An Insiders Tip: Buy the purest Gold, and insight giving salve for your eyes!

The pastor spoke about Paul's "thorn in the flesh" on Sunday. If you take the time to read Second Corinthians chapter 12 you'll get a lot out of it. I was thinking about Paul asking God to take his pain away.

You know Paul was taken to heaven prior to this affliction, (the first few verses of chapter 12 talk about this.) I set there thinking about that. The Bible doesn't say what he specifically ask for. While we were living in LA I became very sick. After my fever climbed above 106 degrees, I went into a semi comma state. For three days, they said I just slept. While I slept, my soul went to heaven. It was awesome, more than mere words, or pictures can describe.

Do you suppose Paul asked God to take him permanently out of this world to heaven? Did he beg God to remove the pain or take his Earthly life? Have you ever been there, and done that? I have, more than once.

Before you think the worst of me, put yourself in my shoes. Imagine just for a minute, pure ecstasy visiting heaven. You do not miss your life on earth at all. Jesus is almost close enough to touch, and you see all the awesome colors deep in the river that flows from the thrown of God like I did. (If you want confirmation of what I'm talking about :) see Revelation chapter 22:1-7. Just wait and see it's awesome!

If you had been there; would you want to come back to sickness and worldly flaws? If you think you would, your a much tougher person than I am. In fact, sometimes I still cry because I'd rather be there, present with my Lord and absent from this body. Yet, I am comforted in knowing that His grace is sufficient for what I need in every situation. What He lets me go through, He personally sees me through.

"But he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power will rest on me." Second Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

Like Paul, I can relate, there have been so-so many times I fail in this flesh, but I can rise victoriously in Christ! Paul was far from the only person who felt and knew this. See Hebrews chapter 11 and 12, especially chapter 12 verses 1-3.

It has been said we are living in the end days. :) I believe we may be. Hang on, it's gonna be a fast and furious ride! Until then endure whatever is laid before you in every circumstance, with joy and peace. Jesus will see you through it, if he brings you to it! Let him hold you, because when you can't do anymore He can do awesome things through and with you. Finally, there are some awesome words of encouragement in Revelation 3:14-21.

Real wealth is not found in materials or money, true wealth is when God opens your eyes and heart to see the treasures you need to lay up in heaven. Remember you are living in a temporary world, preparing you for a permanent eternity.

"I counsel you to buy from me gold, refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.

Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline, so be earnest and repent. Here I am, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." Revelation 3:18-20 (NIV)

I knew you before you were ever born.

I woke up this morning thinking about how God has really controlled my life all the way through. Before I was ever born He knew my name and had the wheels in motion for my life. None of us were, "by chance conceived."

The summer after I was saved I went to church camp. Ironically the church camp I went to was Lincoln Lake in Greenville Michigan. Some of you may have been there. I met some of my best friends there. People like Darcy and Doug Hutson. Doug was so cute, he was the first Michigan boy I ever kissed, in a wild strawberry patch.

Darcy and I wrote to each other and once in a while we talked on the phone. A few years latter we rode a church bus to Lake Ann, somewhere up near the Upper Peninsula in Michigan. We were little boogers in some ways. We stayed up late giggling and talking; we had to clean the bathrooms for all the giggling and keeping people awake. After cleaning we decided to short sheet the counselor's bed. Another night we put cornflakes in her bed. The list goes on and on.

But then, there was a big bomb fire and a very serious talk about our lives. Particularly, not just were we saved, but did Christ really have control of our lives? Darcy and I both threw our sticks in the fire, representing that God's Will was more important than our individual will. We both committed our wills to Christ for rest of our days how ever long or short that may be. His will would be completed, before our own desire or will.

Darcy grew up in First Baptist Church in Stanton MI. I went to Lincoln Avenue Baptist in Ionia MI. Darcy married Bob Goodenough, who became a pastor of Nevins Lake Baptist Church. Mark and I took our kids to church there.

