Stalled In The Fast Lane 1/31/2023

 Good Morning,

It is Tuesday and I need to apologize for not writing on Monday. Some personal issues kept me from writing. You will need to trust me when I say that time constrictions were super tough and I needed to make some adjustments.  I just poured a hot cup of Door County Autumn Spice Coffee and now it is time to write. 

Photo Credit University Church Of Chicago

My last two days had me going in multiple directions and trying to meet some expectations I set for myself and I found that I just wasn't up to the task. For me, the last couple of days felt like I was traveling on the freeway in the fast lane and I stalled out. Once I stalled out it was hard to get moving again and then make sure I was headed in the right direction. If your car has ever stalled for you on a busy road, you know what I mean. Instead of a car it was a man with good intentions who chewed off a little more than I should have. I found myself trying to pay attention to the spinning plates and keep them in the air. At first it was easy to juggle the life events but then as I added more to the juggling act I stalled out and the plates began to drop.

1Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.

So my advice for all of you is to keep a task list and share it with someone and when that someone questions the list as to how many items are on it, LISTEN and begin to trim wherever you can. My wife warned me that sooner or later I would stall out and that I should slow down, Those who know you best should be listened to.

Keep the faith!

Marty

Digging Out 1/29/2023

 Good Morning,

The Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee is super hot this morning and I am ready to write. 

Milwaukee snow storm 1978. Photo credit. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Once daylight hits today I will be outside removing about a foot of snow from our driveway and our neighbor's driveway as well. We experienced our first significant snow storm for the winter. We are way behind in the snow totals for the winter tally. 

Romans 12:21 Don't be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. 

So today I want to say that the term "digging out" is just a way of saying snow removal. But yet it can be applied to other things such as digging out from a mistake that was made. No matter the application snow or mistakes or issues the job requires some heavy work and dedication to the task. The snow isn't removed until all the sidewalks and driveways are once again made usable. For instance a debt owed is not paid off until it is paid  in full. A marriage is not fixed until there is peace and harmony. In both of theses instances hard work will be required to be debt free or have a marriage that is happy and honors God.  Sometimes we make mistakes that are costly to others or our reputation, digging out from those can have long hard days ahead of us. But in order to be free from continual consequences from not seeing the digging out through to the end, just allows the mistake to linger and fester within the hearts of others and our own hearts. 

So if you are "digging out" from anything at all. Keep digging until the slate is cleaned and you feel good about the situation or experience freedom from the bonds of mistakes. 

Have a great day. Shovel hard!

Marty

Hot Coffee And A Hot Fire 1/28/2023

 Good Morning,

I started a fire about 10 minutes ago and the dried oak is already producing some heat. The wood is crackling and that sound really makes me feel good.  I have a hot cup of Door County Coconut Cupcakes Coffee steaming next to me and it is time to write. 

Mark 6:31 And He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a quiet place and rest a while. 

This last week was very slow for having any work at my part time job, so small things were accomplished at home and I had a nice time at the slower pace. It picks up next week and I will be busier. It will help me to look forward to next weekend. 

This morning I took advantage of not having anywhere to go until tonight and I stoked up the fireplace, fed the dogs, and waited for the coffee to finish brewing. I opened my Bible and did a little reading before I started writing, and friends I have to say this. I am content, warm, and renewed spiritually. The slow week did me some good and I do not feel guilty about slacking off for a week. More than my body, I relaxed my mind and soul. I believe now and then we need to check ourselves into a spa which could just be your yard, den, living room or a walk in the woods or park. I believe at times we need and extended stay to recharge and breathe. I mention taking a breath.  Take in some fresh air. I have a bakery in mind and I plan on going by today just to smell the warm cookies that they turn out every hour. You can smell the sweet aroma outside in their parking lot. I will purchase some bakery so I am not known as the "Parking Lot Sniffer". My point is this, take time to enjoy something simple and good. It makes the day a little brighter!

Marty

Favorite Hymns In The Garden 1/27/2023

 Good Morning,

I am approaching this Friday with gusto. I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee and looking forward to a fish fry with a family member tonight. 

John 10:27-28 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of My hand.

At our church service on Saturday nights the music format is primarily the old hymns. I do most of the preaching and the service is very informal and could be called laid back. We spend some time each week letting those folks in the pews share what God has done in their lives during the last week. 

I like it and it suits my wife and I very well. Now and then we sing one of my favorite hymns. I have fallen to sleep many times with my head phones on listening to "In The Garden". I really prefer listening to the Elvis Presley version of the song. This song hits home with me every time. 

In my early months of Christianity the line "I come to the garden alone" was very special to me. In the early years I did feel alone quite often. Yet in my darkest times and while praying, the voice I heard in my mind, heart and soul was that of Jesus. He walked me through those times and assured me that He would never leave me. There were moments of tears and great joy while listening to this song. 

I wanted to express today just how at times,when you might think the writer of this morning dribble might have it all together, I don't.  Life hits me hard just as it hits all of you from time to time. I can always tell when I need to run and hide in the garden of God and let Him reassure me that He is with me and He is willing to talk and walk. 

Time spent in listening to God and absorbing His reassurances are never a waste of time. It actually feels good. "The joy we share as we tarry there none other has ever known" .

Have a great day, Slow down and and let Him walk with you and talk with you.

Marty

Slippery Roads 1/26/2023

 Good Morning, 

I just poured a large, hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee and it feels good to be in a warm house with a quiet den to work from. 

Psalm 23:3 He restore my soul and leads me in paths of righteousness.

As I let the dogs out this morning it was very apparent that a small amount of snow fell over night. I tuned in the news cast from one of our local channels and they were advising everyone that the road conditions were "slippery to slick". Well that is all I needed to hear to make the decision to not wake my wife up from her sleep. Rene was going to drive out to her home town 62 miles away and keep working on emptying her mother's house. Mother is settled in with an apartment and assisted living. 

Now mind you, there wasn't a blizzard to contend with but the roads are less than desirable for now. Since this is a work day and not a weekend, there are plenty of folks that need to be somewhere today, In my mind I say if you can stay off the roads and the traffic is lighter for those needing to travel around, then just do your part and let the road crews catch up with the salting and snow removal, 

This is a warning that we are accustomed to hearing where we live. "Beware Of Slippery Roads" This warning can be applied to many things. Besides the snow impact, I want to say that anytime we are consumed by something that we want or desire, which takes our eyes off of God and it eats at our mind causing us to lose sleep, we are on a slippery road. 

When it is required to drive on a slippery road we at best should take extra precautions like having both hands on the steering wheel. We should drive slower and avoid distractions even more so that we usually do. We should be aware of other vehicles ahead of us or next to us. This is normal for winter driving. Focus on the road!

The same applies in life. We should only be on the path that leads us safely in life and to do that we need to focus on truth, reality, and the guidance of God. In other words Focus on the One who can lead us on a life of righteousness, truth,  and correct behavior. We need to accept when things are not good for us or others and move with God to those thing which are good and acceptable. 

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, what ever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.

The roads of life can be slippery and slick and we do go through them each day. But why not travel each day of life with God at the wheel and let Him takes us to another day and the days there after? 

Food for thought!

Marty

 

Oil Those Boots Boy! 1/25/2023

 Good Morning,

I am letting my body have enough time to adjust to the morning. Nothing is moving too fast today and it is allowing me time to enjoy my cup of Door County Christmas Coffee. I have just about finished off all of my Christmas flavors. Waste not want not. 

Job 32:7 I said, "Let days speak and many years teach wisdom." 

Yesterday My wife Rene and I spent the day together looking through antique shops and then having lunch together in a small mom and pop restaurant. On the way home we stopped to look at a new pair of work boots for me. I am needing to retire a pair that I purchased about ten years ago. They have been repaired twice and have been worn out. The boots served me well and I have no complaints. 

The boot shopping wasn't a difficult task at all. I looked at three different pairs of boots, tried them on and an easy decision was made as to which pair would be going home with us. 

A lesson learned a long time ago will be applied today. I used to stay with my grand parents during the summers in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Each summer my grandfather would take me to JC Penny's store about 55 miles away and he would purchase some new leather boots for me to wear while fishing, trapping bait and for other chores. I recall the first pair and the last pair purchased. At that time a growing boy had to replace boots annually. I was ready to wear that first pair immediately after coming home. I was stopped dead in my tracks from dong so. It was a very hot day and the boots were set on the porch and out came two chairs. I knew a lesson on life was coming and it might take awhile. 

Grandpa reminded me that the boots were expensive and that I should always try to purchase quality items.  Then he said, "these boots have to last you until next year. " Then I saw some rags, a bottle of leather preservative and an old tooth brush. He showed me how to apply the oil and work it into the sewn seams on the boots. I was then told to leave them in the sun to dry and how in the winter time you could place them in the oven with just enough heat to dry them and apply coats of preservative as needed. 

The next step was for me to do this for three days straight after the initial oiling. The boots were not to be worn until all three applications were finished. "Your boots will last longer and one should always take care of the things they purchase." I have never forgotten that lesson and today I will apply coat one of the same oil to the new boots and then reapply two more coats for the next two days. My wife frowns on using the oven for anything but food, so the fireplace will be my boot dryer. 

I did not really just want to write about boot care today. I learned that lesson 56 years ago and have used the lesson with many pairs of boots throughout the years. All of my boots lasted longer than most would expect them to,  The lesson for today is to remind us to teach our kids and grandkids lessons of value that they can pass on for generations. 

During the lessons always include the why and the cost of not following through. This lesson opened my eyes to my surroundings a little more. One day I woke up very early on one fall Saturday. I saw my dad at the table with my boots and his. He was applying preservative to both pairs. It finally dawned on me that we had both been trained by the same guy. I never really paid attention to what things went on at home until that day.  Pass on what you know and enjoy time just preserving your boots!

Marty

A Wake Up Call 1/24/2023

 Good Morning,

The day is beginning to shape up and it always helps to start it with a hot cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee and prayer.

Psalm 5:3 In the morning, Lord, You hear my voice. In the morning I lay out my requests to you and wait expectantly. 

Photo Credit Wyoming Department of Health

I will not be working today and I plan on enjoying some time spent with my wife and studying a little. Despite having off from work, I set the alarm clock for my usual time to wake up. Most of the time I wake up a few minutes before the clock sounds off for my wake up call. But not today. I was sound asleep when that radio alarm started playing some music. My wife Rene asked me last night why I was setting an alarm for a wake up call when I had nowhere of importance to go. "Why don't you just sleep in and get up when you awaken naturally?" She forgets that our two dogs are natural alarm clocks and they too are a source of "Wake Up! It's Daylight In The Swamp Soon" 

I really did not have an answer for her, that I could just fire off. I had to think about it for awhile. I believe I know why I do set an alarm. My body has been trained to work and now in semi retirement it still never wants to be late for work. Never was, and never will be one who likes to show up late for anything. Days off were hard to come by for many years. On Saturdays and Sundays I always had something planned or something needed to be done so I was up early. 

I also like some quiet time to myself in the morning. I always have a hot cup of coffee or two in silence. Our dogs require attention and they are another source of morning joy for me. I love the sunrise more than the sunsets. I spend time in prayer, read my Bible and then write to all of you in the morning, before I go to work or whatever else I am doing now. 

Waking up early is the best way I found to spend an hour with God, right from the coffee time through the rest of my morning rituals. I never like to rush through a morning and I cherish the moment. I do not look forward to the day when old age has me sleeping later or not being productive, much at all. 

We are all different and some like to stay up late and others like to greet the day. For me, I like starting the day on time and spending that time counting my blessings, enjoying my surroundings and communicating with God. So whatever works for you go for it. By the way, my clock is already set for tomorrow morning. Lord willing I am still around to hear it. God bless and have a great day. 

Marty

Time, Time And Time Again. 1/23/23

 Good Morning,

I am waiting for the Door County Cherry Creme Coffee to kick in and start warming me up this fine January morning. 

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked, for whatever one sows that he will also reap. 

Luke 6:31 And as you wish that others would do unto you, do so to them. 

If you have been reading this blog for any time at all you can probably figure out that I like to cook. And it isn't hard to figure out that in our marriage I do about 95% of the cooking and 2% of the baking, What has always amazed me in a good way is the fact that my wife Rene will always thank me for making the meal right after she puts her spoon or fork down. We have been married for over 1000 years and she hasn't missed one thank you except for when she was hospitalized some years ago. 

I always tell her that it is no big deal and I am happy to do it. But she replies "I know how much work you put into it. So I want you to know that it is appreciated." 

I can tell you this, her thank you means the world to me. Rene also never complains if the meal is sub par or needed to be done in a hurry due to my calendar overload . There have been times when a fried egg sandwich and an apple was it. She still says thank you. Now I have learned that if she starts asking questions as to the ingredients of the meal or a side dish, it is her way of saying that she really did not like it. Yet she still says thank you. The worst it ever gets is when I say "what did you think about that dish" and I receive a reply like this. " No need to make this one again very soon." She communicates her thoughts without hurting my feelings. 

Rene also likes to mow the lawn but very often she misses some spots and I always thank her for doing the lawn work, but she wonders why I always run the tractor anyway. So I am not lying, I check the oil and tell her it is best to check the oil with the engine hot. 

So today the challenge to all of us is to be considerate and put others feelings first over ours.  Think about it. You reap what you sow. 

Have a great day and by the way! Thank you for reading my blog!

Marty 

Matching Bookends 1/22/2023

 Good Morning,

I will be heading out soon to do some hunting today. I will be meeting one of my nephews and others to chase some pheasants and hopefully bring some home to eat. I have peanut butter and jelly in the cupboard if we do not get anything. I will fill my travel mug with Door County Vanilla Cream Brulee Coffee and it should have the all the makings for a fun morning. 

Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, a brother is born for adversity.

At my desk I have some of my favorite books and reference guides for my work at church. Keeping them from flopping one way or the other are a set of matching bookends. They are brass and very sturdy. The two bookends do a good job of supporting the shelf of books and are a cherished gift from a long time friend. 

My thought for today is that we all should be a bookend to someone. We should be there in support of those God brings to our paths in life who just might need some support or a hand to pull them up when life pushes them over. A bookend in the life of another person needs to be one who can't be moved or swayed away from doing what is right . A good book end in life will tell you what you need to hear, not what you just want to hear. They will steer you and push you to Godly standards. 

I am glad to say that over the years I have had some pretty great bookends in my life and I miss them now that they are gone. 

Have a great day. Food for thought. 

Marty

Listen To Yourself 1/21/2023

 Good Morning. 

I am starting late today with writing to all of you. I had a busy morning already and then I also had some selfish time to myself. The smoker is loaded with rubbed pork shoulder. I rubbed the meat down with my favorite rub  and I then took my Cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee outside with me on the patio and drank it down while contemplating many things. It was cold outside for sure, but it wasn't raining or snowing. Our dogs were happy to be running around chasing small birds and I was content with having some time to myself in peaceful solitude. 

1 Peter 3:10 Form he who would love life and see goof days, let him refrain is tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit.

Yesterday I encountered a lot of people. This seemed strange since I wasn't working. I met people of all ages. gender, race and age. It was just so happened that these people were in my path for the day. A few of them left me with a thought or two as to if they ever listened to themselves while talking. I was in a grocery store and this man and wife were shopping together and speaking to one another. They were talking loud enough that they could be heard from ten feet away. Every other word out of there mouth as some sort of foul language. One young lady with two children heard them and turned around with her kids and walked away shaking her head. 

I then went to the emporium of building and hardware materials. When I was standing in line to pay for my goods a lady was accompanied by a boy about twelve years old and they were checking out ahead of me. I thought it was strange that the boy wasn't in school but I thought it was none of my business. The lady was talking to the boy  and telling him what a poor excuse for a man his father was and she had all kinds of names for her husband, boy friend or ex husband. The boy was not answering and had his head down. She just kept saying things like "your father" that "###### #### dad of yours. I don't know the cause of her disdain but she seemed to be blaming the boy for his choice in dads, not her choice in husbands. 

Later I listened to a young man who thought it was ok to sass his mother in front of me. What he mumbled to her was just not right. 

So before I tell you about the others I encountered during my day. I want to ask a question. Wouldn't it be be nice if your whole day could be recorded and then played back to you. Then we could listen to the garbage that comes out of our mouths. Then my question would be this. Would we be embarrassed by what we heard? Now add to that the thought of this. Many people might have had to listen to you and your mouth of swill. 

My thought for today is this, think before you speak. Listen now and then to yourself and gauge the impact your mouth has on society and those within your circle of influence.

Just maybe the verbal pollution would be less. I sat outside this morning, and I did not speak and I did not have to listen to anyone. It really was peaceful!

Marty

Time To Clean House 1/20/2023

 Good Morning,

Friday arrived right on time as promised. Next to me are two English Springer Spaniels that want some attention. Right after I finish my my cup of Door County Naughty And Nice Grog Coffee I will get them outside for a good run. 

Colossians 3:10 And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of it's Creator. 

I try to look for the good in things especially when times are tough and considered bad. Not that Covid has left us for good as it still rears it's ugly head yet. I did find one good thing during it's first big push a couple years ago when we were all quarantined and going stir crazy, was the idea of cleaning house and ridding ourselves of "STUFF". You know, that kind of stuff that you save that just might be usable someday. My wife and I tossed a lot of stuff out or donated it to charity. A couple of years later I can't say that I needed one thing we got rid of. But yet, we have started accumulating more STUFF. Little by little stuff seems to be saving itself in our home We would never do that so the dogs must be storing up junk for  apocalypse type days or they plan on building something. They are not really good at sharing their plans. When in doubt blame the dogs.

So we started in once again on purging our home, little by little. I think that once in awhile it is also good to purge our lives of bad habits, excuses, addictions, and anger. In other words their comes a time to get rid of the bad things one likes to hang on to. In some instances we hang on to these things because it requires work and in some instances it makes us uncomfortable to confront ourselves. We ignore the warning signs of the impending anguish our lack of concern for ourselves and others will bring upon us. We continue to add to the pile of "STUFF" we have created and just don't see that the truth is not living within us. We can however spot all of the STUFF in other peoples lives because to clean up our "STUFF" takes honesty and work. It is easier to play the blame game and throw ourselves pity parties. 

To clean out the garage is a bigger project and best suited for the summer. But I can work on the clutter at my desk or in the basement. I must face the truth in doing so. Why do I have 15 pencils at my desk? Yet I am faced with the truth that I was just too lazy to put them back in the box we have to store pencils and we really do not need to collect anymore when the sign says "Take One". The pencil example shows how we need to confront ourselves and be truthful to self! Why can't I sleep well? It could be I am angry with someone. Be truthful to self and deal with it. Are we a cause of their anger and actions. Do we see their faults without seeing ours? 

Have a great day. Declutter your hearts and minds and be truthful to yourself and others. 

Marty

When The Price Tag Overwhelms The Joy 1/19/2023

 Good Morning,

A hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee is keeping me company this morning and now it is time to write. 

John 16:22 So with you, now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. 

I have made some purchases in the past that were wanted or needed and in some instances the price I paid overwhelmed the joy I was supposed to find in making the purchase. I will give an example. A new vehicle is usually an exciting purchase until the first scratch is found in the body or bumper. I for one just realized I paid a large sum of money for a target that people bang with their car doors. The joy is gone. I sometimes believe I should only buy vehicles that are on their death bed. 

One thing I that I will never question though is the price that was paid for our sins. The joy of knowing that Jesus paid the price for us will never end. Yet I am humbled that He needed to do that for a louse like me. The joy of knowing His love for us is not overshadowed by the price. The price however stimulates the thankfulness for such a sacrifice. Our cup should overflow with joy and thankfulness with a side plate of humility.

Food for thought.

Marty

One Definition Of Prayer 1/18/2023

 Good Morning,

The day has began with a hot cup of Door County Caramel Pecan Scones Coffee and some kind thoughts for friends of mine. 

Psalm 65:2 You who answer prayer , to you all people will come.

I once was reading on the subject of prayer about 25 years ago and I found a definition of prayer that has stuck with me. "Prayer is a God given privilege to the believer to call Him on the scene for ourselves and for others.  It is the believer's half of a conversation with God. "

One should never hesitate to pray when a need arises for us or someone else. One should never wait to go to the Lord in prayer to express our gratitude. Don't wait until you have all the answers before you pray. You don't have to understand plumbing to turn on a faucet. What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! We at times turn to every other source of help before we turn to God in prayer and ask for help or direction. When God becomes a choice or a number of options for us, He often becomes no option at all. 

Exercise your privilege. A heavy price was paid that we might have our prayers be heard. 

Have a great day!!!

Marty

Cover Them With Your Prayers 1/17/2023

 Good Morning, 

It is a great day when you wake up to a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee and head straight to prayer.

Romans 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 

I met with a young couple last week as they prepare to get married next fall. I will be officiating for their wedding and I am honored to do so.  I know quite a few young couples and my wife and I consider them to be good friends of ours. One couple will be bringing a new baby into this world real soon. As my wife and I hope to finish life strong we can't help but be glad that we do not face the pressures on young couples like there is now. We made our mistakes and we had some victories along our 1002 years of marriage. 

So now and then a young man or woman will seek us out for some advice or wisdom. We pass on what we have learned and what was easy and what was painful. Whether the advice sinks in or is even heard is not important. What is important for all of us to remember is to pray for these younger ones and pray often. As the world has made work and chores a lot easier with new inventions, it also offers quick solutions to life's problems. The world offers divorce, and other items of quick escapes like suicide or murder. We need to keep our door and phone open to those who are struggling and also spend some time on our knees in prayer support for them. 

God bless,

Marty

Do You Have An Ism? 1/16/2023

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee as I write today. It is a good way to greet Monday for sure!

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

I was meeting with a young couple yesterday and I asked the young lady if she had any isms. She looked at me me in a puzzled way and I went on to explain what I was seeking. An ism is something that makes you unique and usually something you do or say. For instance a Martyism would be my coffee drinking habit or ritual. I brew my coffee and pour it into a preheated mug. I then place the mug in a microwave and warm it up for an additional 19 seconds. Not 20 seconds nor 18 seconds. 20 seconds and the coffee is too hot and at 18 seconds not hot enough. When eating from a plate and if there is more than one item on the plate I almost always eat one item until it is gone and then move on to the next one. I am not sure if everyone has an ism but I know I have two of them. 

You could say I am crazy or just plain weird, but those small habits are mine and make me different from others. What I do, harms no one. It only impacts me. It is harmless and just makes me different from others. 

No two people are exactly alike and we are all different. Sometimes we will all see things a different way. We can accept people for just being people and know that their views may never match ours. That idea is called respect. Let's start this week by adding respect to all of our views, opinions and attitudes.  Let's be more ready to accept an ism as being part of the wonderful being God created. 

Marty

Sunday, Make It Special 1/15?2023

 Good Morning, 

My mug was just filled with Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and I cam see steam rising from it. I know now that it is time to write. 

This is the day the Lord has made for us. I recall back when my siblings and I would look forward to Sundays as kids. Sundays were a day when Mom or Dad would make a dinner that was just a little more special. If at all possible, if you were able, you made it to the family table. Summers would find the meat grilled and in the winter we had more Italian food or Mom's pot roast. Dad could giver her a good run for her money in the roast arena. This of course was all done after the family went to church together. Many times our dessert was a donut purchased at church. The men at church made donuts for sale on Sundays. I can still smell them in my mind. 

Exodus 20:8,11 Remember the Sabbath day, keep it holy. 11Fir in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and on the seventh day He rested. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and made it holy. 

Sundays were special back then. They were special because they were observed that way. I think that is one tradition that should remain. After all, God made Sundays to be just that. Special!

Food for thought. I added a recipe to the bottom of the blog today! Enjoy

Marty

Mom's Beef Roast

Ingredients 

• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon mixed pickling spices
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1/2 teaspoon dried savory
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 beef eye round roast (3 pounds)
• 12 to 14 sandwich rolls, split
• Lettuce, tomato and onion, optio

Powered by Chicory

Directions

1. In a Dutch oven, combine the first 10 ingredients; add roast. Cover and bake at 325° for 1-1/2 hours or until meat is tender. Remove the roast and cool completely.
2. Meanwhile, skim fat and strain cooking juices. Discard bay leaf. Thinly slice the beef. Serve on rolls with warmed juices and lettuce, tomato and onion if desired.

Never Too Old To Learn 1/14/2023

 Good Morning,

The list of chores is a long one today and so I will enjoy a little time with my cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and start writing.

Hebrews 4:12 Fir the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

My mother in law is 95 years old and now resides in an assisted living home. She is very gifted when it comes to crocheting things. Although she is a lot slower at it than she used to be, she stays busy  working on her yarn goods. Currently she is working on several projects a little at a time and last week she showed me the progress on a few of them. They are perfectly done and she hasn't slipped in her accuracy. 

She also likes to play cards and very often her kids will sit down and play cards with her for a hour or so. I for one do not like games and especially playing card games. But now and then I enjoy watching them play. Last week while visiting, Mother told us that some of the residents where she lives taught her a new card game and she really liked it. I zeroed in on one comment  she made. "You are never too old to learn something new". I told her that is just how I feel about my Bible studies. There is always something new that God is teaching me when I open His Word and seek to know more about Him. 

I will always be amazed at how I can read a passage, study it, many times throughout the years and then have it be enlightened later in life. I never gave it much thought until now. In the book of Acts the New Testament Church grew during adversity and through it. Due to persecution people fled in many directions taking their faith and the Word of God with them. I never thought of it that way while reading and studying my Bible. I just always concentrated on the persecution and thought that the lesson was just to be prepared and learn to endure. Now I see how God used the bad and ugly for good. How I missed that all these years I will never know. But, you are never too old to learn and you should never stop learning new things. 

Stretch yourself a little and commit to learning new things this year. Dust off that Bible and purchase a study guide or commentary and open your heart to a new lesson or two. I was taught a lesson from a 95 year old lady!

Have a great day!!

Marty

What Is The Church? 1/13/2023

 Good Morning, 

I started this day with some prayer and a large, hot cup of Door County Vanilla Creme Brulee Coffee. Friday showed up on time and now it is time to write. 

The word church in the Bible comes from the Greek word ecclesia. which means called out people or assembly. 

I can tell you what a church really isn't. It might be aa small building in the country. It might be a rented storefront building in the ghetto.  It could be a basilica in a large city. But to be honest those are just buildings. What the church really is are the people inside, who confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. A place where the love of Jesus is shown to all. A place where people can freely worship God. Where the Bible is taught and practiced. Where souls are nourished and children are taught. A building where it is ok to cry and laugh at the same time. A place where forgiving is not a bad word, but is embraced. A place where faith in God grows and people fellowship with one another. A place where lives are transformed and music restored to souls where there were once hearts of stone.

Whenever I used to hear the word church, my mind always took me to a place that envisioned a building. Now, later in life I have come to realize that the building isn't the church. The church is really the people that use the building. 

Food for thought! Your church might be missing you!

Marty

Walking On Water 1/12/2023

 Good Morning,

I am awake and ready to go. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Vanilla Cream Brulee  Coffee and I am taking the day on with Gusto. 

My thoughts and my studies took me to the Bible passage on how Peter walked on water.

Matthew 14:22-33 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountain side by himself to pray. Later that night he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. 

25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said and cried out in fear. 27. But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid!" 28. "Lord if it is you,: Peter replied. "tell me to come to you on the water." 29. "Come," he said. Then Peter go down out of the boat , walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord save me!" 31. Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith." he said. "why did you doubt?'

There are many sermons and messages found within this passage. One could focus on Peter's lack of faith and failure to keep his eyes on Jesus. Or Peter was too bold. Or the fact that Jesus needed time alone to pray. 

I want to focus on those in the boat other than Peter. They stayed in the boat, They did not follow Peter or walk out to be with Jesus. They were probably paralyzed with fear. They were building up the boat with the boards of excuses. These excuses became sides to the boat that did not let them leave the boat. They did not walk on water. Peter did, even if it were a few seconds, he walked on water. I do enough duck hunting to know that if I want to get to my honey hole in the Horicon Marsh in a boat I have to leave the shore. 

Too many calls from God go unanswered because people might have to leave some comforts and assurances behind. Even if you fail, but answer the call, for a few moments, days, weeks or months you walked with Jesus. You the ordinary, became extraordinary and may have had an impact on eternity. 

God is still in the business of walking on water, He is out in the storms of life and could be calling your name. He might desire to use you. Are you sitting in the boat or ready to walk on water?

Marty

Angels, Thankful For What I Don't See. 1/11/2023

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee and it is time to write. 

Late last night and early this morning I had angels on my mind. I do believe there are angels who serve God and us. I do believe that they watch over us and who knows how many things and times in my life they have intervened or directed me. I guess that I will never know. 

One thing I am sure of is that I am thankful for the things I was spared from by beings I cannot see . I am attempting to say that I am thankful for the things I did not experience and do not know about. 

Psalm 34:7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and delivers them. 

Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation. 

Psalm 91:11 For He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. 

So today, find some peace and happiness in knowing God commands His angels regarding you.

Marty

Planning Ahead. Are You? 1/10/2023

 Good Morning,

A good day of work awaits me and I am happy to say that I can smell the Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee brewing as I write.

This coming Saturday night I will be speaking on preparing your family for when you leave this earth. It is a sad day when you lose someone to the inevitable. What makes it worse is when you leave your family without directions. They miss you, yet it could be months or years before they navigate courts and just plain old who gets Grandpa's hat. Very often a confused family is one that ends up in turmoil because someone tries to interpret your wishes and this could often end in a disagreement.

Galatians 3:15 To give a human example brothers, even with a man made covenant, no one adds to it or annuls it once it has been ratified. 

Don't be the source of turmoil once you are gone. Spell everything out and do it clearly.  Make it easy on your family. So who gets my slider press?

Marty

When The Train Is Full Of Excuses 1/9/2023

 Good Morning,

A little Door County Cherry Creme Coffee in my cup and it is time to write. 

In my life I have found that someone who relies on excuses can become very good at offering them up. I fact they are so good at making up excuses that they become unable to excel at anything else. After enough excuses are given they develop excuses for the excuses. 

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away, and the new has come. 

This is a one way train ride to laziness and the train becomes hard to get off. Progress often ends up as a broken promise piled next to the many broken promises. Sooner or later you are just another person who can't be counted on. The king or queen of excuses start to believe their own excuses and soon level blame on others. 

The nice thing about any problem, is that with strong desire and will power it can be turned around. The first step is to admit to yourself that you have a problem and turn it over to God in contrition, humility, truth. and hope. Yes their is hope. But you must be truthful to yourself. God already knows the truth. He is waiting on you to come to Him in truth. Anything less than that is perpetuating your problem and never going to get you off of the train. In not being truthful you have basically reserved an excuse for failure in your hip pocket.  This is like trying to drink clear water through a dirty mask. 

If you are one full of excuses and lack of production in life and you desire change. Start with truth, humility, contrition and hope. Once you leave this world, will your legacy be one big excuse?

Have a great day and get off of the trains that leads to nowhere but is happy to have you as a passenger. Live a life that is going somewhere. God replaces excuses with hope for each day. 

Marty

Do You Remember Candid Camera? 1/8/2023

 Good Morning,

The Door County Cherry Creme Coffee is brewing in the kitchen as I write and if all goes well I will be drinking it outside as our dogs run around.

Candid Camera is a popular and long-running American hidden camera reality television series. Versions of the show appeared on television from 1948 until 2014. Originally created and produced by Allen Funt, it often featured practical jokes, and initially began on radio as The Candid Microphone on June 28, 1947. Wikipedia

For many years I watched Candid Camera on television. While a practical joke was being played on a person, they were secretly filmed and very often the results were hilarious. However there were times when those being pranked did not see it that way and were a little annoyed at the fact that they were duped and then filmed. Mostly people learned to appreciate a good laugh at their own expense.

Many years ago my wife Rene and I learned to not take ourselves too seriously. And as awkward and clumsy as the two of us are, there have been millions of laughs just by our daily antics. We have learned to laugh with each other and at each other, We know that a laugh shared by two people is good for the soul.

What is the gift of laughter?

It improves positive emotion, strengthens the immune system, stimulates cognition, reduces stress, and improves positive coping.

All good things come from God and I will cherish the laughter we share. If we take ourselves too seriously we can fail to see the humor in the things that happen and are really funny. Some people are just looking for things to get ornery about, They rob those around them of the joy that some laughter can bring.  Sometimes I do stupid things on purpose just to make my wife laugh. Her memory is better than mine and she will remark about something from the past that made us both crack up with laughter. We laugh about whatever it was again. 

Proverbs 17:22 A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. 

Have a great day! Laugh until it hurts!

Marty

What is the gift of laughter?

It improves positive e

Service Above And Beyond 1/7/2023

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a very hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee and I am comfortable so it must be time to write. 

A grocery chain popped on to the scene where we live a couple of years ago and just in this last nine months I finally have been using their services. I am one who stays pretty loyal to those who have served me for a long time and done fairly well. But, folks had been telling me to shop around and with inflation as it is, I seek bargains a little more than before. 

Proverbs 15:23 A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season, how good it is. 

My first impression of the new guys is that their stores are much cleaner. The next thing I noticed is that the employees engage with the customers much much more. You are greeted and made to feel important. Everyone seems to be concerned about your shopping experience. 

Here is an example. There is a cut of meat that from time to time I purchase just because we like it and it does remind me of my parents and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. You could call it comfort food. Except to drive to Michigan or ask others who are going North  to pick up a couple of the coveted roasts, this  store is the only one I know that supplies them where we live. 

I was shopping yesterday and I was browsing the meat counter and was looking for those roasts. There weren't any and I was just about to move on when a butcher asked me if he could help me out with anything. Notice, I did not have to ask for help! I told him what I was looking for and he replied that there were none, but if I had a few minutes he would cut a roast for me and season it up. He said he needed 15 minutes. I agreed with a smile and asked if I could get two. He smiled and said "sure". I continued to shop and in 15 minutes I was back at the meat counter and he presented me with the roasts. He smiled and thanked me for making a purchase. With my mouth hanging open I replied with my own thank you for his great service. 

He applied personal touch to the service the store offers. He could have said "we are all out of what you want, come back next Friday." before I left the store, I went to their service counter to comment on the young man and his willingness to help. I gave the lady at the desk his name and she laughed nicely. Her reply almost put me on the floor. "We do strive for friendliness and service. But having someone stop by to comment about this butcher is a regular thing here. He always goes above and beyond. I am afraid we are used to it." She let me fill out a comment card and said that it would go to the store manager. 

Imagine that! In today's world, customer service that knocks you sox off, friendliness at every turn is an expectation. They even have enough staff to check you out and if you desire pack your groceries. I usually pack my own but yesterday the lady at the cash register wasn't busy and she jumped right in and help me pack up. She did not have to, but she did. 

I know it is business, but it is that kind of service you don't expect any longer. It was refreshing that someone valued my hard earned money and wanted me back as a customer. I might be totally switching my grocery emporium in the future. 

Lesson for today. We are all not in business, but most of us are consumers. How about your attitude? Are you pleasant to do business with? Are you rude towards staff? Do you greet them with a smile? Do you thank them and wish them a good day? How would your family, friends, and coworkers rate their experience with you? If the person interacting with you could fill out a survey on the interaction with you, what would they email to God about you? Better question?? Would you hire you? 

Food for thought. 

Marty