Just Call Me 5/31/2017

Good Morning,

It's good to be home waking up in my own bed. There is no place like home. The java maker is brewing some Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee and the dog wants breakfast. Life is back to normal.

Jeremiah 33:3 Call out to me and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.

God desires forays to call out to Him, when we are hurting, angry, when making decisions, seeking directions, or how to minister. This is an open invitation that requires some action on our part.

1. First, we need to call out.
2. Secondly we need to listen after we call out.
3. Thirdly we need to follow through on what God told us to do. Or not do what He asked us not to do. We must be obedient to hIs answer.
4. Last but not least. We must be thankful for what God did for us.

All too often we skip the listening, because we did not like the answer. Or the answer did MIT come to us quick enough.

Are you in a mess? Do you need direction?  What has God told you to do? Don't call out unless you are ready to follow the answer.

God bless,

Marty.

Good Night Beaver Station Lake

Good Morning,

I am  starting my day in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with a cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee.

Last night I was sitting in my parent's dining room reading my Bible and watching the lake from the window. It has always been a beautiful view. I could sit and look at for hours. From the North I could see a storm heading my way. I saw a couple ducks land ad the sky grew darker with night fall and the impending rain barrage. I watched the lake go to sleep. Despite the approaching storm the lake nestled in for the night.  The lake joined it's place, peacefully and went to sleep.

It reminded me that despite life's storms God is in charge.

Thus says the Lord: "Heaven is My throne and Earth is My footstool. Isaiah 66:1

I think we can learn much from the lake. There was no stopping the storm, so the lake just rested and waited for morning. The same God that made the lake made us. We can weather  the storms of life. We just have to rely on God to see us through. And He will. The lake was here this morning.

Love you all.

Marty

Alone With My Thoughts 5/29/17

Good Morning,

A cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and an English Muffin sit before me.

I am in Upper Michigan today. I arrived here yesterday with our nephew Matt. Matt left gor home today at about 5AM. I am at my parents house. It's weird being here alone. With the two of them now passed on a  place that once was active and full of life is now a shell still filled with a few items yet to be moved. It is so quiet here on the lake that you can hear the clock ticking. We mowed the grass yesterday, moved furniture and started some sidewalk repairs.  Hopefully the rain will hold off and let me continue.

I tried gathering my thoughts today so I would be able to write with inspiration. That really did not happen. I spent the last hour in prayer and found peace in the prayer. I then spent time in the Bible. I found peace there. So this blog will be short today.  Friends,  as I struggled to find peace here in which to me is still a place of mourning, I sought God for help. He will sustain me. But I needed to sit still and seek Him out.

Deuteronomy 4:29 "But from there you will seek the Lord your God and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and soul. 

Where are your thoughts today? Do they burden you? If they do, slow di enjoy and seek the Lord. He will surely meet with you.

Love

Marty

Beattitudes, Always A Good Lesson 5/27/2017

Good Morning,

I saw sunshine coming in through the window so this time of writing and drinking my Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee has moved outside, where I can take in some fresh air and the dog can roam about. What a beautiful morning it is!

Matthew 5:1-12New International Version (NIV)

Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount

5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, ² and he began to teach them.

The Beatitudes

He said:

³ “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
⁴ Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
⁵ Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.
⁶ Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they will be filled.
⁷ Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy.
⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.
⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
¹⁰ Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

¹¹ “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. ¹² Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

One of my former pastors always called this passage "Attitudes that out to be". I emboldened part of the passage in red. In these words we specifically see that Jesus "Began teaching the crowd". Obviously this is a life lesson that He specifically placed great importance on. I could probably write a message on this passage that will last for days as there is so much to take away from here.
 I will leave the long dissertation for another time. I want to focus in on verse eight today. "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God". What an amazing and wonderful promise.  We will look at this in two ways.

1. Those who have received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, upon death or the rapture whichever comes first for them will be ushered  into the presence  of God.

John 14:2-4New International Version (NIV)

² My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. ⁴ You know the way to the place where I am going.”

 

Jesus creates in us through the forgiveness of sins, purchased on the cross a pure heart worthy of heaven.

 

2, I suggest that when we seek to live a life that strives to live in such a way that we desire a pure heart that flees from sin, we can experience God and see Him at work. It is much easier to see God in others. For instance I was talking with a co-worker who had a rough week for sure. I had been praying for her and hoping that her week would have a blessing in it. She came to my office yesterday and told me that her yard had a few cardinals at the bird feeder and she was so delighted. She saw cardinals and I saw God. I was also humbled to know that my prayer was answered, and blessed to hear the fruit of the prayer, because "who am I"? Nothing but a sinner saved by grace.

 

Verse eight reminds us to approach all that we do, whether is be work, play, family, leadership or ministry with a pure heart. It is totally evident in life when we aren't pure in heart. Our motives for anything we are doing are clouded, they go unblessed and we usually manufacture thoughts of justification to support the wrong path. We don't experience God and we certainly go through a period where we don't see Him.

 

It's your heart. Are your motives pure, are you free from sin. It's your life, don't you want to get a glimpse of God daily, just a glimpse here and now instead of waiting for the ultimate experience in heaven? it's much sweeter looking through a window than looking into a mirror filled with self.

 

Have a great weekend.

 

Marty

 

 

Planting The Rose Bushes 5/26/2017

Good Morning,

Friday you are my new best friend. If you had a Facebook page I would like you. Off to the kitchen for a Cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee and a piece of blueberry cringle. Then I am headed to work with a smile and a prayer on my heart.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9New International Version (NIV)
⁴ Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. ⁵ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. ⁶ These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. ⁷ Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. ⁸ Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. ⁹ Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

Last night Rene and I went to the local garden store to purchase some stone and a couple of new rose bushes. As I was planting them I was thankful for their potential beauty. I started to wonder as to how they would look when they blossomed and how they would make it through their first winter, later this year. They are now part of the yard and part of the family. They will need to be watered, nourished, and trimmed now and then. In other words they will need some tender loving care in order to fulfill their purpose. They will grow to be hearty, yet have a delicate flower that needs attention.

Rose bushes are like members of a man's family. They need to grow where they are planted. The soil around them needs to be nurtured so they can grow. They need to be protected from the harsh environments they will encounter. They will need plenty of water to help them grow roots deep into the ground. Their roots will sustain them during some droughts and high winds. Once the flowers from their stems wither, they need to be pruned back and trimmed so they can grow better. Some will need a trellis to assist them in growing up straight. They need plenty of sun and then just enough shade.

Men our families are like roses and need us to be there for them. Our job is not to be served, but to serve them. Our families are like flowers that will provide beauty in our lives for a long time. But we must not forget our duty to love, nurture, and at times correct a path or two. We need to make sure to lead our families toward the light of Jesus Christ. That is the job description, page one, for a man.

Ladies, pass this on to the men in your lives. they have a great garden to tend. Men, get to work.

Marty

Terror In Manchester. God Detests Evil 5/25/2017

Good Morning,

My alarm went off even though I wish it wouldn't have, So it's time to get up and run for my Door County Turtles In A Cup Coffee. Somethings are worth running for, cream of broccoli soup is not. Just saying!

Today I will celebrate my wife's birthday. We will have a nice dinner and then some birthday cake. I purchased some perfume and roses for gifts and it will be a wonderful day.

But as I turned on the news, I was once again reminded of the poor folks of Manchester England who lost loved ones or are watching loved ones fight for their lives, because of a cowardly, evil attack on the youth of their city by a crazed bomber. Those who were killed will miss their next birthday, or prom, or Christmas. They won't get married, see children or have a chance to retire some day. They have been robbed of their lives. This day of celebration is filtered by mourning.

My prayers of course go out to the survivors and the families who mourn. I mourn with the city. This was pure evil, not a noble cause, but pure evil. God will comfort those who mourn. But whoa to those who did this, planned this, or paid for it.

Micah 2New King James Version (NKJV)

Woe to Evildoers

2 Woe to those who devise iniquity,
And work out evil on their beds!
At morning light they practice it,
Because it is in the power of their hand.
² They covet fields and take them by violence,
Also houses, and seize them.
So they oppress a man and his house,
A man and his inheritance.

