Chosen: Matthew 16: 18-19

 Chosen: Matthew 16: 18-19 by ric gustafson

Simon's brother Andrew became an early disciple of Jesus's. Simon was emotional. He told Jesus he cannot wash his feet. Simon was impulsive.  He drew his sword and cut off an ear of Malchus. To avoid being arrested, he denied knowing Jesus 3 times. 

So why did Jesus call Simon Peter?. The name Peter means ' rock'. Jesus makes us what we are not. Jesus's power changed an unruly fisherman into one of Jesus's inner circle. 

Why did Jesus do this?. Jesus accepts us who we are. Jesus knows what we will become.

Jesus loves you and me more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 26

 True Grit page 26 by ric gustafson

Marshal Cogburn heard the shot. Lucky Ned Pepper's horse fell. The shot came from LaBoeuf's rifle. The bandits were confused about where the shot came from. 

Cogburn stood up. " I told him to wait for my signal". He stood up and began shooting his Winchester repeating rifle. He killed Haze where he stood. Lucky Ned Pepper's horse was shot dead. Greaser Bob was able to get back on his horse. Ned Pepper cried out for help. Greaser Bob quickly came over and helped him onto his horse. They rode away with the other bandits.

When I came up to Cogburn and LaBoeuf, they were arguing.

" I told you not to fire until I gave you the signal".

" I heard the three signal shots from Pepper".

" So you decided to fire".

LaBoeuf stared at Cogburn. " I thought the fight had started".

" Thanks to you". The Marshal's voice was getting louder. " We lost Pepper again".

" Let's go after them right now".

" No". Cogburn shook his head. " We're going to take the dead bodies to McAlester's".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Luke 11:9

 Chosen: Luke 11:9 by ric gustafson

Andrew was the first disciple to ask Jesus for anything. Andrew was a disciple of John the Baptist. When John in John 1:29 declared behold the Lamb of God, Andrew had to find Jesus. 

Jesus asked Andrew " what do you want?".

Andrew replied ' where are you staying?".

Andrew spent the day with Jesus. Then Andrew went and told his brother Simon about Jesus. Then one day, both Andrew and Simon left everything to follow Jesus. One day, Andrew asked Jesus to teach them to pray like John the Baptist. 

Jesus says be bold. Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened to you. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 5

 Shroud page 5 by ric gustafson

Joseph returned. " It wasn't easy but Pilate's wife persuaded him to let us have the body".

Nicodemus thought for a moment. " Where shall we lay him?".

Joseph frowned. " We will lay him in my family's tomb".

" Jonai, please help us".

" Of course".

The three men removed the staves holding the cross upright. As the cross began to lean forward, the three men received the weight of Jesus's body and the cross. They carefully laid the cross down. As they stared at Jesus lying on the ground, blood and water was seeping from the wound caused by the guard's spear. 

Jesus's mother Mary wanted to start washing her son's body. She was stopped by two women.

" He should not be cleansed".

Mary began to cry. " I can't bear to see him like this".

" He must be buried in the burial cloth that Jonai brought".

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 4

 Shroud page 4 by ric gustafson

Jonai quietly walked down streets full of people and animals. As he reached the Temple, the money changers were setting up their tables. When he reached the road past the tables, the street was less crowded. Nicodemus had asked for his help. Jonai felt for the tools he had collected while his son was getting the cloth. He did not want to go to Golgotha. But a promise to Nicodemus was a promise.

As Jonai turned a corner at the Northern Wall, he heard women wailing. It took him a minute to reach the base of three crosses. A man was dying on each one. As he reached the base of the crosses, only Nicodemus was there to greet him. Jonai could see tears in Nicodemus's eyes.

" I'm so sorry Nico".

" Thank you Jonai". He could barely talk. " Thank you for bringing the cloth".

" I brought the burial cloth and a smaller one".

" Joseph is pleading with Pontius Pilate for Jesus's body". He smiled. " He will be back shortly".

Mary the mother of Jesus began to cry. " Why is it getting darker?".

They stood there waiting for Joseph to come back.

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 3

 Shroud page 3 by ric gustafson

Joachim ran out of the Weaver's shop. It was afternoon. He had to get home.

His father was not happy. " Why are you so late?".

" I went to Weaver Hagepeth". Joachim tried to catch his breath. " They did not have the size of cloth you needed". 

" It is not white". Jonai studied the cloth. " So what did you do?".

" I got the cloth from Weaver Rosanai".

" It is an unusual weave". Jonai smiled at his son. " It's perfect".

Just then, Abigail walked in. She was carrying water, onions and oil for the noon meal.

" Abigail, I need to leave right now to help Edom and Nicodemus".

" Can't you stay and eat with us?".

Jonai shook his head. " I must get this cloth to them right now". He smiled at his son. " Stay here with your mother and sister".

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

at the feet of Jesus: Matthew 5:39

 at the feet of Jesus: Matthew 5:39 by ric gustafson

When we are confronted with evil, we are not to resist them. So what does Jesus mean by that?. We do not naturally incline toward non resistance. 

What Jesus means by this, is that we are to counter evil with good. This is according to Romans 12:21. Mercy triumphs over judgment. This is according to James 2:13. 

So how do we react to evil  and offensive people?. We are to show goodness. 

research help: ' At His Feet' by Chris Tiegreen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Luke 4: 31-32

 Chosen: Luke 4: 31-32 by ric gustafson

In Jesus's day, authority was for a select few. The religious system of the Jews governed their places of worship but also the laws of the land. The religious leaders could tell everyone how to live. There was no trial or appeal because the religious leaders ran everything.

Jesus healed people. Crowds came to him. The crowds came to Jesus because of the way he spoke. Jesus spoke with authority. The religious leaders were afraid of losing their power. In Luke 20, the religious leaders confronted Jesus. They asked him where his authority came from?. 

Jesus simply told them I am. Jesus spoke by his own authority. 

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing 

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Violet Jessop page 5

 Violet Jessop page 5 by ric gustafson

Stanley ran into Violet's cabin. " Violet, what are you doing?".

Violet was rummaging through her drawer. " I'm trying to find something warm to wear".

" Hurry and find something". He began to help her look. " We need to get up to the Boat Deck".

Violet glanced around the cabin. " Where's Ann?".

" I don't know". He began to lead her toward the door. " I'll find something warm for you on the way to the deck".

They quietly walked up some stairs to a First Class deck. Stanley ran into a cabin. He came back out with a silk blanket. " Here". He handed her the blanket. " This will keep you warm".

When they reached the Boat Deck, not much was going on.

Violet stared at her friend. " Stanley, why did you bring me here?".

" Violet, the ship struck an iceberg".

" How?".

They noticed officers and men getting the lifeboats ready.

" Is that why they are preparing the lifeboats?".

Stanley frowned. " Yes".

research help: ' Unsinkable' by Jenni L Walsh

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Luke 4: 24, 28-30

 Chosen: Luke 4: 24,28-30 by ric gustafson

After Luke 4 verse 21, the people at first spoke well of him. But Jesus knew their hearts. He told them that no prophet is accepted in his hometown. Then the people became unglued. They wanted him dead. They drove Jesus out of town and up a hill. They planned on throwing him off a cliff. 

According to Isaiah 53, Jesus was despised and rejected. They knew Jesus. He was a carpenter and now he was preaching and healing. The people hardened their hearts. From then on, they hated him.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

at the feet of Jesus: Luke 11:3

 at the feet of Jesus: Luke 11:3 by ric gustafson

More than one million people were led into a desert. There was no food. Luke 11:3 says give us each day our daily bread. But God had a solution. Manna, a mysterious bread from heaven, would fall to them daily. They could not gather more than one day. Otherwise it would rot. The only exception was the day before Sabbath. The people had to trust God that the manna would come the next day.

We pray for our daily bread. God wants a relationship with us. This relationship with God must be maintained. We must ask for daily bread in every aspect of our life.

research help: ' At His Feet' by Chris Tiegreen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Luke 4: 18-19

 Chosen: Luke 4: 18-19 by ric gustafson

Some people have said that Jesus never proclaimed to be God. One day, Jesus was at the synagogue in Nazareth. He volunteered to read from Isaiah. After he was done, he sat back down. He told them that this Scripture had been fulfilled in your hearing. The people there must of thought he was crazy. 

Here was someone they had grown up with. He was not above average. The people were waiting for a Messiah. 

Jesus came proclaiming the good news. Jesus came preaching heaven. Jesus came to proclaim liberty to the captives. Jesus was not a political liberator. Jesus was a spiritual liberator. Jesus healed people. Jesus came to open people's eyes and hearts. Jesus came with a gift of salvation. 

Praise Jesus's name. 

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 25

 True Grit page 25 by ric gustafson

Somebody was shaking me. I opened my eyes. It was Marshal Cogburn. 

" Here they come". 

Six riders stopped 50 yards from the dugout.

Cogburn whispered to me. " Do you see your man?".

I looked down below. " I can't see their faces".

Cogburn pointed. " The one in front is Ned Pepper".

" What are they doing?".

" Looking around". He stared at me. " Keep your head down".

Two of the bandits rode up and stopped in front of the dugout.

" Quincy" yelled one of the bandits.

Cogburn whispered to me. " That one is Haze".

The two bandits dismounted. They entered the dugout arms ready.

The bandits came back out a minute later.

Haze looked around. " Quincy". He walked over to Pepper. " Their horses are here but they are not inside".

Ned Pepper scratched his chin. " That's odd".

Haze continued. " There is a pot of sofky still in the fireplace".

Pepper shook his head. " Quincy would not leave a fire like that".

Another bandit spoke up. " Let's change horses and get out of here".

Cogburn pointed. " The one talking now is Greaser Bob".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Colossians 1: 15=17

 Chosen: Colossians 1: 15-17 by ric gustafson

Jesus created all things. Jesus created the Wilderness. Jesus created the rocky terrain, the deep ravines and the vegetation. When Jesus marked out the foundations of the earth, this part of Jesus's suffering was already planned. Jesus surrendered himself to this hot desolate landscape.

Instead of a perfect heavenly body, Jesus became a body of physical depletion. Jesus's tempter Satan was created. Satan rebelled against God and was cast on earth. 

The disciples were tested. Pilate was tested. Jesus was tested in the desert. We are tested. Being tested brings us closer to Jesus. Praise Jesus's name.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Violet Jessop page 4

 Violet Jessop page 4 by ric gustafson

Violet could hear doors opening in the hallway. She could hear voices having questions. The time was 11:45 pm. 

" Ann, wake up".

She looked up from her blanket. " What happened?".

Violet shook her head. " I hope it's not another sea calamity".

" I'm sure it's nothing". She began to put on her apron, shoes and hat.

" Since we are up". Violet smiled. " We might as well do rounds".

Fifteen minutes later. they were helping Miss Walton with her life belt."

" Your life belt is on". Violet gave it a final tug. " Maybe you should go up to the Boat Deck?".

She gave them a scared stare. " What about Hercules?".

Violet looked at Ann. " We will go down to the kennel and get Hercules for you".

" Thank you". She presses coins into Violet's hands.

Violet and Ann began to look for Mrs Astor. They could not find her. Using calm unemotional voices, the two began to help other passengers with their life belts.

research help: ' Unsinkable' by Jenni L Walsh

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 2

 Shroud page 2 by ric gustafson

Joachim stopped in the entryway of the Weaver's shop/

" Weaver Hagepeth".

A man walked up to the 12 year old. " Who are you?".

" I am Joachim". He smiled. " My father is Jonai".

He grinned. " What can I do for you young Joachim?".

" My father needs some nice white cloth".

" What do you need this for?". The Weaver smiled. " Are you getting married?".

" No". The 12 year old frowned. " Father won't tell me the reason why".

" How much do you need?". 

" Father was very specific". Joachim thought for a moment. " It has to be 3 feet by 14 feet".

" I can sew two pieces together". He grinned. " It'll cost 12 drachmas".

" I'll go ask father". He began to leave. " I might be back".

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

at the feet of Jesus: John 14:6

 at the feet of Jesus: John 14:6 by ric gustafson

Jesus made a scandalous claim. Jesus said that he was the way and the truth and the life. Jesus presented himself. Jesus said no one comes to the Father except through me. Because he said this, Jewish leaders, Roman authorities and a mob wanted him dead. 

Jesus is the only way to God. A lot of people don't want a Master or God. A lot of people avoid Jesus at all costs. 

How many Lords do we have?. Is it our career, our lifestyle. The world today tries to steer us away from God. Jesus says I am the only way to the Father. Believe in me. Believe in my Father.

research help: ' At His Feet' by Chris Tiegreen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: John 1: 26-27

 John 1: 26-27 by ric gustafson

John the Baptist screamed wilderness. He was unkempt, ill mannered, wore camel's hair and ate bugs. He chastised crowds. His message of repentance went out to tax collectors, soldiers and religious leaders. 

wilderness living was familiar to the Israelites. Noah and his family, Abraham, Moses were reset by the wilderness.

 John the Baptist's message was simple. Repent. The Savior of the world is already here. 

John told the people he was not the Messiah. 

Jesus did come later to make a straight path in the wilderness. Praise Jesus's name.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 1

 Shroud page 1 by ric gustafson

" Joachim".

He walked to the doorway. " Yes father".

" I want you to go to the cloth maker".

" Who is that father?".

" His name is Hagepeth". He smiled at his son. " He lives next to the assistant rabbi's home".

" What do you need father?".

" I need some new cloth". His voice hesitated. " It must be white and clean".

He gave his son a money pouch. " This should cover it".

" When do I need to leave?".

" Right now". He looked at his son. " There is one thing I forgot to tell you".

" Yes father?".

" The cloth must be at least 3 feet wide and 14 feet long".

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

at the feet of Jesus: Matthew 20:26

 at the feet of Jesus: Matthew 20:26 by ric gustafson

According to Matthew 20:26, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant. This world's value system is in contrast to God's. The world values achievement, reputation, wealth and prestige. God does not. Greatness to God is servanthood.

What is true servanthood?. Servanthood is seeking the true well being of others. Jesus served his disciples. Jesus died for our sins. We are called by Jesus to help others. That demonstrates Jesus's grace.

It's not easy to serve. Servanthood is integral to God's Word. 

Why be a servant for Jesus?. Because Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' At His Feet' by Chris Tiegreen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: John 1: 17-18

 Chosen: John 1: 17-18 by ric gustafson

The Old Testament is full of strange stories. There is a man swallowing fish. A flood that rebooted the earth. Some stories are difficult to imagine. What is God's purpose in these stories?. 

As far as the fish, God wanted to save the sinful broken people of Nineveh. Jonah did not want the job, He tried to flee from God. He was thrown off a boat and swallowed by the fish. Eventually, Jonah did what God wanted him to do. 

God asked Noah to build the biggest boat anyone had ever seen. Almost everyone mocked him. People mocked him until the rain came. Rain flooded the earth. Everything not on the boat was wiped out. 

Jericho was a fortified city. God told the Israelites to march around the perimeter wall for seven days blowing trumpets. On the seventh day, the walls of the city came crumbling down. It killed everyone except a small number of believers.

The majority of Old Testament stories are about rescue and redemption. Jesus in human form was rebelled against. Jesus provided a way for humanity and us to have redemption. 

Jesus gives us grace. Why?. Because Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 24

 True Grit page 24 by ric gustafson

At one point, Quincy and Moon were quietly conversing with each other.

Cogburn stood up with his rifle. " What are the two of you discussing?".

Moon blurted out. " We saw Ned and Haze two days ago".

" Be quiet Moon or I will kill you".

" I must have a doctor". Moon winced again. " I will tell them what I know".

Quincy took out a bowie knife. He chopped off one or more of Moon's fingers. Moon screamed. Angry, he shot a rifle ball into Quincy's neck. Blood splurted all over the place. 

I jumped off the bench and ran to a nearby corner.

Cogburn ran over and checked Quincy. There was no pulse. " He's already dead".

Moon was bleeding from his hand. " I'm dying".

Cogburn knelt down to Moon's face. " Where's Ned Pepper?".

Moon screamed. " Don't leave me here to die".

" I won't". Cogburn asked again. " When did you see Pepper?".

" I saw Ned and Haze two days ago at McAlester's".

Cogburn glanced at the door. " Are they coming here later tonight?".

Moon winced. " Yes".

LaBoeuf looked at Moon. " How many?".

" At least four". Moon winced one last time. He closed his eyes forever.

Cogburn frowned. " I'll cover them up".

LaBoeuf scratched his chin. " What do we do now?".

" Find a good spot about half the way up the North slope".

He pointed at me. " What about you and her?".

" Baby sister and I will find a spot up the South slope". He pointed at the Texan. " Wait for my signal".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 23

 True Grit page 23 by ric gustafson

" By the time I get you back to Fort Smith". Cogburn's voice hesitated. " That leg will be all swelled up".

" Your trying to get at me" exclaimed Moon.

" If you give me some information on Pepper". Cogburn sighed. " I will take you to McAlester's tomorrow and get that leg taken care of".

" Don't listen to him Moon".

" I can't help it". He winced. " My leg is giving me fits".

I was sent out to gather firewood. When I returned, Cogburn told me to slice up salt meat and corn dodgers. 

At one point, Moon was wincing from the pain in his leg. He stared at me.

" Who are you?". His voice got louder. " What are you doing here?".

" I'm Mattie Ross from near Dardanelle Arkansas". I frowned at him. " I'm looking for a man named Chaney".

Quincy stared at me. " Why do you want him so badly?".

" He killed my father". My voice choked up. " If you will help the Marshal, I have a lawyer back home who could help you".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 22

 True Grit page 22 by ric gustafson

Moon winced. " You shot me in the leg".

Cogburn gave him a blue handkerchief to tie around his leg. Cogburn noticed a large pot in the fireplace. " You waiting for company".

Quincy smiled. " That's our breakfast and lunch".

Rooster frowned. " I'll bet".

Moon winced again. " My leg hurts".

Quincy stared at his friend. " Be quiet".

Rooster looked at the two men. " When was the last time you saw Ned Pepper?".

Quincy shrugged his shoulders. " I don't know any Ned Pepper".

" There's a new man riding with him".

Quincy frowned. " I don't know any Ned Pepper".

" This new man goes by the name of Chaney". Cogburn thought for a moment. " He carries a Henry rifle".

Quincy's voice got more desperate. " I don't know who this Chaney is".

" If you don't help me". Cogburn frowned. " I will take both of you back to Judge Parker".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: John 1: 9-13

Chosen: John 1: 9-13 by ric gustafson

According to John 1, he was in the world the world was made through him yet the world did not know him. One day Jesus came. But the world did not know him. He was too average to be noticed. He was too poor to be impressive. Nazareth, the town he was from, was considered uneducated and backwards. In John 1, Nathanael asked if anything good could come out of Nazareth. 

Jesus claimed to be the Messiah. People rejected him. Jesus did not require much to be a follower. No status, age, race or gender mattered to Jesus. Jesus welcomed the poor and the rich. To find followers, Jesus broke every cultural, political and social barrier.

To those whose eyes were opened, they became the children of God.

Praise God's name.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: John 1: 1-5

 Chosen: John 1: 1-5 by ric gustafson

According to John 1, in the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The Word was in the beginning. God made all of it. Jesus was called the Word. Jesus's words bring knowledge and light. Jesus's words bring healing and hope. 

The disciples were an unconventional group. There were fishermen, a Zealot and a tax collector. The disciples were loud, proud, greedy and defensive. They dropped everything to follow Jesus. In Jesus is life. Jesus's words light up the dark, remove doubt and fear. 

To follow Jesus, the disciples left everything. They listened to his teaching. They listened to him pray. Jesus welcomed children. They witnessed Jesus healing the sick. They watched as Jesus defended his Father's house. They watched as Jesus went to the cross, died and then rose again.

The disciples took Jesus's words to the ends of the earth.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Luke 9: 23-24

 Chosen: Luke 9: 23-24 by ric gustafson

Luke 9 says if anyone would come after me let her deny herself  and take up her cross daily and follow me. To save our lives, we must lose them. The first disciples dropped everything to follow Jesus. They sacrificed everything to follow the Messiah. There lives were turned upside down. Jesus knew what was next for them. 

Jesus knew they would be pillars of the early church. He knew they would be spreading the good news to masses. Jesus knew they would face imprisonment and death. 

An example was Mary Magdalene. Jesus delivered her from seven demons. She followed Jesus to the end. She financially supported Jesus's ministry. She gave away everything she had to follow Jesus. She was the first Jesus appeared to after he was risen. She was the one who gave the disciples the good news that Jesus had risen. Jesus had given her new life. Jesus also gave us new life. Praise Jesus.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: II Samuel 22:2

 Chosen: II Samuel 22:2 by ric gustafson

II Samuel 22:2 says the Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer. We have all been delivered from things. Deliverance is a continual process. Deliverance comes in all shapes and forms. 

Mary Magdalene was delivered from seven demons. She was delivered by Jesus. Jesus delivered her from death. She was with Jesus to the very end. 

Mary Magdalene knew Jesus's voice and laugh. She listened intently to his teaching. She marveled at Jesus's compassion. She became very loyal to Jesus. 

After Jesus was crucified, he was put into a tomb.  One day, Mary went to the tomb. The stone had been rolled away. Jesus the Messiah and Mary's deliverer, teacher and friend was not there. 

Jesus came to Mary and told her to deliver a message to his disciples. 

He has risen.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Isaiah 43:1

 Chosen: Isaiah 43:1 by ric gustafson

Your life before becoming a follower of Jesus is not great. People are broken versions of themselves. God calls broken people to be his. God sees past our before. He wants to call us his own. According to Isaiah 43:1, God says fear not for I have redeemed you. They rebelled. There was idol worship. There was wandering hearts. There was callousness to sin. Israel was rebelling against God. 

God did not turn away from Israel. He showed mercy, love over his chosen people. We do not need to fear. God has called us by name. God loves us even though we are broken. 

We can have a not great before. With God, we can have a great after.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 21

 True Grit page 21 by ric gustafson

" Don't know any Emmett Quincy".

" Quincy, I know it's you". Cogburn's voice hesitated. " This is Rooster Cogburn".

" Marshal Cogburn?".

" I have five marshals here with me". Cogburn frowned. " Who else is in there?".

" Just me and Moon". The voice hesitated. " Moon can hardly walk you shot him".

" Drag him out!". Cogburn's voice got louder. " Throw out your weapons and come out".

A shotgun and two revolvers were thrown out. The door opened. A man limped out. He was being held up by another man.

" Get down on the ground!".

They complied. A bowie knife and a gambler's revolver were found on them. 

Rooster helped the man up. He prodded them into the dugout with his rifle.

Then I came in with LaBoeuf.

Rooster put the two men on a bench. He handcuffed them together.

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 20

 True Grit page 20 by ric gustafson

It was dark when we rode up to the dugout. Marshal Cogburn thought that the place would be empty. Cogburn said we could shelter there tonight. I looked around. The dugout was at the end of a V shaped hollow. The dugout was small and sunk back into a clay bank. 

LaBoeuf noticed the chimney before I did. Smoke and sparks were coming out. Cogburn got off his horse. He picked up his Winchester repeating rifle. He motioned to us to wait. He quietly walked up to the door.

A voice came through the door. " Who's out there?".

" We're looking for shelter". Cogburn's voice hesitated. " There's three of us".

" We have no room for you here".

Cogburn motioned to LaBoeuf to cover the chimney. He took a deerskin jacket from Cogburn. He quietly got up on the roof of the dugout and covered it with the jacket. Soon smoke was coming through the front door.

The front door partly opened. Someone pointed a shotgun out and fired.

Cogburn fired back at the door and hit whoever was behind it. The door quickly closed.

" I am a Federal officer". Cogburn yelled. " Who is in there?".

" No one". the scared voice hesitated. " Just ride on".

Cogburn recognized the voice. " Is that you Emmett Quincy?".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

at the feet of Jesus: John 11:44

 at the feet of Jesus: John 11:44 by ric gustafson

According to John 11:44, take off the grave clothes and let him go.

These are specific instructions from Jesus.

This was after Lazarus exited the tomb.

This was a specific instruction from Jesus.

Before we can run free from our sinful state of death

Our grave clothes must go

What grave clothes do we have on?

Is it habitual sins or guilt?

We cannot shed them on our own.

Jesus gives us new life

We must remove our remains of death

In Jesus, we can be free from death

research help: ' At His Feet' by Chris Tiegreen

Peace and God's blessings, Love Ric

come and see page 13

 come and see page 13 by ric gustafson

Jesus and Matthew stood up from the rock. On top of the rock was a blanket. On top of the blanket was Matthew's writing tools. Matthew had brought along an inkpot, styluses and several writing tablets. 

Jesus pointed down toward the campsite. " Look down there Matthew".

" Where the campsite?".

" Yes". Jesus smiled. " My disciples are leaving in pairs".

" Hopefully they will get along".

" They will". Jesus grinned. " I'm sending them out to spread the news".

Matthew turned toward the rock. " Shall we get back to work?".

" Yes". Jesus sat down on the rock. " How many sections have we done so far?".

" 19".

Jesus thought for a moment. " We could have 20 or shorten it to 18".

" Teacher, I hope my writing is ok".

" It's a manifesto Matthew". Jesus smiled again. " I'm here to start a revolution".

The End.

research help: ' The Chosen Come and See' by Jerry B Jenkins

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come and see page 12

 come and see page 12 by ric gustafson

Gaius led Jesus into the room.

" Ah the Rabbi from Nazareth". Quintus smiled. He pointed to an empty chair. " Please sit down".

Jesus sat down.

" Did this man or his followers resist?".

" No".

" Good". He grinned. " You may leave".

Gaius quickly left.

" Jesus of Nazareth". Quintus's voice hesitated. " We finally meet".

" Here I am".

" Atticus one of my Cohortes Urbanae has been following you".

" And what did he see?".

" Public disruptions which puts a blight on my personal reputation".

" One of your tax collectors has come to be with me".

Quintus frowned. " And what is his name now?".

" Matthew".

Quintus shook his head. " I don't know what to make of you".

" People often say that".

" Jesus, listen good to me". Quintus gave Jesus a hard stare. " No more spectacles, crowds or meddling of any kind".

Jesus stared at Quintus. " I can't promise you that".

" Jesus, heed my warning". He frowned. " Now go".

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come and see page 11

 come and see page 11 by ric gustafson

Jesus and the others entered the synagogue. Jesus and the males sat down on one side. The females sat on the other side.

Rabbi Lamech was reading from a Torah scroll. " No one born of a forbidden union may enter the assembly of the Lord".

Simon spots a man sitting by himself. His left hand is curled in his lap. 

Jesus walks up to the man. " Shalom". Jesus glances at his hand. " May I see?".

Rabbi Lamech began to shout. " What are you doing?".

Jesus smiles at the man. " What is your name?".

" Elam".

Jesus frowned. " Your friend here has a withered hand".

Rabbi Lamech quickly walked up to Jesus. " It is not lawful to heal on Sabbath".

" Lift your hand". Jesus put both of his hands on his. He breathed on the withered hand.

Elam grinned at Jesus.

" Stretch it out".

Elam slowly did so. He smiled at Jesus.

Jesus smiled back. " It's good huh?".

Rabbi Madai shouted. " Get out!".

Quietly, Jesus and the others left.

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come and see page 10

 come and see page 10 by ric gustafson

Philip frowned at Jesus. " The Baptizer was taken into custody".

Jesus sighed. " Where is he?".

" Herod's most blockaded prison".

Jesus's mother walked in. She was followed by another female.

Jesus smiled. " Mary and Mary". Jesus's mother left the tent.

Mary Magdeline began to cry. " I'm sorry I left teacher".

Jesus began to think about his cousin. A tear came to his eye.

" I'm so ashamed". She hung her head. " You redeemed me".

Jesus wiped the tear from his eye. " It's good to have you back".

" I owe you everything".

" Mary, you don't owe me anything". Jesus smiled. " I have always loved you".

Mary began to cry again. " How can I repay you?".

" My Father and I just want your heart".

" I can't".

" Mary, I have already forgiven you". Jesus embraced her. " It's forgotten".

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the Reluctant Beatle page 7

 the Reluctant Beatle page 7 by ric gustafson

John's friend Stu Sutcliffe tried to play bass guitar. He was constantly told by Paul and George that he was not good. The Silver Beatles had an agent named Allan Williams. He began booking the group into Liverpool ballrooms. At this time, the name of the group was changed to the Beatles. 

Allan Williams booked the Beatles into a Hamburg Germany night club. Between August and November 1960 the band performed at the Kaiserkeller Club. The group needed a drummer. Pete Best, one of Mona Best's sons, agreed to be their drummer.

Allan Williams had to sneek the band into West Germany. The band had only passports. They had no work permits or official documentation. On top of that, George was seven months shy of 18. Bruno Koschmider decided to have the group perform at the Indra Strip Club. The club was on a quiet side street. Living quarters was one concrete room and two broom cupboards.

The band was used to playing for about 20 minutes. At the Indra Club, the band was required to play for hours each weeknight and longer on weekends.

To fill the hours, the band played everything from rock and roll, country, folk, blues, Chuck Berry and Ray Charles.

With all the hours playing, the group could tell they had two problems on their hands. One was Stu Sutcliffe's bass guitar playing. The other problem was drummer Pete Best.

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the Reluctant Beatle page 6

 the Reluctant Beatle page 6 by ric gustafson

George was more of a friend to Paul than to John. George began listening to country songs. George loved listening to James Burton and Carl Perkins. Perkins wrote a hit song called ' Blue Suede Shoes'. Perkins music was simple. George was intrigued by it. At this time, just for fun skiffle groups were becoming rock and roll bands.

Alan Caldwell changed his skiffle group to a rock and roll name. Caldwell changed his name to Rory Storm. He changed the name of his group to the Hurricanes. The drummer of the now Hurricanes changed his name to Ringo Starr. The Quarrymen at this time wanted to change their drummer. Colin Hanton was out. The Quarrymen went a long time without a drummer. 

Mona Best started a night club called ' The Casbah'. She had two sons. Their names were Pete and Rory. On the opening night of the Casbah, 300 local teenagers came. The Quarrymen began to play at many school dances. During this time, Lennon and McCartney had written at least 50 songs. John changed the band's name to the Silver Beatles.

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D-Day

 D- Day by ric gustafson

On this date June 6 1944, land, air and sea forces of the Allied armies landed in France.  The operation was called Overlord. It was the largest amphibious invasion in military history. Five naval assault divisions converged on the beaches of Normandy France. The beaches were given code names. They were Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword.

The invasion force included 7,000 ships and landing craft. Also 195,000 naval personnel and 133,000 troops from eight Allied countries. The buildup to Overlord was highly coordinated.

General Dwight D Eisenhower was the Supreme Commander of Overlord. The Germans were expecting the landing to take place in the Pas de Calais region because that was were the English Channel was the narrowest. The invasion was an airborne assault and amphibious landings. Allied air forces flew over 14.000 sorties in support of the landings. 

Before daybreak on June 6, thousands of paratroopers and glider troops were already behind enemy lines. At 6:30 am, the amphibious invasion began. Gold, Juno, Sword and Utah were taken pretty easily. Omaha Beach was a different story. It was heavily defended. It was a bloody fight with over 2000 American casualties. At the end of the day, 156,000 Allied troops had successfully landed.

Hitler's vaunted Atlantic Wall lasted less than 24 hours.

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come and see page 9

 come and see page 9 by ric gustafson

The demon possessed man ran up to Thomas and Matthew. To their surprise, Mary Magdeline approached the man. 

She put out a hand. " Stop!".

The man sneered. " Lilith?".

Mary leveled her eyes. " I don't answer to that name".

" My name is Belial". He hissed at Mary. " I am the fifth knight of Legion". He jumped on Simon the Zealot. He began to choke him.

Jesus ran up to him. " Out! Out of him".

The man's body got rigid. He began to gag. Then he began to sob.

Jesus helped him up. " What is your name?".

" Caleb".

Jesus helped Simon the Zealot to his feet. " Are you ok Simon son of Zebulon?".

" How do you know my name?".

Jesus smiled. " I healed your brother in Jerusalem".

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at the feet of Jesus: Mark 2:17

 at the feet of Jesus: Mark 2:17 by ric gustafson

According to Mark 2:17, I have not come to call the righteous but sinners.

Why would a righteous and holy Jesus want to give us grace?.

Why would God create a rebellious race so that he could redeem that race?.

Who knows the mind of God?.

Jesus wants to give us mercy.

Not just any mercy.

Jesus wants to give us mind boggling mercy.

Because of Jesus's mercy, we need to fall on our faces in gratitude and worship.

Do you know about Jesus's mercy?.

We need to always be learning about the mind of God.

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True Grit page 19

 True Grit page 19 by ric gustafson

LaBoeuf and I were eating catfish prepared by Mrs Bagby.

Cogburn sat down. He began to eat with us.

" Pepper and his gang were at McAlester's store three days ago".

I smiled. " Did he see Chaney?".

" The only two he recognized was someone named Haze and a Mexican".

LaBoeuf frowned. " What about Chaney?".

" Bagby said Chaney was with the gang recently when they pulled a mail hack job".

I looked at Cogburn. " What do we do now?".

" We get a good night sleep tonight". He yawned. " We will catch up with them tomorrow".

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True Grit page 18

 True Grit page 18 by ric gustafson

I led Little Blackie across the creek. I thought that Marshal Cogburn and LaBoeuf  had ridden ahead. As I came up to some brush, Cogburn and LaBoeuf appeared on the path. Little Blackie reared. I was almost thrown off.

LaBoeuf pulled me off Little Blackie. He threw me to the ground. I was face down. LaBoeuf took a willow bush limb and began switching my leg with it.

It began to hurt. I began to cry. I looked at Cogburn. " Are you going to let him do this?".

" You know something baby sister". Cogburn gave me a look of sympathy. " I don't believe I will".

Cogburn frowned at LaBoeuf. " Put the awitch away".

" No". He kept switching my leg.

" That will do LaBoeuf".

" I am going ahead with what I started".

Cogburn took out his cedar handled revolver. Cocked it and pointed it at LaBoeuf. " It would be the biggest mistake you ever made".

He threw away the switch. " You are always taking her side".

Cogburn gave us an angry stare. " Both of you get on your horse".

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Violet Jessop page 3

Violet Jessop page 3 by ric gustafson

Violet looked over the railing of the Boat Deck. She shivered. It was now April 14 and it was the ship's fourth day at sea. It was starting to get cold out. Icy mist from the sea gave Violet a chill. She couldn't wait to get back to her cabin.

Later that day, Violet along with Ann and Stanley were resting at the Pig and Whistle.

" How was your day Stanley?".

The old steward grinned. " A female passenger wanted me to give her precious FiFi a lamb cutlet and green peas".

Violet laughed. " Picky wasn't she?".

" I had to spoon feed mashed up fresh peas to FiFi".

Violet looked at Ann. " How was your day?".

" Mr and Mrs Marvin were up on the promenade again".

Later, Violet was relaxing in her bunk. She was reading a magazine. All of a sudden, the Titanic gave a good rock. Violet almost fell out of her bunk. Violet heard a crunching ripping noise. Then she heard the engines stop. Then Violet heard dead silence.

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at the feet of Jesus: John 10:30

 at the feet of Jesus: John 10:30 by ric gustafson

According to John 10:30, I and the Father are one.

Jesus claimed to be God.

Jesus many times said I am.

Jesus is claiming deity. Jesus forgave sins.

People fell down and worshiped Jesus.

People will tell us Jesus is not God. We are to ignore and correct them.

Jesus is a great teacher. Jesus is the eternal God. Jesus wants to be involved with us every day.

Let him in.

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come and see page 8

 come and see page 8 by ric gustafson

Jesus, Simon, John and Matthew stepped into the entrance of the Pool of Bethesda. Jesus looked around. He pointed. " There he is".

" Who?" exclaimed Simon.

Jesus was pointing toward a man on his side. He was next to the edge of the pool. " He has been here the longest".

Jesus quietly walked past people groaning and coughing. He stopped at the man he was pointing at. " Shalom".

The man opened his eyes. " Me?".

Jesus stared at the man. " Do you want to be healed?".

" Sir, no one can help me into the water". He began to cry. " And when I do get close, others step down in front of me".

" Look at me". Jesus looked at the man. " I'm asking about you".

He began to cry. " I've tried".

" So, do you want to be healed?".

He nodded.

Jesus put his hands on him.

The man put his hands on the ground. He put his back against a pillar. Smiling, he slowly began to rise. When he had completely stood up, he smiled at Jesus and walked away.

Jesus smiled. The disciples were amazed.

research help: ' The Chosen Come and See' by Jerry B Jenkins

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at the feet of Jesus: Revelation 22:13

 at the feet of Jesus: Revelation 22:13 by ric gustafson

According to Revelation 22:13, I am the Alpha and the Omega the First and the Last the Beginning and the End.

Jesus is claiming his authority. 

Jesus is God incarnate.

When we understand this truth, discipleship can start.

Jesus's words are of God himself.

God is the creator of the universe and the author of all wisdom.

Do we hear Jesus's words casually?. Or do we consume his teaching?. 

Is Jesus's words pleasing or a matter of life or death?.

Jesus's words are true for all eternity.

research help: ' At His Feet' by Chris Tiegreen

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the Reluctant Beatle page 5

 the Reluctant Beatle page 5 by ric gustafson

George loved listening to a 21 year old Texan and his trio. Buddy Holly played electric lead and sang in a hiccupy voice. In September 1957, Holly and his group had a hit with ' That'll Be The Day". George loved that Holly wrote original songs and used simple chords. Holly and the Crickets performed in England in March 1958. George was disappointed he could not go to it.

George suggested to John that the Quarrymen record their voices at a studio recommended by a friend. The Phillips Sound Recording Services was at 38 Kensington. On July 14 1958, the Quarrymen recorded two songs. The first was ' That'll Be The Day' with John's acid lead voice. The second was ' In Spite Of All The Danger'. It was written by Paul McCartney.

Tragedy struck only days later when John's mother Julia was killed by a speeding motorist.

The two song demo was taken home by the Quarrymen's pianist John Lowe. The recording resurfaced 23 years later.

research help: ' George Harrison the Reluctant Beatle' by Philip Norman

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