Things To Think About

On this page you will find many items of interest which I have found on the web or have been sent to me in my e-mail messages and newsletters. They have all touched my heart deeply, and really made me think about where I am really at with my walk with the Lord. All items are used with permission, but if you find something which should be attributed to someone other than the person indicated, please let me know so that the error can be corrected.

"NO JACKET REQUIRED"

Author Unknown

I shook my head in disbelief. This couldn't be the right place. After all, I couldn't possibly be welcome here. I had been given an invitation several times, by several different people, and had finally decided to see what this place was all about. But, this just couldn't be the right place.

Quickly, I glanced down at the invitation that I clutched in my hand. I scanned past the words, "Come as you are. No jacket required." and found the location. Yes, I was at the right place. I peered through the window again and saw a room of people whose faces seemed to glow with joy. All were neatly dressed, adorned in fine garments and appeared strangely clean as they dined at this exquisite restaurant.

Ashamed, I looked down at my own tattered and torn clothing, covered in stains. I was dirty, in fact, filthy. A foul smell seemed to consume me and I couldn't shake the grime that clung to my body. As I turned around to leave, the words from the invitation seemed to leap out at me... "Come as you are. No jacket required." I decided to give it a shot. Mustering up every bit of courage I could find, I opened the door to this restaurant and walked up to a man standing behind a podium.

"Your name, sir?" he asked me with a smile. "Jimmy D. Brown," I mumbled without looking up. I thrust my hands deep into my pockets, hoping to conceal their stains. He didn't seem to notice the filth that I was covered in and he continued, "Very good, sir. A table is reserved in your name. Would you like to be seated?"

I couldn't believe what I heard! A grin broke out on my face and I said, "Yes, of course!" He led me to a table and, sure enough, there was a place-card with my name written on it in a deep, dark red. As I browsed over a menu, I saw many delightful items listed. There were things like "peace", "joy", "blessings", "confidence", "assurance", "hope", "love", "faith", and "mercy". I realized that this was no ordinary restaurant! I flipped the menu back to the front in order to see where I was at... "God's Grace" was the name of this place!

The man returned and said, "I recommend the 'Special of the Day'. With it, you are entitled to heaping portions of everything on this menu." "You've got to be kidding!" I thought to myself. "You mean, I can have ALL of this!" "What is the 'Special of the Day'?" I asked with excitement ringing in my voice.

"Salvation", was his reply. "I'll take it", I practically cried out. Then, as quickly as I made that statement, the joy left my body. A sick, painful ache jerked through my stomach and tears filled my eyes. Between my sobs I said "Mister, look at me. I'm dirty and nasty. I'm unclean and unworthy of such things. I'd love to have all of this, but, but, I just can't afford it. Undaunted, the man smiled again. "Sir, your check has already been taken care of by that Gentleman over there", he said pointing to the front of the room. "His Name is Jesus." Turning, I saw a man whose very presence seemed to light the room. He was almost too much to look at. I found myself walking towards Him and in a shaking voice I whispered, "Sir, I'll wash the dishes or sweep the floors or take out the trash. I'll do anything I can do to repay you for all of this." He opened His arms and said with a smile, "Son, all of this is yours if you just come unto me. Ask me to clean you up and I will. Ask me to take away the stains and it is done. Ask me to allow you to feast at my table and you will eat. Remember, the table is reserved in your name. All you must do is accept this gift that I offer you." Astonished, I fell at his feet and said, "Please, Jesus. Please clean up my life. Please change me and sit me at your table and give me this new life." Immediately, I heard the words, "It is finished".

I looked down and white robes adorned my squeaky clean body. Something strange and wonderful had happened. I felt new, like a weight had been lifted and I found myself seated at His table. "The 'Special of the Day' has been served", the Lord said to me. "Salvation is yours." We sat and talked for a great while and I so enjoyed the time that I spent with Him. He told me, me of all people, that He would like for me to come back as often as I liked for another helping from God's Grace. He made it clear that He wanted me to spend as much time with Him as possible. As it drew near time for me to go back outside into the "real world", He whispered to me softly, "And Lo, I am with you always", and then, He said something to me that I will never forget. He said... "My child, do you see these empty tables throughout this room?" "Yes, Lord. I see them. What do they mean?" I replied. "These are reserved tables...but the individuals whose names are on each placard have not accepted their invitations to dine. Would you be so kind as to hand out these invitations to those who have not joined us yet?" Jesus asked.

"Of course", I said with excitement as I picked up the invitations. "Go ye therefore into all nations", He said as I turned to leave. I walked into God's Grace dirty and hungry. Stained in sin. My righteousness as filthy rags. And Jesus cleaned me up. I walked out a brand new man...robed in white, His righteousness. And so, I'll keep my promise to my Lord. I'll go. I'll spread the Word. I'll share the Gospel... I'll hand out the invitations. And I'll start with you. Have you been to God's Grace? There's a table reserved in your name, and here's your invitation...

"Come as you are. No jacket required."

WHAT IF...?

What if, GOD couldn't take the time to bless us today because we couldn't take the time to thank Him yesterday?

What if, GOD decided to stop leading us tomorrow because we didn't follow Him today?

What if, we never saw another flower bloom because we grumbled when GOD sent the rain?

What if, GOD didn't walk with us today because we failed to recognize it as His day?

What if, GOD took away the Bible tomorrow because we would not read it today?

What if, GOD took away His message because we failed to listen to the messenger?

What if, GOD didn't send His only begotten Son because He wanted us to be prepared to pay the price for sin?

What if, the door of the church was closed because we did not open the door of our heart?

What if, GOD stopped loving and caring for us because we failed to love and care for others?

What if, GOD would not hear us today because we would not listen to Him yesterday?

What if, GOD answered our prayers the way we answer His call to service?

What if, GOD met our needs the way we give Him our lives???

When You Worry

Author unknown

When you worry about money, you're telling Him that He is unable to provide for His children. That although He has riches beyond belief in Heaven, He is too stingy to share them with you.

When you worry that no one understands you, you're telling Him that although He has been with you since before you were formed in the womb and has carved you into the palm of His hand, He doesn't know you.

When you worry that you will not have enough food, you're telling Him that although He rained down bread from Heaven in the desert to feed His children, you are the one He's forgotten.

When you worry that your enemies will have victory over you, you're telling God that, although He has given you spiritual battle gear to defend yourself, that despite His track record of being a giant slayer, Red Sea divider, lion mouth closer and a furnace cooler, He can't handle your co-worker, your neighbour, or a former friend.

When you worry that you won't be able to do enough to earn forgiveness, you're telling Him that's okay Lord, no need for Your Son to die, I can earn my own forgiveness. Let's just act like Jesus never died, tell Him never mind He doesn't need to go to the cross.

When you worry that no one will love you, that you'll be lonely for the rest of your life, you're telling Him that His love is insufficient. That He couldn't possibly love you enough to ward away loneliness. You're saying that although He has promised life more abundantly, He was lying. That despite the fact that He started off saying that it is not good that we be alone, He's changed His mind.

When you worry and refuse to give the problem over to Him, you're telling Him that, although He could create the world, He can't handle what's going on in your world, so you will. You are saying that He won't work things out, that obstacles cannot be overcome, that mountains can't be climbed, that healing cannot occur, that what is lost will not be found, that joy does not come in the morning, that He is not the God of a second chance, that the Promised Land has been swallowed up by the desert, that you have discovered the height, depth and width of His love and found it to fall short of your needs.

Think about all what you're saying to the one who loves you the most and who has all power, really think about it. Then open your hands and release what you've been holding onto. Bow down on your knees and ask Him to forgive you for doubting Him. Walk away with a peaceful heart and note the footsteps that go before you to make the crooked places straight, a way in the wilderness and water spring forth in the desert.

"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

FOR THE GARDEN OF YOUR DAILY LIVING

PLANT THREE ROWS OF PEAS:
1. Peace of mind
2. Peace of heart
3. Peace of soul

PLANT FOUR ROWS OF SQUASH:
1. Squash gossip
2. Squash indifference
3. Squash grumbling
4. Squash selfishness

PLANT FIVE ROWS OF LETTUCE:
1. Lettuce pray
2. Lettuce be faithful
3. Lettuce be kind
4. Lettuce be patient
5. Lettuce really love one another

NO GARDEN IS WITHOUT TURNIPS:
1. Turnip for meetings
2. Turnip for service
3. Turnip to help one another

TO CONCLUDE OUR GARDEN WE MUST HAVE THYME:
1. Thyme for each other
2. Thyme for family
3. Thyme for friends

WATER FREELY WITH PATIENCE AND CULTIVATE WITH LOVE.
THERE IS MUCH FRUIT IN YOUR GARDEN BECAUSE YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW.

THE BEAUTIFUL HEART

One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley. A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect. There was not a mark or a flaw in it. Yes, they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen. The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart.

Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said, "Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine". The crowd and the young man looked at the old man's heart. It was beating strongly, but full of scars, it had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in, but they didn't fit quite right and there were several jagged edges. In fact, in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing.

The people stared - "How can he say his heart is more beautiful?" they thought.

The young man looked at the old man's heart and saw its state and laughed. "You must be joking", he said. "Compare your heart with mine, mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears."

"Yes", said the old man, "yours is perfect looking but I would never trade with you. You see, every scar represents a person to whom I have given my love - I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them, and often they give me a piece of their heart which fits into the empty place in my heart, but because the pieces aren't exact, I have some rough edges, which I cherish, because they remind me of the love we shared. Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away, and the other person hasn't returned a piece of his heart to me. These are the empty gouges - giving love is taking a chance. Although these gouges are painful, they stay open, reminding me of the love I have for these people too, and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting. So now do you see what true beauty is?"

The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks. He walked up to the old man, reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart, and ripped a piece out. He offered it to the old man with trembling hands. The old man took his offering, placed it in his heart and then took a piece from his old scarred heart and placed it in the wound in the young man's heart. It fit, but not perfectly, as there were some jagged edges. The young man looked at his heart, not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever, since love from the old man's heart flowed into his. They embraced and walked away side by side

A Story For All To Consider.

The cheerful girl with bouncy golden curls was almost five. Waiting with her mother at the checkout stand, she saw them: a circle of glistening white pearls in a pink foil box. "Oh please, Mommy. Can I have them? Please, Mommy, please?"

Quickly the mother checked the back of the little foil box and then looked back into the pleading blue eyes of her little girl's upturned face. "A dollar ninety-five. That's almost $2.00. If you really want them, I'll think of some extra chores for you and in no time you can save enough money to buy them for yourself. Your birthday's only a week away and you might get another crisp dollar bill from Grandma."

As soon as Jenny got home, she emptied her penny bank and counted out 17 pennies. After dinner, she did more than her share of chores and she went to the neighbour and asked Mrs. McJames if she could pick dandelions for ten cents. On her birthday, Grandma did give her another new dollar bill and at last she had enough money to buy the necklace.

Jenny loved her pearls. They made her feel dressed up and grown up. She wore them everywhere - Sunday school, kindergarten, even to bed. The only time she took them off was when she went swimming or had a bubble bath. Mother said if they got wet, they might turn her neck green.

Jenny had a very loving daddy and every night when she was ready for bed, he would stop whatever he was doing and come upstairs to read her a story.

One night when he finished the story, he asked Jenny, "Do you love me?"

"Oh yes, Daddy. You know that I love you."

"Then give me your pearls."

"Oh, Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have Princess - the white horse from my collection - the one with the pink tail. Remember, Daddy? The one you gave me. She's my favorite."

"That's okay, Honey. Daddy loves you. Good night." And he brushed her cheek with a kiss.

About a week later, after the story time, Jenny's daddy asked again, "Do you love me?"

"Daddy, you know I love you."

"Then give me your pearls."

"Oh Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have my baby doll. The brand new one I got for my birthday. She is so beautiful and you can have the yellow blanket that matches her sleeper."

"That's okay. Sleep well. God bless you, little one. Daddy loves you." And as always, he brushed her cheek with a gentle kiss.

A few nights later when her daddy came in, Jenny was sitting on her bed with her legs crossed Indian-style. As he came close, he noticed her chin was trembling and one silent tear rolled down her cheek.

"What is it, Jenny? What's the matter?"

Jenny didn't say anything but lifted her little hand up to her daddy. And when she opened it, there was her little pearl necklace. With a little quiver, she finally said, "Here, Daddy. It's for you."

With tears gathering in his own eyes, Jenny's kind daddy reached out with one hand to take the dime-store necklace, and with the other hand he reached into his pocket and pulled out a blue velvet case with a strand of genuine pearls and gave them to Jenny. He had them all the time. He was just waiting for her to give up the dime-store stuff so he could give her the genuine treasure.

So it is with our Heavenly Father. He is waiting for us to give up the cheap things in our lives so that He can give us beautiful treasure. Isn't God good? Are you holding onto things that God wants you to let go of? Are you holding on to harmful or unnecessary partners, relationships, habits, and activities that you have come so attached to that it seems impossible to let go?

Sometimes it is so hard to see what is in the other hand but do believe this one thing..................

God will never take away something without giving you something better in its place.

Author Unknown

A NOTE FROM HEAVEN

My child,

I know you feel as if you are not appreciated, but consider My Son, Jesus. He was despised and rejected by His own people. Strive not to please the hearts of men, but you must live in the Truth; that is, the knowledge of My Son that set you free. Truth that has set you free from every form of bondage - including the need for acceptance of others.

Do not compromise your walk by attempting to please man. My Child, I see your service; you are not unnoticed by Me. You have humbled yourself in service before Me, and your work is not in vain. In due season I will raise you up. I will mount you up on eagles wings. You will feel the freedom of My love brush against you. I will strengthen you in times of need. For in your weakness I shall make you strong.

You are one of My prized possessions - did you know that? Well you certainly are! I am so proud of you. Even if you think no one takes notice of you, I do. And I Love You!

Your Father

Heat of the Fire

"In the whole land, " declares the Lord, "two-thirds will be struck down and perish; yet one-third will be left in it. This third I will BRING INTO FIRE; I WILL REFINE THEM LIKE SILVER AND TEST THEM LIKE GOLD. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, 'The Lord is our God.' " (Zechariah 13:8-9, emphasis added)

There was a group of women in a Bible study on the book of Malachi. As they were studying chapter three, they came across verse three, which says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled the women and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out about the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible study.

That week this woman called up a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest in silver beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot - then she thought again about the verse, that he sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.

She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, how do you know when the silver is fully refined? He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy - when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you.

THE PURPOSE OF THE DESERT

"Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her." – Hosea 2:14

If you have an important message to convey to someone, what is the best means of getting the message through? Have you ever tried to talk with someone who was so busy you could not get him to hear you? Distractions prevent us from giving our undivided attention to the messenger. So too, God has His way of taking us aside to get our undivided attention. For Paul, it was Arabia for three years; for Moses, it was 40 years in the desert; for Joseph, it was 13 years in Egypt; for David, it was many years of fleeing from King Saul.

God knows the stubborn human heart. He knows that if He is to accomplish His deepest work, He must take us into the desert in order to give us the privilege to be used in His Kingdom. In the desert God changes us and removes things that hinder us. He forces us to draw deep upon His grace.

The desert is only a season in our life. When He has accomplished what He wants in our lives in the desert, He will bring us out. He has given us a mission to fulfil that can only be fulfilled after we have spent adequate time in preparation in the desert. Fear not the desert, for it is there you will hear God's voice like never before. It is here you become His bride.

It is here you will have the idols of your life removed. It is here you begin to experience the reality of a living God like never before. Someone once said, "God uses enlarged trials to produce enlarged saints so He can put them in enlarged places!"

He brought me out into a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me." – (2 Samuel 22:20).

When I Said

When I said to the Lord "I am so short of where you want me to be",
He gently answered "That's okay. That's all the farther you and I can walk together."

When I said to the Lord "I don't know who I am,"
He gently answered "That's okay. I know who you are."

When I said to the Lord "I am so tired of fighting,"
He gently answered "That's okay. Satan is down for the count."

When I said to the Lord "My actions aren't reflecting my heart,"
He gently answered "That's okay. Mine did."

When I said to the Lord "My mind is corrupted,"
He gently answered "That's okay. Use mine for awhile."

When I said to the Lord "I don't know how to love,"
He gently answered "That's okay. I will give you free lessons"

~author unknown~

An Inspiring Story

As she stood in front of her 5th grade class on the very first day of school, she told the children a lie. Like most teachers, she looked at her students and said that she loved them all the same. But that was impossible, because there in the front row, slumped in his seat, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard.

Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed that he didn't play well with the other children, that his clothes were messy and that he constantly needed a bath. And Teddy could be unpleasant. It got to the point where Mrs. Thompson would actually take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold X's and then putting a big "F" at the top of his papers.

At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review each child's past records and she put Teddy's off until last. However, when she reviewed his file, she was in for a surprise. Teddy's first grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is a bright child with a ready laugh. He does his work neatly and has good manners...he is a joy to be around." His second grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is an excellent student, well liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle." His third grade teacher wrote, "His mother's death had been hard on him. He tries to do his best, but his father doesn't show much interest and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't taken." Teddy's fourth grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and he sometimes sleeps in class".

By now, Mrs. Thompson realized the problem and she was ashamed of herself. She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas presents, wrapped in beautiful ribbons and bright paper, except for Teddy's. His present was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper that he got from a grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in the middle of the other presents. Some of the children started to laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones missing, and a bottle that was one quarter full of perfume. But she stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume on her wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed after school that day just long enough to say, "Mrs. Thompson, today you smelled just like my Mom used to."

After the children left she cried for at least an hour. On that very day, she quit teaching reading, and writing, and arithmetic. Instead, she began to teach children. Mrs. Thompson paid particular attention to Teddy. As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more she encouraged him, the faster he responded. By the end of the year, Teddy had become one of the smartest children in the class and, despite her lie that she would love all the children the same, Teddy became one of her "teacher's pets."

A year later, she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her that she was still the best teacher he ever had in his whole life. Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy. He then wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she was still the best teacher he ever had in his whole life. Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with it, and would soon graduate from college with the highest of honors. He assured Mrs. Thompson that she was still the best and favorite teacher he ever had in his whole life. Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a little further. The letter explained that she was still the best and favorite teacher he ever had. But now his name was a little longer-the letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, MD.

The story doesn't end there. You see, there was yet another letter that spring. Teddy said he'd met this girl and was going to be married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago and he was wondering if Mrs. Thompson might agree to sit in the place at the wedding that was usually reserved for the mother of the groom. Of course, Mrs. Thompson did. And guess what? She wore that bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. And she made sure she was wearing the perfume that Teddy remembered his mother wearing on their last Christmas together. They hugged each other, and Dr. Stoddard whispered in Mrs. Thompson's ear, "Thank you Mrs. Thompson for believing in me. Thank you so much for making me feel important and showing me that I could make a difference." Mrs. Thompson, with tears in her eyes, whispered back. She said, "Teddy, you have it all wrong. You were the one who taught me that I could make a difference. I didn't know how to teach until I met you."

Please remember that wherever you go, and whatever you do, you will have the opportunity to touch and/or change a person's outlook. Please try to do it in a positive way.

DIRECTIONS TO HIS HOUSE

Make a Right onto "Believe Blvd."

Keep straight and go through the Green Light (which is "Jesus Christ").

From there, you must turn onto the "Bridge of Faith," which is over "troubled water".

When you get off the bridge, make a Right turn and Keep Straight.

You are on the "King's Highway" - Heaven-bound.

Keep going for three miles: One for the "Father", One for the "Son", and One for the "Holy Ghost".

Then exit off onto "Grace Blvd."

From there, make a Right turn on "Gospel Lane."

Keep Straight and then make another Right on "Prayer Blvd."

As you go on your way, Yield Not to the traffic on "Temptation Ave."

Also, avoid SIN STREET because it is a DEAD END.

Pass up "Envy Drive," and "Have Avenue."

Also, pass "Hypocrisy Street," "Gossiping Lane," and "Backbiting Blvd."

But you have to go down.....

"Long-suffering Lane," "Persecution Blvd. and "Trials and Tribulations Ave."

But that's all right, because VICTORY Blvd. is straight ahead!

THE EMPTY EGG

Jeremy was born with a twisted body and a slow mind. At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool, and make grunting noises. At other times, he spoke clearly and distinctly, as if a spot of light had penetrated the darkness of his brain. Most of the time, however, Jeremy just irritated his teacher.

One day she called his parents and asked them to come in for a consultation. As the Forresters entered the empty classroom, Doris said to them, "Jeremy really belongs in a special school. It isn't fair to him to be with younger children who don't have learning problems. Why, there is a five year gap between his age and that of the other
students."

Mrs. Forrester cried softly into a tissue, while her husband spoke. "Miss Miller," he said, "there is no school of that kind nearby. It would be a terrible shock for Jeremy if we had to take him out of this school. We know he really likes it here." Doris sat for a long time after they had left, staring at the snow outside the window. Its coldness seemed to seep into her soul. She wanted to sympathize with the Forresters. After all, their only child had a terminal illness. But it wasn't fair to keep him in her class. She had 18 other youngsters to teach, and Jeremy was a distraction. Furthermore, he would never learn to read and write. Why waste any more time trying?

As she pondered the situation, guilt washed over her. Here I am complaining when my problems are nothing compared to that poor family, she thought. Lord, please help me to be more patient with Jeremy. From that day on, she tried hard to ignore Jeremy's noises and his blank stares.

Then one day, he limped to her desk, dragging his bad leg behind him. "I love you, Miss Miller," he exclaimed, loud enough for the whole class to hear. The other students snickered, and Doris' face turned red. She stammered, "Wh-why that's very nice, Jeremy. N-now please take your seat."

Spring came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg. "Now," she said to them, "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Miss Miller," the children responded enthusiastically - all except for Jeremy. He listened intently; his eyes never left her face. He did not even make his usual noises. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them.

That evening, Doris' kitchen sink stopped up. She called the landlord and waited an hour for him to come by and unclog it. After that, she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse, and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy's parents.

The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Doris found a flower. "Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life," she said. "When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here." A small girl in the first row waved her arm. "That's my egg, Miss Miller," she called out. The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked very real. Doris held it up. "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that's new life, too." Little Judy smiled proudly and said, "Miss Miller, that one is mine." Next, Doris found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom, "My daddy helped me," he beamed.

Then Doris opened the fourth egg. She gasped. The egg was empty. Surely it must be Jeremy's she thought, and of course, he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another. Suddenly, Jeremy spoke up. "Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?" Flustered, Doris replied, "But Jeremy, your egg is empty." He looked into her eyes and said softly, "Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too."

Time stopped. When she could speak again, Doris asked him, "Do you know why the tomb was empty?" "Oh, yes," Jeremy said, "Jesus was killed and put in there. Then His Father raised Him up."

The recess bell rang. While the children excitedly ran out to the school yard, Doris cried. The cold inside her melted completely away. Three months later, Jeremy died. Those who paid their respects at the mortuary were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his casket, all of them empty.

Author Unknown

Check out this link. It is really thought provoking. Especially to people who are involved in trying to stop abortions.

http://www.fathersloveletter.com/fllpreviewlarge.html

If you're too 'busy" to read this, you may have already fallen into the trap. Please read this, I guarantee it will be thought-provoking.

Satan's Meeting
(Read this even if you're BUSY)
Satan called a worldwide convention of demons. In his opening address he said, "We can't keep Christians from going to church. We can't keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth. We can't even keep them from forming an intimate relationship with their Savior. Once they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken."

"So let them go to their churches; let them have their covered dish dinners, but steal their time, so they don't have time to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ." "This is what I want you to do", said the devil: "Distract them from gaining hold of their Savior and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!"

"How shall we do this?" his demons shouted.

"Keep them busy in the nonessentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds," he answered. "Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow."

"Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work 6-7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford their empty lifestyles."

"Keep them from spending time with their children." "As their families fragment, soon, their homes will offer no escape from the pressures of work!"

"Over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice. Entice them to play the radio or cassette player whenever they drive. To keep the TV, VCR, CDs and their PCs going constantly in their home and see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly. This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ."

"Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers. Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day. Invade their driving moments with billboards. Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogs, sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services and false hopes."

"Give them Santa Claus to distract them from teaching their children the real meaning of Christmas. Give them an Easter bunny so they won't talk about his resurrection and power over sin and death."

"Even in their recreation, let them be excessive. Have them return from their recreation exhausted. Keep them too busy to go out in nature and reflect on God's creation. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, plays, concerts, and movies instead. Keep them busy, busy, busy!"

"And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences."

"Crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Jesus. Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and family for the good of the cause.

It will work! It will work!" It was quite a plan! The demons went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get busier and more rushed, going here and there.

Having little time for their God or their families. Having no time to tell others about the power of Jesus to change lives. I guess the question is, has the devil been successful at his scheme?

You be the judge! Does "busy" mean:
B-eing
U-nder
S-atan's
Y-oke?
Please pass this on, if you aren't too BUSY!

God's Embroidery

When I was a small child, my mother used to embroider a great deal. I would sit at her knee and look up from the floor and ask what she was doing. She informed me that she was embroidering. I told her that it looked like a mess from where I was. As from the underside I watched her work within the boundaries of the little round hoop that she held in her hand, I complained to her that it sure looked messy from where I sat.

She would smile at me, look down and gently say, "My child, you go about your playing for a while, and when I am finished with my embroidering, I will put you on my knee and let you see it from my side."

I would wonder why she was using some dark threads along with the bright ones and why they seemed so jumbled from my view. A few minutes would pass and then I would hear Mother's voice say, "Child, come and sit on my knee." This I did only to be surprised and thrilled to see a beautiful flower or a sunset. I could not believe it, because from underneath it looked so messy. Then Mother would say to me, "My child, from underneath it did look messy and jumbled, but you did not realize that there was a pre-drawn plan on the top. It was a design. I was only following it. Now look at it from my side and you will see what I was doing."

Many times through the years I have looked up to my Heavenly Father and said, "Father, what are You doing?" He has answered, "I am embroidering your life. " I say, "But it looks like a mess to me. It seems so jumbled. The threads seem so dark. Why can't they all be bright?"

The Father seems to tell me, "'My child, you go about your business of doing My business, and one day I will bring you to Heaven and put you on My knee and you will see the plan from My side."

~Author Unknown~

Come As You Are

One Sunday morning at our quite ritzy church a man came in just minutes before the service was to start. He was dressed horribly. He had on boots, overalls, a flannel shirt, and a cowboy hat. The entire congregation was aghast! Many of us quickly sent notes to our minister about our concern of this. After the service our minister greeted the humbly dressed man and asked him if he enjoyed the service. The man exclaimed he had enjoyed it very much. The minister asked the man to consider possibly dressing differently, and told him to pray to Jesus about how he would have him dress if he should return again.

The next week the man returned. He was dressed the same and once again the congregation was disturbed by this. The minister greeted the man again and asked him what he had been told by Jesus concerning how to dress for church. The man said, "I spoke to Jesus about this but Jesus said he didn't know how I should dress before coming to this church because he has never been here."

43 Books Of The Bible

Can you find the names of 43 books of the Bible in this paragraph? This is a most remarkable puzzle. Someone found it in the seat pocket on the flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping himself occupied for hours. A hospital patient on Maltrexo dusted himself off and did it in no time but Joshua Cohen from Judea worked on this while fishing in his john boat and made a chronicle some time later. Hanna hummed a song of Solomon as she worked on it whilst in Canada, Niel had a serious anti-moth yearning as he worked on it. Roy Clark studies it while playing his banjo. Elaine Victs mentioned it in her column once. In Greece at her ecclesias, Tessa tried it whilst a ponderous Australian said in Mount Isa, "I - ah - find this - ah - very - ah - time consuming!" Ian, who works at Repco spent some time successfully doing it at work - Repco loss - Ian's gain! A nuclear scientist working on something atomic ahead of time did it whilst, for a thirsty actor at the Adelphi, lemon juice helped him think it out. An old woman took so long doing it that the old hag gained weight from lack of exercise and another woman who judges the job to be so involving, wraps alms for the poor while she brews a cup of tea to help calm her nerves. There will be some names that are really easy to spot ... that's a fact. Some people will soon find themselves in a jam, especially since the book names are not necessarily capitalized. You can get goods (which are nouns) on appro - verbs are different! The truth is, from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a minister or scholar to see some of them at the worst. Something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have. Some people don't even want to try. Like Jo, "Nah!" she says, "Too hard for me!" Those able to find all of them will hear great lamentations from those who have to be shown. One revelation may help, books like Corinthians, Thessalonians and Samuel may occur without their numbers. And punctuation or spaces in the middle are normal. A chipper attitude will help you compete. Remember, there are 43 books of the Bible lurking somewhere in this paragraph.

As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us lay our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles. An Angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.

But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labelled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in everyday life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.

I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened. My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.

Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose, each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise. My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and death, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me. And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.

I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light. An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, "Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."

May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through.

Please share this with someone you love, care about or even someone who needs Jesus in their heart. They may scoff, but at least the seed has been planted, and God will do the rest. May God bless you today and Forever.

Are You Washed?

One night in a church service, a young woman felt the tug of God at her heart. She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and prostitution. But, the change in her was evident. As time went on she became a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the ministry, teaching young children. It was not very long until this faithful young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans, this is when the problems began. You see, about one half of the church did not think that a woman with a past such as hers was suitable for the pastor's son. The church began to argue and fight about the matter.

So they decided to have a meeting. As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak. He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this "My fiancé's past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin. Today you have put the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?"

The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ too. Often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus. If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely then we are all in a lot of trouble. What can wash away my sins, NOTHING, but the blood of Jesus. Case closed!!!

(Whoever came up with this one had some divine guidance.)

* A lthough things are not perfect
* B ecause of trial or pain,
* C ontinue in thanksgiving.
* D o not begin to blame
* E ven when the times are hard,
* F ierce winds are bound to blow.
* G od is forever able,
* H old on to what you know,
* I magine life without His love.
* J oy would cease to be.
* K eep thanking Him for all the things
* L ove imparts to thee.
* M ove out of "Camp Complaining".
* N o weapon that is known
* O n earth can yield the power
* P raise can do alone.
* Q uit looking at the future,
* R edeem the time at hand.
* S tart every day with worship.
* T o "thank" is a command.
* U ntil we see Him coming
* V ictorious in the sky,
* W e'll run the race with gratitude,
* X alting God most high.
* Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...
* Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad! "

I, too am blessed to be stressed!" The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything.
Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.
(Author Unknown)

"FOR WHO HATH DESPISED THE DAY OF SMALL THINGS?" (Zecharaiah 4:10)

QUALIFIED BY WILLINGNESS

Although raised in church, he was spiritually ignorant. When he moved to Boston to make his fortune, he began attending a Bible-preaching church. In April of 1855, a Sunday school teacher came to the store where he worked and led him to Christ. A month later when he applied to become a church member, one fact was obvious to everybody - he knew nothing about the Bible.
One of his Sunday school teachers later wrote, "I've never met an applicant for member-ship who seemed less likely to become a Christian of clear and decided views, much less fill any place of public usefulness."

So they asked him to undertake a year of study, which he did. During his interview with the membership committee a year later, his answers were only slightly improved. He was barely literate and used atrocious grammar. Few thought God would ever use a person like him. But they were wrong!

God saw in the heart of D.I.Moody the raw material necessary to make a spokesman for His Word, and a changer of nations. Every oak tree started as an acorn. Jesus began in a stable, but He didn't stay there. David had a slingshot, but he became a King, Joseph was sold as a slave, but he became Prime Minister. Why? Because "God was with him...gave him favor and wisdom...made him governor over Egypt" (Acts 7:9-10NKJV).

Whatever you have today is enough to create anything you'll ever need in your future. Just put it into God's hands and be willing to start small.
[from Linda ("The Prayerwarrior/Angel")]

Do you know how powerful your prayers are?

They flow out of your mouth and they go out and find anybody that you want to pray for, wherever they are. It doesn't matter who or where they are, God doesn't even have to have their address, and He already knows it. It's the power of the Spirit of God, and nothing can limit the power of the Spirit of God. It's the Elixir of Heaven! It doesn't matter what you pray for, it is just absolutely marvelous! Every one of you has power! It's sad that we don't pray more for people, because there are so many people we could pray for and help. Don't you think you should pray for them? When you think about someone, you can send out a little prayer, just like a tracer. But a thought about someone or something is not a prayer; a thought is just like an employee who's standing there waiting for a command, an order. And if he just stands there and waits, he'll never get anything done. A thought is only the beginning of a prayer.

When you pray a prayer in Jesus' name, it runs just like a messenger. That's the difference. Just thinking about them is not going to do it. You have to put feet to your prayer and send it and say, "Oh God, please help them, in Jesus' name. I love them and I want you to help them!" You have to send the messenger. You have to pray the prayer. There is so much that you will never know that you didn't accomplish because you didn't pray.

When you think about someone that you love, or someone that you feel sorry for or that you know needs help, it's God by His Holy Spirit Who is putting that thought in your mind. It's just like a telephone call! You're like the telephone exchange, and God sends the main call from His Spirit to your mind. But it's up to you to make the connection, to send it on to the party that needs to receive it. But if you only think about them and then you just cut if off, it's like you're turning the phone off on God! It's like God's trying to make a phone call and He gives you the number and wants you to put it through. You're the operator. God is the One Who's calling, but He tries to put it through you because He wants to show you what love really is. Love is making a connection from God to somebody who needs your love! You are the connection between God and that person, in love.

In our witnessing, God is the One who's sending the message. He wants to get it to someone, but it has to go through you! --You're the operator. And if you don't make the connection, if you're lazy and slow and negligent and you don't care and you don't even want to be bothered with these calls, so you don't make the connection, then it's a broken connection and they'll never get the message, they'll never receive the love, and so there's never any answer. When God makes the call and He plugs it into your mind, then you think about that person. But then you have to plug it in and send it on its way to that person. And of course, on the other end of the line, when the phone rings, they have to pick it up and they have to listen and receive the call.

Isn't that beautiful? We're so tiny and miserable and itty-bitty, but if you are willing to make the connection, you can reach whomever He's trying to reach! First of all, you've got to be plugged into the power, and then you can be the one who makes the connection. But when power is coming through a cord, even though the cord is connected to the appliance, it's up to you to make the connection with the switch, or the power can't flow through.

So much depends on prayer! So much depends on us, because there are a lot of people who are already turned on, who already want to receive, but you don't make the connection, and that's the terrible part about it! When we fail and don't make the connection, when we don't flip the switch and we don't plug it in, it's so sad! We have a switch right in our mind, and all we have to do is to flip it. The power comes from God, and when the thought comes, just like a telephone operator, you should plug it into that hole that's ready and empty and receptive and already connected to the person. That's why God wants you to pray! And it's so sad when we don't pray and we don't flip the switch.

God is calling and calling, but there are some people who don't even get the message from God, because of operators who don't even answer God! And there are others of us who love Jesus and are listening and we get the message, but then we're lazy and we're not concerned and we don't plug it in and flip the switch and send it on to the recipient! And of course there are some people on the other end that, even though they're connected, if they don't pick up the receiver and answer, then they will never get the message. But if they are responsive and they are receptive, they will pick up the phone and listen. And that's just how simple it is! When God puts the thought in your mind about someone, that's a message from God. He's putting in a phone call to you, and He wants you to be the operator and put that call through by prayer. That's all you can do. You can't make them receive it, you can't make them pick up the phone, and you can't do it. They have to pick up the phone. But if you, as the operator, fail to flick the switch or plug in the phone call to them, then they'll never have a chance to get the call.

So if you're willing to be an operator, you have to put in the plug and you have to make the connection. If a good operator does a good job and plugs in the phone call and makes a connection, then it will get through if the person on the other end responds, if they answer, if they receive it. The call will be on the line. There's power, right on the line! When you pray for them and you call them and try to send them the message, it's on its way; you are ringing their bell. You're giving the message; you've already passed the message on from God through the wire, through the telephone exchange. When they hear the bell ringing, that's God's warning voice: "I'm calling you! Listen to Me, pick up the receiver, I want to give you a message." But if they don't pick it up, they will never get the message. If they don't want to hear from God and they don't want to hear the truth and they don't want Salvation and they don't want the answers, then they just refuse to answer the phone. They could get all the answers and they could get all of their problems solved, and they could get God's message, if they would just pick up the telephone and listen and receive it, but some don't even want to hear.

Of course, there are some people who pick up the phone and listen a little bit, but they're not interested in the message, they don't want to talk to Him, and they don't want to talk to you. They say, "No, it's not important, I don't care," and then they just slam it back down because they don't even want to hear! But the most important thing is that we are the operators, we are the link between God and them, and if we fail to pass the call on, if we fail to plug it in or we don't flip the switch they will never get the message. But after the message is on the line, then it's their responsibility. And if they don't pick it up and listen, then that's not your fault; you're just the operator. When the operator tries the number and it doesn't answer, that's not their fault. Or if someone answers and then hangs up, that's not the operator's fault either. But you are the connection between the two, and it's your prayers that make the connection, so you have to pray for them and make it specific. You can't just say, "Oh, that poor person, I feel so sorry for them." You're the operator, you get the message from God, which He puts on your mind: "Oh, they're so sweet and they're so precious; they need love so badly and they want to hear this call, they really need it." But if you hang up and don't pass that on by prayer, then it's meaningless!

If you just feel sorry for them instead of transferring the call onward and plugging it into their number, it's just like you're telling God, "I'm sorry, but there's nothing I can do about it." That's because you don't believe in prayer. You don't believe in the power of God. If you would believe more, then you would send that prayer, forward the call. The operator has to believe that the message really comes from God, and has to believe in the message. And then you have to believe that you can plug it in and get through to them. Why would you plug it in if you didn't think there was going to be a connection?

Now operators are not always able to get through. There are all kinds of reasons why they can't get through sometimes: bad connections, or too much traffic on the lines, or there's not a clear line, or there's something wrong on the other end. There are all kinds of problems involved in getting the message through, but you have to try. You have to plug in and send the message and pray and try. And then if there's something wrong out there, it's not your fault, but you are responsible to pray. We could accomplish so much through prayer! The World will never know how much has not been accomplished because people didn't pray. We're the operators, and we get the message, but we have to believe the message is from God. We have to believe the message ourselves, that it is a real message, and then we have to believe that we can make the connection through our prayers. You can't always get through. Even a good faithful operator can't always get through. They can try and try and try, but at least they have the faith to try, and that's how your faith should be.

Do you know what faith is? Your faith is the hand that flips the switch from God's message to the recipient. Or your faith is the hand that picks up the cord and plugs it into the hole, and tries to make the connection. Then from there on, all problems with the call are not your fault. You have done your part. You are just the connector between God and them.

That's what a witness is. A witness is the connector between God and the people. A witness is the operator who receives the message of God and believes it. If the operator didn't believe there was a real call coming in, a bona fide call, and didn't really think that it was supposed to go through, the operator wouldn't plug it in, right? That's how important it is for you to pray. Prayer is the hand of faith that flips the switch. You wouldn't pray if you didn't have the faith, right? If you didn't believe it, you wouldn't have the faith. So much is dependent on us. So much depends on your prayers, because although God can do anything, He has committed Himself just to work through you. And your prayers can do mighty things and change the course of history!

So you can pray for a poor little girl or an old bum or a World leader or a country or a nation or anything. You can pray, and it turns God's mind! God's Word says, "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord; as the rivers of water, He turned it whithersoever He will." And He turns the heart of the rulers towards His people. (See Proverbs 21:1; Ezra 6:22.) Your prayers are the hand of faith that flips the switch. Of course, you have to already be turned on and tuned in, because you have faith and you're already connected to God. So don't forget that even though the power is there and the utility is there, if you don't plug it in, they will never get the message, never receive what God wants to give them. The power may be there, but you have to operate it. Please pray! You're the operator. It's your responsibility to pass on the message. Please don't fail! -- Or someone might miss God's important call. Be a faithful operator. -- Pray! Amen?

If you have not yet become a citizen of the Kingdom of God, you can receive Jesus' forgiveness for all your sins and His free gift of Salvation by simply praying the following prayer: Dear Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God and that You died for me. I open the door and invite You into my heart. Please forgive me for all of my sins, and give me Your free gift of Eternal Life. Please fill me with Your Holy Spirit so I, too, can become one of Your operators, to pray for and tell others of Your wonderful Love. Amen.

(Printed with permission)

Scars

Some years ago on a hot summer day in south Florida a little boy decided to go for a swim in the old swimming hole behind his house. In a hurry to dive into the cool water, he ran out the back door, leaving behind shoes, socks, and shirt as he went. He flew into the water, not realizing that as he swam toward the middle of the lake, an alligator was swimming toward the shore.

His mother in the house was looking out the window saw the two as they got closer and closer together. In utter fear, she ran toward the water, yelling to her son as loudly as she could. Hearing her voice, the little boy became alarmed and made a U-turn to swim to his mother. It was too late. Just as he reached her, the alligator reached him.

From the dock, the mother grabbed her little boy by the arms just as the alligator snatched his legs. That began an incredible tug-of-war between the two. The alligator was much stronger than the mother, but the mother was much too passionate to let go. A farmer happened to drive by, heard her screams, raced from his truck, took aim and shot the alligator.

Remarkably, after weeks and weeks in the hospital the little boy survived. His legs were extremely scarred by the vicious attack of the animal. And, on his arms, were deep scratches where his mother's fingernails dug into his flesh in her effort to hang on to the son she loved. The newspaper reporter who interviewed the boy after the trauma, asked if he would show him his scars. The boy lifted his pant legs. And then, with obvious pride, he said to the reporter, "But look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms, too. I have them because my Mom wouldn't let go."

You and I can identify with that little boy. We have scars, too. No, not from an alligator, or anything quite so dramatic. But the scars of a painful past. Some of those scars are unsightly and have caused us deep regret. But, some wounds, my friend, are because God has refused to let go. In the midst of your struggle, He's been there holding on to you. You are a child of God. He wants to protect you and provide for you in every way. But sometimes we foolishly wade into dangerous situations. The swimming hole of life is filled with peril - and we forget that the enemy is waiting to attack. That's when the tug-of-war begins - and if you have the scars of His love on your arms be very, very grateful. He did not and will not - let you go.

(Author Unknown)

BURDENS GIVE US WINGS

An old legend relates that long ago God had a great many burdens which He wished to have carried from one place to another on earth, so He asked the animals to lend a hand. But all of them began to make excuses for not helping: the elephant was too dignified; the lion, too proud; and so on. Finally the birds came to God and said, "If you will tie the burdens into small bundles, we'll be glad to carry them for you. We are small but we would like to help."

So God fastened upon the back of each one a small bundle, and they all set out walking across the plain to their destination. They sang as they went, and did not seem to feel the weight of their burdens at all. Every day the burdens seemed lighter and lighter, until the loads seems to be lifting the birds, instead of the birds carrying the burdens. When they arrived at their destination, they discovered that when they removed their loads, there were wings in their place, wings which enabled them to fly to the sky and the tree tops. They had learned how to carry their burdens, and their loads had become wings to carry them nearer to God.

Burdens we carry for others may become wings of the spirit, to lift us into happiness such as we have never known.

Author Unknown

THE BASEBALL GAME

Bob and the Lord stood by to observe a baseball game. The Lord's team was playing with Satan's team. The Lord's team was at bat; the score was tied zero to zero, and it was the bottom of the ninth inning with two outs.

They continued to watch as a batter stepped up to the plate whose name was Love. Love swung at the first pitch and hit a single, because Love never fails.

The next batter was named Faith, who also got a single because Faith works with Love.

The next batter up was named Godly Wisdom. Satan wound up and threw the first pitch. Godly wisdom looked it over and let it pass. Ball one! Three more pitches and Godly Wisdom walked, because Godly Wisdom never swings at what Satan throws.

The bases are loaded. The Lord then turns to Bob and told him he was now going to bring in his star player. Up to bat stepped Grace. Bob said "he sure doesn't look like much!"

Satan's whole team relaxed when they saw Grace. Thinking he had won the game, Satan wound up and fired his first pitch. To the shock of everyone, GRACE HIT THE BALL HARDER THAN ANYONE HAD EVER SEEN.

But Satan was not worried, his center fielder let very few get by. He went up for the ball, but it went right through his glove, hit him on the head and sent him crashing to the ground. Then it continued over the fence for a home run!

The Lord's team won. The Lord then asked Bob if he knew why Love, Faith, and Godly Wisdom could get on base, but could not win the game. Bob answered that he did not know why.

The Lord explained, "If your love, faith and wisdom had won the game, you would think you had done it by yourself. Love, Faith, and Wisdom will get you on base, but only MY Grace can get you home. MY Grace is the only thing Satan cannot steal. "

(Author Unknown)

Think about It!!

This is why we shouldn't get stressed out over the little things.

After Sept. 11th, one company invited the remaining members of other companies who had been decimated by the attack on the Twin Towers to share their available office space. At a morning meeting, the head of security told stories of why these people were alive...... and all the stories were just:

The 'L I T T L E' things .

As you might know, the head of the company got in late that day because his son started kindergarten.
Another fellow was alive because it was his turn to bring donuts.
One woman was late because her alarm clock didn't go off in time.
One was late because of being stuck on the NJ Turnpike because of an auto accident.
One of them missed his bus.
One spilled food on her clothes and had to take time to change.
One's car wouldn't start.
One went back to answer the telephone.
One had a child that dawdled and didn't get ready as soon as he should have.
One couldn't get a taxi.
The one that struck me was the man who put on a new pair of shoes that morning, took the various means to get to work but before he got there, he developed a blister on his foot. He stopped at a drugstore to buy a Band-Aid. That is why he is alive today.

Now when I am stuck in traffic, miss an elevator, turn back to answer a ringing telephone .. all the little things that annoy me. I think to myself, this is exactly where God wants me to be at this very moment.

Next time your morning seems to be going wrong, the children are slow getting dressed, you can't seem to find the car keys, you hit every traffic light, don't get mad or frustrated; God is at work watching over you.

May God continue to bless you with all those annoying little things and may you remember their possible purpose.

(Sent to me by my dear friend Dee)

FRIENDS

A story tells that two friends were walking through the desert. During some point of the journey they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face.

The one who got slapped was hurt, but without saying anything, wrote in the sand: TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE.

They kept on walking until they found an oasis, where they decided to take a bath. The one who had been slapped got stuck in the mire and started drowning, but the friend saved him.

After he recovered from the near drowning, he wrote on a stone:

TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.

The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him, "After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now, you write on a stone, why?"

The other friend replied, "When someone hurts us we should write it down in sand where winds of forgiveness can erase it away. But, when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it."

LEARN TO WRITE YOUR HURTS IN THE SAND AND TO CARVE YOUR BENEFITS IN STONE.

Author Unknown

This is quite an inspiration!

Once there were three trees on a hill in the woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, "Someday I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems. I could be decorated with intricate carving and everyone would see the beauty."

Then the second tree said, "Someday I will be a Mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of the strength of my hull."

Finally the third tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest. People will see me on top of the Hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me."

After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, "This looks like a strong tree. I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter", and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest.

At the second tree the woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree, I should be able to sell it to the shipyard." The second tree was happy because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship.

When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened because he knew that if they cut him down his dreams would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, "I don't need anything special from my tree, I'll take this one," and he cut it down.

When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for.

The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end.

The third tree was cut into large pieces and left alone in the dark.

The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams. Then one day, a man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time.

Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and He stood and said "Peace" and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat.

Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop; the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.

The moral of this story is that, when things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for you. If you place your trust in Him, He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined. We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best.

Author Unknown

57 CENTS

A sobbing little girl stood near a small church from which she had been turned away because it was "too crowded." I can't go to Sunday School," she sobbed to the pastor as he walked by. Seeing her shabby, unkempt appearance, the pastor guessed the reason and, taking her by the hand, took her inside and found a place for her in the Sunday school class. The child was so happy that they found room or her, and she went to bed that night thinking of the children who have no place to worship Jesus.

Some two years later, this child lay dead in one of the poor tenement buildings. Her parents called for the kind-hearted pastor who had befriended their daughter to handle the final arrangements. As her poor little body was being moved, a worn and crumpled red purse was found which seemed to have been rummaged from some trash dump. Inside was found 57 cents and a note, scribbled in childish handwriting, which read: "This is to help build the little church bigger so more children can go to Sunday School." For two years she had saved for this offering of love.

When the pastor tearfully read that note, he knew instantly what he would do. Carrying this note and the cracked, red pocketbook to the pulpit, he told the story of her unselfish love and devotion. He challenged his deacons to get busy and raise enough money for the larger building. But the story does not end there...

A newspaper learned of the story and published it. It was read by a wealthy Realtor who offered them a parcel of land worth many thousands. When told that the church could not pay so much, he offered to sell it to the little church for 57 cents. Church members made large donations. Checks came from far and wide. Within five years the little girl's gift had increased to $250,000.00--a huge sum for that time (near the turn of the 20th century). Her unselfish love had paid large dividends.

When you are in the city of Philadelphia, look up Temple Baptist Church, with a seating capacity of 3,300. And be sure to visit Temple University, where thousands of students are educated. Have a look, too, at the Good Samaritan Hospital and at a Sunday School building which houses hundreds of beautiful children, built so that no child in the area will ever need to be left outs