it evaporated, a white flake covered the ground.
The people asked Moses and Aaron the same question. " What is it?".
It was the bread that the Lord had promised. Jesus is the Bread of Life. Praise God.


research help: The Ryrie Study Bible


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God's promises: Love

God's promises: Love by ric gustafson


According to Romans 5:5, God has given us the greatest love there is. Jesus's love for us is agape. Agape is self sacrificing love. We want to live for God and others. According to II Peter, we have the power to live a godly life. In Jesus, we are on a lifelong journey. He wants us to serve others. God wants us to imitate his Son. It is a blessing to love Jesus. According to I Cor 13:13, the greatest of these is love. God and his Son Jesus love us more than anything else. Praise God.

The End


research help: ' Everything You Need' by David Jeremiah


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God's promises: Godliness

God's promises: Godliness by ric gustafson


How do you define godliness?. Godliness is becoming more like God every day. We want to become like Jesus every day. If you want to know God, look at his son Jesus. Godliness starts when we see God through his son. We are God's possession. We are God's pilgrim. We are God's platform and he wants us to proclaim him to the world.
So how do we use our Christian identity?. Our identity is in God. Godliness is about ownership. Godliness is about citizenship. We need to keep our eyes on heaven.
God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Everything You Need' by David Jeremiah


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God's promises: Perseverance

God's promises: Perseverance by ric gustafson


Perseverance means to bear up under. Perseverance is mentioned in II Peter 1:5-6. Perseverance describes someone who remains steadfast in the face of severe trials. Perseverance produces trust. Perseverance produces transformation. We need trials to form our character. Our problems need to be put into perspective. We need to tackle life step by step. We need people to encourage us. We must refuse to quit.
How did Jesus persevere?. He shattered the gates of hell. He forgave us. We must keep our eyes on him. He loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Everything You Need' by David Jeremiah


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God's promises: Self Control

God's promises: Self Control by ric gustafson


When we believe in God, he will give us self control. When we think of self control, what habits come to mind. Is it our spending, temper, our work habits. Our tongue needs self control. Self control displays maturity. Self control deepens our discipline.
For self control, we need the Holy Spirits help. We need to adjust our thoughts. We need to acquire new habits. Jesus loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' Everything You Need' by David Jeremiah


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Oz 80 page 4

Oz 80 page 4 by ric gustafson


When Ray Bolger was 16, he knew he wanted to be a vaudevillian. By 18, he was already making his stage debut. Bolger danced double jointed. Because of this, he wanted to play the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz. Originally, he was given the role of the Tin Man. He asked to switch roles. The decision to change roles cemented him in movie history.
He performed on stage until 1984with a hip injury. Six decades on stage and screen.
Next, we will look at Jack Haley.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek


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God's promises: Knowledge

God's promises: Knowledge by ric gustafson


The Apostle Peter describes the knowledge of God in II Peter 1:2. At this time Peter was about to be executed. To grow in knowledge is a process through our actions and choices. We must grow in our knowledge of Jesus Christ.
True knowledge begins with a yearning to know Jesus. He wants us to follow him with all of our heart. Jesus is the truth. With Christian knowledge, we want to grow in our love for Jesus. Jesus wants us to study him. We need to study God's Word more. We need to be obedient to Jesus. Jesus wants our habits and behavior to change. Jesus loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Everything You Need' by David Jeremiah


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Stephen page 3

Stephen page 3 by ric gustafson


One of the Council members screamed. " Kill him".
A crowd formed. Stephen was forced out of the chamber. The now angry mob dragged the young man through the Dung Gate. Then they entered the Valley of Death. The mob stopped at a grove of desert pine trees.
Standing by the grove was a man named Saul of Tarsus. The Council members dropped their cloaks at Saul's feet. They picked up large stones.
The first large stone hit Stephen. He lifted his eyes to heaven. " Lord Jesus, receive my spirit".
The stones kept hitting the young man. " Lord, do not charge them with this sin".
Stephen died.
The Council members took their cloaks from Saul and left.

The End.


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Stephen page 2

Stephen page 2 by ric gustafson


Stephen cleared his throat. " The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham".
There was a stir among the Council members.
" Israel rebelled against God while Moses went up to receive the Law".
A bigger stirring began.
" Solomon built the first Temple". His voice hesitated. " The Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands".
Pain stabbed the members of the Council.
" Why are you still stiff necked and resist the Holy Spirit?". Stephen pointed a finger at the Council members. " You are betrayers and murderers because you do not keep the law".
Anger came to the faces of the Council.
Stephen raised his face upward. " I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God".


research help: ' The Hidden Flame' by Davis Bunn and Janette Oke


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Oz 80 page 3

Oz 80 page 3 by ric gustafson


By 1939, Judy Garland was a veteran leading lady. She was only 16 years old. The public saw her as a child star. Because of her musical comedies with Mickey Rooney, Mervyn LeRoy and Arthur Freed suggested her for the role of Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. Studio chief Louis B Mayer's choice for Dorothy was Shirley Temple. Fox refused to loan her out to MGM. The role went to Judy Garland. Because of her performance, she won the Academy Juvenile Award. Garland was Dorothy Gale.
Next we will look at Ray Bolger.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek


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God's promises: Virtue

God's promises: Virtue by ric gustafson


God calls us by virtue. The quality of our character, spiritual excellence and moral goodness comes by virtue. True virtue is born of faith. Virtue begins by trusting in God. We need to simply and fully trust in Jesus. Faith sustains virtue. Jesus aimed to please his Father. Jesus wants us to please his Father. Jesus and his Father love us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Everything You Need' by David Jeremiah


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God's promises: Diligence

God's promises: Diligence by ric gustafson


II Peter 1:5 talks about diligence. God gives us resources through his promises for godliness. Diligence means to make every effort. It is a steady and energetic effort. Diligence is the opposite of laziness. Peter tells us to diligently follow Jesus and to be more like Jesus. We will add to our faith by being motivated by diligence. Peter was diligent and devoted to Jesus. God has given us everything we need in life to follow him.
Diligence is a lifestyle. We need to follow Jesus with diligence. He loves us more than anything else.
Praise God.


research help: ' Everything you need' by David Jeremiah


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God's promises: In life's storms

God's promises: In life's storms by ric gustafson


In this sinful life, we will go through life's storms. In II Peter 1, God promises us precious promises. God promises us his power to get through the trials of this life. This power from God is unlimited. This power is unleashed. This power is unlocked. This power from God sustains our faith. We cannot calculate God's power. His promises are infallible. God's power is always available to us. We can download God's power. Why would God give me a sinner that wonderful power?. Simply, because he loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Everything You Need' by David Jeremiah


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Oz 80 page 2

Oz 80 page 2 by ric gustafson


There were a number of directors and screenwriters working on the Wizard of Oz. On the surface, the production should of been a disaster. The production's first director was Norman Taurog. He left to film a Mickey Rooney movie and did not do anything for Oz. The second director was Richard Thorpe. He helped the production for only a week and a half before he was fired. George Cukor was brought in for a short time. King Vidor came in at the end to finish the film.
It was the fourth director Victor Fleming's vision that made the film into a classic today. By 1938, Fleming was a veteran director. His idea was for Dorothy to escape with Toto and have frustration with her aunt and uncle. Fleming was a director of comedies. He was able to get great performances from his vaudeville actors. Also he was able to handle the new Technicolor.
Later, he directed Gone With The Wind. Both films were part of the great film year of 1939.
Next, we will look at Judy Garland.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Topix Media and Newsweek


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Stephen page1

Stephen page 1 by ric gustafson


Stephen stood before the Sanhedrin. His hands were chained with a guard on each side.
Someone yelled from the crowd. " He is trying to blasphemy against the Temple and the Law".
The Council was glaring at Stephen from up on a dais.
Another person yelled. " He says that Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place".
Stephen's face was a glow of no fear.
One of the Council members yelled at Stephen. " What do you say about these accusations?".
Stephen looked at his accusers with God's love in his eyes.


research help: ' The Hidden Flame' by Davis Bunn and Janette Oke


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Oz 80 page1

Oz 80 page 1 by ric gustafson


L Frank Baum conceived the continent of imagination. The center of this magic land is the Land of Oz. At the time that Baum wrote the Wizard of Oz, The US was in bad economic condition at the end of the 19th century. At this time, fantasy was a form of escapism. Baum was a child in upstate New York. He was fascinated by the written word. One time, he got a printing press as a gift.
The first feature length version of the Wizard of Oz was a silent film in 1925. The Wizard of Oz was made because of the popularity of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Next we will look at the directors of Oz.


research help: Topix Media Lab and Newsweek


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a man of gratitude

a man of gratitude by ric gustafson


Jesus's feet hurt as he walked through the small village. He was on his way to Jerusalem. He had been walking for several hours.
A voice yelled from a distance. " Unclean".
Jesus walked closer. A group of ten lepers were standing in a group.
People from the village kept their distance.
One of the lepers recognized Jesus. All ten yelled in unison. " Jesus, Master have mercy on us".
Jesus felt compassion for them. " Go and show yourselves to the priests".
The ten walked off. As they walked, they were cleansed.
Jesus neared the end of the village. He heard a noise. He turned around. One of the cleansed lepers was on his face at his feet.
" Thank you, Thank you". Tears came down his healed face. " Praise God".
" Were not ten cleansed". Jesus looked at the man with love in his eyes. " Where are the other nine?".
" Stand up and go". Jesus helped him up to his feet. " Your faith has made you well".

The End


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4343 Tulip Lane page 4

4343 Tulip Lane page 4 by ric gustafson


Roger was biking down Tulip Lane. He stopped in front of 4343. He could not believe the house was finished. He got off the bike and walked toward the front door. Near the door was an Open House sign. He walked into the front foyer. It was decked out in white and red balloons.
" Hello Roger". A young bearded man dressed in white smiled at him. He walked over and shook Roger's hand. " I've been waiting for you".
In shock, Roger stared at the young man. " How did you know I was coming?".
The young man pointed around the foyer. " Welcome to my house".
" How did you know my name was Roger?".
" I've been waiting for you". He walked over to a table and opened a blue register. " See your room is ready for you".
" My room?".
The young man smiled. " I've been preparing a room for you for a long time now".
" You have?".
" Would you like to see it?".
Roger thought about his wife and his son. " Sure".
Jesus smiled. They both walked upstairs.

The End


research help: ' The Day Christ Died'  by Jim Bishop


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4343 Tulip Lane page 3

4343 Tulip Lane page 3 by ric gustafson


Roger pedaled his bike onto Tulip Lane. This was not part of his normal route home. He was curious about the new house. He noticed the construction sign saying ' Stay Out'. His curious side won out. He got off the bike and walked around the sign.
There he noticed a man, wearing a hard hat and an orange uniform, sketching on a easel.
" Hello" replied a middle aged man. He shook Roger's hand. " I'm Warren the project manager".
Roger took a peek at the drawing. " That's a lot of rooms".
" My employer". He smiled. " Wanted a lot of rooms built".
" Why so many?".
" I don't know". He scratched his chin. " But that is what he wants".
" I better go". He glanced at his watch. " Thanks for the update".
" Come back any time".
Roger got back on his bike and left.
Warren went back to drawing up plans.


research help: ' The Day Christ Died' by Jim Bishop


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4343 Tulip Lane page 2

4343 Tulip Lane page 2 by ric gustafson


Roger Henkel kissed his wife. He put his work clothes into a small black duffel bag.
Carol Henkel opened the bedroom door. " Would you like me to make you some breakfast?".
" No thanks, I'm going to bike to work this morning". He quickly put on his bike clothes.
She walked downstairs to make breakfast for their son.
He brushed his teeth, combed his hair and walked down to the kitchen.
" Have a good day and give Luke a big hug from me". He gave her a peck on the cheek. " I'll see you when I get home". He opened the garage door and brought out the bike he had built himself. He put on his helmet, his gloves, got on and started out.
It was a beautiful Monday morning as he started out. He got to the end of the block and signaled to get onto Tulip Lane. New houses were being built. He rode up to 4343. There was a Sold sign. He rode up to the curb and stopped. Construction barriers were already set up. He figured that they were already starting on it. He glanced at his watch. He knew he had to get to work.


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4343 Tulip Lane page 1

4343 Tulip Lane page 1 by ric gustafson


Peter Philip and the others became silent.
Jesus looked at them with affection and love. " My little children I will be with you only a little while". His voice hesitated. " Where I go you cannot come".
All of them were perplexed at what he was saying.
" A new commandment I give you". He smiled. " That you love another as I have loved you".
They listened to his every word.
" Do not let your heart be troubled, you have faith in God have faith in me also".
" In my Father's house are many rooms". He knew their hearts were troubled. " I am going for the purpose of preparing a place for you".
They began to smile and grin at each other.
" And after I have prepared a place for you". He smiled. " I will come back to take you home with me".
" Lord, we do not know where you are going?". Thomas stared at Jesus. " How do we know the way?".
" I am the Way, the Truth and the Life". He looked at Thomas with love in his eyes. " No one comes to the Father except through me".


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down at the Witches Brew page 3

down at the Witches Brew page 3 by ric gustafson


Miss Mabel bent down and picked up the stack of tarot cards. She was trying to put them into a tarot spread. A man in white was sitting across from her. She was getting frustrated because each time she tried, the cards kept falling on the floor.
The phone rang. She walked over and picked it up. " Witches Brew Miss Mabel". " Hi Martin". A frown came to her face. " You have to do some errands". She nodded as she listened. " Ok, tell Fran hello". She hung up the phone.
" Can you believe it". She cackled. " He has to go to the local bread store with his mother".
She stared at the new customer in white. She shook her head. " I almost had him".
Jesus quietly replied. " You can't have him".
Just then, she recognized the voice. " Nazarene".
Jesus put his scarred hands on the table. " He's confused but he believes in me".
" I should have known it was you". She cackled. " That's why I couldn't shuffle my cards".
Jesus stared at the witch. " Do not tempt him any longer with your sorcery".
" Suit yourself". She heard the bell ring over the front door. " There will always be someone else".
She stood up and began to walk toward the door. She turned around to notice that Jesus was gone.
She walked up to the young woman standing under the cob webs.
She gave a slight cackle.
" Welcome to the Witches Brew".

The End


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down at the Witches Brew page 2

down at the Witches Brew page 2 by ric gustafson


Todd and Martin walked through the doorway and felt the cobwebs on their faces.
Todd moved a web away from his face and felt something bump against his left leg.
He looked down. In fear, he backed toward the door. It was a black cat.
" Felix" replied an older woman who was dressed in black like a witch. " Sorry about that". She picked up the black cat. " Welcome to the Witches Brew". She gave a slight cackle. " What can I do for you?".
" We're lost". Martin stared at the Halloween décor. " We're looking for Ridgewood Avenue where we live".
" I'm not sure where that is". The cat scampered into a dark corner. " You boys look like you are hungry". She pointed to an empty booth. " You can be my last customers today".
The two walked over and sat down in a booth. The woman brought over and handed them two menus with cob webs on them.
" I would recommend the eye of newt". She cackled again. " The ghoul stew is good also".
Todd stared at her and put down the menu. " No thanks". He stood up and began to walk toward the front door. " Martin, I'll wait for you outside".
" Sorry". Martin handed her the menus". " I guess we're not hungry after all".
" That's ok". She cackled again. " I also do tarot readings".
" I don't know what tarot cards are?".
" Come back tomorrow and I'll show you".
" Ok". He gave her a weak smile. " What street is this?".
" Endor Lane".


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down at the Witches Brew page 1

down at the Witches Brew page 1 by ric gustafson


Todd Reed slowly walked off the bus. He stared down the dark street.
Martin Gardner walked off and now stood by a bus bench. He looked around. He pointed. " I think we need to go this way".
" Are you sure this is the quickest way home?". Fear came over his friend's face. " I don't know this area".
" I'm sure". Martin pointed west. " Follow me".
They began to walk down the deserted street. Leaves blew around them.
After a while, Martin noticed a building with their lights on. They walked across the street. There was a sign above the building. It read ' The Witches Brew Café and Tarot Readings'.
They walked up to the front door.
Todd exclaimed. " I have a bad feeling about this".
They walked in.


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Devil's Food page 3

Devil's Food page 3 by ric gustafson


Roy was reading the newspaper when he heard the doorbell ring. He walked over to the door. He opened it to reveal a young boy dressed as a pirate. Next to him was a young girl dressed as a princess.
The young pirate stuck out his plastic pail. " Trick or treat".
The young princess held out her pail. " Trick or treat".
Roy picked up a basket that was by the door. " Would you like a candy bar?". His voice hesitated. " Or would you like a Devil's Food zinger".
" Roy, what are you doing?".
" Handing out Halloween treats".
Margaret walked up and glanced into the basket.
She shook her head and put a candy bar into their baskets. They ran back to their parents.
" Take those zingers out of there". She gave her husband a serious stare. " Think about children's interests instead of your own".
The next morning, Roy was handing out Devil's Food zingers to his co workers.

The End


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Devil's Food page 2

Devil's Food page 2 by ric gustafson


Roy looked down at the wheels of the steel cart. It was making an irritating noise. He got a different cart. He quickly walked past produce. He turned into the seasonal isle. He noticed a sign indicating that candy bar minatures were on sale. He walked up and began to put bags into his cart. He was about to leave the aisle.
Then he noticed the white display at the end of the aisle. " Hostess" he exclaimed with glee. He saw the crumb cake and the chocolate donuts. Then a smile came to his face. " Devil Food zingers".
He held up a box. " I wonder if trick or treaters would like them also". He knew he was only supposed to get candy bar minatures. But he loved the chocolate outside and the creamy filling inside.
" I'll just take a couple boxes". He smiled. " And mix them with the candy bar minatures". He put the boxes into the cart.
With a sense of accomplishment, he paid for the groceries and left the store.


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Devil's Food page 1

Devil's Food page 1 by ric gustafson


Roy McReed pressed the white garage door button. The garage door closed. He opened the kitchen door. He walked into the spacious newly remodeled kitchen. " Hi sweetie".
" Hi honey". Margaret McReed put down a carving knife. " I'm just finishing up our Halloween pumpkin".
He yawned as he put his brown briefcase on top of their wooden hutch. " work was really busy today". He walked over to their white refrigerator, opened it and peered inside. " Sweetie, have you seen my Hostess treats?"
" Yes they are next to your cheese slices".
He saw the familiar red ,white and blue package. He opened it and took a long bite. " I love these things".
" What are they?".
" Hostess Devil's Food zingers".
" Oh, I need you to do something for me".
He gave her a kiss on the cheek. " Anything".
" I need you to go to the store and purchase our Halloween candy for tomorrow".
" Ok".


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the pumpkin patch page 3

the pumpkin patch page 3 by ric gustafson


One day, Alex heard a noise. " Someone's coming".
" I hear him". Doreen had joy in her voice. " And he's carrying a basket".
an elderly man in white scooped down and picked up Miguel.
" He picked me" the pumpkin screamed in gladness.
" He picked me too" squealed Doreen. The man put her into his basket.
" He won't pick me" Alex said with a sigh. " Nobody ever does".
The elderly scooped down and put him into his basket.
Later at home, God washed off the pumpkins. He cut off the tops. He scooped out the insides of doubt, hate and greed. He carved out a happy face on each of them. He put a light inside each one. He put them by the front door.
On the night of Halloween
" Smile everyone" Doreen exclaimed in a happy voice. " The kids are coming".

The End


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the pumpkin patch page 2

the pumpkin patch page 2 by ric gustafson


Miguel heard the silence as the last of the families left the patch. " Doreen, are you still here?.
" Yes". There was hesitation in the voice. " They did not pick me".
" Alex, are you still here?".
" Yes, I'm still here". There was silence. " I was not picked also".
" What's wrong with me" Doreen asked. " I'm a good pumpkin with a nice roundness".
" I don't know". Miguel sighed. " I'm a good looking pumpkin also".
" I'm scared". Alex's voice hesitated. " What will happen to us if we are not picked?".
" Don't worry" Doreen said in a reassuring voice. " God knows we are here".
Miguel sighed. " I sure hope you are right".


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the pumpkin patch page 1

the pumpkin patch page 1 by ric gustafson


Doreen wasn't sure who was there. " Miguel, are you there?".
" Yes I am". a voice replied. " I'm just over to your right".
" Are you here Alex?".
" Yes, I'm in the back".
There was excitement in Doreen's voice. " I sure hope we get picked today".
Just then, Miguel spoke up. " I hear something".
" The kids are coming". Miguel said with a shout. " Everyone get ready".
All three pumpkins waited patiently.
All three hoped they would get picked.


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More of God: Romans 12:3

More of God: Romans 12:3 by ric gustafson


Sometimes God opens doors. Sometimes God closes them. There are things that God will not permit us to know. We try to figure God out. God wants us to serve him not knowing all the answers to life. Romans 12:3 talks about the gift of faith. God gives us this faith. God is sovereign. God wants us to accept our natural gifts. We were known from the foundation of the world. God wants us to accept the way he made us. Second, he wants us accept the limits of our faith. Praise God.


research help: ' More of God' by R T Kendall


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More of God: Matthew 6:33

More of God: Matthew 6:33 by ric gustafson


Matthew 6:33 states that we are to seek first the kingdom of God. This bible verse was part of Jesus's Sermon on the Mount. We are to seek the kingdom of God first. We are to do this before we pursue anything else. The first thing we should ask for is mercy. We need to have the fear of God. God is rich in mercy. He loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' More of God' by R T Kendall


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

More of God: Luke 11:13

More of God: Luke 11:13 by ric gustafson


God is greater than anything we can say about him. God wants us to have a hunger for his Word. When we experience God, we want more of him. According to Romans 10, if we confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in our heart, we will be saved. With the mouth, one confesses and is saved. Saving faith comes from the heart. In saving faith, the heart must be engaged. God wants us to be thirsty for him. Praise God.


research help: ' More of God' by R T Kendall


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

More of God: Exodus 20:5

More of God: Exodus 20:5 by ric gustafson


So what do we mean by more of God?. We want God for his own sake. We want to focus on what God is like. We need to know his Word more and more of the Holy Spirit. We want to dignify his will for us. Salvation is our spiritual foundation. God wants to give us more of himself. God is a jealous God. God wants us to know him. God's will is pleasing, good and perfect. We need to fear the Lord. It is God's will that we want to know him better. Praise God.


research help: ' More of God' by R T Kendall


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: love your enemies

Pleasing God: love your enemies by ric gustafson


Does God want us to love our enemies?. Yes he does. God loves the world so much that his only son gave up his life for us. So how do we love our enemies?. First, acknowledge the pain. Second, choose to obey. Third, never doubt God. Fourth, ask for the Holy Spirit's help. Fifth, ask God to help us. Sixth, do nothing vengeful. Lastly, Follow Jesus's example. Jesus loved everyone including those who hated him. We need to do the same. Praise God.

The End


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: walk in love

Pleasing God: walk in love by ric gustafson


When someone wrongs us, how do we handle it?. Do you want to teach them a lesson because you don't deserve it. God wants us to go to his Word to tell us how to handle it. I Peter 2:20 is a good bible verse to use. We are to bear patiently with suffering. That is acceptable and pleasing to God.
I Corinthians 13:4-7 gives us a good definition of love. We will have good emotional health if we have love in our life. Without love, we have nothing. We are commanded to love. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: the heart of worship

Pleasing God: the heart of worship by ric gustafson


One of the most important things we will ever do is worship. With worship, we recognize God's attributes, mighty deeds and nature. A wrong concept of God leads to sins. A right concept of God leads to worship. Sometimes we are ignorant of God.
Sometimes we fall into the trap of false doctrine. We need to worship God in spirit and truth. Who will we worship?. A relationship with God should include worship. We need to worship together. We need to worship through trials. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: renew your mind

Pleasing God: renew your mind by ric gustafson


God wants a transformation in us. When we are transformed, people will see Jesus in us. How can this happen?. First, our minds need to renewed. It means to make new. There is the thinking of this world. And then there is Jesus's thinking. You are what you think. We need to think of God's truth not Satan's tactics. God chose our mind to change because it is assaulted by today's culture. There is a battle of the mind. We need to think upon God. He loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: love not the world

Pleasing God: love not the world by ric gustafson


Living a life in God is the best life we can ever have. The Apostle Paul says we should be living sacrifices. There is a huge harvest out there. If we want to please God, we must eliminate all that is displeasing to God. Don't let the world conform us. Let God's Kingdom dominate us.
Why do we fall for Satan and his lies?. Friends of the world are enemies to God. God wants the world to be dead to us. We need to guard ourselves against the world. When we deal with a crisis in our life, God is dealing with it for us behind the scenes. Praise God.


research: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Who I Am: Psalm 57:2

Who I Am: Psalm 52:2 by ric gustafson


The priority of heaven is Jesus's identity. What is an identity?. It describes you in total. It's the truth of the real you. We have a God given identity. We are on an identity journey. Things happen in life to test our identity.
Do you know who you are?. God wants to know you. He loves us more than anything else.
Praise God.


research help: ' Defined' by Stephen and Alex Kendrick


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: a living sacrifice

Pleasing God: a living sacrifice by ric gustafson


God does not punish his children. God loves us. When we sin, stumble or fall, God reaches down and helps us up. God forgives our sins. Our aim should be is to please him. Pleasing God should refine our life. God wants us to have a deeper life with him. We need to present our emotions to God.  Above all we need the joy of pleasing God. Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: a walk with God

Pleasing God: a walk with God by ric gustafson


So how do we please God?. First is that by faith we please him. We cannot please God without faith. Faith is because of our works and conduct. Faith comes from God. Faith is a gift from God. For our faith to grow, we need to read God's Word. We need to read God's Word daily. Our Christian walk is a journey. Being with God is an intimate thing. Our first love needs to be God. Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: a pattern for change

Pleasing God: a pattern for change by ric gustafson


God wants us to have his pattern in our lives. If we focus on God and not ourselves, anxiety and bitterness will leave. When we live our life for God, good things will happen to us. God says do not worry, trust in me. James 4: 1-10 has good examples of this pattern. If we humble ourselves to God, we will live a worthwhile life.
What does God honor?. We want to live and please God. Pride in ourselves has to go. We need to humble ourselves and totally submit to God. We need to resist Satan and draw near to God.
Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: dead to sin

Pleasing God: dead to sin by ric gustafson


So what does it take to please God?. We first must believe that God watches over us, loves us dearly and cares for us more than anything else. God loves you more than anything else. God loves us even as we stray away from him. Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
According to Romans 6:11, we are dead indeed to sin. And then it is proclaimed we are alive to God in Christ. We can please God or please the flesh. We need to do the things that please God. We need to flee from temptation. In pleasing God, we have a choice. I pray it is the right and good choice.
Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: does this please God?

Pleasing God: does this please God? by ric gustafson


God knows our name and he loves us. Because we love God, we want to please him. All things were created for his pleasure. Our greatest aim should be pleasing God. No matter what we do, our first question should be is this pleasing to God?.
We cannot please God without faith. God is aware of everything about us. God is a personal God. We cannot hide from him. To love God is to be aware of him. God is faithful and near.
How can we seek God?. We can ask him to reveal himself. We can search God's Word. We can ask God to speak to us and then listen. Lastly, we can share God's truth. Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Pleasing God: how to please God

Pleasing God: how to please God by ric gustafson


The last days are coming. What kind of person does God want me to be?. Is our actions pleasing to God?. We were created to bring pleasure to God. We were created for his pleasure. True joy comes from pleasing God. We need a deep close walk with God.
Satan will try to distract us from pleasing God. He will tell us about our failures. So how do we please God?. We please our almighty Father and then help others. Praise God.


research help: ' Pleasing God' by Kay Smith


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Lord's Prayer: Deliver Us

the Lord's Prayer: Deliver Us by ric gustafson


It is easy to condemn and judge others. Sometimes greed consumes us. Temptation in our life is rampant. I Tim 6 says the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Money is the great temptation.
We all want more. Jesus wants us to crave less. We need to use wealth to strengthen our relationships. Jesus has called us to service to God and others. God is our Father. Praise God.

