A Christ Follower: The Journey

Removing The Sin Virus

2012-02-28T14:19:00.000-08:00

Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ.

PAUL

So let's get this straight: We have peace with God, when we have faith in Jesus? I try to think about what this means, and a lot comes to mind. First, I like being peaceful, especially when the being full of peace has something to do with relating to the ALMIGHTY. Second, this peace is something we can obtain... we really can. Third the faith factor produces this, so long as the object of our faith is Jesus.

But what about this "Justify?" What does this mean? Now I could go into a whole lot of legalese about this, but it simply means that when all the above is accomplished and God looks at you/ me and our/my "record" it is "Just As If I" have never sinned. Put it in the first person for you, and it is the same: "Just as if I" never sinned.

Now back in the day we said this was the same as God giving us a clean slate. The only problem, is a whole lot of folks today have NO idea what a slate is.

So for those born "lately" I say it this way: When you put your faith in Jesus to forgive your sins, He removes the sin virus from the hard drive of your soul. When he does this you can fully come alive both now and throughout never ending time.

Y'all be blessed now.

SoJourner

Friend

2012-02-21T12:52:00.000-08:00

I no longer call you servant. I call you friend because I have told you everything my Father told me.

Jesus.

Here is something most folks don't get. Jesus thinks of you, among other things, as his friend. Now, in the past He called us something less than friend. He called us servant. Whew! That's a far cry from friend. Servant is like... you know... something just shy of being someone in whom you would confide.

I don't know about you, but I can count my total number of people whom I call friend on less than my two hands. Oh sure, I have acquaintances. I have people with whom I work. I even have a few folks I think of as Jerks. But friend???? Now that is something special.

Then again, God does consider those who follow Him as special. In fact they are special enough to lay down HIS own life for. Yup! What a friend we have in Jesus. Whew! There is NO greater love than this.

And now He looks you right in the eye ans calls you friend. You are indeed special.

Go on out and think about this for a while.

Go on out and be blessed 2day.

Especially 2day

SoJourner

A Christ Follower: The Journey: Figuring Out Some Of The Stuff.

2012-02-20T14:28:00.000-08:00

A Christ Follower: The Journey: Figuring Out Some Of The Stuff.: He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, ...

Figuring Out Some Of The Stuff.

2012-02-20T14:25:00.000-08:00

He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Isaiah

Did you hear what this ancient Prophet said? He is talking to you and me, 21st century Christ Followers. He is talking about Jesus. He is talking about being up close and personal with our mourning or our grief and pain. He is not talking about stuffing it or running from it like many of us are in the habit of doing.

Think about what I am sayin: When you struggle, keep this in mind... get acquainted with your pain and suffering. Endure it. Experience it. It just might help you let the grief flow freely. You might just grow closer to being free. Then you just might learn what Jesus meant by saying, "Blessed are they that grief. For they will be comforted. "

In other words, let the one acquainted with sorrow, struggles and hardship help you get acquainted with your own. Abide...Feel... Experience... Get"acquainted" with it. Then let the grief flow and receive God's comfort and healing.

This might take a little time, but if you do your grief work, you just might work out your grief and be whole. Works for me, even though it is NOT easy.

SoJourner

The Power Of Receiving Jesus

2012-02-18T09:51:00.000-08:00

He came to his own, but His own simply did not receive Him; however, Those who receive Jesus will find that they receive the power, right and privilege to be Children of God.

John 1:11 & 12

Let me take some time out to think about how I am thinking about what I am thinking about when I think about this portion of God's Ancient Wisdom. First, it begins with Jesus being rejected by those who should have been most close to him. Think about that. Your first experience with your people is one of rejection.

I don't know about you, but given Jesus was in a human body that was perfectly tuned to experience feelings this first encounter with his earthy kin had to be painful. Yet He did not let this get Him down. He simply used this as a means of opening a door for those who were in darkness to walk through this door into new light.

Think about it: He opens this door and says, "Whoever wills to do so, may come." He then gives the invitation, "Come on in, and if you do... if you receive me, I am going to give you some very special power. I am going to give you some new rights. I am going to give you a new privilege: I am going to give you my Divine Nature so you can be adopted as one of my little brothers and sisters. I am going to give you the stuff to be enough to be considered with me as an heir of Almighty God. You will be able to BE God's Child, and you will have all you need to live like a Child of God." Whew! Now that is some GOOOOOOD Stuff.

Listen closely now: He now stands at the door of your heart. (Revelation 3:20). And He is now knocking on the door of your heart, knowing full well that the door knob to your heart is only on the inside. So only you can open this door. He will not knock it down. As He knocks He says, "Just as I invited you into my eternal life, I am now sealing the deal: I want to come into your life." Whatcha gonna do? He won't reject you, if you don't reject Him.

My sincere prayer is, that if you have not already received Him, you will do so right now. Simply say, "Into my heart... into my heart... come into my heart Lord Jesus. Come into day... come into stay... come into my heart, Lord Jesus."

If you do this He will come into your heart and into your life, and He will have fellowship daily with you and you with him. You will be an heir of God and or a Child of God. You will have the Divine power to begin living like it as well.

That's all I have to say for now.

Y'all be blessed 2day... Especially Today.

SoJourner

Game Playing Spirituality: The Worst Kind Of Spirituality.

2012-02-17T09:32:00.000-08:00

Hi Fellow Christ Followers,

I have something I need talk with you about: I want to talk with you about spiritual game playing and or The Worst Kind of Spirituality. You can view this on the accompanying videos, but first let's "chew the fat" a bit... That's southern for, "let's have a chat."

I did not believe spirituality, as sung by Joe South decades ago, could have existed. In fact it use to irritate me a bit to hear his song that talked about this spirituality; yet I enjoyed singing the song. I still do. So I got to thinking, How in the world does this song impact me in two such polar opposite ways? I don't like the message, but I love to sing the song.

As I grew older, I intersected the lives of people who claim to be spiritual who really like to talk about being "spiritual." I mean these folks can really "strike a spiritual pose" or Project Public Personna. BUT their P-P-P is anything BUT spirituality reality.

Jesus had a clear description of these P-P-P...ers. He called them them people who would call HIM "LORD... LORD," but they will NEVER get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Why? His answer: "I never knew you." He did not say, it was "as if I never knew you." He said, "I NEVER knew you." In other words, these folks have, according to Jesus own words, never given their lives to HIM, but they had found out posing could be profitable... much like the religious leaders and lawyers who gave Jesus such headaches. This P-P-Ps becomes self deceived and enslaved as they seek freedom to look good to "man" without being forgiven by God. The P-P-Ps goal is to receive the praise of "Man rather than the praise of God," as Jesus said.

Oh don't get me wrong. Such "Spiritualist" might seem fairly cool, and they may seem like they are really "all that." A whole lot of folks might just love that persona that these "Spiritualist" put out. It's just that such spirituality runs the real risk of being counterfeit. Everyone around may like them a whole lot. But it is kind of suspicious when just about everyone seems to like a spiritual leader. Check out what happened to Jesus and you will get my drift. Everyone really loved him in the circles of the various religious leaders... NOT!

Anyway... My point is this: Be absolutely sure you have done the main thing. Be sure you keep the main thing the main thing: Be sure you have turned from your brokeness and sin. Turn from it and to Jesus. Give Him your life and believe in him. The old word Jesus uses for this is "Repentance." Yup! The best thing you or I can do is "Repent for the Kingdom of God is near." If we do this, God will begin to form God's Character in us: God will begin to produce the Fruit of The Holy Spirit and give us grace to share in HIS life forever... one day at at time.... then our spiritual game playing will begin to come to an end, as new life begins.

Hope I did not scare you too terribly much today.

Because I Want You To Be Blessed Today

Especially Today

Thanks For The Chat:

SoJourner

Trouble

2012-02-16T17:33:00.001-08:00

When trouble knocks us down, we can look up.

God is there

SoJourner

A Christ Follower: The Journey: The Creator's Powerful Promise For When Life Is To...

2012-02-14T15:36:00.000-08:00

A Christ Follower: The Journey: The Creator's Powerful Promise For When Life Is To...: Isaiah 40:28-31 New International Version (NIV) 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of...

The Creator's Powerful Promise For When Life Is Too Much

2012-02-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 40:28-31

New International Version (NIV)

²⁸ Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
²⁹ He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
³⁰ Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
³¹ but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

Meditate on this a while...

And Then...

Be Blessed 2day...

Especially the gift Of this day.

SoJourner

NO-Thing

2012-01-17T08:55:00.000-08:00

A part from me you can do no-thing.

Jesus

Just as a fruit abides in a vine or a tree and is highly productive, we just need to be still and abide in our Creator.

This stillness in our Creator God is one of the most productive things we can do.

SoJourner

Good Or Bad

2012-01-16T10:05:00.000-08:00

For the child of God, weakness is NOT a "bad" thing;

But it is an opportunity for

THE ALMIGHTY

To bring supernatural strength into the weakness

Giving just the right help when it is needed:

A VERY GOOD thing.

A VERY GOOD thing indeed.

SoJourner

A Prayer For You Today

2012-01-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

Show me Your ways, O Lord.

Teach me Your paths.

Guide me in Your truth and teach me.

For You are God my Savior.

My hope is in You all day long.

Psalm 25:4-5

Pray This Today.

Be Still In God's Presence Today

Receive The Answers To What You Pray Today

Be Blessed 2day...

Espcially 2day...

The Only Guaranteed Day.

Sojourner

Living Right Now

2012-01-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

Don't worry about tomorrow. It's going to be taken care of by itself:

Jesus

If you turn back the camera lens from the words Jesus told us above, you will see he is talking about how we focus our days... about how God takes care of even the little birds and such... and about how we prioritize. Birds, flowers and other creations simply abide daily in the Creator's love and care. Everything else is pretty much handled by God. They don't last long... matter of fact... neither do we, when you think about it. But God cares about them and for them.

Where we get "wrapped around the axle" is when our little gods (possessions and the tyranny of time) actually govern who we are, what we are, what we become and, therefore, what we do. The end result is anxiety erupts within us, and we then speed up. As we speed up, adrenalin gets to flowing. So we become more anxious, more hurried an more worried. Then the more hurried/worried we are the more behind we get ..... well you get my drift about serving these little idols.

The point of all this is that Jesus (You know the one who invites us to come unto him and He will give us rest) ... Well He simply says "Trust Me! Abide in me... Right here and right now live in this moment. Change your focus today on WHAT is important. Change your focus on WHO is important. Live by faith in this moment and NOT in the future, which God alone controls, and I will change your level of anxiety."

Give this some thought, and follow it with action. I think you might be surprised what is going to happen. Then...

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day.

The Only Day You Are Guaranteed.

SoJourner

GPS For Today And The Rest.

2012-01-01T12:40:00.000-08:00

If you are led by the Spirit of God, you are are a Child of God.

Paul.

Back in the day, I can remember (when going on trips) I would simply get out ye olde Rand McNally ...AKA a map.. to plan our route. As I became a little more... well... sophisticated... I used trip tickets, ordered by my beloved TLOML. These were sent us by our faithful road protection company, AAA. Later I started listening to my "On Star" give me guidance to keep me from getting lost. BUT then I bought me a Droid with a bonified GPS. I hear you now.... "Progress!"

The thing about this transition is that, when I did it myself with a map, I rarely ever got lost. And if I did, I could ask for direction... yes ladies I am a guy who does ask for directions. The trip tick sometimes took us a hundred miles out of the way... making a 900 mile trip into a thousand. And On Star made its share of errors. With the bugs now out of it, GPS serves me well... that is unless I ask for the WRONG location. OR unless the place I am going is not yet programmed into the Satellite. But over all I do like GPS.

Still, I have to tell you that sometimes I get REAL anxious listening to that lady's voice, especially if I feel like I am going in circles.

Anyway this GPS has put me to me thinking about the Holy Spirit today... for my Pentecostal friends that would be Holy Ghost :o) As I look back over the past 40 plus years, I have learned that this Spirit of the Living God has been faithful to lead me in the right way, even though I sometimes became a little skittish about where I perceived I was going.

Additionally it is REALLY a comfort to, not only know the HOLY SPIRIT leads me. He also is an indicator of my relationship to the Almighty. As Paul says in the WORD.... If we are led by the Spirit of God... we are children of God. Yup! This is a real comforting thought indeed.

Y'all Be Blessed 2day.

Especially 2day.

Take this new year, 2012... 1 step at a time..

1 day at a time...

Take any hardship you see as God's pathway to peace

You will be glad you did.

Where The Spirit Leads You...Follow...

Child of God :o)

SoJourner

Angels Who Are They? What Are They?

2011-12-29T08:14:00.000-08:00

During this Christmas Season, we talk about Angels as a matter of fact. Well... they are a matter of fact, according to God's Word. Check out some of these facts below, and then ....

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day.

SoJourner

Some Facts about Angels

1. They are mentioned 273 times in 34 biblical books.
2. They were all created by God. Gen. 2:1; Neh. 9:6;

            Eph. 3:9; Col. 1:16
3.      They report directly to God. Job 1:6; 2:1
4.      They were present at the Creation of the world.

           Job 38:1, 4, 7
5.      They announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds. Luke 2:10-14
6.      They do not marry. Matt. 22:30
7.      They were created to live forever. Rev. 4:8
8.      Their purpose is to glorify God. Rev. 4:8
9.       Some angels miniter to we who are heirs of Salvation
            Heb. 1:14
10.      Some angels harm human beings. Mark 5:1-5
11.      They are spirit beings. Ps. 104:4; Heb. 1:7, 14
12.      They are can be invisible. Rom. 1:18-32; Col. 2:18;

Rev. 19:10; 22:9
13. They are innumerable. Deut. 33:2; Ps 68:17;

Dan. 7:9-10; Matt. 26:53; Heb. 12:22; Rev. 5:11
14. They possess intelligence. Dan. 9:21-22; 10:14;

             Rev. 19:10; 22:8-9
15.      They possess will. Isa. 14:12-15; Jude 6
16.      They display joy. Job 38:7; Luke 2:13
17.      They display desire. 1 Pet. 1:12
18.      They are stronger than humanity. Ps. 103:20; 2 Thess. 1:7;

2 Pet. 2:11
19. They are more intelligent than humanity. Dan. 9:21-22;

             10:14
20.      They are swifter than humanity. Dan. 9:21; Rev 14:6
21.      They are not omnipresent. Dan. 10:12
22.      They are not omnipotent. Dan. 10:13; Jude 9
23.      They are not omniscient. Matt. 24:36
24.      Some are cherubim. Ezek. 1:1-28; 10:20
25.      Some are seraphs.
26.      The majority remained true to God. Rev. 5:11-12
27.      Those remaing true to the Almighty will join Christ
             Followers in the heavenly Jerusalem Heb. 12:22-23

28. Sometimes they are involved in a person's Calling.

Isa. 6:1-8

29.      You might just entertain and Angel whom you
              think is a human stranger. Hebrews 13:2
30.      One Angel seals Satan's ultimate doom: Revelation 20:1-10
31.      Satan goes under cover as an Angel. 2 Cor. 11:14.

Adapted From Willmington, H. (1987). Willmington's book of Bible lists (17–18). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale.

The Journey

2011-12-27T19:55:00.000-08:00

Life IS An Adventure...

It includes the good, the bad and the ugly...

Not to mention all the other stuff that

makes it... well... "interesting."

What you do with it determines

The outcome and...

How you come out.

So it is important to make each day

A Proverbs 3:5-6

kind of day.

SoJourner

Pondering These Days

2011-12-24T11:51:00.000-08:00

And Mary Pondered All These Things In Her heart...

Last night TLOML and I were sitting across from a HUGE Christmas tree in Lakeland, Florida. The tree is designed to change colors, and so it did. We were just sitting there being together "pondering."

Thinking... I reflected about an FB post about our "Lil Man" at Lego Land just having a good ole time pushing a button. Now there was something wrong with that button. It just would NOT cause anything to happen, and it was really something to see him pondering the situation. Somehow it shoulda, woulda coulda done something when he pushed it. This is only logical to his 1 year old mind. After all his Dad's phone and computer buttons accomplish amazing things :o)

Then I started thinking about Big Stuff and Lil bit, as they were crushing up something on the floor that Mom needed as a special ingredient for a special Christmas dish. Can't remember exactly what it was that they were helping with, but is sure looked like a good Christmas thing to be doing :o) Looked like they were kind of enjoying it as well.

Later I "pondered" about the challenges faced by our adult children and their spouses as they journey together with their families (and The Loves Of Their Lives.) This year has really been a year of more than their share of mountains to climb. TLOML and I prayed and prayed for them and offered them support as they needed. But at this stage of life things are different from decades gone by. Pondered how different it is to have moved being the "directors" roles of their lives (When they were children) to observers offering support. Yup! Challenges and joys... all a part of each one of their journeys. They seem to be making daily progress, as they climb their individual and collective mountains, with God's help.

Continuing to ponder, I thought about my parents, now gone to be with the LORD. For some reason I think about them and how they journeyed as their Children and grands ... later great grands ... moved through this Odyssey of life. I pondered how strange it feels to have moved so quickly through so many stages of life to arrive here at the beginning of being "seasoned" citizens... This presents it own challenges. As Betty Davis once said, "Getting old ain't for sissies."

Through all of this pondering about change, challenges, aging, joy and sorrow... well... I feel a sense of gratitude. (I am thinking Mary--the mother of our LORD-- must have felt the same.) Why? Because none of this is meaningless. Quite the contrary... it is full of meaning. The Creator is fulfilling HIS plan through us, and we all get to participate! We all get to live FULLY! And everything HE brings us to HE will surely see us through. Even with the aging that brings our bodies to the place of the next stage... heaven... we get to experience life to the full!!! So in our joy and our sorrow (and everything in between) we have as our God and guide the ONE in whom we live, and move, and breath and have our being. We are NOT alone. Yes indeed... I am grateful today, and feeling a bit blessed.

Y'all Be ?Blessed 2day

Especially 2day.

SoJourner

THE REALITY OF WHAT IS REALLY REAL

2011-12-12T18:12:00.000-08:00

When you realize the true SPIRITUAL power behind the grace that God imparts to you, you will experience realized transformation... and NOTHING can stop you from the reality of God's purposes being fulfilled in you and through you.

Think About It.

Then Be Blessed 2day... Especially 2day

SoJourner

Tracking Right

2011-12-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

When you do what is right,

you are on the right track,

and when you are on the right track,

you are definitely going in the right direction... AND when you are going in the right direction,

you will surely rest in the right place

and nestle in the loving arms of our Creator.

Remember, though, the journey starts, continues and finishes throughout eternity IN HIM, if you believe Him and follow where HE leads.

Be Blessed 2day

Especially 2day

SoJourner

Just Thinking

2011-12-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

If we lack wisdom, God simply says "Ask for it." (Check Out James 1:5) So, I was just thinking and wondering "Why we are not seeing a whole lot of this supernatural insight, based on the data base of the Ancient of Days, being demonstrated?" I know when I take God at HIS word on this, some amazing insights govern my journey.

Again...Just thinking.

You All Be Blessed 2day... Especially 2day

SoJourner

God Speaking #2

2011-11-30T18:17:00.000-08:00

Based On 23rd Psalm & Parts of John's Gospel,

Philippians 4:13 & 19, Hebrew 13:5.

and 1 John 3:8

I AM THE Good Shepherd.

I laid down my life for you who are my sheep.

No one forced me to do this.

I chose to do this...

Because I love you.

I AM your Shepherd, and if you follow me,

you will NOT lack any good thing.

I will supply your every need...

Not according your capabilities,

but according to My

riches In

Glory.

I will cause you to lie down

and rest in some very pleasant places,

By my Spirit I will lead you through quiet places

where you need to go.

I will reach into the depths of your being.

And I WILL actually

restore your soul.

When you have choices to make,

I will lead you in the path of the right way.

I will do this because my integrity

is on the line.

I have promised you this.

I do this for My own name's sake.

So follow me.

Even when you are going through some VERY

dark times,

I will give you the power

to NOT be afraid.

I have conquered evil.

So you do not need to fear it.

I WILL be present with you.

You are never alone.

I will NEVER leave you:

Nor will I forsake you.

I will take the rod of my power and drive off

the enemy of your soul.

And when you fall, my staff's hook...

Well it will fit perfectly around you.

And I will pick you up from the low

place to which you

have fallen.

I will dust you off.

I will help you start over again.

I tell you this so you will be comforted.

If you find yourself surrounded by

Your enemies, just sit at the

table with them.

I have prepared this table for you.

So you are the honored guest.

Never forget you have the Good Shepherd's

Resurrection Power.

You may be very surprised how

strong you are, just sitting there with them.

You need not fear what a woman

or a man can do to you.

You will be able to do whatever you need.

I am sitting right there with you.

Remember I prepared this event.

You can count on this:

Goodness and Mercy WILL follow you

ALL the days of your life.

And

You will... one day...

Dwell in My House

Forever!

JESUS!

Reflect On These Sayings.

Take your time to hear what God is saying.

Then...

Be Blessed 2day...

Especially 2day...

The only day God guarantees.

SoJourner

God Speaking

2011-11-20T19:49:00.000-08:00

I love you so much

that I gave up my only biological Son.

He surreneded, by the way, even unto death.

Now, if you will believe in Him,

you will never perish, but you will share in my life

forever.

I call this Eternal life.

You see, I did not send my Son into the world to

condemn you.

No, I sent him to save you.

NO ONE who believes in Him is condemned.

But let me be VERY clear.

Turn your back on Him and refuse to believe in Him...

Well... You are condemned already,

Why? Because when you refuse to believe
in Him.
You are rejecting my love and my gift of eternal life.

Choose life.

Believe in MY Son's Name... It is JESUS!

Chose to be forgive.

Don't Perish.

Acquire Eternal life...
Share In MY life forever!
This is what I want just for you.!

Don't make the wrong choice!

Be forgiven of every single sin today!

God

Based On John 3:16-18

The Power Of A Well Timed Tear. Pure Poetry.

2011-11-15T13:29:00.000-08:00

Back in the day when ole SoJourner was just about 21 years of age... You can add 40 to that now... Crying was not a thing that a man "should" do. In fact we even had songs about tears, and not many of them were flattering. "Big Girls Don't Cry" told the "big" girls about crying. As for the guys... well does "Lonely Teardrops" or "To Many Tear Drops " encourage a healthy EQ? NOPE! Gotta tell you not a lot helped us to see the value in these little of pellets of water.

Then of course tears still are viewed as a sign of weakness. So, if we let one flow out the canal for which our Creator created it, we say, "I am so sorry." What is up with that? Yup! weakness is sure demonstrated when we cry; yet studies show that when we cry "happy tears" these tears are made up of one chemical make up, and "sad tears" are made up of "other stuff." Matter of fact, it appears that when we cry "sad tears", we are actually taking toxic materials out of our body. HMMMM?

Anyway, back when I was 21, I learned a big lesson about crying. Cannot tell you the story surrounding the lesson I learned. That is for another blog. The experience was so powerful that I wrote a poem. Now true poets might think this little poem is like junk. But for me it is a small miracle. Here is how it goes:

Tears are NOT bad ... they are good.

They help get the hurt out, as they indeed should.

Like the pressure valve of the soul

They help make you whole.

And they set you free!!!

As you pour out tears to God

They help you to grieve.

This little poem, when I really thought about its message... well...

It Changed My Life!

Never forget, when you are hurting:

JESUS WEPT!

Do you need to cry?

Then go on out and use those tears ducts for what God

intended them to be.

Then Be Blessed 2day... Especially 2day

SoJourner

Comfort From The Logos

2011-11-15T13:00:00.000-08:00

I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.

⁵¹Listen, I tell you a mystery:

We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—

⁵²in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.

For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

⁵³For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable,

and the mortal with immortality.

⁵⁴When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable,

and the mortal with immortality,

then the saying that is written will come true:

"Death has been swallowed up in victory."

"Where, O death, is your victory?

Where, O death, is your sting?"

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.

⁵⁷But thanks be to God!

He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!!!

Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

1 Corninthians 15:50-58

Comfort From Yeshuah: A Paraphrase

2011-11-14T16:22:00.000-08:00

"Do not let your hearts be troubled, and don't allow them to be afraid. You believe in God. Believe also in me. ²In my Father’s house are many beautiful heavenly dwellings; and one of them has been built just for you. If it were not so, I would not have even mentioned it.

I went all the way to the Holiest Place (Heaven) to prepare a place for you. ³When it is your time, I will come back and get you, and though it is hard for you to understand, my timing is perfect........You will not be alone. I really want you to be with me. Remember I worked very hard to make this possible for you.

Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you, and it is nothing like the peace the world can give. This peace is potent; therefore use this peace that is my gift to you, and don't let your hearts be troubled neither let them be afraid.

Jesus

"Good Reception"

2011-11-14T12:49:00.000-08:00

But as many as received Him, to them HE gave the power to become Children of God. John

I was in a fare size edifice the other day, an ye olde Droid just did NOT receive a signal... not even one bar. Now it did NOT matter that this is one of those 4G jobbies. It just did not work. It did not matter that it has the capability, when it comes on to say the way cool "Droid." This fine peace of technological material was worthless and failed miserably to live up to its identity? Why? Simple. NO connection.

Long time ago I did make a connection. I opened up may heart to receive by faith Jesus... whom I firmly believe is unquestionably the Son of God and one with God... if you get my drift. Ever since I received Him, I received the special stuff to be enough to truly live, character flaws and all.

Oh I do have my good days, bad days, happy days and sad days. I do have those times when I am up, and I have those days when I am down. I have those days when I smile and those days when I frown. I have those days when I am weak, and I when I am strong... not to mention stuff inbetween. But it's not the same as merely existing because in receiving him, unlike ye olde droid, I always get the signal and He never will disconnect.

You see it's a faith journey. It's a "whosoever believeth in Him" journey. And this journey with Jesus demonstrates clearly that "Life is indeed and adventure!"

I hope you chose to have 'good reception." I hope you hold on the the Lord's hand (one day at a time one step at a time ... and do so by faith.

Then I pray

Your WILL be Blessed Today

Especially Today

Sojourner

Veteran's

2011-11-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

Veteran's Day here in the good ole USA is rapidly coming on us. This is a time when we honor our military personnel who have served our Nation wearing the uniform of this Nation with pride. This is a special day for me. After all I have journeyed through many years of my life wearing uniforms worn by our military for the last 4 decades. In other words I served in our military throughout a significant chunk of our nation's entire history. How old is the USA again????

Why? Why would a man give up so much time and space to do such a thing? I was not a combatant, but I experienced and saw some awfully horrific stuff. AND no one knows really what I did besides the public persona.

Well I will tell you why? This nation has a document that says something like this. "We are endowed by our Creator by certain unalienable rights.... Life... Liberty... AND the pursuit of happiness." NO other nation has such a document. Everything about this document smacks of super naturalness. Historical revisionists try to deny how Christ Followers have had such a huge influence on the forming of this nation, but it makes little difference to me.

I made a promise at 19 years of age to my God that I repeated time and time again. I promised to uphold The Constitution of The United States of America and defend it against ALL enemies... foreign and domestic. I make this promise today. I do this because I am a Veteran of The Armed Forces of The United States of America. I want my wife, children and grandchildren to know that they have freedoms that are unimaginable today in other nations. Because of this document and because of the willingness of women and men who carried a red, white and blue flag... because of these who sacrificed more than most... we are free!

Please say THANK YOU this week to one of our Veterans. Go to a parade. Attend an event. Shake a hand... BE appreciative. It is really surprising how these women and men feel when someone says to them.. Thank you.

Go be blessed 2day... Especially 2day.

SoJourner

Centering Your Soul

2011-11-08T12:44:00.000-08:00

David once ask of his soul, "Why are you cast down O my soul? And why are you so disquieted within me?" Then he said, "Hope in the LORD who made the heavens and the earth."

There are a few things that stand out for me. Soul talk (talking to your self) does NOT make you crazy. Second: Seeking answers through your soul is good... especially when a revelation like David shared comes to your mind. Third it appears that our emotions (disquieted or otherwise) find their seat in your soul.

Now I said all that to say this: If we want to overcome some of the stresses... or I should say DIS-stresses of life, we would do well to focus on what is going on in our souls. We would do well to center our selves on God (Put our hope in him) and find peace in the LORD and strength from within.

David said this another way: "Be still and experience God." Yup! He is not saying "Don't just sit there... do something!" He is saying, "Don't just do something sit there!"

Anyway, there is no way I can teach you all this in one blog. But I have attached a few videos addressing how you can begin this journey. Check them out above.

Now these are Christian Based and not some of the other things that can easily be counterfeit. They are shared simply. And I hope you simply give them a try.

Then you will be...

blessed 2day

Especially 2day.

SoJourner.

Coping With Betrayal

2011-10-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been betrayed or bullied or mistreated. The Psalmist David figured out a plan. You can try it out today.

Sit still for a while in a sacred place and make it your sacred space. Open up ye olde Bible to Psalm 140 and Pray all the way through to Psalm 150. Don't be surpised if you stop (unententionally of course) along the way to think as you pray and then praise.

Now I am certain, if you sincerely pray, God will answer these prayers and praise in HIS own Holy way; however, while you are praying nothing may change, at the moment.

I take that back... you will.

BE BLESSED TODAY.... ESPECIALLY TODAY

SoJourner

To Offend Or Not To Offend... Now That's A Good Question:

2011-10-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

Some friends and I had a live discussion on Face book about the Golden Rule and also when it is appropriate to offend. Thanks C and D for the interaction. It's so good to have friends like you.

*****

C. Surely our A. wasn't afraid to offend anyone.

SoJourner: I don't like offending anyone, and I try to treat everyone with by the Golden Rule. But sometimes it does happen.

********

C: Al, we love you. I understand living by the Golden Rule but isn't it time that all Christians spoke up. They've taken prayers out of our schools and look at what's happened. They've tried to take God out of everything in our daily lives. Our government has done this, regardless of who is in office. Like many others, I am unhappy with our political parties, yet we live in the greatest country on this planet.

******

D: I know what your saying about offending, but The Holy Bible offends...its sharper then a two edged sword,...the presence of Jesus offended the scribes, pharisees, saducees, and others (thus he was crucified)....all that are living a life contrary to Gods word are offended by it because it makes them feel condemed. How can one be saved until he realizes he is lost? The Word of God gives us strength and peace and comfort ...it teaches us about Love and kindness...but it must also be a tool for correction when we walk contrary to His Will....Considering the cunning and malice of Satan, and the weakness and depravity of men's hearts, it is not possible but that there should be offences. God permits them for wise and holy ends, that those who are sincere, and those who are not, may be made known...We have to stand for God and America even at the expense of offending someone.

********

SoJourner

You are not getting any argument out of me. I have, many times, been the last man standing and paid for it for standing for Jesus and what is right. When you are a Christ Follower and not just a believer, it costs. Since much of my ministry is smack dab in the middle of the world and not in the safe cozy confines of a church building, I know what it means to stand up... even if it offends. I simply believe that Speaking the truth in love and seeking to apply the Golden rule are both primary when being a Christ Follower.

********

SoJourner We can speak the truth in love, apply the Golden Rule and stand up for the truth that sets folks free. I just don't believe that these always have to be mutually exclusive. Will folks get offended? I have few comments:

First, when we are the light of the world, people will be automactically either drawn to the light or hate the light. Hence, two folks standing side by side could react differently. One could have their life changed. The other could throw a rock at you and be offended. The offense is in the eye of the beholder.

Second, when i shine the light, I can shine it as a lamp for their feet and a light for there path. This will help them find THE WAY! OR I could shine the light in their eyes and hurt them... making them fall. The offense is in the one holding or the one shining the light.

Finally, we all answer to God. We will all stand before God in Judgement one day. So I ask myself, "Self will I uncover the light for folks to see it and experience the Salvation of The Lord?" OR.. "Will I cover it up so that they don't get a chance to come to the light... OR... will I shine it in their eyes blinding them and helping them to be offended." I have 3 choices. But God is the "Eternal Decider."

In other words, we all will stand before the Judgement Seat Of Christ. Will This Eternal Decider say "Well done my good and faithful servant?" or not?

So here is where I am coming from: We must absolutely incorporate Jesus teachings, if we are shining his light appropriately, whether it offends or does not. Because ultimately we answer to God. Sooooo...we need to be good stewards of what HE has given us. WHEW! Sorry for bloviating so much:0} BTW. I love you too.

I Really Do Appreciate C & D Comenting

What Say Ye Christ Follower?

SoJourner

From Weakness To Strength.

2011-10-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

God's grace is sufficient for you.

At your weakest point, you will find HIM

right there making you strong

enough for all that you

are facing.

Paul... Sort of :o)

Okay... so today has not been one of what you would call my better days. But then again, it might just be. Because I found out a lot of people responded to my plea for prayer. And I also found out that the "God who had brought me to this day has now brought me through this day!" I mean it really is getting late here in the ole EDST Zone.

Don't get me wrong. I was so weak in body in so many ways that I could not tell you. Due to the lateness of the day, I still am; yet, through it all I found the stuff to be enough! God did make me strong enough and I became enough... even though I have felt kind of rough.

This Christ Following Thing is the real deal. It works for everyday living. It does not mean you won't have troubles. But it does give you God's Divine power that makes you want to say with Paul,

I can do ALL things through

Christ who gives me my strength!!!

Philippians 4:13.

Try this out for your self

You will be glad you did.

Then ...

Be a blessed 2day

to be a blessing 2day.

SoJourner.

Investing In Your Future

2011-10-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

Lay up treasures in heaven, where moth nor rust destroys & where thieves do not break in and steal.

Where is your Treasure being invested?

Denying Yourself

Taking Up The Cross of Jesus

Following Him

Gives you retirement

Benefits

That Are Out Of This World :o)

Now Go Out And Be A Blessing

Today.

Especially Today.

Then You Will Be Blessed Today.
And Remember
Some Blessings Just May Be Disguised.
Check Out Laura Story's Video Above.

SoJourner

The Power O God's New Covenant

2011-10-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

God made an eternal covenant with each one of us, if we want to participate: All we need to do to have life is to turn from our brokenness and sin to the Son of God (Jesus) by faith. Check out what's next to see how life changing is this Eternal Covenant. The benefits are out of this world:

The Blood of Christ Gives You The Power To Be Clean and defeat Satan.

Hebrews 9:22 And Revelation 12:11

The Body Of Christ Gives You The Power Top Be And Sets You Apart For Holy Use By The Lord.

Hebrews 10:10

The Beatification By Christ's Sacrifice Makes You Perfect In God's Sight.

Colossians 1:22-23 & Hebrews 10:14

The Beautiful Transformation Comes From HIS Blood And Body Resulting In God Changing Your Heart and Your Mind.

Hebrews 10: 15-16

The Bold Daily Journey Provided By The "Torn Curtain" Of His Body Opens The Way To a Precious Relationship With The Father.

Hebrews 10: 17-20

The Blessed Cleansing Of This Daily Relationship Takes Away The Guilty Conscience & Makes You Pure.

Hebrews 10:21-23

Let Jesus make you an Entirely

New Creation 2day,

And Then Really Be Blessed 2day...

Especially 2day.

SoJourner

Bumps In The Journey

2011-10-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

When you, like everyone else is,

are on this journey that we call living,

the trip can become anxiety ridden and very unforbidding;

yet I am learning,

if I shorten my view of the time span,

and grab tightly (by faith) to God's strong

strength giving hand,

I find I am able to... well... stand.

Then I can begin, in time, to see HIS plan,

but once I have the plan,

I put it in the back of my mind.

Then I step into the future

gaining strength,

as I live one moment to one day at a time...

firmly believing...

that life IS indeed an Adventure.

Think about this and be blessed 2-day...

Especially 2day.

It is the only guaranteed day

you have :o)

SoJourner.

Giving God A Present

2011-10-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

God Wants To Hear

Your Prayers

More Than You Want

To Pray Your Prayers.

Why Not Give Him A Present?

Present Your Requests

Him.

SoJourner

Some Reason Why Iran Wants To Kill This Pastor

2011-10-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

There are a number of reasons the Iranian Imams and religious zealots want to kill this pastor. For some interesting details, view the videos above, especially the comments of a Muslim American who wants him freed.

This Pastor converted to Christ at age 19, and is now in his 30s. He has a house church of around 400 saints, which he was instrumental in building. He is one of around 200 people being sentenced for becoming Christians recently... and the list goes on. Please stay informed. Please pray for this man and the persecuted Church around the world

SoJourner

Help Stop An Execution!!!

2011-09-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

Today, ACLJ attorneys confirmed with Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani's attorney in Iran, Mohammad Ali Dadkhah, that the death sentence still stands. Mr. Dadkhah stated that at the end of yesterday's hearing, three of the five judges appeared to be leaning toward annulling Pastor Youcef's sentence.

Recognizing, however, that the judges' decision is not final and may be swayed by outside pressure before delivering the final verdict, he urges the international community to continue to cry out for Pastor Youcef's unconditional release until he walks free from the jailhouse.

The White House Press Secretary just released the following statement:

The United States condemns the conviction of Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani. Pastor Nadarkhani has done nothing more than maintain his devout faith, which is a universal right for all people. That the Iranian authorities would try to force him to renounce that faith violates the religious values they claim to defend, crosses all bounds of decency, and breaches Iran's own international obligations. A decision to impose the death penalty would further demonstrate the Iranian authorities' utter disregard for religious freedom, and highlight Iran's continuing violation of the universal rights of its citizens. We call upon the Iranian authorities to release Pastor Nadarkhani, and demonstrate a commitment to basic, universal human rights, including freedom of religion.

While this is a huge step in the right direction, it is crucial that we continue to pressure Secretary of State Clinton to take direct action to save this pastor's life.

Join the ACLJ's efforts to stop this brutal application of Shariah law, and click below:

sign the Petition to Secretary of State Clinton - Call on Iran to save Christian Pastor Youcef from execution for his faith.

Miraculous Wisdom!

2011-09-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

When all the voices fall silent,

and no one even speaks,

I am so grateful to the Almighty that
that He speaks ...and speaks ... and speaks.

As we listen to Him speaking

He gives us strength

so that we will not fall.

It is then that He gives us wisdom

to experience the ONE who is ALL In ALL

It is then He gives us the ability

to pray for that which we would have

never prayed...

if we had listened for mere human voices

to guide what we say when we pray.

Through the silence,

He gives us what others think we have not even heard;nevertheless ...

we hear distinctly His silent HOLY Words.

When God does this, He empowers us "

to abide"

And in this abiding we find Him deep inside.

In this sweet communion, we pray

according to His will.

Praise God for this Miraculous Wisdom!!!

It Comes when we are still.

SoJourner

Life Is An Adventure: K-I-S-S

2011-09-08T05:34:00.000-07:00

Life is an adventure, come what may. But I am learning it is a better adventure,

if you dream,

but you live in the moment of this day.

This way you hope for the future,

but you walk the godly way...

because there is enough "stuff" going on just during today...

Keep It Simple Saints ... well... it is the healthy/holy way.

Now go on out and be blessed 2day ... especially 2day.

Sojourner

Heavens Group Hug

2011-09-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

This life is truly like a vapor.

Though when we are young,

we can hardly see the mist.

I guess this is a Divine blessing

until loved ones pass and they are suddenly... well...

they are missed.

But know for sure this earthly/eternal truth:

Death is part of living.

and when this transitory earthly journey evaporates,

Christ Followers find that life is just beginning.

So make it a goal to dream big dreams,

and be sure to live one day at a time.

For life is truly an adventure

where God controls all the reason and rhyme.

You can be sure, for a time,

we may miss our loved ones who are no longer here;

yet one day when our life's vapor passes from this earthly sphere,

we will once again hold them so very close...

so very near and dear.

BUT in THE eternal dimension, we will not pass away!

We will see each other face to face.

We will hold on tight, with eternal grace,

for all eternity in a supernatural

{{{group hug}}}

WITH JESUS!!!

in the loving Saviors never ending embrace.

SoJourner

Facing The Challenging Moment In Time

2011-09-01T18:04:00.000-07:00

Abiding with Jesus is the foundational principle for life, growth, renewal, and fruitful living: As a branch can do no-thing without being connected and remaining in the vine, even so a Christ Follower can BE NO-thing without being still one day at a time (In Christ) as he/she truly lives in the moment.

There really is a season in life when the Lord does NOT say, "Don't just sit there do something." There is actually a season when he says, "Don't just do something... sit there." "Be still and know God."

Well what about when trouble comes? Good question. On these occasions, the the Christ Follower does well accepting any hardship in life as being under God's control and HIS pathway to peace. Why? Because nothing takes God by surprise!

Therefore, by faith, keep putting one foot in front of the other, and continue to abide in the Lord and follow the Holy Spirit's lead. God will not only allow you to be brought to the challenging moment in time, but God will indeed get you through the challenging moment in time. I truly believe this, and I know this works for me.

Now you all go on out and...

Blessed 2day... Especially Today

SoJourner

Minute Miraculous Living

2011-08-29T18:01:00.000-07:00

Living today (in this very moment) after you have surrendered to God's eternal vision, is a visionary way of living a peaceful journey that will (moment by moment) guide you in Christ Like living. These, in God's time, bear wonderful fruit predicated upon God multplying the small things into miracles.

Be Blessed Today ... Especially In Each Moment

SoJourner

Having Peace Formed Within Us

2011-08-28T05:51:00.000-07:00

Receiving the Peace of Christ helps our hearts to not be troubled nor afraid. This comes directly from THE PRINCE OF PEACE who produces a spirit of peace making; and it creates in us a deep abiding peace, which in turn forms us into peace makers. This also gives us a healthy, whole, happy and merciful sense of well being. Yes indeed! Yeshua is the one that produces in us the peace that surpasses anything we can comprehend. HE is indeed the God of Peace.

Y'all Be Blessed Now... Ya Hear?

SoJourner

Connecting With Supernatural Power.

2011-08-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

The power of God is a daily event in the lives of those who humble themselves and vent their heart felt cries to THE ALMIGHTY!!!

SoJourner

THE KEY TO BEING A CHRIST FOLLOWER

2011-08-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

The key to being a Christ Follower, is not found in how others identify you, it is in how God identifies you. It is not in what others think of you, but it is in what God thinks of you. It is not in what others say about you, but it is in what God says about you. Finally, as a Christ Follower, your behavior does NOT determine your identity IN Christ, but your identity IN Christ [predicated on God's New Convenant entertwined with the gospel]... Well It IS POWERFULLY TRANSFORMATIONAL! AND it surely will determine how you behave.

Now that's the "Gospel Truth." Believe it. Receive it. Benefit from it... BE BLESSED ! ! !

SoJourner

Busting Up A Storm

2011-08-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

Somewhere along the way I heard Jesus say, "You have not because you ask not." After having lived in Florida, I have seen this up close and personal. Since the mid- 1990s, except the year of Katrina and 3 other hurricanes that came right over my humble abode, I prayed for God to weaken, move away or destroy hurricanes. That's right. The only year I did not ask, we had a rough year in Florida and Louisana had a disaster. These are the facts... whether you believe it or not does not alter the truth. One thing is for certain: I will never ever not pray (if God gives me the opportunity) about these monsters again. God can always tell me "NO," which He has not done so far, but HE does make it clear He desires we ask, if we want to receive. God still rules the winds and the waves! He is in control.

HE is also in control of your personal storms. Got any of those in your life? Any spiritual storms? Any emotional storms? Any relational storms? Got any financial storms? Got any physical storms? Come on. Step up in faith: Don't be a person who says, "All I can do is pray." Make sure the first thing you do is pray. Turn the storms over to Jesus to help you work them out. In other words, give God a shot at busting up the storms of your life... Or let HIM atleast get you through them. Then...

You WILL Be Blessed 2day

Especially 2day.

SoJourner

The Power Of A "Dawg>"

2011-08-19T15:50:00.000-07:00

Somebody, when talking about therapy dogs, once told me, "dog is God spelled backwards." Now to some of you reading this blog it might sound "out there" if you get my drift; yet when you see how the LORD uses people like Kyria and her Paws for people, you will see that HE certainly plans something special when HE brings a dog into your life.

I want y'all to check out www.helpkyria.com/blog-posts/ I do think you will be amazed at the power of God unleashed that provides healing for a broken, weak, ailing, wounded or simply defeated person.

I am a personal witness of watching these dogs being trained behind bars. I have seen first hand the tremendous positively divine healing impact this had on these young inmates.

I also have experienced the power of a loving dog simply placing his chin on my chest shortly after I had a heart attack. I was "out," and I did not even know he was around, but when we connected I felt life coming back into me in a powerful way.

Come on. Check out this site. Check out these dogs. And when you do you will be...

Blessed 2day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

A Simple Call To Praise With Promises

2011-08-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

Psalm 67

For the director of music. With stringed instruments. A psalm. A song.

May God be gracious to us and bless us

and make his face shine upon us, Selah

that your ways may be known on earth,

your salvation among all nations.

May the peoples praise you, O God;

may all the peoples praise you.

⁴

May the nations be glad and sing for joy,

for you rule the peoples justly

and guide the nations of the earth. Selah

⁵

May the peoples praise you, O God;

may all the peoples praise you.

⁶

Then the land will yield its harvest,

and God, our God, will bless us.

⁷

God will bless us,

and all the ends of the earth will fear him.

Why Not Make This Your

Psalm Of Praise 2day

And Be Blessed 2day

Especially 2day.

Sojourner

The Sarum Prayer

2011-08-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

God be in my head,

and in my understanding;

God be in my eyes,
and in my looking;

God be in my mouth,
and in my speaking;

God be in my heart,
and in my thinking;

God be at my end,
and at my departing.

Have you ever heard this prayer before? Many people probably have. It is also called the "Sarum Prayer" because it comes from the Sarum Primer. The Sarum Primer is a collection of prayers and worship resources developed in Salisbury, England, during the 13th century. It was used throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, as well as some parts of continental Europe, until the Reformation. It continues to be valued today because of its beautiful expressions of faith and devotion.

Why not make it a part of your prayer life today, and ...

Be Blessed 2-day and Every Day

SoJourner

Just A Thought

2011-08-06T03:39:00.000-07:00

Walking in the wilderness is God's way of directing us indirectly to our eternal purposes.

SoJourner

Proverbs 16:3

2011-08-06T03:25:00.000-07:00

³ Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and HE will establish your plans.

Be Blessed 2-day

SoJourner

HE GRADUATED

2011-07-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

In the past several days, he graduated. In fact he has graduated quite a few times. Reportedly he graduated from high school... but barely... or so he told me :o) Then while serving at San Vito Dei Normanii Areo Stationi, he graduated, receiving a 2 year degree... then a 4 year degree... then a Master's Degree. Actually in the entire history of this Air Base (It is closed now) he is the only person to do this. And he earned each degree by discipline, hard work and study.

Now this is important. I am talking about a graduation that is different: This time he did not earn the graduation. Although he was about as good a man as I have ever met, he did not rely on his work ethic to receive the privilege of this graduation. Oh yes he loved about as much as any person I have known. He loved his beloved, Miwha (and his newly adopted children) until the day he graduated. Still does. He gave even the "shirt off is back" to you, if he thought you needed it. He came from the "old school" where his word was his bond. If he told you something, you could count on it. He was not much on pretense, either. What you saw in him is what you got. Some liked this about Charlie. Some did not. If you were his friend, you were a friend for life. In fact, just a few days before his graduation, he called me to tell me he had a heart attack, but he did not want me to worry. Because of that call I was blessed with the opportunity to tell him, one more time "I love you, Charlie." I had no clue that he would be traveling on in just a few hours.

I mentioned San Vito: He and his beloved Miwha were key to the success of our Chapel ministry there. Charlie even helped me set up a couple of retreats for our men's groups. I believe he did this for other Chaplains long before I arrived there. Yes, Charlie did NOT graduate to glory because of his works, but he did so because he was and still is a Christ Follower. He and his beloved Miwha... know Jesus.

In parts of this blog, I have spoken of this "Saint" (One declared righteous by God through faith in Jesus) as if he exists in the past. Gotta stop that. He is still alive and well as a part of that "great cloud of witnesses" (See Hebrews 12:1ff) who are cheering us on from glory. I have tasted of that place a little myself. So I know it is real. I know just how close this other dimension we call Heaven really is. Yup! Charlie has run his race, finished his course, is absent from this body and present with the Lord. He has graduated from The Church Militant to the Church Triumphant!

So why am I writing this? That's a good question. Maybe I am writing this because I have had 3 heart attacks and I have learned how important it is to give each day to God and live one day at a time, seeking first God's Kingdom and HIS righteousness above all else??? [And because of my deep abiding love for them, I have tried to communicate this core value of mine to my loved ones.] Maybe its because my experiences with death to life have taught me just how easy it is to depart this place we call earth in a moment and twinkling of an eye, when it is least expected??? Maybe I am wanting to emphasize to all you - world wide - who read this blog (people I love like family, friends -- and people I do not even know nor will ever meet) to please make your "calling and election sure" above all else??? Maybe its because I have just let go of another friend to our blessed LORD, and I miss him? (There are getting to be more family, friends and loved ones graduating daily than ever before.) Maybe I wanted to provide Charlie with a tribute??? Maybe its because I have tasted of a little bit of Heaven, and I have some sense of the absolute Love, Joy, Peace and compassion into which Charlie has now graduated??? [See attached "I Can Only Imagine" video above] Maybe it is because of everything I have stated above??? I really don't know for sure, but God's love has certainly compelled me to write this today.

Whatever your station in life, please listen to what I am about to say: You may have little or have a lot. You may be highly educated or have minimal education. You may be a powerful person or have no power at all. Get ready to graduate! The opportunity to do so may come unexpectedly as it did for my friend Charlie. We really do NOT have tomorrow guaranteed this side of Heaven, but we have an eternity of tomorrows, if we deny ourselves, take up Jesus Cross and follow HIM.

Be Blessed 2day... Especially 2day...

It is the only one guaranteed this side of Heaven.

See You Later Charlie...

On The Other Side.

SoJourner

I AM SAYS "I AM FOR YOU."

2011-07-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

"God is for me." Psalm 56: 9b

It is difficult for we who journey together on this earth to fully grasp the full meaning of this delightful phrase,

"God is for me:"

But let's try to grasp it anyway:

He was "for us" before the worlds were made.
He was "for us," or He would not have given His well-beloved Son.
He was "for us" when He sacrificed His Only-begotten, and laid the full weight of His wrath upon Him—He was "for us," though for a while He forsook Him;
He was "for us," when we were ruined by the rebellion and fall of our ancient ancestors, Adam and Eve —He loved us, nevertheless.
He was "for us," when we were rebels against Him, turned away from Him and did not believe. He drew us to Himself by the power of the Holy Spirit.
He was for us when He gave us the glorious opportunity to "not perish but have eternal life," if we would only believe in His Son.
He was "for us," or He would not have brought us humbly to seek His face.
He has been "for us" in many struggles we have encountered (or will encounter.) Yes in, all kinds of challenges, we have been tempted inside and out —how could we have gained the strength to carry on, to this hour, if He had not been "for us"?
He is "for us," with all the infinity of His being; with all the omnipotence of His love; with all the infallibility of His wisdom; arrayed in all His divine attributes,
He is "for us,"—eternally and absolutely "for us". And because He is "for us," a short, secret, simple, sincere, specific prayer, uttered by us in a whisper, will always be heard from His Throne on High. "When I cry unto YOU, then shall my enemies be turned back." (This is especially true of the enemy of our souls.)

I am not talking about an uncertain hope, but a well grounded experiential assurance—"this I know." I will direct my prayer unto THE ALMIGHTY ONE who is for me. I will look to Heaven (where ever Heaven may be) for the answer(s). I have faith that it will come and it indeed does come: When my enemies (or my "demons" of Spiritual warfare, mental battles, physical battles, addictions, temptations, trials and sins come against me) they are defeated... one day at a time... one step at a time...in one moment of a time... one challenge at a time, as I surrender to my Creator who makes me a new creation and sustains me. Out of my most weak moments He grace provides me with strength and His grace is sufficient for me, even when I fall. "For God is for me," each new day as we journey together and as I surrender to HIM.

O Christ Follower, "Put on the full armor of God" today and each day. "Deny yourself. Take up the Cross" and follow Jesus today and each new day. "Present your body as a living sacrifice" (by faith) to Him today and each new day. Commit your life, with all its challenges, each new day, to the ONE who is for you! Then you will experience the grace and power of the King of kings and Lord of lords, who is I AM!

Think about how much better off you are with The God who is for you leading, guiding and directing your daily journey. Yes... just slow down and take time to think about what I am saying. Think about how sure your cause is when it is pleaded by such an Advocate, like Jesus. Think about what it is like when you walk with the LORD in the light of His WORD. Think about what this means "If God be for y-o-u, who can be against you?" One thing is for certain, and you can absolutely count on it being true...

Y-O-U ARE NOT ALONE!

Now Be Blessed 2-day... Especially 2-day ... And each new day...

SoJourner

GOD WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU

2011-07-11T02:54:00.000-07:00

Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fall.

(Psalm 55:22)

Do we as Christians trust God for salvation and eternal life yet at times doubt that He will tenderly care for us in our daily life? We all seem to need reassurance of God’s concern for us in troublesome times. That’s why this hymn, God Will Take Cere of You, has brought comfort and encouragement to so many Christians—it reminds us that the Lord cares deeply for His children. We need not worry no matter how great the task, how difficult the test, how fierce the danger, or how great the need. We can just "lean upon His breast" and be covered by "His wings of love."

Civilla Martin wrote this hymn when she herself needed to learn the lesson of resting in God’s care. Her husband, the Reverend W. Stillman Martin, was a well-known Baptist evangelist. One Sunday in 1904, Mrs. Martin became ill suddenly and was unable to accompany her husband to his preaching assignment some distance away. As Mr. Martin considered canceling his trip, their young son exclaimed, "Father, don’t you think that if God wants you to preach today, He will take care of Mother while you’re away?"

Returning that evening after seeing several people profess Christ as Savior, Mr. Martin found his wife greatly improved and busily writing this text, which had been suggested by her son’s words. That same evening, Stillman Martin composed the music, providing God’s people with another endearing hymn that has ministered to hurting hearts.

Be not dismayed whate’er betide, God will take care of you; beneath His wings of love abide; God will take care of you.

Chorus:

God will take care of you, thru ev’ry day, o’er all the way; He will take care of you; God will take care of you.

Thru days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you; when dangers fierce your path assail, God will take care of you.

Chorus:

God will take care of you, thru ev’ry day, o’er all the way; He will take care of you; God will take care of you.

All you may need He will provide; God will take care of you; nothing you ask will be denied; God will take care of you.

Chorus:

God will take care of you, thru ev’ry day, o’er all the way; He will take care of you; God will take care of you.

No matter what may be the test, God will take care of you; lean, weary one, upon His breast; God will take care of you.

Chorus:

God will take care of you, thru ev’ry day, o’er all the way; He will take care of you; God will take care of you.

Reading For Today:

Job 23:10; Psalm 57:1; Isaiah 41:10; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Philippians 4:19; 1 Peter 5:7

Share God’s love and concern with someone who is hurting. Encourage the troubled believer with this musical truth—

Be Blessed 2-day... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

A PRAYER FOR OUR CHILDREN

2011-07-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

According to the American Anthropological Association, more than 200 women kill their children in the United States each year. (TWO HUNDRED) Three to five children a day are killed by their parents. Homicide is one of the leading causes of death of children under age four, yet we continue to "persist with the unrealistic view that this is rare behavior," says Jill Korbin, expert on child abuse, who has studied mothers who killed their children.

A little girls Mom in Florida was not even held accountable for negligent homicide, even though she did not report her missing daughter for 31 days. This is a travesty: We need to be praying for our families.

However, my biggest concern is the deaths of children where MORE than TWO HUNDRED Moms can actually take their children's lives. Something is VERY wrong in our culture... VERY wrong!

God help us!

Please Pray For Our Families And Children

SoJourner

Words Of Guidance From The WORD

2011-07-07T01:54:00.000-07:00

15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. ¹⁶Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. ¹⁷And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Now Be Blessed 2day... Especially 2day

SoJourner

Blessings Happen When....

2011-07-03T12:34:00.000-07:00

I attended a church today that simply has a wonderful history. I really "got blessed" in that house of worship today. But more than that, they really worshipped God in a way that touched me to my soul. I am talking about Rehoboth UMC in Williamsport, MD. Check out their web page below:

http://www.rehobothumc.org/

So I asked myself, "Self why did I get so blessed? Why did the people seem so blessed?"

Here is what I came up with:

First: Christ of The Cross

They lifted up the Cross of Christ. They lifted up JESUS who said, "If I be lifted up, I will draw all people to myself: HE fulfilled HIS promise of drawing folks to himself right in front of our eyes.

Second: Children

Jesus is ALL about Children. HE told us as much, when HE blessed them. They had lot's of Children singing praises to GOD as only this generation of little ones could do.

Third: Committed to Worship

They committed themselves to worship and the preaching of the WORD. I mean folks really did

make a joyful noise unto the LORD. And GOD did indeed inhabit those praises. The WORD was indeed preached.

Fourth: Communion (As in Holy Communion)

They received Communion (Holy Communion) as the Community of Faith in a caring/loving way.

The folks did NOT just go through the motions

Finally: Celebration of Our Nation

They did something that not many UMC churches do today... They celebrated this country and the Judeo -Christian heritage upon which this nation is built, and they did so in a way of expressing love for this nation that was... well special and appropriate. They indeed ackowledged the truth that is in our history: The history said, "We are endowed by our CREATOR" with the rights and freedoms we have

Needless to say we were all blessed, and did I mention the place was packed. I believe this was so because GOD blesses those who find out where GOD is blessing and then they join HIM. To often we beg GOD to bless what we are doing... BIG MISTAKE! We would do much better if we would find out where GOD is blessing and join GOD in that place.

Abraham Lincoln was once in a conversation, during the "Civil War." The person speaking to him said, "Mr. President, GOD must surely be on our side." President Lincoln's response is highly insightful: He said to this person, "Sir I am not so much concerned that GOD is on my side as I am concerned with being certain I am on GOD's side."

Do you want GOD to bless you today?

Find out where GOD is blessing... Join GOD.

Then

Be Blessed 2-day

Especially 2day.

Sojourner

Secure

2011-06-28T02:08:00.000-07:00

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus, who went before us, has entered on our behalf.

(Hebrews 6:19)

What stabilizers are to a ship in stormy water, the conscious presence of Christ is to a Christian during the storms and stresses of daily living. Christians have never been promised an exemption from any of life’s storms. The Scriptures teach that "man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward" (Job 5:7). It is our reaction to life’s storms that reveals the level of our spiritual maturity. We can either become bitter and belligerent, or we can use the experience to develop greater spiritual strength as we learn to rely more fully on our Lord.

Not only do we have the indwelling presence of Christ, but we also have the assurance that Jesus Christ is in heaven today interceding for us. Just as an Old Testament priest stood behind the veil in the tabernacle or the temple to represent the Israelites before God, so Jesus pleads our case in the heavenly realm on the basis of His death, resurrection and the New Covenant.

He paid a high price to make this possible: He established this New Covenant with Almighty God by the sacrificial giving of His body and the shedding of his blood. So anchor yourself and be made strong. Then you will ...

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day

SoJourner

Eternal Life.

2011-06-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.

John 17:3

Share God's Life Forever.

Be Blessed 2day... Especially 2day

With Eternal Life

SoJourner.

Trusting The Relationship

2011-06-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day

2 Timothy 1:12

Saving faith is much more than a commitment to a creed, church, or a doctrinal system. It must be a commitment to a person—Jesus Christ. Doctrinal statements and creeds are important in defining and delineating truth, but they must never replace a personal relationship with "The Truth."

We can get so caught up in our creedal statements, interpretations and arguments, or church traditions that we lose the sense of simple, child-like trust in Jesus and His written Word. This was the concern of the Apostle Paul—

"I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ

" (2 Corinthians 11:3).

Again and again we must take inventory of ourselves and determine what is the real foundation of our spiritual lives and the source of our resting place—

Jesus who is Christ, Savior, Lord, Friend... and of The Cross and Resurrection (Who wants to walk with us each day...) or merely a creed?

A Good Choice Will Help You Be

Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

COME: Refreshment For You Today

2011-06-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the water; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. (Isaiah 55:1)

Thy grace first made me feel my sin; it taught me to believe. Then in believing, I found—and now I live, I live! —Horatius Bonar

The heart of the Christian gospel is the gentle word "come." From the moment of a person’s conversion until he or she is ushered into eternal glory, the Savior beckons with the gracious invitation "come." This word appears more than 500 times throughout the Scriptures.

The beautiful lines of this hymn by Horatius Bonar fill us with peace and buoyant joy. They calm us as we contemplate walking in the divine light of life that is shed on our ways as we respond in personal faith to the voice of Jesus.

Horatius Bonar was one of Scotland’s most gifted and influential ministers and writers of the 19th century. He wrote more than 600 hymn texts throughout his life. "I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say" is generally considered to be his finest. Bonar wrote the lines while pastoring the Presbyterian church at Kelso, Scotland. He actually intended the hymn to be used by the children since he was always concerned that they learn the truths of the person and work of Christ. The text with its theme of revived life and joyous rest in Jesus has had universal appeal since its first publication.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, "Come unto Me and rest; lay down, thou weary one, lay down thy head upon My breast." I came to Jesus as I was, weary and worn and sad; I found in Him a resting place, and He has made me glad.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, "Behold, I freely give the living water—thirsty one, stoop down and drink, and live." I came to Jesus, and I drank of that life-giving stream; my thirst was quenched, my soul revived, and now I live in Him.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, "I am this dark world’s Light; look unto Me—thy morn shall rise, and all thy day be bright." I looked to Jesus, and I found in Him my Star, my Sun; and in that Light of life I’ll walk, till trav’ling days are done.

For Today:

Isaiah 55:1–3; Matthew 11:28; John 4:14; 8:12; Revelation 3:20; 22:17

Truly rest and be glad in the love of Jesus no matter what your concerns may be. Thank Him for the "Light of Life" that He has promised to shine on your path. Rejoice in the truth of this musical testimony—

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day

SoJourner

When I Do Not Feel God Anywhere

2011-06-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been in a place where God does not seem to be anywhere around? You know, don't you? You simply feel like you have a hole in your soul. You feel like you are running on empty and your spiritual apparatus is wheezing along on mere fumes.

Bad things just seem to happen on days like this. Like the old country song "Gloom despair and agony on me... deep dark depression... excessive misery. If it weren't for bad luck, I would have no luck at all... Gloom despair and agony on me."

What's a person to do? Good question. How about trying this on for size: Think about where, in the Bible we hear these words spoken at Creation: " God breathed into man the breath of life and he became a living soul." God "breathed" and we "became." Jesus did this as well when He "breathed on His disciples and said 'receive the Holy Spirit.' "

Guess what I am trying to say is that, when bad things happen to you, a good person, "don't just do something sit there"..... relax and breath in that breath of life given us centuries ago to our ancestors. Let go of all the tension throughout your body. Release it. Be still and know (experience) God. Breath in and invite the Holy Spirit to participate.

As you feel that Holy wind moving in and out of your being transforming oxygen into carbon dioxide... giving you and plant life ... (well life) You will open the door to feel God in you. He will no longer NOT be anywhere, but He will be all in you and through you empowering you to live. Works for me.

Now go be blessed 2day... Especially 2day

SoJourner

Can Homosexuals Be Transformed Or Anyone Else?

2011-06-03T07:28:00.000-07:00

I have watched in amazement how the issue of Homosexuality has taken over a whole bunch of discussion in our culture in America. So much so that, even in the United Methodist Church (Yup! I am a Christ Follower who happens to be a Methodist.) we battle over this issue all the way up to General Conference, where Church policy and polity is made.

Some call folks "haters" who describe this sin as the worst of the worst; meanwhile the name callers who call folks "haters" frame homosexuality as a civil right, and call others "bigots" (Not to mention the afore mentioned "haters") who believe it is sin.

Let me make this clear. It don't matter what we mere humans decide... PERIOD! In the end, we all are going to stand before the Creator. He will most definitely sort all of us out.

So where does the ole SoJourner stand on this. I believe scripture is clear regarding ALL sin, and it does NOT exclude homosexuality. I believe that a Savior has come to forgive all sin for those who turn from that sin, and who turn to THE Savior: who forgives, redeems, sanctifies (makes us holy), perfects us, transforms us, gives us access into the holiest place and sprinkles us from evil guilty consciences (See Hebrews 9:12-10:24.)

Traditionally homosexuality has been regarded as sin.... like for over 4000 years or more.

Experiencially I have read the Bible regarding the power of transformation, and I have experienced it myself. Empirically I have watched people change from homosexuals transform, over a period of time, to overcome this sin that has ensnared them, just as I overcome the various sins that ensnared me. God did it. God does it. I just get the benefit, and so can anyone else :o)

So, it's reasonable to me to NOT support the new view that has been (over the last 5 decades) that says this is a civil right and not a sin. I do not support the view that rewrote the various DSM's (the Bible of the shrinks :) that seem to change with the culture. I do support the right of homosexuals to reject the transformational reparative therapy, but I sincerely believe everyone who wants to be delivered from this sin should be given every chance possible.

Here is some information for those who might be seeking such help:

www.peoplecanchange.com and www.narth.com

My goal as A Christ Follower is for all who read this to be....

Blessed 2day... Especially 2day and Every day.

And 2 Experience The

Powerful

Transforming

Grace Of God

SoJourner

MOTHER TERESA: GOOD STUFF

2011-05-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

Found written on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta:

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.

Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.

Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.

Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere,

people may deceive you.

Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating

others could destroy

overnight.

Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,

some may be jealous.

Be happy anyway.

The good you do today

will often be forgotten.

Do good anyway.

Give the best you have,

and it will never be enough.

Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis,

it is between you and God.

It was NEVER between you and them

ANYWAY!!!!

++++++++++

Now Y'all See Pleasing God Is What is Best.

Let God Take Care Of The Rest,

And Then Be Blessed 2-day...

Especially 2-day

SoJourner

A Way To "Let Go."

2011-05-23T04:48:00.000-07:00

Learn to view every person, place, event of situation, (whether it is or is not disturbing) as being exactly the way it is suppose to be... at the moment.

Absolutely nothing takes the God (who loves me) by surprise. Nothing happens in God's universe by mistake; therefore I would do well to concern myself, not so much with what needs to be changed "out there" in the world: But I would do well to concern myself with what I need to be or God wants me to be at the moment under the circumstances I am facing.

Try This And

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner
PS. Please Watch Videos Above

The Fruitful Life: Words Of Wisdom

2011-05-20T03:18:00.000-07:00

As the earth can produce nothing unless seeds are sown, water is applied and it is all bathed in the sun...

Even so we can do nothing worthwhile for God without sowing positive spiritual seeds, Allowing the "living water" of HIS SPIRIT to flow spiritedly upon upon us,

And resting (for a while) in the light of

HIS S-O-N...

Then and only then can we live fruitful lives that glorify God. Al McGowen

SoJourner

God Thinking About You, Even In the Tough Times

2011-05-19T18:45:00.000-07:00

O LORD, You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle.

You have recorded each one in your book.

Psalm 56:8

Let this help you today... Especially Today

SoJourner

Getting Directions

2011-05-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

Commit your way to the LORD. Trust in Him, and He will direct your path.

Psalm 37:5

So, if I want to know God's will and way,

If you want some direction in life,

It takes a commitment.

It takes Faith.

It takes following directions.

Why Not?

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day

SoJourner

Getting A New "Wanter"

2011-05-17T05:40:00.000-07:00

"Delight yourself also in the Lord, and HE will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

HMMMM? Now Think About These Verses:

Anybody want a healthy "wanter" or heart? This is a good plan for receiving it,

And it is a good plan for determining God's plan :o)

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

John's View Of "Good Loving."

2011-05-16T15:36:00.000-07:00

¹¹ For this is the message you heard from the beginning:

We should love one another.

¹² Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him?

Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous.

¹³ Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters if the world hates you.

¹⁴ We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death.

¹⁵ Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him.

¹⁶ This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

¹⁷ If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? ¹⁸ Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

1 John 3:10-18

Now Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

It's The ONLY 1 Guaranteed.

SoJourner

Living Strong

2011-05-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Joshua 1:9

SoJournner

Finding God's Way To Cope

2011-05-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

There is no temptation seized you that others have not also faced; however, you can count on God. Because HE is indeed faithful: He will NOT allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear. He will provide a way of escape so you can bear up under it.

1 Corinthians 10:13

Cry OUT TO God To Show You His Way's Out!!

Let Go And Let God Help You Today.

Especially Today.

SoJourner

Pray & Listen To The Videos

2011-05-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

If MY people who are called by name will humble themseslves, pray and seek MY face, I will hear from heaven, forgive their sins and

heal their land.

GOD

In the USA, today is The National Day of Prayer. Our folks are challenged to pray. Given the global nature of this blog, I want to simply make a request: Whoever reads this, please pray the LORD's PRAYER for the Church, your nation and the world over. Please do so immediately upon finishing your read of this blog. OR you could watch videos, and you could pray and sing along :o)

BE BLESSED 2DAY ... ESPECIALLY 2DAY!

SoJourner

BEFORE STORMS DESTROYED TUSCALOOSA, ALA.

2011-05-01T12:30:00.000-07:00

After a mission trip, and prior to horrific monster tornadoes literally destroyed Tuscaloosa, Alabama... a North Alabama Conference Pastor uttered these prophetic words. I post his words hoping suffering people from around the world who read this blog will experience this resurrection power:

"Tough times can cause people to seek God & bring them together...When our lives are shaken, God can lift us up with His supernatural power. Easter reminds us that the real story of success is not about our ability but God’s. Of course, God wants us to be willing and active participants in His work in this world, but we will inevitably encounter our own limits often in Life. Finding that we are not alone in this … that the spirit of the resurrected Christ is, in fact, with us … can be a source of great encouragement…even in devastating times."

Rev. Chris Denson Forest Lake UMC

April 27th 2011

All This Is True.
So Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day
SoJourner

KEEPING SHORT LISTS

2011-04-29T03:49:00.000-07:00

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as

God IN Christ has also forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32

One of my growing edges as a SoJourner is related to this passage of scripture. Having seen some bad stuff in my life I started to become hardened. When someone struck out at me, I would strike back as quickly as possible. Then I would regret it, awfulize about it and worry over things about which I could and can do nothing. Yup! It is real healthy to do this. (I don't think so :o( BTW, did I mention I have had a few heart attacks over the years? Long lists of gunny sacking grudges... it is not worth it.

There is a better way: Learn to keep short lists. If you or I do not let people off the hook, we are hooked to them and the past, and that just means continued pain. Don't know about you, but I am NOT into pain. Why not just stop the pain? Why not grieve what has happened, and let go and let God?

HMMMM? Stopping the pain? What a concept. Let IT go and let God take control through Jesus HIS Son. Is that not what HE did for us? Did HE not let us off the hook? Did HE not bear our pain?

Here is the bottom line: We do not forgive people merely for THEIR sake.... not at all. We do so for OUR sakes so we can be free. That's what God is talking about. We have been forgiven. Why not do the same.

If you truly know this truth, it will set you free, and then you will be ...

Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day.

SoJourner
PS. I do hope you have time to take time to watch the videos

25 REASONS THE BIBLE SAYS WE SUFFER

2011-04-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Christ Followers,
This list may or may not be answers that you would like to hear, but it does contain the Biblical answers

I do hope it helps.

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day

SoJourner

1. To produce the fruit of patience

Rom. 5:3; James 1:3-4; Heb. 10:36

2. To produce the fruit of joy

Ps. 30:5; 126:5-6

3. To produce the fruit of maturity

Eccles. 7:3; 1 Pet. 5:10

4. To produce the fruit of righteousness

Heb. 12:11

5. To silence the devil

Job 1:9, 10, 20-22

6. To teach us

Ps. 119:67, 71

7. To purify our lives

Job 23:10; Ps. 66:10-12; Isa. 1:25; 48:10; Prov. 17:3; 1 Pet. 1:7

8. To make us like Christ

Heb. 12:9, 10; 1 Pet. 4:12-13; Phil. 3:10; 2 Cor. 4:7-10

9. To glorify God

Ps. 50:15; John 9:1-3; 11:1-4; 21:18-19; Phil. 1:19-20

10. To prevent us from sinning

2 Cor. 12:7, 9-10

11. To make us confess when we do sin

Judg. 10:6-7, 15-16; Ps. 32:3-5; Hos. 5:15; 6:1; 2 Chron. 15:3-4

12. To chasten us for our sin

1 Pet. 4:17

13. To prove our sonship

Heb. 12:5-6

14. To reveal ourselves to ourselves

Job 42:6; Luke 15:18

15. To help our prayer life

Isa. 26:16

16. To become an example to others

2 Cor. 6:4-5; 1 Thess. 1:6-7

17. To qualify us as counselors

Rom. 12:15; Gal. 6:2; 2 Cor. 1:3-5

18. To further the gospel witness

Acts 8:1-5; 16:25-34; Phil. 1:12-13; 2 Tim. 4:6-8, 16-17

19. To make us more than conquerors

2 Cor. 2:14; Rom. 8:35, 37

20. To give us insight into God’s nature

Job 42:5; Rom. 8:14-15, 18

21. To drive us closer to God

1 Pet. 4:14; 2 Cor. 12:10

22. To prepare us for a greater ministry

1 Kings 17-18; John 12:24

23. To provide for us a reward

Matt. 5:10-12; 19:27-29; Rom. 8:16-17; 2 Cor. 4:17

24. To prepare us for the kingdom

2 Thess. 1:5; 2 Tim. 2:12

25. To show God’s sovereignty

Rom. 8:28; 1 Cor. 10:13; Ps. 66:10-12; Gen. 45:5-8; 50:20

Willmington, H. (1987). Willmington's book of Bible lists (318–319). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale.

THE TESTIMONY: An Encouraging Word For Today.

2011-04-26T03:31:00.000-07:00

10 Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. 11 And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day

SOJourner

Alive And Well!!!

2011-04-25T17:04:00.000-07:00

He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay.

(Matthew 28:6)

“Why should I worship a dead Jew?”

This challenging question was posed by a sincere young Jewish student who had been attending evangelistic meetings conducted by the author and composer of the hymn He Lives, Alfred H. Ackley. In his book, Forty Gospel Hymn Stories, George W. Sanville records Mr. Ackley’s answer to this searching question, which ultimately prompted the writing of this popular gospel hymn:

He lives! I tell you, He is not dead, but lives here and now! Jesus Christ is more alive today than ever before. I can prove it by my own experience, as well as the testimony of countless thousands.

Mr. Sanville continues:

Mr. Ackley’s forthright, emphatic answer, together with his subsequent triumphant effort to win the man for Christ, flowered forth into song and crystallized into a convincing sermon on “He Lives!” In his re-reading of the resurrections of the Gospels, the words “He is risen” struck him with new meaning. From the thrill within his own soul came the convincing song—“He Lives!” The scriptural evidence, his own heart, and the testimony of history matched the glorious experience of an innumerable cloud of witnesses that “He Lives,” so he sat down at the piano and voiced that conclusion in song. He says, “The thought of His ever-living presence brought the music promptly and easily.”

The hymn first appeared in Triumphant Service Songs, a hymnal published by the Rodeheaver Company in 1933. It has been a favorite with evangelical congregations since that time.

I serve a risen Savior; He’s in the world today; I know that He is living, whatever men may say; I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer, and just the time I need Him He’s always near.

Chorus: He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart ! You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

In all the world around me I see His loving care, and tho my heart grows weary I never will despair; I know that He is leading thru all the stormy blast; the day of His appearing will come at last.

Rejoice, rejoice, O Christian, lift up your voice and sing eternal hallelujahs to Jesus Christ the King! The hope of all who seek Him, the help of all who find, none other is so loving, so good and kind.

For Today:

Job 19:25; Romans 6:9, 10; Philippians 3:10, 11; Revelation 1:18

Let Jesus, who is alive and well on planet Earth, give life to those experiences that seem to be hurting of feel like they are

"Killing You."

BE BLESSED TODAY BECAUSE HE IS ALIVE !!!

SoJourner

Osbeck, K. W. (1990). Amazing grace : 366 inspiring hymn stories for daily devotions (128). Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications.

It's Friday... But Sunday Is Coming

2011-04-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

He was wounded for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His stripes we are healed.

Isaiah 53:5

SoJourner

Holy Week: Christ Dramatic Journey

2011-04-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest. (Matthew 21:9)

The week preceding Easter Sunday is known as Holy or Passion Week. These seven days have been described as the most intense and important week of history. The dramatic events that occurred during Christ’s final days on earth are recorded in all four gospels

Matthew 21; Mark 11; Luke 19; John 12).

Palm Sunday: John 12:12–15

The only day of triumph known by Christ in His earthly ministry. A fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy

(Zechariah 9:9).

The Lord’s Holy Anger:

1. At a fig tree that bore no fruit
(Matthew 21:18–19).
2. At the moneychangers who were misusing the temple
(Matthew 21:12, 13).

The Last Supper:

Matthew 26:26–28

Observed on Maundy Thursday.

The Foot Washing:

John 13:1-10

An object lesson taught by Christ regarding the basic qualities of true discipleship: humility, purity, and servanthood.

The Song of Victory:

Matthew 26:30

Gethsemane:

Matthew 26:36–46

Three times Jesus prayed, while His disciples slept, “O Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt!”

The Kiss of Betrayal:

Mark 14:44; Luke 22:48

“Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

The Perverted Trial:

Matthew 27:11–26

Christ charged with blasphemy and sentenced to die as a criminal against Rome.

The Crucifixion:

Matthew 27:33–38

Most Christians believe He was crucified on what is now known as Good Friday. The church color for this day is black.

“Hosanna, Loud Hosanna”

was written by Jennette Threlfall, an invalid English woman who was known for her cheery disposition as well as her many published poems. This text first appeared in the author’s volume Sunshine and Shadow, in 1873.

Hosanna, loud hosanna, the little children sang; thru pillared court and temple the lovely anthem rang; to Jesus, who had blessed them close folded to His breast, the children sang their praises, the simplest and the best.

From Olivet they followed ’mid an exultant crowd, the victor palm branch waving, and chanting clear and loud; the Lord of men and angels rode on in lowly state, nor scorned that little children should on His bidding wait.

“Hosanna in the highest!” That ancient song we sing, for Christ is our Redeemer, the Lord of heav’n our King; O may we ever praise Him with heart and life and voice, and in His blissful presence eternally rejoice!

For Today: Matthew 21:1–11; Mark 11:9, 10; John 12,13

Read, Reflect and Pray This Week As You Journey With Jesus

Then Be Blessed Each Day

SoJourner

Osbeck, K. W. (1990). Amazing grace : 366 inspiring hymn stories for daily devotions (122). Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications.

The Sin Virus: Deadly If Not Removed

2011-04-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

(1 Corinthians 1:18 KJV)

There is no neutral ground when we face the cross: Either we accept its atoning work, wherein we have the sin virus wiped completely clean from the hard drive of our souls and become new creations. Or we reject the Christ who "paid our fine," for our crimes of law breaking against The Almighty. In so doing we lose the opportunity to live, and we stay infected with the sin virus.

To the first group, this Cross of Jesus is POWER. To the other, the Cross is foolishness. The first group has the power to live and the core processor within works toward new life. The other group... well you know, and to choose not to be brought to life (and optimum functionality eternally)...Now that is true foolishness.

Choose the Cross to live today and one day at a time. Then ....

Be Blessed 2-day... Especially 2-day.

SoJourner

Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People... Like Me

2011-04-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

Have You Ever Wondered

WHY?

Why do bad things happen to good people?

This is an age old question that many philosophers have

tried to answer.

There is a movie out called SOUL SURFER,

And it tells the story of a young woman who had to answer this

More specifically:

Why did this bad thing happen to ME?

Check out the Video Clips above.

Check out the Movie.

You might just start learning some of your own answers.

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day.

SoJourner

God's Perfect Timing For Love Demonstrated

2011-04-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Keep In Mind You

Are The One

For Whom

God Timed This Perfectly

At The Right Time

While You Were Powerless

Christ Demonstrated His Love

For You...

While At Your Worst

While You Were YET A Sinner

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

A Promise From The Past For April 13, 2011

2011-04-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness;

by His wounds you have been healed.

(1 Peter 2:24)

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day

SoJourner

Getting Control Of "Things."

2011-04-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

When we try to control the uncontrollable,

We are most likely at a point of not being IN control

At All.

Genuine Sane, Safe, Satisfying Control is a ...

"God Thing."

The Sooner We Learn This Vital Truth...

and Maintain It As Truth...

The Quicker We Will Find Balance

For The Imbalance In Our Lives.

Be Blessed 2-day... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

Blessed Redeemer

2011-04-07T04:57:00.000-07:00

Avis B. Christiansen, 1895–1985

When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified Him, along with the criminals—one on His right, the other on His left. (Luke 23:33)

A Hill with Three Crosses—One cross where a thief died IN SIN
One cross where a thief died TO SIN
A center cross where a Redeemer died FOR SIN.

It is thought that the day we call “Good Friday” originated from the term “God’s Friday”—the day that Christ was led to the hill of Golgotha and crucified, assuring an eternal reconciliation for lost man. The Roman cross, intended to be an instrument of cruel death, instead became an instrument of new life and hope for the human race. God loved and valued each of us so highly that He was willing to pay the greatest price imaginable for our salvation.

The composer of this hymn, Harry Dixon Loes, was a popular music teacher at the Moody Bible Institute from 1939 until his death in 1965. One day while listening to a sermon on the subject of Christ’s atonement entitled “Blessed Redeemer,” Mr. Loes was inspired to compose this tune. He then sent the melody with the suggested title to Mrs. Christiansen, a friend for many years, asking her to write the text. The completed hymn first appeared in the hymnal Songs of Redemption in 1920.

Mrs. Avis Christiansen is to be ranked as one of the important gospel hymn writers of the 20th century. She has written hundreds of gospel hymn texts as well as several volumes of published poems. Throughout her long lifetime of 90 years, Mrs. Christiansen collaborated with many well-known gospel musicians to contribute several other choice hymns to our hymnals, including “Blessed Calvary” and “I Know I’ll See Jesus Some Day.”

Up Calv’ry’s mountain, one dreadful morn, walked Christ my Savior, weary and worn; facing for sinners death on the cross, that He might save them from endless loss.

Chorus: Blessed Redeemer, precious Redeemer! Seems now I see Him on Calvary’s tree, wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading—blind and unheeding—dying for me

“Father, forgive them!” thus did He pray, e’en while His life-blood flowed fast away; praying for sinners while in such woe—no one but Jesus ever loved so.

Chorus: Blessed Redeemer, precious Redeemer! Seems now I see Him on Calvary’s tree, wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading—blind and unheeding—dying for me

O how I love Him, Savior and Friend! How can my praises ever find end! Thru years unnumbered on heaven’s shore, my tongue shall praise Him forevermore.

Chorus: Blessed Redeemer, precious Redeemer! Seems now I see Him on Calvary’s tree, wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading—blind and unheeding—dying for me!

For Today: Matthew 27:39–43; John 19:17, 18, 33, 34;

Colossians 2:13–20

Since Christ has paid the price of our redemption in full, all we have to do is believe, receive, rejoice and represent Him. Reflect on this musical truth—

Now Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

Osbeck, K. W. (1990). Amazing grace : 366 inspiring hymn stories for daily devotions (110). Grand Rapids,

Mich.: Kregel Publications.

An Interview With God See Below

2011-04-05T18:53:00.000-07:00

Take Time to interview God via the link below.

You may need to copy and paste to your browser:o)

Then Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day.

SoJourner

http://bit.ly/i085Vr

2011-04-05T06:16:00.000-07:00

Iran Secretly Executes Jewish-Armenian Couple; Christians Concerned

Full story: http://www.worthynews.com/

Iran has secretly executed a Jewish-Armenian couple and three other persons, raising concerns about other religious minority prisoners in the strict Islamic nation, Iranian Christians and rights activists confirmed Sunday, March 27.

The independent Iranian Christian news agency Mohabat News said Adiva Mirza Soleiman Kalimi, a Jewish Iranian, and her husband Varoujan Petrosian, an Armenian Iranian Christian, were executed in Tehran's notorious Evin Prison. One other woman and two men, whose identities were not revealed

Please Pray

SoJourner

The Power Of The Moment

2011-04-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Contentment comes when we live one day at at time and enjoy one moment at a time. Its the clear path to peace. Making plans is important and fine, but we get anxious trying to make the future happen too early and when we don't let go of the yesterdays of our lives. Living IN the moment (while challenging) is potent living indeed. Learning this has become one of my greatest gifts of life today.

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

Start With This Moment.

SoJourner

Of course I am better able to live in the moment on my better days.

Reflection On Victorious Suffering

2011-04-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

WOUNDED FOR ME

W. G. Ovens, 1870–1945 (verse 1)

Gladys W. Roberts, 1888–? (verses 2-5)

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps. (1 Peter 2:21)

Death by crucifixion was one of the worst forms of dying. No Roman citizen was ever crucified; this horrible death was reserved only for Rome’s enemies. The Roman scourge was a most dreadful instrument of torture and suffering. It was made of sinews of oxen, and sharp bones were inter-twisted among the sinews so that every time the lash came down upon a body, these pieces of bone inflicted fearful lacerations and literally tore off chunks of flesh from the person’s bones. This is what Christ endured in accomplishing our redemption. But the physical suffering was not the worst. Rather, the weight of human sin and the separation from God the Father because of His wrath against sin were the real causes of the Savior’s death.

But simply knowing about Christ’s suffering and death is not enough. We must personally appropriate this to our own lives. We must say, “It was for me!” We must allow the Holy Spirit to do in us subjectively all that Christ has done for us objectively. Then, after we have experienced this redemptive work in our own lives, we must humbly, lovingly, and thoughtfully “follow in His steps” and seek to restore others.

The five stanzas of this thoughtful hymn cover the story of redemption, from the Savior’s suffering to His second coming. Reflect on each verse. Make each one personal as you be still and "know God." Let God take care of the rest.

Wounded for me, wounded for me, there on the cross He was wounded for me; gone my transgressions, and now I am free, all because Jesus was wounded for me.

Dying for me, dying for me, there on the cross He was dying for me; now in His death my redemption I see, all because Jesus was dying for me.

Risen for me, risen for me, up from the grave He has risen for me; now evermore from death’s sting I am free, all because Jesus has risen for me.

Living for me, living for me, up in the skies He is living for me; daily He’s pleading and praying for me, all because Jesus is living for me.

Coming for me, coming for me, one day to earth He is coming for me; then with what joy His dear face I shall see; O how I praise Him—He’s coming for me!

Reflect On These: Psalm 65:3; 103:12; Isaiah 53; Ephesians 2:5

Let your soul rejoice as you review the complete redemption Christ has provided for you.

Make This Personal

Now: Be Blessed 2day... Especially 2-day.

Sojourner

** Adapted From: Osbeck, K. W. (1990). Amazing grace : 366 inspiring hymn stories for daily devotions (107). Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications.

Whe Life Is Just Too Much

2011-04-02T05:37:00.000-07:00

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up to it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

What happens when life gets to be just "too much?" Good question, especially if you are going through "it" right now. But it is a good question for which the LORD Jesus has an answer.

Recognize the lie that you are the only one who has ever gone through this tempatation or the only one who is going through the temptation: Check out the first part of the verse above: What you are going through is "common." That is right. What you are going through has happened before and may even be happening to other folks, even as you experience being "siezed" by it.
God is faithful: He has journeyed with others through this and brought them to the other side. God may allow you to be brought to this, but God is also faithful and capable of bringing you through it.
He will not let you be "tempted beyond what you can bear:" Now this part of this verse is one of the most misquoted verses in Holy Writ. Sadly many folks say "God will not put anymore on me than I can handle." Thus they blame God for the problem, just as Job of old blamed God. When in reality, God is the defender who provides the great escape. And the Evil One is the source of this tempting course. Then he goes into hiding as God get's blamed. Remember evil is live spelled backward. And you have it all backwards if you think God is doing this to you. He provides the way out. He is NOT the spout out of which the temptation comes out.
God provides the escape hatch or the way out: With this temptation, says the word HE provides "a way of escape." He does this so that we can "bear it." In other words He provides a way for the temptation to not be more than we can handle.
Decide to escape: We need to take God's way out. We need to not believe the lies that blame God and that this is too much. We need to truly "let go and let God" lead us in the path of right way ness, and we will then be able to escape.

Precious Christ Followers God does not promise us a life free of suffering, but He does provide us a way out. He provides us with ways to find answers. Live today and follow the lead of the Word of God I have shared with you today. Then...

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder, Will You Be There?

2011-03-28T05:11:00.000-07:00

WHEN THE ROLL IS CALLED UP YONDER

Words and Music by James M. Black, 1856–1938

For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. (1 Thessalonians 4:15

The calm assurance of a future heavenly home is one of the greatest blessings for every Christian. It has been said that only those with an absolute confidence in their hereafter truly know to live victoriously in this life. Having a personal relationship with Christ means that we need have no fear that we will not hear “the trumpet call of God,” whether we are still alive or asleep in Jesus.

James M. Black was an active Methodist layman, a music teacher, and a composer and publisher of numerous gospel songs. He related this experience:

"While a teacher in the Sunday school and president of a young people’s society, I one day met a girl, 14 years old, poorly clad and a child of a drunkard. She accepted my invitation to attend the Sunday school and join the young people’s society. One evening at a consecration meeting, when members answered the roll call by repeating Scripture texts, she failed to respond. I spoke of what a sad thing it would be when our names are called from the Lamb’s Book of Life, if one of us should be absent. When I reached my home, my wife saw that I was deeply troubled. Then the words in the first stanza came to me in full. In fifteen minutes more, I had composed the other two verses. Going to the piano, I played the music just as it is found today in the hymnbooks."

The subsequent death of the missing girl from pneumonia, after an illness of just 10 days, furnished the dramatic finale to this account and gives a poignancy to the 'roll call' song. Since its publication in 1894, this simply worded gospel song with its rather ordinary music has captured the hearts of innumerable believers. These sincere expressions have provided Christians with a singable vehicle of praise for the glorious future that still awaits them.

When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound and time shall be no more, and the morning breaks eternal bright and fair— When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore, and the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there.

Chorus: When the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder—when the roll is call up yonder I’ll be there

On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise and the glory of His resurrection share— When the chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies, and the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there.

Chorus: When the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder—when the roll is call up yonder I’ll be there

Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun. Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care; then when all of life is over and our work on earth is done, and the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there.

Chorus: When the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder—when the roll is call up yonder I’ll be there.

For Today:

John 6:40; 1 Corinthians 15:40–42; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18

Give God praise for the certainty about your eternal destiny that you as a child of God enjoy. Live this day in that confidence.

Live today like Jesus might come any moment. Then ...

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner

Just A Piece Of The Journey

2011-03-26T12:52:00.000-07:00

When the journey is challengingly long

The challenge to be strong

is found in stepping along

Not by miles,

Not By Yards

In so doing you will find the challenge HARD.

To meet whatever challenge, set a new pace.

Shorten the space of the steps you trace.

Don't focus on the past

And an overly future focus will not help you to last.

Live one day at a time

One Moment at A Time.

Then you will put more reason and rhyme

as you journey through what we call

TIME.

Be Blessed 2day ... Especially 2day

SoJourner