God's Word: Psalm 51

 God's Word: Psalm 51 by ric gustafson

After the Garden of Eden, sin changed everything. Still, God blessed Adam and Eve with children. They had two sons. Their names were Abel and Cain. Psalm 51 talks about sacrifice. Cain was a farmer. Abel was a shepherd. Both brought sacrifices to God. God was pleased with Abel's sacrifice. God was not pleased with Cain's. Because of rage and jealousy, Cain killed Abel. He tried to hide his sin. Abel gave his best to God. Cain did not.

Are we giving our best to God?. We should be. Why? Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Heroes of the Bible Devotional' by Joshua Cooley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 13

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 13 by ric gustafson

Mendelson entered a restaurant in San Francisco. The upscale eatery was called Original Joe's. There Mendelson met Vince Guaraldi. Mendelson immediately liked him. The jazz musician had long sideburns, black eyeglasses and a large mustache.

Mendelson explained to the jazz musician that he was producing a documentary about Peanuts creator Charles Schulz. Mendelson asked Guaraldi if he was interested in working on a soundtrack for the documentary. The jazz musician said yes right away. He loved Peanuts and read it to his two young children.

About 2 weeks later, Guaraldi was also driving over the Golden Gate bridge. Inspiration hit him. Right away, he began composing a tune. When he was finished with it, he played it for Mendelson. The producer was enchanted by what he heard.

' A Boy named Charlie Brown' was never sold. Guaraldi's song was put into the Charlie Brown Christmas Special. The song was titled ' Linus and Lucy'

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 5

 Psalms: Psalm 5 by ric gustafson

Psalm 5 says at dawn I bring my plea expectantly before you for you O God delight not in wickedness no evil man remains with you the arrogant may not stand in your sight. Humans are caught in a net of good and evil.

You hate all evildoers you destroy all who speak falsehood the bloodthirsty and the deceitful the Lord abhors. When Jesus comes in his glory he will separate the sheep from the goats.

But I because of your abundant kindness will enter your house I will worship at your holy temple in fear of you O Lord. Tell Jesus about changes you will make in your life.

research help: ' The Psalms for Today' by Mark Link

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Romans 5:8

 God's Word: Romans 5:8 by ric gustafson

Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden. It was paradise on earth. It was a perfect sinless home. Then Adam and Eve decided to rebel against God and eat the forbidden fruit. Instead of God, they chose their own way. 

God could have destroyed us. Instead God chose a different path. God provided a path of salvation. God sent his perfect Son to die for our sins.

We are sinful rebels who need a Savior. God sent who we needed. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Heroes of the Bible Devotional' by Joshua Cooley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 12

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 12 by ric gustafson

In late June early July 1965, Neil Reagan traveled to the home of Charles Schulz. Reagan was to attend a presentation by Schulz, Lee Mendelson and Bill Melendez. They walked Reagan through their story boards and a pencil test animation. They showed Reagan pencil sketches of the characters and scenes. Reagan's reaction to what was shown to him was negative. Reagan suggested that the 3 concentrate on the color and the music.

One day, Mendelson was driving south across the Golden Gate bridge. He was listening to radio station KSFO. On the AM station Mendelson was listening to a local jazz program. At one point, Mendelson was listening to a song that just captivated him. The song was ' Cast Your Fate to the Wind'. 

Mendelson found out the jazz artist on the song was Vince Guaraldi. Mendelson called a friend Ralph Gleason. He wanted to find out if Gleason knew this Guaraldi. He did. Mendelson asked his friend to set up a meeting.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Fall and Rise page 3

 Fall and Rise page 3 by ric gustafson

It was Monday Sept 10, the time was near midnight. Cee Cee Lyles was sharing an apartment with four other flight attendants. The apartment was near Newark International Airport. 33 year old Cee Cee spent a lot of time on the phone with her husband Lorne. Lorne was a police officer in Fort Myers Florida. Cee Cee became a flight attendant after leaving a stressful job as a police detective. The night of Sep 10, she could not sleep. She was scheduled to leave Newark Airport at 8:00 am Sept 11for a flight leaving for San Francisco. The flight was United Airlines flight 93.

In Rome New York, 43 year old Major Kevin Nasypany was the Mission Control Commander at the Northeast Air Defense Sector. Kevin was tired. He had planned an exercise for Sep 11. That night before the exercise, Major Nasypany did not sleep well. The code name for the exercise was ' Vigilant Guard'

For the Fallen

Edelmiro Abad was a father of three daughters. People called him Ed. Abad was born in Spain. Abad and his family lived in Brooklyn New York. Abad worked on the 90th floor of Tower Two. Abad was a Senior Vice President with Fiduciary Trust Company. Edelmiro Abad was 54.

research help: ' Fall and Rise' by Mitchell Zuckoff

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 11

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 11 by ric gustafson

In the summer of 1965, Neil Reagan was a busy man. He supervised the LA office of McCann Erickson. He also helped his younger brother Ronald Reagan's political campaign. Ronald Reagan wanted to be Governor of California. The New York office of McCann Erickson asked Neil Reagan to fly to San Francisco and report back about the progress of their animated Christmas special.

Neil Reagan was the perfect choice for the assignment. He had an extensive background in entertainment. Reagan started out at KFWB radio station owned by the Warner Brothers movie studio. Then Reagan became a Director at CBS. Then Neil Reagan was recruited by the LA manager of McCann Erickson. His name was Clarence Olmstead. When Olmstead retired, Neil Reagan took over.

Neil Reagan wanted the assignment for two reasons. First, he loved children. Second, he loved the Christmas holiday.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 5

 Beatles the early years page 5 by ric gustafson

Shortly after the war, John Lennon's mother Julia had found a new man. His name was John Dykins. Not far away in the Dingle, Johnny and Annie Starkey were taking care of their grandson. His name was Richy. Annie noticed right away her grandson was left handed. Richy started school at St Silas. Because Elsie's husband left her and Richy, the two of them had to move to 10 Admiral Grove.

Paul McCartney at age 3 had a steady home life. Paul's father Jim was quiet and mild mannered. Paul's mother Mary was also quiet.

George Harrison had a strong family. His father Harry was a bus driver. The family lived at Arnold Grove. Photos of George showed a blond haired boy with his father's smile. John Lennon started school on November 12 1945. The school was Mosspits Lane Primary School. It was not far from Newcastle Road. Julia worked at the nearby Coffee House. In his nursery class, John enjoyed reading, writing, painting and drawing. In March 1946, Julia and John moved in with Bobby Dykins. Eventually, John moved in to the house on Menlove Avenue with his Aunt Mimi and his Uncle George. In May 1946, John switched schools to Dovedale Road infant school.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Cleopatra page 1

 Cleopatra page 1 by ric gustafson

My name is Cleopatra. You can dislike me, love me or hate me. I was born a girl and a goddess. I will be a future queen. I have enemies. Including members of my own family. 

But I am not entirely alone. Charmian is with me. She has been my slave and my servant since I was born. She tends to me. We are inseperable. When I began to speak, I chose her name. Charmian means giver of joy. She is my slave. She does not want to be free. We are chained by love. 

I belong to her also.

research help: ' I Am Cleopatra' by Natasha Solomons

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Fall and Rise page 2

 Fall and Rise page 2 by ric gustafson

Two year old Christine Hanson was excited. She was going to California to see Namma her grandmother. Eunice was so excited to see her granddaughter. Christine told Namma she was going to Disneyland. She was going to see Mickey Mouse and Pluto. Christine's father Peter Hanson knew early in September he needed to fly to California for business. Peter decided to make the trip into a family vacation. In California, they would visit Christine's mother's family. The family flew out on Sep 11 for California. They left on United Airlines Flight 175.

In Virginia, Barbara Olson was getting herself ready to fly to LA. Her husband Ted's birthday was on Sep 11. Barbara was a lawyer and a political insider. Her husband Ted was the top legal strategist for the White House. While in LA, Barbara was going to be a guest on Bill Maher's show called ' Politically Incorrect'. Barbara left the next day for LA. Her flight was American Airlines Flight 77.

The Fallen

Gordon Aamoth Jr was from Minneapolis Minnesota. He was 32. He was captain of his high school football team. He played hockey. He went to Babson College. He earned a business degree. People called him Gordy.

Gordon Aamoth Jr was an Investment Banker Vice President at Sandler Oneil and Partners. The firm was located on the 104th floor in the South Tower.

research help: ' Fall and Rise' by Mitchell Zuckoff

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 4

 Psalms: Psalm 4 by ric gustafson

Psalm 4 says when I call answer me O my just God you who relieve me when I am in distress have pity on me and hear my prayer. Has God's face shined down on you?.

Know that the Lord does wonders for his faithful one the Lord will hear me when I call upon him. Is our heart filled with calm?. 

O Lord let the light of your countenance shine upon us you put gladness into my heart. When things close in on us do we panic?.

As soon as I lie down I fall peacefully asleep for you alone O Lord bring security to my dwelling. Jesus kept calm in the worst situations. Can we?.

research help: ' The Psalms for Today' by Mark Link

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Isaiah 43: 6-7

 God's Word: Isaiah 43: 6-7 by ric gustafson

Why did God create you?. What's your purpose in life?. The truth is God created you to worship him. We will start to shift from our selfish desires and put it on God. Life is about God. We live to worship God. Worship is giving God the glory he deserves. We should glorify God in everything we do. 

How do we worship God?. We pray, read God's Word, help and tell others about God.

research help: ' Heroes of the Bible Devotional' by Joshua Cooley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 10

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 10 by ric gustafson

Director Bill Melendez answered the phone.

Producer Lee Mendelson was on the line. " Bill, can we do an animated half hour in 6 months?".

" Of course" replied Melendez.

Melendez had met Schultz when he had directed some Ford Motor Company commercials. 

The three men got together at Schultz's studio. They looked at the one page outline Coca Cola had received. Elements in the outline included a winter scene with ice skating. There was a Christmas play, There was a scene with a biblical element. And there was a mixture of jazz and holiday music.

Mendelson suggested a Christmas tree could be added to the script. The musical soundtrack was also discussed. Guaraldi's piece ' Linus and Lucy' would be included in a scene. 

The one element Schultz would not budge was the scene where Linus recites from the book of Luke. Lastly, a budget for the special was set.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John 8:12 page 4

 John 8:12 page 4 by ric gustafson

" Jack". Mr Kincaide was glancing at his file. " You have a very impressive file".

Jack squinted his eyes in the semi darkness. " Thank you".

" You have been the top salesman here for five years now". He looked up from the file. " What's your secret?".

Jack smiled. " Mr Kincaide, my work and my life is based on John 8:12".

" Sorry, the bible doesn't mean anything to me".

" John 8:12 says I am the light of the world".

Mr Kincaide gave Jack a strange look. " What does that mean?".

" He who follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life".

" I'm not sure what that means".

" Is there something you wanted to talk about Mr Kincaide?".

" Jack". Mr Kincaide stared at his employee. " I would like to try lower wattage light bulbs".

" Lower wattage?".

" The lower the wattage". Mr Kincaide smiled. " People will want to buy more light bulbs".

Jack frowned. " Sounds deceitful to me Sir".

" We're here to make money Jack".

research help: the Ryrie Study Bible

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 4

Beatles the early years page 4 by ric gustafson

Sometimes Paul would go over to John's house. Paul knew a short cut to get there. Paul would walk across the Allerton Municipal Golf Course. From there, Paul would walk onto a bank above Menlove Avenue. This was opposite of John's house. Usually John and Paul would walk everywhere carrying their guitars without the case. 

Previous owners had called John's home Mendips. It was a semi detached suburban villa. John's Aunt Mimi ran the home. She let John and Paul use the porch to play their guitars and try to write songs. On that porch, 20 songs came into being. The best of those early Lennon McCartney songs was ' Love ME Do".

To Paul. John's upbringing was middle class. Paul was impressed that John was a poet, a songwriter and a guitar player. John was impressed by Paul's talent and his burning ambition. 

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Word: Genesis 1:1

 God's Word: Genesis 1:1 by ric gustafson

God tells us in Genesis 1:1 that he can create something out of nothing. God created everything. God has limitless creative abilities. God spoke and created the universe. God created everything. God rules over everything also. Nothing would exist without God. God is an awesome and powerful God. 

