tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91292415592555476022024-03-13T06:38:06.176-07:00From a Front Porch in TexasGranniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.comBlogger111125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-12040181719598305582015-03-09T11:43:00.005-07:002015-03-09T12:36:58.314-07:00DOES ANYONE REALLY KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS?<div class="MsoNormal">
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<i>DOES ANYONE REALLY KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS?</i></h2>
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<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">We just survived another ‘time change’ weekend. Once again our body biorhythms are out of
sync. Most of us will be affected by
this manipulation of time. Some to more
degrees than others. Losing an hour of sleep, in an already sleep deprived
world is frustrating. It is not easy to recapture that hour of sleep. It can take days even weeks to get back on
tract. For most of us, losing that precious
hour of sleep brings on a new level of grumpiness, irritab</span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">ility, inability to
focus as we should, even a higher stress level.</span></h4>
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The Monday after can result in lower productivity no matter what the
calling or profession. Our local school
districts close for Spring Break right after time change Sunday. Rightfully so.</h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">This year seemed especially difficult for me. I do not like the feeling; drowsiness,
fogginess, and an overall lethargic demeanor. However, most of us do like the
extra hour of daylight. But who are we
kidding?</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">We all have that same
allotment of time. I believe an old
proverb sums it up: ‘a blanket cannot be made longer by cutting off the top and
sewing that top at the bottom’. How did it get so complicated?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">There is the belief that there are even more accidents, more
mistakes and slip ups on the Monday after.
I think I would be prone to avoid important decision making, business
deals and even perhaps surgery on that Monday.
Not to mention the intricate domino effect of adjusting clocks, record
keeping devices, equipment, electronic devices and so on. It gets complicated.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">As a hobby farmer I find the
hour of daylight in the evening, means I have that extra hour of darkness in
the morning. There are only so many
hours in the day.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">.I decided to change the clocks in my home right around noon
on Saturday this year. My plan was to
outsmart my body rhythms and do my own manipulations of the time change. However, it got complicated. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">We decided to grill our dinner on that very
beautiful Saturday afternoon; the first nice day in several weeks. I knew I was in trouble when my husband
asked, “When do you want me to grill, the old time or the new time?” Good question.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Even with my best intentions to operate on the new time, we
ended up going to bed on the old time.
Somehow, it got complicated. I had set all the clocks. Or so I thought. The next morning, awakening with the new
time, I went to use the stove. Confusion:
was it set the old time or new time? Old
time; it had to be reset. Last clock to
change, or so I thought.</span></h3>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Got dressed to go to church.
Put on my watch. Is this old time
or new time? Old time; adjust watch.</span></h3>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Got in car to drive to church. Looked at clock; old time or new time? Old time; adjust clock.</span></h3>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Got to church and most clocks were on new time, I think. Some were not. Frustrating with everyone asking: old time or
new time. And as usually happens, some
poor souls stumble into church: old time.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Time change. Some
countries began using it in the early 1900’s. It is believed to save energy for
evening lighting, extend time for shopping and outdoor activities. Many states
never bought into this manipulation of time.
Our very own Texas is considering doing away with it. It is complicated.</span></h3>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Time: man has written about, sung about it, tried to outsmart
it, manipulate it and even put it in a bottle.</span></h3>
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<i><b>Wise Solomon from the book of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 sums it
up best:</b></i></h3>
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<i><b><br /></b></i><i><b> “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under
heaven.” </b></i></h3>
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<i><b>We are helpless to change it,
manipulate it, persuade it and we certainly cannot control it. </b></i></h3>
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<i><b>Therefore, use the time we have wisely;
enjoy it, relax in it and at the end of our time, have no regrets. </b></i></h3>
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<i><b>After all, there is a time to be born and a
time to die. What we do in between is entirely
up to us. Let’s not make it so complicated!</b></i><i><b><br /></b></i></h3>
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Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-3538925351808201872015-02-24T17:21:00.000-08:002015-02-24T20:07:05.514-08:00WOMEN'S 3 DAY EVENT!<div class="MsoNormal">
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WOMEN'S 3 DAY EVENT!</h2>
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The Chapel is
preparing for our first annual <b><i>WOMEN’S 3 DAY EVENT!</i></b></div>
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We will have a gift bag for our first time visitors as a
token of our appreciation. Each evening we will have a time of refreshments and
fellowship. There will be drawings for
gifts that will minister to body, soul and spirit! But the best part will be the ministry that
each of our speakers, musicians and singers will bring to us!</div>
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The weather forecast has been up and down and all around and
all I can say is: “Texas”. Unless we
have a blow-out of a blizzard, it will be ‘business as usual!’</div>
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We thank each and
everyone who is going to make the effort to join us. I am confident that no matter which service you
attend, that you will be blessed. Our
sincere prayer is that after attending
the 3 Day Event that you will go back to <b><i><span style="color: red;">your HOME, your
CHURCH and your MARKETPLACE</span></i></b>, equipped with new determination to
be a greater handmaiden for our Lord.</div>
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Each of the speakers and singers were prayerfully invited to
be a part of this event. Our women are spending time in prayer, supplication
and fasting as part of the preparation for this event. Many of us need an outpouring, an infusion a
new infilling of God’s power and presence.
It is easy to allow the cares of this world, no matter how good and
noble they may be, to rob us of our joy, and the peace and presence that God
desires for us. This is why we are so
fervently praying, believing and in anticipation of receiving during this 3 Day
Event. </div>
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Each speaker is
unique, a success in their homes, churches and marketplace. It has not been an easy walk for any of these
ladies. But, they have scriptures to
share, stories to tell and successes that will encourage all of us to ‘carry on’
in the race that God has for us! No,
most of us will never be a lead pastor of a church, nor will we be a CEO of a
wedding business. Most of us will not be
an owner, operator of a restaurant or any business. Many will not be gifted to minister through a
praise and worship team. Others will
never be ordained ministers, gifted speakers and published authors. That is OK.
That is not the purpose of this event.
The purpose is one: for all of us to come away with a new determination
to serve more effectively in our own high calling.</div>
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As I was praying and seeking God about the event and for
each singer, praise leader, each testimony speaker and each guest speaker, I
prayed for the ‘just right songs,’ the just right words’,’ the just right
ministry’. I am praying for each of our
ladies to make every effort to attend at least one of these services. Bring
along a friend or two or three! Come all 3 days! </div>
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As I was reading, praying, making lists and looking over
last minute plans, it seemed as if a rain drop from heaven, hit my spirit, gently,
softly, yet so alive and real. I felt
that sweet spirit spread throughout my soul and whisper, ‘Tell my women to get dressed
up in their best for this event.’ Tell
them to make a date with ME and attend this event!’ Make a
date with God? Unusual, unique unexpected! Where did this come from?</div>
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As I continued to pray about this event, I believe God will meet
us, every one of us, at our point of need. </div>
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I felt the Holy Spirit reminding me of the wonderful story
of Esther.</div>
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As I revisited this story in the Book of Esther, I was
reminded of how Esther and her people were doomed for destruction. There was great hostility, prejudice,
ridicule, and those in high places who were determined to destroy Esther,
Mordecai and the entire population of the Jews.<br />
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I see the parallel in today’s society. Every Christian tenet we hold dear, every
commandment from God that instructs us on how to live a holy, productive life
is being challenged. Thousands of
Christians are being beheaded, gunned down, burned alive and massacred in the
name and mission of false gods. Why the
hate, the hostility, the murder and the destruction? Why are Christians and our values under
severe attack even as we speak? Anytime
God’s people determine in their heart to pursue holiness, be set apart, hold to
God’s standard, the enemy comes in like a flood to fill unbelievers’ hearts and
minds with evil plots, evil accusations, and evil destruction. I truly believe that those so hostile to the Gospel
and all of us, who faithfully stand for our God, are not the real target. No, I believe that the real hatred, hostility
and rejection is for our Lord God Mighty Himself. This plot and plan comes straight from the
pit of Hell. Unfortunately, satan uses
men with hard, stony, thorny hearts to be his instruments of death and
destruction.</div>
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We often quote Mordecai’s challenge to Esther in Esther 4:14…”who
knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such time as this?” We
forget that Esther was an orphan. We
forget that she was in a strange land, and as far as she knew had no other
relatives except for Mordecai. We forget
how young, innocent, vulnerable she was.
And she was all these things! A reminder
that God can use some of the most unlikely people, including women, to play
major roles in shaping our homes, our churches and our marketplaces! All women have Esther opportunities. Be ready.
Be prepared.</div>
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You are in a unique position and place right this minute for
a reason and purpose. It is vital that
you know your place and position! It is
vital that you, like Esther, follow God’s instructions. Lives and souls depend on it!</div>
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In Esther’s story God had a plan and orchestrated each
event, each movement and each decision so that Esther and Mordecai could work
as a team. Ladies, another key to our
success is in our unity. We must be
willing to work as a Team. If you delve
into the book of Esther you will see that Mordecai and Esther worked as a
Team. Each had a vital individual role
and as is so evident, their unity was absolutely vital to their survival. This Team work, Unity, is even more vital in
2015. We must pray for one another,
encourage one another, lift one another up, and go the extra mile, giving
cloaks, coats, food, and provision when necessary.</div>
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There should never be any call for anyone to feel more
important, more vital to a mission from God.
Esther was quickly reminded, that was why she was where she was, when
she was. If she wasn’t willing to be the
‘woman’ of the hour, working alongside Mordecai, following instructions and
directions, God would raise someone else up!
A somber, sobering thought: be ready, with a spirit of humility and
always keep a servant’s heart. </div>
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As I continued
praying in preparation for the 3 Day Event, I began to ponder on what exactly that
word could mean: ‘Preparation; get dressed up to enter into the King’s
Presence.’ </div>
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I thought, well, in preparation for church I get out of my farm
work jeans; I take off those old ratty clothes.
I hang up my old comfortable jacket. I remove my old faithful work
boots. I hang up my old sun beaten hat to
use another day. I pull off my much worn gloves. They have their purpose, place and position:
working on the farm. These are not clothes to worship my King in!<br />
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I usually try to dress in my ‘church’ best. I am mindful or try to be, that my clothes
are clean, pressed, not too tight, not too short, not too low…modest. If I put something on and feel the least bit,
self-conscious….then I know that is not the outfit for me. I guess many might point a finger and say ‘legalism’. Perhaps…perhaps not…I just developed the
mindset to dress my best in going to worship my Lord. </div>
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I know we have
developed into a ‘dress down’ society.
Schools have adopted this; many places of business, even churches
embrace it. However, it is evident,
especially in schools that sloppy shirts, pants sagging down the backside, too
tight, too low, too high clothing makes a statement. Attire can affect our attitudes, actions and our
acceptance. Ask any prospective employer
about first impressions regarding attire!
Yes, I am ‘old school’….to me, mindful attire is part of my ‘reasonable service.’ Let each person work out their own salvation
and their own wardrobe ….as long as it lines up with the Word.</div>
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This attitude towards
dress helps me in my overall preparation for worship. It helps me keep an aura of respect for God’s
house and His people. No, I don’t
worship the building and I certainly don’t worship the people. But as I stand before God with hands raised,
or with the Word open ready to bring a message, or feel the nudging of the Holy
Spirit to bring a word….’thus saith the Lord’ , I feel prepared.</div>
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However, I found as I continued to pray and mediate on this thought,
that there had to be more to this whisper.
And there is. The dressing that
the Holy Spirit was directing me about was not just the physical, but the
spiritual! I guess I had thought of this
from time to time. I had certainly experienced it. How many times has my worship and praise and
receptiveness to the Word been hindered because I had had words with the
Preacher, with children or at odds with someone in the church. Even if we take
the time to apologize, make things right, the cloud of self-doubt, failure, discouragement
has settled over our spirit. That is
certainly part of satan’s aerosol. We
can make such painstakingly effort to dress on the outside, all the while the
inside is tattered, torn, tacky, tasteless and even trashy! </div>
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How does this happen?
My youngest son, Tim, who is our Associate Pastor, preached recently
about ‘Seeds”. He explained even the tiniest
of seeds can take root and grow into something grand and glorious for God or grotesque
and gruesome for the enemy.</div>
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It is mighty hard to sing praises unto the Most High God
when one has bitterness, doubt, gossip, dissention and discouragement filling
the crevices of the heart. Those seeds are like weeds; they seek and search the
fertile ground in which to grow and eventually consume us.<br />
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It is hard to be dressed
to come into the King’s presence when one has been partying with the girls or
boys all night on Saturday night or in reality any night. It is difficult to feel the Presence of the
Holy Spirit when one is dressed in the filth of immoral sexual relationships or
pornography. </div>
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Tim also pointed out in a recent sermon how the enemy will take
these failures and sins and make them into something that is larger than
life. Satan whispers ever so cunningly, “how
can you serve God when you are a rank sinner yourself?’ He whispers ugly somethings into our spirit
and we believe them. We become defensive,
justifying our failures and thus begin to avoid the Church and avoid God’s
people. God whispers ‘sweet somethings’
into our heart…’you can make it, you will not fail, you are mine, I died for
you.’…Unfortunately, many times it is the lies we believe. We make it too much about ourselves! Satan tells us ‘everyone is looking at us,
judging us, talking about us.’ Really? Seriously?</div>
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One of the most misquoted, misunderstood and misused scriptures;
1 Samuel 16:7 ” Do not look at his appearance or his physical stature, because
I have refused him. For the Lord does
not see as a man sees: but the Lord looks at the heart.” Yes, He does.<br />
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So, as we get spiritually dressed, spiritually fit, spiritually
ready to come into the Presence of the King for this 3 Day Event, let’s take
some pointers from Esther:</div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Esther had 12 months preparation in beauty
treatments, oils and fragrances before being summoned into the king’s presence.
We don’t have this luxury. Most of us are blessed to get a quick shower…a
real luxury is a 15-20 minute undisturbed
soak in a tub. Perhaps, Esther goes on record for the longest bubble bath
ever. But, we do have something far more
valuable and precious! We have the anointing
of the oil of the Holy Spirit. This anointing
can cleanse inside and out. We arise
with a new attitude, new grace and new freshness –head to toe-ready to stand
before our King. So as we prepare to
come into the Presence of our Lord, let the Holy Spirit cleanse, refresh, renew
and revitalize us. Let the anointing of
the Holy Spirit wash away any spots, grime or soot that can be picked up as we
move about our daily duties in the home, the church or marketplace. Let us be washed whiter than snow so that our
spirits are clean and fresh; our hearts are pure and lovely before the
Lord. Let the Holy Spirit strip away and
cleanse us from any discouragement, discord, dissension or gossip that would
like to cling to us and keep us separated from God’s precious Presence! Dress for Success!</div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Make a date with God. When I first had this drop into my spirit I
thought…wow…a date?</div>
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Why
not? We dated our spouses and probably
various others before choosing our lifetime spouse. If we are wise, we will continue to go on
dates with our spouses to keep the love warm and comforting. We kindle the fire with that special time without
the children, the confusion, the clutter and the chaos of life. We turn off the cell phones (or should) to
make sure we have our spouse’s undivided attention. It is proven that relationships need
nurturing; they need to be maintained; we need to be in places and a position
so that the ‘first love’ we have with our spouse is rekindled on a regular
basis. Likewise, with God! How we need
to have a special time, date night, time to meet and be pampered with the love
and ministry of the Holy Spirit. Esther’s beauty treatment and beauty pageant
was not just for King Xerxes. Her preparation
was so she could meet her God. She
represented her people; past, present and future. She had obeyed Mordecai’s instructions, his
timing and his directions. He being a
servant of God, listened to God’s directions.
He relayed them to Esther. Her
heart, mind, body and soul had been prepared to go before the king. She could in all confidence do this because
she knew she was actually going before her God. His Presence flowed all over her and the King
recognized that Presence and was in awe of it.
He granted her favor. He loved
her. She could not fail for she had been
covered and completely immersed in the Presence of The King!</div>
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The book of Esther is a story of a young orphan girl, who
found favor with God and man. But it is much more. It is a story of two servants of God who led
their nation into freedom, who were honored by God and the king and who were
given greater authority, privileges and responsibilities because of their
faithfulness and obedience. All because
Esther was willing to make a date and get dressed to go into the Presence of
the King. Are we ready for the time of
preparation so we can spend time with the King and bask in His Presence?</div>
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Let, us likewise, take some time and get dressed, make the
date, <b><i>Friday February 27 7:00 or Saturday February 28 6:00 or Sunday March 1 10:45 and come into the
Presence of the King! See you there!<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<b><i>Spend some time in preparation for this meeting. Don’t just come out and expect God to shower
you in His Presence if you have not let your heart, mind and soul be prepared to
receive this wonderful, Seed, this ‘treasure chest of DNA’ that He has reserved
for you, me, all of us!<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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Please
take some time and meet our speakers and singers!</div>
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Friday evening 7:00 : Pastor Ruth Christman: <a href="http://www.whitestonecelebrations.com/">www.whitestonecelebrations.com</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Paul and Kathy Miner: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gZpk4yUxMM">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gZpk4yUxMM</a>
</div>
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Saturday Evening 6:00 Teresa G. Lusk: <a href="http://www.teresalusk.com/">www.teresalusk.com</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Debbie
Prom: <a href="http://www.legacychurch.org/">www.legacychurch.org</a> </div>
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Sunday Morning March 1 10:45: University,
Waxahachie, Texas Dr. Adonna Otwell. Professor at Southwestern Assemblies of God </div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-76301907763207072962015-02-18T18:40:00.001-08:002015-02-18T18:40:28.074-08:00
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Directions…can’t live
with them….can’t live without them!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Directions….I find that I can’t live with them….or can’t
live without them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I often think what did people do before GPS and the little
gal on the phone who gives us directions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Did we wing it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did we actually
talk to a live person and write down each turn and each landmark to ensure that
we would indeed arrive at our destination?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I find that I have a very unhealthy love….hate relationship
with directions!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be directions
for arriving at a desired place at a desired time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be directions on how to operate a
coffee maker, food processor or a sewing project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It takes time, effort and patience to read
directions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without directions we can
have disasters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As Preacher often says, “when
all else fails….read the directions.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
often quotes this after a bumbling, bubbly mess I have concocted for
dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Directions.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I tend to try to skip the directions and wing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ouch….as Dr. Phil often asks, “How is that
working for you?”</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, to be brutally frank and humbly honest, it does not
work.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was reminded of this fact just a few days ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got to my destination and meet son, Tim to
assist with a project he was working on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I had not been to this particular place in several months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I focused and kept my thoughts on target:
arrive at destination, on time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was so
proud of myself when I pulled up at the right place, at the right time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even did a stint of braggadocio: ‘Tim, I
arrived and did not get lost or turned around.’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That puffed up, prideful feeling should have been an indication that a
fall was right around the corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
it was!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After the assist, I got back in my car to carry on to my
next destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What should have taken
a mere 5 minutes or less ended up taking me 45 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I got in my car to make my way to my next
stop, I was obviously feeling snug and satisfied and began to daydream about
the rest of the day and how very organized and on schedule my day was going.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Almost immediately I somehow turned too quickly and the
sights seemed a little unfamiliar…but sometimes that can happen, well at least
with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I came to an unfamiliar traffic
light and the area still seemed unfamiliar….so I had to make a decision: right
or left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmm… This seemed like an easy
fix and I should have been back on course in no time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did not happen that way at all.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I had my trusty little phone with me which has an app that
features a little gal whom I can summon for directions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must admit she is pretty good, pretty accurate,
spot on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has escorted me on many a
little trip and brought me right to the door of my destination without one
hitch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, maybe one or two, but she does
get me back on track and quickly! </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, mind you, she can be bossy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Several times I have been in the far right
lane and should have been in the far left lane and be prepared to turn
left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She starts telling me: turn left
in 30 yards; then turn left in 20 yards; then turn left in 10 yards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Problem is I am caught in traffic and I could
NOT possibly get into the far left lane, even with her prodding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I cut my loses and pass the turn; by now
she is adamant: make a U turn at the next left turn! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And to appease her, that is exactly what I
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make a u-turn.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I don’t especially like it when a phone outsmarts me, out
thinks me and well-it just too big and bossy for its ‘britches’….as we say in
Kentucky!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And as usual she was right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I do make the U-turn as she instructs, I am back on course.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Not this particular day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I did not even consult ‘little miss direction.’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nope, I thought, ‘self, you got this.’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I took a left turn after consulting my
very rusty, untrusty compass. That compass is my intuition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I should have known better, this compass has
failed me many times. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmmmm… I did not
have it….at all.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So I took the left turn and began merrily driving along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was still pretty confident and all the
while I was still planning my day and I felt I had everything under control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I began looking for the cross street that
would eventually take me to my destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, two things bug me <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tremendously</i></b> about Big D
streets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did I say <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">TREMENDOUSLY?</i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whether I am driving or I am sitting on the
passenger side, I am <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tremendously</i></b> bothered by our street
signs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I wear glasses and have since
8<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> grade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must wear them
for distance and now for close up reading…anyway, I have corrective lenses and
still cannot read most street signs!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are too small!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I squint, I squint
even tighter, screw up my face and still cannot see the street sign.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not know who these signs were designed
for, but I have a sneaking suspicion that I am not the only one who has trouble
seeing these signs…oh, BTW, gasp when there are no street signs!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The second big bug that bugs me <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tremendously</i></b> is small
address numbers on buildings…or lack thereof!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am amazed at how business after business does not have their address
number loud and up front so persons of interest, like myself, can see them!
There should be a law!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There should be
rioting in the streets!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There should be a
major protest! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So for me, double wammy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Can’t see street signs, there are no numbers on business and some houses…what
is a poor, older, can barely see person, like myself to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>HA…get lost…that is what happens.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, here I am driving along; I have decided-I made a
conscious, deliberate, rebellious decision, NOT to consult my ready at hand
direction gal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I get in this
mindset, somehow I am convinced that if I drive far enough, believe hard enough
and squint hard enough, I will arrive at my destination. Who am I kidding?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Note to self:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>does
not work like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, I kept driving, all the time, not quite in panic mode,
but that little nag in my head, kept saying, ‘this does NOT look familiar.’ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Soon the nag turned into a sing song…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">’this does NOT look familiar.’<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Finally, the nag screams in full force<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">, ‘THIS DOES NOT LOOK FAMILIAR.”<o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I had been driving for 20 minutes and should have come to my
turn to get back on course 18 minutes ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That should have been my first indication that something was not
right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, no, stubborn me just had to
keep driving.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I glanced at a street sign that I could actually see and
thought…hmmmm…that is familiar!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ha!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ha!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oh, it was familiar all right….two cities away from where I
needed to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I saw the sign “Welcome
to Allen,” I shouted. “Allen!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How did this
happen?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had stubbornly driven several
miles, two cities away from my destination!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This severe error in judgment took several minutes out of my planned
schedule.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So now I had no choice!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I pulled over, pulled out my phone and typed my destination in the app I
fondly call <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Miss Know It ALL.’ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I decided to follow… the directions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I listened to every detail she spewed
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mouth was filled with a big bite
of humble pie. Hard to chew; impossible to swallow. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She monotonously gave me direction after
direction and guided me to my destination…..45 minutes later...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Note to self:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>heed
the directions, ask for directions, obey the directions, when it feels ‘off’,
it is off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When nothing looks familiar,
beware.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just because I thought I could ‘make
it right’…did not make it right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
wrong, way off course and there were consequences: time lost, gas wasted and eating
humble pie is hard on the body and spirit.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, as I arrived at my destination, I was frustrated to say
the least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not ever admit to son,
Tim, that although I had easily arrived to meet him, I did not easily arrive at
my next stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he reads this, he will
chuckle some, perhaps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has an
excellent sense of direction: I have NO sense of direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am one of those poor, lonely souls who
someday will be lost in the parking lot for 40 years trying to find my car
amongst the sea of other vehicles.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, after this event, I made note to self: ‘lesson
learned”…(I hope), now, just exactly what did I learn from this?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I learned that even after all these years and as familiar as
I think I might be in an area: follow directions.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Likewise, spiritually: FOLLOW DIRECTIONS.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Too often we think we know more than God and His Word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often we forget or just refuse to consult the
Road Map, The Way, the Light, and the Truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We reason and justify our disobedience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unfortunately, there are consequences, some more serious and deadly than
others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God does not bless a mess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And like I had to do; often we have to go all
the way back to our starting place and do things His Way.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The very best set of instructions we have as human beings,
mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, children, grandchildren, neighbors,
employers, employees and as children of God, is the Bible.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bible…how many of us sang that little song: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘The B I<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>B L E, yes that’s the book for me, I stand alone on the Word of God, the
B I B L E!’<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In looking back at this little incident of my little
direction challenge, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought how often do we try to wing our life
without the best roadmap, the most accurate set of instructions, and the only
true source of information. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just like the
little lady in my phone, God’s Word is ready at hand and available to help
whenever, however, wherever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, as I
experienced, we have to avail ourselves to those resources. Winging it: BTW,
FYI ‘winging it’ comes from the late 19<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> century and it was first
defined in 1885 “playing a role without knowing the text.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See the parallel?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make the connection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Connect all the dots?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did. Playing a role without the Word…….</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wow, does that make me sit up and take notice!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We, as Christians think we can ‘wing’ this
Christian journey by ‘playing a role and not know the text-the text being the
Bible…the Bible being our roadmap, our set of directions.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, big note to self: Use the Guide, Read the Directions,
Listen to Instructions, Observe the Road Signs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Heed the danger and warning signs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just because we hope we can make our destination without proper
directions, does not mean we will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trust
me, as they say….’been there and done that!’</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dr. Phil, it did not work for me….nor will it for anyone
else!</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now…if I can just find those glasses……</span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-23890538442233008752015-01-22T08:35:00.003-08:002015-01-22T08:35:45.169-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">OUR DESTINY!</span></span></h2>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3dqL9JQhpU4/VMElSu5MBCI/AAAAAAAAAaM/_xkgc1e0iFA/s1600/baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3dqL9JQhpU4/VMElSu5MBCI/AAAAAAAAAaM/_xkgc1e0iFA/s1600/baby.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had another tremendous service on Sunday!
Pastor John Miner did an excellent job on our Sunday School lesson<b>:<i> Hold
Human Life Sacred. </i></b>Sunday was <b><i>Sanctify of Life Sunday,</i></b><i> </i>which
marked another anniversary of the day abortion was made legal. Or
tragically: the day murder became legal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is unbelievable that our country allowed
this; and it continues to be an accepted, everyday practice for millions.
The womb has become the most dangerous place in our world today. Tiny lives created in the image and likeness of God, yanked, torn and
tossed into garbage cans as if those little bodies were of no value. They
may have been of little value to the mother and father who chose this, but they
are precious in God's sight. I like to believe that a special squadron of
angels is assigned to these tiny little lives, hovering over them as they are
ripped from the womb and then gently carry them to the arms of Jesus. There
He kisses their tiny little faces and welcomes them into the Joy of the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Abortion, murder of babies, is used to cover up
sin: selfishness, greed, guilt, adultery, fornication. Babies conceived in lust
and in the heat of illicit affairs, prostitution, one-night stands, sex outside
of marriage. are considered 'evidence'. Evidence of the sin.
Man in his attempt to cover his sin, uses this murder/abortion to sweep
the evidence away. But God sees. And like all sin, He has the last
say, the final word and the ultimate judgment which all will undergo one day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Preacher preached a sermon: </span><b><i><span style="color: #9d1811; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fulfilling Your Destiny. </span></i></b><span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was not planned, but he built on the foundation that Pastor
John had laid in Sunday School. Because of sin those millions of aborted
babies will not fulfill their earthly destiny. Who knows the mighty men
and women of God that were tragically destroyed before they were able to
breathe their first breath. How many great scientists, teachers, doctors,
world leaders, were never given an opportunity to fulfill their destiny?
Who knows, perhaps one of those murdered babies would have been the one
to find the cure for cancer. Something to think about and weep over.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Preacher reminded us that God has a plan for our
lives. It is a plan that will bring good and not evil. It is a plan
that will bring freedom and not bondage; it is a plan that will bring life and
not death. This is why abortion is such a tragedy. <b>I Samuel<i> 49:1 reminds
us that we are known and receive our destiny while still in the womb! </i></b><i> </i>He
knows us, watches over us as our bones are knit together. He sees our
organs as they form and fall into the proper place and the rhythm of life. He
rejoices when our tiny little heart takes its first beat. He knows.
He speaks over us, "This is the one!"....and He anoints us with
a great destiny. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once we arrive on earth and are placed in our
parents' arms, every force from Satan and every obstacle on earth will attempt
to separate us from our destiny. Parents do the best they can but they
are human and can set children up for failure. It could be addictions, it
could be generational curses, it could be birth defects, it could be mental,
physical disabilities, it could be accidents, it could be being in the wrong
place at the wrong time, it could be anything that tries to destroy us from
fulfilling our destiny.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, God gives us the power, puts us in places
and positions so that someone will come along side us and assist us when we
stumble and fall. I was born into a family that was under a generational
curse of alcoholism, addictions to nicotine, drugs and many other unspeakable
sins. But, God had a destiny for me. I did not just fall into my
destiny. But He used a neighbor who lived across the hill to take an
interest in me, spend time with me, invite me to church and faithfully take me
to church. She was an instrument in my destiny. She did her part; it was
now in my hands. I had to be willing to go to church, even when it seemed
like every force would try to stop me and discourage me. I had to open my
ears and listen to the Word, even though I did not understand it. When
Pastor's father was preaching, I always thought, 'why is he yelling so
much.'... I had to open my heart, my mind to God. So even though I had a
destiny I had a part to fulfill, which only I could do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tragically many who have a destiny to serve God,
get sidetracked, detoured and tangled up with the cares of this life, the
lusts of this life and the sins of this life. Instead of fulfilling their
destiny and reaching out and helping others fulfill their destiny, they make
their testimony and ministry null and void. If one is blindsided, drunken, body
ravaged by disease due to poor choices, committing adultery AND refuses
God's deliverance, they have no witness. God's plan is not...'do as I say not
as I do'....but we, His called and elect, have a high standard of
accountability!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As Preacher reminded us, alcohol is
deadly, nicotine and other drugs distort, destroy and deaden us to our destiny.
We are so like Esau, willing to trade our birthright, our destiny, for
the pleasures of this world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">So note to self; be sober, be vigilant, beware,
be on guard...we have an adversary whose main purpose for existence is to keep
us from our destiny!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">So with that in mind we must be mindful of our
DECISIONS. Every day we make decisions,
countless decisions. Some of those
decisions are insignificant; what to eat, what to wear, what newscast to watch,
which route to take to work, what movies to watch. Or are they?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">We must keep in mind that there are consequences
for our decisions; sometimes even those that seem so small and
insignificant. Eat the wrong foods or
too much, drink and drive, go on a interviews improperly dressed, watch
questionable movies; can have an impact on our Destiny.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Other decisions can be more deadly and impact
not only our Destiny, but the Destiny of others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Decisions to run that red light, go beyond the
speed limit, pass when it is unsafe, text and drive, drink and drive and so on.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">God has a Destiny for us! Our decisions day by day has an impact on us
fulfilling that Destiny. So be wise
today! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have an Advocate who is
cheering for us. We have a Helper: the
Holy Spirit who will lead and guide, but only if we have ears to hear and a
mind to receive. We have a God in Heaven who created us and loves us and wants
only the best for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, in view of all these great witnesses…we can ‘carry
on’ and stay on the path for our Destiny!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-91885415896273151252015-01-08T08:04:00.000-08:002015-01-08T08:04:00.427-08:00A NEW SEASON
<br />
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span>Seasons: from the wise words of Solomon </span></h2>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span>from Ecclesiastes
3: 1-12 </span><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--></span><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">“There is an opportune time do
things; a right time for everything on the earth:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time for birth and another for death,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A time to plant, and another to reap,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to destroy and another to construct,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to cry and another to laugh,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to lament and another to cheer,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time love and a time to abstain,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A time to embrace and another to part,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A time to search and another to count your losses,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to hold on and another to let go, <o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to rip out and another to mend,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to shut up and another to speak up,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to love and another to hate,<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;">A right time to wage war and another to make peace….”<o:p></o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
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<span style="color: #474747; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There is a Season and as they come and go
those Seasons make up the sum of our lives here on earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Seasons come and go. And in that coming and going
our lives change, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those of us, who are getting a little older,
are aware of this more than ever before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our life closely parallels seasons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">We are born and grow and thrive. We have great
plans, goals, dreams and visions of what we want from life. We learn, we do and
we have so much energy; we are full of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This parallels the Season of Spring in our journey here on earth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Soon we finish school, marry begin our families and
careers and are in the heat of making a life and a living. Hence, we are in the
Season of Summer in our earthly journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Too soon it is time for children to go out on their own, time to prepare
for retirement and reap the harvest of all the good work that has been done in
our younger days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Then, too quickly, our Season of Winter arrives;
gray hair, tired, worn, broken and diseased bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Death awaits us; this is the cold, hard cruel
facts of life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">However, the death on the outside of our bodies is
not the true story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We as Christians are
being groomed and prepared on the inside for the eternal life that awaits us.
Soon we will be exchanging this old, worn body for our new glorified body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To die in this life is gain in the next. That
old beaten body is exchanged for the new body we will have once we pass from
this life to the next.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will simply be
like changing old, worn out garments, the rags of this earth, and taking on a
robe of righteousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our Savior will welcome
us…”well done my good and faithful servant…enter into the JOY of the Lord!”…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">No fear in death…the sting and fear are gone because
of the wonderful love and sacrifice of our Savior! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Here on earth we experience and for the most part
enjoy four seasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have our
glorious, beautiful Spring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spring is
always welcomed and filled with new life, new growth, and new
possibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a matter of fact, most
of us have our seed catalogs, our garden planners and ideas formulated during
the cold of winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We eagerly look past
the snow, the cold, the deadness all around us and see by faith the earth once
again restored upon the arrival of Spring. We are ready, so ready for the next
Season!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Then it finally arrives. Spring regenerates us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The warm sun thaws our weary bodies and
nourishes our weather-beaten souls. Spring is a time of preparation for the
other seasons ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those garden plans
jump off design boards and become a reality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Those flower bed dreams are mapped out and fresh new flowers planted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those scheduled vacations and outdoor
activities are put on calendars, reservations made and the countdown begins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It is in glorious Spring that we celebrate the
Resurrection of our Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a great
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is New Life on the earth, in
the earth and inside each of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of
us have to admit, there is just something refreshing and renewing about Spring.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">However, if we truly</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">embrace the Season of Spring
a great deal of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>backbreaking, long tedious
days of intense labor is required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
pain…no gain; if we don’t do our part, the Season of Spring and the
opportunities it offers are lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
best laid plans mean nothing unless we take action and work while it is
…well…Spring!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">To quote an old Scottish proverb adapted from a Robert
Burns poem,<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To a</i>
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mouse’:</i><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span></i><span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">“The best laid plans of
mice and men often go astray.”<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Meaning: even with the most detailed, laid out
plans, things will go wrong and there will be challenges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give up? I am the first one guilty of laying
out my plans and dreams and seeing the labor, the cost, the time and too
quickly lay them aside for another day. I shudder to think of the opportunities
and rewards I have missed because I did not press in and press on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">To have a successful Season in Spring we must simply
meet each challenge so that the goals can be obtained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too often we are our worst enemies, our worst
critics and our worst stumbling blocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We war in our minds, our spirits and our souls speaking words of defeat and
discouragement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are prone to
self-robbery and self-destruction. We forfeit spiritual peace, sacred joy and
heavenly hope and settle for ashes. But, as we turn to God and His
Wisdom,..”out of those ashes we can arise!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We must have
the courage and discernment to listen to God, heed His voice, look to Him for
our direction, find favor in Him and walk in a New Season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is time to look at what is hindering us
and simply… ‘let it go and carry on’.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Then it seems too soon we slip into Summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Summer has it merits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is during summer that those gardens, flowers
and plans come to life; but only if we have done the needed preparation in
Spring. Summer is a time of intense growth and for us in this part of the
country: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>intense heat and intense sun.
It is during Summer we get to taste and see the fruits of our labors from our
gardens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can pick those beautiful
flowers and make bountiful bouquets to fill our houses and to share with
others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">When it seems we can no longer bear the brunt of
Summer’s beating, bruising and burning heat, then awesome Autumn arrives full
of color and beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Fall, Autumn, brings the falling of leaves, falling
of temperatures and a time of harvest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If vegetables and flowers have not been picked, preserved and put away,
they will succumb to Winter’s blast and fury.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Therefore, it is a time of final gathering of those vegetables, picking
the last of the flowers and doing the necessary work to prepare for the next
Season: Winter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Ah, Winter, my least favorite of the Seasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To me it represents a sad time, a barren
time, a time to mourn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Winter represents
death; death to the flowers, death to all my plants and death to the beautiful
leaves on my trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a time of
snow, cold, wind and rain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Days are dark
and dreary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can bring a depression,
a down-ness to our emotions and souls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At times, everything seems harder in Winter!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any outdoor chores seem twice as hard.
Bundling up to get to our cars to do the necessary errands, go to work, go to
church, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>seem more difficult. There is
less sunlight, less outdoor time, less reason to celebrate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or so it seems.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">However, we should not be deceived by appearances. Winter
is a time when great things are happening!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yes, you read that right!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Underneath all that appearance of death there is great life, rejuvenation
and building going on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those trees that
surely must be dead, are not!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Deep under
the ground life is pulsing through those roots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are digging down deeper and farther than they have ever been before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will be stronger for the next coming
Season. Those flowers that cast that their seeds into Autumn’s breeze, will
live again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One flower produces hundreds
of seeds with the possibility of thousands and thousands of more flowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All lies dormant, still and quiet until God
in His timing whispers…’time to arise and live’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another Season begins! And so comes another
Season and another and another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you
listening and waiting for those gentle, sweet words from Him,…’time to arise
and live…a new Season begins!’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">This past Sunday at the Chapel was just one of those
days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The service was <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Powerful,
as the Presence and Peace</i></b> moved into our Worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have had anointed services for several
weeks at the Chapel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have been sweetly
ushered into His Presence week after week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But, this past week was life changing, life challenging and life charging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here in the midst of cold winter January, our
church has experienced a recharging and refiring in anticipation of this next
Season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">God graced us with several prophecies; words of
comfort, challenge and expectations of change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As I ponder and take into my spirit those words, I am amazed and
thrilled how all four utterances built upon the previous one, line upon line
and precept upon precept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was almost
as if God was speaking to us with a plan, then a passion, then a purpose and
then a position. As we are entering a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">new Season</i></b>, we need to be <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">passionate</i></b>
about the changes needed, the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Holy Spirit</i></b> wants to give new
meaning to our life and our Lord wants us to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">TRUST </i></b>Him like never before.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">First, the word was <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">SEASON.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We as a church and
as individuals are entering a new Season!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is going to be a Season of change, a Season of challenges, a Season
of Hope and a Season of Reaping!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is
so very exciting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">The next word was about <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">CHANGE.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were challenged
to take a good look at our lives and to address</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">any issues that
stand between us and God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
necessary to take an inventory of things we need to ‘let go’. Mindsets,
attitudes, prejudices, habits, obsessions, even possessions need to be cleaned
out, thrown out and never to be picked up again. Anything and everything needs
a good hard looking at: negativism, judging others before knowing the whole
story, petty gossiping (and it is all petty, folks), bitterness, and meisms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How often do we catch ourselves uttering ‘me’
or “I”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t like, I don’t think,
what about me, I want, I can’t, I don’t want to….and so it goes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we want a newness and freshness in our
lives, especially in regards to a new Season, work must be done to dig out,
root out and throw out junk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Often we hold on to ‘stuff’ that keeps our hearts
from fully focusing on the Savior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
try to walk along the path, just close enough to glance His way and yet keep a
foot in the mindset of the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We must
guard against gossiping a little here, drinking a little there, smoking a
little smoke here and there, lying a little here, cheating a little there and
insist on continuing to live a lifestyle that does not line up with the Word
nor bring any glory to our Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Folks,
none of us have a ‘free, get out of jail, or free I can do it my way’
card!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can fall into the trap of
justifying anything we do or say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But,
that does not make it right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often
think of when we will stand before God, and have to account for those things we
continued to do that are not His will or way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We will stand speechless and ashamed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But that is neither His will nor His way and certainly not His plan for
our lives! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">We were also challenged to open up and to flow in
the Holy Spirit, give heed to the leading of the Holy Spirit, allow the Holy
Spirit to be a minute by minute part of our lives. We can ask the Holy Spirit
to assist in the clean-up, shape-up and stand-up process. Perhaps you are
holding on to habits, attitudes and hurts from the past?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Power and Presence of the Holy Spirit can
flow in and flush out those things that can keep our eyes downcast with guilt,
shame and hurts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Holy Spirit is a
vital part of our lives!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus made way
for the Holy Spirit to be poured out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you do not have the infilling of the Holy Spirit, pray that this be a part of
the New Season in your life; to be filled and overflowing with His Presence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">The next word that came was ‘to trust Him”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Believe in Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Know He is our source, our reason, our help
in stepping into the next Season. Far too often we seek every council, dig into
every other source and consult others’ advice, when we simply need to call on
the name of Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">As I thought more on the service and the words
received, I found myself <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>comparing and
contrasting the Season we are anticipating for our church and families with the
Seasons here on earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our Lord uses so
many parables and parallels in nature to teach us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can make the connection and see the
principles He is trying to relay to us and make the connection a little more
easily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Just like the Seasons we have here on earth, there
is work and effort required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Spring
if we expect to get any kind of fruit, any kind of vegetables, any kind of
flowers, there is work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a time
to dig out, root out, throw out, and let go of things that will hinder the
planting and growth. Weeds creep in, peebles and stones somehow appear in the
garden and flower beds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is called
preparation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is necessary and
vital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This has to be part of the
planning and process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Likewise, the Lord challenged us, that as we move
into the new Season, we must allow the working of the Holy Spirit to root out,
tear out, move out. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is time to let
those old things, those hindrances, go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">It is time to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is time to pray and plan and purpose in our hearts that this Season
is going to be like no other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is time
to work in unity, hand in hand and have a mind to build.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know our church is cozy. We have formed
relationships, friendships and fellowships within our body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That will continue. So don’t have fear of
change and losing anything we enjoy now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Don’t have a mindset to fear others who God sends into our Church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel God is preparing this minute as part
of the preparation time, families, youth, singles, children that are to come
join our family here at the Chapel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Let’s open up our hearts, our hands and our arms to receive them. We are
entering a new Season and will <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>need to
get out of our comfort zones and begin to look upon the Harvest-the Fall Season
we will move into soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Just like the Spring Season and planning,
preparation and planting-we have been doing that at The Chapel as we pray,
fast, praise and trust Him. We must continue to do that at the Chapel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Then comes a time to reap the Harvest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the church grows, we must continue to grow
spiritually.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God desires for more of us
to be ready for Leadership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That office
of Leadership requires greater responsibility and accountability. God is ready
to do the preparation work, through the Holy Spirit for all of us to step up
and step out into Leadership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can do
this…it will not come easy, it will take a lot of sacrifice and work, but there
is no greater privilege than to be placed in His service and ‘carry on’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">This ‘carry on’ has become my little catch
phrase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel the Holy Spirit dropped
it into my spirit one day when I was having one of those times when I just
wondered if I was where He wanted me and what next?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What comes next?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt the words, “carry on” flow sweetly and
serenely into my soul…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">So let’s do this, let’s ‘carry on’ and do whatever
our hands find to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever task,
position or place you are laboring in, do it with EXCELLENCE!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Study and be prepared, be on time and ready
with a plan, have a purpose and be fully presentable as an ambassador for
Christ, even if it is just the Nursery, cleaning the church, switching out
light bulbs and so on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It matters, it
all matters in the work of the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">So with that thought of ‘carrying on’…let’s join
hand in hand, pray for one another, encourage one another, help one another, be
less critical and judgmental of one another and step into this New Season!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">In Him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Diane <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-52137996654692130152014-09-04T11:26:00.001-07:002014-09-04T11:26:41.751-07:00
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Drop Out<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Back to school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes,
once again the calendar has brought us to that time of year when we prepare our
children and grandchildren to go back to school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For most families, at least for many parents,
this time is celebrated with shouts of glee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The summer has been long and hot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It may have been a challenge to keep children occupied and entertained
when met with the frequent whine, “I’m bored”.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For working moms it can be especially challenging due to the
new summer schedule of juggling childcare. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of dropping children off to go merrily
into the scheduled classes at school, children are dropped off at babysitters,
day camps, and summer programs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometimes children are entrusted to relatives and friends. Often
children are left to their own devises at home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So, when school bells ring and children bemoan the return to school with
set schedules and assignments, many parents let out a sign of relief.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Summer can be a stressful time with added burdens to
schedules and finances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then parents are
thrown into a flurry of activity and hustle and bustle to scramble to get the
just right clothing, uniforms, shoes, school supplies and backpacks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We do all this because we know the value of getting a good,
solid education.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We realize to succeed a
child must be able to read, do math and develop those reasoning skills for
problem solving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our little ones must be
trained in the 3 R’s and beyond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
need to be trained socially, mentally, physically and be fit, ready and
prepared to be a functioning, contributing force in our society. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a big challenge. It is a big
assignment for all involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We want to
equip them with the best tools for this challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is what a good, caring, concerned parent
should do.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is why it can be so devastating when children drop out
of school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most states have requirements
for children under 18 to encourage them to ‘be cool and stay in school’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, in spite of these incentives and
encouragements, many children drop out of school before they are adequately
prepared for life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Facts clearly reveal
that dropouts will have limited employment opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dropouts usually end up with minimum wage
employment and struggle in life just to survive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another type of dropout occurs when the child
is still physically in school, but their mind and spirits have ‘left the
building’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They go through the motions,
but heart and soul are not in the educational process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But there is another type of dropout. All of us are capable
and may have experienced ‘dropout’. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps
we have signed up for a class, an activity , a club, an organization, only to
quit or drop shortly after signing up. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I was pondering on this inspiration note, I
realized that the term ‘dropout” is one of those unusual terms we use often in
our society. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What does it mean?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who does it describe? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dropout is most commonly associated with
school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But also refers to: “someone who
drops out of conventional society or one who abandons an attempt, activity or
chosen path”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the official
definition according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dropout.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of us
finished high school-some by the skin of our teeth and the hair on our
chin-e-chin-chin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We did it! We
finished!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some went on to college and
secured yet another degree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While others
took one or two classes and then dropped out, gave up, abandoned the
endeavor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be for a variety of
valid reasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when it is all said
and done…a dropout is a dropout.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dropping out of something we signed up for can give us a
twinge of regret and guilt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ask
questions like, “what would my life and career be like if I had only finished
that course, that degree, that training.” It is compared to leaving the battle
before the victory. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or like leaving the
ballgame in the 7<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> inning when it appears the home team is losing;
only to find out the team recovered and had a big win in the 9<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
inning. The big, “What If”.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The most tragic and disturbing incidents of dropout occur in
the Kingdom of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing is more gut wrenching
and devastating than to hear news of someone who once fought a valiant fight,
had a close relationship with God, but walked away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a slippery slope, a dangerous, dark
path to travel on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hebrews 10:31 reminds us: “it is a fearful
thing to turn one’s back on God the Creator and Jesus His Son and deliberately
and consciously reject their love.”</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, it
happens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It happens more than we may
think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It happens right in the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too often folks still physically come and
warm a pew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They show up for Sunday
Morning service, only to go through the motions, counting down the minutes and
seconds until they can flee from the Presence of God and His people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most know the lukewarm, backslidden state
they have allowed to envelope them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Others coast along, knowing something is not quite right, but keep going
through the motions, to keep up the appearances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But God knows.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A good example of this dropout condition and its dire
consequences can be found in the book of</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 Samuel 15:22-23.</span></div>
<br />
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“<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">But Samuel replied: (He was talking to King Saul)</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="line" style="background: white; line-height: 16pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Does the</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"> </span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant: small-caps; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Lord</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">delight in burnt offerings and
sacrifices</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</span><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 4.5pt;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">as much as in obeying the</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"> </span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant: small-caps; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Lord</span></span><span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">?</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
<span class="text">To obey is better than sacrifice,</span><br />
</span><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 4.5pt;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">and to heed is better than the fat
of rams.</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</span><span class="text"><b><sup><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">23 </span></sup></b></span><span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">For rebellion is like the sin of divination,</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</span><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 4.5pt;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">and arrogance like the evil of
idolatry.</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
<span class="text">Because you have rejected</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="text">the word of the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text">,</span><br />
</span><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 4.5pt;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">he has rejected you as king.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Saul got too
big for his britches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He let pride; self-assurance
and self-importance slip in, creep in and slowly weave into the very fabric of
his soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He no longer honored,
respected or truly obeyed God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took
matters into his own hands, thought he knew best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even in this passage of scripture he lied to
the prophet, lied to God and in essence lied to himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is not mocked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Saul’s slippery slope led him to take his own
life. His disobedience and rebellion resulted in his two sons being killed.
Saul left a legacy of being the ‘Ultimate Drop Out.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He will forever be remembered for his
disobedience and arrogance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">So the
lessons learned?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think things
through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before abandoning ship too
soon, think about the challenges of the situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weigh the consequences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stand and take the sure, steady pathway
instead of caving in and pleasing the flesh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Flesh is weak and wicked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Flesh
thinks and feels for the moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Flesh
wars with the Spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Flesh must be put
in its place; conquered and mastered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Flesh must die for Spirit to win.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Don’t be a
drop out!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stay and be a winner, a person
who finishes what they start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be a
person of integrity and honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
eyes looking, watching and observing you as you run your race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you stubble, get up, shake yourself off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Brush off the attitudes and mind sets of this
world. Carry on. Run on.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not a time to drop out, it is a time to
run, run with diligence and run with all your might, power and strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you cross the finish line, you will be met
with a great roar of the many witnesses watching your race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the best reward will be the sound the
voice of the Lord proclaiming the sweetest words you will ever hear, “Well
done, my faithful child, enter into the Joy of the Lord!” </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-83709998748631874682014-07-06T20:53:00.000-07:002014-07-06T20:53:30.019-07:00Musings on Dishes and a few other things......
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Welcome to the Front Porch….glad you stopped by and hope you
enjoy my little musings for today!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another big family event and yep, here am I…standing in my
little country kitchen, looking at a mount of dishes that rise up around
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a reputation for ‘dirtying
every dish in the house’ when I cook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
must be true, it has to be true, for the sky high pile of dirty dishes that I
am surrounded by bear witness to this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now I love dishes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have more dishes than a woman has a right to!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have red dishes, white dishes, blue dishes, a mixture and hodgepodge
of dishes for everyday, Christmas dishes, white china with a real silver
etching around the edge that I learned the hard way CANNOT be put in the
microwave! I have some pretty ‘Canton Fair’ china that the Preacher and our
four kids picked out for me on one of our anniversaries when we lived in Lothian,
Maryland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was many years ago!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He made his selection at a well known store
at the time: Lazarus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That store has
long been gone, gobbled up by some conglomerates that do that type of
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those dishes sit, proud and
pretty, in my humble little china closet. They are rarely used as there is only
a place setting for 8; my brood has long passed that magic number. This china selection
has a special place among my dish collection and in my heart. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This beautiful set of dishes was handpicked by the Preacher
and our four little ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now this in of
itself is a feat. The Preacher does not like to shop!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He detests it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he needs something, even clothes, most of
the time I have to pick them out and he will say ‘oh, you know what I like’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Really?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The one exception is suits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
does relish getting a new suit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He does
not ask for much, but every now and then about once a year he does get a
hankering for a new suit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So what do dishes and suits have to do with one
another?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing, absolutely
nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So with that being clarified
and settled, I will get back to the dishes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I usually do the dishes myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All by myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those who have been in my cozy little kitchen
know it is a one-woman show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two people
in that tiny area are stepping on one another, bumping into one another and
just annoying one another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, it is
usually a solo flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now to make this
little chore even more interesting; I do NOT have a dishwasher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, let me back up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do have one but it has never worked right
from day one when we moved in here over 8 years ago now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I gave up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I saw no real reason for me to wash dishes, place them in the dishwasher
and for them to come out yuckier than when they went in. I do not want to
invest in a new one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There always seems
to be something else I prefer to spend the money on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, things like hay and feed for the four
leggers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus, we have a very delicate
old septic tank-the old country style-that fills up quickly and once filled
will back up rather quickly and in a not nice way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I baby that septic tank along and try to
keep it balanced delicately. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very
delicately.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, I usually shoo the girls, my girls and
daughter-in-laws out of the kitchen to go visit with the Preacher, play with
the kids, enjoy each other’s company and relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My mess, my cleanup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now the
Preacher does NOT appreciate my love of my dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I insist on using them 99.99% of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rarely do we do the paper plate thing.
Although there are some very nice paper plates, I feel if I have all these nice
plates, have the most important people in my life as my guests, why would I NOT
use my treasured dishes for them to eat on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am not one to just keep things as trophies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I’ve got it I want to use it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I don’t need it I will try to find someone
who does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like things, especially
dishes but not that much that I place them before people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never understood why some women would have
some of the most beautiful things and never use them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are they saving them for?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My motto: use them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make every meal with loved ones special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring out the best dishes….eat like royalty,
make memories.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So I start on the dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Depending on what the occasion is, where everyone is, then my next move
will be to find some good inspiring, calming, soothing music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could be Hillsong, or some instrumental Pandora
station, or easy instrumentals via Dish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Something that energizes me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Something that carries me to a place of peace while I am doing dish
after dish after dish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">BTW this is one reason I keep my fingernails short and
sweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other reason is the
farm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am scooping poo, running my
hands over animals to check for bumps, cuts and bruises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am lifting horsey feet and checking to see
if they need to be picked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am chasing
unruly little hennies who linger outside of the coop when curfew has been
declared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mend fences, use countless
bungie and zip ties to shore up and repair something that is continuously falling
apart here on the farm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use my hands
to garden; I am digging, planting, picking….well nice, pretty nails just won’t
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Preacher ‘threatens’ me with a spa
day every now and then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recoil in
anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is wrong with those two
words: me and spa?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nope. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now our well meaning
church ladies did give me a facial thing a few years back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I endured it and was rather disappointed
however.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought with all that rubbing
and pushing my face here and there surely I would look better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nope, looked in the mirror and it was me.
100% me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another time they gifted with
me a manicure and pedicure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Disaster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I put off doing ‘til
the garden was planted and most of the dirty work had been done for a few days
at the farm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I scrubbed those nails and
those toes and thought surely I am presentable enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But farm dirt can become almost
permanent-unfortunately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My nails passed
inspection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The young lady probed and
poked and trimmed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she tried to get
me to pick out polish. Angst! What would I do with pretty pink polish on these
country livin’, country lovin’ hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
politely declined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She profusely
insisted so I picked a clear top coat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She thought I was the most unusual bird she had ever encountered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then the toes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do
not especially enjoy, no I will restate that-I do not like anyone touching my body
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in what I consider an intimate, get to
know me better way (except family and of course the Preacher! Hey, after all we do
have 4 children!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But strangers,
poking, probing, prying….nope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Probably
does somewhat stem from an incident in my childhood…but that skeleton is draped
on his special hanger way back deep in ‘the closet’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He will stay there for now…this is not the
time or place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, back to toes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Funny thing on the farm, no matter how thick the socks and high the
boots, dirt gets in and loves to creep and cling to the toes-especially the toe
nails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So even after a good deep scrub,
that poor little gal seemed aghast at the treasures she unearthed (no pun
intended) from my toenails!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She used
some sharp little tool that gave that dirt a run for its money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She brought out those hunks, or so it seemed,
of dirt and proudly showed them to me and promptly wiped them on her little
towel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seemed to be her mission to
dig and grind until she had caught every offending scrap of dirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
thought to myself, ‘if I get out of here alive-never again’!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Soon the ordeal ended for me and her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not sure who was the most relieved when I
got up out of that chair! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, dishes…since my hands are constantly in water or
dirt, sometimes both at the same time, nails and pretty nails at that are not
high on my priority list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, as I wash
that mountain of dishes, I try to take time and thank God for the dishes He has
blessed me with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I take a trip down
memory lane and remember the occasion on which I acquired those dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="color: red;">The red ones</span>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My daughter, Lori, bought me a starter kit
for a Christmas gift several years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I slowly added to that collection and have 20 plates along with some red
serving pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The white ones I bought when I was a Bridal
Consultant (ha…what is wrong with this picture?) at Dillards when we lived in
Beaumont.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were on sale, I had a
nice Dillards discount and so with that being said, bought about 20 plates
along with some additional pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>White
goes with everything so they fit in rather nice in my little kitchen and go
with any occasion we may be celebrating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I already told you about the Canton Fair china.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="color: #00b050;">The Christmas</span>
<span style="color: #00b050;">dishes.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I love using them and try not to use them on Thanksgiving but sometimes
it seems like I just want to share them even before the Christmas <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>season
begins. The Christmas dishes. Way back before any of these other dishes, came
the Christmas Crew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We lived and pastored
in Virginia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Walgreens had a special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A complete set of 4 place settings of a
Christmas Tree pattern of dishes for less than $5.00.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I am going back a few years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, folks this is a great price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bought 4 or 5 sets….I now have about 25
plates…somehow the cups and saucers have long gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do still have the plates and dessert
dishes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then there are the blue dishes…informal,
don’t break good for outdoor eating…and the everyday collection of this and
that…dishes </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So dishes, dishes, dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So necessary and also can be such a nuisance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Especially when washing them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So as I wash, I think good thoughts. I take
it one dish at a time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I begin to recall
and relive the happy occasion they became part of the Gabbard family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think of the wonderful gatherings of family
and friends we have enjoyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thank God
for the bounty of food we usually have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>More than enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More than enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I serve portions, I usually err on the
generous side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want my family and
guest to have more than enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
family ‘fondly’ calls this ‘grannie portions’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I must admit they are usually generous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But I am glad to be able to give my guest more than enough.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I figured out why I cut such generous portions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here comes that childhood thing again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have followed my blog you know how my
childhood was…..well a challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dad
was married to ‘the bottle’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
everything to him and although he had a very good job, we, his real family, saw
very little of that money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But ‘she’ got
more than enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore, food was
scarce-because mom just did not have money to buy groceries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Food was portioned out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We always left the table wanting more. Never
enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess always wanting more,
never having more, made me want to provide for anyone who ate off my dishes
would have-more than enough.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, as I wash those dishes one at a time, I pray and
thank God for the family and friends who gathered in my home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thank God for the wonderful food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thank God for loving me and saving me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ask Him to watch over the loved ones and
friends who have used those forks, sipped water or tea or lemonade (our preferred
drinks).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ask God to grant me the strength
and resources to be able to gather my loved ones again and again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ask God to help me to be a gracious
hostess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel and have for years felt
opening my home to my friends and family is one of my callings, a gift, a
ministry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to be faithful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Deep inside lives a ‘Martha’. A Martha who
hustles and bustles to make sure everyone has everything they need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too often I need to let the ‘Mary’ struggle
out and step back, take a big deep breath, and sit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sit at His feet.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">While I wash those dishes, I am blessed to have a window
right above my kitchen sink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
small.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it is a window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can look out over my front lawn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a hummingbird feeder right outside and
every now and then I am blessed to see a little birdie stop by for a refreshing
drink of nectar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can look across the
lawn, over the road and into my neighbor’s pasture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has a nice little piece of land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Occasionally, he lets his mare and her little
foal graze in that field. Beautiful. Something magnificent about horses. Magnificent.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So when it is all said and done; life is what we make
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The drudgery or so what we think of
is as drudgery is what we make of it. The chores we dread, the interruptions,
the challenges all are woven into the fabric of our life. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So until the next mount of dishes…or whatever seemingly
unpleasant task you may be called to do…do it ‘as unto the Lord’..until next
time on the front porch…..may you be blessed in Him!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-44040271222538427912014-06-22T18:12:00.000-07:002014-09-18T18:41:25.064-07:00WHO AM I? Part 2This is the second part of my musings and my walk down memory lane. As I looked back, I especially thank my grandparents, The Brandenburgs for opening their home to me when I was a child. My Pap-Paw especially touched my life. I remember him with such fondness and great respect. He was my hero. I think perhaps he inspired me to touch my own grandchildren and make memories. Beautiful, sweet memories. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> My mom and dad spent most of their childhood
in Whitley County Kentucky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Williamsburg, Kentucky to be specific.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So that being said, that was our first stop. Now, Whitley County,
specifically, Williamsburg, Kentucky is an interesting little settlement off
Route 25 and US 75.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Williamsburg is the
county seat of Whitley County and I remember visiting the old courthouse in the
town square during my summer visits. Whitley county was created in January
1818.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before this county was officially
declared a county, it was the source of many disagreements and battles fought
between the native Indians and hunters and trappers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With this part of Kentucky filled with rich
resources; it was a dream for hunting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many
of those skirmishes were fought with Colonel William Whitley as the fearless
leader. He realized it was vital that the new settlers have an opportunity to hunt and trap and continue their journey
on the Wilderness Road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Colonel Whitley
was also instrumental in safeguarding the Wilderness Road. </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To my
understanding this Wilderness Road was paramount in allowing settlers to
migrate to Kentucky from the East. None other than the infamous Daniel Boone
had blazed this trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was rough,
it was steep and it was dangerous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
could only be travelled by foot or on single file horseback.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, it was the highway to their ‘promised
land of milk and honey’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This road was
the key to their new beginnings. It was travelled on foot for many years until it was
finally upgraded so that wagons could carry precious cargo through those rugged
mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This route was dangerous
because the Native Americans resented these ‘white folk’ who dared come into
their ancestral hunting grounds. From their perspective the white man was evil
and had to be stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hundreds of
settlers were killed during these skirmishes. I wonder if any of my relatives
were involved in these battles and how many lost their lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, a remnant survived because here I am
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Colonel
Whitley realized this route had to be protected and it had to be secured for
future settlers who would make their way through these rugged mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time this was the only connection from
the East to what was as far West as most settlers would go. I wonder if those
hardy souls realized just what a challenge conquering this rugged land would
be. I ponder if those who lost loved ones or suffered because of the hardships
they met ever thought ‘was it worth it’? I think about how very determined they
must have been to put one foot in front of the other and press on, press
forward until they found their place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
am sure they were in awe, wonder and certainly intimidated by this beautiful,
wild, resource filled land.The brave souls who pushed through the thick
wilderness must have realized what vital role they played in paving the road for
generations to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Names, dates and
events are long forgotten, muddled with time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yet, what these brave men and women accomplished, still stands tall and
strong, touching even my generation and the next and next. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This Wilderness Trail was so valuable that it
was upgraded and improved through the years and was eventually paved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was one of the first paved roads in the
United States.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Seeing the
potential and value of this trail, Colonel Whitley fought valiantly. He was
recognized for his leadership and his vision for this trail and thus this newly
formed county was named after him. He served in the war of 1812
and unfortunately<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>died at the Battle of the Thames.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am sure his death was a great loss to the
people of Whitley County.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But life does
go on.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This beautiful
little settlement is nestled in the Cumberland Plateau of southeastern
Kentucky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This part of the country
houses the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
that is home to a beautiful waterfall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This land has two rivers that meander through its boundaries; Laurel River
and the Cumberland River.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of the
mountains rise to over 2000 feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
a beautiful land. It is a few hours’ drive to the Great Smokey Mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These mountains are called ‘smokey’ because
the mountains rise so far above the sea level that they appear to be shrouded
in a foggy, mystical, mist; hence the name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I love those mountains!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> They </span>have
stood for ages and separate the country, not only geographically, but also separates
the men from the boys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had to have
been a mighty feat for Daniel Boone, Lewis and Clark and other nameless,
faceless folk to tackle the mighty Smokey Mountains and venture on to the other
side.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Whitley
County’s economy has been dependent upon its natural resources; coal, and
timber, along with iron, oil and even some silver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, because of the mountains, agriculture
has not been established as a good resource for income.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are pockets of land where tobacco, corn
and home gardens can be grown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The land
has suffered with the plague of strip mining, poaching, trees cut down and not
replaced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is little economic resources
available to the local folk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most
struggle to make a living.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many, like my
mom and dad left this beautiful land for ‘greener’ pastures; Northern Kentucky,
Ohio, Indiana, Michigan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They traded in
the country living for city living and working in fields, forest and coal mines
to being tied to assembly lines. They chose to secure steady incomes that allowed them to afford
some of the better things of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
folks migrated to Cincinnati, then moved to Northern Kentucky. In my opinion, it was not
necessarily considered the good life. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So on we
continued in our journey down Memory Lane.We drove by my Mom’s home that she
spent some of her childhood in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
also the same home I visited as a child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This was the very home my grandparents lived in for years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the place I spent those glorious
summers; running and roaming in the woods and over the hills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eating green beans from the garden, fresh corn
on the cob, ‘new potatoes’; new as meaning freshly dug out of the ground. The
table overflowed with tomatoes, vine ripened, big, juicy red tomatoes and
cucumbers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not recall ever having any
meat at the table for supper. There might have been a scrap of pork for
seasoning the beans, but that was the extent of the meat at that time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the same meal, day after day, week
after week all during the summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All
grown from their grand and glorious garden. It was a meal I gladly ate after a
hard day of playing and exploring in the barns, feed cribs and fields.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Like us, the
house had changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It still sat on the
hillside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Funny, I remember it sitting
much higher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had been added on to,
updated and modernized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am sure it now
had running water, plumbing, heat, maybe even air conditioning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am sure the kitchen was filled with
cabinets, new appliances; perhaps an additional bedroom and closets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am also sure a bathroom or two had been
added.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was now updated with all the
modern conveniences we have all come to depend upon, expect to have. We think
of these conveniences as our staples in life, things we deserve, or so we
think. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Someone else
lived in the house now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both my
grandparents were gone. I would have loved to have been able to go inside poke
around and look and imagine hearing the voices at the breakfast table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could image hearing the new song at the time,
“Ring of Fire” by Johnny and June as it played on that old Crosley radio that
sat on top of the Frigidaire, also known as the ‘ice box”. I remember hearing
that song and wondering what on earth was a ‘ring of fire’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These two sang about falling into this
ring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since they were now singing about
it, I assumed they had survived it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Whatever it was, could it be that bad?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The reasoning of a young child does not always make sense.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would love to see Grandma doing her little
skip and song as she baked those homemade biscuits every morning!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I close my eyes and I can almost smell that
fresh brewing coffee that cooked in the dark blue splatter ware coffee
pot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately at the time I visited,
I was not old enough to drink coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
my grandparents that coffee was a treat, a ritual, a slurping feast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That coffee came piping hot out of that big
blue spatter ware pot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It sat steaming
and scalding hot and ready to slurp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yep, slurp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the Brandenburg
ritual was to pour that hot coffee into the saucer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then you lift up that saucer when the coffee
temperature was just right and slurp it down!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Once it was slurped down, you did it again and again until your cup was
refilled and slurp some more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
mentioned this ritual to the the Preacher and just assumed everyone’s
grandparents had this morning routine and ritual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was aghast!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had never heard of anything, well so,
‘country. As some of you think, kinda disgusting and not so dignified.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was surreal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no holding the coffee cup just so and
lifting that pinky up in the air with regal royalty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, just pour and slurp!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then came
the morning coffee break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember my
grandmother would always call everyone into the kitchen around 10 in the
morning and announce with finesse and flair, ‘time for our coffee break! Since
I was not of the coffee drinking age, I would be dismissed and excused to
continue on with my explorations with my imaginary friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember one time when it rained and rained
and then rained some more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No outdoors,
no soaking up the sunshine or running wild and free in the fields.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just sit, sit and sit some more on the
porch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must have looked like a sad
little orphan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pap Paw limped inside the
house, at this time he had a distinct hunch on his back which caused him to
stoop over and appear smaller than he was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He also had a very pounced limp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He returned to the porch with something hidden behind his back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had a hint of a smile on his lips, for he
was reserved and relinquished very few smiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He placed the item before me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I squealed with delight and am sure I had the
broadest smile on my face in all of Whitley County. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My precious Pap Paw made me a potato doll. He
found one of his biggest potatoes and found sticks for arms and legs. He had
carved out some facial features and used one of his old handkerchiefs to make
clothing for this little treasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he
handed her to me I saw a slight wink, as if to say ‘she’s all yours, enjoy.’ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hugged her and loved her from the moment
she was placed in my arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We instantly
became best friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I named her Sally
Sue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The area my grandparents lived in
was called the ‘bottom of the Sally Gap hill’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So, the little potato doll became my Sally Sue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I held her and kept her close by day and night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the visit came to an end and it was time
for me to return home, I took Sally Sue with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now anyone who has any experience with a
rotting potato knows just how stenchy, stinky and smelly they can be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not remember any unpleasant aroma…but I
do recall her little face getting a little wrinkly and crinkly day by day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took her back home and found a box and made
her a little bed under my bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever
I missed those hills and hollers, I would pull Sally Sue, who was now becoming
Stinky Sally Sue, and hold her, and my heart would almost burst with love and
admiration in knowing my Pap-Paw made this little treasure for me. Eventually,
Sally Sue had to go; off came her now very shriveled, stinky little head. I
held on to her stick arms and legs, and humble little clothing until children
as they do, move on and have to put away those ‘childish little
things’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gone is Stinky Sally Sue, but
like that old home, I have her in the recesses of my memory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks Pap-Paw, who in my book was the
inventor of Mr. Potato Head!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My Pap-Paw
was my hero.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never learned to
drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never owned a home. He had
little education. But he was a hero.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
was a soldier in World War I. He provided for his family. <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">e never oweHh</span>He was a hero not just
because he made me a potato doll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But,
he showed such kindness and thoughtfulness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He taught me how to listen to birds and distinguish their calls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our two favorites were the whip-poor-will and
the bob white.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pap-Paw taught me how to
whistle to those birds and to my complete astonishment they whistled back. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was with
my Pap-Paw that I saw my first deer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On
the ridge in back of their home was the perfect place for a dozen or so deer to
come graze in the cool of the evening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We would sit, watch and wait and they would come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We would count them and make notes of any new
arrivals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we would just sit back
and be content to just watch them graze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We would sit in silence and just watch in awe as little fawns scampered
back and forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then the darkness
covered the ridge, the little farm and the farm house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the signal to go inside and get
ready for bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no television
to distract us from the business of visiting and enjoying each other’s
company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Priceless.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While I was
visiting one my chores was to assist Pap-Paw and go to the spring and bringing
back cool, clear water for drinking and cooking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This spring was a little jaunt down over the
hill, across the dirt road, down another steeper hill and then under a huge
clump of trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pap-Paw would pull back
a cover of some kind and with a dipper, begin filling his bucket and then
mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We would take a ‘sit and rest a
while’ spell and just enjoy the coolness and freshness of that place. It felt
20 degrees cooler in this little part of the woods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we would begin the trudge back up the
hill, over the dirt road and up yet another steep hill and finally to the
house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could hear things rustling and
moving about in the underbrush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pap-Paw
could sense my fear and discomfort of the unknown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would start whistling and calmly assure me
it was just one of God’s critters hurrying and scurrying about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we finally got back to the house, one
bucket was placed inside the kitchen on the ’zink’, a German carry-over for the
word sink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To this day, my mother still
calls a sink, ‘zink’. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The dipper
was placed in that bucket and that was where all of us got our drinking
water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other bucket was placed
outside on a shelf and was used for washing off when needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can recall the soap smell when the men folk
would wash up and shave before breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am sure other arrangements were made in the dead of winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it was a pleasant, clean smell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This water gathering ritual was repeated several
times a day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not one drop was wasted.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now back to
the house. No one was at home that day and it is just as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I had seen the modern updates, I am sure I
would have been disappointed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is best
I remember that little humble home of my grandparents just as it was when they
lived there. Some memories are best if kept sweet and pure and not cluttered or
confused with present day realities.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gone was the
huge, or so it seemed huge at the time, side porch that ran the length of the
house. It had been gobbled up in the overall updating and remodeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Homes used to have big front porches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a staple, this was an extension to
the living area of the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the
entry to the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the house’s
welcoming committee with big wide open arms that said, “come on in and sit a
spell’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But times have changed. In our
hustle and bustle of our current times few homes come designed and equipped with
big porches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We no longer build homes
with big front or side porches, because few people brave the outdoors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our homes are too comfortable with climate
controlled environments. Few of us actually meet and greet our neighbors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children rarely play outside for a variety of
reasons; too hot, too cold, questionable neighborhoods, questionable neighbors,
too many video games to play; Redbox, Netflix and Dish and Direct have too many
movies and other activities to keep us occupied. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Houses have 6 foot privacy fences jutting up
all around our neighborhoods that keep what little outdoor activities families
participate in hidden.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, I
still treasure the time spent on that porch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was on that front porch that I opened my mind up to the beauty and wonder of the amazing earth we
live on. It was on that porch we spent many afternoons breaking up green beans
or just enjoying a lazy afternoon, sitting, talking, and enjoying each other’s
company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We sat there content in just
allowing the breeze to blow over the big field and watch the tall grasses as
they bowed to the sweetness of that lazy, hazy June afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To me those grasses represented the hardy
pioneer spirit of my grandparents, and their parents and their parents and so
on. The grasses seemed to whisper the brave stories of those pioneer people so
wild and free, strong and brave. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
would be blown over and seem to bow at the force of the wind, but they would
straighten back up and prepare to do it again and again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pap Paw had his little ‘chew’ and ever so
often would spit in his can, all the while sitting in an old cane bottom chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This sitting really wasn’t sitting, but
leaning back in that chair so that it set up against the house with the top
part of the chair leaning back against the house and the front two legs poised
in the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the while he would chew,
spit and then take in all the wonders of a golden summer afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Repeat; chew, spit and take in some more wonders
all over again. When his soul had drunk in all the beauty of those Kentucky
fields and hilIs, he would then slip his straw hat down over his eyes and ‘let
his eyes rest’. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I tried many
a time to lean my chair back just so on it two rear legs with the front two legs
resting in mid-air, just so, like Pap Paw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I usually ended up with my chair sliding down the side of the house and
crashing onto the porch, much to my embarrassment and chagrin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t recall being chided, just maybe a
snicker or two from my pap Paw as if to say , “Girl, this chair thing is not
learned in a day…it is accomplished and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>earned through a lifetime of working…it’s my throne…it’s my rest, my
reward after a long weary day”.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There were
several chairs on the porch, an open invitation to family, friends and
neighbors to come and sit and talk. I loved those chairs, straight back, no
nonsense, no frills, good, strong, sturdy, just like my Pap Paw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved them so much that when I married the
Preacher and starting buying things for my own house, I decided I wanted some
of those cane bottom chairs. Along the paths, roads, hills and valleys Preacher
and I have travelled; I finally found some of those chairs in an outlet store
in Williamsburg, Virginia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ironic, don’t
you think? I first fell in love with those chairs in Williamsburg, Kentucky and
found my loves in Williamsburg, Virginia.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mine were
purchased unfinished, but, soon painted them a country blue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used them for years and years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the way I had to let go of 3 of the 6
cane bottom chairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three of those
chairs, one by one, began to show their age and wear and tear from a busy
household of 2 boys and 2 girls and a host of friends and family who sat around
our table, sharing meals, tears, fears and the joys of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do still have 3 and will not depart with
them, well, hopefully not until I can no longer keep my own home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They remind me of those summers, when life
seemed simpler, sweeter and oh so serene.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, back
to the family and who they are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pap Paw
was a Brandenburg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not have to
think real hard about where his people came from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Brandenburg, Germany; a place that seems so
far away and a time so long ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How
does someone leave their homeland, Brandenburg, Germany, get on a ship and sail
the ocean blue and end up in Williamsburg, Kentucky? A story indeed and one I
will never know all the ins and outs and day by day triumphs and
struggles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can imagine and put the
pieces together in a somewhat jumbled puzzle because others wrote or told their
story. It is a story with similar threads woven into the history of these
hardy, hill people who settled in southern Kentucky. Whatever the minute deals
are, really doesn’t matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
conquered and completed a dream that drove them step by step to the green,
lush, mountains that would bring land and freedom of which neither were
possible in Germany. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, why am I
thinking of trees, ships and faraway places.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because my friend, the world is really a small place!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My daughter, Lori, has good friends in
Beaumont with the last name “Brandenburg”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She asked if I had any information on the Brandenburg family. Of course
I did! I fired off two copies of everything I had on the Brandenburg family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told her to be sure and let me know if any
new information had been found. The search results I have are now several years
old and I am confident there have been other seekers and searches that have
filled in some of the blank spots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
world is truly small.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In comparing their
side of the Brandenburg tree to my side of tree, it is no surprise that we are
related.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems two brothers’ branches
intertwined an so eight generations later, cousins meet, make friends and a
bond of ‘this is who we are’ holds us together.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is
interesting to look back and determine where we came from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is our history, our heritage, our
legacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think our lineage of ancestors
has much more influence on who we are today than we think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, not only are the color of our eyes, our
skin tones, our height, our build, our body types passed on in our genes; but,
who we are inside, what makes us, is an amazing combination of all of
ancestors. It is that very complex, complicated code of information that makes
us tick, tock, what talents and gifts, tendencies and even certain diseases and
illness we may be prone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is woven
and wound into our complex gene DNA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God’s
design is amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is one reason I
love the scripture “we are
wonderfully and fearfully made”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one
like us, thinks like us, behaves quite like us…although we have tendencies like
family members.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My
great-grandmother Ayes, my Grandmother Brandenburg’s mother, was an amazing woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was strong, secure in who she was and
solid in her faith. As the story goes, she gave her heart and life to Jesus
when she was a young mother and wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was married to a hard, cruel, demanding man, who did not share her
faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quite the opposite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He demanded she not go to church and
worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He insisted she stay home and
tend the home fires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He bellowed threats
and cursing if she dared to defy him and go to church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She gathered her hat, her scarf, her
treasured Bible, and her purse, always putting on her Sunday best and walked to
her church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon arriving at church, she
would sing the sacred hymns, testify to the goodness of her God, bow her head
in reverence during prayer, listen with such a hunger and thirst for God’s word
that it seemed her heart would burst with such good news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She prayed fervently for her man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She prayed that somehow he would have a
tender heart, a heart that would receive the Savior.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But, like
some prayers, this was not to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He did
not, would not accept this Savior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead, he got meaner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His
treats turned into frustration which resulted in his beating her and even locking
her out of her own home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She took this
abuse like a good soldier of the cross.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
was so cowering or bowing before this evil man and his persecution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She spent many a night curled up on the
doorstep of her own home;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> p</span>raying for
God’s mercy and strength to get her through another trial, another cold, hard
night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can only image the tears that
were shed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can only ponder on what
questions bounced around in her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many of us might be tempted to say, “So, this is my reward for taking a
stand for my Lord.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was told
that he died while still young.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not sure
just how.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But this dear woman lived up
into her 90’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was able to spend
many years serving God without the threat of harm and abuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her house was now quiet and filled with peace
and love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had sown good seed and now
she would reap this good harvest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw
her one time that I remember.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had
fallen and had a broken hip and was hospitalized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was visiting my grandparents as a young
wife and mother and went over to Tennessee to visit her along with other family
members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was young and busy with my
own child and did not take the time nor make the effort to thank her and get to
know her like I would have liked to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
eventually went to a nursing home and spent several more years there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes God’s timing and His ways are hard
to fathom and understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never saw
her again, this side of Heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
nevertheless, she did make an impact, a great impact on my life.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was told
that this woman was a praying woman who believed God could and would answer; in
His way, in His time and in His will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She believed prayer was a ministry and that her prayers could affect
generations far into the future.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I believe
with all my heart that I am saved, and that a door opened up for me to find
Jesus because of her prayers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some unknown, unexplainable,
mysterious reason a neighbor did not even know that reached out to me in
kindness. This is another sweet story for another sweet day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through her patience and faithfulness, she
asked me to go to church with her and she faithfully came by and gave me a ride
to church, week after week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That act
changed the course of my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That too,
is another story.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My great
grandmother’s prayers reached across the years and the miles as she prayed. She
prayed for her children, her children’s children and her children’s
children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was her legacy that was
passed down generation to generation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My
grandparents were good people, honest, hardworking folks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, at the time I visited them they were not
going to church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can attribute that to
several reasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One, my grandfather
never, ever did learn to drive a car!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For whatever reason, whatever obstacles, whatever challenges, he never
drove.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His preferred mode of transportation
was on foot or hitching a ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mind you
this was back in the day when it was OK to hitch a ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one feared being abducted, robbed, maimed
or murdered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyone was a good neighbor,
had a caring, giving heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, if your
neighbor was standing on the road, why, they did not even have to put their
thumb up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was an unspoken code:
‘can you give me a ride?”. Sooner or later a kind gentle soul would stop and
offer you a ride and off you would go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So not having a means of getting to the church of their choice might
just pose a problem.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, in
their later years, they both did attend church regularly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow the transportation was worked
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a matter of fact on one occasion
when the Preacher and I we revisiting, we went to church with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was an interesting experience, another
story for another day!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, who am I?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am Dianna Jean Lawson Gabbard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am the oldest daughter of Arnold Eugene
Lawson and Robalee Brandenburg Lawson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
was named after my grandmother, Anna Ayers Brandenburg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although for some unexplained reason, my
mother and family always called me “Diane”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Does not make much sense, no valid reason or rhyme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So often I have to explain my name: my legal
give name on all my legal paperwork is: Dianna.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So professionally, that is what I am called.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, the Preacher and all the church folk
and family simply call me: Diane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
guess it is like the old joke, “call me whatever you want, just don’t call me
late for supper’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess it’s a
Kentucky thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, the
Jean comes from my father’s middle name Eugene. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, who am I?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am the daughter of the people who came from
places as far away as Germany, Prussia, Switzerland, Ireland and England.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A people who somehow pulled it all together
and got the money and motivation to get on one of the tall ships and sail the
ocean blue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can only image the
challenges…the triumphs, the disappointments to leave the land of your birth
and the people of your heritage, pack your belongings in a trunk and take off
for a world unknown and unseen. There were no promises that you would ever see
your home land or you family again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have to
admire and tip my hat to these brave folks, who came to this new land without
knowing just what they would find; friend or foe, failure or fortune.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the people did finally migrate one by
one, to the place of beauty and wonder, at the base of the Appalachian
Mountains, some in Kentucky, some in Tennessee, others in West Virginia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My closest ancestors settled in Whitley
County Kentucky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Land filled with rich
red iron soil. When it rains in that part of the country, the rain mixed with
the mineral rich soil turns red.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those
blood red streams run down the gullies and ruts in mountains and roads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It runs down the creeks and hollers. This blood
red stream reminds me of all those who have given their lives in the quest for
a new land and a new life. So often a sacrifice by someone, somehow and
somewhere has to be made so that others can bask in the freedom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was necessary for freedom in our country,
freedom so that those held in hostage by oppression and poverty in a foreign
land, those who are crushed and bruised by a governing body, even those who are
persecuted for religious beliefscan sail on those bloody waters and find
freedom. Now that I have just a glimpse of my people’s story, I often wonder.
“where would I be if they had not been bold and adventurous and find this new
land, new hope and new life?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would
not be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For life is so complex and intricately
designed, that if both sides of my tree had not had hardy souls to come to this
land, had not met like they had, had not had children, well I would not
exist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I do.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The blood
red soil also is a reminder of a Savior who gave His life for me so I could
have another kind of freedom; freedom from sin, freedom from condemnation,
freedom to know Him as a friend. This is the greatest of freedoms.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This land so
loved by my ancestors, this place Whitley County is a land of lush green
fields, land of hills, valleys and the jutting of AppalachianMountains in the
distant landscape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have heard that at
one time the profession of choice in this area was logging and coal mining…of
which both slowly eroded the rich earth and eventually the coal mining dried
up, leaving the people in poverty and want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There is still evidence of the striping, scaring and scraping of the
earth in the pulling down trees and cutting those trees into logs. A necessary
evil, taking away of the trees, so men can work and feed families.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately, many of the trees stripped
leaving huge gaps of barrenness are being reclaimed and replanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>New life will come to the mountains.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My
grandfather lost an eye to the logging industry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Logging is still hard work, back breaking,
dirty, and dangerous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can only imagine
how difficult and challenging it was 100 years ago. It is work that keeps food
on the table, pays the rent and etches out a meager living for folks.</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While others
can search and locate a more detailed accounting of family ancestry, I feel
blessed to be able to have as much information as I do about my parents,
grandparents, great grandparents, and so on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It helps define who I am and for me to understand who I am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It helps me to appreciate the sacrifice and
bravery of my ‘people’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, there are
some scoundrels on both sides!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was
a child born out of wedlock to the King of Prussia, a brave 77 year old who
fought in the Revolutionary War only to return to his home and be found
murdered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is accounting of 2 young
boys just minding their business, watching the all ships sail in and out of
England and they were abducted and made to be indentured servants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is death recorded way too soon,
motherless children, fatherless children taken in by relatives who already had
too many mouths to feed, feet to shod and bodies to clothe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children passed from house to house,
neglected, abused and set on a pathway of heartache and doom. There are those
bound by drugs, alcohol, nicotine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Others have participated in abortion, child abuse, spousal abuse. Some
sins are known, other sins went to the grave.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So my people
are a melting pot of English, Scottish, German, Prussian, Irish, and thrown in
with some Native American.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My people are
heroes and hellions; some are hardy or hapless; others helpless and
hopeless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are a hodgepodge,
homogenous folk who endured and endeavored to make Kentucky and Tennessee their
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were a sturdy, strong folk
whose bravery and tenacity give me strength as I continue on my journey here in
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their stalwart determination and
sense of adventure will continue to spur me on until the day I join them in the
great beyond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is who I am.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-89539212262809749862014-05-15T11:38:00.002-07:002014-05-26T19:50:21.639-07:00<br />
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<span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">WHO AM I?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My Heritage…My Legacy<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
PART 1</div>
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<span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A few years
back, my oldest daughter, Julie, became interested in my family tree (Lawson-my
maiden name).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She asked about
grandparents and great-grandparents; our family heritage, our family
beginnings. I knew very little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had
not been something I had particularly thought of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most times I had tried to forget where I came
from and from whom I came from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
were too many questions of ‘why’?, splattered with heartache, pain and
downright misery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not understand
some of the actions of both my mother and father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often thought of them as two of the most
unlikely folk to fall in love, marry and have children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both were miserable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both seemed to fight darkness and depression
from demons that haunted and hovered around them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They never seemed to understand each
other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was little, if any
compassion for each other or for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yet, out of this unlikely union came eight children; seven daughters and
one son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We grew up always waiting for
the ‘other shoe to drop’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the
time it was dad’s shoe we feared the most.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When he was drinking anything and everything would send him into an
alcoholic, abusive rage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one, nothing,
could escape his anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is another
story in of itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But, Mom was
not innocent herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was always
harried with too much to do, too little time and never enough money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had so much fear and depression. Her fears
initiated her into irrational expectations of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her depression distanced her from us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her own anger and rages drove us from
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved Mom and always knew if it
had not been for her, in spite of her many faults and failures, we would not
have had anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps not even life
itself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dad had a
good paying job, but chose to give most of his pay to his mistress; the
bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often he would give mom so
little money for food that it was almost impossible to feed us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Food was stretched out and portions limited
that no one ever left the table full or even close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the mood hit dad, or we looked at him in
the wrong way, what little meager food we had on the table would be kicked over
and knocked down, spilling what few precious crumbs we had for supper that
night all over the floor. There was never any remorse for his actions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His demeanor told us we deserved this. At
other times precious milk would be poured out down the sink and he would have
his face twisted in such anger and declare, “You don’t deserve this milk”.
After the carnage of his actions, he would stumble off and pass out and we were
left to pick up and clean up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
hard not to grab the crumbs and stuff them into our mouths. Between his actions
and rages and my mother’s bouts of anger and berating, we always had a sense of
deep guilt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What had we done or not
done?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Which of us was the guilty party
this time?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any slight rays of sunshine
would be clouded over by my Dad’s anger or my Mom’s tongue lashing. I sometimes
look back and think me and my siblings moved around that house like
zombies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We dare not care for one
another,for anything and never show emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Keep it in, stuff it down, just get through it. Being the oldest, I
remember it, I remember it all.So both parents used us as their vent for frustrations
and deep seated anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That anger was
always seething on the back burner ready to spill and spew out at one of us or
all of us.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am still trying to push the guilt and hurt
back down into a deep dark crevice in my heart and soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, it is there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scars, deep scars.Yes, the scars are there,
but there has been a healing balm that has brought me release and peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, most of my siblings have not
been able to let the hurts heal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It appears
the wounds are still open and oozing. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of them battle drug, tobacco and alcohol
addiction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Others have had numerous
failed relationships, divorce, abortions, and so on; all a result of battling
demons from the past that have never been silenced and scourged once and for
all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, hence, I
had no real desire to know much about my family tree, especially the
Lawsons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What bits and pieces I had
heard about were stories of alcoholism, abuse, abandonment and anger. The roots
of this family tree run deep with secrets of teenage runaways, unresolved
family conflicts and deep seated grudges ingrained into the very fabric of the
Lawson soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We knew very little of this
side of the family and rarely had contact with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dad was on his deathbed, comatose, brain
dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through a miracle I found his dad,
my grandfather, living a short distance from us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mom, my husband and I went to his house
and told him of Dad’s condition and that he was near death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His comment was, “I have no son named
Arnold”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He refused to go see my Dad, or
even acknowledge him as his son. I left his apartment deeply saddened and
terribly confused as to what could have caused such a rift in this family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to shut all this in a back closet,
throw away the key and pretend this was not part of me and my legacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt I had heard and seen enough. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, The Preacher and his family had
already done a tree search and had found out much about the Gabbards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So with my daughter’s gentle nudging and
prodding I felt like it was time to find out more about my family. Maybe some
resolutions, reconciliations and reconnections might come from this search.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I supplied her
with as much information as I could and so she began her research. When she
finished her search, she presented me with a nice little notebook filled with
names, dates and bits and pieces of the Lawson legacy and history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time I looked through it and noted a
few of the highlights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A short time
after receiving it, I was blessed to be able to go on a little trip down memory
lane with my mother.I had a few days off, so I flew on a ‘jet’ plane’ to
Kentucky, spent some time with my mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then we got in a rented car and off we went in search of people and
places no longer around. We were both younger then, in better health and at
that time had an adventurous spirit. It was a trip I cherish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Strangely enough, we spent a good deal of our
search in cemeteries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of those
little cemeteries were very ancient, with weathered stones and rocks so worn it
was difficult to determine who was buried in those humble little graves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We found some names my mom recognized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We saw several little graves of children who
barely took a breath in this world and then that breath left their little
bodies.As we drove around looking at old familiar sites, we did find some
relatives who knew about other relatives who filled us in the whereabouts of
some of the Lawsons.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stop by again soon...for PART 2....of My Heritage, My Legacy</span></span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-53734844583748880422014-04-18T14:29:00.001-07:002014-04-18T14:29:51.888-07:00IT IS FINISHED!<div aria-labelledby="yui_3_7_2_1_1397855546842_2558" id="main" role="tabpanel" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; -webkit-transition: margin-top 0.5s; background-color: white; bottom: 4px; color: #454545; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12px/normal "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; left: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; margin-top: 0px; position: fixed; right: 0px; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; top: 88px; transition: margin-top 0.5s; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; z-index: 1;">
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I just wanted to touch base with you and encourage you during these next few days. Such a wonderful time; it is spring, warm weather for the most part, nice temperatures for the most part, a time of anticipation of good things that God has in store for us.</div>
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It is a time of great celebration because of what our Savior accomplished this week, especially the next few days. No matter what trails or problems you are facing, it is a time to lift up your head, survey the cross, that wondrous cross and know that a Savior loved you so much that He gave the ultimate sacrifice. </div>
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Tonight (Thursday) would be the time of the Passover Meal; the Last Supper. It was a time of deep fellowship with His disciples, a time of His final teaching and instructions on what was to come. It was a time of preparation and anticipation of His Death. It was also a time of betrayal and denial. l can only imagine what must have been going through His mind.</div>
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He was the Son of God. Revered, honored, adored in Heaven. He had never suffered, been abused or misused. He had never been hungry, lonely or cold; until He came to earth. This was part of His sacrifice as the Son of God and the Son of Man. The suffering he would endure the next several hours would be intense. What love! </div>
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This special meal that He shared with His Disciples would give Passover a new meaning. The Passover is a celebration when God<span style="color: black; text-decoration: underline;"> </span>delivered the Children<span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>of Israel</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt;"> from slavery in Egypt. Ten plagues</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt;"> had been sent upon Egypt. Pharaoh hardened his heart each time a plague was sent upon the land. However, when the tenth plague and worst of the plagues was sent, it got his attention. The plague of the death of the first born showed him God meant business. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">God's people were instructed to mark the doorposts of their homes with the blood of a slaughtered spring lamb and, upon seeing this, the Spirit of the Lord passed over (Passover) and no death came to that home. Death came to the Egyptians, even to the house of Pharaoh. In his grief he sent the Israelites on their way. When Pharaoh did finally</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> free the Israelites, they left in such a hurry that they could not wait for bread dough to rise (leaven). This deliverance was remembered and celebrated in the holiday called, Passover. It was a very special time for God's children</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">.</span></div>
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I think it is interesting that of all the times of the year, Jesus would die on the cross as our Lamb during this Passover observance. Because of His sacrifice we are able to find our covering and protection for Death and the enemy of our soul. The BLOOD of the Lamb is applied to the doorpost of our heart and we are set free. We are no longer in bondage to the Pharaohs of this world that would keep us in slavery. Sin can be defeated. Addictions, mindsets, strongholds, curses, all of it can be broken once the Blood is applied to the doorpost of our hearts!</div>
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So rejoice, rejoice and again I say rejoice! No one can or ever will love you like Jesus does!</div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1397855546842_3164" style="background-color: transparent;">Hope to see you for the Good Friday Service at the Chapel on Friday April 18 6:00. Tomorrow is Good Friday...Friday and as Carmen the singer sings, 'it's Friday but Sunday is coming! Resurrection Day!</span></div>
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Be blessed,</div>
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Diane </div>
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<br />Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-77411244730686997212014-04-18T14:23:00.001-07:002014-04-18T14:23:15.066-07:00<div aria-labelledby="yui_3_7_2_1_1397855546842_2558" id="main" role="tabpanel" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; -webkit-transition: margin-top 0.5s; background-color: white; bottom: 4px; color: #454545; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12px/normal "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; left: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; margin-top: 0px; position: fixed; right: 0px; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; top: 88px; transition: margin-top 0.5s; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; z-index: 1;">
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I just wanted to touch base with you and encourage you during these next few days. Such a wonderful time; it is spring, warm weather for the most part, nice temperatures for the most part, a time of anticipation of good things that God has in store for us.</div>
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It is a time of great celebration because of what our Savior accomplished this week, especially the next few days. No matter what trails or problems you are facing, it is a time to lift up your head, survey the cross, that wondrous cross and know that a Savior loved you so much that He gave the ultimate sacrifice. </div>
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Tonight (Thursday) would be the time of the Passover Meal; the Last Supper. It was a time of deep fellowship with His disciples, a time of His final teaching and instructions on what was to come. It was a time of preparation and anticipation of His Death. It was also a time of betrayal and denial. l can only imagine what must have been going through His mind.</div>
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He was the Son of God. Revered, honored, adored in Heaven. He had never suffered, been abused or misused. He had never been hungry, lonely or cold; until He came to earth. This was part of His sacrifice as the Son of God and the Son of Man. The suffering he would endure the next several hours would be intense. What love! </div>
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This special meal that He shared with His Disciples would give Passover a new meaning. The Passover is a celebration when God<span style="color: black; text-decoration: underline;"> </span>delivered the Children<span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>of Israel</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt;"> from slavery in Egypt<span>. <span>Ten plagues</span></span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt;"> had been sent upon Egypt. Pharaoh hardened his heart each time a plague was sent upon the land. However, when the tenth plague and worst of the plagues was sent, it got his attention. The plague of the death of the first born showed him God meant business. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">God's people were instructed to mark the doorposts of their homes with the blood of a slaughtered spring lamb and, upon seeing this, the Spirit of the Lord passed over (Passover) and no death came to that home. Death came to the Egyptians, even to the house of Pharaoh. In his grief he sent the Israelites on their way. When Pharaoh did finally</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> free the Israelites, they left in such a hurry that they could not wait for bread dough to rise (leaven). This deliverance was remembered and celebrated in the holiday called, Passover. It was a very special time for God's children</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">.</span></div>
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I think it is interesting that of all the times of the year, Jesus would die on the cross as our Lamb during this Passover observance. Because of His sacrifice we are able to find our covering and protection for Death and the enemy of our soul. The BLOOD of the Lamb is applied to the doorpost of our heart and we are set free. We are no longer in bondage to the Pharaohs of this world that would keep us in slavery. Sin can be defeated. Addictions, mindsets, strongholds, curses, all of it can be broken once the Blood is applied to the doorpost of our hearts!</div>
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So rejoice, rejoice and again I say rejoice! No one can or ever will love you like Jesus does!</div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1397855546842_3164" style="background-color: transparent;">Hope to see you for the Good Friday Service at the Chapel on Friday April 18 6:00. Tomorrow is Good Friday...Friday and as Carmen the singer sings, 'it's Friday but Sunday is coming! Resurrection Day!</span></div>
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Be blessed,</div>
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Diane </div>
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-28099319990411055552014-03-16T15:42:00.000-07:002014-03-16T16:36:49.825-07:00Welcome to my front porch here in Texas and step into my world-if you dare-for a few moments.<br />
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<span id="goog_1268156251"></span><span id="goog_1268156252"></span><br />
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I have been accused of many things: oh well, such as' having a hummingbird brain....and an alligator mouth'...in other words I speak before I think...and I will commit to things others dare not...or I am continuously 'biting off more than I can chew'. All clichés...simply clichés. Clichés which mean nothing to me...when it comes to the grandkids! I love surrounding myself with them, having them here at the Barnyard, visiting, exploring, discovering and enjoying. All of them...all of them at the same time....all of them here 24/7 for as long as their parents will lend them to me.<br />
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That is one of the reasons the Preacher and I,bought this little farm. Hmmmm...think it was more me, as the Preacher would have settled for a Condo or townhouse with little or no maintenance, which means little or no character-cookie cutter-factory mass produced-just like everyone else. Just not me...Anyway, it took 9 long, laborious months in looking for just the right place-well, the right place that fit our modest little budget.<br />
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House is not too small-yet not too big to clean and heat and cool when it is just me and the Preacher.<br />
One with a decent outdoor area for running, playing, screaming. One with enough land that we could keep a few animals...possible pond for fishing (hmmm...they are called tanks here in Texas that are mainly dry due to lack of rain)...creek, woods....just to get started....well, found a place the grandkids seem to really enjoy....for now. I know all too well that each year they grow older, their interest will peak in other areas. But, for now. they all enjoy Grannies Barnyard...The Farm. Therefore, for as long as we can, I hope to keep this little farm up and running, available and ready when they can come. <br />
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Why? Well, many reasons. I did not have the greatest childhood. Just one of those things with the ways things were. However, my grandparents, especially my grandpa-Pap Paw, opened up their humble little home to me in the hills of Kentucky-right on the edge of the Appalachian Mountains. I was blessed to spend some glorious summers there. It was a time of running and playing and discovering and drinking in all the sights, sounds and smells of the country. <br />
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I hope to give my grandchildren an opportunity to experience life in the country. I want them to have the opportunity to visit with each other, to get to know each other, to not only be related by blood, but to be related with a bond of memories built and forged and forever remembered. Something they can sit around and talk about when they are adults and take a little jog down memory lane...I can hear them now...'remember when we played in the creek at Grannies, remember the baby goats we held, remember the hay rolls we jumped on and played on, remember the living room camp outs'....remember...remember.....memories that are woven into the very fabric of their little souls.<br />
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This past week was one of those weeks.<br />
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Hmmmmm....well, one thing led to another and then another and so <strong><em>Spring Break Mini Cousin Camp was birthed!</em></strong><br />
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Cousins came from North, South, East and West and some cousins brought their cousins...so throughout the week we had an average of 20 folks in and out of our humble little home. <br />
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It was lively, it was loud, it was filled with laughter, it was lovely! I enjoyed every second of it...kids camped anywhere and everywhere-mainly in the big room....every inch covered with arms, legs, fingers and toes...tussled heads, sleeping like cherubims....then springing up-bright eyed and bushy tailed (whatever that means)...ready to go!<br />
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Some scoff and chide me and say' <em>why have all those kids there at the same time, make it easy on yourself, only have a few at a time, your deserve a break, you deserve to rest...it's your spring break too...'</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>True...all of it true.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
But, it is not what I want. Yes, I could sit around, with manicured nails (not really), coiffured hair (not really), designer clothes (not really), designer handbags, (really?). Really, while that suits some <br />
ladies just fine...it is just not me-maybe it was the hillbilly upbringing, maybe the hand- me-downs mentality, maybe it is just me-who I am and who I want to be and who I don't want to be. ME.<br />
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I hope to leave a legacy to my grandkids of having an open home, an open heart, open hands, a welcoming place, filled with plenty of food, fun and activities that stimulate the body, soul and spirit.<br />
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So, every meal, every activity, every dollar spent, every moment spent has been done to pour into them. Spend precious time with them. So while this is indeed my time, it is also their time. <br />
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It is quite at our house right now. Too quite. Things are in order-well, the best order that I tend to keep things in. I am not the best housekeeper as I prefer to be outside and out and about drinking in God's sunshine and fresh air. So, as long as it is tidy I can live with it. All laundry has been washed, folded and put away! Floors are clean-as clean as can be for a country home with lots of mud and dirt. <br />
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It is always bittersweet as they leave one by one. Bitter because some of them live a distance away that makes it difficult to see them more than 2-3 times a year. They grow and change so much in that amount of time. It's bitter even for those who live close by; schedules and other circumstances warrant only seeming them so often. However, it is sweet...so sweet, delightfully sweet, the memories! <br />
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So, if the Lord tarries-if He does delay His coming for all of us who know Him, love Him and eagerly look for His return...perhaps if I am old and sitting around in a home, a room or wherever....I will not remember having nails manicured, hair done just so, a closet full of clothes with labels and designer names...I will remember (I hope! although some days I need a name tag on me to help me remember who I am!)...the egg hunts for the freshest eggs in town, the bleating of baby goats, and just the wonderful time spent with these wonderful quiver full of grandchildren....and I will cherish their sing song...'''love you Grannie"!<br />
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So, Julie, Lori, Joe and Tim thanks for the memories. Thanks for loaning your precious jewels and gems to me and allowing me to get to know them, hug them, discover with them, and just breathe them in....priceless...<br />
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Until next time on the front porch....<br />
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<br />Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-58226608085527012582014-01-21T18:45:00.002-08:002014-01-21T18:45:40.631-08:00Master MixThis is post is for my sister-in-law and daughter, Lori. It is an all purpose baking mix similar to Bisquick-except it cost pennies per serving...ENJOY LADIES!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">ALL PURPOSE MASTER
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">8 cup all purpose flour (is use 4 cups white flour and 4
cups wheat)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">3 ½ TBS baking powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 tsp salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 ½ cups Crisco</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 cup non-fat dry milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">4 TBS sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mix all dry ingredients.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cut shortening into mixture</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I usually double this and then I have plenty of mix on
hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Store in an airtight
container.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This mix keeps well for a
month or so.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">BREAD MIX</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">3 cups Master Mix</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 cup warm water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 egg beaten</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 envelope yeast</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mix beaten egg, water and yeast. Put in bread machine (if
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Add master mix</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Start machine</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Master Mix Banana Nut
Bread</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">¼ cup shortening</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">¾ cup sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 eggs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 cup Master Mix</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2-3 ripe mashed bananas</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ chopped nuts</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Favorite icing (if desired)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cream sugar and shortening. Combine eggs, master mix,
bananas and nuts together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put in
greased bread pan bake 50-60 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Minutes 350 degree oven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Poor frosting on warm bread for a glazed effect.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Master Mix Pancakes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 cup Master Mix</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 ½ milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 egg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 TBSP oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mix all ingredients put on hot griddle.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Master
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 cup Master Mix</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2/3 cup milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heat oven to 450. Combine
ingredients.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turn ingredients onto floured
surface (use Master Mix) Knead dough 25 times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pat dough into ½ inch biscuits. Place on greased baking pan. Bake 10
minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">MASTER
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">3 cup Master Mix</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>2 TBS
sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>1 egg
beaten</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>1 cup
milk</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mix sugar and Master Mix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add beaten egg and milk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stir to blend-do not overmix-batter should be
lumpy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fill muffin pans 2/3 full and
bake at 425 15 minutes</span>Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-62524611973105896272013-11-26T19:24:00.001-08:002013-11-27T04:42:03.717-08:00<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp0b1bc8Njw/UpVhCSQujjI/AAAAAAAAAYo/skDnIIxHg3s/s1600/Copy+of+gea_history_02+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp0b1bc8Njw/UpVhCSQujjI/AAAAAAAAAYo/skDnIIxHg3s/s400/Copy+of+gea_history_02+(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, well, well…long
time and no visit on the front porch…no apologies, no excuses…but so glad you
stopped by!</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></o:p>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It has been almost a year since my last blog...blogging takes time. It takes thought...it takes more time. I often feel my to do list outweighs my time allotment...but decided to take some of that precious time on this cold November day in 2013...to invite you to celebrate and magnify the Lord with me!</span></o:p></div>
</div>
<h2 align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
50 YEARS!</h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">50 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A great
deal of stuff can happen during 50 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Good, bad, sad, happy, birth, death, marriage, divorce… Half a century…50
years. That's a long time.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We recently observed the 50<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> anniversary of the assassination
of John F. Kennedy and the death of C. F. Lewis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dark day for Texas and for America that day
of the assassination of John F. Kennedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> For the past few weeks t</span>he news has been full of minute by minute accounts of the dark
day in November 1963.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hard to believe 50 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most people who were alive at that time can
recall just where they were and what they were doing when the news broke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unbelievable.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am celebrating another type of milestone; 50 years ago in
November, 1963, I accepted Jesus as my Savior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was a lost, confused 10 year old child. But,a kindly neighbor took me
under her wing, invited me to church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The church was a new work…a home mission’s church that was started in an
old, very old school house<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I stress
OLD; a one room school house which had been divided into two rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is still standing today-boarded up, just as the picture shows-but still
standing as a witness, a light, a testimony to the lives it has touched. It was
complete with an old wood/coal burning stove.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Wood floors, old dusty wood floors, drafty old windows and on one wall hung a picture of
George Washington that I thought had to be the original portrait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Running water-none-which meant when nature
called, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>you literally had to take a
walk up a path and beware.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t recall
ever venturing to this facility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not
because I was afraid, as we had one of these fine facilities at my house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just chose not to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, and one light bulb to illuminate the
church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bare bulb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No frills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This little church was born out of a man’s dream to help
people, such as myself, find the Truth, and find Jesus as Lord and Savior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Roy Gabbard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had a heritage of several generations of preachers and teachers, but
somewhere along this way, he ventured off the path of the straight and
narrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After his search, he returned to
the God of his youth and the God of his roots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thus, eventually he was called to the ministry and planted a church. That small beginning has flourished into a ministry of churches, tent revivals, singing groups, evangelistic work through TV and radio. Wonder if he ever dreamed his small beginnings would mushroom into such ministry? But that is God's plan: small steps, small beginnings, obedience in small things=God's blessings beyond our hopes and dreams.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My neighbor faithfully took me to this little church. Not many folk in
attendance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recall Pastor Gabbard
singing and playing his guitar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
remember singing from the hymn books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
loved to sing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cherished the words from
those old hymnals; ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">At the Cross, At the
Cross’</i>….Of course I had no idea what the meaning was to this songs...but the power of the message of those songs drew me and comforted me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember the piano
player banging on those keys like there was no tomorrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember the preaching.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I had little experience with church,
especially a little country church like this, the preaching to me was more like
hollering and more hollering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember
thinking ‘why is this guy so angry?”! Hmmm...now realize it's the passion for the Word that we Christians experience...a passion, a drive, a desire to 'GO and TELL' and sometimes yell.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I remember Sunday School.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I loved Sunday School. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Charlotte
Gabbard was the teacher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a small
group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, I remember loving the
stories and the comfort of the Word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
dear neighbor came and picked me up, faithfully, week after week-rain, cold, sleet and snow. She has long gone to her Heavenly home, I wonder where I might be today IF she had not taken the time and interest in the little Lawson girl who lived over the hill and through the woods. Reaching out to one does count and does make a difference-especially to that one. What a difference it made to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A few months earlier, the Gideons, a group of businessmen
who raise funds and supply Bibles to school children, military men and women,
nurses, doctors, motels…came to my school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I remember the buzz was, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the
Gideons are</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">coming, the Gideons are
coming’</i>…hmmm…what is a Gideon?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well,
I found out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kindly, concerned men who
handed me a little red New Testament.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>God’s Word. I did not know exactly the treasure I had just received.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I took it home and for some reason began secretly reading this treasure by
the light from the kitchen when I was supposed to be sleeping. I did not understand the message...thees and thous and wherefores and begats and this and that...but nevertheless, I was drawn by the power of the Holy Spirit to read this Word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> <o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One rainy, cold November Sunday in 1963 I went to church, received a
handout after Sunday School and carried it home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That afternoon, I read and re-read that
little handout.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not much to do at my house
on a cold rainy November Sunday afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Stay quiet and stay out of sight if possible and don’t say or do
anything to upset the delicate status quo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After reading that little paper several times, the message hit
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the back was the outline of the
plan of salvation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A-Admit you are a
sinner...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>B-Believe in Jesus. C-Confess
that Jesus is your Lord and Savior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
huge, bright light went off in my little 10 year old brain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus loved me and He could save me from my
miserable self and my miserable life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was a cold, rainy day, but a warmth came over me.; a warmth down to my
toes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I not only said the sinner’s
prayer, I found a piece of paper and wrote a letter to Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Making sure I covered the A, B and C.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I signed it and dated it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Priceless…the defining day of my life; the
Crossroads that forever changed my life!</span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So 50 years…50 years, I have had a Friend, a Confidant, a
Helper, a Healer, and a Savior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ups and
downs…mountains and valleys, trials, tribulations, victories..but all sprinkled with the power and comfort of the Holy Spirit, the Grace from the Son and the Love of the Father.....by the way I met a young man at that little country church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Glen Gabbard, the son of the Preacher man Roy
Gabbard and the brother of my Sunday School teacher, Charlotte Gabbard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I met the Preacher...we fell in love,
married, had 4 children and a gaggle of grandkids…we have pastored in several
states, met some of the best folk this side of Heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>50 years….and they said it wouldn’t last!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">50 years does seem like a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>l o n g time and it is….but compared to the
Promise of Eternal Life that I now possess because of that decision in November
1963…50 years here on earth is just a mere drop in the bucket…I have 50 times 50 years times 50 years…eternity...to live, move
and have my being in Him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So celebrate with me, Glorify His Name with me, but more importantly if you do not know Him as Savior, invite Him into your heart where He will make His home...John 3:16...for GOD so loved the world that He sent His Son...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I wrote earlier, blogging takes time, thought and tenacity...I usually don't write until or unless I feel the inspiration...been writing this blog in my head for several weeks now...but really been writing it for the past 50 years...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So thanks for stopping by...I do feel a few more blog thoughts forming and stewing in my soul...so hopefully, we can visit again here on the front porch real soon...until then...be blessed</span></div>
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Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-43719704288472113312013-01-30T18:46:00.000-08:002013-01-31T16:33:22.418-08:00"Over and Out"!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hey! Glad you stopped by on This Wonderful Wednesday….what
is left of it…my how time flies...</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">28 days of words …’ize’ words they are…words that mean’ <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to be…to cause’</i>…so today is the 28<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
word... and it is fitting and proper for the occasion<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>SUMMARIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Everyone knows what this word means…<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">SUMMARIZE</span></i></b>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as in a story, an event, a lifetime…get
to the main point-what was this journey all about.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well... I’ve explained earlier how this all got started…one
step, one thought, one word at a time, </span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #548dd4; mso-themecolor: text2; mso-themetint: 153;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">EXPLORE that word,<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #548dd4; mso-themecolor: text2; mso-themetint: 153;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>EXPLAIN that word,<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #548dd4; mso-themecolor: text2; mso-themetint: 153;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>then EXHORT…<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">let that word seek
and soak into my spirit and do the work that needed to be done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">LIFESTYLE LIVING</span></i></b>…living out
each of those words…not all at once…but they are like a part of a toolbox, a toolkit, a
briefcase…a doctor’s bag (do they still use those?)…anyway...understanding what
each of those words meant, looking at how they applied, could or should apply
to my heart and life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So often did not
measure up at all…more often than not that was the case…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have gained much insight…but often like so much we
discover, we hear, we ponder…in the heat of a battle, in the midst of a
situation, in the fight for our lives…we panic and don’t use the proper tools in
the tool box…aka the Word…if only we truly learned to trust Him and His Word…</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How often do we ‘beat at the air, striking
at some invisible force”…often not even knowing what we are battling.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Life is a such challenge…</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">from one victory to
another…</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">but think about it…</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">can’t have those
victories without some type of battles.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, my friend…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">stand tall, stand long, stand still and stand steady through it all!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">PRAY...</i></b>about everything, all the time, anywhere, everywhere…if
nothing else....’whisper a prayer in the morning, whisper a prayer at the noon
day…whisper a prayer in the evening’</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">PRAISE</i></b>….praise Him, praise him, praise Him…for everything, all
the time, anywhere, everywhere…praise Him in the morning, praise Him in the
noontime and praise <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Him when the sun
goes down!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">PARTICIPATE…</i></b>get busy…don’t hold back…why wait for some big grandiose
invitation or call to make a grand appearance…just do it…do small things,
little unseen things, seemingly insignificant things for the Kingdom…which
means for His people…and even those we think aren’t His people…if we love those
who love us…hmmm…we are in a comfort zone…the test is to do something for
someone you don’t know, or particularly like…….remember the Bible tells us even
if we give a prophet something as small, simple and soothing as a cup of water…we
get to share in the reward…WOW</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">PERSEVERE:</i></b> Hold on, hold on and hold on some more…hold on to
what? God’s unchanging hand…just like a child holds on to Mom’s hand, Dad’s
hand…slip your hand into the Savior’s hand…hold tight…know He is in control and
will lead and guide you…don’t be up one day…down another…blown about by every
little wind…careening off the course by a little bump or two…come on…we are
made of stronger stuff than that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dig in
for the long haul…Oh; I just know that it is going to be worth it all someday…hold
on…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POWER:</i></b> Just think of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POWER</i></b> backing us!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POWER </i></b>that brought this universe into
existence and set it all in motion…every little jot and tittle working in
perfect harmony... <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POWER</i></b>…of the Cross and the Savior who died on it…<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POWER
</i></b>to live right, walk right, talk right…be right…<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">POWER</i></b> to be bold enough
to face the biggest enemy…seen or unseen and declare…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">IN THE NAME OF JESUS!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">BEWARE</span></i>…there is an enemy…evil, wicked, ugly and
awful…I am still flabbergasted by God’s ‘people’….the ones who cause the most heartache,
trouble, lie the most, cheat the most, justify their little actions and pet
peeves and claim to be CHRISTIANS.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
wear their big crosses, proclaim He is their Savior…but oh, my friend, as I
said earlier…those actions speak louder than words, and those actions are
speaking so loud I cannot hear a word being said!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So….what to do with folk like this when we <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>meet them?? Hmmm…I want to confront them and say...
“You’ve got to be kidding me?’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t believe you just
said that!”…but the deadly dealers are those sneaky, two-faced ones that cause
discord…sneak, snipe, swipe at you….AHHH, but God sees…they may fool
themselves, fool the fools who listen to them…BUT take assurance in the promise…’every
idle word will be accounted for’!...Hey, let’s just make sure we are on the
right side of the bridge and don’t get swept to the other side and join the
gossips, nay sayers and those caught up in their own lies.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">BEWARE:</span></i> the Devil, the enemy of our soul deals in the
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Deadly D’s:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Drags you Down</span></i> with this lies, oppression</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Depression</span></i>…he will tell you every reason to think <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Downward</span></i>
thoughts and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Dig
a deep</span></i> pit and have a PITy party (not a misspell get it?)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Despondency</span></i>….he loves to convince us it is over
and there is no help…lies</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Depths</span></i>…he will cause things, inspire folks, and
set us up to fall into the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">depth</span></i> of…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Despair</span></i>…he loves it when we wring our hands, twist
our faces and he can hear our hearts racing with stress, anger and fear…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Depression</span></i>….there are some valid reasons for<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;"> Depression</span></i>
BUT satan magnifies, twists and convinces us that we are the most pitiful
creature on the face of the earth…we have been done wrong by everyone, every
time, everywhere…don’t go there!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Dungeon…</span></i>he is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">doomed</span></i> and going to be in eternal torment and
punishment forever into infinity!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>YEAH…good
news!! Bad News…he is trying every trick in the book to take as many of us with
him as he can…Why? It breaks the heart of God and he wants company…what is that
saying…’misery loves company’?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">SOMEDAY!</span></i></b>!! Jesus will return
to the earth…if you are reading this and think all this is religious glooby, glop…get
a Bible as fast as you can and preferably one of the Translations such as the
Message or NIV and read, read, read…it’s the Playbook, the Plan, the Map, the
Treasure…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway…just watch the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #ffc000;">Fever and the
Fatigue….<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Look out for <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #ffc000;">RAPTURE FEVER</span></i></b>…this
will cause you to burn up with such intensity that you feel He can return at
any minute….so why try to do any more work…why try to witness to anyone, why
try to do any acts of kindness, why build a church, write a song, sing a song,
do anything?…it will all be over SOON…true, true, true…but until ‘then’ be
about His business…TCB…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">take care of His
Business…</i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Watch out for <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #ffc000;">RAPTURE FATIGUE</span></i></b>….meaning
you have heard about this event soooo long and soooo many times…that you have
more or less given up!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fatigue…started
that good fight, that good race…but got weak in the knees, tongue hanging out
of your mouth, feeble hands hanging down…keep looking, keep running, keep believing…in
that moment when you least expect it…BAM! In the moment in a twinkling of an
eye!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Solomon was a wise
man…did some foolish things, made some unwise decisions, picked some uncanny
wives and fell into some strange business…BUT he did have a gift of wisdom….</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So to close this
little journey…</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">over and out…</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">done with…</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">gonna look to some of
my favorite scriptures that Solomon penned: </span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is from the Message Ecclesiastes 12:11-14</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“The words of the wise prod us to live well.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They’re like nails hammered home (unlike the nails I and the Duck
Dynasty boys hammer), <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">holding life together (now that’s some powerful nails!)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They are given by God,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">the one Shepherd.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But regarding anything beyond this, dear<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">friend, go easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(The WORD is the first, last and every word
in between!)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There’s no end to the publishing of books,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">(EVERYONE it seems has a book that will be
the one to fulfill every dream)...<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">and constant study wears you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">out so you’re no good for anything else.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">(beware of what you read and WHO you listen
too…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">folks can’t just listen to any and everyone out
there in Media land).<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The LAST and Final word is this:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fear God (love Him, Obey Him, And Trust Him)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>DO WHAT HE TELLS YOU. (Just DO IT…one
step at a time!)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And
that’s it…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Eventually
God will bring everything that we do out into the open and judge it according to
it’s hidden intent, whether it’s good or evil”…..<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So I leave the Front Porch for now….be watching I’ll send
an invite out when I can meet you again…until then keep it real and keep it
simple….<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-8853330385872076072013-01-29T03:08:00.001-08:002013-01-29T03:08:18.308-08:00IT IS FINISHED<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;"></span></i></b></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;"></span></i></b></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">FINALIZE</span></i></b>…that
is the final word for this little journey here on the Front Porch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be one more word tomorrow, so hope
you do get to stop by one more day.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">FINAL…FINISHED…COMPLETED,
NO MAS, NO MORE, THE END...CLOSED</span></i>…words that evoke mixed feelings:
sadness, gladness, relief, sense of accomplishment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At this time all jumbled together:</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">Sadness… i</span></b>n
the sense I will not be visiting with you as much as I have the past 28 days...</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">Gladness…</span></b>I
will not be visiting with you as much as I have in the past 28 days (haha) </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">Relief…’</span></b>I
have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the
faith’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whew…a lot of time, energy, more
time and energy put into these little visits.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">Sense of
accomplishment</span></b>: I stuck to it…setting aside time, pouring body, soul
and spirit into each day’s visit…much like a marathon runner….when they hit the
finish line</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">How did this journey begin?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As most do…one idea, one thought, one step at a time.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Looking back at 2012…survived…some good times, bad times.
Good memories, bad memories, great accomplishments, utter failures, much
laughter…even more tears.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Looking into 2013...what will it hold?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More of the same?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe…hope not …hope better, gentler and
kinder…So one thought led to another and another…and words…rapid fire words…all
ending in ‘ize’. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tomorrow I will<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;"> SUMMARIZE</span></i>
those words.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyway, wrote them down and ended up with 2…hence the 28 day
journey.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would look at the list, ponder the meaning, pray about its
significance in my life...jot down thoughts, scriptures, experiences, memories,
significant points…pull it all together...edit, edit some more, set it up on
the blog…post…looking back not even sure how it all came together…pocket of
time- here-there-little or no TV time….but this season has come to an end.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I recall a scene from Forest Gump…when for some reason he
was inspired to RUN…run from east to west, north to south. RUN…day and night….one
day he was running and stopped…no real significant spot…just stopped…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">he was finished</i>…this journey has been
something like that…’time to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">finish</i>
and move on’.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So on the is word: it is important <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">to FINALIZE</span></i></b> what is
started….not always possible…but one thing we all MUST complete <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">and FINALIZE is
our race, our work, our walk, our calling…for the Lord…for that is the GREAT
RACE!<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Until tomorrow!</span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-55089535021400414112013-01-28T16:33:00.000-08:002013-01-28T16:33:07.640-08:00SYMPATHY VALLEY AND PITY CITY
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Monday…and so another week begins…behind in posting today…</span></div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today’s word is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">Sympathize:</span></i></b>
listening to someone's problem while agreeing that the person is right.</span></div>
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We <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">sympathize</span></i></b> when someone
loses a loved one in death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sympathize
</i></b>when someone experiences a divorce, loses a job, is sick…shows we have
compassion and that we care. We send cards, make phone calls, bake cakes, and
offer our condolences… <br />
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Heartache, heart break...shake us to the core…so often no one understands
our pain and will make statements…’<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that’s
not so bad, oh, grow up, get over it.</i>’ And so on…and we should.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><span style="color: #0070c0;">Sympathy Valley</span>
and <span style="color: #0070c0;">Pity City</span> are no place to live, not even
visit.<br />
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If not careful we can set up camp in these dark places….Seeking <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">sympathy </span></i>can
become a lifestyle and not a good one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Being ‘poor little me’ can be a comfort zone to retreat to, a place to
get attention, a sigh evokes <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">sympathetic </span></i>looks and worried concerns.<br />
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Our Lord <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">sympathized</span></i>
with us…and does understand…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">’He is moved
by the feelings of our</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">infirmities’.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He, like no one else, understands every pain,
every emotion, and every disappointment.<br />
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Ecclesiastes 3:4 states that there is a time to weep…and there will be
plenty of times of weeping while upon this earth…Jesus himself wept upon
hearing of Lazarus death.<br />
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But after the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">sympathy</span></i>
should come action…action to move on and move up. We mourn for our loses and
rightfully so…part of humanity, part of having compassion…part of having life…but
then get up and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>get dressed<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and continue on the journey.<br />
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<o:p> </o:p><br />
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Victim or victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You and you only are
the only one who can decide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put all
into perspective and count it all joy!<br />
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Tomorrow here on the Front Porch: <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #4f6228; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;">FINALIZE!</span><span style="color: #00b050;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b><br />
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-922259896407480562013-01-27T04:13:00.000-08:002013-01-27T04:13:31.383-08:00NEW LIFE! NEW HOPE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b> </div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">That’s
the word for today here on the Front Porch...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE…</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">bring new life or hope
to something…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">That
is what this little journey has been for me…to look at those things dormant, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">dying
or damaged in my life…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">those
things shoved to the back, overlooked, even neglected…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">dreams,
goals, and visions…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">our
word for 2013 for our little church congregation is<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">THINK
BIG!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
want to also use that encouragement in my personal life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>AND <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">THINK BIG<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pretty good team!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pull
out the old files, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Search
through the boxes, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dig
back in the closet and find those <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">dreams
and goals <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">that
seems too hard,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>perhaps it appears is too late for <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">or
maybe feel too old for…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">bring
new life and hope to things that seems impossible<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">WHY?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">That
is one of the attributes of God…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">He
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">REVITALIZED…<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">brought
new life to His Son who has been beaten, tortured and crucified on the
cross.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jesus
had to endure this…had to be done…so that we could experience <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">New
life and hope<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">God
specializes in the resurrection of body, soul and spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Remember
our talk about ‘Down for the Count’...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">we
get the breath knocked out of us quite often…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">not
necessarily literally (hope not) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">but
spiritually, emotionally, financially.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When
(not if) this happens look to God to <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">He
is Hope…and New Life…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So
getting to ‘over and out’ on this little journey…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">just
a few more ‘ize’ words on the list...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
have never quite done anything like this…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">got
this list, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">pondered
this list,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>studied this list,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>thought about this list,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>pretty much consumed a great deal of my time…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">but
in the process I have felt some dreams and goals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>REVITALIZE…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Start where you are..<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">Start small…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;">(BUT THINK BIG!)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">One step at a time…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Stay Steady…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Glad
you have dropped in to visit...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So,
a few more invitations to meet me here…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">then
what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Hmmm,
oh I love coming to the front porch…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">so
I will let you know when I’ll be talking a ‘sit a while’ spell…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">until
tomorrow…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Find
something in your life to <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Relationship
with God, with others, dig out those dreams, dust off those goals </span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">and re-visit
those visions…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">REVITALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Until
tomorrow…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Right here on the Front
Porch!</span>Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-48791468798007617602013-01-26T08:06:00.002-08:002013-01-26T08:06:41.222-08:00"THOU ART THE MAN!"
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Spectacular
Saturday….moving right into the weekend here on the Front Porch…for a great
deal of us we are off ‘work’ as in the 40, 40+ hour a week job we get paid to
do…no matter how rewarding and fulfilling…how glorious it is to wake-up or
sleep in… whichever you do…and have the day stretching before you…you can meander
through it, for the most part, however, whenever you desire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if you have young children, scheduled sports
activities, recitals, birthday events…there is still flexibility from the usual
routine…a good thing!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">So, today on
the Front Porch…the word...<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="color: red;">….<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>red
hot, sizzling</i></span> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">word</span></i>…word that can get us into trouble, wreck
havoc in our lives, set us on a course of disaster…if we let it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TANTALIZE<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">:</i></span></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>means </span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">tormented by the sight of something desired but out of reach; tease
by arousing, to provoke, to taunt, to tempt, to frustrate.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hmmm...mighty powerful
word…jam packed with trouble.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In our Christian
walk, we encounter </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">‘tantalizing’</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> situations…those
things around us that can tease, tempt and test. Something we MUST be aware of,
vigilant about and constantly on the look out for.</span></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="mso-cellspacing: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0in;" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 Peter 5:8 states:
</span><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">‘</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy
the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.’<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That someone being me and you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the war of the ages…Satan, a fallen angel
who rebelled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is at war with God and His
creation...God, me, you…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Devil is often identified as the serpent
in the Garden of Eden who <strong><em><span style="color: red;">TANTALIZED </span></em></strong>Eve. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He, ever so slyly, cunningly, taunted and
tempted her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Teased and tested her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Telling her God was holding out on her…and if
she would do the very thing God had told her NOT to do…she would be like God…and
she fell for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is referred to as ‘original
sin’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bad news for her and Adam and
certainly bad news for the rest of us…Long story…look in the book of Genesis
for the ‘rest of the story’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The
Good News!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God had a plan. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Redemption, forgiveness, reconciliation
through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">: our world is filled with a plentitude of things,
stuff, people, places, situations, promises…to fulfill our desires, dreams and
wishes...Our world has turned into a big pleasure, seeking playground, a
pleasure palace: with the motto: ‘if it feels good-do it’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TANTALIZE:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> The enemy of our souls, beware, be on guard, and
have your full armor on as described in Ephesians Chapter 6.</span><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Be sober - Avoid drunkenness of your senses, and drunkenness in your
souls; be not overcharged with the concerns of the world.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Be vigilant - Awake, and keep awake; be always watchful; never be
off your guard; your enemies are alert, they are never off theirs. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your adversary, the devil –IS NOT your friend, is not looking
out for your good…but has a mission, to </span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">kill, steal and destroy.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He is an ever active, scheming,
subtle enemy we must be aware of and be equipped to contend with. He roams
about…not in the sense that me and you move about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is subtle, sly and sneaky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has access to you everywhere; he knows
your feelings and your weaknesses, secret desires and wishes. Bad Dude…Bad
News.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT, Good News! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As sung by Chris Tomlin: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Our God is greater,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>our
God is stronger,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God
you are higher than any other.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: 266.25pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Our God is Healer,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Awesome in Power, <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Our God! Our God!</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: Satan tempts, traps, tests us: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The subtle , sneaking, sly serpent; tries to bewitch us </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> our senses, twist, turn and tamper with our judgment, and carry
us away in our own imagination. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">tantalizing </span></i><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">thought calls to us; it is soothing, silky, sensual…could be
brought on by something we saw, something we heard, or somewhere we should
never have been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Satan just seems to have the knack of situating us in the wrong
place at the wrong time, with the wrong people with the wrong attitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Just one look, just one
drink, just one taste, just one night, just one smoke.”</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the Lay’s potato chip commercial
used to promote:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“One is not enough.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Got that right!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Just so you don’t think something like this could never
happen to me or you…take a look at King David in 2 Samuel 11</span><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">King David was supposed to be in battle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some reason at this particular time, 'he
remained in Jerusalem’. (wrong place)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He had a sleepless and restless night and while
walking on the roof of his palace, (wrong time) saw Bathsheba, who was then the
wife of Uriah, taking a bath. Hmmm...why was he looking?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He immediately desired her (wrong person) and later
made her pregnant. (wrong decision)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; tab-stops: 357.0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Wrong, Wrong</span></i><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">, <strong>Wrong…<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">what was he (man after God’s own heart thinking or NOT thinking)?...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TANTALIZE…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During one of our pastoral
sabbaticals, Preacher and I sat under the ministry of a very wise Pastor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>33 years later I still remember one of the
best sermons I heard him preach:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We can justify (rationalize) anything we want to…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In other words we can talk ourselves into doing, saying<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Anything and think we have every right to do so!</span></i></div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Think about it…how fools
justify saying things, doing things, not doing things because they have made it
right in their own perverted, twisted thought process…oh, and with a little
help from<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the enemy of their soul:
satan.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">This must have been one of those moments for David…he
encountered a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">Tantalizing</span></i>
moment, a test, a tease, a temptation…and succumbed to it…hook, line and
sinker.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">TANTALIZE...<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">BUT, sin begets sin,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>wrong begets
wrong, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">lie beget lie...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">it did not end there…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">as usual and customary...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Sin pays and we do not like the wages…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">and in this case it involved death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">David somewhat came to his senses…what a mess... an effort to conceal
his sin, David <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>called Bethesda’s husband
Uriah from the heat of the battle and hoped that Uriah would... hmmm...putting it
plainly...have sex with his wife. So, he would think the child was his. BUT,
Uriah was unwilling to violate the ancient kingdom rule and chose to remain on duty at
the palace.A man of honor.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He refused to go home to the comfort of his home,
his bed and his wife.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: center; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Thus, David conceived (no pun intended) more sin, more wrong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">David , having lost every good brain cell he was
every given, told Joab to place Uriah in the front lines of the battle, where
it was the most dangerous, and thus for sure, left Uriah to the hands of the enemy.
Certain death...ordered by the king he had vowed to serve. <o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gets more
bizarre-see that enemy, the serpent, sneaky, sly, slimy…will drive us to such a
deep, dark place that exists in each of us-because of that original sin.<o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>David had
Uriah himself carry the message that ordered his very death. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He probably carried those orders with a sense
of pride, a sense of duty…a mission for the king.<o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">David rendered heartless, conscious seared, no sense of right…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></o:p></span></i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TANTALIZE: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>wrong, wrong, wrong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Sin cannot be hid-forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may
be kept low; secret for a time…sooner or later it spills, seeps and springs forth.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hmmm... Such as this baby that would come forth in 9 months and Uriah
would know and so would everyone else-that it was not his.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Funny, or not so, Christian folk-get caught up in
the heat of a 'moment' and succumb to a relationship out of marriage...A baby
is conceived and 5, 6, 7 months later-an ‘early’ baby arrives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Please folk-just don’t tell us a lie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t say “I am getting married and honest I’m
not pregnant”...We can do the math…but forget about us…<o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">it is God who is never fooled...<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">After Uriah was dead David made it official-he took Bathsheba as his</span></i><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> wife…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Wonder what the people he ruled thought?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We find out pretty quick what God thought.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The prophet Nathan came to David and told him about
2 men and sheep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One was rich and had
countless cattle and sheep (David) one was poor and only had one little lamb
(Uriah). The rich man took the little lamb from the poor man to feed some
travelers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Upon hearing this David was furious! He stood up
with every righteous indignation he could muster and said,<span style="color: #001320;">”This man should be hung and repay for this crimes<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hmmm...going way back to a Front Porch
talk on 'beams and splinters'…we see everyone else’s mistakes…not our own…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Anyway, the Prophet Nathan pointed to
David and said, ”You are this man”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>David must have
been cut to the core, slashed to the bone, broken to pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was the man indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Much to his credit, he repented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT, there was a penalty to pay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The child conceived would die. There would be
trouble, turmoil, testing, </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TANTALIZING</span></i><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> in his household the rest of his
days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His son raped his own daughter, 2 Samuel
13. His son, Absalom, murders the brother who raped the sister. 2 Samuel
13.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>David had to flee his home because
of this same son’s treason. Absalom had to be murdered to stop his devious,
deceitful, descent into madness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trouble
followed David the rest of his life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
man who worshipped God, taught us so much through the book of Psalms about
praise, worship and adoration…fell into defeat, downfall, disaster after disaster…all
because of one look at the wrong time, in the wrong place at the wrong person.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Satan, as a roaming lion is always on
the prowl, looking, seeking, and searching for the opportunity to devour – gulp
us down. GULP. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is patient, oh, so, patient.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Much like a chess game and the chess players…he
plays a deadly game and we play right along…even thinking we can outsmart, outmaneuver,
out play him-much like David with trying to set up Uriah.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In the end, play with fire-get
burned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Satan will play along, smooth,
silky, seductive…until he has you backed in the corner...checkmate! Too often
we don’t even realize who we are playing against...or if we do, we think we
have everything under control…we can handle it…hmmm…look how David ‘handled it’
and look at the consequences. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I will say it again and again… do not
drink, do not swallow down Satan’s snares; His lies, his teases, his tricks and
especially falling under the sway of drugs and alcohol. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you swallow strong drink down, the devil
will swallow you down. Hear this, ye drunkards, topers, tipplers, or by
whatsoever name you are known in society, or among your fellow sinners. Strong
drink is not only the way to the devil, but the devil's way into you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">BEWARE</span></i><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, your soberness, your vigilance, your guard, your good common
sense, your decencies, your thought processes…all become cloudy, fuzzy, unclear
and disappear under the influence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
is a reason it is called ‘under the influence’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You are no longer in control and you have given your control to someone
else-satan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look at the countless number
of lives ‘stolen, destroyed and killed (my father) in the name of a drink. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There is hope!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Realize we are under construction. God is not
finished with us. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Construction is
messy, takes a great deal of time, and is very costly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Construction entails cutting, hammering,
sometimes great pressure, heat, tearing it out and starting over. So be
patient, submit to the Carpenter’s handiwork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This is not His first rodeo!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Use self discipline, bring your
thoughts, body, wishes and desires under subjection-but hard to do if you are
not in control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know one young lady
who said “drunk sex is best’…she has got to be kidding…what kind of deception
is she living unde</span><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">r<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">?...<span style="color: red;"> </span></b><span style="color: #001320;">Please join me in praying for her and thousand, millions
like her who have this mindset.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Take charge!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oswald Chambers, great evangelist,
teacher in the late 1800’s into the early 1900’s, very well known for his
devotional book, “MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST’ stated: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The Christian life is gloriously difficult’ ( my note: I read this and
gasped). </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went on to state: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“But the difficulty does not make us faint and cave in; it rouses us to
overcome.”<o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That thing or those things that </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> us…lay hold, seize, shake, grip tightly then destroy, throw
them down, along with Satan and put them under our feet!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, they will try to resurrection from time
to time, BUT<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">BE SOBER, BE VILIGANT….be ready and
prepared…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Whew, had no idea the thought </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TANTALIZE</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> would take us into such a discussion</span><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Our little chats here on the Front Porch, in
such intensity, are fixin’ to come to a close…few more days and I will have met
my 28 day challenge to seek, search, pour and pound my way into these words,
find the meaning, pray about how they need to be addressed in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">YOU?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Why, I just happened to invite you to come sit with me here on my Front
Porch here in Texas, to talk to, share with, help me discuss and find meaning to these words....</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Haven't gotten a whole lotta
feedback…guess you couldn’t get a word in edgewise…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Anyway, deep, soaking, soul searching…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What am I going to do with these word
studies and ’revelations’?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hmmm, first gonna hide them in my
heart and ponder on them, chew on them, revisit them, pray about them, apply
them and hopefully live them…my 2013 Lifestyle Living….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">So, going to stretch into this Splendid
Saturday…gonna live, move and breathe…in Him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Until tomorrow…here on the Front Porch</span>Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-61463914781835573652013-01-25T03:15:00.000-08:002013-01-25T03:15:42.063-08:00GO and TELL<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Gonna end this work week with a word
for the Front Porch:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni;">EVANGELIZE</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni;">…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">we as church folk <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>know what this word means.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your church is ‘full gospel,’ believe in
reading the Word for yourself and take God’s Word as Truth…then you know what
this word means…it should be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lifestyle
Living….<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">IF you would be a newcomer to the
Front Porch, and just happened to not be sure what<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">means… well here is the short version:
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Simply means ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">GO AND TELL’!<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">“Tell”,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What you ask?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">That Jesus Christ, sent from the
Father above,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Came and lived a sinless life, died on
the cross for us,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">after 3 days returned to His Father’s
right hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">That all this was done because God
loves us so…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Oh, it is so much deeper and wider
that this little<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">summarization</span></i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> (hmmm… a word coming soon!).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Millions, trillions of words written
and spoken.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Countless books, hours spent on
movies, programs, presentations, plays…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">about the greatest event that can
happen in our lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We talked about our ‘stories’
yesterday…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">today it is all about
History…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">HIS STORY!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>whenever,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>however,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>wherever you can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">That is what Lifestyle Living is
really about:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">living your life in such a way that
you ‘live, move and have your very being in Him’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Him, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">being Jesus Christ our Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">There is salvation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">In<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">No other<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Name, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Or way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">JESUS…that’s it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">walk the talk...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">as stated earlier far too many folk
just talk, talk, talk…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">(from the pulpit to the poor house)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">but the test is the walk…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">wherever you go, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Jesus right there with the Holy Spirit
abiding and leading and guiding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A few
years ago there was a slogan and we saw a great deal of necklaces, bracelets,
hats, posters, bumper stickers with WWJD on them...this was either a true
evangelistic endeavor or one of the cleverest marking tools-ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It became a by-word, household word<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050;">, WWJD</span></b>
was everywhere… and perhaps this helped people stop what they were doing and
ask ‘what would Jesus do’? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmm…but what
happened to this trend?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Jesus went and told…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">likewise, we should do the same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We are not standing on the street corner,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">holding up signs that telling people
the world is ending…although the time might come for that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">No, we tell with our actions and
words…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">or are we closet Christians?…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">that come out only on Sunday, hang
with our church buddies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">then on Monday, put the religion and
serving God back into the closet until next week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">stand up for Him, in the workplace,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">at school,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">in the home,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">in your neighborhood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Speak up for HIM…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">wrong is wrong,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">let people you come in contact with
know what God has said in His Word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">But more importantly tell, and make
sure you walk that way yourself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As I indicated in an earlier post,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>people are watching; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">co-workers,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>neighbors and <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">family members<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>are watching...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">God is watching.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">use every tool you can…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">the spoken,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">one-on-one witness is great…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">may be one of the best tools still.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Speaking before groups, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">gatherings such as in church is a way
to<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>EVANGELIZE</span></i></b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The Word has had millions/trillions of
‘words’ written about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">So, writing is one way to <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">MEDIA is another way to<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050;"> <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">radio, TV, newspaper, FACEBOOK,
blogs...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">GO and
Tell…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">anyway, however you can.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial Rounded MT Bold","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">EVANGELIZE</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">So until tomorrow…right here on the <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Front Porch<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Go and Tell!!<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-29494624698451218302013-01-24T03:02:00.001-08:002013-01-24T03:07:07.946-08:00"When it's all said and done....what will be said and done?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This week is moving right along…Thursday…here on the Front
Porch….</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today’s word <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">is EULOGIZE.</span></i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interesting word…usually associated with
death…funerals…means to speak or write in commendation of another, celebrate,
applaud, compliment, appreciate.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let’s talk about the words that will be spoken of us when
it’s all said and done, when we are gone, when our journey here on earth
ends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What will ‘they’…as in family, friends, co-workers,
acquaintances….have to say on our behalf at our funeral or memorial
service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, perhaps the ‘formal’
presentation will say things like good father, good neighbor, good husband,
good provider…good bowler…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Preacher was called upon to conduct a funeral service
many years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Young lady came to the
church, had some small children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
husband did not come to church…too busy with his hobbies and work and just did
not see the need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was back in the
day when the CB craze was the in thing (some of you younger ones will say
‘what’?). </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This wife’s husband and her brother were putting up a high
powered CB antenna on his roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Something went awry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something
went very wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow the antenna
came in contact with an electrical wire and POW…the husband and brother were
gone…instantly...just like that…not a moment to consider life or death, make
things ‘right’..say goodbye to family…put affairs in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>GONE…as can happen to any of us, at any time
in oh, so many ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Heart attack, car
accident, crazed gunmen shooting up the place we just happen to be in…think you
get the point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here one moment, gone the
next.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Preacher went to talk to this young widow, who lost her
husband and brother so tragically, so suddenly in this bizarre accident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not knowing the young men, neither one, he
asked the wife about her husband’s life…what could the Preacher say at his
funeral...<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To Preacher’s dismay and surprise, the young widow stumbled
around, trying to find something to say…now Preacher expected a variety of
responses…but all she could think of was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘he
was a good</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bowler’</i>…that was
it…nothing more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Preacher prayed with
the widow, gave her words of comfort, completed the arrangements for the
funeral and left…shook up, saddened and shocked that someone’s life could be
summed up with only 5 words…<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">’he was a
good bowler’</i>…nothing more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow
Preacher got through the funeral…but he and I determined…to live a ‘lifestyle’
in such a way that more could be said about us than <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘he was a good bowler’.</i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, my friend, what will be said about you after you have
taken your last breath, closed your eyes for the final time, after your soul
escapes your broken, tired body and you are laid to rest….No, not the soul…if
you are saved and know Jesus as your Savior…your life just begins…rejoicing,
shouting, hooping, hollering and jumping, leaping….whoohooo.. Graduation Day!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The shell, the cage, the container, the instrument you were
given to house your soul, and how you used it will be <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZED.
</span></i></b><span style="color: #0070c0;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What will be said of you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Were you nice, sweet, kind, good and helpful?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or, will you be remembered as the grumpy, grouchy,
grouse person? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were you one, who loved
God, loved family and loved country? Or were you the abuser, user, adulterer,
heart breaker, home wrecker? Perhaps you were a promise keeper, hard worker,
provider for family, made time for friends and family. Maybe the one who was
stingy, grabbing, cheating, stealing, untrustworthy, unreliable, lazy, looking
for that handout, others to pay your way...were you looking for someone to give,
give and give again-never satisfied with anything or anyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or will you be known as the giver, caring for
family, God’s creation, blessing His name, His servant, His handmaiden,
trustworthy, steady, and true? Were you faithful and a lover of God? Or were
you disobedient, a blasphemer? </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZE</span></i></b>…the formal speech
will probably be full of ‘filler material’…generalizations about life,
death…kinda like a ‘canned, prepared speech’…could be said about anybody. This <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZING</span></i>
is usually positive and comforting to friends and families.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT, the real test is what is thought by
friends and family. What is said in hushed tones between friends and family?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZE</span></i></b>…your story, your
life summed up in 20-30 minutes…Your song, your allotted time here on earth...what
are you choosing to do with it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Squander, waste, hide it away or are you using it wisely: back to <span style="color: red;">UTILIZE.</span>..using what is in your hand, what you have
been given to work with while here on earth.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Every one of us has a story…it is ours and ours alone…no one
else has one like it…even family members cannot share your story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is as unique as we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We write it, add to it, minute by minute,
action and reaction, experiences, successes and failures. Our story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good, bad; we do; good, bad; done to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is all written and woven; our life, our
story.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Along the way we encounter people, places and problems that
can help mold us, shape us or break us. Stuff tries to destroy us; wounds,
sometimes deep, damaging wounds…which become scars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Battle scars, wounded, bruised, battered,
neglected, and abused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ALL of us have
‘issues’ of one type or another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These
experiences become part of our story…woven into who we are, what we are, why we
are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Abusers usually beget abusers,
alcoholics beget alcoholics, grumps beget grumps…think you get the picture…so
along our life and in writing our story for our <span style="color: #0070c0;">eulogy</span>…allow
the good and bad to ‘work together for our good’ as our Lord instructed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even the worst of situations, on the most
horrible day…. all can blend together and some good come out of it-eventually.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Preacher recommended a book for me to read. Neither he nor I
usually read this particular author.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>BUT, Preacher is always interested in books about presidents-especially
JFK…was there a conspiracy? Was there a second-third shooter?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyway, the book. <u>11/23/63 </u>by Stephen
King. Yep. The Stephen King.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a
different venue for King...no snarling rabid dogs, no fire starting, burning
everyone, up teenager, no murdering car…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s a book about time travel-going back in time and
righting the wrongs, stopping events-tragic ones from occurring. I am still
working on it…but the premise is live the life you are dealt…let it mold you
into the person you are meant to be for even the most tragic events can become
something of value in our life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow,
the main character goes back to 1963 to intervene in the JKF assassination and
put a few other wrongs right…and the result is tragedy…Worst than what actually
happened the first time around. Perhaps when I finish the book I can give you
more of my take on this. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So in our story-our life-we are going to have scars…battle
wounds…things that hurt us to the core, but we become better for enduring and
surviving them.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZE</span></i></b>…the story…the
scars…become our song…the final verse of our life…the summary the <span style="color: #0070c0;">eulogy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So when it is all said and done…what have you said and done
with your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Much like the parable of
the talents we talked about a few days ago<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">...utilizing…prioritizing, organizing</span></i>…our life
is about those <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">‘ize’</span></i>
words and many more…remember suffix ‘ize’ means to cause to be.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a few short days it will be another anniversary of my
father’s death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wrote about his tragic
life on a blog about a year ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
time of the year always brings memories to the surface…usually unpleasant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot recall, few, if any good memories of
my father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If I had to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZE</span></i></b> his life:</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">‘a lost boy, who
became a lost man, who never found his place in this world’.</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">He had a story, like
we all do, but he never allowed the wounds he received as a child to ever
heal…the wounds of abandonment, poverty, alcoholism at an early age, low
self-esteem, </span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">just to name a few, to
never heal. </span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The wounds were re-opened again and again
throughout his life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His story became
alcohol and the more the better. He never did discover his song...never was
able to ‘sing’ about anything good about his life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If anything, he left a sad legacy of
alcoholic children, dysfunctional, lost in their own scars and feelings of
abandonment…</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">EULOGIZE</span></i></b>…when it is done…what
is going to be said about us?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Something to think about…as you leave the Front Porch… </span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-24118123657996151582013-01-23T03:23:00.001-08:002013-01-23T03:23:17.998-08:00DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?!
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, well on this Wonderful Wednesday…gonna get right to the point…word for today here on the
Front Porch is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">VISUALIZE.</span></i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now this is not a ‘new age’…come together and
hmmmm to make things happen, nor is it a ‘name and claim it’ gimmick.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But, it is about being able to have a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">dream, a goal, and a vision.-a passion and
a reason for being.</span></i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We just
celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and once again took a look at his famous
speech, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘I Have a Dream’. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His dream was for all
people, all races, colors and creeds to work for the common good and do it in
peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He accomplished much good while
he was here on earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A good role model
for everyone, no matter the color of your skin.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, I often ponder on what he would think if he could
step into this generation and see:</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">*<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Boys and grown men walking around with their pants almost to their
knees, revealing underwear or at times seem to be nothing under there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
common take on this is what they are saying is “kiss my___’’. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">*Walking
with a hip-hop chip on their shoulder bigger than any rock in the Grand
Canyon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">*What
would he think of the ‘entitlement’ mentality…’you owe’ me. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">*About
all the babies having babies having babies. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">*The
‘heroes’ of today...spitting, spewing out filthly lyrics of ‘music’ which
glorify the very things he stood against.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think he would be appalled, saddened,
ashamed and greatly disappointed in what has happen to his dream: what he
visualized for this country. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where
are the Martin Luther King, Jrs for this generation?</span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bible tells us we
need to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i></b>We
need to look to God and see what He is doing, what He desires for us, what He
can do through us, in us and with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
sell ourselves way short, too often, by lacking a vision, going through the
motions without a dream, having no real goals…simply going with the flow.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I often think if I had to have been born without my sight or
my hearing, which would I chose to do without.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I cannot image a life in total silence…never hearing the sweetest sound of
a baby’s laugh…the melodious tone of a young child’s voice in the excitement of
discovering something so new, that the words just tumble out one after
another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot conceive a world where
I had not heard music; instruments blended together and flowing in a pattern
that moves my soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Never hearing a
child, a mate, a parent simply say ‘I Love You’.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nor could I fathom a world without sight!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A world where I had no idea what I looked
like, what my loving family looked like, never seeing a sunrise, a sunset ,a
rainbow…a tree, the beautiful cloudless</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">blue sky…the amazing colors on an autumn day…snowflakes…a
horse running in a meadow, arching it’s golden neck and four feet synchronized
in perfect harmony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">VISUALIZE…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">God wants us to ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">open
the eyes of our heart</i>’…now everyone knows hearts don’t have eyes…BUT this
is a metaphor to let us know that our heart (who we really our…not that beating
muscle secure in our chest) is the window to our soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve heard that eyes are the windows of the
soul…not so sure anymore…found some people can look you in the eye and lie…not
once, not twice, but a lifetime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lance
Armstrong…lie, after lie, not batting an eye…living one enormous lie after
another.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But, eyes open the eyes of our heart...and with them we <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">VISUALIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Look
unto Jesus and know how much he loves you,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">the
price He paid for you…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">when
asked how much he cares...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">.He
stretched forth his arms and died for you…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">and
it was no easy death…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">it
was horrible, sadistic, cruel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">We
weren’t there, oh, but you can<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">A
God so wonderful and awesome<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">that
He created some of the most amazing animals, places and creatures<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">for
our pleasure, for our enjoyment, for our companionship, for us; you, me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">A
God that watches over us…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">He
gives us free will to move through life,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">making
choices,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">making
good ones and bad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">learning
from them,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">growing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">maturing
into a<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">powerful,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">prayerful,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">potential<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">filled
child of God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">That
place spoken of in John 14…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">that
place so magnificent, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">marvelous
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>majestic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that ‘eye has not seen, ear has not heard,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>neither has it entered into the heart of man <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">what
GOD has created for us’…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 1.5in center 3.25in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 1.5in center 3.25in; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">That
one day and it is coming soon,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that Jesus will call us,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>up, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">up, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">up<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to ever be in His presence…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">content,
in every way,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>every dream,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>every vision,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">every
goal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>complete in Him<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">That
He will one day return on a white horse with ten thousands of His saints, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">to
once and for all defeat the chief enemy of our souls: Satan. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Satan, defeated, whipped, under the feet of
our Lord and Savior: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">YOURSELF a child of the King, protected,
loved and secure in everything that He has provided...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">no
more pain, no more tears, no more disappointments, no more rejection, no more….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: center 3.25in left 384.75pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">VISUALIZE<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">What
He has placed in your hands, in hearts and in your life…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">things
only you can do,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">people
only you can reach,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">places
you are ordained to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Yourself
a winner,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">a
champion,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">a
child of the King:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">victorious,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">bold,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">defeating
Satan…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">crushing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">, bruising<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">stomping
on Him by the<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">power
of the blood and in Jesus names.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Not
about the silver and gold of this world<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">and
how it will fall into corruption,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">disrepair
and<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">be
lost stolen or<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">vanish
into thin air.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE:
VISUALIZE; VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">JESUS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">crowned
with many crowns, filled with jewels of every description,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">sitting
upon His thrown,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">where
every knee shall bow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">and
tongue confess…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Make
Him your Lord and Savior,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">confess
you sin and faults to Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Tell
Him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">yes
you believe He died for you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">and
you accept Him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">and
His shed blood for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The new life,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>new hope<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>new path <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">He has for you.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Need
I say much more?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Need
our Lord and Savior do much more? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It is finished</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">”...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">those
three words he spoke while dying on the cross...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">.resonate
still over 2000 years later….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">What
is left to do?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>VISUALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>who you are….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">a
blood bought, child of the King...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">So,
until tomorrow right here on the Front Porch…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">VISUALIZE!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-7074018383986905922013-01-22T02:51:00.000-08:002013-01-22T02:51:03.908-08:00AMERICA! We got what we deserved..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Tuesday…today
on the Front Porch…the word on the list is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050;">RATIONALIZE</span></i></b></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050;">:</span></i></b> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>plausible explanations for acts, opinions,
etc.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: red;">WARNING: I will be expressing political views..I make no apologies..READ at your own RISK.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">RATIONALIZE</span></em></strong>: in</span> plain English: make sense of things. Understand, put
things in some kind of order, and find the reason.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hmmm… well, well, well…been kinda trying to do that
lately…make sense of things…things in this world that are upside down,
backwards, flipped, out of order, out of control, </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">irrational.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Our economy</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">: my humble opinion…folks…sit up and
take notice…STOP the outsourcing…and everyone who wants to work can work…we may
have to pay a few dollars more here and there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>People might just have to be willing to work and not expect handouts and
entitlements…novel thought my friends! When, oh, when is the last time you picked
something up, turned it over and it said, “Made in the USA”?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Our politics</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>got kinda tired of the hoopla and coverage of our inauguration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not so
sure about another 4 years!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Folks
instead of spending millions for parties, clothes, decorations, etc… how about
take a good look at the state of our country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We are a mess…and I am going out on a limb…so fine folks
who actually get around to reading this blog or even care, FASTEN YOUR
SEATBELTS…I did not vote for Obama…I, as a Christian cannot support anyone,
anytime, anyway who has put a stamp of approval on abortion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Shame on us, shame, shame…our spiritual rivers run DEEP
and BLOOD red; floating along in that blood red river are little arms, little
legs, headless little bodies. </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">… One just cannot make sense out something so horrific... the
blood of over 42 MILLION babies, ripped out the womb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Christian folk…enough…we cannot serve God and mammon (the
world)….</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE…</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">make sense out of this…how can you
justify voting for someone who supports this? <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">It doesn’t matter the color of skin…what matters is what is within!</i>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Black, white (mixture of both) Hispanic,
Asian, Green, Purple…</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">One missionary friend stated about Obama’s re-election:
“America, we got what we deserved.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
so it seems…we have turned our back on God…resorted to murder, put a stamp of
approval on gay marriage…billions of tax dollars wasted..</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">.RATIONALIZE</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I am reminded when God’s people wanted…no they demanded a
King…they had never had a King before…Judges had lead the people, who sought
the face of God for leadership and guidance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">…but they cried to be like everyone else…diverting from
God’s plan…and God gave them what they asked for:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">King Saul…Saul stood head and shoulders above the rest. He</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> looked like royalty: tall, handsome, noble. He became king when
he was 30 years old and reigned over Israel 42 years. Early in his career he
made a fatal mistake. He disobeyed God by failing to completely destroy the
Amalekites and all their possessions, as God had commanded. The LORD withdrew
his favor from Saul and had </span><a href="http://christianity.about.com/od/oldtestamentpeople/a/JZ-Samuel.htm"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Samuel</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> the prophet </span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">anoint </span><a href="http://christianity.about.com/od/oldtestamentpeople/a/King-David.htm"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">David</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> as king.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Because the people
made more of David's slaying of Goliath than all of Saul's victories, Saul went
into a rage and became jealous of David. From that moment he plotted to kill
him. </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">RATIONALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Instead of building up
Israel, King Saul wasted most of his time chasing David through the hills.
David, however, respected God's anointed king and despite several
opportunities, refused to harm Saul. </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">RATIONALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Finally the
Philistines gathered for a huge battle against the Israelites. By that time Samuel,
the Prophet, had died. King Saul was desperate, so he consulted a medium and
told her </span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">to </span><a href="http://christianity.about.com/od/whatdoesthebiblesay/a/Ghosts-In-The-Bible.htm"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">raise Samuel's
spirit</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> from the dead. (How foolish God’s people can
be when jealousy and rage take control). Something appeared--a demon disguised
as Samuel or Samuel's true spirit sent by God--it predicted disaster for Saul</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. RATIONALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He would get what he
deserved…</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In the battle, King Saul and the army of Israel were overrun.
Saul committed </span><a href="http://pediatrics.about.com/od/suicide/a/808_suicide_prv.htm"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">suicide</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.<span style="color: #333333;"> His sons were killed by the enemy.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050;"> RATIONALIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Beware, folk...God is not mocked...He will permit things to
happen, fall into order and unfold into His Plan. BUT HE DOES HAVE THE FINAL
SAY: RATIONALIZE</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We
have homosexuals who stick their middle finger up to God, with twisted faces,
militant, deviant, perversion…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Folks…think
about it…it was never intended to be…th</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">e parts don’t fit right…can’t have
children…</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Our current
President supports this lifestyle…<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050;">RATIONALIZE<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">…make sense out of a situation…stop
and think it through...get your perspective in order...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hard to do…especially for Christians…living in this upside
down world…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">we are made fun of, belittled, ridiculed, persecuted for
our ‘core values’… we support life, marriage, serve God, do good unto our
fellow man, pay it forward, live a moral lifestyle…we are told it is old
fashioned, out of date and our society has ‘evolved’…evolved into WHAT? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALZIE:</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> the only thing that makes sense is
God and His Word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only Hope is God
and His Word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE.</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Keep it real, honest, forthright, don’t just talk the talk…walk
the walk…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">RATIONALIZE….God will straighten out the crooked paths,
make all wrongs right…RATIONALIZE...<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We walk around with our heads in the clouds…unconcerned,
unaware, and unprepared for the times that are coming upon us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is as if everything is out of focus,
cloudy; our perspective, our good judgment, our common sense vanished, thrown
out the window…like the people who demanded a king...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">They got what they deserved…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We, America, got what we deserved…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Until tomorrow… let’s get ready to:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">VISUALIZE...see you then!</span><span style="color: #00b050;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-80468310669332708322013-01-21T05:38:00.001-08:002013-01-21T05:38:10.992-08:00The HEART of the matter....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, Howdy and Good Morning….lot of folks have today off
work, school….Martin Luther King, Jr. Day….</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So enjoy…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, making our journey one day at a time….going down our
list of ‘ize’ words…’ize’ the suffix which means to be, to cause…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today’s discussion will be on the word<span style="color: red;">: TENDERIZE.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Before we get into this discussion, let’s look at the root
word: tender.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hmmm… just like so many words in our English language...several
different meanings:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Such as: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">reference to </span></i></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">a person's behavior or act; "<span class="ilad"><span id="IL_AD10">showing</span></span> gentleness and concern or
sympathy"... <br />
</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><br />
</span></i><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Something can also be said to be
tender to touch due to an injury, such as a scrape, bruise. <br />
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How about describing meat<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red;">: tender</span></i>. This is when the cooked meat is easy to
slice and tastes moist and fresh. The opposite in description or condition of
meat is: NOT so easy to eat or cut is 'tough'.<br />
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Yet, another type of tender is used in the conducting of business... The
dictionary defines this version of the word tender as "an offer to carry
out work, supply goods, or buy land, shares, or another asset at a stated <span class="ilad"><span id="IL_AD7">fixed</span></span> price". Money is referred
to as ‘tender’...how you are going to pay for something.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">TENDERIZED</span></i></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">...nothing like biting into a juicy, <span style="color: red;">TENDER</span> piece of grilled steak, chicken…nothing like
the smell and taste of just right burned flesh…On the flip side, nothing quite
so frustrating and disappointing to anticipate that first juicy bite and tough…tough…tough…meat..</span><span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Let’s just go on a rabbit trail for a moment:
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are many ways to tenderize tough
meat before cooking it, which include </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">pounding,
scoring, soaking in a marinade</span></i><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and
sprinkling it all over with a powdered meat</i> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tenderizer.</i></b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ALL these methods have the same goal in mind:
Break down the dense, tough muscle fibers and the protein that binds them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Preacher can do a lot of things…and among
the talents he has is grilling…he is the Master (son, Tim thinks he is…but
Preacher is…hands down)...He loves to do it and makes my day…all I have to be
responsible for are the ‘sides’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But, he has a process for the meat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We try to buy rib eye…my, my, my…what a cut
of meat!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually the Preacher can cook
that cut of meat and it will ‘melt’ in your mouth…fork tender...it can stand up
against any steak served at the steakhouses: Outback, Saltgrass, Road House…fine
eating...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He has his process that the meat goes through</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: tenderize</span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">…and most of the time the
outcome is DELISH.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But, for some reason, on some occasions;
although, the usual process of tenderizing is followed: tough meat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We chew, chew, and chew some more and finally…give
up...tough.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Not sure what happened…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TENDERIZING</span></i></b><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> meat…so what is the
process?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Here is a recap:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Meat is made of muscle fibers held together
by collagen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Tenderizing</span></i></b><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> meat means breaking the
long strands of muscle as well as softening the collagen until it turns into
gelatin. This soft gelatin soaks into the meat, tenderizing it and adding
moisture to make the meat juicy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Basically two methods:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 38.2pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">chemical; using spices, along with vinegar based
products.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 38.2pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mechanical; beat, pound, score<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A process indeed.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, back from the detour<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">: tender</span></b> in referring to a heart, a
human muscle, soft, kind, gentle, compassionate…</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We often refer to someone as tender heartened: means to
care,</span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="cursor: default;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">look</span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="cursor: default;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">after,</span>
minister to, nurture,</span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
<span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="cursor: default;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">pay</span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="cursor: default;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">attention</span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="cursor: default;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">to,</span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">protect, <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'">provide</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'">for,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'"></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">take</span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="cursor: default;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">pains,</span>
</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">tend</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span></i></b><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">to, </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">treasure, <span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="cursor: default;"></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">watch
over…tender hearted….in a word compassionate...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">And the
opposite: neglect, disregard, ignore…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">One of my favorite
worship song is<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">: Hosanna</i></b>…there are countless songs with this name, all of
them good…but the one I am referring to is written by Brook Fraser…the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bridge states:<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Heal my <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">HEART</b> and
make it clean<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Open up my eyes to the things unseen<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Show me how to love like you have loved me<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Break my <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">HEART</b> for what
breaks yours<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Everything I am for your Kingdom’s cause<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">As I walk from earth into eternity...<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Powerful stuff…</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">tenderized</span></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Unfortunately we live in a very tough word…tough, mean,
twisted cruel hearts…for example:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" onclick="return hotwordOneClick(this);" onmouseout="this.style.color='#333333';this.style.cursor='default'" onmouseover="this.style.color='#0055bb';this.style.cursor='pointer'" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 38.95pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Children mistreated and abused in
unspeakable, unimaginable ways<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 38.95pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Animals starved, beaten, misused<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 38.95pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Old people, robbed, scammed,
beaten, neglected, abused<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 38.95pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Wives...or in some cases husbands,
beaten, battered, abused<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 38.95pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">One story of
horrific proportions (one among so many) took place in a large city subway-recently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An older woman there by herself, waiting
for her train. A young man comes up to her, grabs her purse and starts
beating her over and over…bad enough... THEN drags her to the subway tracks
and THROWS her onto the TRACKS...if I had not seen the video footage of this
I would have thought this story fabricated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sadly enough, it was true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hard
hearted</i></b> to the core.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The guy
did get her purse and immediately started using her credit cards….but
thankfully he was BUSTED...caught…hope he and his kind get set away somewhere
for a long time…and the woman...somehow she survived…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Unfortunately,
this type of behavior is typical on any given day, in any given geographic location,
to any given person… <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘who happens to
be in the wrong place and the wrong time’…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Our world,
meaning our people, even some of us hardcore ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Christians’ have allowed a hard, stony heart to be replaced by that
soft, tender heart that Jesus desires for us.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Speaking of
animals: couple of places just creep me out:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Circus...I do not like the Circus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ask my grandkids I NEVER take them to the
Circus…I have don’t like them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First,
the creepy, silly clowns: creepy…I have visions of IT, Steven King’s infamous
take on clowns. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not like to see those animals do what
is unnatural, out of character for them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tigers jumping through rings of fire…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elephants walking around on 2 hind feet,
making a limbo type of line walking around a ring…really??<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">As if that
is not bad enough…all done under the threat of severe beating and/or other
punishment...creepy...heartless. hard hearted… and that is what we know…only
God knows what unspeakable horrors these animals endure...no wonder they
break and go insane, wild, killing in an attempt to break free of this environment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I am not
real thrilled with the Zoo either…unless it is a Zoo that has really tried to
re-create the animals’ natural habitat…then somewhat acceptable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ever seen
the look in the eyes of the gorilla, caged behind glass windows, people
gawking at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sad...me looking at
him,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>him looking back at me, sad…wonder
what he is thinking?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TENDERIZE:</span></i></b><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> our hearts can be hard, stony, callous, uncaring, neglectful,
evil, twisted… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">How does one
get such a hard heart?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life in general…generation
of abuse, neglect, handed down as a legacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I see it in the eyes and faces of children I see every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4 and 5 years old, already exposed to
things they should never see, spoken to by their parents like they are worst
than animals (“get your, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>___ over
here, before I ___ your ___”) sent to school hungry, dirty, sick, unprepared;
parents who come to pick up a child an hour or two after everyone else is
picked up and gone home; children abused and molested for the adult’s sick
pleasures. They Children whose schools, teachers, principals, counselors and
librarians, work and give and encourage and promote <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>parents who never even take the time to open
up their child’s little backpacks to take an interest and support what we
have lovingly and painstaking tried to do for their child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And by the way, too often, these are the
parents who have child, after child…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Not to
mention the hardhearted who agree to and actually perform abortions….hardhearted…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">40 million
babies estimated aborted….hmmm...God have mercy on our souls!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Now these
little hearts are broken, battered, beaten down…thus hard, stony, little
hearts...that are always on the offensive…”I will get you before you get me”…I
will take and grab and do what I need to survive’…thus acts of cruelty to animals:
setting them on fire, skinning them; act of cruelty to the old, robbing,
beating, throwing old women onto subway tracks…hard hearted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The antidote…
Jesus…able to </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">tenderize</span></i></b><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> the hardest, cruel, twisted heart…somehow His blood that was shed
on Calvary and cleanse and wash away the darkest, deepest, deranged sin
committed…that’s why He came.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ezekiel 11:19…”Then I will give them
one heart, and I will put a new spirit within them and take the stony heart
out of their flesh and give a heart of flesh.” <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Tenderized</span></i></b><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> heart….sometimes it has to be beaten, scored, pounded….we can
be tough…the tougher the ‘meat’ the heart…the harder to process to tenderize
us…but oh the outcome:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Sweet,
compassionate, kind, caring, forgiving, …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Well, whew…had
no idea where this ‘ize’ word may take me today…so there all laid out…front
and center…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Think we all
could use a good heart exam today…not the physical kind…but the spiritual
heart…that thing that drives us, moves us, directs us…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Tenderized</span></i></b><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">…let’s get tender before the Lord and each other<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Until
tomorrow….here on the Front Porch!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</span></span></td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;"></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129241559255547602.post-10309941793807748562013-01-20T04:22:00.000-08:002013-01-20T18:31:32.361-08:00HARMONIZE! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqqTFKhLw-8/UOSLq8BU8YI/AAAAAAAAAXk/wrboPgrOeRs/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Glad you had a minute or two to stop by!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Harmonize</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">….that is the word discussion
for today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think it worked out pretty
good because this word typifies what should happen today as we as a people: single,
couple, family<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">; harmonize</span></i></b> and go to the
church of our choice to worship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Harmonize</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">: </span></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To bring into harmony,
accord, or agreement or to be in agreement in action, sense, or feelings.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Just a few
words to describe harmonize:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="5" class="MsoNormalTable" style="mso-cellspacing: 3.0pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;"></td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/accord"><span style="color: #7030a0;">accord</span></a>,
<a href="http://app.thesaurus.com/click/nn1ov4?clksite=thes&clkquery=B8384C22A8B86B602042A9D6807769CE&clkpage=the&clkimpr=UPvY20z54akt9Dkq&clkld=0&clkorgn=0&clken=1clk&clkord=0&clkblk=d&clktemp=mid&clkmod=1clk&clkitem=adapt&clkdest=http%3A%2F%2Fthesaurus.com%2Fbrowse%2Fadapt"><span style="color: #7030a0;">adapt</span></a>, <a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/adjust"><span style="color: #7030a0;">adjust</span></a>,
<a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/agree"><span style="color: #7030a0;">agree</span></a>,
<a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/arrange"><span style="color: #7030a0;">arrange</span></a>,
attune,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">be
in unison, be of one mind, <a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/blend"><span style="color: #7030a0;">blend</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">carol,
chime with, cohere, <a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/combine"><span style="color: #7030a0;">combine</span></a>, <a href="http://app.thesaurus.com/click/nn1ov4?clksite=thes&clkquery=B8384C22A8B86B602042A9D6807769CE&clkpage=the&clkimpr=UPvY20z54akt9Dkq&clkld=0&clkorgn=0&clken=1clk&clkord=0&clkblk=d&clktemp=mid&clkmod=1clk&clkitem=compose&clkdest=http%3A%2F%2Fthesaurus.com%2Fbrowse%2Fcompose"><span style="color: #7030a0;">compose</span></a>, <a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/cooperate"><span style="color: #7030a0;">cooperate</span></a>,
<a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/coordinate"><span style="color: #7030a0;">coordinate</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">fit
in with,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/integrate"><span style="color: #7030a0;">integrate</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/orchestrate"><span style="color: #7030a0;">orchestrate</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/proportion"><span style="color: #7030a0;">proportion</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/reconcile"><span style="color: #7030a0;">reconcile</span></a>,
reconciliate, <a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/relate"><span style="color: #7030a0;">relate</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/set"><span style="color: #7030a0;">set</span></a>,
<a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/sing"><span style="color: #7030a0;">sing</span></a>,
<a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/suit"><span style="color: #7030a0;">suit</span></a>,
symphonize, <a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/synthesize"><span style="color: #7030a0;">synthesize</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/tune"><span style="color: #7030a0;">tune</span></a>,
<a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/unify"><span style="color: #7030a0;">unify</span></a>,
<a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/unite"><span style="color: #7030a0;">unite</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And just a couple of
words to describe the opposite of </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">harmonize;<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/clash"><span style="color: #4d4e51;">clash</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/disagree"><span style="color: #4d4e51;">disagree</span></a>,<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="color: #4d4e51; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://thesaurus.com/browse/fight"><span style="color: #4d4e51;">fight</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonize:</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> like playing music when all the
keys, chords and sounds come together and play beautiful music…priceless<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Thanking God
everyday for the gift of music and the gift of each of the instruments we have
to enjoy<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">. <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonize</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the sound and blends of an orchestra…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">in step, in tune, in harmony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing quite like it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonize…</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the
bringing of His people into step, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">into agreement with one
another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As we worship today this is His
plan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">HARMONIZE!<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">First of all worship! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring your sacrifice of praise, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lift your voice and your hands,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In total adoration of Him, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">God of heaven and earth, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Creator of all<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Protector of your soul<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Shepherd<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Master….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonize</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">…be at peace with your mate…work
together, pray together, live together<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonize</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">…be at peace with your family…sometimes
hard to do…pray<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonize</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">…with your church…set aside
differences for the common good of the Body <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonize…</span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">with God’s plan for your life…get in
tune, get in step, blend with Him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As good, as beautiful, as harmonious
as music is…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.there is nothing quite so irritating
and nerve racking as an instrument<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>out of tune, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">out of step, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">out of place, off key…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">All of our
children play some type of musical instrument…some can play several…but through
the years listening to practice…hearing all the off key, most unusual sounds…<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">BUT,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When that child and that instrument
came together<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Harmonized<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Was in step<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In tune<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On key<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Working together<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">PRICELESS!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">So today as you
leave the Front Porch…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">look for ways to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0;">harmonize </span></i></b>with the folk around you…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">those you might meet today,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>those you encounter on your way home,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>if you stop at your fav restaurant, do an
errand or two:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">HARMONIZE!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make
your <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Heavenly
Father<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Apple Boy BTN","sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Aharoni; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Happy,
Happy, Happy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Granniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15379367375005644132noreply@blogger.com0