Love Is In The Air, July Weddings 6/30/2022

 Good Morning,

It's a great day to be alive. The temperatures will be rocking the high range. But what goes up will come down. I just poured a hot cup of door County Irish Cream Coffee and now it is time to write. 

Today will be the last day of June and as we head into our part of July, two weddings in the family will take place. Two of our nephews have found their true loves and will make the commitment of their lives in July. I will go on record as saying that I am very happy for them and their prospective partners. I do however wish that my parents and my sister were still alive to be part of these celebrations. It would be great if Nana and Papa could be be with us on their days. One nephew will be missing his mother also. 

What could I say that would be great advice to both of the couples? There is only one thing that if done individually will cement the love they have as couples.

Matthew 22:37-38 Jesus said to him. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. 38. This is the first and great commandment."

If this would be their goal, the other person in the relationship never has to worry about where they stand with their new spouse. If God is number one, the position of the wife and the husband is cemented solid within the relationship because God always leads us to love our spouses, teaches patience, hope, forgiveness and attitudes that reflect His values. Marriage is one day at a time and love is built upon the daily experiences of walking individually with God and then secondly as a couple. One goes hand in hand with the other. If you want to grow as a couple make sure your own walk with God is where it needs to be.

God bless,

Marty

In The Master's Hand 6/29/2022

 Good Morning!!!!!

My coffee cup will be filled soon with Door County Cherry Creme very soon!

If I were to give advice to anyone from the age of 18 to 100 or beyond is to remain "teachable". Things change so fast now. Just when I think I have purchased the latest technology something else makes it antiquated in a year. Often this requires new training. Training, training, training.

That is how it should be in our Christian walk. Remember God sees us all despite our age as His children. At what age do we really know it all and can approach God and tell Him how the world should spin? I believe that God requires us all to be teachable right to the end. His word said so.

Isaiah 64:8
Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand

Many times before a jar becomes a jar the potter starts over with the clay. He molds it and it looks good and then he sees a flaw and starts over. God starts over with us each day desiring to see us grow in knowledge, trust and faith.

Are you still teachable?

Marty

Some Great Music Each Day 6/28/2022

 Good Morning,

I haven't much time before I need to run out this morning. My Door County Hazelnut Cream Coffee will need to be in a road cup today. It is time to write.

When I am driving to my work destinations I usually have the truck radio turned on. I listen to the news and then tune into a Christian Radio Station to catch a sermon or an uplifting message that I might be able to apply to my day. 

Yesterday I decided to take in some heavenly music and I just might do so again today. Two Bible verses stood out to me the other night while reading. 

Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is in your midst, The Mighty One will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing. 

Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.

Just the thought of God singing over us is too much to fathom. I took some time to be totally silent and as I was praying my mind wandered to a hymn. "How great Thou Art". To think that God cares enough for His creation and all of our issues that He still sings over us, is mind boggling. But I will take that moment of silence again today and know that God is quieting my heart with music from His heart.

Sing to me once again Dear God, heart to heart.

Marty

Who We Are And Who We Are Not 6/27/2022

 Good Morning,

I don't have much time this morning, although I have been drafting this blog in my mind all weekend. I like to belong to organizations of my choice and if I am passionate about a cause you will find that my check book or time donations are spent on things I believe in.  One thing I have never struggled with and I have had plenty of personal struggles is my identity and my search for significance. 

By now if you have read any of my writings you can tell that I lean toward conservative Christianity. How I know my identity is from the Word of God and I try always to use it as my moral compass. One passage reminds me of who I am and at the same time who I am not. 

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man but it's end is the way to death. 

Many times I have thought I was right in my beliefs or in my decisions. I had no peace in these situations and once I checked my actions or beliefs against the Word of God I found that my way was not Scriptural. If I continued in my way, I actually declared war on God and defied His Supreme Authority. So you could say if I wasn't for God's way, I was fighting against Him. I lowered my opinion of Him and insulted His way by denying His plan for my life or for the world. 

James 4:4 You adulterous world. Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.

So what do you say you are with God? Friend or Foe? God calls us to act like we belong in the family of God.  Nothing else will do. 

Marty

Entering The Work Force 6/26/2022

 Good Morning,

Wow, what a beautiful day sits outside my window and very soon I will be joining it outside for another cup of Door County Coconut Cupcakes Coffee. Right now I am settling for an open window and listening to the breeze and the doves. I am ready to write. 

Proverbs 14:23 In all toil there is profit, but mere talk leads to poverty. 

Psalm 128:2 You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands and you will be blessed and it will be well with you. 

Most of the school graduations are finished now for the year and the graduates find themselves looking for work or they are busy already working trying to stash money away for next semester. I wish them well at whatever they do as they enter or make changes to their workforce status. 

I want to share a little advice for them and a refresher for us who are more established in the workplace.

1. You have been hired and you agreed to a certain amount of compensation for your time at work. Notice I said work. The job you filled has requirements of productivity and as you are paid you are expected to meet those requirements. 

2. You should have a schedule and work requires you to be rested and ready for the task. Go to bed early enough so that when you show up on the job you are able to perform the task assigned to you. In some instances of manual labor, this is essential for your safety.

3. Hopefully you are loved and have friends. It isn't really productive for you to be working, and checking your cell phone every ten minutes and then trying to respond on Face Book. Your employer is paying for your attention to details and again you were hired to work. Your friends will be there later. 

4. Show up on time and avoid calling in absent unless it is for a real illness and company policy requires you to stay home. Being late adds impacts to other's schedules and disrupts business. Tardiness and not being prompt says a lot about you and it isn't "complements".

5. Greet all co-workers and management with a smile and make eye contact when you speak. This is the proper way to greet customers and clients. 

6. Dress appropriately for the moment and follow the dress code of your employer. You might not like it, but it is there and you need to respect it. 

7.Break times are usually set to a certain amount of time. Being lazy and extending your break or lunch hour is actually stealing time from the employer. 

8. Last but most important is this. God knows where you are working. You are His representative to that establishment. Your work behavior and your attitude reflect Him in your life. Treat your superiors with dignity and respect. 

I am old school and I believe that you get paid to work and how you present your yourself might have a direct impact on your compensation and future. You aren't guaranteed a thing but the pay and work hours you agreed to.  So dig in, work hard and enjoy the money you earn and some well earned time off when it is given to you. 

God bless,

Marty

Hey! Watch Your Mouth And You Control Your Anger. 6/25/2022

 Good Morning,

The Cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee that I just poured for myself is actually doing a great job of putting some action into this body of mine. 

Colossians 3:8 But now you must put them all away, anger, wrath, malice, slander , and obscene talk from your mouth. 

Last night my wife Rene and I were able to attend another Major League Baseball game at the local stadium. We enjoyed dining on a couple of Hoagie sandwiches in the parking lot before the game. In our town "Tailgating" is customary and is half of the fun  of going to the ball park.  Our dinner was simple yet very nice. It was a nice opportunity to sit, relax, and have just the two of us talk for awhile.

The parking lot was filled with people who use the space between the rows of cars for their dining and social experience. Another custom  people enjoy is to play "Bags" also known as Corn Hole or Bean Bag  Toss. Four guys were playing a robust game of Bags next to us. They were enjoying their game and we were close enough to be able to hear them converse back and forth about the game. I would have to say that everyone of their sentences or statements contained very vulgar language. It was so bad that the people next to us packed up their kids and decided to go into the ball park earlier than they desired. This lack of respect for the kids and women present was also getting on my last nerve. Rene asked me not to say anything to them as they had been drinking a lot of beer and the encounter could lead to worse things like punches being thrown. I guess there was no need to experience jail on a Friday night. 

These guys and their mouths were disgustingly obnoxious and in my mind needed to be told about it and really needed a foot to be placed in their backside. I respected my wife's request to keep the peace by not saying something. That did not sit well with me and still isn't sitting well with me this morning. Rene asked later if we could pray for those guys and for an attitude change so that they become aware of their mouths and that their future actions would be less harmful to others. I felt really bad for that family with kids who had to hear the constant vulgar speech. 

I am not sure if my prayer was contrite and from the heart because I was mouthing the correct words but in my mind I was praying for a lightning strike from heaven to wipe these guys off of the Earth. 

So to the point I go. I will probably never see those four again and if I do I hope my wife isn't with me. I will continue to pray for them and also for myself. I need to let God handle those guys and straighten them out. Those four and me need a change of heart.  You see in the Bible verse above that it applies to not only those four but to me also. And four of the commands apply to me and only one applies to them. Argh!

God bless,

Marty

Repairing The Garden Hose 6/24/2022

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and I am ready to get this day on it's way.

James, 1:14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. 

A few days ago while watering our plants I noticed that the garden hose in our back yard had a pin hole in it. I wondered how a pinhole came to fruition on my watering implement. So I made a splice in the hose at the site of the hole and all was well. The next night both of our dogs were barking like crazy. I turned on the flood lights in the back yard and let the dogs outside. I then heard some shrill yapping and I went flying out of the door to see what the commotion was all about. 

Our two dogs had cornered a small puppy in our yard who was chewing on our hose. The yard is totally fenced in and only a small puppy could get underneath the fence and still it would be a struggle. I rescued the little lady from her encounter with the "boys". They did not hurt her at all. They played around with her, yet she was afraid. She had left home and now was captive. Another minute later I heard someone calling for their dog. The dog had a name and it was Shirley. The owner of Shirley was frantically searching for her. And to be honest she was quite a distance from home. I let her owner into our yard and he explained how his four year old child keeps letting the dog out. He also explained how they had given Shirley a piece of heavy garden hose to chew on. So I had the hose munching culprit captured. The owner offered to purchase a new hose for us and we declined. I remember our dog Gibbs doing that to the hose in the front yard. He also let us know that when he walks Shirley and as she goes by our house, she is always looking for our two dogs. I guess she strains at the leash and tries to get into our yard.  I wonder, now that she had the pee scared out of her, will she still want to return and hang out with the guys.  My point for the day is this. Not all things that we long for are good for us. The excitement of hanging out with the wrong fellas was too much for little Shirley. She gave into temptation and she could have gotten lost or run into the wrong dogs. 

So today, when the urge to hop the fence and see what the grass is like on the other side tempts you, ask yourself this. Is this good for me? Will it have a bad impact on my family and my reputation? If so, retreat and consider it a done deal not to engage with temptation. 

Marty

God Can Be Counted On

Good Morning. 

Started my day with some Door County Hawaiian Hazelnut Coffee. I recently had someone ask where I go for coffee so early in the morning that serves Door County Coffee. To tell you the truth I go to my kitchen. I brew it daily. The Door County Coffee Company is located in Northern Wisconsin in the Door County Peninsula. My wife and I like to vacation and rest there. I can order it on-line or some of our local stores carry it. www.doorcountycoffee.com  I highly recommend it.

Many years ago when starting out in the work force my parents gave me a Thermos to keep my coffee hot and me warm. I am 65 years old now and I still have that thermos. They paid good money for it and I have used it for work and hunting. Even on the coldest of days I have been able to count on it  to dispense a nice hot cup of cider or coffee. I usually hunt with someone else along with the dog and myself. Many a cold night has gone by when right after loading the boat on to the truck after a duck and goose hunt I have opened my thermos and offered a cold buddy a hot cup of cider.

We both will usually say "boy that hit the spot".

There are two ways to look at this as a devotional.

#1 James 2:16
If one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?

We are to share and provide for the comfort of others.

#2 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
Psalm 73:23, 24

Like my Thermos God can always be counted on even in the dark and cold of the night. He never let's us down. There is nothing like God to warm a heart.

Love you all.
Marty

It Could Be A Test 6/22/2022

 

Good Morning,

I am ready to write as I drink a cup of Door County Caramel Latte Coffee. My two dogs are snoring and this has started my day. 

I read once about a fast food vendor who's main business on Sunday came from the local Christian Church after their Sunday Service. The owner decided to test the regulars. He instructed his staff to grossly over pay each customer when they made change and to add a noticeable amount of food to each order. Out of 30 or so customers only one returned the extra change and offered to pay for the extra food. Guess which church was not allowed to perform a car wash on his site?

— 1 Peter 2:12 —
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

Peter's advice sounds like Jesus' actions in Matthew 5:16 — if your actions are above reproach, even hostile people will end up praising God. Peter's readers were scattered among unbelieving Gentiles who were inclined to believe and spread vicious lies about Christians. Attractive, gracious and upright behavior on the part of Christians could show these rumors to be false and could even win some of the unsaved critics to the Lord's side. Don't write off people because they misunderstand Christianity; instead, show them Christ by your life. The day may come when those who criticize you will praise God with you!

Have a great day. Honor God with your actions and words.

Marty

Take Me Out To The Ball Game 6/21/22

 Good Morning,

A hot cup of Door County Caramel Latte Coffee is doing good things by this old body this morning. It is time to write. 

Last night my wife Rene and I were treated to by my brother to a Major League Baseball game. There of course was a tailgate picnic with brats and all kinds of goodies. The game was a great one and our home team came away the winners for the night. We are truly grateful to him for the nice outing and time spent together with him and his friends. 

Proverbs 11:17 Those who are kind , benefit themselves. 

It was extremely warm in the stadium and once we the game was over we made haste to get to our air conditioned vehicles and head home. That cold air inside my truck felt really good and both Rene and I remarked that we were actually a little bit cold. 

Where am I going with this? Before I went to bed last night I took some time to thank God for some of our comforts and the blessings of the night. You could say that I took time to count my blessings. I fell asleep quickly and probably with a smile. My brother is a lot younger than I am and while counting my blessings I recalled me taking him on my bike and treating him to a burger at a small burger palace called Paul's. I would sit him on the bike in front of me and I would pedal a mile to the place and I would treat him to a burger and fries with money I had earned from mowing lawns. 

My point is this. Life goes full circle on us and before you know it, those who you once treated when they were very young are now taking the old guy to a ball game. I believe that kindness is always repaid. Not that it should be our goal to receive kindness back for kindness given, but I believe God blesses a kind heart. Last night was more than a ball game to me. My brother gave me time with my family and I met some new people also. So friends, take time to give kindness and that is reward enough. But when it does go full circle and someone is kind to you, say thanks and remember God is the one who arranged it all. Thanks Jim! I would pedal you all the way to Paul's if they hadn't torn it down.

Marty

Can You Ever Forget? 6/20/2022

 Good Morning,

Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee filled my mug this fine day and it is time to write. I want to spend some time this week on forgiving. 

The phrase “forgive and forget” is not found in the Bible. However, there are numerous verses commanding us to “forgive one another” (e.g., Matthew 6:14 and Ephesians 4:32). A Christian who is not willing to forgive others will find his fellowship with God hindered (Matthew 6:15) and can reap bitterness and the loss of reward (Hebrews 12:14–15; 2 John 1:8).  Credit    Got Questions,

 Being unable to forgive is often a stumbling block to Christians and it holds them back in many ways in life. God clearly commands us to forgive one another. People often say that we are to forget the trespasses  committed against us as well as forgiving those who committed the trespass. They will often quote Hebrews 8:12 and advise others that we are to forget trespasses as God does. 

For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” Hebrews 8:12

This is something that in all reality only God can do. An all powerful, and all knowing God will know that we have committed sins and fall short of His glory. When a person receives Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior heaven is theirs and they enter in as if they never sinned. Jesus has paid that price. 

In forgetting a trespass a person might think they can trust the offender again and put themselves in a place to have the offender harm them again. Our memory of the offence should keep us away from having it happen to us again. 

Now if someone were to tell me that they are forgiving their offender and are trying to move on, I can accept that and it is Scriptural. 

Philippians 3:13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do is behind and straining toward what is ahead.

We need to remember that only God is in the business of purifying hearts and until full repentance takes place within the heart of the offender, one runs the risk of being hurt again. The prudent see danger and avoid it. Being cautious does not mean we haven't forgiven. It simply means we are not God and cannot see into the hearts of men. 

Food for thought!

Marty

Dad's Advice And Warnings 6/19/2022

 Good Morning,

I hit the ground running this morning and I stopped long enough to make some Door County Highlander Grog Coffee. I want to take a moment to give a shout out to all the Dad's who will read this today and wish them a Happy Father's Day. You might be reading this and thinking about your own father. Or they have passed on and you are missing them today as is the case with me. 

Proverbs 23:22. Listen to your father who gave you life and do not despise your mother when she is old. 

This past week we had some severe storms roll into the area and on one afternoon it caused some flash flooding in a normally docile creek. The rain caused the creek to swell up and speed up. I have been in this area and have seen this happen before. What is a lazy little creek becomes a roaring treacherous river in minutes. A young boy who was near by the river at high flood time had his soccer ball somehow someway end up in the turbulent terror. He went into the river after it. His dad and a friend witnessed this and went into the water to save the boy who was struggling and soon disappeared into a tunnel. All three drowned and were recovered from the watery grave a couple days later. Such a tragedy and my heart breaks for those families. 

I too lived close enough to this same creek as a boy. My dad knew that creeks and boys go together. One day right after an epic storm my Dad took my sister and me to see the roaring river. He explained to us that no ball or anything else of ours was ever valuable enough to go into that river after it. He explained the danger of doing so was way too dangerous. Unfortunately that same summer another nasty storm came in and after the rain stopped some kids were playing near the swollen creek and one fell in and drown. Once that hit the news it added credence to my dad's rule of staying away from the creek on a stormy day. 

Dad's have a way of spotting danger and pointing it out to their children and being very explicit on the consequences. Instructing our children is one of the jobs God has planned out for fathers. God spends much time in the Book of Proverbs telling us to listen to the instructions of our fathers. Dads, my charge to you is to give instructions and advice for as long as you can. But follow your own advice and the instructions of your own father. Set an example for your children. This includes grandfathers.

Dads your are an important tool God created to teach, love and care for your children. Always step up and instruct. It is your God given duty.

Have a great day!

Marty

September On My Mind 6/18/2022

 Good Morning,

I can't tell you how much I am enjoying this day already. The sun is shining and the temperature is very comfortable. I have a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee next to me and I am ready to write. 

Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live. 13 That  everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil. This is God's gift to man. 

I have a few months to go until September and I don't want to rush through summer, but I am looking forward to a fishing trip with some good friends of mine.  It will be a week of laughs, great food and hopefully some good fishing for walleye. I haven't seen these guys since last year and I am hoping that things keep going well for the group so we can make this an annual get together until we just can't do it anymore. 

We have one fella who does an excellent job of getting us all together and plans who brings what and communicates any changes or updates. I have known him for a long time. He is a take charge kind of guy and his organizational skills are much needed. He is the one responsible for getting me into duck hunting. I will always be grateful for that. There isn't a one time while hunting for waterfowl that I don't think about him and recall a hunt or two we enjoyed together. Note in the passage above, part of living life is to to be satisfied with doing good at all times. I believe that doing good does provide joy that is indescribable. 

So today as I pour out my thoughts into this blog, my message for all of you out there is to enjoy life as much as you can. Take time for reunions like I will in September (Lord willing) and do the things you like to do. I hope to return home with a few fish for the freezer and a sore body from laughing like we did last year. So for today as I am signing off, know that you are loved, you were just prayed for and may your day be filled with peace, happiness and great memories. 

God bless,

Marty

It Was A Heavy Price 6/17/22

 Good Morning,

No coffee for me today. Maybe later? I am headed in for some routine blood tests and I had to fast for 12 hours. Come on 8am! 

John 3:16-18(NIV)

¹⁶ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. ¹⁸ Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

The Bible verses above are a mouth full. They explain the gift God sent to  you and I that we might have eternal life in heaven. These are beautiful words with an out of this world promise. But yet there is a section that should strike fear into anyone. "but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son."

There are two promises within these passages, both deal with eternity. One is heaven and one is hell. God sent His one and only Son to complete the task and give the invitation. Through Jesus the Christian church was established to carry on the message under the power of the Holy Spirit. God did and does so much to let us know that we are loved enough to have His Son Jesus die on the cross for us. He raised Jesus up so we would never have to doubt. Jesus showed us victory over the grave and then invites us to follow Him home to live. The other, not so nice. Without Jesus we are condemned.

These are some of the most memorized verses, ones seen the most on television through sporting events. Yet I believe these verses are also taken for granted because we tend not to appreciate the true price paid for our eternal life.

Think about it for a moment. Most kids really never know what price was paid for a gift given to them by their family. Some without means don't know that Dad's work shoes are held together with glue while they ride a new bike. Or how many mothers don't eat so the kids are fed. They just know that there is some food or a bike. We tend to forget what this gift cost God and Jesus. 

Have a great day!

Today's thought is this. Be thankful for the gift of Jesus. If He never ever did another thing for you didn't He already do enough?

Don't Fry Anyone In Front Of The Kids 6/16/2022

 Good Morning,

Up with prayer for a day that hopefully will see the end to a successful project. My mug is filled with Door County Cinnamon Sugar Biscotti Coffee and I am out the door and headed to Chicago Illinois.

Yesterday I had kind of a food theme going so I will continue with that thought for today.

Romans 13:1-7        
Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer. Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God's wrath but also for the sake of conscience.

Authority? In the average Christian home how would you imagine that respect for authority is taught to the children?

Let's take a look. Tax time, do we include all dollars made on the side as income? Or do we burn the authority of government like a cheap hamburger? What do the kids see?

Sick days at work? Do we call in and say we are sick just so we can relax or go somewhere? Do we cheat the authority of our employers and toss aside  rules like a well tossed salad? A salad where we just eat any meat we find and throw away the rest of the salad. We like a pay check but don't want to submit to the rules?  What do the kids see?

How about that drive home after a Sunday Church service and while in the car we just rip the pastor for his sermon or plea? We French Fry the poor guy in front of the kids.

How about at school? Is the teacher ever right anymore? Or do we run and blame the teacher every time little Johnnie or Gertrude gets a bad grade? We come in and make enough noise to flop any cake in any oven.  That's teaching the kids respect.

I could go on for hours on this subject. But kids follow the examples we set. Think about that the next time you say "make sure your seat belts are fastened, we are late and we need to go very fast to get there". Now that's a winner! As you speed off setting the cruise control for just 6 mph over the limit. Now that's road kill for supper mentality. What do the kids learn?

It's your choice. They will respect you as much as you show respect to your authorities.

God bless,
Marty

Battling A Heat Wave. Make The Best Of It. 6/15/2022

 Good Morning,

This day finds me traveling with a work partner and a hot cup of Door County Sweet Clementine Coffee. It is time to write.

In my area of the world we are battling some extreme temperatures and recently some rough storms. I am not all that fond of hot weather, but it is what we have at the moment. There is not much I can do about it. 

Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good. 

That is the message for the day. There are some things that we encounter now and then. And in many instances there is nothing we can do about a situation. It is hard to accept those times and they seem to come all too often. In the milder instances like this heat wave, I can do what I can to make the best of it. I have a bottle of sweet peach sun tea brewing out on the patio. Making the best of a bad time!!!

Then there are those terrible times when someone in the family passes away. Nothing you can be done to bring them back. A choice to get by and make the best of a situation like that. You could if possible be a stronghold for others and support them during this time of grieving. In some instances funerals bring out family members and friends that you haven't seen in a long time. Try to enjoy the visit and make the best of it. It is tough to do but there is usually something you can do in all situations to make the best of things. 

The last time we had to huddle in the basement because of severe storms,  Rene and I played cards for awhile and found comfort in prayer. 

Whatever the circumstance, look for the silver lining somehow, someway.

Marty

 

Don't Make The Kids Shake The Tree 6/14/2022

 Good Morning,

Running late today. Duty called last night and due to a storm I could not finish my work until later. Something knocked out the internet for a few hours.  I worked pretty late and I am counting on my mug of Door County Sweet Clementine Coffee to wake me up and push me out to greet the day. 

Mark - Chapter 10:13-14

13. People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them.
14. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."

 

Rene and I are empty nesters now. The ones who greet me at the door are our two dogs Leo and  Gibbs. Their tails wag as they prance around looking for attention. I can't pass them by without scratching their ears for a minute and acknowledging them.

I used to watch the kids who live across the street from us who on many days were outside playing when their Dad returned home from work. He was greeted by the three kids much like puppies who had waited all day for their master to return. They wanted to be acknowledged and played with by Dad.

 

I remember the days when I was a little boy and my dad would come home very late from work and he would tell me to look into his lunch box. I would sometimes find a bag of peanuts or a small candy bar there for us.

 

It is a shame when parents get caught up in the excessive activities of life and are always too tired to spend even just a little quality time with the children God has given them. Children will often act out in order to get attention. This is their way of shaking the "sugar tree." Video games, sport clubs, and empty promises are not the same as a walk with dad or mom, sitting on a tired but loving lap, reading together, playing catch, eating pretend cake with pretend tea, crawling into a fort made of blankets, playing a board game and losing, or sharing a soggy Oreo cookie.  Kids will give away hints of their need to bond with a parent. The biggest hint is when you no longer see them. They scroll their lives away in their room and seldom come out, because they are tired of shaking the sugar tree with nothing falling.

So today before your child has to shake the tree, surprise them with a gift of your time, just for them. Laugh together, listen to the story that seems like it won't end, run and kick a ball, make the lemonade and sit down with them and write with chalk on the sidewalk. Jesus made time for children and He had a world to save.

Have a great day. Let the sugar fly.

Marty

Marty

Self Examination For Growling 6/13/2022

 Good Morning,

Door County Hazelnut Cream Coffee is steaming in my cup and it is a good way to start this morning. I am ready to write and then head to work. 

Proverbs 29:11 A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man holds it back.

Yesterday I wrote about the possibility that we might growl too much and that causes people to avoid us. Now I want to guide us through my checklist from yesterday and show all of us different ways we growl. Note there are more ways to growl than verbally. 

1. Are you approachable?  How do you stand or sit when being approached? Arms crossed with a "you are boring me facial expression." You are silently growling. 

2. Do others feel safe around you? When angry do you make irrational threats? Good sign that you are a growler,

3. Can you listen without interrupting? Interrupting is a way of saying "Hurry up, this isn't important and what you think doesn't matter." You pegged the growling meter. 

4.  Do you stop what you are doing to be welcoming? Not having someone know that they are a priority to you is another form of silent growling ,which is just as nasty as any other forms of growling. 

5. Do you share? The inability to share things with others is a definite sign that you are selfish and is another form of being mean, which falls in the category of growling. Not sharing means, you just told someone that you are much more important than they are. 

6. Do you make the first call or do you always wait to be contacted? This is a form of growling as long as you go and tell others no one calls you. The phone works both ways. Growl on!

7. Do you forgive without seeking revenge? Major form of growling. This means you are one that has to have the last word and are very judgmental, selfish and not at peace. 

8. Do you attend gatherings when invited or make excuses to stay home? Not attending is your way of growling about something or it could be an act of jealousy. Not attending gives a direct shot to someone that they don't matter to you.

9. Do others who love you sit on pins and needles wondering how you will behave socially? If people have to worry about your behavior and for good reasons, it could be that you have over growled in the past.

10.  Can you love others unconditionally? Can you just love people for who they are and not try to change them? Changing people to meet your needs is selfish and lacks unconditional love. Another form of growling!

11. Are you loyal or are you one who back stabs others? Can you be counted on for help or excuses as to why you can't help? Is your word good or is it easily derailed? Growling!!!!

You are known for your actions, reactions and lack of action. This is an easy way to hurt people, have your way and then be lonely. 

Food for thought.

Marty

Talking To The Dogs 6/12/2022

 Good Morning,

My day began with a hot cup of Door County Hazelnut Creme Coffee and a walk in the wet grass. This day has the potential to be outstanding. 

Philippians 2:1-5 If there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, and participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2. complete my joy of being the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3. Do nothing from selfish ambition and conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4. let each of you look not only to your own interests but, also to the interests of others. 5. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus. 

Our two dogs Leo and Gibbs, are in our minds members of the family. They are like many pets, very loyal, compassionate and they certainly provide and enjoy plenty of fun. They are the best greeters and foot warmers one could have asked for. In our home they are a secondary source of security. They do believe they they own the house and are willing to bark and growl if necessary if something is out of sorts. My wife Rene says she feels more secure when I am not home, having one of them around. They do also keep us on time. They wake me up most of the time before the alarm clock goes off. I know what time it is in the afternoon when they are lined up by their empty food dishes waiting for them to be filled. They are like precision time pieces. 

Why am I writing this today? I have paid attention to how I interact with our two fur bundles lately. I am laughing right now because some of you will identify with me. I ask them questions, as I scratch behind their ears for their morning dose of affection, I say good morning and "Ready to eat'? Now I can assure you that hey have not spoken to me and I am sure they don't comprehend most of what I am saying. But yet I still talk to them as if they had anything to say back to me. 

So before you all turn me in to the local authorities, for some mental health work, take away my car keys and guns and just certify me as crazy, think about this. Maybe you are lonely and could use some more visitors. Maybe you find that friends and family don't call on you or invite you to things. 

Remember my opening statements. Our dogs growl when they sense danger and most people stop in their tracks until they know or we acknowledge for them to come in and it is safe to be around the dogs. Once that is established they are greeted with wagging tails and some toys so they can play. 

It could be that maybe you are lonely because you growl too much at those who desire to be around you or those you interact with professionally , and socially. It might just be that your growl and your bite have been shown to those who want to love you, way too much. They have decided that you aren't friendly and instead of socializing with you they prefer to just stay away. Unfortunately this occurs within families way too often. Take a little quiz this morning.

1. Are you approachable?  

2. Do others feel safe around you?

3. Can you listen without interrupting?

4.  Do you stop what you are doing to be welcoming?

5. Do you share?

6. Do you make the first call or do you always wait to be contacted?

7. Do you forgive without seeking revenge? 

8. Do you attend gatherings when invited or make excuses to stay home?

9. Do others who love you sit on pins and needles wondering how you will behave socially?

10.  Can you love others unconditionally? 

11. Are you loyal or are you one who back stabs others?

If you score low on these questions it could be that you growl too much and it is not the world who is unapproachable, but you haven't learned how to be friendly. I looked over these questions and have decided that this topic needs one more day of discussion. 

I am going to explore some of these questions tomorrow just for fun. Hang in there with me.

Have a great day.

Marty

Working For The Right Reason 6/11/2022

 Good  Morning,

The day began with prayer and a hot mug of Door County Irish Cream Coffee. Later I will sit down to breakfast with a friend of mine and we will catch up on thoughts and ideas for a dinner we are planning at church. 

Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.

Most everyone knows what it is like to put in a days work for a days pay. Have you ever considered that how you perform your work tells a lot about you? Are you dedicated to your employer? Do you strive for perfection, and give the work you do your best? The question is this. Do you take pride in your work? Can you be counted on in times of strife at work? 

The job you have was given to you by God. He is the provider of all things. Your work ethic says a lot about your relationship with God. Do you refocus during the day to remind yourself that you are God's child, performing a job and you represent Him at work, play or at home. When we follow God's perspective to do a good job at work, like we are doing it for Him, our efforts stay on the right track.

Our job or work is always watched over by God. He knows the job He laid before you and His expectation is that you will do it well.

Food for thought!

Marty

Stop And Trust 6/10/2022

 Good Morning,

Sitting at my feet are our two English Springer Spaniels and to my right is a hot cup of Door County Irish Cream Coffee. I think I am ready to write.

Psalm 46:1-2, 10     1. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2.Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed and thought mountains are carried into the sea.

10. Be still and know that I am God. 

I would not be exaggerating at all if I said that the world is a mess right not now. Climate changes, school shootings, workplace shootings, countries at war, others testing missiles that will lead to their country being wiped off of all maps, men competing as women in sports, world wide pandemics, are  just some of the issues and I won't even touch for too long on inflation. The list is long my friends.

Yet woven within the tapestry of the book of Psalms we find a simple instruction from God as forest fires rage "stop, look up, and listen . His answer to us when we are emotionally troubled is short and to the point.  We find ourselves focusing on the chaos and and problems and not on the One who holds the solutions or answers to our problems.  It is time to stop. Focus on who God is and how much He loves YOU. Pray as if you were writing your own psalm and share your heart with God who is full of power and compassion. 

Just a little food for thought on this Friday.

Marty

All The New Homes 6/9/2022

 

Good Morning,

I started this day with a hot cup of Door County Hazelnut Cream Coffee and some Cheerios. It is going to be a long day and cereal with some coffee will keep me going for a long time. The other day while my wife and I were shopping for some antiques, our quest took us through some rural areas. Both of us remarked as to how many new homes were being constructed. We talked about the experiences we had when we built our home.

Psalm 127:1

Unless the Lord builds the house, 

They labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, The watchman stays awake in vain

I could not help but wonder about all the families in these new homes. How many would see the tragedy of divorce? How many would see a child or teen run away? How many would see some type of drug addiction enter the home? I did not wonder about the construction of the house. They all looked very nice from the highway. I am sure they were all built with quality. But Who is the builder of each home?

Psalm 127 has a serious and grim message that reminds us that unless God builds our homes (spiritually) we all labor in vain. But it does not have to be grim. As each home owner chose a builder for the house. We must all choose Who will build our homes. 

Joshua 24:15

New King James Version (NKJV)

¹⁵ And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

The choice is ours.

God bless,
Marty

We All Get Depressed Now And Then 6-8-2022

 Good Morning,

I have a busy day ahead with much to do. My coffee this morning is Door County Hazelnut Creme. The weather is dreary and not much of a pick me up.

Dear Friends, I think that from time to time we all suffer our bouts with depression. It would be real easy to write a blog today and say "suck it up it's not that bad". But that would not be fair and really not realistic at all. We all have our own paths to follow in life. At each turn there can be something that has an impact on us that causes us to wonder if it will ever end. For some, one turn in life leads to a barrage of circumstances that are lined up and just seem to be too much to handle.

For many of us depression sets in and we start to take count of our life and wonder where God is in all of this? We even question our existence.  I have made the mistake of saying "what's next"? Not looking for a reprieve but almost wanting another tough blow.

Since from time to time we have all been there in the depths of depression, it should be easy for us to spot someone who is fighting with depression. Then it is our duty to reach out and offer a smile, an ear, a prayer, and some comfort. I can't be with all of you today and you can't be everywhere either. But God can be and He does speak through His word. I have placed below some Bible verses that reassure us that God is with each of us and that we can turn to him and say, "Lord this is getting the best of me. I hurt and need you to comfort me". He will not let you down.

Psalms 34:17 When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

Psalms 40:1-3 I waited patiently for the LORD; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD.

God wants to help. Let Him in for a good cry. He will stay right there through it all. Most of all. remember that whether I know you or not, I will pray for each of you who reads this today in a general prayer. You are loved.

God bless,
Marty

On Eagles Wings 6/7/2022

        Good morning,

Just a cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee to jump start the day.

Isaiah 4:28-31

⁸ Have you not known?

Have you not heard?

The everlasting God, the Lord,

The Creator of the ends of the earth,

Neither faints nor is weary.

His understanding is unsearchable.

²⁹ He gives power to the weak,

And to those who have no might He increases strength.

³⁰ Even the youths shall faint and be weary,

And the young men shall utterly fall,

³¹ But those 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.

These well known words were written originally to the children of Israel as they were returning for their exile in Babylon. Their city was gone, their temple destroyed. They had been in bondage under harsh rulers for over sixty years. They had waited to see what God would do in their most difficult  situation, they had had no choice but to wait.

Even in their waiting, the people had not become immersed in the Babylonian civilization. Unlike many nations. they had kept their identity and remembered their God. Now in their release they were to return to their homeland to re-establish their lives, their country, and their faith.

But the people were tired, weary, full of doubt. They felt forgotten and had begun to ask the questions: Who is God? and therefore, Who are we? The words of the prophet now resonate in their ears.

Their God is everlasting, He is the creator. God does not faint or grow weary, he has unending strength. God’s ways are unsearchable. He gives power to those who are faint and strength to the powerless.

As to who God is, the answer is direct and sure. But who are his people in this context? They are the weary, the fainthearted, the exhausted—they are those who must wait for him. They have no strength to continue on their journey. It is not circumstances that has stopped them, but their own inability to go on.

The truth is that all people of faith are at some time the people for whom these words are written. We all must wait for the strength of God. His assurance to these patient waiters in him is that their strength will be renewed. They will soar with wings like eagles.

God bless,

Marty

Different Tastes , But It Works. 6/6/2022

 Good Morning, 

Monday before us and Sunday in the past. Another day is dawning and I am greeting mine with a hot cup of Door County Mocha Mint Coffee and some prayer. 

Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle, be patient, bearing with one another in love. 

I needed to make some repairs to one of our bathrooms yesterday on the 2nd floor of our home. I very seldom use that restroom, but my wife does. I leave all the decorating of our home to her and I don't believe there is another home like it. A lot of the things in the house are antiques, or antiques that have been repurposed to become useful again.  While making the repairs I looked around and recalled the day Rene had this idea to reuse a tool box and some old faucet parts to make a towel holder. I was very skeptical , but just did what I was asked to do. When the work on the tool box was completed and then hung on the wall it became a "towel holder".  It's not what I would have mounted there to hang a towel, but it works. Not only does it work, but it pleases my wife and that's good enough for me. 

We have two different tastes on just about everything and she has definite ideas on what she likes hung or standing in the home I follow her lead most of the time. 

We are all different and have different ideas on how things should be or operate and many times we are very passionate and partial to our ideas. What works in our home is the ability to compromise and see the value in each others opinion. This is lacking within the world today. Everyone wants it one way or no way at all. This unwillingness to compromise and move on for the good of all stalls growth, safety, and adds fuel to overblown passions that eventually erupt in chaos and anger. 

We needed something to hang towels on. Both ideas would work. But one of us was passionate about how. We met in the middle. I saw her idea and it didn't hurt anything to have it done in the way she saw it. But I did not let the difference of opinion divide us from meeting a need. Yesterday I had a towel to use and that was good enough for me. 

God bless,

Marty

I See God's Own Monuments 6/5/2022

 Good Morning,

Starting today with a big cup of Door County Lighthouse Blend Coffee.

God has created all things. I have had the pleasure of seeing many things like canyons, roaring rivers, shooting stars, beautiful sunsets, mirror like lakes, icicles, a full moon and some waterfalls.

Waterfalls amaze me, with their turbulence, noise and the mist that comes from the water smashing against rocks. I have been blessed to see a frozen waterfall. You could hear the water rushing but all you could see was a huge wall of ice. My wife and I made a visit to Niagara Falls a few years back. You could just feel the ground shake as you approached as close as you could get to the falls. It made me think about the many historical and beautiful monuments that one could visit around the world. Our capital Washington DC has many beautiful and ornate man made monuments. But Niagara Falls was created by God and is a monument unto Him. Now and then my mind wanders to the places I have seen or visited. It's OK to do that. I see God in creation. Thinking about that beauty at times will slow me down, calm my fears, reduce stress, bring peace, and draw me closer to God. I am reminded of His power and love for us. Niagara Falls reminds me of God in that He cannot be contained and is all powerful.

Philippians 4:8        
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.


Have a wonderful day. God bless.

Marty