We were created for a reason. We answer to a higher authority. We are here on this sinful earth to serve God who created us. In God we can have a life of meaning and purpose.

research help: ' Heroes of the Bible Devotional' by Joshua Cooley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 9

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 9 by ric gustafson

At the time in 1965 that Schultz and Mendelson were asked to put together a Christmas Special, Schultz and Peanuts were on top of the world. Peanuts was reaching 60 million people. The strip was being published in 771 newspapers. It was translated into a dozen languages. The comic strip was on the cover of Time Magazine on April 9 1965. But even with all the success including two years as Cartoonist of the Year. Schultz was struggling in his personal life. He suffered from symptoms of anxiety and depression. He lost weight and had constant stomach problems.

At the same time, Mendelson had submitted a one page outline to Coca Cola's headquarters in Atlanta. Nervously, Mendelson had to wait 3 weeks for an answer from John Allen. Coca Cola bought the special. That was the good news. The bad news was that they only had 6 months to make the special. Mendelson needed a Director who could do the impossible. 

In Mendelson's mind, there was only one Director who could pull it off.

Mendelson picked up the phone.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John 8:12 page 3

 John 8:12 page 3 by ric gustafson

Jack yawned as he turned off his computer. He picked up his purple workout bag from underneath his cubicle. The overhead light above his desk flickered. He had done all of his light bulb visits earlier in the day. He was ready to leave. He stood up and put his bag over his right shoulder. As he reached the entrance of his cubicle, somebody walked into the entrance.

" Sorry to bother you Jack". Roger Francis grinned. " Mr Kincaide would like to see you for a few minutes before you leave". 

" Ok". Jack walked out of his cubicle. He began to walk down a dimly lit hallway. He looked up. The overhead light was flickering. He stopped in front of a door that said ' Glen Kincaide'. Jack knocked.

" Come in".

Jack opened the door to reveal a dimly lit office. The only light in the scantly furnished office was a small lamp on a big wooden desk. 

Wearing a dark suit, a small serious looking man walked over to Jack. He shook Jack's hand. " I'm Glen Kincaide'. 

Jack shook his hand. " Jack Dallas".

" Please Jack". He gave Jack a strange smile. " Please have a seat".

research help: ' Ryrie Study Bible' 

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 8

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 8 by ric gustafson

On May 5 1965, Lee Mendelson finally got the phone call he had been waiting for. He quickly dialed Charles Schultz. " I think I just sold your Charlie Brown Christmas Special".

" Who called?".

" John Allen of McCann Erickson". His voice hesitated. " He asked if you and I would like to make a Christmas Special for December this year".

" What did you tell him?".

" I did not hesitate". His voice hesitated. " I told him yes".

The next morning, Mendelson made the drive to Sonoma County which was north of San Francisco. Mendelson found Schultz and his wife Joyce on a 28 acre property. In order to talk, Schultz stopped his daily writing of panels of his strip. Both men sat down. 

Schultz began telling Mendelson story scenes, themes and ideas. Schultz wanted the special to deal with the true meaning of Christmas. Schultz wanted a Christmas play to be part of the story. Schultz wanted Jazz music for the special. Schultz loved a local San Francisco Jazz composer. His name was Vince Guaraldi.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 3

 Psalms: Psalm 3 by ric gustafson

Psalm 3 says O Lord how many are my adversaries many rise up against me many are saying of me there is no salvation for him in God. Are there storm clouds and hard times in your life?.

But you O Lord are my shield my glory you lift up my head when I call out to the Lord he answers me from his holy mountain. Did Jesus think of this psalm in the Garden of Gethsemane?.

When I lie down in sleep I wake again for the Lord sustains me I fear not the myriads of people arrayed against me on every side rise up O Lord save me my God.

Think of Jesus in the garden and in a dungeon later that night praying Psalm 3

research help: ' The Psalms for Today' by Mark Link

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 7

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 7 by ric gustafson 

In Feb 1965, James Aubrey had a long talk with Frank Stanton. Stanton was the president of CBS. After talking, it was decided that Aubrey and CBS would part ways. Aubrey had a talk with the Chairman of CBS Bill Paley. Despite a plea, Aubrey and CBS parted ways.

Now with Aubrey gone, CBS could now broadcast specials. A holiday special that Coca Cola was going to sponsor was ' Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'. Because of production delays, the special could not be broadcast until March of 1966. Coca Cola now run by J Paul Austin wanted a holiday special for Thanksgiving Christmas 1965.

One day, a McCann Erickson executive named John Allen noticed a Time Magazine cover about Peanuts and Charles Schultz. The date of the Time Magazine cover was April 9 1965. Allen had seen the documentary about Schultz and Peanuts. Allen knew that Lee Mendelson produced the documentary. 

Could Mendelson and Schultz pull off a Christmas special in a short period of time?.

Allen picked up the phone.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Fall and Rise page 1

 Fall and Rise page 1 by ric gustafson

Sept 10 2001

Captain John Ogonowski walked in the door of his farm house in Dracut Massachusetts.

" Dad, please help me with my math".

The 50 year old pilot gave a tired smile to his 16 year old daughter and his wife Peg. John was tired. He had just driven to their 130 acre farm 30 miles north of Boston. He had just piloted American Airlines Flight 11 from LA. After 23 years as a commercial pilot, he was tired. He enjoyed coming to his farm to rest.

After dinner of chicken cutlets and ice cream, John wanted to try and get someone to cover his six hour shift for the next morning. His shift the next morning Sept 11 was a 6 hour return trip to California. There were things he needed to do on his farm. 

John went to the TV room. He turned on the desktop computer. He logged into the American Airlines scheduling system. But it was to no avail. John  had to do the shift. He was going to be again the Captain of American Airlines Flight 11. The flight was nonstop from Boston to LA.

research help: ' Fall and Rise' by Mitchell Zuckoff

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John 8:12 page 2

 John 8:12 page 2 by ric gustafson

Jack talked through the door. " I'm a light bulb salesman". Jack's voice hesitated. " I noticed your house was totally dark".

" Get off my property".

" If you could give me five minutes". Jack listened for a response. " I would love to show you what's in my bag". 

The door opened slightly. " Come in".

Jack slowly walked in. The house was completely dark.

" What's in your bag?".

" Light bulbs". Jack took one out of his bag. " May I put one in one of your lamps?".

" No". A voice shrieked. " I like it dark in here".

Jack quietly walked up to a lamp. He put a new bulb in. A bright light came on. He noticed someone crumpled against a wall.

" Take it back out".

Jack put a new bulb into another lamp. More light came on.

" Take it out". Then the shrieking stopped.

Jack ran over to a young man crumpled next to a wall. 

He was crying. " Help me".

Jack showed the young man John 8:12. " I am the light of the world".

research help: Ryrie Study Bible

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 3

 Beatles the early years page 3 by ric gustafson

When John and Paul would get together in the afternoon to write music, they would have a routine. John would leave the Liverpool College of Art. Paul would leave the Liverpool Institute. From Catharine Street they would get on a green double decker bus number 86. They would then go down Upper Parliament Street past Sefton General Hospital. Then they would take the roundabout at Penny Lane to Allerton. Paul's house was at 20 Forthlin Road. Paul's house in the afternoon was quiet and empty. Paul's father was at work.

John and Paul would sit in the front parlor by the fireplace. They would sit opposite of each other. Starting with 3 chords of Buddy Holly, they would attempt a song. Another influence on the lads were the Everly Brothers. The first 3 Lennon McCartney songs they attempted were ' Too Bad About Sorrows' ' Just Fun' ' Because I Know You Love Me So'. 

There was no competition between the two. John always came first.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John 8:12 page 1

 John 8:12 page 1 by ric gustafson

Wearily, Jack Dallas walked up and put his heavy bag by the front door. He had been trying to sell light bulbs to someone in this neighborhood all day. He was tired. He wanted to go home. 

As he was leaving the area, he noticed one home that was completely dark. He picked up his bag and walked up to the front door. He took out a small black bible. He rang the doorbell. Jack opened the bible to John 8:12. ' I am the light of the world'. Nobody opened the door. Jack rang the doorbell 2 more times. No answer. Frustrated, Jack picked up his bag. He began to walk toward his car.

" What do you want?".

Smiling, Jack turned. He began walking back toward the front door..

research help: Ryrie Study Bible

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 2

 Beatles the early years page 2 by ric gustafson

Both John and Paul loved American rock and roll music. Both of them loved hearing it and playing it. They knew nothing about rock and roll music two years prior. They made up for lost time.

Both John and Paul loved a singer from Macon Georgia. His name was Little Richard. Paul did a great imitation of the singer. John and Paul also loved Carl Perkins, Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochran and Jerry Lee Lewis. But there was one person both lads worshiped. That was Elvis Presley.

A group called the Crickets were led by leader Buddy Holly. Holly was a big influence on John and Paul. The Crickets introduced John and Paul to the group sound. The sound of vocal, electric guitar, bass and drums. 

Buddy Holly and the Crickets encouraged skiffle groups to change to rock and roll. In honor of Holly and the Crickets, John and Paul began writing songs to the Cricket sound.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

A Charlie Brown Christmas page 6

 A Charlie Brown Christmas page 6 by ric gustafson

The success of the Dec 6 1964 stop motion Christmas special ' Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer' gave Coca Cola's advertising agency McCann Erickson an idea. Coca Cola wanted to do their own Christmas TV Special. To the CEO of McCann Erickson, this was going to be a huge challenge.

To find a network willing to broadcast an animated Christmas special by December 1965. That challenge fell on the shoulders of Marion Harper Jr.

In August of 1955, McCann Erickson secured their largest account. It was Coca Cola. Led by Marion Harper Jr, the agency secured the 15 million dollar deal. To an Oklahoma City boy raised by his mother, life could not be better. Neal Gilliatt was chosen to oversee the Coca Cola account.

Gilliatt knew Harper Jr and McCann Erickson were hoping to make an animated TV special for December 1965. NBC already had plans to show Rudolph again. That left only ABC and CBS. The head of CBS's programming was James T Aubrey. Aubrey already had a policy against broadcasting specials. Marion Harper Jr knew he had a rough road ahead.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 2

 Psalms: Psalm 2 by ric gustafson

Psalm 2 says why do the nations rage and the peoples utter folly the kings of the earth rise up and the princes conspire together against the Lord and against his anointed let us break their fetters and cast their bonds from us. Do we put our trust in the Lord?.

He who is throned in heaven laughs the Lord drides them then in anger he speaks to them he terrifies them in his wrath I myself have set up my king on Zion my holy mountain. Is Jesus the King of Kings and God's true Son?.

I will proclaim the decree of the Lord the Lord said to me you are my  son this day I have begotten you ask of me and I will give you the nations for an inheritance and the ends of the earth for your possession You shall rule them with an iron rod you shall shatter them like an earthen dish.

How can we best serve Jesus today?.

research help: ' The Psalms for Today' by Mark Link

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 1

 Psalms: Psalm 1 by ric gustafson

The psalmist starts Psalm 1 with happy the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked nor walks in the way of sinners nor sits in the company of the insolent but delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on his law day and night. According to Matthew 12:33, what did Jesus mean by a tree is known by it's fruit?. 

He is like a tree planted near running water that yields its fruit in due season and whose leaves never fade whatever he does prospers. According to Luke 3:9, what did Jesus mean by every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire?.

Not so the wicked not so they are like chaff which the wind drives away for the Lord watches over the way of the just but the way of the wicked vanishes.

What kind of fruit is your life bearing?. How can your life become more fruitful?.

research help: ' The Psalms for Today' by Mark Link

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 143:9

 Psalms: Psalm 143:9 by ric gustafson

God wants us to commit to living our life for him. God wants to lead us on a steady path. Psalm 143 says may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. What is a level path?. First, God gives us the right desires. Then God will advise us, instruct us and watch over us. Anything that causes us to have wrong desires or wrong doors will be taken out by God.

God wants us to freely worship him and to serve him. Why?. Because he loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Happy Thanksgiving. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 1

 Beatles the early years page 1 by ric gustafson

Jim McCartney was not sure about the boy hanging around his son Paul. They came home in the afternoon until 5. Paul's father noticed smoke and dirty dishes. By five, the two had written a new song. Jim warned his son that his new friend would get him in trouble.

In 1956-57, John Lennon was 16 years old. He started a skiffle group called the Quarry Men. Lennon was the front man. In truth, Lennon wanted his group to be more rock than skiffle. When he turned 17, Lennon asked Paul to join his group. 

Paul knew that John was two years older than he was. To Paul, John was a grownup Teddy Boy. He smoked. swore and went to college. John had Elvis Presley sideburns, an upturned collar and hunched shoulders. John was funny, abrasive and sometimes rude. He was literate and creative.

