God Reflections: 3 John 1

 God Reflections: 3 John 1 by ric gustafson

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

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

The truth is God loves you more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Happy Birthday from the Sowers page 1

 Happy Birthday from the Sowers page 1 by ric gustafson

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

" Yes I do". She smiled.

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

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

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

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

" Mom, you did not have to".

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

research help: a church sermon

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 3

God Reflections: Matthew 3 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Paul Simon page 2

 Paul Simon page 2 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

The Nine page 13

the Nine page 13 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Hebrews 10

 God Reflections: Hebrews 10 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 147

 God Reflections: Psalm 147 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 11

 God Reflections: John 11 by ric gustafson

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

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

Jesus loves us more than anything else. 

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 56

 God Reflections: Psalm 56 by ric gustafson

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

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

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God's Reflections: Psalm 30

 God Reflections: Psalm 30 by ric gustafson

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

Jesus died and rose again. 

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Ecclesiastes 9

God Reflections: Ecclesiastes 9 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

God loves you more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John and Caroline page 9

 John and Caroline page 9 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Ephesians 5

 God Reflections: Ephesians 5 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Joshua 3

God Reflections: Joshua 3 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

God loves you more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 7

Wine page 7 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 14

 Beatles Anthology page 14 by ric gustafson

My name is Ringo Starr

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

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

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

My first musical memory about age 8 was Gene Autry.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Paul Simon page 1

 Paul Simon page 1 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 139

 God Reflections: Psalm 139 by ric gustafson

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

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

God loves you more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Isaiah 49

 God Reflections: Isaiah 49 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 5

 God Reflections: Matthew 5 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Doc Holliday page 4

 Doc Holliday page 4 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

That first night, Holliday was 50 dollars ahead.

research help: ' Doc Holliday' by Matt Braun

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 119

 God Reflections: Psalm 119 by ric gustafson

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

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

God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Romans 12

 God Reflections: Romans 12 by ric gustafson

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

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

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 6

 God Reflections: John 6 by ric gustafson

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

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 6

 Wine page 6 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

Next we will look at the making of red wine.

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Galatians 3

 God Reflections: Galatians 3 by ric gustafson

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

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

God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 98

 God Reflections: Psalm 98

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

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

God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Peter 3

 God Reflections: I Peter 3 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Proverbs 27

 God Reflections: Proverbs 27 by ric gustafson

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

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

God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Nine page 12

 the Nine page 12 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

research help: ' Alito' by Mollie Hemingway

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

H P and the Deathly Hallows page 7

 H P and the Deathly Hallows page 7 by ric gustafson

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

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

Uncle Vernon pointed at the TV.

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

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

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

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

Uncle Vernon frowned. " Not really".

" We will be leaving before Harry".

" And then?" exclaimed Dudley.

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Proverbs 26

God Reflections: Proverbs 26 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 16

 God Reflections: John 16 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Red Riding Hood page 2

 Red Riding Hood page 2 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

" Are you feeling ok Grandmother?".

" Physically yes, money wise no".

" What happened?".

" Brigands came and took all my money".

research help: ' Cloak of Scarlet' by Melanie Dickerson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 10

 God Reflections: John 10 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

John and Caroline page 8

 John and Caroline page 8 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 51

 God Reflections: Psalm 51 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 22

the Firm page 22 by ric gustafson

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

Kay frowned. " Sorry I'm late".

" That's ok".

" So you are out of school?".

Abby grinned. " Yes until Jan 6".

They both ordered wine.

" What are your plans for Christmas?".

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

" Because of his work schedule".

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

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Red Riding Hood page 1

 Red Riding Hood page 1 by ric gustafson

Spring 1386

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

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

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

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

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

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

" Violet of Burwelle".

" I am Sir Merek of Dericott".

research help: ' Cloak of Scarlet' by Melanie Dickerson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Wine page 5

 Wine page 5 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

Next we will talk about how wine is made.

research help: ' The Wine Bible' by Karen MacNeil

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 14

 God Reflections: John 14 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the miracle on Titanic page 17

 the miracle on Titanic page 17 by ric gustafson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

" The ship is too large to berth".

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

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

" 120 I believe".

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: I Timothy 6

 God Reflections: I Timothy 6 by ric gustafson

The Apostle Paul knew what he was fighting for. Paul focused on his ministry for Jesus. Because of Paul, Timothy became a Jesus follower. Paul and Timothy had a special relationship. 

In I Timothy 6, Paul challenges Timothy to fight the good fight. Paul tells Timothy to fight the good fight of the faith. Paul tells Timothy to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 

Paul tells us to use the Holy Spirit to help us use these qualities. 

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

AA Milne page 3

AA Milne page 3 by ric gustafson

In 1894, the school year at Westminster School for AA started. School started well for him. At the age of 12, his grades were encouraging. He liked the school and his brother Ken was also attending there. AA's summer term did not go as well. Headmaster Dr Rutherford reported that AA showed little or no ambition.

AA loved being with his brother Ken. Together, they took country walks, rode bicycles and read together. Sports was one thing the boys loved doing together. AA was good at football, cricket and sprinting. Both brothers tried to out do each other.

Both brothers liked to write. In the late 1890's, AA had one major goal for his writing. At this time, only one magazine mattered in the British Empire. The magazine was founded in 1841. It was a weekly magazine of humor and satire. It would get it's name and logo from a famous puppet. Later, when AA had his children's books illustrated it was this magazine that did it. 

This magazine was in drawing rooms, libraries, doctor waiting rooms and dentist waiting rooms. After a couple of years, AA became a regular contributor to this magazine.

The magazine was called ' Punch'.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric 

God Relections: Galatians 5

 God Reflections: Galatians 5 by ric gustafson

This bible chapter talks about the Galatian believers. They know they now have freedom in Jesus. But instead of enjoying this new freedom, they have slipped back into their old ways. They put themselves into law keeping that has made them feel holy. Galatians 5 says now make sure that you stay free don't get tied up again in slavery to the law.

We try for impossible dreams. When we don't reach those goals, we think we have failed. 

Jesus died on the cross so we can be free and filled.

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

John and Caroline page 7

 John and Caroline page 7 by ric gustafson

Carolyn Bessette on Sept 5 1994, was to find out what the Kennedy family does on Labor Day. The family served breakfast at 6 and 7:30. Carolyn slept in till 9. She missed breakfast. She made sure she was at Eunice and Sarge's for lunch. Before lunch, everyone went sailing. It was a Kennedy tradition. Then after lunch, everyone headed down to the beach.

Then the biggest event of the weekend happened. Ted Kennedy had his famous clambake. He did it at least 4 times a year. It was usually attended by about 150 people. Not only family and friends were invited but also political big wigs. The family considered the event a private affair. There were no pictures allowed. To the Kennedy family, the clambake was a tradition.

John looked forward to seeing his sister Caroline Schlossberg, her husband Ed and their 3 children. Caroline wanted to tell her brother about a new summer home they had bought on Long Island.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 19

God Reflections: John 19 by ric gustafson

When Jesus spoke his final words from the cross, The Apostle John was there. Before his death, Jesus was arrested late in the night. During that night and early morning, Jesus had to go through illegal trials by the religious establishment. Jesus was taken to Pontius Pilate. Pilate was the Roman official in charge of Judea. Only the Romans could give Jesus the death penalty. Only the Romans could execute a convict. 

The Romans used the most brutal and painful way for capital punishment. It was called crucifixion.

Jesus's final cry from the cross was one of triumph. He proclaimed ' It is finished'.

Jesus's sacrifice for us on that cross meant that our sins and guilt had been paid in full by Jesus. 

Praise God's name.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 13

 Beatles Anthology page 13 by ric gustafson

My name is Ringo Starr.

I was born on July 7 1940. I was born at number 9 Madryn Street Liverpool 8. Our neighborhood was really bombed during the war. We had to hide in the coal cellar. When I was older, we played on the rubble and in air raid shelters.

We were an ordinary poor working class family. My mother's mother had 14 children. My granddad was Johnny Parkin. When my grandfather's mother remarried, she married a Starkey. So my grandfather changed his name to Starkey also. 

My father was a baker. When I was 3, he left my mother and I. I was an only child. When I was 13, she remarried. I have no real memories of my father. After he left, I only saw him 5 times after that. I was angry he left us. I had to go through therapy for my feelings toward him.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 103

 God Reflections: Psalm 103 by ric gustafson

God has done many good things for us. David reflects in Psalm 103 of the good things God has done for him. In this psalm, David is filled with gratitude and praise. David was far from perfect. The truth is that David was a man after God's heart. David loved worshiping God. 

David says more than once praise the Lord. In this psalm David lists six reasons to give God praise. First, God forgives our sins. Second, God heals our diseases. Third, God redeems us. Fourth, God loves us. Fifth, God gives us good things. Sixth, God renews us. God loves us more than anything else.

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Beatles Anthology page 12

Beatles Anthology page 12 by ric gustafson

My name is George Harrison.

When I was in my early teens, the skiffle boom started. In the late 50's, Lonnie Donegan was king of skiffle. He had the highest profile. He was the most successful guitar player of the time. He had a great voice and a lot of energy. He sang versions of Leadbelly songs. He was a hero of mine.

My skiffle band was called the Rebels. I tried to make a guitar. That did not go well. The first decent guitar I had was a Hofner President. I would spend hours trying to learn how to play that guitar.

My first girlfriend was Iris Caldwell. I heard a club was being built at number 8 Hayman's Green. It was in a cellar. The name of the club was to be called the Casbah. There I met Pete Best. Paul and I met Stuart Sutcliffe at Art College. Sutcliffe was thin with glasses. He had a Van Gogh beard. 

Now with John, Paul, myself, Stuart and Pete on drums, we had a band.

research help: ' Beatles Anthology' by the Beatles.

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: John 1

 God Reflections: John 1 by ric gustafson

At the start of John 1:1 is in the beginning. This was written by the Apostle John. God's Word starts with in the beginning. The gospel of John starts with in the beginning. John walked with Jesus. The story of God's Word starts in Genesis. The last words of Jesus come in Revelation. The story in God's Word is about Jesus. John calls Jesus the Word. 

Jesus is divine. Jesus is the source of meaning and purpose in life. 

You are invited to read the gospel of John. Jesus is the Word. The Word was with God. The Word was God. Come to the Word. Come to Jesus. He will give you what you seek. 

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

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Matthew 14

God Reflections: Matthew 14 by ric gustafson

The disciples were on a boat on the Sea of Galilee. At one point, they see something in the distance. Then they see their master Jesus walking on the water. They were terrified. They thought they were seeing a ghost. 

At first he was terrified, then Peter wanted to do the same thing his master was doing. Jesus agrees. Peter climbs out of the boat. He takes a few steps. Then he looks down. Fear comes over his face. He begins to sink. He cries out to his master.

Jesus reaches out. He catches Peter. Then according to Matthew 14, he asks Peter. " You of little faith why did you doubt?".

There will be a time when Jesus asks us to get out of boat. There will be a call of God in our lives. God will ask us to get out of the boat. Will we do that?. Will we be faithful?. I pray that when we are called by God, we will get out of the boat. Jesus is faithful. When a storm comes, Jesus will hold out his hand and save 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

Salome page 4

 Salome page 4 by ric gustafson

Salome watched as Zeb was dragging in the last of the day's catch. Zeb was tall, thin and sinewy. He had brown eyes and shaggy hair. He loved to fish. Usually they fished throughout the night because fish were more active at that time.

I found out from Abba that my sister Leah was betrothed to Kadmiel. It was a beautiful wedding. At one point, Jonah came up to me.

" Not dancing tonight Salome?".

" Maybe later".

Jonah looked over at his wife Keturah. " My wife is not interested in dancing tonight either".

" That's because she is large with child".

" Salome,I wanted to apologize for taunting you when we were young".

" I forgive you". I smiled. " It was years ago".

Jonah grinned. " Zeb has become a true and loyal friend".

I smiled. " He is".

research help: ' On Living Stone' by Heather Kaufman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

God Reflections: Psalm 51

 God Reflections: Psalm 51 by ric gustafson

The Prophet Nathan confronted David about his sin. David confessed his sin. He got honest with God. Psalm 51 is a song David wrote to restore his relationship with God. 

When we sin, we need to get honest with God. Then we need spiritual cleansing. People in the bible needed spiritual cleansing. We do also. 

In Psalm 51, David prays for a pure and cleansed heart. David knows only God can do that. We confess, God gives us a pure heart. A pure heart takes time. It is a lifelong process. 

Ask God to cleanse your heart. The benefit of a purified heart?. We can have a blessed life. Jesus asks that we are truthful and honest with him. 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

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