World Nations: Albania

 World Nations: Albania by ric gustafson

In the 15th century, this area was called Illyria. It was conquered by the Romans, Slavs and Turks. Albania was proclaimed in 1912. Italy invaded this country in 1939. Enver Hoxha ruled this nation for four decades. He died in 1985. Former Communists were routed in elections in 1992. This was due to social unrest and economic collapse. Sali Berisha was elected as a non Communist president in 1996. In 2005, a pro Berisha coalition victory happened. The country became part of NATO in 2009. Socialists under Edi Rama won in April 2021. Albania has tried to join EU since July 2022.

Population of Albania is 3,095,344 [ 134]

research help: World Almanac 2023

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Prayer: a walk in the garden

 Prayer: a walk in the garden by ric gustafson

We were designed to have a close relationship with God. God made you and I. God formed us with his hands. When we inhale and exhale, it is a gift from God. When we pray, God wants to get close to us. Just like in the garden, God wants to walk with us and talk to us. God walked in the garden with Adam and Eve. God wants us to pray to him daily. He wants to know everything that is going on in our lives. God is waiting for our prayers. He loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' On Our Knees' by Phil Wickham and Matt Litton

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

World Nations: Afghanistan

 World Nations: Afghanistan by ric gustafson

The country of Afghanistan is a favored invasion route. In ancient times, the country was called Ariana, Bactria. In the Middle Ages, the country was called Khorasan. In the 18th century, a unified kingdom was established. In 1973, a military coup ushered in a republic. In 1978, pro Soviet leftists took power in a bloody coup. In April 1988, The UN mediated an agreement. Soviet troops withdrew and the country became neutral. 

In 1996, an insurgent radical Islamist faction called the Taliban captured Kabul. In Sep 2021, the Taliban began an interim government led by Mohammad Hasan Akhund. In July of 2022, a US drone killed al - Qaeda leader al- Zawahiri in Kabul.

Afghanistan population: 38,346,720   37 in world

research help: 2023 World Almanac

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biblical questions: Is the Lord my Shepherd?

 biblical questions: Is the Lord my Shepherd? by ric gustafson

God calls us his people sheep. According to Psalm 23, the Lord is my Shepherd. In the New Testament, God called church leaders shepherds. According to God, church leaders were not to be pushy, drunk or a bully. They were to welcome people, be helpful, wise and fair.

Jesus asked that those he chose to lead do it with love, patience and solid truth. Jesus is our Good Shepherd. He loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jesus: the woman at the well

 Jesus: the woman at the well by ric gustafson

According to John 4, one day Jesus sat down at a well to rest. He was tired from walking. A Samaritan woman came at the same time to draw water. Jesus asked her for a drink. When the disciples came, they were surprised. Jesus was talking to a woman. 

At one point Jesus tells her she had had five husbands and was living with someone not her husband. Jesus did not identify her shame. Many women joined Jesus's group. Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna and others. 

When Jesus went to the cross, more women stayed than men. In the early church, women began to play bigger roles in church leadership. Women for Jesus have learned new languages. Women have planted churches. Women have translated the bible and cared for the sick. 

Women were at the cradle. A woman was at the well. Women were at the cross. Jesus treated women with dignity and respect. He always has. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Who Is This Man?' by John Ortberg

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biblical questions: are we God's vines?

 biblical questions: are we God's vines? by ric gustafson

God has compared his people to vines. Jesus used this illustration in John 15. A vine can gain life and nourishment from God. This vine can survive and flourish. A vine can also wither and die according to Ezekiel 17. This vine can be uprooted and wither. We all sin. People can sin and not care what God thinks. God's patience will run out. 

But God loves us no matter what. He sent his only Son to die for us according to Romans 5. Because of Jesus, all sin was paid in full. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing 

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Hosea and Gomer page 4

 Hosea and Gomer page 4 by ric gustafson

Gomer could hear men's voices. She opened her eyes. Someone was dabbing her forehead with a cold cloth. It was Jarah the brothel's kitchen maid.

" You look better". She smiled. " Both of your eyes are open".

Gomer smiled. Next to her was Hosea.

Hosea grinned. " We've paid Tamir the agreed price".

Jonah stared at Gomer. " I have rented a small house on the other side of town".

" Isaiah will serve as friend of the bridegroom".

Gomer gave Hosea a strange look. " Bridegroom?".

" Jarah will be your virgin attendant".

" Attendant?".

" I believe that Yahweh has chosen you to be my wife".

" Wife?".

" Before Yahweh and these witnesses". Hosea smiled at Gomer. " Do you choose to be my wife?".

" Yes, I will marry you".

research help: ' Love In A Broken Vessel' by Mesu Andrews

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Jesus: a revolution in humanity

 Jesus: a revolution in humanity by ric gustafson

One day, Jesus went to a dinner party. It was a Sabbath. A man with edema was there also. Jesus asked if it was permissible to heal this man on the Sabbath. He got no answer so he healed him. Jesus asked what was the worth of a human being?.  We are obsessed with worth.

God notices sparrows. God notices the hairs on our head. To God, his people matter to him more than anything else. Jesus told them a story about a feast in the Kingdom of God. Christians do not have a corner on compassion. But the truth is God and Jesus love everybody. No matter who they are and their life stories. God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit love us more than anything else.

research help: ' Who Is This Man?' by John Ortberg

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biblical questions: can we represent Christ?

 biblical questions: can we represent Christ? by ric gustafson

God's people were full of corruption, self reliance and rebellion. God sent prophets to tell people that punishment was coming. The prophets told the people to turn from their sin and come back to God. They chose to live their own life.

According to 2 Corinthians 5, we are Christ's representatives. God wants us to be his prophets. God wants to tell the message even if the people will not listen. We represent God. Praise his holy name.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

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Jesus: No Dignity

 Jesus: No Dignity by ric gustafson

Jesus had no dignity when he was born. His cradle was a feeding trough. He was wrapped in rags. He would die with no dignity. He was convicted, beaten, bleeding, abandoned and shamed. Jesus was a friend of sinners. He became an enemy of the Romans. 

Jesus the child of Bethlehem would grow up to be a friend of sinners. He was not a friend of Rome. He spent time with the ordinary and the unimportant. He spent time with cripples, lepers, beggars, prostitutes, fishermen, women and children.

Jesus started a slow quiet movement. That movement continues today. That child born in a manger has grown in stature and reputation. Jesus came into the world with no dignity.

research help: ' Who Is This Man?' by John Ortberg

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biblical questions: Does God have a still small voice?

 biblical questions: Does God have a still small voice? by ric gustafson 

The people of Israel expected an impressive display of God's power. They did not recognize God's voice. They were concerned and not listening to God. I Kings 19 says God has a still small voice. God does not shout for our attention. God whispers imstead.

God talks to us late at night and early in the morning. When it is quiet, we can listen for God's voice. If we trust God, we will listen for his still small voice. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Hosea and Gomer page 3

 Hosea and Gomer page 3 by ric gustafson

Hosea munched on a slice of hard cheese. He and Jonah sat on a hillside outside Samaria. " I did not know Gomer was a prostitute".

Jonah frowned. " Something else is bothering you?".

" I was not able to stop the sacrifice".

" You are God's prophet for this moment".

Indignation began to rise. " I don't love Gomer".

" What happened in Bethel?".

" She was like a sister to me". Hosea sighed. " We were inseperable".

Jonah grinned. " We need to go look and find her".

" What if she refuses to marry me?".

" We keep obeying".

" What does that mean?".

Jonah smiled. " Yahweh always works out the details".

research help: ' Love In A Broken Vessel' by Mesu Andrews

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Jesus: the man who won't go away

Jesus: the man who won't go away by ric gustafson

After Jesus was killed, many thought that would be the end of that carpenter. The truth is that Jesus's impact on history is unparalleled. People ask " who was this man?". Jesus did not loudly defend his movement. He was not a rising political or military leader. After two thousand years, Jesus is more popular than ever.

From complete obscurity, Jesus came into the public's attention in the blink of an eye. Jesus is the dividing line of history, Jesus is the dominant figure of Western Culture. Jesus never married. Jesus never wrote a book. Jesus never held an office or led an army. Jesus proclaimed that his kingdom was not from this world. 

When Jesus began to teach, people were amazed, astonished, delighted and sometimes infuriated. But people listened and still listen to him today. Has Jesus ever gone away. The answer is no way. He always has and will always love us more than anything else. 

research help: ' Who is this man?' by John Ortberg

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Hosea and Gomer page 2

 Hosea and Gomer page 2 by ric gustafson

Hosea and Jonah approached the entrance to Samaria. It was King Jeroboam's capital.

" What if I don't want to marry a harlot".

" It is Yahweh's calling for you".

They both stared at Samaria's ivory palace.

" Hosea, don't make the same mistake I made".

" You mean time spent in the belly of a fish".

" Yes, I still have milky white skin".

They walked through one of the city gates.

" What if King Jeroboam will not listen to my message?".

Jonah grinned. " He will do what he did with me".

" And that was?".

" He will give you wisdom". Jonah smiled. " He will make your way clear".

research help: ' Love In A Broken  Vessel' by Mesu Andrews

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Footprints: as our strong provider

 Footprints: as our strong provider by ric gustafson

At times, storms in our life seem overwhelming. The truth is God's power is stronger than any storm that will come our way. God is our provider in every aspect of our life. He will provide the way before us. God will never leave us. God will provide every need that we have. 

Like in Footprints, God will carry us and will not drop us. As our Provider, God will carry us through the storms of our lives. He will do that because he loves us more than anything else.

The End

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

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Footprints: as our guide

 Footprints: as our guide by ric gustafson

God wants to hold our hand on our spiritual journey. No matter cracks in the sidewalk or bumps on the road. He will hold our hand and enjoy our company. Isaiah 58 says the Lord will guide you always. Even with obstacles along the path, God will hold our hand tight. God's Word will be our roadmap. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Hosea and Gomer page 1

 Hosea and Gomer page 1 by ric gustafson

Gomer was handed a fig by one of the servant girls.

" Thank you Jarah". She began to eat it.

" Don't let Tamir see you eat that".

Gomer nodded her head in agreement. She was usually in the kitchen trying to avoid the owner of the brothel. Gomer was Tamir's most lucrative harlot.

Merau walked in. She was the brothel's midwife,

" Why do I have to go to the sacrifice?".

She grinned. " Because you represent Tamir's house better than anyone".

Gomer shook her head. " Is that the only reason?".

" She plans to teach you how to run this brothel".

" She will". The old woman stroked her hair. " She likes you".

Then Gomer began to have thoughts of Bethel. Her only friend was Hosea. He was ten and she was six. He was her one friend and protector.

research help: ' Love in a Broken Vessel' by Mesu Andrews

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: in our decisions

 Footprints: in our decisions by ric gustafson

We make decisions all the time. Some decisions are easy. Some decisions are life changing. So how can God help us with our decisions?. No matter that the decision is easy or complex, one thing is for sure. We must make that decision based on Jesus's will in our life. Following Jesus means we live our lives the way Jesus wants us to. We must yield to Jesus's control. 

We must make decisions based on Jesus's character. Then we will share in his glory.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

oz dialogue 6

 oz dialogue 6 by ric gustafson

Dorothy: Oh please Professor why can't we go with you and see the Crowned Heads of Europe

Professor Marvel: Do you know any oh you mean the thing yes well I never do anything without consulting my crystal first Let's go inside here well just come along I'll show you 

Professor Marvel helps Dorothy step into the wagon

Professor Marvel: That's right here sit right down here this is the same genuine magic authentic crystal used by the priests of Isis and Osiris in the days of the Pharaohs of Egypt in which Cleopatra first saw the approach of Julius Caesar and Marc Antony and so on and so on

Professor Marvel: Now you better close your eyes my child for a moment in order to be better in tune with the infinite

Dorothy closes her eyes. Professor Marvel peeks into her basket.

Professor Marvel: Now you can open them we'll gaze into the crystal ah what's this I see a house with a picket fence and a barn with a weather vane of a running horse.

Dorothy: That's our farm

Professor Marvel: There's a woman she's wearing a polka dot dress her face is careworn

Dorothy: That's Aunt Em

Professor Marvel: Her name is Emily

Dorothy: That's right What's she doing?

Professor Marvel: Well I can't quite see why she's crying someone has hurt her someone has just broken her heart

Dorothy: Me?

Professor Marvel: Well it's someone she loves very much  someone she's been very kind to  someone she's taken care of in sickness

Dorothy: I had the measles once she stayed right by me every minute What's she doing now?

Professor Marvel: What's this she's putting her hand on her heart she's dropping down on the bed

Dorothy: Oh no!

Professor Marvel: That's all the crystal's gone dark

Dorothy: You don't suppose she could really be sick do you? I've got to go home right away 

Professor Marvel: But what's this I thought you were going along with me

Dorothy: Oh no I have to get to her right away come on Toto goodbye Professor Marvel and thanks a lot

Professor Marvel: Better get under cover Sylvester there's a storm blowin a whopper poor little kid I hope she gets home all right

research help: Wizard of Oz trading cards

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: when we need direction

 Footprints: when we need direction by ric gustafson

We make decisions all the time. Some are good ones. Some are not. And there times when we ask God, what do I do now?. We seek God's wisdom. James 1 says if any of you lacks wisdom he should ask God. God will give us his wisdom if we come to him with a seeking heart. No question we ask is bigger than God. 

When we need direction, God will make something out of nothing. God has a plan for us. God hears our honest cries. He will fill our hearts with songs of joy.

Praise God and Jesus's name.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

oz dialogue 5

oz dialogue 5 by ric gustafson

Auntie Em: How would it be if she keeps him tied up he's really gentle with gentle people that is

Miss Gulch: Well that's for the sheriff to decide here's his order allowing me to take him unless you want to go against the law.

Uncle Henry: Uh yes

Auntie Em: Almira Gulch, just because you own half the county doesn't mean you have the power to run the rest of us for twenty three years I've been dying to tell you what I thought of you  and now well being a Christian woman I can't say it

Toto escapes from Miss Gulch's basket. She comes back to Dorothy's bedroom.

Dorothy: Toto darling oh I've got you back You've come back oh I'm so glad Toto they'll be coming back for you in a minute. We've got to get away we've got to run away

Dorothy and Toto meet Professor Marvel

Professor Marvel: well well house guests huh and who might you be no no now don't tell me let's see you're traveling in disguise no that's not right you're running away

Dorothy: How did you guess?

Professor Marvel: Professor Marvel never guesses he knows now, why are you running away no no don't tell me they don't understand you at home they don't appreciate you You want to see other lands big cities big mountains big oceans

Dorothy: Why, it's just like you could read what was inside of me

Toto takes a hot dog from the Professor's stick

Dorothy: Toto that's not polite we haven't been asked yet

Professor Marvel: He's perfectly welcome as one dog to another now let's see where were we?

research help: Wizard of Oz trading cards

Peace and God's blessings Love Ric

Priscilla and Aquila page 18

 Priscilla and Aquila page 18 by ric gustafson

Volero took a sip of the broth. " Why did you come for me?".

Priscilla smiled. " You are my brother".

He frowned. " I never treated you like a sister".

She gave him more of the broth. " I am still your sister".

He stared at Priscilla. " You really love that Jew".

" Aquila". She smiled. " I love him with all my heart".

" I hope he still treats you like a queen".

" He does".

Volero's chest rattled. " I regret the way I treated you".

She kissed him on the cheek. " I'm right here".

Later in the day, Volero passed away not knowing the Lord

Priscilla was sad.

Time passed quickly.

One day, Priscilla smiled as she stood on the bow of the ship. She looked out at the never ending water. She was happy and content. Next to her was her husband and her son. Standing nearby was Benyamin and Lollia. Paul had asked them to help him with the church in Ephesus. So they packed up for new unexpected paths. Priscilla loved her husband and her family. Most of all, she loved Yeshua with all of her heart.

The End

research help: ' Daughter of Rome' by Tessa Afshar

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Priscilla and Aquila page 17

 Priscilla and Aquila page 17 by ric gustafson

Emperor Claudius stared at Marcus. " You claim to be the son of Laurentinus?".

Marcus smiled. " I am".

" Do you have proof?".

" Yes, this man's testimony".

Festus stepped forward. " I am Festus".

" You served this young man's father".

" I did my lord".

" Now that that was established". Claudius turned to Marcus. " What is your case?".

Marcus reached for Priscilla's hand. " I witnessed my father's murder".

" I'm listening".

" It was at the hands of my uncle".

" How did you survive?".

" Priscilla and Aquila took me in". He smiled at her. " They raised me as their own".

research help: ' Daughter of Rome' by Tessa Afshar

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

oz dialogue 4

 oz dialogue 4 by ric gustafson

song: Over the Rainbow

Miss Gulch: Mr Gale

Uncle Henry: Howdy Miss Gulch

Miss Gulch: I want to see you and your wife right away about Dorothy

Uncle Henry: Dorothy? well what has Dorothy done?

Miss Gulch: What's she done? I'm all but lame from the bite on my leg.

Uncle Henry: You mean she bit you

Miss Gulch: No her dog

Uncle Henry: Oh she bit her dog eh?

Miss Gulch: No

Miss Gulch: That dog's a menace to the community I'm taking him to the sheriff and make sure he's destroyed

Dorothy: Destroyed Toto oh you can't You musn't Auntie Em Uncle Henry you won't let her will you

Uncle Henry: Of course we won't will we Em

research help: Wizard of Oz trading cards

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Priscilla and Aquila page 16

Priscilla and Aquila page 16 by ric gustafson

" Leave this place". The voices got louder. " No one wants you here".

Paul walked out of the synagogue. He was followed by Aquila, Priscilla, Benyamin, Silas and Timothy.

" Paul, you must understand these people".

Priscilla frowned. " It is getting dangerous".

" You persecuted the followers of Yeshua".

Paul sighed. " From now on, I will go to the Gentiles".

Just then, Crispus and his family walked out of the synagogue. 

" What's wrong Crispus?".

He sighed. " I am no longer the leader of this synagogue".

Paul embraced him. " I'm sorry".

" I listened to your message". He smiled. " Will you baptize me and my family?".

" Of course".

That same day. Paul baptized Crispus and his entire family in the Aegean Sea.

research help: ' Daughter of Rome' by Tessa Afshar

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

oz dialogue 3

 oz dialogue 3 by ric gustafson

Hickory: Well Dorothy was walking along the 

Auntie Em: I saw you tinkering with that contraption Hickory now you and Hunk get back to that wagon.

Hickory: All right Mrs Gale but some day they're going to erect a statue to me in this town

Auntie Em: Well don't start posing for it now here can't work on an empty stomach have some crullers

Hunk: Gosh Mrs Gale

Auntie Em: Just fried

Hickory: Thanks

Zeke: You see Dorothy toppled into the 

Auntie Em: It's no place for Dorothy about a pig sty now you go feed those hogs before they worry themselves into anemia.

Zeke: Yes Ma'ma

Dorothy: Auntie Em, really do you know what Miss Gulch was going to do to Toto?

Auntie Em: Now Dorothy dear stop imagining things you always get yourself into a fret over nothing

Dorothy: Well

Auntie Em: Now you just help us out today and find yourself a place where you won't get into any trouble

research help: Wizard of Oz trading cards

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Priscilla and Aquila page 15

Priscilla and Aquila page 15 by ric gustafson

Aquila was sitting on a couch next to his wife. He gathered his thoughts. " I must ask your forgiveness".

She shook her head.

" I do need to ask Priscilla".

She nodded.

" I've been cold and withdrawn". He stared at his wife. " I have been acting like a fool".

They held hands. " I forgive you".

Aquila noticed her sadness. " What else is wrong Priscilla?".

" I may be barren".

" Sometimes couples wait for years to conceive". He scratched his chin in thought. " Think of Zechariah and Elizabeth".

" That was a miracle Aquila".

Aquila smiled. " Miracles can still happen".

research help: ' Daughter of Rome' by Tessa Afshar

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical questions: who is behind the scenes?

 biblical questions: who is behind the scenes? by ric gustafson

In Job 1, the Lord asks Satan " where have you come from?". Satan is the Destroyer. The Lord knows that Satan's base of operation is behind the scenes. Satan found out everything about Job. He found out that Job was vulnerable in several areas. This included his children, his riches and his health. In order to do what he wanted to do to Job, he needed God's permission.

Satan is the prince of distraction. We serve a God who is a remedy to distraction. According to Hebrews 12, we are to keep our eyes on Jesus. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

oz dialogue 2

 oz dialogue 2 by ric gustafson

Hunk: Now lookit Dorothy you ain't using your head about Miss Gulch You'd think you didn't have any brains at all.

Dorothy: I have so got brains

Hunk: Well why don't you use them when you come home don't go by Miss Gulch's place then Toto won't go in her garden and you won't get in no trouble see?

Dorothy: Oh Hunk you just won't listen that's all

Hunk: Well your head ain't made of straw you know

Zeke: Get in there before I make a dime bank out of you listen kid are you going to let that old Gulch heifer try and buffalo you she ain't nothing to be afraid of have a little courage that's all

Dorothy: I'm not afraid of her

Zeke: Then the next time she squawks walk right up to her and spit in her eye that's what I'd do

Dorothy: Oh Zeke Zeke get me out of here help! Oh!

Hickory: Are you all right Dorothy?

Dorothy: Yes I'm all right I fell in and Zeke why Zeke you're just as scared as I am

Hunk: What's the matter gonna let a little old pig make a coward out of you?

Hickory: Look at you Zeke you're just as white

Auntie Em: Here what's all this jabber wapping when there's work to be done I know three shiftless farm hands that'll be out of a job before they know it

research help: Wizard of Oz trading cards

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: should we fret

 Footprints: should we fret by ric gustafson

God does not want us to fret. Fretting gnaws at us until our lives become a mess. Fretting becomes worrying and that is not good for our lives. When storms come into our lives, God says not to fret or worry about tomorrow. God sees tomorrow more than we can. God will take care of tomorrow and a new dawn will happen. We should pray instead of fret. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: In our sorrow

 Footprints: In our sorrow by ric gustafson

When sorrow comes into our lives, we can doubt God's plans for us. Even though we face trouble, sadness and pain, God is always with us and in charge. When troubles come, we must listen for God's voice. We may move away from God, but he never will. We need to call on him in faith. Jesus experienced sorrow. Jesus went through the sorrow of impending death. God is in control. Death is not the master, God is.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oz dialogue 1

 Oz dialogue 1 by ric gustafson

Dorothy: She isn't coming yet. Toto. Did she hurt you? She tried to didn't she? Come on We'll go tell Uncle Henry and Auntie Em Come on Toto

Dorothy: Aunt Em Aunt Em Auntie Em

Auntie Em: 57 58

Dorothy: Just listen to what Miss Gulch did to Toto

Auntie Em: Dorothy please we're trying to count 58

Dorothy: Oh but Aunt Em she hit him

Uncle Henry: Don't bother us now honey You see this old incubator's gone bad and we're likely to lose a lot of our chicks

Dorothy: oh oh the poor little things oh but Aunt Em Miss Gulch hit Toto right over the back with a rake just because she says he gets in her garden and chases her nasty old cat every day

Auntie Em: 70 Dorothy please

Dorothy: Oh but he doesn't do it every day just once or twice a week and he can't catch her old cat anyway and now she says he's going to get the 

Auntie Em: Dorothy we're busy

Dorothy: Oh all right

Zeke: listen honey I got them hogs to get in

research help: Wizard of Oz trading cards

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical questions: do we rob God?

 biblical questions: do we rob God? by ric gustafson

God wants a relationship with us. Then it is our choice to have that relationship with him or not. Jesus spoke a lot about our finances. Jesus gives us what we need. Do we give God the first of our increase?. Do we tithe?. If we do, do we do it cheerfully?. If we honor him with our tithe, he'll take care of us. 

So as far as robbing God of our tithes and praise, Jesus says don't do it.

God and his Son Jesus love us more than anything else.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: in our loneliness

 Footprints: in our loneliness by ric gustafson

As humans, we feel the pain of loneliness and isolation, At times, Jesus felt the same way. When we feel that way, God promises to deliver us. God is always with us in our joy and our pain. God is with us in good times and bad times. God's love and faithfulness are his promises we can cling to. In loneliness, God will bring us joy. Jesus is always with us. We are never alone.

Praise God and his Son Jesus.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: never look back

 Footprints: never look back by ric gustafson

It is easy to look back on our life. In Luke 9, Jesus says don't look back. When we look back with regrets, we rob ourselves of hope. God never changes. He is the God of grace, hope and love. When we sin, we must repent. We must turn from our sinful ways and embrace God's forgiveness. With God's forgiveness, we are new creatures. We do not need a life of regrets. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

Praise God's name.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: as our companion

 Footprints: as our companion by ric gustafson

When we take a walk with Jesus, he enjoys that. We can walk, talk and enjoy each other's company. Jesus loves being our companion on our life's journey. Because we walk with him, he showers us with blessings. Jesus's presence is heartwarming. No matter what storms come our way in life, Jesus is always there. No matter where we walk, Jesus will always walk with us. Praise Jesus's name.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical questions: can we do the job?

 biblical questions: can we do the job? by ric gustafson

Every Christian should be involved with the growth of the next generation of believers. We can parent. We can teach. We can coach. We can mentor. All God asks is that we are available. God will give us a call. The question is are we ready for the job?. The next generation needs purpose, joy and peace. We know Jesus. God wants us to tell others about his Son. Are we ready for the job?.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: In the hard times

 Footprints: In the hard times by ric gustafson

Everyone goes through hard and difficult times. God is always with us even when we don't realize it. Moments of darkness could be the death of a loved one. It could be job loss or another tragedy. The worst darkness is someone who does not know God and his love.

There is a light in our darkness. It is Jesus Christ the Son of God. He is our hope and our light. In our dark times, our faith could be strengthened.  Praise Jesus's name.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical questions: what is true success?

 biblical questions: what is true success? by ric gustafson

God does what is best for us despite our human nature. God's nature is different. He glorifies the humbled heart. He glorifies through a downtrodden spirit. He glorifies through a surrendered life. 

So what do we need to do to follow Jesus?.  We need to pick up our own cross. We need to let go of our former life. We need to watch what plans Jesus has for us. Jesus has gifts and desires for us. Jesus has hope in store for you today. He will put eternity into our hearts. Praise God's name.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: in our daily walk

 Footprints: in our daily walk by ric gustafson

Part of a believers life is their walk with Jesus. Walking with Jesus is a command not a suggestion. So what is a walk with Jesus?. Even though it might be difficult, Jesus says walk with me in faith. When we walk with Jesus, our spiritual life will benefit. When we walk with Jesus, we will have a joyful heart. We will have joy when we walk in Jesus's footsteps. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical questions: are we God's workmanship?

 biblical questions: are we God's workmanship? by ric gustafson

God finishes what he starts. God's plans can not be stopped or changed. God's promises are unfailing. We can follow God with confidence. According to Philippians 1:6, he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. God gives us huge blessings every day. According to Ephesians 2, we are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works.

Praise God's name.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Footprints: In Our Dreams

 Footprints: In Our Dreams by ric gustafson

Dreams can have a powerful effect on us. Dreams can make us laugh or be fretful. Many people in the Bible had dreams. Jacob had a dream in Genesis 28. Joseph had two dreams in Matthew 2. Some dreams are wishful thinking. Only a small portion of them come true. They could fill us with false hope. 

We should not ignore our dreams. God's presence is a reality. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Footprints' by Margaret Fishback Powers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatitudes: the Persecuted

 Beatitudes: the Persecuted by ric gustafson

Jesus wants to bless those who are persecuted because of righteousness. When a light filled life collides with a dark world, the result is a storm. Jesus blesses those who suffer for their beloved's sake. Jesus loves his church. Do you believe?. Do you commit?. Do you unite?. We will be persecuted because we live in time of trials. One day our persecution will end. We will enter life united with God forever.

The End.

research help: ' Seven' by Jeff Cook

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Priscilla and Aquila page 14

 Priscilla and Aquila page 14 by ric gustafson

Aquila walked into the house.

" Aquila, we have a visitor".

Aquila smiled. " Paul". They embraced. " My brother in Christ".

" I have come to you because I need work".

" Right now I just can't". He stared at Priscilla. " I do not have an established clientele yet".

Just then, a balding man walked in.

" Are you the owner of this shop?".

" I am Aquila of Pontus". He smiled. " I own this shop".

" I am Iuventius Proclus". His voice hesitated. " I host the annual Isthmian Games here in Corinth".

" Welcome to my shop".

" I would like you to make some tents and awnings for the Games".

" It would be our honor".

He handed Aquila a large bag of coins. " This should cover the deposit".

After he left, Aquila grinned at Paul. " When can you start?".

research help: ' Daughter of Rome' by Tessa Afshar

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatitudes: the Meek Peacemaker

 Beatitudes: the Meek Peacemaker by ric gustafson

According to Jesus, blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the children of God. In the parable of the prodigal son, the father is the peacemaker. To be a peacemaker, we must surrender our own rage. Even though we are meek, in God's eyes we are a child of his. Everything is God's. We must reject wrath. Nothing is ours. 

God wants us to be peacemaking children. Everything belongs to the Father. We must pursue peace. Jesus was a peacemaker. Jesus is the Son of God.

research help: ' Seven' by Jeff Cook

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Priscilla and Aquila page 13

 Priscilla and Aquila page 13 by ric gustafson

Priscilla looked around the two story house. They had been in Corinth for the last sixteen weeks. Because of Claudius's edict, they had to leave Rome. Even though the house was smaller than the one they had in Rome, it met their needs. Aquila decided to use the ground floor for their shop.

One day, a short man with large dark eyes walked in.

" I look for Aquila of Pontus".

" My husband is not here right now". Priscilla smiled. " May I help you?".

The man grinned. " I am Paul of Tarsus".

Priscilla smiled. " I have heard of you".

" I did not know I was popular".

" I was told you are a Rabbi".

" I am".

" I also heard you love Yeshua".

" That is true".

research help: ' Daughter of Rome' by Tessa Afshar

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatitudes: the Pure of Heart

 Beatitudes: the Pure of Heart by ric gustafson

Those who follow Jesus are the temple of God. We have God's spirit in us. Do we see people with the right heart?. But things can get in our way seeing God in others. If our heart is not pure and full of sin, we cannot see others as God can. 

We all have a choice. It is about desire. Is it our own desires we crave?. Or do we crave God with a pure heart.  Desires are meant for our good. I pray that they are pure and good,

Praise God's name.

research help: ' Seven' by Jeff Cook

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical questions: should we give God heartfelt worship?

 biblical questions: should we give God heartfelt worship? by ric gustafson

God gives us free will. We can choose to follow him or not. That relationship with God starts with a healthy fear and respect. To God, worship is important. You could go through the motions and yet your heart is not in it. It's easy in worship to get distracted. True worship can be a way of life. God wants our heartfelt worship. Let's give it to him. Praise God's name.

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatitudes: the Mercy Giver

 Beatitudes: the Mercy Giver by ric gustafson

Two times people asked Jesus about receiving God's mercy. One was a legal scholar the other a rich ruler. Both asked him the same question?. What must I do to inherit eternal life?. What is required for God to show them mercy?. Both men were given much. Jesus told the rich ruler he lacked one thing. He was told to sell everything and then follow Jesus. The rich ruler walked away.

The legal scholar knew how to obtain God's mercy. He said to Jesus love God and love your neighbor. Jesus told him the Parable of the Good Samaritan. When asked at the end who in the story was the best neighbor the scholar replied the one who had mercy on him. Jesus told the scholar to go and do like wise.

God's mercy to us is that he sent his only Son to die on a cross for us. So that we have a chance to live with him forever. That is God's mercy. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Seven' by Jeff Cook

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

at the feet of Jesus: Wisdom

at the feet of Jesus: Wisdom by ric gustafson

As followers of Jesus, we want to sit at his feet. Our lack of wisdom keeps us humble. We want to be transformed. This process is called a relationship with Jesus. As we gain wisdom, our relationship with him will grow. 

Wisdom can come from personal experience. Personal experience can come from suffering and pain. Wisdom requires discipline, obedience and time. Wisdom teaches you the lesson before you make the mistake. God wants us to be wise and not foolish. 

There are two kinds of wisdom. There is earthly wisdom that brings regret and evil. Wisdom from heaven brings peace, mercy and good fruit. From God's Word, we can obtain heavenly wisdom. 

Praise Jesus's name. 

research help: ' The Divine Mentor' by Wayne Cordeiro

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

biblical questions: should we give God empty obedience?

 biblical questions: should we give God empty obedience? by ric gustafson

We can look like we are serving God 100 percent of the time. The question is are we?. We can pray daily. We can read our bible daily. We can faithfully attend church. Are we 100 percent faithfully doing these things or just going through the motions?. 

 Is our heart totally obedient or is it full of selfishness and hatred?. God wants us to repent and change our ways. God will restore us. Then our heart will be 100 percent obedient.

Praise God's name. 

research help: ' 365 essential questions from the Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Priscilla and Aquila page 12

 Priscilla and Aquila page 12 by ric gustafson

Priscilla smiled when she saw Rufus and Mary come in and sit behind her. Trouble had started brewing at the synagogue between those who followed Yeshua and those who did not. 

Just then, a man walked in and sat down next to Priscilla. She did not recognize his face. He had a bulbous nose and thin lips.

Rufus could see the man pull out a short sword from underneath his cloak. " Watch out".

Priscilla turned and screamed.

Rufus pushed Priscilla to the floor. He lunged at the man. 

The man put his sword blade into Rufus's chest. Then the man got down on one knee and put his blade slightly into Priscilla's neck.

Just then, Aquila threw a projectile and hit the man in the temple.

The wounded man dropped the sword and ran.

Aquila touched Priscills's neck. " You are bleeding".

" He barely cut me". She touched her wound. " Thanks to you".

Aquila ran to Rufus. " He cut you too".

" Barely". Rufus examined his torso. " I'll be ok".

research help: ' Daughter of Rome' by Tessa Afshar

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric