A Dream Down Memory Lane 9/30/2020

 Good Morning,

Just sitting at my desk this morning in the peace and quiet, listening to the much needed rain fall lightly on the roof. Today will be a busy one again. Much to do and not enough time to do it. So I will enjoy this short time of respite with my cup of Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee. 

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18     
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.

I don't place a lot of stock in dreams. But some dreams are just nice to have. You know, those dreams that you just want to last a little longer? Last night was one of those nights.

My aunt had a small place on a lake in upper Michigan. As a matter of fact I had two aunts that had places on that lake and my dad and mom lived across the lake from those two spots. Yearly my mom's family would gather grandmas, aunts, uncles, cousins in-laws and outlaws and camp out there. They named the spot Hillbilly Heaven. I believe the sign is still there. There would be swimming, fish fries, bonfires, an occasional adult beverage, well maybe more than an occasional one, and singing around the fire. Many, now have gone on to be with the Lord. I didn't attend those reunions too often, but I made it a couple of times. It seems as if work would always be in the way or I just did not make the effort to get there. Young and foolish were two traits that would often set my priorities.

But last night I dreamt  of one of the first ones that was held and  one where I was able to take part. In my dream I could see all of their faces, one by one. I could smell the smoke from the fire. There was more people than what were usually there. Some folks would just come to visit Hillbilly Heaven for a few hours and then go home. But, they made the annual trek there to see friends and loved ones, even if it was for just a few hours. In my dream I could hear them singing Patsy Cline's song "I fall to pieces" and "The Tennessee Waltz".  As I write this morning, a couple of hay fever induced tears roll down my cheeks. ( Real men don't cry. They have hay fever.)  In my dream, sitting on a flat bench was a guy in a red flannel shirt wearing a baseball cap. You guessed correct. That guy was me. I missed too many of those reunions. But there's one that I won't miss. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.

Some glad morning I'll fly away and what a great reunion that will be.


Have a blessed day. Love to you all.

Marty

Just Admit It. Mom Was Right 9/29/2020

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Autumn Spice Coffee as I write this morning. Coffee, prayer and some honey and apples makes this guy a happy man. 

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it. 

Yesterday as I headed out very early in the morning I remembered a lesson my mother taught me when I first started driving. She told me that as good as my first hot rod/jalopy of a car was that as it got colder outside it would be wise to always keep a jacket, hat, and gloves in the car. She said "winter shows no mercy to a fool". I never forgot that lesson. As I stepped into my Jeep yesterday, Mothers words were ringing in my ears. There was a distinct nip in the air. I actually went back into the house, grabbed a hat and coat to store in the vehicle. I already knew that there were gloves in the back, stored away. Next week I will add a shovel and hand warmers like my Dad instructed me to have in the cars or truck.

Over the years I have needed that coat and hat because something went wrong with the car or I stopped to help someone stranded on the road. 

The point of the day. What are you going to leave your children as far as a dose of wisdom? Make sure to share "Common Sense" facts and ideas with them. It is your duty to do so. Who knows if I would still have 10 fingers if my mother hadn't told me to pack some gloves. 

If you love those kids, teach them common sense.

Marty

Bible Verse To Start The Day 9/28/2020

 Good Morning,

Door County Caramel Apple Coffee is steaming in my cup. I have a lot of driving to do today and my day began earlier than usual. It is time to write.

After a very nice weekend I will admit that I have a little bit of the Monday Morning Blues. I thought about this last night and did a small search for the perfect Monday morning Bible verse. Here is what I came up with.

Isaiah 33:2 O Lord have pity on us, for you we wait. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of trouble. 

Monday starts the week off and I think I will turn this passage in Scripture into a prayer. "Lord, let me wait on you this week. Have pity on me as evil might try to snare me. I know You will be there if I need to run to you." Amen

I think I might adopt this method of starting the week with praying a Bible verse. I hope and pray that all of you will have a great week. Let God smile upon you. Make sure to get into that Word and pray through the week..Be careful out there!

God bless,

Marty

Those Days Are Gone. But Tomorrow Isn't 9/27/2020

                                              

 Good Morning,

My coffee this morning was chosen as a "comfort coffee". It seems that I twisted my knee a little bit yesterday and it kept me awake for most of the night. So I am sipping on a cup of Door County Christmas brew. It does nothing for my knee but it does help this pity party a little. 

                                                

While looking at my knee last night I started to remember my younger days when jogging was fun and I could run like the wind. I spent many days running up steep hills along lake Michigan in preparation for football. But then the first of many knee surgeries took place after an injury. Those days of running and sports are over for sure. It doesn't take much to alter ones status. Gone with the wind!

We often see ourselves within the confines of our own abilities and accomplishments. These abilities and our accomplishments are like vapor. They can be gone with the next wind. Nothing Earthly will ever last. But they things we do for the Kingdom of God in the name of Jesus Christ will last for eternity. I would imagine that some day all the trophies that my wife and I have collected will end up in a trash heap or sold. Why would my family want to save my Little League trophy? They wouldn't!
God sees us as more than our Earthly talents and abilities. He sees us as being able to be used for greater things than just throwing a football or tackling some other helmeted grid iron warrior. 

We need to enjoy our accomplishments and our talents. They are a gift from God. But they are only temporary. We must also concentrate on the eternal.  You can and should have an impact on the lives around you. You could and should support a missionary who brings the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost world. Our church supports a missionary and his wife who are living right in the middle of a hot mess in the Middle East. (Seems like a good place to be sharing Jesus and His love). 

What treasure have you laid up in heaven? God keeps a trophy shelf for us all. He never tires of seeing what His children do in His name. Your report card is on His refrigerator. 

Matthew 6:19-21New Living Translation (NLT)

Teaching about Money and Possessions

¹⁹ “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹ Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

When starting out in an athletic area we are always advised to get a health evaluation first. My Doctor always checks my heart ( Just to see if I have one. LOL) to see if it is healthy for me to pursue my life as is.  Check your heart and see if it beats for God eternal? Check to see if you have a heart at all for Jesus.

Enjoy the day. It will be gone tonight!

Marty

No Time Like The Present 9/26/2020

 Good Morning,

I am starting my day with some Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee. That should put some get up in my go! Fall is here and it is here to stay for awhile!

This past week I awoke in the middle of the night and started to praise God. Praising God in the middle of the night? Yes. I awoke and knew I was never alone. God reminded me at 2 AM of His great love for me. 

Here is what I remember of the night. My mind did wander to the creation of man. I was reminded how God breathed life into the first man. 

Genesis 2:7 (NKJV)

⁷ And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.

While contemplating that, I realized that God still breathes life into each of us with every breath we take. What amazed me, as I praised Him was that while I slept God does not. He gives me every breath I take 24 hours a day.

Psalm 121:3 (NIV)

³ He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

 

Then, while I sleep God thinks about me and has plans for me. All this while I sleep!

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

 

I went back to sleep feeling loved and secure in my faith. My love for God overflowed and I slept with a rest that I have not had in a long time.

 

Dear Friends I pray that God is the last one you think of before you sleep and the first one you greet in the morning or in the middle of the night.

 

Have a wonderful day.

Marty

Marty

My Poor Wife 9/25/2020

 Good Morning,

I am moving kind of slow this morning. I did a lot of traveling for work yesterday. My mug was just filled with some Door County Chocolate Cinnamon Dolce Coffee and it is time to get this Friday moving.

I have heard this said quite often since my wife Rene and I have been married. Once people get to know us they remark with things like. "Poor Rene, How does she put up with you? If you were my husband!" 

I always reply "To know me is to love me". Rene is a quiet person and is content with hot dogs one night and can eat lobster the next night. She doesn't complain. I am sure she has wondered why she ever said yes to my marriage proposal 1000 years ago. My life is often so busy, so much like a circus, and at times just plain hectic. Rene rolls with the flow and just keeps saying "to know you is to love you" then she laughs very hard. I wonder what that is all about?

Proverbs 31:10-12 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.

When I was mining the world for a wife. I found a gem! Men tell your wives that you are thankful for them. God knew many years ago that a little girl in Elkhorn Wisconsin and I would meet one day. He  sure blessed me. 1000 years goes by in a blink of an eye. So appreciate your wife while you can. 

God bless,

Marty

I Wish I Could Sing 9/24/2020

 Good Morning,

I write this morning very very early. My business travels will take me to Escanaba Michigan for a short time today and I will be listening to some radio sermons for a few hours. I am looking forward to drinking some Door County Mocha Mint Coffee in the car. 

I am not a talented singer, and I mean it. People ask me to sing "tenor". Ten or fifteen miles away! I really enjoy music while I am in church I love to sing a parting hymn at the end of the service. It seems to send me  out into the world in a better mood and more aware of the blessings around me. The full moon seems brighter after praise and worship. The deer crossing the road in front of me after Bible study amazes me just a little more. I am more aware of the wonders God has surrounded me with after I experience praise and worship. 

Psalm 9:1 I will praise you, O Lord  with all my heart. I will tell of all Your Wonders.

Spending time in study, worship, prayer and praise shows me more of God's attributes than this old boy is worthy of. It makes me want more every time I enter God's arena and let Him show me some more awesomeness. 

So as I drive this morning and listen to the radio I will experience more praise and worship. Who knows what I will see?

Marty

Good Old Hazel's Cornbread 9/23/2020

 Good Morning. 

Headed off early this morning running out the door with a cup of Door County Vanilla Creme Brulee Coffee.

My mother had an aunt named Hazel. Hazel lived in the Milwaukee area and was more like an aunt to us than she was to our mother. Hazel was a strong Christian who believed in Jesus as Lord and Savior. She loved to play board games, especially Parcheesi. As kids we would visit and there would be some long nights playing Parcheesi with the family. 

Just before she passed on and I was visiting, we were actually recalling those nights and laughing together. She asked me what I liked best about those nights. I hesitated to tell her what it really was. But there was no time like that moment to be honest. I told her that I always looked forward to having a piece of her corn bread when we visited. Hazel could make corn bread like no one else I know. She said " I know. We used to watch you and when we ate our meal your corn bread was gone first. And if you asked for seconds on anything it was always the corn bread.". I guess my love for corn bread didn't fool anyone. She told me that she enjoyed corn bread too. She went on and reminded me that our mother had been sick quite a bit when we were younger and that she always thought that game night, and a meal with some corn bread would be a treat and comfort for a young family. As I get older I can see God at work in our lives even when we were little kids. He provided a jolly, laughing lady with corn bread to brighten my day. I can't help but eat a piece of corn bread without thinking about her. You might not be a corn bread expert but you can be a person who shows compassion. Ask God to open your eyes and show you something you can do for someone that would be their corn bread. You see what she did lasts a life time. When I eat a piece of corn bread and think of those great times I find that the things bothering me leave for awhile and I find contentment. Here is the secret to being content.

^{Philippians 4:6-9
6} Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
⁸ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹ Whatever 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.

Won't you be the corn bread for someone today?

God bless,
Marty

Ingredients

 Hazel's Cornbread

•                                         

Original recipe makes 9 servings                    

• 1/2 cup butter
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
  
  

 

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease an 8 inch square pan.
2. Melt butter in large skillet. Remove from heat and stir in sugar. Quickly add eggs and beat until well blended. Combine buttermilk with baking soda and stir into mixture in pan. Stir in cornmeal, flour, and salt until well blended and few lumps remain. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Searching For Wisdom 9/22/2020

 Good Morning,

I am starting a little earlier today and the aroma of the Door County Caramel Apple Coffee coming up to my desk has me wanting to run down and get a second cup. It needs to wait. It is time to write. 

Proverbs 3:13:18 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold. She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all he paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed. 

The Bible has much to say about wisdom and the value of having it. At one time there were four Martin Schutte's in our family. You could say it was "Three Men And A boy". I learned a lot from my grandfather and my father. I did not learn much from my great grandfather directly, but I learned a few things indirectly via my grandfather. Through his death and me listening to my grandfather I learned how much he loved our great grandmother and his dying wish was that she be well taken care of by their sons. So I learned that family was important and a man has the responsibility to care for his wife even after he is gone. 

My grandfather taught me a lot especially about the value of keeping your word and the value of saving money. My dad also taught me a lot and he drilled into me, loyalty to our country, the flag, God and family.  All three of them valued school and especially hard work. 

Now, what I learned from them wasn't written in books and I could write a novel on what they taught me while I listened  to them. They placed great value on passing down knowledge to the next generation. The mistake I made was not taking advantage of spending more time learning from them and placing a higher value on what they were teaching me. Ah The folly of a boy and young man. I would love to be able to sit with them one more time just to learn what I missed by being young and foolish.

My point for the day. If you can still sit and listen to your elders, do so before you lose them. Their wisdom is something you can pass on to your children and grandchildren. Your ancestors are a gift from God. He uses them to teach us right from wrong, lessons for life and hopefully they will point you to Him.

Have a great day. Go see Mom, Dad, Grandma, or Grandpa. Go visit your kids or grandkids. Call them and pass on some wisdom.

Marty

13 

Drying Peppers 9/21/2020

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my old faithful desk with a cup of Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee. Our two dogs are back asleep after their morning jaunt outside. Their bellies are full and not it is time to write.

Yesterday I was awarded the great task of drying peppers from our garden in a dehydrator.  The peppers that grew in our garden this year are abundant in numbers. So I froze some of the early ones and now have started drying some for cooking purposes. 

Ephesians 4:27  And give no opportunity to the devil.!

I started the process by putting plastic gloves on. I made the mistake of doing this bare handed last week and as well as I washed my hands I still managed to touch my lips later with my hands and the pepper sting started. It only takes a little bit of these dried peppers to season a dish.

So yesterday I was trying to be super careful while I cut and cleaned the peppers. I thought that I had outsmarted my foe by wearing the gloves. Once the dehydrator was loaded with the peppers I rinsed my hands with the gloves on. Then after rinsing, I removed the gloves. I felt so good about myself. Great peppers drying without crying! As luck would have it, yesterday was not a good day for those of us with hayfever allergies. About thirty minutes after removing my gloves and washing my hands a couple times my eye began to itch so my index finger reacted like it always does. It went right to my eye and rubbed the itch away. But what a surprise it was! Some how, some way, that peeper juice still found it's way to my finger despite all the precautions. I found mysrl rinsing my eye with cold water from the kitchen faucet. 

So my point is this. We all take precautions to help us be better people. We try to avoid the vices that entangle us. But now and then we fail and just try wading into the waters of the world for just a little while. The stink of the world although just a little, is on us and it's hard to remove. Say for instance "anger". Some have true anger issues and they work hard to control it. But something comes along and we plow right back at it and respond in anger. Now the response might not be as bad as it has been in the past, but those around us feel the sting of "is he going to blow up"? 

We need to avoid the vices that snare us and take every precaution to keep us from temptation,  I figured out where I went wrong with the peppers. It was in the glove removal. I used my left index finger to slide the right glove off and then vice versa. I touched the outside of the gloves during the disposal of the gloves thinking I was safe by rinsing my hands. Just a little juice went a long way in my misery. 

"Food for thought"!

Marty

Putting Some Good Back In. 9/20/2020

Good Morning,

It is Sunday morning and I have some extra time to write. My desk feels more comfortable than it has felt in a long time. It is good to be sitting here with our two dogs on my feet and a cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee steaming next to me. 

Matthew 18:20 For where two or more are gathered in my name, I am there among them.

Last night after our Saturday Evening Service we tried getting back to normal a little. We are a church of prayer and worship. But we also appreciate fun and fellowship. So for the longest time because of Covid our Saturday night group either joined the Sunday service on the internet or had nothing. Then as things progressed we returned to church in person and our attendance on Saturday nights came back at 80% to 100% of the pre covid numbers. 

No one had any complaints about how we spread out the seating and off we went,back to corporate worship.  But something was missing. It was the fun and fellowship. So yesterday we decided  to put some fun back into the night. We had a simple fellowship of chili and potato soup with some pie for dessert. We sat outside in the parking lot of the church and tailgated. It wasn't anything fancy. It was done safely and correct. IT WAS GOOD. We put something good back into our Saturdays. Smiles and conversation were had instead of everyone gathering and scattering which has become the norm. People have endured some nightmares alone because of covid. They were hungry for fellowship. God allowed us to put some more good into the day.

I am praying about the next fellowship time and what we can plan and conduct within the safety parameters which makes everyone comfortable.

I am sure a few people had to take an antacid after downing a few bowls of chile, but as I left the church grounds I looked up and said Thank You Lord, this made my great day even better. As soon as you can safely put some good back into your routine, do so. 

Marty

Diabetes, Lost In The Causes 9/19/2020

 Good Morning,

Wow, what a change in temperatures we had this morning. Just a little cooler and I would be seeing my first frost of the year.  I am grateful for this hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee sitting next to me right now. Time to write.

A little later this morning will find me at the local shooting range shooting sporting clays for a cause. With all the political turmoil around the world and the covid nightmare going on other causes have been lost in the ruckus.Everything seems to be taking a back seat to politics or covid.  Today the cause which is one close to my heart is Diabetes. My wife and our nephew both have Type 1 Diabetes and take insulin to survive daily. So today with them in mind I will partake in this fundraiser. 

Philippians 2:4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but to the interests of others. 

I am doing this today because I love them both and pray for a cure to be found. One that would free them from the daily injections and dangers of having blood sugar that is too high or too low. 

My point is this. There are many causes that one could support. I am sure you have your own special ones. I support quite a few. I am pro life and I do what I can to assist in stopping the loss of babies. Each cause might be closer to one's heart than it is to another person's heart. But many of them have been sidelined due to politics and the fight for an office or the covid 19 debacle.

Friends, life goes on and we lose people to diabetes, cancer, drunk drivers, murder, suicide, drug overdoses, and the list goes on and on. Yet our energy is spent on arguing about masks, vaccines, tax or no tax, football or no football, Democrat or Republican and we don't see the others that are hurting in front of us. 

So today for a couple hours I am choosing to forget what has been clogging my mind lately and enjoy the outdoors while supporting a cause of my choice, not the ones that have been rammed down my throat lately. 

I need a break from the mud slinging and the upset stomach that the world has to offer. Today I will support a cause important to me and others. 

Find something to do today that takes you to a place in your heart that is different for just awhile. Then you can say you supported healthy hearts. YOUR OWN. And you helped others along the way.

Marty

A Place At The Table 9/18/2020

 Good Morning, 

My day began with prayer and a large cup of Door County Autumn Spice Coffee. The weather is just right for me. I feel the cool air and I know that Fall is here. 

Titus 1:8 Be hospitable, a lover of good, self controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.

We like to have people over for dinner and now with this Covid garbage those days are behind us for now. The entertaining of guests is sparse at best lately. Better days will come again! When I cook I always make more than we need. If our guests like the food on the menu we offer to let them take some of the abundance home with them. But most of all I make extra food just in case someone else would stop by unplanned. We just pull up an extra chair and set out a plate or two for the extra guests. I guess that was the way I was taught as a child. Even if the table is full of people, you figure out a way to make it work. No one should ever leave our home hungry. My habit or custom has received a comment or two throughout the years. "Who were you cooking for? An Army?" "Why did you make so much?" I just smile and laugh because I know I am just carrying on an old family tradition. 

Before I start cooking a meal I pray for our guests and any potential guests. I try to make things they will eat and will be comfortable with. While cooking I recall memories of family dinners when I was a child. Some of my cooking equipment or utensils are actually from my grandparents and parents. This tradition is deep within me. 

So I pass it on to all of you. Be hospitable. Never think of a surprise guest as an inconvenience. God knew they would grace your doorstep and that He could count on you to feed one of His children and make them feel welcome. 

LOL Food For Thought.

Marty

Words Of Comfort 9/17/2020

Good Morning!!!!

Let's find the good in "Good Morning today. It is Thursday and we close to the weekend. Remember God rested on the seventh day. I am enjoying a big cup of Door County Maple Coffee this morning in one of my favorite cups?

Favorite cup??? Do you have a glass or cup that you seem to gravitate to or always use? I have a couple. They both involve dogs, birds, family members and hunting. They (imagination only) seem to be bigger and warmer for some reason. You can have pictures attached to coffee cups now. If you have a favorite cup send a comment and describe it.

Reason? They bring back fond memories. They are a lot like God in that way. If you go back and recall any blessing or anytime God gave you comfort it just makes you want to go to Him again. And God enjoys time with His children. Below you will find some verses relating to comfort and time spent with God. One of them might be just for you. Have a great day!!

James 4:8 
Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.

1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Deuteronomy 3:22
Do not be afraid of them; the LORD your God himself will fight for you

Deuteronomy 31:8
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.   Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

Psalm 23:4
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.

Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Psalm 119:105   
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Matthew 28:30   
Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Hebrews 13:5

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Well I close today wanting you to at least read from someone three important little words.

I love you. And I do. These devotionals are written because I love God and because of that I love you too!

But remember God loves you more. If you haven't told someone today that you love them. Go for it. Get it done. They might need to hear it.

Marty

Harvest Time 9/16/2020

Good morning. I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Maple Coffee. I finished praying and now it is time to write.

This past week I was able to enjoy some beef vegetable soup. The tomatoes in the soup were harvested from our summer garden. I like eating the fruits of my labor, especially tomatoes.

What I noticed about planting a garden is that whatever seed I plant is what comes up later. If I sow a bean seed I reap a bean. God is very clear on this. What you sow you shall reap.

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:7-9 
Sow anger, receive anger. Sow dishonesty, receive dishonesty. Sow the breaking of vows, receive broken vows. Sow fear, reap fear. Sow love, reap love. Sow kindness, reap kindness. This is called the law of the harvest. Let's be honest here for a moment . Isn't this a simple thought? Yet we whine and cry when we receive a dose of our own ill behavior toward others.

Sow on in peace and love for Jesus Christ. See then how much better your day is.

Marty

Marty

We Pray Because We Love 9/15/2020

 Good Morning,

My head is a little foggy today and the cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee is doing well by me. A couple days ago I lost a battle with three mean bees. It has really messed me up on my left side. But life goes on. I lived and they didn't.

Mark 1:35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.

John 3:35 The Father Loves the Son and has given all things into His hand

These two verses mean a lot to me. Let me explain why. In Mark 1:35 we see that Jesus arose early to pray. He prayed to His Father in heaven. The verse tells me that Jesus placed a high value on speaking with His Father. Notice I did not say "speaking to". A conversation is a two way street. Jesus started the day by showing His love for the Father by desiring some alone time with Him. It was out of love for the Father that He gave up sleep to pray.  I finished praying before I wrote today and just now stopped for a moment to pray as God reminded me that it is going to be a long day for many in the family. 

I know that all believers can accept the love of God and they can quote verses spewing forth notices of love for us from God. I often wonder if the love is there for God in return. I am in a position within our church that has me asking people to join in serving the Lord. I get many lame excuses as to why they can't or better yet the age old comment "Let Me Pray About It. And I will get back to you". Many times I walk away knowing that I won't hear back from them at all. I have my doubts that they even prayed about it. I cannot judge them and shouldn't. But I wonder if that two way communication of love with God is even really there. 

So today, if you want to tell God you love Him and experience some alone time with Him. Do it. Carve out some time to be loved and express love in return. A marriage with only one person expressing love to the other doesn't usually end up successful. Let your glasses be filled with love from the Father and filled with love for Him. Great breakfast juice!!

God bless,

Marty

mmmm

The Righteous Academy 9/14/2020

Good Morning,
Door County Cherry Creme Coffee splashed into my cup and now it is time to write. 

Matthew 6:5-6 "And when you pray, you must not be like hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they ma be see by others. Truly, I say to you, they received their reward. But when you pray, go into your closet and the shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Jesus tells us to find a closet and pray. This is called "quiet time". Many a time during prayer, away from the phone, computer, television and other distractions I have prayed and then listened for God to speak through the Holy Spirit within me.  When I pray I expect something to happen. I wait on the Lord for it to be clear to me.  I am not surprised while being quiet in the "closet" God reveals something to me that isn't good for me or is a blemish on my walk with Him.
"The prayer closet is the academy of righteousness. You go in a reprobate or beggar and come out of it as a Cadet."

I like that phrase a lot. I have often been confronted, then corrected and set on a straight path by God, in that moment or right after prayer.

Think about it. What does God say to you? Or are you one that prays and runs before God speaks to you? Be still and listen.

Marty

Power On Hold 9/13/2020

 Good Morning,

I just returned from being outside with our two dogs Leo and Gibbs. This cup of Door County Autumn Spice Coffee never tasted this good before. It is time to write. We took our circus of three outside. I will be smoking a pork loin with apple wood today. Busy, busy busy.

Yesterday I wrote about prayer and how it is the key to looking inside at your own heart. As this blog often does it caused someone to write a comment. I do read all the comments and appreciate them regardless as to whether they agree with me or disagree. 

I usually do not share the comments within a post even though they are public fodder. Anyone can read them anytime. The one from yesterday was right on and was exactly what I was going to write about today. So this morning "Dulce" is sharing her thoughts on prayer.

Matthew 17:18-20. I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them. 

"The church does not realize the power given to them to affect this world. We can do all things through Christ our Savior. When the church comes together in unity and prayer for the purposes of God, God shows up and answers our prayers. We the church have the power to stop abortion, to stop the violence and to bind the enemy that is coming against our country. It is time to rise up and fight and war against the principalities in the heavens. His word says, that what we bind on earth will be bound in heaven."

Mam, you spoke a mouth full of wisdom yesterday. I believe that it is the privilege of every Christian to pray. It is a wonderful gift from God to be able to call Him on the scene for others and ourselves. We communicate our thoughts, concerns, worries and needs through prayer. We communicate out of  love for the Father. 

Jesus was known to rise early and spend time with God before His day became busy with people, healing, feeding thousands, or teaching. His first thoughts of the day were to spend time with the Father of Love. 

I also am concerned that people and churches have put the power of God within them and the church on hold, by ignoring serious prayer. A quick thought to pray before a meal, or a Bible study is a glancing shot at prayer. Good, I suppose, but we can do better. I am considering an all night prayer meeting in October, maybe two will show, maybe more. I am praying about this. It's time to get serious about prayer.

Marty

A Thought On Prayer 9/12/2020

 Good Morning,

Today started with a large cup of Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee and some fresh air. I  spent too much time in the drizzle praying this morning. I harvested some fresh air into my lungs and now I am ready to write.

Our church is launching a prayer campaign for 40 days to study prayer and learn to pray more. I will be kicking it off tonight with "Why We Pray"

One of the points that I will be driving home is that prayer is a way to not only ask for things, show gratitude and our love for God, it is a way to know ourselves better. 

Habakkuk 2;20 The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the Earth keep silent before Him.

It is true that we get to God more through prayer. But there is a benefit in coming before Him in silence. We also get to know ourselves better. We get to know ourselves as God sees us. How often we pray and are convicted of sin in our lives. Maybe one sin that we didn't realize was a sin. We hear it from our own mouths and we can't get it out of our minds. Like Peter on the rooftop we are made aware of what we practiced or believed to be unholy. Prayer opens our heart to us. God already knows what is buried in our hearts, We very often don't always know, realize or accept as wrong the contents within our hearts.

So friends, that is one of my thoughts that I will be sharing tonight and thought it would be good to share with all of you.

God bless,

Marty

I Remember 9/11/2020

Good Morning,

It has been cold now for a few days and I feel blessed to be in a warm house with a cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee in front of me. A guy couldn't ask for a nicer way to sit and write.

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends. 

Today in the United States we will remember the day known as 9/11. The day terrorists hijacked airplanes and crashed into the World Trade Center and our Pentagon killing thousands. As I pondered that day it dawned on me that many of the college age kids weren't even alive on the fateful day. Some of those in their early twenty's can't recall the day that seemed like the world stopped.

They didn't watch first responders rush to the scene and also give their lives to save others. Police, fire, ambulances, medical personnel, and military teams did whatever it took to to assist. No one was sure if this was the last of the attacks or if more were coming. Music artists began writing songs of patriotism and in the carnage a United States Flag was was erected by fire fighters who were clearing and searching for bodies and those who might still be alive in the rubble. I wasn't alive during World War Two but my dad said the patriotism on and after 9/11 rivaled the feelings he experienced after Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7th 1941. I visited Pearl harbor and never once thought about defacing the monuments there. I shed tears as I watched families still grieving their losses from that day and the ensuing years of war.

Flags flew high in many many yards and businesses. We all wondered when the United States would respond and put a boot in the rear end of the terrorists. Eventually we did.

But today we see people burning the flag, chanting death to the United States. They don't realize that this great country of freedom even allows for them to be free enough to do that. I feel those of my age and the parents of those who are feeling that this is the worst place in the world have failed in our duty to have taught patriotism and love for a land that houses the free and the brave.

If I could dream and build a time machine I would start free tours of Pearl Harbor December 7th 1941, and New York on 9/11/2001. I would offer to teach history classes once again to those who missed these events. I would show them men and women who gave it all for God and Country. And by country I mean their fellow man, woman, and child regardless of race gender or creed.

I would take them back to a day when prayer was allowed in the schools and the pledge of allegiance made you stand tall. We would go back to a time when the national anthem was sung and not just to announce the start of a sporting event and hats were off and hands were on hearts and everyone knew the words. We would tour some VA hospitals and grave sites across the sea and pay our respects, shut our mouths and stop chewing gum as we paid respect to those who fought that we might have streets to march on.

This country isn't perfect and needs to advance in it's strides for change. My wife and I aren't perfect either, but I love her and she loves me despite our imperfections. I feel the same way about my  country. But never will I denounce my God or my country. I will stand for the national anthem, and my flag will fly high. I will be thankful for those who have fought and for those who died for our freedom. I will thank those who serve in that capacity now. I will pray for this nation and for those who disagree with me.

Do you know why? It's because I remember!

Marty

Til We Meet Again 9/10/2020

Good Morning,

My cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee is working overtime this morning to warm me up. It is just a tad cold in the house and the small fire in the hearth as well as the coffee is just what I needed to start the day.

2 Corinthians 5:1  For we know that the tent that is our Earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in heaven.

Revelation 21:4  He will wipe away every tear from their eyes and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying or pain anymore, for former things have passed away.

Back in 1960 my parents brought home an urchin wrapped in a blanket and told me I had a baby sister. I was three years old and really wasn't impressed. I was more concerned with turning the television on and watching my daily dosage of cartoons and the Three Stooges. They introduced her as Laurie Ann. She was very tiny and all I remember was that she cried a lot and life was never the same.  She stayed tiny for quite awhile and soon was nicknamed Bug by my dad and she was his "Bugaboo".  Once "Bug" learned to walk she was everywhere including walking through my plastic army men that I had spent hours on arranging them to do battle. She could wipe out a whole army with just baby shoes. She had a temper and if you had more sand in the sand box than her a quick whack in the head with a hammer solved that issue for her.  Only three stitches were needed to get me back into the game. Later, life brought us a brother many years apart from me, but Bug was the one who would help feed the newest urchin, dress him and play with him. She would always ask me about him when life had her miles and miles away from us. She seemed to delegate being the big sister to me.

Over the years, the two of us went through life, and sometimes life was not easy. High school years came around and I went in one direction and Bug went in a different direction. Her married life took her all over and she and her husband were stationed in different places because of his Coast Guard assignments.

But eventually they settled in Wausau Wisconsin and life was pretty normal like everyone else's. Then one day my phone rang and Bug asked me to pray for her. She was worried about something being drastically wrong with her health. Within days she was told that her health issue was pancreatic liver cancer. I knew right then and there that she was in a battle that was epic in size.

The process of chemo and radiation started. I thought at times that alone was going to kill her. But that little gal fought hard and soon it was announced that she was ready for surgery. The surgery was a major rearranging and removal of organs within her stomach. She stayed with us before the surgery and for a few days afterwards. It was horrible to see her mangled from the surgery. But once again the "Bug" made it and not all that long ago was given the word that she was doing great and was cancer free. That didn't last long and within weeks of being told that, the cancer came back with a vengeance, it was time for hospice.

My brother and I visited about ten days ago and we knew it wouldn't be long. That time frame turned out to be ten days. Bug passed away last night. Just a shell of what she once was. She fought right up to the end.

Here's the point.  She called me two months ago and we talked for about an hour. She told me her faith in Jesus had her ready to go home to heaven. She also said she did feel short changed because that clean bill of health was taken away so fast. But she was ready to go and would welcome being pain free in heaven and experiencing a great reunion. While visiting last week I told her that someday I will be joining that reunion and to watch for me. "I will be there" was her reply, "with my hammer". She waved to us from her window as we left for home.  That is the picture I will hold in my mind until we meet again.  And we will.

Marty

You Are A Blessing To Me 9/9/2020

Good Morning,

Just a little chilly here this morning. My cup is filled to the rim with Door County Jamaican Blue
Mountain Blend Coffee. I can't help but smile this morning as I think about today's Bible verse.

Psalm 103:2-5, NLT Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things He does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!

The picture above was taken in South Dakota a few years ago after a long day of pheasant hunting. I was blessed to hunt with a large group of friends and acquaintances. After the hunt we gathered together for some refreshments and snacks on the prairie. It was a very nice time that I will always remember. I don't see many of them too often or for some of them this was a first and last time we met and hunted together.

In my life I have met many people and I am related to quite a large group too. I have worked with hundreds of people throughout my life and in my career. I have met hundreds of people through church and mission trips in many places throughout the world. In some instances I was taught by some of you. In some cases we might not have agreed on things. But knowing you improved me or impacted me in a way that made me stronger. Some people taught me to hunt better. Some people I only interacted with for a short time. In plain words we all meet people, work with people, worship with people, play with people, live with people, and  argue from time to time with people. No matter the case you and others have been a part of my life as well as people have been a part of yours.

So when I think about it, I really believe that God knows who we will meet. I now see all the people I meet, or have met, as a blessing. God gave me you, for a moment, or a lifetime, for a fun time or a disagreement. God gave me you. You are a blessing. Just wanted you to know that!

Have a beautiful day.

Marty

Waiting On The Lord 9/8/2020

Good Morning,

I am working to stay warm and awake this morning as I write. A large cup of Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee is at my side.

Acts 1:7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority.

I arrived home last night after visiting my sister and her family  a few hours away from our home. My sister is in the final stage of life after battling a terrible cancer. She is just a small shell of what she used to be. She is in pain which the nurses are working to control. My brother in law and her children are there to comfort her emotionally. It is sad to watch.

I try to glean lessons from the happenings in my life and I found one yesterday as I stood beside her bed and looked at this little helpless figure that once ice skated freely and loved to laugh.  While praying in her room I have never felt so helpless before. There was nothing I could do to help her. I couldn't find some tools and fix this problem. Nothing in the refrigerator could be made that could help her. I couldn't run to the bank and buy this cancer and raw moments away. The lesson I learned and was reminded of is that despite anything I could do, I need to wait on God to take her home.

I am not sure what He is doing and I asked why He was waiting to make the inevitable happen and why why and why again. There is some reason and only He knows the reason she is still suffering.  I will know someday and maybe even sooner. But until then I will trust God to make the right timing call for her and our family.

My trust comes from faith. My faith comes from experiencing healing of my heart on July 7th 1981. I was lost in life and out of control and just at the right time Jesus stepped in and called me to Him. I still struggled with the world and it's pleasures for more years that I care to count. But He never quit on His work in progress. He saw something in me of value that I still cannot see. He took a heart where there was no music and day by day restored life to a trashed soul.

So it's that faith carrying me now. My sister will go home soon to be with Jesus where there will be no pain nor sorrow. She will be healed and it and she will enjoy heaven. I will trust in His timing through faith given to me and certainly not earned.

God bless,

Marty

No Explanation. None At All 9/7/2020

 Good Morning,
I just finished writing this a few minute ago and right after I hit the publish and share buttons Iwill be on the road for Wausau Wisconsin to make a visit I dread. But nothing except heaven will stop me from getting there. My road mug is filled with Door County White Chocolate Cinnamon Dolce Coffee.

Job 26:14 Behold these, are just the outskirts of His ways, and how small a whisper do we hear of Him. But the thunder of His power, who can understand?
I want to talk about yesterday. Early in the afternoon I was grocery shopping, We needed a few things and we also have been doing most of the grocery shopping for my wife's mother since the covid started. It's best right now for Grandma to limit her trips. At the age of 93 she has more than earned a little assistance. I actually enjoy doing it for her since it is about the only thing I can do well and do it quickly. Others in the family handle all the technical stuff like laundry and dr's appointments.
While shopping yesterday my cell phone rang and my sister's husband was on the line. He sadly explained to me that the hospice staff gave him the news that my sister who has been battling cancer for some time had only a couple days to live. I told him I would be there in the morning.
I had one more stop to make for groceries and it took me to Walmart. It seems as if the only place I can find the cheese spread  my mother in law likes is "Walmart".  While still at Walmart my phone rang again and it was my wife. She said that she had forgotten to add pickles to our grocery list and I should get some while at Walmart.
I found my way to the "Pickle Aisle" and proceeded to look for the brand I would enjoy. While searching for just the right pickle, a woman on a motorized scooter came down the aisle and parked in front of me. it was obvious to me that she really did need the scooter. She was pretty crippled up. I went about my business and finally decided on a pickle brand and style.  The lady looked back at me and asked me if I could take a jar of pickles off of a shelf that was not within her reach and place it into the basket on the scooter. I was happy to help and she thanked me. I said she was welcome and asked if she needed anymore help. She said no but then it came. "Sir." she said. "God told me to pray for you and at first I didn't want to because you are a stranger and I thought you might blow me off as being a nut case. But God is insisting that I tell you that you are loved. You will make it through this and I am to pray for you. Would you mind telling me why I am to pray for you?" I explained the phone call from my brother in law and that I was hurting  and dreaded the inevitable last visit and my sister's passing.
She looked me square in the eye and said. "Let's pray". I thanked her and she scooted off. I watched her leave and then thought to myself about some of the darkest times in my life, God has always been there to get me through. This time God sent a crippled lady on a scooter to deliver a message. How He spoke to her I have no explanation. How she had enough courage to approach me because I am told that I am not approachable, I have no explanation. I have no explanation why in a large city like the Milwaukee area, the cheese spread my mother in law wanted had Google direct me to a Walmart that wasn't even close to our home. We have one 5 minutes away. But they don't carry that particular cheese spread. God put a lot of things together just to have the two of us meet. I needed that prayer.
I know God will carry our family this week, how I don't know. What He will do. I don't know. Once again I have no explanation. God is just unexplainable. But I know He loves us.

Marty

Just The Opposite Of What We Do 9/6/2020

Good Morning,

I am running late again today for some reason. I needed some time to pray and make sure my heart was in the right place before I begin to write. I sure needed that cup of Door County Caramel Apple Pie Coffee this morning.

I am an active member on Facebook and I have watched it deteriorate slowly and as of late, rapidly. I won't take a shot at the leadership of the Social Media Giant today. I have watched the pages become nastier and nastier over the last year. People spewing hatred in the name of love. We are a confused people. Put an opinion out there and even who you consider to be good friends will attack you in the name of their cause or opinion.

I will admit to owning a short temper and have found myself wanting to blow up and unleash my acid tongue on what I consider to be statements of attack on my beliefs, ideals and my positions on life. I have had to refrain from  cataloging them in my mind as something not very nice.

2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuling, correcting, and training in righteous.

I am a Bible believing man in that I believe the Bible to be the Inspired Written Word of God. So to react to every attack with a verbal nuclear barrage or to catalog people would be entirely wrong. I struggle with that temper of mine and need to keep it in check.

The Bible clearly states as to how we are to react when we are insulted and attacked.

1 Peter 3:9  Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary repay evil with a blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 

This is so contrary to what we actually do.  If someone disagrees with you is it your job to prosecute their intent, pretend to know their heart, scold them because it does not align with what you believe?

I also believe that your heart condition is between you and God and we will all be judged for the good and bad in our lives by Him and Him alone.

So today I won't necessarily refrain from speaking my mind, but instead when attacked or offended I will ask God to show mw if there is any wicked way in me through prayer. I won't ask God to examine the heart of my attacker, but I will pray for them to be blessed as God sees fit.

God's will be done on Earth as it is in heaven

Marty

Perfect Timing Isn't Me 9/5/2020

 Good Morning,

This day is starting with a cup of Door County Harvest Blend Coffee. The cup is big and the coffee extra hot today. I wrote this one quite a few years ago, In reading it two weeks ago, it caused me to call the man mentioned below.. The fella  is now married and doing very well.  God came through in his time. 

Dear Friends. 

This past week I was praying for a friend of mine who is in need of housing. You must be thinking "why doesn't Marty help him"? Good question. Several people offered, but due to where he needs to live and where I live it just doesn't work. He was told that on this past Monday he would need to be out of his residence. There just were not any places that he could find to rent. I called a lot of people for prayer. Sunday night as we were preparing to have him live in his truck on Monday, he reminded me that we should pray that God's will be done and if it were to be homeless, my friend would be homeless and content. What a statement! 

Well I received a message from my friend on Monday. He was very excited. I thought for sure our prayers had been answered. He told me they were. I said "tell me what God did". My friend explained that circumstances had changed a little and that he could stay where he was living for another 7 days. I was disappointed and he was very happy. I thought our problem was solved and now it was just postponed. My friend reminded me that God blessed him for another 7 days with housing and that now it was time to trust God and do good. 

You see God met his need basically a day at a time. My friend is looking for a place yet but with a smile. As he said. "I will be content in all things and trust God for my daily bread. 

I have a lot to learn! 

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.

¹ The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

²     He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,

³     he refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths

    for his name’s sake.

⁴ Even though I walk

    through the darkest valley,^[a]

I will fear no evil,

    for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

    they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me

    in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

    my cup overflows.

⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me

    all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord

    forever.

 

He's not homeless in God's eyes. The Shepherd has him.

 

By the way this man was mentioned a few months ago in this blog. He is the song writer who wrote "The Least of These". I added one of the lines from his song below.  Have a great day. Pray for someone. 

Marty

 



The Least of These

 

He didn't ask for this.

This wasn't his dream.

To reach out his hand, and ask every man for a small offering.

The clothes that he wears around someone threw away

The food that he eats, he calls it a feast.

He found in the trash today.

 

Chorus

And he is the least of these.

He has his own name.

He is someone that God's only Son Came here to save.

What are we doing to reach him?

How are we meeting his needs?

Cuz whatever we do for him,

We do for our King.