Public Enemies page 1

 Public Enemies page 1 by ric gustafson

On June 8 1933, Charley Floyd was hiding inside a farm house garage. He was crouching

 next to a car he wanted to steal. It was a black Pontiac. Charley wanted the car badly. He could hear the owner's voice near the garage door. Charley was hoping he would go inside the farm house for the evening.

All of a sudden, Charley heard a padlock being put on the garage door. Charley began cursing. For months now, this was the way his life was going. 29 year old Charley Floyd had been given a nickname by the newspapers. Because of his good looks, the nickname of ' Pretty Boy' had started.

As Pretty Boy Floyd, Charley was already famous in his home state of Oklahoma. He had become a local hero to people suffering from the Dust Bowl.

Pretty Boy Floyd grew up in Akins Oklahoma. In 1925, Charley robbed a store in St Louis. He was in a Missouri prison from 1925 to 1930.

The night Pretty Boy Floyd stole Joe Hudiberg's Pontiac, Floyd was heading for Kansas City.

research help: ' Public Enemies' by Bryan Burrough

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 6

 God Reflections: John 6 by ric gustafson

There will come a day when we will go to the other side. It is the side of death. When we reach heaven, we will stand face to face before God. He will ask us one question. Why are we here?. The right answer is simple. There is only one answer. That answer is because of Jesus Christ. He alone is our Lord. That simple answer will unlock the doors of eternity. Jesus will be there to welcome us home.

John 6 says my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life. Jesus can't wait for us to be with him for eternity. I can't wait.

research help: ' Meaningful Moments with God' by Christian Art Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Road to Omaha page 1

 the Road to Omaha page 1 by ric gustafson

On Thursday June 12 2008, a red Arrow bus took the off ramp exit 454. On board the bus was the college baseball team of Fresno State University. The team's nickname was the Bulldogs. Bus driver Chris Clark knew the players would be seeing a big green road sign soon.

" There it is" shouted one of the players. The players ran to the windows of the bus. Then they saw the big green sign. ' Rosenblatt Home of the NCAA Men's College World Series'.

The Fresno State Bulldogs talked about Rosenblatt. They read about Rosenblatt. They watched games from Rosenblatt on TV. Rosenblatt was the goal of every college player.

In 36 hours, the Fresno State Bulldogs would be playing in the 2008 College World Series.

research help: ' The Road to Omaha' by Ryan McGee

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles the early years page 18

 Beatles the early years page 18 by ric gustafson

In November of 1956, Little Richard came on the scene. His songs were big band with vocal, piano and saxophone. Only Elvis Presley had affected Paul and John that much.

At this same time, John got his first guitar. It was time to let go of the banjo. It was a cheap little acoustic guitar. He learned to play it using the first four strings of the banjo. George Harrison learned how to play guitar with a Hofner Committee. It was a bird eyes maple blade guitar. George and Paul became closer friends when they both had guitars. They would play and sing around Paul's front parlor.

In November of 1956, John Lennon decided to form his own group. He decided it would be a group with his friends. The first person John asked was his friend Pete Shotton. John wanted his group to be a skiffle group. Pete agreed to strum a washboard. John asked his friend Eric Griffiths to be his guitarist. Then John invited his friend Bill Smith to play the tea chest bass.

The new skiffle group needed a name. Bill Smith came up with a name. It was agreed up on by the others. John Lennon's new skiffle group was now called the Quarry Men.

research help: ' Tune In' by Mark Lewisohn

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Hebrews 6

 God Reflections: Hebrews 6 by ric gustafson

Sometimes we feel unappreciated and used. You work hard for a ministry or business. You work hard. Then you find out the glory went to someone else. Your efforts made someone successful. It is easy to feel resentful. 

The truth is God does not forget the efforts you did. God does not want you to be full of pride. God wants us to serve and to give.

Why serve and give?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Encouragement for life' by Charles R Swindoll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Peter 2

 God Reflections: I Peter 2 by ric gustafson

When someone does something to us at work or otherwise, our sinful heart says to fight back. To fight back against unfair and unreasonable treatment. When we have unjust suffering, our sinful heart says seek revenge. 

Jesus wants us to act in a different way. He wants us to have a God like attitude and focus on Him instead. God wants us to do that. Instead of ungrateful and stubborn, Jesus wants us to be honest and caring. 

With a God attitude, he will give us grace. Why should God give us grace?. Simple, God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Encouragement for life' by Charles R Swindoll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Antichrist page 1

 Antichrist page 1 by ric gustafson

God's clock is ticking. One day, the earth's final and most tyrant will appear. The whole world for the last seven years has been a cup of trembling according to God's prophet Zechariah. On May 29 1996, Benjamin Netanyahu is elected to be Israel's prime minister.

One day, a leader will come forth. This leader will convince Israel to trust him. This leader was foretold by the prophet Daniel. This new leader cannot rule until certain events happen. 

According to Daniel 9, this will be the world's last dictator. This leader will be the Son of Perdition. This is according to II Thessalonians 2. 

When the Son of Perdition comes, the world will have already broken down. This will be a societal, moral and ethical breakdown.

Apostasy means that people will deny Jesus Christ. They want to go their own way not God's way.

Next, we will look at virtual reality.

research help: ' Foreshocks of Antichrist' by Harvest House Publishers

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: James 4

 God Reflections: James 4 by ric gustafson

God created you. God knows everything about you. God has counted the hairs on your head. God cares if a sparrow falls. God knows at all times what is going on inside you. God knows when you worry. God knows when you dread this coming week. 

God asks us to bring everything to him. God says let me be in charge. God says you don't have because you don't ask. James 4 says you do not have because you do not ask. God says if you would ask for more, you would have more. God says just ask.

research help: ' Encouragement for Life' by Charles R Swindoll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 6

 God Reflections: Matthew 6 by ric gustafson

Worrying is hard work. Worrying makes us uneasy. It steals our smile. It affects our future because we dwell on our past. We all have shameful pasts. Worrying takes away our peace and joy. 

Worrying will leave us emotionally and spiritually immobilized. Anxiety leaves us fearful. Worry brings fear, doubt and pressure. 

Jesus tells us not to worry. Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow. Jesus will take care of our past, our present and our future. Praise Jesus's name. Jesus loves us very much.

research help: ' Encouragement for Life' by Charles R Swindoll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Isaiah 49

 God Reflections: Isaiah 49 by ric gustafson

Things happen in our lives. Major things. Storms come and devour us. At that point, we say to God where are you?. I need you. The truth is God has not forgotten us. God says look at the palms of my hands. In Isaiah 49, God says look at the palms of my hands. 

We are on the palms of God's hands. God says I have not forgotten you. God says I know what's going on in your life. God says don't worry I will take care of it. God always knows how we are feeling. God knows what we are doing at all times. So don't worry. God has us on the palms of his hands.

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Encouragement for Life' by Charles R Swindoll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Red Riding Hood page 3

 Red Riding Hood page 3 by ric gustafson

Violet watched as the men approached her.

" Pardon us". The man brought his horse along side Violet's mule. " We would like a word with you".

Violet recognized the man who was speaking to her. It was Sir Merek.

" Violet, it is me Sir Merek?".

" Have we met?".

" We met on the road a fortnight ago".

Violet did not answer him.

" Sir Willmer and I only wish to ask for directions". He smiled. " Is this the way to Lappage Valley?".

" How dare you steal from poor widows?".

Sir Merek stared at Violet. " I do not steal from widows".

" How dare you steal from my grandmother".

" I do not steal from widows".

Violet stared at the Knight. " You have not been demanding money on behalf of Baron Dunham?".

" I am an honorable English Knight". He smiled at Violet. " I do not take money unlawfully from anyone". 

" Baron Dunham's men demanded money from my grandmother".

" We will straighten that out". Sir Merek frowned. " Take me to your grandmother".

research help: ' Cloak of Scarlet' by Melanie Dickerson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 139

God Reflections: Psalm 139 by ric gustafson

God made only you. Only you has a certain face, voice, abilities, smile and walk. How does that make you feel?. Nobody is like you. God planned it that way. God designed us to be unique, distinct and significant. There will never be a human being like you ever again. 

You are you. There is only you. You are important to God. Always.

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

research help: ' Encouragement for life' by Charles R Swindoll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Luisitania miracle page 3

 The Luisitania miracle page 3 by ric gustafson

A work in progress

I walked up to the young russet haired officer. " Hello officer".

" Hello Miss". He grinned. " Let me check my paperwork for your cabin number".

" Thank you Officer".

" Here you are". He pointed at the pages. " Your cabin is on the Upper Deck".

I smiled. " I believe I know how to walk to that deck".

The young officer scratched his chin. " You do?".

" I have traveled on this ship's sister ship".

The officer's voice hesitated. " The Mauretania".

" Yes". I smiled. " I believe this ship's layout is about the same".

I walked down the Grand Staircase one level down to the Upper Deck. Eventually, I found my inside room.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Peter 2

 God Reflections: I Peter 2 by ric gustafson

Some people want to be wealthy, powerful and famous. And for some people, possessions can be very valuable. Some have possessions that are priceless. To God, possessions are worthless. To God, we are priceless possessions. According to I Peter 2, we are God's own possession. 

For us, Jesus paid a high price. We were bought with a price. That price was Jesus's own blood. And now we belong to Jesus. We should smile. We are Jesus's. We were bought with a price.

research help: ' encouragement for life' by Charles R Swindoll

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Job 38

God Reflections: Job 38 by ric gustafson

According to Genesis 1, in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The first name God revealed himself to be is God. The other name is ' Elohim'. God is our mighty Creator God. God took nothing and made something. God made everything. Our Creator has a triune nature. 

Not only was God the Father creating everything so was God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. 

The earth was created to bring glory to our Creator our Elohim.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Hope: hope in the storm

 Hope: hope in the storm by ric gustafson

Matthew 8 and Luke 8 talk about a storm in the life of Jesus's disciples. Have you ever faced a storm in your life?. For the disciples, a quiet boat ride became a brush with death. Jesus was very tired. Jesus had just healed many people. Jesus had just spoke near the shore of the Sea of Galilee. There was so many people crowding around Jesus, he had to climb inside a boat. By the time Jesus finished, it was evening. 

Jesus was exhausted. Needing rest, the boat set sail for the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee. 

Jesus was tired. The disciples were tired. In the Sea of Galilee, a storm can appear in minutes. According to Mark 4, a great storm appeared. The boat started filling. There was fatigue, confusion and darkness. The perfect storm. Not only was there a storm, Jesus was asleep in the back of the boat.

Just like this sudden storm, storms can come in our life as well. The disciples woke up Jesus. Then Jesus did what he will do in our life. Jesus said ' Peace be still'. The wind ceased. There was calm. Jesus promises to do the same for the storms in our life. Jesus will take care of the storm. He will give us calm and peace. That is his promise to us. Praise Jesus.

research help: ' Hope' by Dr David Jeremiah

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Apostle's Creed: Eternal Life

 Apostle's Creed: Eternal Life by ric gustafson

When we talk about the Apostle's Creed, we talk about the church the body of Christ. The church is not a building. The body of Christ is a group of people called out. It is a community of faith. The body of Christ gives support, love and encouragement. The church is one not several. The Christian church is based on one foundation being Jesus Christ. The church is holy. 

The body of Christ is the communion of saints. The communion of saints is a fellowship of faith spanning the ages of time. Communion means fellowship. The church is there to support its members. Fellowship is sharing joys and sorrows. We are holy because of the One who has called them. We are holy because of our calling. 

We are also a community of sinners. Because of the cross, Jesus forgave and took our sins. For a personal relationship to be restored, there must be forgiveness. 

The Apostle's Creed ends with Eternal Life. With hope, we know we will spend eternity with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Eternal Life means we will live with God outside the confines of space and time.

We look forward to that day when we can go home our true home.

God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit loves us more than anything else.

The End

research help: ' I Believe' by Alister McGrath

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Apostle's Creed: God the Holy Spirit

 Apostle's Creed: God the Holy Spirit by ric gustafson

The Apostle's Creed explains that Jesus ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. Acts 1 says Jesus ascended forty days after his resurrection. Because of his resurrection, Jesus was liberated from the bonds of death. Jesus is now close to the presence, power and majesty of his heavenly Father. Jesus ascended and now his disciples have work to do. Jesus commissions them to carry on his work on this earth. Matthew 28 says therefore go and make disciples of all nations. Jesus's disciples preached, healed and they proclaimed the good news. 

Jesus will come again to judge the living and the dead. And now the Apostle's Creed talks about the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit brings life. Because of the Holy Spirit, we are alive not dead. The Holy Spirit brings power. The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin. The Holy Spirit is a pledge of our salvation. The Holy Spirit is our comforter. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit are one.

research help: ' I Believe' by Alister McGrath

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Doc Holliday page 5

 Doc Holliday page 5 by ric gustafson

" Which tooth is it?".

The big teamster pointed to his lower left jaw. " Right here". He was in the reclining dental chair. Holliday reached over to a tray that was on a nearby table. He picked up a steel probe.

" What are you going to do with that?".

Holliday smiled. " I'm going to peer into your mouth". He tapped the probe against the suspect tooth. " Does that hurt?".

" Yes" yelled the teamster. " It hurts".

Holliday took out of the tray a pair of extractor pliers. He grabbed the man's jaw in a viselock. He put a knee on the man's chest. He heaved upward. The loose molar popped out.

The man screamed. " Ouch that hurt".

" Rinse your mouth with salt water three or fours times a day". Holliday smiled. " That will be two dollars".

Back at his hotel room, Holliday wrote Mattie a letter. Then he ate his dinner at the Bon Ton Cafe.  Then Holliday walked over to the Acme Gaming Palace. It was his favorite place to play poker.

research help: ' Doc Holliday' by Matt Braun

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric 

Apostle's Creed: Jesus's death and resurrection

 Apostle's Creed: Jesus's death and resurrection by ric gustafson

Some find it surprising that Pontius Pilate is mentioned in the Apostle's Creed. Pilate was the procurator of Judea from AD 26-36. The Creed is anchored in history. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ did happen. God came down to our level to bring us up to his. Pilate was a witness to the final days of Jesus's ministry. The final days of Jesus's ministry was done in public. 

We are deep rooted in sin. It has a stranglehold on us. It destroys people's will and ability to break free of it. Because of Jesus's death on the cross, sin's power over us is broken. It's stain is cleansed. 

The Apostle's Creed talks about Calvary. With his Son's death on a cross, God was working out the salvation of the world. 

Jesus Christ was crucified, died and was buried. The Good News is that Jesus Christ on the third day rose again. Why?. Because he wants us to be with him in heaven forever.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' I Believe' by Alister McGrath

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Apostle's Creed: God the Son

 Apostle's Creed: God the Son by ric gustafson

A very simple basic confession of our faith is Jesus Christ. Jesus is Lord. At the center of our Christian faith is Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is a person. There are reasons why Jesus Christ is different from other religious teachers or thinkers. There is a connection between the person and the message of Jesus. What is important is what Jesus did and it's impact. Jesus cannot be treated like an ordinary human being. Jesus's message has weight and status. 

Jesus means ' God saves'. Jesus is the long awaited Messiah. The Messiah was the long waited deliverer of the people of God. Messiah means ' the anointed one'. 

Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus is our Lord. Jesus is God's only Son. Jesus is our Lord. 

The simple truth is that Jesus loves us more than anything else. He always has. He always will. 

research help: ' I believe' by Alister McGrath

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Apostle's Creed: God the Father

 Apostle's Creed: God the Father by ric gustafson

In the Apostle's Creed are the words ' God the Father almighty'. The Father of Jesus Christ is God the Father. God is a living and personal God. Christians worship and adore God. Some people claim there is no God. The statement of faith says yes there is a God. God is described as the Father. He is the Father of Jesus his Son. God cares for us and guides us. God is with us throughout life. God in a way is like a human father. And in some ways he is not. Genesis 1 says we were made in the image of our heavenly Father. God knows our weaknesses and problems like our earthly fathers. God is not a human being. God created heaven and earth. Everything in the world was created by God. 

God the Father loves us. He always has. He always will. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' I Believe' by Alister McGrath

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Apostle's Creed: I believe

Apostle's Creed: I believe by ric gustafson

What does it mean to believe?. To believe that certain things are true. This is faith. If you believe in the existence of God, this is faith. We know there is a God. Faith means trust. When I say I believe in Jesus Christ, I trust in him. We leave all to follow Jesus. 

Christians believe in someone. That someone is Jesus. Faith is like an anchor. We need Jesus as our anchor. When the storms of life come we need Jesus as that anchor. 

Faith means commitment. To believe in God is to belong to God. Our faith is a personal relationship with God. God will not abandon us. 

Faith is obedience. Romans 1 says we need the obedience that comes from faith. Faith leads to obedience. We must trust and obey God. Faith is trusting God. Faith transforms us. 

research help: ' I Believe' by Alister McGrath

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 16

 Beatles Anthology page 16 by ric gustafson

My name is Ringo Starr

In the summer of 1958, I borrowed some money from my grandfather. I went down to Frank Hessy's Music Shop. I bought a single headed Ajax kit.

The first real rock and roll group in Liverpool was Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. I was playing in a group called the ' Darktown Skiffle Group'. After an audition, I was able to become the drummer of Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. We played all over the country and abroad. 

Without a car, I had to borrow some of my drum kit in order to play. One night, I had to drag my drum kit onto a bus to go home.

I knew I had to get my own car. A fellow drummer helped me get a Standard Vanguard for my first car. It was horrible to drive. I loved the car. It was painted red and white.

Luckily, I was born in Sep 1939. The army did not conscript me. I decided to give up my job as an engineer. I became a full time drummer with Rory Storm and the Hurricanes.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

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