John had a huge impact on Paul. In 1957, Paul got a guitar. He was hooked. Paul was the oldest of two brothers. Paul was a storyteller, a mimic and a cartoonist. John and Paul realized early on they had the same interests. They enjoyed the same books and television shows. ' The Goon Show' consumed them.

They became fast friends.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 128

 Psalms: Psalm 128 by ric gustafson

It is easy to worry about people's opinion of you. People can think anything about you. God says whatever people think about you is none of my business. God has blessed us with a destiny filled with blessings and prosperity. With obedience to God, our destiny can happen. 

Don't waste time trying to get other people's approval. God has already approved us. 

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 25:28

 Proverbs: Proverbs 25:28 by ric gustafson

Do your feelings control you?. Do you have walls of defense?. The enemy can come and run your life. God has given us self control. We must discipline ourselves for self control. We must say no to our flesh. 

God says say no to your ordinary impulses. God wants us to work on spiritual maturity. Spiritual fruit turns into fruit for God. Are we ruling over our emotions?.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 5

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 5 by ric gustafson

Producer Lee Mendelson, with the approval of Charles Schulz, developed a documentary about Schultz and Peanuts. Lee took it to all of the networks including NBC. Nobody wanted it. The documentary was called ' A Boy Named Charlie Brown'. To Lee, it was a flop. Lee knew he needed a sponsor for the project to be a success. 

In Atlanta Georgia, J Paul Austin was walking into the lobby of the Coca Cola headquarters. Austin was the President of the company. He was born on Feb 14 1915. He graduated from Harvard Law School in 1940. Austin became President of Coca Cola in 1962.

In 1964, Austin joined the Board of Directors of General Electric. General Electric was producing a stop motion animation program for Dec 1964. GE's holiday special was based on a Montgomery Ward booklet called ' Rudolf The Red Nosed Reindeer'. The special was broadcast December 6 1964. The holiday special became an instant hit. Because of that, Coca Cola now wanted it's own holiday special.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 4

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 4 by ric gustafson

So who was the producer that Charles Schulz put all of his trust in for his TV special?.

Leland Maurice Mendelson was born in San Francisco on March 24 1933. He was the only child of Palmer and Jeanette Mendelson. As a boy, Lee, as everyone called him, loved comic strips and radio programs. Lee graduated from San Mateo High School. Then he began attending Stanford University. He studied English Literature. Then Lee was drafted and served three years in the Air Force.

After the Air Force, Lee wanted to get into the new field of television. Lee got a job with a local CBS affiliate KPIX-TV. His job was that of a production assistant. After a while, Lee wanted to do longer format documentaries.

Frustrated at the station he was at, Lee left and started his own office. He became an independent producer. He produced an hour long documentary about pitcher Willie Mays. NBC bought the documentary. Then Lee wondered what his next documentary was going to be about. Then a thought came. He had always loved Charles Schulz and Peanuts. He picked up the phone.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 126

 Psalms: Psalm 126 by ric gustafson

The Israelites had been taken into captivity. It had taken a long time for the return and the restoration of Jerusalem. Some people had waited for this return their entire lives. Their joy was beyond containment. They were amazed that the day of the return and restoration was finally here. Psalm 126 says our mouths were filled with laughter. 

We dream about a lot of things. To get out of debt, meet the right person and finish college. It might feel as if the odds are stacked against you. It might seem laughable. But God is ready to surprise you. We will be amazed at what God has done for us. Why?. Because he loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 24:16

Proverbs: Proverbs 24:16 by ric gustafson

Everyone has disappointments. Things that don't make sense. We can say life is unfair so I will not pursue my destiny. 

It is not our fault we got knocked down. Proverbs 24 says though the righteous fall 7 times they rise again.

It is our responsibility to get back up. It's ok to hurt. God gave us feelings. But we have to get back up. God wants us to go forward in faith. We need to trust God to make it up to you.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 119:29

 Psalms: Psalm 119:29 by ric gustafson

We need to be honest with ourselves. Psalm 119 says God keep me from lying to myself. Sometimes we want to keep things hidden. Sometimes we don't want to pray. We don't want to deal with things that are uncomfortable. 

God wants us to be honest and open. God wants us to live out of humility. God has places in our lives in which we need to grow. 

God says do not hide your doubts, fears or shortcomings. Do not run from the truth.

God loves you and me more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 118:24

 Psalms: Psalm 118:24 by ric gustafson

Even heroes of faith had routine days. Moses experienced one miracle after another. Most days are ordinary days. Some days are exciting. Most are ordinary days.

What does God have for you right now?. This is the day the Lord has made. It might be routine. A routine day with a good attitude could prepare you for new things God has in store for you. 

The fact is you will not be promoted if you're not doing your best where God has you right now.

The fact is God loves you and me more than anything else in the world.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 112:4

 Psalms: Psalm 112:4 by ric gustafson

At times, life can seem dark. We all have problems at times that seem insurmountable. In times of difficulty, God is present. Psalm 112 says when darkness overtakes him, light will come bursting in. 

God is most visible in our storms and difficulties. When it's dark and seems as if there is no way out, God's light comes forth. 

God promises that his light will come out. God's light will be favor, strength and healing. God will propel us forward not backwards. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 109: 21

Psalms: Psalm 109:21 by ric gustafson

When people use false accusations against you, God says take a seat. Stay in peace. Imagine that God has prepared a feast. God has a seat for you. God is going to honor and favor you. Those who disrespected you and tried to push you down, will not be promoted and honored. 

God wants us to guard our heart. To not get offended. God says don't get into battles that don't matter.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 22:1

 Proverbs: Proverbs 22:1 by ric gustafson

Our reputation is very valuable. It can come with great riches. It can be despised. You can be looked down and seen as shady. God wants us to be people of integrity. Proverbs 22 says a good name is more desirable than great riches. To God, your name is very important. Integrity will take us farther than dishonesty. God loves and respects a man of integrity. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mini Devotions: Hebrews 11:1

 Mini Devotions: Hebrews 11:1 by ric gustafson

What determines our relationship with God?. It is faith. How we deal with God?. How we see God?. Because of faith, we hold the truth in God's Word. God gives us his holy fire. Faith rests it's weight on his Word. In faith, we look to God. We trust his promises. In faith, we believe God and trust in his Word.

research help: ' The Power of Prayer' by E M Bounds

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 3

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 3 by ric gustafson

The story of a Charlie Brown Christmas starts in 1965. The United States was starting to get involved in Vietnam. The Civil Rights of black Americans was a big issue. Martin Luther King led a march in Selma Alabama. Malcolm X was killed in New York City. 

