Take Me Out To The Ball Game 4/30/2017

Good Morning,

Sitting next to me at my desk is a very hot cup of Door County Red Velvet Mocha Coffee and my buddy Gibbs, our English Springer Spaniel. Actually he is sitting on my feet. He is probably a little cold. I just started a fire in the hearth I cleaned last week, thinking I was done with fireplaces for the year. I was wrong. Seems as if winter returned.

Over the last couple of days Rene and I have set a few goals for the summer. More cookouts and picnic table time are on the agenda. Some minor landscaping repairs are on the list. One air show with friends made the cut and last but not least we are planning to go to a professional baseball game. We have a beautiful ball park that actually has a retractable roof so rain issues are never a problem. We love to get to the park early and cook a few brats, eat some nachos, and watch as thousands of other people do the same. It is always a festive atmosphere. Now rain can make a difference outside and ruin the picnic, but we people from Wisconsin are hardy and everyone owns some type of shelter. The menu can always change to sub sandwiches eaten inside the truck.

But let's talk baseball. Baseball is simple to understand. One team is on offense and one is on defense. One team has a pitcher who throws the ball to the batter of the offense at home plate. It is the batter's responsibility to hit the pitch thrown by the defense and then run the three bases hopefully to get back to where he started at home plate. This scores a run when he touches home plate. Now those of you familiar with baseball fully understand this.

Christian life is like a baseball game. We are put into the game (life) we get on base and we are the object of the defense's attention. They do not want us to make it home. (heaven).We are on first base and we cannot steal all the bases to get to home plate. We need someone to get a hit or make a sacrifice bunt to advance us in our direction. The opposing team (Satan) tries to pick us off by distracting us and then throwing our way at first base trying to stop our advance.

But then the team Slugger (Jesus and  His death for our sins) comes up to bat. He lays down a sacrifice bunt to get us moving in the right direction. We freeze at first base not knowing if we should advance to second base. The base coach urges ( Holy Spirit) us to move forward (repent) and we do.  We find that once we accept the sacrifice hit to move forward, our feet pick up speed, the bunt that was laid down slips through the infield and heads to an unsuspecting outfield. The crowd (angels) is wild, cheering beyond belief.  Our Slugger is right behind us, this bunt will be an in the park home run. The Coach keeps us going toward home, the Slugger is pushing us on, we round third base and the defense is still trying to pick up the ball and throw us out. But home plate is in our sight ( end of life) they cannot stop us, They have a week arm and at the end of our run we step on home plate to the cheer of the crowd and the Umpire (God the Father) calls us "SAFE". One runner home!!!!!! Brought home by the Slugger and He is jumping up and down celebrating us coming home. He says. "well done'!

Luke 15:10New International Version (NIV)
¹⁰ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

So if you are blessed to go to a baseball game whether professional or a Little League game enjoy this thought. Where are you on the base path of life? Do you know if you are making it Home? or are you going to be stopped at third base? Have you accepted the hit from the Slugger?

John 14:6New King James Version (NKJV)
⁶ Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Romans 10:13New King James Version (NKJV)
¹³ For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Batter Up!!!

Have a great day.

Marty

A Quick Affirmation. Psalm 23 4/29/2017

Good Morning,

My day started a long time ago while most of you were sleeping. I did however treat myself to an insulated bottle of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee to help me stay alert. Long, night at work.

Every now and then I read Psalm 23 and then use it as an affirmation of my faith and prayer life. Sometimes I write out the Psalm and my personal comments. I will share my own template with you.

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.

¹ The Lord is my shepherd, YES YOU ARE, I lack nothing. I AM BLESSED WITH FOOD AND SHELTER
²     He makes me lie down in green pastures, I HAVE A NICE BED AND I AM RESTED
he leads me beside quiet waters, YOU DID NOT LET ME GET IN OVER MY HEAD TODAY
³     he refreshes my soul. EVERY DAY
He guides me along the right paths I CALLED TO YOU AND YOU ANSWERED
    for his name’s sake. YOU DON"T LET YOUR CHILDREN DOWN
⁴ Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me. I HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR IN DEATH. I AM SAVED BY THE BLOOD OF JESUS.

⁵ You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies. EVERY MISSION TRIP I GO ON, YOU PROVIDE FOR MY NEEDS AND THE BEEDS OF OTHERS> SATAN HAS NEVER HARMED ME.
You anoint my head with oil; SATAN KNOWS I AM YOURS
    my cup overflows. I AM BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE
⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life, AS LONG AS YOU LEAD ME I WILL FOLLOW
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever. HEAVEN IS AHEAD OF ME.

 

You can place all kinds of personal references within the text. As you read the Psalm and pray back your affirmations, you are telling God how much you love Him. Call it a love letter to God. It can end a self induced pity party pretty quick.

 

Have a great day.

 

Marty

House Building 101 4/28/2017

Good Morning,

Here comes the Door County Raspberry Sorbet Coffee and a bowl of oatmeal to start this Friday morning in fine fashion.

I was watching a bird continue to build it's nest at the peak of our garage last night. It nestled the nest between an outdoor light and the siding. The nest in all honesty does not look as substantial as other bird nests I have seen in this lifetime. Last weekend I laid out some small strips of cloth on the driveway, hoping  the robin would pick them up and use them to strengthen her nest. The next day the strips were gone, but they were not placed upon the nest.

Later I walked our yard and noticed another nest was built within a fir tree of ours. It was built on three sturdy branches, supported by the pine bows and low and behold it was held together by those cloth strips. It has a much better chance of surviving a wind storm than the one perched on the small base of a light, open to wind and rain. This robin was a little smarter that the other one.

Jesus often talked about homes. Here is a parable of His.

Matthew 7:24-27New International Version (NIV)

The Wise and Foolish Builders

²⁴ “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ²⁵ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. ²⁶ But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ²⁷ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

The Word of God, lived out by faith and obedience is the way to build a life that can sustain the blows that come our way without collapsing under the strain. When we practice the way of God, we have a solid foundation for our life to build upon. Marriages are stronger, decisions are easier, we are able to forgive quicker and love more.

The Word of God is laid out for us in the 66 books of the Bible. It is there for us to read and digest. But we must open it to read it, and then we must obey what is written to grow. Like the strips of cloth, meant to be used but were not picked up, and not used, we must pick up the Bible and read it. If we don't read and obey, we will not be prepared to battle off the storms of life. One bird is ready. One bird is not.

Building a life today? Are you following the written directions?

God bless,

Marty

The Flowers Of Spring 4/27/2017

Good Morning,

My wishes for all of you would be for you to find a bush, tree or flower that is aromatic and you take some time to enjoy it today. I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee. This one has a taste that lasts!

This day is a bonus for me. I noticed last night that our yard is starting to bloom. Life has been restored to the winter tundra and the apple trees are flowering out as well as the lilacs. The crabapple trees of crimson and white are a sight to see. The birds began nesting a few weeks ago and they continue to chase our dog around the yard.  As for the bonus? Well, we have lived here since 1994 and in 1995 we planted these trees and bushes. I have been watching these trees and bushes grow for 22 years. The apples have made pies and gallons of applesauce. Some were used to feed the deer of Northern Michigan. Each year I celebrate another year of witnessing God's wonders of creation blossoming in our yard. This is a bonus for me. At one time we could barely afford to complete the yard. Some of the trees were given to us for free and were only 6-8 inches tall. I thought that they would never grow. But that first year we had a few blossoms on the lilac bush and then the apple trees followed suit the next year. God reveals Himself to me through the miracles of the seasons, and the beauty in nature. I look forward to this day every year.

We planted the saplings and bushes, but God is the One who paints the landscape for us. He is the real Arborist and Artist.

Psalm 96:11-12New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad;
    let the sea resound, and all that is in it.
¹² Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them;
    let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.

 

I count "Blossom Day" as a blessing each year when the yard springs into life again. I find peace looking at the trees, praying for a big harvest and thanking God for allowing me to see the trees bud forth. I can already taste that applesauce. I look forward to the harvest and those dear friends that might harvest with us, all of us laughing in the yard. You see, those trees do more than feed us. They give us shade, amuse us and are a reminder as to how blessed we are.

 

Thank you Lord,

 

Marty

Fill The House 4/26/2017

Good Morning,

This day I choose to try a new coffee flavor. I just finished brewing Door County Swedish Lingonberry Tart Coffee. It smells stiff and strong. I am all about the flavor though. It is a coffee that I like but I think I would enjoy it more on a cold January day while chopping wood outside.

Luke 14:16-24New International Version (NIV)
¹⁶ Jesus replied: “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. ¹⁷ At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’
¹⁸ “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’
¹⁹ “Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’
²⁰ “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’
²¹ “The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’
²² “‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’
²³ “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full. ²⁴ I tell you, not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.’” 

Compel them - That is, urge them, press them earnestly, one and all. Do not hear their excuses on account of their poverty and low rank of life, but urge them so as to overcome their objections and lead them to the feast. This expresses the "earnestness" of the man; his anxiety that his table should be filled, and his purpose not to reject any on account of their poverty, or ignorance, or want of apparel. So God is earnest in regard to the most polluted and vile. He commands his servants, his ministers, to "urge" them to come, to "press" on them the salvation of the gospel, and to use all the means in their power to bring into heaven poor and needy sinners.

In this parable we see the heart of God in writing. Many guests had turned down the offer of the rich man to come to his home for a great dinner. His servants were tp extend invitations to his friends and important people of the community. All returned the invitation with excuses as to why they could not attend. So the master re-instructed his servant to go out and do not pass anyone up.

The message of Jesus Christ is made for a diverse audience. We cannot exclude anyone because of their place in life. We are to pursue those who the world sees as "discards". Jesus is for everyone.

When was the last time you went out of your way to invite someone to church? Seems odd that you would want to keep your relationship with Christ a secret to those around you.

Think it through. Is your church full? Why not?

Marty

Dancing With Dumbo 4/25/2017

Good Morning,

Smiles everyone! This day started with prayer, some Icy Hot, and a huge cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee.

Maybe you have heard of "Dances With Wolves", So You Think You Can Dance", or "Dancing With The Stars. Now listen to a story "Dancing With Dumbo". I hope this will not be foreign to all of you. Last night Rene and I were watching Dancing With The Stars on ABC and we were amazed at some of the dance moves from the professional dancers as well as the contestants. Rene remarked "That's Awesome" during one of the dances where the contestants all did a cart wheel.  Not to be outdone, I unleashed my own dance moves during the next song. That does explain my need for Icy Hot and Ibuprofen. I could probably use a trip to Urgent care or a hospital for the insane. My attempt to jump over a chair landed short.

By now, those of you who know me are either shaking your heads in disbelief or disgust or laughing until it hurts. But here is the point, upon my one successful attempt at what could resemble a dance move, Rene and I were both laughing so hard that it hurt our sides. We laughed and laughed, on and off for about an hour. We had just completed some work earlier,  that was stressful and at times depressing. We completed it together, sharing in some sorrow. Later we needed to laugh, and laugh we did. Both of us have vowed to be the clown when the other one is sad. Last night we each fulfilled our vow.

Laughing does amazing things and it set me into a mood for quiet time and prayer.  When was the last time you laughed with someone or by yourself? As I write this to you all, I have a smile on my face, sore ribs and I am still laughing a little. You need laughter as medicine for the soul.

Job 8:21 “He will yet fill your mouth with laughter, and your lips with shouting.”

I think that this is a great verse, because it declares that it is the Lord that fills our mouths with laughter. He rejoices over us and blesses us in every way possible. It makes me think of an important sporting event where everyone is cheering on their favorite team, and that is the kind of joy and shouting that the Lord gives us. He fills our lips with laughter, so that we can face every obstacle and challenge with hope and excitement.

 

Enjoy your day. I hope you dance!

 

Marty

Down To The River To Pray

Good Morning,

I just filled my mug with Door County Turtles In A Cup Coffee and I packed a biscuit for later. Tonight I will be trying to make a new salad with the main feature being water melon. One can only hope it turns out and tastes good.

One of my favorite spots to duck hunt is on a river about 25 miles South of our home. I have been known to go and hunt there by myself. I love to sit by that river, just me and our dog. I find myself having some of my beast prayer times all alone by the river. The moving water reminds me of how refreshing water can be and how we all depend on it. It reminds me that we are to be like water in a parched land. We should be nourishing and refreshing to those in need of cheer and the peace of Jesus.

Isaiah 32:2Living Bible (TLB)
² He will shelter Israel from the storm and wind. He will refresh her as a river in the desert and as the cooling shadow of a mighty rock within a hot and weary land.

I also think of Jesus approaching John the Baptist to be baptized at the river and how pleased the Father was with His Son. The river reminds me to try to be like Jesus. Some of you reading this were prayed for at this river. The sound of the water running over the rocks is like music to my heart. That sound reminds me that there will be a river in heaven.

One of my favorite tunes by Alison Krauss is "Down To The River To Pray". I often hum a few bars while praying.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSif77IVQdY You can copy and paste this link to your browser. The video is beautiful.

Where is your river? Where do you do your best praying? Shouldn't you go there soon?

God Bless,

Marty

 

 

mmmmmmmm

With Hope In Your Heart 4/23/17

Good Morning,

My day started at 2:30 AM and I was drinking hospital coffee instead of some Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee. It worked in a pinch but it just wasn't the same. I guess I am spoiled, when it comes to my morning brew.

Miles of paper have been consumed just by the word Hope. Recently I have written about a Christian's future home being heaven.I mentioned that we are just passing through and today's issues do not follow us to heaven. This is true. But some people have a skewed view on getting to heaven. They believe that one can attain heaven through works and performing good deeds. This is untrue philosophy. 

There is only one way that can secure that destination for us. My personal guarantee is my faith in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. This gives me an assured hope for tomorrow. My hope is built on nothing less than the shed blood of Jesus and His righteousness.  This hope also gives us peace in times like the world events of today. My hope is assured by my beliefs. Jesus said. "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father except by Me.

We can face each day with hope because each day is only 24 hours. At the end of each day wr are closer to that eternal destination of heaven. But while we are here our job is to lead others to that place where they place their hope and trust in Jesus Christ.  So no rushing the process. We are to take care of our Earthly bodies and do everything to live until God calls us home. We have a purpose in living. We live to bring hope to others.

So today instead of spreading open the newspaper and falling asleep.  Spread the Hope Jesus provides.

God bless.

Marty

The Lasagna Conspiracy 4/22/2017

Good Morning,

A busy day awaits me and I am facing it with prayer and a big cup of Door County Raspberry Sorbet Coffee. Let's get it started.

My birthday was in February and I turned sixty years old this year. I never thought that I would live this long. So for me personally, it was a milestone. My special day fell on a weekend and I pretty much had my weekend planned. Hunting on Friday, sporting clay shooting on Saturday, and more hunting on Sunday afternoon rounded out the weekend.  On Saturday evening I planned on an Italian dinner for two at one of my favorite restaurants. I had a big slab of lasagna on my mind for a month.

Earlier in the month, two of our dear friends mentioned that it would be nice to go out to eat at an Irish restaurant for my birthday. I politely declined and said that I had my heart set on lasagna, but they were welcome to come. They persisted weekly.

They continued to pressure me throughout February with my wife joining in saying " Don't you want to be with our friends, and they have such a good deal". I was a little stern and said " I planned my weekend and all I want is lasagna. Is that too hard to do?"

Closer to my birthday, I called my dear old aunt and checked in. I was getting somewhat perturbed at the fact that no one seemed to be blessing my lasagna outing. I whined a little and she just said " it's your birthday, do what you want to do". My aunt was part of a deeper conspiracy. I made my lasagna reservations and told Rene to be ready to go on Saturday.

Now here's the deal eventually I got a call from my no longer trusted nephew on that lasagna Saturday saying that I had better turn around from my lasagna destination because there was a lot of people at an Irish restaurant waiting to surprise me for my birthday. (Just kidding on trusting my nephew)

This surprise party/ lasagna conspiracy included friends, our daughter, my aunt, my baker who almost gave it away. They did not count on me showing up for donuts that morning. I found out later that my birthday cake was sitting out when I walked in, name and all for everyone to see. Two of the young girls who worked there stood in front of it and never moved. I just assumed that they were tired or had a case of stupid going on.

This conspiracy went from Florida, to Houston, to Wisconsin. Now, all kidding aside. I eventually went out a few weeks later for my lasagna. But my heart was blessed by all those people who fibbed a little, and staged the conspiracy, to give me one nice party.  Rene on the other hand was a nervous wreck. I was starting to dig in with stubbornness and she saw it as impossible to get me to go to the Irish Emporium. She was actually worried that if I ran into one more obstacle that I would be headed to Italy for my birthday.

Here's the point. We can't always have it our way. And I am blessed to say that I did not. But what I did experience was even better. A whole room filled with family and friends was much better than lasagna. I actually liked the Irish food. Being stubborn is not always a blessing to others or yourself.

Deuteronomy 10:16       

         
"So circumcise your heart, and stiffen your neck no longer.

I need to learn to go with the flow, and never pass up the chance to properly fellowship with friends and family. Today I miss my daughter, maybe I should pack myself into a crate and ship myself to Florida. Then when she opens the door, I could jump out of the crate and holler "Surprise I brought lasagna".

God bless,

Marty

What Do Others Call You? 4/21/2017

Good Morning!!!

I hope your coffee is hot or your juice cold and tasty. My coffee this morning is Door County Peanut Butter Crunch. Ahh Friday!

I just found out that you can actually purchase a book that has over 1000 names that you might want to consider when naming your child. I never knew that there was such a book. Inside they actually explain the meaning of the names in several languages.

But what does God have to say about names?

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. – Proverbs 3:3-4

Do you want to win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man? Put others before yourself. Be diligent and prompt at work. Love others despite their faults, always looking for the best. Be a friend when others run out. To have love and faithfulness bound around your neck means that these qualities can be seen in you always. You will be very valuable to your family, your church, your profession, God and your friends.

You may have a name given to you by your parents. But what names would others call you?

God bless,
Marty

Traveling Through 4/20/2017

Good Morning,

This morning is just the beginning of a day that will last long into the night for me. To be drinking a big cup of Door County Chocolate Caramel Coffee is a treat that will help ease the day into gear.

Have you ever traveled somewhere and despite how hard your host worked for you something was missing? What was missing, is that it wasn't home!

My kingdom is not of the world. John 18:36

Jesus reminds us that His home is in Heaven. Those who have received Him as Lord and Savior will dwell with Him there when we leave this world.  There are many rooms in my Father's house. I am going there to prepare a place for you. John 14:2

Problems, strife, discontent and unhappiness on Earth work to promote a thirst and hunger for Heaven. God, through these, holds our attentions on what is ahead.

We will never be content here. We were not made for Earth. We were made for Heaven. Settling for what Earth has to offer is a great tragedy. We are prematurely satisfied. Content in a strange land??

We will see moments or days of joy, peace, and get glimpses of God at work. But never ever think that what we have now compares to the wonders ahead! Travel on! We are just passing through.

God bless,
Marty

Put Your Head On My Shoulder 4/19/2017

Good Morning,

Door County Red Velvet Mocha Coffee is swirling in my cup and dancing on my taste buds. Now that's what I think is a great way to greet the day.

Back in the day, when I was young and in high school, all of us guys used "pick up" lines or goofy music to sway the hearts of young ladies in our direction. We would get all slicked up, wash our car, and head out to a dance, homecoming, or a movie hoping to end up with a girlfriend by the end of the date. I was about as corny as one guy could get. I had an old hot rod Ford equipped with an eight track player and a collection of sappy love songs. My old two door Ford had a full bench seat and all a guy wanted was to look cool by having that young lady slide all the way over from her seat and sit with her head on your shoulder. Back in the day, seat belts were optional and a guy had a better chance of true love without them.

I recall my most romantic antic was to go for Frozen Custard at a place named Leon's and then sit there munching on the custard, listening to sappy romantic love songs. I would slip an eight track tape into the dash and the song "Put your head on my shoulder" would start playing. Every now and then that romantic plea would work and we would spend the evening driving around looking cool with my dream date sitting close to me with her head on my shoulder. I had a million songs and could play them for hours or until I ran out of gas. Running out of gas is another whole different story.

Now most of these antics were very shallow pick up attempts for romance. I would like you to consider something else today. Jesus is never shallow and every word that comes from Him is true and is full of love. When Jesus speaks, it is never just some pick up line. Jesus is the real deal.

Revelation 3:20New International Version (NIV)

²⁰ Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

Revelation 3:20 is often used by evangelists to reach the unchurched or lost souls who grace the steps of a revival or church. I won't dispute the use of the text. However, as I look at this verse, Jesus is saying this. "I am here in front of you. You control the door, and the door swings in. I will, if you ask me to, come into your life and have a relationship with you. "

Back in the time of Christ, it was very special to be invited into a person's home and partake of dinner. It was an honor to be that close, that people would share their best with you. Jesus considers it an honor for you to open the door of your life to Him. He won't decline the invitation and can be counted on to bring peace to the heart of the one who opened the door.

I believe this verse is an open invitation to companionship, love and an eternal relationship. It is your choice as to how close you want to be with Jesus. You are as close to Jesus as you choose to be.

You hand is upon the handle of your heart's door. Won't you open it today?

Marty

Two Dear Friends And Vacation 4/18/2017

Good Morning,

Hey! I can smell that Door County Turtles In A Cup Coffee brewing in the kitchen. The aroma has wafted it's way to the den. That's a great way to fill the house with a sweet meet and greet to the morning.

Rene and I have been praying for two of our dear friends, who to say the least have had a rough road these last two years. Health issues placed them on the sidelines of life. These are two people who despite their health problems, always did whatever they still could do for others. They often write to me and encourage me in my daily writings. I am grateful to God for them daily.

What they do know is that within our family they are truly loved and prayed for every day. We have been praying for their health and for their jobs for a long time. Both items seem to be moving in the right direction.

What they did not know is that we have been praying for them to get a restful vacation in a warm spot. That prayer was answered and they are now on vacation with their family in a nice, warm area. Now although we prayed for this, it was God who provided enough health for them to travel. Their jobs excused them from work and they could carpool with family. It brings tears to my eyes just to know that my friends are getting a good rest. And to be honest, most of all, that they are both well enough to do so.

I am convinced that as Christians we need to intercede and ask for blessings for others. These two are unselfish people and would never ask for something like a vacation and a rest. They are too busy doing things for others to remember to pray for their own comfort.

Hanging around with these two always has a positive impact on us. We see them pray for others and show compassion without receiving much in return. They truly put others first. I don't think they know how they inspire the both of us. The reason they do not know about how they inspire others, is because they don't do it for the praises of man. They do what they do, to please the Lord.

John 4:33-35New King James Version (NKJV)
³³ Therefore the disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?”
³⁴ Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work. ³⁵ Do you not say, ‘There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!

The verse above describes my friends. I have it underlined in my Bible. When I read it I think of these two.

They are always full of surprises and they assisted in keeping me away from a lasagna dinner for almost two months. ( I will elaborate on that, later in the week). So now it was our turn to pray for some peace and relaxation for them. Right now I am confident that they are making a difference in someone's life while vacationing.

So here's how to finish this blog. Are you praying for good things for someone today? Did you drop to the bottom of your prayer list, to put others first?

Take a little time to ask God for blessings on others today.

Marty

Setting Your Eyes Upon God 4/17/2017

Good Morning,

This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. I will also start this day with a large mug of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee. I was only away for two days and that was too long! It's good to be home, with my wife, dog and coffee pot.

Isaiah 26:3New International Version (NIV)

³ You will keep in perfect peace
    those whose minds are steadfast,
    because they trust in you.

In order to be successful while duck hunting I need to keep my eyes set on the water and the sky above. Many times I have just taken my eyes off of the water and sky before me and within the blink of an eye, ducks flew through my decoys. When I do splash down a duck, and my dog does not see it go down, he needs to take directions from me. I use hand signals and a whistle to direct him. If he does not pay attention to my directions he will launch into the water and swim a long way for nothing.

I don't know what is going on in your life today. But some of you will face mountains of issues to climb. Some might be facing giant health problems or emotional stress beyond belief. These issues swagger and strut into your life. They seek to dominate you and cause you to give up. I face these things like anyone else does. A church elder is not immune from the world. But I do know what God's Word says on how to face these "Moving Mountains".

Don't face them without God. Pray up, hard and long.

Ephesians 6:18New King James Version (NKJV)
¹⁸ praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—

Don't let Satan convince you that he always wins. He has no dominance over you.

1 John 4:4New King James Version (NKJV)
⁴ You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

Don't forget to ask for wisdom and directions from God. Once the directions are received, don't waver from them.

James 1:5New King James Version (NKJV)
⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

Lastly, you do not run on your own power. Count on Jesus for help. Humbly accept the help.

Philippians 4:13New King James Version (NKJV)
¹³ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

My dog is a small English Springer Spaniel. When he listens to me and pays attention he can launch blindly into the water and retrieve a duck he hasn't seen. Many times this takes him into weeds or cattails beyond my sight. But he has learned to trust me to blow the whistle and bring him back if he is a little worried or lost. When we trust God and follow directions, keeping in contact with Him through constant prayer, we grow to trust Him more and more. Our giants don't seem so large anymore.

You can do it too. Trust in God and do not lean on yourself. If He brought you to it, He will see you through it.

God Bless,

Marty

He Is Risen 4/16/17

Good Morning,

I am still on the road today and I am for sure missing my cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee. Happy Easter to everyone. May you day be blessed.

Definition Of Easter
noun

1.

an annual Christian festival in commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox, as calculated according to tables based in Western churches on the Gregorian calendar and in Orthodox churches on the Julian calendar.

2.

Also called Easter Sunday. the day on which this festival is celebrated.

 

This is the dictionary definition of Easter.  Now let's see the Biblical explanation of Easter

No other holiday is as critical to the Christian faith as Easter. The very foundation of Christianity stands or crumbles on the truthfulness of the assertion that Jesus Christ rose from the dead. Easter is not about religious ritual or tradition. It is about the resurrection of the Son of God, a historical event. It is significant because of what the resurrection of Jesus validates.

I. The resurrection of Christ validates Scripture.

A. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 “Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.”

Without the resurrection the Old Testament prophecies would have been a hoax. Jesus fulfilled all the prophecies, putting an end to all doubt. The resurrection cements our faith in God.

1. Triumphal Entry – Zechariah 9:9
2. Betrayal for 30 pieces of silver which would be given to potter’s field – Zechariah 11:12
3. The scourging and smiting – Isaiah 53:5
4. Crucified with Criminals – Isaiah 53:12
5. The Piercing – Zechariah 12:10, Psalm 22:16
6. No bones broken – Psalm 34:20
7. Buried with the rich – Isaiah 53:9
8. Raised from the dead
• Psalm 16:10-11 “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

This is why we celebrate Easter. Our God cannot be doubted and He went so far as to prove  Himself. What was said would happen, happened. This is why we can rest on His Promise to save sinners like us.

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.

 So, celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and cherish your salvation.

God Bless

Marty

Never An Easy Chore 4/15/2017

Good Morning,

I am writing today and wishing that I had a cup of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee with me. I am traveling with my Nephew/Sidekick Nick. We are currently in the North Woods Of Upper Michigan. My wife stayed home and is in good company with our Springer Spaniel Gibbs. I would bet that he enjoyed my side of the bed last night.

Nick and I are here to check on my Dad's house. Dad passed away in November 2016 and we closed his little lake home up for the winter. Now as spring is here, it is time to resume cleaning out the house and preparing it for sale. There is much paperwork to still be completed and the first order of the day is a trip to the bank to change names on a checking account. We have been away from here since late November and most of the estate paperwork was completed from my home in Wisconsin. The day is dreary and it adds to my heavy heart.

Why am I writing this to all of you today? Here's the answer. We cannot change time and I cannot go back and make it April 2016 again. In April of 2016 we were sending Dad on a war veterans honor flight. It was a big family celebration. It was a huge family event for all of us. When I get to his house I won't be greeted by a smile and a hot cup of very strong coffee. In the middle of all  the work to be done and assessed today there will still be the taste of misery.

What I am advising all of you to do today is this. If your parents are still with you make sure to call them today, or visit, or write. Dad's accidental death took us all by surprise and we never got that one last birthday party in. We cannot assume another day will be here for anyone. We need to make each day count and make sure our loved ones know we are there, love them and care about them. Death is final and we cannot do anything to stop it. So don't pass on the chance to talk and share feelings with your loved ones.

Ecclesiastes 3New International Version (NIV)

A Time for Everything

3 There is a time for everything,
    and a season for every activity under the heavens:

²     a time to be born and a time to die,
    a time to plant and a time to uproot,
³     a time to kill and a time to heal,
    a time to tear down and a time to build,
⁴     a time to weep and a time to laugh,
    a time to mourn and a time to dance,
⁵     a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
    a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
⁶     a time to search and a time to give up,
    a time to keep and a time to throw away,
⁷     a time to tear and a time to mend,
    a time to be silent and a time to speak,
⁸     a time to love and a time to hate,
    a time for war and a time for peace

There is a time to visit, and  a time to call. Make sure to do that today, before there is just some estate chores to do and memories to live on.

Marty

In A Heart Beat 4/14/17

Good Morning,

Friday is in my sight right now and I am looking forward to starting the day with a huge cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee.

Today, Christians celebrate "Good Friday". We remember the day that our Lord and Savior  Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross to pay the price for our sins. For me it has always been a somber day. When I was a young boy and became aware of what "Good Friday" meant, I held it in my mind as a day to reflect on who I was, who I wasn't, and why Jesus had to die for me. The day has been at times for me , a day of shame and guilt.

I think that there are many who hold this day dear in their hearts, but because of our own individual sins, we see it as a mournful day of remembrance, of the "WHY".

But there was one guy who celebrated the end of the day in a big way.

Luke 23:26-43New International Version (NIV)

The Crucifixion of Jesus

²⁶ As the soldiers led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. ²⁷ A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him. ²⁸ Jesus turned and said to them, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. ²⁹ For the time will come when you will say, ‘Blessed are the childless women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!’ ³⁰ Then

“‘they will say to the mountains, “Fall on us!”
    and to the hills, “Cover us!”

³¹ For if people do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?”

³² Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. ³³ When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. ³⁴ Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”^[ And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
³⁵ The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.”
³⁶ The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar ³⁷ and said, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.”
³⁸ There was a written notice above him, which read: this is the king of the jews.
³⁹ One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!”
⁴⁰ But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? ⁴¹ We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”
⁴² Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
⁴³ Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

In the stop of a heart beat, this guilty thief would be in Paradise with Jesus. Our Savior promises the same for us. As much as this criminal was rejoicing in Paradise, we too will rejoice in Heaven. Jesus stole his heart.

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.

I have changed my attitude about Good Friday over the years. It is a day of humility and thankfulness. I am humbled by the fact that I am loved enough that Jesus would die for me. I certainly don't deserve it. I am thankful that He did. In a heartbeat I will be gone some day and will never look back. Jesus stole my heart too. Now that is love!

God Bless,

Marty

Pineapple Burgers And A Smile 4/13/2017

Good Morning,

I hope this finds all of you with a heart full of love. I chose today to make a pot of Door County Chocolate Caramel Truffle Coffee and I can smell it brewing from the den.

I believe a sincere smile goes a long way in changing the mood or attitude of the person smiling and the one who is receiving a smile.

"The act of smiling activates neural messaging that benefits your health and happiness. ... The feel good neurotransmitters dopamine, endorphins and serotonin are all released when a smile flashes across your face as well (4). This not only relaxes your body, but it can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. Jun 25, 2012"       There's Magic In Your Smile | Psychology Today

 

When I look at the health benefits of smiling and there are several other articles on smiling, I can't help but want to start taking care of myself by being sincerely happy and showing it.

Now on the other hand I received a smile yesterday that made me feel a lot better about myself and my day. I do most of the cooking in our home and enjoy doing so. My wife Rene enjoys her burgers. I decided that I would grill a couple for us and the burgers would be topped with her favorite condiments. I grilled slices of pineapple, and placed maple cheese on the burger and melted it, just before serving them. Once in the house I topped the burger with the pineapple and placed the tomato on our plates.

We prayed and started to eat. I looked over at Rene and a big smile greeted me, with a little ketchup on the lip. "Thank you Hon, these are great". I found myself smiling and laughing together. Receiving a smile from someone we love is actually better than watermelon at a summer picnic. Her smile made a rough day less painless. I was glad to be home.

A smile is also biblical.  

Proverbs 15:13-15New International Version (NIV)

¹³ A happy heart makes the face cheerful,
    but heartache crushes the spirit.

¹⁴ The discerning heart seeks knowledge,
    but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

¹⁵ All the days of the oppressed are wretched,    but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

 

So put a smile on your face. Be healthier and make someone else's day!

 

God Bless,

 

Marty

 

 

Stuck At The Desk 4/12/2017

Good Morning,

I awoke this morning to the sound of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee brewing in the kitchen.
I am looking forward to having a cup or two and then possibly sharing some with whoever graces the door of my office.

Last night as I was putting together some notes for a funeral service I will be performing, my mind started to wander and then somehow I just lost time. Thoughts to put on the paper were just not coming to me. It seemed that I would be stuck at my refurbished desk forever. I do like working at my desk in the den. It seems like a fortress that I can run to, pray, study and write. I spend some of my best times with God at my desk. It just seemed that God would not let me leave the desk. So I prayed, and prayed. I was led through prayer to the following passages.

Isaiah 31English Standard Version (ESV)

Woe to Those Who Go Down to Egypt

31 Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help
    and rely on horses,
who trust in chariots because they are many
    and in horsemen because they are very strong,
but do not look to the Holy One of Israel
    or consult the Lord!
² And yet he is wise and brings disaster;
    he does not call back his words,
but will arise against the house of the evildoers
    and against the helpers of those who work iniquity.
³ The Egyptians are man, and not God,
    and their horses are flesh, and not spirit.
When the Lord stretches out his hand,
    the helper will stumble, and he who is helped will fall,
    and they will all perish together.

I then petitioned God as to tell me what lesson I was to learn. Here is what was laid upon my heart through the passage. God was clearly warning His Chosen People not to partner with those outside of the faith to do good. I pondered this Old Testament passage and asked God to show me what I could apply to my life.

The same message applies to the churches of today. We must never partner with anything of evil to accomplish good. Many a plan devised by men alone has failed because it was not God's plan. Many churches go ahead and try things and then ask God to bless it. They fail to ask, or if they do ask cannot wait on God for direction and start out on a road to disaster without Him. Very often churches disguise their own ambitions by " saying it will help many".  They rush to help in the name of good, but take short cuts to do so that really just aligns them with Satan's plan to destroy the church. A church with a bad reputation is really no church at all.

Now this lesson can also be applied to individuals. We need to heed God's advice, individually as well as corporately. We should never attempt to do good by partnering with anything evil.

Think it through. God is never wrong.

Marty