Mark's Uncle Leo persuaded me to go on a blind date with Mark. I had never been on a blind date, and really didn't want to go, but agreed to just to appease Leo. Ironically, Mark grew up at First Baptist in Stanton too. He never went to camp, but we still ended up married with two kids. Isn't it something how God pieces all of us all together?

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

Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord and I will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you, declares the Lord, and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."

Jeremiah 29:11-14 (NIV)

Not all days are bright and sunny when we yield to God, but He knows what's best. The happiest and the fullest our lives can be are in His will.

Look at the book of Haggai it's such a short little book, only 2 chapters. Our earthly efforts are in vain without seeking Him first.

"Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat but never have enough. You drink but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but never are warm. You earn wages only to put them in a purse with holes in it."

Haggai 1:5&6 (NIV)

"If a person defiled by contact with a dead body touches one of these things, does it become defiled?

"Yes" the priest replied, It becomes defiled."

"Then Haggai said, "So it is with this people and this nation in my sight declares the Lord. Whatever they do and whatever they offer there is defiled." Haggai 2:12-14

"From this day on, from the twenty fourth day of the ninth month, give careful thought to the day when the temple foundation of the Lord was laid. Give careful thought: Is there yet any seed left in the barn? Until now, the vine and the fig tree, the pomegranate and the olive tree have not borne fruit.

"From this day on I will bless you." Haggai 2:18-28

The final verse of this chapter God says, "for I have chosen you, declares the Lord Almighty." that's the end of Haggai 2:23. If God has chosen you as one of His own, the rules still apply today; serve God with all your heart. Do things in His timing, not your own. This is the only way He will bless you.

Mark scored the winning Home Run

Mark and I were arguing this morning over a jealousy issue. Which is really crazy, because we've been married for close to 29 years now. You guessed it, I'm almost as old as dirt, and have the wrinkles and body to prove it.

Even if someone did find me attractive, could they possibly get past all the physical imperfections? No way-unless they were really attracted to my inner being :)

Mark went on and on about one man in particular in a sail boat. Ironically, he did sail very near, and then pulled his sail boat on shore, close to where I was skipping stones. (Are you wondering, if I would have went for a sail boat ride if he would have asked? Sure, I would have went for a sail boat ride; if Mark could have come too. ;) Wouldn't you? )

Mark hit the hitting home run when he said, "Anyone would be a fool not to love you, if they really knew you. And that sexy way you skip stones is just another bonus."

How can you do anything, but hug someone that feels like that? Wasn't that sweet? I'm glad he's still happy with the surprise package he married 29 years ago. :)

For those of you who are married, find satisfaction in your mate. Don't withhold "the wild thing" from each other. Let no man put asunder what God has joined together.

"May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe a graceful deer-may her breast satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love.

Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteress? Why embrace the bosom of another man's wife? For a man's ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all his paths." Proverbs 5:18-21 (NIV)

Don't let Differences Seperate Friendships or Love

Knowledge comes from taking things apart: analysis. But wisdom comes from putting things together. John A. Morrison

The other day when I was at Dukes Creek Falls; I realized I had made a inappropriate statement about trees and friendships a few blog entries back. We are all separate individuals.

As we walked down the path to the waterfalls, there were all kinds of trees on the sides, of steep hills. There are some very mature trees growing in what appears to be very little dirt. Their roots seem to constantly go deeper, and stronger. A combination of water and roots even crack a few of the rocks. This proves to me that if there's a will, God can make a way. :)

Isn't it interesting, you can plant a tree in what seems to be the "perfect soil and conditions,"but it dies. Then there are, trees shooting up in the poorest of living conditions, to become some of the tallest healthiest trees in the forest. Think about it; they have a will, and a creator who provides a way.

As long as we are alive we need to keep growing and learning. The journey shouldn't stop, until we stop existing in these mortal bodies. Sometimes the struggles of life produce the most growth. Most of us will be leaving this life with very tattered bodies. I know Jesus would rather see our souls completely mature, and ready for eternity with Him.

Another principle I noticed was, two different kinds of trees growing alongside each other. One was an Oak or maybe a Gum tree it's roots were woven into a Hemlocks roots. Isn't that interesting? Two totally different kinds of trees intertwined at the roots. They had formed a very strong bond together, breaking through rock and defying the odds. They grew tall and strong together.

My point is this, we may not all be the same, but we can grow in Christ and friendship together as long as we have love, friendship and roots growing together in Christ. One of those trees will probably die before the other one. But I have no doubt that the one that goes on living will continue growing toward the same goals they had together.

Differences can complement and increase value in two different kinds of people. Opposites can add depth and width to each other. The truth is, it's probably healthier for two opposites to be together, than two of a kind. Narrow minded people usually can't think outside the box they've put themselves in.

"God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgement, because in this world we are like him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. " 1 John 4:16-18 (NIV)

The Winds of Change are Blowing!

We spent some time walking at the Dukes creek Falls yesterday. The falls were so filled with water it was an awesome little adventure. The sights, sounds and smells were so strong. I love being outside and close to God!

The winds of change continually blow through, and over my life. I'd appreciate your prayers, as the winds blow. Some of you may have heard or know, the doctors I've been working with simply can not understand, except some have admitted that a miracle has taken place. (None of my doctors expected me to live more than five years max in the final stage of Crohn's I was in six years ago.)

I was told, I'd never be off so many of the medications. After the surgery and blood work in Feb. they simply can not find Crohn's disease in my blood or body. I'm taking no medications for Crohn's disease.I am healthier than I've been in six years. No special formula for my health will be found outside the fact that God has simply healed my body.

I really feel that I need to go back to school. Real Estate was fun, but very stressful. I think it's best to pursue what God keeps prompting me to do. I need to help others. I'm checking out some medical programs to become a medical assistant. Eventually I may even pursue an RN's degree and work with ostomy patients. I could help a lot of people with ostomies. :)

I still must pass a physical. Except for the heart attack I suffered two years ago; what could hold me back? Living with a bag isn't the worst thing in the world. Minds adapt to the changes of matter, or lack of it. :)

More than anything I desire to please God. Please pray I'll do what I am suppose to do. I need to do it with a smile, and a song in my heart.

Finally, as the warm Southern Breezes blow; I'm longing for a sweet escape to the gulf. I'd especially love to go to Sanabel Island, even if it's only for a day, and or a night. I miss sailing so much right now. I'd love to just be on a sail boat even if it's only be for a few hours. I need to feel the breeze and sun on my face. Seeing dolphins jumping and tasting the salty sea would be extra sweet toppings on such a sweet needed treat!

Remember the 23rd Psalm? God is so good! "You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23:5&6 (NIV)

Christ Jesus will provide what you need!

Do you remember the first time you held each of your children? Or the first time they locked their eyes into your eyes, while you were feeding them? How about the first time you went to put them down, but they clutched you as if to say, "Please, not yet?"

There will be storms in your life, if you haven't already experienced some, they are coming. As a believer, you may even ask your Heavenly Father to take them away. Sometimes He will. But there are gonna be really hard times when instead of easing your pain, grief or stress, Jesus will let you know it's time for a faith building test. As he gazes into your soul, He will wait for you to allow Him to take control. As soon as you release your life into his omnipotent will, He will hold you close to His breast, much like you held your baby for the first time.

As He holds you close to Himself, you'll cling closely to His powerful loving breast. So quickly, the things of earth will grow dim. The storm of life will rage on, sometimes even close to death, but closer than ever to Jesus, you realize God is in control, nothing else matters.

Set your mind on the permanent, not the fleeting events, or things of this life time.

"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith-of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you loved him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. " 1 Peter 1:6-9 (NIV)

If Christ is your Savior you never have to walk alone. Anything He puts you through in this life, He will provide what you need to finish the race with Him. He will see you through to eternity from beginning to the glorious end. He promises you that.

"No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." Joshua 1:5 (NIV)

Nothing can separate us from our God. Live boldly with a purpose!

Maybe Some Friendships are like parts of Trees

I heard a comedian make a really profound comment last night. It made a lot of sense, yet it hurts. Friendships are like parts of trees. At the root of any tree are it's roots. They actually nourish and give life to the tree. So Jesus, our family, and closest friends, consist of the roots in our lives.

Then there is the trunk of the tree that would be who we are and our significant other. We generally grow together, or at least that's the goal.

As the trunk strengthens and grows the branches of friendship should develop. I would caution, this doesn't mean you have to give up your friendships from your past. If another person strengthens, loves and nourishes you, don't give them up. If your partner doesn't understand, then you'll have to decide whether it's best to prune that branch. Just remember deep pruning into friendships, can cause the whole tree to die.

Then there are the leaves. They pop out in the Spring and flourish for a season, only to die and blow away in the fall. I have a hard time with these kinds of friendships. I don't like to spend, or share myself for a fake flourishing frenzy. Maybe I'd be more like a Hemlock tree. Just a slow steady grower, needing lots of water, and the shade of other trees to survive. I'd rather have the constant growth that stays for years.

For those of you leafy trees, try to remember not all of us shed in the fall. We have feelings that run deep. But whether you're an oak, cedar or one of the many other trees in the forest of life, we all need to get the main nourishment from Jesus.

See Philippians 4:10-23

"And my God shall meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 (NIV)

... "If God is for us who can be against us?" Romans 8:31 (NIV)

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble, or hardship or persecution, or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?" Romans 8:35 (NIV)

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:37-39 (NIV)

Christ Jesus, should make friendships stronger and deeper by far than mere earthly friendships. Where are your friendships grounded? (The picture above is Michael and Heidi raking leaves at Grandpa Mason's house a long time ago.)

It's just a Rainy Day

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me-put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8 & 9 (NIV)

So often, I need this verse to remind me God is in control and I need to let Him have His way. Today has just been one of those days. If I start crying, I'll probably cry for at least two days, and probably more.

So many things are out of my control. It's best just best to let go, and let God do whatever He sees fit. Sorry I'm not very happy or inspiring today. Hope your day is going a lot better than mine.

Christ The Lord is Risen Today Halelujah!

That first Resurrection Morning gave us a permanent security to God the Father, through Jesus the Son. Though these earthly bodies will die, unless Jesus comes back first, as believers our soul will not taste death. That's Awesome! When I am absent from my body I will go directly home to heaven to be with Jesus.

Easter is awesome because it represents new life in Christ. Some people think the bunnies, chocolate and big meal are a disgrace. Personally, it reminds me we have a reason to celebrate. I love to eat; if you don't well then just push away from the table. I'll be glad to eat your ham and deviled eggs latter.

The bunnies represent new life. Rabbits multiply fast, may we as Christians spread the word and multiply just as fast!

As for the chocolate, well I love that too. If you don't want yours, I'll eat that too! Hope you went to church today. It's an awesome place to celebrate what Christ did, and will continue to do in and through us.

"So it shall be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor and raised in glory; it is sown in weakness and raised in power; it is sown in a natural body and it is raised a spiritual body."

1 Corinthians 15 : 42-44 (NIV)

Read 1 Corinthians 15:35-58

Hoppy Easter!

One Day or Living He loved me

When I was eleven I was "saved." That was the coolest day of my life, in so many ways. Those first few steps up the church isle, my feet felt like lead, but the closer I came to the pastor, I was almost running. I remember Pastor Shepherd's arms opening wide, as he scooped me up. (I had been a regular visitor at his house for over a year before. Often interrupting his Sunday afternoon naps, dew to joking and giggling with his girls.) So many of my New Beginnings in Christ were at Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church in Ionia Michigan.

I remember asking Jesus to forgive me of my sins and come into my heart. I sobbed because I knew my sin caused His death. But after I was forgiven and asked Him to come into my heart; I remember feeling like hot bubbles were filling my insides. I smiled a lot after that, and Mr. Reinhart nick named me Son Shine. Some of those same people still call me that today. Although many of them have gone "Home," as the years quickly passed.

One of the most memorable ladies in the church was Sophie Ranger. She intimidated me, but I respected her. She was the pianist, who loved to play. She loved this song called, "One Day." I'm sure some of you know it. I remember Sophie bouncing around pumping those pedals with her feet, and her hands wildly pounding, as we sang along. She'd often glance back with a big smile. As teenagers, some of us got a big kick out of watching her.

Sophie passed away two Sundays ago, sometime just before Sunday School usually starts. I couldn't help, but think what a wonderful day that must have been for her. Sophie had a nine year old daughter who loved Jesus. Janet was riding her bike, not a block from where she lived on M-44 in Belding Michigan, one day after school. She was probably singing and smiling she went along. A driver coming home from work was temporarily blinded by the sun. That lady never seen Janet; and Janet probably didn't see her. The car hit Janet and she died.

As Sophie was absent from the body and present with the Lord, I'm sure Janet was one of the first to hug her, Momma. I'm sure that was the best Sunday morning worship service they enjoyed together! There's a peace that surpasses all understanding in knowing Jesus. I hope you have it!

I was singing that song outside today. In the chorus it talks about all the basics of Salvation. So many verses flood my head again today. They're so good print this off and look them up God will bless you with them, I promise!

The following in orange are the words in the chorus. Go ahead sing it if you want to! I still love that old song, and sing it sometimes in the shower! Aren't you glad you don't live with me? ;)

Living He loved me (Read Mark 12: 29-33)

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26 (NIV) How true!

Dying He saved me. "For the wages of sin death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 6:23 (See Psalms 68: 20 too)

Buried He carried my sins far away As you asked Jesus to forgive your sins those sins were buried with Him, if you were baptized, as you went under the water that represented death to sin. They're no longer part of you. Live and act pleasing to Christ Jesus. (See Romans 6:4)

Rising He Justified Freely Forever Just as Christ died, was buried and rose again so you too shall do, unless he returns before you die. You must be born again though, accept Christ as your Savior if you want to go to heaven. You will go to either Heaven or Hell depending on your relationship with Christ, forgiveness and allowing the holy ghost to guide and direct your life.

(See 1 Corinthians 15: 35-42)

One day He's coming, Oh Glorious Day! The books of Daniel, Ezekiel and Revelation all talk about His Return. I think were living in the "last days." Are you ready? I'll be glad to pray with you if you're not. Email me, and I'll call you.

Happy Easter!! kathlenefisher@yahoo.com

Here are a few more verses if you'd like to look them up: Forgiveness Matthew 26:28 Luke 24:47 Faithfulness to God: 1 Corinthians 4:2

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12 The same Lord who began a good work in you will complete it!

Awesome Friday!

I woke up in the middle of the night thinking about what Christ had to go through for us. You know there had to be a tremendous amount of love and longing for intimacy with us. Not only did He stretch out His arms and say I love you this much to die, the betrayal of all twelve disciples had to mentally crush His heart. (They denied they knew him, and scurried like scarred dogs.)

I've lived through some difficult physical circumstances, but I can endure physical pain with love and emotional support. Do you need love and support through trying times? Often love and emotional bonds with God, and others are my only sustenance for survival.

So many passages are flipping through my head this morning, there's no way I'll be allowed to write them all out, so please print this and take the time to go over them when you're alone, or with your family and God. I know He'll appreciate and bless you for taking the time to appreciate His love and sacrifice for you.

Think about the night before the crucifixion. (Mark 14:17-51) Jesus asks His closest friends to go with him to the garden of Gethsemane. His feet must have felt physically weak and weighed down, but his heart felt the the betrayal he knew was coming from his dearest friends. He asked them to keep watch and pray while he spent time alone with God the Father; they fell asleep. Imagine sweating drops of blood fromemotional and mental pain. As you return your closest friends are snoring, and at peace as you face your final physical hours on earth.

Once again, Jesus wakes them, and asks them to pray for their own spiritual welfare, but again he returns to slumbering weak followers. (Remember, Jesus is also God, part of the trinity, so He knew all that was coming.) Peter was one of his closest friends.

"Peter declared, Even if all fall away I will not."

"I tell you the truth, Jesus answered, today-yes tonight-before the rooster crows twice you will deny me three times." Mark 14:29-30 (NIV)

And sure enough, as the cock crowed the second time, Peter had denied he knew who Christ was. Can you feel the pain? Imagine Peter's guilt and shame as he caught Christ's eyes.

Until, Jesus stretched out his arms and endured death on that cross, you and I had no way to God the Father. The blood of spotless animals was used for a sin offering. Believers had to go to a high priest with a sin offering, and confession to the priest. If the priest, who took the offerings of sacrifice into the holy temple was unclean, he died. Mere men always have the sin factor. There isn't one of us who can even come close to God's measure of righteousness without Christ's shedding of blood. These priest went into the holy temple with a rope around their leg. If they had any sin in their life, the Spirit of God killed them for entering. Needless to say a lot of dead priests.

(Read Matthew chapters 26-28) Jesus Christ endured and over came so much for us. He was the only sinless perfect sacrifice that would be the final payment once and for all for our sins, if we want a relationship with God the father.

"And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from the top to the bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split." Matthew 27:50 & 51 (NIV)

That curtain was torn for a reason, you and I can go directly to God the Father for forgiveness. We are all equal and accountable to God. He wants your love, devotion and soul. He literally spilt his blood, and broke His body for you. Jesus Christ is the only way to God the Father and an eternal life in heaven after you die. Like Jesus, your spirit will leave your body when you die.

Open arms, and an ultimate sacrifice are awesome, but most of us need even more. As Jesus was dying Luke recorded a very emotional side of Jesus. "Jesus called out with a loud voice, Father into your hands I commit my spirit. when he had said this, he breathed his last." Luke 23:46 (NIV)

When you're physically, mentally or spiritually beat what do you do?

I am reminded of an incident a few years ago. I had been betrayed by a friend at work. I was talking to my boss about the incident and I began crying. She felt my pain. She said she'd just like to give me a hug before we parted.

As her warm arms wrapped around my shoulders I remember hugging her so tight. It felt so good to feel love and understanding. I felt like a melting snow cone on a hot day. As she began to release me I begged her, "Could you just hold me, just for a minute?"

She graciously did. I knew she knew how much I needed her love and friendship; I still do. We all need certain people and love in life, God designed us, it's healthy to want to give and be loved. Stop fighting it, love is the best blessing in life!

As Jesus spirit went into His Fathers arms how long do you think they embraced? More importantly, it gave Jesus the courage and strength to go down and stomp Satan's head in hell. Hard enough he bruised his heel.

It's always so good when the hard things in life are over. No more, it's finished, I'll never have to do that again. Jesus felt it too.

"This is what I told you while I was still with you: everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. he told them, This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all the nations beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses to these things." Luke 24: 44-48 (NIV)

After that God sent the holy spirit to guide and direct us. :) And soon Jesus will be coming back to take us Home, but that's for another day!

It's hard to understand why Good Friday is rarely observed. No other name under heaven was given that we might be saved. Thank you for spending time with me thinking about the ultimate sacrifice. God bless and keep you and may He make His face Shine upon you! Kathy

My special place

Everyone should have a favorite place to go; this is one of mine. I could spend hours here. The rush of the water, the warm southern breeze blowing up through the trees and through my hair. The warm sunshine gently streams down. Any day I have the privilege of going here is a wonderful day!

It's amazing, yesterday it was only 48 degrees, but today it made it all the way up to 63. I love GA. this is really where my heart is. When I think about different places I've been, there are a lot of neat places to visit. None of them feel quite like GA. There are people and places here that have simply stole my heart. I am so glad God transplanted me here.

Do you have a place in your heart on this earth that you can really say this feels like home? I sure hope you do.

"After David had finished talking to Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself." 1 Samuel 18:1 (NIV)

It's awesome to love someone so much that you'd do anything for their good.

Michael and Neva married 8 years next week!

This past weekend we spent a few days with Michael and Neva, at their home in Edgemore South Carolina. We had a blast. They sold their new home and purchased a fixer upper just a few miles away.

This home they're living in is coming along with lots of their personal touches. It tickles me at all the pride and self they're putting into this "project" together. Neva is cleaning up and fixing old flower beds in the yard. I think she's the best drywall mudder I've ever met!

Mike is busy with all kinds of carpentry, plumbing and is still repairing all three of their vehicles. He's installed a shower, pipes and pretty cherry bathroom cabinet with a travertine top. He's a whiz kid at inside and exterior doors and crown molding.

Michael really loves his yard! He couldn't wait to start a "Friday night bomb fire."We all laughed and joked around the fire just like we did when he was so young. It amazes me how much your children take with them after they leave the "nest." Values, love and so many good things accompany them in their "new lives"in their own nests.

I'm so proud of the home they've made, not the "things," but the qualities of life they choose to carry with them. Maybe, Mark and I didn't mess our kids up too bad, after all. But the best thing both Michael, Heidi and Neva took with them was the importance of keeping Jesus in the center of home! That fact alone is worth volumes of knowledge, love and understanding. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

"Unless the Lord builds the house, it's builders labor in vain.

Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.

In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat-for he grants sleep to those he loves.

Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him.

Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are son's born in one's youth.

Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with there enemies in the gate.

Psalm 127 (NIV)

Heidi Is Fine

Some of you probably know that my daughter Heidi is working in Rome Italy. You probably know that there was a horrible earth quake early this morning there. That earth quake was about 45 miles north of where Heidi and Taylor are living.

My father called this morning before I seen the massive damage. I called Heid, but she was over at a friends house watching her children. Taylor told me, Heidi slept through the rumble and shaking. I'm not surprised, that's my Heid. :)

The alternator on my car went out on an express way in Louisiana. I literally, coasted into a Sears automotive shop. After 3 hours it was finally back together and running again. While I sat there with the kids I talked to the nicest older black lady. It was almost 9:00 at night when my car was finished. The repairmen told her an hour earlier that she'd have to find a way home, because they weren't even close to finishing the repairs on her car.

I offered to take her home. She said, "Oh No child, you can't take me home. A pretty little white girl like you would end up dead going down in that part of town after dark."

I felt like I was suppose to take her home. So I waited while she called several family members who all refused to go in that part of town at night. Bless her heart she began to cry. I hugged her and told her, "I'm suppose to take you home." I knew God would see us all safely through.

She was so scared for us. She fretted all the way there and sure enough when we arrived, her windows were all bored up and there was lots of "activity in the neighborhood." (Prostitution, drugs and even some shooting.) She quickly got out, but gave me her number. She wanted me to call her as soon as I got home.

As we left her house and drove down the street we ran into people shooting at each other on both sides of the street. I screamed, "Lay flat on the floor and don't get up until I tell you to!" I floored the car and went right through the shooting as fast as I could. I'm still not sure how we missed being hit.

Michael laid on the floor crying. He yelled out, "My daddy is gonna be so mad you took us down here."

Then up popped that little blond toe head Heidi. With a great big smile she said, "That was so cool, can we do it again?"

"No, get your hindy back down on that floor, right now!" She always has been my little thrill seeker. I've always loved the spice and adventure in life too. I Know as God brings me to things; He always sees me through. Fear is rarely a factor in my life. That being said, I am always concerned for my family and friends.

