SUNDAY CAPSULE #2

Greetings -

This is my second of three CAPSULES today.

CAPSULE #2:

True worshippers of GOD are appointed AND anointed.

Satan is appointed but NOT anointed. 

We may choose this operating mode - for instance, an authentic Christian can say,

"The Devil attacked me.  I will not "dignify" the attack with a description.  Suffice it to say that whatever the attacks, they are on GOD's radar!

And a bonus -

"Satan's opposition is further affirmation that the GOD in me is getting on the Devil's nerves.  - - Precisely, my aim!"   

Note: Sometimes it is spiritually strategic to express about the Devil's attacks with descriptions - but to excessively describe how Satan opposes us gives him glory and attention, which he craves.  Only as the Spirit of our Lord leads should we engage about how Satan is opposing us.

SUNDAY CAPUSULE #3

Greetings -

This is my third and last CAPSULE for today.

CAPSULE #3

Other than our GOD, JESUS, and the HOLY SPIRIT, who is one of your favorite Bible characters, and why?

Does anyone in the Bible, in particular, remind you of you?  If so, why? 

WONDER IN CAROLS

Greetings -

This is WONDER IN CAROLS:

This is a story about the people on Wonder Street. The central figures on this street are the widow, Ms. Potent, her newly arrived neighbor, Emmanuel, and Mr. Fervent, a Christian, who is on a mission to put together a CHRISTmas caroling ensemble.

Ms. Potent is mean. Four boys, Ahab, Manasseh, Josiah, and Saul are the neighborhood “toughs.” They go to Ms. Potent’s house to harass her relentlessly. She, on occasion, comes out, and angrily shouts at the youths.

Emmanuel Hosanna and his family moved next door to Ms. Potent on Thanksgiving weekend. The Hosanna’s are Christians who deeply love being righteous, and obedient to God.

Emmanuel is a compassionate child. He observes how Ms. Potent is taunted by the four boys, and how she responds in anger. This deeply troubles Emmanuel. Initially, he thinks it best to leave the matter, and to mind his own business.

Near Christmas, as Emmanuel prays, the Lord speaks to him about Ms. Potent.

The Lord asks Emmanuel, “Is not Ms. Potent My business, and are you not to be about your Father’s business?”

The Lord gave Emmanuel guidance as to how to demonstrate love to Ms. Potent.

Emmanuel received permission from his parents to visit Ms. Potent.

He goes to her house to show her love.

She does not receive him warmly.

Emmanuel will not be deterred.

Gradually, Ms. Potent opens up to him and begins to look forward to his visits.

Emmanuel tells her about the love of Jesus as he helps her with her chores.

Meanwhile, the four boys keep up their harassment of Ms. Potent. But they begin to wonder about Emmanuel. “What is up with him,” they want to know. They ask Emmanuel why he bothers to help the mean unfriendly widow.

Emmanuel explains that he is a Christian whose love for God enables him to love all people and to demonstrate love with actions.

The boys cannot understand but begin to feel ashamed of how they treat Ms. Potent.

Weeks before CHRISTmas, Mr. Fervent, has decided to form a CHRISTmas choral ensemble from the people on Wonder Street. He posts flyers throughout the neighborhood.

Mr. Fervent came up with the idea to sing many of the classic carols, but wants a new carol written, to be sang with the old favorites.

Mr. Fervent remembers the four boys who are the “toughs” on the block. He approaches them about joining the CHRISTmas caroling team.

To his surprise, one of the boys begins to sing, “Silent Night.” The boy has pipes that resound with melodic splendor!

Mr. Fervent looks up in praise to God. Mr. Fervent finds that all of the boys can carry a tune.

They agree to join for caroling.

Emmanuel is still presenting Ms. Potent with love. Eventually, he loves the mean right out of her.

She gives her life to CHRIST. Later she shares with Emmanuel bits of why she became so mean. She had been deeply hurt by many people, and she had used her mean-spiritedness to “cope.”

In the meantime, Mr. Fervent is still busy with his caroling agenda. Progress is steadily being made. He almost has enough people – he desires two more participants. Also, the new carol has not yet been written. It is close to the performance dates, and he is finding it a challenge to find a writer for the new carol.

One day as Mr. Fervent passes by Ms. Potent’s home, he hears someone playing a piano. He knocks on the door, and discovers that it is Ms. Potent who is playing the instrument.

She has not played it for years.

Mr. Fervent seeks her advice about the composition of a new CHRISTmas carol. He also informs her of his desire to have two more people to join for the caroling performances.

Ms. Potent, a retired music teacher, volunteers to write the song, and to join the team. She recruits Emmanuel to be the last one (the last shall be first) to join.

Ms. Potent titles the new carol,"Love Gains in Every Season."  The name they all agree on for the carol ensemble is Sure Waters.

On performance days, Sure Waters sang impressively, and belted out the tunes with gusto, and much enthusiasm. Several times requests came forth for encores of “Love Gains in Every Season.”

Thanks be unto God who says in His word “…his waters shall be sure.” (Isaiah 33:16 – KJV).

Copyright October 7, 2008

Note: This is fiction but it could be true.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON - NEW PHOTOS AND OTHER INFORMATION

Greetings -

I posted some new photos today, Saturday November 20, 2010.  Here is a representative sample: 

Please click on this link http://www.photosplendorplus.blogspot.com/ to view.

Also, on the same link, please view under the tab "HEART SHOTS" how I "adapted" "I'M PREGNANT" to appeal to non-Christians. Weeks ago, the Lord informed me that some non-Christians are "threatened" by Christian focused blogs but that some non-Christians are inclined to view GOD'S creations - flowers, leaves, trees, etc.  That is why weeks ago, I added two non-photo tabs to the subject photo blog.  Those non-photo tabs contain inspirational content.  This a.m., I read a post on Beverly's blog that reminded me about the non-photo tabs, and the aim to reach non-Christians.  Thank you, Lord - and thank you, Beverly.

Photo blogs provide pleasure for Christians and non-Christians.  The two non-photo tabs on http://www.photosplendorplus.blogspot.com/ have content that is not biblically heavy but indeed GOD is in the midst.

The Lord reminded me that His name is NOT mentioned in the book of Esther but clearly He is in it.   The same applies to the creation photos on our photo blogs.  Our Lord is in it all.  But the Lord informed me not to necessarily share that revelation with non-Christians - but to just have them view...and surely, GOD will give the increases.

Note: Please visit Beverly's blog at http://www.wealthofcharacter.blogspot.com/.  In her most recent post, she has requested suggestions.  Thank you.

SATURDAY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Greetings -

• Did you read my request posted yesterday about Marijo's comments on this blog under the "WISE" tab?  It is a faith booster, for sure.
• Yesterday I posted a piece, "HOSPITALITY." My next written post is scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday November 21, 2010.
• Also, yesterday, "7 UPS - QUIZUPS" was posted. The answers will be posted later today.
• Later today I will post a continuation of the photos that I took and posted earlier this week.   

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Greetings -

Talk about a faith booster!  Please go to the "WISE" tab on this blog and read Marijo's comment.

"7 UPS - QUIZUPS" #8 has been posted.  The answers will be posted tomorrow, Saturday November 20, 2010.

I have posted one post today, "HOSPITALITY" - see directly below this ANNOUNCEMENTS post.

New photos were posted yesterday, Thursday November 18, 2010.
The link is http://www.photogplaza.blogspot.com/.

My next post is scheduled for Sunday November 21, 2010.

Thank you for your indulgence.

HOSPITALITY IS GOOD FOR THE HEART

Greetings -

Recently on this blog, I posted a question about hospitality. It was a pleasure to read the responses. All who replied expressed how they view hospitality, in accordance with GOD’s Word. For ready reference, I have placed the responses at the end of this post.

Here I will share a bit about what the Lord taught me about hospitality when my term was not renewed after being employed for more than five years in D.C. government. The loss of job security resulted in many valuable lessons for me and I am richer in our Lord for the experiences. One result is that the Lord allowed me to personally identify with Philippians 4:11-13, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

I read a book some months ago about a middle-class Christian college student and a friend who decided to live as “homeless” people for six months in about five different cities. My hometown, Washington, D.C., was one of those cities. He shared how he was deeply affected and changed by the experience. There were good accounts and not so good accounts that he shared. One thing that struck me strongly was that he expressed how hurt he was because of unpleasant treatment by some Christians. My heart went out to him.

After receipt of what I have come to call my “pink slip bonus,” I lived for a “season” on unemployment benefits. It’s a long story and this piece is not about that journey but one thing led to another and I ended up living in a homeless shelter for about eight months. I have no regrets, for indeed, it was a vital learning experience. While I sought employment, I attended church, Sunday school and Bible studies with Christians who knew of my status. It is common knowledge that I am in love with our Lord yet of those more than a few who knew, only one (excluding family) Christian extended hospitality to me. Another voluntarily gave me funds and a few other material things. Except two, no others invited me out with them or to their homes for so much as tea. Then there are the "Christians" who lacked credibility and integrity - who expressed that they would help but never came through.

It was interesting to me how many Christians were in the shelter where I resided. One, in particular, was deeply anointed and taught me some vital lessons. Another Christian, (I’ll call her Dee) told me one day that she was going to go to a thrift program to get her some clothes. Dee had no income. As she and I walked together, the Lord spoke to me and told me to buy Dee some NEW clothes and He told me to go shopping WITH her. It was not just about buying the clothes, but about relationship, the Lord stressed. He brought to my remembrance how He fed the people with bread and fish, and that He ate WITH the people that He fed.

The Lord led me to help Dee in other ways, financial and otherwise.  And He used her to teach me spiritually.  Also, though I was on unemployment, I knew that it was important to share with others - that is gospel.    

On another day, the Lord shared that He was tired of some professing Christians indulging in expensive clothing and items for themselves but directing His precious poor people to second hand resources for clothing and other material goods. That is why He led me on that day to purchase new clothes for my fellow Christian shelter resident, Dee. Still, I was only getting unemployment benefits but cheerfully purchased new clothes for her – nothing expensive but of good quality. And unbeknownst to me or Dee, that month everything in the store was at reduced cost. We did not notice any signage to advertise that fact. As we shopped, another customer shared the information with us. Based on that, I was able to get more for Dee.

A few months ago, I heard on the radio, an account where a Christian man (I’ll call him Bob) was led to love on his neighbor, Norman, who was a 62 year old hermit. They lived in a small town and the town's people (including the church folks) shunned Norman.  Bob (who was about in his 30’s) was not inclined to be bothered with Norman because Norman was weird, disheveled, and socially “unacceptable.” Bob told the Lord that he did not want to deal with Norman. Long story short – The Lord, over the course of time, told Bob to invite Norman to his home to watch a program, to take Norman to a baseball game, to clean Norman up (when Norman did not bathe in the bathtub thoroughly enough, Bob actually went in to scrub Norman cleaner), to buy Norman a new suit, and - to take Norman on the family vacation!  Off the family went with Norman in the car.  When Bob observed Norman at an amusement park driving a "bump" car, somehow Norman drove and blocked people in.  Close to the end of the ride, displeased that Norman had blocked them in, people started  bumping and bumping Norman's car.  The Lord spoke to Bob and told him that that is how people had done Norman in life  - bumped him and bumped him.  That truth deeply affected Bob. Later the Lord also told Bob to do repairs in Norman’s house and to clean Norman's filthy bathroom. 

Bob obeyed, though initially, not always willingly, in all that the Lord told him to do for Norman.  When the Lord knew that Norman was receptive, He told Bob that Norman was ready to receive salvation.  He and a fellow Christian went over to Norman's house and asked him if he was ready to accept Christ.  Norman responded yes.  They led him to the Lord.

I cried as I listened to how the Lord taught Bob. Bob said that the Lord told him that many Christians love Him but that they do not love their neighbors. After Bob did all those things for Norman, his own ministry in music prospered bountifully! Bob had expressed that before then, there was not much movement there.  Bob said that the Lord told him that he had to love his neighbor before his music ministry could prosper. Wow! What a lesson.

A Christian friend of mine shared with me that another Christian told her that when she phoned, at home, other church members, they were NOT inclined to engage. They are inclined for limited engagement at church, but not inclined for home phone calls or other forms of bonding with other church members.

Certainly, many people have busy lives but when JESUS walked this earth in flesh form, even He allowed for interruptions to show compassion for people. How many times was He on His way somewhere when people interrupted His journey? Did He "blow them off" or dismiss them? No, He engaged them and tended to their needs. Now, of course there were times when interruptions were not allowed, for good reasons. The same is for us - but are we doing too much dismissal of people - using our busyness as an excuse? Lord, please help us all to know who, when, how, and what in regard to this matter.

One day I observed two women doing gardening tasks on city property. I inquired. They informed me that they had “adopted” that city parcel of land. They were caring for it with giving hearts. I have read reports of people “adopting” zoo animals. Of course, there is the formal adoption process of precious children. The Lord shared that people of GOD can “adopt” poor and needy people.

JESUS is about relationships. He dined with sinners and such. Why not set aside funds to, once a month, fund dinner or lunch out with a homeless and/or needy person or family? It would be a delight for them to be treated, at least monthly, to wholesome movies and concerts, games, and other forms of entertainment and pleasure. Many would appreciate the compassion demonstrated by such caring actions. They need people to love on them. Those forms of “adoption” can prove spiritually effective.

Some churches have large congregations and have outreach ministries to the poor and needy. Why not assign each church member, who is able, one homeless/needy person to “adopt?” That makes it a personal individual contribution. It is great to do collective charitable actions. GOD also expects us to make personal/individual sacrifices for others. His Word states for us to bear one another’s burdens – Galatians 6:2.

Financially, I do not have much but it is important that I extend hospitality.  One neighbor is regularly invited to partake of food that I cook. Recently, I invited a Christian friend to a picnic lunch out with food that I prepared. Also, it was important to me to invite shelter residents and others to my home to fellowship. Of course, it must be stressed that the Lord’s guidance must be sought because it is unwise to have people in homes if the Lord does not lead the actions.

It is understandable that all people are not receptive for help. Some poor people are rude, ungrateful and do not demonstrate appreciation. Their aim is to misuse the kindness extended. Often they act out because of fears and hurts. They are to be loved, regardless. It is always wise, though, to consult GOD for the wisdom to know what to do in matters that concern giving to the poor.

Of course, people need to be responsible, and demonstrate a willingness to rise above poverty. Salvation is vitally necessary. Wisdom from GOD aids in what to do and how.

GOD is love in thoughts, and actions.

Who will “adopt?”

Romans 12:13
…given to hospitality

I Peter 4:9
Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

I John 3:17
But whoso hath this world’s good and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

Proverbs 29:7
The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.

Proverbs 19:17
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

Sandra

Wednesday November 17, 2010
Copyright 2010

Below are the comments that were submitted earlier this week  relative to hospitality.

Julie Reynolds said...

1. Well I think the key word in both verses is hospitality. I would say it means having people over to your house, and if need be, inviting them to stay over night. In the 1 peter verse it says to do it without grudging. In other words, don't be upset that you have to do it, but be happy that you can. I'm not sure exactly where it is, but it talks about in doing so, you just might be entertaining angels unaware...

November 14, 2010 11:01 AM

lioneagle said...

This was sent to me, via e-mail, from Grammy Blick:

8:18 AM (4 hours ago)

Our pastor preached on hospitality and used these scriptures. I look upon them as being welcoming to all who come seeking the Lord. I would not have expected Peter to ask Saul the prosecutor in for dinner, but Cornelius' visit falls into that category.

November 14, 2010 12:39 PM

lioneagle said...

This is my response to Grammy's e-mailed comments:

Hi Phyllis -

Thank you for responding. I appreciate it.

When did your pastor preach on hospitality?

November 14, 2010 12:40 PM

lioneagle said...

This reply was sent to me, via e-mail, from Grammy:

9:30 AM (3 hours ago)

It was earlier this year -- I'll have to check in my Bible and see if one of these verses was the main verse. I put a date beside the main verses he uses in his sermons. He's been in the book of John for several months, so it was before summer.

Yes, ma'am, you are welcome to post my thoughts on these questions. I'm getting a little bit more free time each day and hope to visit more often!

November 14, 2010 12:42 PM

Judy said...

Hi Sandra,

Hospitality is very important. As children of God, our hearts, hands, and homes should be open to those in need and to those not in need. We're to show the love of Christ. Also, we might entertain angels and not know it. :-)

November 14, 2010 8:48 PM

Saleslady371 said...

Hospitality is another way of loving people. It's a gift from God not to be performed but to give away with the direction of His spirit. That's why we should not complain but obey when He says to be hospitable.

November 14, 2010 9:14 PM

Sharon Kirby said...

1. Hospitality is having your home open. Giving its use to the Lord's purposes. Being warm and inviting in your dealings with people.

November 14, 2010 10:36 PM

covnitkepr1 said...

1) I would say that they are both refering to how we treat each other in the Christian community. The passage in Romans starts out with "distributing to the necessity of the saints...the passage in 1Peter states "one to another." It's all about seeing a brother in need and meeting that need with a glad heart (not begrudgingly)...that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

November 14, 2010 11:11 PM

lioneagle said...

Greetings -
I enjoyed reading all of these different answers. I found them quite interesting, and helpful. It is fruitful to learn from others and about what others prefer.

Thank you, everyone, for sharing!

November 16, 2010 12:24 PM

NEW PHOTOS POSTED TODAY

Greetings -

Please click on this link http://www.photogplaza.blogspot.com/ to view photos posted today, Thursday November 18, 2010.

Here is a representative sample:



Sunset

Thank you for your indulgence

   

OOPS!

Greetings -

Some of you received an "advance" of my post scheduled for posting on tomorrow.  This is what happened:

I was working on it last night in draft mode, and accidentally hit the "Publish" button. The subject post is scheduled for official posting on tomorrow. The final has some slight modifications, as well as the inclusion of comments made by others.

Today, I received two comments on the draft copy.  Thank you.  I will post your comments on tomorrow when the final of the post is placed.

Thank you for your understanding and indulgence.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Greetings -


Tomorrow I am scheduled to post at least two posts, one of which is "7UPS - QUIZUPS."  

For those who are not familiar with it, please view the tab on this blog titled, "7 UPS - QUIZUPS."

Thank you for your indulgence.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Greetings -

I posted a piece yesterday, "LOVEFEST."

Also, yesterday a post was posted under the tab, "WISE." 

Thank you for your indulgence.

LOVEFEST

Baltimore Harbor
in Baltimore, Maryland

Photo compliments of Sandra
Copyright 2010

Greetings -

Many of us, when we were in the world heard the statement, "Where's the party at?"  We went to the house parties and the clubs to "get our groove on."  Now we "party" at Club Gospel.  Ain't no party like a Holy Ghost party!  We're here to represent GOD on full blast.  Can I get a drum roll, please?!  Play it again, Sam!

Club Gospel regularly features lovefests.  Loving on Jesus - Jesus loving on us - us loving on one another.  GOD is our love magnet.  We are so attracted to Him.  Like bees to flowers, we cling to our Lord.  This is pure love poured out in plentiful supply to whosoever will partake of its fine pleasures.

This party never ends.   No calls for "last drinks" here.  We drink of the water of life freely as out of our bellies flow rivers of living water.  Ah! So satisfying is this water.

Looking around, we see "wallflowers" in the party mix.  Some of them are wearing Christian t-shirts with no evidence of Christian fruits.  They do not look like happy campers, at all.  All around the wall, they are - glum in demeanor - how sad for them.

We ask the Lord, "Why are they so joyless at Club Gospel?"

He responds, "Some of them crept in unawares
(Jude 4), others are searching while others are carnal with no spiritual power - for to be carnally minded is death (Romans 8:6).  And they do not flow in love which deprives them of holy power."

Love, power, and anointing go hand in hand.  No love - no power - no love - no anointing.  Yokes are destroyed because of the anointing (Isaiah 10:27).  

We cannot forsake love and call ourselves true worshippers of GOD.  There is no acceptable reason to refuse to love.  No ifs, ands, or buts about it - without love, we are nothing.  We pay for the day - die daily.  We fight the night - for it is spiritual death.

Some of the true worshippers go to the "wallflowers" to ask them if they are inclined to know the Holy Ghost party sponsor, GOD Almighty.  They share with the "wallflowers" that GOD is the Host with the most.  More than a few accept the invitation.  Most though, stay "glued" to the wall - some mocking those who joined the true party people.  Matthew 7:14, "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."   

The live in  holy fervor love band joyfully plays, "Glory to Glory."  JESUS shouts, "Play it again, band!"  The band  gladly does so and the Holy Ghost fire falls on "whosoever will."

This party is explosive.  Wow!  GOD is uniquely qualified to ignite willing vessels to stay hungry to flame glowingly - forever.

Scriptures from the King James Bible:

Jude 4

For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.

I John 3:10, 11

In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.

I John 3: 14, 15

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren.  He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Greetings -

Yesterday, Monday November 15, 2010, I posted a piece, "JEWISH MATTERS."

My next post is scheduled to be placed tomorrow, Wednesday November 17, 2010.

New photos were posted on Sunday November 14, 2010.  The link is http://www.photogplaza.blogspot.com/

Thank you for your indulgence.

JEWISH MATTERS

Greetings -

My next post was scheduled for Wednesday November 17, 2010; however, as we know, our Lord is known to change schedules.

1. New photos were posted last night on http://www.photogplaza.blogspot.com/

2. For those who are so inclined, please visit http://www.askdrbrown.org/.

Michael Brown, PhD, is a former drug addict from a Jewish family.  He has been described by Moishe Rosen founder, Jews for Jesus, as the best scholar among Messianic Jews today.  On his website there is an online magazine called, "Voice of Revolution."  It may be of interest to "whosoever will."

Dr. Brown has written numerous books one of which I have read and highly recommend.  The title is What Do Jewish People Think about Jesus? And Other Questions Christians Ask about Jewish Beliefs, Practices and History.

The Holy Bible states in Romans 2:10, "But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:"

I am 54 years old and cannot remember hearing (until about 2 years ago) any sermons about this vital Bible truth.  I did NOT hear those subject sermons in church but on the Internet!  Many Christians are ignorant about the importance of knowledge about Israel and its people.  The Lord led me, about a year ago, to learn about this very important topic.  I purchased eight books on the subject, including Dr. Brown's.  Also,  I purchased the Complete Jewish Bible - translation by David H. Stern - Copyright 1998  

Here is the list of books that I have and recommend:

As America Has Done To Israel - The Result: Massive National Disasters by John P. McTernan - Copyright 2008 - Excerpt from back cover: "There is a direct correlation between the alarming number of massive disasters striking America and her leaders pressuring Israel to surrender her land for "peace."'  Sandra's comment: This is one of my favorites of the lot.

The Israel Test by George Gilder - Copyright 2009 - Excerpt from book jacket flap, "Wherever Jews are free to invent and create, they achieve conspicuous success-arousing envy and resentment."  Excerpt from back of book jacket cover, "The Israel Test spoke to me with unexpected power.  Apart from being brilliantly, fiercely written, its merit lies in clarifying, in a totally new, secular, and intuitive way, why Israel matters." - David Klinghoffer, The Jerusalem Post." Sandra's comment: Another favorite of mine.

Eye To Eye - Facing the Consequences of Dividing Israel, by William Koenig - Copyright 2008 - Excerpt from back of book, "In this book, Bill Koenig provides undeniable facts and conclusive evidence showing that indeed the leaders of the United States and the world are on a collision course with God over Israel's covenant land."  

"And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem" (Zechariah 12:9)."

They Dared Return - The True Story of Jewish Spies Behind The Lines in Nazi Germany, by Patrick K. O'Donnell - Copyright 2009 - Excerpt from back of book jacket, "An improbable and important WWII mission-one that's never been told before...in stark yet evocative prose." - Washington Post Express

The Incomplete Church - Bridging the Gap Between God's Children, by Sid Roth - Copyright 2007 - Excerpt from back of book, "Christianity today is very different from the original.  To experience the original-the miracles, healings, power, and intimacy with GOD-we have to examine our Jewish roots.  For 2,000 years, there has been a separation between Judaism and Christianity resulting in a lack of miracle power and intimacy with God."   

Messianic Judaism - A Modern Movement With An Ancient Past, by David H. Stern - Copyright 2007 - Excerpt from back of book, " "In easy-to-read style, Dr. David H. Stern, translator of the Jewish New Testament and Complete Jewish Bible, author of books and articles, teacher and thinker, gives us a comprehensive look at this vital movement."   

Israel Under Fire - The Prophetic Chain of Events that Threatens the Middle East, by John Ankerberg and Jimmy DeYoung - Copyright 2009 - Includes Compelling Interviews with: Benjamin Netanyahu, Moshe Arens, Lt. General William G. Boykin - Excerpt from back of book, "In light of the warning signs of the escalating Palestinian-Israeli conflict and a nuclear threat from Iran, authors John Ankerberg and Jimmy DeYoung show just how important it is to know what the Bible says about Israel's future and why it matters to you." 

In my view, all of the above books are excellent.  Please provide any that you recommend about Jewish matters. 

Thank you.

- FYI - You're invited to obtain my e-books. Also, I invite you to read my free offerings. Here is the link for additional information. http://www.sandrasbookdepot.blogspot.com/

You don't need e-readers to read e-books; they can also be read online.

NEW PHOTOS - SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK

Greetings -

Yesterday we visited Shenandoah National Park.  Please click on this link to view three new sets of photos http://www.photogplaza.blogspot.com/.

Here are representative photos from each of the three new sets:

Thank you for your indulgence.

THREE QUESTIONS

Greetings -

1. What do these two scripture excerpts  mean to you?

Romans 12:13
...given to hospitality.

1 Peter 4:9
Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 

2. If the Lord said to you, "Other than your native country, which country would you most like to go to spread the gospel?" - which would you choose?

3. What foreign language especially appeals to you?

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Greetings -

My next post is scheduled to be placed tomorrow, Sunday November 14, 2010.

Yesterday I posted two posts, "PRAISE REPORT," and "AT THE MALL."

Also, yesterday "7 UPS - QUIZUPS" # 7 was posted.  The answers will be posted later today.

Thank you for your indulgence.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Greetings -

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PRAISE REPORT

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This post was not planned.  Something happened to me this a.m. that prompted it.  Please read this and the post directly below this one, titled, "AT THE MALL."

SANDRA'S PRAISE REPORT: 

Let the record show...

Today the Devil came against me - but Oh Hallelujah, the Lord had something in me that came out in glorious splendor.  I was consumed with high praise.  Danced, shouted, cried and sang to the glory of GOD is what I did.  The Word of GOD says for us to count it all joy.  That is precisely what I did after the scheme of Satan.  It is NOT likely that the Devil expected the high praise actions that he got from this humble servant of Almighty GOD.

Satan came against me in a public place.  The Lord told me to praise Him in a public place – in fact, the same public area where Satan attacked me this a.m.

I made celebratory declarations with faith that GOD is indeed with the righteous!  I stood on the street corner with hands raised to GOD in ecstatic happiness to love GOD and to be loved by Him.  Tears streamed down my cheeks as I was moved by the Spirit in splendid joyousness!  Oh how I love Him.  Oh how I love Him.  I am still high from my wondrous encounter with GOD this glorious a.m.  NOBODY can love us like GOD – NOBODY!!!  I am so happy to know Him and thrilled that He knows me.  Tears well up in my eyes as I write these words because, again, GOD has proven His love, power and glory.

And to think that all of this consumed me today because Satan attacked me this a.m.  Who knew?! -GOD, of course.  For sure, He allowed me to seize the opportunity to prove to Satan that INDEED greater is He that is in me…!

Praise You, Lord, for the celebration of Your most high status!!!

Hallelujah!  Praise Your awesome name, Father GOD.  You have power over ALL!!!

AT THE MALL

Greetings -

This is fiction but could be true...

AT THE MALL

Warren Langley works as a supervisor at Junction Bus Operations. He is eager to own an event planning business where his entire family can be involved. Belinda, his wife, is a Recruiter in the government. Warren has been striving for years to recruit Belinda to share his dream of business ownership. Warren’s parents, now divorced, are retired entrepreneurs, who operated a catering business.

Belinda has a Master’s degree in economics though nothing in her attitude about personal finances is indicative that she has mastered anything profitable relative to currency accountability. Her most earnest endeavor is to be at the malls.

Warren and Belinda have two children, Jackson, 19 and Kim who is 14.

Warren begins to daydream about their early days of marriage. He remembers the days when he could be assured of respect from Belinda, with quality marital involvement, regular home cooked meals, and a tidy house. He is not sure when Belinda changed. There was a gradual shifting of her priorities. Her job requires her to travel often and she loves her occupation more than her family. Warren has repeatedly asked Brenda to quit her job to help him to form, and operate his dream business. She is not interested.

Warren phones Belinda to invite her out to dinner.

She answers.

“Hi babe, how about we meet at Fleming’s for dinner in about an hour?” Warren asks.

“O honey, I’m on my way to the mall.”

“You stay at the mall, Belinda,” states Warren with a rise in his voice.

“No, I don’t. I’m there a lot but I don’t stay there.”

“You know what I mean,” snaps Warren.

 Belinda demurs, “I won’t be long. I’ll pick us up dinner on my way home.”

“I’ll pass,” says Warren. He hangs up the phone.

“Hello, Hello?” What is the deal with Warren these days? she asks herself. She heads to the mall.

Warren calls Tony, his friend from childhood. “Man, I invited Belinda for dinner tonight. She declined because guess where she’s going?”

 “To the mall,” responds Tony.

“You got it,” bemoans Warren.

Tony senses Warren’s pain and anger. Tony asks, “How about you and I do dinner tonight?”

The friends agree to meet at Fleming’s.

Linda, Belinda’s friend and fellow mall cohort, is already at the mall when Belinda arrives. At least once a week, the two are at one mall or another. If malls issued frequent shopper benefits, their revenue would be off the chart.

Finally, after hours, exhausted, they head home.

Belinda comes in the door laden with bags.

"Hi," says Belinda.

Jackson and Kim look at each other and roll their eyes - mom again in her love affair with the mall.

“Hi mom,” the kids respond.

Kim tells her mother, “Dad called. He said that he was going to dinner with Mr. Tony. He said that you were at the mall, and would bring us dinner.”

Belinda’s eyes widen. “Oops, I forgot. I apologize.”

Kim responds, “You forget us a lot, mom.”

Belinda looks but does not respond to Kim’s statement. “Let’s order pizza,” Belinda suggests.

Jackson says, “Why not cook? We rarely get home cooked meals anymore.”

“Yea, mom, why not cook,” encourages Kim. “I’ll help.”

Belinda shakes her head – “No, I am not cooking. I do not feel like it, kids.”

Jackson sarcastically replies, “You feel like going to that job that Dad asked you to quit – you feel like traveling often away from us, and most of all, you feel like being at the mall – but you don’t feel like cooking for your family?”

“Watch your tone, young man,” Belinda warns.

The brother and sister exchange looks, and go to the basement.

Belinda laments and comments to herself, I don’t understand why Jackson and Kim do not realize how fortunate they are. She dismisses the matter, prepares a microwave meal, and proceeds to the den to shop online.

Warren comes home and finds Belinda shopping on the Internet. He fumes. “Belinda, something has got to give. This addictive shopping cannot continue. I have plans and family goals to advance us. That cannot happen with your irresponsible financial conduct, and the failures in your roles as wife and mother. For years, we have tolerated your decline. What happened to you?!”

Belinda whirls around, “Who are you calling a failure?! How dare you insult and disrespect me like that! What do you mean what happened to me?!”

“I love you, Belinda. That does not mean that I will not call a spade a spade. You have an addiction to shopping, we have a severe intimate disconnection, you travel too often away from us, you cease to keep a tidy house, and you rarely cook. Those define failures to me. You have a Master’s degree in economics. I can’t tell! In sum, you are consumed by selfishness.”

Belinda does not want to own the truth spoken by her husband. She gives him a defiant look and strides out of the room.

Warren does not pursue. He is not sure what to do about this dismal family condition.

Jackson, a college athlete, has a baseball game today. He had invited his family to attend.

Belinda informed that she would be on business travel.

Warren, Kim, and Robert, Jackson’s grandfather, are in attendance at the game.

The action is exciting.

Jackson is impressive.

Out of nowhere, it seems, lightning strikes accompanied by a booming thunderous sound.

People begin to scatter for cover.

The players seek refuge.

Jackson is on the ground. He has been struck by lightning!
 
His family rushes to the field.

The ambulance comes and delivers Jackson to Harmony Hospital.

Warren phones Belinda.

Her phone is off. While on business travel, she is, where else - at the mall. After hours of shopping, a twinge of guilt hits her. She phones to ask how Jackson is doing at the game. She observes that she has a voice mail message. She listens in horror as her husband informs her that Jackson is in ICU after being struck by lightning.

Belinda cries out, “O God, please don’t let my baby die!” I will do whatever You tell me just don’t let my baby die!” She breaks down in gut wrenching sobs.

Passersby gaze at her but only one, Emily, stops to help.

Belinda tells her about Jackson in ICU.

Emily offers to pray for Jackson – Belinda accepts.

They walk together to Belinda’s rental car where Emily prays a fervent prayer. Then, Emily, in encouragement, squeezes Belinda’s hand, and departs.

Belinda’s flight home seems endless.

At Harmony Hospital, the family anxiously awaits word on Jackson.

The doctor informs that it is touch and go. He says, “Jackson is young. He has that in his favor. You can go in to see him now, please, no more than two family members at a time.”

Warren and Robert go in the room first.

Jackson is unconscious and they do not know if he knows that they are there.

Next Kim goes to his bedside.

Jackson remains unresponsive.

Hours go by – other family members join those already there. They rotate going in to Jackson.

He does not stir at all.

Near midnight, a despondent Belinda runs in and locates her family.

They tell her that, since his arrival, Jackson has not responded to anyone’s presence.

Belinda, with her husband, enters Jackson’s room. Together they pray at his bedside.

“Dear Lord, Belinda begins, please save our son. Forgive me for my failures and for how I have neglected my family. Please God, don’t let our baby die!”

Warren cries, “Lord, please let him live!”

Jackson stirs. Slowly, he opens his eyes – he first sees his mother.

“Hi mom, I thought you were out of town.”

She cries out in relief. “I came back for you. It is abundantly clear to me now that my family is more important than a job, trips, or being at the malls. This is my wake up call. I am done with the misplaced priorities. She looks over at her husband who is overcome with emotion. “Will you both forgive me?” she pleads. I promise to prove that I mean what I have said.”

Jackson assures her, “Of course, mom – we love you.”

Warren says nothing. He grabs his wife and embraces her in a passionate hug.

Epilogue:

Jackson fully recovered.

Belinda conquered her shopping addiction, got her finances in order, quit her job, and became a better wife than she was in the earlier days of matrimony with Warren. She also became a quality and attentive mother.

Warren reached his goal of business ownership. He and Belinda opened their event planning business called, “Heightened Awareness.” The added value is that his parents work there part time. The business is consistently in the black, thanks in part, to Belinda’s Master’s degree in economics.

One event fulfilled by “Heightened Awareness” has particular significance – that is the reception for Warren’s remarried parents.

 © Copyright Sunday January 31, 2010 – Revised August 3, 2010