Beatles Anthology page 11

 Beatles Anthology page 11 by ric gustafson 

My name is George Harrison.

One day, I had to go to the hospital. I ended up at Alder Hey Hospital for 6 weeks. While I was there, I wanted to get my first guitar. My Mum gave me the money. It was a cheap guitar. It fell apart. I put the pieces in a cupboard for a year. Then my brother Pete fixed it for me.

One day, I met Paul McCartney on the bus. We were on the same bus coming from school. From my house, it took 20 minutes walking to get to the bus. 

On that bus, I noticed that Paul had a trumpet. Paul noticed I had a guitar. Paul was 13. I was 12. At that time, I loved listening to Fats Domino, the Coasters and Elvis. One time in 1956, I got to see Lonnie Donegan, Danny and the Juniors and the Crew Cuts. In 1958, I got to see Eddie Cochran. He was cool. He wore a black leather waistcoat, a raspberry coloured shirt and black leather trousers.

Lonnie Donegan started a music craze called skiffle. I started a skiffle group called the Rebels.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the miracle on Titanic page 16

 the miracle on Titanic page 16 by ric gustafson

" Ten degrees port Mr Hichens" Fourth Officer Boxhall bellowed. " Steady as she goes".

First Officer William Murdoch looked up toward the Crow's Nest. " Do you have our binoculars?".

" No Sir" Boxhall replied. " I gave them to Fleet".

" Do we have another pair?".

" No Sir". Boxhall frowned. " I believe it is the only pair we have on board".

Anger came over the First Officer's face. " You make sure that pair gets back to the bridge".

" Aye Sir".

Just then, Captain Smith entered the bridge. His white uniform and white beard struck an instant presence. Behind him was Bruce Ismay. He was the Director of the White Star Line.

Ismay picked up a chart. " When do we arrive at Queensland Captain?".

Captain Smith stroked his white beard. " By noon tomorrow according to my chart".

Ismay glanced at another chart. " What is this course?".

" This is the course Mr Boxhall has laid out for us".

Ismay stared at the Fourth Officer. " Why?".

" It is a safer route". Boxhall smiled. " We can also watch out better for ice".

" Nonsense". Ismay growled. " It will add a day".

Boxhall frowned. " Sir, what about the ice?".

" If you get any reports of ice". Ismay looked at the Fourth Officer. " You bring them directly to me".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Timothy 6

 God Reflections: I Timothy 6 by ric gustafson

Some people think that money is the root of all evil. Then you would think that there is something bad about wealth. God's Word does not teach this. God's Word teaches that the love of money is a source of all kinds of evil. 

Wealth can be a good thing. It can be used for wonderful things. It can also be a bad thing for certain people. It can ruin people. In this passage, Paul is writing to a young protege. His name is Timothy. 

Jesus teaches that people use their resources to do good, be generous and be willing to share.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a New Hope page 2

 a New Hope page 2 by ric gustafson

C-3Po and R2-D2 watched as Rebel troops ran into the main corridor. They took up a defensive position near a sealed hatch.

C-3po turned to R2-D2. " We're doomed".

R2-D2 replied with whistles and beeps.

" There'll be no escape for the princess this time".

C-3po could hear strange noises coming from the ship's outer hall. " What's that?".

R2-D2 beeped.

Suddenly, the sealed hatch exploded. As the smoke cleared, an Imperial stormtrooper stepped through the hatch. Wearing a white helmet, he was cut down from Rebel return fire. A second stormtrooper came right behind him. He was cut down also as more stormtroopers poured into the corridor. Rebels began to retreat. C-3po and R2-D2 quickly exited the main corridor.

Then a tall caped figure walked out of the hatch into the corridor. He was dressed fully in black.

research help: ' A New Hope' by Ryder Windham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Joshua 24

 God Reflections: Joshua 24 by ric gustafson

Joshua was important in the Bible. He led the nation into the promised land. He conquered Jericho. Forty years after the battle of Jericho, the children of Israel are finally in the land promised to Abraham. 

And now was the passing of another generation. Joshua told this new generation all that God had done for them. God freed them from slavery. God protected them in the wilderness. God delivered their enemies into their hands. And now Joshua tells them they need to make a choice.

 Their choice is who or what are you going to serve?. Whom will you choose?. Joshua tells the people he and his children's choice. Their choice is to serve the Lord.

Jesus wants us to serve him. We have a choice. I pray it is the right one.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 6

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 6 by ric gustafson

Harry walked into the living room. Three people dressed in traveling clothes were waiting for him. Uncle Vernon Dursleys was wearing a fawn Zip up jacket. His Aunt Petunia Dursleys was wearing a salmon colored coat. His cousin Dudley Dursleys was wearing a leather jacket.

Uncle Vernon pointed to an empty chair. " Please Harry sit".

He sat down. He knew what was coming.

" I've changed my mind" exclaimed Vernon.

Harry frowned. " I figured that".

" We're not going anywhere".

" Uncle Vernon, myself, Kingsley and Mr Weasley have warned you".

Vernon scratched his chin. " About this Lord?".

Harry sighed. " Voldemort".

" Don't we qualify for government protection?".

" Uncle, the ministry has been infiltrated".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: II Corinthians 9

 God Reflections: II Corinthians 9 by ric gustafson

The Apostle Paul in this bible verse talks about someone being generous. Paul says when you are generous, you will reap generously. Jesus talked about being generous. Jesus taught that it is more blessed to give than to receive. When we give, Jesus directly showers us with blessings. 

When we give to others, we are showered with blessings from God. Jesus wants us to be a  cheerful giver.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 8

 God's Reflections: John 8 by ric gustafson

Are you free?. It's an important question. As Americans we are free. But personally, are you free?. John 8 says and the truth will set you free. In our inner life, are we free?. Jesus says we can have freedom in our lives. We can have freedom in our heart. 

If we abide in God's Word, we can have freedom of the Spirit. Jesus tells us to study his Word. Jesus wants us to read and think about his Word. When we abide, we integrate God's truth into our lives.

Jesus wants us to have inner freedom. Why?. Because he loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 4

Wine page 4 by ric gustafson

The wind is very important to making wine. Each grape vine is called a crown. It will be that way for 20 years. By that time, the trunk will be strong enough to withstand the wind. A gentle breeze is always good. It cools the grapes. A slashing or severe wind is never good. Vines can be damaged. Even a stiff wind is not the best. 

Soil is very important to making wine. In viticulture, you need good drainage. You need good soil to push vines deep to find water and nutrients. Sand, silt, rocks, organic matter, limestone and schist. Color is important in wine making. Soil needs color and the ability to reflect sunlight. 

Grapevines mutate over time as a result of viruses. A population of vines derived from a single vine is called a mother vine. A vineyard of pinot noir can have some vines that are more robust. Some vines might produce smaller berries. A clone of pinot noir could have more intensity of flavor than another. The root system beneath the soil of a grape vine is rootstock. 

Rootstock can be traced back to 3 grape species. Rootstocks can be high or low vigor. They can have shallow or deep roots. Selecting the right rootstock for the location is critical for wine making.

Next, we will look at vineyards and the harvest.

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Salome page 3

 Salome page 3 by ric gustafson

I woke up to a sharp distinctive whine. My head hurt. It needed stitches. Then I heard that familiar whine again. Could it be.

" Noy". I jumped. 

My Abba and a man entered the room. The man was holding my dog.

" Noy". I ran over and cupped the dog's face in my hands. " I thought he was dead".

Abba grinned. " Thank you for finding Noy Zebedee".

Zebedee smiled. " I found him roaming the field north of town".

Salome frowned. " And the boys?".

Zebedee pointed a finger at a bruise on his jaw. " They won't be bothering you for a while".

Salome jumped up. She ran over to Zebedee. She gave the tall thin man a big hug. " Thank you".

research help: ' On Living Stone' by Heather Kaufman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Acts 1

 God Reflections: Acts 1 by ric gustafson

God's Word talks a lot about power. In Acts 1, Jesus talks about power. He promises to his disciples that he will send the Holy Spirit to them. And that the Holy Spirit will infuse them with power. Jesus's power enables the disciples and us to be the best we can be.

In our spiritual lives, we need something to get us going. And what is that?. We need God's Word and we need the Holy Spirit.

God will give us the power to be the best we can be. He promises that to us. Why?. Because he loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: Genesis 1

 God Reflections: Genesis 1 by ric gustafson

Everyone has a world view. We view life through a lens. In the 1950's, we viewed the world through a modern yet moral lens. In the 1960's, we were more introspective. Our answers were now being questioned. Our world view changed.

In the 1970's, we were skeptical. We had new hope in the 1980's. 

Genesis 1 talks about in the beginning. Before Genesis 1 there was love, glory and eternal life. In Genesis 1 was God. Elohim was God. God created everything from nothing. God created the heavens and the earth. 

Why would God do that?. Because he loves more than anything else.

research help: ' The Joshua Code' by O S Hawkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Peter 1

 God Reflections: I Peter I by ric gustafson

When God gave the law to Moses on Mt Sinai, he gave a command to the children of Israel. That command was to be holy. Why? because he was holy. I Peter 1 says be holy because I am holy. 

Do we consider ourselves holy?. The fact is anyone can be holy. The word Holy means that something is different or special. We were created to be holy. When we believe in God's Son Jesus. we become holy in God's eyes. We are set apart. We may look and act the same outside. Inside, we are different.

God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 3

 Wine page 3 by ric gustafson

One nature influence on wine is climate. Climate determines if grapes exist at all. Grape vines thrive in temperate regions. Around 50 degrees, grape vines begin to grow. Below 50, grape vines remain dormant. When temperatures are 63 to 68, vines will flower. 

Microclimates include wind, cloudiness and precipitation. Photosynthesis is a process that produces sugar that grape vines need in order to grow. Four elements are needed. Chlorophyll molecules must be found in the vines leaves. There must be light. There must be a small amount of water. There must be carbon dioxide. 

Grape vines need the sun. Mountains and hillsides help. North facing slopes help. South facing slopes help in cool regions. 

Grape vine leaves can help or hurt. Without enough leaves, Leaves convert light energy to chemical energy. Without enough leaves, grape vines will produce more clusters than it can ripen. The result are grapes that are weak and lack in flavor. 

When grape vines have to work harder to grow because of lack of sun and water, they are stressed. Other hazards to grape vines include temperature swings and frost.

Next we will look at three important things grape vines need in order to survive.

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 7

 God Reflections: Matthew 7 by ric gustafson

The words of Matthew 7 come as Jesus is on a small hill overlooking the Sea of Galilee. This event has been called the ' the Sermon on the Mount'. Jesus is talking about two different paths in life. 

Both roads in this story represent ways of living. The first road is the easy road. Crowds take this road. Take this road to be happy. This road is an easy choice. Following this crowd leads to a path filled with futility.

The second road is less traveled. There is a price to pay to walk along this narrow path. This road is a rewarding path. This road leads to fulfillment. 

Are you at a crossroads in your life?. Which path will you choose?. I pray your choice is the right one.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I John I

God Reflections: I John I by ric gustafson

I John I says and purify us from all unrighteousness. God is in the cleaning business. We can take care of the surface in our lives. Yet, there is something that keeps us from true spiritual purity. Something much deeper in us needs to be addressed. 

We are not perfect. God knows that. God sends the Holy Spirit to work in us. God wants us to be honest with him. We must confess our sins. God will forgive us. God will cleanse and purify us. Why will he do this?. Because God loves us 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 15

the miracle on Titanic page 15 by ric gustafson

A steward wearing a dark cutaway jacket walked over to the table. " Good evening my name is Hughes". He smiled. " I will be your host this evening". As he handed out menus, he introduced everyone. " Tonight, we have oysters on the half shell, salmon mousseline, lamb chops and mint jelly".

As he filled everyone's water goblet, David wondered how he could talk to Charlene. She was sitting at the other end of the table with her brother. Later after people at the table had left, David had his chance. 

" Mother, I'll be right back".

She smiled as she talked with the steward.

He sat down next to Charlene. " How was your dinner?".

" Fine". She put her bible on the table. " The lamb chops and mint jelly was very good".

" I don't know much about the bible". David noticed it on the table. " I would like to learn more".

Charlene looked at her watch. " Why don't we meet on the deck in twenty minutes?".

" Sure". He walked back to his mother. 

David escorted his mother back to her room. " I'm going up to the deck to talk to Charlene".

" Ok, I'll see you in the morning".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 10

 Beatles Anthology page 10 by ric gustafson

My name is George Harrison.

When I was young, Liverpool was very busy. On the Mersey were ferry boats and steamers coming in from America or Ireland. I left Liverpool in 1963. There was still patches of rubble. I remember buses replacing tramlines. 

I started school at Dovedale Road Infant School. I don't remember much. I remember more from Dovedale Junior. I played football. 

While I was still at Dovedale, our family moved to Speke. We had been on a list for a new council house for years. Finally, we had a modern home with a bathroom and a kitchen. Our new house was at Upton Green number 25. Speke was on the outskirts of Liverpool. We were close to Widnes.

I had a happy childhood. There were always lots of relatives around. The radio was important in our home. We would listen to Irish tenors and dance band music. My oldest brother Harry owned 3 records. He also had a small portable record player. It played 33's and 45's. 

I enjoyed listening to Jimmie Rodgers, Hank Williams and Slim Whitman.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 2

 Wine page 2 by ric gustafson

Other than water and sugar, acid is important in wine pulp. When a grape ripens, it's sugar increases. It's acid content decreases. The challenge is to have a balance of the two. Acidity gives wine vivacity. Without acidity, dry wine seems dull and flat. A sweet wine tastes flabby without acidity. Wine without acidity spoils and does not age well. Too much acidity in wine tastes biting. 

Tannin is important in red wine. Like acidity, tannin needs to be balanced properly. Sometimes cheese is used to temper the harshness of tannin. When done properly tannin can be wine's structure and backbone. 

Tannin is also a natural preservative. Wine with tannin live longer. Tannin can be good ripe and bad unripe. Ripe tannin makes wine richly colored. Unripe tannin results in dry wine. 

Wine can be fruity. Wine can be sweet or dry. As far as acidity, it is a balancing act.

Next we will look at where great wine comes from?.

research help: ' the Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 10

 God Reflections: John 10 by ric gustafson

John 10 talks about a Good Shepherd. We are lost sheep. We need a Shepherd. Jesus is that Shepherd. Jesus came to give us life. Jesus will lay down his life for his sheep.

There is a thief who wants to steal, kill and destroy. Jesus loves us his sheep. He is the Good Shepherd. He comes to give us life. He wants to give us life in abundance. 

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 1

 Wine page 1 by ric gustafson

To start a story about wine, we need a grape. We need a grape berry. A grape berry is 75 percent pulp, 20 percent skin and 5 percent seeds. The soft juicy center of the grape is pulp. That will become wine. Pulp contains water, sugar, acids, minerals and pectin. Sugar in the pulp is very important. Skin of the grape is responsible for wine's aroma, flavor, color and tannin.

When yeast comes in contact with sugar in grape pulp, you get alcohol. A critical constituent in wine is alcohol. Alcohol plays a complex role in wine's ultimate quality. Ripe grapes will contain natural sugar and higher alcohol. Alcohol affects the body and texture of wine. Alcohol affects aroma and flavor. Alcohol's flavor is sweet. Alcohol is balanced with acidity and alcohol. Good wine includes acidity and alcohol.

Next we will look at acid and tannin

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 9

 Beatles Anthology page 9 by ric gustafson

My name is George Harrison

I was born in Feb 1943 in Liverpool 12 Arnold Grove. My mother was from an Irish family. My father was a seaman. Eventually, he became a bus driver. My mother was Catholic. My father was not. I have two brothers and one sister. When I was born, my sister was twelve. Growing up, I did not see  her very much. She went to teacher training college.

My mother's mother lived in Albert Grove. It was next to Arnold Grove. While my parents were working, I would stay with my grandmother. My father's father I never knew.

Our  house was very small. We stayed mostly in the kitchen where the fire was. Our toilet was out back. We did not have a bathroom.

Arnold Grove was behind the Lamb Hotel in Wavertree. Nearby was an art deco cinema called the Abbey. There was also a clock tower named the Picton. Down the lane was a slaughterhouse.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: James 2

 God Reflections: James 2 by ric gustafson

The greatest gift is to be called a friend of God. If we have faith in God, we can be called a friend of God. In James 2, Abraham was called a friend of God. God will always stick close to a friend. We can go to God anytime for anything. God will never leave us or forsake us. We can pour out our heart to God. God always gives us his undivided attention.

God is our friend. Talk to him daily. He loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 73

 God Reflections: Psalm 73 by ric gustafson

Why do good people suffer?. Why do bad people prosper?. Psalm 73 was written by a man named Asaph. He was one of King David's musicians. Asaph realizes there is a lack of fairness in the world. Asaph becomes discouraged trying to live a righteous life. Asaph knows he has tried to keep his heart pure. 

So what did Asaph do to change his thinking?. He looked at the bigger picture. He goes to church. Asaph remembers that God is always with us. He knows God guides us and gives us strength. Asaph knows at the end of this life, he will be with God. God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Nine page 11

 the Nine page 11 by ric gustafson

My name is Justice Clarence Thomas

In July of 2003, I was tired. My mother and childhood friends were coming to visit. Our Supreme Court yearly term just ended. It did not end on a good note. By a 5-4 vote, a University of Michigan Law School case was upheld. My legacy as the second black justice is to campaign to rewrite the nation's laws on race. For twelve years, I have voted to take race out of public schools, universities, the job market and voting districts. 

My family is descended from Georgia slaves. My grandfather was raised by a former slave. At age 16, I was the first black student to integrate a Catholic high school seminary. In college, I joined black power movement. I protested the war in Vietnam. I staged campus protests to demand equal treatment for black Americans. 

I entered Yale Law School as a beneficiaries of an affirmative action plan.

research help: ' Judging Thomas' by Ken Foskett

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Ecclesiastes 1

 God Reflections: Ecclesiastes 1 by ric gustafson

Solomon was a complex person. He was King David's son. He inherited the throne of the kingdom of Israel. He asked God for wisdom. He received more wisdom than he asked for. He was the richest man in the world. He had the good life. The truth was even with everything he had, Solomon was disillusioned with life. 

Today's word from Ecclesiastes is vanity vanity all is vanity. You could also say meaningless everything is meaningless. Life is not about power, possessions, prestige or popularity. 

We all hunger for meaning. We all hunger for God.

What is the purpose of life?. It is to love God and love one another. With God in our hearts, we need to be thankful every day.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 8

Beatles Anthology page 8 by ric gustafson

My name is Paul McCartney.

I knew George from the bus. I lived in Speke. George was a bus stop away. We were close in age. So we spoke to each other on the bus. George was a year younger than me. I told John about George. I told John 

George was a really good guitar player. 

One night, John George and I were riding on top of an empty bus. George got out his guitar. For John, George played a song called ' Raunchy'. Even though George was young, John was impressed with his guitar playing. He invited him to join the band.

John was almost 17. He was now at art school. I was 15. 

At this time, I loved Bill Haley and the Comets, Elvis, Chuck Berry, Eddie Cochran and Buddy Holly.

Then John and I began writing songs together.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Hebrews 4

 God Reflections: Hebrews 4 by ric gustafson

There is no book in the world like God's Word. Hebrews 4 says the Word of God is living and active. What will change your life?. Study and meditate on God's Word. God wants us to have a dynamic relationship with him. We need to be in the center of God's will. 

The heart of our thoughts and attitudes is God's Word. God's Word can change our lives. We need to spend time reading God's Word each day. God wants us to feel his presence. 

God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Salome page 2

 Salome page 2 by ric gustafson

I sat in a sprawling carob tree. Noy was down below. As I ate carob pods, I watched the busyness of Bethsaida. As I threw a carob pod to Noy, I watched fishermen, craftsmen, farmers and merchants working. This field I was in belonged to Ephraim. He was a prosperous resident of Bethsaida. 

Then I heard a noise. I noticed five boys walking across the field toward me. Leading the group was Ephraim's son Elazar. From the underneath the tree, Noy began barking.

" Shush Noy Shush".

The dog kept barking.

Elazar and the others stopped at the tree. " Take a look Gideon". Elazar frowned. " Something in that tree is bothering that dog".

Gideon looked up the tree. He smiled at Elazar. " Look who I see in your tree?".

Elazar walked over to the tree. He looked up.

Gideon smiled. " It's the girl with the glowing eyes".

research help: ' On Living Stone' by Heather Kaufman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Salome page 1

 Salome page 1 by ric gustafson

I listened as Abba pointed at the slab of basalt. He was holding a chisel. " Do you hear this rock of the earth?".

" I hear nothing Abba". I looked around. " Where is Noy?".

Abba walked over and let in the dog. " Now do you hear it Zohar?".

I frowned. " Abba, that is not my real name?".

" I call you Zohar because it means light and brilliance".

I had been really sad since Ima passed 3 years ago. Sickness took her. She filled our home with song. Then it was just Abba and myself.

" Zohar, you should go and say hi to Naysa".

Abba tried to get up. 

I handed him his cane.

I smiled. " Ok Abba I will".

research help: ' On Living Stone' by Heather Kaufman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Samuel 3

 God Reflections: I Samuel 3 by ric gustafson

Samuel's mother dedicated her son to the Lord. This was an act of gratitude. Samuel means ' God hears'. God heard her prayer. Samuel later will hear God. 

There was a time when God's voice was not heard. In I Samuel 3, the Lord called Samuel. Samuel heard God. Samuel told God speak for your servant is listening. 

After listening to God, Samuel became a great prophet. All of us can hear God speak to us. Another way to hear God is when we pray. We can sit in a quiet place with God present. Then we can listen for God to speak to us. He will. Can you hear his voice?. God loves us very much.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 5

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 5 by ric gustafson

Harry Potter was bleeding. He opened his bedroom door with his left hand. He tried to keep his bleeding right hand elevated. He walked into the bathroom. He turned on the tap. Harry put his bleeding finger under the tap. 

Harry was feeling vulnerable. He had four days left before he could perform magic again. He could tell his bleeding finger might do him in. 

Harry had spent the morning emptying his school trunk. Something in the trunk cut one of his fingers. He began taking everything out of the trunk. Out came Quidditch and school robes, parchment, quills and textbooks. Toward the bottom of the trunk was a fragment of an enchanted mirror. The mirror had been given to him by his godfather Sisius. 

Harry was sad. He missed Albus Dumbledore his dead headmaster.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Luke 8

 God Reflections: Luke 8 by ric gustafson

Jesus was tired. He had just healed many people. He had exorcized many demons. He was tired. While he was on a boat with his disciples, he decided to sleep. At one point, the winds came up on the lake. The disciples were scared. They woke Jesus from his sleep. Waves were crashing over the side of the boat. The disciples were afraid they were going to drown.

Jesus stood up. He calmed the storm. He commanded the waves and the wind to be still. 

Are we facing storms today?. The fact is God cares. Take your problems to him. Call out to Jesus. He will calm the storm you are in. He will calm your heart. He will give you faith. He will remind you that you are loved. God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 4

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 4 by ric gustafson

Voldemort looked around the table. " I shall attend to Harry Potter in person". His voice hesitated. " The fact that Harry Potter still lives is mostly my fault".

" I have been careless". Voldemort sighed. " I must be the one to kill Harry Potter".

Everyone at the table agreed.

" And I shall be".

" In order to kill Potter". Voldemort frowned. " I'm going to need to borrow a wand".

Voldemort looked down the table. " Lucius Malfoy".

" My Lord?".

" Lucius, I require your wand".

Malfoy handed Voldemort his wand.

Voldemort studied it. " What is it made of?".

" Elm and Dragon my Lord".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Colossians 1

 God Reflections: Colossians 1 by ric gustafson

You can know Jesus because of God's Word. It is a different matter to know Jesus personally. The Apostle Paul speaks to us in Colossians 1. 

Saul may of heard about Jesus. On the road to Damascus, Jesus appeared to Saul. Saul did not have a personal connection to Jesus. He did on the road to Damascus. Saul who became Paul wanted Jesus to be in his head. And in his heart. 

Your spiritual connection to Jesus starts in your heart. The mystery of God is Christ in you. Jesus wants to indwell in you. 

Jesus loves you. He wants to live in your heart. Let him. Invite Jesus into your life. You won't regret it.

Jesus loves you more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: II Timothy 1

 God Reflections: II Timothy 1 by ric gustafson

As far as the spiritual life is concerned, authentic faith is important. Most important is whom you believe in. II Timothy is some of the last words the Apostle Paul wrote. Paul knew his death was at hand. Shortly after this was written, Paul was beheaded by Roman Emperor Nero. 

The Apostle Paul had to endure a lot. Most of his friends deserted him. He faced death. But Paul had confidence even with his trials. He believed in Jesus. He was the victor even in death. 

This life is difficult. God is there with us even in our worst trials. God tells us to have faith. He is always with us. God loves us. He promises to never abandon us.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: Genesis 12

 God's Reflections: Genesis 12 by ric gustafson

According to Genesis 12, God made a promise to a man named Abraham. He promised Abraham that he would become a great nation. He promised to bless Abraham. God blesses people. A blessing touches us at the core of our being. God's touch brings healing, wholeness. It is a deep need of the human heart. 

God created us to be blessed. God wants to bless us today. Praise God's name. 

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

 

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: Luke 15

 God's Reflections: Luke 15 by ric gustafson

Jesus was a storyteller. From Luke 15 comes a parable we all know. Some people call it the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Some people call it the Parable of the Loving Father. In Luke 15, Jesus tells us three parables. This parable is the last one. 

This third parable is about a wayward boy. It is also about a father who loves him. The son wants his share of his fathers estate. He goes to a faraway country. He spends it all on wild living. After a while, the son comes to his senses. He decides to go home feeling unworthy. 

When the son comes home, his father is waiting for him. He welcomes him home. Jesus tells us this is how God the Father feels about us. No matter how far we run away from God, he welcomes us home.

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 37

 God Reflections: Psalm 37 by ric gustafson

Psalm 37 says delight yourself in the Lord. What is the desire of your heart?. God promises that he will give us the desires of your heart. Our hearts can change. But it must be a change from an earthly desire to a heavenly desire. When our desire is for God's Kingdom, God will act. Delight and Desire work hand in hand. 

Spend time reading God's Word. When our desires change, God will draw us closer to him. Jesus says to us, trust in me and believe. Why?. Because Jesus loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Solomon 2026 page 4

 Solomon 2026 page 4 by ric gustafson

Solomon sat down on his father's right. His brother Adonijah sat on his father's left. Seating in the seat of honor next to Solomon was Shobi Naamah's father. Solomon watched Naamah as she waited to be seated. This foreign princess had captured his imagination.

Solomon looked at Shobi. " I trust your trip was uneventful".

" Luckily, we were able to scare off any bandits".

" How long will you and your daughter be staying?".

King David looked at Shobi. " We have a few more meetings scheduled for tomorrow I believe".

" Yes King". Shobi smiled at his daughter. " Naamah was hoping we could stay a couple more days and enjoy Jerusalem".

" Yes". Naamah grinned. " I'm hoping for a tour of the city and some time in your marketplace".

King David smiled. " Done".

research help: The Heart of a King' by Jill Eileen Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John and Caroline page 6

 John and Caroline page 6 by ric gustafson

Ethel Skakel Kennedy was born on April 11 1928. Her parents were Ann and George Skakel. Ethel was the 6th of 7 children. Ethel's father was a self made man. His company called Great Lakes Carbon was a high tech manufacturer of graphite and carbon. The family lived in Chicago.

Ethel was an avid sports enthusiast. She attended the all girls Greenwich Academy in Connecticut. She also attended two schools in New York.

In 1945, Ethel was introduced to Robert Kennedy. Ethel's friend Jean Kennedy introduced them. Jean was Robert Kennedy's sister. 

Ethel Skakel and Robert Kennedy married on June 17 1950. In 1957, Ethel bought an estate in McLean Virginia. It was called Hickory Hill. They needed a lot of room. Ethel and Bobby Kennedy had 11 children.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Luke 7

 God Reflections: Luke 7 by ric gustafson

Jesus loves people. In Luke 7, Jesus is at a dinner at the home of a Pharisee. His name was Simon. During the dinner, a woman crashed the party. She was described as a woman of questionable reputation. Tradition is that the woman was Mary Magdalene. 

She comes in carrying an alabaster jar of costly ointment. She is weeping. She falls at Jesus's feet. She begins washing them with her tears. She dries them with her hair. She pours the costly oil on his feet. Simon has horror on his face.

Jesus knows what Simon is thinking. He tells a parable about two men whose debts were forgiven. Mary knew she had been forgiven by Jesus. Simon did not. She thanked Jesus with her love. Simon had no clue. 

Why have we been forgiven much?. Jesus went to the cross to make that happen. Because of what Jesus did for us, we should have immense love in our hearts.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

World Prayer: Angola

 World Prayer: Angola by ric gustafson

The Republic of Angola is in Africa. It is a large coastal state on the South Atlantic Coast. The capital is Luanda. The majority of the country is Bantu. The official language is Portuguese. 

The country has some of the world's richest natural resources. There is also widespread poverty. Natural resources include oil reserves, diamonds and minerals. 

There was a coup in 1975. The MPLA gained control of the government. The UNITA movement waged a civil war against the MPLA. The country was laid to waste. There was a peace deal in 1990. Parliamentary elections were held in 2008.

The Christian population is 94 percent. 

Please pray for the consolidation of peace. The growth of Christianity. The end of war. Unity of the Gospel. That there will be a growth of Christian leadership.

Please pray for the country of Angola.

research help: ' Operation World' by Jason Mandryk

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 15

 God Reflections: John 15 by ric gustafson

Jesus explains in this chapter of John that he is the Vine. He explains that we are branches of that Vine. We see images of mature grapevines and branches filled with ripe grapes. One day, those grapes will be the source of fine wine. As long as the branch is connected to the Vine, we will thrive and bear fruit. 

The fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness and self control. To be spiritually productive in this life, we need to stay connected to Jesus. When we stay connected with Jesus, good results will happen. That is Jesus's promise to us. He loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 3

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 3 by ric gustafson

Yaxley stared at Voldemort. " My Lord, Dawlish believes an entire group of Aurors will transfer Potter".

Voldemort turned to Snape. " Where are they going to hide the boy?".

" At the home of one of the Order".

" Can we take him from there?".

" My Lord, I believe there is little chance of that".

Voldemort scratched his chin. " And why is that?".

Snape frowned. " He will have protection from the Order and the Ministry".

" If we cannot touch Potter where he is going". Voldemort frowned. " Then it must be done while he travels".

Yaxley grinned. " We do have several people planted in the Department of Magical Transport".

" Good". Voldemort finally smiled. " He will be easier to take in the open".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the miracle on Titanic page 14

 the miracle on Titanic page 14 by ric gustafson

David knocked on the door. It opened to reveal his mother. She was dressed in a very fancy floor length dress.

He handed her a piece of paper. " Here is our table seating schedule Mother".

She put on a new red hat. " Is your new friend and her brother going to dine with us this evening?".

" Yes, they will". He closed her room door. He took her arm and they walked down to the first class dining room. They walked in. They found their table. David glanced around the fancy room. The massive room contained alcoves and leaded windows. Each table had a white linen tablecloth and a glowing lamp in the middle.

A man stood up from the table. " I am Benjamin Guggenheim". He pointed to a female sitting next to him. " And this is Kitty Webb".

Then Camille pointed toward the entrance. " David, they are here".

David turned to see Charlene walk up to the table. She was wearing a full length satin blue dress. Her brother was wearing a fancy man's suit. 

Before they sat down, a large man with brown eyes and a moustache stood up.

" Good evening, I am Colonel Archibald Gracie".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 2

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 2 by ric gustafson

" Snape". The speaker was sitting in front of a fireplace. " Sit to my right".

Severus sat down at his allotted place.

" Yaxley, please sit down next to Dolohov". He sat down at his allotted place.

The man at the fireplace turned around. He stared at everyone who was around the table. Everyone grinned. It was Voldemort.

" Snape". Voldemort stared at the man. " What news did you hear?".

" My Lord". Snape smiled. " The Order of the Phoenix is going to move Harry Potter next Saturday at nightfall".

Voldemort scratched his chin. " Saturday at nightfall".

Yaxley raised his hand. " My Lord, I heard different".

" What did you hear?".

" Dawlish the Auror told me that Harry Potter was not moving until the 30th".

" The 30th?".

" It is the night before Potter turns 17".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 91

 God Reflections: Psalm 91 by ric gustafson

Psalm 91 talks about angels. Psalm 91 says for he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. Do you believe in angels?. God himself commands angels to watch over us. We should respect them. Their loving service. They protect us. Angels guide us. That should give us confidence knowing we are always protected and guided.

They help us in our time of need. We should be grateful they are always by our side. Why do we have angels around us?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 1

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 1 by ric gustafson

Two men walked down a narrow moonlit lane toward each other. Both had a wand in their hands. Then both smiled. They put their wands away. They recognized each other.

Yaxley smiled. " Any news?".

Severus Snape grinned. " The best".

Yaxley frowned. " I thought I might be late". The tall man walked under an overhanging tree. " I hope he will be satisfied".

After a while, they turned into a wide driveway. They stopped at a wrought iron gate. Both men raised their left arms as in a salute. Smiling, they walked through the gate. At the end of the drive was a handsome manor. As the two walked up to the front door, it swung open.

Both men walked into a large dimly lit hallway. They stopped in front of a heavy wooden door.

" Come in Yaxley and Snape". The loud voice came from inside the room. " Both of you are nearly late".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 24

 God Reflections: Matthew 24 by ric gustafson

Noah and his family are in an ark. It is during a storm unlike any other ever seen. Noah told his scared family the creation story. This was to keep them hopeful and calm.

Jesus in Matthew 24 is telling his friends that he is going to come back a second time. The second time he will be coming back as a Conquering King. God sent the flood because he was tired of the way the world had become. He wanted to start over.

Matthew 24 says as it was in the days of Noah so it will be. God is in charge then and now. Praise God's name.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: II Timothy 3

 God's Reflections: II Timothy 3 by ric gustafson

The phrase God breathed could also mean inspired. True inspiration could mean God breathed. The Spirit of God came directly from God. Sometimes the wind is God breathed. God's Word is God breathed. 

God breathed into the hands of those who wrote God's Word. The pens these men used were God breathed. 

God's Word is inspired. God's Word is unique. God wants his Word to speak directly to us. God's Spirit uses God's Word to breathe truth into our lives. God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John and Caroline page 5

 John and Caroline page 5 by ric gustafson

Carolyn Bessette knew one day she would meet the head of the Kennedy family. One day in September at sundown, Ethel's children, spouses and their children gathered around a table in Ethel's dining room. All of the Kennedy's at the table were smartly dressed. At the head of the table, one chair was empty.

All of a sudden, everyone stood up. 66 year old Ethel Kennedy walked in. She sat down. After a Catholic blessing, servants brought in Kennedy favorites.

Dinner started that night with Cape Cod Clam Chowder. Then roast beef, potato salad, asparagus, cranberry nut bread and plenty of french fries. A dessert favorite of the Kennedy's was key lime pie.

John was sitting at the end of the table. At one point, Ethel noticed someone sitting by John she did not know. John introduced Carolyn Bessette to Ethel Kennedy.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 35

 U-505 page 35 by ric gustafson

David went back down the hatch. Trosino followed him. At the bottom of the hatch ladder, Trosino noticed he was standing in 6 inches of water. Right away, Trosino began looking for tools. By the periscope, he found a T wrench.

With Lieutenant David by his side, Trosino began inspecting U-505. He was surprised how much machinery and valves were in the sub. When he walked into the engine room, he was standing in 2 feet of slush. Both Trosino and David knew what they had to do. They ordered the landing party out of the sub. The conning tower hatch was closed. Only David and Trosino were left inside.

Both men walked up to an electrical circuit board. Trosino had to pull a lever. He did not know which one to pull. He guessed. He pulled a lever. The engines stopped. They knew they had to get out of the sub quickly. Both men quickly left through the conning hatch. They joined the rest of the landing party on the conning tower bridge. 

Everybody smiled. They had pulled off the impossible.

research help: ' U-505' by James E Wise Jr

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Solomon 2026 page 3

 Solomon 2026 page 3 by ric gustafson

Solomon and Naamah sat down on a bench. It was in the king's gardens.

" How was your trip from Ammon". He smiled. " It is one town I have not visited yet".

" It was longer than I expected". She frowned. " I traveled here by camel".

Solomon grinned. " I prefer riding a horse myself".

" Solomon, may I ask you something?".

" Of course".

" Why did you stop writing me?".

" You were 13". Solomon sighed. " It was not proper to write to a princess of marriageable age".

Naamah's stomach grumbled. " I must be hungry".

" There will be a banquet in you and your father's honor tonight".

research help: ' The Heart of a King' by Jill Eileen Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 34

 U-505 page 34 by ric gustafson

Commander Earl Trosino and his boarding party approached U-505. All of a sudden, a swell lifted the whaleboat out of the ocean. The whaleboat crashed on top of the U-505. Washing overboard was the portable pump Trosino was going to use to drain the flooded sub. Also lost in the ocean were asbestos gloves, two sledgehammers, two fire axes, two hand saws, nails, two monkey wrenches  and two screwdrivers. Luckily, Chief Petty Officer Raymond Jackson had the first aid kit over his shoulder. Also, Photographer's Mate Clifford Whirler was able to save the camera gear.

Now Commander Trosino noticed it was all water all the way to the conning tower. How is he going to get across?. Quickly He notices a guy wire stretched from the bow to the conning tower. Trosino grabs the guy wire and without gloves begins to cross the U-505 hand over hand. Finally, he reaches Signalman Hohne. Hohne is perched on the conning tower.

" I'm Commander Trosino from the Guadalcanal". He was too tired to smile. " I was sent to take charge of all salvage operations".

Hohne nodded.

" Who is in charge?".

Lieutenant David stuck his head out of the U-505's hatch. " I am".

research help: ' U-505' by James E Wise Jr

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: I Corinthians 13

 God's Reflections: I Corinthians 13 by ric gustafson

I Corinthians 13 is used many times in weddings. This chapters nickname is the love chapter. There is a special kind of love in marriage. Love is more than a feeling. Love is action. Loving is a decision. I Corinthians 13 describes those feelings. 

This kind of love is patient and kind. We need to work on being patient and kind. Kindness is an expression of love. Even when we don't feel kind, God wants us to be kind to our spouse. We need to ask God to teach us to be more loving. God wants us to choose to be patient and kind. 

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Doc Holliday page 3

 Doc Holliday page 3 by ric gustafson

John Holliday entered the carpeted lobby of the Regent Hotel. The lobby was filled with sofas and overstuffed chairs. He walked up to the front desk.

The desk clerk snapped to attention." Good afternoon Sir".

" Good afternoon". Holliday smiled. " I'd like one of your best rooms".

" Of course Sir". The clerk handed him a pen and the registration ledger. " How long will be staying with us?".

Holliday frowned. " Don't know".

A bellman brought his trunks to a room. It had a window overlooking the street. Holliday opened one of the trunks. While he stared out the window, he took three things out of the trunk. First, he took out a quart of bourbon. He took a long slug. Second, he pulled out a cigarillo. He lit it up. Third, he took out a Colt pocket revolver. He heard that in the Wild West every man needed a gun.

He put five rounds in it.

research help: ' Doc Holliday' by Matt Braun

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

World Prayer: American Samoa

 World Prayer: American Samoa by ric gustafson

American Samoa is in the Polynesian Pacific. It is 199 sq km. The capital is Pago Pago. American Samoa is a largely Polynesian economy. Tuna fishing and canning dominate the economy. 

It has been a US unincorporated territory since 1900. The territory has all rights of US citizens except the ability to vote in US elections.

Please pray for the territory of American Samoa.

research help: ' Operation World' by Jason Mandryk

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: Acts 2

 God's Reflections: Acts 2 by ric gustafson

In Acts 2, the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples. There was the sound of a rushing wind. Tongues of fire came to rest on the disciples. The presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit came to rest on the disciples. 

Why is this moment in time important?. Jesus was sharing the glory of his Father. It was fulfilling the promise Jesus made to his disciples. The promise was that the Helper the Holy Spirit would come. 

After that, the life of the disciples changed. The Spirit of God was working through them. It is the same with us. We need to let Jesus live and love through us. All we need to do is open our heart. The Holy Spirit will come. All we need to do is ask.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

A A Milne page 2

 A A Milne page 2 by ric gustafson

My name is A A Milne.

I write about my childhood. I write about an enchanted place of my childhood. I was the youngest of three boys. My brother Ken and I were very close. We were also true friends like Christopher Robin and Winnie the Pooh. I do not talk about my brother Barry very much. 

My brothers and I loved our nanny. Her name was Bee. 

Both myself and Ken gained scholarships to Westminster School. I was friendlier to Barry's wife and kids more than my brother. I was close to Ken, his wife and their children.

So what were the enchanted places I used as inspiration for my stories?. Some of the places included the Hundred Acre Wood, a golf course and the Garrick Club.

The one place I used the most for my inspiration was Henley House School.

research help: ' Somewhere a Boy and a Bear' by Gyles Brandreth

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: John 3:16

 God's Reflections: John 3:16 by ric gustafson

John 3:16 is the most well known Bible verse. The message of this bible verse is God loves you. God in this bible verse states he loves every person on this earth. God loves this earth so much he sent his only son to take away our sins. 

God gives us a promise in this bible verse. The promise God gives us is that we love his son, we will not perish but have eternal life. God will keep that promise. He always has. He always will.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: Mark 1

 God's Reflections: Mark 1 by ric gustafson

Mark 1 talks about a scene in Capernaum. Jesus and Peter are headed out to deep water to fish. Jesus asks Peter to become a fisher of men. Jesus told Peter that he will change the world. 

This invitation to be a fisher of men is given to us also. Jesus says to us come follow me. Every day we should seek God's will for our lives. God wants our relationship with him to be vital and dynamic. Jesus is asking us daily to come follow him. 

We are blessed in this life. But what's important is that we answer Jesus's call. 

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 7

 Beatles Anthology page 7 by ric gustafson 

My name is Paul McCartney.

My friend Ivan Vaughn and I went to a Fete in Woolton. We went on July 6 1957. I was 15. I noticed a band was playing on a platform. A small audience was standing in front.

The person I saw right away was standing in front. He had curly blondish hair. He was wearing a checkered shirt. He looked fashionable. He was singing a song I liked. It was ' Come Go With Me' by the Del Vikings. He sang good. He did not know the words to the song.

The group was called the Quarry Men. The lead singer went to Quarry Bank School. His name was John Lennon. 

Ivan and I got to meet the band backstage. Lennon asked me to play something on my guitar. Turning my guitar upside down, I played ' Twenty Flight Rock'. 

After hearing me play the song, I was asked to join the band.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's reflections: Psalm 103

 God's reflections: Psalm 103 by ric gustafson

Psalm 103 starts by saying Praise the Lord O my soul. Today is a new day. No matter what kind of day you are facing, God wants to give you good things. Do not forget his benefits. Forgiveness is a benefit. Strength is a benefit. Healing is a benefit. Psalm 103 also says forget not all his benefits. 

Today is a new day. God can and does make all things possible.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a New Hope page 1

 a New Hope page 1 by ric gustafson

The consular starship ' Tantive IV' raced toward the planet Tattooine. It was trying to flee from an Imperial Star Destroyer. The Star Destroyer ' Devastator' was firing it's turbolasers at the fleeing starship. Eventually, the Imperial Star Destroyer scored a direct hit on the consular starship's primary sensor array. The laser direct hit damaged the starship's power generator system. It also caused a chain reaction throughout the starship. With no starboard shield or engine power, the ' Tantive IV' was crippled.

As the crew of the ' Tantive IV' tried to extinguish fires, they failed to notice two robots who were stumbling around a narrow white walled passageway.

research help: ' Star Wars Trilogy A New Hope' by Ryder Windham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's reflections: Jeremiah 1

 God's reflections: Jeremiah 1 by ric gustafson

Jeremiah was a prophet. He did justice to God's Word. Jeremiah played a central role in the Old Testament. God called Jeremiah to be one of his prophets. He was a prophet during a critical time in Israel's history. People did not listen to Jeremiah's message. But Jeremiah was faithful. So to God, Jeremiah was a complete success.

God called Jeremiah. God gives us a call. I pray we will accept it. God wants us to be instruments of his plans and purposes. 

God is always with us. God wants to work through us. God can use us. Ask God how you can help him. Then listen to God's response. He loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God 's blessings. Love Ric

Solomon 2026 page 2

 Solomon 2026 page 2 by ric gustafson

Two camels came through the guarded gate of King David's palace. Naamah's father's camel stopped at a palace guard. He got down off the camel and began talking to the guard. Then her father waved at her. She got off her camel. She followed her father and the palace guard into the palace. The guard led the two into the anteroom. 

" Wait here".

After a while, the guard came back. He led the two to the audience chamber.

As they entered the chamber, Naamah noticed a golden throne at the end of the long room. There were tables and seats on either side of the chamber. They walked up to the golden throne. On it was King David. Next to it was another throne. On it was his wife Bathsheba. Naamah looked around for a third throne. Where was Solomon?.

research help: ' The Heart of a King' by Jill Eileen Smith

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's reflections: Numbers 6

God's reflections: Numbers 6 by ric gustafson

We are blessed. Actually, we are very blessed. We need to be grateful for everything God does for us. All that we have is a gift from God. God loves to give us blessings. 

The words of Numbers 6 are used as a closing benediction. The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you. God wants to bless us and the whole world. When we have God's love, we will be blessed. When God blesses us, we can be a blessing to others.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the miracle on Titanic page 13

the miracle on Titanic page 13 by ric gustafson

David and his mother walked over to the railing. They heard a blast of the ship's horn. They felt the slowing of the ship's engines.

David's mother heard the ship's anchors drop into place. " Who were you spending time with?".

" Her name is Charlene Moton". David grinned. " I just met her this afternoon".

They watched as a gangplank was set up. A ferry approached.

They watched well dressed passengers enter the ship from the ferry. " Is she a nice girl?".

" She seems nice".

They watched as the Cherbourg ferry left. 

The ship's horn blew again. The triple screws started up. They knew the mighty ship was getting underway again. 

" Are you going to see her again?".

" Actually, she asked if you and I would join her and her brother for dinner tonight".

" What did you tell her?".

" I told her I would ask you first".

" David, tell her we would love to".

They walked inside. They stopped at the glass doors of the smoking room. " I'm going to stop in here for a little bit".

Camille smiled. " I'm going back to my cabin to rest and change for dinner".

" Oh, one more thing". David opened the door to the smoking room. " Charlene is a Christian".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

A A Milne page 1

 A A Milne page 1 by ric gustafson

Jan 18 is international Winnie the Pooh day. It is also my birthday. My name is A A Milne. Actually my name is Alan Alexander Milne. People call me A A. I was born on Jan 18 1882.

My father John Vine Milne was born in Jamaica to missionary parents. I have two brothers Barry and Ken. My father J V Milne was a God fearing man. My grandfather was William Milne. He died in 1874.

My father was one of 10 children. My grandfather returned to England and started a school. My grandmother Harriet Barrett married William Milne in 1843. In 1874, my grandfather died. My father was in his late 20's. He was going to London University. My father wanted to be a teacher.

My father married my mother Sarah Maria Heginbotham on Aug 27 1878.

research help: ' Somewhere A Boy and a Bear' by Gyles Brandreth

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric