I'm Gonna Miss This 7/21/2016

Good Morning,

What a day this will be! I am headed to Haiti with my sidekick Paul and our friend Alice will join us tomorrow. The rest of the team will be there on Sunday. We are looking forward to our time serving the people of Haiti and God. I will not be writing again until August 2nd. I am going to miss spending time with all of you. My mug is filled Door County Cinnamon Biscotti Coffee and that will be that final cup until I return home.

There is a lot of things that I will miss. I will miss Rene for sure and that furry ball of fun named Gibbs. I will miss my friends and relatives. I will miss my coworkers. I will miss watching the flower garden change each day. But I will concentrate on the tasks of the week and growing closer with God. The days will go by quickly.

The flowers will look different in ten days. But one thing won't change. And that One Constant is God. So as I leave all of you and not liking saying goodbye even for ten days, I will say it with Scripture.

Philippians 4:6-9New King James Version (NKJV)
⁶ Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Meditate on These Things

⁸ Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. ⁹ The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

The humor in it all, is when I get back home I will miss my new friends in Haiti and the time spent each day with God.

God bless all of you. You are loved more than you know.

Marty

Police And Respect 7/20/2016

Good Morning,

This is the day the Lord has made. We need to rejoice and be glad in it. My cup is filled with Door County White Christmas Coffee and I am happy that it is.

I have been pretty quiet lately about the nightly violence and the ambush shootings of policemen. I believe in two things here. If a policeman is truly guilty of a crime than justice will prevail and we need to wait on the system to work. Now on the other hand no matter the race, we have forgotten the Biblical principal that we are all to follow. It is God's plan for authority in our lives. My message may offend some today. It came from the Bible in which I believe in all 66 books as the Word of God. I'll stand on the truth of God any day.

 Romans 13:1-5 New Living Translation (NLT)

13 Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. ² So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. ³ For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. ⁴ The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. ⁵ So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience.

We have no right to break the laws of our land. No where does God condone that. When we break the law, others run around with cell phones screaming and hollering at the police who are trying to do their job. When we break the law  we are to be treated humanely, that is a right in our country.
So of course there are two sides. But when we break a law and resist arrest and cause a ruckus and it is met with a forceful response that too is within the law. The person resisting the arrest or shooting at police forgets that the man or woman with the badge, besides protecting themselves, they are protecting their family and those around the ruckus. They want to return home also in one piece.

What it comes down to is that we are no longer a nation that goes to God's Word for the final answer. We call for prayer and we are appalled at the actions in the streets, yet we took the Bible out of schools. We took parenting out of the home. We murder babies every day and not many are disrupting traffic over that. Unfortunately we are reaping what we have sown.

Everyone is looking to the election as the solution to our problems. It's not going to happen. Gun control doesn't control anger.  The solution to the problem is Jesus Christ. That answer starts one heart at a time. One family at a time. One church at a time. One neighbor at a time. Follow God's design for successful living and that will change the attitudes and behaviors of many.

So what are you going to do about it? Good question. What is your answer?

Marty

Prayer For Haiti 7/19/2016

Good Morning,

Wow this week seems to be in hyper speed, so much to do, so little time. I need to embrace this day with a cup of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee and hit the road running.

I will be leaving soon for a short term mission trip to Haiti. This is my third trip to Haiti and I know for us to be successful we need to be in prayer at all times. We also request of our friends, family and churches to remember us in prayer. We will also be in prayer ourselves and for those back at home.

It has been said that "prayer is the God given right of every Christian to call on God for others and themselves."  So I ask that you assert your right to pray and more than that, let it become a habit. Let prayer be part of all that you do.  I have attached some Bible verses on prayer. Pick the one that best suits you and make it your reminder to pray. Print it and place it in areas that you will notice it and stop and pray.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

 

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.

1 John 5:14

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Colossians 4:2

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

Mark 11:24

Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

Jeremiah 29:12

 

I for one would covet your prayers for the next couple of weeks. I will never turn down a prayer.

 

Marty

If That Isn't Love? 7/18/2016

Good Morning,
Monday snuck in with a whisper and it is here to stay. So let's make the best of it and as I drink my cup of Door County White Christmas I will write about love.

1 Peter 4:8New International Version (NIV)
⁸ Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

I am old and my taste in music dates me a little. I love Gospel music but my favorite artist performing it is Elvis Presley. He has a style that I love and listen to often. One song in particular reminds me of God and my Dad.  "If That Isn't Love"

I am not trying to compare Dad and God. There is a difference for sure. I hear many of my contemporaries always talking about how their parents never told them that they were loved. They have spent thousands of dollars and endless hours on a psychiatrist's couch claiming that they never felt loved because it wasn't said. I also here people say " I am not sure Jesus loves me". I can answer to both claims from the lyrics of the song.

"If That Isn't Love" Elvis Presley

He left the splendor of heaven  Jesus left heaven to come to Earth. Dad went to work every day.
Knowing His destiny Jesus came to sacrifice His life for us.  Dad went without so we didn't.
Was the lonely hill of Golgotha  No one went with Him to help. Dad never asked for much either.
There to lay down His life for me. Jesus died for me. Dad fought in a war for us.

 

And if that isn't love
Then the ocean is dry It's not. I have been swimming in one.
There's no stars in the sky Yes there are. I saw one this morning.
And the little sparrows can't fly  Yes they do, I can watch them.
Yeah if that isn't love
Then heaven's a myth No it's not. I have a reservation.
There's no feeling like this Amen
If that isn't love

 

Even in death He remembered
The thief hanging by His side
Then he spoke of love and compassion Both showed love and compassion by their actions.
And He took him to paradise

 

And if that isn't love
Then the ocean is dry
There's no stars in the sky
And the little sparrows can't fly
Yeah if that isn't love
Then heaven's a myth
There's no feeling like this
If that isn't love

 

You see, actions speak louder than words. I know that Jesus loves me. He showed it by raising His hands on a cross. I know my Dad loves me, because I had clothing, we had food. I went to school. They corrected me and so did God.  My mother loved me. We had clean clothes. She helped with homework. Meals were cooked, too many to count. And by the way, God gave my Dad a job, and my mother the ability to raise us.

 

If that isn't love?

 

It is!

 

Marty

Pack Up Your Tent 7/17/2016

Good Morning,

This day finds me content, but busy preparing for our upcoming mission trip to Haiti. It won't be too long before I won't have Door County Highlander Grog Coffee in the morning.

Genesis 12:1New King James Version (NKJV)

12 Now the Lord had said to Abram:

“Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you

Yesterday  I took some time and put my tent together and filled my air mattress to test the system  for a couple of days. It helps be to be somewhat sure that I won't have an equipment failure before I begin.

People seemed amazed that some of us will be staying in tents while in Haiti. I think it is a pretty good way to camp.  The houses get way too hot during the day for us snow bunnies. I place a battery fan in the top of the tent and stay somewhat cool at night.

Philippians 2:14-16New King James Version (NKJV)
¹⁴ Do all things without complaining and disputing, ¹⁵ that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, ¹⁶ holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

I for sure will miss some of the comforts of home. But with every call by God there is a crisis of faith. For me sleeping outside on an air mattress is just a minor inconvenience. What would be worse would be to disobey God and not go. I bet I would not sleep well even in my own bed if I made that mistake. I for sure would not fish by the ocean if I disobeyed. I might be swallowed by a huge fish and spit out in Haiti. Just ask a fella named Jonah about that stunt.

Philippians 4:11-13New International Version (NIV)
¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

A short trip of nine days and I will be home, God willing. But I need to stay focused. No complaining, no missing anything, just making the best of what God provides. I will make new friends and serve with some old ones.

Sounds good to me! What are you complaining about today? Ask for strength. Jesus delivers as much as you need.

Marty

When I Look Into A Flower 7/16/2016

Good Morning,

Saturday is here and I have started my count down to my trip to Haiti. This coming Thursday I leave and will not be able to write to all of you. Some of us will never meet, but each of you with known or unknown faces are familiar to me. I invite you each day to spend a moment with me and think. We share my den, our kitchen, our patio and occasionally you accompany me on a trip or two. I am asking you all to go with me to Haiti by praying for me and our team. Thursday will be my last blog post for awhile. So I wish you all well today and raise my cup of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee to you in love and respect.

The cycle of life has often caused me many moments of thought and pondering. I watch our flower garden from beginning to end every year. When the winter comes and the snow is piled high, if I close my eyes I can see Rene on a hot day tending to the flower bed.  I can see the green buds fighting off the cold to peak through the ground in the spring. I can see the dried branches and fallen leaves after the first frost. I can picture the frozen ground with nothing but Earth showing before the first snowstorm. The garden is asleep until spring. Most of the flowers are designed to return year after year. Some do not and have to be reseeded so they fill in the open spots in the garden.

Colossians 3:16   
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

Yesterday I drove past a spot on the highway where a wooden cross was placed as a memorial to a person who died there on his way to work. I knew that fella. He was a co-worker of mine and dear friend. He passed away a few years ago. Someone has replaced him at work now. I have buried a few others this last year or so who labored in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Like a full garden needs to be full, and dead flowers replaced, so is a church. We must as we all get older be training our replacements who are called to do so. They need to stand in the gap when we are gone. Like my friends who are gone, but are not forgotten,  someone had to take their place in their jobs at work and in the church.

And just like a new flower blooms beautifully over and over until gone, these replacements will do the same. But they must be nurtured and allowed to grow.

What flower are you watering?

God bless.

Marty

Take Time For Celebrations 7/15/2016

Good Morning,

Friday is here and I am embracing it with a cup of Door County White Christmas Coffee and a smile one my face. Yesterday I was able to share a cup of coffee with a dear friend at work. Who knows who will imbibe from my Thermos today?

I don't believe we take the time to celebrate the small things in life. Celebration takes some time and effort. Yesterday at work we celebrated three of our caregivers in my department having been with the hospital another five years. We had one at 30 years, 20, years and five years. We celebrated with a cake and a little downtime to laugh and be happy. This is an accomplishment that needs to be celebrated.

Yesterday I also had an answer to a prayer request. It involved the care of a loved one and what the future held in store. God intervened and provided an answer to our pleas for help. Last night I made some Kool Aid and Rene and I took some time to be thankful, celebrate with a cold drink and watch the sun go down. We know that the days ahead will be tough, but each day that our loved one gets good care and physically stronger is a blessing and worthy of celebrating.

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

How do you celebrate life? Do you realize that all good things come from God? Are you thankful? Do you include God in the celebration? You might ask how do I include God in a celebration? It's easy. You tell others about His love and what you are celebrating. Birthdays should be celebrated. Births of newborn babies should be celebrated. A job should be celebrated. Friendships should be celebrated. Accomplishments should be celebrated. Anniversaries should be celebrated. Graduations from school should be celebrated. We would all be happier if we took time to celebrate something at least weekly.

So celebrate your life. God has a picture of you on His refrigerator and He celebrates you!

Marty

Find A Cool Place 7/14/2016

Good Morning,

Thursday is allowing me to see Friday in the headlights. I just filled my cup with Door County Pecan Cinnamon Ice Cream Coffee and now it is time to write.

Occasionally these summer days get a little too warm and humid for me. I do believe that this increased heat is God getting me in heat shape for my upcoming mission trip to Haiti.

Isaiah 4:6   His glory will shade the city from the heat of the day and make it a place of safety, sheltered from the rain and storm.

We have been created to be intelligent human beings who should know enough to keep hydrated in hot weather and seek cool shade from the sun.  We are created to feel hunger so we know when to pray. Even our dog knows when he is too hot and seeks a cool spot.

Here's a combination that works for me. When it is hot outside and I need to relax a little, I find a cool spot to sit. For some, it is near the water or on a hill. For me, it is usually whatever is handy and nearby. I like to sit and take in my surroundings, pray and read my Bible or a theology study book. But most of all I hope for a breeze to blow on my face a little and refresh me. The breeze reminds me how God breathed life into the first man. I sit back and think about every breathe I take being a gift from God. You won't get that inspiration from an air conditioner,  I like being outside and consider it a gift. Now air conditioning is nice and if you have it, you are blessed. But sticking yourself inside a building robs you from experiencing natural sound, light, birds, and other nature that God gave us to experience.

Get outside when you can and take it all in.

God bless,

Marty

Forget For Success 7/13/16

Good Morning,

I pray that your day will be blessed from above. May God shine on you today. I was glad when the alarm went off and I could hear the sound of the Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee brewing.

Hebrews 10:17   
Then he adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.

When I read the verse posted above I cannot but help to recall and Old Gospel Hymn "Who Am I"? Performed  by Elvis Presley.

When I think of how He came so far from glory;
Came to dwell among the lowly such as I,
To suffer shame and such disgrace, on Mount Calvary
Take my place, then I ask myself this question, "Who am I?"

Who am I that the King would bleed and die for,
Who am I that He would pray not my will, Thine Lord?
The answer I may never know, why He ever loved me so
That to an old rugged cross He'd go for who am I?

When I'm reminded of His words, I'll leave You never
If you'll be true I'll give to you life forever.
Oh, I wonder what I could have done
To deserve God's only Son
To fight my battles until they're won for who am I?

Who am I that the King would bleed and die for?
Who am I that He would pray not my will, Thine Lord?
The answer I may never know, why He ever loved me so
That to an old rugged cross He'd go for who am I?
That to an old rugged cross He'd go for who am I

When I think about How Jesus came to save me, and suffer for my sins and will someday welcome me home, who am I to hold a grudge and not forgive? God forgives and forgets. But yet we hold on to anger and want revenge. Psalm 37 tells us to cease from anger, it only causes harm. In order to cease from anger you really have to forgive and forget what made you angry. So I guess if I want success over any anger I have to forget. As a little child we are taught to remember things, memorize phone numbers and recall math formulas. It is really not in our nature to forget on purpose. Yet God does, and He expects us to do the same. "Forget For Success"!

Try it! You might find that your soul will rest like a tired puppy!

Marty



Prayer And Fasting. 7/12/2016

Good Morning,

If you are reading this today, rejoice in the fact that you can read, your are alive and can serve God another day. You can make a difference today. I plan on making a difference today right after I drink this cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and pray.

The Bible has much to say about prayer and fasting. In the United States there has been a recent outbreak of death, demonstrations, anger and requests for prayer.

It is the requests for prayer that I understand, yet they have me perplexed. I am not seeing many if any people on television asking for people to gather with them for prayer. Now I believe God hears all prayers, even the ones that come from my duck boat, but I also believe in corporate prayer and fasting. I believe corporate prayer builds community. When I look at the hundred upon hundreds of people marching, rioting and demonstrating, it makes me wonder what would be accomplished if that same group joined others in prayer and fasting. We are all wanting unity, justice and peace, and that is a big order. That type of request should be accompanied by serious prayer warriors and people who will fast. 

 Matthew 17:20-21 And He said to them, “Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you. “But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”

Who are we kidding with all the protests, social media rants  and violence? We need to get off of our feet and on our knees. We need to be people of prayer and fasting. Only then will we have hope.

Please think about this? What do you say? Wednesday for a day of prayer and fasting?

God bless,

Marty

Pecan Pie 7/11/2016

Good Morning,

Monday came even after I asked for it to hold off for another day. I filled my Thermos with Door County Dublin's Delight Coffee and I packed a chef salad for lunch. Definitely something to look forward to.

1 Timothy 5:8                  
But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Yesterday we spent the afternoon visiting Rene's mother. Mom is in a rehab center after a terrible fall. Her progress is very slow. I watched Rene take care of her soon to be 89 year old mother. She exhibited extreme kindness and patience as she ministered to Mom's needs. We had taken her clothes to Mother's house to wash them and return them to the center. I watched as Rene folded the clothes with care and hung them as needed on hangers. You would have thought that they had been professionally folded. Then it came to me. My mother in law has always entered many of her crafts, canned goods and bakery into competition at the local county fair. I watched her one time as she was making a pecan pie just around the time for the fair. (Her pecan pie is to die for.) She was arranging the top layer of pecans with precise accuracy. I said to her "that looks great, it will certainly impress the judges." Mother replied "this one isn't for competition. This one is for you. It has to be perfect for people who are loved." Rene can't make a pecan pie like her mother. But what I saw yesterday was that the clothes had to be hung with care and folded for someone who is loved. I guess that acorn did not fall far from the tree.

I went away thinking to myself that through both women I have seen the best of love. The love of God shows through them.

Love to all,. Have a great day. Be kind out there.

Marty

Coffee, Donuts, Construction And God 7/10/2016

Good Morning,

The Wisconsin weather has produced one beautiful morning. Cool, crisp air with an awesome sunrise greeted me on the patio. I am blessed. My cup of Door County Pecan Cinnamon Ice Cream Coffee has eaten up the momentary chill in the air. I am alive and well, who could ask for more?

Yesterday morning I needed to check on a construction project at the medical center where I work. I knew there would be just a small crew working and it only seemed appropriate to bring donuts to work. I loaded a Thermos bottle with plenty of coffee and headed in. The day before I wasn't expressing complete joy about going to work on what is usually a day off. But I am considered faithful to my employer and they have been really good to me for a long time. So duty called and I answered appropriately. I had no idea that this was a meeting that God arranged. It was just what I needed.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing

I shared my coffee with one of the construction engineers and opened the donuts. We had checked on the construction progress, saw that all was well and decided to "chew the fat on life" for awhile in the construction trailer. Soon our conversation turned to God, a little theology, a few Bible verses, and where we stood on life with Him.

Now the conversation wasn't all that deep in theology, but it was a sweet aroma to the heart and mind. I went away knowing that this appointment was divine and I will go so far as to say that it was just what we both needed. I drove away knowing that God made an appointment for me. I went reluctantly at first, but left better for having gone. I was relaxed, rested and more alive than I have been in a long time. The day wasn't consuming me. I had consumed part of the day.

We all need those days when we can sit alone with our Bibles, coffee and pray. But sometimes we just need the company of another to sit, talk about God, life, experiences and construction work.

When you by chance meet with others, is the conversation wholesome? Is it worth repeating? Would it be a place where if Jesus walked in for a cup of coffee and a donut would He be invited into the conversation? Jesus was a social person. Proof being, he traveled around with twelve guys. They ate together, slept on the same ground, shared a fire, they even went to weddings and holiday celebrations. Yes there were holy, serious times, but there was also every day life. Is God your Sunday conversation piece? Or is he both, the Sunday focus, but yet part of your every day experience? Saturday morning was much better by having Him part of the coffee and donuts. I went away very satisfied with my morning, but yet pondering a great question. We had an assortment of sweet treats. I wonder what kind of donut Jesus would have eaten?

Have a blessed day. You all blessed me by being part of it.

Marty

When God Goes Hunting 7/9/2016

Good Morning,

Once again I chose Door County White Christmas Coffee to begin my day. I am very pensive today and extremely tired. My sleep was not steady and true last night. So in a little bit I will head to work for a short time. I foresee a nap at the turn in the road sometime today.

Psalm 7:10:13

¹⁰ My shield is God Most High,
    who saves the upright in heart.
¹¹ God is a righteous judge,
    a God who displays his wrath every day.
¹² If he does not relent,
    he will sharpen his sword;
    he will bend and string his bow.
¹³ He has prepared his deadly weapons;
    he makes ready his flaming arrows.


As I prepare for a short term mission trip I can see Satan's activity around me increase. He doesn't want me to enjoy my time with God and he definitely wants my mind on other things. I don't like to give Satan any credit for anything, but I will say this, he does know how to dig at me. I have asked God to remove the junk the old buzzard has begun to throw at me and our team. God is our refuge and will allow enough nonsense to happen just to make us stronger. But I for one want to put the nuisance in his place. God will eventually have enough of this also. And when He does I know for sure that He will hunt Satan down and Grand Butthead will flee. Because when God goes hunting, His shots are right on target and they will make Satan run. As the end of the story goes in Revelation. Satan flees right into a lake of fire for eternity.

As a duck hunter who thinks he can shoot pretty well, I do miss my shot now and then. But God does not miss and all the calamity we are seeing will end. That final blow to Satan will happen in God's timing. We will no longer have brother killing brother, riots in the streets, we won't even need the police. Those who don't turn their lives over to God through Jesus Christ will follow Satan right into that lake of fire. What you see now will not be seen in the end. It will be with one quick shot, right on the target when Jesus returns. Satan, you can run, but you can't hide. In God I trust.

Marty

A Parade. You Can Watch It Or March In It. 7/8/2016

Good Morning,

I am keeping with the theme of Christmas in July by drinking Door County White Christmas Coffee today. I wonder how many days it is until Christmas?

This last weekend several of our family members went to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to visit my Dad. The little town where he lives celebrated our Independence Day with a parade. Dad is a proud veteran and always marches in the parade. He still salutes the flag and counts the cadence as the veterans march.

One thing about parades that I have pondered for many years is this. There are two kinds of people at a parade. One type comes to watch the parade and enjoy what they see. The others want to entertain or honor others by marching in the parade wearing uniforms or grand costumes. Some people work tirelessly on their displays and mobile parade floats.

Not everyone can march in a parade or ride on a float. Someone has to watch the parade. But, I would recommend to everyone that they try being in a parade at least once in their lifetime.

Many people like to treat church attendance and ministry the same way. They show up on time, get comfortable and expect the "ministry parade" to throw some candy, play some music, preach a warm fuzzy message, and make sure the sun shines for them. They never answer the call to serve. There are many excuses. I don't know how! No time for this now! I will some day! I am not qualified.

I have been to parades where horses were used to pull circus wagons. As horses will do, these horses dropped a few road apples on the main street in my city. Later some people came by and cleaned up the mess. Have you ever wondered why churches have paid cleaning staff? Where are the volunteers? Most anyone is qualified to clean. But in the minds of many, that one special person named "Somebody Else" will do it.

Folks, when will you become that somebody else in your church and join the parade and use your talents or skills to further the work of the Kingdom of God?  We really have no excuses.

Romans 12New International Version (NIV)

A Living Sacrifice

12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. ² Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Humble Service in the Body of Christ

³ For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. ⁴ For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, ⁵ so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. ⁶ We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; ⁷ if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; ⁸ if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

The church is made of many members and everyone has a skill or talent. But many never get involved and use their talents. They are content to watch the parade. They never experience the thrill of serving the Lord by serving others.  I feel sorry for them.

So as for me an my house, we will serve the Lord!

Marty

Feet Ready To Travel 7/7/2016

Good Morning,

My cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java is helping me to celebrate Christmas n July. With this heat wave we are having I could almost take a little snow on the ground. But that will come soon enough.

Isaiah 52:7New King James Version (NKJV)

⁷ How beautiful upon the mountains
Are the feet of him who brings good news,
Who proclaims peace,
Who brings glad tidings of good things,
Who proclaims salvation,
Who says to Zion,“Your God reigns!

Last night I started working out again so I can be in better shape for my upcoming short term mission trip to Haiti. My age is against me and these knee joints will be replaced in March. But I couldn't be more excited to be preparing to go. I have started packing a little bit here and there. But my heart is already packed. So I will continue to work out and get proper rest. That means putting my feet up and napping even when I don't want to. I want to be ready spiritually and physically.

Ten days will be spent doing what I need. Ten days drawing closer to God. More time to pray and see Him at work. Going to Him seeking His desires for each day. Watching Him to reveal Himself to my companions, listening to their encounters with God. I have read all there is to read about heaven in my Bible. I really can't fathom how beautiful it will be. But for ten days I will see heaven in action full time. I have been on many mission trips and each one grows sweeter with age. What a gift from God to be able to join Him in His work!

There is no doubt that I will miss my family and friends. I know for sure that we will be bathed in prayer daily. I covet their prayers and thoughts. My church will watch out for my wife. So no fears for me. Color me happy!

So for now, I must go to work.

Be well.

Marty

The Stop Sign Is Your Friend. 7/6/2016

Good Morning,

This cup of Door County Coconut Crush Coffee is going to start this day with gusto. I really like that word gusto. I don't know why, but I do. I think that's how I try to live my life full of gusto!

Our grandson Dominick has been visiting for the last two weeks. Dom has a learners permit to drive a vehicle now. So we have been doing a lot of practice driving while he is here. One of the first things I reminded him of was "The brake is your friend, I am precious cargo and a stop sign is also your friend. While driving, one needs to observe stop signs. The law says you must come to a complete stop, and evaluate if you should continue, before moving on. This is driving 101. Failure to do so could be a real hazard and especially dangerous. It is always best to avoid accidents. Dominick has proven himself to be a conscientious driver  and I am actually relaxed while he drives. We do however go over the proper way to stop and then proceed.

Life is the same way. We come to crossroads all the time. There are always choices to be made and decisions to make.  But if we take the time to stop and check our actions or decisions against Scripture we can avoid costly mistakes and grievous errors. The Bible is one big stop and go light. When I do not receive an answer right away I linger in caution or proceed slowly, ready to hit reverse on that bad decision in a quick hurry.

2 Timothy 3:16New International Version (NIV)
¹⁶ All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

We can make the right decision if we just take time to use the stop sign God has provided.

Turn left or to the right?

Marty

Your True Character 7/5/2016

Good Morning,

I just had a few days off and it felt good. I wish I could say that I rested a little, but that is far from the truth. This morning I can hear the sound of Door County Dublin's Delight Coffee brewing in the kitchen. It was good to be away, but it is also good to be home.

I borrowed this picture from a friend. The puppy hanging out at the water cooler belongs to her daughter. The picture really speaks to what I am going to write about.

Someone once said that the true character of a man is this. "Who is he when no one else is looking.?"
When no one is around, are you the one who sloughs off at the water cooler? Is your language the same at home or work as it is on Sunday in church? Are you the same person when no one else is around? Do you love out of convenience or at all times, no matter what? Can you be trusted to tell the truth? Who are you when no one is looking. Do you cheat or are you honest? If someone cracked open your mind, what would they see? Do you pretend to work hard, or are you lazy?

Psalm 1:1   

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

Romans 5:4     And endurance produces character, and character produces hope,   

1 John 2:3-4    And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,      

2 Peter 1:5-8    For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.   

Proverbs 22:1    A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.

A man who can be trusted, works hard, tells the truth, loves God and is honest is a blessing to his family, his church and his employer.

Who are you?

Marty

Independence Day. Not For Everyone 7/4/2016

Good Morning,
We are celebrating our Independence Day in  America today. There will be flags flying high, parades, cookout, and fireworks for sure. My picture of the Washington Monument is an old one. It shows the monument receiving repairs. It reminds my that we need some repairs in America today.

We celebrate our freedom and those who fought for it. But somewhere sitting alone us a woman or child who gave been beaten by the man of the house. They are hoping for a day of peace without fireworks at home. They are scarred on the outside and within. Today I am praying for their independence. If you know someone who is living like this reach out to them. Arrange for them to get help. If you are reading this and you are the one beating your wife and kids, you need help. Leave them in peace and go and get help. You are in sin and must repent. You can be helped.

1Peter 3:7 Husbands love your wives, dwell with them with understanding,  giving honor tothe wife as to the weaker vessel. 

Let today be their independence day from hurt and pain. Men you also claim your independence from sin. Cease from anger and forsake wrath.

Have a peaceful day.

Marty

The Same Sun 7/3/2016

Good Morning,

Still missing that cup of Door County Red Velvet Coffee.  Lots planned for today including a parade.

Psalm 73:28 But it is good for me to draw near to God. I have put my trust in the Lord God. That I might declare all your works.

Last night our grandson Dominick and I went for a ride in Northern Wisconsin where we are staying for a couple of days. We did a little time travel. This little town was my mother's home town. I showed Dom where many of my aunts and uncles lived. The place where we went for ice cream, the lake we would swim in and take a bath. It brought back many memories. I could recall the sunsets on Black Oak Lake abd asked him if he would mind waiting for the sun to go to bed so I could relive a memory.

Many, many things have changed in this little town. All of my aunts and uncles are gone. Mom is gone and we are now old ourselves.

I am not sure what I was looking for and I am not sure Dominick got anything out of it except for some driving practice. But the sun went down as if it were 1966 all over again. The view was awesome. I closed  my eyes and I could hear my sister telling me to throw her the Ivory soap bar to her. I could see our towels on the beach with our flip flops.  I could hear us whining about the half a mile walk back to grandma's.

I went to find something and God gave me a beautiful sunset and a replay of a mind video of days gone by. I went to bed and slept like it was 1966.

God bless.

Marty

Finishing Strong 7/2/16

Good Morning,

Boy do I miss my cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee this morning.  I forgot to pack some for our fishing trip.  Argh! .

Every now and then I think about what might be said about me at my funeral some day. I am sure of two things. There will be two groups there. Some will be there to mourn. The other group will be there to cheer.

But what I would want someone to say with a sincere heart is this.

He fought the good fight. He finished the race. He kept the faith. This is taken from 2 Timothy 4:7.

I think we should all have the goal of finishing life with those words in mind.  I try to push on every day with those words in mind. I would challenge you  all to do the same.

God bless.

Marty

Fishing Trip With The Boys 7/1/2016

Good Morning,

Life has been a roller coaster of barrel turns the last couple of weeks. Friday made it right on time for me. As I prepare for a Haiti mission trip later in July all get out has unloaded on me and the family. So as I drink this cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee I have to look to heaven as a I pray and say, "it's time to go fishing".

John 21:3   
Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

This weekend my nephews Nick and Matt, our grandson Dominick and me are headed North to Michigan to get away and fish a little bit. Rene has much to do with her mom and told us boys to go on without her.

We are going to brave the mosquitoes and whatever else comes our way and fish in the clear waters of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. One of the lakes we will fish is a very remote lake with more than tough to reach access. I have fished these lakes with each of these guys when they were little boys. Now I return on a family outing with grown young men. I will be the old buck in the group, but someone has to be the steady force in this overcharged group of testosterone.

All four of us have been stressed lately and as the oldest and most of the time the wisest, I declared a fishing weekend and a visit to Grandpa. When in doubt, go fishing or hunting. We will pray and God will be first in all we do. But when in doubt go into nature and see what God has given us, be appreciative and enjoy.

We will recharge, relive memories, and bond together. That's how it should be.

Proverbs 27:17New International Version (NIV)

¹⁷ As iron sharpens iron,
    so one person sharpens another.

Have a great weekend. I know that we will. God bless.

Marty