Grandma's Chair 12/31/2015

Good Morning,

New Years Eve is here to usher in 2016. I raise my cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee in a toast to 2015. I lived through it, experienced some blessings and some set backs. But God is still on His throne and always will be. 2015 was no better or no worse than any other year.

Last night I picked up a rocking chair that we had refinished. It looks like new. The chair was given to us by Rene's mother. It actually belonged to Rene's grandmother. We were glad to bring it home and count it as a treasure. The chair has lived through many decades (at least 8)and when we received it as a gift the old chair was almost ready for the scrap heap.

We discussed it for awhile before deciding to rejuvenate the heirloom. It will be moved to my den and the back will hold an afghan crocheted by Rene's mother. Rene saw memories and possibilities in the chair and knew that it was worth the rehab work.

That's how God looks at us. He sees memories from day one and sees all the possibilities in us. From time to time we need a clean up and a push to be useful to His Kingdom. His rehab process on our lives begins with Jesus entering our hearts as Lord and Savior. Then the continual process of reforming us begins with the Holy Spirit. But thank God, He continues to work. We have a few pieces of furniture I have started to refinish and they are sitting in the garage waiting for attention. God never quits on us.

Philippians 1:3-6New International Version (NIV)
³ I thank my God every time I remember you. ⁴ In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy ⁵ because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, ⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

So for 2016 try to acknowledge the good work that God has started in your life and sit still and allow Him to sand a few of the rough edges in your style.

God bless,

Marty

Arm Yourself, Conceal Carry. 12/30/2015

Good Morning,

My day started with being thankful for a job, thankful for a warm bed and thankful for the Door County White Christmas Coffee perking away in the kitchen. This has to be the start of a great day.

1 Peter 5:8New International Version (NIV)
⁸ Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

It is easy to see from 1 Peter 5:8 that the devil is out to seek and destroy lives wherever he can. Clearly this is an act of war on our lives and souls. I don't know one true warrior that goes into battle unarmed. A good warrior has his or her favorite battle implement, one that has been tried and can be counted on.

I live in a state where it is legal to conceal and carry a weapon. The weapon is to be concealed and only used in self defense. I like this, because it makes the bad people wonder whether or not you are armed and can defend yourself.

With the devil, we are fighting a spiritual battle. I for one like to be armed for my protection at all times. The battle implement I use and recommend is the memorized Word of God. Basically just as Jesus did while tempted, (Matthew 4:1-11) I use the word of God to help me not to give in to the temptations the devil throws my way.

Psalm 119:11New International Version

¹¹ I have hidden your word in my heart
    that I might not sin against you.

 

You are never too old to start memorizing a verse or twenty. You can carry these with you at all times to use at a moments notice when under attack.

 

Why battle with a plastic butter knife when you can have a two edged sword? Memorize, conceal and carry. You are defending yourself! Ready Aim Fire!

 

God bless,

 

Marty

How To Say I Love You 12/29/2015

Good Morning,

Last night we experienced our first big sloppy snow storm of the year and I enjoyed cleaning up after the down pour of white frozen water. I will admit however that I am a little sore from the exercise. My mug is filled with some strong Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee and I am taking the big Thermos bottle to work today.

I hear couple after couple complain about not hearing the words "I love you" enough. I find that a lot of guys love their spouses but jut don't drop enough L bombs around the house and I also hear from a significant amount of guys with the same complaint about the ladies. Although saying I love you is very important, we can show our affection through actions designed to show one specific person how much they are loved. Here are two ways without being too sappy.

Pick a chore that you know your partner does not like to do and without telling them, go ahead and complete it for them. When they ask "who did this" wink and say "I did it for you because I know you dislike doing it". Now if they don't ask who did the chore, don't keep score and wait for a thank you. Remember, you did it out of love, not for self appreciation.

Here's another one. Purchase some sparklers and wait until dark, go outside and light a bunch of them, where they can see them showering sparks. They will be sure to ask you what you are doing. Just tell them that you just wanted to see the sparklers twinkle in their eye. Now that one was a little sappy.

There are a million ways to say I love you to others through actions. Your relationships are only as boring as you make them to be.

1 John 3:18New International Version (NIV)
¹⁸ Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

Have a great day!

Marty

Falling Away Fast 12/28/15

Good Morning,

Back home after a few days away and headed to work with my cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee. It will be another short week with New Years Day arriving Friday.

Psalm 104:35               
Let sinners be consumed from the earth, and let the wicked be no more! Bless the Lord, O my soul! Praise the Lord!

This past weekend, we took some time to go and hike around a waterfall and view it in the winter. The roar of the water was loud and the water was very swift. While viewing the falls from the top I watched a piece of ice break away from the side of the river and get caught up in the current and very soon there after it went over the falls never to be seen again.

I thought about what would happen to a person if they stepped out onto the slippery rocks in the river. How long would it be, before they slipped and would be carried away over the falls? Just a little bit too close and it would be disastrous.

Sin is like that. If we even get close to sin, it can draw us in and the next thing we know we are in a mess of no return. Sometimes the mess can't be straightened out and it ruins a life forever.

Just as we would stay away from the edge of a waterfall we also need to avoid sin and it's ability to draw us in deeper and deeper. We need to stay solidly in the Word and in prayer.  Don't go over the falls, run away to a safe haven away from the waterfall of sin.

God bless,

Marty

Christmas Cookies And Dad 12/27/2015

Good Morning,

We traveled home today from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan today with our nephew Nick and his sweetie Mikaella. I was missing my Door County Candy Cane Coffee but just made a pot for tomorrow.

Most of the family made it to Michigan to celebrate with our Dad. There was a big supply of Christmas cookies baked for Dad. There were so many kinds to choose from. He has always loved cookies with a cup of coffee. The air was filled with sweetness.

There were three different families that worked from different homes to make Christmas nice for the guy who lives alone in the middle of no where, as we should. It went very well but I think we were the ones who came away blessed to have done it. That time and effort of love boomeranged and our Christmas was made so much better. We went to give and we received the gifts of smiles and laughter. It doesn't get much better than that.

Luke 6:31New International Version (NIV)
³¹ Do to others as you would have them do to you

God bless,

Marty

We Had A White Christmas 12/26/2015

Good Morning,

Woke up this morning and wanted some Door County Hot Buttered Rum Coffee and then I remembered that I forgot to pack some. We are visiting my Dad in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and spending time with other loved ones.

James 1:17New International Version (NIV)
¹⁷ Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Dad's home is about 5-6 hours North of where we live and as much of the country isn't seeing normal weather for the winter, Watersmeet Michigan is pretty much normal with snow on the ground and more coming today. Although we had to drive to obtain a White Christmas, we had it. What was even more of a blessing, was that most all of us could be there. It was a very nice time. So today I will have a cup of coffee with my Dad, work on a little project and take our nephew and his sweetie to see a couple UP sites.  This day is already blessed!

Why would I write about this? Well it is more like a confession than anything today. When I was younger I definitely would not have appreciated yesterday or today. Now, I have always loved my family but I never thought about them as a gift from God. They were just family and you had them in your life. I never thought that things would change. But they do. Some family members are no longer with us and have passed on. The dynamics of the family change. Over the years, family members have been added also. What once was, isn't anymore, what is, won't be. My regret is not taking more pictures, not saying thank you to those around me for putting up with me, not thanking God for blessing me with all those who shared a Christmas or many with me and in general not realizing this until I was 59 years old.

So take my advice directly from God's word thank Him for each day and for those who He blessed you with and you call family. Go ahead and ask Him to bless them as only He can. I don't know if He will grant my prayer, of this morning. But I went and asked Him if I can have this again next year. I trust His judgment. He spoke back and said, "why wait Son, there are eleven months in every year and you guys all like fish! It's all up to you, just do it." I guess God is a lot like Nike!

 

God Bless,

 

Marty





A Crucified Life For Christmas 12/25/2015

Good Morning,

Merry Christmas to all. May today be peaceful and full of joy for you as it was intended to be. My coffee is hot and smells just like Door County White Christmas should!

My day will be spent with family. I intend to enjoy every minute of it. I received some pretty nice gifts last night for Christmas. New seat covers for the Old Ford Truck will keep her looking like new.

I do believe that it is OK for a person to give themselves a gift. Now this does not justify you going out and getting that new truck or diamond you want. But from time to time it is good to treat yourself to something you need.

Galatians 2:20New International Version (NIV)
²⁰ I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me

I think every Christian should treat themselves to a Spiritual Crucifixion as a gift.

 Many Christians want to be obedient but continue to stumble in sin because they try to hang on to parts of the old self they think they are able to control. This is a self-defeating rationale that relies on the idea that man saves himself by his own works. The Bible teaches us that nothing a man does can save his soul, and salvation is only by the grace of God Ephesians 2:8–9. Through this gift of grace, man can be born again and be given a new nature to replace the old, sinful self. He must be born again if he is ever to see the kingdom of God John 3:3, and if he is to be born again, his sinful nature must be crucified with Christ, and he must be filled with the Holy Spirit of God.

The sinful nature being crucified literally means that the desire to sin and the acting upon it needs to be willfully put to death. Not stored away and eventually tossed, but to be given a death sentence and then crucified not to be raised up again.

This would be the best gift anyone could ever give to their self.

So have a merry day and fill your stocking with a new life in Christ.

God bless,

Marty

Twas The Night Before Christmas 12/24/15

Good Morning,

I want to wish everyone safe travels today and tonight as you go about your Christmas Eve. I think I like Christmas Eve more and more every year. Today was started with a mug of Door County Hot Buttered Rum Coffee. There is no alcohol in this brew. Now wouldn't that be a funny start to the day.

I will be the last one to bed tonight in our house. It has been a custom of mine from the beginning of our marriage, to go to bed last. I sit with a  few glowing logs in the fireplace. The Christmas tree is still lit and a couple of candles will be flickering. My mind will wander to past Christmas's and I will recall those who have gone on home to heaven in our family. I will pray for those who are with me now. I will think back to my BB gun, Italian sausages, raw beef and onions, laughter, and my struggle to get a Cabbage Patch Doll for my daughter. I will laugh about the year when I bought Rene a fishing pole and crock pot for a gift and she said "you shouldn't have". I think she really meant that. I have done better since "Every Kiss Begins With Kay". I will remember one Christmas that I worked and spent it pretty much alone. I will recall the Spanish family who needed a drain unplugged because their Christmas Eve was flooding out. I will recall my first enchilada, because they insisted I stay and celebrate with them. I will think about those who blessed us by stopping by to our open home. Most of all I will thank Jesus Christ for coming to Earth as a baby to eventually save the world from our sin. Without Him, tonight would just be any other night. His gift was best.

2 Corinthians 9:15New International Version (NIV)
¹⁵ Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

Before going to bed I will say thank you and "I am blessed". This is a wonderful world!

God Bless,

Marty

Midnight Sewer And Drain This Christmas 12/23/15

Good Morning,

The coffee pot is calling me to a big cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java and some toast. I won't be going to work today. Taking the day off to spend it with an old friend, some dogs and hopefully some pheasants.

A dear friend of mine is in town for the holidays and we will be headed out to chase birds with our dogs. My goal is to have a couple in the pot for some cream of pheasant soup with our Italian Beef on Christmas Eve. More importantly, is the opportunity to spend time with my buddy and experience some more of what we used to do regularly. I have him to thank for getting me started with duck hunting, or to blame him, depending on how you look at it. We are a lot older now and we don't see each other but once in awhile. We used to work together in the plumbing field and have a lot of funny memories there also. Our little company had the name of Midnight Sewer And Drain. We always said we were a "fly by night outfit." But we worked hard and played hard.

So what's the moral of this story.
Proverbs 27:9
Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.

Friends are a blessing, especially the ones that you can see who left a lasting mark on your life. Some people have many friends and others one or a few. But each one is a special experience sent from above. This Christmas, reopen your memories with friends and enjoy it as a gift.

God bless,

Marty

A Fire In My Bones 12/22/2015

Good Morning,

I wish you were here just to sit down and welcome the morning with a cup of Door County Highlander Grog and a few fresh biscuits with butter.

Jeremiah 20:9New International Version (NIV)

⁹ But if I say, “I will not mention his word
    or speak anymore in his name,”
his word is in my heart like a fire,
    a fire shut up in my bones.
I am weary of holding it in;
    indeed, I cannot.

 

There are things that make me want to jump and shout from time to time. I enjoy watching the local sports teams and yelling loudly when they score or win the game. Many of my friends drive Harley Davidson motorcycles and you can tell that they do because of the clothes they wear or the decorations they possess that has the Harley insignia on them. They are proud to tell you what they ride. Start talking about hunting dogs and I will tell you all you could want to know and more as to why I believe Springer Spaniels are the best hunting dog.  Most people consider these types to be fans of a certain team, cycle or dog not fanatics.

 

But let someone stand on a street corner preaching the Gospel Message of love through Jesus Christ and they are considered fanatics or lunatics. But what people do not understand is that the message of love and forgiveness and heaven and hell cannot be held in. It is, and should be a fire within that burns out of control. Are you miserable today knowing that God loves you and that you could share that message, but aren't because the world has convinced you that it is someone else's job? I see signs hanging on the freeway overpass where someone declares their love for another person for the world to see as they drive by. I don't see people doing that because of their love for Jesus Christ all too often.

 

Fire Up. God Loves You!

 

Marty

Her Overflowing Heart 12/21/2015

Good Morning,

It is a cup of Door County White Christmas to start the day and a Thermos Bottle full of Door County Jingle Bell Java for later.

Luke 6:43-45New International Version (NIV)

A Tree and Its Fruit

⁴³ “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. ⁴⁴ Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thorn bushes, or grapes from briers. ⁴⁵ A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

Yesterday a Christmas Caroling outing was held in our neighborhood by our church members for two assisted living residences. Two groups went armed with gifts, song sheets and the Gospel to spread the Good News Of Jesus Christ as well as spread some good Christmas cheer.

It went very well and the groups returned to our home for a supper of soup, bread, hot beverages and some desserts. Most people think that this has been my idea for the last twenty years. To be honest it wasn't my idea. It belongs to my wife Rene. She mentioned to me many years ago that she thought we could reach out to these two homes. At first it was just her and I. That did not last long. Rene said one day " we should share this blessing of reaching these old folks with others." That is the rest of the story. Over the years gallons of soup have been consumed. Hours of fellowship have taken place. Souls have been reached for Christ. When I look back and see a crowded home, kids having their mouths filled with whip cream and smiles on many faces I can only credit two. God for giving Rene a vision of what could be, and for Rene sharing her heart with others. I might make a few gallons of soup but it is Rene who is up late at night bagging gifts, cleaning the house, setting schedules with the residences,. Without her overflowing heart I can assure you we never would have experienced a little bit of heaven being shared in our neighborhood and our home.

Let your heart overflow with goodness for others. You never know who it will spill on.

God bless,

Marty

Showers Of Tenderness 12/20/15

Good Morning,

The Old Ford was a little stiff to start this morning. I needed to make an early run and I hadn't started it in over a week. But soon it was warm inside the cab, the Christmas tunes were cranked up and my cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee was in the travel mug. Mt trusty Springer Spaniel Gibbs was riding shot gun. Great start to a day.

Isaiah 55:10-11       

"For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, And do not return there without watering the earth And making it bear and sprout, And furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it

Last summer I made the mistake of getting way too much sun one day and I burned my legs to the point of blisters and pain. It was my fault and I have no one to blame but myself. The one thing that felt good on those hurting legs was a lukewarm shower. We have a shower head that simulates an easy rainfall. I would tenderly rub the legs with my hands as the warm water soothed the pain.
All, year long, everyday, life puts us in situations that add stress, pain and anxiety to out lives. Sometimes it is too much to bear and it just seems to burn away at us.

As the new year will be approaching in a couple of weeks, why not consider making some changes as to how you take care of yourself emotionally and spiritually? God's Word the Bible is the all in all book, of instructions, discipline, love, hope and tenderness. It is a book that includes tender showers of care for us. It goes out and accomplishes what God wants it to. How about committing to reading the Bible daily and treating yourself to a shower of tenderness? How about attending prayer services? This is above and beyond the weekly church experience. This is all soothing to the soul and God only asks you to come to Him.

Matthew 11:28-30
²⁸ “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Turn on the shower for your heart, mind and soul. The water is just right. You are worth it.

Have a wonderful day.

Marty

When Christmas Hurts 12/19/15

Good Morning,

Saturday arrived just in time. I like Saturdays because they give me more time to enjoy a cup of Door County Christmas Coffee. Lots to do today but nothing will be a rush to get done.

I like to write this blog through experiences and Biblical advice. I know for many who have been displaced by war, terrorism, lost a loved one, abandonment or other circumstances, Christmas can be a "bummer". I want to be especially sensitive to those going through the adjustment of "Christmas Changes". I don't like to cut and paste articles but I was reading an article by Claire Colvin that is more than worth sharing. Please pass this on to someone that might need a little help coping with the holidays.

"Christmas, they tell us, is ‘the most wonderful time of the year’.  What they don’t tell us is what we’re supposed to do when it isn’t. As the cards and carols like to remind us, Christmas is a time for families and togetherness, peace and well being for all. If only the problems in life paid more attention to the songs on the radio.
If you find yourself facing Christmas alone, December can be the longest month of all.  If someone is missing from the celebrations this year, if a family member has been sick, or money worries are keeping you up at night it’s easy to want to echo the Grinch’s sentiment — “I must find a way to keep Christmas from coming!” There are some years when Christmas is more than we can do.  But more often, going into hibernation for a month isn’t a realistic plan.  Christmas is coming, with or without our permission.  So how do you face the season when it doesn’t look the way it used to?
If your circumstances have changes, remember that your plans and even your traditions can change too. This can be hard to explain to other family members, but stick to your guns.  If there is an event, even a family dinner that you’re already dreading politely decline.  The best part of being an adult is being self-determinant.  There are few things that are mandatory — like paying taxes and making sure your kids eat — but there are fewer than you might think.  This is supposed to be your season too, take back some control if you need to.
Tears in December: How I survived Christmas when someone was missing
Rearranging Christmas can take many forms.  Find the one that’s right for you.  It could mean having a quiet Christmas at your house this year.  It might mean buying a new set of ornaments for the tree if you’re not up to opening up the memory-packed boxes from last year.  It could mean going to a restaurant for Christmas dinner, skipping the whole thing and heading somewhere warm.  It really is up to you.
If Christmas is looking unfamiliar this year, if the house is unnaturally quiet there are things you can do to enjoy the season, even if you find yourself alone.  Try one of these ideas:

1. Decorate the house. Even if you’re the only one who’s going to see it, take the time to decorate your home. You don’t have to put everything up, or drag all the boxes out of the basement.  It doesn’t have to look just last like year.  Put up a Christmas tree or hang some lights.  Bring some Christmas into your line of sight, even if it’s just something small.  One of the hardest things about spending Christmas alone is the feeling that everyone else is having a great time and you’ve been excluded. Make sure you’re not excluding yourself.
2. Plan something special. There’s nothing worse than hearing everyone else’s excitement over the upcoming holidays and having nothing to look forward to yourself.  Plan a treat for yourself, something really special.  It doesn’t have to be Christmas-y at all, just make sure you’ve got something to look forward to.  Not only will it add to your holiday, but it’ll give you a great answer to that dreaded question “so what are you doing for Christmas?”
3. Be around other people. Sitting around the house by yourself on Christmas Day is incredibly hard. Find people to be with. If you have friends that are alone this Christmas, host a dinner at your house. If you’d like to help out somewhere there are always soup kitchens and charities that need people on Christmas Day. Whatever you decide to do make sure you have someone to say “Merry Christmas” to.
4. Give yourself some quiet time. Sometimes the reason we’re alone at Christmas is a sad one. If this is you this season, give yourself the time and the permission to feel sad. Scale back on your activities.  If there are some traditions you cannot face this year, remember that you can politely excuse yourself.  Christmas has a way of turning the world into fantasy where everyone is supposed to be happy and everything is wonderful. Resist the urge to fake a smile all through the month of December.

It can be tempting to skip the season altogether, to say “there will be no Christmas in this house this year”. I  urge you not to do that. Christmas gets all glammed up, but at the heart of it all, it celebrates a very quiet moment. You can pass up on the extras of Christmas, but don’t miss the promise of the season.
Read more: It doesn’t look like Christmas
Christmas began with a little baby in a stable.  It started with two parents who were tired from a long journey and caught off guard that the baby would choose this particular moment to be born.  It wasn’t glamorous, and it wasn’t shiny but it did mark the moment that hope came to the world.  (If you’re rusty on the details, you can read the Christmas story from the book of Luke.)
Whatever your circumstances this December, remember that what we’re celebrating here is hope. If you’re not able to wrap your arms around the noise of the season, then just wrap your fingers around that simple truth.  Christmas is Christmas because Jesus came down.  He came so that whatever we’ve done and whatever has been done to us can be redeemed.  He came to pick up the pieces — or as it says in the Bible, he came “to make all things new” (Revelation 21:5).  In Psalm 34 it says that he “is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Claire Colvin

If this describes you and you need a relationship with Jesus Christ please leave a comment and how I can reach you via email or Facebook.

I think this young lady wrote a great article worth sharing and I am sure we all know someone who could use this.

For those of us not experiencing a change in Christmas, be sensitive to those who are. Call on them. Invite them over. Understand if they turn you down. Send them a small gift, a meal or some bakery.
They are hurting and need time to grieve.

God bless,

Marty

Christmas Caroling O Holy Night 12/18/2015

Good Morning,

We are just a week away from Christmas and I am getting excited. My Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee is inviting me to a second cup. I really think that coffee speaks in an unheard language.

We are looking forward to the Annual Men's Ministry Christmas Caroling and Soup Night this Sunday afternoon. We gather friends and family together and reach out to the assisted living homes in our neighborhood with songs, gifts and a Gospel message. I can't recall how many years we have been doing this.  It is a highlight for Rene and me.

Isaiah 9:6-7New King James Version (NKJV)

⁶ For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
⁷ Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

But what I want to talk about are Christmas Carols. I believe everyone should have a favorite. The one that causes you to turn up the radio a little louder, the one that gets your heart pumping. The one that says Christmas to you. My favorite is O Holy Night. The louder the better for me.

O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
O'er the world a star is sweetly gleaming,
Now come the wisemen from out of the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

This song depicts the birth of Jesus and of the redemption of man through Him. It speaks of love and peace. I find myself singing this one in the shower and in the car. It talks about everything I love.

Go ahead and sing. You might just find that it is the prescription you need to get going on that Christmas Spirit.

God Bless,

Marty

Your Actions, Your Responsibility. 12/17/15

Good Morning,

What a day this was in 1978. Our daughter came into this world during a snow storm. I remember that day like it was yesterday. I'll be she doesn't! I am toasting that mighty fine lady this morning with a cup of Door County White Christmas Coffee.

I come from a long line of men, including me that have screwed up in life from time to time. These were hard working men who took their responsibilities seriously. I consider myself a hard worker and worthy of my pay. But lately I wonder where I would be if I hadn't been held accountable for when I screwed up?

I see more and more men shrugging the responsibility of accountability. I do blame the government for some of this. The no one gets cut, everyone should play equally in school is a farce. The sense of entitlement in person after person who feels they are owed a job and a full pay check for a half a day of work makes me want to vomit at times. Bankruptcy does no one any good and is often a cop out to get out of paying bills. The attitude of those are my kids but she can raise them is just another proof of weak men not taking responsibility for their actions again. It's not the fault of the student who doesn't study when they fail a class. It is the fault of the teacher. Way, way, way, too many parents unloading on teachers because of their misbehaving lazy kids.

Scripture is clear on taking responsibility for our own actions without blaming others.  Am I coming down hard today? Yes I am. It doesn't seem to sink in because we have too many liberals coddling our younger folks. Let's see what the Bible has to say.

Ezra 10:4
Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it.”

Proverbs 12:22

Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.

2 Thessalonians 3:6-12

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you. It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate. For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. ...

Wake up and smell the roses world. What are we creating here by tolerating weak excuses? 8 hours work is 8 hours paid. On time is on time. Your kids are yours. In games, someone wins and someone loses. In competition for promotions, the best person gets it. It isn't shared by everyone. If you get a ticket for speeding, you were driving, not the policeman.

I never heard anyone who got ahead by blaming others for their failure. Ok I am off of the pulpit for today. Back to Christmas messages tomorrow.

Love you all.

Marty

Sermon For Christmas 12/16/2015

Good Morning,

I am praying today for many of my friends and family who are suffering from a nasty upper respiratory infection. I wish I could bring all of you who are ill a bowl of chicken soup and hot cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee.

It's coming up again. It's that second time of the year when people feel the need to go to church. Easter was the first time for the need to get some religion for many two times a year folks. As one who preaches most every Saturday night I am glad that Christmas Christians show up. A few people crack jokes about their two times a year attendance, but I do not find it a laughing matter at all.

Many churches will plan dramas or musicals to make the estranged visitors feel more welcome and give them a warm fuzzy feeling. I think that is a good idea, but they were already coming. The Holy Spirit created in them a need to seek something.

I am taking a rest this December from preaching so I can visit with family. I am truly grateful to those wonderful guys who are filling in for me. But if I were preaching I have to admit I would take advantage of the Holy Spirit's work and during my Christmas message it wouldn't be about anything but the wages of sin, the redemption of the sinner through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It would definitely be fire and brimstone. Why would I do that?

Because, why take a chance on not seeing the two a year people until Easter? I don't want them comfortable and sucking on some candy cane message. I want them to be convicted of their need for that little baby Our Savior Jesus Christ. Heaven and hell weighs in the balance. Why tip toe around, assuming they will be back or even that they will be alive in two months?

Here is the Christmas message for all Christians.

Matthew 28:16-20New International Version (NIV)

The Great Commission

¹⁶ Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. ¹⁷ When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. ¹⁸ Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹ Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Send the gift that never stops. Send a message about sin, repentance, heaven and hell.

God bless,

Marty

Saving A Family 12/15/2015

Good Morning,

The weather today is still a little warmer than normal for this part of the world. But my cup of Door County Christmas Coffee still hits the spot.

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40, NIV

It's that time again and the Christmas cards are starting to arrive at our home on a regular basis now. We received one that especially tickled us. Last summer our church mission team partnered with a clinic that gives alternatives to abortions. The team did some repairs and minor construction at the clinic.
On the left side of the card were all the names of the babies born in 2015 who might have been aborted if it weren't for this Christian clinic. I will probably never meet any of those kids, but I wonder how their lives will have an impact on others for good? I read in the card how one couple left the clinic and decided to get married and raise their baby.

Now for me, this was the good news that Christmas needs to bring. For our small team who sacrificed time and money, their dream was to help. They will never know how many families they might have helped to save.

What are you doing next summer? Maybe there is a place like this near you that could use some volunteers? Do you have some baby clothes that someone could use that are just taking up space in your home?

Food for thought?

Marty

Not Feeling Adequate? 12/14/15

Good Morning,

It won't be too long before my pot of Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee is finished. Yesterday sure was busy for us. We finally put the lights on the Christmas tree. Tonight the rest of the decorations will be placed just right.

Micah 5:2New International Version (NIV)

² “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
    though you are small among the clans of Judah,
out of you will come for me
    one who will be ruler over Israel,
whose origins are from of old,
    from ancient times.”

 

Have you ever had this thought? "What could God possibly want me to do for Him? I am nothing compared to others. I have no talents, not enough money, I lack Biblical education and I am not popular?" God uses the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary.

 

Bethlehem was small compared to the other towns but yet God chose for Jesus to be born there. God does so much with so little. Many of the apostles were fishermen yet they were the ones entrusted to see the church grow. Moses was a murderer and shepherd yet God used him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Paul was educated but he was also one of the early leaders who persecuted the Christians. He ended up writing many of the books in the New Testament.

 

You see, God needs nothing you have except your willingness to serve. He equips you as you have needs, for the task He has given to you.

 

So step up, and be not afraid. God has a plan and you are included, if you want to be. The possibilities are endless. Your God guided actions could have an impact on eternity. God never told you that you couldn't serve or that you were inadequate. You told yourself that lie.

 

Step up and say Here I am Lord! Use me.

 

God bless,

 

Marty

Prayer In The Plane 12/13/2015

Good Morning,

It is good to be home and  back to normal. Gibbs is chewing on a bone and my Christmas mug is filled with Door County Candy Cane Coffee.

John 3:16New International Version (NIV)
¹⁶ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Last night our flight home arrived in the Milwaukee area on time. We had heard that many flights in Chicago were cancelled or delayed due to a heavy fog that has gripped the Lake Michigan area. Although we arrived near Milwaukee on time and probably a little earlier our pilot and crew had to battle the fog. It was evident when the started to land and had to pull up and start over and re-circle the airport a few times. I am sure they were landing blind and only using instrumentation and I want to say they did a fine job. Now I have landed in the Milwaukee airport many times and knew that it is a one approach and done landing 99% of the time.

As usual I was engrossed in a conversation with the lady next to me. A sweet lady who was not afraid to share her faith in Jesus with me. We had a great chat but it came to a point when we both knew it was time to pray. We both began to pray. I looked to my other side and could tell that Rene had beat me to that point. We prayed for Jesus to assist the pilots in their duties and for all to be calm. Then I heard that sweet lady singing out loud "How Great Is Our God". Our ears were all plugged and hurting from the altitude changes and I could barely hear anything else, but I could hear her sweet music.  When the plane landed there was a round of applause for the crew and someone in the back of the plane said very loudly "Thank You Jesus" . We all went on our way and I did not see the lady and the luggage pick up.

I don't know who could all hear her sing but at least those around her could. Her faith in God was evident for all to hear. So my prayer today is for those who witnessed her love for God  would remember that, and if they haven't already, seek a relationship with God the Father through Jesus Christ. That would be the Greatest Christmas present they could receive. How about you? Is your faith in Jesus Christ there to be seen and heard this Christmas. That little lady put Christ into Christmas without hesitation.

Have a blessed day.

Marty

Home For The Holidays 12/12/2015

Good Morning,

The Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee just finished brewing and I am ready for that first cup. I am still digesting some stuffed jalapeno peppers we ate last night. The hot coffee is just what I needed.

John 2:1-2English Standard Version (ESV)

The Wedding at Cana

2 On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. ² Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples.

Rene and I are headed home from Florida today. We just finished our annual visit to the Sunshine State. The weather really cooperated and I could not say more about how pleasant it was to warm up a little. Best of all we, were blessed to spend time with our family and rest. That is the reason we come. Both, Rene and I battled a cold while we were here. It took a little of the life out of us. But it forced us to rest. We have more traveling to do this month at the opposite end of the climate range. It should be about a 70 degree difference. But again we will be with family.

We left our home for a week and there were a couple of things I missed but nothing I couldn't live without. You've heard the expression "Home Is Where The Heart Is". Although we were away from our house, we were able to be with those we love and those who love us. I felt at home because my heart was at peace. We have some new memories to carry us through to next time. I traveled with Rene and she has my heart. So no matter where we are, if we are together, we are home. Our family is always on my mind, so I am with them in my heart daily, and that makes me at home.

Many of us, as we get older eagerly await Heaven's doors when we will be in our permanent home. This is true for me also. But until then, with the right attitude of loving those who God gave to you, we are home anywhere we are. The key to the right heart, is to start filling it with the main family member, Jesus Christ. He makes all the family reunions better, when He is more than a guest. He is the one who taught us the greatest example of love.

We exchanged gifts last night and there isn't one that I don't like. But the best gift of all was sharing hearts and having a good time together as Jesus taught us to do. You see, Jesus enjoyed get togethers with family and friends and expects us to do so also.

Make your holiday plans soon if you haven't already. Include Jesus, and don't shun family and friends. By the way. I believe I am related to the original "Elf On The Shelf". You can find her tucked away in Florida.

God bless,

Marty

The New Person 12/11/15

Good Morning,

My day will be filled with an early Christmas celebration with our daughter Kristy and the family. My mind says go, go, go, but the body is not cooperating. The Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee just quit brewing and I will stop for a moment to fill my cup.

My mind during the early hours wandered way back into the vault of memories to a day when I dropped Kristy off at her first day of high school. She was new to the area and most of the kids in the school knew each other for many years through grade school and junior high. I remember praying with her and watching her step out of the car. There was a sigh and a little hesitation as she left the safety of the car and headed into the unknown.  My heart sank when she walked away. I wanted to stay and be her buddy for the day. No one likes being the new person. She survived high school and did very well. But I remember her telling me that the first day was at least awkward.

Exodus 2:20    

          

He said to his daughters, "Where is he then? Why is it that you have left the man behind? Invite him to have something to eat."

Where am I going with this? New people come into our lives all the time. It could be work, hobbies, school, neighborhoods, families, or church that brings them to us. The first two minutes after meeting us they have formed an opinion of us or the organization we represent. How are you at being open and welcome? We all take pride in showing hospitality when we invite people into our homes but how do we react when they bring someone in with them that we do not know yet?  How are we at the grocery check out line? Do we welcome other people with a smile and a Merry Christmas while we are waiting? God requires us to be friendly and show hospitality in all situations. That first two minutes are awkward for both parties. But a smile and a greeting while looking someone in the eye goes a long way. It might be the kindest words that the other person or you hear all day. Don't blow the chance. Don't leave anyone behind in a group setting.

Have a great day. I hope you meet a new person.

Marty

Peace Despite Terrorism

Good Morning,

I just woke up to a cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee. A little bit of sinus issues is forcing me and Rene both to lay low for the day and rest.

God has led me to comment on terrorism today. In order to do that we need to take a look at Psalm 11.

Psalm 11

For the director of music. Of David.

¹ In the Lord I take refuge.
    How then can you say to me:
    “Flee like a bird to your mountain.
² For look, the wicked bend their bows;
    they set their arrows against the strings
to shoot from the shadows
    at the upright in heart.
³ When the foundations are being destroyed,
    what can the righteous do?”

⁴ The Lord is in his holy temple;
    the Lord is on his heavenly throne.
He observes everyone on earth;
    his eyes examine them.
⁵ The Lord examines the righteous,
    but the wicked, those who love violence,
    he hates with a passion.
⁶ On the wicked he will rain
    fiery coals and burning sulfur;
    a scorching wind will be their lot.

⁷ For the Lord is righteous,
    he loves justice;
    the upright will see his face.

 

Terrorists seek to get to the foundations of the soul. They seek to kill and strike fear into our foundation so we react in a way that allows them to win. King David was experiencing the same thing when Saul was hunting him down everywhere. It seemed as if no where was safe. We need to keep the foundation of our hearts solid. We need to return to God and His ways. This keeps the foundation strong while events unfold that shake us to the bone. We need to run to God. He will strengthen our souls to withstand fear. He alone empowers armies to win against evil. But we ourselves must not partner with evil and expect to win. As a world we must return to the Designer of All Good and the Foundation of Heaven and Earth. Then despite the things that are seen, we have peace that surpasses all understanding. When we do this, all we have to do is wait on God to prevail and He will.

 

Goodbye for now. Peace be with you.

 

Marty

The One And Only Christmas 12/9/2015

Good Morning,

Today my cup is filled with Door County Mocha Mint Coffee and my heart is filled with anticipation of a great day spent with Rene and my Aunt. I hope I can keep up with the ladies today.

We often hear the expression of "Put Christ Back Into Christmas". This is posted on billboards and on social media all the time by very well intentioned people. They remind us that Christmas contains the name of Christ and we should honor Him by saying Merry Christmas and not Happy Holidays.
We all see nativity scenes in front of churches and homes and we speak of the baby Jesus and his miracle birth to save the world. This is all wonderful stuff, but today I want to remind you,

Christ does not need to be put back anywhere. He never left his place of honor in heaven. He lost his place in hearts. We forget that the little baby wrapped in swaddling clothes was sent as a gift to be cherished 365 days of the year. If Christ were where He should be in our hearts we wouldn't need to get him back into Christmas. He is already there, we are just blinded and are looking for a feel good month. Feel good moments are just that. They don't last, but for a moment. But Jesus himself proclaimed the good news.

John 14:6New International Version (NIV)
⁶ Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

He knew why He came to Earth and just how important He was. He knows it now, the mission hasn't changed.

So if you want others to put Christ back into Christmas you need to put Him back into your vocabulary the other eleven months, your life needs to be a billboard for Jesus.  The Christmas Spirit begins with you and your heart.

Have a great day.

God bless.

Marty

One Way To Ruin Christmas. Not A Good Idea 12/8/15

Good Morning,

This morning is filled with sunshine and my mug is filled with Door County White Christmas Coffee.
We will probably be able to enjoy the outdoors a little more today. I am looking forward to that.

Luke 14:28 ESV    
For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?

One way to ruin Christmas for sure is to run up a pile of debt buying Christmas presents. Please do not name me the new Scrooge of 2015. What starts out as a feel good moment, with the best of intentions always has to be paid for in January. What was a good deal in December isn't a deal anymore when interest is added to monthly payments. I enjoy Christmas presents as much as the next person. But we have to be real. The Christmas spirit should last all year, not the debt.

Here is a simple plan. Start a Christmas budget in January, and put away the dollars each month that you can afford and plan on spending on Christmas. Do not waiver from the budget except to spend less. In our early ears of marriage we had some pretty lean Christmas's. One year we went over budget and regretted it big time. Rene lost her job, the car needed replacing. I ended up missing most
 of the summer doing plumbing jobs on the side to pay for our mistakes.

So set a realistic budget, and stick to it. If money is tight, consider giving the gift of your time. A home made gift certificate giving that person a service, like raking leaves, window washing or a meal are very nice gifts.

God Bless,

Marty

Rest Well. You Need It For Christmas. 12/7/2015

Good Morning,

I am writing today from inside. The weather this morning is a little dreary in Orlando. But I had a good night of rest after spending time with my family yesterday. I woke up to the aroma of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee splashing into the pot. Just a little of those back home comforts make each day a little more special.

We remember December 7th 1941today as the day that Pearl Harbor was bombed and America entered World War Two. There aren't many veterans left anymore , but my thanks goes out to them. Also I want to than every person who lived through those years who can tell the story of defeating evil. Your story needs to be heard once more. You sucked it up, built weapons and went without gas, and sometimes food to battle and triumph. We, I am afraid are once again on the curb of a global war if not already there. I am afraid that the war, like Pearl Harbor has been brought to our shores. So let's pray and battle this evil not only militarily but spiritually.

Now for some more help preparing for Christmas. REST!!!! We all have busy lives the other eleven months of the year. December 25th should not come as a surprise to anyone. Decorating, kids Christmas programs at school and church, extra ministry duties, shopping and wrapping presents, Christmas cards, then the visiting.  Statistics show that our sleep time gets cut short during December which often leads to a depleted immune system causing those Christmas and January illnesses. I have spent a couple or more nights in the Emergency Room with Rene on Christmas who was worn out and did not take care of herself. She has learned now.

We need to get proper rest and nourishment. The stores are open the other eleven months of the year. Do your Christmas shopping once a month and finish in November. Plan and set aside time specifically for rest. Use some of that time to read your favorite Bible passages. Charge up the Spiritual bank.

Mark 6:30-32
³⁰  The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. ³¹ And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. ³²  And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves

Resting also helps us to refocus if need be. We can sit back, pray and look to see if something or someone lacks attention. With proper rest we can keep Christ as the focal point of the holiday.

Tomorrow we will look at one other way to have a great Christmas, finishing on Wednesday.

God bless,

Marty

Don't Drink The Poison. Be Ready For Christmas 12/6/2015

Good Morning,

Unusual setting for me to be writing to you. No fireplace, no dog, no cold weather for me. I am in Florida writing from a patio with a light sweater on and the promise of 80 degree weather in the forecast. I do however have a cup of Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee at my side. I wish you were here to join me for a cup of this heavenly brew.

Leviticus 19:18New King James Version (NKJV)
¹⁸ You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.


Today we will tackle the subject of "grudges". This is a key essential in preparing for Christmas and having a heart ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. But what is more important than that is to have a heart empty of bitterness so that it can be filled with the love of Jesus, year round. Holding a grudge or anger toward someone is caustic to your spiritual and physical health as well.

One of the most devastating human emotions can be feelings of bitterness. It can creep in to our lives like cancer. Sometimes we do not even know how much it consumes our thought life and feelings. Before we know it, we are drinking the daily poison of our own sin. 

Perhaps it starts with hurt feelings over what was said, another’s actions, or even a lack of response thinking about it over and over. It eats at us from the inside out. Our spirit is lower than low. We can grow hatred toward  the person that we feel offended us. Perhaps those hurt want to get “even” at the other person. Before long, hurt feelings can lead to a host of other actions, including slander against the offending person, or avoidance of that person. Daily Personal Poison!

The hurt accomplished may not even be recognized by the offender. They may not even have a clue as to how we are reacting to their remarks or actions.

 

Hanging on to a grudge against another can be so devastating to some that it affects their health. Anger can be a result of bitterness. When angry, adrenaline and other hormones are released into the bloodstream, causing high blood pressure and a faster beating heart. Depression, ulcers, heart attack, and stroke have also been linked to those that are controlled by the stress of not forgiving.

 

This is like drinking a cup of poison each day hoping others will die.  God clearly has some things to say about holding a grudge and acting on it.

 

Ephesians 4:31New International Version (NIV)

³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.

Proverbs 24:29English Standard Version (ESV)

²⁹ Do not say, “I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for what he has done.”

 

So Dear Friends, until tomorrow when we will look at another way to prepare for Christmas. Be well. Give yourself a gift. Get rid of any bitterness or grudges.

 

Marty