Cheerful Insecurity

Grandma (Mom Bowen) by Carla Elliott Storer

2011-11-17T04:05:00.000-08:00

Monday was Grandma's birthday. It's been time for awhile now for me to set down and write about my dear grandma. I just have been putting it off.

My very earliest memories of my grandma are of her smile. Always, always grandma had a smile. Laughter, clapping hands, singing, those are my baby memories. Grandma never seemed to have a bad day. In fact, I remember when I was almost a teenager the first time I remember Grandma being just the slightest bit grouchy and I realized she was tired, and human. What a shock. Grandma always knew how to make us happy.

With daddy being a pastor and grandpa being a pastor too, we always lived far away from each other. Every so often a lil maroon car would pull into our driveway in Lancaster, Ohio and out would jump my grandma. Oh what joy would fill our hearts. Grandma's squeals of delight were just as loud as our squeals at seeing her. She ALWAYS had frozen grapes that her and grandpa packed for their trip. Somehow there were always enough left over for them to share with us. Grandma always brought us stuff. I didn't know she was poor. I didn't know we were poor. With all the delightful things grandma brought us we thought she was so rich. Clothes, toys, games, food, her green german chocolate cake (she had mistaken the green food coloring for vanilla!!) always frozen vege soup, or lasagna, peaches to can, or yummy cookies, Grandma never came empty handed. Somehow, those trips always stuck in my mind.

The night before Grandma had to go home instead of it being sad, she would throw a party. She always called it the "Grand Finale". Sometimes it was a water balloon fight, sometimes it was food, like a mystery food party. It was just whatever she came up with and we couldn't be sad. She gave us too many fun things to think about. '

Her living far away didn't seem so bad because she sent us boxes. "Sunshine boxes" if we were sick, Valentine Boxes with the best sweetheart sugar cookies with almond flavor icing. The icing was white, the writing was always pink and they said things like "xoxo", I love you, Be mine. I can remember getting that box every year, and we knew what was in there, but the excitement was always the same.

Grandma sent us cards, every birthday, every special event in our lives. She always made us feel like we were the only grandchild. She always stuck a few dollars in those cards, might as well been a thousand dollars, that's what it felt like.

I remember going to grandma's every summer and going to the beach with her. I remember going at Christmas and her bringing out stacks of Christmas baked goods. Hers were always the tastiest, she even sold them sometimes. I remember her climbing her stairs over and over with stacks of family laundry, always with a smile, a joke or a laugh. I remember when everyone else sat down to eat, she never sat, she always served, always seeing what she could get the next person. When everyone else was done and gone, we would catch her sitting down to finally feed herself. I don't remember many gifts grandma gave me at Christmas, some books, I mostly remember the time we spent together.

I remember her teaching me to "cook"!!! I think it was rolls or biscuits. We mixed, we rolled, we put them in the oven. Company came, we talked and laughed, grandma remember the food, grandma proudly remarked that I was baking and sent me to check on the food. It wasn't done......awhile later she sent me to check it still wasn't done. Awhile later, it still not being done, grandma got up herself, not believing that the food couldn't be done yet, she had forgotten to have me turn the oven on!!!! Oh did she laugh. At herself and me and the whole situation. She could always laugh at herself.

I remember sleeping on her screened in porch in the summer, hearing the train go by, hearing her scurrying around in the kitchen. She would come out and take us up to the barn with her to gather eggs, feed the goats and pigs. She would point out things growing or tell us stories. I remember her going to the shed and praying. I remember walking in there and looking at her lil prayers spot and admiring her relationship with God. It was so simple and yet so profound.There was simply no place on earth like Grandma's house, or any person on earth like Grandma. There is never any point in my life that I remember her judging me, or being afraid I was gonna make wrong choices. She always prayed for me, she always believed in me and she always encouraged me.She was never unkind. She was never harsh. Even in the presence of people who had mistreated her or been unkind, she was kind. She would say, "we need to pray for them".

She gave away EVERYTHING. She often would say as we left, "if there's anything you need or want, take it." I never, EVER left her house without something. She loved yard sales and sent us away with much more than we arrived with. She truly loved to give. She was always handing out money. I remember the family joke that Grandpa was bringing money in the front door as Grandma was handing it out the back door. She gave away everything..........even at her funeral her children were giving away these lil goodie bags that she had made up to set by her chair so she could give them to visitors. It was simple, just a sandwich bag with a bottle of soap a notebook and a pen, and a note that said it was from her. That was just the way she was, it didn't matter what she gave you, it was just that she wanted you to know she cared about you. And you definitely knew that. You always knew that.

You might think grandma had an easy life, or just a positive attitude, or was just one of those people who things always worked out for, but that's far from true. Grandma was born out of wedlock, never knew her father, or even who her father was. Her mother was not able to raise her due to physical and emotional issues. Therefore, Grandma went into a sort of foster care. There was a family member who wanted to adopt her, but the spouse did not. They took my dear grandma on at about two years of age. By the time other family members realized what was going on Grandma was a lil older but had been the object of much physical abuse. Having her been knocked down the steps, having all of her teeth knocked out grandma had false teeth by the age of 16. Other people came along and "adopted" grandma, but primarily for the reason of her service. Making her drop out of school to work, she took on a job at a bakery where she learned to become such a wonderful baker. When she returned home and turned over her earnings, she then would take care of her adopted parents and grandparent. Somewhere along the line Grandma heard about Jesus and how much He loved her. She gave her heart to Him. It was probably the first time she knew of love, of any kind. She would always say that Jesus loved lil ole, ugly, simple her. If she only knew how beautiful she truly was. Anyway, she longed to go to college, but was told no college would ever accept her because she had never even graduated from high school. She perservered, she never was one to give up easy. and upon hearing of a Christian Worker's College that would accept work students, she applied and was accepted! It was there she met my grandpa, married and they began pastoring. I could tell you tale upon tale of their pastoring days, some good, some really bad.......but Grandma never talked of that. She always talked of the dear people they knew and prayed for each one.

She birthed 7 beautiful children. I don't know how she did it, but she made each of them feel so special and loved, and she made all us grandchildren feel that way too.You see, grandma always saw herself as the least of God's children, as one of the simplest. If she could see herself as the rest of us saw her. So beautiful, gorgeous skin, almond eyes that always sparkled, an ornery spirit and a love for life.

I feel as though I could write and write and yet you could never ever know what a special person she was, how unique she was. Grandma didn't have alot of material things, in fact very few. But she viewed herself as the richest woman alive, she didn't allow her circumstances to determine her mood or her spirit, she saw beyond that. She didn't see people as people, she saw them as opportunities to spread God's love and goodness. She was always positive, always grateful, always lively.

The last time I was privileged to be with her, she was in the hospital. My sisters and I went to be with her, we didn't know how long she was gonna be on earth. When we got there at nearly midnight, she didn't know we were around. She was in a deep, deep sleep and we expected Heaven to call her at any moment.

The next morning my aunt called saying Grandma was awake and we should come see her. We went, not sure what to expect. I had never seen her look so beautiful, laying there in her robe, the crisp hospital sheets around her. Her dark head laying amidst the pillows, her skin so creamy, those dark eyes just jumping with life. I walked in and she said, "well look who it is". For the next couple hours she made us laugh and cry. Her voice so raspy and weak, yet she told us poems and sang us songs, and told us stories. It was one of the most precious times ever. We had to leave and I will never forget the feel of her soft cheek as I kissed her.

Heaven is real and I can't wait to see you again Grandma. But for now, I wish I knew how to thank you for showing me that God is real. For giving me an example of who and what a Godly woman is. You would've never listened if I'd try to thank you when you were here, always pointing out your faults. But, you are my hero.

When I grow up, I wanna be like you. You taught me that my walk with God was just that, a walk, every day. You taught me that the greatest among them was a servant, you taught me that caring was more important than anything else. You taught me that my hands are God's hands when I give them to Him and use them for others. You taught me that my relationship with God was practical and useful. You taught me that riches don't come in in dollars, or bank accounts, or property, but in perspective, in attitude and in many lil unseen blessings. You taught me that it is MUCH better to give than to receive.

Thank you for all the prayers you prayed for me, thank you for all your smiles and for the special lil things I have around my house that came from you. Thank you for your love, thank you for teaching me to bake :). Thank you for being you and for living life so honest. Thank you for the heritage you have given me. Thank you for giving me a role model, thank you for teaching me joy can be found anywhere. Thank you for being "simple". Thank you for living a life so that I know I will see you again someday.

I am rich for having you in my life. I love you Grandma......so much. And I miss you much much more than I could've ever imagined. I hope you had the best birthday party ever.
Love you, ~Carla~

The God Who Answers

2011-02-01T03:31:00.000-08:00

There have been many prayers answered in the past few months. Here are TEN that I am praising God for today:
1. my friend, Corey, was finally able to get a kidney transplant he desperately needed!
2. a large amount money was sent to a friend in need!
3. three people got jobs (one person had been looking for a job for two years)!!
4. easy delivery of a new, beautiful grandneice!
5. healing touch on a friend's baby!
6. a great Christian husband for a neice!
7. a friend's good report from a cancer checkup!
8. that I finally was able to order a Prayer Station!
9. for clear direction on an important decision!!!!
10. positioning of people in church leadership for the good of the church
God, You are amazing! Thank you for answering me when I call to You.

My Morning Prayer

2011-01-26T08:07:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
I need You now. I need Your life to flow into me, Your power to raise me, Your wisdom to satisfy me, and Your love to heal me. My mind has bubbled and boiled all night with sordid dreams, nightmares of the improbable, flitting thoughts of fearful danger, and disappointment over my own human imperfections.
Pour over me, Father, with the cleansing, clearness of Your Word. Wash away the vestiges of self and may I fulfill Your agenda for this day.
Draw me to the shelter of Your arms where I am safe and secure forevermore.
Amen.

A Happy, Happy Day

2010-07-20T04:39:00.000-07:00

I really have nothing special going on.........just a joyous sortof happiness for every gift I've been given.....music to encourage the soul, friends on FB, a terrific husband who is soooo talented, my darling nieces and nephews that I love dearly (I have 18 plus 5 greats!), wonderful brothers and sisters.......and today the simple things seemed ... See more especially wonderful, double petunias and sunflowers, my purring cat, Hershey's chocolate raspberry meltaways, handing the jars of canned tomatoes to Mark to put on the shelf, combing Mother's hair this morning in a french braid, getting corn and squash from the garden, a tomatoe sandwhich for lunch, somehow everything seems like God smiling at me today.....

New Beginnings

2010-07-08T05:01:00.000-07:00

I feel like Isaiah when he said, "Here am I, send me." There are so many people all around me who are terribly lost, misdirected, and cluelessly wandering through life. My heart's deepest desire is to speak God's Word and be an instrument in His hand to bring light to darkness, hope to despair, and freedom to bondage.

Next Wednesday night I will be ordained by The Wesleyan Church as a minister. I praise God that I can be His mouthpiece!! By faith I am certain that He will do far above and beyond anything I can dare to ask or think. Far above my prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams!!! This is MY GOD. He will be MY GUIDE even until death!!!!

Death: A Poem

2010-04-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

Death by Dorothy Bowen Klass

Death leaves an open void,
an everlasting ache,
a sadness lessened, not erased, by time.

The loss of those I loved
their faces etched forever in my mind,
a laugh, a gesture, a uniqueness I cannot forget--

A silent grief I seldom share
for no one else can fully understand
that personal connecting bond,
or know those things I now hold dear,
that but for sacred memory,
would never come again.

Dedicated to the memory of: Dad Bowen, C. Helen Mooshian, George and Sadie Young, Howard and Rose Diddle, Grandma Espey, Nancy Lyons, Eileen Slabaugh, Carmel Gore, Joann Hobbs, Myrtle Hayes, Annie Laura Gore, Joanna Stevens, Raymond Callahan, Don Larrimore, Robert and Cindy Deaton, Coyte York, R.W. and Ruby Dunn, and Millard and Naomi Downing.

Songs I Have Loved

2010-03-25T04:35:00.000-07:00

Some of the old songs that I grew up with are seldom sung anymore. With the exception of "How Great Thou Art", these short clips contain songs that I believe are out of print, out of fashion, and out of use!! I hope they'll be a blessing to you.

http://www.youtube.com/user/DorothyBowenKlass

A New Poem

2010-03-20T05:20:00.000-07:00

There is a Path
There is a path through this confusing maze of life
And only One can find it.
The twists, the turns, the deadends half obscured
Beyond the misty fog; so many little side roads
Make me afraid I'll lose my way.

Then stopping all my rushing here and there
I find Him once again in morning stillness.
My Spirit reaches out to grasp my Friend,
And Spirit joins with spirit once again.
Washing over me the knowledge now,
That as I follow Him, the path He knows
Somehow will lead me home.
-Dorothy B. Klass 3/14/10

Legacy Project

2010-01-23T08:49:00.000-08:00

Three short videos of old songs that mean a great deal to me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yP-SHtsizM This is a song I often quote before as I begin my devotional time. "Lord, I Have Shut the Door"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klX-936560Q One of Mom's favorites, this brings back many memories of my growing up years and Mom's optomistic outlook!! "If the Father's Eye is On the Sparrow"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qY8_6Pwx6XM Dad would often start this song after a time of prayer. "Yes, He Answers Prayer Today"

New Project

2009-12-08T03:27:00.001-08:00

For a long time I have wanted to record some of the old hymns in the setting of First Presbyterian Church as the golden sunlight streams through the stained glass windows. Hymns like "O To Be Like Thee", "Jesus, Rose of Sharon", and "Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me". These hymns are too beautiful to vanish off the worship radar forever and I would like to sing them for my neices and nephews......and anyone else who will listen.

There is probably only an hour of "sunset sunshine" so our recording window of time is limited. We finally were able to experiment and since the church was decorated for Christmas I did a couple Christmas carols for starters.

This is the first attempt.....a bit amateurish but hopefully there will some improvement if I practice!!! Special thanks to David Sowers for recording these. He is the son of long time friends, Donald and Janice Sowers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exC7fQRleNg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnG_8__NzAY

Sunrise at Table Rock

2009-12-06T03:37:00.000-08:00

I heard You speak to me
in the golden moments
When You painted with a broad brush
the pink and blue shades of a new day.

I heard You speak to me
through the quiet majesty
Of the mountains rising in the distance
catching the first delightful kiss of the sun.

Your care, Your love, Your strength,
have been my constant source
Even though the scenes of life
have changed for me since I last met You here.

You've brought me through some bitter miles
when all seemed lost and hope was dim.
At times You felt so far away
but now my faith is bright again.

I was certain I'd find You here--
and when I heard You tapping on the glass
I knew You wanted me to come and see
the sunrise--painted just for me.

by Dorothy Klass

Rick Warren Interviewed

2009-12-06T03:35:00.000-08:00

This interview with Rick Warren is well worth listening to.
davidgregory: If you are interested, here is my intvu with Rick Warren http://bit.ly/4AgiLI
by:David Gregory

Today's FAVORITE MOMENTS

2009-09-19T11:47:00.000-07:00

It started this morning with a casual walk to the barn. My little niece had informed me that there were some new baby goats and wanted me to see them. There is nothing more wonderful than babies of any kind and these were no exception. They were SIMPLY adorable and when I picked up a tiny one in my arms, he laid his little head against me and made THAT a FAVORITE MOMENT!

A short time later as I walked to the garden, I observed that the rising sun had covered everything in beauty beads. It was a BEAUTIFUL MORNING!! Dean was cutting some okra for me and suddenly I noticed the row of dried cornstalks behind him. The entire row from end to end was covered with Morning Glories in full bloom. Hundreds and hundreds of blooms various shades of pink, purple and blue literally blanketed the garden. It was spectacular, breathtakingly lovely and another FAVORITE MOMENT!

I left Dean's and drove to a neighbors who had muscadines that needed picking. What a sweet, delightful treat to see the vines hanging with the delicious grapes. I enjoyed filling my gallon bucket, tasting as I went. That was a FAVORITE MOMENT!

After coming home (I had stayed with Mom last night) I felt tired and a little sad so I snuggled with Mark in his big recliner. Mark is the MOST snuggable person in the entire world and the peaceful, happy feeling that snuggling with a loved person brings made THAT a FAVORITE MOMENT!

In a few minutes Mark left to take some things to his parents so I went out to play with the neighbor's dog. The poor animal lives in a sea of mud and doggie doo doo and always seems hungry for food and friendship. I took one of my worn out socks, tied a knot in it, and we played tug-a-war for quite awhile. He enjoyed a doggie treat and his "smile" made it a FAVORITE MOMENT!

God, thank you for all the simple yet wonderful moments in my life. The day is only half over and You've given me SO MUCH!!

Where's the GROOM?

2009-09-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

The past summer months I have seen many wedding albums posted on face book as friends and children of friends "tie the knot". It is always fun to see friends and acquaintances getting married and I LOVE looking at the pictures to see who I know and observe the beauty of the bride!!

One observation I have made is the fact that there are MANY more photos taken of the bride than there are of the groom!

Every aspect of the day from preparation through the ceremony and on to the reception there is usually photo after photo of the bride. There MIGHT be a shot or two of the groom, although there was, in fact, one set of photos posted which I perused several times and NEVER DID see a photo of the GROOM!!!!

No, the wedding day seems to be made especially for the bride and SHE is in the spotlight!!!!

Thinking along this line brought me to consider another wedding where I am quite sure the GROOM will be the One in the spotlight and that is the marriage of Christ and The Church. To look into the eyes of the One Who has loved us all along, through our bumbling and mistakes, and has seen in us something He desired so much that He suffered terribly and died. To imagine gazing on the face of such a beloved friend and Redeemer, especially in the context of a marriage......I cannot even REMOTELY comprehend such a moment!!

I know the bride will be pure, spotless and without a blemish, but I believe all focus and attention will be on the GROOM!

What a day that will be!!! It will be worth any perceived hardship, battle, or struggle HERE to experience His nearness and loving presence THERE.

Truly Jesus will be what makes it HEAVEN for me.

Take THE NAME

2009-09-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

In preparation for leading our district women in worship, I began meditating on the names of God. As I did a little research, I found many more names for God than I ever knew existed! And I found out what I already knew - my God is EVERYTHING I need.

Is my mind embattled with rushing unwanted thoughts over a particular situation or circumstance that I have NO power to change? my God is JEHOVAH SHALOM: the Lord my peace.

Do I need finances to pay this week's bills? my God is JEHOVAH JIRAH: the Lord who provides.

Does my spirit cry out for nourishment and intimacy? my God is EL HANNE'EMAN: the faithful God (to support and nourish) and EL SHADDAI (the all sufficient God). Aletha Hinthorn points out in her article "Hallowed Be Thy Name" and I quote, "The word SHADDAI is derived from the word invariably used in scripture for a woman's breast. As the mother is the all sufficient one to her baby, God is the satisfier of His people. SHADDAI suggests perfect supply and perfect comfort. It suggests exuberance, sufficiency, bountifulness, and perfect satisfaction all combined with irresistible power!!!"

Do I need wisdom to live life today? my God is EL DE'OT: the God of perfect knowledge.

There is nothing I need - physically, mentally, emotionally, financially or spiritually that He cannot supply!!! What a God!!! I challenge you to find any other god capable of meeting your personal needs with such overpowering abundance.

As I was pondering all this, I turned the radio on just in time to hear a hymn from yesteryear. The words seemed especially alive with meaning, "Take the name of Jesus with you, child of sorrow and of woe, It will joy and comfort give you, take it then where'er you go. Precious name, O how sweet, Hope of earth and Joy of Heaven." Jesus- One with and equal to God.

Later that day, as if Someone wanted to be sure I got the message, I heard SAME song AGAIN, "Take the Name of Jesus WITH YOU......". The words were so powerful, "Take the Name....TAKE THE NAME......WITH YOU."

My attitude and outlook are forever changed when I TAKE THE NAME!!!!

P.S. There are just a FEW of the names I discovered........for a faith building study look for yourself!!!

HE Was Here

2009-08-15T03:26:00.000-07:00

It seemed to be an ordinary voice lesson. My student, a lovely 77 year old African American lady, had vocalized and we had worked together on "Because of Thy Great Bounty".

She has a way with words and sometimes at the beginning of the lesson inspires me to greater teaching heights by announcing, "I am NOT going to pay out good money for voice lessons if I don't LEARN something!"

So we worked fervantly on pitch, rhythm, tone, breathing, etc. and were just about to finish the 30 minute lesson (which inevitably stretches into an hour.....I want to make sure she gets her money's worth!!!) when I suggested, "Why don't we finish up the lesson with 'My Tribute'." I knew it was one of her favorites. Her rich contralto voice began,

"How can I say thanks for the things You have done for me,
Things, so undeserved, yet You give to prove Your love for me,
The voices of a million angels could not express my gratitude,
All that I am, or ever hope to be, I owe it all to Thee.
To God be the Glory, to God be the Glory, to God be the Glory,
For the things He has done."

Her voice filled with deep emotion as she continued,
"With His blood He has saved me"

She looked up and raised her hand to heaven
"With His power He has raised me"

I FELT HIS PRESENCE fill the room as she continued.
"To God be the glory for the things He has done."

As she continued, I sensed God spirit settling down on the two of us,
"Lord, let me live my life, let it be pleasing Lord to Thee
And should I gain any praise, let it go to Calvary,
With His blood He has saved me,
With His power He has raised me
To GOD be the glory for the THINGS HE HAS DONE!"

It was one of those holy moments when suddenly the ordinary becomes extraordinary, when the mundane becomes memorable. We both worshipped, praised, and thanked our LIVING GOD for meeting with us in the voice lesson.

As this dear lady was leaving I gave her her weekly grade (she HAS to have a grade each week to show her family how she's doing!!). At the top of the page I wrote the following: A+ "HE was here".

The Book

2009-05-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

I wrote this piece awhile back and wanted to post it today as a Mother's Day tribute to my wonderful 81 year old mom, Dorothy Espey Bowen.

Cora Mae....my fingers trace the mysterious flaking letters that many years ago were embossed in bright, yellow gold on the small, worn Bible.

Cora Mae....my mother's birth name! The name represents a part of Mother's past that seems locked away forever. Little is known of her beginnings. There are few photos of the tiny, black-haired girl, her face reflecting a lost loneliness that brings pain to my heart.

Eventually adopted by an older couple so she could "take care of them", her life was filled with drudgery...scrubbing floors on her hands and knees, carrying heavy buckets of coal for the furnace, wall papering rooms with high ceilings, caring for her invalid "step-grandmother", sleeping alone in a cold, dirty, attic.

Cora Mae...I wonder how many times her hands held this Bible as silent tears fell on it's pages.

And now I proudly hold the same Book, wrapped in a beautiful white ribbon and bow, on my wedding day. Mother is beside me for just a few moments before the organ begins the Bridal March, and her eyes are filled with love, the love I have seen all the years of my life.

Love for me, the oldest of her seven children, love for her husband, my father, the minister she stood beside so faithfully for many years, and love for God, the One she came to know through the Book I now hold in my hands.

Mother will forever be my inspiration, and my role model. Possessing little, she has given much. Having few educational opportunities, she has shared her wisdom with many. Lacking eloquence, she speaks the language of kindness and empathy.

Cora Mae...I will treasure the Book and the love of the one who gave it - always.

2009-05-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

I slowly got out of my car and began walking toward the front entrance of Thomasville Middle School. It was about 7:30 a.m. and I felt sleepy AND a little grumpy about substitute teaching that day.

I noticed a teacher greeting the students at the front entrance as they were dropped off for school. I didn't know the teacher's name, had never met him but.....Wow! He was REALLY dressed up....a black suit, white shirt, and red tie. The thought passed through my mind that there MUST be a special assembly; I had NEVER seen a teacher at school dressed in a suit.

As I got closer I called out, "Is there something special going on? You look awfully nice in your suit." He responded with a loud, hardy, "WELL, PRAISE GOD!" I was really taken aback and I suppose looked a bit surprised. As I walked toward him, he shouted again, "WELL, PRAISE GOD!" I gave a rather weak "Amen" as he explained. "I have grumbled and complained so much that I just decided that I need to STOP complaining and START praising......so I'm PRAISING GOD today!"

As I walked in the front door my spirits were raised considerably! But I also felt a twinge of guilt.
I reflected on the fact that I, too, have grumbled, complained, worried, and murmured about anything and everything. I began to wonder what my attitude says about my faith and trust in God when I constantly question what He's doing. It surely must make His heart sad when I'm unappreciative and proud, taking for granted His blessings, complaining over every delay, hardship, or trial that come along.

So, I've decided to PRAISE GOD! When things go right or wrong to MY way of thinking I remember that He DOES have a plan, I don't KNOW the plan so I just need to TRUST and PRAISE GOD!!!! You know what? I think God REALLY likes it!!!!!

There is Still PRAYER in PUBLIC SCHOOL!

2009-04-25T03:47:00.000-07:00

As a substitute teacher, I walked into the classroom yesterday morning with the familiar sense of trepidation and anticipation. One always HOPES for a good day but middle school students can be a handful....especially on a FRIDAY!!! However, I felt positive and was praising God for the opportunity to interact with 8th graders and earn a living!!

As first block students came in I greeted them with a smile, introduced myself and gave the assignment the teacher had left on the desk. Most students began doing the work quietly. But there were five boys at one table who seemed oblivious to the fact that there was a teacher in the classroom and I quickly lost control as they became disruptive. They talked loudly, began walking about the room, and throwing paper wads.

One boy was extremely rude and argumentative. He went from one table to the next doing NO WORK at all. After about thirty minutes he suddenly became studious and asked me to help him with the pronunciation of words. When he brought his book to me I saw that he was on the WRONG chapter (purposefully) and only wanted me to pronounce the words because they were about body parts that were a little embarrassing to say out loud. I asked him to sit down. He refused and continued to whine, "But I can't read these words. How do you say THIS? How do you pronounce THIS? Ms. Klass, you won't even help me." He kept this up for three or four minutes really trying my patience. He was a problem the entire time.

Another little boy was so defiant that I wrote him up and sent him to the office. A girl offered to escort him but I heard one of the kids whisper to her, "When you get in the hall, tear up the discipline form." So I called the office and told them he was coming alone.

A couple girls came to the desk at least four times and stuck their paper right under my nose in a demanding way saying, "I can't get this question." I think they had sprayed something on the paper because they would rudely push it in right into my face!

When the buzzer rang for dismissal I couldn't believe what happened. As the children RACED out the door I was hit with a barrage of paper wads and balled up paper!!! They had to have planned this final insult!!! I felt like bursting into tears and going home. (Later, when I thought about it, it seemed rather funny but at the time I was devastated.)

Fortunately second block was a planning block so I collected myself and decided I wouldn't let the situation get the best of me. (Actually, I HAVE been in MUCH worse!!!) I called my husband and mom and asked them to pray for me. I had brought some scripture verses in my bag to try to memorize so I got them out and read the following:

"....and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: and hath PUT ALL THINGS UNDER HIS FEET......" (Eph. 1:19-22a)

God prompted me with the thought, "Put the verse into practice!!!" I felt impressed to begin a "prayer walk" around the classroom!!! I walked to each table praying over EVERY CHAIR asking God to give the students a desire to learn. I prayed for a quiet, peaceful, classroom where the students would be respectful and do their work. I quoted the scripture in Ephesians several times as I prayed. God's spirit seemed very close.

When the third block students came I sensed an immediate difference in the atmosphere. They sat quietly, did their work and were respectful. There was minimal talking and even when we went to lunch and recreation time outside, they stayed together and I had NO PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER with this class and it was STILL the 8th grade and a LARGER class than first block.

The fourth block was about the same.
So, yes, there IS STILL prayer in PUBLIC SCHOOL!!!! He will answer our cry WHEREVER we are!!!

The Problem of the Day

2009-04-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting in a Special Ed class. All the children have learning disabilities of one sort or another. An eighth grader brings me a "Curious George" book and I listen as he stumbles through a couple of pages. A Downs Syndrome child smiles, shyly inviting me to help him with a learning puzzle.

The PROBLEM OF THE DAY is on the board. It simply says, "SOLVE. WHAT IS 25% of 448?" The students now pore over their calculators thinking hard. "What is 25% of......????" They hopefully lean over their notebooks writing their answers. To them THIS IS SO DIFFICULT.

If only THIS problem of the day was MY problem of the day because I know the answer to THIS one. I smile because it is SO easy. Without a calculator or pencil and paper I can tell you the answer.

The lead teacher makes an announcement. "I'm going to get a drink. WHEN I COME BACK, THE PROBLEM OF THE DAY IS OVER." She quickly leaves the room.

I think about MY problem of the day. I don't know the answer. To me it is very difficult. I imagine God smiling because to Him it is SO easy. He already knows the answer. Then I remember that He said He's coming back. And when He gets back MY PROBLEM OF THE DAY IS OVER!!

An Evening in Spring

2009-03-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

The beauty of Your world cries out to me....
the soft, bare, lacy branches of a tree against a great, white moon,
fragrant crab apple blossoms, lilacs, blooming into the night,
tiny lavender and cream violets almost crushed into the grass,
narcissus' standing tall in their delicately fringed Spring gowns,
newly planted marigolds, staunchly braving the chill evening air,
rows and rows of tulips, spilling color everywhere.

My heart cannot hold it---the beauty of Your world.
Your creativity which brings it into being
Causes praise to rise in me.
Praise that comes from knowing
If You clothe Your world with such amazing care
Your watchful eye, Your constant love, are with me always, everywhere!!
-DBK

Ms. Carmel Is Waiting for Us

2009-02-27T11:02:00.000-08:00

Ms. Carmel Gore passed away Friday, February 27, 2009. She was 95 years old and a dear friend of mine. Ms. Carmel was clear minded and lucid up to her last moments. When the ambulance came to her home to take her to the hospital she told Pastor Billy Roy, "I don't know if I'll be coming back here." (to her house) When he asked her if she was ready for heaven, she said, "I'm ready for Him if He's ready for me!!" What a great testimony and so typical of Ms. Carmel's succinct way of putting things!!! She clearly knew her surroundings and was aware of what was going on.

I want to relate an experience Ms. Carmel had just before she died because it speaks to me of the closeness of heaven and those who have gone before us. Let me first explain that Ann was Ms. Carmel's older sister and Ms. Carmel was very close to her. Ann passed away five years ago. Doris Ann Wilder, Ms. Carmel's daughter, related that the last time she took Ms. Carmel to visit Ann, Ann said to Ms. Carmel as they were leaving, "I'm going to be waiting for you at the Pearly Gates and I'll hold your hand!"

Now, five years later, Ms. Carmel, lying in the hospital bed, has not said anything for some time when she tries to speak. Her daughter, Doris Ann, is with her when she finally gets the words out. With a clear tone Ms. Carmel says, "I'm in Gloryland! And Ann is holding my hand! She said she would!"

Doris Ann says, "Mom, do you see your mom and dad?" Ms. Carmel says, "I do!" There is a pause and then Ms. Carmel says, "Tell all my family that I'm going to see them in Gloryland and tell everybody else that I want to see them in Gloryland!!!"

This took place Wednesday morning and those were the last words Ms. Carmel spoke. Friday around 2 a.m. Ms. Carmel was restless and seemed to be struggling for breath. Doris Ann put her arm around her and spoke into her ear, "Mom, you know I love you and my family loves you, but if you want to go on to Gloryland, you go ahead!" In three minutes Ms. Carmel was gone!!!! But we know where she is!! Heaven is much closer than we think!!!

The Traveller

2009-02-25T08:15:00.000-08:00

I just rediscovered this poem by Amy Carmichael. Years ago, while going through a terribly difficult time, I came across it. As I read the words for the first time, tears came to my eyes and I felt that Jesus had entered the room. His comforting presence brought healing to my spirit.

The Traveller
Love, travelling in the greatness of His strength,
Found me alone,
Footsore and tired by the journey's length,
Though I had known,
All the long way, many a kindly air,
And flowers had blossomed for me everywhere.

And yet Love found me needing Him. He stayed;
Love stayed by me.
"Let not thy heart be troubled or dismayed,
My child," said He.
Slipped from me then all troubles, all alarms;
For Love had gathered me into His arms.

Come to God then....

2009-02-15T14:27:00.001-08:00

I love this selection from George MacDonald's book,
Discovering the Character of God:

"Come to God, then, my brother, my sister, with all your desires and instincts,
all your lofty ideals,
all your longing for purity and unselfishness,
all your yearning to love and be true,
all your aspirations after self-forgetfulness and child-life in the breath of the Father.
Come to Him with all your weaknesses,
all your shames,
all your futilities;
with all your helplessness over your own thoughts;
with all your failures, yes,
the sick sense of having missed the tide of true affairs.
Come to Him with all your doubts, fears,
dishonesties, meanness,
paltriness, misjudgments,
weariness, disappointments, and staleness.
Be sure He will take you with all your miserable brood into the care of His limitless heart!
For He is light, and in Him is no darkness at all."

ONE STEP AWAY!!!

2008-12-26T05:39:00.001-08:00

A chill-to-the-bone wind was blowing and we were late. The invite simply said to be there at 4:00 p.m. for rehearsal, so I figured five or ten minutes wouldn't matter. "Everyone will probably be running a few minutes behind and we'll blend in with the crowd," I thought. We had only been to the church ONE time, YEARS ago.....it's the most prestigious, wealthy congregation in our small town. (i.e. They ONLY paid $10,000 for an orchestra to play along with this year's Christmas Cantata.) We didn't know ANYONE who attended this church, we just wanted to enjoy the opportunity to be part of a community choir and sing Christmas music .

When we pulled up to the parking lot it was FULL but there was NO ONE in sight. We were cold. We were irritated with each other for being late. And we felt a great sense of insecurity about the whole situation.

We found an open door leading into a hallway which we assumed led to the sanctuary. We saw NO ONE as we walked through the unfamiliar halls hoping for some direction. Going up a little flight of stairs we opened a door at the top and were immediately ushered into the most amazing scene.

The huge cathedral type sanctuary had spectacular stained glass windows which, just at that moment, were absolutely FLOODED with light from the setting sun. The orchestra (40 talented musicians) filled the front and the choir were all in their places on the platform. Every eye seemed to look our way as we stumbled from the dim, narrow, hallway into the warmth and joy of that moment. We were greeted with smiles, kind words, and handed a book of music.

As the orchestra began to play I felt as though I had been ushered into heaven!!! The sound was breathtakingly beautiful as voices and instruments blended in perfect harmony. It seemed surreal, the contrast was so great from the shivering cold, ill-feelings, and insecurity, to the warmth, beauty, and acceptance suddenly thrust upon us.

It was a MAGNIFICENT MOMENT bringing to mind the reality of the fact that I am ONE STEP AWAY from another MAGNIFICENT MOMENT!!! Some day I will step from the momentary, mortal ills of this life, to a scene of glory and radiance FAR beyond anything I can now comprehend!!

"...when what is decaying is clothed with what cannot decay, and what is dying is clothed with what cannot die, then the written word will be fulfilled: "Death has been swallowed up by victory!"

What a magnificent moment THAT will be!!!

The Lord Will PROVIDE

2008-12-15T04:24:00.001-08:00

Many years ago, sitting in the congregation of an outdoor camp meeting in Pennsylvania, I had the opportunity to experience something that has impacted my life in a remarkable and unforgettable way. The preacher was Evangelist McDonald, (I have never seen or heard of him since) a very tall, thin, raw-boned man with brown hair and fair skin. He wore a white dress shirt buttoned to the top without a tie or suit jacket and had, as I remember, a cheerful, rosy cheeked, countenance. His voice seemed to boom into the summer air as we sat on the hard wooden benches enduring the heat.

A delegation of ladies from the Caribbean were sitting near the front punctuating the thick air with an occasional, heartfelt "Amen". They were delightful ladies, their faces shiny and glowing with the love of God.

I cannot remember anything about this particular sermon on this particular afternoon EXCEPT the following: Suddenly, in the middle of his sermon, Evangelist McDonald began to sing. His voice was untrained but strong and he carried the tune well. With confidence he began to sing from memory these words:

Though troubles assail, And dangers affright;
Though friends should all fail, And foes all unite,
Yet one thing secures us, Whatever betide:
The Scripture assures us,"The Lord will provide,
The Lord will provide!"

His voice grew stronger and his face was radiant as he continued:

The birds, without barn Or storehouse, are fed;
From them let us learn To trust for our bread;
His saints what is fitting Shall ne'er be denied,
So long as 'tis written,"The Lord will provide,
The Lord will provide!"

The little Caribbean ladies were amening and lifting their hands as he launched into the third verse:

When Satan appears To stop up our path,
And fills us with fears, We triumph by faith;
He cannot take from us, Though oft he has tried,
The heart-cheering promise,"The Lord will provide,
The Lord will provide!"

As he began verse four something unusual started happening.

He tells us we're weak, Our hope is in vain;
The good that we seek We ne'er shall obtain;
But when such suggestions Our faith oft has tried,
This answers all questions,"The Lord will provide,
The Lord will provide!"

Suddenly Evangelist McDonald, was walking down off the platform still singing, his voice growing louder and triumphant:

No strength of our own, Nor goodness we claim;
Our trust is all thrown On Jesus' dear name.
In this our strong tower For safety we hide;
The Lord is our power,"The Lord will provide,
The Lord will provide!"

The little Caribbean ladies were now in the aisle dancing, hugging one another and praising God. The Evangelist took one lady by her hands and seemed to twirl her around and around as his voice reached a crescendo:

When life sinks apace, And death is in view,
The word of His grace Shall comfort us through;
Not fearing or doubting, With Christ on our side,
We hope to die shouting,"The Lord will provide,
The Lord will provide!"

As the song reached the high notes, it seemed God's Spirit rested on us in an unusual and supernatural way. We seemed to be closed in, away from the world, close to God's heart. It was a scene of rejoicing I will never forget. The truth of the song, the manner in which it was sung, and the consequent breakout of the PRESENCE OF GOD made an indelible impression on me that has brought me through many lean times. Indeed, THE LORD WILL PROVIDE!!!!!

The Best Problem

2008-12-08T00:52:00.000-08:00

Everyone has some sort of problem......well, everyone except my mom. She's always happy, she's always "FINE", and she always has a good day. But I feel quite sure that she is the exception. Most everyone else I know is NOT always happy, is NOT always fine, and is NOT always having a good day!

Most likely we should not compare problems but when I am engulfed by something difficult for me I try to get a new perspective to help me through it. Mother has a saying that may have led to these mental gymnastics. The saying, no matter what has or is happening to us....."It could be worse."

(For example, the other day while eating dinner together I made the comment, "This meat sure is tough." Mom's response? "It'd be tougher if you didn't have any!")

Since Mark and I have been somewhat short of funds lately, I decided to consider the problems others are presently dealing with and this is my discovery. I HAVE THE BEST PROBLEM!!!!!

Many who have "money to save, money to spend, money to lend a friend", have far, far worse senarios: failing health, the loss of a loved one, the heartbreak of a "prodigal" child, an unhappy marriage, a ghastly disease, or in my opinion the absolutely, most dreadful.......a lack of faith and consequently NO RELATIONSHIP with God!!! This one truly frightens me beyond words. I would be terrified to lose my faith or my walk with the Lord.

THE BEST PROBLEM IS.........financial shortfall. We are relatively healthy, have our family close, enjoy a happy marriage, and best of all are getting to know the truth of His word which cannot fail. He HAS, IS, and WILL supply our needs, and NOTHING can separate us from HIS LOVE!!!! (A "shouting" point indeed!)

This perspective is giving me quite a lot of comfort at the moment. I praise HIM that He is able to do superabundantly, far over and above all that I dare ask or think--infinitely beyond my highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams!! (Eph. 3:20)

God, THANK YOU for giving me the BEST PROBLEM.....well, it doesn't even seem like a problem now. Actually, the possibility presenting itself to me at the moment is the fact that I HAVE NO PROBLEMS AT ALL!!!!!

From Panic to Praise

2008-11-24T18:24:00.000-08:00

C. S. Lewis once said, "I'm a panic-y person about money myself (which is a most shameful confession and a thing dead against Our Lord's words) and poverty frightens me more than anything else except large spiders and the tops of cliffs..." It seems a bit odd that we are so prone to discuss many personal problems such as illness, relationships, etc. but seldom, if ever, bring up the subject of finances but I must admit I have been extremely "panic-y" lately and especially TODAY.

This morning I knew we did not have enough money to pay the bills that needed sent out. I was sitting at the computer pondering the situation when I noticed the room getting brighter and brighter. The sun was coming out from behind a cloud. It seemed God spoke to me in my spirit and said loudly, "I'M HERE". I knew He wanted me to TRUST Him and NOT worry.

Mark and I had our devotional time together asking God to supply our needs. We were about $180.00 short. Around 4 p.m. the mail lady came AND YES there was a check in the mail which was about twice the amount we needed!!!!

I was reminded of the disciples when they were in the storm......afraid even though Jesus was WITH THEM. I had been afraid even though I knew God was with me.

This poem came to mind that sums up my point: DON'T PANIC.....GOD IS IN THE BOAT.

The Age-Long Minute
Thou art the Lord who slept upon the pillow,
Thou art the Lord who soothed the furious sea,
What matter beating wind and tossing billow
If only we are in the boat with Thee?

Hold us in quiet through the age-long minute
While Thou art silent, and the wind is shrill:
Can the boat sink while Thou, dear Lord, art in it?
Can the heart faint that waiteth on Thy will?
-Amy Carmichael

Our Devotions on Election Day

2008-11-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

If we can manage it, Mark and I enjoy having devotions together in the morning. Our favorite Daily Bible Reading Plan is one we have used for several years now put together by Robert Murray McCheyne. (You can download it here - http://www.pesdirect.com/calendar.pdf ) Each day there are four portions of scripture listed. Two are entitled "family" and two are entitled "secret". (Lately we have been reading all four aloud.) It is wonderful to see how the passages fit together.

These are the scriptures given for Nov. 4 and we read them early that day. II Kings 17, Titus 3, Hosea 10, and Psalms 129, 130, 131. When I began reading II Kings 17 I felt that the words were amazingly relevant to what was weighing on our minds and hearts. OUR NATION.

Take the time to read these scriptures and tell me what you think.

The Greatest Mystery

2008-11-03T17:10:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday around noon, Mark and I make a spur-of-the moment decision to drive up to the Blue Ridge Parkway. We thought we'd stop at some roadside farmer's markets and maybe drive up Pilot Mountain. There were still some beautiful leaves and the day was perfectly lovely.

This is a view of Pilot Mountain from the Parkway.

We had driven the parkway, had a bite to eat in Mt. Airy, and were heading back home about 6 p.m. when we decided to drive to the top of Pilot Mountain. The park closed at 6 but we asked a park ranger if we had time to go to the top and he said, "Sure, go ahead." This is a view from the top.

The sun was setting and the scene was one of breathtaking beauty. To our surprise we were not alone on top of the mountain. There were probably thirty people, kids, and dogs in tow. We noticed one whole section of the parking lot was blocked off and people were setting up huge telescopes. To our amazement, the Forsyth County Astronomy Club was having a gathering!!!!

I wish I could express the beauty of the sky as day faded into dusk and dusk faded into darkness. The moon, Jupiter, and Venus were shining brightly and one star after another began popping out until the sky was full. This picture doesn't get it but gives you a faint idea of how magical it seemed. People walked from telescope to telescope looking at various planets and stars. When I looked through the telescope at the moon it looked like a huge dinner plate. I could see the lighted part, the craters, and even the shadow the sun made on the craters. I could see the four moons of Jupiter. It was awesome!!!!!!

Above us the milky way spilled out and there seemed to be an endless sky far from the city lights. The scripture came to my mind, "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?"

We know the answer, it's just mind boggling to really believe it. How and why would He care for me so intimately? He MADE all this with a spoken word and He LOVES ME?? Wow!!! What an unforgettable experience.

God, help me never to doubt Your amazing power to take care of me in my little world.

A Prayer

2008-10-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

I like this little prayer from Elizabeth Elliott's website.

I know when the stress has grown too strong,
Thou wilt be there.
Thou hearest prayer.
I know that in the crash of falling worlds, Thou holdest me.
I know that life and death and all are Thine eternally.
-Janet Erskine Stuart

My Walking Partner

2008-10-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

Ever since we moved I have tried to find someone to walk with me. I've driven my husband to distraction (who is NOT a morning person and does NOT like to walk) by begging, cajoling, and pleading, asked friends, hinted to neighbors, but no takers. Walking in the morning sets my mood for the day and I felt I was spiraling into depression and the things that go with it for me: namely overeating, laziness, and self-pity.

Yesterday, as I pondered over my plight for the umpteenth time, I heard Someone say, "I'll be your walking partner." I knew my Friend, He had walked with me many times. I had forgotten that He is ALL I need.

SO.....THIS MORNING we went walking. My very favorite thing to do while walking is meditate and memorize THE WORD. The following is a feeble attempt at describing our walk.

"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord..."

WOW!! The PRISONER of the LORD????? Paul didn't say, "Pray that God gets me out of this stinkin' jail. I am so sick and tired of the attitude of the jailers, and the guys in here with me.....You should hear their language!! The food is awful, the stench is terrific and I just gotta get outa here. Satan has put me in here and we need to agree together that God will DO SOMETHING." Paul looked at his situation, the place he was in at the moment as from the Lord. That seems incredibly amazing to me.

What about the place I am in right now? Do I see my situation as from the Lord and allowed and permitted by God? Hummmmmmmmm, serious food for thought.

"beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called"

Paul is BEGGING me to walk worthy. Have I been walking worthy when I entertain doubts, depression, and discouragement? Have I been walking worthy when I overeat at meals and eat snacks all day? Have I been walking worthy when I neglect my secret place with the Lord? I DON'T THINK SO!!

And then the realization that I have been called, by God, to a vocation, to a job. I may have others ways to earn money to pay my bills....that is NOT my purpose in life. My focus has got to be the purpose for which I am in this world.....to be like Jesus.

"with all lowliness and meekness"

I needed that. I'm embarrassed to say it, but pride is a pitfall I am constantly skirting.

"with long suffering, forbearing one another in love"

Ah, yes.......I need a truckload of long suffering again TODAY.

By that time I had my walk in, felt better emotionally and physically, and was focused for the day.

"Thank you, Lord, for walking with me, talking with me, telling me I belong to YOU. The joy we share is like no other."

Roosters, Cats, God Uses Everything

2008-10-09T05:22:00.000-07:00

I think of how God used a rooster to get Peter's attention and bring him to repentance; it was a lesson only a rooster could teach. Well, recently God used a cat to teach me a lesson.

Squeeky, (my highly esteemed feline), has NEVER been a lap cat. If I tried to hold him on my lap he would jump down in three seconds. UNTIL..........

He got in his first CAT FIGHT. He came in, left eye half shut, bleeding from his nose and mouth....a very unhappy animal. Squeeky has never had a high tolerance for pain and he seemed devastated by the fight.

He stayed in the garage for two days and wouldn't eat or drink.....just seemed dazed by his injuries, and the recent discovery that he was not the boss of the block.

Well....to make a long story short.....

He has now turned into a LAP cat. He follows me everywhere. Even when I'm going in circles -- he goes in circles too!! As soon as I sit down he is in my lap purring. He curls up and goes to sleep if I sit there long enough.

The lesson God taught me from this is that when I am hurt by life, when I'm bruised and bleeding emotionally, when my enemy has given me a fight and I feel beat up.....

I need to gaze on Him, follow Him more closely, get up in His lap, find my contentment and peace in Him. May every hurt in life draw me to HIM.

My Mum, An Inspiration for Life

2008-09-21T03:16:00.000-07:00

Several years ago this piece won a contest in the Thomasville Times. Mum recently had a few bad days in the hospital and as she is approaching her 81st birthday I thought this would be a good time to share (for some who haven't heard) what she means to me.

My Mother had a bad start in life. Born to an unwed teen, there was no well-furnished nursery, no loving parents, no doting grandparents to welcome the tiny waif.

Even though she remembers little of those early years, Mother knows from the account of others that she was badly abused until at age two, an older couple became foster parents and eventually adopted her. Even then she didn't have a fun-filled childhood. Mostly she had a great deal of hard work--scrubbing, wallpapering, and carrying coal.

Maybe that's why she is such a super special Mom. She wanted her seven children to have the things she always dreamed of. She lavished on us the love she had been deprived of and taught us the lessons she had learned.

The first lesson was in kindness. "Be ye kind one to another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God, for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32. How often we heard those words. She would say the verse over and over until each of us could quote it by heart as soon as we could talk.

The second lesson was in priorities. If one of us children accidentally spilled or broke something she always said, "Don't worry about that. Just so YOU'RE all right!" Things have never been important to Mother; people always are.

And because people are so important to her, she consistently demonstrates generosity. Her motto has always been, "Give away as much as you can!" She has an inexhaustible supply of love which prompts her to do whatever she can to alleviate another's burden. She gives whatever she has--home baked goodies, money, things she buys and keeps in a "give-away" drawer, or time to listen. I have never known another living soul more generous.

My mother is the best mother in the world for me. If she had had the opportunity for formal education, I might never have learned true wisdom. If she had been a wealthy woman, I might never have learned happiness and contentment. If she had been an eloquent, sought after speaker, I might never have learned how to talk to God.

Even though Mother didn't have the most auspicious beginning, her life has certainly had a great impact on all who meet her. I am always proud to introduce this wonderful woman as "My Mother."

P.S. Mum has a great sense of humor as well. Sometime I'll have to share some of our funny experiences!!!!!

Praise Report

2008-09-15T03:31:00.000-07:00

We are so thankful that God has provided a house for Charley and Darlene to move into!!! We've been praying for about four months and it is working out!! Maybe Dar will tell us all about it soon because I know it is a wonderful tribute to God's loving care.

A Church Plant that Should Have Failed

2008-09-07T05:12:00.000-07:00

My father, Rev. George Bowen, was an amazing man. His mind was constantly meditating on scriptures as is evidenced by the hundreds of sermon outlines I found everywhere after he passed away. Little slips of paper tucked in his pocket would have nuggets of truth carefully printed in tiny writing starting at the very top of the page. (He didn't believe in wasting anything!!)

He had an interesting twist on the birth of the church. Here it is just as he wrote it:

A Church Plant that Should Have Failed
by Rev. George E. Bowen

Several hundred years ago a church was planted in a large city. By today's standards, there are several reasons why this church should not have survived.

The poverty of the founder: The man who started the church was single, had no wife or children, and was extremely poor; so poor, in fact, that he was homeless. He had no "money people" to back him. He had no building in which to have services, most meetings were held out doors.

Uneducated congregation: The leader gathered only a few people about him to mentor and they were also poor and uneducated. They had no formal education and were a rough class of people. They could not afford to support a pastor.

Suicide of charter member: This person had been with the church plant from the beginning. He was the treasurer and had possibly misspent some of the meager funds they had. After turning on the leader he killed himself. This was no doubt a serious blow to the little group.

Poor attendance at initial gathering: Of the thousands who lived in the city and had heard the leader speak, only 120 people came to the first organized meeting in a borrowed room. As far as numbers went, the meeting was unsuccessful.

Past performance of keynote speaker: The key note speaker had been a personal friend of the leader. At one time he was known to have used bad language and even told others that he wanted no part of the church.

You realize, of course, that this is about the first church, the church Christ "planted" in Jerusalem. Jesus, the lowly Galilean, was the founder and his disciples had not been to any theological seminary or university. Although Jesus had fed the crowds by the thousands, had healed the sick, given sight to the blind, and raised the dead to life, only a small group gathered in the Upper Room. Of the twelve disciples, Judas had killed himself, and Peter had denied knowing Christ.

This church, that by today's standards should not have survived, DID survive and is still a functioning body today with millions of members. Why? What caused the church to survive in spite of the overwhelming odds? There is only one answer. The Holy Spirit.

Before the Spirit came, the church could be likened to the creation of Adam before life was breather into him. He had eyes but could not see, ears, but could not hear, mouth but could not speak. He was an empty shell without feeling, without warmth. If the breath of life had not been breathed into Adam, he would have deteriorated and gone back to dust.

If the Holy Spirit had not come on the day of Pentecost the church would never have come to life. But the Spirit came!! The Spirit gave life!! The Spirit made the difference!@!

Even as He was needed then to bring life, He is needed today to bring a fresh wind to our tired, worn out programs. Are we inviting Him to breathe on us, to teach us, to show us the individualized blueprint He has for each congregation? He has not changed and will cause our churches to grow and flourish if we will let Him.

Come, Holy Spirit, I need Thee. Come, sweet Spirit, I pray.
Come in Thy strength and Thy power. Come in Thine own gentle way.

A Visit to a Hindu Temple

2008-09-01T03:13:00.000-07:00

For many years I had no personal understanding of worship. As a preacher's kid I was in church all my growing up years. As a traveling musician and then a peacher's wife I was in church any time the doors were open!!!

But when it came to worship, I was a spectator. As still as a statue, I did only what I was told to do. I was timid and shy always wondering what people thought of me. I was very uncomfortable lifting one hand, let alone both, to praise God and never showed any emotion.

All of that changed the day Mark and I visited a Hindu Temple with some Indian friends of ours. They are dear friends and we had gone to an Indian restaurant and then they asked if we would like to visit their temple.

As we entered the temple we passed through a small room where we saw a large pile of shoes. We were asked to leave our shoes there before entering the next room where the gods were. We did so, and then walked into a larger room which had thirteen plastic gods in a semi circle. I really don't remember much about the gods. What I DO remember and what changed my concept of worship forever, was the fervancy I saw as the worshippers BOWED TO THE FLOOR, placed money or flowers in the hands of the gods and prayed with eyes closed and HANDS LIFTED. The devotion and fervor I saw immediately put me to shame.

I thought, "If these people can worship PLASTIC gods, why can't I worship the TRUE and LIVING God with this kind of fervancy and give Him the PRAISE HE DESERVES? What is WRONG WITH ME??????"

What would these worshippers think if they walked into my church and saw me standing, singing the hymn with no expression, no conviction, no real indication that I thought much of MY God at all? How would they ever begin to understand the great awesome power, the perfect wisdom, the unbelievable love of the LIVING GOD if they don't see passionate worship from me?

My worship has changed forever. I close my eyes, focus on God and attempt to give Him the PRAISE HE DESERVES. If a Hindu worshiper can bow to a god who doesn't see, doesn't hear, is nothing more than a piece of plastic, and can give the deepest passionate devotion I have ever seen, SURELY I CAN WORHIP THE TRUE LIVING GOD WITH ALL THAT IS IN ME!!!

AND I WILL DO SO no matter where I am or who is around me. I WILL WORSHIP!!!

Now I LOVE to WORSHIP my GOD!!! Nothing brings me more delight that lifting my hands and praising HIM!!!!!

If you, like me, have always been afraid to worhip, why don't you practice right now. (If you're afraid someone will see you, close the door!!!) Click on the links below, listen to the music, close your eyes, and lift your hands to heaven. PRAISE HIM for WHO HE IS and you will be BLESSED!!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQRIHXtyRzU

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8181685299802812797&hl=en

Feeling Needy

2008-08-25T04:24:00.001-07:00

The last couple weeks have had many interesting and unusual experiences. I'm still reeling from all the changes.....and trying to keep up!!!! God has a way of deepening our faith that is not easy albeit necessary as our faith is undoubtedly the most precious thing we have.
Once again I prayed the prayer that has become my "focus" prayer.

GOD,
I need YOU more than anything in the world.
I need YOU more than family.
I need YOU more than friends.
I need YOU more than finances.
I need YOU more than my health.
I NEED YOU!!!!!

I feel desperate about this.
I have to have YOU in order to function today.
I have to have YOU in order to love people.
I have to have YOU to accept the things I cannot change.
I just have to have YOU.

I crave Your presence. I desire Your nearness.
Thank You for Your promise that You will never leave me or forsake me.
Thank You that I am loved with an everlasting love.
Thank You that You are already inhabiting all my tomorrows.
Thank You that Your promises are mine.....and You long to fulfill them in my life.
You are HERE and I AM YOURS!!!!
(dbk)

Guest Post

2008-08-14T14:00:00.001-07:00

My sister, Darlene, and I are both going through similar circumstances. Charlie and Mark (our husbands) are ministers going into other careers (perhaps temporarily) and both of us were homeless and jobless a month ago. (Since that time Mark and I have found housing but are still looking for work. They are still looking for both.)

The Lord has opened up a place for Darlene and some of the children to stay for a short time, while Charley is ministering at a Campmeeting up north. She wrote me about it in an email this morning and it was so encouraging I thought I would share......

So, from the pen of Darlene.....

Good morning............I've been thinking this morning and wanted to share what I am learning!

"Putting it in God's hands" has always been something I did/said at the end of my struggles. I had prayed as hard and long as I could, I had searched everywhere for answers; and at the end of it all I would say with tears and a feeling of defeat, "Well, I have put it in God's hands."
Well, God is showing me WHOSE hands we are placing our burdens in.

His are the hands of THE VICTOR over sin, hell, and the grave. (THAT is NO SMALL VICTORY!!!)
His are the hands of the One who fed 5,000 with one little boy's lunch.
His are the hands of the One who spoke worlds into existence......WHO spoke something out of nothing! He is Creator God.

So, I am learning to place things in His hands FIRST !!! After they are in His hands, I can listen for His instructions.

Totally new concept for me. I love it!

ALSO this morning He is teaching me about "entering into His rest." We are complete in HIM. (Colossians) We have died, been buried, and resurrected with Him when we enter into His rest in FAITH! Anyway, I have been asking God to show me what that meant.

A month ago we didn't know where we were going to live................ nothing was working out! So, in despair and with lots of tears I put it "in God's hands"! (Aren't you glad He loves us and answers even when we don't understand what we are doing?)

We are now living in a place that a month ago we didn't know existed. When we moved in, the lady over the house said..............use my furniture, my towels, my table ware. Don't worry about bringing your things; use mine. Oh, any food in the house.........just eat it. AND, my office..............you can use the computer and, yes, if you need to print something.......the printer is there.

Oh, yes, there is a big porch. Feel free to enjoy it! AND the utilities are always kept on........so don't worry about anything like that!..........ALL THINGS TO ENJOY !

So, now I know and understand that HE conquered sin and when I enter into HIS victory He gives me ALL THINGS in Christ. I can LIVE in HIS victory! I am learning and I love what He is teaching me!

I love to learn, so share what you are learning!
I love you all..........
Dar

Today's Word

2008-08-07T05:38:00.000-07:00

I have struggled a great deal with all the changes that have come into my life in the past few months. The Lord spoke to me yesterday as Mark and I read the Word together: (This is how it sounded to me.)

This is what the LORD says--

He who made a way through the sea,

a path through the mighty waters,

who drew out the chariots and horses;

the army and reinforcements together,

and they lay there, never to rise again,

extinguished, snuffed out like a wick:

FORGET THE FORMER THINGS;

DO NOT DWELL ON THE PAST.

SEE, I AM DOING A NEW THING!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the desert

and streams in the wasteland."

Isaiah 43:16-19

(NIV)

Tag I'm It!!

2008-08-03T06:51:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been tagged.....about ten days ago. (Plant Lady, I MUST apologize for taking so long to post the response.) I'm supposed to reveal 6 random things about myself! Here are the tag rules:
1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them.
5. Let each person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

Six Random Things About Myself

1. My very favorite thing to do in all the world is to praise God with a huge crowd of Christians who are singing praise songs and worshipping. There is NOTHING like it!!!! HE IS SOOOO WORTHY!!! (When we sang, "In Christ Alone" at a Beth Moore gathering I expected to go through the ceiling any minute!!!!! It was an awesome experience!!!)

2. I enjoy my husband's sense of humor. We have so much fun laughing together.

3. I could happily eat chocolate (Hershey's with almonds candy bars are my fave) for breakfast, dinner, and supper.

4. Nothing is more relaxing than a purring cat on my lap!!!

5. I love ALL flowers, most especially, tho, if they are fragrant. (like lily of the valley, lilacs, plumeria, and gardenia)

6. I DESPISE stinginess and gossipiness (is that a word?) in people.

The six people I am tagging are:

Mark - http://meetmeattheaperture.blogspot.com/

Marlene - http://mar-mars.blogspot.com/

Amy - http://amysgobbledygook.blogspot.com/

Katie - http://kmm93.blogspot.com/

Laurie - http://laurieskitchendelights.blogspot.com/

Jan - http://jan-jansjam.blogspot.com/

Today's Thoughts

2008-07-30T04:59:00.001-07:00

If all that I've been given fades away -

The gifts and graces, some unrecognized,

The friends of yesteryear, now cherished memories

Places I have known and loved, forever gone from view.....

If all that I've been given fades away -

Familiar beauty of the rendezvous we kept

Fragrances adored as seasons came and went

The quiet moments when Our spirits met....

If all that I've been given fades away -

Then what should I do today?

The mundane calls - but help me see beyond

To the eternal fields where I will reap the harvest I have sown.

dbk

(Yes, I'm feeling melancholy today!)

Yesterday's Sunday

2008-07-27T12:01:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I was able to do something I had wanted to do for a long time. I sat down at the church piano early Sunday morning and played hymns as they came to mind.....for a little over an hour. Hymns such as, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness", "All the Way My Saviour Leads Me", and "Sweeter Than All".

Mark recorded the hour of music and entitled the CD "Yesterday's Sunday". These hymns were not "arranged" but are simply played without interruption going from one hymn to the next in an easy listening format.

Some of my friends wanted a copy of "Yesterday's Sunday". If any of you would like a copy, just email me at folwinhim@yahoo.com and I will send it to you. (I am not making a charge for the CD, but if you wish to make a donation it would be greatly appreciated.)

(By the way, does anyone recognize the church in the photo? Looks a bit different now than it did then!)

Great Cup of Tea!

2008-07-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

I have discovered the most delicious tea. It is called "Breathe Easy"...promotes Respiratory Health by Traditional Medicinals. I bought a box at Ingles Grocery because I've been having problems with asthma. The directions said to drink three cups a day.

I thought it might taste like medicine, especially because the directions said to steep the tea 10 - 15 minutes. I gave it 10 minutes and added a few drops of Stevia (a natural sweetener). DELICIOUS!!! And after two days I do believe I'm breathing easier!!!

If you have any breathing problems or if you just want a cup of good tea, I highly recommend it.

Our "famous" friends

2008-07-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

Don Quales and family are now "famous" gospel singers. But years (and years) ago

he was my very first piano student!!!!

Kim and Phil Collingsworth at our house after their inspirational concert. (Their music is simply amazing!!!) When I was packing to move, I found a couple letters Kim wrote me when she was about ten years old!!!!

Our very dear friend, Mayor Cornelia Olive, at the National Day of Prayer event. Mark organized prayer times at her office with local ministers every Tuesday morning when we lived in Sanford, NC.

My friendship with Ann and Frank Baldwin goes way back......I have always loved them dearly. We met them in Indiana last year as we traveled home from a FLAME event in Frankfort, IN.

This is our friend, Alvin Conyers, who is a missionary to Siberia.

He and Mark went to High School together in Atlanta!!!!

Do you have any "famous" friends?

The Best Brothers

2008-07-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

This is my brother, David. He is the world's best gardener!!!! He grows the most beautiful vegetables I've ever seen. When he does a job, he does it right!!!! Everyone loves David.

Dean is my youngest brother. He can fix anything and is always there to help if you need him. He is one terrific brother!!! He and his wife, Valerie, have five beautiful, smart, talented, children!!!

Charlie, Darlene's husband, is a faithful worker for the Lord. He is a pastor, father of six, grandfather of three, and has a great sense of humor. Charlie is a hard worker and gets the job done FAST!!

Bob is married to my sister Donna. He is one of the most generous people you will find anywhere. He is a very hard worker. Bob has won a lot of trophies in motorcycle racing.
Richie is one tough brother-in-law. He is married to Diane and is a great christian example. Richie makes the best grilled steak I've ever eaten!!! He is ready to help anyone, anywhere and has many opportunities to do that as he is a State Trooper!

Matt is Mark's brother. You will always laugh a lot when Matt is around because he is the life of the party. Matt is an amazing salesman, and makes the best blueberry pancakes!! (This photo was take at the 80th birthday party for Mom Klass.)

Chris is Melissa's husband (Mark's sister). He is a terrific cook and can make a great meal out of left overs. He used to play for the Minnesota Vikings so he has a lot of interesting stories to tell. (Chris is standing behind Mom Klass.)

Dad's Typewriters

2008-07-18T12:34:00.000-07:00

When we moved I had to get rid of Dad's old typewriters. I told my sister, Darlene, it was hard to part with them because they represented hours of thought and labor as he wrote over four thousand sermons for two radio preachers, and also wrote the Sunday School lesson books for Back to the Old Paths for thirty some years. They were a part of Dad I didn't want to give up. Dar gave me wise advise. She said, "You have to get rid of things sometime. If you feel emotionally attached to the typewriters, take a picture of them."

So that's what I did!!! I will always remember the sound of Dad pecking out the many sermons and articles on these two typewriters. But Mark will never have to move them again!! (He was happy about that as the old IBM was terribly heavy!) Thanks, Dar, for helping me through this dilemma!

Life's Transitions

2008-07-12T12:42:00.000-07:00

Transitions are usually difficult.

Change, although sometimes exciting, is never easy.

We will be moving next week and experiencing some changes.

(So I most likely will be unable to post for several days.)

God is faithful and true to His Word and He can be depended on!

Nothing can separate me from His love!

Several years ago a friend gave me a sheet of paper with the following inscribed:

Dorothy...

Trust Me.

I have everything under control.

Jesus

This has been a blessing and a help through many bumps in the road!

How thankful I am to know that it is absolutely true!!!

A Quiet Place

2008-07-09T03:07:00.000-07:00

Lord, I have shut the door, speak now the word

Which in the din and throng could not be heard;

Hushed now my inner heart, whisper Thy will.

While I have come apart, while all is still.

In this blest quietness clamerings cease,

Here in Thy presence dwells infinite peace;

Yonder, the strife and cry, yonder, the sin:

Lord, I have shut the door, Thou art within!

Lord, I have shut the door, strengthen my heart;

Yonder awaits the task -- I share a part.

Only through grace bestowed may I be true

Here, while alone with Thee, my strength renew.

-Runyan

Sunday Sermon

2008-07-06T03:53:00.000-07:00

Living Like Jesus

Jesus
"I crave no human honor"
The Carnal Christian
"I am content to receive praise from others" John 5:55

Jesus
"I look for no mortal fame" John 5:41
The Carnal Christian
"I value credit with men more than credit with God"

Jesus
"I am able to do nothing from myself"
The Carnal Christian
"I can do it by myself"

Jesus
"As the Voice comes to Me, I give a decision"
The Carnal Christian
"I make decisions based on my desires"

Jesus
"I do not seek my own will"
The Carnal Christian
"I do it my way"

Jesus
"I have no desire to do what is pleasing to Myself"
The Carnal Christian
"I want to do only what is pleasing to myself"
-unknown author

The Blessing of Sisters

2008-07-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

I'm the oldest; then Darlene. She is one special lady!!!

She's extremely talented in sewing, cooking, crafts, and writing.

She is very dear to all of us.

Here she is with her oldest son, Daniel.

This is Deborah; she's the third born.

She's always working to keep everything running smoothly.

She's also talented in cooking and is just the person to call on

if you need something done in a hurry!!

Deb is always there if you need her!

This is Donna, next in line! She is a very, very dear sister who is a great baker.

She is sweet, kind, and always cheerful. (Makes the best Cranberry Salad ever.)

We could not get along without our Donna!!

This is Diane, my youngest sister. She is a nurse and quite a good one!!!

She has worked in the E.R. for years and if I ever have to go I hope she's there!!!

She has a great sense of humor and is always helping people.

In this photo, she is giving my father-in-law, Kit, a hug.

This is Valerie who is married to my brother Dean. That makes her a sis, right? She is a terrific mom and has brought much joy to our family with the gift of five beautiful children. Here she is being hugged (tortured) by her oldest son and my nephew, Brent. (Look at his eyes....you can tell.)

Melissa, Mark's sister, is loads of fun. We always have a great time shopping together. She gives me "make-overs" and makes me laugh!!! Here she's getting ready to show off her biscuit making skills!!

Linda is married to Mark's brother, Matt. That's him in the picture with her. (By the way, Matt is the one who coined the phrase, "I love my neices to pieces." He's brilliant!!) Linda is fun to be with, a great walking partner, and a good friend!

I have quite a few "adopted" sisters, also.....too many to name! Do you have any sisters? (birth or otherwise) I'd like to hear about them!

I Love My Nieces to Pieces!

2008-07-03T03:05:00.000-07:00

Some cute stories about my nieces. (I definitely can't mention any names!)

I don't remember what she was crying about but I do remember trying to comfort her. "Honey, you know I love you and your Mommy and Daddy love you." I tried to sooth her sobs with a calm voice. "I know you love me and I know Mommy and Daddy love me," she wailed louder, "BUT I'M CRYIN'!"

=====

One niece spent the night with me. She was 5 or 6 years old. We were laying there trying to go to sleep when she asked quietly, "Aunt Dorothy will you hold my hand?" "Why sure honey." Thinking maybe she was afraid I asked, "Why do you want me to hold your hand, honey?" Her answer came through the darkness matter-of-factly. "Because it stinks!"

Remembering Tasha Tudor

2008-07-02T04:35:00.000-07:00

Every year at Christmas I get out my "Christmas Books". One of my favorites is a book I acquired years ago (don't remember where) entitled TAKE JOY! by Tasha Tudor. I enjoyed reading about the Tudor Christmas traditions and loved the quaint, whimsical, illustrations by Tasha Tudor.

Most of all I enjoyed baking the Christmas Cookies, which she included in the recipe section of the book. (The recipe makes a gigantic number of cookies so you have to allow at least four or five hours if you are going to make them.) The dough is rolled very thin, dusted with sugar and nutmeg, and then cut into shapes. These cookies became a tradition for many years in the Bowen household.

I was sad to hear that Tasha Tudor passed away June 18th at age 92. She was a unique, amazing lady and you can read about her at hhtp://www.tashatudorfamily.com
dbk

Amusing Moments

2008-06-30T03:26:00.000-07:00

Teaching piano lessons has some amusing moments. I hope these stories make you smile!

lllll

One first grader played the assigned song very well, slowing down nicely at the end of the piece. "That was beautiful!" I praised effusively. "I especially like the way you gradually slowed down at the end of the piece. That's called a Ritard." "Oh," she pressed her lips together solemnly shaking her head, "I can't say that word - it has a bad meaning!"

lllll

Another child, arriving for her piano lesson burst through the door and announced grandly in a loud voice, "Well, this is the last day I won't have any cavities!" "Why is that?" I enquired. She replied, "Because tomorrow I'm going to the dentist!"

lllll

Sometimes I get more information that I want. In response to, "How are you doing today?" one child confided, "Guess what! Last night a policeman came to our house!"

lllll

I was invited to a birthday party by one little boy. I asked him for directions to his house. He gave the following: "It's real easy. You just go down that road where the tree is and you'll see a mailbox. You turn there. And," he finished triumphantly, "we live right beside our neighbor!"

lllll

One little girl asked me what the "Heart Trophy" was. I tried to explain, "It's a trophy I give at the recital to a student who works very hard and really puts his WHOLE heart into piano lessons." "Well," she said in a disappointed tone, "I know I won't get that one because I only put half my heart in it!"

lllll

I have a quiet, genteel cat named Squeeky. One of my first graders pleadingly begged, "I've never had a nice cat like Squeeky." Then she made a request. "Mrs. Klass, when you're ninety will you please give me Squeeky?!"
(Either I look really old or Squeeky's going to live to an amazing age!)

lllll

dbk

Sunday Sermon

2008-06-29T01:28:00.000-07:00

All I have is a few scribbled notes,

but the sermon (heard several years ago) made such an impact I still remember it.

A "Mary" Church or a "Martha" Church?

Martha was busy.

Mary was concerned only that she be in the presence of Jesus.

A "Martha" Church
A "Martha" Church is built on ABC's: Attendance, Buildings, Cash. This is a consumer based church where people are the center. The more people who come the better the church is. (This church lives in the book of numbers.) :)

Characteristics:
1. Religious activities - Holiness by fatigue
2. Jesus is the mascot
3. Information Driven (deliver me from the Kinko spirit)
4. Pastor Fetch
5. Problematic Praying
6. Shifting Sheep (allusion of church growth)
7. Control Strongholds - certain people control the church

A "Mary" Church
A "Mary" Church is a Presence based church where God is the center. "We love people but God is here."

Characteristics:
1. Continuous worship Rev. 4:5
2. Jesus is revealed
3. God's presence will draw people
4. Pastor Levite
5. God Seekers - The Pastor's goal is to bring people into His presence
6. Presence Evangelism
7. Divine Strongholds: God doesn't just visit - He inhabits.

Is your church a "Martha" church or a "Mary" church?

"Don't do the work of the Lord - make Him the Lord of the work."
-Terry Tekyl

Missing Dad

2008-06-28T03:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Dad,
I really miss you a lot. I know you are enjoying the beauties of heaven and the joy of being with Jesus and all your friends there. It must be unspeakably wonderful. But I think about you often and what a terrific Dad you were. You were so handsome, so gentle, so kind, so loving, so humble, so faithful, so caring.

I remember those great days when I moved back with you and Mom. Every morning when I walked into the living room you would be sitting in your recliner dressed in a long sleeved white shirt and dress pants, ready for the day. Your first words were always the same. "Morning, Darth, how ARE things?"

We would usually sit together and discuss the Sunday School lesson and you'd ask my opinion on a verse or two. When you jotted down my comments I felt so important. "That's a good thought," you'd say.

It's nothing new

these thoughts I have of you.

Since time began

grief has been a common thing
As people of all races

morn the loss of one who made them sing.

But still the hurt is there
like a dull unhappy ache inside

where no one can see.

And even though I know it won't be long

until we meet again,
I think of you and wonder...
Do you think of me?

dbk

Who Listens?

2008-06-27T02:41:00.000-07:00

For who listens to us in all the world
Whether he be friend or teacher, brother or father or
Mother, sister or neighbor, son or ruler, or
Servant? Does he listen, our advocate, or our
Husbands or wives, those who are dearest to us?
Do the stars listen, when we turn despairingly
Away from man, or the great winds, or the seas or
The mountains? To whom can any man say - Here I
Am! Behold me in my nakedness, my wounds, my
Secret grief, my despair, my betrayal, my pain,
My tongue which cannot express my sorrow, my
Terror, my abandonment.
Listen to me for a day, - an hour! A moment!
Lonely silence! O God, is there no one to listen?

Is there no one to listen? you ask. Ah, yes,
There is One who listens, Who will always listen.
Hasten to Him, my friend! He waits on the hill
For you. -unknown author

A Prayer for Today

2008-06-26T01:53:00.000-07:00

Father,

Please help me not to allow any situation, any person, or any discouragement to eclipse my vision of You.

Let no influence hinder my enthusiastic pursuit of Your daily word to me.

Help my human tendencies to be so wrapped with Your Spirit that the distractions of life have no power to color my emotions.

Keep me, Father, close, carrying me as a little lamb near to your heart.

May I feel the comfort of Your arms around me, the blessing of Your tender embrace, the unmistakable sense of the intertwining of our spirits.

May I hear the whisper of Your voice above the din, the certain knowledge that You ARE directing my paths, that Your will is being done in me today. I ask this in Jesus name, Amen

-dbk

Why Don't I Listen to My Husband?

2008-06-24T22:51:00.000-07:00

Why am I such a slow learner?

I was supposed to take a finger food to church for a birthday celebration at 6 p.m. Sunday night. I was tired -- it was about 4 p.m. and I still didn't have anything ready. Mark said, "Just get some chips and dip and be done with it."

Instead of saying, "Honey, what a great idea!" I obstinately responded with, "No, I'll make that Salmon Dip we like. It's so good and I have all the stuff to make it so I won't have to go to the store." I made it pretty quickly but realized I didn't have any crackers so Mark had to go to the store anyway to get crackers. He wasn't real happy about that.

I took the Salmon Dip to the birthday/fellowship and NOT ONE BITE GOT EATEN!!! There was so much food........I brought it home feeling sorry that I would have to throw it away. I stuck it in the frig and forgot about it.

Mark and I left the next morning and were gone for several days. We returned home Thursday afternoon. We were tired and I don't remember what Mark ate for supper but I got out the Salmon Dip. Mark cautioned me not to eat it. "That's probably bad. You made it Sunday - this is Thursday and Salmon doesn't keep long." Again, instead of saying, "You are so right, dear" I argued, "No, it looks good and smells good so I think it's OK." I hated to throw it away and I didn't want to listen to Mark.

So I ate about half of it on crackers and that was my supper. I felt fine when I went to bed but about midnight I woke up sick as a dog. The nausea, intense stomach pain, and vomiting were horrible. I was sick all night long, throwing up every couple of hours. Mark was nice enough to get up and help me without saying, "I told you so."

What a miserable night! I hope I've learned my lesson! I had two opportunities to avoid suffering but totally did what I wanted instead of listening to my husband!

Lord, how patient You are to teach me......over and over again. Help me to remember this lesson and next time to LISTEN TO MY HUBBY!!! -dbk

Cheerful Insecurity

2008-06-24T04:21:00.000-07:00

"I have been feeling very much lately that cheerful insecurity is what our Lord asks of us."

-C. S. Lewis

God, You are so incredible! You are so amazing! Why do I ever doubt Your awesome power, Your infinite wisdom and your amazing knowledge of every detail in the entire universe and so, of course, every detail of my life.

To think that I am Your dearly loved child staggers me, gives me the sense of a long ago fairy-tale story-book fantasy come true. The childhood dreams of perfect beauty, gracefulness, the handsome prince, and the "happy ever after" have all come true for me.

Father, help me never to doubt You again. Help me never to underestimate Your ability to care for me. Help me never to allow myself the misguided notion that it's all up to me. What a foolish, small faithed, devil inspired, nonsensical perception! You HAVE helped us, You ARE helping us, and You WILL help us.

The far reaches of space with stars, planets, and galaxies are known to You. Each of the six billion people in the world are known to You. Every jungle, desert, tribe, nation, and dynasty is known to You. Every mystery unsolved by man, every secret well hidden, every silent thought in every mind is known to You. And I am known to You. You are My Father! You love me dearly! You have supplied my every need my entire life!!!

You have answered countless prayers for healing, money, a husband, a house, guidance, grace in trials, hope in adversity --- God, my heart, my mind and my soul lift in praise!

One day I will give ceaseless praise to the Lamb Who sits on the throne forever and ever, through the eternity of eternities, in endless adoration and delight. Let all that is within me BLESS HIS HOLY NAME!!

I thank You for lifting my burden. I thank You for lifting my cares. I thank You for strengthening my faith. GOD YOU ARE HERE!

Of course You're going to help us through our present difficulties. Of course You're going to meet our needs. Of course You're going to open the eyes of those walking in darkness. Of course You're going to going to work all things together for our good! You aren't dead, You aren't silent, You aren't paralyzed, You aren't hard of hearing, blind or infirm.

Than why have I been acting like You are? Why have I been allowing myself to listen to and believe a lie?

I thank You for this overwhelming fresh revelation of Who You are.

If a man called Abraham could believe You, if a child named David could take on a giant in Your name, if poor uneducated fishermen could follow You believing Your words, then I too can join the procession!! I, too, can exchange my cringing, faltering, wobbly faith for a slab of granite! Here I come, Lord, a little behind the rest, but I'm running! Count me in!! I believe You. -dbk