The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 6

 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 6 by ric gustafson

" Thank you". Because Dorothy had oiled his face, he smiled. " I have been holding that axe ever since I rusted".

Scarecrow scratched his chin. " How long have you been rusted like that?".

" A long time". He moved his arms and legs. " I would still be like that if you had not come along".

Dorothy grinned. " We're on our way to the Emerald City to see the Great Oz".

" Why do you wish to see this Oz?".

" So he can send Toto and I back to Kansas".

Scarecrow smiled. " And to give me some brains".

The Tin Man thought for a moment. " Do you think this Oz could give me a heart?".

" I don't see why not?".

" Can I go with you to this Emerald City so I can ask this Oz to help me?".

Dorothy smiled. " Of course you can go with us".

" Can you please put my oil can in your basket in case it rains?".

" Of course". She put it in her basket. " Ready".

Scarecrow smiled. " Ready".

The Tin Man grinned. " Ready".

With Toto leading the way, the three began walking down the Yellow Brick Road.

research help: ' The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' by L Frank Baum

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Ephesians

 God's Word: Ephesians by ric gustafson

The author of this book is the Apostle Paul. The book was written around AD 62. The book was written for all Christians. Paul wanted to tell that Christians were members of Jesus's body the church. Paul started the church in Ephesus. Paul talks about the church members relationship to Jesus. Paul says that through Jesus, God has reconciled both Jews and Gentiles to himself. This new life can result in pure honest living in the church and in the home. God will reward servants who are obedient to their masters. 

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Wireless Survivor page 1

 the Wireless Survivor page 1 by ric gustafson

My name is Harold Bride. I survived the Titanic. When I was rescued by the Carpathia, I was in their hospital for ten hours. Both of my feet were broken. I had to have crutches. Somebody in the Carpathia's wireless room had to leave. They asked me if I could help them. When I entered the wireless room, I never left. Meals were brought to us. We kept that wireless room going all the time. There was a bed in the wireless room. I could rest my feet while we worked.

I joined the Titanic at Belfast. I was born at Nunhead England. Last July, I joined Marconi. Before Titanic, I was on the Hoverford. Then I was on the Lusitania. 

So now, let me tell you my story about what happened that night.

research help: ' The Story of the Titanic' by Jack Winocour

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 6

 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 6 by ric gustafson

After a few hours of walking, Dorothy and Scarecrow came upon a rough stretch of the Yellow Brick Road. The yellow bricks were uneven. Some of the bricks were broken and missing. Scarecrow, with no brains, sometimes fell in the holes in the broken bricks. 

All of a sudden, Dorothy stopped. " What was that noise?".

Scarecrow scratched his chin. " I'm not sure".

Dorothy walked a few steps into the forest. She stopped. In front of her was a tree that had been partly chopped. Standing next to it holding an axe was a man entirely of tin. His head, arms and legs were jointed on his body. He was not moving but standing perfectly still.

" Did you groan?".

" Yes" replied the tin man. " No one has come to help me".

Dorothy felt compassion. " What can I do for you?".

" Can you please find my oil can?". He looked at Dorothy. " And oil my joints".

Dorothy found the oil can. " Where do I start?".

" Oil my neck". He groaned. " Then my arms".

After oiling his arms and neck, Dorothy oiled his legs.

Smiling, the tin man slowly began to move.

research help: ' The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' by L Frank Baum

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Galatians

God's Word: Galatians by ric gustafson

The author of this book is the Apostle Paul. The book was written around AD 49. The book talks about how Christians can be free from restrictive Jewish laws. Paul has been writing to several regional churches. Galatian Christians had been turning from their freedom in Jesus back to their Old Testament Judaism. In chapter 3 of this book, Paul argues strongly that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God for the just shall live by faith. Old Testament rules don't control Christian lives. But God's spirit does. Chapter 5 of this book says walk in the Spirit.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: II Corinthians

 God's Word: II Corinthians by ric gustafson

The author of this book is the Apostle Paul. The date of the book is AD 55-57. Paul defends his ministry to the troubled church at Corinth. The things mentioned in Paul's first letter were addressed. But there were still some people who questioned his authority. Paul talks about in this letter the hardships he has had to face in his ministry. He talked about labours, prisons, a thorn in the flesh. Paul says to the church examine yourselves and prove your own selves. Paul never says what his thorn in the flesh is. Christians should respect authority.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: I Corinthians

 God's Word: I Corinthians by ric gustafson

The author of this book is the Apostle Paul. The book is dated AD 55-57. The book is about the Apostle Paul. He is tackling sin problems in the church at Corinth. Paul helped form the church at Corinth. While he was at Ephesus, Paul finds about problems at the church in Corinth. Paul writes a long letter to address those issues. There are issues about who should lead the church. There are issues regarding church members filing lawsuits against each other. In the book, Paul discusses marriage, the Lord's Supper, spiritual gifts and the resurrection of the dead. Church problems are not new. How to correct them is the issue.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 5

 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 5 by ric gustafson

" How do you do?".

Dorothy politely replied. " Pretty well, how do you do?".

" I'm not feeling well at all". The Scarecrow frowned. " It's difficult being perched up here night and day".

" Can't you get down?".

" This pole is stuck up my back".

Dorothy reached up and lifted him off the pole.

" Thank you".

" My name is Dorothy". She smiled. " I'm going to the Emerald City to ask the Great Oz for help getting back to Kansas".

The Scarecrow scratched his chin. " Where is the Emerald City?".

" I was told by the Witch of the North to stay on the Yellow Brick Road".

" Do you think this Oz could give me some brains?".

" Even if he doesn't". Dorothy grinned. " You are no worse off than you are now".

The Scarecrow frowned. " That's true".

" Of course you can come with us".

" Hooray, we're off to see a Wizard".

With Toto behind them, the two started walking down the Yellow Brick Road.

research help: ' The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' by L Frank Baum

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Romans

 God's Word: Romans by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Paul. The date of the book is AD 57. The book talks about sinners who are saved only by faith in Jesus Christ. Some say that Romans is a thorough explanation of the Christian life. Paul talks about God's righteous anger against human sin. Paul says that everyone falls short of God's standard. Paul explains that God himself is the only way to overcome that sin. What is unique about Romans is that the letter is addressed to a congregation Paul will never meet. Paul was to visit this church on his way to Spain. No one knows if Paul ever reached Spain. Paul says therefore being justtified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 4

 the Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 4 by ric gustafson

" Come along Toto". Dorothy picked up a little basket that was filled with bread. " We will go to the Emerald City and ask the Great Oz to help us".

After walking several miles on the Yellow Brick Road, Dorothy and Toto had to stop to rest. She sat down on top of a fence. Across the Yellow Brick Road was a cornfield. In that cornfield was a Scarecrow.

The Scarecrow was high on a pole. It's head was a sack stuffed with straw. It's eyes, nose and mouth were painted on it's face. A Munchkin hat was on it's head. The pole was stuck up it's back.

" Good Day".

Dorothy looked around. " Toto, I thought I heard somebody talking".

Toto ran over to the Scarecrow. It began barking at it.

" How do you do?".

Dorothy looked around again. " Who said that?".

Toto kept barking at the Scarecrow.

" Toto, Scarecrows can't talk".

" Sometimes Scarecrows do an awful lot of talking".

Dorothy noticed the Scarecrow was smiling at her. She ran up to him. " You did speak".

research help: ' The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' by L Frank Baum

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Promises and Prayers: Proverbs 19:20

 Promises and Prayers: Proverbs 19:20 by ric gustafson

If we are suffering from anxiety and fear, we don't have to suffer alone. We should always ask for help. Proverbs 19:20 states get all the advice and instruction you can so you will be wise the rest of your life. When we have physical or psychological triggers, we should consult a pastoral counselor, a therapist or a physician. We all need good counsel. Jesus is the Great Counselor.

Dear Lord, when I need help give me the wisdom to ask for it. And when I receive offers of help let me accept them. Praise Jesus's name.

research help: ' 365 Promises and Prayers for dealing with anxiety and fear' by Smith Freeman Publishing.

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 3

 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 3 by ric gustafson

" Oh dear". Dorothy clasped her hands together. " The house must of fallen on her".

The woman shook her head. " Nothing can be done".

" Who was she?".

" The Wicked Witch of the East". She frowned. " She had been holding all the Munchkins in captivity for years".

Dorothy stared at the woman. " Who are the Munchkins?".

" The people who live in this land".

" Are you a Munchkin?".

" No". She smiled. " I am the Witch of the North".

" Are you a real witch?". Dorothy looked perplexed. " I've never seen a beautiful witch".

" Only bad witches are ugly".

A Munchkin shouted. He pointed to a corner of the house.

The Witch of the North smiled. " The old witch is no more but her shoes remain".

One of the Munchkins retrieved the silver shoes and brought them to Dorothy.

Dorothy took off her shoes and put on the silver shoes.

" They must have a magic charm otherwise why would the Wicked Witch want them so badly".

Dorothy frowned. " I just want to get back to Uncle Henry and Aunt Em".

" Maybe the Wizard of Oz could help you?".

" Where does he live?".

" The Emerald City". The witch pointed. " That's a long walk from here".

Dorothy looked around. " But how do I get there?".

" Just follow the Yellow Brick Road".

research help: ' The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' by L Frank Baum

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Acts

 God's Word: Acts by ric gustafson

The author of the book is not stated. It has been said that it is Luke who was a Gentile physician. The book was written between AD 62 and 80. The book describes the coming of the Holy Spirit at the beginning of the Christian church. The book is called the ' Acts of the Apostles'. It is a bridge between the story of Jesus and the life of the church in the letters that follow. It begins with Jesus's ascension into heaven. Then ten days later, the Holy Spirit comes on the day of Pentecost. The church is born. The disciples begin to preach boldly. The Jewish leaders begin to persecute the new believers. The disciples spread the new church throughout the world. Paul joins Peter in preaching and spreading miracles. The new church is strengthened. The book talks about Stephen the first Christian martyr.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Promises and Prayers: I Peter 5: 6-7

 Promises and Prayers: I Peter 5: 6-7 by ric gustafson

We are an anxious generation. We have more information than we can handle. So much we have anxiety and fear. When life gets too tough, Jesus is there as our Good Shepherd. God loves us and wants the best for us. God sent his only Son so we can have eternal life. Jesus is constant he never leaves us. We can go to Jesus in prayer. God loves us always. That is his promise. That is our prayer.

Dear Jesus, sometimes my problems are too big for me. They are never too big for you. I turn my anxiety and fears to you. I trust you Jesus I love you today and always. Love Ric

research help: ' 365 promises and prayers for dealing with anxiety and fear' by Smith Freeman Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: John

 God's Word: John by ric gustafson

The author of this book is not stated. It is believed to be John. He was the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was a brother of James and he was a son of Zebedee. The date of this book is around AD 90. It was the last Gospel written. The book talks about Jesus as being God himself. Jesus being the only Savior of the world. This Gospel is different than the other three. There are no parables recorded. Only seven miracles are listed. What John does talk about is Jesus's reasons for coming to earth. John's Gospel is the only one that talks about the miracle at Cana. This Gospel is the only one that talks about Nicodemus. 

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Luke

 God's Word: Luke by ric gustafson

The author of the book is not stated. It may of been Luke who was a Gentile physician. Luke was also a missionary companion of Paul's. The date of this book is AD 70-80. At this time, the gospel was spreading throughout the Roman Empire. This book talks about Jesus being the Savior of all people Jew or Gentile.

Luke's Gospel is addressed to a man named Theophilus. Theophilus may of been a Roman official. Luke's Gospel is the least Jewish and most universal of the four Gospels. Luke traces Jesus back to Adam. Luke talks about Jesus's compassion for all people. Luke describes Jesus's resurrection. Luke talks about Jesus appearing to two people on the Emmaus road. At the end, Luke describes Jesus ascending into heaven. Luke talks about several of Jesus's parables including the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son and the story of Lazarus and the rich man. Jesus came to seek and to save you.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Mark

 God's Word: Mark by ric gustafson

The author of the book is not stated, It is believed to be John Mark who was a missionary companion of Paul and Barnabas. The date of the book is AD 60's. This was during the Roman persecution of  Christians. The book talks about Jesus being God's Son. God's Son is a suffering servant of all people.

The Gospel of Mark is brief but it is the most active of the Gospels. 

This Gospel addresses a Gentile audience. It portrays Jesus as a man of action. This Gospel talks about healing the sick, controlling nature and battling the powers of Satan. One of this Gospel's themes is that of Jesus being a suffering servant. 

It was said that John Mark was at Jesus's arrest. To Christians, suffering and loss are the pathway to real life.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shoeless Joe Jackson page 3

 Shoeless Joe Jackson page 3 by ric gustafson

" If you build it, he will come".  Who's coming?

His name was Joseph Jefferson Jackson. His nickname was Shoeless Joe. He was born in South Carolina in 1887. Ty Cobb remarked that Jackson was the best left fielder of all time. Jackson never learned to read or write. His life was with a bat and glove.

When I heard the voice, I wondered where my passion for baseball came from. It was probably because of my father. My father Glen Ullin was born in North Dakota in 1896. He was in WW I. After the war, he settled in Chicago across from Comiskey Park. He was a diehard White Sox fan. 

When the 1919 World Series started, a scandal happened. Eight players including Shoeless Joe Jackson were accused of throwing the Series. All eight players were suspended for life. My father always believed that Jackson was innocent. It became known as the Black Sox scandal.

In the meantime, I worked on the ball field. Home plate was cracked two by fours. Rubber was the pitcher's mound. The bases were stray blocks of wood. The only bleacher I built was beyond the left field wall. It took me three years to get the grass just right.

" If you build it, he will come".

research help: ' Shoeless Joe' by W.P. Kinsella

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Matthew

 God's Word: Matthew by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Matthew. Matthew was called Levi. He was a tax collector. This book was written in AD 70. In this book, Jesus fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of a coming Messiah. This is the first of the Gospels. Gospels means good news. This book ties together the New Testament with the Old Testament. This book was written primarily to a Jewish audience. Matthew talks about Jesus's announcement of his conception. Matthew describes the visit of the wise men. Matthew introduces John the Baptist. Matthew describes the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew also describes several of Jesus's miracles. As Messiah, Jesus is King and deserves our worship.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 2

 the Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 2 by ric gustafson

Dorothy was awakened by a thud. In relief, she noticed that Toto was right next to her. Dorothy sat up. She noticed the house was not moving. She noticed bright sunshine coming in through her bedroom window. She got up. She ran toward the front door. She opened it.

The cyclone had dropped the house in the midst of marvelous beauty. There was green grass, beautiful fruit trees and flowers. As she was observing the beauty, an odd group of people quietly walked up to her. They were short in statue. Three of them walked up to Dorothy. The two men wore round hats and had beards. The female walked up to Dorothy. 

" Welcome to the land of the Munchkins".

Dorothy looked around. " What are Munchkins?".

" We are grateful to you for killing the Wicked Witch of the East". The little old lady smiled. " You have set our people free".

" There must be some mistake". Dorothy frowned. " I have not killed anybody".

She pointed. " No but your house did".

Dorothy stared in horror. She saw two feet sticking out from underneath a corner of the house.

research help: ' The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' by L Frank Baum

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Malachi

God's Word: Malachi by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Malachi. The date of this book is 450 BC. The book talks about the Jews who have become careless in their attitude toward God. Malachi proclaims that the Jews were offering lame and sick sacrifices. Malachi proclaimed that they were divorcing their wives to marry pagan women. Malachi proclaimed that the people failed to pay tithes for the temple. The Lord was angry at the people. The Lord also promised to bless the obedient. God wants people to worship him in spirit and in truth.

It will be 400 years until the appearance of the messenger John the Baptist.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Zechariah

God's Word: Zechariah by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Zechariah. He was the son of Berechiah. This book is dated 520-475 BC. The book says that Jewish exiles should rebuild their temple and anticipate their Messiah. Like Haggai, Zechariah urged the Jewish people to rebuild their Jerusalem temple. Zechariah gave several prophecies of the coming Messiah. One of these prophecies was a final battle over Jerusalem. Zechariah wrote about the Messiah riding a donkey into Jerusalem. Many prophecies of Zechariah were fulfilled in Jesus.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Haggai

 God's Word: Haggai by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Haggai. The date of this book is 520 BC. The book talks about Jews who are returning and need to rebuild God's temple. Haggai encouraged former Babylonian captives to restore the temple in Jerusalem that was demolished. Persia a new world power allowed people to return to Jerusalem. Instead of building homes, Haggai tells the people to rebuild the temple first. When God is our first priority, he is more inclined to bless us.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 1

 the Wonderful Wizard of Oz page 1 by ric gustafson

Dorothy lived in a great Kansas prairie. She lived with Uncle Henry who was a farmer. Aunt Em was the farmer's wife. Toto was Dorothy's dog. Their house was small with only four walls, a floor and a roof.  The only cellar was a cyclone cellar which was a small hole dug in the ground. It was reached by a ladder.

One day, Uncle Henry was sitting on the doorstep. Dorothy was standing in the doorway with Toto in her arms. Just then, Uncle Henry stood up. He noticed the wind and the dark sky.

" Em". He stared at her with scared eyes. " There's a cyclone coming".

" Dorothy". Em began to scream. " Run for the cellar".

Toto jumped out of Dorothy's arms and ran into her bedroom.

" Toto". Dorothy ran into the bedroom after him.

All of a sudden, a mighty wind shook the house.

Dorothy slipped and fell onto the floor.

Toto jumped into her arms. " There you are".

The house began to slowly rise into the air. She felt like they were up in a baloon.

Tired and holding Toto, Dorothy fell asleep.

research help: ' the Wonderful Wizard of Oz' by L Frank Baum

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Great Oz page 29

 the Great Oz page 29 by ric gustafson

From the balcony of the Throne Room, Oscar let the crowd see the large green head. " This hologram will be the way you can speak to me from now on".

" I am no longer Oscar Diggs". He smiled. " I am now the Wizard of Oz".

The crowd cheered.

Finley, China Girl and Glinda were now standing next to the Wizard.

" And now some gifts".

The Wizard turned to Finley. " My gift to you is priceless". He shook the monkey's hand. " My friendship".

The Wizard turned to China Girl. " Your gift is also priceless". He held out his arms. " A family". Smiling, China Girl jumped into the Wizard's arms.

Glinda frowned. " I'm sure there is no gift for me".

The Wizard smiled. " I've saved the best for last".

Glinda smiled. " And what gift is that Wizard?".

The Wizard reached over and kissed her.

Finley, China Girl and the crowd cheered.

The End

research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Mitchell Kapner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Zephaniah

 God's Word: Zephaniah by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Zephaniah. The date of this book is 640-620 BC. This was during the reign of King Josiah. The book talks about a Day of the Lord that promises heavy judgment. Because of Judah's idolatry, all people, animals, birds and fish will all perish. God's wrath will also affect nearby nations. 

But there is hope. One day, God will restore a remnant of Israel. Zephaniah proclaims that he is the great great grandson of Hezekiah. God gave the people fair warning. For Christians, the Day of the Lord carries no fear.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Great Oz page 28

the Great Oz page 28 by ric gustafson

Theodora and Evanora walked into the Throne Room. " I'm telling you sister it was the Wizard".

Evanora cackled. " He had you fooled along with everyone else".

Just then, they noticed Glinda sitting on the throne. She was holding her wand. China Girl was standing next to her. " Hello sisters".

Evanora smiled. " Theodora, I think we should end this right now".

Both witches cackled and raised their wands. 

Just then, electricity came from a nearby doorway. Both witches wands dropped on the floor.

The Wizard walked out holding a wand. " It's over".

The Wicked Witch of the West cackled. " No, it is not over".

Glinda grinned. " In the name of my father". She clapped her hands. Two large baloons floated through the window.

Both witches screeched. " Sister, not the baloons".

Glinda clapped again. Four guards marched in. " Put them in the baloons".

Evanora and Theodora were prodded into the baloons.

Glinda frowned. " I banish both of you from the Emerald City forever".

She clapped her hands. The two baloons floated out the window.

research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Mitchell Kapner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Habakkuk

 God's Word: Habakkuk by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Habakkuk. This book was written around 600 BC. This book describes how you can trust God even when he seems unfair and unresponsive. At this time in Judah, there is a lot of violence and injustice among God's people. Habakkuk finds out that God is going to send the Chaldeans to punish Judah. Habakkuk tells God that the Chaldeans are worse than the disobedient Jews. Habakkuk questions God's ways. Like Job, Habakkuk submits to God's authority.

Our current world is full of violence and injustice. But the truth is God is still in control. God is working out his own purposes.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Nahum

 God's Word: Nahum by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Nahum the Elkoshite. The book was written between 663 and 612 BC. The book talks about how powerful wicked Nineveh will fall before God's judgment. Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Nineveh was targeted for judgment by God. This is because of it's sins of idolatry and cruelty. Nahum's prophecy came true when the Babylonian Empire overran Nineveh in 612 BC.

Nineveh repented because of Jonah. A century later, it was to experience the full consequence of it's sins.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Great Oz page 27

 the Great Oz page 27 by ric gustafson

The Wicked Witch of the West slowly walked around the post. Tied to it was a weak and beaten Glinda. Lit torches was the only light around.

" So now my dear sister". The witch cackled. " Where is your Wizard now?".

Glinda did not answer.

" He has abandoned you". Theodora raised her wand. " And now you shall die".

Glinda slowly raised her head toward the sky. She smiled.

The Wicked Witch of the West cackled. " Why are you smiling sister?".

Glinda smiled. " The Wizard".

Just then, someone from the crowd pointed up to the sky. " It's the Wizard".

Theodora looked up. " What?".

" I am Oz". A strange green head appeared in the sky. " The Great and Powerful".

Flames appeared all around the crowd.

Oscar's voice loomed throughout the flames. " It is I the Great Oz".

Theodora cackled loudly. " It is a trick".

The green head yelled. " How dare you defy Oz".

" This is not over yet". Theodora flew away in a fireball.

research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Mitchell Kapner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Great Oz page 26

 the Great Oz page 26 by ric gustafson

Glinda smiled. She was standing at the edge of the Enchanted Forest. She was watching the events unfolding around her. Just then, she heard a noise behind her. She turned. Evanora was standing behind her.

" You tricked us sister". She cackled. " Those were scarecrows not soldiers".

Glinda began to raise her wand.

Evanora quickly raised her wand and zapped Glinda's hand. Glinda dropped her wand. 

" Sister, it's time to leave". She clapped her hands. Two baboons swopped down and picked up Glinda.

" Back to the castle". She cackled. " Now fly".

The baboons flew off with Glinda.

Evanora glanced around for Glinda's wand. She could not find it.

She frowned. She disappeared in a fireball.

When the coast was clear, China Girl peeked out from behind a nearby tree.

In her hand was Glinda's wand.

research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Mitchell Kapner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Great Oz page 25

 the Great Oz page 25 by ric gustafson

Evanora and Theodora were looking intently into the crystal ball. They watched fog enveloping the Poppy Fields. 

Theodora cackled. " I wonder what Glinda is up to now".

Just then, horror came over Theodora's face. " That's impossible".

Evanora stared into the crystal ball. She looked in horror. She saw rows of soldiers marching through the fog toward the Emerald City.

" That's impossible". Evanora violently shook her head. " The smell would kill them all".

Theodora looked at her sister. " What do we do now?".

Evanora took out a whistle. She blew it loudly. The head of the flying baboons ran into the room. It bowed in reverence.

" Take your flying baboons and destroy those soldiers".

Theodora cackled. " Do you have a plan sister?".

She stared at the baboon. " I want that Glinda and the Wizard brought back alive".

" Now fly!". She smiled at Theodora. " Yes I have a plan".

research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Mitchell Kapner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Micah

 God's Word: Micah by ric gustafson

The author of the book was Micah the Morasthite. The date of the book is 700 BC. The book talks about Israel and Judah. Both will suffer for their idolatry and injustice. Micah chastises both the Northern and Southern Jewish nations. Micah proclaims that the nations pursued false gods and cheated the poor. The two nations will be devastated by the Assyrians. But God will preserve the remnant of Israel. Micah predicted the town Jesus would be born. Micah showed that God's judgment is tempered by mercy.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Jonah

 God's Word: Jonah by ric gustafson

The author of this book is unclear. The date of this book is around 760 BC. The book is about a reluctant prophet who tries to run away from God. He is swallowed by a giant fish. God tells Jonah to preach repentance in Nineveh. Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Jonah disobeys God and tries to sail away from God. There is a storm. Jonah ends up in the belly of a giant fish. When Jonah decides to do what God wants him to do, Jonah preaches to Nineveh. Nineveh repents and God spares the city from destruction. God loves everyone even his enemies.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Great Oz page 24

 the Great Oz page 24 by ric gustafson

A wagon pulled up to the Emerald City back gate. Oscar was wearing a Winkie hat and coat.

The Gatekeeper raised an arm. " Halt".

The wagon came to a slow halt.

" Good day Gatekeeper". Oscar smiled. " We bring supplies for the battle".

The Gatekeeper glanced at a clipboard. " I do not see a delivery of that nature on my schedule".

Oscar yelled. " Do you know who I am?".

The Gatekeeper stared at Oscar. " No".

" I am the City Herald".

" I'm sorry". He hung his head in shame. " I'm just doing my job".

Oscar yelled. " Open the gate".

The Gatekeeper complied.

The wagon slowly drove through the gate. The gate closed.

Oscar quietly stopped the wagon in a back alley.

At the same time, Glinda was producing fog throughout the Poppy Fields.

research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Mitchell Kapner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shoeless Joe Jackson page 2

 Shoeless Joe Jackson page 2 by ric gustafson

Our house was an old farm home. It was square with a verandah on three sides. On the north side of the verandah was a wooden porch swing. My wife Annie and I would sit on that swing on humid August nights. That night, I told Annie about the voice and what it wanted me to do.

" If it makes you happy". She grinned at me. " You should do it".

What can I say about my wife. Her hair is the color of cayenne pepper. She wears blue jeans and T shirts. She was the child of my landlady. She chose me as her occupation. Eight years later, we were married. We stayed in Iowa. I rented this farm at first. Then I bought it. 

I smiled at Annie one night. " This is ours".

Annie grinned at me again. " If it makes you happy, you should do it".

I knew it was hard for her to say that.

I carried her words in the back of my mind.

research help: ' Shoeless Joe' by W.P. Kinsella

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Obadiah

 God's Word: Obadiah by ric gustafson

The author of the book is Obadiah. The date of the book is unclear. The book talks about Edom. It will suffer for participating in Jerusalem's destruction. Edom was a nation descended from Esau. Esau was a twin brother of Jacob. Jacob was the patriarch of Israel. Edom took part in the Babylonian ransacking of Jerusalem. After this ransacking, Obadiah passed down God's judgment.

Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament. Obadiah shows God's faithfulness to his people.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Amos

 God's Word: Amos by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Amos. He was a shepherd from Tekoa. The book was written around the 760's BC. The book discusses how real religion isn't just ritual. Real religion is treating people with justice. Amos a lowly shepherd took on the rich and powerful of Israelite society. Amos condemned their idol worship, the persecution of God's prophets and the cheating of the poor. God was going to judge the people for their sins. But God was also going to give the people justice and righteousness. Amos told the people seek good and not evil. God knows our true spiritual condition.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Joel

 God's Word: Joel by ric gustafson

The author of this book is Joel. The date of this book is unclear. Locust plagues are used to picture God's judgment on his sinful people. A locust storm invaded the land of Judah. But Joel said this natural disaster was nothing compared to the day of the Lord. Joel warned that God planned to judge his people for sin. God also gave them time to repent. Joel explains that obedience will bring physical and spiritual renewal. Even though we sin often, God offers us a way out. That way out is his Son Jesus.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Bible Basics: a Holy Hunger

 Bible Basics: a Holy Hunger by ric gustafson

We love miracles. Our God can do the impossible. God invites us to study his Word. God wants us to have a spiritual fever. To really study God's Word, we must be ready to receive. We need  to hear God's Word, we need to read God's Word. According to I Peter, we need to be like newborn infants. 

We need to open our Bibles and plead with God to open our hearts. Sometimes the desire is not there. Other thoughts enter our minds. We need to humble ourselves like little children. Do we realize we are helpless without the Holy Spirit?. We need to approach bible study with a child like attitude. Jesus is our High and Humble Priest. We need to plead for a holy hunger.

research help: ' Help for the Hungry Soul' by Kristen Wetherell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Hosea

 God's Word: Hosea by ric gustafson

The author of the book was probably Hosea. The date of the book is 750 to 722 BC. The book talks about the prophet's marriage to a prostitute and how that reflects God's relationship with Israel. God gives the prophet a strange command. He was to marry a prostitute named Gomer. Hosea was an honorable loving husband. Gomer was an adulteress. The two get married and start a family. Eventually, Gomer returns to her life of sin. Hosea buys her back from the slave market. The book describes God's warnings for disobedience. The book also talks about God's promises of blessing for repentance.

research help: ' Know Your Bible' by Barbour Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Great Oz page 23

 the Great Oz page 23 by ric gustafson

Glinda walked into the workshop. Oscar smiled. He was studying a blueprint. Some of the Tinkers were working on a strange contraption.

" What are you building Wizard?".

" I'll show you". He walked over to the strange contraption. He showed her the blueprint. " It's called a Praxinoscope".

Glinda sighed. " What does it do Wizard?".

" It allows you to project an image through space".

Glinda walked over to a pot that was over a fire. " What is this Wizard?".

Oscar picked up some ingredients and threw them in. A huge flash came out. In fear, Oscar and Glinda jumped back. Oscar grinned. " My fireworks is almost ready".

Glinda noticed some of the munchkins were sewing clothes. Some of the munchkins were stuffing hay into burlap sacks.

Glinda looked at Oscar. " Stuffing hay into burlap sacks".

Oscar smiled. " It's part of the magic".

research help: ' Oz the Great and Powerful' by Mitchell Kapner

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric