Sabbath page 1

 Sabbath page 1 by ric gustafson

According to Genesis 1:1, In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Look around. Do you see trees, leaves, and blue sky. You are observing an effect the evidence of a cause. That cause is creation. 

There are two explanations for our existence. 1. We are created we are designed. Our life has purpose. We are not a mistake. We are a miracle. 2. We are a mistake. We are the product of a happy accident. Our emotions are simply neurons flying in a pattern of millions of years. We are not a miracle. We are an arrangement of carbon. 

More people are choosing option number 2. There has been a sharp rise in secularism and atheism. Their appeal is seductive and simple. They believe that if there is no God then no one has authority over you. If there is no divine order, there is no moral obligation. There is no higher law to challenge your desires or instruct your will. In the absence of God, personal choice reigns supreme.

This trend is measurable. By 2021, the percentage of American adults identified as unaffiliated has gone up to around 30 percent. Over 40 percent of millennials and Gen Zers claim no religious affiliation at all.

Why the decline?. The turn toward secularism is about control. Some people don't want to serve a God that wants you to live a certain way. Some people want their own control. Some people are obsessed with self acceptance  and personal freedom.

Which brings us to the Sabbath and Genesis 1:1.

research help: ' Stop in the name of God' by Charlie Kirk

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Christ

 names of Jesus: Christ by ric gustafson

The Christ in Hebrew is Messiah. Christ is the anointed one. He was set apart from the beginning to reign as the King. Christ is the King, Priest and the Prophet. Christ is the perfect one the Messiah. 

There have been many prophecies foretold about the Christ. Christ is the door to the Father. And through the Christ, we are ushered into the Father's kingdom.

So who is the Christ?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Bridegroom

names of Jesus: Bridegroom by ric gustafson

We are waiting for the Bridegroom. Revelation 19 says that we are waiting for the Bridegroom's return. On that day, we will rejoice and give him the glory. The church will be ready. The marriage of the Lamb has come. The Bride has made herself ready.

We are waiting between the promise and the fulfillment. We take hope in God's presence to ready ourselves for that glorious day. The Bridegroom loves us so much. There is joy in the Bridegroom's presence.

So who is the Bridegroom?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Bethsaida page 4

 Bethsaida page 4 by ric gustafson

In Area A of the Bethsaida excavation, six levels were found. A massive structure was found on level 2. This level was predicted to be from the Hellenistic period. On level 6, a single large room was measured at 21.2 by 11.5 meters. Also excavated was a large segment of the northern wall. There was also an elaborate entrance to the structure.

Heavy slabs in the structure suggest the remains of a floor. The corner of the structure is 8.1 meters from the entrance. The northeastern wing of the structure was of solid construction. It was 2.85 meters thick and was built from large boulders. The east wall of the structure was poorly preserved. The west wall measured at 1.10 meters wide. The south wall was in fair condition. The northwest corner of the structure had not been excavated yet. A Hellenistic floor was discovered along the south wall.

Two column posts were discovered. One was measured at 0.53 meters in diameter and 0.4 meter high. The other was 0.6 meter in diameter and 0.5 meter high.

research: ' Bethsaida' by Rami Arav and Richard Freund

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Bread of Life

 names of Jesus: Bread of Life by ric gustafson

Our physical bodies need food. We are not just human bodies. We have souls and spirits that also need nourishment. We were not created just to eat, drink and work. We were created from and for love. 

The Bread of Life satisfies our soul hunger and our spiritual thirst. We crave the Bread of Life for nourishment. The Bread of Life is our daily bread. The Bread of Life meets our deepest needs. When we receive and believe, our hunger is satisfied. John 6 says I am the bread that gives life.

So who is the Bread of Life?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Branch

 names of Jesus: Branch by ric gustafson

The Branch reveals the fruit of the tree. The tree is the Father. The fruit of God is unchanging. Galatians 5 talks about the fruit of the Spirit. The fruit includes love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. 

The Branch was echoed in John 15. According to Isaiah 4, in that day the Branch shall be beautiful and glorious. The Branch has also been called the Vine. Those who yield to the Branch are offshoots. We need to follow the Branch's nature. The Holy Spirit produces the fruit of the Branch.

So who is the Branch?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of God: Beloved Son

 names of God: Beloved Son by ric gustafson

God the Father spoke about his Beloved Son. According to Matthew 3, God the Father talked about his Beloved Son whom he was well pleased. The Beloved Son was sent here by God the Father and he showed his true nature to us. 

The Beloved Son was divine. The Beloved Son was also human. The Beloved Son followed God the Father's call on his life. The Beloved Son was the ultimate expression of God's love. If we want to know what God the Father is like, we need to look at the Beloved Son.

So who is the Beloved Son?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of God: Word

 names of God: Word by ric gustafson

The Scriptures is the Word. According to John 1, In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God. The Word was God. What is powerful is the wisdom of the Word. The wisdom of God was already revealed through the Word. The Word is the message of God.

The Word is the true revelation of God. The Word is the living Word. The Word is a pure reflection of God.

So who is the Word?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing.

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Messiah page 3

 Messiah page 3 by ric gustafson

Andrew and Philip smiled as the Master approached.

" Master". Both hugged Jesus.

Jesus looked around. " Where is Nathanail?".

" At home sleeping". Philip grinned. " He lives nearby".

At one point, Lydia ran toward her new husband. " David what's keeping you?". Concern came over her face. " Come sit with me at the table".

" There will be no feast".

" No feast?" replied the new bride.

" There is no more wine".

" It'll be ok". Lydia tried to reassure her new husband. " We have plenty of food".

They walked back toward their guests.

" Tell the servants to delay the feast". Mary blocked their path. " I believe my son can help us".

Lydia looked at Mary. " He can?".

" Give me time to find him".

research help: ' The Messiah' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Messiah page 2

 Messiah page 2 by ric gustafson

Jesus and Mary walked up to the house. Amid the bright lights and the merry noise, a young man came out. He greeted them. His name was David. He was the bridegroom. He led them to the torch lit courtyard. A woman was conferring with the musicians. She smiled as Jesus and Mary walked up to them.

" Mary, where have you been?". Deborah frowned. " And Jesus". She gave them both a hug. " Your cousin Lydia misses you so".

Jesus glanced around. " And where is my little sister Leah?".

" She's helping prepare the food". Deborah's voice hesitated. " Hopefully there will be enough". She began to cry.

" Don't worry". Mary tried to console her. " People will eat before they come".

Deborah began crying again. " I just hope the wine holds out".

Mary smiled. " I'm sure it will be".

" Oh Jesus". Deborah wiped tears from her eyes. " Some of your friends are here".

" Did David invite them to stop and congradulate the new bride and groom?".

" Yes, he did".

" Mother, I am going to go and greet my new friends".

" Ok".

research help: ' The Messiah' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Messiah page 1

 Messiah page 1 by ric gustafson

Mary pulled back the drapery. She gazed at her oldest son. He was asleep. She began to worry about him. He had been gone longer than usual. He had lost weight. His brothers and sisters Josey, Simon, Jude, James, Ann and Leah also worried about him. Mary was tired. She had trouble sleeping. Day and night, troubled dreams persisted.

Yesterday afternoon, Mary's oldest son came home. He walked up the steps. He gave her a big hug. Behind Jesus were three young men. The first two were named Andrew and Philip. Nathanail Bartholomew was the third. They could not stay long. They were on their way to Cana.

Cana Mary thought to herself as the three left. She had forgotten that her cousin Deborah's daughter was married there yesterday. 

Jesus laid down for a long nap. When he woke up, the home was very quiet. " Mother, why is everything so quiet?".

Mary smiled. " Everyone is at Cana celebrating".

Jesus grinned. " Then that is where we will go".

research help: ' The Messiah' by Marjorie Holmes

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Author of Faith

 names of Jesus: Author of Faith by ric gustafson

It is by grace that we have been saved by faith. Faith is a gift from God. We cannot strive to earn our place in God's kingdom. Faith is a gift free and graciously received.

The Author of Faith is the originator of our faith. The Author of Faith perfects our faith. We must come with an open heart of surrender. He guides us in his goodness. It requires a heart that trusts his own. Through the hills and valleys of our life, the Author of Faith never changes in his faithfulness, mercy and justice.

So who is the Author of Faith?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Apostle page 4

the Apostle page 4 by ric gustafson

Saul spent a lot of time at the Temple in Jerusalem. He sat on a stone bench along a wall. At a small platform, Saul listened to whomever read the Law and expanded on it.

One day, Saul listened to a young man who was around Saul's age. His name was Stephen. He could speak Greek and Aramaic. Stephen was a quick thinker and had a powerful mind.

Saul stood out in a crowd. He had beetling eyebrows and a black beard. Saul wore a blue fringed robe and a turban like headdress. Faithfully he did rituals of cleaning platters and cups. He kept the weekly fasts and the daily prayers. Saul's goal was a prominent seat in the synagogue.

Saul's days were consumed by his legal career. Saul groomed himself for heaven. He was a Pharisee. He had little time for the poor, the lame or the outcast.

In the 2 years since Jesus of Nazareth was executed, Saul knew the carpenter had followers who believed that he had risen from the dead. Saul began to study this Stephen carefully.

Saul's turn was coming.

research help: ' The Apostle' by John Pollock

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Arm of the Lord

 names of Jesus: Arm of the Lord by ric gustafson

The Arm of the Lord is God's strength on display. The Arm of the Lord used miracles in his earthly ministry. He continues to move in mighty ways through the Holy Spirit. The Arm of the Lord is merciful, powerful and present.

The Arm of the Lord delivers all people from their sin. He is the one who lifts the humble from lowly places and seats them with princes. The Arm of the Lord crushes evil. Nothing can wrestle us from his grasp. We are secure and safe in the Arm of the Lord.

So who is the Arm of the Lord?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Apostle of our Confession

 names of God: Apostle of our Confession by ric gustafson

The Apostle of our Confession is the highest example to follow. All who come to him receive mercy and his grace and love. He gives forgiveness of sins. He gives a calling to a higher way of life. Hebrews 3 says consider the Apostle and High Priest of our Confession.

He gives a heavenly call. We are blessed to know his heart and ministry. He gives us the Holy Spirit to teach, correct and guide us. There is no better example  and higher model. 

So who is the Apostle of our Confession?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

William Jefferson Clinton page 3

 William Jefferson Clinton page 3 by ric gustafson

My name is Bill Clinton.

I loved my great Aunt Otie and my great Uncle Carl Russell. Opal was my Grandmother's sister. My Grandmother's brother was Uncle Buddy. Uncle Buddy and his wife Ollie had 4 children. Dwayne was a shoe manufacturer executive. Conrad and Falba lived in Dallas and then later in Hope. The youngest Myra was a rodeo queen. My extended family memories were centered around meals, story telling and conversation. 

My extended family did not have much money. But there was a lot of love. My Uncle Buddy was a great storyteller. The big meals of the week were on the weekends.

I learned a lot from my grandparents. I learned a lot from my Aunts and Uncles.

I miss Uncle Buddy. He got lung cancer. He lived to be 91.

research help: ' My Life' by Bill Clinton

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Apostle page 3

 the Apostle page 3 by ric gustafson

Saul's father most likely was a master tentmaker. Tents were leather or cloth woven from the hair of black goats. Nothing is told of Saul's mother. Saul had at least one sister. The family was born to wealth. Saul's father was a citizen of Tarsus.

At home, he went by the name of Saul. Saul's parents were Pharisees. This party believed in Jewish nationalism and strict obedience to the Law of Moses. The family spoke Aramaic. It was the language of Judea.

Around the age of 14, Saul left for Jerusalem to study at the feet of Gamaliel. Before joining the Sanhedrin, Saul needed to master a trade. Saul moved back to Tarsus.

It is not known if Saul marries or not. 

When he is 30 years old, Saul returns to Jerusalem.

research help: ' The Apostle' by John Pollock

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric 

Looking for Andy Griffith page 2

 Looking for Andy Griffith page 2 by ric gustafson

Andy Griffith and his wife Barbara watched as their children played at one end of their Olympic swimming pool. Andy loved living at their 7000 plus square foot Toluca Lake home. Sam and Dixie never bothered their father while he was studying a script. Barbara Griffith was watching from a nearby cabana. In the 1930's, Bing Crosby built the mansion where Andy and his family resided.

Even though the house was lived in by Andy and his family, in people's eyes Bing Crosby still

 lived there. Bing and his family lived in the home from the late 1930's until 1943. Except for a fire in Jan 1943, Bing and his family enjoyed the home.

From the home, Andy could get to the old RKO 40 acres backlot. It was owned by Desilu Productions. The backlot's exteriors were used for the fictional town of Mayberry. The show named after Andy was already over. Andy Griffith was having trouble escaping Andy Taylor.

research help: ' Looking for Andy Griffith' by Evan Dalton Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Amen

 names of Jesus: Amen by ric gustafson

Amen is the final Word of God. Amen is the authority and the assurance of all that God has promised. Amen is the faithful and true witness. Amen never fails. Amen is unbiased. Amen can always be trusted no matter what.

According to Revelation 3, Amen is the faithful and true witness. In Amen, we rest our case in him. We put our trust in the Amen. Amen is love, he is dependable and is unwavering in truth. Amen will never fail us. So who is the Amen?. It is Jesus Christ whom I  love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Looking for Andy Griffith page 1

 Looking for Andy Griffith page 1 by ric gustafson

On the evening of Feb 15 1960, Don Knotts and his wife Kay were playing bridge. They were in the living room of their friends Pat and Marjorie Harrington. Their Spanish Colonial home was on Le Conte Avenue in Westwood. Both men were anxious to turn on the tv at 9:00 pm. The two had met on the set of the ' Steve Allen Show'. The sketch comedy show had recently moved from New York to Hollywood.

Both men were sad. Shortly after the show relocated west, it was canceled. Harrington was happy because he was going to do a guest spot on the show that came on before their show. That show was the ' Danny Thomas Show'.

At 9:00 pm, Pat Harrington turned on the set. When Knotts saw who came on the screen, he smiled. It was his old friend Andy Griffith. Six years earlier, Knotts and Griffith were in a Broadway show together called ' No Time for Sergeants'. They became friends right away. Knotts watched as his friend played a Sheriff in a town called Mayberry.

That night after the show was over, Knotts had an idea. The next morning, he called his old friend. Griffith was thrilled to talk to Don. Don told Andy he enjoyed watching the pilot. Then he asked Andy one question.

" Don't you think Sheriff Andy Taylor ought to have a deputy?".

research help: ' Andy and Don' by Daniel de Vise

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Apostle page 2

 the Apostle page 2 by ric gustafson

Saul explained that he was a Jew of Tarsus. He was a citizen of no mean city.

Tarsus was a principal city on the plain of Cilicia. This was in the southwest corner of Asia Minor. The Tarsus mountains curved 25 miles inland . On the west was the sea. To the north was gorges and cliffs. The river Cydnus ran narrow and swift through the city.

An engineering masterpiece in town was an artificial harbor. In spring, the harbor came alive with slaves unloading goods of the Orient.

Tarsus was a fusion of civilizations at peace. There was a mixture of Cilicians, Hittites, Greeks, Assyrians and Persians.

A colony of Jews had been settled there since about 170 BC.

research help: ' The Apostle' by John Pollock

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Alpha and Omega

 names of Jesus: Alpha and Omega by ric gustafson

In the beginning was the Word. The word was with God. The Word was God. The Alpha and Omega means there is no beginning or end. The Alpha and the Omega are part of the Godhead. They were, they are and they always will be.

Everything falls within the confines of creation. No person is greater than the Creator. The Alpha and Omega is greater than the rulers of this world. Let's worship the Alpha and Omega. He is the first and the last. The beginning and the end. No one can compare with him.

Who is the Alpha and Omega?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Bethsaida page 3

 Bethsaida page 3 by ric gustafson

The excavations of Bethsaida were in three areas. Area A was the southern excavation. Areas B and C were large area excavations. 

One problem started at the beginning. Settlers used basalt stones and boulders. Because of the basalt terrain, it was hard for archaeolgists to excavate there. Basalt could be used for centuries without erosion.

From the 17th to the 20th century, the Bethsaida excavation site was the home of the Bedouin tribe of El-Talawiyeh. The tribe buried their dead on the slope of the excavation site. As the excavation started, tombs were discovered. They did not cause any major problems. The remaining area was unharmed.

And now we will look at the southern part of the excavation site. 

This is Area A.

research help: ' Bethsaida' by Rami Arav and Richard Freund

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Almighty

 names of Jesus: Almighty by ric gustafson

The Almighty One is the Son of God. He is clothed in glory. The Almighty One was with the Father and the Spirit at the beginning of creation. The Almighty One is now seated at the right hand of God.

Almighty means all powerful, ruler of everything, he has no beginning, he knows no end. The Almighty is the great I Am. In his ministry, the Almighty calmed storms, healed diseases, gave sight to the blind and raised the dead back to life.

So who is the Almighty?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Apostle page 1

 the Apostle page 1 by ric gustafson

The judges stood up. They howled in fury. In the Hall of Polished Stones, a young defendant was seized by a lynch mob. They manhandled him down some steps and into the Court of the Priests. The unruly mob dragged Stephen out of the Temple. Then they pushed him down city streets to the northern gate of the city. When the northern gate was shut, the mob pushed Stephen to the Rock of Execution.

At the Rock of Execution, they threw Stephen down below. He was fully clothed. Slowly, Stephen stood up. In a judicial stoning, the people who brought the charges were the first to throw the rocks. These people took off their outer clothes. They looked around for someone to guard them.

A young lawyer stepped forward to hold them. The mob recognized the young man as a Pharisee from Cilicia in Asia Minor. His name was Saul.

What struck Saul was what Stephen said while being stoned. 

" Lord Jesus, receive my spirit".

research help: ' The Apostle' by John Pollock

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 25

 U-505 page 25 by ric gustafson

Kapitanleutnant Harold Lange knew U-505 was low on fuel. The boat has also been having problems with their storage batteries. The crew of U-505 had been dealing with massive heat inside the boat itself. Lange also knew a hunter killer Task Force was hot on the boat's tail. 

On June 3 1944, Lange knew he had no other choice. He ordered the water tanks blown. U-505 rises to the surface. Lange opened the hatch. He climbed the conning tower ladder. Lange smiled. The sky was sunny, there were no clouds and there were no planes in the sky. Lange was hoping the boat could stay on the surface long enough to recharge his boat's depleted batteries.

U-505 began a course due north along the west coast of Africa. Lange did not know that Task Group 22.3 led by Gallery was heading south toward his boat.

Gallery was hoping Sunday June 4 1944 was going to be a good day.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: Advocate

 names of God: Advocate by ric gustafson

There is someone who prays on our behalf before the Father in heaven. He pleads our case. So he is our advocate. We need someone beside us to help, defend and intercede for us. 

This Advocate stands before the Father on our behalf. When we mess up, this advocate sees us as we are. Not what others say we are. God has mercy on his children. God does not abandon us. The Advocate will not abandon us. The Advocate will never fail us in mercy, grace and compassion. 

So who is the Advocate?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

King of the Night page 9

 King of the Night page 9 by ric gustafson

My name is Howard Smith. Johnny Carson was my friend.

I enjoyed small talk and dinner with John Carson.

" Do you play golf?".

" I'm not much of a golfer". John's voice hesitated. " I do love to play tennis".

" Where do you play?".

" I usually play at Pepperdine University".

I smiled. " I heard you bought the home four doors down from me". 

" Yes".

" I have a tennis court at home". I smiled. " If you would like to play, give me a call".

I got a call the next morning.

" Hey, this is John Carson". His voice hesitated. " We met last night".

" That's right at the party".

" Hey Howard good morning". His voice hesitated again. " Wanna play today?".

" Sure, come on over".

John came over. We agreed to play for fun.

" Howard, my friends call me John".

research help: ' My friend Johnny' by Howard Smith and Eli Gonzalez

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 24

U-505 page 24 by ric gustafson

Commander Kenneth Knowles gave Gallery more good news. A U-boat anti submarine intelligence F21 had been tracking for weeks was heading in the same direction as Task Group 22.3. According to Knowles, nicknamed the Soothsayer, the U-boat was heading for Gallery's baby flattop.

Gallery orders the Task Groups five destroyer escorts to conserve fuel and operate at half capacity. There was radar contact possibly from a U-boat on June 2 and 3. Then the contact was lost.

Earl Trosino explained to Gallery that they must return to Casablanca to refuel. Gallery requested 24 hours to find the U-boat. If not, Gallery will go with Trosino's recommendation.

Gallery orders his Task Force to turn south and patrol the ocean from the night before. Gallery knew it was a big gamble. Either he finds that U-boat within 24 hours or they run out of fuel.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

names of Jesus: the Last Adam

names of Jesus: the Last Adam by ric gustafson

According to I Corinthians 15:45, the Last Adam became a life giving spirit. Who is the Last Adam?. The Last Adam is the fullfillment of everlasting life. The Last Adam is fully human. The Last Adam is also fully God. The Last Adam gives willing hearts the life giving Spirit.

The Last Adam is the way, the truth and the life. The Last Adam is the beginning of the new creation. In the Last Adam, we are made complete and new. 

So who is the Last Adam?. It is Jesus Christ whom I love.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 12

Beatles the early years page 12 by ric gustafson

George Harrison left Dovedale Road School. He started at the Liverpool Institute on Sept 8 1954. George's new friend at school was Arthur Kelly. The two became really good friends. George did not enjoy going to the Liverpool Institute. He was always late and used his fists a lot.

Paul McCartney was now in his second year at the Institute. George was already a smoker. Paul had not started yet at 13. A paper called ' New Musical Express' started in November 1952. It became known as the NME.

A week before Christmas 1954, a song exploded on the charts. The group was Bill Haley and his Comets. The song was ' Shake Rattle and Roll'. Another of Haley's songs ' Rock Around the Clock' was used heavily in a movie called ' Blackboard Jungle'. In the summer of 1955, the song was number 1 for 8 weeks in the US. 

Things were still looking bleak for Richy Starkey. He was still at the Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital. But he was still content banging the hospital's toy drum. 

Tragedy struck John Lennon on Saturday June 4 1955. John's Uncle George died. He was 52.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn 

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:10

 Proverbs: Proverbs 2:10 by ric gustafson

Sin can make people blind to the effects of their actions. We can choose to compromise our standards. we can choose to go against God's heart and refuse to correct it. When we do this, we lessen our ears to hear God's wisdom. When we stumble, we need to turn to God.

God blesses the humble. Because they are teachable. A humble heart can admit wrong and correct it. We can rejoice that we depend on God. Only true knowledge comes from God. 

God will give us wisdom. That wisdom leads to life.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

King of the Night page 8

 King of the Night page 8 by ric gustafson

My name is Howard Smith. Johnny Carson was my friend.

My wife and I met a new friend in August 1985. We had moved to Malibu a few years before. His name was Jerry Weintraub. He was a producer, actor and talent manager. He had managed Elvis Presley and other big entertainers and film actors. The Weintraubs frequently held parties at their estate. Famous celebrities were always invited to these parties.

One day, we were invited to their estate for a big party. We were told celebrities would be there. That night, we met Barbara Walters, TV producer Merv Adelson and others. 

Later, Jane Weintraub asked if a shy celebrity could sit next to me.

" Sure".

The celebrity quietly walked up and sat down next to me. I stuck my hand out. " Hello I'm Howard Smith".

The celebrity turned his head. " Nice to meet you Howard". He shook my hand. " I'm John Carson".

research help: ' My Friend Johnny' by Howard Smith and Eli Gonzalez

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Californian page 2

Californian page 2 by ric gustafson

In the wireless room of the SS Californian, Cyril Evans was busy working on new equipment. The 20 year old was enjoying the new technology he first saw at the Marconi school in London. Cyril quickly learned the dash dot of Morse code. Cyril was happy to be stationed on the Californian. He could play around with the new wireless set.

It took a while for Captain Lord to get used to Cyril and the new technology. The wireless room became Cyril's sleeping quarters. Seven days a week from 7 am until 11 at night, Cyril did his job. On board, Cyril did become friends with two of the officers. One was Third Officer Charlie Groves. The other was Apprentice Officer Jimmy Gibson. 

All was quiet the evening of Sunday April 14 1912. Right before 10:15 pm, Cyril heard ice crunching the hull of the ship. Then the ship stopped. 

Captain Lord walked in. " We have run into some field ice". His voice hesitated. " We have stopped for the night".

" Ok Sir".

" Our position". He put a piece of paper on the desk. " Use your new equipment and let nearby ships know".

" Yes Sir". Cyril sat down and put on his headphones.

Young Titanic survivors

John Borland Thayer III was born on December 24 1894. His parents were John B Thayer and Marian Thayer. Jack's father was a vice president of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. Jack's mother was a Philadelphia socialite.

Jack and a friend he had met on board tried to jump off the side of the ship after the sinking. Jack jumped off into the freezing water. Jack was able to get on Collapsible B. His new friend did not. Jack's lifeboat became part of Lifeboat 12. Jack's mother was in Lifeboat 4. Jack's father did not survive.

In 1917, Jack married Lois Cassatt. Jack served in World War I. In 1939, Jack became treasurer at the University of Pennsylvania. Jack Thayer died on September 20 1945.

research help: ' The Midnight Watch' by David Dyer

Peace and God's blessings Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:9

 Proverbs: Proverbs 2:9 by ric gustafson

God wants us to grow in wisdom. We must know God first. Then we can grow in wisdom. Proverbs 2:9 talks about a good path. Knowing God takes time and effort. God is our best example of wisdom. To know integrity, we must look at how God lives. How does God act with people?. To walk in integrity, we must be honest. When we grow in wisdom, God will give us the right path to follow.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

King of the Night page 7

 King of the Night page 7 by ric gustafson

My name is Howard Smith. Johnny Carson was a friend.

One day, I was eating lunch with friends at a golf club. My phone rang. I recognized the number. I walked outside. I called the number back.

" Hey Alex". I began to worry. " Sorry I missed your call".

" Yes Howard". The voice hesitated. " Thank you for calling me back so quickly".

" Alex, are you alright?". I thought for a moment. " Is John ok?".

" There's no easy way to say this". Alex's voice paused. " John passed away last night".

I did not know what to say. " I'm sorry Alex".

" You were one of the few people John told me to call".

She began crying. " I knew you and John were very close".

research help: ' My Friend Johnny' by Howard Smith and Eli Gonzalez

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

8/5/1962 page 2

 8/5/1962 page 2 by ric gustafson

Eunice Murray was standing outside looking through the curtains of Marilyn's bedroom window. In horror, she could see Marilyn lying in her bed. She looked peaceful. Her eyes were shut. Her lips were slightly parted. She was clutching her telephone. Everything outside was quiet.

Mrs Murray heard a car in the driveway. She saw Dr Greenson running toward her.

" Is she breathing?". Using a poker held by Eunice, Dr Greenson smashed Marilyn's bedroom window.

" Call Dr Engelberg". Through the smashed window, the doctor entered Marilyn's bedroom. " I need to know what drugs he gave her".

Dr Greenson ran over to the bed. He stared at his patient. He pressed on the side of Marilyn's neck for a pulse.

He cried out. " We've lost her".

research help: ' The last days of Marilyn Monroe' by James Patterson and Imogen Edwards Jones

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:8

 Proverbs: Proverbs 2:8 by ric gustafson

When life gets hard, it is easy to wonder if God has forsaken us. Or that we have done something wrong. Proverbs 2:8 says he guards the paths of the just. The truth is God is guarding our path. God is always protecting us. 

God does not promise us a life of ease. We will have trouble. We will have suffering. We will lose loved ones. We will endure heartbreak. The truth is God is always with us. God is always there with mercy and redemption. We can always trust and rely on God. God loves us more than anything.

research: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Bethsaida page 2

 Bethsaida page 2 by ric gustafson

The mound of Bethsaida is north of the Sea of Galilee. The oval shaped mound is an extension of a lava flow. This lava flow formed the Golan Heights. The mound is 400 meters long by 200 meters wide. It is 45 meters above the Sea of Galilee.

The mound is divided into two. There is a lower city which is most of the site. Then there is an upper city at the northeastern edge of the mound. Only at the upper city has an excavation been started. At the eastern edge of the mound, it descends into a short ravine. The southern and western edge of the mound slope to the Bethsaida plain.

Access to the mound is easiest from the north. The Jordan River is only 250 meters from the mound. Two springs from the nearby foothills provided water to the mound.

research help: ' Bethsaida' edited by Rami Arav and Richard Freund

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

8/5/1962 page 1

 8/5/1962 page 1 by ric gustafson

Eunice Murray opened her eyes. It was the middle of the night. Something was worrying her. She wasn't sure why. Still worried, she got out of bed. She put on some pink slippers and a pink dressing gown. She opened her bedroom door. She began to walk down a hallway. 

The Spanish Colonial hacienda was located in a wooded cul de sac in Brentwood. The address was 12305 Fifth Helena Drive. The hacienda belonged to her employer. Her employer was movie star Marilyn Monroe.

Marilyn had moved into the hacienda 6 months prior. Boxes were everywhere. A lot of the boxes were still unpacked. Scripts were piled on top of spare chairs. Marilyn's psychiatrist Dr Ralph Greenson had suggested that she buy the house. 

Eunice tried to enter Marilyn's bedroom. The door was locked. Worried, Eunice called Dr Greenson.

" Come over". Fear was on her face. " Marilyn's door is locked".

research help: ' The last days of Marilyn Monroe' by James Patterson and Imogen Edwards Jones

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:7

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:7 by ric gustafson

Life can be overwhelming. It is comforting to know that God never leaves us. God is our shield against evil. God is also our strength. Proverbs 2:7 says he is a shield to those who walk in integrity. When we need wisdom, God pours it out to us. God will lead us on the path of his righteousness.

With God by our side, we can walk through the darkness of this world. God is protecting us at all times  and on all sides. God will always guard and watch over us. We do not need to worry. God is always watching over us and protecting us. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 23

 U-505 page 23 by ric gustafson

Hans Goebeler was frustrated. U-505 had one of the German wonder weapons. It was a new type of torpedo. Because it was an acoustical torpedo, the torpedo would home on in an enemy's propellors. Skipper Kapitanleutnant Harold Lange was frustrated. He had new torpedoes and no targets to shoot at. The U-boat tried Monrovia. No targets. The boat tried Cape Palmas. No targets. 

On May 10 1944, a British freighter was spotted. The bad news was that a British destroyer was also detected. More bad news was that the destroyer was 5 miles from the U-505. This made it out of range even for a brand new torpedo. 

On the USS Guadalcanal, Captain Gallery is also frustrated. He has found no U-boat targets. His baby flattop was running low on fuel.

On May 29 1944, Gallery finds out one of his task force ships was hit by U-549. It was the baby flattop Block Island. Later that day, Gallery finds out the USS Ahrens sunk U-549. All 57 German sailors on the U-549 were lost.

Then, Gallery got some news which put a smile back on his face.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Bethsaida page 1

 Bethsaida page 1 by ric gustafson

In 1838, Edward Robinson explored the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. He only had a compass because there was no scientific maps of the area. 50 years later, Gottlieb Schumacher also explored the area. He suggested two choices el-Araj and Masudiyeh could be Bethsaida. The writer of John 12:21 claimed that Bethsaida was in Galilee.

In 1987, a Bethsaida Excavations Project was started to investigate 2 sites that could be Bethsaida. The first was et-Tell. It was a settlement dating to the 1st century. The second was El-Araj. It's date was from the Byzantine period. Et-Tell became the clear choice for the Bethsaida Excavations Project.

This is their story.

research help: edited by Rami Arav and Richard Freund

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Californian page 1

 Californian page 1 by ric gustafson 

At 9:30 pm, Second Officer Herbert Stone was still awake. Normally he would of been asleep until right before his midnight to 4 am shift. He could not sleep because he was concerned about the icebergs he had seen earlier. But on this Sunday night April 14 1912, it was very cold out.

Stone could tell the ship was still steaming at full speed. He was surprised. He had seen ice around. Stone was proud of his ship. There were no passengers on this trip. Instead on board they were carrying textiles, chemicals and general goods. The ship was headed for Boston.

The SS Californian was an ordinary ship. It had four masts and a single slender funnel. Stone was in charge of the navigation charts. Stone's watch was from 12 noon to 4 pm and midnight to 4 am. 

Stone yawned. He did not know why at 9:30 pm he was still awake.

Yawning again, Stone turned on his reading light. He had been reading ' Moby Dick'. It was a gift from his mother.

One of the young Titanic survivors was Edith Brown Haisman. She was born on Oct 27 1896. She was born in South Africa. She and her parents were second class passengers. After the tragedy, Edith married Frederick Haisman in June 1917. Edith was on Lifeboat 14.

Edith Brown Haisman died in Jan 1997 at age 100.

research help: the Internet

research help: ' The Midnight Watch' by David Dyer

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 11

 Beatles the early years page 11 by ric gustafson

In 1954, three musical events shaped the lives of John, Paul, George and Richy. First, on April 12 a group called Bill Haley and the Comets recorded a song called ' Rock Around The Clock'. The song ignited a phase that had been around for decades. This phase was called ' Rock and Roll".

In July, a 19 year old singer and a guitarist would enter a Memphis Tennessee music studio and recorded four songs. The lads had never encountered anyone like Elvis Presley. The lads heard ' That's All Right' and ' Blue Moon of Kentucky'. The lads could not get enough of Elvis Presley.

Finally, at a time when the lads first noticed Elvis, a singer and guitarist named Lonnie Donegan began toying with home based instruments. This sound had actually started in the 1920's in Chicago. These home based instruments included standup basses and washboards. Now thanks to Lonnie Donegan, this loose jazzy band sound was becoming more popular.

John, Paul, George and Richy were starting to take notice.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:6

 Proverbs: Proverbs 2:6 by ric gustafson

The wisest man to ever live was Solomon. He attributed his wisdom to God. He knew that his wisdom was a direct gift from God. God grants wisdom. When a soul is searching, God's wisdom is knowledge and understanding. 

If we want to be wise, we need to seek God. When we are going through our darkest valleys, we can find God's wisdom. Growing in wisdom means we are nurturing our relationship with God.

God wants us to listen to him, spend time with him and obey his Word. When our heart and mind is the same as God, the wiser we will be. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

King of the Night page 6

 King of the Night page 6 by ric gustafson

Early in his college years, Johnny Carson met Joan Morrill Wolcott. Nicknamed Jody, her family was from North Platte Nebraska. Morrill County was named after Jody's great grandfather Charles Morrill. He had made his fortune as a banker and a land speculator. Jody's grandfather was a college professor. Jody's father was a civil engineer.

Jody wanted to be a cartoonist. Instead, she got involved with Johnny. She loved Johnny. He did not show it. But she knew he loved her.

Johnny was busy during his final year at Nebraska. He was the master of ceremonies for the Kosmet Klub. He was on the radio for KFAB which was a Lincoln Nebraska radio station. Johnny spent a lot of his time in the speech and radio department. He spent time at the university theater. At the theater, Johnny experimented with a new form of communication. It was called television.

But for right now, Johnny loved being on the radio.

research help: ' King of the Night' by Laurence Leamer

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric.

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:3-5

 Proverbs: Proverbs 2:3-5 by ric gustafson

Silver does not come in nuggets. It is mixed with ores and metals. It takes an incredible amount of focus  and skill to extract it. Proverbs 2:3-5 says search for them as you would for silver seek them like hidden treasures. Once silver is extracted, it must be refined. This is no ordinary task.

God says search for wisdom in my Word. Search for wisdom with diligence and attention. Searching for wisdom is like searching for hidden treasure. It takes commitment. But the reward is well worth it. 

God's Word says wisdom is more costly than gold or silver.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 10

 Beatles the early years page 10 by ric gustafson

In the summer of 1954, John and three friends hung out in Calderstones Park. Girls were not invited. But a lot of them came around looking for John. John and his friends were listening to songs by Frankie Laine and Johnnie Ray. At this time, John was secretly starting to see his mother again. He kept the visits a secret from Mimi.

In 1954, John was having trouble in school. John was drawing cartoons and passing them around the classroom. Richy Starkey also avoided school as much as possible. At Dingle Vale, Richy had a long walk to school. Every day walking on Park Road, Richy stopped in front of a music store. In the window was a tom tom drum. The drum was expensive. All Richy could do was stop and stare at it. In May or June 1954, Richy fell seriously ill again. This time it was pleurisy. He spent ten weeks at the Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital. Then his illness became TB. Richy was sent to the hospital's convalescence outpost in Heswall. While there, a music teacher gave Richy a pair of drumsticks. He was hooked.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 21

 the Firm page 21 by ric gustafson

At a table near the bar, Mitch watched as a short wiry man walked over. 

He frowned at Mitch. " Are you looking for me?".

" Are you Mr Abanks?".

" That's me". His voice hesitated. " What do you want?".

" My name is Mitch McDeere". Mitch grinned. " I'm a lawyer from Memphis".

" What do you want?".

" The two men who died with your son were friends of mine".

Mr Abanks sighed. " Let's take a walk on the beach".

" Sure".

The two men got up. They walked out. They crossed the street to the nearby beach. 

They began to walk.

" I'd like to talk about the accident". Mitch frowned. " What might of caused it?".

" I don't know". He frowned. " The boat was badly damaged most of the clues went up in flames".

" Was it your boat?".

" Yes". He stared at Mitch. " Why are you so interested in this accident Mr McDeere?".

" The families have a lot of questions".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 9

 Beatles the early years page 9 by ric gustafson

John started at Quarry Banks High School for Boys on Sept 4 1952. Opened in 1922, the school had a good reputation for sending boys to Oxford and Cambridge. John quickly formed a group of friends to be around him. 

When an army officer came to the school to give a lecture, John was scared. Richy Starkey was also worried. Both boys were born in 1940. Both knew about the National Service. Both knew that call up papers would arrive shortly after their 18th birthday. 

On Sep 9 1953, Paul started at the Liverpool Institute High School for Boys. Paul's mother had hoped he would become a doctor. Paul's father Jim had hoped his son would become a scientist. 

At school, Paul was popular. He was naturally funny and enjoyed drawing cartoons. Paul became friends with Ivan Vaughan. He was a friend of John's. Paul liked the location of the school. The school was just off of Hope Street. Nearby was the artistic quarter called Canning Street. Paul enjoyed walking down to the St John's Market.

George Harrison was able to get into the Liverpool Institute in Feb 1954.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:1-2

Proverbs: Proverbs 2:1-2 by ric gustafson

We can easily hear Scripture. But do we fully understand the meaning and intention behind the words?. If we want to understand wisdom, we must take the time to listen. Proverbs 2:1-2 says my child listen to what I say. So how do we listen?. We must listen with thoughtful consideration. How much of our prayer time is like that?.

Our parents try to instruct us. They have their best at heart when they do that. God our Father is the best at parenting us his children. We know God's intentions are good. We know God's intentions are for our good. God says I love you listen to my wisdom. Adopt them in your heart.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 8

 Beatles the early years page 8 by ric gustafson

On Jan 1 1950, George Harrison and his family moved to 25 Upton Green. It was a council house. Louise kept George at Dovedale Road school. 

9 year old John Lennon tried to write letters to his father Alf. At Mimi's house, John read, wrote and drew. Outside the house, John swore and hung out with several friends.

Paul enjoyed Stockton Wood school. His playmate was his younger brother Mike. Paul's mother Mary started a new job. The family moved to 12 Ardwick Road.

Richy Starkey gained a new father figure in his life. This was toward the end of 1951. Elsie Starkey met Harry Graves. Graves worked for Liverpool Corporation. He helped maintain public buildings. Richy liked him right away.

In September 1951, Paul McCartney and his brother Mike changed schools again. The new school was now Joseph Williams Primary.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

King of the Night page 5

 King of the Night page 5 by ric gustafson

Johnny Carson enlisted in the Navy in 1943. Instead the navy shipped him to Columbia University for naval officer's training. From there, he took classes at Millsaps College in Jackson Mississippi. 

On Aug 6 1945, Johnny was on his way to the USS Pennsylvania. On that day in 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. On Aug 9 1945, a second atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. 

By the time Johnny reached his ship, it had already suffered a torpedo. Johnny returned to the states on the USS Pennsylvania.

In the fall of 1946, Johnny entered the University of Nebraska. Johnny entered using the GI Bill. Johnny and some Norfolk Nebraska friends rented a two men apartment close to the campus. Johnny pledged the PHI Gamma Delta fraternity.

Johnny decided to major in radio and specch.

research help: ' King of the Night' by Laurence Leamer

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

William Jefferson Clinton page 2

 William Jefferson Clinton page 2 by ric gustafson

My name is Bill Clinton

I was born on my grandfather's birthday. For the first four years of my life, I lived in Hope Arkansas. The people of Hope always maintained our house long after I left. People called it the ' Clinton Birthplace'. At one point, mother had to go to New Orleans to work. I stayed with my grandmother. Even 50 years later, New Orleans has a special place in my heart. I love it's music, food and people.

My grandparents loved me very much. My grandmother Edith Grisham Cassidy was intense, bright and aggressive. She became a private duty nurse. My grandfather was James Eldridge Cassidy. Grandfather became an ice delivery worker. He delivered ice that weighed about 150 pounds. Eventually, grandfather ran a little grocery store. Grandfather also had a job as a night watchman at a sawmill. I had a good friend who lived next door, His name was Vince Foster. A black man named Odessa took care of me when I was young.

research help: ' My Life' by Bill Clinton

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:33

 Proverbs: Proverbs 1:33 by ric gustafson

Listening to God's wisdom can transform our lives. When God's wisdom directs our path, our perspective of this earthly life is illuminated. Proverbs 1:33 says and be at peace without fear of injury. In God's wisdom, we are provided for and protected. No matter how rough this life is, God's presence is always close.

When we focus on God, the worries of this life can melt away. God wants us to rest in his purpose and his plans. When we reach heaven, there will be no more pain, fear, grief or loss. God gives us peace every day. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:21

 Proverbs: Proverbs 1:21 by ric gustafson

In bible times, city gates were a place of business. Connections formed and transactions were made. To people, city gates gave provision and protection. Proverbs 1:21 says to those gathered in front of the city gate. At the city gate, people gathered and shared wisdom. 

God wants us to use wisdom wisely. God wants us to stay on the wise path. God wants us to learn and to speak wisdom. God wants us to make good decisions and to live well. God wants us to share his wisdom with everyone we know. God loves us very much.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:20

 Proverbs: Proverbs 1:20 by ric gustafson

Wisdom is not quiet. Wisdom is obvious. Wisdom has a great impact on those around us. Wisdom is active. Wisdom calls aloud. Proverbs 1:20 says Wisdom calls aloud outside. Wisdom departs from evil. Wisdom leaves a trail and a legacy.

In wisdom, God will teach us what to speak. God will teach us when to be silent. God will teach us when to step forward. God will teach us when to wait. Using wisdom, God will teach us to depart from the evil that will try to ensnare us. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:10

 Proverbs: Proverbs 1:10 by ric gustafson

Satan wants us to not follow God. Satan tries to lead us into sin. God says do not listen or follow Satan. God says to us follow me above all else. Some people do not have our best interest at heart. 

Like a shepherd guarding sheep, God says listen for my voice. 

We are God's children. God wants to mature in his Word. Studying God's Word leads to life and goodness. Satan knows it's easy to stray off of God's path. God will lead you. Stay on his path.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 20

 the Firm page 20 by ric gustafson

Oliver walked into DeVasher's office. DeVasher smiled. " We found Ray McDeere".

" Where?" replied Oliver.

" Brushy Mountain State Prison".

Oliver scratched his chin. " Tell me about him?".

" Raymond McDeere 31 no family dishonorable discharge from the Army".

" How did you find him?".

" Mitch visited him yesterday".

" On another note". Oliver frowned. " Has Mitch mentioned the FBI to his wife?".

" No".

" Good". Oliver smiled. " I knew he wouldn't".

" Oliver, I think Mitch is ready to go to Grand Cayman with Avery".

" You think he's ready".

DeVasher thought for a moment. " I think so".

" I'll arrange it".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1: 8-9

 Proverbs: Proverbs 1: 8-9 by ric gustafson

When discipline is abusive, it can lead to a misunderstanding. Loving parents correct their children. God's discipline is laced with kindness. God only wants his best for his children. As God's children, we need his correction and guidance. When we heed God's discipline, our lives will change. 

Maybe we did not have great earthly parents. We have a heavenly Father who loves us and tries to lead us down the right path. 

We will walk in wisdom when we do not despise God's hand of correction. Sometimes life lessons are heard to learn and feel harsh. But if we are teachable, we will reap God's blessings.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

William Jefferson Clinton page 1

William Jefferson Clinton page 1 by ric gustafson

My name is Bill Clinton.

I was born on Aug 19 1946. I was born in Hope Arkansas. Hope is located in Southwest Arkansas 33 miles from the Texas border. My father was William Jefferson Blythe Jr. He met my mother in 1943 when she was a nurse in Shreveport Louisiana. She was training to be a nurse. They married after dating for just two months.

My father went to war. He repaired jeeps and tanks. After the war, my father came back to Hope Arkansas to get my mother. They moved to Chicago. My father got his old job back at the Manbee Equipment Company. They bought a house in Forest Park. My mother, pregnant with me, decided to stay in Hope until the house was ready. When Dad drove back to Hope to pick up my mother on May 17 1946, my father was in a car accident. He died at age 28.

research help: ' My Life ' by Bill Clinton

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

closer to God: Matthew 19:26

 closer to God: Matthew 19:26 by ric gustafson

Many people want to get to point Z and not thinking about point A to Z. Many people do not know what their gifts are. Many people do not know what God has called them to do in this short life. People are afraid to step out in fear of failing and making mistakes.

Matthew 19 says all things are possible with God. Everyone has undeveloped potential. God says step out in faith. Believe that in God, nothing is impossible. 

Satan wants us to think that we have no potential or future in God. But God tells us different. We do have potential. We can make a difference for God. God says step out and be bold.

research help: ' Closer to God each day' by Joyce Meyer

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 19

 the Firm page 19 by ric gustafson

Avery, Royce McKnight, Oliver Lambert, Harold O'Kane and Nathan Locke were nervously sitting around a small conference table. Mitch walked in.

" Have a seat Mitch". Nathan frowned. " Tell us everything".

" I was eating lunch at Lansky's Deli yesterday". Mitch's voice hesitated. " He walked up and sat down at my table".

Locke stared at Mitch. " Had you seen this man before?".

" No". Mitch stared at Locke. " He showed me a badge he said his name was Special Agent Wayne Tarrance FBI".

" What did he ask you?".

" Even though it was only a five minute conversation". Mitch hesitated. " Two things he said really bothered me".

" And what are those?" replied Locke.

" He warned me not to trust anyone". Mitch stared at Locke. " He also told me the deaths of Kozinski and Hodge were not accidents".

" Mitch, we have had trouble with the FBI and the IRS before".

" Why?".

" Mitch, we have been slugging it out with the FBI and the IRS in tax litigation for the past 20 years".

Mitch grinned finally. " That makes sense".

Locke stared at Mitch. " Just let us know if it happens again".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:7

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:7 by ric gustafson

Proverbs 1:7 starts with the fear of the Lord. What is the fear of the Lord?. God does not want us to hide from him like Adam and Eve. God wants us to worship and obey him. God is King of the universe. God is worthy of our respect and honor.

Sin is direct disobedience against God. Sin carries consequences. God is merciful. God wants to liberate us from our sins. You need a willing and repentant heart to have holy fear. 

When we fear God, we can understand how great he is. God loves us very much.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 18

the Firm page 18 by ric gustafson

After all the hoopla at the firm over his passing of the bar exam, Mitch quietly entered the deli. It was a quiet place with few customers and greasy chili dogs.

Mitch was reading a prospectus. He did not notice the stranger who had walked in. The stranger sat down opposite Mitch.

" Are you McDeere?".

" Yes". Mitch frowned. " Who are you?".

" Special Agent Wayne Tarrance". He grinned. " FBI".

" What can I do for the FBI?".

" I heard you are the new man at Bendini Lambert and Locke?".

Mitch sighed. " Why should that interest the FBI?".

" I came here to warn you about the firm".

Mitch stared at the FBI agent. " I'm listening".

" First, don't trust anyone". " Number 2, everything you say is likely being recorded". Tarrance handed Mitch a card. " Here's my card". 

" Ok".

" Use it only from a pay phone". He smiled as he stood up. He walked toward the front door. " Remember Mitch, they are listening".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:6

 Proverbs: Proverbs 1:6 by ric gustafson

Proverbs 1:6 talks about the wise and their riddles. To understand God's Word, you do not need a kingship, education or good upbringing. God does not speak in riddles to confuse us. Riddles is to seperate those who desire to learn from those who do not want to learn. 

We have access to God's wisdom. We have the ability to become wise. It is a gracious invitation. When we receive wisdom, we need to pass it on. We need to receive God's wisdom and learn from God's life.

God loves us more than anything else. God wants us to pass his wisdom to others. Praise God.

research help: ' Bible Word Search devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 1:5

 Proverbs: Proverbs 1:5 by ric gustafson

God uses wisdom to better prepare us to help others. Wisdom can apply to every relationship we have. God's wisdom is communal. God's wisdom is amplified in our communities and our families. God's Word is full of wisdom. The wisdom of God's Word is accessible and understandable to everyone. 

God wants us to always grow in wisdom and understanding. God says learn more from me and my ways. 

Pride tries to keep us from true wisdom. A humble heart receives it.

research help: ' Bible Word Search Devotional' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 17

 the Firm page 17 by ric gustafson

Mitch walked up to Nina. She was working on some letters and documents. " Going home soon".

" I think so". She smiled. " You?".

" Probably not".

She put on her coat. " Oh, Mr Lambert wants to see you in the first floor library".

Mitch walked into the crowded library. It was filled to the brim with associates and partners.

" Mitch, we just got a call from Nashville". Lambert frowned. " It's about your bar exam".

" I'm sorry Mr Lambert". Mitch frowned. " I tried to study for it as much as I could".

" There's only one thing left to say Mitch". Mr Lambert stood up and shook Mitch's hand. " Congratulations Counselor".

Mitch was stunned. " What?".

" Mitch, you got the highest score on the bar exam".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric