Amenlady

Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children.

2008-10-26T23:08:00.000-07:00

Words fail, when the depth of emotion is so vast, so inexpressible ....... but we must try, so that our joy be shared.

Born less than 24 hours ago, our 8th grandchild, but every bit as sweet, wonderful and loved, as those that have come before... 12 years ago, we waited anxiously for our first; Chancellor, then Haley (9), Micah (7), Lucas(5), Sofia(4), Matthew(3), Josiah(2), and now Ethan.

The bible says; "Children are a blessing from the LORD, blessed is he whose quiver is full of them." Our quiver is full and we thank you LORD, we acknowledge YOU LORD, the giver of every good and perfect gift. You who makes one fruitful and opens the womb. We praise YOUR Name Lord JESUS Christ! Thanks be to you! Glory and honor to you Oh LORD, now and forever. May Your name be praised to every generation and by every child you bless our family with. May Each one come to know you Lord and love you with abandon and passion and holy zeal. This is my prayer, for my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, if you should tarry.

Psalm 71:18

"Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God.

Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles

to all who come after me."

"Come NOW", says the Lord, "Let us reason together,"

2008-09-16T07:38:00.000-07:00

My women's bible study this week is on Isaiah chapters 1 & 2, it is so rich in the history of Israel from about 700BC, and yet so current. The indictment that God makes towards Judah is relevant in modern America (and beyond). It still astounds me though, the sure mercies, the tender mercies of our God. He calls out to even the most wretched with love and longing, pleading with us to come home, like the old hymn says; "Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me, see on the portals he is watching and waiting, watching for you and for me; come home, come home, all who are broken come home.... dear sinner come home"

Perhaps you have left your first love (and make no mistake, Jesus Christ should be and deserves to be your first love, your primary passion) and you are feeling the darkness has crept in to your own heart and soul, then hear the word of the Lord: Isaiah 1:18 "Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD, though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow, though the be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

"Come now, no season can be better. IF ye tardy till you're better, ye will never come at all. Come now; you may never have another warning; the heart may never be so tender as it is to-day. Come now; no other eyes may ever weep over you; no other heart m ay ever agonize for your salvation; Come now; it is God's time; tomorrow is the devil's time. Today if ye will hear his voice harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, when your father's tempted Me and proved Me in the wilderness and say My works." Come now. Why delay to be happy? Would you put off your wedding-day? Will you postpone the hour when you are pardoned and delivered? Come now: the bowels of Jehovah yearn for YOU. The eye of your father sees you afar off, and he runs to meet you. Come now, the church is praying for you; these are revival times; ministers are more earnest." Spurgeon

"And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, who try to look pale and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting."

2008-09-05T08:10:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking allot lately about the topic of fasting. It is not a topic that you hear much about these days, but the bible has much to say about it: In Ezra, God's people fasted and sought the Lord for special protection from their enemies in an extraordinary battle. Esther fasted and prayed for 3 days and asked all of Israel to do the same, that she would have the opportunity to speak to the King on their behalf and save the nation. There are many other specific situations to which the idea of going without food for a time, in order to seek God's face and favor are given in the scriptures. Jesus taught his disciples on fasting many times, presupposing that they would practice fasting. He told them to not do it for the approval of men, but to seek God privately. Jesus even suggested that it would give them power over demons, that they had been powerless to cast out of a young boy in Matthew 17.

There are people gathering all across the USA to fast and pray and seek God on behalf of certain strongholds effecting our country and freedoms. I would urge you to consider this ancient practice, that the Lord's power be made manifest in your life. I would ask you to pray for me also, as I endeavor to seek the Lord for fresh wind and fresh fire. May GOD Most High, have His way in our lives, our families, our churches, our workplaces, our country and our world. It is all His anyway, but the usurper seems to be taking more ground daily. Let us go forth in HIS wonderful Name, into the enemies camp and take back what he has stolen from us. There are some wonderful books written on this subject as well, but I would simply encourage you to open up your bible and see what it says regarding fasting and prayer and then simply obey what the Spirit is speaking to your heart. Let us join together and seek God according to His Word and Will In Isaiah 58.

