CHANGE IS GOOD By Melanie Schurr

My life has taken an interesting sudden change. As my children have both flown the nest, and it is now just my husband and I, I could not deny I missed that nurturing side of me that still had so much more to give. I don't recall exactly how the idea of being a "nanny" came upon me, but the thought of making a little extra cash at something I knew I'd be good at was appealing.

It wasn't long before I found someone who was seeking exactly what I had to offer, but I cannot deny that the first week of taking care of an eight week old infant was not without its difficulties. Not only had many facets of child care changed since my own now adult children were little, but I was also now approaching it as a forty-seven year old woman, not an energetic twenty-something.

By the end of the day, I was pooped!

However, in a very short time, it all began to come back to me; all those little tricks and skills us mothers learn by way of hands-on experience. I also noticed that being around a young child again caused me to have a rekindled appreciation of new life, along with a sense of meaning and purpose for my life now as a more mature woman. "I have the ability to teach this child," I thought. "I hope that I can become a positive light in her life."

Sometimes change can be frightening or difficult. However, all change for the better is always a step in the right direction!

What about you?

Is there something in your life you need to change, get rid of, stop doing or break ties with?

Today is the day to make the change!

DO YOU CARRY YOUR UMBRELLA? Author Unknown

We all have something to learn from this young girl.

As a drought continued for what seemed an eternity, a small community of farmers was in a quandary as to what to do. Rain was important to keep their crops healthy and sustain the townspeople' s way of life.

As the problem became more acute, a local pastor called a prayer meeting to ask for rain.

Many people arrived. The pastor greeted most of them as they filed in. As he walked to the front of the church to officially begin the meeting he noticed most people were chatting across the aisles and socializing with friends. When he reached the front his thoughts were on quieting the attendees and starting the meeting.

His eyes scanned the crowd as he asked for quiet. He noticed an eleven year-old girl sitting quietly in the front row. Her face was beaming with excitement. Next to her, poised and ready for use, was a bright red umbrella. The little girl's beauty and innocence made the pastor smile as he realized how much faith she possessed. No one else in the congregation had brought an umbrella.

All came to pray for rain, but the little girl had come expecting God to answer.

CAN YOU SLEEP WHEN THE WIND BLOWS Author Unknown

Years ago a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. He constantly advertised for hired hands. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic. They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the Atlantic, wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops.

As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job, he received a steady stream of refusals. Finally, a short, thin man, well past middle age, approached the farmer. "Are you a good farmhand?" the farmer asked him. "Well, I can sleep when the wind blows," answered the little man. Although puzzled by this answer, the farmer, desperate for help, hired him.

The little man worked well around the farm, busy from dawn to dusk, and the farmer felt satisfied with the man's work. Then one night the wind howled loudly in from offshore. Jumping out of bed, the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired hand's sleeping quarters. He shook the little man and yelled, "Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!" The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly, "No sir. I told you, I can sleep when the wind blows."

Enraged by the response, the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Instead, he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. To his amazement, he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. The cows were in the barn, the chickens were in the coops, and the doors were barred. The shutters were tightly secured. Everything was tied down. Nothing could blow away. The farmer then understood what his hired hand meant, so he returned to his bed to also sleep while the wind blew.

MORAL: When you're prepared, spiritually, mentally, and physically, you have nothing to fear. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired hand in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm. We, as believers in Christ, secure ourselves against the storms of life by grounding ourselves in the Word of God. We don't need to understand, we just need to hold His hand to have peace in the midst of the storms. I hope you sleep well! Enjoy the day! May God Bless You and Yours.

EXPECTING THE UNEXPECTED By Sally I. Kennedy

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

Things didn’t go quite like I’d planned today. “Imagine that,” I thought. Well, if there is one thing in life we can be certain of, it’s change. When our kids were growing up, I recall feeling strongly about preparing them for change in their lives, to understand the need to be flexible without compromising our values and who we are.

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

My personal extra name for God is Jehovah Surprise, the God of the Unexpected. Not that anything happening catches Him off-guard. He’s not up in heaven, looking down, exclaiming, ”Oh my gosh! Look at that!” Rather, I’m the one who is continually surprised by events and people. Sometimes I even surprise myself. That is not always so great.

There’s a saying, ”We make plans and God laughs.” And yet another saying, “Life is what happens while we’re making other plans.”

God may be full of surprises, yet He is still in control, still the sovereign God of the universe, still on His throne, the same yesterday, today, and forever.

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

TAKE IT WITH YOU By Sally I. Kennedy

Most days when I leave home I have my cell phone glued to me. In the unlikely event that I forget to take it with me, I turn around and go back and get it if possible.

For a lot of years I got along fine without a cellular phone. “What’s so important about having it now”, I asked myself just this week, “especially all the time?” There is something more important to have when I leave home – or even at home. Armor, spiritual armor.

When Paul wrote a letter to the people at a church in Ephesus, he closed it with an important wrap-up, instructions on putting on this armor, and what it’s for. You never know what a day will bring. It is a more-than-good idea to not leave home without it, your spiritual armor.

‘A final word... put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.. hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.’ Ephesians 6: 10-17

TASTE TEST By Sally I. Kennedy

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

We pulled into a packed parking lot and looked for a slot. The turnpike stop had an eye-catching fruit stand out front.

As I was eyeing the juicy looking clementines, the salesperson encouraged me,“Take a taste!” She held out a plate of cut samples.

I did’t need much pressuring. Now the taste test; it was as delicious as it was pretty to look at. We bought a bag, and opened them as soon as we got back on the
hightway. Separating the sections of the orange, I ate a pice still attached to the peel. The fruit was seedless, sweet, but inside the peel was bitter. The acrid taste lingered.

The bible verse popped into my mind, “Taste and see that the Lord is good”. (Psalm 34:8) Then another, “Test the spirits to see whether thay are from God” (1 John 4:1), because “Even the elect (believers) can be deceived”. (Matthew 24)

Just because something is a good thing doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a ‘God thing’. In addition to choices between not good and good, there are sometimes choices between good, better, and best. Lord, help me today to make wise choices. In Jesus’ name! Amen.

GOD IS BIGGER By Marion Smith

When our 2nd grandson was 4, he attended a Christian pre school. It was exciting for us to watch him grow in the Lord, learn songs about Jesus, and relate Bible stories to us. He went through quite a stage where his reply to everything was…well, whatever…but I know “God is bigger.” If we were talking about the amount we had spent at the grocery store, the size of a magnificent oak tree, the problems we
faced, the joy we felt…whatever..! his input was-“God is bigger!”

You know..from the mouth of babes. How BIG is our God? How big is your God? Is He bigger than the problems you face, discouraging times you experience, and trials that come your way? Is He bigger than the joy you feel from a fleeting worldly experience, a hearty meal, a touch of a loved one? HE IS!! HE IS! YES!! God is bigger than anything we can experience on this earth. He is totally beyond our compression with His mighty creation, His omnipotence, omnipresence, and His unfailing love for us.

Let’s just take a minute right now to stand in His Presence, soaking up the fact that GOD is BIGGER….bigger and better than anything in this world. Amen? Amen!

KNOWN ONLY TO HIM Sally I. Kennedy

My soul finds rest in God alone...my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken…he is my refuge. Psalm 62:1-7

We were visiting from out of town, and arrived a little before the service started at a church downtown. We slid into seats on the side up near the altar. It felt so peaceful, and we were thanful for a place to worship, hear the Word of God and be with other believers.

Near us, I saw an older man come in and sit by himself. He was dressed; his body looked thin and fragile, yet strong. I couldn’t see hi face until passing him later. It was then I noticed the sadness in his eyes. His whole demeanor actually seemed sort of limp with, perhaps grieving.

My heart went out to him; I breathed a little prayer. I don’t know him and probably never will. But I know someone who does.

God alone knows our deepest thoughts. He alone knows our heart of hearts. In reality, we are known only by Him.

In 1952, Carl Stuart Hamblen wrote the words and music to the gospel
song:

Known only to him are the great hidden secrets
I'll fear not the darkness when my flame shall dim
I know not what the future holds
But I know who holds the future
It's a secret known only to Him

In this world of fear and doubt
On my knees I ask the question
Why a lonely, heavy cross I must bear
Then he tells me in my prayer
It's because I am trustworthy
He gives me strength far more than my share

Known only to him are the great hidden secrets
I'll fear not the darkness when my flame shall dim
I know not what the future holds
But I know who holds the future
It's a secret known only to Him

How wonderful this same God is loving, kind, merciful, and comforting towards us.

OUTSIDE THE BOX By Sally I. Kennedy

It was great to be away on vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of home. What did I want to do? I was enjoying just contemplating the question.

“Go outside”, I found myself answering my own question. I had to laugh at that reply! It reminded me of when I was young, and all I ever wanted to do was go outside.

Outside. What a wonderful place. You never knew what might happen outside. Who you’d see, what you might do. It didn’t matter; just getting outside was the important thing. I knew it would be good. It would be fun.

In the 4th chapter of 1 Chronicles, in the Bible, there’s a story about a man named Jabez. The whole story is related in just two brief verses, but it says a lot. In the amplified version, the word “territory” is translated as “border”. Kind of like the lines around a box, the border.

John 10:10* talks about that ‘zoe’ abundant life that God wants to give us. Certainly God is bigger than any box I might have put Him in It’s good to think outside the box, to not limit the Lord. Opening up to more of God and to what He wants; a good thing.

*The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10

OUTSIDE THE BOX By Sally I. Kennedy

Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request. 1 Chronicles 4:10

It was great to be away on vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of home. What did I want to do? I was enjoying just contemplating the question.

“Go outside”, I found myself answering my own question. I had to laugh at that reply! It reminded me of when I was young, and all I ever wanted to do was go outside.

Outside. What a wonderful place. You never knew what might happen outside. Who you’d see, what you might do. It didn’t matter; just getting outside was the important thing. I knew it would be good. It would be fun.

In the 4th chapter of 1 Chronicles, in the Bible, there’s a story about a man named Jabez. The whole story is related in just two brief verses, but it says a lot. In the amplified version, the word “territory” is translated as “border”. Kind of like the lines around a box, the border.

John 10:10* talks about that ‘zoe’ abundant life that God wants to give us. Certainly God is bigger than any box I might have put Him in It’s good to think outside the box, to not limit the Lord. Opening up to more of God and to what He wants; a good thing.

*The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10

CHANGE By Sally I. Kennedy

Standing in the “family photo gallery hall”, it was fun showing the kids pictures of their mom when she was a teenager. I asked them to guess at who some of the others were, aunts and uncles, cousins. I showed them my grandma in her first bathing suit ( a long one-piece, wool) and my mom driving her first car ( a model-T). They were
intently trying to put all of this together, when we came to what looks like another old-timey photograph. I love this picture of my husband, Ben, and me taken not long after we were married. It was at a booth, at the county fair, where they provided costumes of your choice.

The five year old was excited because he knew that he knew who that was. He planted his feet firmly, and with great confidence, stated, “It’s George Washington!”

I laughed so hard I almost fell over. Then I realized of course they had never seen Ben when his hair was brown, and he’d changed. Oh boy, have we changed! Looking through the hall montage renewed that reality. I laughed again, thinking, “No wonder they don’t recognize who these people are in earlier photos!”

Later I was telling Ben about it, and I got to thinking, change is part of life. Everyone and everything is continually and constantly changing in some way. Except God, and His unchanging Word. He is the ONLY constant, consistent, un-changing One.

In the first chapter of James, the Word says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

Thomas Chisholm, who penned the words for the wonderful hymn, Great is Thy Faithfulness *, was born in a log cabin in Kentucky. The song “was simply the result of the author’s morning by morning realization of God’s personal faithfulness”. Great is Thy faithfulness, oh God, my Father; there is no shadow of turning with thee. Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not. As Thou has been, Thou forever will be.

“He is the living God, and he will endure forever.” (Daniel 6:26). Yes, there is no turning, no changing with the Lord God. He is always the same, yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8)

That is good news.

IF GOD CLOSES THE DOOR by George Prins

There are times in our lives when we experience unexpected sadness and loss. For me this was a sudden loss of a job one Friday evening. The owner gave me my final paycheck. A question I struggle with is how much of it should we tell to our friends and family. Allow me to explain.

We had A Bible Study meeting that Sunday night and I suggested to Sylvia, my wife, that I might mention to the group that I was no longer working.

Our group leader opened the evening with any prayer requests but I deliberated, thinking that if I told them my situation, that would put a slant on the whole evening. After the Bible Study, I finally told them: "At a friend's house this morning, I saw a sign on their wall, 'If God closes a door, He will open a window.' I have to use this sign of hope that God will provide for on Friday, I was told that this would be my last day as business was very slow."

As I was finishing my last statement, a new couple (Tim and Deborah) in our group suddenly raised their arms in jubilation and said, "That's our answer! He can take the position at work!"

In amazement I asked them what they were talking about.

They provided the details: A fellow at Tim's work was 'let go' and they were looking for a new employee. I had quite a few of the qualifications for the job plus some extra ones. They were excited and Sylvia and I were incredulous. They wanted my card and they asked me to provide a resume in the morning as I would be granted an interview with the owner.

On Monday morning I fixed up a resume, flew off to Burlington and had a good interview. The owner would call me.on Wednesday.

On the way out of the city of Burlington, I came to a traffic light and sat their perplexed. I heard someone honking at me and there was Deborah beside my van asking how the interview went. I was totaled. Like in a city of that size I would see our friend from last night right beside me giving me the 'thumbs up' sign. Do I dare say God is so good?

On Tuesday evening, Sylvia and I discussed the upcoming phone call for she desired to have an answer while at school. We figured something out.At 8:15 the phone call came: We would like to hire you. Are you able to report to work tomorrow?

I gave them an affirmative answer. Immediately, I phoned the secretary of the school and asked her to give Sylvia a note: I found the music! The concert begins on Thursday, 7:30.

I am thankful for the prayers and concerns of friends and family. The movement in this story of God's faithfulness happens very quickly. Not all stories move that quickly but God does provide answers in His own time. When He closes a door, He will always open a window. "God's timing is perfectly exact and exactly perfect," wrote a friend.

If God closes the door, He will open a window.

ABC'S OF AGRICULTURE Author Unknown

A is for AWARENESS of those around us
B is for BEAUTY for all people
C is for CARING about each other
D is for DIGNITY that we all possess
E is for ETHNICITY on which we would be proud
F is for FEELING, important to us all
G is for GIVING of ourselves
H is for HOPE for a better tomorrow
I is for INTEGRITY, our standards tell so about us
J is for JOINTLY working together
K is for KNOWLEDGE which erases ignorance
L is for LOVE to be shared
M is for MANKIND, the entire human race
N is for NOBODY is unimportant
O is for OPTIMISM which enhances everyone's life
P is for PROGRESS made toward understanding
Q is for being QUIET when asked
R is for RESPECT for oneself and others
S is for SELF-WORTH which we should never be without
T is for TOLERANCE toward others
U is for UNDERSTANDING different cultures
V is for VALUES learned along the way
W is for WEALTH gained by sharing our diversity
X is for X-RAY vision that helps us see the good in others
Y is for YOU. Make your life what you want it to be, forward and upward
Z is for ZEAL to appreciate a multicultural world

CELEBRITY STATUS by Sally I. Kennedy

Everybody’s a celebrity in somebody’s eyes.

The high-profile, obvious ones might be athletes, olympians, singers, or movie stars. It could be a mom or dad to a young child, or perhaps an older sibling. Maybe a student would have a teacher filling that role, or a ball player, a coach.

Perhaps someone you don’t even know thinks of you as some sort of celebrity. Your smile might light up the day for a weary check-out person at the market, and buoy up his outlook. Or the elderly receptionist handling the front desk in the office may think of you as a celebrity-type, because each day you take an interest and ask how
the family’s doing. Or maybe you are the only person in months who has thanked the hardworking person who’s cleaning the turnpike restroom.

Whether you’re aware of it or not, you’re a celebrity in God’s eyes:

He made you. (Genesis 1:26,28 Then God said, "Let us make man in our image... God blessed them)

He loves you. (John 16: 27 the Father himself loves you)( Revelation 1:6 To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen)

He paid a high price to have a relationship with you. (1 Corinthians 7:23 You were bought at a price)

And, you are always on His mind (Isaiah 49 15,16 “I would not forget you. See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands.)

Enjoy your celebrity status today. Walk in it, knowing that in Somebody’s eyes, you are just that, a celebrity.

That’s good news.

ARE YOU STILL AMAZED By Francis J. Kong

Is your company starving for innovation and creativity?

Are you wondering why you have lost your power of dreaming and imagining?

Maybe it's time for you to be childlike. Now I did not say childish as many people today still are. But what I mean is being childlike.

Look at how children view God.

Are children amazed with the existence of God? You bet they are. In fact they are the world's most honest theologians. Look at the words they write when their teacher asked them to write a letter to God:

Dear GOD,
In school they told us what You do. Who does it when You are on vacation?
-Jane

Dear GOD,
Are you really invisible or is that just a trick?
-Lucy


Dear GOD,
Did you mean for the giraffe to look like that or was it an accident?
-Norma

Dear GOD,
Instead of letting people die and having to make new ones, why don't You just keep the ones You have now?
-Jane

Dear GOD,
I went to this wedding and they kissed right in church. Is that okay?
-Neil

Dear GOD,
Did you really mean "do unto others as they do unto you"? Because if you did, then I'm going to fix my brother!
-Darla

Dear GOD,
Thank you for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy.
-Joyce

Dear GOD,
It rained for our whole vacation and is my father mad! He said some things about You that people are not supposed to say, but I hope You will not hurt him anyway.
-Your friend (But I am not going to tell you who I am)

Dear GOD,
I bet it is very hard for You to love all of everybody in the whole world. There are only 4 people in our family and I can never do it.
-Nan

Dear GOD,
We read Thomas Edison made light. But in school they said You did it. So I bet he stole your idea.
Sincerely, Donna

Kids are always amazed and maybe that is the reason why they are happy most of the time.

Cultivate Your Childlike Thinking is the title of an article written by Lisa Jimenez and it is so beautiful I want to share this with you.

Psychologists say 68 percent of people miss out on opportunity simply because they are not awake to it. Did you read that clearly? They are not awake. Most people are in a coma of routine, habit, and schedule. They almost have to be. We over stimulate our calendar with so many tasks and errands that it becomes necessary to be in a robotic state of "doing" to ensure everything on the to-do list will get accomplished. And now, the harassed style of thinking and living has become a habit – a way of life. You can break through this negative behavior of living by making a conscious effort to become more childlike – not childish – but, childlike. Find amazement with things again! Did you know that NASA cannot duplicate the flight pattern of a dragon fly?

Did you know that a butterfly's life span is two days – and that they are never babies? They go right from the cocoon to an adult butterfly?

Did you know the more pollution in the air the more brilliant and bold the sunsets?

Did you know that baby zebras recognize their mommies by the positioning of their stripes – and the stripe patterns are never duplicated!

Isn't it amazing that alligators lay their eggs at different levels in the ground. And this action determines the gender of the newborn alligator?

Isn't it amazing that it is impossible to be mad and laugh at the same time?

Isn't it amazing that you can cause a grown man or woman with a tough exterior to melt like butter when you say, "I love you."

Isn't it amazing that young children who just meet each other can play like they are lifelong friends within a few seconds?

These facts may seem insignificant. However, the habit of thinking on such things can do amazing things for you. It can cause you to wake up and notice the abundance of wisdom, love, and miracles that are found in every day life! Just imagine what your life would look like if you called on your natural risk-taking ability. Imagine what your business would look like if you cultivated your childlike thinking. Imagine what your relationships would look like if you were willing to really love! This should be your wake up call to the amazement of life. It just might cause you to be aware of the abundant opportunity waiting for you in your business and in life! The most creative and innovative people in the work place are those who are amazed with the wonder around them.

Be like a little child and maintain that sense of wonder.

Even the genius Albert Einstein says "There is a Master Designer behind the universe."

And I bet you he is right.

WHO SHOULD READ THE BIBLE Author Unknown

The Young - To learn how to live.
The Old - To know how to die.
The Ignorant - For wisdom.
The Learned - For humility.
The Rich - For compassion.
The Poor - For comfort.
The Dreamer - For enchantment.
The Practical - For counsel.
The Weak - For strength.
The Strong - For direction.
The Haughty - For warning.
The Humble - For exaltation.
The Troubled - For peace.
The Weary - For rest.
The Doubting - For assurance.
The Sinner - For salvation.
The Christian - For guidance.

GOLF LESSON By Marion Smith

Exodus 4:12 I will help you speak, and I will teach you what to say.

My golf game was in bad shape. No doubt about it, I needed a lesson from a professional, and I needed it pronto! I stood on the range, hitting a few balls to warm up as I waited for the golf pro. I could see him emerge from the pro shop with a smile on his face – ready to take the challenge of helping this sorry excuse of a golfer!

First he told me to address the ball – just stand comfortably however I thought I should. He told me that body position was so important in the game of golf – I would need to line up every shot. Next he checked my grip, making sure my fingers were in the correct position on the club. Now he was ready to watch me swing and try to
hit the ball. He watched and analyzed, watched and gave gentle corrections, watched and gave more instructions. He told me to go practice a lot and play a few rounds. Then I was to come back for another lesson to see if I was applying what I had learned.

I don't like to take lessons or practice, but I did as I had been instructed, because I knew this was a plan which would help me in my golf life.

In life, God is my pro. He meets me with a loving smile as I stand waiting for Him. He will ask me about my spiritual posture as I go to Him in prayer- am I ready to get quiet before Him? To be ready for whatever He has to tell me?To kneel, bow my head or lay prostate before Him? He will teach and guide me through life. He will give me tools to study and people to support me. He will then send me out to
practice and play, reminding me to check back in with Him to see if I was applying what I had learned.

Before I met the golf pro or God, I had to make the choice to do so. Neither my golf game nor my spiritual growth would happen unless I took that first step, and asked for help. I am so thankful I did seek God out, for He taught me the intimacy of prayer with Him, the delight derived as I praise Him, the awesomeness as I worship Him, and the unspeakable joy as I come into His holy presence. This is all
available to each of you, too. Just sign up for that first lesson of love…. It is a lesson you will never regret having taken.

UPLIFTING THINGS TO DO TODAY Author Unknown

* Smile at a stranger

* Drop a coin where a child can find it

* Learn something new and teach it to someone

* Tell someone you love them

* Hug someone

* Forgive someone who has wronged you

* Try saying "I'm sorry" when you ought to

* Tell a child how great they are

* Sing a song about Jesus to yourself

* Keep a promise

* Call someone just to say hello

* Try listening more than talking

* Stand up for what you believe in

* Thank God for His beautiful Creation

* Encourage someone who is feeling down

* Cherish today as if it were your last one

* Tell someone about Jesus

RAGS AT THE BANQUET By Sally I. Kennedy

Once upon a time a man lived in the streets, clad only in the dirtiest and worst of rags. One day a person from the Palace saw him, and approached him. There was going to be a banquet at the Palace, and he had instructions to come and invite people from the highways and byways. Would he like to come?

The man was indeed interested. However, he could not attend a banquet dressed in his rags. The Palace representative assured him they would exchange his rags for some suitable finery to wear to the banquet.

All was in order. The two arrived at the Palace where they went directly to the dressing chambers of the King. Servants took the filthy rags, bundled them in a little package, and proceeded to rub, scrub, and clean the man from top to bottom.

He was then allowed to choose his robes from the closets of the King. He was told that whatever he picked he would be able to keep, so he carefully examined all the many garments in the closet. He chose an exquisite inner garment of purest silk, and an outer robe of finest purple satin. He was ready for the banquet!

As they left the dressing quarters, the man grabbed his old rags. The servants told him to just leave them, because he wouldn't need them anymore. However, he insisted on taking the bundle with him. Even though he didn't need the rags now, he felt more secure somehow if he could just hold on to them.

In the Palace banquet hall, the festivities were about to begin. Nearly everyone was there, including the King himself. The man was seated, looking resplendent in his new attire. He hid his bundle of rags on his lap, underneath the tablecloth, so no one would see them.

The banquet was not to be believed! There was music and dancing, and every kind of delicacy imaginable. As the trays were passed, the beggar had difficulty getting the food onto his plate. He was constantly juggling the package of old rags on his lap, balancing it so it wouldn't fall off. It constantly distracted him from what was
going on in the grand hall.

Eventually the evening ended and the great gala event was over. Everyone was stuffed to the gills except for the man clinging to his rag bundle. He was as hungry as when he had come in. He never had eaten even one morsel of the food. He had been too busy fixing and holding on to his old rags.

Today, Jesus invites all of us to God's great banquet, to leave our old ways and old rags, and to say, "Yes!" to Him and to a new and glorious way of living. That is good news!

THINKING OF YOU Author Unknown

Have you ever been just sitting there and all of a sudden you feel like doing something nice for someone you care for? THAT'S GOD talking to you through the Holy Spirit.

Have you ever been down and out and nobody seems to be around for you to talk to?
THAT'S GOD wanting you to talk to Him.

Have you ever been thinking about somebody that you haven't seen in a long time and then next thing you know you see them or receive a phone call from them? THAT'S GOD. There is no such thing as coincidence.

Have you ever received something wonderful that you didn't even ask for, like money in the mail, a debt that had mysteriously been cleared, or a coupon to a department store where you had just seen something you needed, but couldn't afford? THAT'S GOD knowing the desires of your heart.

Have you ever been in a situation and you had no clue how it was going to get better, how the hurting would stop, how the pain would ease, but now you look back on it. THAT'S GOD passing us through tribulation to see a brighter day.

IMPERCEPTIBLY TURNING By Sally I. Kennedy

See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. .. life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live. Deuteronomy 30:15-19 .. .as (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7

Clearing out clutter, and sprucing up after the holidays, called for something new from the nearby garden shop. I picked a hardy houseplant and placed the pot outside where you could see it from the kitchen. It looked perfect out there.

One day I looked out the window and the plant was all bent over and facing the other way. It had gotten plenty of water, what happened? It looked so pretty before!

Seemed like that plant changed direction overnight. Of course, it didn't happen that fast. It was like time lapse photography. Each day, the little leaves turned their faces towards the sun. Imperceptibly, the plant was turning. Ever so slowly. And over a period of time, the difference was noticeable.

Plants don't have a choice. They just do what they do. We, however, have a choice. We can choose what we look at, what we think about, what we absorb.

In our day-to-day lives, all the seemingly insignificant decisions we make, matter. As we turn in the direction of our focus, little by little, the choices pile up to create a definite, noticeable change.

The Bible says: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- - think about such things." (Phil. 4:8)

Wherever we may be planted, we can bloom and grow, as we continue to decision and purpose to follow in the path our Lord has mapped out for us in His Word. Thank you, Lord, in Jesus'name, amen.

IMPERCEPTIBLY TURNNG By Sally I. Kennedy

See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. .. life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live. Deuteronomy 30:15-19 .. .as (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7

Clearing out clutter, and sprucing up after the holidays, called for something new from the nearby garden shop. I picked a hardy houseplant and placed the pot outside where you could see it from the kitchen. It looked perfect out there.

One day I looked out the window and the plant was all bent over and facing the other way. It had gotten plenty of water, what happened? It looked so pretty before!

Seemed like that plant changed direction overnight. Of course, it didn't happen that fast. It was like time lapse photography. Each day, the little leaves turned their faces towards the sun. Imperceptibly, the plant was turning. Ever so slowly. And over a period of time, the difference was noticeable.

Plants don't have a choice. They just do what they do. We, however, have a choice. We can choose what we look at, what we think about, what we absorb.

In our day-to-day lives, all the seemingly insignificant decisions we make, matter. As we turn in the direction of our focus, little by little, the choices pile up to create a definite, noticeable change.

The Bible says: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- - think about such things." (Phil. 4:8)

Wherever we may be planted, we can bloom and grow, as we continue to decision and purpose to follow in the path our Lord has mapped out for us in His Word. Thank you, Lord, in Jesus' name, Amen.

THE POWER OF THREE LITTLE WORDS Author Unknown

Some of the most significant messages people deliver to one another often come in just three words. When spoken or conveyed, those statements have the power to forge new friendships, deepen old ones and restore relationships that have cooled.

The following three word phrases can enrich every relationship:

I'LL BE THERE - Being there for another person is the greatest gift we can give. When we are truly present for other people, important things happen to them and to us. We are renewed in love and friendship. We are restored emotionally and spiritually. 'Being there' is at the very, very core of civility.

I MISS YOU - Perhaps more marriages could be salvaged and strengthened if couples simply and sincerely said to each other, "I miss you." This powerful affirmation tells partners they are wanted, needed, desired and loved.

I RESPECT YOU - Respect is another way of showing love. Respect conveys the feeling that another person is a true equal. It is a powerful way to affirm the importance of a relationship.

MAYBE YOU'RE RIGHT - This phrase is highly effective in diffusing an argument and restoring frayed emotions. The flip side of "maybe you're right" is the humility of admitting "maybe I'm wrong."

PLEASE FORGIVE ME - Many broken relationships could be restored and healed if people would admit their mistakes and ask for forgiveness. All of us are vulnerable to faults, foibles and failures. A man should never be ashamed to own up to he has been in the wrong, which is by saying, in other words, that he is wiser today than he was yesterday.

I THANK YOU - Gratitude is an exquisite form of courtesy. People who enjoy the companionship of good, close friends are those who don't take daily courtesies for granted. They are quick to thank their friends for their many expressions of kindness. On the other hand, people whose circle of friends is severely constricted often do not have the attitude of gratitude.

COUNT ON ME - "A friend is one who walks in when others walk out." "Loyalty is an essential ingredient for true friendship; it is the emotional glue that bonds people. Those who are rich in their relationships tend to be steady and true friends. When troubles come, a good friend is there, indicating "you can count on me."

LET ME HELP - The best of friends see a need and try to fill it. When they spot a hurt they do what they can to heal it. Without being asked, they pitch in and help.

I UNDERSTAND YOU - People become closer and enjoy each other more if they feel the other person accepts and understands them. Letting others know in so many little ways that you understand him or her is one of the most powerful tools for healing your relationship.

GO FOR IT - Some of your friends may be non-conformists, have unique projects and unusual hobbies. Support them in pursuing their interests. Rather than urging your loved ones to conform, encourage their uniqueness - everyone has dreams that no one else has.

I suppose the 3 little words that you were expecting to see have to be reserved for those who are special; that is I LOVE YOU.

THE FOUR CANDLES Author Unknown

The Four Candles burned slowly. Their Ambiance was so soft you could hear them speak...

The first candle said, "I Am Peace, but these days, nobody wants to keep me lit."

Then Peace's flame slowly diminishes and goes out completely.

The second candle says, "I Am Faith, but these days, I am no longer indispensable. "

Then Faith's flame slowly diminishes and goes out completely.

Sadly the third candle spoke, "I Am Love and I haven't the strength to stay lit any longer." "People put me aside and don't understand my importance. They even forget to love those who are nearest to them."

And waiting no longer, Love goes out completely.

Suddenly...

A child enters the room and sees the three candles no longer burning. The child begins to cry, "Why are you not burning? You are supposed to stay lit until the end."

Then the Fourth Candle spoke gently to the little boy, "Don't be afraid, for I Am Hope, and while I still burn, we can re-light the other candles."

With Shining eyes the child took the Candle of Hope and lit the other three candles.

Never let the Flame of Hope go out of your life.

With Hope, no matter how bad things look and are...Peace, Faith and Love can Shine Brightly in our lives.

I WISH YOU ENOUGH Author Unknown

At an airport I overheard a father and daughter in their last moments together. They had announced her plane's departure and standing near the security gate, they hugged and he said, "I love you. I wish you enough."

She said, "Daddy, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Daddy."

They kissed good-bye and she left.

He walked over toward the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see he wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on hisprivacy, but he welcomed me in by asking, "Did you ever say good-bye to someone knowing it would be forever?"

"Yes, I have," I replied. Saying that brought back memories I had of expressing my love and appreciation for all my Dad had done for me.

Recognizing that his days were limited, I took the time to tell him face to face how much he meant to me. So I knew what this man was experiencing.

"Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever good-bye?" I asked.

"I am old and she lives much too far away. I have challenges ahead and the reality is, her next trip back will be for my funeral, " he said.

"When you were saying good-bye I heard you say, 'I wish you enough.' May I ask what that means?"

He began to smile. "That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone." He paused for a moment and looking up as if trying to remember it in detail, he smiled even more.

"When we said 'I wish you enough,' we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with enough good things to sustain them," hecontinued and then turning toward me he shared the following as if hewere reciting it from memory.

"I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish enough "Hello's" to get you through the final "Good-bye."

He then began to sob and walked away.

SYMPTOMS OF INNER PEACE Author Unknown

* A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experiences.
* An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.
* A loss of interest in judging other people.
* A loss of interest in judging self.
* A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others.
* A loss of interest in conflict.
* A loss of ability to worry (this is a very serious symptom).
* Frequent overwhelming episodes of appreciation.
* Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature.
* Frequent attacks of smiling.
* An increasing tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen.
* An increased susceptibility to the love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to extend it.