FOODFORTHOUGHT

OVERWHELMED

2012-02-02T05:19:00.001-05:00

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never
leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:8

Overwhelmed

This year the Christmas and holiday decorations got packed up a little
later than usual. I heard somewhere that if you feel like there's a
lot going on, it's probably because there's a lot going on. And that's
how it felt this year after Christmas. Good stuff, just a lot-

Found myself dragging my feet, and prayed and literally asked the Lord
for an energy boost to get up and get going! The 'overwhelmed' feeling
was weighing me down, spirit, soul, mind and body.

While flipping thoughts around in my head about this, it occurred to
me that I might be 'stepping into the future.' Not in a weird way,
just in anticiipation and looking ahead on my calendar.

For sure, too much thinking and planning can absolutely get me feeling
overwhelmed. One day at a time is the ticket. The bible says to not
worry about the future, because each day has enough "troubles" of its
own. (Matthew 6:34) So true.

Prayer for today: Lord, when I feel overwhelmed please help me to
remember that You came to save us, restore us, AND carry our cares and
concerns of all kinds. Thank you that You are always with me, go ahead
of me, and will never leave me. In Jesus' name, amen.

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy Sally I. Kennedy,
©2012 http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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DON'T LOOK BACK

2012-02-01T09:14:00.000-05:00

DON'T LOOK BACK
Author Unknown
February 2, 2012

As you travel through life there are always those times
When decisions just have to be made,
When the choices are hard, and solutions seem scarce,
And the rain seems to soak your parade.

There are some situations where all you can do
Is simply let go and move on,
Gather your courage and choose a direction
That carries you toward a new dawn.

So pack up your troubles and take a step forward -
The process of change can be tough,
But think about all the excitement ahead
If you can be stalwart enough!

There might be adventures you never imagined
Just waiting around the next bend,
And wishes and dreams just about to come true
In ways you can't yet comprehend!

Perhaps you'll find friendships that spring from new things
As you challenge your status quo,
And learn there are so many options in life,
And so many ways you can grow!

Perhaps you'll go places you never expected
And see things that you've never seen,
Or travel to fabulous, faraway worlds
And wonderful spots in between!

Perhaps you'll find warmth and affection and caring
And somebody special who's there
To help you stay centered and listen with interest
To stories and feelings you share.

Perhaps you'll find comfort in knowing your friends
Are supportive of all that you do,
And believe that whatever decisions you make,
They'll be the right choices for you.

So keep putting one foot in front of the other,
And taking your life day by day...
There's a brighter tomorrow that's just down the road -
Don't look back! You're not going that way!

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GOD KNOWS JUST WHAT WE NEED

2012-01-31T18:35:00.000-05:00

GOD KNOWS JUST WHAT WE NEED
Author Unknown
January 31, 2011

A woman was at work when she received a phone call that her daughter
was very sick with a fever. She left her work and stopped by the
pharmacy to get some medication for her daughter.

Upon returning to her car she found that she had locked her keys in
the car. She was in a hurry to get home to her sick daughter. She
didn't know what to do, so she called her home and told the baby
sitter what had happened and that she did not know what to do.

The baby sitter told her that her daughter was getting worse. She
said, "You might find a coat hanger and use that to open the door."
The woman looked around and found an old rusty coat hanger that had
been thrown down on the ground, possibly by someone else who at some
time or other had locked their keys in their car. Then she looked at
the hanger and said, "I don't know how to use this." So she bowed her
head and asked God to send her some help.

Within five minutes an old rusty car pulled up, with a dirty, greasy,
bearded man who was wearing an old biker skull rag on his head. The
woman thought, "This is what you sent to help me?" But, she was
desperate, so she was also very thankful.

The man got out of his car and asked her if he could help. She said,
"Yes, my daughter is very sick. I stopped to get her some medication
and I locked my keys in my car. I must get home to her. Please, can
you use this hanger to unlock my car?"

He said, "Sure". He walked over to the car, and in less than one
minute the
car was opened.

She hugged the man and through her tears she said, "Thank You So Much!
You
are a very nice man."

The man replied, "Lady, I am not a nice man. I just got out of prison
yesterday. I was in prison for car theft and have only been out less
than 24
hours."

The woman hugged the man again and with sobbing tears cried out loud,
"Oh,
Thank you God! You even sent me a Professional!"

God may not always send us what we expect, but He will always send us
what
we need. It's up to us to have the wisdom to recognize the difference
and
be thankful.

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BIG MUD PUDDLES AND YELLOW DANDELIONS

2012-01-29T05:40:00.000-05:00

BIG MUD PUDDLES AND YELLOW DANDELIONS
Author Unknown
January 29, 2012

When I look at a patch of dandelions, I see a bunch of weeds that are
going to take over my yard. My kids see flowers for Mom and blowing
white fluff you can wish on.

When I look at an old drunk and he smiles at me, I see a smelly, dirty
person who probably wants money and I look away. My kids see someone
smiling at them and they smile back.

When I hear music I love, I know I can't carry a tune and don't have
much rhythm so I sit self-consciously and listen. My kids feel the
beat and move to it. They sing out the words. If they don't know them,
they make up their own.

When I feel wind on my face, I brace myself against it. I feel it
messing up my hair and pulling me back when I walk. My kids close
their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the
ground laughing.

When I pray, I say thee and thou and grant me this, give me that. My
kids say, "Hi God! Thanks for my toys and my friends. Please keep the
bad dreams away tonight. Sorry, I don't want to go to Heaven yet. I
would miss my Mommy and Daddy."

When I see a mud puddle I step around it. I see muddy shoes and dirty
carpets. My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross
and worms to play with.

I wonder if we are given kids to teach or to learn from? No wonder God
loves the little children!!

Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and
realize they were the big things.

I wish you BIG MUD PUDDLES and SUNNY YELLOW DANDELIONS

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WANNA BE A PUMPKIN?

2012-01-28T15:44:00.001-05:00

WANNA BE A PUMPKIN?
Author Unknown
January 28. 2012

A woman was asked by a coworker, "What is it like to be a Christian?"

The coworker replied, "It is like being a pumpkin. God picks you from
the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. Then he
cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the
seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc., and then He carves you a new
smiling
face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to
see."

This was passed on to me from another pumpkin. Now, it is your turn to
pass it to a pumpkin. I liked this enough to send it to all the
pumpkins
in my patch.

-- Liz Curtis-Higgs

PUMPKINS & JESUS

P is for the People that Jesus came to save
U is for the Unconditional love to each one He gave
M is for the Message that we should all be sharing
P is for the Priceless gift God above showed he is caring
K is for the King of Kings
I is for the Insight He brings
N is for the Nails in His hands
S is for our Savior who gave His life so that we could stand.

So when you see a pumpkin don't think about some guy named Jack.
Instead remember Jesus Christ, Lord of Lords, who is one day coming
back.

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WATERING HOLE

2012-01-27T06:22:00.000-05:00

".... how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to
those who ask him." Luke 11:13

Watering Hole

At the tiptop of the coconut palm trees out back, squirrels build
their nests down in the fronds. One morning I watched one of the
squirrels scramble down the palm tree trunk, and make its way over to
the wood deck in the back yard. On the decking, there used to be a
defunct jacuzzi under an old canvas. The covering was so worn and
stretched it had pockets where rain would pool. Around dusk most days,
both doves and squirrels would come to this place on the deck, their
watering hole.

Winter that year had been delightfully sunny, cool, and clear. However
it had been dry with less than average rainfall, so the watering hole
was slim pickings. This particular morning, as the little squirrel
approached, he peered into what was a pitiful tiny bit of a pool. He
bent over and drank what he could, then left, perhaps in search of
water in some other spot.

In our country we are fortunate to usually be able to access water in
our homes. Occasions such as hurricanes, water mains bursting and
bacteria entering, have all brought to my attention how precious
drinking water becomes and how it can't be taken for granted.

We can live without food, but not without water. Jesus said we can
have 'living water' (John 4). Spiritually speaking, we can't live
without that kind of water, either. How fortunate we are to have free
access to that 'water', the gift of the Holy Spirit through Jesus
Christ.

Yes, I am grateful for the unmatchable gift of this wonderful watering
hole of living water, that our loving heavenly father has provided for
all of us.
And yes, that is good news.

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy, Sally I. Kennedy, ©2012
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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A PILLOW AND A BLANKET

2012-01-26T13:53:00.001-05:00

A PILLOW AND A BLANKET
Author Unknown
January 26, 2012

A long time ago, a young, wealthy girl was getting ready for bed. She
was saying her prayers when she heard a muffled crying coming through
her window. A little frightened, she went over to the window and
leaned out.

Another girl, who seemed to be about her age and homeless was
standing in the alley by the rich girl's house. Her heart went out to
the homeless girl, for it was the dead of winter, and the girl had no
blanket, only old
newspapers someone had thrown out.

The rich girl was suddenly struck with a brilliant idea. She called
to the other girl and said, "You there, come to my front door,
please."

The homeless girl was so startled she could only manage to nod.

As quick as her legs could take her, the young girl ran down the hall
to her mothers closet, and picked out an old quilt and a beat up
pillow. She had to walk slower down to the front door as to not trip
over the quilt which was
hanging down, but she made it eventually. Dropping both the articles,
she opened the door. Standing there was the homeless girl, looking
quite scared.

The rich girl smiled warmly and handed both articles to the other
girl. Her smile grew wider as she watched the true amazement and
happiness alight upon the other girl's face. She went to bed
incredibly satisfied.

In mid-morning the next day a knock came to the door. The rich girl
flew to the door hoping that it was the other little girl there. She
opened the large door and looked outside. It was the other little
girl. Her face looked happy, and she smiled. "I suppose you want these
back."

The rich little girl opened her mouth to say that she could keep them
when another idea popped into her head. "No, I want them back."

The homeless girl's face fell. This was obviously not the answer she
had hoped for. She reluctantly laid down the beat up things, and
turned to leave when the rich girl yelled, "Wait! Stay right there."

She turned in time to see the rich girl running up the stairs and
down a long corridor. Deciding whatever the rich little girl was doing
wasn't worth waiting for she started to turn around and walk away. As
her foot hit the first step, she felt someone tap her on the shoulder,
turning she saw the rich little girl, thrusting a new blanket and
pillow at her. "Have these." she said quietly.

These were her own personal belonging made of silk and down feathers.

As the two grew older they didn't see each other much, but they were
never far from each other's minds. One day, the Rich girl, who was now
a Rich woman got a telephone call from someone. A lawyer, saying that
she was requested to see him.

When she arrived at the office, he told her what had happened. Forty
years ago, when she was nine years old, she had helped a little girl
in need. That grew into a middle-class woman with a husband and two
children. She had recently died and left something for her in her
will. "Though," the lawyer said, "it's the most peculiar thing. She
left you a pillow and a blanket."

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HOLDING PATTERN

2012-01-25T11:30:00.000-05:00

HOLDING PATTERN
Author Unknown
January 25, 2012

Many times God will allow a painful situation or a painful
circumstance in our life to "swallow us up." This season in our
spiritual growth is a holding pattern. We can't move to the left or
the right. All we can do is sit, like Jonah sat in the belly of that
great fish, so God can have our undivided attention and speak to us.
God put Jonah in a holding pattern because He needed to speak to his
heart. Jonah was all alone. There were no friends to call, no
colleagues to drop by, no books to read, no food to eat, no
interference, and no interruptions. He had plenty of time to sit,
think, meditate, and pray.

When we're deep down in the midst of a difficult situation, God can
talk to us. When He has our undivided attention, He can show us things
about ourselves that we might not otherwise have seen.

A Few of God's Holding Patterns:

1. When you are sick in your physical body and you have prayed but God
has not healed you yet, you are in a holding pattern

2. When you are having problems with your children and you have put
them on the altar, but God has not delivered them yet, you are in a
holding pattern.

3. When you have been praying for the salvation of a loved one and
they have not been saved yet, you are in a holding pattern.

4. When you are in a broken relationship and you have given it over to
God, but it has not been restored yet, you are in a holding pattern.

5. When the doors slam shut before you can knock on them, you are in a
holding pattern.

When we are deep in the belly of a difficult situation, there are no
interruptions. God has our undivided attention. All we can do is sit,
think, meditate, and pray. We cannot run from God because there are no
Mountains that are high enough, valleys low enough, rooms that are
dark enough, or places that are hidden enough from Him. We must
remember to praise Him while we're waiting and remember three things:

1. The pattern has a purpose.

2. The pattern has a plan.

3. The pattern has a process.

So stop struggling and start listening, praying and trusting. He'll
keep you right where you are until you can clearly hear Him say, "I
love you."

Prayer: Father, forgive my unbelief. I know You Love me and will turn
anything around to benefit me. You have planned nothing for me but
victories and I am ready to receive them regardless of how difficult
the path. Amen

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.

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PARABLE OF THE PENCIL

2012-01-23T09:42:00.001-05:00

PARABLE OF THE PENCIL
Author Unknown
January 3, 2012

The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside, just before putting him into
the box. There are 5 things you need to know, he told the pencil,
before I send you out into the world. Always remember them and never
forget, and you will become the best pencil you can be.

One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow
yourself to be held in Someone's hand.

Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but
you'll need it to become a better pencil.

Three: You will be able to correct mistakes you will make.

Four: The most important part of you will always be what's inside.

And Five: On every surface you are used on, you must leave your mark.
No matter what the condition, you must continue to write.

The pencil understood and promised to remember, and went into the box
with purpose in its heart.

Now replacing the place of the pencil with you; always remember them
and never forget, and you will become the best person you can be.

One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow
yourself to be held in God's hand. And allow other human beings to
access you for the many gifts you possess.

Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, by
going through various problems, but you'll need it to become a
stronger person.

Three: You will be able to correct mistakes you might make or grow
through them.

Four: The most important part of you will always be what's on the
inside.

And Five: On every surface you walk, you must leave your mark. No
matter what the situation, you must continue to serve God in
everything.

By understanding and remembering, let us proceed with our life on this
earth having a meaningful purpose in our heart and a relationship with
God daily.

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WINTER IN MY HEART

2012-01-19T20:14:00.001-05:00

In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are
still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:26,27

Winter In My Heart

Where we live we boast we're having a dose of winter if the
temperature drops down into the fifties, which it did last week.
Within a few days we will no doubt be back with our tropical warm
winter weather. But recently, I felt as if it were winter in my heart,
big time.

I didn't realize I was harboring a resentment. You could not have
gotten me to admit I was even a smidgeon angry. However....I began to
notice thoughts, and critical remarks on the tip of my tongue, that
were less than kind. How subtle these destructive things are. How
casually anger and unforgiveness can seep out, like water in a pot
that is on a low heat and then boils over.

Fortunately something happened to jar me into reality. I began
examining what was going on inside, heart and head. I'd learned about
owning and taking responsibility for anger, for making a decision
regarding forgiveness of others as well as self, and how critical that
is in a spiritual faith walk.

So, even though I didn't really feel like it at the time, I made the
decision to forgive; also that I would put a watch on what I said.
Before long I began to notice a difference. The sting of anger was
missing; there was a change in my attitude. A difference in the way I
was seeing things, and then, naturally, in my speech. Spring had
sprung, no longer was it winter in my heart.

It's good to know we are not out on a limb by ourselves trying to do
something that's impossible, such as an attitude adjustment. When we
make a decision in line with God's word the Holy Spirit is more than
willing to help us. That's good news.

Below are a few Bible verses that have been helpful to me; sharing
them, below. Be assured, if they work for me, they will for you also:

` Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. Matthew 12:34
` He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.
Proverbs 21:23
` Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become
angry. James 1:19
` He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from
calamity. Proverbs 21:23 ` I have resolved that my mouth will
not sin. Psalm 17:3 ` Don't sin by letting anger control you;
Think about it overnight and remain silent . Psalm 4:4 ` In your
anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still
angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:26,27` Set a
guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.
Psalm 141:3

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy Sally I. Kennedy,
©2012 http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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CAPTURED

2012-01-16T18:18:00.000-05:00

You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in
your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:16

Captured

The rosy sunset began seeping across the sky. I quickly grabbed the
camera, excited for an opportunity to capture and hold onto the
glorious sight.

The camera had come with an instruction manual. The section on how to
best photograph subjects and landscapes, etc., was spelled out in
great detail. The thick booklet described how to capture the moment.

Today, at the grocery store, I saw a pre-schooler in the parking
lot. She was bent over, completely fascinated by something on the
ground. Maybe a bug, or a leaf, or a rock, or a piece of paper.
Whatever it was, she was trying, without success, to get her mother's
attention to come look at it.

The child was oblivious to the fact that Mom wanted to get into the
store and get the grocery shopping done, back home, unpacked, and put
away. She did not realize Mom had many other things to do today, She
was totally captured by the moment.

God is in every moment we have. How awesome to be so enthralled with
the moment. There used to be a phrase, "Stop and smell the roses."
Each moment is truly a gift from the Lord.

Today, may I be filled with gratitude, to my Creator, and see the
beauty and awe of "the moment", and capture and savor the gift.

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2012
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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PINEWOOD DERBY

2012-01-15T08:51:00.000-05:00

PINEWOOD DERBY (The wisdom of a child)

My son Gilbert was eight years old and had been in Cub Scouts only a
short time. During one of his meetings he was handed a sheet of paper,
a block of wood and four tires and told to return home and give all to
"dad".

That was not an easy task for Gilbert to do. Dad was not receptive to
doing things with his son. But Gilbert tried. Dad read the paper and
scoffed at the idea of making a pine wood derby car with his young,
eager son. The block of wood remained untouched as the weeks passed.

Finally, mom stepped in to see if I could figure this all out. The
project began. Having no carpentry skills, I decided it would be best
if I simply read the directions and let Gilbert do the work. And he
did. I read aloud the measurements, the rules of what we could do and
what we couldn't do.

Within days his block of wood was turning into a pinewood derby car.
A little lopsided, but looking great (at least through the eyes of
mom). Gilbert had not seen any of the other kids' cars and was feeling
pretty proud of his "Blue Lightning", the pride that comes with
knowing you did something on your own.

Then the big night came. With his blue pinewood derby in his hand and
pride in his heart we headed to the big race. Once there my little
one's pride turned to humility. Gilbert's car was obviously the only
car made entirely
on his own. All the other cars were a father-son partnership, with
cool paint jobs and sleek body styles made for speed.

A few of the boys giggled as they looked at Gilbert's lopsided,
wobbly, unattractive vehicle. To add to the humility, Gilbert was the
only boy without a man at his side. A couple of the boys who were from
single parent homes at least had an uncle or grandfather by their
side, Gilbert had "mom".

As the race began it was done in elimination fashion. You kept racing
as long as you were the winner. One by one the cars raced down the
finely sanded ramp. Finally it was between Gilbert and the sleekest,
fastest
looking car there. As the last race was about to begin, my wide eyed,
shy eight year old ask if they could stop the race for a minute,
because he wanted to pray. The race stopped.

Gilbert went to his knees clutching his funny looking block of wood
between his hands. With a wrinkled brow he set to converse with his
Father. He prayed in earnest for a very long minute and a half. Then
he stood, smile on
his face and announced, 'Okay, I am ready."

As the crowd cheered, a boy named Tommy stood with his father as
their car sped down the ramp. Gilbert stood with his Father within his
heart and watched his block of wood wobble down the ramp with
surprisingly great speed
and rushed over the finish line a fraction of a second before Tommy's
car.

Gilbert leaped into the air with a loud "Thank You" as the crowd
roared in approval. The Scout Master came up to Gilbert with
microphone in hand and asked the obvious question, "So you prayed to
win, huh, Gilbert?"

To which my young son answered, "Oh, no sir. That wouldn't be fair to
ask God to help you beat someone else. I just asked Him to make it so
I wouldn't cry when I lost."

Children seem to have a wisdom far beyond us. Gilbert didn't ask God
to win the race, he didn't ask God to fix the outcome. Gilbert asked
God to give him strength in the outcome. When Gilbert first saw the
other cars he didn't
cry out to God, "No fair, they had a father's help!". No, he went to
his Father for strength. Perhaps we spend too much of our prayer time
asking God to rig the race, to make us number one, or too much time
asking God to
remove us from the struggle, when we should be seeking God's strength
to get through the struggle. "I can do everything through Him who
gives me strength." Philippians 4:13

Gilbert's simple prayer spoke volumes to those present that night. He
never doubted that God would indeed answer his request. He didn't pray
to win, thus hurt someone else, he prayed that God supply the grace to
lose with dignity. Gilbert, by his stopping the race to speak to his
Father also showed the crowd that he wasn't there without a "dad", but
His Father was most definitely there with him. Yes, Gilbert walked
away a winner that night, with his Father at his side.

May we all learn to pray this way.

--
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KEYS FOR LIVING

2012-01-11T09:14:00.000-05:00

KEYS FOR LIVING
Author Unknown
January 11, 2011

1. The best way to get even is to forget...

2. Feed your faith and your doubts will starve to death...

3. God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts...

4. Some folks wear their halos much too tightly...

5. Some marriages are made in heaven, but they ALL have to be
maintained on earth...

6. Unless you can create the WHOLE universe in 5 days, then perhaps
giving "advice" to God isn't such a good idea!

7. Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, and faith looks up...

8. Standing in the middle of the road is dangerous. You will get
knocked down by the traffic from both ways.

9. Words are windows to the heart.

10. A skeptic is a person who, when he sees the handwriting on the
wall, claims it's a forgery.

11. It isn't difficult to make a mountain out of a molehill just add a
little dirt.

12. A successful marriage isn't finding the right person-it's being
the right person.

13. The mighty oak tree was once a little nut that held its ground.

14. Too many people offer God prayers, with claw marks all over them.

15. The tongue must be heavy indeed, because so few people can hold
it.

16. To forgive is to set the prisoner free, and then discover the
prisoner was you.

17. You have to wonder about humans, they think God is dead and Elvis
is alive!

18. It's all right to sit on your pity pot every now and again. Just
be sure to flush when you are done.

19. You'll notice that a turtle only makes progress when it sticks out
its
neck...

20. If the grass is greener on the other side of the fence, you can
bet the water bill is higher.

And last but not least -- God gave the angels Wings, and He gave
humans CHOCOLATE.

"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."

You are richer today if you have laughed, given or forgiven

--
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HE IS THE GREAT I AM!

2012-01-10T09:27:00.001-05:00

HE IS THE GREAT I AM!
Author Unknown
January 10, 2012

He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was, He always is, and He always will be...
Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!

He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!

The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him,
and The leaders can't ignore Him.

Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him,
and The people couldn't hold Him!

Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him,
and Donahue can't explain Him away!

He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.
He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.

He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right, His word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.

He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior,
He is my guide, and He is my peace!
He is my Joy, He is my comfort,
He is my Lord, and He rules my life!

I serve Him because His bond is love,
His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise,
the power of the powerful, the ancient of days,
the ruler of rulers, the leader of leaders,
the overseer of the overcomers, and the sovereign Lord
of all that was and is and is to come.

And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size.
His goal is a relationship with ME!
He will never leave me, never forsake me,
Never mislead me, never forget me, never overlook me,
and never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!

When I fall, He lifts me up!
When I fail, He forgives!
When I am weak, He is strong!
When I am lost, He is the way!
When I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me!
When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me!
When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face problems, He comforts me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!

He is everything for everybody, everywhere,
every time, and every way.

He is God,
He is faithful.
I am His, and He is mine!

My Father in heaven can whip the father
of this world. So, if you're wondering why I
feel so secure, understand this...

He said it and that settles it.
God is in control,
I am on His side, and that means all is well with my soul.

Everyday is a blessing for GOD Is!

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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I ASKED, HE GAVE

2012-01-08T13:24:00.000-05:00

I ASKED, HE GAVE
Author Unknown
January 8, 2012

I asked for Strength.....And God gave me Difficulties to make me
strong.

I asked for Wisdom.......And God gave me Problems to solve.

I asked for Prosperity...And God gave me a Brain and Brawn to work.

I asked for Courage......And God gave me Danger to overcome.

I asked for Love.........And God gave me Troubled people to help.

I asked for Favors.......And God gave me Opportunities.

I received nothing I wanted. I received everything I needed.

--
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WORN LIGHTLY

2012-01-05T05:29:00.000-05:00

WORN LIGHTLY
Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Janaury 5, 2011

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

Worn Lightly

Tiny, fat puffs of feathery snow, gently, silently floated down from
heaven to earth. Coming from a tropical climate, I was mesmerized. It
was thrilling to watch the awesome, magnificent sight. I smiled in my
heart, and thought, "How intricate and beautiful God made the world…..
for us."

Just outside the window was a large evergreen bough. It was
interesting, that as the snow continued to fall and mound up on the
branch, it never caused the branch to dip or bend. The evergreen was
wearing it's new "burden" lightly, as though it were not of 'the
world'.

There's a place in the Bible where Jesus talks about this; He says to
take His yoke on you, which is light, and easy…..not the heaviness of
the world. (Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle
and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my
yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11)

We don't have to carry around heavy things, carrying 'the world' on
our shoulders. We weren't meant to have stooped, sagging shoulders
from bearing heavy cares and worries.

In 1st Peter 5, it says, "Casting the whole of your care [all your
anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on
Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you
watchfully.". (AMP)

We can wear the world as a garment of light, not as a cloak that
suffocates and chokes. How wonderful that Jesus did / does that for
us. That is very good news.

Sally I. Kennedy, ©2012
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING

2012-01-03T18:42:00.000-05:00

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING
Author Unknown
January 3, 2012

When you thought I wasn't looking, by a Child

A message every parent should read, because your children are
watching and doing as you do, not as you say.

"When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting
on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you feed a stray cat, and I
learned that it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake
for me and I learned that little things can be the special things in
life.

When you though I wasn't looking, I heard you say a prayer, and I
knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in
God.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it
to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take
care of
each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and
money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have
something should give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I felt you kiss me good night and
I felt loved and safe.

When you though I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house
and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are
given.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your
responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I
would have to be responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes
and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but its all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared and I wanted
to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons
that I need to know to be good and productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say,
'Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'"

Each of us - parent, grandparent or friend - influence the life of a
child.

--
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NOT HOME YET

2012-01-02T10:26:00.000-05:00

NOT HOME YET
Author Unknown
January 2, 2012

An old missionary couple had been working in Africa for years and was
returning to New York to retire. They had no pension; their health was
broken; they were defeated, discouraged, and afraid. They discovered
they were booked on the same ship as President Teddy Roosevelt, who
was returning
from one of his big-game hunting expeditions.

No one paid any attention to them. They watched the fanfare that
accompanied the President's entourage, with passengers trying to catch
a glimpse of the great man. As the ship moved across the ocean, the
old missionary said to his wife, "Something is wrong.

Why should we have given our lives in faithful service for God in
Africa all these many years and have no one care a thing about us?
Here this man comes back from a hunting trip and everybody makes much
over him, but nobody gives two hoots about us."

"Dear, you shouldn't feel that way," his wife said. "I can't help it;
it doesn't seem right." When the ship docked in New York, a band was
waiting to greet the President. The mayor and other dignitaries were
there. The papers were full of the President's arrival.

No one noticed this missionary couple. They slipped off the ship and
found a cheap flat on the East Side, hoping the next day to see what
they could do to make a living in the city.

That night the man's spirit broke. He said to his wife, "I can't take
this; God is not treating us fairly." His wife replied, "Why don't you
go in the bedroom and tell that to the Lord?"

A short time later he came out from the bedroom, but now his face was
completely different. His wife asked, "Dear, what happened?"

"The Lord settled it with me," he said. "I told him how bitter I was
that the President should receive this tremendous homecoming, when no
one met us as we returned home. And when I finished, it seemed as
though the Lord put his hand on my shoulder and simply said, 'But
you're not home yet!"

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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WHEN REALITY CHANGES

2011-12-17T10:30:00.001-05:00

WHEN REALITY CHANGES
December 17, 2011

For I am the LORD, I do not change. Malachi 3:6

It is holiday time, and with more than one friend going through, well,
basically - the pits, I've had some extra things on my mind, and
prayer list. There was something else prepared to send out this week
in Irish Thursdays messages, however I felt impressed to say a few
words about this instead. Unfortunately, these friends are, no doubt,
not the only ones going through a crisis, tragedy, or tough situation
right now. Reality has been changed as people, situations, and things
out of our control have changed. Just because it is the Christmas
season does not mean it is Pollyanna time.

One has a sibling whose unexpected diagnosis is an advanced cancer,
another has had both mother and father pass away this past month. A
third has recently been served divorce papers, and yet another, with a
young family to support, did not get the hoped-for job after being out
of work for over nine months. Their feelings, and thoughts, are
running the gamut of grief, fear, separation and loss, and rejection,
to name a few.

What about the 'Ho ho ho' season? Certainly there is never a good time
for tragedy or crisis, but if ever there is no good time it is at
Christmas. When our reality changes, we can become frozen, and
temporarily forget everything we know about God like that He is still
faithful, that He still loves and cares about us, that He is in the
midst of the situation. Yet, He is in the midst of our situations.

Just as the sun rises and sets, as certain as anything ever could be,
so is God who He says He is – faithful, constant, caring, and present
with us. Skies get cloudy, we have wind and storms - from mild showers
to all out raging hurricanes – but the sun comes up every morning. In
the first chapter of the book of James, the Bible says that God who is
"the Father of the heavenly lights..does not change like shifting
shadows." That is truth, and a reality you can take to the bank,
because 'the Lord does not lie or change his mind. He is not a human
being, he does not change his mind. (1 Samuel 15:29)

No matter what your reality, be encouraged today. GOD is the Reality
that never changes. That is good news, at Christmas time or any other
time.

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

--
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THE BEST GIFTS THIS SEASON

2011-12-16T07:54:00.001-05:00

THE BEST GIFTS THIS SEASON:
Author Unknown
December 16, 2011

To a Friend - Loyalty
To an Enemy - Forgiveness
To your Boss - Service
To your Child - A good example
To your Father - Honor
To your Mother - Gratitude and Devotion
To your Spouse - Love and Faithfulness
To Yourself - Respect
To All Men - Charity
To God - Your Life!!

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10 SIGNS YOU ARE IN LOVE WITH YOUR ENEMY

2011-12-15T05:09:00.001-05:00

10 Signs You are in Love with Your Enemy"

Anger and love are both such passionate emotions; it's easy to find
yourself in the surprising predicament of falling in love with the
person you once thought you hated. Here are some of the signs that
what you're feeling is closer to desire than disgust.

1. You Can't Stop Talking About Them – Over dinner or at a party
with friends, you're dominating the conversation, and every single
word is about your "enemy." When the subject changes, you can't help
but bring it back around to your new favorite subject. If you can't
squelch the urge to make everything about them, you might be edging
into dangerous territory.
2. They're All You Think About – Your house is a wreck and your
inbox is full, because all you can think about is this person that you
hate. You're consumed by thoughts of your enemy that there's no room
for anything else in your head. Obsessing at this level is usually an
indicator of attraction, whether you're ready to admit it or not.
3. You Feel The Urge to Look Your Best – Sure, a snappy comeback
has more of a bite when it comes from someone who's dressed to
impress. Still, if you've added time to your morning routine or funds
to your clothing budget, you're probably more concerned with the
"impressing" part than the "snappy comeback."
4. You Analyze Every Conversation – Remember when you went on that
first date with a new person, and you spent the next day picking apart
every sentence? If you're treating every conversation like an
opportunity for psychoanalysis, then you're worrying about what
they're thinking far more than you would if they were someone you
didn't care about.
5. A Pounding Heart and Sweaty Palms – That rush of adrenaline that
you feel when your enemy approaches can cause your pulse to race and
your palms to sweat, but so can the release of dopamine and
norepinephrine; the chemicals that your brain is flooded with when
you're in the presence of someone you're attracted to.
6. You've Become a Cyber-Stalker – If your daily routine consists
of Googling every variation of your enemy's name and creeping their
Facebook page, you're in big trouble. The desire to gather dirt on
someone you don't like is fairly short-lived; you find something juicy
and then you move on. When you can't ask someone for details about
themselves because you're supposed to hate them, you're not able to
satisfy that "I want to know everything about you" urge through
conversation. Instead, you're hitting the search engine like an
addict.
7. You Read Every Email At Least Three Times – Emails and texts
from your enemy are usually read once and then discarded. Holding on
to them and pondering the placement of every punctuation mark
definitely points to attraction, not acrimony.
8. Every Encounter is Carefully Planned – Spending your commute
strategically planning every interaction and scripting any possible
exchanges might be a sign that you're more invested in this person's
opinion of you than you're aware of.
9. Concentrating is Impossible – Asking the people around you to
repeat themselves or having to read the same paper twice to make sense
of it is a sign that you're preoccupied; if the object of this
preoccupation is the opposition, it's a sure sign of burgeoning
attraction.
10. Your Friends Make Fun of You – Friends usually know what's going
on in your head long before you do. If they're starting to make jokes
about your "crush" or giving you a hard time because you're focusing
so much of your energy on an attraction dressed in a conflict's
clothing, they might be onto something.

Coming to terms with a romantic interest in someone that you don't get
along with can be difficult, but it can lead to a spirited
relationship if you can both learn to keep your temper. If you get the
feeling that your affections are returned, it might be a good idea to
bury the hatchet and see where the passion between you leads.

--
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CHRISTMAS POEM

2011-12-13T20:46:00.000-05:00

Christmas Poem
This poem was written by a Marine
December 13, 2011

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS,
HE LIVED ALL ALONE,
IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE MADE OF
PLASTER AND STONE.

I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY
WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,
AND TO SEE JUST WHO
IN THIS HOME DID LIVE.

I LOOKED ALL ABOUT,
A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,
NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS,
NOT EVEN A TREE.

NO STOCKING BY MANTLE,
JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,
ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES
OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.

WITH MEDALS AND BADGES,
AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,
A SOBER THOUGHT
CAME THROUGH MY MIND.

FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT,
IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,
I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER,
ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.

THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING,
SILENT, ALONE,
CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR
IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.

THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE,
THE ROOM IN SUCH DISORDER,
NOT HOW I PICTURED
A UNITED STATES SOLDIER.

WAS THIS THE HERO
OF WHOM I'D JUST READ?
CURLED UP ON A PONCHO,
THE FLOOR FOR A BED?

I REALIZED THE FAMILIES
THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,
OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS
WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.

SOON ROUND THE WORLD,
THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,
AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE
A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.

THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM
EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,
BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS,
LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.

I COULDN'T HELP WONDER
HOW MANY LAY ALONE,
ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE
IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.

THE VERY THOUGHT
BROUGHT A TEAR TO MY EYE,
I DROPPED TO MY KNEES
AND STARTED TO CRY.

THE SOLDIER AWAKENED
AND I HEARD A ROUGH VOICE,
'SANTA DON'T CRY,
THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;

I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM,
I DON'T ASK FOR MORE,
MY LIFE IS MY GOD,
MY COUNTRY, MY CORPS.'

THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER
AND DRIFTED TO SLEEP,
I COULDN'T CONTROL IT,
I CONTINUED TO WEEP.

I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS,
SO SILENT AND STILL
AND WE BOTH SHIVERED
FROM THE COLD NIGHT'S CHILL.

I DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE
ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,
THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR
SO WILLING TO FIGHT.

THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,
WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,
WHISPERED, 'CARRY ON SANTA,
IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE.'

ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH,
AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.
'MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND,!
AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.'

--
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THE "W" IN CHRISTMAS

2011-12-12T04:59:00.001-05:00

The "W" in Christmas
Author Unknown
December 12, 2011

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful
experience.

I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing,
endless baking, decorating, and even overspending.

Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious
family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas.

My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting
season for a six year old.

For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's "Winter
Pageant."

I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the
production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his
teacher. She assured me there would be a dress rehearsal the morning
of the presentation.

All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then.

Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.

So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early,
found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I
saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats.

As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class,
accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then,
each group, one by one, rose to perform their song.

Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the
holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun,
commercial entertainment songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes
and good cheer.

So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly
taken aback by its bold title.

Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy
mittens, red sweaters, and bright snow-caps upon their heads.

Those in the front row- center stage - held up large letters, one by
one, to spell out the title of the song.

As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up
the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child
holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas
Love."

The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a
small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down
- totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W".

The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's
mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood
tall, proudly holding her "W".

Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter
continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it
together.

A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen.

In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we
celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos,
there was a purpose for our festivities.

For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and
clear:

"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"

And, I believe, He still is.

Amazed in His presence.... humbled by His love.

HAVE A BLESSED CHRISTMAS SEASON

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KLEENEX ANGELS

2011-12-09T06:04:00.000-05:00

Isaiah 9:6-7 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and
the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He
will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and
upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and
forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Kleenex Angels*

I first heard about Alex and his mom, Diane, from his first grade
teacher, my daughter. She had asked me to pray for him, and it
wrenched my heart as she explained the circumstances. Alex's mom had
cancer and wasn't expected to live much longer. In early December the
doctors admitted her to the hospital for what they considered to be
the final time.

A friend of mine took a small white lace angel to Diane's bedside, to
remind Alex that his mom would always be in the presence of angels.

Diane passed away two weeks before Christmas. Alex and his father took
the tiny angel home and placed it on top of their tree. When Alex
returned to his first grade classroom, he brought the little angel to
show his classmates. He carefully put it in a small box and handled it
oh, so lovingly. His classmates had known of Alex's mom's serious
illness, and as he showed them this little lace angel, he shared that
his mother now resided in heaven.

I happened to stop by their classroom that day, and Alex opened the
box and showed me the angel. Tears ran down my face as I hugged Alex.
Before I knew it, one of his classmate was tugging at my skirt. She
held in her hand an angel made from a Kleenex tissue and scotch tape,
and as she handed it to me, she smiled shyly, "Here, this one is for
you!" How very sweet, I thought, and leaned down to thank her with a
hug.

That evening I spoke with my daughter on the phone. She told me that
shortly after I left the classroom, she looked around, and this little
girl had made Kleenex tissue angels for the entire clas. They were
everywhere- on desktops, backpacks, a few dropped on the floor, and
some in the pockets or hands of the first graders.

This child demonstrated God's love in action. She wanted to remind all
of us about God and His ministering angels. May we all have that type
of a heart this Christmas season...a heart ready to share God's love
with all who cross our path.

* This week's message was written by my sister, Marion Smith. It
speaks of love-in-action, which is what Christmas is: God's love
demonstrated towards us through Emmanuel, Christ with us.

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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THE PARACHUTE

2011-12-07T05:46:00.000-05:00

THE PARACHUTE
Author Unknown
December 7, 2011

Charles Plum, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, was a jet fighter pilot
in Vietnam. After 75 combat missions, his plane was destroyed by a
surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected & parachuted into enemy hands.
He was
captured & spent six years in a Communist prison.

He survived that ordeal & now lectures about lessons learned from
that experience.

One day, when Plumb & his wife were sitting in a restaurant, a man at
another table came up & said, "You're Plumb! You flew jet fighters in
Vietnam from the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down!"

"How in the world did you know that?" asked Plumb.

"I packed your parachute," the man replied. Plumb gasped in surprise
& gratitude. The man pumped his hand & said, "I guess it worked!"

Plumb assured him, "It sure did-if your 'chute hadn't worked, I
wouldn't be here today."

Plumb couldn't sleep that night, thinking about that man. Plumb says,
'I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform-a
Dixie cup hat, a bib in the back, and bell bottom trousers. I wondered
how many times I might have passed him on the Kitty Hawk. I wondered
how many times I might have seen him & not even said good morning, how
are you or anything because, you see, I was a fighter pilot & he was
just a sailor.

Plumb thought of the many hours the sailor had spent on a long wooden
table in the bowels of the ship carefully weaving the shrouds &
folding the silks of each chute, holding in his hands each time the
fate of someone he didn't
know. Now, Plumb asks his audience, 'Who's packing your parachute?'
Everyone has someone who provides what they need to make it through
the day. Plumb also points out that he needed many kinds of parachutes
when his plane was shot down over enemy territory-he needed his
physical parachute, his mental parachute, his emotional parachute, &
his spiritual parachute."

He called on all these supports before reaching safety. His
experience reminds us all to prepare ourselves to weather whatever
storms lie ahead.

SUGGESTION: Recognize people who pack your parachute & strengthen
yourself to prevail through tough times.

--
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THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STRENGTH AND COURAGE

2011-12-06T19:11:00.000-05:00

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STRENGTH AND COURAGE
Author Unknown
December 6, 2011

It takes strength to be firm.
It takes courage to be gentle.

It takes strength to stand guard.
It takes courage to let down your guard.

It takes strength to conquer
It takes courage to surrender.

It takes strength to be certain.
It takes courage to have doubt.

It takes strength to fit in.
It takes courage to stand out.

It takes strength to feel a friend's pain.
It takes courage to feel your own pain.

It takes strength to hide feelings.
It takes courage to show them.

It takes strength to endure abuse.
It takes courage to stop it.

It takes strength to stand alone.
It takes courage to lean on another.

It takes strength to love.
It takes courage to be loved.

It takes strength to survive.
It takes courage to live.

"....as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you
nor
forsake you. Be strong and of good courage...." (Joshua 1:5b-6a)

--
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BIRD'S EYE VIEW

2011-12-01T07:20:00.001-05:00

You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.
Psalm 139:5

Bird's Eye View

Don't you love the feeling of being 'on top of the world'? Everything
seems to be going j-u-s-t right. Gotta love those times.

Yesterday when I parked at the lot on my way into the grocery store I
looked up at the extraordinary blue. What a day. One of those chamber-
of-commerce afternoons where the spring green of the trees met the
deep clear sundrenched sky. On the highest part of a tall streetlight,
a mockingbird was comfortably perched. Just checking it out, taking a
rest. There he was, on top of the world.

Most days we aren't on those mountain-peak highs, we live in the
valley of life. Everyday life, the normal, the ups, the downs. Often
those times are a little harder for me to like. Could be a season
where you feel your world is unraveling and you are hanging by a
thread, like this butterfly to the leaf. You may be barely holding on,
waiting for the tide to turn. I've heard people voice questions, "So
where was God anyway? Why did He let it happen?", "God didn't answer
my prayers about that".

Here is some good news: no matter what it seems like, no matter what
is going on, God is still sovereign. He is still in the midst, keeping
every one of His promises (something like 7,000 of them in the Bible).
He's not distant, He's not uncaring nor uninvolved. He is a personal
God, wanting the best for His children and a close relationship with
them.

The Word of the Lord is truth, and here are a few verses that you can
count on to help to gain a 'bird's eye view' perspective:

Psalm 97:9 For you, O Lord, are the Most High over all the earth;
you are exalted far above all gods.
1 Chronicles 29:11 Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and
the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven
and earth is yours. Yours, O Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as
head over all.
Isaiah 37:16 "O Lord Almighty, God of Israel, enthroned between the
cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You
have made heaven and earth.
Psalm 73:28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.  I have made
the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.
1 Chronicles 16:31 Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad;
let them say among the nations, "The Lord reigns!"

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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THE PARACHUTE

2011-11-30T11:27:00.000-05:00

THE PARACHUTE
Author Unknown
November 30, 2011

He survived that ordeal & now lectures about lessons learned from that
experience.

"How in the world did you know that?" asked Plumb.

"I packed your parachute," the man replied. Plumb gasped in surprise &
gratitude. The man pumped his hand & said, "I guess it worked!"

Plumb assured him, "It sure did-if your 'chute hadn't worked, I
wouldn't be here today."

He called on all these supports before reaching safety. His experience
reminds us all to prepare ourselves to weather whatever storms lie
ahead.

SUGGESTION: Recognize people who pack your parachute & strengthen
yourself to prevail through tough times.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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SIX YEAR OLD'S PRAYER

2011-11-29T11:09:00.000-05:00

SIX YEAR OLD'S PRAYER
Author Unknown
November 29, 2011

Last week I took my children to a restaurant. My six-year-old son had
asked if he could say grace. As we bowed our heads he said, "God is
good. God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you
more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And Liberty and justice for
all, amen."

Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby, I heard a
woman remark, "That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't
even know how to pray. Asking God for ice-cream. Why, I never."

Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, "Did I do it
wrong? Is God mad at me?"

As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job and God
was certainly not mad at him.

An elderly gentleman approached the table. He winked at my son and
said, "I happen to know that God thought that was a great prayer."

"Really?", my son asked. Then in a theatrical whisper he added
(indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), "Too
bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is good for
the soul sometimes."

Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son
stared at his for a moment and then did something I will remember the
rest of my life.

He picked up his sundae and without a word walked over and placed it
in front of the woman. With a big smile he told her, "Here, this is
for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes, and my soul is good
already."

--
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FORREST GUMP

2011-11-28T15:06:00.000-05:00

FORREST GUMP
Author Unknown
November 28, 2011

Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. He is met at the Pearly Gate by
St. Peter himself. The gates are closed, however, and Forrest
approaches the gatekeeper. St. Peter says "Well, Forrest, it's
certainly good to see you. We have heard so many good things about
you. I must inform you that the
place is filling up fast, and we've been giving an entrance quiz for
everyone. The tests are short, but you need to pass before you can get
into Heaven.

Forrest responds "It sure is good to be here, St. Peter. I was
looking forward to this. Nobody ever told me about any entrance exam.
Sure hope the test ain't too hard; Life was a big enough test as it
was.

St. Peter goes on, "I know, Forrest, but the test is only three
questions:
1. What days of the week begin with the letter T? --
2. How many seconds are there in a year?
3. What is God's first name?"

Forrest goes away to think the questions over. He returns the next
day and goes up to St.. Peter to try to answer the exam questions.

St. Peter waves him up and says, "Now that you have had a chance to
think the questions over, tell me your answers".

Forrest says, "Well, the first one how many days of the week begin
with the letter "T?" "Shucks, that one's easy. That'd be Today and
Tomorrow."

The Saint's eyes open wide and he exclaims "Forrest! That's not what
I was thinking, but...you do have a point though, and I guess I didn't
specify, so I will give you credit for that answer." "How about the
next one?" "How many seconds in a year?"

"Now that one's harder" says Forrest, "but I thought and thought about
that and I guess the only answer can be twelve." Astounded, St. Peter
says "Twelve! Twelve! Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up
with twelve seconds in a year?"

Forest says "Aw, come on, St Peter, there's gotta be twelve, January
second, February second, March second. . "

"Hold it" interrupts St. Peter. "I see where you're going with it. I
guess I see your point, though that wasn't quite what I had in mind,
but I'll give you credit for that one too. Let's go on with the next
and final question. Can you tell me God's first name?"

Forrest replied, "Andy."

When St. Peter asked how in the world he came up with the name Andy.

Forrest replied, "You know, St. Peter, that song we sing in church:
"Andy walks with me, Andy talks with me."

The lesson: THERE IS ALWAYS ANOTHER POINT OF VIEW, and just because
another person doesn't see things the same way or understand the same
way that you do, does not mean that it's wrong.

--
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EVERYONE NEEDS A LITTLE HUMOR IN THEIR LIFE

2011-11-25T13:08:00.001-05:00

EVERYONE NEEDS A LITTLE HUMOR IN THEIR LIFE
Author Unknown
November 25, 2011

Do you know your HYMNS?

Dentist's Hymn........ ......... .Crown Him with Many Crowns
Weatherman's Hymn...There Shall Be Showers of Blessings
Contractor's Hymn........ ......The Church's One Foundation
The Tailor's Hymn........ ......... .....Holy, Holy, Holy
The Golfer's Hymn........ ....There's a Green Hill Far Away
The Politician's Hymn........ .......Standing on the Promises
Optometrist' s Hymn........ ...Open My Eyes That I Might See
The IRS Agent's Hymn........ ......... I Surrender All
The Gossip's Hymn........ ......... ....Pass It On
The Electrician' s Hymn........ ......... Send The Light
The Shopper's Hymn........ .......... ...Sweet Bye and Bye
The Realtor's Hymn. . . . . .. I've Got a Mansion Just over the
Hilltop

The Massage Therapists Hymn . . . ......He Touched Me
The Doctor's Hymn........ ......... .....The Great Physician

AND for those who speed on the highway - a few hymns:
45mph....... ......... ....God Will Take Care of You
65mph....... ......... ....Nearer My God To Thee
85mph....... ......... ....This World Is Not My Home
95mph....... ......... ....Lord, I'm Coming Home
100mph...... ......... .Precious Memories
******************************************************
Give me a sense of humour, Lord,
Give me the grace to see a joke,
To get some humour out of life,
And pass it on to other folk.

AMEN!!!!!!

--
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TOMORROW IS NOT PROMISED

2011-11-23T09:41:00.000-05:00

TOMORROW IS NOT PROMISED
-- Author Unknown
November 23, 2011

Sometimes people come into your life
and you know right away that they were meant to be there,
they serve some sort of purpose,
teach you a lesson
or help figure out who you are
and who you want to become.

You never know who these people may be:
your neighbor, child, long lost friend, lover, or even a complete
stranger
who, when you lock eyes with them,
you know at that very moment that they will affect your life
in some profound way.

And sometimes things happen to you
and at the time they seem painful and unfair,
but in reflection you realize
that without overcoming those obstacles
you would have never realized
your potential strength, will power, or heart.

Everything happens for a reason.
Nothing happens by chance
or by means of good or bad luck.
Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer
stupidity
all occur to test the limits of your soul.

Without these small tests,
whether they be events, illnesses or relationships,
life would be like a smoothly paved straight flat road to nowhere,
safe and comfortable,
but dull and utterly pointless.

The people you meet who affect your life
and the successes and downfalls you experience
create who you are,
and even the bad experiences can be learned from,
In fact, they are probably the poignant and important ones.

If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks your heart,
forgive them,
for they have helped you learn about trust
and the importance of being cautious to
whom you open your heart...

If someone loves you,
love them back unconditionally,
not only because they love you,
but because they are teaching you to love
and opening your heart and eyes to things
you would have never seen or felt without them.

Make every day count.
Appreciate every moment
and take from it everything that you possibly can,
for you may never be able to experience it again...

Talk to people you have never talked to before,
and actually listen,
let yourself fall in love,
break free and set your sights high...

Hold your head up because you have every right too.
Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself...
for if you don't believe in yourself,
no one else will believe in you either.

Create your own life
and then go out and live in it!
"Live Each Day As If It Were Your Last...
Tomorrow is Not Promised"

--
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GIVE THANKS

2011-11-22T18:56:00.000-05:00

Give thanks to the Lord for He is good; His love endures forever.
Psalm 107:1
Give thanks in all circumstances.. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Give Thanks

Turkey. Pilgrims. Indians. Cranberry jelly. Don't forget the pumpkin
pie! Parents, spouse, children, family, home, things, jobs, clothes,
food, stuff, friends, health, life itself. Thanksgiving….a good time
to ask, what am I thankful for? Even better, whom should I thank?

Often it looks like it's a person who deserves our thanks. Sometimes
we think circumstances get the credit. Yet ultimately, everything we
have is a gift from God. Even who we are is a gift from God.
God uses people and situations to bring His gifts to us. He alone is
the Great Gift-giver.
It is good to know to Whom all thanks is due…..

….always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name
of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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BEYOND DEATH

2011-11-18T10:47:00.001-05:00

BEYOND DEATH
Author Unknown
November 18, 2011

A sick man turned to his doctor, as he was leaving the room after
paying a visit, and said, "Doctor, I am afraid to die. Tell me what
lies on the other side."

Very quietly the doctor said, "I don't know."

"You don't know? You, a Christian man, do not know what is on the
other side?"

The doctor was holding the handle of the door, on the other side of
which came a sound of scratching and whining, and as he opened the
door a dog sprang into the room and leaped on him with an eager show
of gladness.

Turning to the patient, the doctor said, "Did you notice that dog? He
had never been in this room before. He did not know what was inside.
He knew nothing except that his master was here, and when the door
opened he sprang in without fear.

I know little of what is on the other side of death, but I do know one
thing: I know my Master is there, and that is enough. And when the
door opens, I shall pass through with no fear, but with gladness.

--
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AN ANGEL WROTE

2011-11-16T10:57:00.000-05:00

AN ANGEL WROTE
Author Unknown
November 16, 2011

Many people will walk in and out or your life,
but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.

To handle yourself, use your head,
To handle others, use your heart.

Anger is only one letter short of danger.

If someone betrays you once, it's his fault.
If he betrays you twice, it's your fault.

Great minds discuss ideas;
Average minds discuss events;
Small minds discuss people.

God gives every bird its food,
but He does not throw it into its nest.

He who loses money, loses much;
He who loses a friend, loses more;
He who loses faith, loses all.

Beautiful young people are acts of nature,
but beautiful old people are works of art.

Learn from the mistakes of others.
You can't live long enough to make them all yourself.

The tongue weighs practically nothing,
but so few people can hold it.

Friends, you and me ... you brought another friend...and then there
were
3 ... we started our group...
Our circle of friends ... and like the circle ... there's no
beginning

... there is no end.

--
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RUDY'S ANGEL

2011-11-15T14:53:00.000-05:00

RUDY'S ANGEL
Author Unknown
November 15, 2011

I walked into the grocery store not particularly interested in buying
groceries. I wasn't hungry. The pain of losing my husband of 37 years
was still too raw. And this grocery store held so many sweet memories.

Rudy often came with me and almost every time he'd pretend to go off
and look for something special. I knew what he was up to. I'd always
spot him walking down the aisle with the three yellow roses in his
hands.

Rudy knew I loved yellow roses. With a heart filled with grief, I only
wanted to buy my few items and leave, but even grocery shopping was
different since Rudy had passed on.

Shopping for one took time, a little more thought than it had for two.
Standing by the meat, I searched for the perfect small steak and
remembered how Rudy had loved his steak.

Suddenly a woman came beside me. She was blond, slim and lovely in a
soft green pantsuit. I watched as she picked up a large pack of T-
bones, dropped them in her basket, hesitated, and then put them back.
She turned to go and once again reached for the pack of steaks. She
saw me watching her and she smiled. "My husband loves T-bones, but
honestly, at these prices, I don't know."

I swallowed the emotion down my throat and met her pale blue eyes. "My
husband passed away eight days ago," I told her. Glancing at the
package in her hands, I fought to control the tremble in my voice.
"Buy him the steaks.
And cherish every moment you have together."

She shook her head and I saw the emotion in her eyes as she placed the
package in her basket and wheeled away.

I turned and pushed my cart across the length of the store to the
dairy products. There I stood, trying to decide which size milk I
should buy. A quart, I finally decided and moved on to the ice cream
section near the front of the store. If nothing else, I could always
fix myself an ice cream cone. I placed the ice cream in my cart and
looked down the aisle toward the front.

I saw first the green suit, then recognized the pretty lady coming
towards me. In her arms she carried a package. On her face was the
brightest smile I had ever seen. I would swear a soft halo encircled
her blond hair as she
kept walking toward me, her eyes holding mine. As she came closer, I
saw what she held and tears began misting in my eyes. "These are for
you," she said and placed three beautiful long stemmed yellow roses in
my arms. "When you go through the line, they will know these are paid
for." She leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on my cheek, then
smiled again.

I wanted to tell her what she'd done, what the roses meant, but still
unable to speak, I watched as she walked away as tears clouded my
vision. I looked down at the beautiful roses nestled in the green
tissue wrapping and found it almost unreal. How did she know?

Suddenly the answer seemed so clear. I wasn't alone. "Oh, Rudy, you
haven't forgotten me, have you?" I whispered, with tears in my eyes.
He was still with me, and she was his angel.

Everyday be thankful for what you have and who you are.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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LETTER IN THE NIGHT

2011-11-14T06:43:00.000-05:00

LETTER IN THE NIGHT
Author Unknown
November 14, 2011

This is pretty deep and definitely worth reading! You just can't keep
it to yourself, you've got to tell somebody about the love of God! Be
blessed!

One day a woman named Louise fell asleep in her bed and dreamed a very
fitful dream. She dreamed that someone in Hell wrote a letter to her,
and it was to be delivered to her by a messenger.

The messenger passed between the lakes of burning fire and brimstone
that occupies Hell and found his way to the door that would lead him
to the outside world.

Louise dreamed that the messenger walked to her house, came inside,
and gently but firmly woke Louise. He gave her the message, saying
only that a friend had written it to her from Hell.

Louise, in her dream with trembling hands, took the letter and read:

My Friend,
I stand in Judgment now,
And feel that you're to blame somehow.
Never did you point the way.
You knew the Lord in truth and glory,
But never did you tell the story.
My knowledge then was very dim;
You could have led me safe to Him.
Though we lived together on the earth,
You never told me of the second birth,
And now I stand this day condemned,
Because you failed to mention Him.
You taught me many things, that's true.
I called you "friend" and trusted you,
But I learn now that it's too late,
You could have kept me from this fate.
We walked by day and talked by night,
And yet you showed me not the Light.
You let me live, and love, and die,
You knew I'd never live on high.
Yes, I called you "friend" in life,
And trusted you through joy and strife.
And yet on coming to the end,
I cannot, now, call you "My Friend."
Marsha

After reading the letter, Louise awoke. The dream was still so real in
her mind and sweat dropped from her body in pools. She swore she could
still smell the acrid smell of brimstone and smoke from her room.

As she contemplated the meaning of her dream, she realized that as a
Christian, she had failed in her duty to "go out to all the world and
preach the gospel." As she thought of that, she promised herself that
the next day, she would call Marsha and invite her to church with her.

The next morning she called Marsha, and this was the conversation:

"Hello Bill, is Marsha there?"

"Louise, you don't know?"

"No, Bill, know what?"

"Marsha WAS KILLED LAST NIGHT IN A CAR ACCIDENT. I thought you knew."

Fellow Christian, is this your testimony? Are you witnessing to your
friends that you are with everyday? Or will there be friends of yours
in Hell, asking you why you did not tell them about JESUS?

As your friend. . .

If you don't know Jesus, here's how:

If you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus
died on the cross for your sins and God raised Him from the dead, you
will be saved. (Romans 10:9 - 10)

If you have not done so, just pray this prayer:

"Dear God, I confess with my mouth and believe in my heart that Jesus
is your son and that He died on the cross for my sins. Jesus, forgive
me of my sins and come into my heart and become my personal Lord and
Savior. In Jesus's name, Amen."

PS. If you are a believer - new or old, send this to others and let
them know you are a true friend.

--
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LAMB OF GOD POEM

2011-11-10T06:15:00.000-05:00

LAMB OF GOD POEM
Author Unknown
November 10, 2011

Mary had a little Lamb,
His fleece was white as snow.
And everywhere that Mary went,
The Lamb was sure to go.

He followed her to school each day,
When it wasn't against the rules.
He made the children laugh and play,
To have a Lamb at school.

Then the rules changed one day,
Against the law it became
To bring the Lamb of God to school,
Or even speak His Name.

Every day got worse and worse,
And days turned into years.
Instead of hearing children laugh and play,
You heard them crying tears.

What must we do to stop the crime,
That's in our schools today?
Let the Lamb come back to school,
And teach our kids to pray.

--
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ANGEL IN THE CLASSROOM

2011-11-08T05:23:00.000-05:00

ANGEL IN THE CLASSROOM
Auythor Unknown
November 8, 2011

A pastor read a letter from an elementary school teacher who attends
East Hill Church. The gist of the letter was as follows:

Last school year, her classroom was made up of little third graders,
every one of which came from either a single parent family, or a
dysfunctional family, was undernourished and/or uncared for, lived in
an abusive home and
was either beaten, bruised, or raped by other family members; one
little girl's dad died of aids, and the list goes on. Her heart bled
for these kids.

Before the '99-2000 school year started, she and her husband went to
her classroom and prayed over each desk in the room. They prayed that
God would place an angel behind each and every child throughout the
coming year to watch over them and protect them. A month or so after
the year had started, she gave the kids an assignment to write about
what they would like to be when they grew up. Everybody was busy with
his or her assignment, when "Andrew" raised his hand. When she asked
him what he needed, he asked how to spell mighty." After telling him
how to spell mighty, she asked him why he needed to know. Andrew said
it was because when he grew up he wanted to be a "mighty man of God."
When he said this, little "Mark" sitting next to him asked, "So,
what's a mighty man of God?" The teacher, swallowing back her tears,
and knowing she could not say anything in the classroom, told Andrew
to go ahead and tell Mark what it was. So Andrew says, "It's a man
who puts on the armor of God and is a soldier for God." After
observing some conversation between Andrew and Mark, the teacher,
with a lump in her throat, started to walk away when Andrew motioned
with his little forefinger for her to come closer. He whispered to
her, asking if she believed in angels. She told him yes, she did.
Then he asked her if she thought people could see angels, and she
said she thought some people probably could. Andrew said that he did,
and he could see an angel standing behind each kid in the
room . . . . . .

I don't think there was a dry eye in the church that night! We need to
remember to pray for all of the teachers, that although there is no
prayer in school, that they are dedicated enough to pray for the
protection of God's angels over the lives of their students. Maybe it
wouldn't hurt, even at work.

--
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A THOUSAND MARBLES

2011-11-07T07:33:00.000-05:00

A THOUSAND MARBLES
Author Unknown
November 7, 2011

The older I get, the more I enjoy Saturday mornings. Perhaps it's the
quiet solitude that comes with being the first to rise, or maybe it's
the unbounded joy of not having to be at work. Either way, the first
few hours of a Saturday morning are most enjoyable. A few weeks ago, I
was shuffling toward the kitchen with a steaming cup of coffee in one
hand and the morning paper in the other. What began as atypical
Saturday morning turned into one of those lessons that life seems to
hand you from time to time.

Let me tell you about it. I turned the volume up on my radio in order
to listen to a Saturday morning talk show. I heard an older sounding
chap with a golden voice. You know the kind, he sounded like he should
be in the broadcasting business himself. He was talking about "a
thousand marbles" to someone named "Tom". I was intrigued and sat down
to listen to what he had to say.

"Well, Tom, it sure sounds like you're busy with your job. I'm sure
they pay you well but it's a shame you have to be away from home and
your family so much. Hard to believe a young fellow should have to
work sixty or seventy hours a week to make ends meet. Too bad you
missed your daughter's dance recital." He continued, "Let me tell you
something Tom, something that has helped me keep a good perspective on
my own priorities." And that's when he began to explain his theory of
a "thousand marbles."

"You see, I sat down one day and did a little arithmetic. The average
person lives about seventy-five years. know, some live more and some
live less, but on average, folks live about seventy-five years."

"Now then, I multiplied 75 times 52 and I came up with 3900 which is
the number of Saturdays that the average person has in their entire
lifetime. Now stick with me Tom, I'm getting to the important part."
"It took me until I was fifty-five years old to think about all this
in any detail", he
went on, "and by that time I had lived through over twenty-eight
hundred Saturdays. I got to thinking that if I lived to be seventy-
five, I only had about a thousand of them left to enjoy." "So I went
to a toy store and bought every single marble they had. I ended up
having to visit three toy
stores to round-up 1000 marbles. I took them home and put them inside
of a large, clear plastic container right here in my workshop next to
the radio. Every Saturday since then, I have taken one marble out and
thrown it away." "I found that by watching the marbles diminish, I
focused more on the really important things in life. There is nothing
like watching your time here on this earth run out to help get your
priorities straight."

"Now let me tell you one last thing before I sign-off with you and
take my lovely wife out for breakfast. This morning, I took the very
last marble out of the container. I figure if I make it until next
Saturday then I have been given a little extra time. And the one thing
we can all use is a little more time."

"It was nice to talk to you Tom, I hope you spend more time with your
loved ones, and I hope to meet you again someday. Have a good
morning!" You could have heard a pin drop when he finished. Even the
show's moderator didn't have anything to say for a few moments. I
guess he gave us all a lot to think about. I had planned to do some
work that morning, then go to the gym. Instead, I went upstairs and
woke my wife up with a kiss.

"C'mon honey, I'm taking you and the kids to breakfast." "What brought
this on?" she asked with a smile. "Oh, nothing special, it's just been
a long time since we spent a Saturday together with the kids. Hey, can
we stop at a toy store while we're out? I need to buy some marbles."

--
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DID JESUS USE A MODEM AT THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT?

2011-11-03T06:52:00.000-04:00

DID JESUS USE A MODEM AT THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT?
Author Unknown
November 3, 2011

Did Jesus use a modem, At the Sermon on the Mount?
Did He ever try a broadcast fax, To send his message out?
Did the disciples carry beepers, As they went about their route?
Did Jesus use a modem, At the Sermon on the Mount?

Did Paul use a laptop, With lots of RAM and ROM?
Were his letters posted on BBS, At paul.rome.com?
Did the man from Macedonia, Send an e-mail saying "Come?"
Did Paul use a laptop, With lots of RAM and ROM?

Did Moses use a joystick, At the parting of the Sea?
And a satellite guidance tracking system, To show him where to be?
Did he write the law on tablets, Or are they really on CD?
Did Moses use a joystick, At the parting of the Sea?

Did Jesus really die for us, One day upon a tree?
Or was it a hologram, or technical wizardry?
Can you download the live action video clip, To play on your pc?
Did Jesus really die for us, One day upon a tree?

Have the wonders of this modern age, Made you question what is true?
How a single man, in a simple time, Could offer life anew?
How a sinless life, a cruel death, Then a glorious life again,
Could offer more to a desperate world, Than all the inventions of
man?

If in your life, the voice of God, Is sometimes hard to hear.
With other voices calling, His doesn't touch your ear.
Than set aside your laptop and modem, And all your fancy gear.
And open your Bible, open your heart, and let your Father draw near.

--
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POOLING AND POURING

2011-10-28T06:25:00.000-04:00

Be still, and know that I am God Psalm 46:10

Pooling and Pouring

The hike up through Stagecoach Trail was worth it. We were rewarded
with a spectacular at over ten thousand feet. Still, we weren't above
the timberline. 'Older than dirt' towering pines and spruces dotted
the landscape. A little ways beyond, a symphony of rushing waters
beckoned us.

The Cascades water flowed down so dramatically. It pooled, poured out.
Pooled, poured out.

We all pour out in one way or another. We give of ourselves at home,
at work, in our churches, communities, everywhere we are we give or
ourselves. Could be something big or could be something as seemingly
insignificant as a smile.

We each have a sphere of influence whether we are aware of it or not.
God plants us precisely where He wants us, for our good ad for the
greater good of others. He always intends to bless us and at the same
time there is always a bigger picture.

Just as in the natural, where the waterfall pooled and poured out, so
do we need to 'pool' in order to pour out. We can run on our steam for
awhile and then – we need time alone with God to refill.

We can't run on empty, although I have to admit I get caught up in
things and then find that I am actually trying to do that very thing.
It just doesn't work. We are designed for pooling and pouring, then
pooling and then pouring. '

Thank you, Lord, that when we are 'still' with you, we are refilled
and renewed for pouring again,
in Jesus' name

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

--
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PENNIES FROM HEAVEN

2011-10-24T06:28:00.000-04:00

PENNIES FROM HEAVEN
Author Unknown
October 24, 2011

I found a penny today
just laying on the ground
But it's not just a penny
this little coin I've found

"Found" pennies come from heaven
that's what my Grandpa told me
He said angels toss them down
oh, how I loved that story

He said when an angel misses you
they toss a penny down
Sometimes just to cheer you up
make a smile out of your frown

So don't pass by that penny
when you're feeling blue
It may be a penny from heaven
that an angels tossed to you

--
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OVER OR AROUND

2011-10-21T06:18:00.001-04:00

Isaiah 43 16 This is what the LORD says—he who made a way through the
sea,  19…I am making a way in the wilderness.

Over or Around

The river was higher than usual. A great amount of rainfall through
the year had caused it to swell its banks. This fall the water wasn't
gurgling and bubbling along, rather it was churling and rushing in a
steady rapid flow.

The small part of the river I could see from the window had some
pretty good-size boulders. There were other rocks, all sizes from the
tiny chips at the river bottom to the massive stones. Whenever the
river water came to one of these rocks, it didn't stay there. The rock
didn't prevent the water from continuing on.

The river rolled over pebbles and smaller rocks. It went around
boulders and larger rocks. Sometimes additional waters came alongside
and joined with the water at the rock, supporting it to move past the
obstacle.

When we encounter formidable roadblocks in our lives, it is important
to carry on. There is always a way. We know that the enemy comes to
steal, kill, and destroy. He does not want to sort of mess up our
lives, he wants to totally wreck them and ultimately separate us from
God.

But God is life. John 10:10 talks about the abundant, over-the-top
life that Jesus brings to us. Sometimes we go it alone, other times we
need help and support from a family member, close friend, prayer
partner, bible study group etc. But always we need the guidance of our
friend, the Holy Spirit.

The river water did not encounter a deterrant and say, "oh no! I am
stuck here. What am I going to do?." One way or another, over or
around, it kept persevering. There is always a solution, always a
way….over or around, with God.

God Will Make A Way (Words and music by Don Moen)
God will make a way Where there seems to be no way He works in ways
we cannot see He will make a way for me
He will be my guide Hold me closely to His side With love and
strength For each new day He will make a way.

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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THE LETTER

2011-10-19T06:23:00.000-04:00

THE LETTER
Author Unknown
October 19, 2011

Ruth went to her mail box and there was only one letter. She picked it
up and looked at it before opening, but then she looked at the
envelope again. There was no stamp, no postmark, only her name and
address.

She read the letter:

Dear Ruth,

I'm going to be in your neighborhood Saturday afternoon and I'd like
to stop by for a visit.

Love Always,
Jesus

Her hands were shaking as she placed the letter on the table. "Why
would the Lord want to visit me? I'm nobody special. I don't have
anything to offer." With that thought, Ruth remembered her empty
kitchen cabinets.

"Oh my goodness, I really don't have anything to offer. I'll have to
run down to the store and buy something for dinner." She reached for
her purse and counted out its contents. Five dollars and forty cents.

"Well, I can get some bread and cold cuts, at least." She threw on her
coat and hurried out the door. A loaf of french bread, a half-pound of
sliced turkey, and a carton of milk...leaving Ruth with grand total of
twelve cents to last her until Monday. Nonetheless, she felt good as
she headed home, her meager offerings tucked under her arm.

"Hey lady, can you help us, lady?" Ruth had been so absorbed in her
dinner plans, she hadn't even noticed two figures huddled in the
alleyway. A man and a woman, both of them dressed in little more than
rags.

"Look lady, I ain't got a job, ya know, and my wife and I have been
living out here on the street, and, well, now it's getting cold and
we're getting kinda hungry and, well, if you could help us, lady, we'd
really appreciate it."

Ruth looked at them both. They were dirty, they smelled bad and,
frankly, she was certain that they could get some kind of work if they
really wanted to.

"Sir, I'd like to help you, but I'm a poor woman myself. All I have is
a few cold cuts and some bread, and I'm having an important guest for
dinner tonight and I was planning on serving that to Him."

"Yeah, well, okay lady, I understand. Thanks anyway." The man put his
arm around the woman's shoulders, turned and headed back into the
alley. As she watched them leave, Ruth felt a familiar twinge in her
heart.

"Sir, wait!" The couple stopped and turned as she ran down the alley
after them. "Look, why don't you take this food. I'll figure out
something else to serve my guest." She handed the man her grocery bag.

"Thank you lady. Thank you very much!"

"Yes, thank you!" It was the man's wife, and Ruth could see now that
she was shivering.

"You know, I've got another coat at home. Here, why don't you take
this one." Ruth unbuttoned her jacket and slipped it over the woman's
shoulders.

Then smiling, she turned and walked back to the street...without her
coat and with nothing to serve her guest. "Thank you lady! Thank you
very much!"

Ruth was chilled by the time she reached her front door, and worried
too. The Lord was coming to visit and she didn't have anything to
offer Him. She fumbled through her purse for the door key. But as she
did, she noticed another envelope in her mailbox.

"That's odd. The mailman doesn't usually come twice in one day." She
took the envelope out of the box and opened it.

Dear Ruth,

It was so good to see you again. Thank you for the lovely meal. And
thank you, too, for the beautiful coat.

Love Always,
Jesus

The air was still cold, but even without her coat, Ruth no longer
noticed.

--
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NEXT ON THE LIST

2011-10-18T05:46:00.000-04:00

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he
will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Next on The List

I was looking over the list, the never ending 'To Do' list. Crossing
things off, adding things, rearranging the list according to today's
priorities. "There is no end to this list!" I grumbled to myself.
There is alwaysss something next on the list.

The never-ending 'to do' list - how depressing that can be. A good
friend of mine likes to say, "Everything that needs to get done will
get done", though I wonder sometimes. I can easily feel overwhelmed
with The List, and I know that's the time for a priority check-up.

God wants to communicate with us, and it is unlikely He is going to
catch us 'on the run'. He waits. Rick Warren says, "If you are always
on the go and you can't hear God, you are facing the barrier of
busyness." Oh yeah, all those things on The List.

I've heard it said, "Don't under estimate the value of porch sitting
and rocking". Basically, I need to make the choice to take time, to
wait on God and listen to Him. It's hard for God to download much to
me when I am on the move. He is waiting, though. I need to choose,
purpose, and decision what gets pushed to the top.

So maybe next on The List for me is checking my priorities, giving God
the first place, and then letting everything else fall in place. It
wil, cuz it's a promise.

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011

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THANK YOU LORD

2011-10-17T05:31:00.000-04:00

THANK YOU LORD
Author Unknown
October 17, 2011

Lord, thank you for this sink of dirty dishes; we have plenty of food
to eat.

Thank you for this pile of dirty, stinky laundry; we have plenty of
nice clothes to wear.

And I would like to thank you, Lord, for those unmade beds; they were
so warm and comfortable last night. I know that many have no bed.

My thanks to you, Lord, for this bathroom, complete with all the
splattered mirrors, soggy, grimy towels and dirty lavatory; they are
so convenient.

Thank you for this finger-smudged refrigerator that needs defrosting
so badly; It has served us faithfully for many years. It is full of
cold drinks and enough leftovers for two or three meals.

Thank you, Lord, for this oven that absolutely must be cleaned today.
It has baked so many things over the years.

The whole family is grateful for that tall grass that needs mowing,
the lawn that needs raking; we all enjoy the yard.

Thank you, Lord, even for that slamming screen door. My kids are
healthy and able to run and play.

Lord, the presence of all these chores awaiting me says You have
richly blessed my family. I shall do them cheerfully and I shall do
them gratefully.

--
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THE POWER OF PRAYER

2011-10-13T06:08:00.001-04:00

THE POWER OF PRAYER
Author Unknown
October 13, 2011

When you receive this, say a prayer. That's all you have to do. There
is nothing attached. This is powerful. Just send this to four people
and do not break this, please. Prayer is one of the best free gifts
we can receive. There is no cost but there are a lot of rewards.
Let's continue praying for one another.

Creator God, I ask you to bless my friends reading this right now
Lord, show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit,
I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment.

Where there is pain, give them Your peace & mercy.

Where there is self-doubting, release a renewed confidence in Your
ability to work through them.

Where there is tiredness, or exhaustion, I ask You to give them
understanding, patience, & strength as they learn submission to Your
leading.

Where there is spiritual stagnation, I ask You to renew them by
revealing Your nearness, and by drawing them into greater intimacy
with You.

Where there is fear, reveal Your love, and release to them Your
courage.

Where there is a sin locking them, reveal it, and break its hold over
my friend's life.

Bless their finances, give them greater vision, and raise up leaders,
and friends to support, and encourage them.

Give each of them discernment to recognize the demonic forces around
them, and reveal to them the power they have in You to defeat it.

I ask You to do these things in Jesus' name.

In Christian love,
Your Friend in Jesus.

--
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THEY MISSED HIM!

2011-10-12T18:52:00.000-04:00

THEY MISSED HIM!
Author Unknown
October 12, 2011

They were looking for A Lion, He came as a Lamb, and they missed him.

They were looking for a Warrior, He came as a Peace maker, and they
missed him.

They were looking for a King, He came as a Servant, and they missed
him.

They were looking for Liberation from Rome, He submitted to the Roman
cross, and they missed him.

They were looking for a fit to their mold, He was the mold maker, and
they missed him.

What are you looking for? Lion? Warrior? King? Liberator? What are you
looking for?

They were looking for their temporal needs to be met. He came to meet
their eternal needs, and they missed him.

He came as a Lamb to be sacrificed for your sin. Will you miss him?

He came to make peace between God and man. Will you miss him?

He came to model servanthood for all mankind. Will you miss him?

He came that we might have true Liberty. Will you miss him?

He came to give you eternal life. Will you miss him?

When we submit to the Lamb we will meet the Lion. Join with the
Peacemaker and we will meet the Warrior. Work with the Servant and we
will meet the King. Walk with the Submitted and we will meet the
Liberator. Concern ourselves with the eternal and we will have the
temporal.

If Jesus is not fitting into the mold you have, then come to the mold
maker and get His new one. Submit to His plan for your life and you
will see the eternal need met first, then all the other things you
have need of will be taken care of as well.

--
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THREE STRANGERS

2011-10-11T18:44:00.000-04:00

THREE STRANGERS
Author Unknown
October 11, 2011

A woman came out of her house and saw 3 old men with long white beards
sitting in her front yard. She did not recognize them.

She said "I don't think I know you, but you must be hungry. Please
come in and have something to eat."

"Is the man of the house home?", they asked.

"No", she said. "He's out."

"Then we cannot come in", they replied.

In the evening when her husband came home, she told him what had
happened.

"Go tell them I am home and invite them in!"

The woman went out and invited the men in.

"We do not go into a House together," they replied.

"Why is that?" she wanted to know.

One of the old men explained: "His name is Wealth," he said pointing
to one of his friends, and said pointing to another one, "He is
Success and I am Love." Then he added, "Now go in and discuss with
your husband which one of us you want in your home."

The woman went in and told her husband what was said. Her husband was
overjoyed. "How nice!!", he said, "Since that is the case, let us
invite Wealth. Let him come and fill our home with wealth!"

His wife disagreed. "My dear, why don't we invite Success?"

Their daughter-in-law was listening from the other corner of the
house. She jumped in with her own suggestion: "Would it not be better
to invite Love? Our home will then be filled with love!"

"Let us heed our daughter-in-law's advice," said the husband to his
wife.
"Go out and invite Love to be our guest."

The woman went out and asked the 3 old men, "Which one of you is Love?
Please come in and be our guest."

Love got up and started walking toward the house. The other 2 also got
up and followed him. Surprised, the lady asked Wealth and Success:

"I only invited Love, Why are you coming in?"

The old men replied together: "If you had invited Wealth or Success,
the other two of us would've stayed out, but since you invited Love,
wherever He goes, we go with him. Wherever there is Love, there is
also Wealth and Success!!!!!!"

--
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ONE'S WORTH

2011-10-10T05:56:00.000-04:00

ONE'S WORTH
Author Unknown
October 10, 2011

A well known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20
bill. In the room of 200, he asked, "Who would like this $20 bill?"
Hands started going up. He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one
of you, but first,
let me do this." He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill in his hand.
He then asked, "Who still wants it?" Still the hands were up in the
air. "Well, what if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and
started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now
all crumpled and dirty. "Now who still wants it?" Still, the hands
went up.

"My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter
what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not
decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we
are dropped, crumpled
and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the
circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless.
But, no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never
lose your value in God's eyes. To Him, dirty or clean, crumpled or
finely creased, you are still priceless.

Thought: The worth of our lives come not in what we do or who we are,
but in WHOSE we are.

--
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ALL WE REALLY NEED TO KNOW WE LEARNED FROM NOAH'S ARK

2011-10-08T06:19:00.000-04:00

ALL WE REALLY NEED TO KNOW WE LEARNED FROM NOAH'S ARK
Author Unknown
October 8, 2011

1. Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark.

2. Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone might ask you to do
something REALLY big.

3. Don't listen to critics -- do what has to be done.

4. Build on high ground.

5. For safety's sake, travel in pairs.

6. Two heads are better than one.

7. Speed isn't always an advantage. The cheetahs were on board, but so
were the snails.

8. If you can't fight or flee -- float!

9. Take care of your animals as if they were the last ones on earth.

10. Don't forget that we're all in the same boat.

11. When the doo-doo gets really deep, don't sit there and complain --
shovel!!!

12. Stay below deck during the storm.

13. Remember that the ark was built by amateurs and the Titanic was
built by professionals.

14. If you have to start over, have a friend by your side.

15. Remember that the woodpeckers INSIDE are often a bigger threat
than the storm outside.

16. Don't miss the boat.

17. No matter how bleak it looks, there's always a rainbow on the
other side.

18. "Stop what you are doing, and do what God says!"

--
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WHEREVER WE ARE

2011-10-06T20:22:00.001-04:00

You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of
joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore Psalm
16:11

Wherever We Are

The night was still. Not a breath of air stirring. Just a few chirpy
insects awake.

A crescent moon played peekaboo behind milky clouds, pale and
fluorescent. Lightning flashed in the distance; a rapid succession of
heavenly electricity, making murky skies even more mystical and
magical.

"How incredibly, breathtakingly beautiful!", I thought. "How
dramatic. How magnificent!".

I'd just gotten back from a long awaited trip. I experienced such
majestic beauty in the mountains. It was amazing, God's handiwork in
such awesome ways.

When I arrived home, I was struck by how truly beautiful it was
outside, right there behind my house that evening. Once again I was
overwhelmed with the grandeur of God.

I've said it before, there is beauty 'in our own back yards'. Wherever
we are, there the Lord is. And in the presence of the Lord is
fullness of joy, beauty, and peace.

If at times we can't see anything around us right where we are, God is
still there. His presence is awesome and filled with glory.

Open my eyes, Lord, that I might see, your beauty and wonder all
around me, wherever I am. In Jesus' name-

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com

--
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MEETING GOD

2011-10-05T09:32:00.000-04:00

MEETING GOD
Author Unknown
October 5, 2011

There once was a little boy who wanted to meet God. He knew it was a
long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with Twinkies
and a six-pack of root beer, and he started his journey. When he had
gone about
three blocks, he met an old woman. She was sitting in the park just
staring at some pigeons. The boy sat down next to her and opened his
suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer when he
noticed that the old lady looked hungry so he offered her a Twinkie.

He gratefully accepted it and smiled at him. Her smile was so pretty
that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered her a root beer.
Once again, she smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there
all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word. As it
grew dark, the boy realized how tired he was and he got up to leave,
but before he had gone more than a few steps; he turned around, ran
back to the old woman, and gave her a hug. She gave him her biggest
smile ever.

When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later; his
mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him,
"What did you do today that made you so happy?" He replied, "I had
lunch with God." But before his mother could respond, he added, "You
know what? She's got the most beautiful smile I've ever seen!"

Meanwhile, the old woman, also radiant with joy, returned to her home.
Her son was stunned by the look of peace on her face and he asked,
"Mother, what did you do today that made you so happy?" She replied,
"I ate Twinkies in the park with God." But before her son responded,
she added, "You know he's much younger than I expected."

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word,
a listening ear, and honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring,
all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come
into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.

Embrace all equally!

--
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MEMO FROM GOD

2011-10-04T15:03:00.000-04:00

MEMO FROM GOD
Author Unknown
October 4, 2011

I am God. Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please
remember that I do not need your help. If life happens to deliver a
situation to you that you cannot handle, do not attempt to resolve it.
Kindly put it in the
SFGTD (something for God to do) box. It will be addressed in My time,
not yours.

Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold on to it or remove
it. Holding on or removal will delay the resolution of your problem.
If it is a situation that you think you are capable of handling,
please consult me in
prayer to be sure that it is the proper resolution. Because I do not
sleep nor do I slumber, there is no need for you to lose any sleep.
Rest my child. If you need to contact me, I am only a prayer away.

Be happy with what you have:

Should you find it hard to get to sleep tonight, just remember the
homeless family who has no bed to lie in.

Should you find yourself stuck in traffic, don't despair: There are
people in this world for whom driving is an unheard of privilege.

Should you have a bad day at work, think of the man who has been out
of work for years.

Should you despair over a relationship gone badly, think of the person
who has never known what it's like to love and be loved in return.

Should you grieve the passing of another weekend, think of the woman
in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week to feed
her children.

Should your car break down, leaving you miles away from assistance,
think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that
walk.

Should you notice a new gray hair in the mirror, think of the cancer
patient in chemo who wishes she had hair to examine.

Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering what is life all
about, asking, "What is my purpose?", be thankful. There are those who
didn't live long enough to get the opportunity.

Should you find yourself the victim of other people's bitterness,
ignorance, smallness or insecurities, remember: things could be worse.
You could be them!

Should you decide to send this to a friend; you might brighten
someone's day.

--
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CONTEMPLATION

2011-10-02T12:52:00.001-04:00

CONTEMPLATION
By Rene and Nena Lagdameo
October 2, 2011

I. Let us come into our hearts,

His favorite resting place, His temple dear.

Let us come where He awaits -

the Father, Saviour, Sanctifier.

Let us come to the Trinity, our Family, our Lord, our God.

Let us come to Jesus Christ, our King!

II. For He is there to gaze at you, to love you.

He is there to show your sins, to pardon you.

He is there to show your wounds, your hurts, to heal you,

to give His peace, Jesus Christ our King.

III. So, let us come to simply be with Him in silence.

Let's adore Him, love Him, rest in Him in silence.

Let us thank Him, plead to Him in silence.

Contemplate, gaze at Him in silence.

IV. Let us learn to simply pray in silence.

Let's be alert, awake, aware, attentive,

let us learn to humbly bow in silence.

Be still, listen now in silence.

V. For he is there to wait for us to be like Him.

To surrender, to say yes to Him, to trust Him.

To fill us with His heavenly gifts of love and peace.

He is there, be with Him, in silence.

VI. He thought of you, and loved you from eternity...

He willed you, formed you, moulded you, He needs you...

to bring His love and peace to those around...

who walk the earth in loneliness and fear.

VII. To heal them, to forgive them, to love them...

to make them know His love through those who serve...

to call them, too, to use them for others near...

till all the world is one with Him forever.

VIII. O, brother, sister, come and gaze at His self-sacrifice...

Gaze at His love throughout His earthly life unto the Cross.

He left the Eucharist, the Bread of Life, to nourish us...

to be with us, to lead us on, to Heaven.

IX. O brother, sister, He who totally gave His life that you may live,

Can you not fully give it back for Him to use...?

To serve Him with the Gifts He gave that others, too,

May live for Him, Jesus Christ, our King!

--
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EXPECTING THE UNEXPECTED

2011-10-01T06:47:00.000-04:00

Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Psalm
105:4

Expecting the Unexpected

Things didn't go quite like I'd planned. "Imagine that," I mused.
Well, if there is one thing in life we can be certain of it's change.
Nothing stays the same for very long.

The names for our triune Lord God are many in the Old Testament
scriptures. Among them are Jehovah Shammah, the God who is there.
That is one of my favorites. There is Jehovah Nissi, the Lord our
banner, who goes before us, and Jehovah Rohe, the God who heals.

My personal extra name for God is Jehovah Surprise, the God of the
Unexpected. Not that anything happening catches Him offguard. He's
not up in heaven, looking down, exclaiming,"Ohh! Look at that!"
Rather, I'm the one who is continually surprised by people, events and
circumstances.

There's a saying,"We make plans and God laughs." And another saying,
"Life is what happens while we're making other plans." God may be full
of surprises, yet He is still in control, still the sovereign God of
the universe, still on His throne, the same yesterday, today, and
forever.

The Lord's love and faithfulness is about the only thing we can expect
in the midst of the unexpected. The good news is we can count on Him
in our constantly ever-changing world.

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011

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FROGS

2011-09-29T08:47:00.001-04:00

FROGS
Author Unknown
September 29, 2011

A group of frogs was traveling through the woods, and two of them fell
into a deep pit. All the other frogs gathered around the pit.

When they saw how deep the pit was, they told the unfortunate frogs
they would never get out.

The two frogs ignored the comments and tried to jump up out of the
pit. The other frogs kept telling them to stop, that they were as good
as dead.

Finally, one of the frogs took heed to what the other frogs were
saying and simply gave up. He fell down and died.

The other frog continued to jump as hard as he could.

Once again, the crowd of frogs yelled at him to stop the pain and
suffering and just die. He jumped even harder and finally made it out.

When he got out, the other frogs asked him, "Why did you continue
jumping Didn't you hear us?" The frog explained to them that he was
deaf. He thought they were encouraging him the entire time.

-----------------------------

This story teaches two lessons:

1. There is power of life and death in the tongue. An encouraging word
to someone who is down can lift them up and help them make it through
the day.

2. A destructive word to someone who is down can be what it takes to
kill them. Be careful of what you say. Speak life to those who cross
your path.

The power of words....it is sometimes hard to understand that an
encouraging word can go such a long way. Anyone can speak words that
tend to rob another of the spirit to continue in difficult times.

Special is the individual who will take the time to encourage another.
May your words be a blessing to someone today.

--
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R & R

2011-09-27T18:22:00.000-04:00

He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Psalm 62:7

R & R

We were getting ready to go away for a weekend. During the steamy
tropical fall months it is a treat for us to visit a cooler climate.
I was thinking, "R & R", yes! Rest and Relaxation was what I had in
mind, maybe Renewal, Rejuvenation, and/or Refreshing, as well. With
the tote bag packed, I went to my desk to catch up on some last-minute
Email.

The little paperweight caught my eye. A rough ivory-colored rock,
only about an inch and a half across; a gift from a friend many years
ago. In big red letters, SALLY, and under it: Psalm 62:6-8*. Turning
it over, I read, Giant Killer.

King David, the greatest king ever, the only man mentioned in the
Bible as "a man after God's own heart",** speaks beautifully regarding
R & R. God alone was David's rock, fortress, refuge where no enemy
could reach him. He had his Goliath***, and we all have giants in
our own lives. My paraphrase of those verses in the book of Psalms 62
is, R & R - Rock & Refuge. The Lord is my strong and steady Rock, He
is my Refuge, my safe place.

I keep that little painted rock there, on my desk, to remind me I
don't have to fight the giants, those situations that come into my
life that loom large that I don't know how to confront and deal with.
Jesus, my Rock and Refuge, will take care of them, and me, too. As it
says in 1 Samuel 17:47, 'the battle is the Lord's'.

R&R, more than just rest and relaxation. Thank you, Lord.

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011

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DEVELOP THE RIGHT (SELF) ATTITUDE

2011-09-26T10:16:00.000-04:00

DEVELOP THE RIGHT (SELF) ATTITUDE
Author Unknown
September 26, 2011

Here are 10 suggestions to help you develop and maintain a healthy
self-image. Read them slowly. Meditate on them regularly.

1. Hate your sin, but never hate yourself.

2. Be quick to repent.

3. When God gives you light, walk in it.

4. Stop saying negative things about yourself. God loves you and it's
wrong to hate what He loves. He has great plans for you, so you're in
conflict with Him when you speak negatively concerning your future.

5. Never be afraid to admit that you've made a mistake and don't
always assume that when things go wrong, it must be 'my fault'.

6. Don't meditate excessively on what you've done, right or wrong;
both of these activities keep your mind on you! Center your thoughts
on Christ.

7. Take good care of yourself physically. Make the best of what God
gave you to work with, but don't be obsessed with your appearance.

8. Never stop learning but don't allow your education to become a
point of pride. God doesn't use you because of what's in your head: He
uses you because of what's in your heart.

9. Realize that your talents are a gift, not something you have
manufactured yourself; never look down on people who can't do what you
do.

10. Don't despise your weaknesses they keep you dependent on God.

--
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BEYOND THE SURFACE

2011-09-23T18:23:00.000-04:00

The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the
outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7

Beyond the Surface

The small flats boat was whipping along on top of the sea. No
bouncing, just gliding on the glassy waters. What a glorious day! My
husband was at the wheel, and as we entered a shallow area, he slowed
to make sure we didn't get stuck in the sandy bottom.

Gazing out, I watched the horizon meet the Gulf. I was lost in God's
beauty, when Ben exclaimed, "Look at these flats. Lotta grass." Then,
" Here's a nice low profile reef."

I peered over the edge, and sure enough, purple sea fans were clearly
visible. As we drifted a bit deeper, we could see some larger fish and
some coral that had a little more dimension. Being a fisherman, my
husband knows that looking beyond the surface, you see more. The
deeper you go in the ocean, the more you see.

It's good to go deeper in the word of God, too. There is more to be
seen. More revelation- beyond the surface.

It is good, also, to go deeper with the Lord in prayer and
meditation. Going deeper with God, and His word, affords us wisdom in
our day to day relationships. The Bible tells us that God looks beyond
the surface, that He is looking deeper; He is looking at our hearts.

Lord, today may I go beyond the surface: may I get a glimpse of your
heart, through your Word. In Jesus' name, amen.

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011

--
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BLESSINGS WE MAY NOT RECOGNIZE

2011-09-21T13:49:00.000-04:00

BLESSINGS WE MAY NOT RECOGNIZE
Author Unknown
September 21, 2011

1. If you own a Bible, you are abundantly blessed - about 1/3 of the
world does not have access to one.

2. If you wake up each morning with more health than illness, you are
blessed to rise and shine, to live and to serve in a new day.

3. If you have anyone on the planet, just one person that loves you
and listens to you; count this as a blessing.

4. If you can freely attend a church meeting without fear, then you
are more blessed than over 1/3 of the world.

5. If you have a yearning in your heart to parent a child, you are
blessed because you still desire what you cannot see.

6. If you pray today or any day, you are blessed because you believe
in God's willingness to hear your prayer.

7. If you pray for someone else, you are blessed because you want to
help others also.

8. If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof
over your head, and a place to sleep; all at the same time; you are
rich in this world;

9. If you have a brother or sister in Christ that will pray with you
and for you, you benefit from a spiritual unity, bond, and agreement,
which the gates of hell cannot stand against.

10. If you have any earthly family that even halfway loves you and
supports you, you are blessed beyond measure.

11. If you attend a church with a church family that offers you one
word of encouragement, you are blessed with some form of fellowship.

12. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, or some spare
change in a dish someplace you are among the world's wealthy.

13. If you can go to bed each night, knowing that God loves you, you
are blessed beyond measure.

14. If you try each day to imitate our Lord Jesus Christ for even a
minute, you are blessed because you show a willingness to grow up in
Him.

15. If you can read this message, you are more blessed than about 1/3
of the world who cannot read at all.

16. If you have never had to endure the hardship and agony battle,
imprisonment, or torture, you are blessed in indescribable measure.

17. If you have a voice to sing His praises, a voice to witness God's
love, and a voice to share the gospel, you are blessed. About 1/3 of
the world do not even know who the one true God is.

18. If you can hold someone's hand, hug another person, touch someone
on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can offer God's healing
touch.

19. If you can share a word of encouragement with someone else, and do
it with His love in your heart, you are blessed because you have
learned how to give.

20. If you have the conviction to stand fast upon His Word and His
promises, no matter what, you are blessed because you are learning
patience, endurance, and tenacity.

21. If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly
thankful, you are blessed because most people can, but many will not.

May God Bless You And Keep You Safe.

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REPITITION

2011-09-19T07:47:00.000-04:00

REPITITION
By Sally I. Kennedy
September 19, 2011

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love.
Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears
for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell
can separate us from God's love. No power in the sky above or in the
earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to
separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our
Lord. Romans 8:38,39 NLT

Repetition

It was a small hand that held the slice of bread while wielding a
butter spreader in the other. My granddaughter was visiting, and she
was resolutely determined to butter the toast herself. It was slow
going, and we had to try another couple of pieces. She finally
acquiesced to a little help because she eventually wanted to sprinkle
on the cinnamon sugar and eat it!

Her steadfastness to the project interested me; I thought of how we
learn by repetition. Do something over and over, we get better at it.
Kids can drive you crazy singing the same little song over and over
and over, but that is how we learn, all of us, by repetition.

if we had an earthly father who didn't demonstrate love for us, we
still have a heavenly father who repeatedly shows us how much He loves
us. We can learn that we are loved, by the repetition of our Father's
kindness towards us, His mercy towards us

The repetition of God's love towards us, time after time, day after
day, is a way we can learn to feel greatly treasured and loved. If we
focus not on our circumstances, and for sure not on our past,
retraining our thoughts is do-able. Being aware of everyday gifts from
God help re-program our thinking from negative to positive.
Thankfulness, an attitude of gratitude, goes a long way here.

Nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Nothing. Not abandonment
by a parent, verbal, emotional or physical abuse, rejection by a loved
one, negative input or verbal curses. Not troubles, not joblessness,
bullying threats, backstabbing. Not hunger, homelessness, hatred, or
hard times.

Prayer for today, Holy Spirit please help us to be more aware or your
kindness, grace, mercy and love in everyday things. Through the
repetition of You demonstrating your love for us, help us to be aware
of how very very much You love and care for us… and that nothing ever
can or will separate us from Your Love, in Jesus'name.

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011

--
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THE STORY OF PEARLS

2011-09-18T21:01:00.000-04:00

THE STORY OF PEARLS
Author Unknown
September 19, 2011

Pearls are a product of pain. When a grain of sand pierces the shell
of an oyster, all the otherwise dormant resources within the tiny
oyster respond to the foreign irritant by caring for that sensitive
spot. Over time, the sand particle is covered by healing fluids, and
the wound becomes a pearl.

That's true for you, too. When hardships invade your life, allow God's
Spirit to shape your response. Don't be bitter. Don't rush ahead of
His plan. Rest in Him. Allow Him time to turn that irritation into an
opportunity for your growth - and watch a beautiful pearl emerge from
your set of circumstances.

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let
patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire,
wanting nothing." - James 1:2-4 (KJV)

"When you flee temptation, be sure you don't leave a forwarding
address."

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FOUR WIVES

2011-09-14T06:49:00.000-04:00

FOUR WIVES
Author Unknown
September 21, 2011

There was a rich merchant who had 4 wives. He loved the 4th wife the
most and adorned her with rich robes and treated her to delicacies. He
took great care of her and gave her nothing but the best. He also
loved the 3rd wife very much. He's very proud of her and always wanted
to show her off to his friends. However, the merchant is always in
great fear that she might run away with some other men. He too, loved
his 2nd wife. She is a very considerate person, always patient and in
fact is the merchant's confidante. Whenever the merchant faced some
problems, he always turned to his 2nd wife and she would always help
him out and tide him through difficult times. Now, the merchant's 1st
wife is a very loyal partner and has made great contributions in
maintaining his wealth and business as well as taking care of the
household. However, the merchant did not love the first wife and
although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her.

One day, the merchant fell ill. Before long, he knew that he was going
to
die soon. He thought of his luxurious life and told himself, "Now I
have 4
wives with me. But when I die, I'll be alone. How lonely I'll be!
Thus, he
asked the 4th wife, "I loved you most, endowed you with the finest
clothing
and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow
me
and keep me company?" "No way!" replied the 4th wife and she walked
away
without another word. The answer cut like a sharp knife right into the
merchant's heart.

The sad merchant then asked the 3rd wife, "I have loved you so much
for all my life. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me
company?" "No!" replied the 3rd wife. "Life is so good over here! I'm
going to remarry when you die!" The merchant's heart sank and turned
cold.

He then asked the 2nd wife, "I always turned to you for help and
you've always helped me out. Now I need your help again. When I die,
will you follow me and keep me company?" "I'm sorry, I can't help you
out this time!" replied the 2nd wife. "At the very most, I can only
send you to your
grave." The answer came like a bolt of thunder and the merchant was
devastated.

Then a voice called out : "I'll leave with you. I'll follow you no
matter where you go." The merchant looked up and there was his first
wife. She was so skinny, almost like she suffered from malnutrition.
Greatly grieved, the merchant said, "I should have taken much better
care of you while I could have!"

Actually, we all have 4 wives in our lives. The 4th wife is our body.
No matter how much time and effort we lavish in making it look good,
it'll leave us when we die. Our 3rd wife? Our possessions, status and
wealth. When we die, they all go to others. The 2nd wife is our family
and friends. No matter how close they had been there for us when we're
alive, the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave. The 1st
wife is in fact our soul, often neglected in our pursuit of material
wealth and sensual pleasure. Guess what? It is actually the only thing
that follows us wherever we go. Perhaps it's a good idea to cultivate
and strengthen it now rather than to wait until we're on our deathbed
to lament.

--
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DOES GOD STILL SPEAK TO HIS PEOPLE?

2011-09-13T11:18:00.000-04:00

DOES GOD STILL SPEAK TO HIS PEOPLE?
Author Unknown
September 13, 2011

A young man had been to Wednesday night Bible Study. The Pastor had
shared about listening to God and obeying the Lord's voice.

The young man couldn't help but wonder, "Does God still speak to His
people?"

After service, he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and
they discussed the message. Several different ones talked about how
God had led them in different ways.

It was about ten o'clock when the young man started driving home.
Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, "God.. If you still speak
to people, speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey."

As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest
thought, stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out
loud, "God is that you?" He didn't get a reply and started on toward
home. But again,
the thought, buy a gallon of milk. The young man thought about Samuel
and how he didn't recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel
ran to Eli.

"Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk." It didn't seem
like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk.

He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward
home. As he passed Seventh Street, he again felt the urge, "Turn down
that street."

This is crazy he thought and drove on pass the intersection. Again, he
felt that he should turn down Seventh Street. At the next
intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly,
he said out loud, "Okay, God, remember I....He drove several blocks,
when suddenly, he felt like he should stop. He pulled over to the curb
and looked around. He was in a semi-commercial area of town. It wasn't
the best but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either.

The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark like the
people were already in bed.

Again, he sensed something, "Go and give the milk to the people in the
house across the street." The young man looked at the house. It was
dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were
already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the
car seat.

"Lord, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up,
they are going to be mad and I will look stupid." Again, he felt like
he should go and give the milk. Finally, he opened the door, "Okay
God, if this is
you, I will go to the door and I will give them the milk. If you want
me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess
that will count for something but if they don't answer right away, I
am out of here." He walked across the street and rang the bell. He
could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled out, "Who is it?
What do you want?" Then the door opened before the young man could get
away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked
like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he
didn't seem to happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep.
"What is it?" The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, "Here, I
brought this to you." The man took the milk and rushed down a hall way
speaking loudly in Spanish. Then from down the hall came a woman
carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her
holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down
his face. The man began speaking, speaking and half crying, "We were
just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of
money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and
asking God to show me how to get some milk."

His wife in the kitchen yelled out, "I asked him to send an Angel with
some. Are you an Angel?" The young man reached into his wallet and
pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He
turned and walked back towards his car and the tears were streaming
down his face.

He knew that God still answers prayers and that God still speaks to
His people.

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CAN YOU RELATE?

2011-09-12T19:03:00.000-04:00

CAN YOU RELATE?
Author Unknown
September 12, 2011

I drive into work listening to gospel music or a pre-recorded sermon
on the radio. I get out of the car and walk to the building entrance.

As I open the building door I leave just enough room for me to get in
and I leave Jesus standing outside as the door closes behind me. He's
standing with His palms on the door glass and watches me as I get on
the elevator.

His eyes are sad and He turns and goes to sit on the stone bench.
There He'll sit patiently and wait for me for the next 9 hours.

First two hours of work - I fuss and complain about things not going
right. Jesus, sitting with his chin in His hand looks upward toward
the building wishing He could help me.

By lunch time - I'm flustered, regretting I work in this place and
sputtering bitterness all over folks.

Jesus comes around to the side of the building where my cubicle is
located. He looks up from the ground trying to get my attention but I
can't hear him; my focus is on my problems.

Jesus goes back to the front of the building, sits down and continues
to wait for me. He thinks to Himself as He looks up to the third
floor, "She went in there defenseless. If only she had taken me in
there with her. When will she learn?"

End of the day - I'm pooped, run down, no energy, irritable &
frustrated. I leave the building & Jesus gets up happily to greet me
but I'm in no mood for Him now. I've just been to hell and back and
the last thing I want to do is be bothered with anyone.

God just actually showed me this is how I'VE been acting. He showed me
each act and worst of all, He let Me feel a small portion of how
grieved he was because of my actions and attitude. I left Jesus
standing outside, almost let the door smack him in His face.

From time to time our jobs overwhelm us and we completely forget to
"take Jesus with us". We may not go around cursing anyone out or
punching anyone in the face (hopefully not) but what are our actions
saying about us and about who or whose we are?

We are the salt of the Earth and the light of the world. A city on a
hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under
a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to
everyone in the house. Matt. 5:13-15.

We should be bringing peace to our jobs and not be the cause of
confusion. We should be the ones to bring our gifts & talents to the
table to help in WHATEVER area God has chosen for us to work in.

Col.3:23-24-"Whatever you do, work at it with ALL your heart, as
working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will
receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord
Christ you are serving."

--
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B-I-B-L-E

2011-09-10T11:19:00.000-04:00

B-I-B-L-E
Author Unknown
September 10, 2011

A father was approached by his small son, who told him proudly, "I
know what the Bible means!"

His father smiled and replied, "What do you mean, you 'know' the
Bible?"

The son replied, "I do know!"

"Okay," said his father. "So, Son, what does the Bible mean?"

"That's easy, Daddy. It stands for 'Basic Information Before Leaving
Earth.'"

--
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AN EVERYDAY SURVIVAL KIT

2011-09-06T14:38:00.000-04:00

AN EVERYDAY SURVIVAL KIT
Author Unknown
September 6, 2011

AN EVERYDAY SURVIVAL KIT
Toothpick
Rubber band
Band aid
Pencil
Eraser
Chewing gum
Mint
Candy Kiss
Tea Bag

Here's why:

Toothpick - to remind you to pick out the good qualities in
others...Matt 7:1

Rubber band - to remind you to be flexible, things might not always go
the way you want, but it will work out...Romans 8:28

Band Aid - to remind you to heal hurt feelings, yours or someone
else's...Col. 3:12-14

Pencil - To remind you to list your blessings everyday...Eph1:3

Eraser - to remind you that everyone makes mistakes, and it's
okay...Gen. 50:15-21

Chewing gum - to remind you to stick with it and you can accomplish
anything ...Phil 4:13

Mint - to remind you that you are worth a mint to your heavenly
father...John 3:16-17

Candy Kiss - to remind you that everyone needs a kiss or a hug
everyday...1 John 4:7

Tea Bag - to remind you to relax daily and go over that list of God's
blessings...1 Thess 5:18

This is my gift to you. May God richly bless you.

To the world, you may just be somebody...but to somebody, you may be
the world.

Send this to anyone who you think needs to know that they are loved by
someone in their lives. Make someone's day just a little brighter
today!

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IS YOUR HUT BURNING?

2011-09-04T08:34:00.000-04:00

IS YOUR HUT BURNING?
Author Unknown
September 4, 2011

The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited
island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he
scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.

Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of
driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few
possessions. But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived
home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the
sky. The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stunned with
grief and anger. "God, how could you do this to me!" he cried.

Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship
that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him. "How did
you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "We saw
your smoke signal," they replied.

It is easy to get discouraged when things are going bad. But we
shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the
midst of pain and suffering. Remember, next time your little hut is
burning to the ground ---- it just may be a smoke signal that summons
the grace of God.

--
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INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIFE

2011-09-03T09:42:00.000-04:00

INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIFE
Author Unknown
September 3, 2011

1. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
2. Memorize your favorite poem.
3. Don't believe all you hear.
4. Don't spend all you have.
5. Don't sleep all you want.
6. When you say, "I love you", mean it.
7. When you say, "I'm sorry", look the person in the eye.
8. Be engaged at least 6 months before you get married.
9. Believe in love at first sight.
10. Never laugh at anyone's dreams.
11. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the
only way to live life completely.
12. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.
13. Don't judge people by their relatives.
14. Talk slowly, but think quickly.
15. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile
and ask, "why do you want to know?"
16. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great
risk.
17. Call your parents.
18. Say, "God bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.
19. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
20. Remember the 3 r's: respect for self; respect for others;
responsibility for all your actions.
21. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
22. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to
correct it.
23. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your
voice.
24. Marry a person you love to talk to. As you grow older, his or her
conversational skills will be as important as any other.
25. Spend some time alone.
26. Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.
27. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
28. Read more books and watch less tv.
29. Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think
back, you'll get to enjoy it a second time.
30. Trust in God but lock your car.
31. A loving atmosphere in your home is so important. Do all you can
to create a tranquil, harmonious home.
32. In disagreements with loved ones, deal with a current situation.
Don't bring up the past.
33. Read between the lines.
34. Share your knowledge. It's a way to achieve immortality.
35. Be gentle with the earth.
36. PRAY. There's immeasurable power in it.
37. Never interrupt when you are being flattered. Say, "thank you".
38. Mind your own business.
39. Don't trust a person who doesn't close his or her eyes when you
kiss them.
40. Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.
41. If you make a lot of money, put it to use helping others while
you are living. That is wealth's greatest satisfaction.
42. Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a stroke of
luck.
43. Learn the rules, then break some.
44. Remember that the best relationship is one where your love for
each other is greater than your need for each other.
45. Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.
46. Remember that your character is your destiny.
47. Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon.

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WHEN A TRICKLE BECOMES A STREAM

2011-09-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

As he thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7 NKJV

When a Trickle Becomes a Stream

I'd been pondering a situation for awhile. It rolled round and round
in my head. The more I thought about it, and all its possibilities and
ramifications, the worse it seemed to get. A molehill was becoming a
mountain, and all in my mind.

A trickle can do that. If it continues it may turn into a stream, and
then a brook, then maybe a river. Before you know it, you're dealing
with an ocean of unchecked thoughts.

Has this ever happened to you? I'd like to say I got it all in hand
and stopped those thoughts dead in their tracks, but it took awhile
for me to recognize what was going on and then turn in another
direction.

The reality is fear, in this form, has a sneaky way of getting to us.
A classic by James Allen, As a Man Thinketh, has many great quotes; a
few are:
A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete
sum of all his thoughts.
Every action and feeling is preceded by a thought.
Right thinking begins with the words we say to ourselves.

These are wise and true sayings. This, too, is wise and true: in a
wrap-up to a cyclical letter to the church at Philippi, St Paul says,
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble,
whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is
admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such
things." (Phil4:8)

If I follow this suggestion, I can expect that if a trickle even gets
close to becoming a stream, it will be checked and stopped in its
path.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me to be aware when fear is creeping into my
thoughts, so that I may turn my mind toward what you suggest is best.
Thank you, in Jesus' name.

Inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy
Sally I. Kennedy, ©2011
http://www.sallyikennedy.com
To inquire or comment, please email sallyikennedy@bellsouth.net

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IMAGINE HEARING THIS

2011-08-31T05:18:00.000-04:00

IMAGINE HEARING THIS
Author Unknown
August 31, 2011

Imagine praying and hearing this:

"Thank you for calling My Father's House. Please select one of the
following four options:

* Press 1 for requests.

* Press 2 for thanksgiving.

* Press 3 for complaints.

* For all other inquiries, Press 4."

What if God used the familiar excuse:

"All of the angels are helping other customers right now. Please stay
on the line. Your call will be answered in the order it was received."

Can you imagine getting these kinds of responses as you call on God
in prayer?

* "If you'd like to speak with Gabriel, press 1.

* For Michael, press 2.

* For any other angel, press 3."

* "If you want King David to sing you a psalm, press 6."

"For reservations at My Father's House, simply press the letters J-O-
H-N on the keypad, followed by the number 3-1-6."

"For answers to nagging questions about dinosaurs, the age of the
earth and where Noah's ark is, wait until you get here!"

"Our computers show that you have called once today already. Please
hang up immediately."

"This office is closed for the weekend. Please call again Monday."

End of message.

Thank God, you can't call Him too often!!! You only need to ring once
and God hears you. Because of Jesus, you never get a busy signal. God
takes each call and knows each caller personally. When you call and
the Lord will
answer; you will cry for help and He will say: "Here am I."

And when you call: Emergency Phone Numbers

* When in sorrow, call John 14

* When men fail you, call Psalm 27

* If you want to be fruitful, call John 15

* When you have sinned, call Psalm 51

* When you worry, call Matthew 6:19-34

* When you are in danger, call Psalm 91

* When God seems far away, call Psalm 139

* When your faith needs stirring, call Hebrews 11

* When you are lonely and fearful, call Psalm 23

* When you grow bitter and critical, call 1 Cor. 13

* For Paul's secret to happiness, call Col. 3:12-17

* For idea of Christianity, call 1 Cor. 5:15-19

* When you feel down and out, call Romans 8:31-39

* When you want peace and rest, call Matt. 11:25-30

* When the world seems bigger than God, call Psalm 90

* When you want Christian assurance, call Romans 8:1-30

* When you leave home for labor or travel, call Psalm 121

* When your prayers grow narrow or selfish, call Psalm 67

* For a great invention/opportunity, call Isaiah 55

* When you want courage for a task, call Joshua 1

* How to get along with fellowmen, call Romans 12

* When you think of investments/returns, call Mark 10

* If you are depressed, call Psalm 27

* If your pocketbook is empty, call Psalm 37

* If you're losing confidence in people, call 1 Cor. 13

* If people seem unkind, call John 15

* If discouraged about your work, call Psalm 126

* If you find the world growing small, and yourself great, call Psalm
19

Emergency numbers may be dialed direct. No operator assistance is
necessary. All lines are open to Heaven 24 hours a day!

The best form of spiritual exercise is to touch the floor regularly
with your knees.

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PERSPECTIVES!

2011-08-30T05:53:00.000-04:00

PERSPECTIVES!
Author Unknown
August 30, 2011

One day, a financially comfortable father decided to take his son to
the country, with the purpose of showing him how poor people live, and
that the son could understand the value of things, and realize how
fortunate they were.

They stayed overnight at a very humble family's farm for 1 day and 1
night. As the trip ended, and during their return home, the father
asks his son:

So what did you think of the trip?

It was great, dad!

Did you see how poor and needy some people have to live?

Yes!

And what did you learn?

I saw that we have one dog in the house, but they have four. We have a
huge swimming pool, but they have a river that never ever ends. We
have imported lamps in the patio, they have the stars. Our backyard
ends at the fence, but theirs goes on and on into the horizon.
Especially though, dad, I saw that they have time to talk to each
other and live as a family. You and Mom have to work all day, and I
hardly see you both!

As the conversation ended, the father remained silent, and his son
added: Thanks Dad, for showing me how rich we could be!!

--
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PAID IN FULL

2011-08-29T05:15:00.000-04:00

PAID IN FULL
Author Unknown
August 29, 2011

Your day in court will come one day, so make sure that you have good
representation.

After living a "decent" life my time on earth came to an end. The
first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of
what I thought to be a court house. The doors opened and I was
instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table.

As I looked around I saw the "prosecutor," he was a villainous looking
gent who snarled as he stared at me, he definitely was the most evil
person I have ever seen. I sat down and looked to my left and there
sat my lawyer, a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed
very familiar to me.

The corner door flew open and there appeared the judge in full flowing
robes. He commanded an awesome presence as he moved across the room
and I couldn't take my eyes off of him. As he took his seat behind the
bench he said "Let us begin."

The prosecutor rose and said "My name is Satan and I am here to show
you why this man belongs in hell." He proceeded to tell of lies that I
told, things that I stole and in the past when I cheated others. Satan
told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the
more he spoke the further down in my seat I sank. I was so embarrassed
that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own lawyer, as the Devil told
of sins that even I had completely forgotten about.

As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I
was equally upset at my representative who sat there silently not
offering any form of defense at all. I know I had been guilty of those
things, but I had done some good in my life -- couldn't that at least
equal out part of the harm I've done?

Satan finished with a fury and said "This man belongs in hell, he is
guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can
prove otherwise. Justice will finally be served this day."

When it was his turn, my lawyer first asked if he might approach the
bench. The judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and
beckoned him to come forward.

As he got up and started walking I was able to see him now in his full
splendor and majesty. Now I realized why he seemed so familiar, this
was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior.

He stopped at the bench and softly said to the judge "Hi Dad" and then
he turned to address the court. "Satan was correct in saying that this
man had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations. And yes the
wages of sin is death and this man deserves to be punished."

Jesus took a deep breath and turned to his Father with stretched arms
and proclaimed "However, I died on the cross so that this person might
have eternal life and he has accepted me as his Savior, so he is
mine."

My Lord continued with "His name is written in the book of life and no
one can snatch him from me. Satan still does not understand yet, this
man is not to be given justice but rather mercy." As Jesus sat down,
He quietly paused, looked at his Father and replied "There is nothing
else that needs to be done, I've done it all."

The Judge lifted his mighty hand and slammed the gavel down and the
following words bellowed from his lips -- "This man is free -- the
penalty for him has already been paid in full. Case dismissed."

As my Lord lead me away I could hear Satan ranting and raving "I won't
give up, I'll win the next one."

I asked Jesus as he gave me my instructions where to go next. "Have
you ever lost a case?" Christ lovingly smiled and said "Everyone that
has come to me and asked me to represent them has received the same
verdict as you .
. .

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ONE THING TO NEVER FORGET

2011-08-25T10:40:00.001-04:00

ONE THING TO NEVER FORGET
Author Unknown
August 25, 20111

Your presence, is a present to the world.
You're unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be, what you want it to be.
Take the days, just one at a time.

Count your blessings, not your troubles.
You'll make it through, whatever comes along.
Within you, are so many answers.
Understand, have courage, be strong.

Don't put limits on yourself.
So many dreams, are waiting to be realized.
Decisions are too important, to leave to chance.
Reach for your peak, your goal and your prize.

Nothing wastes more energy, than worrying.
The longer one carries a problem, the heavier it gets.
Don't take things too seriously.
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.

Remember, that a little love goes a long way.
Remember, that a lot of love goes forever.
Remember, that friendship is a wise investment.
Life's treasures, are people... together.

Realize, that it's never too late.
Do ordinary things, in a extraordinary way.
Have health, hope and happiness.
Take the time, to wish upon a star.

And don't ever forget....
For even a day....
How very special you are.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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MINUTE VACATIONS

2011-08-24T05:31:00.001-04:00

"I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint." Jeremiah 31:25
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. 1
Chronicles 16:34, Psalm 106:1, Psalm 107:1, Psalm 118:1, Psalm 136:1,
Jeremiah 33:11

Minute Vacations

It is good to take time to 'stop and smell the roses'. It is good to
take vacations, where you can chill, and relax, and begin to notice
God's handiwork all around you. It is refreshing; you can breathe it
into your soul.

But sometimes we can't take vacation. We can't get away from our
routine. Sometimes when our feet hit the floor in the morning, that's
it! The only spare time you might have would be maybe the shower or in
the car! So you have to take minute vacations.

Minute vacations. Take a look out your window at the beautiful sky.
Glance at the flowers growing wild by the roadside. Look up to the
cloud patterns. See the brilliant shine on a tree with fresh
raindrops, the vivid variety of color in fruits and vegetables-
ordinary, every-day things. Take a deep breath, and realize, God is so
good, thank you Lord! Just begin to thank Him. It's amazing what can
happen simply by doing a seemingly insignificant thing like this.

It is good to take minute vacations, Especially when it is out of
doors. There is something healing about being outside, even for a
brief moment. And thank the Lord; it's habit-forming! An attitude of
gratitude will take you far, definitely promote change – a lightness
in your step and a smile in your heart.

Thank you Lord for helping us be aware of endless Minute Vacations
that you provide each day for us, amen.

inspirational messages by Sally I. Kennedy

--
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THE CLIFF HANGER

2011-08-23T18:29:00.000-04:00

THE CLIFF HANGER
Author Unknown
August 23, 2011

A man named Jack was walking along a steep cliff one day when he
accidentally got too close to the edge and fell. On the way down he
grabbed a branch, which temporarily stopped his fall. He looked down
and, to his horror, saw that the canyon fell straight down for more
than a thousand feet. He couldn't hang onto the branch forever, and
there was no way for him to climb up the steep wall of the cliff.

So Jack began yelling for help, hoping that someone passing by would
hear him and lower a rope or something. HELP! HELP! Is anyone up
there? "HELP!" He yelled for a long time, but no one heard him. He was
about to give up when he heard a voice.

"Jack, Jack. Can you hear me?"

"Yes, yes! I can hear you. I'm down here!"

"I can see you, Jack. Are you all right?"

"Yes, but who are you, and where are you?

"I am the Lord, Jack. I'm everywhere."

"The Lord? You mean, GOD?"

"That's Me."

"God, please help me! I promise if, you'll get me down from here, I'll
stop sinning. I'll be a really good person. I'll serve You for the
rest of my life."

Easy on the promises, Jack. Let's get you off from there; then we can
talk." "Now, here's what I want you to do. Listen carefully."

"I'll do anything, Lord. Just tell me what to do."

"Okay. Let go of the branch."

"What?"

"I said, let go of the branch." Just trust Me. Let go."

There was a long silence. Finally Jack yelled, "HELP! HELP! IS ANYONE
ELSE UP THERE?"

Have you ever felt like Jack? We say that we want to know the will of
God, but when we find out what it is, we can't handle it. Sounds too
scary--too difficult. We decide to look elsewhere. When He says, "Let
go of the things that stand between you and Me, and trust Me with your
life," it sounds pretty scary. But when we let go, we find freedom and
safety in His hands."

Thank you. Have a Blessed Day . . . and remember that Jesus Loves You
and so do I--and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it,
except to pass it on . . . and GOD BLESS YOU!

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has
prepared for those who love him." (1 Corinthians 2:9)

--
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TEN LITTLE CHRISTIANS

2011-08-22T05:23:00.000-04:00

TEN LITTLE CHRISTIANS
Author Unknown
August 22, 2011

Ten little Christians standing in a line,
One disliked the pastor, then there were nine.
Nine little Christians stayed up very late,
One slept in on Sunday, then there were eight.

Eight little Christians on their way to heaven,
One took the low road, then there were seven.
Seven little Christians chirping like chicks,
One disliked the music, then there were six.

Six little Christians seemed very much alive,
But one lost his interest, then there were five.
Five little Christians pulling for Heaven's shore,
But one stopped to rest, then there were four.

Four little Christians, each busy as a bee,
One got her feelings hurt, then there were three.
Three little Christians knew what to do,
One joined the sports crowd, then there were two.

Two little Christians, our rhyme is nearly done,
Differed with each other, then there was one.
One little Christian can't do much 'tis true;
Brought his friend to Bible study, then there were two.

Two earnest Christians, each won one more,
That doubled their number, then there were four.
Four sincere Christians worked early and late,
Each won another, then there were eight.

Eight little Christians, if they doubled as before,
In just a few short weeks, we'd have 1,024.
In this little jingle, there's a lesson true,
You belong to the building, or the wrecking crew.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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PIANO CONCERT

2011-08-17T05:58:00.001-04:00

PIANO CONCERT
Author Unknown
August 17, 2011

Wishing to encourage her young son's progress on the piano, a mother
took her boy to a Paderewski concert. After they were seated, the
mother spotted a friend in the audience and walked down the aisle to
greet her. Seizing
the opportunity to explore the wonders of the concert hall, the
little boy quietly got up and eventually explored his way through a
door marked "NO ADMITTANCE."

When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the
mother returned to her seat and discovered that the child was missing.
Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive
Steinway on stage.

In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard,
innocently picking out "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star." At that moment,
the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano
and whispered in the
boy's ear, "Don't quit. Keep playing." Then leaning over, Paderewski
reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon
his right arm reached around to the other side of the child and he
added a running
obligato. Together, the old master and the young novice transformed a
frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience. The
audience was mesmerized.

That's the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is
hardly noteworthy. We try our best, but the results aren't exactly
graceful flowing music. But with the hand of the Master, our life's
work truly can be
beautiful. The next time you set out to accomplish great feats,
listen carefully. You can hear the voice of the Master, whispering in
your ear, "Don't quit. Keep playing." Feel His loving arms around you.
Know that His
strong hands are there helping you turn your feeble attempts into
true masterpieces.

Remember, God doesn't call the equipped, he equips the called. And He
will always be there to love and guide you on to great things!

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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PIANO CONCERT

2011-08-17T05:58:00.000-04:00

PIANO CONCERT
Author Unknown
August 17, 2011

Remember, God doesn't call the equipped, he equips the called. And He
will always be there to love and guide you on to great things!

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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TOP TEN REASONS TO BELIEVE IN THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

2011-08-10T16:03:00.000-04:00

TOP TEN REASONS TO BELIEVE IN THE CHRISTIAN FAITH
Author Unknown
August 10, 2011

1. The Credibility of Its Founder: Peter spoke for Jesus' closest
followers when he said, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words
of eternal life. We believe and know that You are the Holy One of
God." (John 6:68-69)

2. Reliability of Its Book: The integrity of this historical and
geographical record is supported by archeology. The Bible continues to
speak not only with spiritual power but with convincing prophetic
accuracy.

3. Explanations for Life: It is the Christian faith that reflects a
caring attention to detail so evident in the species and ecosystems of
the natural world. It is Christ who clothed himself in our humanity to
feel what we feel and then to suffer and die in our place.

4. Its Continuity with the Past: The Christian faith offers continuity
with our deepest ancestral roots. Those who trust Christ are accepting
the same Creator and Lord worshiped by Adam, Abraham, and Solomon.

5. Its Foundational Claim: The first Christians were witnesses. They
risked their lives to tell the World that with their own eyes they had
seen an innocent man die and then miraculously walk among them 3 days
later.

6. Its Power to Change Lives: Not only were the first disciples
dramatically changed but so were their worst enemies. Paul was
transformed from a killer of Christians into one of their chief
advocates (Galatians 1:11-24)

7. Its Analysis of Human Nature: The Bible says that society's real
problems are problems of the heart. In an age of information and
technology, failures of character have scandalized institutions of the
family, religion, and the arts.

8. Its View of Human Achievement: Generation after generation has
hoped for the best. We have conceived technologies that will deliver
us from the oppressive slavery of work. Yet we are as close as ever to
what the New Testament describes as the end times. (Matthew 24:5-31)

9. Its Impact on Society: From roof tops to necklaces to earrings, we
see the sign of the cross, bearing visible witness to Christ's death.
Social relief agencies have been fueled by the direct or residual
values of The Bible.

10. Its Offer of Salvation: No other faith offers everlasting life as
a gift to those who trust the One who has overcome death for them. No
other system offers assurance of forgiveness and adoption into the
family of God.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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TROUBLE TREE

2011-08-08T09:56:00.000-04:00

TROUBLE TREE
Author Unknown
August 8, 2011

The carpenter I hired to help me restore an old farmhouse had just
finished a rough first day on the job. A flat tire made him lose an
hour of work, his electric saw quit, and now his ancient pickup truck
refused to start.

While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence. On arriving, he
invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door,
he paused briefly at a small tree, touching tips of the branches with
both hands.

When opening the door, he underwent an amazing transformation. His
tanned face was wreathed in smiles and he hugged his two small
children and gave his wife a kiss.

Afterward he walked me to the car. We passed the tree and my curiosity
got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do
earlier. "Oh, that's my trouble tree," he replied. "I know I can't
help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, troubles
don't belong in the house with my wife and the children. So I just
hang them up on the tree every night when I come home. Then in the
morning I pick them up again."

"Funny thing is," he smiled, "when I come out in the morning to pick
'em up, there ain't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night
before."

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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YOUR ACTIONS MAY CHANGE A LIFE

2011-08-07T08:45:00.000-04:00

YOUR ACTIONS MAY CHANGE A LIFE
Author Unknown
August 7, 2011

One day, when I was a freshman in high school, I saw a kid from my
class was walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like
he was carrying all of his books. I thought to myself, "Why would
anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a
nerd." I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with
my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went
on.

As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him. They ran
at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he
landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in
the grass about ten feet from him. He looked up and I saw this
terrible sadness in his eyes. My heart went out to him. So, I jogged
over to him and as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I
saw a tear in his eye. As I handed him his glasses, I said, "Those
guys are jerks. They really should get lives." He looked at me and
said, "Hey thanks!" There was a big smile on his face. It was one of
those smiles that showed real gratitude. I helped him pick up his
books, and asked him where he lived. As it turned out, he lived near
me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before. He said he had
gone to private school before now. I would have never hung out with a
private school kid before. We talked all the way home, and I carried
his books. He turned out to be a pretty cool kid. I asked him if he
wanted to play football on Saturday with me and my friends. He said
yes. We hung all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I
liked him. And my friends thought the same of him. Monday morning
came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again. I stopped
him and said, "boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles
with this pile of books everyday!" He just laughed and handed me half
the books.

Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends. When we were
seniors, began to think about college. Kyle decided on Georgetown, and
I was going to Duke. I knew that we would always be friends, that the
miles would never be a problem. He was going to be a doctor, and I was
going for business on a football scholarship. Kyle was valedictorian
of our class. I teased him all the time about being a nerd. He had to
prepare a speech for graduation. I was so glad it wasn't me having to
get up there and speak. Graduation day, I saw Kyle. He looked great.
He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school.
He filled out and actually looked good in glasses. He had more dates
than me and all the girls loved him! Boy, sometimes I was jealous.
Today was one of those days. I could see that he was nervous about his
speech. So, I smacked him on the back and said, "Hey, big guy, you'll
be great!" He looked at me with one of those looks (the really
grateful one) and smiled. "Thanks," he said. As he started his speech,
he cleared his throat, and began: "Graduation is a time to thank those
who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your
teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach...but mostly your friends. I am
here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best
gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story." I just looked
at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we
met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend. He talked of how
he had cleaned out his locker so his mom wouldn't have to do it later
and was carrying his stuff home. He looked hard at me and gave me a
little smile. "Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing
the unspeakable." I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this
handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment. I saw his
mom and dad looking at me smiling that same grateful smile. Not until
that moment did I realize it's depth.

Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture
you can change a person's life. For better or for worse. God puts us
all in each other's lives to impact one another in some way. Look for
God in others.

--
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A WELL DESERVED A+ PAPER

2011-08-06T10:14:00.000-04:00

A WELL DESERVED A+ PAPER
BY A 15 yr. OLD SCHOOL KID
who got an A+for this entry
(TOTALLY AWESOME)!

Since the Pledge of Allegiance

And

The Lord's Prayer

Are not allowed in most

Public schools anymore

Because the word 'God' is mentioned.....

A kid in Arizona wrote the attached

NEW School prayer:

"New Pledge of Allegiance"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now I sit me down in school

Where praying is against the rule

For this great nation under God

Finds mention of Him very odd.

If scripture now the class recites,

It violates the Bill of Rights.

And anytime my head I bow

Becomes a Federal matter now.

Our hair can be purple, orange or green,

That's no offense; it's a freedom scene..

The law is specific, the law is precise.

Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall

Might offend someone with no faith at all..

In silence alone we must meditate,

God's name is prohibited by the state.

We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,

And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks....

They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.

To quote the Good Book makes me liable.

We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,

And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.

It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from wrong,

We're taught that such 'judgments' do not belong..

We can get our condoms and birth controls,

Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles ..

But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,

No word of God must reach this crowd.

It's scary here I must confess,

When chaos reigns the school's a mess.

So, Lord, this silent plea I make:

Should I be shot; My soul please take!

Amen

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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I KNOW

2011-08-05T09:31:00.000-04:00

I KNOW
Author Unknown
August 5, 2011

I know He is the beginning, so why do I worry about the end.
I know He is the creator, so why do I wonder who will destroy.
I know He has forgiven me, so why can't I forgive myself.
I know He is a healer, so why do I speak of sickness.
I know He can do all things, so why do I say I can't.
I know He will protect me, so why do I fear.
I know He will supply all my needs, so why can't I wait.
I know He is my strength and my salvation, so why do I feel weak.
I know that everything and everyone has a season, so why when
someone's
season is over do I weep instead of rejoice.
I know He is the right way, so why do I go the wrong way.
I know He is the light, so why do I choose to walk in darkness.
I know that whatever I ask of GOD, GOD will give me, so why am I
scared to ask.
I know tomorrow is not promised, so why do I put off for tomorrow
what I can do today.
I know that the truth shall make me free, so why do I continue to
lie.
I know He gives us revelation knowledge and understanding, so why do
I lean on my own understanding.
I know I should live in the spirit as well as walk in the spirit, so
why do I choose to live in the spirit but walk in the flesh.
I know that when praises go up blessings come down, so why do I
refuse to praise Him.
I know I am saved, so why do I refuse the word He has given me.
I know He has a plan for me, so why am I rushing it because I am
eager to do His will, when it is His time not my time.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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GOD KNOWS

2011-08-01T07:53:00.000-04:00

GOD KNOWS
Author Unknown
August 1, 2011

* When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless efforts...
* God knows how hard you have tried.

* When you've cried so long and your heart is in anguish...
* God has counted your tears.

* If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by...
* God is waiting with you.

* When you're lonely and your friends are too busy even for a phone
call...
* God is by your side.

* When you think you've tried everything and don't know where to
turn...
* God has a solution.

* When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated...
* God has the answer.

* If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope...
* God has whispered to you.

* When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for...
* God has blessed you.

* When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe...
* God has smiled upon you.

* When you have a purpose to fulfill and a dream to follow...
* God has opened your eyes and called you by name.

* Remember that wherever you are or whatever you are facing...
* GOD KNOWS!!!

--
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DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER

2011-07-31T08:09:00.000-04:00

DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER
Author Unknown
July 31, 2011

I've never made a fortune and it's probably too late now,
But I don't worry about that much 'cause I'm happy anyhow.

And as I go along life's way I'm reaping better than I sow,
I'm drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed.

Haven't got a lot of riches and sometimes the going's tough,
But I've got loving ones around me and that makes me rich enough.

I thank God for his blessings and the mercies He's bestowed,
I'm drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed.

Oh, remember times when things went wrong my faith wore somewhat
thin,
But all at once the dark clouds broke and sun peeped through again.

So Lord, help me not to gripe about the tough rows that I've hoed,
I'm drinking from my saucer cause my cup has overflowed.

If God gives me strength and courage when the way grows steep and
rough,
I'll not ask for other blessings 'cause I'm already blessed enough.

And may I never be too busy to help others bear their loads,
Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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DEAR FOOL

2011-07-28T10:01:00.001-04:00

DEAR FOOL
Author Unknown
July 28, 2011

Dear Fool,

I saw you yesterday as you began your daily chores. You awoke
without kneeling to pray. As a matter of fact, you didn't even bless
your meals or pray before going to bed last night. You are so
unthankful. I like that about you!

I cannot tell you how glad I am that you have not changed your way of
living. Fool, you are mine. Remember, you and I have been going steady
for years, and I still don't love you yet. As a matter of fact, I hate
you, because I hate God. I am only using you to get even with God.

He kicked me out of heaven and I'm going to use you as long as
possible to pay Him back. You see, Fool, GOD LOVES YOU and HE has
great plans in store for you. But you have yielded your life to me and
I'm going to make your life a living hell. That way we'll be together
twice. This will really hurt God, thanks to you. I'm really showing
Him who's boss in your life. With all of the good times we've had...We
have been watching dirty movies, cursing people out, partying,
stealing, lying, being hypocritical, fornicating, overeating, telling
dirty jokes, gossiping, back-stabbing people, disrespecting old people
and those in leadership positions. NO
respect for the church, bad attitudes...

Surely, you don't want to give all of this up. Come on, Fool, let's
burn together forever. I've got some hot plans for us. This is just a
letter of appreciation from me to you. I'd like to say "THANKS" for
letting me use you for most of your foolish life.

You are so gullible, I laugh at you. When you are tempted to sin, you
give in. HA, HA, HA! You make me sick. Sin is beginning to take its
toll on your life. You look 20 yrs. older. I need new blood, so go
head and teach some children how to sin. All you have to do is smoke,
over indulge in alcoholic beverages, drugs, lie, cheat , gamble,
gossip, fornicate, be prideful (remember that's why God kicked me out
of heaven). Do all of this in the presence of children and they will
do it, too. Kids are like that.

Well, Fool, I have to let you go for now. I'll be back in a couple of
seconds to tempt you again. If you were smart, you would run
somewhere, confess your sins, live for God with what little bit of
life that you have left. It's not my nature to warn anyone, but to be
your age and still sinning, it's becoming a bit ridiculous. Don't get
me wrong, I still hate you...It's just that you'd make a better fool
for Christ.

Your partner in crime,
SATAN

PS - And if you really love me, you won't share this letter with
anyone!

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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COME AS YOU ARE. NO JACKET REQUIRED

2011-07-26T09:27:00.001-04:00

COME AS YOU ARE. NO JACKET REQUIRED
Author Unknown
July 26, 2011

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 I 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 lead me to a table and, sure enough, there
was a placard 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
am 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 as he pointed 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 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
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 invitation to dine. Would you be so kind as to hand out
these invitations to those who have not joined us as 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."

"For by grace are you saved through faith: and that not of yourselves:
it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast."
Ephesians 2: 8,9

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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HOUSE FOR SALE

2011-07-24T18:36:00.001-04:00

HOUSE FOR SALE
Author Unknown
July 24, 2011

ADDRESS: Heaven

FEATURES:
Many rooms with a master suite
Spacious love
Open floor plan for peace
Large eat-in grace
Fenced in mercy with room for expansion
Son room with a marvelous view of salvation
Pool of milk and honey in the back
Pearly gates in front

DIRECTIONS:
The only way to the Father is through the Son

PRICE:
$0.00 - Calvary - Owner financing

COMMUNITY:
Friendly angellic neighbors.
Great family and friends.
Praise the Lord all day and night.

BONUS:
Crown of stars, new luxurious robe and golden slippers with matching
wings.
Bring a friend and get a reward.

For more information, call your local agent or representative -
Name, address and phone number listed below.

NAME: Jesus Christ
ADDRESS: Repent Highway and Streets of Gold
PHONE: Dial John 3:16

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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ONE GUY DIDN'T

2011-07-23T07:32:00.001-04:00

ONE GUY DIDN'T
Author Unknown
July 23, 2011

Three guys were tried for crimes against humanity.
Two guys committed crimes.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were given government trials.
Two guys had fair trials.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were whipped and beaten.
Two guys had it coming.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were given crosses to carry.
Two guys earned their crosses.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were mocked and spit at along the way.
Two guys cursed and spit back.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were nailed to crosses.
Two guys deserved it.
One guy didn't.

Three guys agonized over their abandonment.
Two guys had reason to be abandoned.
One guy didn't.

Three guys talked while hanging on their crosses.
Two guys argued.
One guy didn't.

Three guys knew death was coming.
Two guys resisted.
One guy didn't.

One.
Two.
Three guys died on three crosses.

Three days later.
Two guys remained in their graves.
One guy didn't.

--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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THE WHIPPING

2011-07-22T15:57:00.001-04:00

THE WHIPPING
Author Unknown
July 22, 2011

There was a class of young people that no teacher was able to handle.
Two or three teachers had been run off from school this year by these
young people. Finally a young man out of college heard about the class
and
applied to the school. The principal asked the young man "Do you not
know what you are asking for, no one has been able to handle these
young people, you are just asking for a terrible beating." After a few
moments of silent
prayer, the young man looked at the principal and said "Sir, with
your consent I accept the challenge, just give me a trial basis."

The next morning the young man reported for class. He said to the
class "Young people, I came here today to conduct school, but I
realize I can't do it by myself, I must have your help. One big boy,
they called Big Tom, in
the back of the room whispered to his buddies" I'll not need any
help, I can lick that little bird all by myself." The young teacher
told the class if they are to have school, there will have to be some
rules to go by. He also
added that he will allow the students to make up the rules and he
will list them on the blackboard. One young man suggested "NO
STEALING". Another one shouted "BE ON TIME FOR CLASS." Pretty soon
they had 10 rules listed on the board. The teacher had then asked the
class what the punishment should be for breaking these rules. Rules
are no good unless they are enforced. Someone in the class suggested
that if the rules were broken, they should receive 10 licks with a rod
across their back with their coat off. The teacher thought that was
pretty harsh, and asked the class would they stand by this punishment.
The class agreed.

Everything went pretty good for two or three days. Finally Big Tom
came in one day very upset. He reported that someone had stolen his
lunch. After talking with the students they came to the conclusion
that Little Jim had
stolen Big Tom's lunch. The teacher called Little Jim up to the front
of the room and asked him to remove his coat. That little fellow came
up the aisle with a great big coat on. Little Jim approached the
teacher and said
" I am guilty and am willing to take my punishment but please don't
make me take off my coat." The teacher reminded Little Jim of the
rules and their punishments and asked him again to remove his coat and
take his punishment like a man. That little fellow started to unbutton
that old coat, and the teacher saw that he did not have a shirt on
under the coat. The teacher asked Little Jim why he came to school
without a shirt on. Little Jim said
"My daddy's dead and my mother is very poor, I don't have but one
shirt and my mother is washing it today. I wore big brother's coat to
keep my little body warm."

That young teacher stood and looked at the frail back and wondered how
he could lay a rod on that little back without even a shirt on. He
knew if he didn't enforce the punishment, the children would not obey
the rules, so as
he drew back to strike Little Jim, Big Tom came down the aisle. Big
Tom asked "Can I take Little Jim's whipping for him" The teacher
agreed and Big Tom ripped his coat off and stooped over and the
teacher began to lay the
rod on that big back. But for some strange reason after only five
licks, that old rod just broke in half. The young teacher buried his
face in his hands and began to sob. He heard a commotion and looked up
to find not even
one dry eye in the room. Little Jim had run and grabbed Big Tom
around the neck, apologizing to him for stealing his lunch, and
explained that he was so very hungry. Little Jim begged Big Tom to
forgive him. He told Big Tom
that he would love him till the day he died for taking his whipping
for him. Aren't you glad that Jesus took our whipping for us, that He
shed his precious blood on Calvary so that we can have eternal life in
Glory with
Him? We are unworthy of the price He paid for us, but aren't you glad
He loves us that much?

--
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