The End


research help: ' Praying like Jesus' by James Mulholland


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Lord's Prayer: Forgive Us

the Lord's Prayer: Forgive Us by ric gustafson


Jesus told a parable about grace and gratitude. A man owed a king millions of dollars. He was brought before the throne because the debt was due. He could not pay it and prayed for mercy. The king forgave his entire debt. The king was incensed when the person did not treat another person with compassion.
God hates ingratitude. God always forgives when we pray to him and seek his mercy. We are not to judge others. God loves us more than anything else in this world.


research help: ' Praying like Jesus' by James Mulholland


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Lord's Prayer: Give Us

the Lord's Prayer: Give Us by ric gustafson


If Jesus asked me Ric do you truly love me more than these?. Yes Lord you know that I love you. Jesus wants us to feed and care for the sheep. Feeding the sheep is a priority of God's Kingdom. Jesus says ' give us this day our daily bread. Basic human needs must be met first. Instead of feeding others, we think about ourselves. God wants us to feed his lambs. He loves us more than anything else. Praise God's name.


research help: ' Praying like Jesus' by James Mulholland


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Lord's Prayer: Thy Kingdom Come

the Lord's Prayer: Thy Kingdom Come by ric gustafson


How do we know the will of God for our lives?. We could approach God's will with fear. We worry about making mistakes and awaiting God's anger. God wants to know about the kind of person we will become. God wants us to seek his Kingdom before our petitions and requests. When we understand God's Kingdom, we can focus on God's will. The kingdoms of this world is not God's kingdom. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done. Praise God.


research help: ' Praying like Jesus' by James Mulholland


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oz 80 page 5

Oz 80 page 5 by ric gustafson


What is the legacy of Oz?. It is a story of rich characters and a moral. The Wizard of Oz will live on in our memory. The hit Broadway musical Wicked retells the classic story from the witches point of view. As far as a legacy is concerned, yes there has been hit and misses such as Wicked and the Wiz.
Baum could never had imagined that a story for children that he wrote would endure and thrive after all this time. Thank you for reading these things from my favorite movie of all time.
Praise God.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Life


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Lord's Prayer: Our Father

the Lord's Prayer:  Our Father by ric gustafson


Sometimes in this world we are lost and afraid. So which God have we prayed to?. There are lots of Gods in this world. God in scripture is Elohim. Jesus taught us to address his Father as a parent. Jesus called God ' Abba'. God wants us to have an intimate relationship with him. When I am anxious about life, God says peace be still trust me. God says focus on me not the world. God does not play favorites. God loves everyone the same. He loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Praying like Jesus' by James Mulholland


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oz 80 page 4

Oz 80 page 4 by ric gustafson


Some people claim that 1939 was the best year for motion pictures. There was the Wizard of Oz. Another huge success at the box office was ' Gone With The Wind'. There were ten nominees at the 1940 Academy Awards. Besides the two huge nominees, there were eight other wonderful pictures.
There was ' Ninotchka' starring Greta Garbo. There was ' Mr Smith goes to Washington'  with James Stewart, There was ' The Little Princess' with Shirley Temple. Other pictures included Babes in Arms, Gunga Din and Young Mr Lincoln.
Next we will talk about the legacy of Oz.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Life


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Lord's Prayer: when you pray

The Lord's Prayer: when you pray by ric gustafson


We are inclined to pray. We also easily abuse prayer. A window to our heart and mind is prayer. God knows our good prayers from our bad prayers. Sometimes we pray for the wrong reasons.
We need a proper attitude to pray. What is this attitude?. It is an attitude of humility and trust. God does not want us to pray due to pride and vanity. Jesus called this praying like hypocrites. Self interest prayer is motivated by greed. Jesus called this praying like the pagans. Jesus taught us the right way to pray. We should practice that. Praise God.


research help: ' Praying like Jesus' by James Mulholland


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for an awakening

Prayer: pray for an awakening by ric gustafson


Does my faith need an awakening?. Instead of a fruitful life, is it a defeated one?. God wants us to hear his voice. Miracles happen when our hearts invite Jesus in. We need to recognize our Creator. We need to recognize the Son of God. We can resist God's voice. We can listen to Satan and not God. Jesus Christ is Lord. He loves us more than anything else in this world. Praise God.

The End


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for freedom

Prayer: pray for freedom by ric gustafson


We deal with heartache every day. Depression, anxiety and loneliness plague our days. There is good news. Jesus died on the cross and set us free. God wants us to experience him personally. God wants us to have heart knowledge of him. Christians have to deal with sins and evil habits. But Jesus promises the Holy Spirit's help with that. Jesus brings freedom to our souls. When our sinful self dies, Christ lives in us. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

spiritual weapons

spiritual weapons by ric gustafson


In order to resist Satan and his demons, we need spiritual weapons. One weapon is the name of Jesus. We need the name of Jesus with the power of the Holy Spirit. Another weapon is the Word of God. God's Word is supreme. Another weapon is an obedient life. Satan hates that. Another weapon is a life of prayer. It defeats the enemy and helps us. Another weapon is Intercessory prayer. This will destroy and dismantle Satan's kingdom. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.

The End


research help: ' Unmasking the Devil' by John Ramirez


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oz 80 page 3

Oz 80 page 3 by ric gustafson


The role of the Scarecrow was supposed to be played by Buddy Ebsen. Ebsen and Ray Bolger switched characters.
The role of the Wizard was given to actor Frank Morgan. He played five roles in the picture.
The Cowardly Lion was played by Bert Lahr.
The Tin Man was played by Jack Haley because Buddy Ebsen had to bow out due to sickness.
Dorothy was played by Judy Garland instead of Shirley Temple.
Margaret Hamilton was chosen to play the Wicked Witch just three days before production started.
Next we'll look at the wonderful films of 1939.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Life


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for peace

Prayer: pray for peace by ric gustafson


According to Philippians 4:7, the peace of God will guard your hearts and minds. Jesus gives us that promise. The hymn ' It is well with my soul' was written by a man named Spafford. He lost his wife and children in a ship wreck. We do not like to receive bad news. In John 14:27, Jesus says to us my peace I give you. Jesus's peace to us is unconditional. Jesus's peace is from the heart of God. Jesus wants us to think of peace not evil. No matter what trial comes our way, God loves us. The truth is that God loves us more than anything else. Praise God's name.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oz 80 page 2

Oz 80 page 2 by ric gustafson


L Frank Baum was born in 1856 in Chittenango New York. He was a friendly and fanciful boy. He was sent to the Peekskill Military Academy for two years at the age of 12. In 1882, he married Maud Gage. They had four sons. Maud did the child rearing. Baum entertained them with story telling.
In 1897, he wrote ' Mother Goose in Prose'. In 1899, his picture book ' Mother Goose his book' was the year's best selling. In 1900, Baum wrote ' The Wonderful Wizard of Oz'.
Between 1900 and 1919, Baum wrote 13 more Oz novels. In May of 1919, Baum passed away from the effects of gallbladder surgery and a weak heart. Because of Oz, Baum will be remembered forever. Next we will look at the wonderful characters in this story.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Life


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for faith

Prayer: pray for faith by ric gustafson


We do not want to wait for anything. We want the latest car, I phone and TV. We get loans and credit cards to pay for them. The Kingdom of God does not work that way. God's ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts. When we call out to God in faith, he will answer. God answers us in his time not ours. God says trust me and you will grow in your faith. God wants us to have a heart of faith. What kind of faith do you have?.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oz 80 page 1

Oz 80 page 1 by ric gustafson


In the year 1900, a book written by L Frank Baum was published. It was a massive success and it generated a dozen sequels. In 1902, Baum wrote the lyrics for a stage musical. It ran on Broadway for 464 performances. In 1910, the first movie version appeared. Bebe Daniels played Dorothy. In 1925, a silent film version starred Oliver Hardy as the Tin Woodman.
When most people mention the Wizard of Oz, the 1939 film version comes to mind. Dorothy was played by a 16 year old named Judy Garland. They witnessed an Emerald City, good and wicked witches, a Wizard and Munchkins.
Was it a great movie?. It was nominated for six Academy Awards and won only two. Why did they make it?. Walt Disney's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was a big hit in 1937. MGM spent 3 million dollars on a musical fantasy with 8 principal actors who were not famous. So why was it popular?. First of all, kids loved it. Second, it was a woman's movie. Thirdly, there was rebellion.
Next, we will look at the remarkable man who wrote this wonderful story.


research help: ' The Wizard of Oz' by Life


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of God: El

names of God: El by ric gustafson


El means the Strong One. Exodus 15:2 says this is my God. God is more powerful than any false god. God overcomes all obstacles. We can depend on God. According to Numbers 23:22, God is like the horns of the wild ox.
The name El occurs more than 200 times in the Old Testament. El is a generic Semitic name for God. This name is used by other cultures to refer to their gods. El is used to compound proper names such as Israel, Bethel and Elisha. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' Names of God' by Rose Publishing


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for forgiveness

Prayer: pray for forgiveness by ric gustafson


Sometimes we deal with suffering with bitterness and hatred. This blocks God's healing for our lives. God has a better way. Suffering is a doorway to Jesus. The Apostle Paul suffered greatly for his faith. But he knew God was working out a greater glory. Suffering is fellowship with Jesus.
Jesus was betrayed by one of his own. He was abused both physically and emotionally. Jesus knew injustice. God wants us to forgive those who persecute us. I pray we will do that.
God loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for the impossible

Prayer: pray for the impossible by ric gustafson


In our life, God helps us through the impossible. We focus on the natural and step back from the true work of God. God has given us his Word and his Holy Spirit. With God, miracles and the impossible happen. When we pray for the impossible, God sends the Holy Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit, there is no impossible. God loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of God: Adonai

names of God: Adonai by ric gustafson


Adonai means The Lord. Adonai also means My Great Lord. Psalm 8 proclaims O Lord our Lord. God is the Master and our majestic Lord. Isaiah 40 says The Lord is the everlasting God. God is our total authority. Adonai is the plural to Adon.  God loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' Names of God' by Rose Publishing


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

3 days page 20

3 days page 20 by ric gustafson


Yeshua looked around. He was now lost. He sat down in the Court. He thought of his options. He could not remember where his cousin Elizabeth's house was. He could walk to Bethlehem and find his cousin Zeke. He was also concerned that his parents were already looking for him.
In the Temple where he sat, he felt safe. He decided to wait for his parents there.
Miriam was concerned about her son. " Can we wait for Yeshua to catch up with us?". Her voice hesitated. " I'm worried about him".
" I'm sure he's fine". Yosef smiled. " He's with the rabbi and his school friends".
Aaron was walking next to the Rabbi's cart. " I hope Yeshua is all right".
" I'm sure he has found his parents already". The Rabbi grinned. " He is very responsible".
At the Temple, Yeshua was getting hungry.


research help: ' Three Days' by Chris Stepien


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray to serve

Prayer: pray to serve by ric gustafson


We are born selfish. We have a sinful nature and compassion is not our focus. Compassion is the focus of God. As God's children, God wants us to be concerned about others than ourselves. We are to love others no matter who they are. Satan will try to stop us from helping others. The cross is the path to God's power. God says love those who hate and persecute you. We are to love others as God loves us. When we love God, we can love others. God loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

3 days page 19

3 days page 19 by ric gustafson


" Please watch the wagon Yeshua".
Yosef walked to Miriam. " Let us go to the Temple and pray for a safe journey home".
Right before they reached the Temple, Yosef put a loving hand on Yeshua's shoulder. " You deserve some time off from us". He smiled at his son. " Enjoy some time with your friends".
Yeshua picked up a goatskin and a shoulder bag. He smiled and ran off.
Later, a rabbi prayed over the two dozen wagons. The caravan began to move northward out of the city.
Suddenly, a centurion led some soldiers past the rabbi's cart. The soldiers were leading a man with a wooden beam strapped to his shoulders.
" It's a crucifixion". The rabbi yelled at the boys. " Yeshua don't look".
But Yeshua did look.


research help: ' Three Days' by Chris Stepien


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for strength

Prayer: pray for strength by ric gustafson


We are God's instruments. As sinful beings, we are fragile. God wants us to move beyond ourselves. Our Christian life is through the power of Jesus.
What is God's open door?. It is walking in his Word. It's to go through the door without question. It's to love our neighbors. God wants to lead our life. Jesus wants us to step out in faith. We need to pray for strength to go through God's open door for our life. Praise God's name.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for life

Prayer: pray for life by ric gustafson


Are we living the life Jesus has promised us?. Or are we barely living?. We are living in a spiritual wilderness. People are always searching for joy. Sometimes we come up empty. When we lose our life, we will gain it. We must die to self and live for Jesus. Are we willing to die to self?. Jesus wants to come and carry our cross. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: pray for salvation

Prayer: pray for salvation by ric gustafson


What power did Jesus display?. Jesus is the authority and his power shows God's glory. But Satan is always there to confront us. When we give our life to Jesus, prayer is our lifeline. Prayer drives us closer to Jesus.
In prayer, have we cried out to God?. In salvation, to Jesus we are a new creature. God always answers our prayers. Sometimes it's hard to wait for God's answer. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' It's time to pray' by Carter Conlon


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Communion: Life through remembering

Communion: Life through remembering by ric Gustafson


During our time in communion, we can remember. When we are given the bread and wine Jesus says do this in remembrance of me. God always remembers. It is us who needs to remember. Memory is very important to us. God speaks about memory a lot in his Word. In communion, we need to remember what Jesus did for us on the cross. We need to remember the cost from Jesus on the cross.
Praise God.


research help: ' The Power of Communion' by Beni and Bill Johnson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Lusitania miracle page 4

the Lusitania miracle page 4 by ric gustafson


Captain Schwieger was watching the calm sea. From on top of the conning tower, he noticed a steam ship in the dense rain and fog. He decided not to attack it. He ordered a dive down to 72 feet. He ordered crewmen to run to the bow or the stern to speed the dive. Eventually, the U-20 resurfaced and continued on it's journey. On the surface, the boat could travel on diesel power and recharge it's batteries.
For fear of revealing it's presence, Schweiger told the wireless man to turn off their signal. He was happy that Himmelston was still curious about the bible and still reading it.
U-20 was following a course that would take it over the top of Scotland. Then it would travel down Ireland's west coast to the Celtic Irish sea. Schweiger's goal was to reach Liverpool Bay in one piece.


research help: ' Dead Wake' by Erik Larson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Communion: Healing of spirit, soul and body

Communion: healing of spirit, soul and body by ric gustafson


According to Isaiah 53, Jesus was a man of sorrows. Jesus took all of our sorrows and illnesses to the cross. The world was on his shoulders. That way we could be healed spirit, soul and body. Jesus died on the cross so that we could be freed from sin, sickness and sorrow.
When we eat of the bread, we profess that Jesus is the healer and we don't have to walk in darkness. Jesus is the Bread of Life according to John 6. Jesus says this is my body. Jesus is our hope, He is life, hope and healing.
God is the healer. We need to plead the blood of Jesus over our soul, spirit and body. Then we will receive God's healing in our life.


research help: ' The Power of Communion' by Beni and Bill Johnson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Communion: Power of the Blood

Communion: Power of the Blood by ric gustafson


Why is communion powerful?. Communion is the power of the Living God. Communion is the body and blood of Jesus shed for us. There is life in the blood. Blood provides life, health and protection. White blood cells help to build the body's immune system.
In the ancient world, blood was distinguished as a covenant. The shedding of blood was a lifelong promise. God made a covenant with Abram. Jesus shed his blood and made a new covenant with his creation. God offered his own Son as a sacrifice. What Jesus did for us was unconditional. He will never go back or change his mind. He loves us more than anything else.


research help: ' The Power of Communion' by Beni and Bill Johnson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Communion: Wonder Working Power

Communion: Wonder Working Power by ric gustafson


Communion has always been part of my church life. I have used it as a tool of intercession where I would pray for others. I plead the blood of Jesus over other people's lives. When we take the body and blood of Jesus, we remind ourselves whose we are and what he's done for us. There is an old hymn that mentions power power wonder working power. There is power in Jesus's blood.


research help: ' The Power of Communion' by Beni and Bill Johnson


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a life in Jesus: self discipline

a life in Jesus: self discipline by ric gustafson


Our spiritual journey involves self discipline. Along that journey, we experience personal growth, blessings and spiritual rewards. Our Christian self discipline comes from the Holy Spirit. Our right actions produce fruit. To the Apostle Paul, Christian self control was very important.
What is self discipline?. It is choosing to do what's right when you feel like doing wrong. Jesus spoke of self discipline and self control. The problem is that we have two natures. We have an old nature. And we have a new nature which is the nature of God. In Romans, Paul describes this conflict. These two natures are always in conflict. God will help us conquer that conflict. He loves us more than anything else. Praise God.

The End


research help: ' A life beyond amazing' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a life in Jesus: Humility

a life in Jesus: Humility by ric gustafson


Humility is not low self esteem. No one is born humble. Being humble takes effort that is rewarded beyond measure. Humility is to use ability for the good of others. A humble person values others. Humble people set goals. The greatest example of humility was Jesus. Washing the disciples feet was an act of humility.
An enemy to humility is pride. Humility is a journey. To grow in humility is to serve others. Humility produces joy. God loves us more than anything else. Praise God.


research help: ' A life beyond amazing' by David Jeremiah


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric