the end of days page 15

 the end of days page 15 by ric gustafson

One of Carlo's assistants walked up to the podium. " Please rise for your Excellency Carlo Simpato".

Rory and the huge crowd stood up.

" Brothers and Sisters of the One World community". He took a sip of water. " I come before you after this terrible act of nature".

" Please save us" yelled Rory and the crowd.

" I heard that this global earthquake was called the Wrath of the Lamb". He wiped sweat from his brow. " I cannot believe their so called God would send such a disaster".

" We love you Carlo".

Carlo pointed toward heaven. " This disaster will not defeat us".

" We love you Carlo".

Carlo raised his arms. " Let us unite this Global Community".

Rory and the crowd got down on their knees and praised Carlo.

As Rory got back up, he wondered how someone with so much love for this world could ever be an Anti Christ. 

Carlo smiled at Rory. He quietly walked away.

research help: ' Soul Harvest' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 14

 the end of days page 14 by ric gustafson

Rory ran up the heavily damaged stairs. The door to Apartment 15 was ajar. He had to crawl across a huge crater just to get to his mother's apartment building. 

He ran in. The small apartment was a shambles. There was loose concrete everywhere.

Rory yelled. " Mother, where are you?".

" Rory, I'm in here".

Rory walked over and opened the door to a small closet. There was his terrified mother. 

" Oh Rory". Amid tears, they hugged. " I told you the wrath of the Lamb was coming".

" Mother, that was not the wrath of Jesus". He stared at his mother. " That was just a natural occurance".

" Rory, that was the wrath of the Lamb".

" Mother, I don't believe this was caused by the God you believe in".

Tears formed in her eyes. " Rory, I worry about your eternal destination".

" Mother, I am not worried". He smiled. " Carlo will take care of me".

research help: ' Soul Harvest' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Fab Four page 2

 The Fab Four page 2 by ric gustafson

John Winston Lennon was a beautiful little baby. He was named after his grandfather. Julia raised him as the father was mostly out of the picture. Eventually, John moved in with Julia'a sister Mimi. She was proud and no nonsense. She was the rock of the family. Mimi's residence on Menlove Avenue was a seven room cottage. She showered John with attention.

On June 18 1942, a baby boy was born at Walton Hospital. James Paul McCartney. The family finally settled in a part of Liverpool called Knowsley Estates. It was a ground floor flat in a well built tenement. In 1944, Paul had a little brother they named Peter Michael. 

By 1948, Paul's father moved the family to Ardwick Road. Soon after, Paul's mother began complaining about stomach pains. Eventually, they became more severe. Michael followed his brother Paul everywhere. In September 1953, Paul started grammar school.

research help: ' The Beatles' by Bob Spitz

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 13

 the end of days page 13 by ric gustafson

It was late afternoon. Rory yawned as he stopped at a red light. He was heading back to the office for a late meeting with some One World officials. He was tired.

He stared through the windshield and noticed the moon. It looked strange. It looked red. Just then, a small piece of concrete hit the hood of the car. " What in the world" he muttered to himself. A bigger chunk hit the roof. Fear came over Rory's face as he watched office buildings begin to sway. Pieces of the buildings began to hit the ground.

The earth began to shake and a long fissue began to form. Rory stomped on the brakes. It was too late. Rory's car went head first into the fissue. He got the driver door open and crawled to the top of the fissue. He ran for the nearest wall of a building as concrete fell all around him.

As Rory stared at the blood red moon, huge flaming rocks fell next to him.

Scared, Rory called out. " Carlo, please save me".

Rory looked up at God. " I curse you".

Eventually, the destruction stopped. The sun came back out.

research help: ' Nicolae' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 12

 the end of days page 12 by ric gustafson

Carlo and some of his followers approached the fence. They could see the two witnesses.

" And it shall come to pass in the last days says God that I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh".

" We all know that you are quoting from Acts". Carlo stopped at a safe distance from the two. " What you are saying is nothing new".

" Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy".

Carlo looked at his followers. " Are you believing these two?".

" Your young men shall see visions".

Carlo gave the two a stern stare. " Stop scaring my followers".

" Your old men shall dream dreams".

Carlo pointed at his followers. " Are you going to listen to these two or me?".

" You Carlo" yelled his followers.

Carlo began to walk away. " I have had enough of you both".

" The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon into blood".

research help: ' Nicolae' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Fab Four page 1

 the Fab Four page 1 by ric gustafson

The Mersey River drives Liverpool England. It's dock system with warehouses, swing bridges and gates was a dense center of constant activity. Liverpool was considered ' the Gateway to the British Empire". The city was a master of imperial trade. Compared to tweedy London, Liverpool was desolate and meaningless. 

The McCartney's, handymen by trade, lived in housing by the docks. Joseph McCartney, Paul's grandfather was born in 1866. John Lennon's maternal grandfather was George Earnest Stanley. He served aboard merchant ships in service to the Crown. He became a sailmaker. Julia Stanley, John Lennon's mother was born in 1914. John's dad left sailing to work for a tug salvage company. John's mother grew up at 9 Newcastle Road in Penny Lane. Julia's older sister Mimi took charge of the five sisters. In 1938, Julia married a man named Freddie Lennon. She became pregnant in early 1940.

When German airstrikes came to London in 1940, London including the Penny Lane district was heavily bombed. By October 1940, Julia was ready to give birth. 

Paul's father was Jim McCartney. He fell in love with Mary Mohin. In April of 1941, Jim and Mary were married. Jim helped make shell casings for the war effort.

research help: ' The Beatles' by Bob Spitz

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 11

 the end of days page 11 by ric gustafson

Rory walked into his mother's apartment. She was putting dinner on the table.

" Hello Mother". He gave her a peck on the cheek. 

" Hi Rory". She turned on the TV. " Sit down, dinner is ready".

He sat down. She put roast, vegetables and potatoes on their plates.

As they ate, they saw Carlo Simpato making a speech.

" Rory, was that the speech you were at?".

Rory smiled. " Yes Mother it was".

" Why do you follow that madman?".

He took a bite of his roast beef. " He's trying to save the world from destruction".

Fear came over her face. " Rory, he might be the Anti Christ".

" Is that what your bible study has been working on?".

" Yes, we have been studying Revelation 6".

" Mother". He smiled. " How can someone who is trying to save the world be an Anti Christ".

Later when the meal was over, Rory got up to leave. " Mother, I need to get back to the office". He gave her another peck on the cheek.

" Rory, promise me you will think about what I said about this Simpato".

" I promise".

research help: ' Nicolae' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 10

 the end of days page 10 by ric gustafson

Rory was listening to his master give a speech in the new One World auditorium. His cell phone buzzed. " Hello Mother".

" I want to thank everyone who has helped One World become a one currency society".

" Yes, I will stop by after the conference is over".

" I am here to tell you of ambitious plans for the One World global community".

" Please tell us" roared the crowd".

" Eventually, all commerce, industry and all media will be under One World control".

The crowd stood up and cheered. " We love you".

" I will take care of you". Carlo stretched out his arms in a loving way. " That is my promise".

Rory and others began to dance in the aisles.

research help: ' Nicolae' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Birthday

 Beatle songs: Birthday by ric gustafson

This song started out as a basic tune on a piano. Paul was thinking about Linda Eastman's 26th birthday that was coming up. Paul started with a basic keyboard riff. Later, the others came to add a backing track. All the words were made up on the spot. 

The song was released on the ' White Album' in November of 1968.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 9

 the end of days page 9 by ric gustafson

Carlo slowly walked up to the wooden podium. He took a sip from a nearby bottle of water. " Citizens of the One World community". He frowned. " I bring you news of a plot to overthrow me".

Rory was sitting in the first row of the arena. He could not believe what he was hearing.

" No" yelled the crowd.

" I am a man of peace". He banged a fist on the podium. " I will not let this rebellion continue".

Rory smiled in agreement.

" I will use whatever means I have to accomplish that goal". Carlo stared at Rory.

The crowd stood and cheered for their leader.

As Carlo greeted followers, Rory came up to him. He hugged him. " Rory, we need to talk".

Rory grinned. " Yes my lord".

research help: ' Nicolae' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Don't Pass Me By

 Beatle songs: Don't Pass Me By by ric gustafson

This song was the first complete song written by Ringo. He had tried to get the band to record this song for years. This was Ringo's first venture into song writing. Ringo wanted it to sound like country western. Paul and John wanted it to be more blues like. 

The song was released on the ' White Album' in November of 1968.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 8

 the end of days page 8 by ric gustafson

Carlo quickly walked down the steps of the Temple. He noticed the trouble right away. Next to the Wailing Wall were the two witnesses.

Next to them were two soldiers.

Carlo yelled. " Kill them".

They advanced on the two.

One of the witnesses raised a bony finger. The two soldiers turned to ash.

The crowd near the two witnesses stepped back in fear.

One of the witnesses pointed at Carlo. " Someday you will desecrate and defile this Temple".

" That is not true". Carlo smiled at the crowd. " I am here to save this world".

The other witness pointed at Carlo. " We believe in God not man made Temples".

Carlo stared at the crowd. " Do you want to listen to me or them?".

The crowd roared. " You Carlo you".

One of the witnesses pointed at Carlo. " There are no Gods other than the true God".

research help: ' Tribulation Force' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Rocky Raccoon

 Beatle songs: Rocky Raccoon by ric gustafson

Paul began to compose this song while the band was in India. It is about a man named Rocky whose girl Nancy Magill runs off with someone named Dan. Rocky pursues Dan and tries to shoot him down western style. But he is beaten to the draw. Rocky is treated by a doctor stinking of gin. To Paul the title sounded more cowboyish. The song was released on the album ' the White Album' in November 1968.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 7

 the end of days page 7 by ric gustafson

Rory had just finished installing some software into a laptop. He heard a steel door close.

" How is it going Rory?".

" Fine Mr Simpato". He gave his new boss a tired smile. 

Carlo sat down next to the laptop. " How are we doing financially?".

" Your corporate donations and offerings from your followers looks good".

" So our financial picture looks ok?".

" I think the One World financial network will be just fine".

" Good". He patted Rory's shoulder. " You are doing a great job".

" Carlo, you defiler of this Temple".

Startled, Rory looked up. " What was that?".

" Nothing that concerns you". He stood up. He walked toward the door. " I will be right back".

research help: ' Tribulation Force' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the road to Emmaus page 3

 the road to Emmaus page 3 by ric gustafson

Cleopas and his friend listened as Jesus explained many things to them. Beginning with Moses and the prophets, he told them things concerning himself in all the Scriptures.

Jesus looked up to see that they were approaching the village. " I'm traveling farther down the road".

Cleopas's friend spoke up. " Stay with us for it is getting toward evening and the day is nearly over".

Jesus agreed. He entered their house. They reclined at a table. Jesus took bread, blessed it and then broke it. He handed them pieces of the bread. 

Cleopas's eyes and the eyes of his friend opened. At that moment, they recognized the stranger as Jesus.

Just as suddenly, Jesus vanished from their sight.

That very night, the two men returned to Jerusalem. They told the others that they had seen the Lord.

The End

research help: The Ryrie Study Bible

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 6

 the end of days page 6 by ric gustafson

Rory was asleep in his office chair. Downtown Copper Creek was quiet at this time of night. The office was dark. He had closed his eyes for a quick nap. All of a sudden, he heard his office door open and close.

Rory opened his eyes to see a tall lanky man with piercing blue eyes smiling at him. Rory did not recognize him.

" Who are you?".

He smiled and shook Rory's hand. " I'm Carlo Simpato".

Rory yawned. " I was just taking a little nap Mr Simpato".

" I know you are tired". He sighed. " And how is your mother?".

Rory gave him a surprised look. " How do you know about my mother?".

" I know a lot about you". A sly grin came across Carlo's face. " In fact I have a proposition for you".

" Any deal would have to go through my boss".

" I understand". He smiled again. " Which is not a problem".

" Why is that?".

" This morning, I bought your bank". He grinned. " So now you work for me".

" I am at your service".

" Good". Carlo pulled up a chair. " I would like to explain my plan to you".

research help: ' Tribulation Force' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the road to Emmaus page 2

 the road to Emmaus page 2 by ric gustafson

" The things about Jesus the Nazarene who was a prophet mighty in deed and word in the sight of God and all the people".

His friend spoke up. " The chief priests and our rulers delivered him to the sentence of death and crucified him". 

Cleopas sighed. " We were hoping that it was he who was going to redeem Israel".

" And then something happened?".

" What happened?".

Cleopas scratched his chin. " After three days, some of the women went to the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body".

" The women said that they had seen a vision of angels who told them that he was alive". His friend grinned at Jesus. " Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it exactly as the women had said.

Jesus looked at them with loving eyes. " Oh foolish men and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken ".

Both Cleopas and his friend stared at Jesus.

" Was it not necessary for the Christ to suffer these things and to enter into his glory".

research help:  The Ryrie Study Bible

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da

 Beatle songs: Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da by ric gustafson

This phrase was uttered by a conga player by the name of Jimmy Scott. Paul met him at a club in Soho London. Scott wore dark sunglasses and African clothing. He and Paul became fast friends. Scott was known for his catch phrases. Scott would say this phrase and people would reply ' life goes on'.

Paul loved the catch phrase. The song was released on the ' White Album' in November 1968.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Cider page 6

 Cider page 6 by ric gustafson

New England was settled in 1620 at Plymouth. Colonial households planted small orchards near the home. One of the first apples from Massachusetts was the Tolman Sweet apple. Cider was made from these apple trees. It was made, stored and consumed from October to May. This was after the summer's beer supply was finished. By 1750, cider making increased and beer consumption decreased. One harvest could provide a year's worth of cider. 

Early colonial taverns became popular. It provided food and drink to churchgoers and catered to local militias. These taverns were located at crossroads, mill towns and along rural market routes. These taverns became a place to eat, drink and sleep. The drink of choice at taverns was cider. Stagecoaches relied on taverns because of the long distances. 

Cider mills were one story in front and two in the back. Apples were unloaded in the front and the cider was collected below. Popular New England apples included the Baldwin and the Rhode Island Greening. By the 1840's, apples were a consistent and reliable crop. 

Today, the McIntosh, the Baldwin and Cortland are popular for cider. Popular regions for cider is the Champlain Valley and the Connecticut River Valley.

research help: ' American Cider' by Dan Pucci and Craig Cavallo

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the road to Emmaus page 1

 the road to Emmaus page 1 by ric gustafson

Cleopas and his friend walked along the dusty road. They knew they were near the village of Emmaus. The village was about seven miles from Jerusalem. Both of them were tired and sad. They had just witnessed the brutal death of their teacher and savior. They came up to a crossroads.

Cleopas looked to his left and noticed a young man approach. He had a dark beard. He smiled.

" Would you mind if I walk with you toward the village?".

" No". The three of them began to walk down the road.

As they walked, Jesus listened to their conversation.

Cleopas wondered if he had seen the stranger before. He could not place his face.

" What are these words that you are exchanging with one another as you are walking?".

Both men stopped and stared at the stranger.

Cleopas spoke up. " Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem and unaware of the things which have happened in these days?".

Jesus looked at their bewildered faces. " What things?".

research help: The Ryrie Study Bible

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 5

 the end of days page 5 by ric gustafson

Rory walked into the conference room. Sitting next to a laptop was his boss and a stranger he did not know.

" Rory, please sit down". His boss pointed to a chair. Rory sat down. " I'm going to leave you and Mr Gambino to chat". He leaves.

" Rory, I'm Larry Gambino". 

They shook hands. 

" I represent the One World financial network". He smiled. " Have you been seeing us on TV lately?".

" Actually, my mother and I were watching you yesterday".

Mr Gambino turned on the laptop. " My boss started this financial network".

" Who is your boss?".

" More than likely you've seen him on TV recently". He smiled again. " My boss is Carlo Simpato".

" Yes, I know who he is".

" Rory, my boss is very interested in you".

research help: ' Tribulation Force' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Back in the USSR

 Beatle songs: Back in the USSR by ric gustafson

There was a friendly rivalry between the Beatles and the Beach Boys. When the Beatles did Rubber Soul the Beach Boys did Pet Sounds. Even though they admired each other, they had little social contact with each other. This song was written when the Beatles traveled to India in Feb 1968. Paul wrote this song to feel like one of the Beach Boys vocal harmony songs. 

This song was included in the album ' The White Album' which was released in November 1968.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 4

 the end of days page 4 by ric gustafson

Rory walked into his mother's hospital room. She was sitting up watching the news on TV. " Good morning Mother". He gave her a peck on the cheek. " How are you doing?".

" Better". She grinned. " The throbbing is gone".

" My coworker Jim Harris and his wife are just down the hall".

" Why are they here?".

" They were in an accident like you were".

" What happened?".

" Their son vanished". Rory frowned. " Just like Dad did".

Emily kept watching the TV screen. " Rory, I don't understand what you see in that Carlo Simpato".

Rory gave his mother a stern look. " He's trying to keep this world together".

" Our bible study group has been studying the book of Revelation".

" So?".

" It predicts that an Anti Christ is coming".

" Carlo Simpato is not the Anti Christ".

" Just be careful Rory".

research help: ' Left Behind' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry B Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 3

 the end of days page 3 by ric gustafson

Emily Johnston opened her eyes. She glanced around the hospital room. She noticed her son Rory was sitting next to her. She tried to raise her head. She couldn't. It was throbbing.

" Mom, it's me".

" Rory". There was fear in her voice. " Where's your father?".

A man in a uniform walked in. " Mrs Johnston". He smiled. " I'm Officer Carlson of the Copper Creek Police Department".

" Rory, where's Ross?".

The Officer took out a notebook. " Mrs Johnston, I need to ask a couple of questions about the accident".

" I'll try".

" Do you remember anything before your vehicle hit the barrier?".

" I turned and screamed at Ross that we were about to hit that barrier".

" Then what happened?".

" Rory, your father wasn't there".

" Mother, what do you mean he wasn't there?".

" I looked over and only saw his clothes in the driver's seat".

Officer Carlson shook his head. " A lot of people have been telling me that today".

Emily raised her head. " Rory, your father was not driving the van".

Rory could not believe what she was telling him.

" Mother, you need to rest".

" Rory, I'm not crazy". She frowned. " Your father was not there".

research help: ' Left Behind' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry B Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Hey Jude

 Beatle songs: Hey Jude by ric gustafson

Paul enjoyed spending time with John's son Julian. One day, he drove down to Weybridge to give him and his mother Cynthia some comfort. She and John had started divorce proceedings. As he drove, a song began to form in Paul's head. He thought of lyrics about comfort and reassurance. He thought ' Hey Jules' would be a good title for the song he was developing in his head.

Later, Paul changed the title to ' Hey Jude'.

The song was released in August of 1968.

It was number one in England and the US.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 2

 the end of days page 2 by ric gustafson

Robbie looked out the window of the red Fusion. " Where are we going Dad?".

" I thought I would show you my new office". He smiled. " And then take the two of you to Pizza Village for lunch.

" Alright pizza". The teenager grinned. " Can I have ham and pineapple?".

" Of course". Agnes smiled. " Jim, can you explain to me how you got this job promotion?".

" I was promoted to head of finance because of our new relationship with the UN".

She looked puzzled. " UN?".

Robbie shook his head. " United Nations Mom".

" Their new representative Carlo Simpato wants to do business with our bank".

Jim turned onto Main Street. Just then, fear came over his face.

" What's wrong Jim?".

" There is a car heading right for us". He turned the wheel sharply to avoid a collision.

The SUV began to flip.

Agnes quickly glanced into the backseat. She looked at her husband before she blacked out. " Jim, where is Robbie?".

research help: ' Left Behind' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry B Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Lady Madonna

 Beatle songs: Lady Madonna by ric gustafson

This song was written by Paul as a celebration of motherhood. It started with an image of the Virgin Mary. Then Paul decided to consider all mothers. The finished song was a return to the basic rock in roll of their early years. Paul wondered how mothers did what they did. 

The song was released as a single in March 1968. It went to number 1 in England.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 1

 the end of days page 1 by ric gustafson

Jim Harris pushed the button to close the garage door. He walked into the well kept kitchen. 

Agnes Harris was cutting up some fruit. She put them into a small bowl. " How was your day?".

" Busy as usual". He put his worn brown briefcase on top of the hutch. " The bank seems to be doing well".

" That's good". She put a pitcher of ice water on the kitchen table.

" Where's Robbie?".

" Outside reading his new bible".

He frowned. " Sometimes I wish the church had never given him that".

She walked over to the open kitchen window. " Robbie, come in for supper".

The thirteen year old walked in and put his bible next to his father's briefcase. He sat down.

Agnes poured water into their glasses. " What was the meeting at work about?".

" It was about the new UN representative from Italy Carlo Simpato". Jim put some roast beef onto his plate. " He wants to do business with our bank".

Robbie took a sip of his water. " Who 's working on that deal Dad?".

" Rory Johnston".

research help: ' Left Behind' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry B Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Fool on the Hill

 Beatle songs: Fool on the Hill by ric gustafson

Paul began writing this song in March 1967. He began to write about a foolish man sitting on the hill. Paul wrote about a fool but who was actually a visionary. On a walk one day, Paul's dog ran off. As he was looking for him, a man appeared in a trenchcoat. On top of a hill, the man talked to Paul and then vanished. This happened in Primrose Hill London. It was the inspiration Paul needed to write the song.

It was on the album ' Magical Mystery Tour' which was released in November December 1967.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: crowned with glory and honor

 the Passion of Jesus: crowned with glory and honor by ric gustafson

According to John 17:5, Jesus had glory with his Father before the world existed. Hebrews 2:9 says Jesus was crowned with glory and honor. God's Son was obedient to the point of death. The Lamb is worthy to receive honor and glory according to Revelation 5:12. There was a price for the crown. Jesus died to have it. The crown was the prize. 

In order to love us, Jesus must seek the fullness of his glory. Jesus offers this glory to us. Jesus died for us so we can be with him forever. That is how Jesus loves.

The End.

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: All Together Now

 Beatle songs: All Together Now by ric gustafson

This song was written in May 1967. Paul was the main contributor to this song. It was written to be similar to ' Yellow Submarine'. It was played later at British soccer games. It was written to sound like a nursery rhyme of childhood. Paul wanted it to sound like a children's song. 

The song was on the album ' Yellow Submarine'. The album was released in Jan 1969.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Cider page 5

 Cider page 5 by ric gustafson

In 1642, the first governor of Virginia William Berkeley cultivated fruit trees at his estate. Thomas Jefferson and others grafted Virginia crab apples and Newtown Pippin apples and made cider from them. The first cider in the Southeast part of the US was plantation cider. Cider was made using leftover seedling apples. Farmers used half sweet and half sour apples. The recipe was simple. In the Southeast, cidermaking took place on individual farms. It was mostly women producing it. 

Throughout the 1700's, nurseries and commercial orchards began to appear. As a result, unique southern apples began to appear. Southern cider is marked by hot summers which translated to fruit high in sugar and cider. With an ABV more than 8 percent, cider exhibited sweet citrus and tropical flavors. This included lemon, guava and pineapple.

Today, Virginia cider producers include Albemarle Ciderworks and Castle Hill. In Western Virginia, the Black Twig and Arkansas Black apples are popular. In short, the cider of the Southeast US is different apple cultures that have evolved over time.

research help: ' American Cider' by Dan Pucci and Craig Cavallo

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: the good news

 the Passion of Jesus: the good news by ric gustafson

The Gospel is the good news. Good news is an announcement that something big has happened. This good news is the best news. The Gospel reports the death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus died for our sins. He was buried he was raised. There were witnesses to Jesus's death, burial and resurrection. Satan tries to convince people there is no good news. Satan tries to blind the minds of unbelievers. Our sinful human nature tries to blind the truth from us.

Satan can be overcome by the power of God. With Satan's lies gone, we know Jesus as true and good. This is a blood bought gift. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: All You Need Is Love

 Beatle songs: All You Need Is Love by ric gustafson

In early 1967, the band was approached by the BBC to take part in a live global television event. It would be broadcast to 26 countries. Both John and Paul wrote a song. John's song won. It was an uncomplicated song musically and lyrically. But in the summer of 1967, it was perfect. The song asks for universal love. The song had a message. It became the anthem of summer 1967.

The song was released in July 1967.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Cider page 4

 Cider page 4 by ric gustafson

So how do we taste cider?.  We open and drink, We smell, sip, savor and repeat. For cider with little tannin and under 7 percent alcohol, between 42 and 50 degrees to store. For a richer cider with more body, weight and texture, 48 to 55 is optimum. 

Sweet and dry are two ways to describe cider. Fruit is the building block of cider. Cider can be called fruity. Fruity cider could be apple, pineapple, lime, berries or stone fruit. Cider could be pear, melon or cherry. 

So how do we store cider. The majority of cider is meant to be consumed right away. Some cider can grace for years. This depends on acid, tannin, sugar and alcohol. 

What is the future of cider?. American cider is growing. Cider is not flooding the shelves like beer and wine. On paper, cider falls between beer and wine. 

Next, we will look at cider around the world.

research help: ' American Cider' by Dan Pucci and Craig Cavallo

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: the fear of death

 the Passion of Jesus: the fear of death by ric gustafson

According to John 8:44, he is a liar and the father of lies. This father of lies is Satan. He has the power to deceive us. His chief weapon is to be able to deceive us. 

Jesus died on the cross to take that weapon out of Satan's hand. Jesus took our sins and put them on himself. Because of what Jesus did on the cross, Satan cannot destroy us. The wrath of God is removed. Jesus had to take a human nature. He had to experience death. If we believe in Jesus, we should not fear death. Satan cannot kill our soul. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: good works

 the Passion of Jesus: good works by ric gustafson

We are not forgiven and accepted by God because of good works. According to II Timothy 1:9, God saved us not because of our good works. When we become Christians, good works is the fruit. According to Titus 2:14, we are to be zealous for good works. Grace is a free gift. 

We were saved for good works not by good works. Being in Christ the aim is to have a passion for good works. What are good works?. It is helping people in great need. Jesus died so we can help the poor and those perishing. God gets the glory. Praise God's name.

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Cider page 3

 Cider page 3 by ric gustafson

When you talk about alcohol fermentation, you are talking about yeast converting sugar to alcohol. You can add or pitch yeast and create a variation. You can get sparkling cider when you combine bubbles and alcohol. To have non sparkling cider, the carbon dioxide must leave the liquid. 

Fresh apple juice is put into fermentation vessels or containers. Most popular are glass, oak, steel and plastic drums. It takes three months to a year for the juice to ferment. 

Cider can be packaged in cans or in glass bottles. Both are popular.

research help: ' American Cider' by Dan Pucci and Craig Cavallo

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: to live by faith

 the Passion of Jesus: to live by faith by ric gustafson

Jesus died for you and for me. When he died on the cross, our old self was crucified with him. Our old self died with Jesus. What is the new self?. The new self is Jesus now living in me. The new self is Jesus sustained, Jesus inhabited and Jesus strengthened. That is what a Christian is. Our new self is faith in Jesus. Jesus lives in us. We trust Jesus and try to walk in faith side by side with him.

Praise God's name.

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatle songs: Good Morning Good Morning

 Beatle songs: Good Morning Good Morning by ric gustafson

John wrote this song to explain how he felt about life at the moment. He was running out of things to say. He was taking too many drugs and had a cold marriage. He spent his time now eating, sleeping and watching TV. One day, his eye caught a commercial on TV. It was a Kellogg's Corn Flakes commercial. The jingle for the commercial was Good Morning Good Morning. This was a black and white commercial. It was a four line jingle. 

The finished song was on the album ' Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'.

The album was released in June 1967.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: Jesus died for all

 the Passion of Jesus: Jesus died for all by ric gustafson

We have all failed to glorify God. We have failed to glorify his Son. Jesus died to bear our sins. Jesus is unique. Jesus is wise, just, good and strong. Jesus loves us more than anything else. Jesus died for every one of us. Jesus died for all. Jesus says in John 17:24, Father I desire that they also whom you have given me may be with me where I am to see my glory. Praise God's name. 

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Cider page 2

 Cider page 2 by ric gustafson

Apples have a long harvest season. Some are harvested as early as July. Some wait until snow arrives. Most apples fall to the ground. Ground apples make good cider. Most apples are harvested by hand. Then they need to be in controlled storage. Some fruit is left to sit. This is called sweating the apples. 

Cider is never brewed. The apples need to be rinsed to get rid of bacteria. The apples then are milled into a pulp through grinding and smashing. Today, the process is mechanized. Today, nylon fabric keep solids from spewing and lets liquid escape. Then a top plate is used to press the liquid from the pomace. Some cidermakers use a bladder press. This is a smaller press compared to the rack and cloth.

research help: ' American Cider' by Dan Pucci and Craig Cavallo

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: to live to righteousness

 the Passion of Jesus: to live to righteousness by ric gustafson

We were dead spiritually. Jesus dying on a cross gave us a substitute to escape eternal death. According to John 10:28, I give them eternal life and they will never perish. Jesus died in our place and for our sins. When Jesus died, I died with him. According to Romans 6:5, we have been united with him in a death like his. We have been crucified with Christ according to Galatians 2:20. Jesus died for my sins. 

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Cider page 1

 Cider page 1 by ric gustafson

For cider, you need a good apple. There are over 15,000 apple varieties in North America. Most ciders use apples with multiple intended purposes. Northern Spy and Rhode Island Greening make great cider. Apples that are used for other things as well are called multipurpose apples. These apples have suppled farmers markets and grocery stores. Multipurpose apples tasted fresh and were dried, baked, juiced and used for applesauce or apple butter. Some Cull apples can be used also for cider. Cull apples are apples that are considered unfit for their intended market. Some make good cider and some do not.

The cider industry has skyrocketed in recent years.

research help: ' American Cider' by Dan Pucci and Craig Cavallo

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: the slavery of sin

 the Passion of Jesus: the slavery of sin by ric gustafson

Our sin makes us guilty before God. It racks us with guilt. But the blood of Jesus frees us from that slavery. Jesus absorbs the wrath of God. Jesus takes away our guilt. 

Jesus had to suffer so the mercy of heaven could give us liberation from the power of sin. A declaration from sin is justification. An ongoing transformation is sanctification. The power of God is his liberating mercy. According to Romans 6, we are not under law but are under grace. God's grace frees us from the guilt and slavery of sin. 

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

  

Beatle songs: Lovely Rita

 Beatle songs: Lovely Rita by ric gustafson

One day, a friend from the US was visiting Paul. He noticed a female traffic warden. The friend called them meter maids. Paul liked that term and began to experiment on the piano. Paul came up with ' lovely Rita meter maid. Paul wrote lyrics about a shy office worker who was issued a parking ticket. He tries to seduce the meter maid to avoid the fine. 

The song was on the album ' Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'.

The album was released in June 1967.

research help: ' The Beatles A Hard Day's Write' by Steve Turner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Passion of Jesus: we belong to him

 the Passion of Jesus: we belong to him by ric gustafson

Who do we belong to?. According to John 8, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. We are fallen humans. We live in a fallen world. We are either governed by sin or Jesus. When Jesus died on that cross, we were set free from that bondage. According to Romans 6, we have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God. With Jesus's blood, we are free indeed. 

So whose will you be?. We choose to be Jesus's. Praise God's name.

research help: ' The Passion of Jesus Christ' by John Piper

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Malchus page 13

 Malchus page 13 by ric gustafson

Malchus quietly walked up to the front of the mob. He now stood next to Flavius and Jonathon.

" You have come for me and found me". Jesus pointed at his disciples. " Let these others go".

Flavius stared at Jesus. " We have no orders to arrest anyone but the Nazarene".

All of sudden, Malchus felt as if his head had just been whacked by something cold. He screamed in agony. He fell to the ground. He put his fingers to where his right ear should of been.

" Enough of this" Jesus yelled. 

As Malchus kept screaming in agony, Jesus slowly bent down. He put his fingers on the large gash on the right side of Malchus's head. 

As Jesus kept up the pressure on Malchus's wound, his pain began to leave. When Jesus removed his fingers, Malchus noticed the pain had totally left him.

Jesus gave Peter a stern look. " Put your sword away". He looked at the mob. " He who lives by the sword will die from the sword".

Jesus now stared at Flavius. " You come for me with swords and clubs". He looked at the others. " This hour has been given to you to fulfill the scriptures of the prophecy".

Flavius yelled. " Arrest him".

Jesus was bound by tight cords. He was led away.

Dazed, Malchus kept touching his now completely healed right ear. When he finally looked up, he was the only one left in the garden.

The End

research help: ' Malchus' by W.G. Griffiths

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric