What Do They Say About You? 7/31/2021

 Good Morning, 

A couple hot biscuits and a hot cup of Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee started this day off on the right note. Now it is time to write.

Have you ever wondered what people say about you when you are not around? I can only imagine!!!! I copied a portion of Scripture about a law enforcement officer back in the New Testament. It will set the tone for today's blog.

Acts 10:1-2 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2. He and all his family were devout and God fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.

If you were to die today, what would your legacy say? As you live today are you known as  a God fearing man, who raised  his family to be devout in their relationship to God? Have you taught your family to pray? Are you generous to those in need?

It's a short message today, but it is one that get's overlooked in today's world. Yes this one is hard to chew and swallow. But pass it on, change course if needed, and get out in front of your family and lead them straight to God not just once but 24/7 everyday, all day.

God bless,

Marty

Both Sides Of The Issue 7/30/2021

 Good Morning, 

Friday arrived right on time and I am glad it did. If I were to say anything about today it would not do justice to what I see out of my window this fine morning. The sun is coming up, the clouds are light and and the air is filled with the music of doves, robins and cardinals. My cup of Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee is next to me and now it is time to write. 

Throughout my years on this planet I have run across plenty of people who I just didn't like and I avoided them if possible. There was something about them, like their behavior, opinions, or just the way the carried themselves around me that turned me off. This door swings both ways and I know for sure there are people who don't like me. I am opinionated and short on patience. I won't go into my laundry lists of faults. I can beat myself up all by myself.

God tells us in Scripture that not liking people and judging them is contrary to His desire for us. 

1John 2:9-10 Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister , is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother or sister lives in the light and their is nothing in them to make them stumble.

Romans 12:17-18 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for god things in the sight of all men. 18. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 

When you see yourself "not liking someone" and many people are not easy to like, and you want to live in the Light, start first with respect. You haven't walked a mile in their shoes, and they haven't worn yours. Respect them as being God made and start there. Once you do that you have established a common ground, headed in the right direction. 

God Bless,

Marty

Learning Through A Child 7/29/2021

 Good Morning,

The alarm clock was ringing at a very early time today and It signaled that the Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee was done and ready to drink. 

Matthew 18:10 Jesus said, "Be careful. Don't think these little children are worth nothing. I tell you that they have angels in heaven who are always with My father in heaven.

Children were important to God and still are important. All through Scripture , God shows that He has a tender heart toward children and others who are dependent on others.  He reveals His compassion toward widows and orphans. What matters deeply to God? Children do! We also should look to assist orphans and widows because the way they are treated should matter to you.

I will give an example. In our area the police and private sector are looking for a missing 10 year old girl. I don't know her, but it doesn't excuse me from not praying for her well being and from praying for her family. I will pray on her behalf for safety. 

Just because I do not know her it doesn't excuse me from caring about what has happened to her. Think and watch for how God may lead you into the path of a child and look to see how you can help them if they need financial assistance or food. You were put in their path for a season and a reason. See to it that they grow up.

God bless,

Marty

A Miss Is A Miss 7/28/2021

 Good Morning,

It seems as if I hit the floor dressed and ready for a fast trip for work. Today I chose to drink some hot Door County Smore's Coffee and it tastes delicious.

On Saturday a few of us will join hundreds of people for a charity trap shoot to raise money for Cancer research and a cure. We will be shooting 50 targets at stations along a given path. Each station is different and the difficulty ranges from somewhat easy to very difficult. Known as "Sporting Clays" I have seen grown men miss and immediately blame their shot gun and want to sell it at the end of the day. 

Side bets are being made between teams that will also benefit the cause. For instance some folks are throwing down some cash and are having their teams pay an extra dollar for every target they miss. The challenge also has plenty of people doing a 25 cent penalty per miss. 

The targets break when they are hit from a shotgun blast aimed at the moving flying clay saucer. If you miss, you miss. It doesn't matter if you were within an inch of hitting the target or if you missed by a mile. You missed. No one else missed for you. You own the miss. 

Romans 3:23-24 All have sinned, All fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet now God in His gracious kindness declares us not guilty. He has done this through Christ Jesus, who has freed us by taking away our sins.

The Hebrew word for sin literally means "missing the mark". We can come close to reaching the moral mark set by God, but close is not good enough. God does not embrace anything less than perfect. But God, is a loving God  as well as being perfect and faultless. That is why He provided a way for you to hit more targets as well as for you and I to avoid a penalty when we miss the target. When you miss the moral mark or target, ask God for His forgiveness and learn from your mistake, and move to the next stand  in life. In learning from your misses you can adjust a life in such a way that the hits are fewer that the misses.

God bless,

Marty

Sharper Than Any Ordinary Knife 7/27/2021

 Good Morning,

Tuesday has arrived with a plate of GUSTO and will keep me busy all day long. So it is time for a fresh cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee and it is time to write.

Hebrews 4:12 God's word is alive and working and is sharper than a double edged sword. It cuts all the way into us, where the soul and the spirit are joined, to the center of our joints and bones. And it judges the thoughts and feelings in our hearts.

The Bible is no ordinary book. Not a book to be left on the shelf, full of dust. Like a surgeon's scalpel or a butcher's skinning knife, it has the power to slice right through lies to expose the raw truth. It can open a conscience, heal a broken heart, or open eyes that have been blind to God and His existence. It will leave a reader changed. 

The Bible is more than written paper or an audio recording. The Bible is fully alive with God's Spirit. Though average men wrote it, God worked through the ordinary and gave us the extraordinary, His thoughts, His commandments, His soothing words and His correction and instructions. 

Have you ever thought of the Bible as an invitation to connect and communicate with God in a very personal way? How can anyone refuse this invitation? It is God's invitation to you.

Food for thought.

Marty

The Right Attitude Is Gratitude 7/26/2021

 Good Morning,

Wow, it sure was one hot weekend as far as the temperatures went. It sure helped to ripen the tomatoes in our garden. I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Hazelnut Cream Coffee and now it is time to write. 

Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. For His mercy endures forever.

Famous scholar, Matthew Henry was  accosted by thieves and robbed of his wallet, he wrote in his diary: "Let me be thankful first, because I was never robbed before, second, although they took my wallet, they did not take my life; third, although they took my all, it was not much; and, fourthly, because it was I who was robbed and not I who robbed."

Mr. Henry had the right attitude of gratitude. Despite a stressful ordeal  he found reasons to be thankful. He could have thrown himself a big pity party and started whining and bellyaching about his ordeal. Kind, of like some of the people I know. They complained all last winter about the cold and the snow, begging for summer to come. Now they are crying about the heat and humidity. I myself like winter much better than summer. But now, I look for the blessings of summer. We have plenty of tomatoes ripening on the vine as I write.  The garlic is a foot tall, and the bulbs are huge. You can't do that in a foot of snow. 

Friends this year is already 7 months into the 12. I think we should devote more time to measure and count the gifts of God long before November and Thanksgiving comes along. Make sure to catalog them or journal them, less you forget. Looking at your blessings instead of complaining and whining about what you don't have, helps us to experience more joy in each day.

Attitude, attitude, attitude. Change it before it changes you into a complaining, whining, and unhappy person.

God bless and pass the cold iced tea.

Marty

Don't Expect A Thing In Return 7/25/2021

 Good Morning,

I started early this morning and the rest I need will have to wait. I am enjoying a strong and hot cup of Door County Hazelnut Cream Coffee and it is time to write. 

Colossians 3:12 Put on then, as God's family, holy, and beloved compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 

One of the things that can become a dagger to a marriage is kindness. Kindness given with attachments is a recipe for hurt, sorrow and anger. You are probably thinking right now that I have fallen off of my chair and hit my head. How can kindness be wrong? It becomes wrong when you keep score. 

People at best fail at something at least every other day. I tend to spill coffee on my shirt at least once a week. You'd think by now, that I could successfully transfer coffee from a container to my mouth without losing some on to my shirt. People are people. None of us are perfect. People might not see that you would like some kindness in return. 

In the attempt to be kind to one another in relationships, especially marriage to perform a kind act for someone else and add expectations to the gift sets one up for disappointment. Perform acts of kindness and expecting a person to reciprocate in a way that your mind thinks they should, is just plain foolish. When your expectations aren't met your act of kindness becomes less and eventually you will let that person know about your disappointment. Your act of kindness to them now becomes a debt that you have made them owe to you. No longer is the kindness a nice ting, it has become a weight. 

A young man once told me that he had been doing a lot of nice things for his wife and she barely recognized or acknowledged the kindness and " she hasn't done anything nice for me". He lost the joy of doing acts of kindness because He wasn't giving from a heart that gave just out of kindness. He was being kind hoping a deal would be struck and he would get something in return. It wasn't enough for him to be kind and experience that feeling of seeing someone else's joy, without trying to manufacture joy for himself. 

When kindness becomes a chore for the person receiving the kindness, you've lost the whole point of being kind. Have you ever thought that kindness could become evil, just by adding expectations? Food for thought my friends.

Marty

Venison Burgers, Some Pheasant And Some Love

 Good Morning,

The morning is already warm, and there is quite a few things on my agenda for the rest of the day. I poured a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and now it is time to write. 

Matthew 14:23 After sending them home, He went up to the hills alone to pray. 

Last night we had the privilege of opening our home for a small cook out with friends and relatives. Everything served was wild game or fish that those attending helped to catch or shoot. It was a true blessing to see the food go from the field to the table. Basically it was time to empty the freezer and be ready to refill it in another month when our goose season starts. We were blessed with an abundant bounty last year and my prayers for a safe hunt and successful shooting began last night. 

Rene and I were surrounded by people who were all in their twenty's. My nephew has introduced me to his friends over the last two years and I enjoy hunting with them. It is nice to see this younger generation embrace hunting, dogs, guns and the outdoors. As I grow older, I feel confident that we are leaving the sports afield, in good hands. They respect safety, and enjoy the day even if the fish don't bite and the skies don't bring in a bird. They can cook up their fish and game with the best of us  and they chow down on what the Lord has provided.

This is a group of men and women who I find easy to love, respect and pray for. Last night before bed each one of them was prayed for and God was asked to bless them in a way that only He knows how. 

This is just a small part of the twenty something age group in this world. Are you spending time and praying for the group God has placed in your path? You should be! For me it is a labor of love. I am thankful for every minute we spent last night and I am looking forward to some quality field time with them all.

God bless,

Marty

Dad's Strong Hand 7/23/2021

 Good Morning,

Friday has reached out to us and I can say Amen to that. I am looking forward to spending some time with friends and family tonight. I just poured a very hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and now it is time to write. 

Psalm 59:17 O my Strength, I will sing praises to you, for you O God, are my fortress, the God who shows me steadfast love.

Psalm 121;13 He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber.

My life has been on adventure after another for sure. Back in the 70's while I was a sophomore in high school, one of my favorite things to do was to hang out with my buddies and just be stupid. We would sit and talk and then shoot pool at this one fellas house. One night in particular we were participating in more nonsense by throwing ping pong balls at each other. The host of the event had an older brother who really was too old to hang around with us. He came down to the basement where we had congregated and started participating in the "nonsense". We unloaded about 50 ping pong balls on him in a relentless barrage of feather lite missiles.  He got a little angry at us and threw a heavy object my way and it struck me right between the eyes. It was like taking a fastball pitched by Nolan Ryan right in the head. I went down to my knees and was out cold for a couple of seconds. When I came to and opened my eyes I was having trouble seeing, especially from my right eye. I knew this was trouble and said to my other buddy, "get me home please". I just lived across the street and it seemed like that trip was 100 miles instead of 100 yards. I was kind of going in and out and and I just wanted to get home. Once there my friend took me in the house and quickly called on my dad for help. By this time one eye was swollen shut and I could not see out of it,  the other wasn't but I could not see from that eye. I had lost my sight. I was starting to panic and that is when I felt Dad's strong hand on my arm and he said I have you now. Dad wasn't very big in stature, but at one time he was as strong as anyone. He picked me up and carried me to the car, reassuring me I would be ok.  Long story short, the left eyesight came back within two days after the swelling went down. The right eye took two weeks to come back and come back slowly. The blow had caused internal bleeding in the eye. But it all worked out and I have had some issues with the eye over the years, but nothing that keeps me from seeing the keyboard as I write to all of you.

My point is this. I was scared, afraid, and worried. I could not see, but felt the strong hand of my dad on me. He was steady and calm and he spoke soft words of reassuring comfort. As he was driving me to the hospital, he would tell me where we were and how much longer it would take to reach medical help. That night, he never left my side. 

My dad has been gone now for a few years and I miss him. But long ago I realized that God was with me in all things. Through thick and thin I always have the strong hand of God on my shoulder. You might be going through a season of strife. But you are not alone. God has his hand on you guiding you through the low valley. His words found within Scripture are reassuring and meant to comfort us in times of fear, and episodes of worry.  Reach out from the darkness that has you unable to see straight right now, and let Him call the shots. He is there with His righteous right hand. 

God bless,

Marty

God Makes Every Day 7/22/2021

 Good Morning,

My cup of Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee is helping to burn off the haze in my mind. As I look out of the window on this cool Thursday morning the sky is filled with haze caused from wild fires 1000 miles away in Canada. My prayers are with those folks fighting the fires in Canada and the United States.

Psalm 118:24 This is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Last night we had a small family birthday celebration. It was modest, yet it was a real nice time. We went to eat at a restaurant in my wife's hometown. We didn't have a traditional birthday cake, but each of us ordered a birthday dessert. Cheese cake and carrot cake were on the menu and I for one cannot pass up a piece of carrot cake. It was delicious. If my diet would allow for it and my doctor as well,  I would eat cake every day. 

I will try to put this together for you quickly. A birthday celebration, with a dinner, family, and the cake, is a cake kind of day for me. The entire day was perfect, including the 8 hours I worked. Who doesn't like to have days like this?

To keep this going with the food analogy I choose broccoli to describe a bad day. I am not a fan of broccoli at all. Cooked, raw, and whatever you put on top of it, the result for me is this. It's still broccoli! I always eat what is put in front of me, just to be polite and politically correct. But to be honest if I can avoid broccoli I will skip a whole pizza buffet if I have to eat any broccoli. I think you get the point.

Some of our days spent here in this world are cake kind of days. Holidays are like that, until one day they aren't and Christmas is a broccoli day. The divorce went through yesterday. Grandma was placed into a nursing home. The test results came back and that ugly word cancer was brought to the table of the day. 

This is when no matter how much we would like to avoid the "broccoli" we can't. God made this day and set the table before us and He is still on His throne. Despite the taste of the day, just as eating our veggies is good for us, even when the veggie dish includes broccoli, we can and should strive to find something in the day that was ordained for us to enjoy and move in that direction. Maybe the cancer test results will cause you to reach out to a loved one and patch up a dispute that should have ended years ago. 

On these dark days you place more trust in God to carry you through. More time with God is never a broccoli day. God is not on holiday and He is still driving the train. 

I leave you with this thought. Isaiah 49:13 Sing O heavens! Be joyful, O earth! For The Lord has comforted His people. 

Know this, you are loved, and if you ever need prayer, or a kind word leave a comment and you will be prayed for.

Marty

Happy Birthday Mother 7/21/2021

 Good Morning,

Sleep evaded me last night like a spider on the wall. So happy to be working today and sipping a hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee as I drive to work.

2 Chronicles 15:7 But as for you, be strong and don't give up. For your work will be rewarded. 

Today we celebrate my mother in law's birthday. She is 94 years old and she raised 6 kids. She worked outside the home as an Avon representative. She loves to eat soup, even in the summer. She still makes things for the county fair. Her crochet works is still sharp and might take another ribbon in September.

The one thing I am most thankful for is the second oldest daughter she raised. I married that one and she is kind, hard working, honest, and all in all a great wife. One day, while mother and I were driving somewhere, she said to me, "You know, you married the stubborn one." I replied, "I wonder where she gets it from?" We both laughed as mother said, "probably from me." 

The point of this day is this. We all have people within our circle of influence. And in reality, you can't give someone stubbornness. To be stubborn is a choice like being kind or mean are choices. I told my wife about how her mom threw her under the bus that night. Rene did admit to being stubborn as if I didn't already know that.  So now we all think that being stubborn is a bad thing. Not me! I see a wife and mother in law who don't know the word quit. In a mess or a time of strife, I prefer to be around people who are not quitters.  They have defined stubborn as a good thing. 

God bless,

Marty

How Much Bread Can You Eat?

 Good Morning,

I am awake and ready to hit the ground running. I worked hard yesterday and the next two days should be the same. My cup of Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee is waiting to be tasted. It is time to write.

My mother used to bake some bread rolls affectionately named "Nana Buns". There was nothing like pulling into the driveway of my parents home after driving for 5-6 hours in December and smelling the smoke of a hardwood fire. Once you stepped into the house there was always two aromas fighting for attention. One, was hot coffee and the other was Nana's fresh out of the oven baked buns. 

Fortunately making coffee isn't too hard for me to do, and I have mastered making "Nana Buns". The buns are very big and fluffy. When they come out of the oven and get lathered in butter it becomes hard to eat just one. You are filled up very soon with just one of those bad boys. I once said, that it would be nice to have one of those every day. I truly meant that statement. My mother being the one who always had something to say, piped up and said "I know a bread that you can never have too much of. It can stimulate your brain, nurture you, put you to sleep, keep you up all night and heal your heart." I knew where she was going with this. And those were wise words. 

Deuteronomy 8:3 so he humbled you, allowed you to hunger, fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds forth from the mouth of the Lord. 

Mom was right. God's Word is soothing, healing, nurturing, comforting, challenging, a source of rest, and a conscience. The best part of this bread is you can dine on all you want. There is an unending supply and once you start, you just don't want to stop. 

Have a blessed day,

Marty

A Slow Talking Person 7/19/2021

 Good Morning, 

A work day is upon me and I am ready for the challenge. I have prayed and am now sipping on a hot cup of Door County Mistletoe Mocha. It's still July and I am celebrating Christmas in July. At the end of the month the Christmas coffee gets stored away until December.

Proverbs 29:20 Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than him. 

When I was a youngster I had the privilege of spending a lot of time with my grandfather. I sure enjoyed those weeks in the summer. We fished, picked berries and I sure learned a lot of lessons. In order to learn a lesson or forty I had to listen. On our way to and from our favorite fishing holes, Grandpa would point  something out to me and maybe ask a question and then go on to explain what I was seeing. He spoke slowly, softly and made his point. 

For instance while driving down a gravel road to one of our hot spots for fishing, he actually stopped the car and asked me a question. " How many times do you think we have driven over this upcoming hill this month" I said "I don't know, quite a few." He then asked, "when was the last time it rained?" I did know that there hadn't been any rain in about two weeks. Then he asked. "Have you ever wondered why this dry dusty road always has a wet spot on this hill?" In all honesty I had never noticed  the wet damp spot about 3 feet in diameter in that road. I told him I hadn't. He made the point of telling me that there was a small natural spring within that little hill and that as long as he had traveled that road it never dried up. Now this lesson I learned about springs and how if I dug a little I could get enough sand filtered water to survive in the wilderness took about 15 minutes. I said grandpa spoke slowly at all times.

 In my young mind I kept thinking that we were missing some fish that were biting and he could have said what he said in five minutes.

The more valuable lesson that I learned is that by speaking slowly he was taking time to think before he spoke. Thus at all times his words were measured, calculated for impact, and most always did not need to be explained again or retracted. In addition he was educating the family idiot and many of the lessons learned, I still practice today.

In the world we live in today, people often speak too fast, not thinking before they open the hole they shove cake into, and then spend too much time explaining, or rewording their statements. It is best to think before you speak. Thinking while speaking and to be able to make sure you are clear or to possibly avoid backlash, from a statement not well thought out is a good plan for peaceful living. 

Food for thought on a Monday.

Marty

Going Two Miles? 7/18/2021

 Good Morning, 

To say that this morning in my part of the world is beautiful, would be an understatement . The sun is bright, the temperature is perfect and my Door County Pecan Pie Coffee is steaming next to me. 

Matthew 5:41-42  "Whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two, Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away."

Back in the time of Jesus the Roman soldiers could and did often request or order Jewish citizens to carry their personal load for one mile. With nothing more than a harsh command they could stop a person from doing what they needed to do and compel them to carry take their gear and carry it for one mile. 

In this passage Jesus is saying to give more. Carry the load at the end of one mile for another mile and do it with joy and grace. 

I witnessed this yesterday, when a friend of mine had a vision of inclusion. He had planned to take a future groom and some family members out to shoot clay targets. I was invited and was more than happy to be included and participate. During the two weeks leading up to this event, he let me know that he was reaching out to someone in that family to participate and in doing so it might ruffle some feathers. In short there is a some hurt  from the past  that doesn't exactly make inclusiveness easy to do. He flew through a little flack and was questioned on his reasoning and intentions. 'It is the right thing to do" was his answer and he held to his convictions. 

Since I was there I can tell you what happened. The atmosphere was one of acceptance, fun, and brotherly love for all who were there. My friend did not have to organize anything for all the guys to do, while a bridal shower was taking place. But he did and in being inclusive and obedient to God who requests us to be hospitable he went the second mile in my mind. I am happy to say that I witnessed Godly love in action. I would repeat it again without hesitation. 

Are you a "Two Miler" or obedient to 1 mile and that is good enough?  On a long day and when you are tired, do you extend yourself to a need even when no one requested you to help? Can you see a need and do more than just pray and hope it all works out for that person. I cannot pass by litter in our neighborhood without picking it up. It's not in front of our property, but I just saw it. I believe I now own the duty of picking it up. I could give examples of people who go through our church where they just attended the service. Weekly they assist me without asking to lock up and turn out the lights. It's not their responsibility, and given the time of our Saturday Evening service, they probably have dinner on their minds. Are you a "Two Miler".

Have a great day. Walk on!

Marty

Sitting On The Dock 7/17/21

 Good Morning,

I am up and at it very early today and I am glad to embrace the morning with a cup of Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee and prayer. 

 5:12-13 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13. and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. 

Over the last few days I have been able to meet with three of our four church pastors to just discuss ministry ideas and share thoughts. It has been a pleasure to do so and get some heart to heart time. 

Yesterday I was able to sit dockside on a river channel with one of our pastors and drink some lemonade and iced tea. For me it was a perfect setting to be outside near the water, with a nice breeze blowing on our table. We talked about a lot of things including how I found this place of respite.

I tend to go places that are out of the way and different. You will very seldom if ever find me at a chain restaurant or ice cream emporium. I like to go down the road less traveled. I like to share those places with others or the things they produce. Chain bakeries will just not do for me. I was amazed when one of our pastors wanted to meet at a national chain restaurant for breakfast. In all honesty it was close to our church, but I had to ask him where it was. 

Here is my point. I have enjoyed this time immensely, and these guys, as we shared our hearts. I have one more to partake in this morning. I now know how to pray for them, assist if I can, and share my thoughts. I also know that this needs to be done more often and I should have been doing this all along. We might not agree all the time, but to know each other better is to love each other easier. 

So if you have the opportunity, ask to have a coffee or a donut with you pastors. Ask how you can help or get involved and how you should pray for them. You will find that this is a road less traveled by many. I enjoyed that road! And I am in four wheel drive. 

God bless,

Marty

Hope For Today 7/16/2021

 Good Morning,

Friday arrived and it was right on time. I have a busy Friday planned and I should be up for the tasks ahead. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee and now it is time to write. 

I am closing out the week as promised with some verses from God's Word on hope for today and hope for tomorrow. 

The word hope easily defined .

"Hope" is commonly used to mean a wish: Its strength is the strength of the person's desire. But in the Bible, hope is the confident expectation of what God has promised and its strength is in His faithfulness.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare, and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 

Romans 12:12 rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer,

Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait on the Lord, shall renew their strength,; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. 

Looking today for hope? Pray and let God know how you feel. Then wait on the Lord to show you hope found in Him and Him only.

Happy Friday,

Marty

Thoughts On Peace. Verses To Share 7/15/2021

 Good Morning,

The sun still comes up in the East and tonight it will set in the West, My Door County Cherry Creme Coffee tastes phenomenal, so it is time to write. 

As promised yesterday we will share some Scripture verses on peace. Not some peace negotiated by two countries to do what makes sense, yet you know they won't do it anyway, but the peace within, given to us by God Himself. There is nothing worse than not having personal peace from not knowing, and trusting that God is still in charge. Surrendering to His will is key to peace within. If these verses help you today to be at peace with within, and with others, pass them on.

Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, 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 in Christ Jesus.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled or afraid. 

John 1633 I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world. 

Isaiah 26:3 You keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts You.

Trust in God to be by your side through all the world throws at you. You are never alone. 

God Bless, 

Marty

Bible Verses For Today's Comfort 7/14/2021

 Good Morning,

As I sit at my desk looking out the window, I can't help but enjoy the sunrise. It is cooking off the haze and drawing a picture of beauty for me to see. My Door County Cherry Creme Coffee is nice and hot, so it is time to write.

This morning, as I go through my list of people needing prayer or requesting prayer I am not surprised at all that there are two pages to the list . The requests or needs are for health issues that some are experiencing or for a relative of theirs. Some have requested prayer for safety in Haiti. Some have the need to heal a broken heart and recover from betrayal. Some have asked me to pray for them to find a job. It seems employers, have a need for staff, but they aren't paying for experience. Some need to find housing. One request came in last night just for safety from an escaped fellow who might seek to do harm to the family of a friend of mine. Some are struggling through the death of a family member right now.

No matter the need, I can see and hear a sense of urgency. I would love to take all of these requestors into our home and hold a prayer meeting. This is impossible. I would serve breakfast and hot coffee and let them know they are loved, cared for and prayed for. The best I can do for most is to keep my promise to pray and the light on should anyone stop in.

So for today I am going to share just a few verses from God's Word to provide comfort. When I know I am hurting or confused, some of these verses have comforted me. God let's me know that I am loved and He is with me through thick and thin.

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. 

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.

Psalm 46:1-3  1. God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in time of trouble. 2. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the depths of the sea, 3. though it's waters roar and foam and the mountains quake from their surging.

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

So for the next two days after this I will devote to posting portions of God's Word on peace and then hope. 

If you know someone going through a rough time, possible consider sharing these verses with them.

God bless,

Marty

The Little Things 7/13/2021

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk and from what I see outside my window it looks like the sun might not show up today. It is dreary, humid and damp. So my cup of Door County Amaretto Coffee is doing double duty today. 

Titus 2:7 Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity and dignity. 

In a company that produces for instance, automobiles you could easily say that all combined there are many, many parts and components to a finished product. The engine alone has a multitude of parts, which includes screws, washers, nuts and bolts. The steering column has wires running through it as well as mechanical parts. As a manufacturer, the company likes to see the auto or truck start and run once assembled. And even a if a small part is missing it might just do that. But eventually the missing part will show up in a malfunction and the new vehicle will need to be repaired. It's at the moment when the service technician tells you your vehicle is repaired and it was broken because of a missing part, you start to wonder about the whole company and what else might be missing on your car or truck. Your confidence in their quality is shaken.

It's the same way with all of us. Miss one ingredient in a recipe and what would have been a beautiful meatloaf, turns out to be ok, but not that great.

It is important to pay attention to the little things in life and strive for perfection. You might say, this is a bit difficult. Yes it is. But remember 'little eyes" are sometimes watching. Your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews are watching you. They will see the mistake not made right. Or the shortcut, you take and if it was good enough for you, they will suppose it is ok for them to not fix their mistakes or do a good job the first time around. 

It's the little things that we mess up, or miss, that can steer a young life  or wrong direction. We make mistakes for sure. But we should correct them and teach from our mistakes to always go back and correct them, not ignore them. We should strive for perfection at all times, especially in front of little eyes. But also remember, God sees, and knows all that we do too.  

Just a "little food for thought". Have a great day.

Marty

Cleaning The Garage And Seeing Some History

 Good Morning,

I am ready for this day to begin. My Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee is at my side and I am ready to write.

James 5:3 your silver and gold are corroded and their corrosion will be a witness against you.

Continuing the never ending battle to declutter my garage is a task that I really do not like. I spent 45 minutes in the dungeon of I might need that some day, and what was I thinking when I bought this? Then I walked the mine field of should I toss this, give it to someone or save it for another twenty years?

Some of you might know the feeling and you battle with the desire to keep and hoard things or declutter!

In my quest to see what was behind the antifreeze container was a small blue pump type oil can. I rarely use any oil that is not dispensed as an aerosol now. I removed that same can from my grandfather's garage back in 1977 when he died and we started to empty the place out. Grandpa would oil the hinges on his boat rack on the top of his car. The rack allowed him to take a small row boat from home to a lake by having the boat rest on a rack on top of his car. Grandpa always treated his cars like a pickup truck. He was a one vehicle type of guy and said, "I can't have grandma ride in a truck. Trucks aren't for ladies". 

I have used that can now and then, always bringing grandpa to mind when doing so. But here is the point, grandpa told me that oil reduces friction and saves hinges from rusting up. While explaining that he also told me that from time to time you have to make sure a marriage is oiled and not getting rusty. He explained that by not making grandma ride in a truck, he was keeping the marriage running straight and without friction. "I would love a truck, but only have one stall in the garage. Grandma needs to know that she is more important than my fishing. Remember that boy!'

Needless to say, the can is still in the garage. Last night when my wife said she was going for her walk, I asked if she wanted company. Her resounding yes, let me know that I had just oiled the relationship. Don't let corrosion creep into a marriage. 

I learned a lesson last night by recalling some history.

God bless,

Marty

You Win Some. You Lose Some. Some Get Rained Out. 7/11/2021

 Good Morning,

The day began quickly and I was on the road with a thermos bottle of Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee, and some good music on the radio.

Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard craves, and gets nothing. But the soul of the diligent is made fat. 

Today I am headed out to drop off our youngest dog Leo for a couple of intense weeks of training before he participates in a hunt test for Springer Spaniels. Of course, he really has no idea that he is headed to "camp" for this training. He just knows that jumping into the Jeep usually leads to some type of fun or to the vet. I am sure he is hoping for fun and not the vet.  In all reality he is headed into what could be considered a competition. 

Leo is the class clown in our home, and it is hard to take him seriously most of the time. Whatever he does, he does fast. That Springer should be a racing dog. He is affectionate and sops up attention. He can hunt, and retrieve with the best of them. I wish for him to do well, but if he doesn't I will be ok with that and his dish will be full, he will be home, and life goes back to normal. Leo, will show up and will do his best and won't know if he failed or not. That's not what each person goes through, each day. We know when we fail.

For all of us, each day ends up being some type of competition. There are deadlines to be met. Personal budgets that must be kept. The car needs tires. An interview for a job is a competition and you know when you failed when they send you the rejection email. Each day, a job is a competition. Marriage is a competition sometimes, working at keeping another person happy can be tough. Healing from an injury or ailment becomes a competition. "When I had my surgery, I recovered in two weeks. What is taking you so long? Did you walk enough?" Here is my point. 

Life is like a baseball game. You win some. You lose some. Some days are like rain days and the game gets rained out and you have to wait. But no matter what each day brings and the outcomes are unknown "You Dress For The Game". You are here and you need to try hard every day. You need to be ready, show up and do everything to win at what life throws you. You might lose more than you win but as with Leo, he will give it his all and strive with a drive that is deep within him. 

Whatever your challenge is for today, do your best, You cannot lose the love of God because you fail. Jesus stumbled on the way to Calvary. But in the end, he said "It is finished". There is nothing worse than failing when you know you didn't try  and give it your best. Keep going my friends. 

Marty

Ladies First 7/10/2021

Good Morning,

I could hear the coffee brewing in the kitchen and the aroma drew me to the computer and a hot cup of Door County Mistletoe Mocha. I am more than ready to write.

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 

Today I might touch a nerve with a few people. My big boy pants are on and ready to take a few shots. Yesterday I had the privilege to join my buddy in sending off our Youth Group from church for a short trip to a Christian music concert. This buddy and myself did youth work together for many years. We know the importance of the kids and the youth pastor knowing that they are supported and prayed for. So we showed up just before they left and prayed for them, wished them well and promised to keep them in prayer for safe travels and a time of great spiritual renewal. 

We also, shared with them what our four rules for travel or youth functions were back in the day.

1. Pray always.

2. Never be alone.

3.  Remember who you represent. God and our church  

4. Ladies First. You should have seen the looks on the faces of the girls. Puzzled at least. 

Back some years ago when we introduced the Ladies First Concept we received some back talk and guff from the girls and the boys. If you know me, my wife and my buddy, you probably know that the remarks and guff went in one ear and out of the other. That was just the way it was going to be. I know that women can open their own doors, but I am old school and believe in chivalry and treating a lady like a lady. 

I recall one short term mission trip when food for our team was scarce at best. Whatever was served went to the girls/women first. They ate a full plate at each meal. I did caution them to eat everything on their plate, and only take what they knew they could eat. At best when the guys were able to grab some food, there was maybe a teaspoon of rice for each guy. We were performing hard labor on this trip in excessive heat. This went on only for two days and not one boy/man let on that they were hungry, nor did they complain. Not one!. In the next day we were relieved to actually stop the mission trip and rest in a resort with food galore. Before we went to dine at a buffet, we prayed, and I said to the team. Let's change it up. Let's have the guys go first tonight. Two of the girls were quick to say "What about ladies first"? The female leader that was with us told the boys to go ahead, it was then that she shared with the ladies that the boys had gone without to make sure the girls had enough to eat. I saw an immediate change within the team. When the guys were going to return their plates to the dirty dish area, the girls volunteered to take their plates and asked if they needed anything more from the buffet. The boys actually thanked the girls. 

It was said to me that the more valuable lesson would have been to have them equally divide the food and share. That could serve some purpose too. But the lesson learned this way, was to sacrifice for one another, putting others before yourself, and then to be kind at all times. I know those girls never forgot the kindness, and the boys felt more like men. 

So today, be kind, be loving and if at all possible "Ladies First" 

Marty

In For The Long Haul 7/9/2021

 Good Morning, 

Our portion of the world is enjoying a cool morning. The sun seems a little slow today. My cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee is steaming next to me and it is time to write.

Ruth 1:16:17 But Ruth said, " Don't force me to leave you; Don't make me go home. Where you go, I go. Where you live I will live. Your people are my people. Your God, is my god. Where you die, I will die also and be buried there, so help me God, not even death will come between us. 

Tomorrow is going to be a busy day for us and one that has already been a blessing. Let me explain how a day that hasn't happened yet can be a blessing. 

Church mates and dear friends of ours will be celebrating 60 years of marriage tomorrow. They will be renewing their vows in our Saturday night church service and we have a celebration planned afterwards. A few months ago I mentioned this to other friends at church and I said, I would like to have a little dinner or something for them after church the service. The idea received unanimous support and little by little the day has become reality. I like to come up with ideas like this, but all I had to do was mention it and next thing I know the ball was rolling. I had very little to do with it since except to work on the vow renewals and combine it with my sermon for tomorrow night. In fact I actually started receiving a few "Honey Do's" from my wife. "Sir", when I get called sir at home it is not out of respect. It is a way to put me at attention and say "yes Mam" and receive my orders for whatever I am doing next. My one and only other part in this was to make the meat ahead of time. The menu for the evening has us dining on smoked pork. The meat was smoked with cherry wood. I accomplished my part of the dining feast.

Can you see the blessing here. This couple is so loved and admired for the way they have lived, worshipped and inspired others for many years. They have been commented on by several younger people in the church as "I want to be like them now and especially when I am older". This couple always compliments each other in public, and holds their marriage in the dearest of terms. They both love the Lord and serve actively within missions and charity organizations. They are generous and whatever they do, they do fully and well. I have been blessed to be scolded by them, loved by them, and encouraged by them. To see this day come together has been a blessing to watch the love in action.

60 years ago when they said "I do" they committed to "till death do us part". They were in it for the "Long Haul". 

Today might seem like it has no hope for your marriage. Problems galore surround you, sin crept in, or you just can't seem to find the spark. If at all possible, replace despair with hope. Let love abound, first with God and the love for Him will trickle like a stream back into your marriage. Be an inspiration to yourself and those around you. Celebrate each year together. Be in it for the Long Haul.

God bless,

Marty

The Mosquito In The Night 7/8/2021

 Good Morning,

May the sunrise you experience bring a smile to your face. I have a cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee in front of me and now it is time to write.

Photo Credit Wikipedia 

I woke up to one nasty mosquito bite on my leg and it looks like the mosquito was the size of a bird from the impact on my leg. Last night before going to bed I saw a mosquito flying around the bedroom and the battle was on. I eventually gave up my pursuit of killing the pest. The insect was elusive and used dark corners to hide. 

Sometime during the night the mosquito unleashed it's attack on me leaving his mark on my leg. I could go on and on about the purpose of mosquitoes or their worthlessness. Two routes to choose, the latter would be a complaint session. 

My point for today is this, I knew that little flying rat would get me eventually. Maybe just a little bug repellent would have saved me from this itch. 

1Peter 5:8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 

I could have used some repellent and maybe avoided my issue. At night when I get ready for bed my nightly prayer is usually for those who have come across my desk, or mind with needs they have. I also thank the Lord for the day I experienced and it's blessings as well as the trials. In the morning prayer time I pray for those who need prayer or requested it as well as for God to guide my day. 

It just dawned on me that I do not mention the next day in my prayers before I go to sleep. What would happen if I would ask God for his protection ahead of time acknowledging that I have an enemy that plots my demise all night? I need to admit that the spiritual battle is a 24 hour one and praying for the day ahead is my spiritual repellent. As is with most repellents, they need to be reapplied every few hours. I am reminded that we need to be in constant prayer for ourselves and others. 

So to avoid the bite that sneaks up on you, pray and then pray again.

Marty

Self Isolation An Act Of Selfishness 7/7/2021

 Good Morning,

A fresh pot of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee is chugging away not too far from me and I am patiently waiting for it to finish brewing. The weather has changed by 30 degrees and 62 actually feels cold right now. The coffee finished brewing and now it is time to write. 

Proverbs 18:1 A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire. He rages against all wise judgement.

As we have begun coming out of this pandemic and see some normalcy return, we are still being advised to use caution in our gatherings and social activities. I guess it makes sense, since I was asked to pray for a 20 year old man last night, who was perfectly healthy until covid struck him recently. So common sense needs to still prevail. 

What I am writing about today is a trend I am seeing for not a lot of people but enough to talk about it. During the height of our covid experience we were all isolating ourselves and quarantine was a dirty word. I myself whined about not being able to go out with family and friends for a bite to eat. I heard from may of our church members wanting for the church to reopen. 

But, what I am seeing is that this pandemic fed the desire for those who just want to be left alone. In some instances the cause of isolation was not a pandemic but their desire to be selfish and withdraw from family and friends. To cut one's self off from family, friends, and community is often to express a selfish desire. It shows an unwillingness to make the small or sometimes large sacrifices it takes to get along with others. 

God designed us after His own triune nature; He designed us to live in community. The instinct many have to live in isolation must not be over indulged. This rages against all wise judgement. 

When we retreat and support our desire to shut others out and ourselves from family and friends we literally punish others through our selfishness. 

So for today, if you know someone like this, reach out again to them and again. If you are one who has isolated, stop. Accept the next invitation, mend emotional fences if need be. Live as God intended for families and friends to live. 

God bless, 

Marty

A Lasagna Of Love 7/6/2021

 Good Morning,

The old coffee maker might be on it's last leg. It took a little longer for my Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee to brew. But finally a cup has come forth and it is time to write. 

I had a surgical procedure performed 8 days ago and it is taking it's sweet time to heal. I would have to say that this one has slowed me down more than I thought it would. I am getting better day by day , but not fast enough for me. My mind looks at a chore and says you can do this and my body is arguing with my mind saying oh no you can't .

This past week we have been gifted with desserts, ham, and last night we dined on a pan of lasagna. All of these were given to us by people we love and who love us in return. We are doing fine and this is not a plea for assistance. It is a statement of thanks to God for good friends, who are faithful to God and follow His word and are an example of God's love sent in human form.

James 2 14-17 What does it profit my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15. If a brother or sister is naked and is destitute of daily food, 16. and one of you says to them, "depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the thing which are need for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works is dead. 

This is however a challenge to all to celebrate Christmas in July. Think about the Christmas cards sent out, the change you dropped into the red bucket, the old people you visited and sang to at Christmas. Many restrictions have been lifted now and I witnessed crowded parks and streets for the Fourth of July. There are still lonely people, hurting people, disabled people and some who could use a pot of soup, a pan of lasagna, an ice cream cone all year round. A card sent out with some kind words of encouragement is a nice way to say we love you. 

I saw God at work this week and it came in the form of people, extending blessings to us. Friends, we are fine and managing quite well. But I am thankful for what God sent. 

Love to all. Keep your faith fired up. 

Marty

Bruschetta 

In July?

Ingredients

FOR THE TOMATOES

4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

4 large tomatoes, diced

1/4 c. thinly sliced basil

2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar 

1 tsp. salt

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

FOR THE BREAD

1 large baguette, sliced ¼" thick on the bias

Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing

2 cloves garlic, halved

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DIRECTIONS

1. Make marinated tomatoes: In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, heat oil. Add garlic and cook until lightly golden, 2 to 4 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, toss together tomatoes, basil, vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Add garlic and oil from skillet and toss to combine. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast bread: Preheat oven to 400°. Brush bread on both sides lightly with oil and place on large baking sheet. Toast bread until golden, 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through. Let bread cool for 5 minutes, then rub tops of bread with halved garlic cloves.
4. Spoon tomatoes on top of bread just before serving.

If You Wish To Succeed 7/5/2021

 Good Morning,

I am sitting in the kitchen this morning, watching the occasional car drive through and I am enjoying the peaceful quiet. I have the window in front of me open and I picked up the scent of a neighbor starting to smoke some meat somewhere in the neighborhood. My Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee is hot and is as tasty as ever. 

Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God., what is good and acceptable and perfect. 

Everyone is traveling through life on their own personal road from birth to death. None of us know how many stops along the way we will have to make. One thing I am sure of is that until the day the Lord calls us to our last moments on this earth, we need to endure many things. Perseverance within our hearts must be a constant companion on our road to the end..  renewal of perseverance needs to happen daily. Prayer and being in the Word of God is A DAILY DOES OF RECHARGE!

It could be you are seeking a new source of employment and you just can's seem to find one that fits your needs. Don't quit, keep looking. Sometimes we settle for good when great is one more hour spent searching. The marriage you committed to is only good and could be better. Stick it out. Don't quit. Pray for changes within you and your spouse. Persevere. Your health seems to be failing you. There are options for treatment that give you another set of days. Face that fight and use those days to do good for others. Persevere until you can't. 

I witnessed a friend of mine crippled up by failed attempts to repair his knees go fishing with me recently. Those days were long and hard for him, yet he persevered and set an example for his boatmates not to quit, but fish and enjoy each other's company.  Our neighbor is suffering from ALS. I have watched him deteriorate slowly fighting immense pain daily. Yet he walked over to our house to deliver a quart of ice cream to us, with a smile. On a tough road he is thinking of others. He is persevering. Maybe you are stalled on the road on being unable to forgive someone. Persevere and make the first attempt to repair a pothole in your life. Don't let a grudge rob you of doing the right thing.  Along the road you are traveling, there are many attempts to detour or temptations for you to quit, become withdrawn, and not push yourself to be a blessing to others, or see the beauty in the world you not yet seen. Perseverance interruptions can take two forms and can be either physical and emotional, or both. 

Yesterday being the fourth of July we attended the local parade. I still am not recovered from a recent surgery and the night before was rough. When I awoke I was tempted to just stay home. But there was my wife dressed in red, white and blue ready to go. She looked at me and said, "Do you want to drop the parade and stay home? You look miserable." I almost took her up on the idea. I replied "no, I want to go". We did go and enjoyed a parade that in my opinion was a "Keepa" (Brooklyn slang for another time.  The parade route was lined with people (a crowd) . As we were waiting, a young couple with two children approached us and asked if we minded if they sat with their children in the space next to my right. My first thoughts were, oh boy! Here comes mischief and I am sure this won't be good. The kids ages seemed to be about two and four years old. They sat down and waited for the parade to begin. We stood when the honor guard approached with the United States Flag and place our hands over our hearts and removed our hats. I looked over at the two kids and their parents and saw them exhibiting  the same reverence as me for our symbol of freedom. I teared up a little. Any pain I was enduring was worth seeing that. But the best was yet to come. In our parades it is a custom for those marching or riding in the parade to pitch small candies to the children on the parade route. The kids scramble around grabbing the candy like it is gold sprinkled on the streets. Yet these two children only picked up what was thrown right to them. They let other kids pick up the candy in front of them, basically being willing to only take a few and leave the rest to others. I was amazed. Occasionally candy landed at my feet, and I would point to the candy for our two parade neighbors and they would pick it up. When the parade was over the oldest child and her sibling came to Rene and I. They had two pieces of bubble gum and said " Sir you didn't get any candy. Here are two for you people." ( Rene) 

I persevered yesterday and saw kindness at work on my road to recovery that was priceless. I took the gum and thanked them. The parents thanked us for sharing the space and moving a little so they had enough room and the event was completed. But my heart was much lighter and happier as we went home.

Keep going, be a blessing to someone today. Be a blessing to yourself. Make perseverance your travel companion. The road is long, but might be shorter than you think. if you want to succeed, PERSEVERE!

God bless,

Marty

Hot Dogs And Apple Pie 7/4/2021

 Good Morning,

I will be reaching for my Door County Cherry Creme Coffee in just a few seconds. It has been a good morning of prayer and now it is time to write.

Last year at this time while in the throws of the Corona Virus Pandemic nothing stopped the calendar. July 4th came and went right on time. This year July 4th came right after July 3rd expired it's welcome. In the United States, July 4th we celebrate our Independence Day. On July 4th 1776 the Second Continental Congress, unanimously adopted the Declaration Of Independence, announcing the colonies, separation from Great Britain.

Psalm 33:12 Blesses is the nation whose God is the Lord.

Going back to last year, being a year of quarantine and choices, we were advised to only celebrate the 4th with those in our own family and to wear masks. My wife Rene and I both chose to keep things on a low key. We stayed home, and celebrated with no one but the two of us, I say this. It was our choice and we were free to choose just how we spent the day. 

That is a freedom we enjoy. We could choose what was right for us. Now some friends and acquaintances did not agree with us and some made it known that they thought we were being foolish. I did not agree with some of the large parties I saw taking place without any masks. But I was all in on letting everyone decide their own route. We enjoy many freedoms in this country. 

But one tradition we did observe that has been with us for many years on July 4th was cooking out and eating outside. As always we had some grilled hot dogs and a big slice of apple pie.  Our flags flew high with the hope of things being different in 2021. The virus is almost beat now and we will attend a parade, fly our flags and dine on some hot dogs and apple pie today.  

My prayer will also be the same as it has been for years and years. God bless America, Land That I Love. 

God bless,

Marty

Making The Wrong Cut 7/3/2021

 Good Morning,

The day began with a prayer of thanks and a hot cup of Door County Christmas Coffee. I wish I could share a cup with all of you, maybe someday. Oh yes I am a dreamer.

James 3:18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace, by those who make peace. 

Throughout the years I have had to use my pocket knife to cut things loose from other things. I actually had to cut myself loose from fishing line that was left in the water by some careless fisherman. I was the lucky one who found it and who knows how, but it wrapped around my waders as I was setting my decoys in a lake on a cold November morning while duck hunting. 

My pocket knife is always kept sharp and ready to use. I would be lying if I said that I never accidently cut myself a few times with that same knife. The day I was tangled in that mess of decoys and fishing line, I was cutting below the water line and could not see everything I was cutting. I could have easily missed my intended target and cut into my waders. Somehow I did not and the story is history from there on out. 

I am still recovering from surgery to repair some damages to my abdomen. My hernias needed repairs. I sought out a board certified surgeon to cut open my belly and make the repairs. I am a guy who likes to do most everything myself. I just could not imagine me with my sharp knife cutting away on my belly and then expecting good results. I only have one stomach and to trust myself to cut into it and fix it would be one of the dumbest things I have ever done. 

You are asking yourself right now, "So what is the point"? Here it is. From time to time I have had to make life adjustments. Quit a job, not take a job, break up with a girlfriend, date someone, or not date someone, sell a truck and drive a sub compact car, hurt others like they hurt me or not. Some things needed to be cut out of my life. But as with my waders it is best not to just cut deep and wide without regarding the hidden or costly impact of the cut. We can cut too far and be knee deep in hurt and consequences,  not easily fixed or fixable at all. 

So before I make any cuts in my life I always make sure I am following God's lead and not my own emotions. Emotions should never be followed. I believe they are used by Satan to assist us in making huge mistakes. I follow the lead of our Lord who promoted physical healing, spiritual and emotional healing. I let Him interpret my actions to being hurt or misunderstood and let Him guide me through some possible moves needed to be made.

Notice this. My surgeon opened my stomach up made the repairs and yes they are still painful. However he did not remove my stomach. He cut only so much with the intentions of healing the relationship I was having with my stomach. He instituted repairs which are painful, but the open wounds are healing now day by day. My wife and a few friends are very capable people within the medical field. Notice I did not let them do the cutting on me. I needed an expert. I needed a surgeon. Not someone with good intentions and a butter knife. 

So before anyone cuts into their emotions, I would recommend, they consult the Great Physician for guidance on whether to cut and hope, or to cut in all the right places and lay a pathway to healing. You never want to make the wrong cut, or cut too much away.

Marty