In 1950, a cartoonist named Charles Schulz started a comic strip. It was called Peanuts. It started out in a handful of newspapers. By 1965, the cartoon strip was being published in 700 newspapers in the US alone.

30 year old Lee Mendelson was an independent producer. He lived in the San Francisco Bay area like Charles Schulz. He loved the Peanuts comic strip just like everyone else. His favorite character was Charlie Brown. He could relate to the lovable loser who always found a way to move forward in life.

Mendelson had just finished a well received documentary about San Francisco Giants center fielder Willie Mays. Mendelson wondered what his next project would be. Then one day, an idea came. The producer made a phone call. Charles Schulz answered the phone.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 2

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 2 by ric gustafson

Charles Schulz was working on a new project. In 1950, Schulz started a new comic strip. It was called ' Peanuts'. Schultz wanted to bring his Peanuts characters to a new medium and a new audience. Schultz also wanted to have a message of faith included in the TV special. Schultz wanted the character of Linus to recite from the book of Luke chapter 2. Schultz wanted Linus to tell the true meaning of Christmas.

Schultz was told by his partners that someone reciting bible passages on a tv special was suicide. Schultz wanted his tv special to go where no tv special had gone before. Arguing with his two partners only gave Schultz more resolve. Schultz wanted his tv special to communicate the true meaning of Christmas. 

Lee Mendelson flew to New York to screen ' A Charlie Brown Christmas' for CBS programming executives. Schultz knew his conviction and resolve might succeed or be career suicide.

Schultz nervously waited to find out.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 107:2

Psalms: Psalm 107:2 by ric gustafson

Words have creative power. You want to give life to what you are saying. We need to believe that we are blessed. When we declare that we are blessed, blessings will come our way. Psalm 107 says let the redeemed of the Lord say so. To overcome or break something, we need to start declaring it.

It's easy to have big dreams. It won't happen until you stand on God's promises. When we speak good breaks, ideas and promotions, God will make them happen.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric 

a Charlie Brown Christmas page 1

 a Charlie Brown Christmas page 1 by ric gustafson

For cartoonist Charles Schulz, his problems were mounting. The 42 year old did not feel well. He had lost 20 pounds. He felt nervous, anxious and reluctant to leave home. In the summer of 1965, Schulz's doctor could find nothing physically wrong with the cartoonist. 

Schulz knew what was wrong with him. In his life was a lot of stress. He suffered from an anxiety disorder for years. He was a WW II veteran. He suffered from PTSD. 

He also had a lot of stress because he was asked to create a television Christmas special. To Schulz, the new project was ambitious and risky.

research help: ' Charlie Brown's Christmas Miracle' by Michael Keane

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

 

Mini Devotions: Mark 11:23

 Mini Devotions: Mark 11:23 by ric gustafson

In order to have genuine authentic faith, your faith must be free of doubt. We can believe in the goodness and power of God. There is more to it than that. Through prayer and faith, God's promises will be done.

There must be development in our faith. Growth and tidings. Mark 11 says God wants us to show prayer that gets results. We must have faith that has no doubt or fear. We need faith in our prayers.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' the Power of Prayer' by E M Bounds

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 105

 Psalms: Psalm 105 by ric gustafson

There will be times when people will say things behind your back. We cannot stop that. God says don't waste time and energy on what you cannot change. That is God's job not yours. Your reputation is in God's hands. Psalm 105 says do not touch my anointed ones. 

God says do not touch my anointed. We are God's anointed. God knows who tries to slander about us and spread rumors. God will defend you. Don't sink down to someone's level. We have an anointed blessing from God. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 103

 Psalms: Psalm 103 by ric gustafson

Events will happen in our lives that will seem monstrous. Obstacles, bad medical reports or a breakup will seem like we'll never be able to get through it. 

But God does not see it that way. Psalm 103 says forget not all his benefits. God can turn around even the worst of your situations. God gives you the strength to get through it. Was it a coincidence?. No, it was the hand of God. 

Our present struggles are preparing us for our future. Because of our struggles, we have a history with God. Thank God for his mercy and goodness. Thank God for protection, promotion, healing and being restored. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 49

 the end of days page 49 by ric gustafson

The eyes of the Son of Man shone like flames of fire. On his white robe was ' the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords'. His head and hair were white as snow. In his right hand were seven stars. Behind him was the army of Heaven. Everyone was in white and on top of white horses.

Jesus looked down. " I am the Alpha and the Omega". " The First and the Last". " The Beginning and the End".

When he had said this, thousands of Carlo's troops died on the spot. 

" I am he who lives and was dead". Jesus's voice hesitated. " Behold I am alive forevermore Amen".

Rory could not believe what he was hearing.

" I have the keys of Hades and Death".

Thousands of Carlo's troops keeled over and died on the spot.

Carlo turned his horse around. " Fall back".

" I am the Lamb that was slain".

Thousands more of Carlo's troops died on the spot. Now, thousands upon thousands upon thousands of Carlo's best troops had died from Jesus's words. Some of Carlo's troops had screamed and ran away. Some of Carlo's soldiers were trying to dig holes to avoid Jesus's words. A huge cloud of birds had now started feasting on the bodies of Carlo's troops.

" Rory Johnston".

Rory turned around. He knew Jesus was talking directly to him.

Carlo turned his horse around. " Are you ready for the final attack Rory?".

Rory smiled at his master. " Yes Sir".

research help: ' Glorious Appearing' by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 48

 the end of days page 48 by ric gustafson

On a huge majestic black horse was Carlo. On another black horse next to him was Rory. Then Carlo and Rory turned their horses around. They were now facing their glorious army.

" My fellow One World soldiers". Carlo raised a silver sword skyward. " Our time is now". He smiled. " Nothing will stop us".

Rory was worried because darkness had covered the land for the last two hours.

" Onward my glorious army". 