³ Therefore thus says the Lord:

“Behold, against this family I am devising disaster,
From which you cannot remove your necks;
Nor shall you walk haughtily,
For this is an evil time.
⁴ In that day one shall take up a proverb against you,
And lament with a bitter lamentation, saying:
‘We are utterly destroyed!

 

God will avenge those who were murdered. In that, I have no doubt. He will also comfort those who mourn.

Matthew 5:4King James Version (KJV)
⁴ Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

People of Manchester, our hearts break for you. Our prayers are with you. God bless.

Marty

 

 

Stand By Me 5/24/2017

Good Morning,

I welcome this day with gusto. Now gusto is a word I like to use. I see some challenges ahead of me a today, but I am counting on my team to make short work of them. My day is blessed to start with a cup of Door County Swedish Lingonberry Tart Coffee and a prayer for loved ones.

I believe that there could be no lonelier feeling than to think that you are facing life's trials alone. I have a friend who sits with those who have no one to be with them when they are dying. I have done that myself a couple of times, it's not my calling. I asked him how he does it, especially when he doesn't really know the person?

His answer amazed me. He told me that he tries to find out whatever he can about the person and then talks about that subject. Most of all he extends a hand out to the person and just holds their hand. In some instances, if he can, he reads Scripture out loud while holding on to their hand. He does this at least once a month or more.

He said "No one should ever stand alone". This friend of mine is a widower and has some extra time on his hands. He is an avid golfer and still works a forty hour week. So for him to stay all night at a hospice center or a hospital is a true gift to the receiver.

I have a lot of heroes that I look up to and could write volumes about all of them. But this one has asked me not to share His name, because of his humble attitude. But he is one of my heroes.

I then asked Him why he does it. "I do it because it might be at a time when they feel forgotten and I can take that away. I have been blessed with sixty years by God, I can spare a few hours a month to make the last day for someone better. God knows I love Him, and the ministry He gave to me, just takes time, love and patience. I am a good hand holder"!

Matthew 25:31-40 New International Version (NIV)

The Sheep and the Goats

³¹ “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. ³² All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. ³³ He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
³⁴ “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. ³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶ I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
³⁷ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? ³⁸ When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? ³⁹ When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
⁴⁰ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.

I raise my cup of coffee to this hero today!

Marty

Sweet Peach Tea 5/23/2017

Good Morning,

That aroma I smell this morning isn't Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee. That aroma was already here an hour ago. What I smell is the fresh buns in the oven that I made last night when I couldn't sleep. I set them out to rise and in a few minutes they will be done. Fresh warm bread and some coffee for breakfast.

I am not really summer kind of guy, but I make do until the fall comes. One of the things that I look forward to in the summer is my first batch of Sweet Peach Tea. I make mine with some of the frozen peaches we stored away from last year. A good hot day deserves an ice cold glass of peach tea. I haven't had the opportunity to brew some just yet, but it is coming.

Matthew 10:42New International Version (NIV)
⁴² And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”

What does that have to do with Jesus, or the Bible, or anything in general? Well, it has a whole lot to do with being kind. Jesus is all about sharing and doing kind things for others. We have new neighbors and they purchased the home next store. The home was up for sale for a long time and the property was neglected. Our new neighbors are hard at it everyday that doesn't rain. My sweet peach tea is pretty good. No bragging , just a fact. I plan on bringing them some on the first hot day we get around here. Here's the point, I possess something good, and it would be a shame not to share and also try to strike up a good neighbor friendship. While I am drinking tea with them I plan to offer  some help with that yard work. We are to help others.

What's cooking in your oven? Or what's brewing in the refrigerator? What can you share out of kindness? It doesn't take much to say you care.

Marty

Does God Still Love Me? 5/22/2017

Good Morning,

Back to work with a cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee in my hand, a prayer in my heart, and a week ahead of me.

God assures us in Psalm 100:5  “For the LORD is good and his love endures forever, his faithfulness continues through all generations.”

This verse not only tells us of His goodness and love, but says that it is for us today, generations later than when it was written. God is faithful through all generations.

God takes great care to let us know that we are loved today and everyday. He tells us daily through His word and His provision for our sins.

Romans 5:8
New International Version (NIV)
⁸ But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

1 Peter 3:18New International Version (NIV)

¹⁸ For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.

 

There are times when we all wonder where God is and if He still loves us. This doubt is usually brought on be the immediate circumstances we are facing. But God proves His love by providing for our eternity through the death, burial, and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ.  These are facts that are constant and can never change. So yes, God still loves you and has asked us to let Him carry us through circumstances.

1 Peter 5:7New King James Version (NKJV)

⁷ casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

 

God never moves and is faithful to draw near to us when we draw close to Him. When we feel like He is absent or doesn't love us, we should check to see if we have moved away in Spirit from Him.

 

 James 4:8English Standard Version (ESV)
⁸ Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

God loves you today and will tomorrow.

Marty

 

Pot Roast In The Oven 5/21/2017

Good Morning,

I can hear the Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee dripping into the carafe and I can smell the aroma up here in the den. Soon I will have a cup next to me and I will welcome this Sabbath with prayer and a little Gospel music to brighten this rainy and dreary morning.

Last night after returning from church we came home to the timer on the oven sounding off. The pot roast I had placed in a roasting pan was complete and from the smell in the house, you just knew that it was done perfectly. I had seasoned it with the same seasonings that my Dad had used for years and placed the roast, potatoes and some carrots in our trusty old roasting pan. That guy sure loved a good pot roast.  My lovely wife remarked that somehow a seasoned pot roast with potatoes and carrots just seemed to be a source of comfort, memories and in her mind, and stability in the world. I was reminded of my childhood when a pot roast was a big deal for the Sunday meal. The aroma took me back to days of a full family at the dinner table and the inevitable pile of dishes to clean up. Even the thought of dish pan hands seemed to be a fond recall of the past.

It's funny how certain things will trigger your mind into taking a trip down memory lane. Bible verses do the same thing for me. When I read certain verses they take me back and I can recall how they impacted me at a certain moment in time. One in particular changed my life forever and It might not mean much to some but it means the world to me. I first read this verse back in July of 1981. I read the verse, digested the content and took it literally. One of the darkest days of my life was illuminated and I never looked back.

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

To me, it's not surprising that just one passage spoken in the Word of God could have such an impact. You might have your own "special verse or passage", read it again today. Enjoy the memory, and pass it on. Pick up your old Bible and find another one or take a trip down memory lane. I took that trip this morning and it helped me recall the time when I was delivered from darkness into Light.

Hebrews 4:12New International Version (NIV)
¹² For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

The Word received, is like that pot roast was to us last night. The aroma from time in the Word lingers in our hearts. It provides comfort and stability. It has the ability to change lives.

Go ahead and open it up. Have a great morning that will last forever.

God bless,

Marty

A Cup Of Sunshine 5/20/2017

Good Morning,

My desk top is adorned with a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and it sits on a plate that has a picture of me and our grandson on it. Now there's two mugshots!!!

My desk has been written about before and I feel the need to do it again. It doesn't possess any magical powers. I have called it a place of refuge in the past and a place to recharge my soul. The chair matches the desk and is solid oak without a pad, so I can tell you truthfully that it isn't the comfort of the chair that brings me to study and write each day. The picture is from many years ago. I just completed refinishing the old relic and the drawers were still under repair. I couldn't wait to move it in and fill it with my treasures.

You'll have to use your imagination a little bit today. At my desk are my main study books which includes a few Bibles. When I read them or even just look at them I am reminded of the countless hours I have spent here listening to God and learning from His word. I recall the times of direction and comfort that were doled out at this desk. To my left are trophies and ribbons that my dogs have won throughout the years. They remind me of their unconditional love and support they gave me daily. I am reminded of the many hunting excursions we ventured out on. In front of me, higher up on the wall are mounted ducks that found their way to the taxidermist after visiting the front of my shotgun. I am reminded of those fellas and women I have been blessed to hunt with. There is a small clock given to us as a wedding present 1000 years ago. It reminds me not to waste time. I also have photos of a few of the many mission trips I was able to partake in. They remind me of those who blessed me with their partnership in ministry and those I met while in foreign lands. I pray for all of them.  Then there are family photos of those I love, like the plate with the picture on it. I am reminded how God blessed me with family and I pray for them.

Philippians 1New International Version (NIV)

1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,

To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons^[a]:

² Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

³ I thank my God every time I remember you. ⁴ In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy ⁵ because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, ⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
⁷ It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. ⁸ God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
⁹ And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, ¹⁰ so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, ¹¹ filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God

So this old desk, that was purchased on an antique shopping trip with my beloved wife Rene, also reminds me of the life God has given to me with her.

So many times I penned words delivered by the Holy Spirit and some of you have written back to say that you were blessed by my rambles I am reminded to pray for those who read these blogs.

So when I approach the desk to write or study, most of the time, the familiar old spot surrounded with memories becomes a cup of sunshine in my life, even on the dreariest of days. How does that happen? Well I combine God, His word, prayer, memories, great coffee and you. I will never meet some of you or most of you, but know this today. You have been loved from afar, through the power of the Holy Spirit and you were just prayed for.

Now there's a cup of sunshine. I am thankful for you!

Marty

Pray and Then Pray Again 5/19/2017

Good Morning.

I am blessed to be able to have a cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee this morning. I will see just how it goes down today. What are you wrestling with today?

 

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. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Friday is here and I have something to share with all of you today. I believe in prayer and they are still answered I believe they are all heard and answered yes or nor, and sometimes it's just pain wait on the Lord. I believe that when we are praying for someone's life to turn around that God agrees with us and says yes, and He goes right to work. But because of their free will to choose our hopeful answer might be that of disappointment and despair. But, our prayer is heard and since I know the prayer for that person or persons is in line with God's plan for lives, I trust He is at work. In a dog fight for a life I will always bet on God to fight to the death. He proved that when He sent Jesus to die for us and our sins.  In His Word God gives us good advice when facing a battle. Pray, pray and pray again. Don't be consumed by the issues, but pray and let our hearts find peace in the guardianship of the Lord. Instead of having all of your woes on your mind follow instructions and try to meditate on the good things listed I'm verse 8.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18English Standard Version (ESV)
¹⁶ Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

So if you are in a battle with Satan for your marriage, spouse, child, co-worker, neighbor, or church member. Fight to win. Pray without ceasing.

You are loved,

Marty

When The Glass Is Empty 5/18/17

Good Morning,

It was a stormy night and morning came just when I needed it most. I have been nursing a sore mouth for the last week and I decided to skip my Door county Cherry Creme' Coffee. Even coffee doesn't taste good right now.

Empty glasses always remind me of the well of emotion, passion and strength within each of us. From time to time no matter how tough we are, the well within runs dry. This cup holder and glasses are empty, in a few days they will need to be dusted. Unless they are filled with a beverage by someone, they will remain empty. No matter how much I spend on a cup, it never refills itself. The world can drain us of our emotions, passion and strength. There is someone right now thinking that life is just way too tough. I too, find the well within me dry from time to time. How do we refill the well?

We start by admitting it is empty and it needs a refill. I turn to prayer and then to God's word. It always leads me to a place where I can recharge my spirit. Sometimes it takes a day or two. But whether it is a fast recharge or a slow trickle charge, I go there and I am never disappointed.

LOVE (John 14:23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

 HOPE (Rom 15:4) For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

REFOCUS  (1 Pet 1:13-15) Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

Go and refill the well within you from the Fountain that does not run dry. God loves you and desires to comfort and help rebuild you.

Marty

Getting Real With God 5/17/2017

Good Morning,

Wednesday has arrived and I appreciate that it leads off into Thursday and Friday. My mug is filled with Door County Peanut Coconut Cupcakes Coffee. I have decided that I am worth having two cups, with a few to share.

There is no doubt in my mind that we are to be people who tell the truth at all times. I believe that when we are telling the truth we are close to God. Honesty is our best policy in pursuit of closeness with God. We see Jesus being truthful to the Father when He cried out from the painful, embarrassing, and lonely cross, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?"  Jesus was expressing His feelings of pain, abandonment, and loneliness. He knew why He was there and really wasn't expressing a lack of faith. He was obedient unto death. Jesus had taken the sins of the world to that cross and then felt the pain of being separated from the Father by our sins. So he cried out in truth.

But are we "true to our word Christians?" Or are we fake in our faith. Do we ever express our love and yet tell God exactly how we are feeling? Like "Lord I just lost a loved one and this sucks. Where are You? I feel alone?" Bad things happen to good people. Should we expect anything different while we live in this world, which for now is the home of the devil? God does not always explain His grand design, but in times of stress and pain, He reveals Himself. He calls to us through His word and desires to comfort us. It's ok to crawl up on His lap and let Him know how we feel. He comforted the sisters of Lazarus when they called for Him. They spoke the truth to Jesus. He did not recoil from them, but embraced their tears.

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

You are close to God when you are truthful.

Have a great day,

Marty

Healing Evil 5/16/17

Good Morning,

Now is the time for all good men and women  to rush to a cup of coffee. My choice for java today is a big cup of Door County Raspberry Sorbet. I won't run to the kitchen, but my steps will be lively.

I am re-reading a book by Philip Yancey, "The Question That Never Goes Away". I highly recommend it for those who are going through a tragedy or have gone through one.

One of the chapters is titled "Healing Evil". It just so happened that last night while watching the world news I just kept hearing about genocide in the Middle East, nuclear war heads in Asia, cyber attacks world wide, and murders at home. Although Mr. Yancey's chapter is about healing from evil after it strikes, I choose to write about the only thing that can actually heal evil before it strikes.

An encounter with Jesus is all it takes to change and heal evil.

Acts 9:1-22 New International Version (NIV)

Saul’s Conversion

9 Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest ² and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. ³ As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. ⁴ He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”

⁵ “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. ⁶ “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
⁷ The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. ⁸ Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. ⁹ For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
¹⁰ In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
¹¹ The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. ¹² In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
¹³ “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. ¹⁴ And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
¹⁵ But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. ¹⁶ I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
¹⁷ Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” ¹⁸ Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, ¹⁹ and after taking some food, he regained his strength.

Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem

Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. ²⁰ At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. ²¹ All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” ²² Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.

I believe in miracles and I believe Jesus changes hearts. I believe we can face each day because Jesus lives. I also believe we should pray for those wrapped in evil and warped by the thoughts of Satan. They too can be changed with an encounter with Jesus. I believe that some day the lion will lay down next to the lamb. I believe that even the smallest prayer is always heard.  I believe it can happen, but I believe in order to heal evil, we must pray and ask with faith. We need to pray specifically for anyone we know absorbed with evil.

Let's make this a point of prayer for today and every day for a month. Join me please.

Marty

Watching The Dog 5/15/2017

Good Morning,

My mug will be filled very soon with Door County Swedish Lingonberry Tart Coffee and a new work week will begin

This last few days Rene and I were able to get away with her mom for a long weekend up to Door County Wisconsin. It doesn't sound like much, but it was as a needed getaway and we thoroughly enjoyed it. In order for us to go away we always have to make arrangements for our English Springer Spaniel Gibbs to stay somewhere or stay at home with someone. We have two people we count on. One is the owner of a kennel where we purchased Gibbs. He and his family will board dogs and get them plenty of exercise. The other option, is our nephew Nick. In either case Gibbs is well taken care of, but Nick has a bond with Gibbs and gives him that extra attention that our furry buddy craves. In both instances our dog is safe, fed and taken care of.

Where is this going? Well you can tell a lot about a man in the way he cares for his family and his animals. Both of these guys work hard, hunt and fish when they can, but are gentle with kids, women and animals. Just from the way they react to kids and animals tells you that they can be trusted. They will watch out for those weaker than them.

So ladies, when looking for a good man, look for one, who loves Jesus,  loves kids and takes care of his animals. They will also, love, cherish and take care of you.

Proverbs 12:10New King James Version (NKJV)

¹⁰ A righteous man regards the life of his animal,
But the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

Have a great day!

Marty

A Mother's Love 5/14/2017

Good Morning,

My day began about an hour ago when I heard the sound of geese flying overhead. I slept with the window open last night and now the room is a little crisp. We are still in Door County, but will be leaving for home after a late breakfast. We are staying in a place that has a full kitchen, so as I write I can hear and smell the Door County Coconut Cupcakes Coffee brewing from across the room. I am praying for safe travels today and for all the mothers out there. I am also praying for those who today are struggling because they miss their mother. There is no bond like that of a mother and her child.

My mother went on to be with the Lord a few years ago and I would be lying if I said that I do not miss her. I have a few items around our home that remind me of her as well as a few photos. I am not one who constructs shrines to the dead, but I can't help to think about her when I use or see those items. The items I have don't always bring to mind a picture of her, but they remind me of her love for me. We have a small comfort quilt in our living room that I use to cover up with in the winter. My mom made that one for Rene and I. When I look at it I am reminded of all the hours she put into making it. And when I use it to warm up, I am reminded why she made it and how good it is to know that in a strange way, mom is still taking care of me with something she made 20  years ago.

When I make spaghetti sauce, I am reminded of the day when she sat me down and taught me how to make it. She knew that I would be eating pasta for a long time. She took the time to pass on her recipe. The recipe and the quilt are a physical reminder of her love. My memories are another reminder of that bond between a mother and her child. I always thank God for her when I am wrapped in warmth or slurping down spaghetti.

Psalm 139:13-14New International Version (NIV)

¹³ For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well

Enough of my trip down memory lane. What I cherish most is the fact that while in her womb, a place of protection for a baby, God knew me and formed me, the same as He did for you. His Word tells us so. So today my prayer is for those mothers who are thinking about aborting their child. I am sixty years old and I still remember my mother's love for me. She made many sacrifices for all three of her kids. She is gone and I can still see her love for me. Ladies, protect your baby. Protect them and they will remember you long after you are gone. Don't rob them of knowing your love. Don't rob yourself of the chance to create those memories for your children.

Love to all. Happy Mothers Day

Marty

Embracing The Day! Cherry Donuts 5/13/2017

Good Morning,

I woke up this morning after a night of sleep that was overdue. I went to bed early,  after watching a baseball game on television. Our local team won and soon there after I was asleep. This morning greeted me with cup of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee. Rene, her mom and I are staying in Door County for Mothers Day weekend. Our nephew was gracious enough to house sit and keep our overactive Springer Spaniel tired!

Rene's mom (Mother Rucks) will be turning ninety years old very soon and taking her for a get away to one of our favorite places was planned a few months ago. It will be a special weekend for them and me.

We decided yesterday that today we would tour the county on a guided trolley ride. Mother loves to take pictures and the tour has some scenic areas where they will stop and let us out to take some photos. Her camera will be just popping away! I for one will embrace this day with gusto.

Later I promised to take them for some fresh cherry donuts and antique shopping. I will bet money on there being one stop for ice cream and another for fudge samples. As I was praying last night, just before sleep took me to a coma, I could hear them talking and laughing together. I recounted my day of driving three and a half hours to get here, enduring countless little shops and having my picture taken like I was traveling with a band of paparazzi. But their laughter made the day all worth it. It was like music to my soul.

I have a couple of small gifts to give them tomorrow on Mothers Day, but what I really gave them was a weekend of time. Some of my buddies were chiding me last weekend about me going on this weekend with the ladies. One asked me to make sure that I was not wearing lace on my underwear! No I am not and I am secure in my manhood. But who was gifted? It really was me. I get to serve two ladies, who I love and partake in carrying luggage, taking packages to the car, chauffeuring two classic women, and then hearing them enjoy watching the Golden Girls together. I will be wearing a camouflage baseball cap just for manhood insurance.

Ecclesiastes 9:7-9English Standard Version (ESV)

Enjoy Life with the One You Love

⁷ Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do.
⁸ Let your garments be always white. Let not oil be lacking on your head.
⁹ Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun.

We never know how many more Mothers Days will be celebrated, but as long as the two of them are together and they can tolerate me asking why we are Christmas shopping in May, I will embrace these moments in time. It is a great way to say thank you for the hundreds of white shirts that have been ironed and the countless pecan pies that have graced my palette. It is the best way for me to say thank you to a woman who accepted me into her family and gave me the love of my life.

Consider this my Hallmark Moment of the day!  God bless,

Marty