the Story: you want me to do what?

 the Story: you want me to do what? by ric gustafson

The Lord said to Joshua. I want you to march around the city for six days. 

" You want me to do what?".

" On the seventh day, I want you to march around the city seven times with the priests blowing trumpets".

This task seemed out of Joshua's comfort zone.

" When the whole army gives a loud shout, the wall of the city will collapse".

Joshua did not say " You want me to do what?".

Instead of questioning God, Joshua did what God wanted him to do. Joshua called the priests and began to arrange the procession that would circle Jericho once a day for six days. And then seven times on the seventh day.

Like Joshua, when God gives us a command we need to do it,

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Story' by Zondervan

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 14

 Two from Galilee page 14 by ric gustafson

Mary watched as her father finished a conversation with a tall swarthy man. Joachim walked over to Mary. 

" They are going to take the Jordon Mountain route". Joachim smiled. " He told me you are welcome to join them".

Mary was put on a donkey. The caravan started across the plains of Esdraelon. Then the caravan went east across the Jordan. Then the caravan went up into the mountains. After four days, they neared Jerusalem.

Elizabeth had been restless all night. With child for about 6 months, she still could not fathom what was happening to her and her body. She settled on a couch to sleep. Just then, she heard a loud knock at the oak door. Then she heard a sweet young voice.

" Aunt Elizabeth, don't be afraid". The young voice hesitated. " It's only me Mary".

" Mary". Elizabeth turned on a night lamp. She opened the front door. Two people were standing in the torch light.

Mary turned to the man next to her. " Thank you Seth for coming with me".

After he left, Elizabeth turned a lamp toward the young face." Is it really you Mary?".

" Yes, I had to come". Mary began to cry. " My parents wanted it".

Just then, Elizabeth's bulging body throbbed. She shouted. " Zachariah, it moves". She smiled at Mary. " Blessed are you among women".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

McCartney page 4

 McCartney page 4 by ric gustafson

Right before Jim McCartney turned 40, he met 31 year old Mary Mohin. Mary was Catholic. Jim was Protestant. They were married in April 1941. James Paul McCartney was born June 18 1942. Even though Paul was his middle name, he always went by Paul. 

Paul's first home was 10 Sunbury Road Anfield. In Jan 1944, Mary had a second son. His name was Peter Michael. At age 4, Paul and his family moved to 72 Western Ave. By six or seven, Paul already had a clear and strong singing voice. 

In 1955, the McCartney family moved to 20 Forthlin Road Allerton. At the time, the area was considered middle class. The family was excited. The house had an inside toilet. 

On October 31 1956, tragedy struck. Mary McCartney died from breast cancer. She was 47. Now Jim had to raise two boys by himself. He created a house full of laughter and music.

research help: ' Paul McCartney the Life' by Philip Norman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Joy: Philippians 1: 1-11

 Joy: Philippians 1: 1-11 by ric gustafson

This letter from Paul is to a small church in Philippi. This church was a tight knit group of believers. Paul had founded this church ten years earlier. Paul had been imprisoned. He longed for this church. Paul's life seemed incomplete without their fellowship. Even though he had been in prison, Paul's love for this church had not diminished. 

Paul had humility. He was a bondslave to Jesus Christ. Paul was a servant of God. The Philippian church had unity where love thrives. 

There is joy in community. The body of Christ is united. The body of Christ is diverse. Paul wanted this church to grow in spiritual devotion. He wanted this church to grow in spiritual discernment. He wanted this church to grow in spiritual development. He wanted this church to grow in spiritual deportment. 

research help: ' Count It All Joy' by Dr David Jeremiah

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 13

 Two from Galilee page 13 by ric gustafson

Hannah was helping Mary prepare for the journey. Hannah was tired of worrying. She was glad that Mary was going to spend some time with her older sister. Hannah had always felt close to Elizabeth. The priest Zachariah had moved them to Jerusalem. Hannah was hoping her big sister could help Mary and give the family a needed rest. 

In the meantime, Joachim was trying to find somebody who was going to Jerusalem. It was a busy time of year with the harvest and the Feast of Weeks.

Jacob walked in. " Tomorrow, Mary could join a group from Magdala who will be passing through".

Joachim shook his head. " Magdala is a city known for it's wickedness".

" They are good people". Jacob smiled. " They'll look after her".

Later, Mary quietly entered her mother's room. She was nursing a severe headache.

" Mother". Mary's voice was a whisper. " I've never been away from home before".

" You'll be fine". She gave a weak smile. " Go now and don't leave your father waiting".

Mary quietly opened the door. " Goodbye Mother".

" Goodbye".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 1

 Psalms: Psalm 1 by ric gustafson

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked. Or stand in the way that sinners take. Or sit in the company of mockers. But whose delight is in the law of the Lord. And who mediates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water. Which yields it's fruit in season. And whose leaf does not wither. Whatever the do prospers.

What delight's you?. What does it mean to delight in the law of the Lord?. What do you hope your legacy will be?.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the End of Camelot page 5

 the End of Camelot page 5 by ric gustafson

Castro and Cuba was a hot button of Kennedy's 1960 presidential campaign. Kennedy accused President Eisenhower about being weak against communism. On December 31 1960 right before Kennedy took office, Castro gave the US a warning. Castro warned the US not to invade his country.

The CIA led by Allen Dulles was obsessed with killing Fidel Castro. They had come up with over 600 plans which included a mafia hit and exploding cigars. On March 11 1961, President Kennedy was given a plan for the invasion of Cuba. It was called Operation Trinidad.

President Kennedy knew the invasion was personal. He and Castro were both battling for control over the Western Hemisphere. Both men wanted to win at all costs. In Moscow, Nikita Khrushchev wanted world domination also.

President Kennedy was not happy with Operation Trinidad. The CIA came up with a different plan. It was called Bahia de Cochinos or ' Bay of Pigs'. The landing would take place at night instead of during the day. For Operation Zapata to succeed, two things had to happen. First, the US needed overwhelming airpower. Second, the invasion force had to get off the beach quickly. 

President Kennedy approved the invasion plan. It was to take place April 15 1961.

research help: ' Killing Kennedy' by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

MASH page 3

 MASH page 3 by ric gustafson

When filming started on MASH the movie, the actors had to be bussed to the 20th Century Fox Ranch. This area is now called Malibu Creek State Park. On the bus was Donald Sutherland who had been cast as Hawkeye. Elliot Gould had been cast as Trapper John. Others on the bus were Tom Skerritt playing Duke Forrest, Robert Duvall playing Frank Burns and Sally Kellerman playing Margaret Houlihan. 

Director Robert Altman and his production team went to work. They put blood red crosses on tents and ambulances. They set up harsh surgical lights. Everybody wore blood spattered clothing. Surgeon Frank Burns played by Duvall is pursuing the head nurse Margaret Houlihan. Eventually, Burns attacks Doctor Pierce and is sent away in a straitjacket.

The film by design has no real plot. The only evidence of the fighting was the casualties in the OR. The film built toward a football game between the 4077 and the 325 EVAC unit. 

The film was released on Jan 25 1970. It was rated R. The film was an instant critical success.

Watching closely how the film was doing was Producer Gene Reynolds. He was interested in possibly doing a TV adaptation of the film.

research help: ' Mash' by Dotdash Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 95

 Psalms: Psalm 95 by ric gustafson

The Lord is a great God. A great King above all gods. He holds in his hands the depths of the earth. And the mightiest mountains. The sea belongs to him for he made it. His hands formed the dry land too. Come let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God. We are the people he watches over. The flock under his care.

In your mind is there a happy place you can retreat to?. When have you felt closest to God?. How has God shown his faithfulness to you?. How has God's faithfulness comforted and reassured us?.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 12

 Two from Galilee page 12 by ric gustafson

Mary stared at Joseph. " I am with child".

Joseph was numb with astonishment. " Whose?".

" I don't know".

" Mary, are you mad?".

" Joseph, I am the one to carry the Christ child".

" The Christ child?".

" I dared not believe it Joseph". Mary's voice hesitated. " It is real because my body is changing". Fear came into her voice. " You know the penalty for divorcing me for adultery".

" I love you no harm will come to you". Joseph smiled. " What do your parents say?".

" Mother wants me to spend time with my Aunt Elizabeth".

" What about your father?".

" He agrees with mother".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the People vs OJ Simpson page 3

 the People vs OJ Simpson page 3 by ric gustafson

Nicole Simpson became friends with Jeane McKenna. In October 1993, McKenna was a female real estate broker. They had much in common. Both had been married to prominent athletes. McKenna found out that Nicole Simpson was ready to buy her own place a year being divorced from Simpson.

McKenna showed Nicole 875 South Bundy Drive. Bundy Drive was a main north south thoroughfare through Brentwood. The property was the north side of a two family condo. McKenna had a For Sale sign in the front of the property for more than 6 months. The condo was three stories. It had been built in 1991. It had a two story living room, skylights and a jacuzzi. Nicole wanted a condo by a school. Nicole bought the condo for $655,000 which included the closing costs. 

In Jan 1994, things were not going well for OJ and Nicole. A young man named Kato Kaelin was a tenant staying at Nicole's previous home. When Nicole bought 875 Bundy Drive, she assumed Kaelin would be her tenant there also. OJ nixed that idea. He gave Kaelin a better deal. He told Kaelin he could stay at Simpson's home on Rockingham rent free. By May of 1994, OJ and Nicole's marriage was over.

research help: ' The Run of his Life' by Jeffrey Toobin

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 42

 Psalms: Psalm 42 by ric gustafson

Troubles have come again and again. They sound like waterfalls. Your waves are crashing all around me. The Lord shows his true love every day. At night I have a song. And I pray to my living God. I say to God my Rock. Why have you forgotten me?. Why am I sad?. And troubled by my enemies?. My enemies insults make me feel as if my bones were broken. They are always saying " Where is your God?. Why am I so sad?. Why am I so upset?. I should put my hope in God. I should keep praising him. My Savior and my God.

Have you ever needed rescue?. What troubles are you facing today?. Have you ever felt forgotten by God?. How can you put your hope in God today?. 

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Mash page 2

 Mash page 2 by ric gustafson

In 1968, an American surgeon named H Richard Hornberger Jr published his first novel. He was a practicing surgeon in Maine. During the Korean War, Hornberger Jr was a surgeon at the 8055 Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. Going by the name Richard Hooker, Hornberger Jr named his book ' MASH'.

In Richard Hooker's book, we are introduced to Captain Benjamin Franklin Pierce. Pierce is a surgeon from Crabapple Cove Maine. He explains that his nickname of Hawkeye comes from the ' The last of the Mohicans'. At the camp, Pierce has been assigned to a ramshackle medical tent. 

Pierce has nicknamed this tent ' The Swamp'.

In ' The Swamp' are two other doctors. John McIntyre is a thoracic surgeon. His nickname is Trapper John. The third surgeon in ' The Swamp' is Major Frank Burns.

In !969, director Robert Altman was hired to direct MASH on the big screen. 14 directors passed on the chance to direct the film. The budget was small roughly $ 3.5 million. Because of the small budget, filming had to be done at the Century Fox Ranch. Now called Malibu Creek State Park, the filming site was at the foot hills of the Santa Monica Mountains.

research help: ' Mash' by Dotdash Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 11

 Two from Galilee page 11 by ric gustafson

Joachim led Mary to a dry dusty palm tree.

" Mary, what is this thing your mother tells me?".

" It's true father". Mary began to cry. " You must believe me".

Joachim grinned. " Mary, have I ever failed to believe you?".

" Father, I am going to have a baby".

" Joseph's?".

" Father, Joseph and I have not sinned".

" Mary, you have not sinned in God's eyes".

" Because I am betrothed to Joseph".

" Yes".

" Father, I am the chosen one".

" The chosen one?".

" God has chosen me".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of Camelot page 4

 the end of Camelot page 4 by ric gustafson

In the winter of 1961, the world was turbulent. The Cold War was raging. Fidel Castro had taken over Cuba. In the deep South, racial strife was growing. ' The Pill' was a new contraceptive device. Chubby Checker and Elvis Presley were on the radio.

Jackie made sure the world's problems did not intrude on her family. She was completely involved with 3 year old Caroline and baby John. She loved taking the children on a walk or a trip to the circus. She loved playing with the children on the South Lawn. She spent more time with the children than First Lady social functions.

President Kennedy was worried about Cuba. An island 1200 miles south of Washington DC. A battlefield there was taking shape. President Kennedy had authorized a covert invasion of the island nation. 1400 anti Castro exiles tried to overthrow the Cuban government. The stress of planning the attack gave Kennedy diarrhea and a urinary tract infection. The President later found out that the Cuban exiles were pinned down on a stretch of sand. This inlet was called the Bay of Pigs.

On April 12 1961, President Kennedy was surprised to hear that the Russians had stunned the world by launching the first man into space. President Kennedy had a meeting in the Cabinet Room with Secretary of State Dean Rusk.

In 1959, Fidel Castro led a guerrilla army into Havana and overthrew the government of General Fulgencio Batista. Already President Kennedy and Castro were on the verge of becoming rivals. Both men were charismatic, idealistic and did not like losing.

research help: ' Killing Kennedy' by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

MASH page 1

MASH page 1 by ric gustafson

There was a TV show. Each episode started with an acoustic guitar. The song started with a B minor chord. Then there was a theme song and opening images. While the theme song played, looking across the foothills was Radar O'Reilly. Flying across those same foothills were helicopters.

Then coming into view was the 4077 Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. Composing the theme song for MASH was Johnny Mandel. The song was called ' Suicide is Painless'. The color of MASH was all green. From the khaki colored landscape to the olive drabe wardrobe. Everything was green except the blood.

Before MASH, television military comedies were laugh tracked diversions from war. This included shows such as McHale's Navy, Gomer Pyle USMC, The Phil Silver's Show and Hogan's Heroes. The 251 episodes of MASH spawned 11 seasons. This was 8 years longer than the Korean War.

So what was the appeal of MASH?. The show melded great characters, drama and humor. The show dealt with love, death, joy and tragedy.

research help: ' MASH' by Dotdash Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 10

 Two from Galilee page 10 by ric gustafson

" Joachim".

He stopped the wooden plow. He looked up. Running toward him was his wife Hannah.

" Hannah, what is it?".

She caught up to him under a fig tree. " What's the matter?".

" It's Mary". She tried to catch her breath. " You must come quickly".

" What's going on?".

" Mary's telling crazy stories again". 

Joachim looked at her dumbstruck. " What kind of stories?".

" She told me she is with child".

" Joseph's?". Anger came to his voice. " I'll kill him".

" She said she is going to bear an unnatural child".

" Unnatural?".

" A holy child".

" Please try to talk to her".

" I'll try".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 9

 Two from Galilee page 9 by ric gustafson

Mary was frustrated and confused. She did not understand. The finger of God had touched her. The presence of God had consumed her. God kindled life inside her. Then she thought of Joseph. She could not think of him right now. Mary tried to avoid telling her mother. One day, she knew she had to tell her.

" Mother, it has been three months since I bleed".

" We'll brew some herbs and fix you a potion".

" Don't pretend mother ". Mary stared at her. " I know what you must be thinking".

" What am I thinking?".

" I have not lain with any man".

Mother sighed. " Not even Joseph".

" Joseph is a good man mother".

" It's hard for two people deeply in love to stay away from each other".

" Mother, Joseph is an honorable man".

" But still the flesh is weak".

" Don't you believe in me mother?".

" Yes Mary, I believe you".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 136

 Psalms: Psalm 136 by ric gustafson

Give thanks to the Lord for he is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords. His love endures forever. To him who alone does great wonders. His love endures forever.

Have you ever experienced loss?. How do you honor that bond?. Why is it important to continue to give thanks to God even when facing difficult circumstances?. 

How can we thank God for today?. God's perfect love endures forever.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the People vs OJ Simpson page 2

 the People vs OJ Simpson page 2 by ric gustafson

When OJ Simpson divorced his wife Marguerite in 1979, he began seeing 18 year old Nicole Brown. Nicole lived with Simpson in the Rockingham home for more than a decade. They married in 1985. Their daughter Sydney was born shortly after. Their son Justin was born in 1988. OJ and Nicole seperated in Feb 1992.

Because of the prenuptial agreement that Nicole had to sign, She and the two kids had to move to another part of Brentwood. They moved into 325 Gretna Green Way. 

On October 15 1992, OJ and Nicole's divorce was settled without a trial. OJ agreed to $ 10,000 a month in child support. Nicole kept the title to a condo in San Francisco. The condo was used to produce rent. OJ paid Nicole $ 433,750 to find another residence.

research help: ' The Run of his Life' by Jeffrey Toobin

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 143

 Psalms: Psalm 143 by ric gustafson

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love. For I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go. For to you I entrust my life. Rescue me from my enemies Lord. For I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will. For you are my God. May your good Spirit. Lead me on level ground. For your name's sake Lord preserve my life. In your righteousness bring me out of trouble. In your unfailing love silence my enemies. Destroy all my foes. For I am your servant.

In the morning, do you focus time on God?. How has God revealed his unfailing love to you?. Has God showed you the way to go?. 

God loves me I can trust him.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The People vs O J Simpson page 1

 The People vs O J Simpson page 1 by ric gustafson

In the LA suburb of Brentwood is Sunset Boulevard. The thoroughfare starts a few blocks from the Los Angeles Criminal Courts Building. Then it heads west for twenty miles to the Pacific Ocean. From downtown, Sunset Boulevard passes through Beverly Hills and then Bel Air. From there, you cross the San Diego Freeway.

The community of Brentwood is along the base of the foothills that lead to the Santa Monica Mountains. The area was laid out in the 1920's. The homes in the area are large but in a stylistic mix. There are Normandy farmhouses, English Tudor, English cottages and Spanish Colonials. It is a conservative area not showy.

In Feb 1977, a prime corner lot was sold. The address was 360 North Rockingham. The home sold for $650,000. The home was 6,000 square feet in timber and stone. It had a pool and a tennis court.

So who bought the home?. It was a professional football player near the end of his career.

His name was OJ Simpson.

research help: ' The Run Of His Life' by Jeffrey Toobin

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 130

 Psalms: Psalm 130 by ric gustafson

I wait for the Lord. My whole being waits. And in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord. More than watchmen wait for the morning. Israel put your hope in the Lord. For in the Lord is unfailing love. And with him is full redemption. He himself will redeem Israel. From all their sins.

What are you waiting on God to do?. What does it mean to put our hope in God's Word?. How would you define ' full redemption'?. What do you long for God to redeem?.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 8

 Two from Galilee page 8 by ric gustafson

Mary entered the stable cave to give their donkey some water.

" Mary".

" Yes father". She heard her name. " Here I am".

" Mary".

She realized it was not her father's voice. She walked over to the doorway. She looked out. She saw nothing. She went back to the donkey. Then she noticed a strong light coming through the doorway.

" Mary, God has an important message for you".

" What is it that the Lord would have of me?".

" Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son". The quiet voice hesitated. " And you shall call his name Jesus".

" Jesus?".

" He will be great". The quiet voice hesitated again. " He will be called the Son of the Most High".

" The Messiah". Mary gasped. " I am to bear the Messiah".

" And his kingdom there will be no end".

Mary cried. " I am unworthy".

" This child he will send you will be human as well as holy".

" But I am not yet married". Mary had a scared voice. " It will be months before I come to my husband's bed".

" With God, all things are possible".

" Behold, I am the willing hand maiden of the Lord".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 7

 Two from Galilee page 7 by ric gustafson

Joseph watched the moon. He had been waiting for three weeks since the betrothal. To pass the days, Joseph worked on Mary's gifts. The first was a sewing box. The second was a pair of slippers. The third was a table. Since that Sabbath, he had barely seen Mary. He thought of her hair. God had kept faith with him. He dared not break that faith. He had noticed Mary's eyes. They were large with love. He knew that she had stood up to her parents. Mary was his temple, his wealth and his wisdom.

On the betrothal day, Joseph and his father dragged the heavy table to the bridal house. A large lamp was placed at the head of the table. Then Mary came in. Guests came and put gifts at Mary's feet. Some of those gifts included cloth and baskets. 

When the scribe came, Joseph gave him the marriage fee. Then Joseph gave Mary the sewing box, the slippers and the table. The table was to be the first piece of furniture in their new house. The last thing Joseph had to do was to put the betrothal veil over Mary's face. Then the betrothal feast began.

Mary could not sleep that night. She kept thinking about Joseph.

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 6

 Two from Galilee page 6 by ric gustafson

Jacob walked into the shop. He had a smile on his face. " You are acceptable to Joachim".

" Thank you Father".

" The terms will be worked out later". Jacob grinned. " And now we celebrate".

Joseph smiled. He was happy.

" I suppose you'll be building a home after the betrothal".

" In fact, I already have it all planned out how to build it".

Mary could also feel something special was happening that Sabbath morning.

At the synagogue, Mary and the other females sat in the women's gallery. Mary saw Joseph next to his father. At the end of the service, the announchment came. 

" Joseph ben Jacob desires the hand of Mary daughter of Joachim".

The old gray leader hesitated.

" If anyone here present have just cause to question this union". His voice hesitated. " Come forth and make your protests known".

No one came forward.

The leader lifted his hands for the blessing. 

Men congradulated Joseph. The women crowded around Mary and Hannah.

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 112

 Psalms: Psalm 112 by ric gustafson

Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly. Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. They do not fear bad news. They confidently trust the Lord to care for them. They are confident and fearless. They can face their foes triumphantly. They share freely. They give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor.

In what ways have you felt generosity?. Have you been generous lately?. Does our generosity grow as our trust in God grows?. Can we trust Jesus to provide for us?.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

McCartney page 3

 McCartney page 3 by ric gustafson

Paul McCartney's parents were Irish. McCartney's great grandfather James McCartney had come over in the late 19th century during a mass emigration. Poverty drove James McCartney to cross the Irish Sea to Liverpool. In the early 1880's, James McCartney arrived in Liverpool and settled into the Everton District. James McCartney had a son he named Joseph. He became a leaf cutter at a local tobacco factory. In 1896, Joseph married Florence Clegg. She bore nine children. Paul McCartney's father James was surviving child number 5. Home for James and his six siblings was a small terrace house on Solva Street.

Liverpool's prosperity was largely founded on cotton. James McCartney joined one of Liverpool's oldest cotton brokers. To supplement his wages, he sold programs at Everton's Theatre Royal. 

Paul's father James had some music ability. He formed a dance band that included his older brother Jack. They called the band ' the Masked Music Makers'. After problems wearing their masks, the band was changed to the ' Jim Mac Jazz Band'.

In 1939 at the start of the war, Paul McCartney's father was 37.

research help: ' Paul McCartney the life' by Philip Norman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 131

 Psalms: Psalm 131 by ric gustafson

Lord my heart is not proud. My eyes are not haughty. I don't concern myself with matters too great. Or too awesome for me to grasp. Instead I have calmed and quieted myself. Like a weaned child who no longer cries for it's mother's milk. Like a weaned child is my soul within me. O Israel put your hope in the Lord. Now and always. 

What matters concerning your soul today?. Can you have contentment in the not knowing?. Did God prevent something from happening in your life?. Is a trust in God giving you calm and quiet in your soul?.

What does it mean to put your hope in God?.

God can calm and quiet your soul.

research help: ' Paws in your Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 3

 Psalms: Psalm 3 by ric gustafson

Lord, I have many enemies. Many people have turned against me. Many people are talking about me. But Lord you are my shield. I will pray to the Lord. He will answer me from his holy mountain. I can lie down and go to sleep. I will wake up again. Because the Lord protects me. I am not afraid.

Have you felt fearful of something?. How does God act as our shield?. How can God give us courage?.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 5

 Two from Galilee page 5 by ric gustafson

Joseph came before Joachim had come back from the fields. The children had told Mary when he arrived. Mary quickly went to check on the duck. It was burnt on one side. Frustrated, Mary went to find Joseph. 

" Peace be with you".

Joseph's hands were trembling. He spilled water and a towel on the floor.

" Peace be with you Joseph". Hannah approached him with a new towel. " We have more".

Joseph thanked her and began playing with the younger children. Hannah was making sure the meal was just right. Joachim quietly came in, washed up and sat down at the table. Joseph sat down also. Both of them watched as Hannah and Mary served the meal. As the two sat silently, both pondered what to say to the other.

Joseph spoke up. " I hear Herod put another of his sons to death".

" Good riddance". Joachim stared at Joseph. " There all a bunch of vipers".

" Still, people are saying he restored the Temple and rebuilt ruined cities".

" Peace, he milked us dry".

" At least it's not civil war".

Joachim was impressed by Joseph's answers.

The meal and the conversation had gone well.

Mary slept well that night.

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Born in the USA page 3

 Born in the USA page 3 by ric gustafson

Bruce Springsteen's gamble paid off. When the ' Born in the USA' tour ended in October 1985, five million people had seen the show in 15 months. The album sold eight million copies in the US. It sold 12 million worldwide. T shirts, buttons and tour programs sold out. Springsteen was now being compared to two people he admired. That was Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan.

Springsteen speaks to all kinds of people with his music. His music speaks to men. ' Born in the USA' bridges generations and demographics. This makes Bruce Springsteen a centrist rock star.

In 1979, Hollywood screenwriter Paul Schrader wrote a screenplay called ' Born in the USA'. In 1987, the film is now titled ' Light Of Day'. Starring in it was Michael J Fox and Joan Jett. 

In 1978, Springsteen's album ' Darkness On The Edge Of Town' did not do as well as expected. Springsteen did minimal press promotion for it. The album was dark and moody. In 1980, Springsteen comes out with a double album called ' The River'. 

Compared to the dark songs of ' Darkness On The Edge Of Town', the songs of ' The River' are upbeat and happy. One example is ' Hungry Heart'.

research help: ' There was nothing you could do' by Steven Hyden

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Blackbird page 7

 Blackbird page 7 by ric gustafson

So where did Paul McCartney write ' Blackbird?'. Was it his Scottish farm?. Was it in Feb 1968 while he was in India?. Was it in Paul's stepmother's garden?. That meditation retreat in India revitalized the band after the death of their manager Brian Epstein. As far as recording the song, it was done in Abbey Road Studio 2 on 6-11-1968. John Lennon did accompaniment on piano and acoustic guitar. George Martin suggested a different ending. Harrison and Starr were not there. McCartney wanted some brass on the song. Before it was recorded, McCartney rehearsed the song many times.

The Beatles loved girl groups from the early 60's. These groups included the Shirelles, Martha and the Vandellas. ' She Loves You' and ' From Me To You' were about romance and relationships. 

' Blackbird' is still played by McCartney during concerts. The legacy and history of this song is richer and more complicated than first imagined. Is it a song about the cause of civil rights?. Black people have always had songs of hope featuring flight. 

Everyone has their own idea of the meaning of this song. Paul McCartney just wanted this song to heal.

The End.

research help: ' Blackbird' by Katie Kapurch and Jon Marc Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 63

 Psalms: Psalm 63 by ric gustafson

O God you are my God. I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you. My whole body longs for you. In this parched and weary land. Where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary. And gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself. How I praise you. I will praise you as long as I live. Lifting up my hands to you in prayer.

What is your soul thirsting for and longing for?. What is something you can praise God for today?.

God's love brings joy to my soul.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 4

 Two from Galilee page 4 by ric gustafson

Joachim slowly walked down the cobbled street. His dry red beard bristled in the sun. He had sympathy for Joseph. He also had to leave school at an early age to support his mother and sisters. He stopped and banged on a door. It was the shop of Jacob the carpenter. The shop smelled of sawdust and chips.

Then a curtain opened. A young man walked out. It was Joseph.

" What can I do for you?".

" My wife wondered if you could look at our loom". Joachim smiled. " Also to invite you over for the evening meal".

" It is my sister's birthday today".

Joachim frowned. " Perhaps another time".

" Yes, I will come over".

" Our meal will not be as fancy as your birthday meal".

" The invitation is more than enough".

Joachim smiled. " Good".

Then he departed. He went to a nearby market. He got a duck for the evening meal.

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Blackbird page 6

 Blackbird page 6 by ric gustafson

A major influence on John Lennon was Calypso music. Calypso was an afro Caribbean folk music that was popular in the West Indies. The L 8 district in Liverpool had a large population of West Indian immigrants. 

Sailors from the West Indies would bring in American and Blues records. Before they became Beatles, John, Paul and George loved listening to Black and Calypso music. One Calypso singer they loved to listen to was Lord Woodbine. His group the Trinidadions was one of the first Calypso bands in Liverpool. In 1955, Woodbine and his band The All Caribbean Steel Band made their own instruments. John, Paul and George made their own instruments for skiffle bands.

In 1963 five years prior to McCartney's ' Blackbird', a female singer sang her version of the song. Nina Simone wrote her earth bound ' Blackbird' to address conditions of being black in America. Simone's song is about a bird who cannot fly. Her version was about her personal struggles with race. She witnessed this first hand in Tryon North Carolina. 

Simone was denied the chance to go to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia because of her race. For Simone, the blackbird was a metaphor for discrimination. So what was the difference between Simone's 1963 and McCartney's 1968 ' Blackbird?'.

research help: ' Blackbird' by Katie Kapurch and Jon Marc Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 139

 Psalms: Psalm 139 by ric gustafson

O Lord you have examined my heart. You know everything about me. You know everything I do. You know what I'm going to say. Even before I say it Lord. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. 

How do you feel knowing that God knows everything about you?. What does it mean for God to go before you and to follow you?. Spend a few quiet minutes with God. Ask God to examine your heart and make you aware of his presence.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 3

 Two from Galilee page 3 by ric gustafson

" Here". Joachim frowned. " Break bread with us tonight?".

Mary nodded.

" Have you spoken to your mother?".

" No". She frowned. " You know how she feels about Joseph".

" I know".

" Joseph is prepared to give me the love you have for mother".

" We still need you". He smiled. " There's plenty of time".

" Father". Mary grinned. " Joseph and I love each other".

" Mary, I have no objection to Joseph".

" Then what is it father?".

" Your mother thinks it's a poor match".

A tear came down Mary's face. " Joseph is my whole life's happiness".

" Ok Mary". Joachim sighed. " I will ask Joseph to come tonight".

" Thank you father". Mary gave him a big hug.

" I will have your mother bring the best wine".

Mary hugged her father again. " Thank you father".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of Camelot page 3

 the end of Camelot page 3 by ric gustafson

President Kennedy stared at a coconut on his desk. It reminded him of a time he needed great courage. In !943 in the south Pacific, Lieutenant John Fitzgerald Kennedy cheated death. Lieutenant Kennedy was the skipper of PT-109. Kennedy was 26, rail thin and tanned. During the war, Kennedy cheated death. Kennedy's older brother Joe was killed in Aug of 1944 when his experimental bomber exploded over England. 

Less than 6 months after the war, John Fitzgerald Kennedy ran for Boston's 11th Congressional District. Kennedy knew he was an underdog. He recruited a fellow WW II veteran to be his campaign manager. His name was Dave Powers. Because of Powers and his dazzling campaign speeches, Kennedy was elected to Congress. 

President Kennedy woke up around 7 each morning. He read the daily news in bed. Then he would look at a pile of briefing books. Then President Kennedy would eat breakfast in bed. This would include toast, bacon, eggs, coffee and orange juice. Then after a soak in the tub, he was in the Oval Office at 9:00 am sharp. There he spent time with his appointments secretary Ken O'Donnell to map out his daily schedule. Also present was Pierre Salinger his Press Secretary. The name of his Personal Secretary was Evelyn Lincoln.

research help: ' Killing Kennedy' by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wicked page 4

 Wicked page 4 by ric gustafson

Frex stared at Turtle Heart. " Melena tells me you are from Quadling Country".

" That's right".

" She also tells me you are a glass blower".

" That's right". He smiled. " Melena told me you are a Munchkinlander".

" Yes I am".

" I am from Ovvels a small world". Turtle Heart grinned. " Can you explain your world to me?".

" I'll try". Frex smiled. " Imagine Oz in four sections".

Turtle Heart scratched his chin. " Four sections?".

" At the top of Oz is Gillikin".

" Gillikin?".

" It is full of cities, theatres and universities".

" Ok". 

" To the south is Quadling Country where you live".

" Ok".

" To the east is Munchkinland where we are now".

" Ok".

" And to the west is Winkie Country".

" Winkie Country?".

Frex frowned. " There it is dry and unpopulated".

research help: ' Wicked' by Gregory Maguire

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 4

 Psalms: Psalm 4 by ric gustafson

Answer me when I call to you my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer. The Lord hears when I call to him. Search your hearts and be silent. In peace I will lie down and sleep For you alone Lord make me dwell in safety.

What is distressing you today? What do you long for God to do? In what ways have you encountered mercy?. How does God with his gifts of mercy and grace help us sleep and dwell in safety?.

The truth is God is full of mercy and he loves me.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 119

 Psalms: Psalm 119 by ric gustafson

I have chosen to be faithful. I cling to your laws. Lord, don't let me be put to shame. I will pursue your commands. You expand my understanding. Teach me your decrees O Lord. I will keep them to the end. I will obey your instructions. I will put them into practice with all my heart.

Have you put your faith and trust in Jesus?.  Is it difficult to share your faith with others?. Have you chosen to be faithful to God?. God equips me to live for him.

research help: ' Paws in his Presence' by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 2

 Two from Galilee page 2 by ric gustafson

Mary held the jug to her head. She slowly climbed the hill. Walking with her was her cousin Deborah. Deborah was talking about her betrothed. His name was Aaron.

" Aaron brought me a cashmere shawl from Magdala". She smiled. " He also ordered a chest for me".

" Who's making it?".

" Joseph of course".

Mary grinned at her cousin. " Let's go over to his shop while he is making it".

" Did you know he is already 21?".

" I know". Mary's voice hesitated. " I wonder why he's been waiting this long?".

" I know why?".

Mary's eyes got big. " Why?".

" You want him and he wants you".

" Yes, I do".

" I do envy you".

" Why?".

" Joseph is the most attractive youth in Nazareth".

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of Camelot page 2

 the end of Camelot page 2 by ric gustafson

In the Soviet city of Minsk, an American was paying attention to Kenndy's inaugural address. He did not vote for Kennedy. He was fed up. His name was Lee Harvey Oswald. Oswald was a former Marine Corps sharpshooter. Oswald was also a defector.

At age 19 in 1959, Oswald leaves the US and applys for Soviet citizenship. Oswald was hoping his socialist beliefs would be embraced in the Soviet Union.

After a while, Oswald is frustrated in his new life in Russia. Instead of going to college, he is forced to work in a Minsk electronics factory.

Times were tough for Oswald growing up. His father died before he was born. His mother remarried and then got divorced. Oswald dropped out of high school. He enlisted in the Marines. 

After 2 years in Russia, Lee Harvey Oswald wanted to return to the states.

research help: ' Killing Kennedy' by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Two from Galilee page 1

 Two from Galilee page 1 by ric gustafson

Mary smiled as she hurried toward the well. She was happy. She was now a woman. Her eyes were now proudly shining. She couldn't wait to see Joseph later in the day. She was a woman now.

Hannah watched as her daughter started for the well. Mary had a jug on her head. She was a woman now. Hannah sighed. Mary was her first born.

Hannah knew about marrying young. She was barely 12 when she got married. Joachim was a good father. Their wait with Mary was to find a proper suitor. Hopefully someone rich and wise.

One day, Hannah left Bethlehem with her husband for the unknown hills of Galilee. Joachim was huge and ruddy with red hair. He was quiet. Joachim's mother had died. Hannah and Joachim moved to a small mud brick home which now belonged to Mary's brother Simon. Hannah loved living in Nazareth. It was a hamlet cut off from the main trade routes.

God blessed Hannah's womb. She bore a daughter. They named her Mary. By a certain age, suitors began coming to Joachim. There was Abner who was studying to become a priest. There was Cleophas. His business was silks and spices. Mary was interested in only one suitor. His name was Joseph. He was a poor young carpenter. He was 6 years older than Mary. Hannah was leery about him.

research help: ' Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric