Musings by Miss Music

Some Thoughts on Music...

2012-01-28T16:41:00.000-08:00

Recently I spoke at a church in this area on the issue of music. I chose to center my thoughts to start with on the "New Song" Principle. I hope you enjoy these thoughts extracted my talk that day...

MUSIC! Does it really matter?

There is so much which could be said along this subject. Where is one to start? I am drawn to Psalms 40:1-3. Here, the psalmist says

“I waited patiently for the Lord;

And He inclined to me,

And heard my cry.

² He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,

Out of the miry clay,

And set my feet upon a rock,

And established my steps.

³ He has put a new song in my mouth—

Praise to our God;

Many will see it and fear,

And will trust in the Lord.

This is part of the basis for the “New Song Principle.” If we believe what II Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new,” then, how can we believe that everything changes except our music? Instead of changing our music, these days, we are bringing in more and more of the world when it comes to this matter. A little bit of rock beat here, a little of jazz and blues there, and before you know it, there is little difference in the music of the world and the music of the church and those who profess Christ.

One argument used these day is that “we must use the music of the world in order to reach them.” Really? Where does that come from in the Bible? How can being like the world, result in them seeing any reason to change? II Corinthians 6:17 says, “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” (KJV) Clearly, anyone who knows Christ will begin to move away from the world and closer to the Lord as he walks the Christian life.

Ray Comfort of www.livingwaters.com preached a powerful message several years ago on the need to present Christ and the gospel in such a way as to cause people to see their eternal, desperate need of Christ!!! Sinners are not in need of “life enhancement” as Comfort described the modern, watered-down gospel we hear. But instead, we need a clear presentation of the gospel that will cause men and women, boys and girls to see that, “yes, I am a sinner, without Christ, condemned to hell without Him.” Seeing one’s need for Christ will result in salvation. We can never “sneak” Christ in through worldly music that has the sinful words swapped out with supposed good words.. We must clearly present Him in our music and preaching. We cannot take worldly styles of music, change the words and convince people that they need a Savior. Therefore, it is important that we present Christ through music which is God-glorifying, and points towards Christ as the Savior of this world.

Some worry that people will feel “uncomfortable” with “church music” if all we sing is hymns and conservative styles of music. But, really, should the sinner “feel comfortable” in the house of God? He should feel VERY uncomfortable if presented with a clear gospel message. God is holy. We are sinners with no way in ourselves to be made holy. Through Christ, this gulf can be spanned. There is no other way. Only by seeing ourselves as destined for eternity without Christ can we have any hope of salvation.

Mr. Garen Wolf, in his book, Church Music Matters, gives us some tests for determining what is appropriate in the church.

Summary of “tests” from Garen Wolf.

1. Does a particular style of music lend itself to the awesomeness and solemnity of worshiping God?

2. Does the style of music we are using in our church remind the people of the music they listen to in a bar or at a dance club?

3. Will this music cause the hearer to think on the lust of the eye and the lust of the flesh?

4. What will be the end result of this style of music being performed? Will it cause one to think on Christ?

The Cross and the Blood of Jesus ARE good news!

2011-12-28T17:02:00.001-08:00

Rest Beside the Weary Road...

2011-12-23T19:53:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt like you wanted to shout “stop world, let me off!?” Most likely you have, yet it seems like a very difficult thing to do. We are rushing and hurrying everywhere, running to and fro, and for what? Do we need to work all of those hours? Is it necessary to run ourselves ragged so we can have all of the latest trinkets of this earth? There is nothing wrong with hard work, having money and things in and of itself, but what has happened that so many of us are always so tired, harried and frustrated?

Could it be that this is one way that the enemy of our souls attacks us? Maybe he sees that he cannot get us to commit some mortal sin; he knows we won’t murder or rob a bank. But, could his strategy be to get us so busy with the mundane tasks of life, with the ever pressing reality of modern America to have more and more money to buy more and more things so that we will slowly die spiritually?

Perhaps, this Christmas, it is time to remind ourselves, that the reason we are on this earth, is not to possess more things, it is not to be so busy that we have no time for thought and meditation, but, instead, that we might know, love, enjoy and glorify Jesus Christ, our Savior. He said in John 10:10 that He came that we might have life and that it would be abundant life! This abundant life comes only by resting in Him, and leaving our sins, cares and burdens at the cross.

We may find it necessary to leave off some things…perhaps we won’t be able to have a decorated home that looks like it came out of Better Homes and Gardens. Perhaps we will find it necessary to forgo some of our other Christmas "traditions" in order to have more time to move in the rest that Christ came to bring.

But, if we can enjoy a Christmas basking in His presence, what could possibly be better? After all, isn’t HE the reason we celebrate? He came to provide rest for our souls; rest from our sins, rest from the cares of this life, rest from fear and doubt. Perhaps we should try and fill our Christmas season with more meaningful activities which start, first and foremost with just spending time with Him.

Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30 that we should come unto Him and find rest for our souls. We can never find rest in the material things of this world. We can never find rest in anything which takes His place. What can we do, in order to experience the fullness of resting in Him?

“And ye, beneath life’s crushing load, whose form is bending low, who toil along the climbing way with painful step and slow. Look up, for glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing. Oh rest beside the weary road and hear the angels sing!”

I Believe...(part 2)...Before the foundations...

2011-08-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

Eph 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love...

I believe that God planned and ordained a way of salvation before He laid one brick, so to speak, of this world in His creation. Salvation was not a last minute plan as a lot of nail biting went on in the heavenly regions during the events of Genesis 3. No, I believe that salvation was always a part of God's plan. 1 Peter 1:20 in talking about Christ states..."who was foreknown indeed before the foundation of the world, but was manifested at the end of times for your sake..." (ASV) Adam Clarke comments on this scripture, "...it shows that God, foreseeing the fall and ruin of man, appointed the remedy that was to cure the disease."

Consider the implications of this foreplanning. Did God plan for His creation to sin? No. But, God is sovereign, all knowing and knew what would happen if He created humankind with a free will. He knew all of the events of what would happen if He created us.

Now this is hard for us to understand. Why would God create humans if He knew they would rebel against Him? That is a question I can't answer. But, I can say that God wanted a relationship with us, the crown of His creation. He wants me to choose to love Him. He wants me to desire Him more than anything. But, He always leaves the choice up to me...and you. He is a gentleman...He will not force Himself on us.

In Genesis 3, the Savior is foretold as soon as the first sin occurred! Genesis 3:14-15..."And Jehovah God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, cursed art thou above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: and I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed: he shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." (ASV) This is an amazing prophecy concerning Christ! Praise the Lord that the remedy was already in place!

I Believe...

2011-08-08T10:34:00.001-07:00

Today, I want to begin a series of entries which state what I believe and why I believe it. I have been challenged in a couple of different ways recently to think about this. My basis will be the Bible. Without this "bottom line," I have nothing that is any different from anybody else. Without the Bible, it's just "my view." In this day in which we live, there is a spirit of tolerance to the degree, that "each does what is right in his own eyes," as they did in the time of the Judges. (See Judges 21:25) And, each believes "what is right for him/her." There IS absolute truth. There IS a true "bottom line." The buck DOES stop somewhere. We are not left to drift aimlessly. We have a place to cast our anchor.

Everything and everyone has a beginning...that is such an important place to start when defining a belief system. I'm going to start with the One who created this universe, who created this world, and the One who created me. Since He, (God) created all of this, He must have a plan and a purpose. He must have a "right" to decide what is truth and how I should live my life.

I believe in a very literal view of Genesis 1-11. Here we find the basis for everything else. Ken Ham from Answers in Genesis has been calling the church to return to this literal view of beginnings. Without this basis, everything else stands or falls. Is it any wonder that the church is so anemic here in America? We have surrendered to science as the ultimate authority. But, scientists are humans, too. They have not lived forever, they were not there when the foundations of the earth was laid. God challenged Job with the reality that he was not present when God created the earth in Job 38:4. Neither were we or any scientist present as well. Why should we trust in them as opposed to the God of the Bible who WAS there? Yes, we must have faith, but our faith will always be shown to be in the right place, if that faith is in God.

I believe that God created the world. We read about this in Genesis 1-2. Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."
There is nothing said here about any big bang, evolution or any thing like that. Nothing is said here about amoebas transforming to tadpoles, and eventually to apes, and finally to people. No, we were created intentionally. We were created intentionally as the crowning jewel, so to speak of God's creation. Man was created last, at the summit. We were made in God's image as it states in Genesis 1:21 "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." A clear understanding of this will result in a proper estimate of ourselves. I will see that I am created by God for great purpose, but still as subordinate to Him. I will see that I am created to show who God is to this world. Does my life show anything of His great holiness, love and mercy?

There is much ado about whether or not God created the world in six literal days or whether these "days" were actually much longer periods. The way that the words are used, "evening and morning," show us that these were literal days. When these words are used together in this way, we see that they are describing literal days.

In the context, the word day in Genesis 1 refers to six 24-hour days. Every time it appears with “evening and morning” or with a number like “sixth day,” it refers to a 24-hour day.
Terry Mortenson-To read more on this subject, read the whole article here.

This is an "evolution vs. creation" issue. If the world is young, say 6,000 years old as I believe, then there is no evidence of evolution involving millions of years. You can read more about that here.

All of our doctrines of the faith have an origin in Genesis 1-11. I will cover more on that in future posts. I believe that in our day of drift from a Biblical worldview, establishing our beginning is the only place to start.

To summarize...1)I believe that God created the world
2)I believe that God created the world in six literal days
3)I believe that since God created the world, He gets to decide what is moral and what is not
4)I believe that the world is "young," around 6,000 years old

I Cannot Do This Alone...

2011-07-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

I Cannot Do This Alone

O God, early in the morning I cry to you.
Help me to pray
And to concentrate my thoughts on you:
I cannot do this alone.
In me there is darkness,
But with you there is light;
I am lonely, but you do not leave me;
I am feeble in heart, but with you there is help;
I am restless, but with you there is peace.
In me there is bitterness, but with you there is patience;
I do not understand your ways,
But you know the way for me…
Restore me to liberty,
And enable me to live now
That I may answer before you and before me.
Lord, whatever this day may bring,
Your name be praised…Amen

~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

I love this prayer by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. He was a German pastor during World War II. He bravely laid his life on the line to try and rid Germany and the world of Adolph Hitler. However, he was hanged just prior to the ending of the war. Some would say his life was wasted. Not so. He left a wealth of writings and an example of selflessness which can only testify to one thing...he really WAS a man of God, and he lived out what he preached, taught and wrote.

For my own life, there have been some really sad things which have happened in the past 16 months, not the least of which is my brother Michael being diagnosed with cancer. With the cancer now growing in his lungs, things are not real positive. Except for God. He is still in control. I do not understand what all God is up to, but I know that He has never one time shaken His head and tried to figure out what He Himself is doing. No, everything is working out a glorious purpose which will only be fully revealed in heaven.

In the meantime, we on earth are left needing to feel His presence and reassurance. This beautiful prayer by Bonhoeffer gives us a road map to bring us back to the One who can help.
He begins his poem where I need to begin...early in the morning...if I could learn this lesson once and for all, what a difference it would make in my life. Seeking the Lord first thing in the morning is such a help in being "stayed upon Jehovah" as the song writer put it.

"I cannot do this alone..." Bonhoeffer writes. Recognition that I, Sharmen, cannot do this alone. In myself I am nothing. Paul stated, "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me." It is only through Jesus that I can make it through the trials and valleys which lie ahead. I need to lay down my feeble efforts to cope and trust completely in Jesus alone.

Bonhoeffer makes several pleas in this prayer as he recognizes his limitations. They include, "In me there is darkness...I am lonely...I am feeble...I am restless...In me there is darkness...I do not understand your ways..." He is so honest. We need to be completely honest with ourselves and with the Lord. If we admit and confess our weaknesses, then, and only then, can we begin to receive the help that Christ died to bring us.

After each of these honest admissions, Bonhoeffer turns immediately to the help we can have in Jesus. "...with You there is light...You do not leave me...with You there is help...with You there is peace...with You there is patience..."

Psalms 121:1-2 says, "

¹I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

²My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth."

Here we are reminded of where our help comes from...it comes from the Lord ALONE! He made heaven and earth as well as each one of us, He knows how to help me!!!! But, I have to admit I need His help and ask for it. He will never force Himself upon me.

He closes his prayer with praise, regardless of the outcome. We can and must always praise the Lord, no matter what. Psalms 34:1, "I will bless the Lord at all times..." Yes, no matter what, He is worthy of all of our praise. We can be honest with Him, ask for His help, and relax, knowing that the outcome will be for the best. Then, we can praise...

Where Do You Get Your Identity?

2011-06-20T10:53:00.000-07:00

...Does it comes from the things you own? The things you do? Your career? Your spouse? Your children? Or, does it come from your Creator? In Genesis 1:26, we read (God speaking) "Let us make man in Our own image, according to Our likeness..." Here we see that God created us, does that not mean that He would have something to say about what His creation does? The fact that we know who created us, means we can start to understand what we were created for. This is very freeing, I believe.

The word "identity" has several definitions. I have included two of them here which illustrate the point I am endeavoring to make in this blog post.

the condition or fact of being a specific person or thing; individuality
the characteristics and qualities of a person, considered collectively and regarded as essential to that person's self-awareness (from yourdictionary.com)

The first question asked in the Westminster Confession is:
1. What is the chief end of man?

Man's chief end is to glorify God, and enjoy Him forever.

Romans 11:35 says "For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to Whom be glory forever. Amen."
I Corinthians 6:20 "For you were bought with a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
I Corinthians 10:31 "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

Psalms 16:11 "You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore."

We are expected, by God, to glorify Him and to find joy in Him. This, should be our chief assignment for each day, and where we start in our identity. This sort of reason for living, goes across economic lines, and goes across every boundary, no matter where we may be. If you are a single person, you can glorify God by living a pure life invested in others, and you can enjoy God by finding fulfillment in Him alone. If you are a married person, you can glorify God by living out God's plan for marriage found in Ephesians 5:22-33, and you can enjoy God by finding your ultimate fulfillment in Him at all times and when your spouse lets you down (and he/she will). If you are rich, you can glorify God by using your money to further His causes and not your own, and you can enjoy God by remembering that He is the source of your happiness, not your money. If you are poor, you can glorify God by doing the best you can with what you have, and enjoy Him by knowing that He will supply all of your needs.

When we began to live for the glory of God, any circumstance which we may find ourselves, suddenly becomes a "gateway to joy" as Elisabeth Elliot has stated many times. Living for God's glory and not our own, gives life lasting purpose, and a pure, real identity! When we can see ourselves as placed on this earth for God's eternal purpose, not our own selfish fulfillment, our lives can be transformed. It will then be a natural stepping stone to find joy in the One who created us!

In Colossians 2:9-10 we read, "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. ¹⁰And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power..." Complete in Christ! Yes, there is wholeness to be found by immersing oneself in the One who made me! By finding the identity He created for me, there is peace, joy and purpose to be found.

In Ephesians 2:10, we read that we are God's "workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works., which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." We are created for good works! Here, we see another aspect of our identity and purpose. We are to do good works which bring glory to God. When those things are done for the glory of God, we can find fulfillment and a sense of purpose.

So, based on the above scriptures, (and others), we can conclude that...

1. We are created by God.

2. We are created for God.

3. We are created to fulfill the purpose for which God created us, which boils down to glorifying Him in whatever situation we find ourselves.

4. We can trust God with the plans and details of our lives.

5. We can find our "identity" in God alone! How freeing is that?

May you find blessing and peace as you lay down the identities which are fleeting and earthly, and pick up, as your chief identity, that of glorifying God and enjoying Him!

I Have a Goodly Heritage...

2011-04-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

Psalm 16:6 says, " The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; Yea, I have a goodly heritage."

My niece, Luanna, who is almost 14, is coming with me and my parents to the Inter-Church convention in Dayton, Ohio next week. This is a big thing for her, and I hope she has a wonderful week!
I started thinking about some events which happened when I was her age...let's just say that has been a "few" years ago! The summer after my 13th birthday, my brother Michael and I, accompanied my Grandpa and Grandma Heer on a trip up to Hot Springs, South Dakota. We made a stop in a town located in western Nebraska for them to have a missionary service. They had a very strong love and heart for the American Indians and traveled extensively for Wesleyan Indian Ministries. Michael and I assisted with the service by providing some music. My grandpa didn't make it to South Dakota that year as he was stricken with a heart attack while we were still in Nebraska. Thankfully, we were staying with the pastor that night, and his wife was a nurse. She accompanied us as we drove my grandpa to the hospital several miles away. We made it and he was admitted and stayed for awhile, perhaps 10 days or so, to receive care. After a few days had passed, my grandma took Michael and I, and we proceeded up to Hot Springs to attend the annual camp meeting being held at Brainerd Indian School. Eventually, we made it back to western Nebraska, my grandpa finished his recovery, and we drove on home to Overland Park. The next year brought dietary changes as he walked and tried to improve his health.
The next summer, when I was 14, Michael and I once again accompanied them north towards Hot Springs for the annual gathering at Brainerd Indian School. On the way, we stopped at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to assist Frank and Kathy Johnston and their family with a VBS. That was as far as we got. On Sunday night, my grandpa began to feel badly and went out to rest in the recliner located in the living room of the mission home. It was there, his spirit winged its way to his reward with the Lord as he once again suffered a heart attack. He was eventually discovered, and an ambulance came to get him. Three Indian men came and took him to the hospital, but he was already gone. It was so appropriate that he passed this life on an Indian reservation amongst the people for whom he carried such a burden. He so longed to see them receive Christ and have new life.
Soon, the Johnston's oldest daughter, Caroline, accompanied us as we drove home to Overland Park to prepare a funeral and burial. This was very difficult for my grandma to lose her husband so unexpectedly and without a chance to say goodbye. He was only in his 60's.
I am so grateful for these opportunities I had to spend time with my grandpa. None of us knew when we sat out on that trip, it would be our last opportunity.
He was truly a man of God. He spent his life preaching, teaching, pastoring, traveling in deputation, and praying that God's work would be accomplished. Truly, I have a "goodly heritage!"

Music, does it really matter?

2011-04-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

Recently, I raised a fire storm on Facebook by posing a simple question. Here is my question, "what sort of music do you REALLY want to hear at church on Sunday morning??? Screaming guitars played by guys in jeans or a choir dressed nicely in either robes or dress clothes singing hymns??? This is a fairly serious question...please give appropriate answers!" So far, there have been over 100 comments posted...so, you can see that this is a very volatile issue.

For the serious Christian, the bottom line should always be, what does the Bible have to say about music? It is my understanding, that most of the approximately 600 references to music in the Bible, are speaking of praise to God. If this is the case, we can be quite sure, that music should lift us in praise to God. Can we glorify God while listening to other styles of music besides religious? I believe so. Try listening to a CD of Bach music and tell me if it does not cause you to give honor to our Creator who could not only create music, but bring into being individuals, such as Bach, who would be enabled to write such magnificent music!
We could give that test to other types of music...why don't you try it some time? Can you praise God while listening to headbanging rock music? Can you praise God while listening to something sensuous and self serving?

Speaking of our Creator, if we believe Genesis 1:1 that God created the earth, do we not believe that He created music also? That He created humans with the gift of writing music and creating wonderful arrangements of tones which can draw our hearts to praise Him? If He created music, and I believe that He did, then, would it not stand to reason that He should have the ultimate authority over our music?

Mr. Richard Peck writes in his book "Rock, Making Musical Choices," about a way we can "test" music. Here is part of his outline involving the letters in the word "test."
T-Test-Is the message true according to scripture? John 4:24, II Timothy 2:15
E-Exalts Christ or man? Psalms 89:1, Psalms 147:1, Acts 2:25-21
S-Separate from the world? I John 2:15, II Corinthians 6:14-17, Romans 16:17, Galatians 1:8
T-Teaches and builds up the body of Christ? I Thessalonians 5:11, II Timothy 2:2, Colossians 3:16.

If unsure of a certain song or musical style, try applying Mr. Peck's "Test" to it and see how it measures up. Let's try an example and see how it measures up.
What about the very well known hymn, "How Firm a Foundation." Here we have the first verse..."How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord. Is laid for your faith in His excellent Word. What more can He say than to you He hath said? To you, who for refuge, to Jesus have fled."
Test-is it true? Yes, the Bible is our firm foundation and there we find that God is our refuge in time of trouble, Psalms 46:1
Exalt-Does it exalt Christ or man? Clearly, it does exalt Him as our refuge!
Separate-Is it separate from the world? Yes, this musical style is certainly acceptable and does not promote a love for the world.
Teach-Does it teach me something about God, His character? Does it build me up? Does it build up the body of Christ? Yes to all of these questions. It shows me that God's character is trustworthy, even in times of trouble, it encourages me to seek Him in times of trouble, it encourages the body of Christ to trust Him.

I would challenge you to respond to this post with some "test" observations of your own. Even bring your hard cases!

Keep in mind also, "The New Song Principle." We see this in Psalms 40:2-3 where the Psalmist is praising God for bringing him up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, placing him on the solid rock, and establishing his goings. This amazing "salvation experience" brought the Psalmist such joy! He was given a "New Song" to sing! The meaning of the word "new" here is "fresh, new thing." Can you honestly say that all musical styles would be acceptable as "new" for a newly saved individual? Or a saved individual who has been around for awhile? One who has just come from the pits of sin? He is set up out of that, should his old music styles remain? Should he endeavor to use a style of music which was written PRIMARILY AS A MEANS TO STIR UP SENSUALITY, as his worship mode?
Garen Wolf writes of the "New Song Principle" in his book, Church Music Matters, in this way...{The New Song Principle} connotes music making that is of a higher or renovated character that always renders praise to God-not man...part of the old things that pass away is the 'old song' and the old self-engrandizement and worldly musical performance practice." He also quotes II Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
According to Wolf, the nature of the new song is "to praise...God that is of a higher renovated character. New song in the Bible means 'new character,' not just something produced now."
So, we cannot say that we must only sing newly written material. No, this is clearly speaking of a newness in character which should characterize ALL aspects of the Christian life, not just music. Good music can be hundreds of years old, or just days old. The important thing is to determine if it is appropriate, based on the Word of God, for the child of God to sing. Is it fresh, new?

These are just some thoughts that I hope will stir others to evaluate their musical choices in a new way, and be open to making changes as the Lord leads! I welcome comments!

I Bless Your Name....

2011-03-30T09:07:00.001-07:00

Psalm 34:1 says "I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth..." We read in Psalm 33:1 that "praise is comely for the upright."

Have you ever been in a "prison in your mind?" Did life ever seem so bleak that you simply could not see any way to get on top or ever feel that life would have meaning again? I believe we CAN find an answer for these difficult times in something as simple as praise.

I recently listened again to a song sung by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir which really blessed me. It talks about Paul and Silas being in prison, having been beaten. We read in the scriptures of that account in Acts 16:19-39. They had cast out a spirit of divination from a young woman which caused her masters great concern, for how could they continue to receive such great gain from her? No longer would she be able to supposedly tell fortunes. Her masters brought Paul and Silas into the marketplace, complained loudly against them, and before it was all said and done, Paul and Silas had been beaten and thrown into prison.
Wouldn't that make you want to keep preaching the gospel? Hardly. But, for Paul and Silas, a "praise meeting" commenced at midnight. They sang the praises of God, and something amazing happened. An earthquake occurred, the prison was shaken, the doors were opened, and all the prisoner's had their chains loosed! Another miracle awaited in that the jail keeper and his entire family were saved!
Here we see the power of praise from the upright! The soloist for the Brooklyn Tabernacle sings so beautifully, these words:
"Some midnight hour, if you should find.
You're in a prison in your mind.
Sing out in praise, defy the chains.
And they will fall in Jesus name!

I bless Your name! I bless Your name.
I give You honor, give You praise!
You are the Life, the Truth, the Way!
I bless Your Name, I bless Your Name!"

Praise can bring you into the presence of the One who can break chains!
Sometimes it will only be a conscious decision. We will not feel like praising.
But, He can lift us above our circumstances. He can bring us out of darkness. He can help us to see the He will be with His child, even IN the darkness. He can help us to see that He is still ruling, reigning and living!

So, my friend, start praising Him! Bless His Name!

"His Kingdom Come..."

2011-03-07T10:45:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about what it means when we recite the Lord's Prayer and we say "...Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven...?" What does this mean for me? For you?
Strong's defines "kingdom" as "properly, royalty..rule...realm...reign." His kingdom has to do with His royalty, which is undeniable; His rule, which is all encompassing; His realm, which is all of the earth and universe; and His reign, which will be forever! We assume that eventually this will happen during His Millennial reign as the earth enjoys a thousand years of peace. But, have you ever wondered what it would be like to have this reality in your own life? What would it be like to have this reality in MY own life? What would it be like if it started happening today? What if God's kingdom and will could begin to happen in each of our lives, then spread to our families, to our churches and into larger areas?
What is God's will? Strong's defines the word "will" as "a determination ...choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination:-- desire, pleasure, will." What would it be like if God's will truly came into my life today, your life today and into an ever increasing area through a ripple affect? What would it be like to have God's purpose, decrees, desire and pleasure happening in our lives in a personal way?
We know that ultimately His will has to do with His holiness and His glory. We know that His kingdom has to do with His purpose to redeem a lost human race and restore us to Himself. We know that He wants to live in us, and that His kingdom is there, inside of us if we trust in Him. How do we make that personal?
How do we move beyond the reality that our world is growing increasingly godless, moving more swiftly to an eternal hell, and Christian values are being attacked every day in so many arenas. What difference WOULD it make, if God's kingdom and will even came into my life?

Evelyn Chrisenson writes in her book What Happens When Women Pray, "...there is a spot on earth that belongs only to you. It is your own personal sphere. It has been given to you by our Heavenly Father. {The disciples} knew they couldn't change the whole Roman Empire, but they also knew it was possible for them to change the spheres of influence which had been given to them by God...God frequently changes circumstances and people when we in a very personal way pray that His will be done in our own spheres of influence...Think of what would happen if every Christian really brought God's will to the little sphere of influence that is his or hers, with nothing contrary to God's perfect will! How different would be our nation, our cities, our churches, our homes."

What would that look like? Would our love for God really show in the way we talk? In the way we view the outcasts of society? In the way we treat our family members and those who disagree with us? Would it show in the neighborhood with the neighbors who annoy us? Would it show in the supermarket when the cashier gives us too much change? Would it show in the things we watch/listen to/read/spend time doing? Would it show in the church when it comes time to try a different approach? To pick a new color of carpet? Would it show by how many people we shared Christ with?

Would it show each day that we lived it as if it were our last? Would it show in the things that we treat as important? Would we view earthly things differently in the light of eternal values?

I am preaching at myself as I share this...what are your thoughts???

We Are What We Think We Are!

2011-02-10T09:27:00.000-08:00

It has often been said that "we are what we eat." I concur that we are also what we think! Just as the quality of food and drink put into our bodies will help to determine our health and longevity, so also, the quality of our thoughts will determine the type of people that we are and will become. Proverbs 23:7 says it clearly, "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he..." I find that I struggle with this area of my life. Let me give you an example. I love true crime stories. As a girl, I loved reading Nancy Drew and yes, The Hardy Boys! I love mystery, and the idea of putting the bad guys away. Maybe I should've been an investigator. Anyway, I enjoy watching news accounts which are shared regularly on the internet such as "48 Hours Mystery" and "Dateline." These shows chronicle various crimes and mysteries that often times surround the prosecution of the accused. I find them very fascinating. But, if we are what we think, is that really going to spur me on to deeper knowledge of Chirst? Philippians 4:8-9 gives us the recipe for our thoughts and for what we should focus on. There we read, "Finally brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things."
William McDonald in his commentary on the whole Bible helps us define these words more clearly.
true-genuine and real
noble-honorable and morally attractive
just-righteous towards God and man
pure-high moral character
lovely-admirable or agreeable
good report-good repute or fair sounding
virtuous-moral excellence
praiseworthy-something which deserves to be commended
This is what we are to meditate on! This is what we are to think on and mull in our minds. Striking, right? Meditate means "to care for, to attend to, practice, be diligent in, to ponder and imagine." (Vine's) This definition seems to show us that this idea of meditation will require time and diligence. It will require us to give up some things which might even be okay things, but which are not leading us closer to Christ. I believe that one way we can do this is by scripture memory. We can also do that by listening to good, Bible based radio programs, studying the word in small groups, and individually, etc. As we hide the word of God in our hearts, we are established. We really DO need to be careful what we meditate on!
I Timothy 4:15 says, "Mediate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all." "These things" refers to, among other things, "reading, exhortation and doctrine." If we are faithful to read the Bible and other books which are Biblically based, exhort others by spurring them on in their walk with Christ, and study Bible doctrines, how much time will we have left for things which don't meet the standards of Phil 4:8-9 and I Timothy 4? Just some thoughts to ponder...(and meditate on)...

Righteousness and Peace Have Kissed...

2010-12-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

Psalms 85:10 says,

"Mercy and truth have met together;

Righteousness and peace have kissed."

We see this fulfillment in the birth, death and resurrection of Christ, our Savior. Yes, it is the celebration of His birth, and with it the beginning of the fulfillment of this scripture. Righteousness represents the law which was never meant to be more than our "schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ," (Gal 3:2) but Peace is representative of the grace and mercy which Christ brings.

Imagine two separate worlds, one where we as sinners live, the other as Heaven where God abides. Now, Imagine the cross joining these two worlds with Christ's death and resurrection. Remember the Holy of Holies in the temple? Only a few, privileged priests were allowed into this sanctuary with the presence of God Himself. But, Christ bridged the gap, as we read in Mark 15:38, making a way for us to enter! The veil was torn asunder and the way was made for us to "cross over."

While we celebrate Christ's birth with all the beautiful lights, gifts and spectacular musical tributes, let's not forget the reason that Jesus came. He came to bring together sinners with the sinless King of Kings; He came so that righteousness and truth might come together in perfect harmony; He came so that the law might be fulfilled. The fulfillment of the law meant a perfect sacrifice must be made for sins. Christ fulfilled that righteous requirement perfectly when He bore sins' penalty on the cross. He also fulfilled the need for grace, peace and mercy. How desperately we need that! By paying for our sins, He has brought all of the grace, peace and mercy we need.

In John 1:14, 16-17, we read of this amazing phenomenon... "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth…And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. ¹⁷For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ."

No wonder the angels sang that night! No wonder the shepherds "came with haste" to the manger of the newborn king! No wonder we love Christmas! For indeed, righteousness and peace have come together...the gulf is gone!

Women in the Line of Christ

2010-12-07T17:42:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered about the four women other than Mary, mentioned in Christ's lineage in Matthew 1? Two of them were prostitutes, one was a Moabitess, and the other was an adulteress. When we consider these four women in the line of Jesus, we should never doubt that God can use anyone regardless of their past!

First, there was Tamar whom we read about in Genesis 38. She became a childless widow after she married Judah's oldest son and he passed away.
Judah, her father-in-law, did not keep his promise to find her a replacement husband by giving her to his second son, so she took matters into her own hand and "played the harlot" with her own father-in-law! In due time, she bore twin sons, Perez and Zerah. Through the family line of Perez, we have our Savior, Jesus Christ.

In Joshua chapters two and six, we read of Rahab who hid the spies. She was not only a harlot, but also was not Jewish. She saved her whole family when the wall of Jericho fell, and she became the wife of Salmon and their son was Boaz, which brings us to Boaz's wife, Ruth. She came from the land of Moab whose people descended from the incestuous relationship between Lot and his daughter. She was not one of the chosen people through birth, but was grafted in when she proclaimed that she would follow the true God of Israel. We read her remarkable account in the book which bears her name. She became a widow when her husband, Naomi's son died and followed her mother-in-law, back to Israel and became a part of God's chosen people.

And finally, we come to Bathsheba. Perhaps we all know this account in II Samuel chapters 11-12. Here we see King David lusting after a woman who was another man's wife. Their immoral relationship brought about the birth of a child that died as God's judgment was upon them. But, God was gracious and later gave them Solomon from whose line, Christ came.

Who would've thought that Christ would have such "mothers?" We are tempted to dismiss such women as too tainted by sin to be much of anything. How often in society, these women are shunned or their children are looked down on. This in no way excuses their sin, for the Bible is clear regarding purity. Yet, we must remember that Christ came to bring forgiveness and cleansing to even the most vile.

For we read Christ's own words in Matthew 18:11, "For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost." No one is too far gone for Him!

Are you feeling lost? Do you feel your past is tainted with some sin too ugly to imagine Christ forgiving you? Then, look at those whom He included in His own family! Surely, there is a message of forgiveness and redemption to be found here. Will you trust Him, the babe in the manger with all of your past, sins and all? He is waiting for you!

Jesus Doeth All Things Well...

2010-11-28T19:14:00.001-08:00

"All the way my Savior leads me what have I to ask besides. Can I doubt His tender mercy Who through life has been my guide. Heavenly peace, divinest comfort, here by faith in Him to dwell. For I know whatever befalls me, Jesus doeth all things well."

The last part of this verse from a familiar hymn, came to me in March of this year as Michael lay in a hospital bed at KU Medical Center. I am thankful that Jesus brought it to my mind. Yet, I do not fully understand how allowing Michael to suffer like this is "well." In this life we will never fully understand that. It is beyond our comprehension.

Perhaps some of the "well" is that a family member who had estranged herself from Michael, came to the hospital that very week and mended the fence. Perhaps it is "well" when a gentleman who Michael barely knew came to the hospital and told him that he had been doing some serious thinking about his soul in light of what Michael was going through. Perhaps, it is "well" when you see how God provided for all of Michaels' lost income during his times of being unable to work. Perhaps it is "well" when you know that their neighbors came and offered their ranch home for Michael and Shawna to move into while they found a more suitable home. And, perhaps it is "well" that through all of this, God is leading Michael through this valley for a reason. I believe that someday he may have a ministry that would never have been possible had his life followed a more "normal" path.

"All the way my Savior leads me, oh the fullness of His love. Perfect rest to me is promised in my Father's house above. When my spirit clothed immortal, wings its flight to realms of day, this my song through endless ages, Jesus led me all the way." Fanny Crosby

Belated Thanksgiving...

2010-11-28T12:11:00.000-08:00

Psalms 9:1-2

I will give thanks unto Jehovah with my whole heart;

I will show forth all thy marvelous works.

I will be glad and exult in thee;

I will sing praise to thy name, O thou Most High.

I know that the official Thanksgiving day is past, but I believe that any day is a good day to give thanks to God.

This year of 2010 has been a difficult year for the Wright family. My brother Michael's cancer, my Aunt Charlotte passing away unexpectedly, and another family member going through a very difficult time has all contributed to sadness and tears. Yet, through all of this, God has been faithful again and again.

I give thanks for God's provision in my own life...for the privilege of owning several Bibles without fear of imprisonment...for health...for friends and family...for allowing me to go on two vacations this year, one to Michigan and one to Ohio and Indiana...for church families...for education and talents...for freedom here in America and there is so much more! I have much more than so many in this world even at my lowest point.

Being a part of such a wonderful family, the Wright family, has brought many blessings to me. A regular part of my life is visiting my Uncle Kenny, wife Darlene and their children on Sunday nights after church. Thanksgiving day found me spending time at my cousin Kristina's house with her family and others. And, there have been other fun times with my family, and our Christmas gathering coming up on December 18. We'll be going to see Christmas lights together and then enjoy a carry in meal.

God has worked it out for me to live in my Grandma's basement apartment for more than 7 years. This fall, we did some painting in the kitchen, dining area and living room. One of the last things was putting a new laminate floor into the kitchen and dining area! It's like having a new place! For all of that I am grateful.

Of course, I am just scratching the surface of all that I have to be thankful for, but this is a good start!

A wonderful Holiday season to all!

Displaying the work of God...

2010-11-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

In John 9:1-12 we read the account of Jesus healing a man born blind. The disciples asked a question of Jesus, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life..."
Truly amazing! Our nature as humans is to often think more "logically" or to see the dark side of those things which are imperfect, painful and ugly. It is hard to understand why God allows sufferings of such magnitudes in our lives. Right now, my little cousin is suffering with serious vision problems. She has tested at the legally blind level. And, of course, my brother, Michael, has been suffering for more than seven months with the realities of cancer, leg amputation, and horrible phantom pain.
We know that since sin entered the world in the Garden of Eden, everything is affected by sin and is cursed (Genesis 3:1-19). We know that all of creation is groaning as it awaits for redemption (Romans 8:19-22). Yet, we also know that God is in control of everything and could keep believers and innocent people from suffering. Yet, He chooses not to. This is so hard to understand. We really can't explain why some suffer and others do not. We must leave that in the hands of a sovereign and loving God who always does what is right. Hosea 14:9 tells us "...The ways of the Lord are right..."
So, we are left with placing our trust in God, no matter what. One of His purposes for allowing suffering is clear in the passage from John 9. He allows suffering at times so that His power and work may be displayed! In Isaiah 61:3, we see that God has provided for those who grieve an opportunity to be "for the display of His splendor." It seems this was the purpose for the blind man in John 9. It truly was an opportunity for God's splendor and work to be displayed as this fellow gave honor to Jesus for healing him.
While he may not see it so clearly, my brother Michael has certainly been a display of the splendor of God and a showcase for His work. So many have been blessed as they see Michael trusting in God, no matter what. What a challenge for all of us...allowing Him to show Himself in our lives through our pain and suffering...

Palm Tree Religion (Part 2)

2010-10-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

"The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, 'The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him.'" Psalms 92:12-14

It was our privilege, here in Overland Park, KS, to witness this scripture being lived out over the weekend as Esther Edwards Dotson came to speak at our Ladies' Retreat. She also did two concerts in the area on Sunday.
On Saturday, at the retreat, she talked with tears, of losing her husband, Tim, unexpectedly, with no warning when he was only 37. For one year, she felt such pain, even while trying to read her Bible and pray. Did she allow this to cause her fall away from Christ? No.
She spoke of a complete surrender of her life to Christ many years earlier, beside her bed, as her family visited Bolivia. There she felt God's presence in a very real way. She had no idea what lay ahead, and that someday her faith would be tested to this extreme.
But, God has proven Himself faithful in her life. She is flourishing, and continues to minister now as the Co-director of an after school program with public school children in her local school district in Indiana. She has truly been "planted in the house of the Lord" as she sings with her 4 beautiful children the praises of God. She is bearing fruit as she proclaims the faithfulness of God in spite of her great sorrow. She is still declaring that Christ is her "Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him."
What a challenge! No matter what may come, by His grace we can be flourishing in Christ.

Palm Tree Religion

2010-10-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

Psalms 1:3 "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers."

A number of years ago, Bro. Albert Barr preached a wonderful message at Kansas
State Holiness Camp called "Palm Tree Religion." In his own unique way, Bro. Barr likened the life of the Christian to the life of a palm tree. In addition to being a preacher, Bro. Barr was also a Science teacher and loved to study what God created. In this unique message, Bro. Barr explained how as Christians, we can live a life so grounded and rooted in Christ, that no matter what comes or goes, our lives can prosper and be fruitful for Christ.
One of the most interesting parts of this unique message, was when Bro. Barr described how the palm tree is some times put through a very seemingly brutal procedure which causes the tree to "weep tears." This process produces a very sweet and useful substance which is appropriately called "tears." How beautiful! God sometimes puts His children through such difficult things, that to an unbeliever would seem cruel!
I think of my own very special brother, Michael. His life was forever altered on March 20th of this year when his Femur broke unexpectedly. A diagnoses of bone cancer soon followed, and then, a complete amputation! Talk about tears! Many actual tears were shed by different ones at that time and in the weeks and months to follow as Michael has suffered unbearable pain and discouragement.
Yet, through it all, I believe God has a plan for greater sweetness in Michael's life that will indeed bring Him MORE glory than if Michael had never gone through this horrible time.
As the scripture says, "...whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." I believe that Michael's life has only begun to bear the fruit that God has intended and only eternity will tell all the reasons why God allowed it and all the lives who have been blessed. Through the past six and a half months, Michael's tree has never withered, although it has been battered. He has remained rooted in Christ, and to this day is prospering. May God be praised!

The One Who Blesses Others...

2010-07-16T16:35:00.000-07:00

"The world of the generous gets larger and larger;

the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.

The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed;

those who help others are helped." Proverbs 11:24-25 The Message

I would like to pay tribute to the owners and employees of Associate Solutions where Michael, my brother is employed. I can see that this scripture has been fulfilled in their generosity to my dear brother. When Michael was first in the hospital, in the midst of having a broken leg, finding out he had cancer, etc., his employer told him that he did not need to worry about his job. Several of the other employees and partners visited Michael different times and were totally supportive of him as he walked through the darkest valley of his life. Three of the partners came and assisted with Michael and Shawna's move back in April and one of them, Terrie, provided food for all who came to help.

His employer continued to pay Michael his base salary and for his insurance benefit and through their generosity, I believe that this scripture from Proverbs has been lived out in this locally owned business.

In the midst of the down economy, this business received eight new clients in the month of June! Could it not be said, they have been generous with Michael in his hour of need and now they are receiving back? They could have said they were no longer able to keep him on their payroll, but they instead chose to take the high road...I have prayed for God's blessing on them...He has done that...praise the Lord!

Living Free

2010-07-04T17:18:00.000-07:00

"Live as free men..." I Peter 2:16
How thankful I am to be an American, living in the land of the free and the home of the brave. In spite of what some have said about our nation, there has never been another in the history of the world that has been more free, or has done more for the remainder of the world. Yes, we have our scars, and presently we are scarred by such things as abortion on demand. Yet, there are many who are fighting to end this blight upon our great land.
While we are enjoying our freedoms which we still have, many in other parts of the world are languishing without the privileges that we take for granted. Part of living free is to remember them and to do what we can to promote freedom. How thankful I am for each of our men and women in the military who are giving of their best years to fight for freedom and to them I give honor. I am also thankful for those of our veterans who gave so much so I may enjoy so much. One of the nursing homes where I play piano has the honor of being the home of a woman who was a pilot way back before women in the military was so acceptable! She is something else! Now getting about in a wheelchair, she once flew planes high in the sky!
Living free means I need to give up some of the things I want and desire...the desire to get even with someone who hurts me; the need to be in control of my life and what others think of me, etc. Living free in the spiritual sense means trusting Christ completely with all of me. Oh for grace to rest securely in Him, alone!

Prolonged Days...

2010-06-21T11:11:00.000-07:00

"The fear of Jehovah prolongeth days;
But the years of the wicked shall be shortened." Proverbs 10:27

I find true crime stories very interesting. They are featured regularly on TV shows such as Dateline, 48 Hours and 20/20. You can watch many of these online on their respective websites. One thing that is so obvious in watching these stories, is this simple truth: so many people who are involved in violent crime greatly increased their chances of being involved by the lifestyle they chose to live. Some of these people become involved in love triangles and the offended spouse seeks revenge and murder is the end. There are other specific factors such as unwise choice of spouse to start with, profession, and seeking after money and other worldly pleasures. It is sad to see what sin will do to people. One recently featured story dealt with a single mother living in a poor part of a city in Tennessee. She had four children, was on disability and chose to supplement herself financially by selling her prescription drugs! This is completely illegal and led to people of bad repute coming in and out of her home. One such occasion led to her murder and the near murder of her tiny daughter. How sad. I don't mean to unmercifully castigate those who are less fortunate than I, but am grateful that by God's grace, I'm not put into a position to "need" to do that.
It is amazing how living a moral life saves you from so much grief! When you refuse to have children while not married, and you don't abuse your body by doing drugs, drinking and smoking, you have just saved yourself from many sad things.
The Bible says it well, "Great peace have they which love Thy law..."

Let Me Be Like Aaron and Hur...

2010-05-23T13:37:00.000-07:00

In Exodus 17 we read of a wonderful miracle in the account of the battle with the Amalekites. Amalek came to fight against Israel and so Moses said to his trusty sidekick, Joshua,"Choose for us men, and go out and fight with Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand.” Joshua was to lead the men in battle, while Moses stood on the hill with his staff held up on high.
"Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed." As it would be, his arms became tired! He became tired! He had to set down. But, alas, the Amalekites began to prevail when Moses was no longer holding up his hands! "But Moses’ hands grew weary, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it, while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. ¹³And Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the sword."
Here we have a wonderful lesson of how God's man, while blessed by God and living in obedience to what God had asked of Him, still needed the aid of others to be victorious in this particular battle. I have personally thought of this account recently as my brother Michael has been going through the most difficult time of his life. Michael has lived an exemplary life and has served the Lord faithfully since a child. This has become the fight of his life!
The past two months have brought not only excruciating physical pain and side effects from the chemotherapy to Michael, but also mental anguish, uncertainty and discouragement. The Lord has allowed me as Michael's sister to come along side him and try to be of assistance. I do want to be a vessel that God can use to "lift up his hands" so that he can come through victoriously.
Other people have been used in this capacity as well in amazing ways. The cards, letters, phone calls, Facebook messages, visits, financial gifts, etc. have all been a part of this effort to assist and help him in this most difficult time. There have been numerous people who have helped them move, mowed their yard and provided meals. As Michael's sister, I appreciate those who have come to encourage Michael and "lift up his hands." Thank you so much! Let's join together to be like Aaron and Hur to help Michael and Shawna through this to a victorious finish!

A Woman Who Made a Difference

2010-05-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

In 2 Chronicles 22:10-12, 23 and chapter 24:1-18, we read of the courage of an amazing women, with an unusual name! Aunt Jehosheba was used along with her husband Jehoida, who was a priest in the temple, to preserve a baby, named Joash. Not only did they preserve his life from his wicked grandmother, but they also preserved a child who would become one of the more righteous kings in Judah. What courage it must have taken to hide this child when all of the other children were slaughtered to satisfy the wicked heart of Athaliah, his grandmother! But, Jehosheba prevailed and a few years later, Joash was crowned king at age seven!
God still uses anyone who is willing to be used of Him. Perhaps, like myself, you are not a mother...this may bring tears and sadness to your heart as it has mine on many occasions. But, we need not feel useless or left out! As an aunt, I have a tremendous opportunity to influence the lives of four precious little people, Luanna, Esther, Juli and Karson! I can choose each day to follow Jesus and be an example to them, or I can choose otherwise. I can choose to conduct myself in their presence with a Christlike spirit or not. I can be available to cheer them on as they grow and to be a listening ear if they so desire. There are many other ways for me to do good to them and many others. My life need not be in vain...
In Proverbs 31, we are reminded that "Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." May each of us women focus first and foremost on the beauty that need not fade, that of the beauty of Jesus in our lives...

Rest in the Lord

2010-05-02T19:15:00.000-07:00

This evening, I sang a song that Steve Green made popular years ago..."Rest."
"Rest, the Lord is near, refuse to fear, enjoy His love.
Trust, His mighty power fills every hour of all your days...
There is no need for needless worry, with such a Savior,
we have no cause to ever doubt, His perfect Word still reassures
in every trial.
Call Him if you grow frightened...call Him, with loving care,
He'll lift your burden and you'll rest, the Lord is near,
Refuse to fear, enjoy His love."

Oh, if only I could really grasp what this means! All, literally, ALL that I need is found in Jesus, alone! Oh, to rest in Him...freed from reaching for earthly pleasures and things that are passing away...oh, to rest in Him, safe from fear and dread...oh, to rest in Him, like a little child, knowing that all will be well while I'm in my Father's arms...
How often, we run around, searching for what we think we need or want, when all the time, it is found in Him!
"Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him..." (Ps 37:7)

My Brother...

2010-04-05T11:59:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how quickly life can change! If you had told me three weeks ago that big changes were coming, I would probably not have guessed what it would be!
Saturday, March 20, the first day of Spring, was looking to end up as a great evening of fun and fellowship with our friends, Steve and Cindy Kearney from Denver. I had just finished playing piano at a local assisted living facility around 2pm, and was just about to head to Gardner to spend the weekend with them, my parents, and my brother Michael and his family as well as some other people. I received a phone call from my mother telling me that Michael had been taken to the hospital with a right leg that had collapsed. I turned my car north and headed there. To make a long story short, Michael was discovered to have Osteo Sarcoma in his right femur. The cancer had eaten away at the bone, and had finally broken on the Saturday as he went to walk up to a birthday party.
At first, we were in denial, hoping it was simply an infection or a hairline fracture left over from a fall he had in October...such was not the case. It was a dark Monday morning after Dr. Kim Templeton told Shawna and Michael at KU Med center, that it looked like bone cancer.
The good news was, all the testing showed it to be confined to the right leg. A whirlwind ensued as Michael went to surgery for a biopsy, and two days later, faced a life altering surgery- an emergency of sorts to amputate the right leg...you can only imagine the sadness one might've felt to see Michael wheeled from the emergency room with only one leg remaining. But, he is still with us!
After nearly two weeks in the hospital, he is at home, and preparing to move into their neighbor's ranch house this week.
Through these past 2.5 weeks, Michael has shown over and over that God is real and in control! His life has been an amazing testimony to so many! Over 100 different family and friends visited him while he was in the hospital. Not to mention the phone calls, cards, emails and Facebook messages. The presence of the Lord was very real to Michael and Shawna throughout this difficult time.
Now he faces upcoming chemo therapy just to make sure any cancer cells which might be floating around undetected, don't remain.
Here is a pic of him on Easter Sunday...he looks great and is depending on the Lord to carry him through.
A line from the hymn, "All the Way My Savior Leads Me," came to me in this difficult time which says..."for I know whatever befalls me, Jesus doeth all things well." I don't fully understand that, but I do believe that somehow, this situation is well! Nahum 1:7 tells us that the Lord is good! I believe that God is good, He does all things well, and through all of this, He has a glorious plan! He has already been glorified and know exactly how to turn this situation into goodness!

Easter Happenings...

2010-04-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

I'm so grateful to be part of such a wonderful family! Saturday, April 3, we had a great lunch together, followed by an Easter Egg Hunt for the kiddos! We had 48 people, much good food, fellowship and laughs! Here are a few pictures...I would've had more, but my camera konked out!

Breaking Free

2010-03-13T12:30:00.001-08:00

Hello, Friends,
I want to change my template, but am struggling with it! Will have to wait until later when I have more time to figure it out.

Anyway, just wanted to write a short blog about our Ladies' Bible Study. We are presently doing a series by Beth Moore entitled "Breaking Free." Wow! I would highly recommend it. Beth draws from the book of Isaiah, using the scriptures to show that we can be set free from anything! Be it sins in our past, guilt, hurts and abuses from others, addictions, bad habits, you name it! It is exactly what I have personally needed in my life. I have struggled with the basic truth of forgiveness of sins, yet it is really true that Jesus wanted to forgive my sins so much that He gave His lifeblood for me! I give Him glory and honor for that truth.

Are you struggling with something in your past? Is there a sin, an abuse done against you that is haunting you? I would suggest that you run to Jesus and ponder these words...
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom
for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to release the oppressed,
to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."

"Nothing Compares..."

2010-02-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

I just set my DVD player to play again the song "Shout To the Lord" with the beautiful "Rhapsody in Blue" done by Anthony Burger!! Wow...how could anyone think that we evolved from a monkey? To see and hear this man play for God's glory, how could anyone not see God's handiwork? There is one phrase that I want to bring out..."...nothing compares to the promise I have in You..." Think about that...we could be healthy, wealthy, have position, have whatever our hearts desire, even have the best husband...yet none of that even comes close to what we can have in Jesus!!! I needed this reminder...been a bit blue lately about some different things in my life...none of that lack or perceived lack really matters...if I have Jesus...I have ALL I need!!! "Nothing compares..."to His presence, His peace, His purpose in my life..."nothing compares"...to the wholeness and fruitfulness I can know in Him...praise Him, friend..."nothing compares"...to Jesus!!!!

Excitement on a Friday night!

2010-01-23T08:29:00.000-08:00

Last evening, I was here at home for a quiet evening. I was setting at my laptop with my headphones on, watching, of all things, Perry Mason. Love those old shows! As I was watching this old fashioned, crime solver program, a crime of sorts happened here! All of a sudden, a very loud, house shaking event occurred. I began running upstairs to see if my Grandma or her husband had fallen. They came running downstairs thinking that something had blown up down here. Orville ran outside and discovered a pick up truck had smashed into the corner of the house. Our next door neighbor, Brad and wife Nancy had also heard the noise and already discovered the truck and called emergency personnel. I went over to the truck thinking as a nurse, perhaps I could offer help, but the doors on the truck were locked. The man inside was apparently unconscious and his air bag had deployed. Soon, sirens were sounding and an ambulance, fire truck and various other police cars were setting outside. They were able to get the man to unlock the door to the truck and after much ado, placed him on a stretcher. He was awake enough to tell them his name. He was taken to the hospital and a tow truck came to take the truck away. It was totaled! Two local TV stations came by and spoke with us. I even made the 10 pm news! I'm so grateful that no other person was involved in what could've been a fatal accident for someone. God allowed him to hit the house and not someone else.

Promises for Obedience

2010-01-08T05:28:00.000-08:00

Recently I began a study of the book of Proverbs. I have been looking at Chapter three. What rich promises we see that will come to us if we listen to "wisdom" (the Lord) and do what His "law" (the Bible) says. Just think about this for a few moments...vs. 1..."length of days and long life and peace they will add to you...find favor and high esteem with God and man...He shall direct your paths...it will be health to your flesh and strength (drink or refreshment) to your bones...your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow with new wine." I don't believe in a "prosperity gospel," but there is something to the idea of living honestly and carefully before God and man.
How often when a crime is committed, it is very clear that had the people involved been living a careful life before God, they might not have lost their life or received the ill will of another. Yes, we live in a wicked world and the affects of sin fall on all the righteous and the wicked, yet, I believe these promises give us some general expectation of what our lives may be like if we listen to the Lord and obey His Word!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-02T17:12:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! A new year is a blank slate, just ready for us to write on. We have a choice as to what we will write, and how we will tell the story of our lives this year. While we can't control all of the circumstances which happen to us, we can certainly control our attitude and responses with the help of the Lord. One thing I plan to do Monday morning, is to get back on track with Weight Watchers. I really like the leader of the Monday morning meeting. She is very entertaining and fun. She told us several weeks ago about an apron that she was given at a past Christmas before she had lost weight. The apron would not fit to tie around her! She was appalled at herself. Now, she is an attractive women who is in control of her food choices. That's where I need to be headed...in control. The holiday season makes "being in control," so hard!!! What do you plan to change in this new year?

Christmas Happenings...

2009-12-27T18:25:00.000-08:00

A belated Merry Christmas to everyone! A Happy New Year, as well. It has been a very busy month, but filled with many fun and lovely events. I was happy to be able to attend the annual Kansas City Brass Concert which is held each year at the Country Club Christian Church in Kansas City, MO. In 2003, my family and I attended this, and it has become a tradition. They are all members of the Symphony, and so funny!!! The Christmas party at the assisted living where I work, was a neat event! Our director, Phyllis and her husband Frank, were Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The residents loved it! A very nice gift is given to all of the residents, and they sang Christmas songs and carols together as well as enjoyed sweets. Our annual Wright family Christmas gathering is always so nice. My Uncle Nathan and his wife, Renee, always organize this, and it's a great way for us all to take time to be together. This year, instead of going to a restaurant, we met at the Gregory Hills Church Family Life Center, and enjoyed a wonderful breakfast buffet cooked by my brother Jonathan, cousin Darric and others. It was the best buffet in town!!!! There's still more Christmas to come, as my immediate family will not have our celebration until January 2! So, I have a few more things to purchase, and hope to get some after Christmas bargains!!!!

God's Providence

2009-12-13T12:46:00.000-08:00

O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me.

Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.

Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways

Do you believe in God's providence? I do, and after you read this, I hope you will! I have been using a SunCloud infrared, electrical heater for several years in the basement apartment that I rent from my Grandmother. The house is more than 50 years old, and was not wired for our modern appliances. I have been using a converter to plug the three-pronged heater into a two-pronged wall outlet. For several days prior to Saturday, December 5, I had been smelling a "hot" smell when the electrical heater would run. Then, it was Saturday. My mom and dad were coming over to help me do some things, and while they were there, I asked my dad about the heater and the hot smell. He took the filter off of the back of it to check and see if it was dirty. It was okay. Around this time, the heater cycled on and the hot smell started. At first, it wasn't so strong and he didn't smell it too much if any. Then, it got stronger. A short time later, fire began coming out of the area where it was plugged into the wall! You talk about action! I, stupidly, ran into the kitchen and started getting water to put on it and was hollering around about it being on fire. My dad, thankfully, went to the outlet where the fire and smoke were coming out of, and began hitting at it with his hand. He managed to yank the cords that were plugged into the wall out and the fire stopped! Thank God! The smoke alarm did not go off. We were left with a melted and burned converter and a cloud of soot and smoke. It was a miracle. Had this happened when I was sleeping, or my Grandma and I were gone, we would not have a house standing today. My Christmas tree was very close to the outlet and it would've probably caught on fire very soon, or at least some of the ornaments. The wooden window seal just about the outlet had a black area on it, and it would've most likely caught on fire eventually. I'm grateful that it happened just at the time my parents were there. Had it happened while I was home alone, I would've possibly thrown that water on it, and might have electrocuted myself! So, God worked it all out to happen just at the "right" time! It's as if He thought, "Okay, this fire is going to happen, the laws of nature tell that. If this happens at the time when she is asleep, or gone, it will be tragic. I will arrange for her parents to come by at just the right time. I'll keep it from catching on fire until that moment. Her dad will know what to do." He was looking out for me. When I doubt His loving care, I should recall this near tragedy and remember His faithfulness to me! When I feel alone and discouraged, I should remember that all my days are numbered by Him and they aren't up yet! He still has work for me to do. He is so good. There is a lovely chorus which goes along with this very well.
"He is good, He is good, His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord for He is good.
He is good, He is good, His love endures forever.
Give thanks, for He is good..."

Yes, God was very good to me that day and I give Him glory and honor!

With a Grateful Heart...

2009-11-01T14:25:00.000-08:00

Psalms 103:1 "Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, and forget not all His benefits."

It is that time of year again...the time to reflect on God's great blessings. I am very grateful for many things, but I wanted to especially reflect on an area that I can't always say I appreciated as much as I do now.
When I was a child, growing up here in Kansas City, my life revolved, primarily around three things: my father's family, the Overland Park Church, and Kansas City College and Bible School. On Sundays, we would awaken and get ready for church, accompanied by such music as Rex Bullock, Rudy Atwood, Richard Beckham and others. We loved music! We would eat lunch at home ourselves, or with Kenny and Darlene, my dad's brother or some other family. Then, back to church in the evening. Monday morning would start another week of walking or riding up to "the school." There, we would be privileged to receive an education in a Christian environment. We not only learned the three R's, but we also attended chapel and studied the Bible. I still remember learning I Corinthians 13 in Third grade when my teacher was Arlene McGehee!
On Friday evenings and Saturday evenings, there was sometimes an activity at "the school," such as a 16 millimeter film, a ball game, a concert, or a revival service at the church which adjoined the school campus. We often spent time on the weekends with my dad's family and at other times throughout the week! It wasn't just limited to the weekends. Five of my dad's siblings lived within walking distance of our house for a number of years while I was growing up. We enjoyed many, many hours together at one of our homes and many times in my family's back yard! There are many photos in many photo albums chronicling our wonderful family times!
The church had two revivals each year, and these were times of God's presence drawing near. My family was extremely faithful to these meetings and all other services. We rarely missed a service!
And, I can't forget the friendships I enjoyed as a part of this trio of areas which my life revolved around! These relationships involved not only other students at school, but some of my own cousins! My cousin Kendra and I shared many laughs and secrets through the years!
There were so many other things I could share...the various music groups I was a part of at "the school,"...the field trips...the choir services...the fun times we had in class...on and on I could go...I am so blessed to have such a lovely childhood and growing up years...I am a very blessed woman.
Thank you, Jesus, for parents who desired to bring me up in Your admonition...thank you for those who sacrificed so that I could attend a Christian school from Kindergarten through twelfth grade...thank you for a loving extended family with which I have so many wonderful memories...I am very blessed...thank you for the friendships...thank you for all the great spiritual influences that I was privileged to be immersed in...thank you that I never had to go to public school all those years! I am very blessed...Thank You, Jesus!

Ladies' Retreat 2009

2009-10-31T18:32:00.000-07:00

Ladies' Retreat was October 17, 2009! We had such a lovely day! The Lord's presence was real, and many hearts were touched. Mrs. Sheila Wolf from Cincinnati, OH was our featured speaker. Mrs. Marsha Potteiger from Marion, OH was our featured soloist and also spoke in one of the afternoon sessions. Mrs. Wolf spoke very practically about our relationship with God, bringing our "to do list" to the Lord each day and about how we could reach out to touch others with the love of God. Marsha, who was also my best friend from college days, sang beautifully. I was privileged to accompany her again as I had done many years ago! She gave her personal testimony of how God has done marvelous things for her, her husband and their marriage. She spoke openly of her husbands' struggle with Pornography and best of all, his complete deliverance from this sin by the power of God! It was very moving. We enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by Gloria Meyers, and desserts made by various ladies. There was a great craft time where we could make a notebook which could be used for many different things including a sermon notebook, recipe book, etc. There were 8 tables set up by various ones for shopping and browsing. All in all, it was a very worthwhile day! All the glory goes to Jesus who died that we might have fullness of joy in Him!

To Charge or not to Charge...that is the question!

2009-10-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about a subject that is probably somewhat controversial, but most people are not really talking about it. The subject I propose to discuss in this blog post is this; should churches and Christian organizations charge for events such as conferences, Ladies' Retreats, Vacation Bible Schools, youth camps, etc.? The next question would be; what does the Bible say about it? How does the Bible teach us to fund God's work?
In Matthew 14:14-21 we read

¹⁴And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick. ¹⁵When it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.”

¹⁶But Jesus said to them, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.”

¹⁷And they said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.”

¹⁸He said, “Bring them here to Me.” ¹⁹Then He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes. ²⁰So they all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained. ²¹Now those who had eaten were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

What was Jesus' solution to the problem of food? Did He ask them to pay money to be fed? Did He ask them to pay money for hearing Him preach and for healing them? The answers to all of these questions is a clear "no." An interesting note in this passage is that when the disciples suggested that the people go into a neighboring village and buy food, Jesus, instead, instructed them to feed the people! Surely, Jesus was hoping against hope that the disciples would have faith in Him! After all, He was God! He must've been thinking, "C'mon, guys! Can't you see that I'm God! I can supply any need!"

How many times do we begin a new ministry, only to expect people to pay to partake of the gospel! How can we do this? The gospel was given to us freely. Can't we trust God to supply the funds for ministry? Of course, that is assuming that He is behind the ministry in the first place. I believe that God will supply the need for any ministry if it is His will for that ministry to exist. If the funds are not available after praying and trusting the Lord to provide, we need to ask ourselves if that particular ministry is His will.

But, back to our passage in Matthew. The disciples had a desire to do something good. They saw that the hour was late, and the people were certainly tired and hungry. Why not dismiss them and have them go and buy some refreshment. Sounds reasonable, right? William Burkitt addressed this quite well. "The motion which the disciples make on behalf of the multitude, Send them away that they may buy victuals. Here was a strong charity, but a weak faith. A strong charity in that they desire the people's relief: but a weak faith, in that they suppose that they could not be otherwise relieved, but by sending them away to buy victuals; forgetting that Christ, who had healed the multitude miraculously, could as easily feed them miraculously, if he pleased: all things being equally easy to omnipotency."

The disciples would've missed this wonderful opportunity for a miracle except that the Lord stepped in and saved the day! How many times have we been of such little faith that we didn't trust God to provide in a wonderful and miraculous way? We just assume that this is a day of small things and so, in order to fund God's work, we must rely on admission charges, courting secular corporations, bake sales and garage sales. This is a sad commentary on our faith! We serve the Creator of the universe, people! He can provide any need we have!

Malachi 3:10-12 "Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house..." If we would give as God has asked us to, there will be plenty to fund His work!

I Timothy 6:17-10 "Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. ¹⁸Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, ¹⁹storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." We should trust in the living God to supply all funds to cause His work to go forward. We should be willing to share as we are able so those who cannot give or share will still be able to participate in various events and endeavors.

(to be continued)

AMERICA, THE BEAUTIFUL

2009-09-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful to be an American! I am sorry that our nation has been slipping down on a path away from God, but I don't believe we should despair! God is still running this world, and He will decide what ultimately happens. I have been reading a book, The Complete Works of E. M. Bounds on Prayer, and came across this in my reading; "The possibilities and necessity of prayer, its power and results are manifested in arresting and changing the purposes of God and in relieving the stroke of his power..."
Some examples from the Word of God about how prayer "changed" God's purposes would include Jonah who cast himself into the sea and God prepared the great fish to swallow him up. "Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly...and the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land." When Jonah called upon the Lord in his time of disobedience, God heard his prayer and delivered him from the fish.
Even, wicked King Pharaoh believed in God! He implored Moses four times to call upon God and ask for God's mercy when the plagues were happening to the Egyptians. Each time Moses would pray to God and the answer would come and the plague was lifted.
Or, how about good King Hezekiah who was told that his time was fast over on this earth and he prayed to God and was given fifteen years more!
When you stop and think about this, do any possibilities come to your mind about what God might want to do in America? Is it possible that He might yet want to "Revive us again, that we may rejoice?" Yes, we have certainly turned away from Him as a nation, but yet, is He willing that we should perish? Is He waiting for one of His own to "stand in the gap" and plead with Him for mercy and revival as Moses did for the children of Israel?
I believe that one of the reasons why we have not been judged more harshly in America is because of the Christians who are still seeking after God and crying over the sins of this nation. While wicked men see the Christians as the problem, they are actually, most likely, the reason America is still the land that it is! Without the Christians, it is possible God would give us even more over to judgment.
With that thought in mind, do you think it is possible that God is going over the earth, searching for someone to rise up and be that individual who will first of all, fast and pray for revival, and then to speak with boldness of the truth of God?

UNITED WE STAND!

2009-09-06T16:03:00.001-07:00

Saturday, September 05, I attended a bit of "United We Stand" in Kansas City, MO. There were many people there! Probably a few thousand. There were many like minded people who are also worried about the state of our country. There was even a 16 year old girl who sang beautifully, "God Bless the USA." She, too, is concerned, even at her age, about the direction our country is heading if present leaders have their way. I am grateful to see that many other people are true patriots and desire to see our nation remain free. God help America!

Vacation to Pennsylvania

2009-09-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

Hi! I just came home from a trip to Pennsylvania to visit my cousin Darrin and his wife Jan, and their daughter Kerri. We had such a nice time. I laughed so much as Darrin is so crazy, and I got lots of sleep. On Saturday, we went to Hershey, PA to visit the Hershey visitor's center. While there, we had the best milkshakes! Wow! Mine was Chocolate/Peanut Butter!!! It doesn't get any better than that. I'm grateful for a safe trip and a restful time.

Standing up for Freedom!

2009-08-23T14:15:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I and some of my family "stood for freedom" in Overland Park, KS at the Tea Party. We protested with about 350 others outside of our democratic congressman's office. I am hoping we can send him home, and out to pasture next year! We don't want Obamacare! We want freedom to choose our own doctors and not have a death panel telling my grandma it's time to die! That is UnAmerican and just down right "not nice!"

My Three Piano Students

2009-08-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

Here are my three little piano students! Kristel, John David and Alexis. This picture was taken at our family reunion on July 11, 2009. They are three of my little cousins, and all played piano solos for the family. Each of them received an award for their outstanding work! I am proud of their progress, and hope they will continue pursuing the piano as they grow up.

Operation Rescue

2009-08-03T16:26:00.001-07:00

I was very privileged to visit the headquarters of Operation Rescue on Saturday, August 1, 2009 in Wichita, KS. If you are not aware of this organization, please check out their very excellent website at www.operationrescue.org. My parents and I were given a tour by a volunteer, Tara, and her husband was also in the building. Operation Rescue is located in a former abortion clinic in a not so nice area of town. As you can see from the photos, they left the original sign from the abortion clinic, and placed the word "closed" over top of it. They bought this roach infested building three years ago, when the abortion facility was forced to shut down. What an opportunity! It was filthy, dirty and horrible inside. Such a parallel to the evil that was present when 50,000 babies were murdered! Since OR claimed it, they have literally transformed it into a beautiful, clean, peaceful place. What a change comes from being inhabited by evil, to being filled with the presence of God. Notice the memorial wall remembering each of these precious lives lost. Lives lost, who will never get to grow up and pursue all of life's dreams. Never being able to go to college, get married, have children, perhaps discover the cure to cancer...
OR works to educate and end abortion through peaceful means. They were close to having George Tiller removed as an abortionist, when he was gunned down. One of their next projects is to try to prevent LeRoy Carhart from Nebraska from taking Tiller's place as a major late term abortionist.
I was able to get a copy of Troy Newman's book, Their Blood Cries Out. Excellent so far. Troy is the head of OR, and I would highly recommend this book. It shows clearly from the Bible why abortion must be ended.
Please also see the picture of former abortionist, George Tiller's now empty abortion clinic! (bottom) Praise the Lord, babies are no longer dying in this building. The sign has been removed, but this is the place where thousands of babies died. May our hearts be changed and may we fight for the end of this genocide.

From Psalm 139...(my paraphrase) You made me, and all my intricate parts while I was in my mother's womb...You knew me even when I was in a secret place...Your thoughts to me are precious, I cannot count them...Your works are marvelous! I praise You, Jesus, for You made me amazingly!

What are Your Values?

2009-07-29T15:49:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone, what are your values? Have you thought about how your values affect every aspect of your life? If you believe the Bible, cover to cover, it will either become the basis of all of your life, or it won't, simple as that.
Let me explain...The Bible is very clear about certain issues. God is holy, just, and desires honesty in all things. God has made it clear in His Word, that killing is sinful and wrong. He has made it clear that marriage is between one man and one woman for life. God has made it clear that sexual expression is for that union alone. God has made it clear that children are a blessing, not a burden. He has made it clear that those who do not work, should not eat. I could go on and on. If all of this sounds negative, it really isn't. Since God created the world and set its laws in motion, He ought to know how it should be run, right? Oh, and that brings me to another truth in God's Word that is foundational, that being of literal creation of the world by Him in 7 days.
So, what does this all mean in our every day lives? Let's just look at it from the political spectrum. I've been interested in politics on some scale for a long time. But, never, has it been such an interest as it became starting around a year ago. This past election of Obama(BO) as president, the most radical and liberal president ever in our history, and the most liberal and radical congress ever in our history, has made a huge change in the direction of our country. The dire nature of all of this began to be impressed upon me last year as elections were shaping up. How did values play out in the campaign?
As our country has turned away from God, the values of the American people have become more anti-God and humanistic over the last 60 years or so. The values of the American people used to be more along the lines of the Bible. Now, our values are pretty much whatever feels good. Everyone does what is right in their own eyes, with no foundation of the Bible which our laws and country were originally built on. That is how so many otherwise good people, got caught up in the "cult of Obama." Their values were not clearly defined. They either didn't have a firm foundation of the Bible or they didn't know what he really was since our main stream media refused, for the most part, to actually report what he was really all about. So, lost in a drift away from God, many did not know or care or both that he believes there should be no restrictions on the killing of unborn babies, for instance. They didn't know or care or both, that he was really a socialist/marxist. He does not like freedom and the free enterprise system that we have traditionally had in this country, and which has made this country the envy of the world. The did not know or care that he would love to expand our welfare system, so that more people won't have to work for what they eat or have. There is much more to be said here.
A Christian should have the value system that includes a strong belief in God, the belief in life for all, including the unborn. As Christian's we should believe and hold dear a system of truth and justice for all. In the past election, the choice was clear. While McCain was not the perfect candidate, nor my first choice, when you held him up next to BO, there was no choice to be made, it was so obvious. McCain has been very consistently pro-life in his political career. He is a true American patriot and layed down his life for us as a soldier in the military. His running mate clearly had a very Christian worldview and proved her pro-life beliefs in her own personal life, knowingly giving birth to a Down's Syndrome child. For a Christian to vote for the BO, one has to question their value system. Did they not know or understand what BO was? Was their value system not clearly defined? Have they drifted from a clear understanding of what the Bible says? Did they vote as some knee jerk reaction, caught up in a cult-like mentality without clearly thinking about what the consequences were? I would like to hear your thoughts...

Wright Family Reunion Weekend!!

2009-07-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! I am nearing the end of a wonderful weekend with the Wright family. I feel so blessed to be part of such a wonderful extended family. Friday evening, we had about 40 people at Celebration Park at Gardner, KS. We had several who grilled hamburgers, hotdogs and my veggie kabobs. We had plenty of wonderful food and many laughs.
On Saturday, we went to the Wright-Kimbler reunion held in Fort Scott, KS. Some of us visited the cemetery prior to the reunion to see some graves, including my father's parents, Noble and Maye Wright. At the reunion, we had so much food!!!! We were privileged to hear my three little piano students as well as some others play musical instruments. Then, awards were given out.
Last evening, some of us went out to eat. Today, I have been talking with my aunt and uncle here all the way from Pennsylvania. After church tonight, will be the final event. We will be gathering for one last shebang to fellowship. Tomorrow, the remaining ones will take off for home. Please enjoy the pic's!

God Is Able...

2009-07-04T14:30:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone...I continue to study in the Kings and Chronicles in the Old Testament. Such interesting accounts of God's dealings with His chosen people are contained in these books. There are so many spiritual applications which we can find for our lives today.
One of these applications is found in 2 Chronicles 25:5-16. Here, we have King Amaziah of Judah reigning. He decided to gather the men together and form his army for battle. He thought he would be really smart and also hired men from the neighboring kingdom of Israel. However, God had other ideas about who should be in the army of Judah. The prophet at that time, who is only identified as "a man of God," came to the king and said, "O king, do not let the army of Israel go with you, for the Lord is not with Israel-not with any of the children of Ephraim...Be strong in battle! Even so, God shall make you fall before the enemy..." Whoa! Any time God shows us something like that so clearly, we should pay attention!!!
King Amaziah was concerned with the fact that he had already paid 100 talents to the men of Israel. He, naturally, didn't want to lose the money he had already paid to these men. What if that happened to me? What if I invested my money or time or resources into something, only to find out that God had other plans for me? What would I do? What would you do? Would I be willing to let it all go? Would you?
The "man of God," had some very wise words for the king. "The Lord is able to give you much more than this." Let me repeat-"The Lord is able to give you MUCH MORE than this!!! Wow, let that sink in for a minute. If we remember that God owns everything, and is in charge of everything, we can rest assured that He will take care of us and is able to give us much more than we have lost! With that thought in mind, we can step out in faith, with an obedient heart and trust God for His provision.
King Amaziah DID listen to God in this matter, but not in others. Instead of obeying God here and in the remainder of this account, he obeyed partially. He discharged the soldiers whom he had hired unadvisedly, went to battle and was successful. Then, he seemed to forget God's promises and sinned by bringing back a foreign idol! Anyway, I wonder what God would've done in fulfillment of His promise to give much more than he had lost?

Psalms 37:25-26 says it well-"I have been young, and now am old; Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, Nor His descendants begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lends; and His descendants are blessed." God is able to give us MUCH MORE than we can ask or imagine.

Vacation Bible School

2009-06-14T13:42:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! I want to report a very successful Vacation Bible School at the South Park Church on June 1-5! We had 39 different children, including babies, and a number of adults who came from time to time. We heard about some of the heroes and characters from the Old Testament such as Jacob and Esau and Gideon with his ragtag army of 300. Through stories, songs, crafts, etc., the good news of Jesus Christ was presented. As an outgrowth of the VBS, in part, we will be starting a Ladies' Bible Study in the very near future. One of the ladies who we are hoping to reach, had two children who came to VBS. They are an unchurched family, so this is an exciting new outreach. We plan to begin our Bible Study learning all about Jesus Christ. If you think of us, please pray for the Lord's help and blessing.

Would Jesus Eat a Donut....in the church???

2009-05-17T12:13:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone...hope that my title caught your attention...let me tell you a story based on real facts and events, as well as real people!
In a real town, not more than a million miles away, was a little group of Christians having Sunday School. The Pastor was teaching the class for adults when the door opened and little "Preston" came in. Preston and his mommy came and sat down on one of the pews toward the back. Little Preston could be heard making a noise as of chewing, and soon Pastor said, "Preston, did you bring me a donut?" Preston was so happy to say, "Yes, we brought lots of donuts for everyone!! They are out here in the lobby and everyone can have some!" He was so excited to share this special treat.
You see, Preston and Mommy had started coming to church only several months before. Instantly, Mommy liked this little church and so did he! The people made her feel welcome, and while some of them looked a little different than she did, they never made her feel out of place. They even let her help with children's church and greeted her with smiles each week. They all thought Preston was really cute even though he was kindav noisy some times. Now, she just wanted to do something to let these special people know how much she loved them all...
So, after Sunday School, the church people all headed out to the lobby. Some began eating donuts, others wrapped one up to take and eat later. Preston kept telling everyone, "Look at all the donuts! Come and get one!"
After church, several of the church people came around to Mommy and expressed appreciation for the unexpected donut treat. No one said unkind things or told her that "we don't eat in church!" She left feeling a part of this little diverse group, determined to keep coming back to a place where she was welcomed to hear God's Word and her little Preston was loved in spite of his rambunctious ways.
So, my question to you is this...would Jesus have eaten a donut? I believe that He would've. There doesn't seem to be any Biblical reason not to. What do you think?

Creation Museum

2009-04-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

On this past Friday, we went to eat breakfast in Cincinnati with my Aunt and Uncle, David and Dorothy (Puzy) Reynolds. Afterwords, we proceded down to Petersburg, KY to visit the Creation Museum. Wow! Everyone should go there! A sinner could go through the museum and get saved, there is so much scripture and the plan of salvation is clearly presented! Among the exhibits is the Garden of Eden. Beautiful, almost life like figures are throughout the garden, protraying Adam and Eve, etc. Outside, we walked on the nature trail and visited the petting zoo. It was a beautiful, Spring day to visit.

Vacation

2009-04-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

From the top...my long time friend, Becky Newport and myself...Melanie and Cindy Kearny and myself...some of the crowd at the convention...at Steak 'n Shake (it was a late night!)

Hello, everyone. I wanted to share some pictures from my recent trip to Dayton, OH to the convention. It was a time of a lot of fun, adventure and lack of sleep! I got to see a number of people that I rarely see! The convention started Tuesday afternoon and concluded on Thursday evening. There was lots of preaching, music and fellowship with others. I ate too much and slept too little!!

Gaither's Book Store and Cafe

2009-04-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

My parents, grandma, Orville and friends, Steve and Cindy Kearney, met today in Alexandria, IN on our way to Ohio at the Bill and Gloria Gaither book store and cafe. It was a very nice place! We shopped, and then ate a really good meal. The service was great, and the food tasted very well. They had a deal where you bought a DVD and received a free CD. I chose a Gaither homecoming video, Live From Toronto and a CD from Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. Then, after eating and shopping, I took over driving Grandma and Orville's car into Dayton. Orville doesn't feel comfortable driving after dark on unfamiliar roads. We arrived here around 10pm and are settled in our rooms. Several of us are all hanging out in my parents room, and were going to view a Gaither DVD, but can't figure out how to hook up Cindy's DVD player to the TV...have a great evening!

Wright Family on Palm Sunday

2009-04-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hello, Happy Easter! I am grateful for the truth found in I Corinthians 15:20, "Now is Christ risen from the dead..." What a reality! We may know the risen Savior in a personal way. While true Christianity is not a "religion," having a relationship with Jesus does set Christians apart from all other religious groups. While they point to a tomb with their long passed away leader, or an idol of wood or stone, we can point to an empty tomb! Jesus is, even now, setting at the right hand of God, the Father, interceding for us! Amazing, but true.
Here is a video from our most recent Wright Family gathering, which took place on Palm Sunday. We had 51 people total, including a few who were not actually Wrights. There were 3 tables of food, and plenty of candy for the kids in our Easter Egg hunt. A great time was had by all and it was a great success! Thanks to my cousin Kristina for helping to plan this!

Media Malpractice

2009-04-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

Media Malpractice...what comes to your mind? Let me tell you about a documentary that I recently purchased. It is titled "Media Malpractice..How Obama got elected and Palin was targeted." I would highly recommend that you visit John Zeigler's website www.howobamagotelected.com and see what he has to say. Mr. Zeigler is a former talk show host and quite a talker! Quite a talker in a good way. The man can hardly be "out talked!"
Mr. Zeigler made this documentary in the recent wake of Media bias towards Obama and against Sarah Palin...for those of you who enjoy a steady diet of the "drive by media", maybe this wouldn't interest you...however, it should! The mainstream media made a definate choice that they were going to support Obama and target Sarah Palin. It was very apparent if you knew anything about pre election coverage. Whatever was thought then, will be VERY clear if you watch this documentary! Mr. Zeigler has laid it all out, very clearly...I DARE YOU TO WATCH IT!

The Dangerous Duty of Delight

2009-03-15T13:34:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone,
I hope you can read my yellow type! I am ready for yellow flowers and lots of yellow sunlight! I am ready for Spring! It seems to be coming, slow but sure, here in the midwest. I am grateful.
I wanted to write to you about a little book I am reading. The Dangerous Duty of Delight by John Piper. An amazing little book, it is actually part of a larger book by Mr. Piper titled, Desiring God.
In this little book, Mr. Piper tells us about a Biblical command that is usually neglected. This is stated very clearly in Deuteronomy 28:47-48, "Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joy and a glad heart.,..therefore you shall serve your enemies." This is known as Christian Hedonism. Hedonism is the pursuit of pleasure. Christian Hedonism is the pursuit of pleasure that is God ward. Very interesting. The passage previously quoted tells us what God thinks about this pursuit...He expects it and commands it.
Because the children of Israel did not serve the Lord with gladness, they would be punished by serving their enemies. I think we can perhaps also apply this in regards to temptation.
If we are truly seeking after God in a joyful manner, we will be much less likely to fall into temptation. I believe one of the biggest reasons we fall into temptation and snares, is when we have no joy in Christ. This is too bad, for the Psalmist gives us the place where we can find real pleasure..."In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." (Psalm 16:11) C. S. Lewis wrote that we are satisfied far too easily with the things of this earth. I believe that is true.
If we are satisfied with Christ and are finding joy in Him, why would we be tempted with the sinful things of this earth?
I have not completed the book, yet. I would love to hear some comments on the subject of Christian Hedonism. What do you think? Is it possible to serve Christ with gladness? Or are we relegated to serving Him only out of duty, hoping for joy as a byproduct?

Passionately ProLife!!

2009-02-16T12:41:00.001-08:00

Hello, my friends!
Last week, I was blessed to attend the annual Kansans for Life Valentine Banquet! Wow, what an evening! Nearly 1,000 people came to hear about what is happening in the pro life movement. My parents and I organized a table with 9 people and my brother Michael, his wife Shawna, and oldest niece, Luanna were also at the event along with my nephew, Karson.
Part of the evening, included a preview of a new movie which will be coming out soon "Thine Eyes." This movie will document the annual March for Life in Washington D.C. which was held this January. Most of the main stream media will not report accurately how many people attend these events. A local writer here, Jack Cashill (www.cashill.com) wanted to do this movie to show how many people really came. Would you believe 300,000!!!! This further proves that many Americans are pro life!
We also were blessed to hear Pedro and Michelle Armesto speak regarding Michelle's abortion which she was forced by her parents to have here in the state of Kansas. What a sad story. After she expelled the dead baby, she saw it lying on the floor of the abortion clinic. She was horrified. She cried as she spoke of this happening. She is now very pro life and has testified here in the Kansas Legislature.
I would encourage you to find out about your local and state pro life organizations. Get involved. Give. Pray.
Lastly, enjoy the four beautiful choices for life pictures here! My three nieces and my nephew!!! They are precious and I'm so glad their parents chose life!

Obedience Brings Rest

2009-02-16T12:19:00.000-08:00

Hello, everyone. Hope you are surviving in these winter days. I'm ready for Spring! In the mean time, I've been studying about the kings of Israel and Judah in Chronicles and Kings. What an interesting study! One of the good kings was King Asa in Judah. This was during the time of the divided kingdom. King Asa reigned, and for the most part, was a righteous king.

"Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord his God, for he removed the altars of the foreign gods and the high places...He commanded Judah to seek the Lord God of their fathers...he said to Judah, 'we have sought the Lord our God; we have sought Him and He has given us rest on every side...' "

Here we have a recipe for revival! Remove sin in our lives, seek the Lord, experience rest. How well it would be if America would see this as the way to life. Instead, we see our country approaching chaos. We have a president, so called, who seems to either have no idea how to govern properly, or sees it and doesn't care as he drags our nation farther down a pathway to hell. Perhaps, we are beginning to experience some of God's judgment on our country with the economic turmoil we have been seeing. And realistically, how much longer can we go without God's judgment? We have murdered 45 million unborn babies in this country. We are ripe for judgment.

Not to end on a dismal note, however...perhaps we should pray that our nation would began using this recipe for revival instead of relying on the failed promises of worldly men. Removing sin(eliminating abortion), seeking God(asking Him to once again be a part of our schools and other aspects of public life) and then experiencing rest.

On a personal level, we can experience this sort of revival and rest any time! We can rid our lives of any known sin, we can seek God first, and then we can experience rest in our hearts though the world is raging all around.

God's blessings upon you...

"Fret Not Thyself..."

2009-01-21T15:57:00.000-08:00

Greetings one and all...I hope somebody actually reads my posts...anyway, last evening, I was feeling a bit down about the situation with BO being president. This morning, I was drawn to Psalm 37. Have you read it lately? It has to be one of my favorite Psalms. Grab your Bible and take a peek...
Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass
and wither as the green herb...
Wow! It seems like evil is winning in so many ways! It's like everybody is having a hay day, just reveling in sin and trying to think of ways to be more evil.
But, the Bible is clear...their day is very short!
In the meantime, we are to do what is says a bit farther into this chapter...
Trust in the Lord...
Dwell in the land...
Feed on His faithfulness...
Rest in the Lord...
Commit your way unto the Lord...
Delight yourself in the Lord...
We are to be like tiny children. The world may be raging all around, but they are content being held in their father's arms. They don't need to worry, for all of their needs will be taken care of. God is still in control. He is working out His purpose...the day is coming when the wicked will be no more! We don't need to fret, God is keeping track of everything...His love is unending.
HE WILL HAVE THE FINAL SAY!

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-23T18:24:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that beautiful time of year, again! I love Christmas! I love the music, the decorations, the time with family, etc. I am grateful that I get an extra day off of work tomorrow! God has been so very good to me. This past year has brought difficult and trying things into my life. I have struggled in my job and yet God has helped me tremendously. Today at work, I had two opportunities to witness for Him! I was discussing holidays, etc with a young man from Africa. I was able in my conversation to tell him what Christmas was all about, Christ came to earth save sinners! I don't know what he thought, but I hope that what I said will be lodged in his mind for further use by the Lord. The second instance had to do with the lottery tickets that were handed out to each of the staff. I don't play the lottery, so I offered mine to him. I told him what the Bible says in Proverbs, "He who would get rich quick, will fall into many a snare." I told him that it wasn't right for me to get rich from someone else's demise. He agreed with me. He asked me if I celebrated Christmas and I said I did. My hope is that God will use my words for His glory.
I would love to hear from many of you! Have a wonderful Christmas wherever you will be spending it!

Wright Family Gathering

2008-12-21T14:32:00.000-08:00

On the 20th, was our annual Wright Family breakfast. My Uncle Nathan organizes this each year. Here I am at the gathering with three of my piano students who just happen to be my little cousins. He had a special Christmas tree made with places to hang stockings for all of the kids 12 and under. It was fun to watch the kids open their gifts from different family members. Here are some pics from the gathering.

Wright Trio

2008-12-21T14:24:00.000-08:00

This month has been a busy one for the Wright Trio! We did some songs at my church dinner on the 5th. Then, we went to Salina, KS for a service at Todd and Marla Hurst's church. This evening we are singing at a church in Olathe. Next Sunday on the 28th, we'll be at a church in Marshfield, MO. We actually turned down one other invitation. Here are some pics from the event at the church dinner.

What is Christmas?

2008-12-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

What is Christmas? This question was recently asked at church. Is it giving and receiving presents? Is it parties, fun or lavish decorations? I believe the Apostle Paul had it right when he said, "Christ Jesus came into this world to save sinners..." (I Timothy 1:15) Yes, I love the baby in the manger...it's a beautiful story! But, as I tried to convey in Kids Church this morning, it's more than that. After showing them the manger scene, I showed them the cross and then the tomb. They really listened well! Oh, that we could remember how very important it is that Jesus did not stay a baby in the manger. But, as Bill and Gloria Gaither's beautiful song says, "He came to love, heal and forgive. He bled and died to buy my pardon..." I wish you a wonderful holiday, and a very Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-23T20:07:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I have so much to be thankful for...so very, very much. Has everything gone as I would've liked for it to? No, there have been many disappointments in my life, but I am so blessed even still.
I have lived all of my life in the greatest country that has ever been on this earth. I love America and am grateful to be free.
I am grateful for Christian parents and for most of my education being in a Christian environment. My parents sacrificed a lot to make that possible.
I am grateful for good health, family, friends, a car, a job and clothes to wear, food to eat...and I could go on.
The greatest blessings however, are that Christ came into this world to save sinners, and that included me. I am grateful that as a child I began to sense that I needed Christ in my life. In spite of my many failures, He has been more than faithful to me. For His precious Word, The Bible, I am grateful.
"Come ye thankful people come.
Raise the song of harvest home.
All is safely gathered in. Ere the winter storms begin.
God our Maker doth provide. For our wants to be supplied.
Come to God's own temple come. Raise the song of harvest home."

--- Henry Alford

I Still Believe

2008-11-05T18:50:00.000-08:00

I still believe...in God who created this world. I still believe...that Jesus died for my sins and rose again the third day. I still believe... that God will have the final say in the affairs of this world. I still believe...that He is running this world. I still believe... that God caused men and women to come to this great land and build this nation from the bottom up. I still believe...that God will decide if this is the end or when that is.
I still believe...that He, Jesus, wants me to "look away unto Him, who is the author and finisher of my faith." (Heb 12:2) I still believe that ultimately the only way to change things in America, or anywhere else, is by introducing people to Jesus Christ as the Creator, Savior and soon coming King of this world!
In John 12:32 Jesus said "And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself." In John 1:3-4 we read "All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men."
Jesus is life. He is the only One who can bring purpose and meaning to this life. He is the One who can change people's hearts. He is the One I need to think about lifting up. How can I lift Him up?
In the secular work place, I can ask Jesus to live through me. I can ask Him to show me how to act and react to difficult things so that He will be glorified.
I can seek to spend time with Him in the Word and prayer so that my life might radiate His presence, beauty and holiness.
On a more practical note, I can search out a positive way to seek to lift Jesus up. I am considering becoming a more active part of the prolife movement. There is a crisis pregnancy center near here that probably could use some help. There will be the annual March for Life in January at the state capitol of Kansas in Topeka. There is the Kansans for Life organization that works tirelessly to promote life and save babies. I can seek to be God's instrument to change hearts of women who are considering what to do about their pregnancies. I can seek, with God's help, to show them that Jesus is Life. That He created them, that He came to set them free. That He understands and has forgiveness and cleansing and hope for them.

"Lord Jesus, help me to get beyond myself and beyond this election. Help me to go deep into Your heart, that I may be a light for You in this darkness. Show me how to be Your conveyor of life and peace."

The Day America Died

2008-11-04T20:35:00.001-08:00

Did I become emotional tonight? Yes. As I watched beautiful, smart, intelligent Sarah stand on the platform as the America hero John McCain delivered his speech, it was a sad time. Here were two people with such credentials and substance. Not only two attractive couples, but people with character and values.
What has happened to America? She has gone mad. No longer does substance, character and honesty matter. All that matters is style and...what? Can somebody fill it in?
Our forefathers literally gave their life's blood for freedom. They came and fought with all that was in them to give us this wonderful country. Now, we have thrown it all away, for what?
We were the ones who stormed the beaches of Normandy to free Europe. Who will be there for us? When the extreme left liberals have their way, who will free America?
Today is the day America, true America died. This is a sad Requiem. What is our future?
Please forgive me for being so dark. God is still ruling and reigning. He has a plan and a purpose.

God is STILL running this world!

2008-10-15T19:36:00.000-07:00

Is anyone out there discouraged about the course of our country? I love America. God planted in the hearts of brave men and women in the past to build this country from the bottom up. What a shame to what it has come. I pray that God will have mercy on us. This evening, I spent some time kindav praying/reading through Psalm 37. I would encourage anyone to read this chapter. Here we see what is coming for the wicked. They will be cut down like the grass; they will whither as the green herb, we will look for them but they will be gone. It certainly seems that evil is winning.
But, God is still on the throne. He delights to do great things in difficult circumstances. He loves to come through at the last minute! He enjoys winning big victories with small groups of His own. Think with me for a moment. Remember David and Goliath? David didn't have much to fight with in the human. He was a young man, much shorter than the giant, Goliath. But, he came in the name of the Lord and the victory was won. Think about Gideon and his small band of 300 soldiers. The victory was won with only this handful. The secret? They had God on their side! We too, can have God on our side.
While Satan and his cronies are having their heyday, we can be sure of one thing. Their heyday is going to be very short lived. The day is coming, maybe sooner than we think, when they WILL be cut down and whither away. You can be sure of it!
Remember this little chorus??
"God's still running this world.
God's still running this world.
Satan said he thought he could,
God said he never would.
God's still running this world."

"When God Says No, He has a Greater Yes"

2008-10-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! Yesterday was our Ladies' Retreat here in Kansas City, which we had been planning for since last year! The day went off so well! We had over 80 ladies attend. There was something like 18 different churches represented. Wow! God really came and blessed and annointed our main speaker, Sandy Adams as well as our other speaker Ruby Mays Rice. They both spoke around our theme "When God Says No, He has a Greater Yes." Examples from the Bible and from moderm times were given. It was wonderful to be a part of such an event. A lovely lunch was fixed by Gloria Meyers and her daughter Suzy. I am so grateful for all who prayed and helped in any way. May God have the glory.

Lean upon the Savior...

2008-10-01T17:07:00.001-07:00

Greetings, everyone. Here are four beautiful reasons why I, Sharmen, need to lean on my Savior, Jesus. These are my three beautiful nieces, Luanna, Esther, Juli and my adorable nephew, Karson. What kind of a world are they going to have to grow up in? I have been worried and discouraged about our country and this election. I need to focus and refocus on Jesus. He has helped many through much more difficult times.

Last evening, I went to church as they are having some special services this week. One of the songs we sang was "Where He Leads, I'll Follow." The third verse is very apt right now...
"List to His loving words, 'Come unto me.'
Weary, heavyladen, there is sweet rest for thee.
Trust in His promises, faithful and sure;
Lean upon the Savior, and thy soul is secure."

Jesus will take care of me!!! He will see me through. He has not forgotten me or you, either one. "Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you." I Peter 5:7

We Need to Pray

2008-09-21T18:55:00.001-07:00

Hello, everyone, as summer turns into fall, our presidential election is getting very close. Perhaps you are weary with all the campaign adds, campaign flyers, yard signs, etc. My friends, I'm ready to elect the next president of the United States, John S. McCain! But, before we start the celebrations, we need to remember that God holds the key.
I believe that we need to pray. Not only for the election, but for our country in general. It just seems there is so much wickedness all around. So many people live as if there is no God, and no judgment. We need to pray that God's will might be done in this election. I know what I want God's will to be, but maybe He has other ideas. My hope and prayer is that God will have mercy on us. Just as Abraham prayed for God to have mercy on Sodom and Gomorrah, I hope that He will have mercy on us. America has been Israel's friend, and God used our former president, Harry S. Truman, as an instrument to help in the establishment of the nation of Israel. Then, there are the many missionaries who have gone out from America to spread the Gospel. There is the American Bible Society and the Gideons who are laboring from America, to spread copies of the Bible around the world. There have been many times, when America has stepped in to help others with financial and material gifts. May God have mercy on us.

GO MCCAIN/PALIN!

2008-09-08T17:12:00.000-07:00

Greetings, everyone!!! What a tremendous day! Last night, I found out that John McCain and Sarah Palin would be in Lee's Summit, MO this morning. My brother and his two girls, my mom, and my grandma and her husband and myself made out way over into Missouri to the John Knox Village where the rally was to be held. We also met up with my Uncle Vernon and his wife Joan. We stood in line forever, and finally ended up in an overflow area outside as the building was filling up! You talk about excitement! People were pumped up! We got within 50 feet of McCain and Sarah. It was really nice, because they stopped outside and briefly greeted us and shook some hands before going into the auditorium. The crowd hollered and carried on. There were probably upwards of 4,000 people all total including the people inside and out. As you scroll down, you will also see a picture of Carl Cameron from Fox News. Enjoy! And don't forget to vote! (just make sure you vote for the right ticket!)

Trusting God

2008-08-26T17:59:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone,
We continue to have this most wonderful August weather...so unusual this time of year. I wanted to share another book quote with you. I recently read the new book, "Lies Young Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free." This is a collaborative effort by Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Dannah Gresh. An excellent book for both younger as well as older ladies.
One of the lies that we believe is that we feel that things should always go our way! After all, aren't we the center of the universe? Actually, as Nancy and Dannah write "It's not about me, it's all about Him (Colossians 1:16-18; Revelation 4:11)! The world was not created to revolve around us. The entire universe was created to revolve around Christ. If our goal in life is to be happy or accepted or loved, then anything that threatens our well-being will be an enemy-an obstacle to fulfilling our objective. On the other hand, once we agree with God that we exist for His pleasure and His glory, we can accept whatever comes into our live as part of His sovereign will and purpose. We will not resent, resist, or reject the 'hard things,' but embrace them as 'friends,' designed by God to make us like Jesus and to bring glory to Himself."
Very thought provoking! We spend so much time in our lives trying to figure out how things will make us look better, feel better or whatever. I need to focus and refocus on how God wants to bring glory to Himself in my life through whatever difficult things I may be facing. Your thoughts?

Dealing with Life's Disappointments

2008-08-18T13:11:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone,
It is a beautiful day here in Overland Park, KS. Our weather has been so lovely lately. I'm not working today, so I have been puttering around here. Haven't gotten as much done today as I wanted to. Oh well, tomorrow is a new day and I'll be back to work.
Have you ever been disappointed? We all have. I have just recently been going through a disappointing situation in my own life. How do we deal with that? A friend of mine pointed out a passage in one of the books that I have listed in my favorites section, "Classic Christianity" by Bob George. In the following quote from this book, Mr. George is speaking of the necessity of the Christian to live out Romans 12:1-2 in his life. This is the passage where Paul exhorts us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice completely to God, so that we may be transformed by God's power. Mr. George is saying that we must surrender all of our rights in this life to God and then live with a thankful spirit. "One of the most fundamental things that we are surrendering to Christ is all claim to personal rights...I'm talking about things we tend to demand from life-things like a right to happiness, the right to be noticed, the right for life to be fair, the right to be appreciated, the right to get my own way. There's a very simple reason why this must be so: You can't hold on to rights and maintain a thankful spirit at the same time. The essence of a life of faith is a thankful heart."
Whoa! I have no rights! That is exactly right. I have no rights. I must give them all to Jesus. When I do that, I am free from being disappointed when I don't get my way! When I do receive gifts, I can be thankful for these "extra things." This is a hard teaching, but one we must seek to embrace.
I would like to hear any of your thoughts on this subject. Write and tell me how you have been learning to live this out in your own life.

Vacation Bible School

2008-08-09T18:08:00.001-07:00

Hello, everyone! It has been VBS time again this week! What a week! We traveled back in time to the land of Egypt and learned about Moses, the children of Israel and the ten plagues. We had nearly 40 different children ranging in age from newborn to 15 years old. Each night was a busy time as we started with singing and story, puppets and a visit from King Pharaoh himself! We took our groups around to four different stations where we had snacks, did crafts, learned Bible verses and played games outside. We all returned to the auditorium for an ending time. We had several children from the neighborhood! I'm so glad to be a part of a church that wants to reach out to others. Tomorrow is our program at 11 am. The second two pics are from our "worker party" Friday evening. Hope to hear from some of you soon!

2008-07-19T10:54:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! I have a new nephew! His name is Karson Jay Wright and he was born on July 18, 2008. He is a very beautiful, perfect little guy. My brother Michael has been so excited to be having a boy! He described himself recently as having ADD! Little Karson joins his big sissies, Luanna, Esther and Juli. He's going to have the ride of his life with three girls older than him!!! Here is a pic of his sweet little face. Enjoy!

2008-07-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

Hello, again, all you in blogger land...just wanted to share some of the words of the song that I sang this AM at church...have you ever felt that no one cares about you? We all feel that way at some time or other in life...

"He cares when you're troubled and the whole world seems wrong.
He cares when the trials try to silence your song
He cares when you're lonely, though you laugh with the throng
Jesus, cares.

Yes, Jesus cares
He cares when your heart aches
Take Him your many burdens
Jesus Cares." -John W. Peterson

"Casting all your care upon Him for He careth for you." I Peter 5:7

2008-07-13T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone! I wanted to show you this pic of my mom and dad's "new to them" house. They recently purchased this house in Gardner, KS. They are now about 30 min from where I live. The house has three bedrooms and 2.5 baths. It's so nice and light inside, that you hardly need many lights on in the daytime. The kitchen and Living Room and dining area are all basically open to each other which they really liked. It's great for hosting gatherings which my mom and dad like to do. Hope all of you are doing well...it would sure be nice to hear from some of you...

My New Laptop Part 2

2008-06-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone. This is my first blog post that I have posted using my new laptop! It is quite the sleek machine...Windows Vista...wide screen...clear, crisp graphics...voice and video calling capability...web cam...you name it...WOW!
Tonight, I went with my parents to their church in Olathe. On Sunday evening, they have a more cottage prayer meeting type of service. We sang several songs and prayed. The pastor led a Bible study through part of the book of Jonah. Jonah is an interesting book. We find a man who thought that somehow he would be happy without God! He is just like so many people in our world today. They run from God and try to find their "Tarsus." But, they never find what they are really looking for...peace with God. We didn't finish the book of Jonah tonight, but I already know that Jonah did realize that obedience to God is the only way to live. I'm glad that God gives us second and third chances to obey Him! Aren't you?

My New Laptop

2008-06-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

I have finally joined the 21st century! I bought a laptop last night with my tax stimulus check. I'm doing my part, I guess. I called my brother Jonathan, who is a true computer lover, and asked him where I should look for one...well a few hours later, I was the proud owner of a Toshiba, larger size model! On sale at Best Buy! Then, he got it going on the set up. Now, if I can just figure out how to get onto my wireless network!!! Now, you can see why I'm glad I have two brothers and a dad who are computer geeks! Funny, though, MANY years ago, Jonathan used to beg me to play Pacman with him....little did I realize how things were going to turn out!!!

Hello

2008-06-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is the peak time of the long days! I just wish the long days would stay longer! I don't have any pictures to post at this time. They are still on my camera. Not much is happening right now. My parents got moved to Gardner, KS. Their house is very nice and light inside with some big windows. In the day, they hardly need lights! I would really like to hear from some of you, especially the anonymous people who may look here! Please post!

2008-06-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! Here is a pic of me with one of my former students, Melissa Arender Loper. She and her husband Rodney were here to do singing at our annual gathering of the Churches of God (Holiness) in Overland Park, KS. She spoke at a Lady's Tea that was held while they were in the area. She did an excellent job and spoke regarding the need of training children up for the Lord. She is a mother of three.

More Flowers

2008-06-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

Impatiens!

2008-05-25T14:05:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! I took some pic's of my Impatiens today. You will also see the Hasta beds as well. My Grandma planted those years ago, and they are a joy to watch come up in the Spring. The Impatiens really love my porch as it is mostly shaded and points towards the north. I really enjoy planting them and watching them bloom and grow. I hope you enjoy this little snippet of God's beautiful creation.

"Who is a God like You..."

2008-05-25T12:18:00.000-07:00

There is a lovely passage in the book of Micah which I have been memorizing..."Who is a God like You who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; You will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea." (Micah 7:18-19)

This lovely scripture describes of course, the one and true God, Jesus Christ. How many religions are there out there who have a god who is angry with His subjects? He tells them that they must strive after unattainable goals and entry into heaven is at his whim? Or a god who says that your husband will decide this??

I have been very captivated by the recent news regarding the Fundamental Mormons in Texas. Prior to these happenings, I have been reading about them and already had gotten a book "Escape" written by Carolyn Jessop who literally escaped from this false religion several years ago. Her story really grabbed my interest- she was forced to marry a man 30 years older than she when she was only 18. Then, she was repeatedly raped by him and bore him 8 children in 15 years. She describes the life of being his 4th wife and the family dynamic as he continued to add other wives. He never loved her. He only seemed to see her as a piece of meat and an object to conquer. Why did she stay? It was the only religion she had ever known. She was taught that she had to be his wife if she had any hope of entering heaven. They are taught that only a worthy man can decide if she will be elevated in heaven or be a slave. Finally, Carolyn came to the end of her tolerance of this situation. Her husband had not only been verbally and emotionally abusive to her, but had also become physically violent towards her as well. She was scared to leave her children for fear of how they would be treated by other wives. Five years ago, she left in the early morning hours and took all of her children.

I say all of that to say this...I am so grateful to know Truth! Jesus Christ gave Himself for me, that I might enter heaven on HIS merit, not my own! There is no way I could ever merit heaven or be good enough. He has provided a way! He is a God like no other! He wants so desperately to pardon our sins! He is so longsuffering, gracious and compassionate! No earthly person has any authority to decide where I spend eternity except me...I only must trust in His finished work on the cross! He has done it all. He so much longs to hurl our sins far away never to be remembered again! If you are saved and know this truth, take a moment to thank God for it!

Mother Daughter Event

2008-05-18T11:47:00.001-07:00

Hello, everyone! I have attended several events recently which are Mother/Daughter related or something of the sort. Here are some pics from this past Tuesday evening. I attend two churches and this event was sponsored by the Overland Park COGH. The first pic shows my mom and I with our friends Debbie, Theresa and Andrea Lee. I have known them forever and they recently moved back to this area. The second pic shows my mom, grandma, and I with Michelle Avery. There were over 40 in attendance at this meeting!!! It was a very nice time. There were some neighbor ladies there as well. Hope to hear from some of you soon!!

IHC Trip

2008-05-12T16:02:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! I am still among the living. It has been almost a month since I posted...shame on me. Well, IHC was a busy week. Here is a pic of me and my friend Tracey Moser Miller. I had not seen her for 8 years. She came to IHC all the way from Alaska where she lives with her husband who is in the military and four children. My mom snapped this pic of us after the Women of Worth session.

On Friday, after IHC, my parents and I visited the Answers in Genesis creation museum south of Cincinnati. WOW! If you're ever in that area, please go. You will not regret it. Your faith will be strengthened. Being a Christian will just make even more sense than it ever has before!

Off to IHC

2008-04-13T19:10:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! Once again, I am delinquent about posting!!! Shame on me...life gets so busy, and I don't lead the most interesting life.
Tomorrow, I will be leaving with my parents to attend the IHC in Dayton, OH. It will also be a sortav mini family reunion, as three of my dad's sisters will be there. Also, I will see several cousins. I hope to see some of my old friends from college days.
Perhaps I will have some pictures to post after I get home!!!!

My Birthday

2008-03-17T08:44:00.001-07:00

Hello, everyone! My birthday was on March 1. (As it is each year!) And here are some pics from some of the celebrating that went on! On the first, I had lunch with my friend Maureen (upper right). We ate at Mi-mi's which is awesome!!! In the evening, my whole family ate with me at Cracker Barrel. The middle pic is of me with my sister-in-law Darla at Cracker Barrel. In the bottom pic you will see me on the 2nd of March at my Mom and Dad's where she made lunch for me! She made Pumpkin Crunch Pie for dessert!!! It is awesome. There were other celebrations as well. I am grateful for the years God has given me.

Bullock and Beckham Concert

2008-02-29T19:39:00.000-08:00

Oh, you all should've been there! Tonight, at KCCBS, here in Overland Park, we were privileged to hear the once infamous Bullock and Beckham duo! Talk about memories!!! I, along with many others in the Holiness movement, grew up listening to Richard Beckham and Rex Bullock as well as Ann Baldwin. What a trip down memory lane...they were both reminiscing in between songs. They sang some of their "signature songs" such as "Oh Glorious Love," "Christ Is Not A Disappointment," as well as "Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory."
I am extremely nostalgic, and do still remember the time that Richard was singing at the Overland Park Church of God (Holiness) many years ago. I was probably 10 - 12 years old when this happened. The church was packed to the gills and suddenly, three men walked in, strangers to the congregation. At least one of them was dressed in all black. They came clear up to the front and sat down. Richard Beckham sang "Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory," and God's presence was manifest. Later, it was learned that the man in black, was a warlock. He had actually married a couple who were in the congregation. He had a desire to come into a church service again, after turning his back on God and becoming an arch follower of Satan. It was quite the story!
Well, anyway, that was my evening! Hope to hear from some more of you out there!

A Prophet's Reward? Really?

2008-02-27T16:53:00.000-08:00

In Matthew 10:40-42 we read "He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me. Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward." Did you catch that? A prophet's reward? A righteous man's reward? This is really exciting! It's not only the one who actually does the good deed or preaches the sermon, or goes to the mission field who will receive rewards, but the ones who are supporting them and holding up their hands! It can seem to those who are state side or who can't seem to do "great" things, that they have nothing or little to offer the Lord. But, I beg to differ based on this passage.
I think of my own parents. They are not flashy or big name people. They have never pastored a church or gone to the mission field. But, they have worked quietly behind the scenes many times to advance God's work. For example, several times in the past number of years, they have hosted in their home for an extended period of time, Leroy and Myrtle Adams who are missionaries to Egypt. My mother has helped arrange their schedule and helped coordinate missionary services for them in the mid west. My mother has cooked them meals. My father has shuttled them around and paid for restaurant meals for them. Is it possible, based on this passage of scripture that in heaven, when the rewards are passed out to Leroy and Myrtle Adams that we will also hear "Gary and Alma Jean Wright?"
So, my friend, if you feel that you have little or nothing to offer, look around and see who you can come along side...who you can support in some way. Remembering that each act of service from a heart of love for the Savior will not be forgotten or overlooked!

Travel Thoughts

2008-02-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

Hello, Everyone! It's still winter here, but the good things is that it can't last much longer! I really like this harbor template. As a young person at God's Bible School in Cincinnati, I was privileged to do a lot of traveling. What memories! We were privileged to be in more than one eastern state and view neat places along the ocean and other such areas. I've been to the boardwalk and walked along that...I've been to Plymouth where the Mayflower replica is...I've been to Harker's Island in North Carolina...I've been down south in Florida at the beach over on the Western side...it would be nice to be there now!
Three years ago, I traveled to Hobe Sound, FL and viewed the ocean from the beach there...it was so pretty. I hope that some day, I'll be able to see more places...oh, and I can't forget to tell you about the time in the summer of 92, I was privileged to travel with Dave and Frances Fuller and Julie. We were transported to the Baltimore inner harbor by boat with their friends Andy and Joy Coolie. That was so neat!
Well, it's back to reality here in frozen Kansas...hope to hear from some of you in "blogger land."

Sharmen

Winter Musings

2008-02-15T17:08:00.001-08:00

Hello, everyone,
I want to write to you in this wintery blue color...I am ready for it to end!!! I haven't taken any new pictures lately, so won't be including one of those...
I keep going in my crazy pace of working at two different Assisted Living places as well as teaching a few piano students and playing at nursing homes, etc. several times a month.
Right now, my grandma and hubby are down south at Hobe Sound Camp...I should've gone, too!! What a beautiful spot that can be this time of year...

Write to me...
Sharmen

Christmas Day

2008-01-09T09:38:00.000-08:00

This is Christmas Day! My parents, brother Michael and his family, my grandma and her husband and our friends, Dennis and Mary Flory met at IHOP for Christmas dinner! The place was packed. We had a great waitress and we left her with a Wright Trio cassette. I hope it speaks to her. Then, we adjourned to my parents place for the rest of the day. It was so nice to not have to prepare and clean up after a big meal. And we had a great time!

Family Times!

2008-01-09T09:33:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone! How are you? Happy New Year! Needless to say, December was a very busy month! Here is a pic of me taken at our annual Wright Family gathering which took place at Ryan's in Olathe, KS. This is (left to right) Alyssa, my cousin, and nieces, Juli and Esther. My 10 year old niece, Luanna, took this picture! She is a great photographer. My Uncle Nathan and Aunt Renee organize this event each year.

Family Gatherings

2007-11-29T15:39:00.001-08:00

Here is a pic of my cousin Kendra and her husband, Dan. They recently hosted an "early" Thanksgiving dinner in their home here in Roeland Park, KS. Did we ever have the food! You can see some of it in front of them. But, there was much more! Including Dan's Chicken and Noodles! If you have not eaten such, you are missing out! Can he cook! Dan is an attorney here in Kansas City along with his brother. They have a unique practice since they are both bilingual. They were raised on the mission field of Bolivia, and therefore speak fluent Spanish. They serve many here who speak Spanish. Their father is now their office manager and is also fluent in Spanish.

I really do have a great family!!!!!!

Cropping

2007-11-29T15:35:00.000-08:00

Hello, everyone,
This pic is from a "crop" that my mom, sister-in-law Shawna and niece, Luanna went to. We were 4 of a number of people who gathered at the Nall Avenue Church of the Nazarene to "crop" and have a good time. We got prizes for completed pages and chances to be in drawings for prizes. Our crop leader is Brenda Scruggs. I have completed several albums in the past 10 years.

Until next time...

My Three Nieces

2007-11-01T14:53:00.000-07:00

Here is Luanna, age 10; Esther, age 7 (almost) and Juli age 2. They may not have been the "scariest" little ones on Halloween, but they were definately the cutest!!!

Two of my Friends

2007-10-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone.
I wanted to show you this picture and tell you about two of my special friends from college days...it really can't be possible that over 15 years ago, I graduated from God's Bible School in Cincinnati, OH! Garilee on the left, and Marsha in the center, were two of my dearest friends. We had so many wonderful times together!!! It was a very sad time, when Garilee graduated and left. Marsha and I were there for another year. When Marsha got married in 1993, we were all together then. But, that is the last time we had all been in the same place at the same time. This past June, we met in Cincinnati at Marsha's house for a fun weekend! This was taken on Saturday at a Pizza place where we ate. One of Marsha's five children took this pic on my camera.
Garilee works at a hospital in Michigan in the insurance department. She, like me, is single. The Lord has really helped her and she is actively involved in her local church and like me, has two brothers. They both live close to her. Marsha, is married to Brian and they have five kids! They are hoping to move to Marion, OH when their house sells to be assistant pastor at a church there and to work in the Christian school.
Have a great day! And thank God for your special friends...I am truly blessed...

Back on Line!!!

2007-10-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! After being "offline" for a month, I'm now back on. Actually, it's been good for me to be off, I was quite addicted. I love to read, and to me, the internet is like having a massive library right in your apartment! So, I could get so sidetracked reading this and that or whatever.
How are all of you? I started a new part time job today. I am working as an LPN at Cedar Lake Village in Olathe, KS. The director is a lady that I used to attend church with. Today, was my first day and so it was all basically orientation.
I also went full time with my other job at Shawnee Heartland Assisted Living. The kick there is that I have to be there at 7am! YUCK...some of you probably know how well I like mornings. Actually, I have done very well.
Please write soon.
Sharmen

The Wright Family

2007-08-12T14:52:00.001-07:00

I am so blessed! I have so many wonderful extended family members. Yesterday, was my little cousin, John David's birthday party! He turned 5 years old! Now, that is an exciting time when you turn five! It was also just fun to be with some of my great family. Here I am with cousin Kendra, and Aunt Renee.

Vacation Bible School

2007-08-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a week this has been!! We had Vacation Bible School at the church I attend on Sunday Mornings, the South Park Church of God (Holiness). It was a great week! All together, we had 37 different children come. We averaged 25 each night. We had the Wordless Book for one of the teaching times. The children learned about the gold page which tells of heaven and the black page which tells us about sin and so forth. Our theme was Digging for Treasure. We had object lessons based on Bible stories that were in some way related to coins or treasure. The best one was about the Pearl of Great Price. We had a contest between the "Miners" and "Prospectors" to see who could collect the most money to buy a bicycle for the mission work in Myanmar. We ended up with more than enough to buy the bike!
One of the most exciting things was this: Two of the children who came are also catholic. Their mother, Lori, came every night and helped with crafts. On the second night, she came back and wanted to know what the Book of Life was all about as it was part of the first night of teaching about Heaven and how we must have our names in the Lamb's Book of Life if we are going to heaven. She went home and had asked her husband what it was all about. He has a church background, but did not know. So, a couple of people were able to get a Bible and show her in the book of Revelation where this was. She was told that it's where our names must be in order to go to heaven. So, she sat down and read from the Bible about it. So, you never know what is going through people's heads. God can work even through a children's VBS to reach adults. The picture above is of me and part of my group. We were the emerald group. Emerald was from the Wordless Book which talked about growing in Christ.

Welcome!!

2007-08-02T15:36:00.000-07:00

Welcome, everyone! This is now a place where I can write and post about what is happening in my life. Please feel free to read and comment. Let me hear from you!

Believe it or not, Summer is nearly over...that's kindav sad. It's one of the best times of the year in my opinion.

I just returned home Tuesday evening from Kansas State Holiness Camp which is held each year on the campus of Central Christian College in McPherson, Kansas. It is always such a nice time. All of the buildings are air conditioned! Meals are only $1.00 each and the fellowship is priceless!! We were privileged this year to hear Bible teaching by Joe Smith from Shelbyville, IN. I went to God's Bible School with two of his sisters, Marianne and Elisabeth. We were also able to hear Bro. James Keaton preach and Bro. Ken Thompson. I get to see people there that I don't normally see any other time of the year.

Well, post a comment if you like...until next time...