Please pray for Heidi as her sense of adventure does sometimes lead her to narrow escapes. God will take care of her though, I have no doubt about that. He is an awesome sovereign God!

Read Hebrews chapters 11, 12 and 13 they're Awesome! :)

"So we say with confidence, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" Hebrews 13:6 (NIV)

"May the God of peace, who through the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen" Hebrews 13:20 & 21 (NIV)

This life is not about our bodies, or our emotional needs. It's about bringing Glory and Honor to Jesus! If he asks us to do something, we need to do it. Life and Love are never boring with Jesus! :)

The picture above is: Heidi Fisher, Taylor Emonds and another friend of theirs Amber who will be in Milan shortly. Taylor and Heidi share a 2 bedroom apartment and work together. Please pray for all believers here and through out the world that God would work through and use them to bring Him glory and honor.

Secure Your Salvation

Looking back, yesterday I seemed awful blunt about my feelings toward sexual sins, especially within families. I apologize to anyone I may have offended. I have forgiven those individuals, although I would never trust them with any child alone. Nor, will I take back what I said, hell has a purpose.

Forgiveness, doesn't mean you give the guilty person the keys to the kingdom. However for your sake and theirs it is necessary to forgive. Ideally, full restoration is the goal on both ends of forgiveness. If that is impossible because of continuing sin, or hardened hearts it's best to respect each other and move on, either together or apart. Does that make since?

Finally, I would encourage you to read the 18Th chapter of Matthew. Look at verses 21 through 35 especially. As you read this keep in mind this is what Jesus commands, it's not just suggested.

" Then the master called the servant in. "You wicked servant," he said, "I canceled all your debt of yours because you begged me to. shouldn't you had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you? In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should be paid back all he owed.

This is how your heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart." Matthew 18:32-35 (NIV)

Do you understand that? You can not ask, nor will you be forgiven, unless you are willing to forgive. I guarantee no one can buy their way into heaven. We only go through the pearly gates after Forgiveness and new life in Christ. Christ himself is saying you can not be forgiven without forgiving others who wrong you. Nor does this mean, you can stop forgiving after you've accepted Christ as your Savior. If you are a new creation in Christ you must forgive, or accept God's rejection towards you. Stop sinning, please start forgiving.

My Mom the Prayer Warrior

My Mom has been one of the best prayer warriors in my life. She never gives up, and she constantly yields to the will of God through prayer. I was thinking about her as we were driving to see her the other day. Saturday, my parents will leave to return to the frozen tundra, (Michigan.)

She's never had an easy life. Personal virtues were taken from her in childhood. (Hell does have a perfect purpose.) I hate what others have taken from her. I am longing for God's justice to them.

I'm also very thankful for my Dad who stepped up to the plate of fatherhood, at only 19. He too, gave up many ideals to become a father and provider. They're still together after 48 years of marriage.

In spite of hardships, she never turned on God. She always told me God was the only constant variable we can ever count on in our lives. There was never a truer statement, everything and everyone will pass away, but God is always constant and true.

Like the rest of us she has her faults, but I'm so thankful she's been my mom. God makes no mistakes in choosing the parents He places us with. My mother was so young when she gave birth to me. She could have given me up, or aborted me. She gave up so many dreams to keep me. My Mom is one of the best blessings God gave me.

Now, I almost always find her praying or reading her Bible before the rest of us wake up. She says she can't sleep, but I'm sure it's really just a matter of wanting to staert the day alone with God. She's prayed our family through some really bad times. There are many things I admire about my mom, but the greatest virtue she passes down to her family is her constant devotion and prayer life to God. She knows where TRUE PEACE comes from, and she seeks it.

"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

For surely, O Lord you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield." Psalm 5:11&12 (NIV)

I'm so thankful God so often uses the gentleness, that only a mother can give to show us His love and kindness.