3-5-2017 Arizona Birthday

Two meetings at different churches: Morning at Mountain of Life in Surprise Arizona, good attendance and a sweet spirit. Preached "Who are you" sermon about our identity in Jesus. Nancy and I both sang a special. Today is her birthday but I won't say which one. This is the second year that we have been on a trip on her birthday.......sort of messes me up trying to do something special for a celebration. Big group went to Golden Coral and did the lunch thing...as all proper Christians should.
Evening service was at Revival Worship Center in Youngstown Arizona and what a packed house we had. Grandpa Land came to visit and he looks great (much stronger than I expected). He called Stephen Land and set me up to preach over at his church next Sunday morning. It sure inspires me to be granted all these opportunities to minister. Preached about faith and really got turned loose. Nancy thought I was wrapping it up twice only to get another surge of inspiration and away I went. Did not get home until 11:30 but I was not even tired. It takes me several hours to "unwind" after such an energetic sermon. Having service here Monday through Thursday at seven pm each night. Come on out if you can.

Many people in these two churches are sick, fighting disease and broken down from hard work and life's burdens. I want to be used in these meetings to bring them some joy, relief and comfort. Pray for me to preach this type of message and share the love of God with each one.

3-3-2017 Arizona

Sleeping better and longer these days. Must be this mountain air. The wind is blowing and rocking the trailer. Took off at 10:30 (again) and could only drive 50 to 55 mph because of the wind. Being pushed sideways by strong gusts make me nervous. One gust hit so hard that the steps on the trailer popped out so I pulled over to put them back......found a short piece of rope laying on the side of the road so I tied them up. How strange, a piece of rope laying on the side of the road, in the middle of nowhere, just the right length, right where I stopped......thank you Lord. Pulled into Phoenix traffic and remembered why I love the country so much. Our navigator warned us of an accident ahead and gave us a route around it; right into a closed road. Sixteen miles too far west, fourteen miles back east, six miles back north and pow; on the original route in the middle of the accident slowdown. I can now put this rig in some tight places. We arrived at Mountain of Life church at 5:30 and set up before dark. John and Cathy came and picked us up and out to supper.....Texas Road House.....yum!

All that traffic made me think of how we get in a hurry, push, shove and compete with each other to be in the front of the line. I would like to see the same effort and enthusiasm going into our spiritual lives. Can you just see it in your mind? People driving around and around the church parking lot hunting a spot, lines of cars at the stop light setting through five or six cycles just turn towards the church. Rushing to God's house to worship. Yes....I am a dreamer.

Sabbatical: Day 5

We returned to the Mount of Olives and spent some time sharing testimonies of our christian experiences. This location affords us a view of most of the places that Jesus was in during his last hours before the crucifixion. There is some distances between the Garden, Temple, house of Caiaphas and Golgotha, up and down some steep slopes as you traverse the valleys that divide this landscape. Hard traveling when on foot. When we moved to the Garden of Gethsemane there was a sweet perfume in the air. I sang quietly "I come to the Garden with him" and just like the song he was walking right beside me with his arm on my shoulder. I was with a large group of pilgrims and totally alone with my Lord at the same time. Time stood still and I was in perfect worship, all my soul pouring out praise, adoration and love to my Jesus and my God. I can't tell you much about this place but the presence of the Lord was Divine. Our Guide nudged me and said it was time to go and I begged for a few more minutes, he understood, in the ten minutes extra he waited on me I ask God for a touch in my body. All this walking was taking a toll, God moved and I received strength and my pain disappeared.Walking out the gate our guide patted me on my arm and spoke a few words in Hebrew. I felt a warmth of love and fellowship with this man. He is Jewish through and through but we are brothers just the same. I ask him latter in the day what his words were in English.  "A Nazarite indeed" was his blessing to me.

We re-entered the old city through the Lion's Gate and made our way to Anne's Church. We sang and sang great worship songs as we lifted our voices in praise. Pastor Hagee preached a message about the anointing of the Holy Ghost and how God's servants were used. He invited any of us to come to the front and be anointed with oil, I almost ran. Sweet smelling anointing oil covered my forehead as God wrapped me in his arms. I was in his presence. Perfect peace, joy unspeakable, energy.......so I shouted......Holy....Holy...Holy and moved out into the bright sunshine...closer to God. 

Before we loaded on the bus to go to our next destination Nancy had a big scare. The restrooms were about half a block away and we took advantage before our long ride ahead. Some how the attendant at the ladies room locked the outer door with sister Nancy inside. The lock was on the outside of the door and no escape. Nancy began to yell and kick the door, I heard the kicking sound as it rang through the courtyard but was too far away to recognize her voice. I saw people running to the area and got worried that I could not see Nancy. Just as I headed in that direction the grounds keeper shot through the crowd and opened the door. Out popes my sweet, quite Nancy looking like a angry lion ready to strike. Many words were exchanged between the grounds keeper and the lady attendant......she had done this before and had a smug grin on her face. We chose to forgive.....but.....the excitement lasted for quite a while. 

We rode to an Israeli check point where day-laborers came over from Palestine. We were introduced to the man that was the chief architect of the security fence. This is a buffer zone created to give some measure of safety from the Radical Muslims that invade Israel. At this checkpoint the peaceful Muslims that desire to work in Israel are given a safe entrance. At places the fence is a wall, a tall wall, but most of the fence is ten foot chain link with razor wire on top. The wall is in the areas where rifle fire can reach Israeli homes. The conflict is calm for the most part here in Jerusalem but there is still need for caution. We learned that this very morning, while we were at Anne's Church a terrorist had been shot a few miles from where we were standing. (after he had stabbed two policemen) Our speaker wanted us to know that this wall was built to be easily removed and was not intended to be permanent. he felt that it removed temptation because of it's tallness. The homes in this area all have bullet proof windows facing Palestine. The hate that we hear about in America is being inflamed from several relatively small factions. The hope of peace is a common subject of discussion here in Israel and most people on both sides pray for peace. If America and Russia would shut off the cash flow to these terrorists the problem would move to a swifter conclusion. Our Architect shared with us that he personally has briefed both Obama and Clinton as to the situation. They both still side with the radical factions and have kept the purse open in every way possible. 

We returned to the hotel for yet another wonderful meal and much needed rest. Our days are slipping past in a rush, our hearts and heads are full to the overflowing....God is HERE!

Sabbatical: Day 4

This being the Sabbath we started the day in the hotel briefing room. Our speaker was a Palestinian Affairs Correspondent. He shared his roll in keeping a balance to the reporting of Palestinian news. He told us that most Palestinian people are not angry with Israel and want peace to prevail but that none of the leaders have the courage to publicly state these views. The radical factions are hated as much by the Palestinian people as they are by the rest of the world and there is fear of reprisal if the leaders were to speak out. The news I hear in America never speaks of the Palestinian/Israel relationship in a positive manner and I was surprised to learn that Israel is full of Palestinian people that will stay in Israel even if a two-state solution is reached. They are safe in Israel and enjoy that safety. 

All of our tour today will be on foot because our guide is observant of the Sabbath. (no cars, phones or electricity used) From our hotel we walked up the home of Caiaphas and I stood in the room where Jesus was held on the night of his arrest. This room was a ceremonial cleansing pool with two sets of steps, one to enter (unclean) and the other to exit after cleansing. When Jesus was put there it had about four feet of water in it and it would have been easy to guard. The roof has a hole about eighteen inches wide to fill the pool with rain water. This pool is the same pool used to cleans the High Priest before he went into the Holy of Hollies once a year. How fitting that our Saviour was put into this room before he (as our High Priest) went to the cross. The air was electric in that room as I could feel the glory of God filling every fiber of my being. I was on the mind of my Jesus as he faced the cross for me and in that room all I had on my mind was his love for me.

Out in the garden we sat where Peter sat as he denied knowing Jesus. Pastor Scott preached a sermon of forgiveness for Peter and for all of us to consider. Peter was told ahead of time that he would fail and fail he did but repentance brought him relief and victory. We should never plan to fail but when we do fail there is Forgiveness, Mercy and Grace through our loving Saviour.

Down the way we were at the pool of Bethesda and walked the Via Dolorosa through the Arab market and on to the upper room. Each step was marked with information as to the ministry of Jesus. Our guide went a little to fast in this area and we lagged behind. I was not up to his fast pace as by now we had covered over four miles. Not since boot camp had I carried a heavy pack on such a long journey (boot camp was forty five years ago). I thought of the pain of Jesus as he carried that heavy cross. I thought of the beating he received. I thought of the weight of sin he was facing for me and I could not complain. In the upper room we spoke of family, togetherness and the sharing of the first communion. Love was the theme and that is what I felt, Love, Love and more Love. Back out into the market area we shared lunch and did a little shopping. The Arab merchants treated us in a most friendly manner, even when we did not spend any money with them. These people were citizens of Israel and told us of their love for Israel and America. (not what I expected) I found one man that was a Dallas Cowboys Fan and he thought that maybe I played football for them because I was so big and I was from Texas. Lots of friendship, laughing and fun in this market.

As we began our turn back to the hotel we passed the south wall of the old city and sat on the steps of the Temple Mount. These were the very steps that Jesus walked as they took him into the city to complete his trial. I walked back and forth on these stones to be sure that my foot would land on a spot that Jesus had touched himself. I was exhausted from all this walking but an anointing rested upon me as I prayed (in tongues) and thanked my Lord for loving me and calling me into his family. I remember how lost I was and how sweet the relief when my sin was destroyed on an old fashion alter of mourning. Tears flowed like a rain from my eyes, tears of joy. I was there, me, standing on the Temple Steps as much in the presence of God as ever in my life.

By the time we were back to the hotel we had covered almost seven miles, walking, on a hot summer day, carrying  heavy pack and ready for a needed rest. We still had a banquet to attend with Pastor Hagee, so, up to our room to clean up and back down to another five course meal and some real private time with this wonderful man and his wife. They opened up to us, answered all our questions, and shared their vision for American/Israeli relationships. My first Sabbath in Israel.....a perfect day!  

Sabbatical Day2

I am standing at a northern point on the Golan Heights looking into Lebanon to the north and Syria to the east. I can't make anything out in Lebanon it's just too far and the clouds and mist are somewhat heavy in that direction. There is a UN observation post just twenty feet away maned with two soldiers keeping a close watch on the Damascus road down below. Suddenly I hear the sound of cannon fire far off in the distance. The civil war is raging a few miles away, people dying, homes destroyed and no hope for peace. Down to the south east there is a bombed out building that had been the Syrian command post just a few month ago. (later in the day I was in this very building) Israel maintains a buffer zone in this area to prevent attacks by terrorists. Mingled among the tourists are Israeli solders carrying M-16 to keep us safe. These young solders are so friendly and often speak to us and thank us for coming to their country. Men and women serve in the army here. Men for three years and women for two right out of high school and before college. I was told that the officer in charge that day was only twenty years old.

Off to the North East is Mt. Hermon where the Jordan River begins. All around us is desert but the rain in the mountains keeps the river flowing into the Sea of Galilee. The agriculture around the area is amazing. They grow abundant crops. The land of "Milk and Honey" it truly is. 

We visit a tank battalion just down the mountain where we interact with the commander (a twenty four year old) and his public relations director (a nineteen year old lady) these two both speak English and they answer dozens of questions from our group. They are able to deploy their tanks with lightning speed any where in Israel and are called the "Lightning Brigade". We all had our pictures made with them and we gave them Dallas Cowboy shirts and Texas Ranger ball caps. I sensed the greatness of these people in these two. They are full of joy, compassion and a love for their nation. I am just a little jealous as I would love to see this in american young people. Back on the bus and down to Beit Shean to hear a message from Pastor Matthew Hagee. 

The message is delivered in a Roman Colosseum. The prodigal son was his topic as this town was the type of place that the boy would have visited to spend his money. I was reminded of the glimmer and shine that seems to be so beautiful and soon turns to rust and ruin when sin lures us into it's trap. I am renewed in my resolve to "remain" in my fathers loving home and never stray. After the sermon we enjoyed a feast "under the stars", a seven course delight. lights were lit in the old city and we walked through the streets just as people might have done hundreds of years ago. I am just here on this earth for a short time. As I walk along I am aware that these people lived and died just as I. I wondered; Did they think about God as I do? Did they wonder; what is it all about? People are the same. 

Sabbatical: Day 1

In a small boat with thirty four Pilgrims we sailed the Sea of Galilee. This sea is really just a big lake filled by the Jordan River. It is clean and beautiful and supplies most of the water to Israel. The sound of christian worship music (the same songs we sing at church) filled my ears as tears filled my eyes. I am in Israel, the land of Jesus, singing worship songs and almost overfilled with joy. Then our guide has the boat brought to a complete stop. He points to landmarks in many directions and shares the miracles that happened at each point. Then he points to the water on the south side of our boat and says: and this is where Jesus and Peter walked on the water. The scripture was read and the place became electric with the presence of God. Our guide pointed to the place where Jesus told his disciple to depart from, then to the place where they landed after he calmed the storm and we were in the middle of that path. I so wanted to jump over the side and walk on that water. Oh that my faith were stronger. 

The first stop was at the Mount of Beatitudes where we walked on the hillside and shared many of the blessings spoken by Jesus. This garden is filled with flowers, trees, birds and even green grass. The breeze coming in off the lake cooled the desert heat and the sound of a single voice flowed up the slope with perfect clarity. My strong voice rang like a church bell. Here is where Jesus taught us of his love, devotion to God and how we should view each other. As I looked around I saw people of every color, nationalities and faiths gathered on a hillside praising God and loving each other. I saw a picture of Heaven.

Next we went to Capernaum to an ancient Synagogue and the house of Peter. The restoration project here was in full swing. The stones are placed back into their position with great care. I was amazed at the thought of how the original workmen carved such intricate images with just a hammer and chisel of brass. How did they move these heavy stones? As I sat there I thought of home and my church, my place of worship and I sensed the same comfort, joy and presence of God. I sang out: "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God" and I felt the hand of God upon my head. God was there.

Did Jesus feed thousands with such a small amount of bread and fish? The Bible says he did, so, I believe he did. At the traditional site of this miracle (a place called Tabgha) our guide gave us a vivid word picture of the event. Each aspect of the Biblical account seemed to match this location. Then He shared how God was doing this type of miracle each day in the nation of Israel. The desert grows food, supports livestock....so much comes out of so little. Little is much when God is involved.  

ANGRY

I am angry today, woke up that way, and I know why! So many of my friends are fighting pain, sorrow, rejection and fear that I am unable to spread myself and the healing ministry of Jesus in an adequate manner. My sermon today will be about how God wants to meet our needs. My friends that need to hear this message the most will not be able to attend. I am asking for everyone to pray for a special touch from the Holy Spirit too spread this message into the hearts of all my hurting friends. Lift them up, into God's Holy presence, and may God bless you for praying with a double portion of joy. 

9-20-2015      Luke 12:4-7

S.       4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? 7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

O.      God knows everything about man, down to the smallest detail.

A.      God knows me, loves me and helps me to be what I should be. I will seek his will and live my life accordingly.

P.       Father; I commit my life to you, lead me into your perfection and purposes. Amen.

Marriage Supper

Everything is ready. Invitations sent, R.S.V.P.s received. Place mats printed and on the table. What a beautiful table it is. now it's time to open the door and call the guests inside to the grandest gathering in human history........The Marriage Supper of the Lamb! See you there?

9-13-2015      Luke 11:27-28

S.       27 And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the pap’s which thou hast sucked. 28 But he said, yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

O.      Obeying the word is as important as hearing it.

A.      I will read, sing, listen and consume God’s word as my daily portion. I will, with the help of the Holy Spirit, live within the Grace I find from it!

    P.       Father; thank you for supplying me all I need within the pages of my Bible. Thank you for                calling me out of the darkness of sin into your wonderful light. Lead me each day on my                      journey home. Amen. 

God Knows Just What You Need!

There is power in the name of Jesus. Power to save, power to heal, power to keep and power to change. May our faith in Jesus release his power into every area of our life. God knows just what you need, may he grant you that need........in the Name of Jesus! Amen.

6-22-2015      Luke 5:26

S.       26And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, we have seen strange things to day.

O.      Public reaction to the healing.

A.      How do I react to the workings of God when I am around others? My reaction will either glorify God or bring disgrace. I choose to glorify God and believe. God is a miracle working God, he can do anything.

P.       Father; use me in any way or form you choose. I surrender my all to you. Amen.

Fear is not of God!

What did the disciples go through on the day between the cross and the resurrection?  Their hope was all gone. Their Lord was dead. They were sure to be next on the crosses of Rome. Fear, worry, doubt, shame and hopelessness was the order of the day. Why? They had been taught, by Jesus himself, that on the third day he would come to life again. They had seen his power as he calmed the sea, fed the multitude, raised the dead and set the demon possessed free. Why doubt now? They were too focused on how they were feeling and not on their faith. People are acting like this right now...... Are you?
Sunday is on the way!

S.O.A.P.

4-4-2015         Romans 13:11-13

S.       11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. 13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

O.      Abandon all evil and walk in the light of love and salvation.

A.      Our eyes will not function without light. No light and we are blind. The same is true for our souls. Spiritual blindness is the result of sin. God gives us light from his word to guide us away from sin.

P.       Father; I confess all my sin and ask for the Blood of Jesus to wash me clean. Give me wisdom to implant your word into my mind and the Holy Spirit to remind me of each line. Amen.

Every Person has FAITH!

One fourth of 2015 is in the books. This has been a very hard year in many ways. Still ashamed of the man in the white house and all the folks in congress. This economy boom has missed everybody I know. Our family has lost several loved ones and I am still overweight. I am glad that my faith has not changed. I might be missing me some of my wants ..... But .... ALL of my needs have arrived on time and in good condition. Look to God my friend. He is the WAY, TRUTH AND THE LIFE!

S.O.A.P.

3-31-2015      Romans 12:19-21

S.       19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

O.      This is how Christians are to treat bad people.

A.      This is not normal thinking or actions in American society. I was not raised to be passive. I must have a change of heart and mind to accomplish this type of faith.

P.       Father; create in me this type of spirit and may it shine out of me to those around me. Amen.

Healing Faith

I think my "believer" is out of whack. I am seeking for faith that will move mountains .... the real thing .... first church, blind eye opening, leprosy destroying, demon chasing .... FAITH! Pray for me to find it.


S.O.A.P.

3-26-2015      Romans 12:6-8

S.       6Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

O.      How to use a gifting.

A.      The gift within me is from the Lord and I will minister (use) the gift in a holy manner. I will remember that the gift is to benefit the body of Christ.

P.       Father; use me Lord to win souls, encourage Saints and bless all I contact. Fill me with the oil of gladness as I praise you. Amen.

Healing Faith Please

Why does life have so much pain? Why do good people suffer? When will it ever end? These thoughts are in my head this morning because of all the suffering I see around me. Sick children running high unexplained temperatures, dear friends with added problems from diabetes, falls, heart malfunction......on and on. The mental stress seems to be as heavy as the physical maladies. I want God to give me a healing type of faith like he gave to the Apostles in the Bible. Pray with me and let's agree together for this gift.


S.O.A.P.

2-22-2015      Romans 8:12-14

S.       12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

O.     How to be a son of God!

A.      I can be totally free from all fleshly bondage by simply inviting the Holy Spirit into my life and then responding to his leadership; less of me, more of God.

     P.            Father in Heaven; fill me so full of your Holy Spirit that no room for my flesh remains. Use me up                  as a servant as I Shepard my flock. Amen. 

Worry, Worry, Worry.

Worry is the "on ramp" to the freeway to failure. I can't change the weather, the national debt, radical Islam or your mind for you. What I can change is how much time I waste worrying over the impossible. I choose NOT to worry. I choose to trust God......Amen.

S.O.A.P.

1-17-2015      Romans 4:14-25

S.       14 for if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: 15 because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, 17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. 18 Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, so shall thy seed be. 19 And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb: 20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. 22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. 23 Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; 24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; 25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

O.      Like Abraham, all must come to God by faith and not by legalism.

A.      Faith must be used to increase and become strong. Faith will keep us from worry and fear and will aid us in our search for peace.

     P.       Father; my faith is in you, keep me from straying. Open my eyes and let me see. Amen.

Representing Jesus

I represent Christ in all I do. This should be our goal and desire each day as we go through life. I am no longer my own, I have been bought with a very high price; the Blood of Jesus. The very best that God had to offer, his son, took my place on the cross and paid the ultimate price to redeem me. I will live in gratitude and appreciation and represent myself in a Christ-like manner.

S.O.A.P.

1-15-2015      Romans 4:1-3

S.       1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? 2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. 3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

O.      Believing brought Abraham into a righteous place before God, not his works.

A.      Works are a natural by-product of real faith. Righteousness comes from believing; in God, Jesus as the son of God and in the plan of redemption by grace. If I truly believe these things then my life will be filled with the “works” or righteousness.

P.       Father; I believe you are who the Bible says you are; you are my God, my Saviour, my King, my Lord, creator and Redeemer. Thank you God for loving me! Amen. 

Carry the Cross!

Jesus carried that heavy cross as long as he could. When his strength was gone another man was compelled to carry it for him. Will I carry the cross? Will I help Jesus finish his work? I have nothing of worth to give to the Lord. I will give him my love and my life. Oh God; help me carry the cross!

S.O.A.P.

1-7-2014         Romans 2:6-11

S.       6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds:7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.

O.      A man’s works will judge him, not God. All men stand before God equally.

A.      If my works will judge me I must keep my actions holy, I must avoid sin (repent quickly when I do) and invite the Holy Spirit to be my guide and comforter.

P.       Father; I want to stand before you and hear the words “well done”. I put my trust in Jesus and fall before you in worship. Lead me today into your perfect will. Amen.

Romans

Trouble, trials and a stretching of our faith on this first day of the new year. Both daughters in hospital and wife and I are trying to cover all the needs as well as possible. Nancy spent the night with Christi and for the first time in our 46 years of married life we were apart on new years eve. Roads may be icing over and we need to get back and forth. We will find out if I can still drive in bad weather. Pray protecting Angels over me Please. God gave us a wonderful "Last" service at church last night, sweet spirit and many wonderful testimonies on last years blessings.
Blessed New Year and welcome 2015!

S.O.A.P.

1-1-2015              Romans 1:1-7

S.       1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

O.      Paul’s salutation to the Saints at Rome and his declaration of Jesus the Christ.

A.      Paul speaks of several important aspects in this salutation: He identifies Jesus in all his power and glory, declares peace to his readers and calls them saints. I need to remember every day that I am in Jesus. I am not a looser, a failure, a sinner; I am a holy follower of Jesus Christ, an overcomer. I am a saint, made so by the cleansing blood of Calvary.

P.       Father; cleans my memories of the stain of sin. Renew a right spirit within me and reveal the mind of Christ to me. Amen.

Blessed New Year

Last day of 2014, I am at the hospital for my oldest daughters surgery. My other daughter is ill and on her way to Oklahoma City to see her doctor. This may seem like a lot of trouble all at one time and may cause some to despair but My faith in God and my faith in my fellow Man (medical folks) won't even let me worry. This has been a year filled with change, change and more change. I am learning so much, getting rid of so much and growing in many ways. I think I have learned more love this year, a deeper love for my family, church and my God. Love is on my mind, in my heart and flowing from my hands to those around me. The "things" of this world are loosing their value and i don't miss any of the items that are gone. I still need to sell my 57 Chevy and then see how free I really am, but all things in their proper time. The growing part would be best described as; depending on my faith in a solid, unwavering and constant manner. God never changes and I want to be more like him. Have a Blessed New Year.

S.O.A.P.

12-31-2014    Mark 16: 1-20     New Years Eve

S.       1 And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.2 And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.3 And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him. 7 But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.8 And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.9 Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.10 And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.11 And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not.12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.13 And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

O.      After his resurrection Jesus appears several times and leaves special instructions with his disciples and pronounces protection over their lives.

A.      Jesus is always interested in communication with his followers.  Today, as in the days of this text, Jesus prepares me for the events, tests and requests to be placed on my life. I chose to work in harmony with the will of God. I know that faith and obedience will carry me thru to victory. I have given my life to God to use as he will, but I must still seek to hear his voice each day.

P.       Father; Speak to me today, I am listening. I want to do your will in perfect obedience today. Amen. 

Last one

Preparing for my last Sunday morning sermon for 2014 is, for some reason, quite difficult. I  want to lift the congregation to amazing heights of joy and gladness (in Jesus). This has been a hard year and many have faced trouble, loss and even death. I will look forward rather than back, I will preach faith, Lord God, please help me.

S.O.A.P.

12-27-2014    Mark 15:5-15

S.            5 But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate marvelled.6 Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.7And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection.8 And the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them.9 But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?10 For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy.11 But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.12 And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?13 And they cried out again, Crucify him.14 Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.15 And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.

O.           The crowd calls for the release of Barabbas and the crucifixion of Jesus.

A.           Following the crowd can lead to many mistakes and sin. I will follow the God and use Jesus as my example, even at great cost.

P.             Father; I am determined to follow the example of Jesus but I am week and unlearned. Teach me his ways, help me to think pure thoughts, have holy ideas and give me endurance that I might overcome. Amen.

Too Busy?

Busy, busy, busy and never catching up. I call that normal. So glad that every item on the list is not essential. I will do what I can, and be happy.....just move the remainder of the items to tomorrow's list, then about once a month.....throw the list away and start over.....no problem. The world goes on.....even after I don't get everything done. Just be happy where you are and with who you are, in Jesus, of course.

S.O.A.P.

12-19-2014    Mark 14:17-21

S.       17 And in the evening he cometh with the twelve.18 And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.19 And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I?20 And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish.21 The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.

O.      Jesus reveals his knowledge of the betrayal of Judas.

A.      Jesus reveals the truth to me to warn me and keep me from sinning. This is his love in action in my life, not judgment. He wants to spare me from judgment and pain of failure.

      P.       Father; thank you for mercy and favor. Speak to me….I am listening. Amen.