Carlo and Rory began slowly moving forward. Behind them was tanks, armored carriers and millions of foot soldiers. As they advanced in the darkness, Rory noticed a huge white cross illuminated on a hill. To Rory's surprise, when Rory and Carlo reached the hill the cross disappeared.

As the army advanced, the sky became pitch dark. Only tank headlights were visible. Rory became scared. He could barely see in front of him.

Just then, a bright light filled the sky. Rory put his hands over his eyes the light was so bright.

Carlo knew what the source of the light was. " My One World soldiers". Carlo smiled. " It is time to defeat my enemy once and for all". He raised his sword. " Fire on my command".

Then Rory looked upward. Heaven opened and in plain view was a white horse. 

Both Carlo and Rory knew who was on it. It was Jesus Christ the Son of the Living God.

research help: ' Glorious Appearing' by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 13

 the Firm page 13 by ric gustafson

Avery handed Mitch a thick file. " This is part of the Capps file".

" Capps?".

" Sonny Capps is one of our clients".

Mitch grinned. " How much is our client worth?".

" About 30 million".

" What's his business?".

" He has the largest towing service on the Mississippi River".

Mitch smiled as he began studying the file. " Impressive".

" We do 80 percent of his legal work".

Mitch put down the file. " What would you like me to do?".

Avery grinned. " Mitch, I would like you to read the file?".

" Ok".

" Then I would like you to prepare a rough draft of the partnership agreement".

" How much is this worth to the firm?".

Avery smiled. " About 65 million dollars".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 12

 the Firm page 12 by ric gustafson

Mitch turned on the light switch in his office. He put his attache case on his desk. He went to the coffee room. He started the industrial coffee machine. With coffee in hand, Mitch went to work. On his desk were three cardboard boxes full of books, files and legal pads. What he was looking for was in Box number 3.

Just then, Mitch heard a noise. Somebody was standing in his office doorway. 

" I'm Nathan Locke". He shook Mitch's hand. " I don't believe we've met".

" I'm Mitch McDeere". He smiled. " I'm the new man".

" I see your an early riser".

" Yes".

Nathan smiled. " Good to have you". Then he disappeared down the hallway.

Mitch closed his office door.

At 8:30 am, Nina arrived with donuts. She pointed at the files and notes on his desk. " What's that?".

" Our project for the day". Mitch frowned. " We need to organize this stuff".

" Ok". 

Mitch looked at his watch. " I need to go see Avery".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 21:23

 Proverbs: Proverbs 21:23 by ric gustafson

It is easy for someone to push our buttons. We get upset and say things we shouldn't. God is testing our character. Proverbs 21 says watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut. Under pressure, God wants us to grow to change. 

How do we pass God's test of our character. First, we keep our mouth closed. We keep our emotions in check. We need to pray to God to control our tongues. We need to walk away from conflict. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Before Dorothy page 11

 Before Dorothy page 11 by ric gustafson

Dorothy's eyes got big as the scary woman walked in. She walked up to the candy counter.

" Do you have the money to pay for that?".

Frightened, Dorothy put the candy back on the counter. She ran back to Emily.

Wilhelmina West frowned at Emily. " She's with you".

Emily stared at her. " Yes, she's with me".

" Oh yes, your sister's child". Her voice hesitated. " Didn't mean to startle her".

Emily gave the woman a stare. " You shouldn't throw accusations at innocent children".

" Children are nothing but trouble". Shaking her head, Wilhelmina walked out of the store. She got back on her bicycle. She rode away in a huff.

Emily picked up the box. She opened the store's front door. " Thank you again for the box Laurie".

Emily and Dorothy walked toward the car.

" Aunt Em, that scary lady looked like a witch".

research help: ' Before Dorothy' by Hazel Gaynor

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 101:2

 Psalms: Psalm 101:2 by ric gustafson

Reputation is a foundation of our personal integrity. A person of integrity does the right thing when no one is watching. Psalm 101 says I will walk with integrity. You can have talent, vision and determination but without integrity you won't reach your full potential.

Integrity starts in your private life. God says show me that I can trust you. Integrity with God is that God can trust you no matter what. Why?. Because loves you more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 100:4

 Psalms: Psalm 100:4 by ric gustafson

God wants to have a personal relationship with us. Psalm 100 says to enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. We should not come to God empty handed. But what can we give to God?. The answer is our praise, thanksgiving and worship. Our offering of thanksgiving must come from the heart. 

Praise is gratefulness to God. Our praise gets God's attention. When God shows up, the enemy flees. If we open the door, God will come in.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Before Dorothy page 10

 Before Dorothy page 10 by ric gustafson

Emily and Laurie Miller watched as Dorothy ran off toward the candy counter.

" How is she doing?".

Emily frowned. " She screamed last night". Emily frowned again. " She was having a bad dream".

" So what did you do?".

" I gave her some water". Emily glanced over at her niece. " Then I told her the story of the little people".

" Did that help?".

Emily grinned. " She did go back to sleep".

" Oh!". Laurie went to the back of the store. She came back with a big cardboard box. " I collected some things for Dorothy".

Emily looked in the box. She pulled out a book. It was ' Anne of Green Gables'.

" I loved this book". She put the book back in the box. " I'm sure Dorothy will enjoy it too".

research help: ' Before Dorothy' by Hazel Gaynor

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 94:13

 Psalms: Psalm 94:13 by ric gustafson

It's easy to want to have revenge. People don't keep their word. People betray you and make you look bad. We say do to them what they did to us. This is a test from God. So what are we made of?. When someone is rude to us, it's easy to be rude back. 

God wants us to be uncomfortable. God gives us challenges to test our quality. God does not want us to use revenge, use pride or sarcasm. Instead God says stay in peace. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 22

U-505 page 22 by ric gustafson

When Task Group 22.3 had reached the Cape Verdes Islands off the coast of West Africa, Captain Gallery asked his five destroyer escorts to organize their loading parties.

On the Pillsbury, Lieutenant Commander George Casselman asked Lieutenant Junior Grade Albert Leroy David to do the job. Lieutenant David picked nine men to be his boarding party. 

