God page 3

 God page 3 by ric gustafson

Getting to know God is like getting to know a new neighbor. Suppose a new neighbor moves next door. What is your first impression of them?. You will probably ask them different questions to try and figure them out just a little. 

Finding out who God is requires asking questions also. Like a new neighbor, over time you will find out more about God. The only way we can even start to get to know God better is to have a hunger and a thirst to know him. 

The first place to have that hunger and thirst is God's Word. God's Word gives us an accurate picture of Almighty God. God reveals himself to us in 3 ways. In Genesis 1, God is revealed to us as our Great Creator. In the Old Testament, God is revealed as the perfect Judge. In the New Testament, God is revealed as the gracious Savior. 

God the Creator of heaven and earth wants to have a personal relationship with us. He wants us to have joy and peace. We can know God personally because God is a personal spirit. God thinks, feels and wills. The truth is God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' God' by Bill Bright

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Romans 4

 God Reflections: Romans 4 by ric gustafson

Everyone can have faith. Faith in an unbeliever is believing what you know is not so. The faith of someone who believes in God is believing that God will do what he promises to do and act accordingly. 

The object of faith is something that is not seen. To have faith in God is to believe in him even though you cannot see or touch him. You must believe that God has a future for you even though you don't know the future. 

Abraham was the father of the Jewish nation. Abraham was called a friend of God. In Romans 4, the reason Abraham was a friend of God was because he had faith. Abraham had a right relationship with God because of his faith not his works. His works were the result of his faith.

God told Abraham to leave his home and go to a land that God would give him. Why would Abraham do that?. It is because he is a friend of God.

research help: ' Pathway to Victory' by Dr Robert Jeffress

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the woman at the well 2026 page 2

 the woman at the well page 2 by ric gustafson

Ness slowly walked to the front door of their house. She put their water jar by the front door. She put some of the water into a smaller clay jar. She carried it into the house. 

" There you are Ness". Ness's Ima was putting a large clay pot of barley stew on a table. " Please help me set the table".

" Yes Ima".

" Please put a dish of cucumbers and olives on the table".

Ness quickly left to do the tasks.

" And don't forget the bread". Ima frowned. " The men will be in soon".

" Yes Ima".

When Ness had put the last dish on the table, the front door opened.

research help: ' A Deeper Well' by Jill Eileen Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Genesis 1

 God Reflections: Genesis 1 by ric gustafson

When New Years Day comes around, we need to stop alone and spend time with God. We can think about the past year. We can imagine the new year. In Genesis 1, God said let there be light. And there was light. We need to close our eyes and thank God for everything. 

We need to be grateful for everything we have. We can think about hopes and dreams that we have for the new year. We can think about hurts that have healed with time and grace. We need to trust God always every day. 

And then there is light. A new day. A new year. With God. Praise his holy name.

research help: ' Walking in Grace 2026' by Guideposts

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Reid's Story page 1

 Reid's Story page 1 by ric gustafson

My husband Mark and I wake up before 5 in the morning. Today was no exception. Instead of heading for the gym, I could of stayed home with Suzy our puppy. Mark drove the small distance to the gym. Because it was 5 in the morning, we work out with the same group of people. 

When Mark and I came back home, our daughter Jade was already eating breakfast.

" Jade". I smiled. " Why are you up so early this morning?".

" I'm going in early to school this morning". She frowned. " The teacher is going to help me with calculus class".

I smiled. " Have a good day".

After she left, I wondered why my son Reid wasn't up yet.

The time was 7:19 am.

research help: ' Reid's Story' by Joni L Adler

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John and Caroline page 10

 John and Caroline page 10 by ric gustafson

The youngest of Ted Kennedy's sons was Patrick. He was born fragile. He wasn't strong. He had severe asthma. In 1988, 20 year old Patrick was a sophomore at Providence College. He had a health scare when he had a benign tumor removed from his spine. Luckily, he became cancer free.

Patrick wanted to please his father. He decided to become a politician. His platform included the rights of senior citizens and legal immigrants. 

Ted Kennedy was anxious to help his son become a political success. One of Ted's top staff members went on the campaign trail with Patrick. Patrick won the election. He served two terms representing the Ninth District in the Rhode Island House of Represenatives. Then in 1994, Patrick now 27 became the youngest member of Congress.

Ted Kennedy was very proud of his son.

research help: ' The Kennedy Heirs' by J Randy Taraborrelli

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the woman at the well 2026 page 1

 the woman at the well 2026 page 1 by ric gustafson

Ness stopped to allow her friend to catch up. " Hurry Gali they are going to close the gates".

" I'm coming". Gali stopped. " Slow down Ness".

Ness noticed the sun dipping. " We should of come sooner".

" I'm sorry Ness". She frowned. " I had to finish helping my Ima".

As they neared the gates to the city, Ness noticed only one guard at the entrance. After entering the city, Ness and Gali began walking toward the east side of the city.

After a while, they entered Gali's courtyard. 

She put her water jar near the front door. " I'll try to get away earlier tomorrow".

research help: ' A Deeper Well' by Jill Eileen Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 10

 God Reflections: John 10 by ric gustafson

Do you like the number 3?. The past, present and future is three. Animal, mineral and vegetable is 3. There is the rule of 3. 

With our awesome God, 3 is very important. God is 3 in one. Father, Son and Holy Spirit is called the Trinity. Father, Son and Holy Spirit are in perfect and equal union.

John 10 confirms this deity. John 10 says I and the Father are one. We need to be thankful every day that we belong to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

research help: ' Reflections on the names of God' by Ava Pennington

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Happy Birthday from the Sowers page 2

 Happy Birthday from the Sowers page 2 by ric gustafson

Margaret opened the phone book to the restaurant section. She began to thumb down the page.

" Hi Mom" David Sower walked in and put his backpack by the kitchen door. He noticed his mother was looking at the phone book. " What are you doing?".

" I'm going to order pizza for your brother's birthday".

David smiled. " His favorite is ham and pineapple".

She smiled. " I know". She grinned when she found the number she wanted. " How was bible class this afternoon?".

" It was ok". He sat down and began to munch on an apple. " Pastor John did the lecture".

" Did you understand it?".

" It was about the book of Psalms".

She opened her cell phone. " Did you understand it?". She began to dial the number.

" I guess". He frowned. " Not really".

He picked up his backpack. He walked upstairs to his room.

research help: a church sermon

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Hebrews 11

 God Reflections: Hebrews 11 by ric gustafson

We cannot have salvation without faith. We receive grace through faith. We need faith to become more like God. 

Hebrews 11 says by faith Enoch was taken up. Enoch's story is in Genesis 5. Enoch is known for walking with God. He spent his first 65 years apart from God. Then he made a change in his life. He did not have a great start in life. But he had a great end. 

God does not care about your past. God cares about your future. He cares about the direction and path you are going. 

Enoch spent the rest of his life serving God. According to Hebrews 11, Enoch was taken by God straight to heaven. Because of faith, Enoch pleased God. We can do the same. We need to do the same.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Pathway to Victory' by Dr Robert Jeffress

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 9

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 9 by ric gustafson

Harry grinned at Mad Eye. " What's the plan?".

" Your Aunt and Uncle know you're not going to live together again?".

Harry nodded yes.

" When you walk outside this kitchen door for the last time". Mad Eye smiled. " Your mother's charm will break".

" How do you know Voldemort won't find me?".

Moody smiled. " Two reasons my boy".

Everyone in the kitchen grinned.

" First, Voldemort doesn't know we are moving you tonight".

Harry stared at Moody. " And the other reason?".

Moody held up a flask." This".

" Oh no!" Harry exclaimed.

" Yes Harry". Moody grinned. " Seven Harry Potters".

Harry grinned.

" Good luck everyone". Moody stood up. " See you in about an hour at the Burrow".

research help: ' Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows' by J K Rowling

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

8/5/1962 page 3

8/5/1962 page 3 by ric gustafson

Very few people are sought after than Marilyn Monroe. 100 years after her birth, her popularity has not faded. Her films have endured. Monroe's legacy is complex. She has inspired art, literature, fashion and music. She has been adored and mocked. Monroe has been judged. Her body has been called too fat, too thin, beautiful and stupid.

But there is an aspect of Marilyn Monroe that has rarely been talked about. Marilyn Monroe had a passion for reading. Her personal library at home contained over 400 books. She moved a lot. In her short life, she moved to 49 different places.

Let's go to 12305 Fifth Helena Drive in Brentwood California to see Marilyn's last home where she kept all of those books.

research help: ' Marilyn and her books' by Gail Crowther

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Ephesians 2

 God Reflections: Ephesians 2 by ric gustafson

Everyone has a major decision to make in your life. When the time comes for that choice, it can be scary. You are on a ledge looking down below. Jesus is down below with a safety net. Jesus pleads with us to step off of that ledge of unbelief. Jesus asks that we take a leap of faith and jump. 

Jesus will save us with that safety net. Jesus simply asks us to trust him. So how can we jump?. We are saved by God's grace. We are saved through faith. We are saved because of what Jesus did on that cross.

So when Jesus says jump I will trust him and step off that ledge to salvation.

research help: ' Pathway to Victory' by Dr Robert Jeffress

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Paul Simon page 3

 Paul Simon page 3 by ric gustafson

Paul Simon entered kindergarten in the fall of 1946. PS 117 was in Jamaica Queens. Paul entered third grade at PS 164. Paul was described as well liked and smart. He had a tremendous imagination. 

At PS 164 in 1951, Paul met Artie Garfunkel. Both of them were in the fourth grade. Paul right away loved the way Artie sang. Both young men enjoyed the same things. They were both clever and shared the same sense of humor. Both loved baseball. Paul really loved baseball.

Paul and Artie worked on their harmonies together. The first song they wrote together was a doo wop song. It was called ' The Girl For Me'. 

Paul and Artie loved Elvis Presley. They loved his early songs done at Sun Records in Memphis. Paul and Artie tried to sing two part harmony like the Everly Brothers. They loved ' Wake Up Little Susie' and ' Bye Bye Love'.

research help: ' Paul Simon the life' by Robert Hilburn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Hebrews 11

 God Reflections: Hebrews 11 by ric gustafson

Living on this troubled earth, we will have problems. Can we endure problems that come our way?.

 Hebrews 11 gives us that answer. The answer is faith. Faith is not presumption. Faith is not positive thinking. Hebrews 11 talks about ' assurance'. Assurance is that something is going to happen. Assurance is that God is going to do what he promises to do. 

What does Jesus promise to do for us?. He will not spare us from illness or death. Jesus does give us an assurance. Jesus does promise to redeem us when we die and take us to heaven to be with him forever. That is Jesus's assurance his promise to us. 

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Pathway to Victory' by Dr Robert Jeffress

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 24

 the Firm page 24 by ric gustafson

Abby took a sip of wine. " Our phones are tapped?".

" According to the FBI they are".

" They've chosen me for some reason".

" Did you tell Lamar about this visit?".

" No". Mitch's voice hesitated. " Just you".

Abby took another sip of wine. " Mitch, who tapped our phones?".

" The FBI implied it was someone from the firm".

" Why would the firm do that Mitch?". Abby's voice got lower so know one would hear her. " Have you seen any illegal deals?".

Mitch shook his head. " I have not seen anything suspicious".

Abby began to cry. " Mitch, why would a law firm do that?".

Mitch shook his head. " I have no idea".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 23

 the Firm page 23 by ric gustafson

Mitch stared at Eddie Lomax. " Did you find out anything about the three lawyers?".

" Alice Knauss was killed in a car wreck in 1977".

" Who did it?".

" A drunk driver". Eddie's voice hesitated. " The driver was never found".

Mitch gave him a puzzled look. " That's odd".

" Robert Lamm was a deer hunter in Arkansas".

" What happened to him?".

" He went one weekend on a deer hunt".

" Never came back?".

" Found him two weeks later in a ravine". His voice hesitated again. " Shot in the head".

" What about the third?".

" Mickel". He hesitated because of sleet coming down on his face. " Committed suicide at age 34 in 1984".

Mitch frowned. " What do you think of our law firm now Eddie?".

" Mitch, your firm has lost 5 lawyers in 15 years". His voice hesitated again. " Your firm is a dangerous place to work".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Luisitania Miracle page 2

 the Luisitania Miracle page 2 by ric gustafson

a work in progress

I walked past a Cunard man as he talked to an elderly woman. He was wearing a Harris tweed jacket. She was wearing a fox stable. 

" I hope this ship is safe?".

" Of course Madam". The Cunard man smiled as he pointed at the huge liner. " She is the greyhound of the seas".

There was a gentleman standing next to the woman. " Mother, there will be a Royal Navy escort in Great Britain's waters". He stared at the Cunard man. " Right Sir?".

" Of course". The Cunard man smiled. " We have the guarantee of the Admiralty itself".

I walked up to the Cunard man. " I heard this was the fastest steamer to be found".

" Of course". He stared at the people starting to walk up the gangplank. " I shall direct you to the saloon class line". He smiled. " This way if you please".

I picked up my valise and my suitcase. I slowly followed the three up the gangplank.

We entered the Luisitania through the open doors of the Shelter Deck.

research help: ' A Crown of Stars' by Shana Abe

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Holding Heaven page 9

Holding Heaven page 9 by ric gustafson

Joseph held his son tightly. " And now my son". He smiled at his son Jesus. " I will continue the story".

Jesus looked at Joseph.

" After we returned to Bethlehem". He grinned. " We were visited by exotic men from the east".

Jesus stared at his father. 

" They were wise men". Joseph thought for a moment. " They brought you gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh".

Jesus stared at his father.

" They had been following a star for almost 2 years to find you".

Jesus stretched.

" In Jerusalem, they asked where the newborn King of the Jews was?".

Jesus stared at Joseph.

" King Herod found out the Magi wanted to come and worship him".

Joseph frowned. 

" King Herod summoned the Magi to his court".

research help: ' Holding Heaven' by Jerry B Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: James 1

 God Reflections: James 1 by ric gustafson

According to James 1, the word ' testing' can apply to pottery. Also the word ' testing' can also apply to our Christian faith. James 1 says the testing of your faith produces endurance. Heat as far as pottery can cause major problems. The pottery could shatter. It must be discarded. 

Heat can sometimes strengthen pottery. The pottery is good. It will survive the firing oven. 

It is the same with our faith. We will have fiery problems. Will we survive or be shattered?. If we have faith in God, we will survive any problems thrown at us.

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

research help: ' Pathway to Victory' by Dr Robert Jeffress

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 8

 Wine page 8 by ric gustafson

Red Wine can be made from carbonic maceration. Light supergrapey wines such as Beaujolais are made this way. Whole bunches of grapes are put into a closed fermenting tank. The grapes on top crush the grapes below. Yeast on the grape skins, fermentation comes releasing of carbon dioxide. Fermentation from the inside can create a soft fruity grape flavored wine. Then the wine is drained of the skins. It is then drained into barrels. The mixture of wine and solids releases additional wine. Super premium wine are made from free run juice. 

Serious red wine is put in a barrel from a few months to a few years. Usually barrels are oak. In the barrels, chemical interactions will alter the wine's aroma, flavor and texture. After the wine is oak aged, wine can be filtered before bottling. Wine is filtered to avoid being spoiled by bacteria. 

In filtering, there are several types. One is where porous pads made of simple fibers. After filtering, the wine is bottled. 

The greatest red wine experiences both barrel and bottle aging.

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Hebrews 11

 God Reflections: Hebrews 11 by ric gustafson

Do you believe that God created everthing?. You could have a traditional religious viewpoint and say yes. Or you can have a dominant scientific viewpoint and say no way. Either viewpoint involves faith. Genesis 1 says in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. But what if our faith is based on our own limited observation and interpretation?. Those who reject God use unreliable confidence. As Christians, our faith is based on what the Creator declares in his Word. We accept God's Word by faith.

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

research help: ' Our daily times with God' by Discovery House Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 8

 God Reflections: Psalm 8 by ric gustafson

Because of doing a job right, some people get a good reputation. Because of the quality of their work, the person has made a name for himself. 

God is like that. Look what God's workmanship has done. God made the planets and the stars. God made the seas and the animal world. God made man. Crowned with glory and honor. Made a little lower than the angels. Has been given authority over all creation. 

We need to praise God. Psalm 8 says our Lord how excellent is your name in all the earth. We need to magnify God. We need to exalt God. Why?. Because God is the one who made us and crowned us with glory and honor.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Our daily times with God' by Discovery House Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 8

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 8 by ric gustafson

Harry Potter watched as the Dursley's car left the driveway. He walked over and picked up Hedwig's cage. He also picked up his Firebolt and his rucksack. He walked downstairs. He put the items at the foot of the stairs. He looked around. Harry knew he was leaving the house for the last time.

From the kitchen, Harry looked out the kitchen window into the back garden. He heard a noise in the distance. Out of the darkness came an enourmous motorbike. It had a black sidecar. He burst through the back door. It was Harry's friend Hagrid.

" All right Harry". He smiled. " Ready for the off?".

" Of course". Harry heard another noise. He walked over to the kitchen window. He looked out. He noticed several brooms and 2 black winged horses.

Harry turned. " Hagrid, who else is coming?".

Hagrid grinned. He opened the kitchen door. 

In walked in Harry's friends, Ron, Hermione, Fred, George, Bill, Mr Weasley, Mad Eye, Tonks, Lupin, Fleur and Kingsley. Lastly, Harry's friend Moody came in.

" Everyone sit down". Moody said loudly. " We need to plan Harry's escape".

research help: ' Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows' by J K Rowling

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Genesis 1

God Reflections: Genesis 1 by ric gustafson

There is somebody deep in the universe who has absolute power. Deep in the universe this person resides at an unknown address. How do we know this person has absolute power?. This person created the universe. 

Genesis 1 says that in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. God created everything. He spared no detail. God saw everything that he had made. God said it was very good.

Even though sin spoiled God's handiwork, God's power still reigns.

Later, God became man. He died. He was resurrected. This act brought creation full circle to it's life giving essence. It shows that God has the power to deliver from death. God's power reigns.

research help: ' Our daily times with God' by Discovery House Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 15

 Beatles Anthology page 15 by ric gustafson

My name is Ringo Starr

When I was 12, I started at Dingle Vale Secondary Modern School. I had to walk 30 minutes to get there. I would usually walk through Princes Park or down Park Road.

At 11, my stepfather came into the picture. His name was Harry. My Mum loved him. So did I. He was a painter and a decorator. At 13, Mum wanted to marry Harry. How could I say no.

At 13, I got pleurisy. I had bad lungs. When the bad lungs became tuberculosis, I was put into a hospital for a year. The nurses would bring toy instruments around to keep us occupied. That was when I started banging on a toy drum.

After 13, I left school for good. My first proper job was a messenger on the railways. I was there only 5 weeks. Then I worked on a pleasure steamer. In 1956 or 57, I did not want to be called up to the army. I became an apprentice engineer. The firm was H Hunt and Son.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God page 2

 God page 2 by ric gustafson

It is not a simple task to understand God. Because our awesome God has overwhelming majesty. How can I a mere man try to describe the God of the universe. God is all powerful, holy and righteous. God wants us to know him. God came down in our limited form as a human. God was born as a baby in a manger in a small village called Bethlehem. This was God's love to us because he desires for us to know him.

What prevents us from getting to know God better. Can we trust God completely?. God has provided us a way to understand him more. It is his love. The Holy Spirit is here to reveal to us our Creator and Savior. An intimate walk with God will produce joy in our life. 

To describe what God can do in your life, let us look at a man named John Newton. Newton's mother was a Christian. Newton's father was an English sea captain. Newton joined the British Royal Navy. But he was discharged because of unruly behavior. Newton moved to Africa and worked for a slave trader. Eventually, Newton became a captain of a slave ship. 

On one voyage, there was a fierce storm. Fearing for his life, Newton surrendered his life to God. Knowing slavery was wrong, he began to crusade against it. Newton became a minister. Because now he knew God, Newton penned one of the greatest hymns of all time.

The hymn is called ' Amazing Grace'.

Only God can change a slave trader to a minister.

research help: ' God' by Bill Bright

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Lusitania miracle page 1

the Lusitania miracle page 1 by ric gustafson

a work in progress

I stood on Cunard Pier 54. It was a wet Saturday spring morning. I was watching the chaos going on before me. The pier was alive with passengers, crew and Cunard Company personnel. As I stared at the large black and white ship, I could sense someone was standing next to me. I turned. It was an older gentleman. He was holding that day's edition of the New York newspaper ' World'. He frowned as he pointed at the Lusitania.

" So you are going to be a passenger on this huge ship?".

I smiled back. " I am". 

The gentleman opened the newspaper. " Did you read the notice on page 5?".

" I did". I frowned at the notice. " I need to get to Liverpool as soon as possible".

He began to walk away. " I will pray for you and the ship".

research help: ' A Crown of Stars' by Shana Abe

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 59

 God Reflections: Psalm 59 by ric gustafson

Some people are morning people. Some are evening and night people. God's Word says that mornings are a great time to read God's Word and pray. Psalm 141 talks about evening praise, evening offerings and evening worship. Psalm 59 talks about the morning. That each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. 

We all have different body clocks. It could be morning or evening, it doesn't matter to God. What does matter is that we honor him by praying to him and reading God's Word.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God page 1

 God page 1 by ric gustafson

I love God more than anything else. Is it possible to know a great God who created everything?. Can we trust God enough with the most sensitive areas of our lives?. Do we know God enough to love and obey him?. The most important thing in life is to know, love and serve God.

Our attitudes, motives, desires and actions are influenced by our view of God. Our friendships, our work and our leisure. We cannot see God unless we have the right view of him. Our view of God can be bad or good. Karl Marx denied the existence of God. Martin Luther believed in God totally.

Someone with a false belief in God leads to sin and corruption. A life of faith brings blessings from God for oneself and generations to come.

 

research help: ' God' by Bill Bright

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: 3 John 1

 God Reflections: 3 John 1 by ric gustafson

The soul has been described as the inner life. The soul is our thinking, beliefs, attitudes and feelings. Our brain is on 24 hours a day. It needs a constant supply of energy. Our physical body needs food. We need our body to be fed and healthy so that our soul can be fed also. 

God wants us to be glorious in our bodies. In Philippians 1, the Apostle Paul wants us to magnify Christ in our body by life or by death.

The truth is God loves you more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Happy Birthday from the Sowers page 1

 Happy Birthday from the Sowers page 1 by ric gustafson

Margaret Sower licked the cake spoon. She put it in the sink. She smiled as Michael Sower entered the spacious kitchen. He gave his mother a big hug. " Mom, you don't have to make a cake for me".

" Yes I do". She smiled.

Michael scratched his chin. " What kind am I getting this year?".

" German Chocolate". She smiled again. " Your favorite".

" It is". He hugged her again. " I am also curious about the present I saw in the closet".

" You saw that". She grinned as she put the cake in the oven. " It is your birthday present".

" Mom, you did not have to".

" Your father and I want to". She hugged him again. " We love you so much".

research help: a church sermon

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 3

God Reflections: Matthew 3 by ric gustafson

When we think of fruit, we think of actual fruit to eat. There is also a different kind of fruit talked about in God's Word. In Galatians 5, the Apostle Paul describes the fruit of the Spirit. Fruit by the Holy Spirit is evidence that God's grace is transforming us. Spiritual fruit produces a harvest of goodness to feed a hope deficient world. 

There is no fake spiritual fruit. We cannot pretend to be like Jesus. We cannot pretend good spiritual fruit when it is not. Spiritual fruit must be rooted in a right relationship with God.

If we come to know Jesus, spiritual fruit will come.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Paul Simon page 2

 Paul Simon page 2 by ric gustafson

On Feb 16 1967, Paul Frederic Simon was trying to explain in his lawyer's office who he was. He explained that as a senior in high school, he and best friend Artie Garfunkel recorded their first pop tune. It was a hit. Right away, they signed a recording contract with a small New York recording company.

Simon and Garfunkel needed a stage name for their act. Someone from the recording company came up with the names of Tom and Jerry. Paul and Artie recorded at least 8 songs after the success of ' Schoolgirl'. None of them were a hit. The two friends decided to go their seperate ways.

In 1963, Simon and Garfunkel reunited and became folksingers. Their last names became their stage name. The duo from 1963 to 1965 crafted meloncholic songs that resounded with their generation. In late 1965, their song ' The Sound of Silence' broke into Billboard's top 100. They were on their way. But first they had to clean up their past.

research help: ' Home Ward Bound' by Peter Ames Carlin

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Nine page 13

the Nine page 13 by ric gustafson

It was Sunday October 25 1959. The nine year old boy stood between Chestnut Avenue and Division Street. The town was Trenton New Jersey. The boy was dressed in his Sunday best. The boy and his family watched as a bronze statue of Christopher Columbus was being raised. The boy's family was part of Trenton's Italian American community. This community accounted for 25 percent of Trenton New Jersey's population.

On July 8 2020, Samuel Anthony Alito Jr watched as city workers dismantled the Christopher Columbus statue. The statue pieces were hauled away. The Supreme Court Justice was sad. What had happened to the statue rankled Alito. He had studied at Princeton University. At law school, people knew Alito as shy but kind and polite. 

Alito had joined the Supreme Court in 2006. He became known as the Justice who spoke out in public.

research help: ' Revenge for the Sixties' by Peter S Canellos

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Hebrews 10

 God Reflections: Hebrews 10 by ric gustafson

Our culture today is about individualism and self sufficiency. A world view has it's strength. We don't want to act needy. Society has been taken up by pride. And also foolishness. It all ends with spiritual, social, emotional and relational failure. 

God created us for community. God created us for friendship. We were designed to need others. We need the wisdom, guidance and encouragement of other believers. 

Others need our love. We need the love of others. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 147

 God Reflections: Psalm 147 by ric gustafson

God is the great Physician. God can heal and repair you. God can heal you socially, physically and spiritually. God can restore our hearts. He can restore our emotional damage. 

No matter what happens in our lives, there is always hope. There is always the possibility of recovery. Healing is possible. Forgiveness is possible. God causes all things to work for our good. Heartbreak can and will grow us.

Bad habits can clog our spiritual lives. God can cut out the bad habits in our hearts. He can and he will.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 11

 God Reflections: John 11 by ric gustafson

Women cry 30 to 60 times a year. Men cry 5 to 15 times per year. Wether you are a male or female, you are an emotional being. John 11 says Jesus wept. We were created in the image of an emotional God. 

Jesus loved people. Jesus loves us. We need to be emotionally available. It will cost us courage and vulnerability. It will cost us tears. Tears can soften a hard heart.

Jesus loves us more than anything else. 

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 56

 God Reflections: Psalm 56 by ric gustafson

Jesus wept at the graveside of his friend according to John 11. Jesus is a victorious God, Master and Creator. Jesus is unafraid and unlimited. But Jesus was also a person like you and me. Jesus was moved by sadness and other's distress. 

Because Jesus felt physical and emotional pain, he knows our pain. Jesus knows our tears and our cries. Jesus loves us. When we get home to heaven, Jesus will be waiting for us. He will hug us with his nail pierced hands. Jesus will count and then wipe away our tears.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: Psalm 30

 God Reflections: Psalm 30 by ric gustafson

When we feel helpless, sometimes frustration and anger comes out. We get trapped in traffic, we are in the middle of unresolved family relations or we have a financial downturn. It is easy to feel powerless. 

Jesus died and rose again. 

He promised us that he would not leave us alone. According to John 14, Jesus sent us an Advocate, a Helper and a Comforter. It is the Holy Spirit. 

Jesus wants us to call out for him. He will give us help, hope and comfort. 

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

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Ecclesiastes 9

God Reflections: Ecclesiastes 9 by ric gustafson

Every child wants the approval of their parents. Even as adults, we long for acceptance. We think that God is disappointed with us. We are worried that God is bothered by our actions and let down by our choices. 

The truth is God cares for us more than we think. God cares about our heart more than rules. God is pleased by us. Not the other way around.

As a Christian, we need to honor God with our actions. Our actions do not validate our salvation. It is comforting to know that God has a constant approval of you. God will always accept you.

God loves you more than anything else.

research help: ' When God thinks of you he smiles' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John and Caroline page 9

 John and Caroline page 9 by ric gustafson

In March 1991, Senator Edward Moore Kennedy was spending time at the family's Palm Beach estate. He looked horrible. Overweight in an ivory golf shirt and matching shorts. A tumbler of scotch in his hand. His eyes were red. His face was paunchy. He looked terrible.

In March of 1991, Senator Ted Kennedy was 59. He had been a Senator for about 30 years. When Jack Kennedy became President, Ted took over his brother's Senate seat.

As Senator, Ted Kennedy sponsored hundreds of bills. He was also a surrogate father to Jack's and Bobby's children. 

Ted Kennedy married Virginia Joan Bennett in 1958. Son Teddy Jr went to the University of Connecticut School of Law. Eventually, he dealt in litigation and disability issues. Daughter Kara married real estate developer Michael Allen. Ted's youngest son Patrick went into politics. At age 27, Patrick Kennedy became the youngest member of Congress.

research help: ' The Kennedy Heirs' by J Randy Taraborrelli

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Ephesians 5

 God Reflections: Ephesians 5 by ric gustafson

Our time on this sinful earth is short. We only have so many days. We can use our limited time here wisely or not wisely. Some people get very upset when their time is wasted. Some people think praying is a waste of time. In Ephesians 5, The Apostle Paul thinks otherwise. God wants us to pray to him constantly. 

Praying is not wasted time. God wants us to pray and then listen.

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

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Joshua 3

God Reflections: Joshua 3 by ric gustafson

The Israelites had been wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. Then one day, they came to a grove of acacia trees. These trees were just east of the Jordan River. Finally, the people were about to enter the Promised Land. Joshua 3 says sanctify yourselves for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you. 

When the people came up to the Jordan River, the priests were challenged?. Would the swollen water of the Jordan keep them from crossing?. Would the people be swept away in the water?. 

The priests stepped into the water by faith. God backed up the water all the way to a village called Adam. God removed the threat. Faith won out over fear. 

The people followed the priests across a dry river bed to the Promised Land.

Whatever God is calling you to do for him, like the priests take the first step.

God loves you more than anything else.

research help: ' Places in the Bible' by Woodrow Kroll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 7

Wine page 7 by ric gustafson

Grape skins contain tannin. Red wine contains more tannin than white wine. Tannin is the backbone of wine. Tannin acts like a preservative. Red wine can age far longer than white wine because of tannin. Cabernet Sauvignon has a significant amount of tannin. Pinot Noir has only a moderate amount of tannin. 

When you have bitter tannin to the juice, stems are usually removed by putting the grape bunches into a machine. The machine is called a crusher destemmer. With less tannic varieties such as Grenache or Pinot Noir, the stems are left.

Today, red wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks. These tanks are easier to clean and easier to control temperature. Winemakers can use cultured yeasts. This can help with control and rate of fermentation. The speed of fermentation affects the flavor of the wine. Slower fermentation produces more complex wine.

Fermentation is a chemical reaction during which carbon dioxide gas and heat are thrown off. Yeast converts grape sugar into alcohol. Then carbon dioxide bubbles up from the mass and pushes the skins up to the surface. 

Allowing the sugar to become alcohol can take several days to a few weeks. Then wine becomes dry. Ripe grapes contain an amount of sugar that will result in wine containing 8 to 15 percent alcohol. 

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 14

 Beatles Anthology page 14 by ric gustafson

My name is Ringo Starr

On Madryn Street, we had a two bedroom house. One for my Mum. One for me. My grandparents lived on Madryn Street. My dad was gone. I was an only child. I was brought up by my grandparents and my mother. One of my saddest moments is when my Grandfather died. I was 19 or 20. I started school at St Siles. It was just up the road from our house.

At 6 and a half, I became deathly ill. My appendix burst. I had peritonitis. It was a heavy operation. Because of all the time recovering, I did not go back to school for two years.

Then we moved to the Dingle. It was a rough area of Liverpool. I had a couple of friends I spent time with. Merchant Seamen would bring back records and styles of clothes. 

My first musical memory about age 8 was Gene Autry.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Paul Simon page 1

 Paul Simon page 1 by ric gustafson

Paul Fredric Simon was born on Oct 13 1941 in Newark New Jersey. Before his second birthday, the family moved to Kew Gardens Hills in Queens New York. Paul's uncle was Lee Schulman. He was a graphic artist who lived in Kew Gardens Hills. The area was a middle class neighborhood. Rows of attached and semiattached homes to the Simon family seemed like the American dream.

Paul loved music. His father Lou bought Paul a Stadium acoustic guitar. When he turned 13, Paul's brother Edward was born on Dec 14 1945.

To friends and family, the Simon family was a happy one. Paul's parents met through music. Belle Schulman met Paul's father Lou. Lou was playing in a band. 

They married on Sept 15 1938 in Newark. Both Belle and Lou were children of immigrants.

research help: ' Paul Simon the life' by Robert Hilburn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 139

 God Reflections: Psalm 139 by ric gustafson

We were not created by God quickly. God created us with intention and thoughtfulness. God as the loving maker crafted our personalities and preferences. God was pleased when he created us. According to Psalm 139, I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. 

We are God's masterpiece. God delights in us more than anything else. God does not regret how he made us. He does not regret creating us. We are unique. We have a special purpose in this world. 

God loves you more than anything else.

research help: ' When God thinks of you he smiles' by Broad Street Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Isaiah 49

 God Reflections: Isaiah 49 by ric gustafson

We are always forgetting things. We forget car keys, meetings and anniversaries. The truth is God will not forget you. Isaiah 49 says though she may forget, I will not forget you. God is saying these things with pure joy, deep comfort and sublime refreshment. 

We forget things. God will not. Our Creator King loves us and cares deeply for us. We might feel abandoned and alone. But God will never forget us. Why?. Because he loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 5

 God Reflections: Matthew 5 by ric gustafson

Too much salt is not good for us. At the time of Jesus, salt was very important. Before now with processed food, salt was a critical flavor and natural preservative. 

We are called to preserve the good ways of a good God. We have been called to bring the flavor of joy and expectation to people living in hopelessness.

God wants us to be salt and goodness. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Doc Holliday page 4

 Doc Holliday page 4 by ric gustafson

Not far from the hotel he was staying at, Doc Holliday stared at a vacant storefront. Wearing a dark suit, a gold watch chain around his middle and a narrow brimmed hat, he stuck his pistol in his waistband. 

His stare became a grin. This storefront would be perfect for his new dental practice. He was trained to be a dentist. That is why his nickname was Doc. The first thing he did was rent the storefront by the month. Then he went to a cabinetmaker. He ordered a reclining chair with a padded headrest. His plan was to open shop within the week. 

Later that evening, Holliday walked through the sporting district. The district covered 3 city blocks. Holliday had a drink at some of the dives. 

Holliday's favorite game was draw poker. Jacks or better to open. Check and raise permitted. The dive he chose to be his favorite was the Acme Gaming Palace. 

That first night, Holliday was 50 dollars ahead.

research help: ' Doc Holliday' by Matt Braun

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 119

 God Reflections: Psalm 119 by ric gustafson

There is a theory that the Apostle Paul had an eye disease. He may have had failing vision. He may have had trouble with his eyesight, he did not have trouble with his spiritual eyesight. Psalm 119 says open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions. 

We need a spiritual eyesight so we can see the glory and the goodness of God in the land of the living. Let's increase our spiritual vision on the truths of God's Word.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Romans 12

 God Reflections: Romans 12 by ric gustafson

By ourselves or with others, The Apostle Paul has instructions for us to follow. According to Romans 12, Paul tells us to give your body to God. Paul says our body should be a holy and living sacrifice. A sacrifice God will find acceptable. Paul says this is truly the way to worship him. 

Each day we need to feel comfortable in the acceptance of a Savior who's always working in us and through us to bless the world.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 6

 God Reflections: John 6 by ric gustafson

We love eating bread. We love toast. When we eat normal bread, after a period of time we want more. In John 6, Jesus explains that he is the Bread of Life. Jesus says your ancestors ate manna in the wilderness. They all died. Jesus tells us that his bread from heaven will never die. Jesus explains that he is the living bread that came down from heaven. Jesus says that anyone who eats this bread will live forever.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 6

 Wine page 6 by ric gustafson

We have had wine for over 5000 years. Wine is a natural complex process. It is called fermentation. In the 1850's, Louis Pasteur did research which linked sugar's conversion to alcohol. This is called fermentation. Living organisms were called yeasts.

Until World War II, most wines were white or red wine. The other exception was fortified wine. This included sherry, port and champagne. By the 1960's, temperature controlled stainless steel tanks were introduced. Winemakers then could sculpt a wine's aroma, flavor, texture and finish. 

At harvest, the emphasis shifts to the cellar. The juice of both red and white grapes is almost colorless. During fermentation, heat is generated. Alcohol is generated. The color of the grapes is from the color pigment from the skins. This tints the surrounding wine. With white wine, the skins are separated from the juice before the juice is fermented. This happens with white wine made from red grapes. 

Next we will look at the making of red wine.

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Galatians 3

 God Reflections: Galatians 3 by ric gustafson

The Apostle Paul sends the Galatian Christians a stern message. Paul told them Jesus set you free. Free from sin. Free from the law's impossible standards. Paul wants to know why they want to go back to legalism. Why are they trying to become perfect by their own human effort.

Paul was concerned that these Christians who had started their Christian lives in the Spirit were now trying to please themselves.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 98

 God Reflections: Psalm 98

The universe needs music. It needs melodies, rhythm and song. God made music part of our humanity. Music expresses desire, aspiration and celebration. God created worship. Worship is the very point of our existence. 

Psalm 98 says sing a new song to the Lord. By singing yourself or with others you create immediate worship. Why sing to God?. Because he has done wonderful deeds.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Peter 3

 God Reflections: I Peter 3 by ric gustafson

Nobody loves to suffer. Nobody wants the misery. I Peter 3 talks about to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. The roads of suffering are horrid. Grief, fear and disappointment can make people disillusioned and bitter. You can feel cheated and think life is totally unfair.

Jesus never did one thing wrong. Yet he suffered more than anyone else in history. Jesus took upon himself all of our shame. He took the blame of all humanity. 

The truth is that Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Proverbs 27

 God Reflections: Proverbs 27 by ric gustafson

Nobody knows how long you will be on this sinful earth. Proverbs 27 says don't brag about tomorrow. Proverbs 27 also says you don't know what the day will bring. God does not want us to worry about today. God does not want us to worry about tomorrow. God does not want us to worry. God wants us to stay humble. We need to be thankful for today. This moment is all we have. We need to be grateful. 

There are no guarantees in this broken world. God loves us today and tommorow.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Nine page 12

 the Nine page 12 by ric gustafson

On Sept 18 2020, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died from pancreatic cancer. She was 87. For Liberals, it was a crushing blow. Ginsburg was beloved by advocates of abortion and other feminist causes.

Trump's nominee to replace Ginsburg was Amy Coney Barrett. Barrett was a highly respected law professor at Notre Dame. She was considered an expert on Federal courts, constitutional law and statutory interpretation. The Senate confirmed Barrett on Oct 26 2020. Senator McConnell had pushed Barrett's confirmation through.

During a typical case, The Supreme Court usually allowed 1 hour for oral arguments. Lawyers from each side had 30 minutes to make their case. During the Covid pandemic, oral arguments were conducted by streaming and teleconference.

research help: ' Alito' by Mollie Hemingway

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 7

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 7 by ric gustafson

Dudley sighed. " I'm going with the Order people".

Harry grinned. " Dudley, now you are talking sense".

Uncle Vernon pointed at the TV.

Harry pointed at the TV. " Everything bad that is happening is because of Voldemort". He frowned. " Voldemort will be looking for you".

The doorbell rang. A small man in a top hat entered. " Harry Potter". He smiled. " An honor as ever".

" Dedalus, this is my Aunt, Uncle and Cousin".

" Good day to you relatives of Harry Potter". He took a pocket watch out of his waistcoat. " Did Harry explain the plan?".

Uncle Vernon frowned. " Not really".

" We will be leaving before Harry".

" And then?" exclaimed Dudley.

" We will be escorting the three of you to a safe location".

research help: ' Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows' by J K Rowling

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Proverbs 26

God Reflections: Proverbs 26 by ric gustafson

Stress is a part of our lives. Sooner or later, we must learn to manage it. If it involves tricks and tools, we must do it. We must use stress in a positive way. Deadlines and drawbacks can hold us back. 

Sometimes when we have stress, we just want it to go away. Then stress waits for us. 

And not only stress comes but also fear, depression and anxiety. God says do not ignore stress. God says to us give me your stress I will take it away from you. That is a promise he gives to us.

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

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Chrstian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 16

 God Reflections: John 16 by ric gustafson

Life is complicated. Lose your job, lose a loved one, lose your car keys something always happens. Jesus tells us in John 16, trouble will happen. Complications in this life will feel it is beyond our power to manage. 

When troubles and storms come into our lives, Jesus says take heart. We can't know what's coming and can't always control it. Jesus knows we can make a good choice in those events. We can trust Jesus. In John 16, Jesus says I have overcome the world. We can trust Jesus. Why?. Because he has overcome the world.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Red Riding Hood page 2

 Red Riding Hood page 2 by ric gustafson

As Violet reached her grandmother's cottage front door, she thought about Robert Mercer. Robert's father was a landowner who lived on the other side of the stream. Violet did not like him. He did not want to directly want to talk to her. He said he loved Violet. He did not show it. Her mother wanted her to marry Robert Mercer. She did not.

" Grandmother, it's me Violet" Violet exclaimed loudly as she entered the cottage.

Her grandmother walked over, kissed her cheek and gave her a big hug. " I was wishing for a visit from you".

Violet gave her grandmother the basket. " I brought you some bread, cake and cheese".

" Thank you my sweet Violet". She gave her another hug. " Your red riding cloak goes with your dark brown hair".

" Are you feeling ok Grandmother?".

" Physically yes, money wise no".

" What happened?".

" Brigands came and took all my money".

research help: ' Cloak of Scarlet' by Melanie Dickerson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 10

 God Reflections: John 10 by ric gustafson

Sometimes it seems we live on rations. God does not ration us. God does not have a miserly existence. God is a boundless God. God is everywhere. God has all time power. God has wisdom and kindness. To show his limitless love to us, he sent his only Son to save us from eternal death.

John 10 says that I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 

God's love to us is overflowing and never stops.

research help: ' Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John and Caroline page 8

 John and Caroline page 8 by ric gustafson

John and Caroline had memories of their grandparents Joseph Patrick Kennedy was born of a political family in Boston. Joseph's family had emigrated from Ireland in 1848. Joseph's dream was to be President. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt wanted to fight in the war. Joseph Kennedy did not.

In 1914, Joseph married Rose Fitzgerald. She was the daughter of John Francis Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald was Boston's 1st Irish mayor.

The first tragedy of Joseph and Rose's marriage was their 3rd child Rose Marie Kennedy. Nicknamed Rose Mary had a lobotomy in 1941. She came out of the surgery severely handicapped. She visited the Kennedy Compound once or twice a year.

Tragedy struck the family again in 1944. Son Joe Kennedy Jr was killed in a Navy mission over the English Channel. When his son Joe Kennedy Jr died, Joseph did not know who would carry the family's political name. 

All eyes fell on son Jack Kennedy. His nickname was JFK.

research help: ' The Kennedy Heirs' by J Randy Taraborrelli

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 51

 God Reflections: Psalm 51 by ric gustafson

God does not desire a sacrifice. God does not desire a burnt offering. According to Psalm 51, God does desire that we come to him with a broken spirit. God will not reject a broken heart. God will not reject a repentant heart.

God wants to give us favor every day. God wants us to be free. God wants us to be energized by his splendid love. The truth is God loves us more than anything else.

research help: Mini Devotions to refresh your heart' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 22

the Firm page 22 by ric gustafson

Abby walked into the crowded terrrarium. She sat down and waited for her new friend to arrive. Cautious by nature, it took Abby a while to make new friends. Her new friend Kay Quin was always late. In the short time they have known each other, Kay has become Abby's tour guide, shopping consultant and decorator. 

Kay frowned. " Sorry I'm late".

" That's ok".

" So you are out of school?".

Abby grinned. " Yes until Jan 6".

They both ordered wine.

" What are your plans for Christmas?".

" I'd like to visit my folks in Kentucky". Abby frowned. " I doubt Mitch will be able to join me".

" Because of his work schedule".

" Yes". Abby frowned. " He works seven days a week".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Red Riding Hood page 1

 Red Riding Hood page 1 by ric gustafson

Spring 1386

Violet was sitting on her mule's saddle. In front of her was a basket. In it was her mother's fresh bread and apple cherry cake she had made. Violet tightened the red cloak that her grandmother had given her. There was a chill in the early morning air.

" Whoa Mistress Sally". Violet patted the mule's neck. The mule stopped. They had reached the crossroads near her mother's village.

Two weeks prior, Violet had met a young man riding a warhorse.

" Pardon me". He smiled. " Can you tell me the way to Bilborough?".

" Yes, stay on this road". Violet pointed. " You will reach Bilborough in about 15 miles".

" Thank you". He grinned. " May I ask your name?".

" Violet of Burwelle".

" I am Sir Merek of Dericott".

research help: ' Cloak of Scarlet' by Melanie Dickerson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 5

 Wine page 5 by ric gustafson

A lot of grapes can produce about 60 cases or 720 bottles. That varies as far as the amount of juice. Small berries will have less juice than large grape bunches. When grapes are barely pressed, the juice free runs.

Grape vines come in different shapes and sizes. Vine shapes and sizes is determined by grape variety and the climate. Also how the vines are pruned and spaced. 

Pruning is the process of cutting back the vines while they are dormant. Some people consider pruning an art and a science. What is left is the basis for the next year's crop. Pruning can not be too much or too little. 

The spacing of grape vines has become an art. In the past, economics determined vine spacing. The closer grape vines are spaced, their roots compete for the same soil, nutrients and water. The better balanced the vineyard the better the grapes and the better the wine. 

Grapes picked by hand is now a thing of the past. Mechanical harvesting is being used more around the world. There is no perfect yield. Every vineyard has a breaking point. Too many grapes will cause the vineyard to be out of balance. Then the quality of the wine will plummet.

Next we will talk about how wine is made.

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 14

 God Reflections: John 14 by ric gustafson

In an Upper Room, Jesus tells his disciples the words of John 14. People think they know the way. In John 14, Jesus proclaims I am the way the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 

Jesus just told his disciples that he was going away. Only Thomas honestly admitted that he did not know the way. 

Jesus knew that he was the only way. Jesus himself is the way. Jesus always spoke the truth. Jesus lived the truth. Jesus was the truth.

Jesus says open your heart. Jesus died on the cross so we could have life. He who has the Son has life. Jesus wants to come into our heart. Let him. Jesus loves you more than anything else.

research help: ' God Reflections' by Roma Downey and Mark Burnett

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the miracle on Titanic page 17

 the miracle on Titanic page 17 by ric gustafson

As David and Charlene gazed up at a spectacular moonlight, Fourth Officer Boxhall was reworking the ship's route on a chart. He was worried about the route Mr Ismay wanted to take. The winter had been very warm and bergs and pack ice was worse this year than normal. Another thing bothering the young officer was a coal fire that was still not put out. The liner was going at full steam. 

First Officer Murdoch walked onto the bridge. " Boxhall, did you get those binoculars?".

" Aye Sir". He handed the leathercase to the officer. " Why can't they have them in the Crow's Nest?".

The officer gruffly replied. " They don't need them".

The next morning April 11, David was looking over the railing at the beautiful Irish coastline. " So the devil had to ask permission before he could tempt Job?".

" That's right". Charlene smiled. " God only allows as much as the person can handle".

They stopped a steward. " Why are we anchoring at this point and not docked?".

" The ship is too large to berth".

David watched as a tug carried new passengers to the huge ship.

They stopped Officer Murdoch. " How many passengers came onboard?".

" 120 I believe".

research help: ' Murder on the Titanic' by Jim Walker

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric