Making Coffee 12/31/2014

Good Morning,

Well we reached the last day of 2014 and just like every day I am looking forward to my coffee cup that is filled with Door County Autumn Spice.

 





Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity

I write about the coffee I drink every morning. I must say that some of the best times I have ever experienced are while sharing a cup of coffee with a good friend. A good friend is one who is there through thick or thin, in good or in bad times, and loves you as you are. A good friend goes out of his way for others.

Mr.  Sam Rayburn was Speaker of the United States House of Representatives longer than any other man in our history. There is a story about him that reveals the kind of man he really was.

The teenage daughter of a friend of his died suddenly one night. Early the next morning the man heard a knock on his door, and when he opened it, there was Mr. Rayburn standing outside.

The Speaker said, "I just stopped by to see what I could do to help".
The father replied in his deep grief, "I don't think there is anything you can do, Mr. Speaker. We are making all the arrangements."

"Well", Mr. Rayburn said, "have you had your coffee this morning?" The man replied that they had not taken time to eat breakfast. So Mr. Rayburn said that the least he could do was to make coffee for them. While he was working in the kitchen, the man came in and said, "Mr. Speaker I thought you were supposed to be having breakfast at the White House this morning."

"Well I was," Mr. Rayburn said, "but I called the President and told him I had a friend who was in trouble. and I couldn't come."

How far would you go for a friend? Is their grief your grief? Is their pain your pain?

This year resolve to be a good friend to someone.

God bless,
Marty

Spiritual Maturity 12/30/2014

Good Morning World!

Up and out the door I go today. The cold, cold weather has arrived. Last night I embraced the warmth of a nice fire in our hearth and I wish I was still in front of the fireplace. My coffee this morning is Door County Pumpkin Spice. I filled an insulated bottle for later. I think it will come in handy today.

I have heard many a Christian pray for spiritual maturity for others and themselves. I often wondered what the Biblical definition of "spiritual maturity" is.

"Got Questions .Org" writes
"Question: "What is spiritual maturity? How can I become more spiritually mature?"

Answer: Spiritual maturity is achieved through becoming more like Jesus Christ. After salvation, every Christian begins the process of spiritual growth, with the intent being to become spiritually mature. According to the Apostle Paul, it’s an ongoing process that will never end in this life. In Philippians 3:12-14, speaking of full knowledge of Christ, he tells his readers that he himself has not "already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus". Like Paul, we have to press continually toward deeper knowledge of God in Christ.

Christian maturity requires a radical reordering of one’s priorities, changing over from pleasing self to pleasing God and learning to obey God. The key to maturity is consistency, perseverance in doing those things we know will bring us closer to God. These practices are referred to as the spiritual disciplines, and include things such as Bible reading/study, prayer, fellowship, service, and stewardship. No matter how hard we might work on those things, however, none of this is possible without the enabling of the Holy Spirit within us. Galatians 5:16 tell us that we’re to “walk by the Spirit.” The Greek word used here for “walk” actually means to “walk with a purpose in view.” Further down in the same chapter, Paul tells us again that we’re to “walk by the Spirit.” Here, the word translated “walk” means “step by step, one step at a time.” It is learning to walk under the instruction of another—the Holy Spirit. Since believers are filled with the Spirit, we should also walk under His control. As we submit more and more to the Spirit’s control, we will also see an increase in the fruit of the Spirit in our lives Galatians 5:22-23. This is characteristic of spiritual maturity."

That has to be one of the best definitions that I have found.  To paraphrase what they said, if you are going to be spiritually mature, you have to control your body and it's appetite for sin. The recipe for success is found above. But first there has to be a desire to grow. I heard it said once by a great preacher "if you is where you was, you ain't". People who receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and then never grow spiritually have me wondering if they really ever invited Jesus in to their hearts.  But that's not my job to worry about everyone else's growth chart. I am in charge of my own as well as you are in charge of how fast or slow you grow or even at all.

Ready to start a growth chart for the New Year?

God bless,
Marty

Stoking A Fire 12/29/2014

Good Morning,
Monday has arrived as expected and I can say that it did not surprise me. I am ready to face the day with some prayer and a hot cup of Door County White Christmas Coffee.

 

Yesterday was one of those days in Wisconsin where it was very cold but a fireplace loaded with hard maple logs felt good for the bones as well as the soul. I made a fire in the morning and kept it going into the early part of the afternoon. I had some errands to run and a special pick up of a friend at the airport. It wasn't until much later that I returned and noticed that the fire was out. I had been outside doing some dog training with Gibbs and was a little chilled. I decided that a fire would once again solve my problem.

As I was poking around in the hearth of the fireplace I noticed that beneath the ashes there were some red hot coals still, smoldering. I add some cedar kindling to the coals and blew on them. Soon there was a small flame that I added more kindling and hard wood to. Within minutes the fireplace was producing heat and the crackling of a hardwood flame. Life was good.

Luke 24:32 And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?”

The story of the two disciples who after Jesus had been raised from the dead on the same day were headed to Emmaus, you will remember that when He first appeared to them they did not know who He was. As they were talking about the events of His crucifixion, death and now the message that had come back from Mary, Martha, Peter, and John that Jesus was in fact alive, Jesus comes and joins them in the middle of this conversation. He then begins to explain to them from the Old Testament Scriptures the things concerning Him.
You see there hearts "burned" within. Like any fire does, this fire within also consumes things. Their hearts were consumed with wanting to hear more and be closer to Jesus. What this tells me is that there was some embers within their hearts just needed to be fanned and stoked. Time spent with Jesus fanned the embers into a flame.

If we find our lives are the type of Christian lives that just smolder, we need to fan the flames and stoke the fire. How do we do this?
1. Spend more time in the Word.
2. Spend more time in prayer.
3. Listen to God in prayer.
4. Obey what He tells us through His Word and prayer.
 All this adds up to walking with Jesus. A walk the sets our hearts on fire and fuels our passion for more of an intimate relationship with God.

Smoldering wood tends to give off smoke that smells and really never produces heat. Better to have a fire that warms us and those around us. Isn't that what our souls should strive for?

Food for thought today? How warm is your fire for God?

Marty

Silence Is Golden 12/28/2014

Good Morning,

It's good to be home today. I made a quick trip to Upper Michigan to visit my Dad on Christmas day and stayed for a couple of days. My coffee is hot and the flavor is Door County Candy Cane. A snowstorm hampered my travels home. But all is well now and back to blogging and enjoying my coffee and the view of a hot fireplace.

We celebrated Christmas at the home of one of my cousins. The dinner was very nice and the conversations were a lot of fun. I was blessed to be there.

My Dad really does live in the middle of nowhere. The one thing I like about it the most is the silence, especially when it is cold and snowing. A cup of hot coffee around 9AM while standing out on the deck is a treat that one doesn't get too often unless you live there. You can pause to listen for God and petition Him in prayer without the interruption of noise. It seems that I can go there and get my heart cleared of concerns for awhile and my head screwed on straight again.

I thought about this for awhile and what it really comes down to is that I just took time to be still, enjoy being still, and listen in the stillness. Below are some Bible verses on silence and the value of it. I often look at these in a quiet place an am reminded that if I want to be closer to God I need to listen for Him and I need to be still. I also use these verses to remind me that I do not always add value to every conversation and that many times in life it is just best to be quiet.

My friends silence is and can be golden.

Lamentations 3:26         

It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

        

Psalm 46:10        

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

         

Psalm 62:5        

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.

         

Proverbs 17:28    

Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.

         

Psalm 141:3         

Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!

        

Job 29:21        

“Men listened to me and waited and kept silence for my counsel.

        

Habakkuk 2:20         

But the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him.”

         

Matthew 11:15         

He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

Have a great day and may you find time to be quiet and a place where it is peaceful.

Marty

Christmas Day, A Day To Remember 12/25/2014

Good Morning,

May your day be merry and bright. My coffee is hot and sweet. The flavor filling my cup is Door County Candy Cane.

We celebrated Christmas Eve last night with family and friends. The food was eaten, so it must have been good. Presents were exchanged and the house was cleaned up later. So all in all it was a very nice celebration of the birth of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

In the middle of our time together my mind wandered off for awhile. As nice as this was, I couldn't help but remember that across the world there are those who hate enough to be planning to kill thousands. Somewhere in the world people went to bed hungry. Somewhere a person is watching their loved one die. Somewhere, someone is grieving the loss of a loved one. Somewhere kids have to decide what parent to visit and when, because of a broken home. Somewhere there is civil unrest. Somewhere, someone is planning to take their own life. Somewhere, someone sees no hope except in the bottle of alcohol next to them. Somewhere someone is held against their will and forced to do perverted things. Somewhere children and spouses went to be in fear in their own home because of a tyrant called dad.

So despite the glorious time many will have today I am asking you all to take a moment to pray for at least one of these. Christmas is a day we celebrate a Savior who came to put the end to sin on the final day of Earth. Sin will be gone forever. Evil will no longer be a threat. And what a glorious day that will be! But in the mean time sin and evil still exist. This calls us to pray today as well as every day. May you be blessed with the gift of time to pray today.

"But I, O Lord, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you." [Psalm 88:13]

God bless,

Marty

Christmas Eve Advice 12/24/2014

Good Morning,

My coffee this morning is Door County White Christmas. I am drinking it slowly and enjoying some extra time in prayer before heading to work.

Today is Christmas Eve, the night before we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. I was thinking about the ministry years of Jesus last night. He came to Earth knowing exactly when He would die and how He would be killed. Yet He lived life to it's fullest. He attended feasts and weddings. He spent time with children and family. He went to church. He taught others. He went fishing with friends. He spent time with lepers and healed the sick. He traveled from city to city and saw storms and rough seas. He dined in the homes of friends. He gave of himself to the very end. He loved like no one could ever love. He forgave others. He worked at restoring friendships. He made the most of each day. He threw a fish dinner for thousands.


Romans 5:8
But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

My advice on how to have a great Christmas. Do like Jesus did. Live like you were dying. Love much, laugh often, teach others what you can. Spend time with the sick. Make soup to help them heal. Light a fire to warm others. Go to weddings or anniversaries, and celebrate with others. Give yourself to others. Share what you have. I hope you dance! Tell others that they are loved more than they know. Live like this might be your last Christmas.

Love you all!

Marty

No Room At The Inn 12/23/2014

Good Morning Dear Friends,

God bless, your day. May your coffee be hot and sweet. My flavor of the day is Door County Jingle Bell Java.

Luke 2:7King James Version (KJV)
⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

I have read through the Bible a few times in my life and two things have stood out to me every time I read them. Jesus was born in a manger. But he did not stay there. He grew up, launched into His calling from the Father and then returned home to heaven. Even if there had been room at the inn, Jesus may have been born there but He never intended to stay in the inn or the manger for His entire time on Earth.

Acts 1:9-12New King James Version (NKJV)

Jesus Ascends to Heaven

⁹ Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. ¹⁰ And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, ¹¹ who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”

Jesus came from heaven and returned to heaven. Some day He will return to Earth.

Our life is like a great inn, where we are to stay a day or two, and be gone. What foolishness it is to set our heart upon our inn, and to forget our home.

Some day we will all pass from our inn, a place we were never intended to stay. Our eternal home is to be with God the Father through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and our faith in Him.
Oh, that we would spend more time traveling through life with a purpose. The purpose of telling others of the love of the Savior Jesus Christ and living this life as an example of His love. But yet we live as if this inn will never close. We live without looking to our eternal home but concentrating on one that has a definite check out time.

As Christmas approaches let's set our minds on the Baby Jesus. He came to save, serve and love. He left this world better for being here. How about you?

God bless,
Marty

Unfrozen In Review 12/22/2014

Good Morning,

Monday here we come. Christmas is almost here. I finished the final Christmas shopping last night and was quite pleased with my choices of stocking stuffers for Rene this year. I watched her wrap presents late into the night sitting next to the tree with all of her decorations illuminating the room. She enjoys being surrounded by her Christmas keep sakes. My coffee this morning is Door County Candy Cane.

Yesterday I wrote that we would be attending church and our Children's Christmas program was going to be presented. The church was filled with many parish members, friends, relatives and visitors. I left with a warm feeling and very much pleased with our Children's Ministry.

I thought I would take a shot at giving the program a review like they would receive from a theater critic. But, I will write this in "Marty Style"

Faith Bible Church presented  "Unfrozen" a parody from the Disney movie "Frozen". Although I have never seen the movie Frozen it was easy for me to pick up on the parody and enjoy the music adaptations.

The character review goes like this. All members of the cast were well rehearsed and definitely enjoyed there acting debut. It seems as if talking about Jesus is quite easy for them to do. One special mention goes out to the young man who played the prince. He definitely has a future in show business. The snowman can be recommended now for Coke commercials.

Rating the props I find myself struggling with what awards to give. The recycling of material used for who knows what in it's past life was simply amazing. The costumes were top notch and deserve an Oscar. Only one wardrobe malfunction was noted. This was the angel who's wings or his bandanna looked like big floppy ears. The young man overcame this look with extra cuteness which should get him nominated for best angel in a supporting role.

I give the directors "The Best Achievement Award" for organizing a great show using child actors. The actors can be difficult  to work with as they can be quite demanding wanting to nap, eat constantly and attend school. Next the will unionize!.

The Best Actor Award goes to Jesus who actually wasn't in the play.  Just the mention of His name brought the crowd to attention. Jesus was present in the audience, but was unavailable for autographs. He unselfishly gave all the accolades to the cast and crew for all their hard work honoring Him. The cast and crew gave their all to worship their Savior.

Philippians 2:10-11New King James Version (NKJV)
¹⁰ that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, ¹¹ and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

I will not quit my day job and start reviewing movies and theater productions. As a matter of fact I can tell you with all honesty that this will be my last one for the year.

Have a great day!!!

Marty

Kids And Christmas 12/21/2014

Good Morning,

Well we just returned home from a week long vacation in Florida. Wisconsin is cold and damp and our area is without snow. The weather forecast predicts some snow will fall for Christmas Eve. That would make it very special for me. I am drinking some Red Velvet Cupcake Coffee this morning. It was given to me by my family as a Christmas present. It does satisfy a sweet tooth like mine and stirs my memories of a great time.

Matthew 19:14New King James Version (NKJV)
¹⁴ But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Although I am bummed about leaving family behind in Florida I am also excited to be home in time for our church's Christmas program. I have heard a lot of good things about it and I always enjoy the little children singing and acting for our Lord. It takes a lot of work to put a program like this together. I can only imagine that getting little kids to do anything on cue has to be like herding cats. It could make a bald man grow hair again.

Costumes, props, practices, lighting, flu bugs and colds all have to come together. All that hard work by a few adults and teens doesn't go unnoticed in heaven. It also shouldn't go unnoticed here on Earth. The time those hard workers spend with the kids has a huge impact on each and every child. The production is not the most important thing. The time spent teaching the kids to worship and praise through drama and song can have an impact on eternity for the kids and those attending. This is a child's first exposure to evangelizing their faith.

I am involved in a lot of different things at our church. None of which involves organizing little saints into a production for our Lord. I am too old and too grumpy for that. But I think that we should all say thank you to those around the world who teach children regularly in church. Those who spend hours and hours producing programs that teach the kids the Gospel of Jesus Christ and helping them to evangelize through their shows, need to be thanked.  I want to publically thank all those at Faith Bible Church in Greenfield Wisconsin and those involved around the world who have been called to Children's Ministry for what you do. Friends applaud loud, praise those kids and say thanks to all who work so hard for our Lord

I can't wait to see our program today. I always enjoy those little kids who sing and can pick their nose at the same time. Multi talented little people who probably will be called to Teen Ministry. LOL

God bless,
Marty

Memories Are Made Of These 12/20/2014

Good Morning,

This morning rates and early start to the day. Lots to do and places to be. This morning's coffee is Door County Candy Cane.

Yesterday we were treated to a wonderful chicken dinner with all the extras anyone could want. I was blessed to be able to assist with the preparation and see how this meal was made. I can assure you this meal will be duplicated in our home. Now the food tasted great, but I can tell you that when I make it at home it will remind me of who I was with on that day and the fun we had. This is much more important than the taste. I spent the day with family. Some gifts were exchanged and pictures were taken. But what I will remember is just having the day with the gang. We could have eaten fried Twinkies and artichokes and it would have been just fine. It was just seeing the family and spending time that was the feast of the heart.

1 Chronicles 16:12

Remember His wonderful deeds which He has done, His marvels and the judgments from His mouth,

The day was a gift given by God and we were truly blessed. The memory of the day will last long into the winter. So Father God I say thank you on behalf of the whole family for giving us this day together.

So friends take time at Christmas to be part of great memories. Make the most of each day. Love much, laugh often and thank God for the memories.

God bless,
Marty

God With Us 12/19/2014

Good Morning,

Friday returned to us as it always does. This morning my coffee cup is filled with Door County White Christmas. We were discussing what will be on the table to eat at our home on Christmas Eve yesterday. That discussion left us still undecided. One item for sure will be Cream of Pheasant and Wild Rice Soup.

As we prepare our hearts for the celebration of Christmas let's take a look at some Scripture that is heart warming yet has a warning for us.

Matthew 1:22-23        

 

Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: "BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which translated means, "GOD WITH US."

 

Jesus left heaven to be born in a manger, live as a man, die on a cross, rise from the grave and then returned to heaven. The Scripture above tells us that our Triune God came to Earth to save the world from the damnation of sin. This is the greatest gift of all.

 

But Jesus also said that He would be with us always.

 

Matthew 28:20New King James Version (NKJV)²⁰ teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

God then sent us the Holy Spirit, "the third part of the Trinity" so in fact He is with us in Spirit

John 14:26 (KJ2

²⁶ But the Comforter, who is the Holy Ghost whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

So in fact as I write this and you read these words, God is present. That is most reassuring to know God is present. Is it? If God illuminated Himself  right this second in front of you what would you say? How would you act? What would you differently? Oh yes I cling to the fact that I am never left alone in times of trials. But do we through our actions acknowledge God's presence minute by minute? That is on sobering thought. He is right here.

 

At Christmas we think about the little baby born of a virgin. But what power that baby has to change lives!!! These verses help me to love God and fear Him. They should warm you and chill you to the bone at the same time.

 

Food for thought????

 

God bless,

 

Marty

 

 

Christmas Presents For Yourself 12/18/2014

Good Morning,

This day started after getting a little extra sleep. I must have needed the rest, because I usually don't sleep as sound as I did last night. My mug is filled with Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee. I promised that we would continue getting our hearts ready for Christmas. So here we go.

Luke 10:27
 The man answered, ” `You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, `Love your neighbor as yourself.’


Christmas is a time when we usually try to be generous to others by giving gifts. Some try to do a few charitable deeds during the season or visit friends and relatives. I know of one family who delivers Christmas meals to people who are shut in and cannot cook for themselves. During Christmas people tend to look to others instead of theirself . That's exactly what Jesus did. He came to earth to save others.

But I am going to advise something a little different. Please do not stop doing things for others. But I want you to consider giving yourself a gift. I promise that this won't label you as selfish or stingy.

Here are several gift ideas for yourself.

Maybe you have an addiction. Could this be the Christmas that you don't get drunk?  Could this be the Christmas without pills or needles? Too much television, video games? The list is long.

Maybe you suffer from terminal crabbiness and sarcasm. Maybe Snarky should be your name. Could this be the Christmas that you give yourself a new attitude?

Maybe you can't remember the last time you opened your wallet to help someone. Try dropping some money in a charitable cause. Your memory will improve and with it your heart get's fixed. Give your heart a tune up.

Maybe you could give yourself the gift of time. An hour or two spent reading your Bible is investing in your walk with Jesus.

You could give yourself the gift of laughter. When was the last time you chuckled? Have a heart warming laugh. Find a church and attend the children's Christmas program. There is always that one kid who does something that his or her parents wish they hadn't, but the audience sees it as cute and funny. Kids love applause. There is a second gift in this one. You might enjoy the message also.

Maybe you are a terminal party person. Pity parties are your specialty. Give yourself the gift of relaxing from throwing all those parties. Self pity can wear you out beyond belief. Concentrate on helping others through a rough time. A heart that beats for others beats best. You will forget your own problems for awhile.

Scripture says that we are to also love ourselves. Every one of the gifts I listed above will also benefit others. The gift you give yourself might be the best gift you could give to your family and friends.

This season, as you are wrapping presents for others, unwrap one for yourself. It is fine to love on yourself.

God bless,

Marty

The Blessing That Keeps On Blessing 12/17/2014

Good Morning,

I am starting my day a little later this morning. My cup is filled with Door County Autumn Spice Coffee. My wife and daughter walked my legs off yesterday. It's funny I can walk all day to duck hunt but touring little shops wears my legs out much quicker.

James 1:17    
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

On a cold day in 1978 in the middle of a snow storm our daughter Kristy entered the world. We were blessed with a healthy baby girl who has blossomed into a beautiful woman. Only a few months after being born Kristy started to share things. Once she could chew on harder items she would always offer people a bite. There were many Oreo cookies that had been sucked on for an hour that Dad would just have to take a bite of.

Nothing has changed except that she doesn't make you take a bite of her soggy cookie. She still shares. She shares her time with family and friends. Often the last to sleep and the first to rise. She is the first to offer help when a family member is down. She shares her knowledge with all the homework she has assisted her kids with. She shares her strength. I witnessed this just yesterday as she carried bags for my mother in law. We are proud of her and her accomplishments. She has moved up the corporate ladder through knowledge and hard work. You can see her values in her family.  So the blessing that started in 1978 has never stopped blessing others.  I am grateful to God for her and even the soggy Oreos. My life has never been the same since 1978. And I would go back anytime to eat one more soggy Oreo.

So today when you look at your kids. Look up and say thank you Dear God for the blessings of my child or children. Then thank Him for His. He has a Son that He is proud of too. That puts Christmas right into perspective.

God bless,

Marty

Held Hostage 7/16/2014

Good Morning,

My coffee today is Door County Highlander Grog. My day will be filled with family and friends. I am looking forward to seeing my daughter in a few hours. All will be well with the world.

2 Chronicles 7:14New King James Version (NKJV)      If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

As it gets closer to Christmas I want to start preparing our hearts for the day. Christmas is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, My Lord and Savior.

People will miss another Christmas just by being held hostage with sickness of the heart and soul. A hostage situation that can end either good or badly.

Homes torn apart by impending divorce, siblings no longer speaking, children estranged from parents, marriages ending in violence, hard feelings toward others, an unwillingness to forgive, bitterness, lies, and blame, sin at the core of every wretched, unresolved conflict.

It's time to be cured of these issues. The first step is to seek help in prayer for each other. Serious prayer that cries out to God for help in resolving the issues of the heart. Prayer that asks God to show you your wrong doings.

The second step is to take the prayer power forward and seek peace with those that have offended you or you have offended. Your peace effort might be turned down, but you will know you have tried.

Giving it the effort will give you the peace of Christmas.

Matthew 5:9New King James Version (NKJV)

⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers,
    For they shall be called sons of God.

Don't you want your "personal land" healed from anger and strife? Call out, look up, and reach out.

Get ready for the last few days before Christmas. Let's prepare our hearts, minds, and souls.

God bless,

Marty

In The Right Place At The Right Time 12/15/14

Good Morning,

I am off from work today and can enjoy my coffee slowly. My goal is to really do nothing and to be better at it by 3:00 PM. The coffee that is brewing is Door County White Christmas.

Hebrews 13:2King James Version (KJV)
² Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Yesterday was a day that tired me out. For most of the day I was frustrated beyond belief and it was pretty much impossible for me to focus and see things clearly.

Let me explain. My wife, my mother in law and I were to meet family members at a chain type restaurant for lunch. I typed what I thought was the correct city with the name of the eatery into our GPS. Off we went! I expected the trip to be about 100 miles from where we started so when the GPS unit (Global Positioning System or electronic irritation) said 127 miles it seemed OK to me.

Something told me that this was the wrong direction all the way to the restaurant. We arrived in the city, at the restaurant just to figure out that we were three hours away from our family. We were in the wrong city! So hopes of seeing everyone vanished. I am glad that my Dr. was not there to check my blood pressure. I was very disappointed and angry.

So to make the best of the day we decided to let the two ladies shop and browse in the many attractions within the community we landed in. Much to my surprise and more irritation there was not a parking space to be found within a half of a mile. That was too far for Grandma to walk. I dropped them off and agreed on a pick up time. I parked and prayed so I could lose my lousy attitude and ask God to show me why I am an electronic idiot. While sitting there in the car listening to Christmas music I spied two antique shops. Since my wife loves to antique shop, I knew that this might redeem my inadequacy with electronics and restore some of my ego. I picked the two of them up at the arranged time. I proudly took them to the antique shops. So far I had been in the wrong place at the wrong time all day.

As we were leaving the antique shop we heard an elderly man say that the tire on his truck was flat and that he was too weak from his fight with cancer to change it. The Mrs. looked at me and if anything at all I have a strong back and have changed plenty of tires. I was now in the right place at the right time. I assisted Frank and changed his tire. When we were finished Frank thanked me and wanted to pay me. Of course this was not going to happen. I finally knew why I was where I was.

Frank and I had a Christmas moment that both he and I will not forget for eternity. 

So full of grease and dirt we drove home. I was content that the GPS that was used was God's Positioning System.


Have a Christmas Type Moment Today.

Marty

Walking Freely 12/14/2014

Good Morning

My cup is filled with Door County Autumn Spice Coffee and my heart is filled with concern for loved ones going through rough times today. A little more time in prayer is needed this morning.

I do a lot of duck hunting as everyone around me knows. Part of the gear I need is a trusted pair of chest waders. Waders are designed to keep us dry and warm as we walk through water in pursuit of the elusive fowl. The boots are heavy and at times quite cumbersome especially when walking through muck and mud. No doubt, once they are removed at the end of the hunt my legs and hip joints are relieved. They are not always easy to walk in. There is nothing worse than a pair of waders that leak. Once filled with swamp water they are cold, will smell later and usually the repairs don't last. You need to purchase new ones.

Colossians 2:6-7New King James Version (NKJV)
⁶ As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, ⁷ rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it^[ with thanksgiving.
My friends, we have freely received the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a gift given from God the Father. So we are to walk freely. We seem to continue to walk in the leaky waders of the world. All the things of life that we continue to carry like guilt, shame, anger, old habits, depression or envy, hold us back from experiencing a new and resurrected life. We will have burdens no doubt, and troubles will come our way. But are the old bad habits of sin to keep a grip on us? They to continue to have a grip on us like wet, swampy waders? No! We are to shed those things like a frozen pair of leaky wet waders. Waders filled with water if not shed add more weight to the walk. If a hunter falls into the water they can actually contribute to him or her drowning.

Eventually by not living as the Bible teaches us through the Holy Spirit we will drown in our old habits.

How are you walking? Are your waders filled with the swamp muck of the world? Do you let all the junk into your life? Are your old sins still on your back? Then get back to the basics. Read God's word and obey it, attend church regularly, and pray. You'll see the waders start to come off. Life will be easier to walk.

God bless,
Marty

Pursuit Of Happiness 12/12/2014

Good Morning,

Friday showed up just like I knew it would. My coffee this morning is Door County Harvest Blend. I have a few fun days in store for me this weekend. I can't wait to get started. But for now I need to get to the hospital and get some work done. It has been a productive week.

Benjamin Franklin once said, "The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself".
Happiness is not a destination but the process of getting there.

I believe that many people desire "happiness" but yet when you ask them what it really is that would make them happy it is hard for them to nail down just one thing. I spoke with a young lady about ten years ago who said that her only wish was to get married and have a family. She was married shortly after that and had two children within three years. Her husband ran a successful business. Life seemed to be good. When her oldest child was six years old he became very ill and her days were spent at one hospital or another. I met her once again while visiting a hospital where her son was staying. I asked her if she needed anything and she said, "I need a break", my husband works all the time and I am always here at the hospital." My heart did go out to her, but everything she hoped for was not enough when she received it. Some women would want a husband who worked and paid the bills. Some women would be happy to spend all their time with their sick child because they don't have any children. You see, my friend's happiness all started in things that can change.

Happiness is a condition of the heart. A heart which is happy with being a child of God the King is a happy heart and the true journey to inner happiness starts with Jesus. A heart that beats for others beats best. Below are some Bible verses that will help us all find the true meaning of happiness.

Psalms 37:3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shall you dwell in the land, and truly you shall be fed.

Psalms 37:4 Delight yourself also in the LORD: and he shall give you the desires of your heart.

Proverbs 14:13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

Proverbs 16:20 He that handles a matter wisely shall find good: and whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he.

Ecclesiastes 3:12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.

Ecclesiastes 3:13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labor, it is the gift of God.

Isaiah 12:2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelled among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Romans 5:2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

 

Life's journey to happiness includes work, playing, loving and living. But it all starts with Jesus and our relationship with Him.

Let that thought carry you through today. You are as happy as you choose to be.

God bless,

Marty

Living The Dream 12/11/2014

 

Good Morning,

 

 

I have started today with a cup of Door County Maple Coffee. I looked over the top of my glasses and I can see Friday. 

 

As I travel through my days, I stop to say hello and ask people how they are doing. Many people now reply "just living the dream". Their reply is usually sarcastic and does not sound very happy.  This is usually spewed out by people who are working. I receive some of these replies where I work. Some are from the cashiers in stores that I frequent. My barber just used this phrase.

Here's my thought. If you are working you are blessed. If I run into you during my day it is a blessing for me to see you. When we reply "just living the dream argh", we are basically saying "and running into you doesn't help".  I think we are a generation of complainers.

Philippians 2:14
¹⁴ Do everything without grumbling or complaining,

The next time someone says hello how are you doing. Don't reply with the insult "just living the dream". How about "Great! I woke up today and I wasn't in hell. It's more than I deserve"

Or "better now that I have seen you".

Food for thought!

Marty

Interest Is Always Paid 12/10/2014

Good Day!

 I left for work at 1 AM today with a big cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee in my hand. It was a long, long day. So excuse me for not writing this morning.

I have noticed that you can barely earn any paid interest on the money you put into the bank these days. I used to earn money on my checking account too. But that seems to be history. But I still have to pay interest on my home loan. The interest on a home loan just seems to multiply.

So it seems that now days there really is only "I owe more interest to the bank" instead of the bank working for me.

There is another type of interest we pay. This interest compounds itself quickly. But this pay as you go type of interest should not be paid.

"Worry is the interest we pay on tomorrow's troubles"  E. Stanley Jones

Matthew 6:25-34New King James Version (NKJV)

Do Not Worry

²⁵ “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? ²⁷ Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?

Tomorrow always comes. Who can stop it by worrying?

No one likes to pay more interest on a loan than they have to. Lighten your load my friends and drop the worry.

God bless,

Marty

Meals Should Be Pleasurable 12/9/2014

Good Morning,

Tuesday has arrived and my schedule is full beyond belief. Can't fit much more into this day. My coffee this morning is Door County Christmas. I am a little slow today. I watched Monday Night Football and cheered on my favorite team the Green Bay Packers. That makes for a tired guy this morning.

 

 

Colossians 3:15-17        

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 


Rene and I look forward to our meals together. We sit and talk about our day after giving thanks to God for our meal. Many times we find that during the meal and our conversation we pray for others. Even at breakfast we find the time together very pleasurable as we eat our cereal. We laugh and talk and the meals which could be finished sooner last longer.

Most of the time I eat lunch alone, but even that is pleasurable and it should be. A meal does not have to be fancy to be pleasurable. It does not have to be prime time exquisite to be pleasurable. A slice of bread and a piece of cheese is a pleasure. We can take time to read some scripture while we eat. We should thank God for the food before us and be reminded that it was a gift from Him. We can pray for others during our meal. We can listen to some music or just enjoy some peace and quiet. Meals should be a pleasure.

So whether you are single, or married meal time is a pleasure to enjoy. Whether a huge feast or a meager meal, time with God is to be a pleasure.

Have a great day and eat with a smile.

God bless,

Marty

Let It Snow 12/8/2014

Good Morning World.

Monday showed up again despite my protests. So it's off to work I go with a cup of Door County Harvest Blend Coffee in my hand and a prayer on my lips.

 

I was reading my Facebook page last night and a friend of mine in Georgia said that "it doesn't feel like Christmas without snow". Many parts of the world will never experience snow. Some people have never felt a snow flake fall on their face. Some will never roll the snow into huge balls and make a snow man.

I have lived in snow land all my life and must admit that I really like it. I agree with my friend that for me to feel like it's Christmas I need to see some snow. Hot chocolate always tastes better when it is snowing.

Really folks, the snow thing is all a frame of mind. Some people miss a tropical beach when they are not near it. What I want to express today is this. Whatever you see today in your part of the world was made by God for you to see.

Job 37:6

 "For to the snow He says, 'Fall on the earth,' And to the downpour and the rain, 'Be strong.'

So if today you see snow, look up and know Who sent it. He is the one that fills the water reservoirs.

God bless,
Marty

Crab Shack 12/7/2014

Good Morning,

I pray that your Sunday is filled with worship and praise for God Our Father In Heaven. Don't be late for church. You might miss something that could change your day. My coffee this morning that smells so good is Door County White Christmas. The aroma is so good I swear it can transmit right through the computer to you.

Rene and I have family in Florida. One of the things we like to treat ourselves to while visiting is to go to the local eatery called The Crab Shack. Of course their specialty is seafood. One thing I notice though is that even because the name on the sign says "Crab Shack" not every customer eats crab. I see people eating lobster, shrimp, scallops, fish, and even "heaven forbid" beef at the crab shack. I for one do not even eat a little bit of crab. I really don't care for it at all. But give me a plate of shrimp and scallops and I am very happy.

1 Corinthians 13:5New King James Version (NKJV)
⁵ does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil;

The same thing goes for cranky, crabby people. Every now and then you can handle a little dose of crabbiness or a case of cranky from people. But after awhile you lose your taste for getting your butt chewed on by that person and well, you tend to avoid them and eventually they are left alone to crab at people captive (usually family) in their life. Love is not crabby!

Now we are to love all people. But those with terminal crabbiness tend to get loved as needed or from a distance. It seems then that their crabbiness gets worse.

Now even crabby cranks tend to give Christmas presents. Here's an idea for this year. Why not give those around you the gift of peace. Take a box, pray over it and wrap it like a gift, Ask God to help you to get rid of your rude behavior. Place it under the tree as a reminder that you have given up being Mr. or Mrs. McCrabby. But on the gift tag write the following verse.


Philippians 4:13New King James Version (NKJV)
¹³ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. 
You might find that the life you save is yours. You can be a new person. I am sure you have a lot to offer. But the sin of not loving others the way you should has crept in and gotten a foothold in your heart.

We tend to justify being a crank in several ways. "That's the way I am, You'd be cranky if you had my life, or I don't care what people think of me." Scripturally that way of thinking is foolishness.

I have also noticed that there are several different ways to prepare crab. But for me whatever you do to it, crab is always crab.

Proverbs 16:25

²⁵ There is a way that seems right to a man and appears straight before him, but at the end of it is the way of death.

Crab meat makes a pretty good dip, I have been told. But is that what you want to be called? Here comes the crab?


Have a great day and let's all take the crabbiness out of Christmas.

God bless,

Marty
 

God Answers 12/6/2014

Good Morning,

My morning is going a little slower than usual. This is the type of morning I can really enjoy. I am not in a hurry to rush out the door. My day will be busy with preparations for our Annual Christmas Caroling event but I am allowing myself to enjoy the fire place for a little bit as it takes the cold out of the house. My coffee does not need to travel in a car today. I can just take in the morning. My cup is filled with Door County Cherry Crème Coffee and I am enjoying it slowly. All is quiet as the dog nestles up to the fire and I write.

Proverbs 3:5-6New King James Version (NKJV)

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
⁶ In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

I ask God to direct my paths and guide me. And at times I would swear He is not listening to me. It has taken me some years of maturing to understand that He always answers. It just isn't always the answer I want or in the time frame I want it in. I used to think that God was "thinking about it" and will get back to me. Now really? Does God have to think about what is best for me and what He wants for me? No. Sometimes His answer is no. Sometimes His answer is wait. But He always answers.

The risk we run is going ahead of Him or outside of His will. Proverbs 3:5-6 clearly instructs us to trust in God alone and not to trust our own knowledge. In that we are assured that He is directing us and guiding us.

Waiting and trusting is a hard thing to do. But I wait and trust in many things each day. I put money into the bank and trust that they will open and have my money when I need it. Banks have failed. But God has never failed me. We just need to wait and trust. God will never fail you. The only one in the wait and trust scenario that will fail you is you.

Well it is time to move on to another log on the fire and a second cup of coffee, and then some major soup making.
God bless you today and always.

Marty

New Every Morning 12/5/2014

Good Morning,

Friday is here at last. I wish I could double up on a Friday or two now and then. My mug is filled with Door County White Christmas Coffee. I heard that the roads might be icy today. So just to be cautious I will take the big thermos full of coffee.

Lamentations 3:22-23New King James Version (NKJV)

²² Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
²³ They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.

 

I love these verses. I try not to make mistakes throughout the day but inevitably I screw up. I'm sure that some of you can identify with this statement. Every morning the Lord is there when we wake up. He knows what we will encounter during each day and He with His compassion is there to guide and assist. Because of His great daily mercy we are not consumed by circumstances or our own faults.

Each day God is faithful to extend more mercy to us.

 

With this "no limit love" to guide us and protect us we can always know that God will carry us through the low times in life.

 

Munch on that thought and write this verse somewhere and post it so you can read it from time to time.

 

God bless,

 

Marty

Pheasant For Supper 12/4/2014

Good Morning,

I am wide awake and ready for the day. As always this will be a busy day. My cup is filled with Door County Maple Coffee. I did not get as much done last night in preparing for our Christmas Caroling Night as I had hoped for. So tonight will be a long one.

The picture above is our grandson Dominick. He visited Wisconsin a few days ago and we were able to spend some time hunting. Dom was successful in bagging a couple of pheasants. It was fun to watch our dog Gibbs work the field in front of Dominick and flush the birds so the young man could fire his shot gun and take some fowl home to eat.

The first thing Dominick had to learn after gun safety and how to shoot was to concentrate on watching the dog. The dog is always at work. His nose has been trained  and bred to smell birds. Dom needed to watch the dog and trust him to lead us to the birds. Many times I have taken my eyes off the dog and turned my back only to have pheasants flush near the dog. He knew where they were and knew what he was doing. I trusted myself instead of a trained nose. Then I went home without those birds.

John 5:17New Life Version (NLV)
¹⁷ Jesus said to them, “My Father is still working all the time so I am working also.”

Friends, God is always at work too. We need to keep our eyes and ears spiritually in tune with God. We need to watch for Him at work and ask if we can join in. When we take our eyes off of God and start trusting in our own abilities we might miss him at work. A lot like a pheasant hunter will miss shooting his or her supper because they did not watch the dog.

When was the last time you saw God at work and were in tune with Him enough to join in His work with Him and be truly successful?

Food for thought?

Marty

Falling Down The Stairs 12/3/2014

Good Morning,

I am looking at my cup wishing I had more time to slowly enjoy this tasty Door County Cherry Crème Coffee today. But soon I will be headed off to work and whatever adventure the day brings.

Over the last few days it seems as if people who I love are just being bombarded with all kinds of ugly things. One dear friend fell down her basement stairs and broke a few bones. One dear family will soon be homeless and is in need of shelter in another city. One good buddy starts his chemotherapy Friday. Another family was riddled with an illness that gave them aches and fevers. I have two older relatives that has me concerned for their health.  The list goes on and on.

It is times like these that can become overwhelming for those going through these miseries. Yet it is times like these that lead us to our knees in prayer for those we love.

Today won't you open your hearts to pray for others in need of healing, safety or shelter? Consider fasting in prayer for those you love.


James 5:14-16

Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up, and if he has committed sins, they will be forgiven him. Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.

Ezra 8:23        
So we fasted and implored our God for this, and he listened to our entreaty


God bless. Think of others first today.

Marty

Right And Wrong 12/2/2014

Good Morning,

My night was filled with Christmas trees, Christmas music and a long talk with a loved one. So my morning starts with prayer, and some Door County Harvest Blend Coffee. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in our house.

 

 

I am convinced that we are a world of excuses and blame shifting. It seems that no one wants to accept responsibility for their actions anymore. It is always someone Else's fault or there is a reason for the behavior and then the behavior should be excused. Sorry folks I do not buy that. I believe from early on we are all taught right form wrong. Doing wrong is not allowed just because we had a bad day, or our parents did not tell us they love us. Shooting a classmate because we don't fit in or they said something mean does not allow us to take a life. A court decision that we do not agree with does not give us the right to burn down a building and steal a television. Speeding because we woke up late does not allow us to go 20 mph over the limit.

 

We might try to tell each other our lame excuses but God has clearly stated His expectations of behavior.

 

James 4:17        

So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

         

Isaiah 5:20        

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!

         

John 3:19-21    

And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”

         

Romans 13:1         

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.

 

Genesis 4:6-7        

The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.”

 

It can't be said much clearer than that. God expects us to know right from wrong and we are not to seek vengeance outside of the law. We cannot do wrong to be accepted by the world. 

 

This was a tough message, especially at Christmas. But I think if we can avoid wrong and do right instead, we might just capture the essence of Christ in Christmas.

 

God bless,

 

Marty

Silver Bells 12/1/2014

Good Morning,

Monday Already? Where did the weekend go? My coffee this morning is Door County Christmas. December has arrived and I am giddy with anticipation of all the things that will go on in our home this month.

I am especially looking forward to the annual Christmas Caroling that will take place next Saturday. It starts at our home and two teams of people go out and sing to some of the elderly folks in the local nursing homes. Then they all come back to our house for soup fest and fellowship.

A few years ago while doing this one lady requested that we sing "Silver Bells". We were able to accommodate the request and she smiled from ear to ear. She said that Silver Bells had always been her favorite Christmas song. She told us that when she was around 8 years old she was in a choir of little kids who sang that song for their mayor. She proudly let us know that the recital was one of the best moments of her life. I asked her if she had accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. She replied that she had done that at an early age. She said, " although my recital for the mayor was a great day I have a better day coming, when I someday see Jesus".

It was just a few days later that I saw an ambulance at the nursing home. I saw the ambulance leave and they did not seem to be in a hurry with their passenger. I learned later that the person inside had already passed away and delivery to a hospital was a formality so a doctor could pronounce the person deceased.

I stopped in to inquire with the staff if I could pray with anyone who might be upset about losing one of their friends. That's when I found out that the lady who requested "Silver Bells" to be sung had passed away. Some of her elderly friends asked if we could sing it again in her honor. We made such a beautiful noise together, none of which was on key.

But then I remembered what that sweet lady said about seeing Jesus and I realized that she just had the best day of her life. She was home in heaven with the One who died for her.

Every time I hear the song "Silver Bells" on the radio I remember her smile when she spoke of looking forward to her great day.

What day do you have in front of you? Have you invited Jesus into your heart?

2 Corinthians 5:8New King James Version (NKJV)
⁸ We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.

God bless,
Marty