Signalman Second Class Gordon Hohne was picked to communicate on the U-boat's conning tower using semaphone flags. Chief Machinist's mate George Jacobson was chosen to secure the U-boat's main control room and stabilize the valves and controls. Torpedoman Third Class Arthur Knispel was chosen to be the first into the U-boat. His job was to shoot Germans who resisted them. Motor Machinist mate First Class Zenon Lukosius was picked to secure the boat's control room and the sea water valve. Gunner's Mate First Class Chester Mocarski was chosen to help Arthur Knispel secure the boat and help dispel German resistance. Boatswain Mate Second Class Wayne Pickels was chosen to secure the boat's Enigma machine and code books. Electricians Mate Third Class William Riendeau was chosen to secure the boat's electrical power control station. Radioman Third Class Stanley Wdowiak was chosen to secure the boat's radio shack.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 92:12

 Psalms: Psalm 92:12 by ric gustafson

This psalm talks about a palm tree. Psalm 92 says the righteous will flourish like a palm tree. God knows we will face difficult times. Palm trees do get bent by strong winds. When storms are over, the palm tree is stronger than it was. 

That's what God does for us in difficult times. After storms are over, God makes us stronger. God will make us healthier, wiser and better off. Like the palm tree, our roots will make us stronger.

Why will God do that for us?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Before Dorothy page 9

Before Dorothy page 9 by ric gustafson

" Come inside". Henry opened the front door. " Then I'll show you around the farm".

Dorothy and Emily walked in.

" I made corn cakes". He smiled at Dorothy. " Have you ever had corn cakes?".

" No". Dorothy glanced around her new surroundings. " Is it like chocolate cake?".

" No". Henry scratched his chin. " Is chocolate cake your favorite?".

" Yes".

He placed his hands on his hips. " Mine too".

Dorothy began to walk through her new home. She began asking Emily and Henry question after question. 

When they reached a closed curtain, Henry stopped. He opened the curtain. Dorothy walked in. It was a makeshift bedroom.

Henry grinned. " This is where you'll sleep Dorothy".

Dorothy noticed on her new pillow a little doll made of straw.

She smiled. " What is this Uncle Henry?".

" It's for you Dorothy". He smiled. " I made it myself".

" Thank you Uncle Henry". She put the little doll on the window sill next to her toy lion and tin man.

research help: ' Before Dorothy' by Hazel Gaynor

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

I found the Titanic page 6

 I found the Titanic page 6 by ric gustafson

My name is Robert D Ballard

I found the Titanic

It was 11:40 pm on April 14 1912. Fred Fleet was up in the Crow's Nest of the Titanic. It was bitterly cold out. Fleet and the other lookout were tired and cold. Both men were anxious to end their watch for the night. It had been a quiet one. The sea was dead calm.

Suddenly, Fleet saw something. It was a huge dark shape. It was directly ahead of the ship. Fleet knew what is was. He quickly sounded the alarm bell three times. He picked up the phone.

The duty officer answered. " What did you see?".

" Iceberg right ahead".

The officer on the bridge ordered the wheel turned as far as it would go. The engine room was told to reverse the engines. A button was pushed to close the doors to the watertight compartments.

Everyone waited. Did they avoid disaster?.

research help: ' Exploring the Titanic' by Robert D Ballard

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 19:21

 Proverbs: Proverbs 19:21 by ric gustafson

God sees and knows the big picture of our lives. God knows what has to happen to accomplish his purpose for our life. To accomplish God's plan for our life, God will ask us to do things that are uncomfortable. Proverbs 19 says many are the plans in a person's heart. God will ask us to stretch  and push past our fear and uncertainty. When we obey God, blessings happen. 

Things will feel hard at first. To let go of hurts and to forgive. We have a choice. Do we listen to Satan's loud voice and try not to change. Or do we listen to God's small voice. It is our choice. Which will you choose?. The truth is God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 91:1

 Psalms: Psalm 91:1 by ric gustafson

Every Christian should have a secret place in our relationship with God. This should be a place where we don't allow everything in. It should be a place without offense, worry or bitterness. This place in our heart should be a place of peace, hope, rest and faith.

Our secret place should be free of negative things. 

God says give me a secret place where I can dwell. Where I can have peace and joy. Not storms.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 89:8

 Psalms: Psalm 89:8 by ric gustafson

God wants our prayers to be positive not negative. God says don't cancel your prayers with negative talk. We cannot pray for victory and talk defeat. Psalm 89 says your faithfulness surrounds you. 

We must think when we pray that things will work out in our failure. 

God is more than enough. God is our provider. God is our healer. God is all sufficient. God is faithful. God will finish what he starts. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 18:21

 Proverbs: Proverbs 18:21 by ric gustafson

Words that you speak can be helpful. The words must be used in the right way. Words can also be used in the wrong way. Proverbs 18 says the tongue has the power of life and death. Whether we speak positive or negative words, we will reap what we sow. We will be miserable always speaking words of failure and defeat. 

God says to us speak positive words and fill them with life. God is life. 

We all face obstacles that look like mountains. God says give me your mountains. God is greater than any mountain. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Kings of Broken Things page 1

 Kings of Broken Things page 1 by ric gustafson

Karel Miihlstein was new to Omaha. He was 11 and just off a boat. He was from Salzburg. His father repaired musical instruments. His mother had died back in Europe. 

By the summer of 1917, Karel knew what was the most important thing on Clandish in Omaha. In order to fit in with the other boys, Karel had to learn how to play baseball.

The boys on Karel's street were 11, 12 and 13. They divided into teams. Karel did not know how to play. Everybody had an equal shot at every position. Some of the boys did not have gloves. They had to use their hands. On Clandish, Karel lived near his school. Two teams picked Karel. One was led by Jimmy Mac. He was a skinny redhead with long arms. The other team was led by Alfred. He was short, compact and dark.

Jimmy and Alfred asked Karel lots of questions about the war. They asked what work Karel's father did. Karel explained how his father got his job at Musik Verein. The two boys asked Karel how their family fled Central Europe. After a while, Karel got tired about talking about his family. Sometimes memories became painful.

research help: ' Kings of Broken Things' by Theodore Wheeler

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 84:11

 Psalms: Psalm 84:11 by ric gustafson

What God has in our future, we cannot accomplish it on our own. He will take us places we cannot get to ourselves. There will be obstacles and impossible dreams. On our own doing, we will get stuck. Psalm 84 says the Lord bestows favor and honor. 

God gives us favor. God gives us good breaks. God opens doors. We honor God. God will be faithful to us. 

If things happen we did not work for or deserve, that is the favor of God. 

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else. 

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric