Are you an elder in your church? Then this story is for you!

 

Two elders drove to a nearby Applebee's after an early evening meeting at the church. While waiting for a table, they sat in the bar drinking a beer. When their pastor walked by, one quickly said, "Oh, I hope Pastor didn't see us."  "What difference does that make," asked the other, "God knows we are having a beer."  Sure," replied the first, "But God won't tell my wife."

Have blessed New Year!

Do not be anxious about anything

 Promise yourself you won't worry about:

What might happen tomorrow

What happened years ago

What others think of you

Things you can't do anything about

Whether you're going to fail

What everybody else does

Dr. Kevin Leman, "Why Your Best Is Good Enough," page 214

Instead, read Philippians 4:4-7.

Then read it again.

Then read it again.

Let the Lord have your worries. He'll replace them with His peace.

You'll see.

Words of Encouragement - What will 2021 bring?

 How can a parade help us understand how God sees and knows everything in our lives - and that's a good thing! 

Check out Words of Encouragement today on the Life in Christ Lutheran Church Facebook page.

Have a blessed week!

God's dearest treasure

But God beheld my wretched state

Before the world's foundation

And mindful of His mercies great

He planned my soul's salvation

A Father's heart He turned to me

Sought my redemption fervently

He gave His dearest treasure

Martin Luther
 

Why Jesus came into our world

 In the "The Horse and His Boy," by CS  Lewis, there is little girl by the name of Aravis who has a slave girl.  She treats her slave horribly.  Aslan, the Christ-figure in the "Chronicles of Narnia" series, comes to Aravis and scratches her.  She asked why he did it, and Aslan answers, "I didn't scratch you because you need to be punished.  I scratched you because you needed to know what it feels like."

 That's what Christ did.  He entered time and space.  He walked our dirty roads, and He died in our place.  He learned firsthand what it feels like to be in a fallen world.  Jesus entered time and space, not just to keep you from being lonely or afraid but to be lonely and afraid.  Not just to keep you from dying but to die.  Because He knows what it feels like, like the Bible says.  He is kind and gentle.

 God to Him.  He longs to show you what unconditional love feels like.

Steve Brown

It happened!

 The angel's message is simply what happened - a birth - and the identification of the one born - "a Savior who is Christ the Lord."  Impossible? No, it has happened.  God did not have to wait for clearance from, whether it is possible or not.  It happened.  A Savior born, Christ the Lord.

Selected sermons of Norman Nagel, Christmas 1975

Are we there yet?

 Do you think Mary asked Joseph, "Are we there yet?" Contractions are coming and they need to reach Bethlehem immediately.  Find out more on this week's "Words of Encouragement" available on the Life in Christ Lutheran Church's Facebook page at 8 am.

The Friday Funny

 One balmy evening in the South Pacific, a Navy ship spied smoke coming from one of the three huts on an uncharted island.

 Upon arriving at the shore, the crew was met by a shipwreck survivor.  He said, "I'm so glad you're here.  I've been alone on this island for over five years.

 The captain replied, "If you're all alone, why do I see three huts?"

 The survivor answered, "Well, I live in one and go to church  in another.

 "What about the third hut," asked the captain.

 "That's where I used to go to church."

Collect for the third week in Advent

 Stir up Your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us, and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let Your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to Whom, with You and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory now and for ever.  Amen.

The Inn Keeper Got it Right!

 Did you hear the one about the child who played the inn keeper for the Christmas pageant? He went off script and said the words you and I might have said to Mary and Joseph.  Come and find out how the story ended this coming Monday morning at 8 am.  Words of Encouragement can be found on the Life in Christ Lutheran Church Facebook page.  Check it out!

The Friday Funny - Asleep in church

A husband and wife are in church.  While the pastor is giving his sermon, he notices that the husband has fallen asleep.  The pastor says to the wife, "Would you please wake up your husband."  The wife replied, "You put him to sleep.  You wake him up!" 

What a friend I have in you

 Don't tell me what a friend I have in Jesus until I see what a friend I have in you.

 Dr. Eugene Habecker, quoted in "Meyer Minute," (didn't note the year, oops!)

Receive the Living Water!

 John, chapter four, tells the unforgettable story of Jesus' encounter with a Samaritan woman.  Through questions and answers, Jesus reveals Himself as God.  The woman is so amazed by Jesus' teachings and compassion that she rushes back to her village to them all that they too need to come and see Jesus.  On this text, William Weedon writes:

The woman leaves her water jar when she runs away to tell the people in town about Jesus.  Get it? She now has the living water! She shouts in the middle of town for anyone to hear, "Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did.  Can this be the Christ?"  (John 4:29)

From, "Thank, Praise, Serve & Obey," page 118

We're having a baby - next Word of Encouragement!

 I was excited when my wife announced, "We're having a baby!" Joseph, a carpenter from Nazareth, was not "over the moon" with excitement when the woman he was to marry, Mary, told him she was with child.  What did Joseph intend to do about his upcoming wedding? What did he do instead?  Join me this Monday at 8 am to learn more.  You can find "Words of Encouragement" on Facebook by searching Life in Christ Lutheran Church.  Check it out!

The Friday Funny - December 4, 2020

One morning a man telephoned his neighbor at four o'clock in the morning and said, "Your dog is barking and keeping me awake."

 The neighbor called him back at four o'clock the next morning and said, "I don't have a dog."

Be like a sponge

 Make God's presence your passion. How? Be more sponge and less rock.  Place a rock in the ocean, and what happens? It's surface gets wet.  The exterior may change color, but the interior remains untouched.  Yet place a sponge in the ocean, and notice the change.  It absorbs the water.  The ocean penetrates every pore and alters the essence of the sponge.

 God surrounds us in the same way the Pacific surrounds an ocean floor pebble.  He is everywhere - above, below, on all sides.

Max Lucado, "You'll Get Through This," page 27

Would you pass the test?

 In John 6:1-15, we find the disciples tasked with feeding the 5,000.  Philip said, in effect, "We don't have enough money to buy food to feed everyone."  Andrew told Jesus in so many words, "There are just too many people."

 William Weedon, in his book, "Thanks, Praise, Serve, & Obey," explains what is going on: Do you see that both of them (Philip and Andrew) had their eyes trained on the wrong spot? Both flunk the test that the Lord is giving.  Both are trying to juggle the hot potato of the problem with getting burned; but they never seem to realize that the Lord tossed it to them, to train them to toss it back to Him, the One who could handle it.

see page 98

The Top 10 Signs You're Reading a Bad Bible Translation

 There are lots of different translations of the Bible available at your local bookstore.  But which one to read? This Top 10 will help you identify a bad Bible translation.

10) In Luke 10, Martha is referred to as the "Barefoot Contessa"

9) Using popular Bible numerology, Isaiah 9:2 actually reads: "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light and they were blinded by staring at it too long."

8) Images of Jesus replaced with photos of Jim Caviezel 

7) Many Bible verses end with multiple choices for the reader.  For example: "The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our..." a) faith or b) rations or c) Peter's opportunities to stick his foot in his mouth."

6) Offers a Large Print edition for those with poor eyesight and a Fine Print edition for Christian salespeople and attorneys

5) Advertising boasts, "This is the perfect Bible to gather dust on your bookshelf!"

4) Bible edited by scholars from  Cambridge University, Fuller Seminary and the California College of Chiropractic

3) Bible publication date was missed due to a recount in the book of Numbers

2) Describes the devil as "the father of lies," "a roaring lion," and "the one who raises your cable bill every month"

And the number one sign that you're reading a bad Bible translation:

1) The Book of Palms

Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord!

 Today, let's break down a familiar verse from Revelation 4:8 - Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, who is, who is to come.

 This is a verse of pure praise.  These words glorify God for who He is - the eternal, holy, Triune God.  Look at the triplets in these words:

 Holy, Holy, Holy - Three holies

 Is the Lord God Almighty - Three names of God

 Who was, who is, who is to come - Three fold description of God's eternal nature

 Then in verse 11 comes the acknowledgment of the One who gave the 24 Elders their crowns: You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they were created and have their being.

 How will you respond in heaven to the God who is the Creator of everything? With praise and thanksgiving! As God's Holy people, made so by belief in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, we will come with praise in the presence of the holy God.

 Some day we who believe will be included in this heavenly praise service.  Now, as we worship each Sunday, our Divine Service is a warm-up for what is to come.  Our God is present now - in His Word of forgiveness, in the bread and wine of the Supper, in the water of Baptism.  Forgiven for the sake of the Son of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we can come into the presence of the Father and cry out: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, who is, who is to come.  To that there is nothing left to say but AMEN!

Freedom through Christ

 That's how Christian freedom was established, and it's very clear what it entails: liberation from the Law as a condition for salvation, liberated to be God's child through faith in Jesus.

"To Live with Christ," page 555

Check out "Words of Encouragement" this Monday!

 
 

Hey! Every Monday morning at 8 am I offer a short devotional entitled, "Words of Encouragement."  I started this weekly devotional when the pandemic began and I've kept on with it.  You might want to check it out this Monday.

The devotional focuses on jobs of high stress.  Apparently, air line pilot is at the top of the list.  To the list I added, "Old  Testament Prophet."  The assignment God gave Moses was high stress indeed! Moses shows us what to do when we've stressed out.  Learn more on Monday.

You can find the devotional by going to Life in Christ Lutheran Church on Facebook.  New posts are added each Monday.  There is also an archive of previously recorded devotions.  If you could use a word of encouragement as you begin your week then check this Monday's devotion at 8 am.

Only With Jesus

For without faith and without Christ, human nature and human strength are much too weak to do good works, call upon God, have patience in suffering, love one's neighbor, diligently engage in callings, which are commanded, hinder obedience, avoid evil lusts, etc.  Such great and genuine works cannot be done without the help of Christ, as He Himself says in John 15:5 - "Apart from me you can do nothing."

The Book of Concord, The Augsburg Confession- Articles of Faith and Doctrine, from "For All The Saints," Vol. 3, page 341

 

Who does God save?

 God saves no one but sinners.  He instructs no one but the foolish and stupid.  He enriches non but paupers, and He makes alive only the dead; not those also who merely imagine themselves to be such but those who are really this kind of people and admit it.

Martin Luther, from "Reading Romans with Luther," page 45

Hearts Filled With Joy

 Though you have not seen Him (the Lord), you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.  1 Peter 1:8-9

How is it that the apostle Paul can write with such confidence? How is it that he can be so sure that his readers are filled with a trusting faith in Christ Jesus?

The explanation to the Third Article of Luther's Catechism reminds us that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened my with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the one true faith.

The Holy Spirit works faith in our hearts and gives us the saving knowledge of Jesus as our Lord and Savior.  With this gift of faith, we can trust Jesus for forgiveness and salvation, rejoice in our new life of faith and find comfort in our Lord through all the seasons of our lives.  With the help of the Spirit, we believe in our Lord and Savior even though we don't see Him!

The psalmist, Asaph speaks to this same kind of faith.  In Psalm 77 Asaph complains about the difficulties of life.  He has suffered so much and without any relief he is beginning to wonder if God has forgotten about him.

But then Asaph begins to meditate on God's Word.  He remembers God's mighty deeds.  He recalls God's gracious help and deliverance when the people were freed from bondage.  He writes in 77:19 - Your path led through the sea, Your way through the mighty waters, though Your footprints were not seen.

Faith enables us to know that God is with us even when our eyes can't see Him.  His Word assures us that God will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 12:5).  This week offer thanks to the Holy Spirit who empowers you to know and trust that Almighty God is with you even when you can't see Him!

"Every chapter is better than the one before"

 "This life is only a prelude to eternity." CS Lewis wrote about this in the final book of his Narnia series, "The Last Battle."  The children are involved in a terrible train wreck and are immediately transported to Narnia.  They fear they'll be sent back to earth, but Aslan assures them that they've finally come home.

"There was a real railway accident," said Aslan softly.  "Your father and mother and all of you are - as you used to call it in the Shadowlands - dead.  The term is over: the holidays have begun.  The dream is ended: this is the morning."

And as He spoke, He no longer looked to them like a lion, but the things that began to happen after that were so great and beautiful that I cannot write them.  And for us this is the end of all the stories, and we can most truly say that they all lived happily ever after.  But for them it was only the beginning of the real story.  All their life in this world and all their adventures in Narnia had only been the cover and the title page: now at last they were beginning Chapter One of the Great Story which no one on earth has ever read: which goes on forever: in which every chapter is better than the one before.

From "A Place Called Home," page 24

The Hard Workers Survey

 In 2 Thessalonians, chapter, three, Paul writes about the importance of staying busy and not being overtaken by laziness and idleness.  Printed below is an unscientific survey designed to help you determine what kind of a worker you might be.  Read carefully to identify the phrase that best describes you:

Initiative:

Stronger than a locomotive...Stronger than a bull elephant...Strong as a bull...Shoots the bull...Smells like a bull.

Timeliness:

Faster than a speeding bullet...Fast as a speeding bullet...Not quite as fast as a speeding bullet...Would you believe a slow bullet?...Wounds self with bullet when attempting to fire

Communication:

Talks with God directly...Talks with angels...Talk with yourself...Argues with yourself...Loses those arguments

How did you do?

A prayer for election day

 Lord of nations, You use elections as a way of guiding events in our world and providing for Your people.  Grant that our election day may be calm and upright.  May elected officials be filled with a sense of awe and responsibility as they strive to help and protect the citizens in their care.  May citizens live in respect for one another and honor those who are elected so that we might live together in peace.  Amen.

From "Meditations" vol. 63, number four

On the reading of a few good books

 A student who does not want his labor wasted must so read and reread some good writer that the author is changed, as it were, into his flesh and blood.  For a great variety of reading confuses and does not teach.

Martin Luther

Hope for the Prodigal

 Even the most perfect father has prodigal children.  He did not do anything wrong as a parent and yet His children use their free gift of free will to go against him.

"Hope for the Prodigal"  page 49

God gives you what you need to keep going

 (God) gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the week.

 Isaiah 40:29

Words to fight the Black Dog

This was a very bad week for me.  I just couldn't shake the "black dog," A black dog follows you around and makes your life miserable.  Takes away your hope.  Steals your joy.  The black dog, if he could talk would love to say, "I'll be in your life forever."

This doesn't have to be the case.  There are many people who also have black dog and are managing to keep the mutt in place.  Talk to a counselor who is trained to listen to you and offer the kind of wisdom to keep the black dog from overwhelming you.  Let family and close friends in on what you're dealing with.  Exercise and diet are proven to help.  

And as hard as it might be, stick close to God.  The black dog wants you all to itself.  So, as hard as it might be, get up and go to church.  Sing the songs.  Listen to the Scriptures.  Hear the pastor as he proclaims the hope of Jesus.  Read your Bible each day and pray continously.  I know that so much of that sounds impossible.  The black dog saps your energy to the point so that you might not even want to get up and get going.  Try anyway.  Don't make it easy for the black dog to hound you into believing that your life has no purpose or hope.

My dear, sweet wife, Sherri, has loved me unconditionally, along with my kids and grandkids. The congregation I serve, Life in Christ in Peoria, AZ, has been incredibly supportive and helpful.  This morning I found a card that was pushed underneath my door.  The words come from Isaiah 40:29 - He (God) will give strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Best of all, God is "ever-present" and is ready to help us in any trouble, especially when being followed by a  mongrel.  Flee to the One who is your refuge, your fortress of protection when depression has left you lonely and afraid.  He says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  (Matthew 11:28)  You'll receive no better invitation than that.

 

Contending for the faith

According to a story in the Chicago Tribune, a London, England husband and wife had more than they're share of arguments.  One argument turned violent.  The wife got so mad at her husband that she got into their car and ran over him.  The husband suffered 45 leg fractures and a skull fracture and spent five months in the hospital.  His wife was thrown in jail for grievous bodily harm.

Then the husband did something that shocked everyone - he forgave his wife and asked the court to set her free.  The man, now wheelchair bound, told the court, "I can't live without her."  In response to her request, the court suspended her sentence and set her free.

Sometime later, a London newspaper did a follow up story on the couple.  The husband reported, "We are back together and very happy.  But my wife is very argumentative."

In the post-Christian world of ours, it seems that everyone has an opinion about religion or Christianity or about God or Jesus.  Maybe you know an opinionated neighbor.  Perhaps you cohort at work holds some pretty strong views.  You might even have an acquaintance who likes to create controversy by challenging teachings and beliefs that the Christian church has held true for centuries.

As Christians we must contend for the faith.  But we are to avoid those who simply want to argue for the sake of arguing (see 2 Timothy 2:22-26).  Instead, the Christian tries to treat everyone with kindness while looking for opportunities to teach the truth of God's Word to those who seek answers to the important questions of life.  Who is God?  What does God think of me? How can I be sure I am going to heaven?

As we witness and teach God's Word to those who sincerely want to know the truth, we trust the Holy Spirit to lead our hearers to repentance and faith in Christ.  Such gentle instruction is much more effective than running a person over with a car!

What the devil's temptations can do for you.

 For as soon as God's Word takes root and grows in you, the devil will harry you and will make a real doctor of you, and by his assaults will teach you to seek and love God's Word.

Luther's Works, vol. 34, page 287

Are you an "hilarious" giver?

 It was one of the first Christian songs I learned.  Maybe you know it too:

Happy, happy, happy, happy, happy are the people whose joy is the Lord 

 Happy, happy, happy, happy, happy are the people whose joy is the Lord

Where does this happy feeling come from?  Where does the happy feeling come from?

 This happy feeling comes from Jesus, every day He more than pleases

That's where this happy feeling comes from!

This happy feeling, according to the apostle Paul, carries over to the giving of our tithes and offerings as well.  Because believers live under grace and not the law, Paul teaches that "every man should give what he has decided in his heart to give..."  (2 Cor. 9:7a).  As disciples of Jesus, we have freedom to give whatever we want and to be as generous as we want.

God has been generous to us.  He gave the very best He had - His only begotten Son to be our Savior.  God's grace moves us to be generous as we give a portion of our riches back to Him and His church.  There is no set amount - we can be as generous as we want to be!

The word, "cheerful," in the Greek can actually be translated as "hilarious."  May God's love for you in Christ move you to be a happy, hilarious giver of your time, talents and riches to your Lord and His church!

Music is a gift from God

 I have no use for cranks who despise music, because it is a gift of God.  Next after theology, I give to music the highest place and the greatest honor.

Martin Luther

Begin with "Thank You, Jesus!"

 Have you ever begun your prayer time and you couldn't think of a thing to pray about?  Sometimes, it happens.  You might be tired or fatigued.  Maybe you're puzzled by problems at home or work.  Occasionally we sit down to pray and our minds resemble an Arizona desert - dry, barren, lifeless.

 The apostle Paul has a solution.  Philippians 1:3 - "I thank my God every time I remember you.:

 The next time you're stuck at "Dear Lord," think of all the people in your life and give thanks for them.  Paul thanks God for the people at Philippi.  He gives thanks for their "partnership in the Gospel."  The Philippians gratefully received the good news of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.  This good news filled their hearts with great, great joy.  Not only did they hear God's Word but they also put it into practice.  The Holy Spirit, working through the Word of God, enabled the Philippians to stand firm in times of persecution while motivating them to help and encourage one another with their time and riches.  Seeing these people growing in Christian faith was a help to Paul, especially since he wrote Philippians under house arrest in Rome.

 Not only does Paul see the church growing in true faith, he has also been on the receiving end of their generosity.  When they learned of Paul's detention, they quickly gathered an offering to help the apostle with his needs.  You can see why every time Paul thought of the Philippians, he offered up to God a prayer of thanksgiving.

 For whom can you thank God today? Who in your life has been such a blessing that they deserve a special petition of thanksgiving to the Lord?  Your spouse...your child or grandchild...a person you work with...someone you don't really know?  If you're not sure how to begin when you pray, follow Paul's example - begin with thanksgiving!

A wise husband and preacher

 In domestic affairs I defer to my Katie.  Otherwise, I am led by the Holy Spirit.

Martin Luther

Church Newsletter Editors Strike!

 

Here’s THE NEWS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED!

ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI – In an unprecedented demonstration of unity, hundreds of church newsletter editors across the country have gone on strike.

This massive group is not looking for increased pay or better working hours or even an upgrade from Windows 98.  They are asking for respect.

Mrs. Jane Roberts, newsletter editor for the “I Am Second” Missionary Baptist Church in Peavey, MO. described the hurt she felt at a recent voters meeting.  “Our church is considering purchasing new chairs for our sanctuary/basketball court.  One of the members suggested that the newsletter be used to communicate the reason for acquiring the new chairs.”  Then, as Mrs. Roberts wiped a tear from her eye, she recounted, “The head of the Leadership Council stood up, laughed out loud, and exclaimed, ‘Nobody reads the newsletter!’”  When asked how she responded, Mrs. Roberts said, “I wanted to take a newsletter and hit him over the head with it!  Those 16 pages could leave a bruise!  But because I’m a woman and a Christian and the proud owner of Joel Osteen’s “Inspiration Cube,” I let it pass.

Mr. Gerald Larson, newsletter editor & trustee of FSHS Lutheran Church located in historic downtown Knob Noster, MO, told of an incident with the Fellowship Committee.  “Lois came into my office and asked me why we had not published the upcoming “Wine and Whine” event where the pastor is invited to spend a pleasant evening in the home with some women and men in the church.”  Larson continued, “With all the patience I could muster, I held up the newsletter’s front page which announced in bold type, “It’s Time to Wine and Whine!”  Larson then raged, “Did I get an apology?  Did I hear an ‘I’m sorry?’  I wanted to ask God, “What’s up with Your people anyway?”

Embolden by the action of the newsletter editors, Sunday school teachers who were told, “We only need you for a few weeks,” are ready to walk out as well.

The Praying Church

 Truly, the Christian church on earth has no greater power of work than its joint prayer against everything that may rise in opposition to it.  Martin Luther

Join us this Sunday at Life in Christ.  On campus worship is held at 8, 9:30 and 11 am,  Masks are required.  Or see the service online at our website, Facebook page or YouTube channel.  Be with the praying church this Sunday.

Coming Soon to Life in Christ!

 Learn of a nice, simple way of witnessing the birth of Jesus to family and friends and community.

There's more to come so stay tuned!

A possible mission statement?

 The following was on a plaque given to me on my birthday:

I love Jesus and coffee and naps.

I might have listed "naps" before "coffee" but why quibble, right?

The Essence of Faith

For that is the essence of faith - that we take Christ at His Word.  We really have been redeemed from sin, death and hell.  We really are called to deny self in response to that good news.  We really are called to follow Christ, carrying willingly, even joyfully, the cross He sends out of love for us.

Daniel Dertschlander, "The Theology of the Cross," page 89

 

The Joyous Exchange

 From the pen of the sainted Martin Luther:

Jesus is the greatest of sinners.  There is no greater sinner in the entire human race than the Son of God.  This is so true that He is called sin itself (God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.  2 Cor. 5:21).  

His sin is ours.  It was foreign to Him.  He had none.  He committed none.  It was made His own because of the love wherewith He loved us.  He bore it, and because He suffered as though He had committed it Himself, although He was entirely innocent and spotless.  He was the Lamb foreseen from the beginning of the world, the woman's Seed promised to our first parents, Adam and Eve, immediately after their fall.  (From "What Luther Says" page 1421).

Luther often described 2 Corinthians 5:21 with these words, "The Joyous Exchange."  While we can imagine the pain and suffering Christ endured on the cross to be joyful in any way at all, still, the writer to the Hebrews put it like this: Jesus...who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning it's shame.  (chapter 12:2).

And becoming "sin for us" we received in exchange the righteousness of Jesus.  This "glorious dress" (see verse one of the hymn, "Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness") makes us acceptable before our Heavenly Father.  In  many ways, it is a one-sided exchange.  Jesus receives our punishment for the sins we commit;  we receive the perfect holiness and righteousness of Jesus which we need but do not deserve.  God's grace is truly amazing!  Now you know what Luther called it "The Joyous Exchange."

What to do on your birthday

 Tomorrow is my birthday.  All thanks to God for His blessings, His patience and His promises.  I can say like George Bailey, "It's a wonderful life!"

One birthday card I've received offered some wise advise that I might just follow.  It read:

Celebrate like a cat today.  Eat.  Sleep.  Ignore everyone who annoys you.

No matter what day it is for you, have a blessed one!

A heartfelt prayer of confession

In my opinion, Peter Marshall, the Scottish-born Presbyterian pastor, who in 1947 became chaplain of the US Senate, was one of the finest preachers of the 20th century.  See the book, "A Man Called Peter," for examples of his inspiring and thought-provoking style.  He also wrote many wonderful and heartfelt prayers.  The following is a prayer of confession, which you might want to use in your devotions sometime.

O Lord, I come to You out of my great need.  You have pledged in Your Word that whoever comes to You shall not be cast away.  Lord, I confess before You that:

I have had longings and nudgings from You which I did not translate into action.  I have made decisions without consulting You, then blamed You when things went wrong.  I have said that I trust You, yet have not turned over my affairs to You.  I have often sought the easy way, have consistently drawn back from the road that is hard.

Forgive me for all my intentions that we born and somehow never lived.

These, Lord Jesus, are sins, grievous in Your sight, grievous even in mine.  And now I claim Your promise to change me.  Do for me what I cannot do for myself.  Lead me into a new tomorrow with a new spirit.  Cleanse my heart, (*forgive me) create within me new attitudes and new ideas, as only as You can create them.

For these good gifts, I thank You, Lord.  Amen.

* my words added

Sharing God's Love

 Down through the ages, many people have tried to define "love."

"Love conquers all"     Virgil

"Love is the only gold"     Alfred, Lord Tennyson

"Who loves believes the impossible"     Elizabeth Barrett Browning

"The first duty of love is to listen"     Paul Tillich

"Faults are thick where love is thin"     An English proverb

"Love is a great beautifier"     Louisa May Alcott

"What the world really needs is more love and less paperwork"     Pearl Bailey

For my money the best source from which to learn about love is 1 Corinthians, chapter 13.  Since love itself is indefinable, the apostle Paul describes how love manifests itself.  When directed toward others - spouse, children, family, friends and strangers - love is forgiving and self-giving.  No doubt, as Paul was describing the fruits of love, he surely had Jesus in mind.  Through faith, you have been "caught up" in the love of Christ.  With whom can you share His love this week?

The greatest source of help against temptation

 Finally, in prayer, you have the greatest source of help against your temptations.  As the little vessel of your soul is being overwhelmed with the waves of temptation, arose Christ with your prayers.  Our visible foes we subdue by striking and slaying them; but this invisible enemy of our souls we conquer by pouring out our prayers to God.

Gerhard's Sacred Meditations, pages 154-155

Acts 29?

I've often wondered why there isn't a 29th chapter to the Book of Acts.

Recently, I've been reading about Paul's journey to Rome so that he might appeal to Caesar the charges brought against him.  The author of Acts, Luke, tells that Paul spent two years under house arrest while waiting for justice to be done.  Not surprisingly, Paul continues to preach and teach about the risen Jesus to anyone who will listen.

We also know that Paul wrote his epistles to the Philippians, Colossians, Ephesians and to his friend, Philemon, from prison.  Reading those epistles we know that Paul continued his ministry, strengthening the believers in Christ and revisiting church which he had a hand in helping to plant.  Still, why doesn't Acts have a more proper ending, indicating some kind of resolution to Paul's troubles.

We don't know why the Holy Spirit led Luke to end Acts as he did.  One thing is certain - the book of Acts is continuing to be written even today.

If Acts in the story of the beginning of the New Testament church, then we are part of the story as well.  We continue to preach about the coming kingdom of God.  We continue to teach about the Lord Jesus Christ.  We witness and tell others about our Savior's forgiveness, grace and salvation.  We proclaim repentance and faith in Jesus as a person's only hope for eternal life in heaven.  In this way, the story of Acts continues.  May you, in your daily life in Christ, keep adding more words to the story!

Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Finish then Thy new creation
 Pure and spotless let us be
Let us see Thy great salvation
 Perfectly restored in Thee
Changed from glory to glory
Till in heaven we take our place
Till we cast our crowns before Thee
 Lost in wonder, love and praise!

LSB #700, verse four

Any One But Me

Few words can strike more fear into a Christian than the word, "evangelism."  It's easy to think of reason why it can be so uncomfortable to share the Gospel with another person - I might offend my friend...I don't know the Bible that well...What if I'm asked a question I can't answer...I'm an introvert so don't ask me to do something like this.

Ray Comfort's new book, "Any One But Me," is one part encouragement, one  part instruction so that you can share Your Jesus with another person.

Comfort points to Bible verses like 1 Peter 3:15 & 2 Timothy 4:2 to show that God's will is for you and me to be ready when we find an opportunity to speak about Jesus.  This is serious business as Comfort points out.  Souls are on the line.  Think of the non-believer friend who means much to you.  You could stand to know that at their death, they would receive only the judgement of the Lord?

Comfort offers 10 proven ways to overcome your doubts and fears so that you'll be prepared to give an answer to another about the hope that you have.  Get yourself a copy of "Any One But Me" today.

A washing of regeneration

Whoever is baptized in Christ is baptized through His suffering and blood, or, to state it more clearly, through Baptism he is bathed in the blood of Christ and is cleansed from sins.  For this reason St. Paul calls Baptism a "washing of regeneration (Titus 3:5); and according to what Christians say and picture, the Sacraments flow from the wounds of Christ.  And what they say and picture is right.

From "What Luther Says," page 47

A burden the pastor carried

 The pastor arrived for the 7 am Men's Breakfast Bible study a few minutes late.  The guys gathered around the table and carried on their conversation while only briefly acknowledging their pastor.  But one fellow looked over the pastor carefully.  He noticed the bags under the pastor's eyes, the look of exhaustion on his face.  He asked, "Are you all right?" The pastor shook his head and said, "We'll talk later."

After the Bible study broke up, the pastor and the fellow found a corner booth.  The pastor said, "I shouldn't be talking to you but since you asked..."  For the next half-hour, the pastor explained that he hadn't slept for more than a couple of hours each night.  Some concerns for the flock he was shepherding was causing sleepless nights.  Finances were not covering the budget.  Petty disputes threatened to tear the church council apart.  The "grapevine" was filled with gossip and half-truths.  The pastor was doing his best to apply God's Word and instruction to each situation.  But disobedient church members weren't showing much growth in the way of repentance and faith in God their Savior.

I've been reading through 1st Corinthians and it has caused me to wonder if that church had caused the apostle Paul if he suffered through many sleepless nights.  We do know that many in the church were immature in the faith and did many unspiritual things.  Because of Paul's concern for God's flock, chapters seven through twelve contain needed instruction and guidance.  Paul writes pointedly - his desire is to bring about repentance and faith among the disobedient in Corinth.

As you read, note that Paul addresses issues which seem to stand front and center in the church today.  Watch how Paul continually points to God's grace in Jesus as the motivation for setting aside our own wisdom and desires and, instead, to seek each day as God's forgiven people, dearly loved in the Lord.

Free from guilt

Back in 2006, I flew from South Carolina to Phoenix to visit my kids.  My oldest daughter picked me up at the airport and had a big evening planned for me.  But first, as she explained, she had a trial in court to attend and I would be able to accompany her.

I must say that I enjoyed seeing my daughter in action.  She was a Maricopa County Prosecutor at that time.  She looked and sounded so professional.  I was thrilled to be in court.

However, the young man that my daughter was prosecuting was less than thrilled to be there.  "Fear" was written all over his face.  By standing before the judge, I think the young man finally realized just how much trouble he had created for himself.  By the end of the court session, I felt a little sorry for the fellow.  He was so afraid.

In Acts, chapter 25, we see Paul on trial.  Unlike the trial my daughter was involved in, Paul's was much different.  The apostle was an innocent man.  Witness after witness testified against Paul but none of them was able to prove Paul guilty of anything.  Plus Paul stood in court with the knowledge that the Lord was with him.  Even as Paul appealed to Caesar, God's will is being done.  The Lord had assured the apostle that, despite the persecution he was facing, Paul would travel to Rome to proclaim the Gospel.  And that is exactly what Paul did.

We can trust God to keep His promises to us.  Paul wrote to the Romans: He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all, will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things? Yes, but of course, we can trust that God will give us freedom from guilt, answer our prayers, give guidance for daily living, assure us of eternal life in heaven and so much more.  The Lord was with His servant, Paul.  The Lord will be with you this week as well!

Take Courage!

 Paul had every reason to be afraid.  He has spent the day before the Jewish high court.  Paul's bold testimony about the risen Jesus has filled the members of the court with hatred and rage.  It was this group that orchestrated the death of Jesus.  They have the power to do the same to Paul.  His life hangs in the balance.

While chained and under guard in the barracks, the Lord suddenly appeared to Paul.  The apostle hears the words that the Lord utters to those who are afraid - "Take Courage!"  Paul received reassurance that his mission is not going to end in Jerusalem.  The Lord has another place where Paul will proclaim the good news of the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus - Rome, the seat of the world's power in that day.

The Lord's comforting words to Paul reminds of another time when the disciples were filled with fear.  Read Mark 6:45-52 when you have a moment.  The disciples were out in the lake, caught in the middle of a violent storm.  It was all they could do to keep the boat afloat.  Exhausted from the struggles, the disciples were filled with fear as they saw what the though was a ghost walking on the water.  Instead, it was the Lord they saw.  Jesus called out to them, "Take Courage! It is I.  Don't be afraid."  As the Lord climbed into the boat, the winds died down.  The disciples relaxed.  The Lord was with them.

The Lord is with you each day.  He is present always until the end of the age.  The next time you are afraid, remember the words God said to Joshua: Be strong and courageous.  Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

The ocean of forgetfulness

Still, we're struggling to reach the goal.  We have to forget what lies behind us, all our failures, all the things we shamefully admit in our confession.  We have to throw it off and leave it by the wayside. 
We don't have to drag it with us.  We can forget it because God Himself forgets it and leaves it in the ocean of forgetfulness where anything is swallowed up by His inexhaustible forgiveness.

Bo Giertz, writing on Philippians 3:14, page 617 from "To Live With Christ."

A prayer for these times

Give to us clear vision, God, that we may know where to stand and what to stand for - because unless we stand for something, we shall fall for anything.

The sainted Peter Marshall

The Best Offer of All

Did you hear the one about the groom who came to his pastor with an unusual offer?

"Look, Pastor, I'll give you $100 if you'll change the wedding vows.  When you get to the part where I'm to promise to "love, honor and obey," I'd appreciate it if you'd just leave that part out."  He passed to the pastor the $100 bill and walked away, satisfied.

The big day came and the bride and groom exchanged their vows.  When it came time for the groom's vows, the pastor looked at the young man in the eye and said, "Will you promise to prostrate yourself before her, obey her very command and wish, serve her breakfast in bed every morning and swear eternally before God that you will not even look at another woman, as long as you both shall live?"

The groom gulped, looked around, and said in a tiny voice, "Yes."

Then the groom leaned over and hissed at the pastor, "I thought we had a deal."

The pastor put the $100 bill back into the groom's hand and whispered back, "She made me a much better offer."

Now, I don't think that story is true.  But it is probably true that most, if not all of us, enjoy making a deal.  One author who wrote a book on the subject of negotiation said, "I don't pay attention to price tags.  Everything is subject to negotiation.  The best part of any transaction is making the deal!"

However, there is one offer that we will never be able to improve upon.  That is the offer of forgiveness and unconditional love which Jesus makes to those in need of salvation and eternal life.  Could we get Jesus to do anymore for us than to give up His life for our sins? Is there a better deal than eternal life in heaven through faith in Jesus? Could we negotiate anything better than God's answers to our prayers.  Is there a better "perk" than the assurance of God's love in every situation?

We might be able to get a better deal when buying a car.  We might be able to find a better bargain if we look hard enough.  But we can really be glad that when it comes to our salvation, we'll never find a better offer than the one Jesus makes to each of us.  "God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life."  Amen!

No need for an Eight Ball

When I was growing up I had a friend who had one of those big, black "Eight Balls."  Remember them? You could ask the Eight Ball questions like "Will I hit a home run in the Little League game?" or "Will my parents increase my allowance?" and then turn the big, black ball over and then wait for its answer.  As kids we never put much stock in the answers coming from the "Eight Ball."  But it was kind of fun to mess around with it.

You wouldn't have found an Eight Ball in the apostle Paul's traveling bag.  He traveled by faith, trusting in God's presence and power to help him finish the race and complete the task given him by Jesus - "the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."  (Acts 20:24)

There are times when a reliable Eight Ball would be helpful wouldn't it?  To have an answer regarding the wearing of masks or restarting our ministries or knowing an end date to the pandemic would be wonderful.  And I'm sure that answers about health or finances or the future of our kids and grandkids would be a great benefit to you.

How shall we then live? Paul offers a fine example for us.  Read Acts 19:1-12 & 23-41.  Paul explained to the Ephesians Christians that he did not know what would happen to him as he traveled place to place.  But he believed that the Holy Spirit would direct and help him.  He learned that he could trust God no matter where he might travel or whom he might meet.

We can do the same.  God has given us faith to trust in Him for forgiveness, new life and salvation.  We have God's promise that He will provide us with daily bread and help us meet our needs.  The Scriptures assure us that God is faithful.  His Word is sure and certain.  God bless you as you follow Him day by day!

The Fancy Dive

I wonder if you can relate to this poem, entitled "Fancy Dive," by author and illustrator, Shel Silverstein?

The fanciest dive that was ever done
 Was done by Melissa of Coconut Grove
She bounced on the board and flew through the air
 With a twist of her head and a twirl of her hair
She did 34 jackknives, back flipped and spun
 Quadruple gainered and reached for the sun
And then summersaulted nine times and a quarter
 And looked down and saw
The pool had no water

The apostle Paul was having one of those days in Corinth (see Acts 18:1-6).  He discovered that his hearers were not listening - they had closed their hearts and souls to the good news that Jesus was the promised Messiah, the resurrected Lord.  Rather than continue to dive into a pool without water, so to speak, Paul turned the focus of his ministry to another people who were hungry for the truth.

Are you unsure about your next move? Seeking reassurance that the important decision you've recently made was the right one? The Lord spoke to Paul in a vision (Acts 18:9).  The Lord will speak to you in worship and as you daily read and reflect on His Word.  Give it a try and see if you don't receive the comfort and guidance that your Lord and Savior can offer.

Church Administrator Celebrates Birthday at Life in Christ!

PEORIA ARIZONA - With the joyous sounds of "We Wish You a Happy Birthday" filling the air, Church Administrator, Connie Kanzler, celebrated her birthday with the office staff today.

Ms. Kanzler was asked which birthday she was celebrating.  She refused to answer, citing a woman's prerogative not to reveal such intimate details.  She told this reporter, "Never ask a lady a question like that!"  But such ineptitude did not spoil what was otherwise a day of fun and laughter.

Ms. Kanzler has served as the Administrator for the church since 2006.  At first, she struggled with an old computer and copy machine.  But now she is able to travel where no man never wants to go - to the Tobshiba copier to clear out a paper jam.

One of her greatest attributes is Ms. Kanzler's empathy.  When people stop by the office to talk about a concern or hurt, Ms. Kanzler is quick to listen, slow to speak but ready to offer heartfelt advice.  She always points to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as the One who stands with open arms, ready to receive hurting and confused people.

Ms. Kanzler is expecting to continue the Birthday celebration tonight, if she's allowed to visit family.  There is a sign at the door to their home that says, "If you're infected, take your virus someplace else!"

Pastor finds Biblical Answer for Seating Capacity!

Here’s THE NEWS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED!

TUCSON ARIZONA – Churches have been struggling with how to determine the number of worshippers to allow in their buildings each Sunday while the coronavirus rages on.  But the New Life Overcomers Victory Church has come up with a novel and Biblical solution.

Pastor Joey Baker explained, “We are basing our church capacity on Matthew 18:20 – ‘Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there’.  So, we don’t have to bother with numbers.  God has given the number the follow! We’re holding our services with just three people in attendance.”

When the NYMHM reporter pointed out that the Matthew 18:20 verse was connected to Jesus' teaching regarding church discipline, Pastor Baker replied, “Well, that’s your interpretation and you’re welcome to it.  Besides, Jesus was full of love and compassion.  He wouldn’t say anything that would offend people.”

Because New Life Overcomers Victory Church is following the three person rule, they are forced to hold 31 services a week, beginning at 6 pm on Friday and ending at 7 pm on Sunday.  Pastor Baker said, “I know that sounds like a lot of services.  But once I have the first 13 under my belt, I hit my groove and nothing can stop me!  The services from Midnight to 6 am are not very well attended.  But I have a small cot in my office that allows me a chance to grab a whole bunch of 10 minute naps.” 

Pastor Baker reported that New Life Overcomers Victory Church would soon be adding a drive-by Communion Service for the membership.  Only three cars will be allowed on the campus at any one time.

NOTE -  The above article is not true.  I took a stab at trying to write a "Babylon Bee" type article.  BTW - if you haven't heard of the Babylon Bee look for it on the web.  Christian satire at its best!

Books on the bed stand

Presently I'm reading three books.  The first is "Paul Simon - The Life," by Robert Hilburn.  Many people know Simon from his collaboration with Art Garfunkel.  Their voices blended beautifully on "Bridge over Troubled Waters," "The Boxer," "Mrs. Robinson," and "The Sounds of Silence."  I'm about one-half through the book and I'm finding that Simon is dealing with a question that many of us wrestle with - "My life is going great.  Why do I feel so bad?" Hilburn wrote the biography on Johnny Cash and that motivated me to pick up the Paul Simon book.

For Father's Day my dear, sweet wife bought for me, "Lou Gehrig - The Lost Memoir."  Probably most people know this great athlete's name is connected to the disease, ALS.  He was also one of the greatest players Major League Baseball has ever seen.  In his career, cut short by the disease, Gehrig hit almost 500 homeruns while hitting 340.  The first part of the book is a series of articles written for nationwide newspapers.  The second half, which I haven't gotten to yet, is an essay by author Alan D. Gaff about Gehrig's life.  This has been "a hard-to-put-down" kind of book.

Finally, I just started reading Ray Comfort's new book, "Any One But Me."  Comfort, an experienced apologist and popular speaker, reveals his own fears as he sought to share the Gospel with strangers.  But through the Holy Spirit and consistent practice, Comfort gained the boldness to tell someone he'd never known about Jesus Christ.  If you're one who would like to better witness Jesus to others, check out "Any One But Me."

My goal is to read at least 24 books a year.  I usually end up having read 32 to 34 books.  This year, I have been so busy dealing with the impact of the coronavirus on our church, I've had less time than usual to read.  But I'm sure I'll reach my goal.  There are too many good books to read.

Book Review - Befriending Your Monsters

Luke Norsworthy is an excellent writer.  His new book, "Befriending Your Monsters," must have about a 1000 illustrations.  Norsworthy makes excellent use of stories to help address the various "monsters" a person is confronted with.

But it seemed to me that what he wrote about has been covered in other books.  He writes about the usual challenges that most people face - a poor self image, a desire to seek pleasure and help from things, and how we often define ourselves by whether or not we consider ourselves successful.

But I didn't find much Jesus in the book.  There are Bible references to be sure.  But nothing about how a person finds their identity and worth in Jesus.  Nothing about realizing that all the stuff we seek is a poor substitute for how Jesus sees us as God's precious possessions and that no one, not even the most troubled soul can slip from his grip.  Jesus has slayed the monsters that threaten us.  Our first look is always at Jesus.  He has saved us and He will see us through the all the times in our lives.

Trust in the Lord

Ed Greer was a guy who hated his life.  He was unhappy with his work.  He felt that he was also pressured by his spouse.  So, one day Greer decided to check out.  And he just disappeared.

His spouse and family searched and searched but they could not find him.  Greer crossed the country and decided to live on the beaches in Florida.  Later, he assumed a new identity and moved to central Texas and found himself a good paying job.

Finally, after searching for seven years, the FBI found Ed Greer.  In an interview, when asked why he bailed out on his family and friends, Greer explained, "I felt trapped.  I didn't like my life."

There are times in our lives when circumstances become so trying that we'd be quite glad to trade places with almost anyone.  The apostle Paul would have been quite justified to have bemoaned his luck and prayed to God for a new and easier assignment.

In Acts 16, we have that account of Paul and Silas in Philippi.  Some objected to Paul's teaching and a riot ensued.  Beaten and thrown in prison, we read about the two men in Acts 16:25 - About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God.  What man, having been unfairly accused and unjustly beaten, finds himself able to have a praise and worship service in jail?

The man who trusts in the Lord, that's who!

Perhaps Paul remembered the words of Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with all youir heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.

Your Lord is an ever-present help in times of trouble.  Believe that he can get you out of the tightest jam.  Paul trusted, was helped by God and was even used to help bring a family to saving faith in the risen Lord.  God will help you too.  Trust Him!

A good message from the sainted John Stott

Taken from "Basic Christianity," page 1

You can never take God by surprise.  You can never anticipate Him.  He always makes the first move.  He is always there "in the beginning."  Before man existed, God acted.  Before man stirs himself to seek God, God has sought man.  In the Bible we do not see man groping after God; we see God reaching after man.

Talking With Your Kids About Jesus

This is Natasha Crain companion book to her popular, "Talking With Your Kids About God."  Having a copy of this book is good for two reasons.

First, the questions that Christian kids get from their peers are answered in this book.  In the Confirmation classes I've taught for almost 25 years, I've had kids ask questions like, "Is Jesus really God?  My friend says He's just a man?"  Or, "These stories about Jesus are just stories, right?  He really couldn't have raised a person from the dead.  Those things don't happen?"

Crain's book can help parents teach their kids how to answer these questions and many, many more.  And that's the other reason why this book is so necessary.

As parents talk to their kids about Jesus, their own faith will be strengthened.  Adults are often asked the same questions as their kids.  As parents teach their kids the truths about Jesus, parents will be better equipped to make a strong confession of faith in Jesus to others.

Check this book out.  It will help your kids and it will help you.

Open for Business - At Reduced Hours

Well, I didn't keep the lights off for very long.  I intended to take a permanent break from the blog.  But there were some readers who said they missed the content and often found it encouraging and inspirational.  That was appreciated!  Since I review books from Baker Books, I need this outlet to post my reviews and assure Baker I'm reaching a wide audience.  So, we're back.

However, I won't be blogging every day.  I'm going to extend grace to myself and not put the pressure regarding posting daily content.  But when I think I've written something you might enjoy or find something in my journal which might brighten your day, then I'll add it to the blog.

This pandemic has been trying for all of us.  And it's only getting worse in the 48th state.  The lifestyle changes we've had to make have been frustrating, irritating and painful.  We Americans haven't been tested like this in decades.

Yesterday I found some encouragement and hope while reviewing Luther's Small Catechism, specifically Luther's explanation to the First Article.  It reminded me that -

 God gave me life.  He knows me thoroughly and completely.

 God has given me all I need to live.  I lack nothing.

 God is my refuge and strength.  He protects and keeps me in His care.

 God loves me like a good father loves his child.  He loves me even though I don't deserve that love.

 God is deserving of my thanks and praise.  No one loves me like my God.

Of course, all of this is the same for you, my kind reader.  The changes we've seen in our country have been shocking and breathtaking.  Some predict that our lives as we knew them will never be the same again.

I don't know if any of those things are true.  But God tells us in the Bible - "I, the Lord, do not change."  Luther's explanation reminds us that our God is unchangeable.  He will continue to sustain our lives by meeting all our needs.  He will continue to be the One whom we call on when we are afraid or worried.  His unconditional love can never be matched.  With the psalmist we can say, "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good and His mercy endures forever."

I hope that your holiday is a good one.  I'll miss the barbeques and the backyard gatherings.  I'll miss the opportunity to celebrate our Independence Day with friends and family.  My dear, sweet wife and I will have to get creative in making this a fun three day weekend (actually 2 and one half days for me).

One more thing - let's give thanks to God for the freedoms we enjoy, freedoms that have made our lives so good.  It seems like freedom is under attack in our own country.  It feels like some are trying to rewrite history.  I don't think the protesting and violence has made one life better.  That can only take place through people sitting down, listening to each other, deciding what changes need to be made to make the lives of the oppressed better and then getting it done.  All the rest of what is going on is just noise.

Well, enough of my mini-rant.  Sherri has gotten me hooked on an app called "Wordscapes."  Puzzle 208 is calling my name!  God's peace and blessings!@