According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him

2008-06-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

It has been too long since my last entry here, so I will catch you up on our lives. Ron is doing really well, he was off of work for one week and then back to the profession he loves so much. He and I moved back to our home in Escondido in March and have been sharing our home with our son Miles, his wife Andrea and son Paul, not to mention 2 dogs and a cat.
I took a temporary job as a receptionist in a nearby town, which has been a blessing. I have made more friends and the Lord speaks to me there on a regular basis. I am working in a nursing home, so the topics of life and death are a daily reality, clearly seen and understood, which causes one to consider their own times and purposes.
I want to live current to keep my ways in line with that of God's revealed will. You may ask, how do I know what that is? You begin by asking God to show you His ways and start to read the Holy Bible. Everything pertaining to life and godliness is available to you through God and His love letter to all people; the Bible.
This may seem overly simplistic to some, but it remains the truth, that will allow one to find true freedom and eternal life. Jesus said; "Come unto me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest." Are you weighed down with the cares of this life? Come to Jesus, seek Him with all your heart and strength. Those who genuinely seek truth will find Jesus... The truth is a person, His name is Jesus. I am praying that you will come to Him today and cast all of your cares, worries, concerns and fears upon Him, for HE truly cares and will care for you.

The Heart of the king, is in the Hand of the LORD

2008-02-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

God is certainly good, all the time. My last post, I was rejoicing and thanking the Lord for the beginning of a New Year in a mighty city, Kiev Ukraine. I found myself ending the month of January both celebrating my grandson's Josiah's 2nd birthday and visiting my husband in hospital. It was a Thursday morning, much like any other, but Ron was suddenly experiencing chest pain, while in the midst of conversation with co-workers. He said it felt as if an elephant was sitting on his chest; he asked his friends if they had any aspirin, and with the negative response, he suggested someone take him to the emergency room. Thanks Roland for transporting Ron there so quickly.
By Friday morning we learned that he did in fact have a heart attack and needed angioplasty to see if there was a blockage. Saturday morning at 7am he was taken to the cath lab and 2 severe blockages were found and 2 stents inserted to reopen the flow of blood...
There is truly life in the blood. Ron is back to work and feeling better than he has in a long time. Thank you Lord..
Thanks to each of you whom prayed for us. Our times and our very lives are in His hands, clearly Ron has work yet to do on planet earth, for which I am grateful.
All this to make the point yet one more time... none of us knows the day nor the hour, that the Lord may in fact call us to leave the earth and stand before Him. Repent, turn from the enemies of your soul and seek His face. He merciful and kind and will accept those who come to Him in faith and contrition. I know that my redeemer lives and I will stand with Him on that day. I pray that you can say a hearty Amen with me.....

"I am my beloved's and He is mine; His banner over me is LOVE."

2008-01-19T11:30:00.001-08:00

Sometimes I think that I am HIS (Jesus') very favorite child... HE truly spoils me with good things. I began the new year in Kiev, Ukraine and the joy of meeting like-minded Christians there as together we served at a Camp for nearly 100 children. The Lord is doing a wonderful work in Ukraine, I could see evidence of His Spirit everywhere. Of course, like anywhere on earth there are trials, temptations, struggles and sin abounding, but where sin abounds, grace all the more.
I challenge my dear ones here to go.... go in His name, go in faith, go trembling and uncertain... but you will be so blessed. You will be tried, challenged and lacking, but the LORD is faithful and He will use you in spite of all the above, not only that, but He will bless you and build you in reliance upon Him.
Thank you, all those who were faithful to lift even one prayer for me, and for those who gave, so I could go... Thank you! You share in whatever work was done in His name and for His glory. I pray that soon, I will get the opportunity to serve as a sender, when you go in obedience to Matthew 28:19-20

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even until the end of the age. Amen.

Come Let Us Worship and Bow Down, Let Us Kneel Before the LORD, Our GOD, Our Maker

2007-12-14T08:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas is in the air, it is brisk and clear, even here in Phoenix, and I love this time of year. Even with all the commercialization, the rushing, shopping and craziness it can create, I love it still. I love watching Charlie Brown Christmas, and It's a Wonderful Life on TV. All that aside, I am sitting before the Lord in Worship.

PLEASE won't you take the time to sit quietly and reflect on the giver of every good and perfect gift.

Christmas is about the birth of a King... the KING of Kings, Jesus Christ. Why? "For God so loved the world, that HE gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes on Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life." God loves YOU! He knows you, he created you, in your mother's womb, He, even now is drawing you with loving-kindness to the truth of Christ Jesus and your need for what Christ brought in His life on earth and unjust death. Jesus died to pay the penalty in full for your every sin. We often think of sins as things we don't do, but sin can be an attitude and the Bible declares that every thing apart from faith is sin. None of us are without sin, we desperately need a solution for our sin problem... JESUS CHRSIT is the only way. He declared, in John 14:6; "I AM the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father, but by Me."

Will you please take the time today to reflect on all that you personally have received this year and consider that you need this Baby to born in your heart this year, this day. Today is the day of salvation, do not harden your heart and rebel. Jesus says to you today; "Come unto me, all you who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest." HE is only a prayer a way, Call upon the LORD and be saved. I cannot promise you a new year full of your every dream fulfilled, but I can promise you Peace, the Peace that Christ alone can give. He will change your life from the inside out, if you but come and keep coming to Him, to sit and worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.

I pray the fullness of the goodness of God in CHRIST JESUS, for you today and everyday, until He returns. He could come for His beloved ones at any moment, don't put it off, be prepared.

"Let every heart prepare HIM room - and Heaven and Nature sing Joy to the World.

But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.

2007-10-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

I like so many others around the country, and in fact the world, have watched the TV reports for any news on the wild fires that have once again ravaged my homeland, Southern California. I have been on the telephone getting regular updates from my family and friends. It is surreal, amazing, frightening, astounding, miraculous... these are just some of the adjectives they have used.

My son's were evacuated from our house in Escondido, but it was not burnt... we are among the fortunate in that realm. Many have lost everything they own, but still rejoice in their safety and lives.

I, for one, cannot watch these "natural phenomena" (though now it is reported many of which were purposely started) without considering that they are just further evidence that we are living in the last days...

I Peter 4:7-13: "But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.

And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins." Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the firey trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."

Later in I Peter 4:17, "For the time (has come) for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if (if begins) with us first, what will (be) the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?

PLEASE, if you are among those whom have not received the gospel of God's grace in Jesus Christ by faith, or have gone away from your first love... REPENT and return to Him.. His arms are open wide, He will receive you as you are and cleanse you with His perfect shed blood. Open up the bible and consider this Jesus, the one and true Messiah.

The days are evil, the time is short and the End of the world is at hand... Repent and be found in CHRIST at His soon return. There is only one name under heaven, given among men, by which you must be saved... HIS name is Jesus, call upon Him today. Please do not wait!

"Go into all the earth and make disciples"

2007-10-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

Greetings lovers of God Most High!

I have not been able to access my blog for sometime as the server was being changed. It is good to be back here praying for whomever finds there way to this place.

It is October and Autumn is my favorite time of year. I love the changing of seasons and marvel at how different the light plays on all of creation this time of year. The days are shorter, the nights are cooler and I thank the Lord.

I am praying for many I know whom are traveling around the world, various places to share the love and gospel of Jesus Christ, in a multitude of ways. How exciting to GO in His Name and with His power. Lord I pray that you make them fruitful in every good word and work, and draw many sons and daughters into relationship with you and to glory.

Even when I am not the one called to go out... I can go anywhere in the world right here in my prayer closet. GOD is the Lord of the whole world, "He is a missionary God" a favorite quote from my friend Jeff Jackson.

So, with that in mind... will you please take some time right now to pray for all those around the world whom have gone in obedience to Jesus command to go. Will you ask for His provision and protection? Will you partner in their mission at the very least by prayer. If you are quiet and you listen very closely, you will hear Him speak to your heart and instruct you how to pray. May the LORD, maker of Heaven and Earth, hear your prayers and faithfully answer each one. May HE grant you peace, faith, hope and love in His SON, now and forever amen.

"THAT YOUR LOVE MAY ABOUND STILL MORE AND MORE."

2007-09-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

While doing my bible study this morning, I came across this text; "And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." , and not only was I convicted in my own heart, but felt compelled to pray for so many that I love and admire in the faith. And this I pray; "THAT YOUR LOVE MAY ABOUND STILL MORE AND MORE." Jesus instructs us in John 13:35 "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." Unfortunately, how often have we criticized, condemned, disrespected and been anything but loving to our brothers and sisters in Christ. I confess I have held these thoughts in my own mind, even if left unspoken. The Lord knows and searches the heart the deep things of the spirit. Oh Lord, I repent in sorrow and shame asking for your mercy to be shed on my heart and soul. Lord give me Your love to all my brothers and sisters, that my love (Your love God) would abound still more and more and that I with all the saints would truthfully approve the things that are excellent, that together we may be sincere and without offense till the day of Your soon return. Fill us Lord with Your Holy Spirit and cause us to be fruitful and obedient, full of righteousness, love and truth, through Jesus Christ and for Your glory alone, amen.
I pray also that those who know me personally and have come to read my blog, would be stirred in their own hearts to let the word prick your heart, that if there is any sin, you to would confess and repent to walk in the newness of life today. These are truly perilous times in which we live. I find it so easy to become jaded, calloused and hard-hearted. Oh that GOD will indeed keep my heart soft and easily wounded for His purpose and glory. Blessings to you dear friend, may the grace and peace of Jesus flow in, to and through you to others today and everyday.

ALL our times are in HIS hands

2007-07-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

This photograph was shot one year ago at our Son Mile's wedding on Sunday July 23, 2006

Today is Thursday July 26, 2007 and 32 years ago on a Saturday afternoon my husband Ron and I took vows before God and a small gathering of family and friends and promised to love one another until parted by death. I am so thankful that with God's help we have been able to honor and fulfill that committment.

Life is not always easy nor predictable but whatever the situation it is worth it. Our marriage has been worth all the pitfalls, struggles and trials we have had to endure. I am so thankful to have married a man that agreed with me, that no matter what, divorce is not an option. The Lord knows there were times when we both considered running away, but we haven't yet and I can honestly say we still love and care for one another. Thank you LORD for helping us to honor our vows to you and to one another. Help us to love one another till you take us home.

I just wanted to publicly say Happy Anniversary Ron! I love you and I thank GOD for you everyday. I pray that the LORD adds many more years to us to live and love one another as well as all he brings to our door. Go on with GOD and walk in His ways, remember my darling that all our times are truly in His hands.

I thank God upon every remembrance of you......

2007-07-14T16:44:00.000-07:00

Today has been a sad, but joyful, full of amazing goodness, blessed day. Like a huge family reunion, I saw so many I had not seen in years as well as the faithful flock I see on a regular basis. I am sorrowful, for we met together to remember and celebrate the life of my dear friend Joyce Lynn Kenney. Sorrowful for I will not see her again on this earth, but I do not sorrow as those who have no hope. Indeed my hope is certain and secure and reserved for me in heaven, according to the riches of His grace. HE is Jesus the Christ, the one true and ever-living Son of God the Father. Many people gathered together today to celebrate and collectively remember the dynamic life of an ordinary woman whom had an extraordinary effect on so many people. No doubt the ripple effect will last for ages and go on and out to many more yet to come. So is the enduring nature of a life lived well. A life lived for others and ultimately in such a way to bring honor, glory, praise and thanksgiving to GOD most High, the Only wise God.

As was frequently re-iterated today, Joyce will be sorely missed and loved on into eternity where one day we will join her with all the saints of God in Christ. Thank you Joyce, for being my friend, for caring about me and my family, for including me in yours. We have had so many precious times together, lots of fun and laughter, plus the joy of knowing and serving Christ together... Thanks for believing in me and making me feel special. Thanks for your kindness and loyalty.

Soon and very soon we will see you again... life is a blip... but Heaven is forever and forever new....
I thank God upon every remembrance of you. Thank you for being my friend. Rest in Jesus!

Psalms 16:9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.

2007-07-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

I last wrote here on Wednesday, June 20, 2007.... I was waiting for the passing of my dear friend. I am so thankful that His time, as His ways are so much higher than ours. The Bible says that all our times are in His hands. "My thoughts are higher than your thoghts, says the Lord. My ways higher than yours. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my thoghts higher than yours, says the LORD." I take comfort in His word. For the heavens and earth will pass away one day, but HIS WORD will endure forever. We can trust in His word, even above and beyond our own fickle and changable understanding. "Trust in the LORD with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and HE will direct your steps."
I thank God that in the midst of sorrow and grief, His word is a standard I can look to, a Rock I can stand upon. "The Name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous (those made right according to faith in Christ, by His amazing grace) run into it, and are safe." I waited upon the Lord, for in HIM is my expectation indeed.
Joyce passed from planet earth this morning, to her forever home in heaven with GOD the Father, Son and Holy Spririt. She has slipped the surely bonds of earth, reached out and touched the face of God. These are words from a poem about flying, that I heard and loved as a child. Though Joyce was not a pilot, I believe she is experiencing now the glory and freedom that is spoken of in
High Flight
"Oh! I Have slipped the surley bonds of earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there,
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.
Up, up the long, delirious burning blue
I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never Lark, or even Eagle flew -
And while with silent lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand and touched the face of God."

I will miss you my dear and beloved sister and friend, but I know that I will see you again soon. Until then rejoice and dance!
Psalm 116:15 "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints."

My soul waits upon God, from Him comes my expectation

2007-06-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

There is a place of rest for our souls, even when vexed with the eminence of death. I thank GOD for the gift of prayer, that we can at any time run to Him in the secret place and pour out our hearts to Him. His sure mercies are truly new every morning. Oh, that the world would see Him, recognize the great Shepherd of the sheep.
I am in a strange place of waiting on the Lord today, seeking His face and favor, wating for the death of my dear friend, asking what I should do, when, how. I will trust in You.
My hope is built on nothing less that Jesus Christ and His righteousness....... "On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand."
Lord open the eyes of those whom remain blind, that they may see the light of Christ and declare your amazing grace. Soften hard hearts, unblock deaf ears Lord... Oh that men would call upon the Name of the LORD and be saved.
I praise you today Lord that my sister, my friend knows you, that she is secure under the blood of Jesus. Use her suffering to the end of the desires of her heart. Lord and comfort her own beloved husband, son and daughter, as well as all of us who love her.
We look to You Father God in expectation we will wait upon You.

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also"

2007-04-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

I received an email today, from a friend, one of those that are commonly circulated via the internet. This one, however, I believe is worthy of SELAH; Hebrew word meaning to linger and ponder awhile. I hope and pray that your would do just that, that your heart would be encouraged, your mind renewed and your priorities arighted.

Bank Account of Life

Something we should all remember

A 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud man, who is fully dressed
each
morning by eight o'clock, with his hair fashionably coifed and shaved
perfectly, even though he is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today.
His wife of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary. After
many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, he smiled
sweetly when told his room was ready. As he maneuvered his walker to the
elevator, I provided a visual description of his tiny room, including the
eyelet sheets that had been hung on his window." I love it," he stated with
the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new
puppy. "Mr. Jones, you haven't seen the room; just wait." "That doesn't
have
anything to do with it," he replied. "Happiness is something you decide on
ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the
furniture is arranged. It's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to
love
it." "It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice;
I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts
of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the
ones that do." "Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open, I'll focus
on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away, just for this
time in my life." "Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw from what
you've put in." So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness
in the bank account of memories! Thank you for your part in filling my
memory bank. I am still depositing."

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

1. Free your heart from hatred.

2. Free your mind from worries.

3. Live simply.

4. Give more.

5. Expect less.

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:19-21

We will go to such and such a city, spend a year there.....

2007-02-14T18:45:00.000-08:00

Well tomorrow is my last day of work.... This job at FMCEA has been a total blessing to me and my family. I had not worked in a business office for over 30 years, and God opened a door for me to come here and provide medical insurance, work downstairs from my beloved sister, meet new friends and other benefits for nearly a year and a half. Thank you Lord...
Truly every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of lights, in whom there is no turning nor shadow.
I am excited about the season that is ahead, returning to Arizona for at least a year (if the Lord so wills it.)
"Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will* go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit"; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that." James 4:13-15.
I have learned that all my times are truly in His hands, and that no matter what, I can trust the Lord of all goodness and glory.
I will miss my family, my beloved friends here in Calif. but I know that God willing, we will see one another very soon. I anticipate good things, new opportunites to learn of Him and love Him even more. May the GOD of all mercy and grace fill your hearts and minds with greater understanding of His amazing love for you and for the world. Rejoice in the LORD always. God willing I will see you soon.

I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction.

2007-01-12T15:49:00.000-08:00

My heart is so heavy with grief and sorrow, for the death of dear Nathan. My beloved friends, brother and sister have lost their son, such trajedy. But even in the midst of so many tears, and seemingly unaswerable questions, HE is our peace. If God be for us, who can be against us. Lord of mercy pour out from heaven, of thy love, comfort, consolation and tenderness. Wrap them up in your tender, and infinitely strong arms of love and draw them so close they hear your whisper. Your words are truth.

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9

Run to the LORD, who waits for us with wide open arms, to gather us up and carry us in His bossom. HE alone knows all things, understands all things, perfects and redeems all things. Run to Him.

"Godly sorrow produces repentance, that leads to everlasting LIFE"

2006-12-26T16:37:00.000-08:00

I have learned in life that saying that you are truly sorry to someone, is one of the most difficult things one can do. However, if it is genuine, particularly after deep hurt(s) a genuine loving apology can often at least begin to mend very damaged relationships. Apologies can be like magic, when mixed with love, vulnerability, tenderness and sorrow over past sins. This is what the bible refers to as repentance; not only a mental willingness to, but actually turning around, going away from one direction and a forward motion in the exact opposite direction…. Going from self, towards another, with humility, true brokenness and Godly sorrow. The bible tells us that Godly sorrow produces repentance, that leads to everlasting life, but worldly sorrow; death. I want what God wants in my life, I want the riches of His goodness, mercy (not getting what I do deserve) and His amazing grace (receiving good things I am not worthy of). As we come into the New Year 2007, let us take time to examine our hearts, our minds (the thoughts we have been thinking, and perhaps believing are right and true) our relationships, our whole life. Ask GOD to search your heart and show me if there is anything that does not bring Him glory hidden there… IF He reveals some dark thing, have the courage to look at it, admit it, confess it and repent… give it all over to God, who is not only willing to take this thing, (it may only be an attitude that is unkind and critical) but desiring to do a work of cleansing and renewal… give it to Him. Perhaps everyday, until it is no longer an issue for you, and walk in a new direction. Walk in the newness of life.
HE has good things for us all, for we all like sheep have gone astray, but it is the Father’s good pleasure to give us the kingdom, and all the riches of heaven, if we will walk in His ways, and be obedient to God and His standard of holiness and perfection. He alone is perfect and holy, but we become like Him, when we spend time in His presence and reflect His beauty and truth.

Blessed be the Name of the LORD

2006-12-08T21:22:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how God guides your path... Last night I attended a fund raiser for my favorite charity, a ministry very dear to my heart (and GOD's) www.campalandale.org . My friend and browsed the silent auction then went upstairs to be seated for dinner, we were told to find a place a table #12, however when we arrived there was not a seat available. Down the stairs I trotted to find if there was another 2 seats available so that Norma and I could sit together. Back up to table #10 this time, we sat down and began to introduce ourselves to others at table 10. I ended up meeting a lovely couple for the first time. The husband a social worker for a Christian foster agency, and his lovely wife an engineer from Russia.... We began to talk and I discovered that we had more than a few friends in common. My heart was filled with excitement and thanksgiving, as I could see, what may appear as just a chance seating at a dinner, was an opportunity to rejoice with co-laborers in Christ... a brother and sister whom I had never met before, but our lives had more in common, than many I have known for years...
GOD you are so good! Thank you that truly You do direct our steps, as we trust in You.
Here is to new friends and to old. Reminds me of a little song I learned many years ago in Girl Scouts; "Make new friends, but keep the old, One is silver and the other gold...
You all know who you are... I love you, I thank GOD for you... Blessed be the Name of the LORD, amen.

"and what [shall be] the sign of your coming?"

2006-09-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

"There will be wars and rumors of wars" said Jesus... and indeed since He walked the earth, there have been many wars and they continue to this day.
However if you are listening to what is happening out there in the world, you may perceive that tensions are escalating at an alarming rate. I know for myself, there is a knowing in me that this is it... the time truly is short. The end of the world is eminent, and soon.... JESUS will return, and our eyes may truly see Him soon. There is also though within me, a little voice, saying; "no, it is only your imagination, this couldn't really happen yet."
How about you? Any rumbling on your personal radar?
Check out some of what is being said by those who are the watchmen on the walls of our times.
http://www.calvarychapelcostamesa.org/maranathaprophecy/ .......
I got this email this morning, when I came to work at 4:00AM... http://joelrosenberg.blogspot.com/ fellow blogger Joel Rosenburg, whom has just published a book Epicenter: Why current rumblings in the middle east will change your future. This is a novel, based on the prophetic scriptures, which deals with the plans of the presidents of Iran and Former Soviet Union, joining forces to destroy their mutual enemies Israel and the United States. "But Western observers say that the tide of freedom turned in 1999 when Boris Yeltsin handed the presidency to Putin, his handpicked successor and a former agent with the Soviet Secret Police. Joel Rosenberg is a political analyst and author of the book Epicenter, from the moment Vladimir Putin rose to power, he says, he began building up the military and alliances with anti-Western, authoritarian regimes. The ex-kgb colonel, Rosenberg says, has become the 'anti-Democrat- in-chief.'...'Freedom is getting in Putin's way. Putin wants to be the new czar of Russia,' said Rosenberg. 'He is not interested in a democracy. He is rolling back freedoms. [His goal is] to be a czar and to rebuild the Russian empire.'"
Jesus warned to know the signs of the times... PEOPLE... read your bibles, read Ezekiel 36-39, read Matthew 24, Read the Psalms, the Revelation... READ the Holy Bible, ask God for insight and understanding. He answers the earnest crys of the human heart. Please the time is short and the days are evil. It is high time to awake, for our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. I beg of you, donot be unbelieving, but be ye believing, that you may be saved.

Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. Matthew 24:42

2006-08-03T11:19:00.000-07:00

I have been reading the Jerusalem Post everyday, since all the missles began flying between Israel and Lebanon... I am not terribly political.. but I do believe we as children of God (true Israel) are called to be watchful, and to pray.. Today is the day remembered as Tisha Be'av the day the temples (2) were destroyed. Devout Jews fast and pray traditionally on this day, and read the Lamentations, with wailing, before the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
I have not yet been to Israel, but one day, I will go up to the new Jerusalem to worship the Lamb of Glory. It has just been on my heart to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, as the Psalms instruct us to. Below if you are interested is an article from the Jerusalem Post, http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1154525792640&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
on the lack of fair reporting around the world, and the result: increasing anti-semitism world-wide. I am no prophet (though I ask GOD for this gift) but in my heart I believe it will become increasingly more difficult to take a biblical stance supporting Israel, and only God knows how this will all shake out.. but we are living in the last days, and we need to watch and pray... May we be virgins whose lamps are full, and wicks trimmed... ready to go when the Bride-groom cometh... HE told us, no man knows the day, nor the hour, but be ready, for He will come when it is least expected.... Join me in praying for GOD's will to be done in all the earth, and His Kingdom come. Watch and pray

On the twenty-third day of the seventh month HE sent the people to their homes, joyful and glad in heart for the good things the Lord had done

2006-07-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

Truly the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised! Sunday last, the 23rd day of the 7th month, GOD did send us home joyful and glad in heart... You see my son Miles, Pastor Miles DeBenedictis took a wife, the lovely and beautiful Andrea. What a great time of rejoicing and praising the LORD God who is the giver of every good and perfect gift.

I could not be more happy for the both of them. My heart is full and thankful, at His great goodness and faithfulness towards His beloved children.

Not only were they beautiful physically, but spiritually; internally, so much so, they seemed to glow... or perhaps it is the glory of the LORD that shines out from those whom are filled with His Holy Spirit. What a great day, to be surrounded by so many that we love, all coming to share in this momentous occasion. My heart is full, still enjoying the celebration of their love and union.

I rejoice in Christ my Savior, and in His goodness, that He has given us love, and one another to love... What a mighty God we serve, Angels bow before Him, Heaven and Earth adore HIM, What a mighty God we serve.

The LORD reminded me of this wonderful passage in 2nd Chronicles 7:10, as HE answered a prayer for me, with this verse 16 years ago, when deciding weather or not to return from England.... HE is sovereign, HE is good, HE answers prayers, and gives us the desires of our hearts... HE is worthy to be praised.
"On the 23rd day of the 7th month, HE sent the people to their homes, rejoicing and glad in heart for the good things HE had done."

TO GOD, FATHER, SON AND HOLY SPIRIT, BE ALL GLORY, HONOR AND PRAISE, NOW AND FOREVER, AMEN.

"Rejoice in the LORD always, again I say REJOICE"

2006-06-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

Life sure is busy in modern America... all over the world I am sure... How did we get to this place of running to and fro, barely taking time to stop and smell the roses, or look at the beauty of the sky. I just want to be a voice reminding you to take time today, to STOP, LOOK, LISTEN. Once you do that, I am sure you will obey the exhortation to Rejoice in the LORD always. My Father-in-law: Alfredo DeBenedictis died today. He would be 88 years old in 2 days... He knew the time was near, and told us, he did not think he would make it to his birthday. As sorrowful as his dying is, I am rejoicing today, as He has graduated. The nurse told his wife, that he called for her, and was saying "Jesus" as he passed. That is about as comforting to me, as it can be. I trust, the One who promised to go and prepare a place for us, and that HE would return to take us there; is ushering even now, my husband's father into the Paradise that HE promised to even the thief crucified next to Him. Rejoice Always, again I say, REJOICE.

LET THE LITTLE ONES COME UNTO ME.

2006-05-07T12:20:00.000-07:00

Someone sent this link to me the other day, while I was at work... http://livedigital.com/content/52110/# I work at a computer terminal all day and was able to access it... The images caused me to weep, at the beauty of children in obvious prayer. Images of love, surrender and brokeness on the faces of little children... It was not until this weekend that my daughter told me of the audio portion of this video. If the pictures weren't grafic enough the sound of little ones filled with GOD's HOLY SPIRIT, crying out to him for closer communion, and the breaking of every idol, will cause you to cry out with them. Oh beloved of the LORD most high, come unto HIM, pour your hearts out like water, at HIS throne of grace and mercy... Receive from HIM, all HE desires to lavish upon you...
"If MY people who are called by MY name, will humble themselves and pray, turn from their wicked ways, and seek MY face. I would hear their prayers, forgive their sins and heal their land."
DO we not need our land, beloved home of the free to indeed be healed? Here where we ravage the weak, the old, the unborn, the poor. We exalt the wicked, venerate the degenerate... oh I could go on and on... Seek the LORD. Cry out with HIS little ones and turn not only your own heart, but the lost and dying in our midst to the LORD, the only wise GOD. Cry out to JESUS, the only name under heaven by which we must be saved... HE invites us to come, we must move.

Remember that the LORD rescued you from the burning furnace of Egypt to become his own people and special possession; that is what you are today.

2006-04-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

Remember; it is a word the LORD often exhorts us to exercise.
From Genesis, right on through to Revelation, over and over again, HE reminds us to remember. Remember where you came from, and from or out of what He has delivered you. To what and how. HE is a great and awesome GOD; faithful, loving, mighty awesome, dreadful and good.
How great is the love of God, that we should be called children of God.
It is easy to think that God has saved us for our benefit and blessing, indeed His mercies toward us are indeed a benefit and blessing; however His motive is much deeper and more glorious than our pleasure, prosperity: MITZVAH....
If we could be only get our eyes off of ourselves; our momentary and trivial situations, and allow our gaze to be utterly fixed and fastened upon HIM. Oh the joy unspeakable we can know, even here and now, when our hearts, minds, souls and strengths are captivated by the Savior. We can feast on Him as we devour His wonderful word. We can love Him ever deeper as we worship Him in the beauty of His holiness. I long for Him, as one who wanders in a dry and thirsty land, where there is no water. Jesus Christ is the living water, springing up unto everlasting life. HE satisifys in such a way, that one never thirsts again in the same way. Oh taste and see, the LORD is good. Seek His face, cry out to Him, for all that HE longs to lavish upon you.
"Remember that the LORD rescued you from the burning furnace of Egypt to become his own people and special possession; that is what you are today."