COMFORT IN THE VALLEY written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

So many times in our earthly walk

God comes close to comfort and talk.

Feeling His presence, ever so near,

When we're consumed with pain and fear.

Lost in the valley of fear and doubt,

We often shiver and cry out.

In the darkness, lonely and cold,

Satan can whisper uncontrolled.

But we are protected from the evil liar

Angel wings shield us from his fire.

God walks along side to comfort,

To strengthen and support.

Providing light for each step

.....Unlocking doors, where treasures are kept.

He will lead you beside cool streams

Sharing in all your hopes and dreams.

Protecting us from the evil night,

Keeping us within His sight.

Holding us, when we've no strength to stand,

Reassuring us, when flames are fanned.

Nourishing body and soul,

When darkness takes it's tole.

We are never alone in the valley of fear

Father God is always near.

When this world is icy and cold

He's there with love to warm and hold.

Working ALL things together for good

...Even when trials cannot be understood

Finding peace as we trust God's will

.....Courage as we climb each hill.

Great mercies flow over you and me

To continually bless....and set us free.

Praying for His hedge of protection

As we journey to our destination.

Remember....."The battle belongs to the Lord"

Because YOU are so treasured and adored!!

I pray you feel His awesome touch

He loves you.....so very much !!

SAD SOUL written by Jerry Woods

This post is also by a guest writer - Jerry Woods!

When your heart aches

and sadness fills your soul

Is there anything in life

that can lift this heavy tole ?

There must be something in life

to brighten this dark soul.

Oh yes, my brother and sister dear...

A pretty smile, a kind word

a pause of time by someone near

To hear the cry of a sad soul

Even a stranger can send a message loud and clear

Fear not oh my sad friend

Because every dream and hope

has an angel near to touch your heart

and catch every fallen tear......

My Dirty Window by Jennifer Marshall

Welcome new contributor Jennifer Marshall!! We look forward to sharing more of your work.

I've been washing windows today and this has given me a lot of time to think and pray to God.

While doing so I'm thinking to myself how we are like the window (the dirty window). What does your window look like when looking through it, when others do, but more importantly what does God see?

I think about the water stains and wonder, are they like tears of others whom we have hurt and we need to go to and ask for forgiveness. Are they tears from God for our sins?

What about the bug poop? I wonder if they are spots of mud that we have slung at others in our thoughts or words of hurt, guilt, shame, jealousy? Could any of those spots be at God, when things didn't go our way, or when things have happened and we thought we could handle it without Him?

And the smudges, OH the dreaded smudges? Where we tried to wipe it clean once before and failed. Are these things we've asked God for forgiveness but haven't really repented? Or could it be where we have said we have forgiven someone or even God for something that has went wrong but we know down deep that we really haven't.

Through all of those spots and smudges, God's window to our soul is wiped clean every time we truly ask for His forgiveness. How amazing is His Love!!!

I hope you can clean your window today not for yourself but for the Lord. So the light that is within will shine through.

A Mother’s Prayer by Joyce Schafer

It is sometimes hard for younger brothers and sisters when they have a “perfect” older sibling. Can you imagine how hard it was for Jesus’ younger siblings to grow up with an older brother who was PERFECT. Not only was he PERFECT but he could walk on water and perform miracles. Were they resentful of Jesus? Did they feel that their mother loved their older brother more? Were they embarrassed by the way he hung out with sinners and did they consider him “odd” when he was doing these miracles? John 7:5 talks about how “even his own brothers did not believe in him”. Their family was spiritually divided. I can only imagine how Mary must have felt by having her beloved family torn apart by different religious beliefs. I am sure her heart was broken and I am also sure that she devoted much time praying that her family would be united.

We know that Mary was a very strong lady. Can you imagine watching your son die on the cross? She was there. I cannot imagine the pain she must have felt nor the Joy she felt when she saw Jesus when he arose. Her other children did come to believe but only after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Did they regret the time they had wasted while he was with them? They had the opportunity to ask and receive the answers to all of life’s questions and they did not take advantage of it.

We know that Jesus’ half-brother, James, did become a leader of the church in Jerusalem and even wrote a book in the New Testament. The book of James is one of the easiest books in the bible to understand and one of the hardest to apply in our lives. I think James wrote such practical advice because he had lived it first hand. He knew what it was like to go from a non-believer to a believer. He not only knew what to do but he also knew how to apply it to his life.

Acts 1:14 reads "They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers." Mary’s prayers were finally answered.

Surrounded by Beauty by Tana LeMay

I love pretty things – clothing, jewelry, furniture, flowers, pictures….the list goes on and on. I believe God gives each of us an appreciation for beauty, whether it be manmade or crafted by God’s own hands. To some, myself not included, He gives the ability to create beauty in stories, songs, poetry, and art. To all He gives the ability to enjoy His creation and created things through our senses. With our eyes we gaze in wonder as a rainbow fills the horizon. The sweet aroma of lilacs on a summer breeze tickles our nose. A child’s giggle is sweet music to a mother’s ear. And does anything taste better than warm apple pie? Or feel softer than a baby’s skin? We don’t have to run to the nearest mall or museum to find beauty. If we look hard enough, we can find it in each moment.

¹³ For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. ¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139: 13-14.

Pasta Does Not Equal Peace by Susan Shull

A couple of weeks ago, I drug my poor husband to see the new Julia Roberts movie, Eat, Pray, Love, based on a book by the same name. Since I had read the book and like Julia Roberts, I really wanted to see the movie. I knew Brad was in trouble when we entered the theater and we were surrounded by lots of sweet white haired ladies and one or two of their husbands. He was a good sport, as usual, and we settled in. After watching Julia look for happiness and peace by eating her way through Italy and worshiping her guru in India, Brad poked me and asked if it was ever going to end. Meanwhile, I was squirming around in my seat trying to get comfortable on my bad hip, wondering the same!

The movie did come to a conclusion, Julia found love in Bali, and I have been thinking about it off and on ever since. I won’t bore you with all the details, but, in my opinion, it all boiled down to the struggle between earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom. Mark has been preaching a series in the book of James and a couple of weeks ago spoke about just that struggle. Why do we listen to man trying to tell the world the right way to do things? It only takes a nanosecond to look around and see the emotional and physical results of trying to do things man’s way. The whole notion of political correctness is the perfect example of the mess we can get ourselves into when we do things man’s way. Addictions to drugs, food, sex, video games, pornography, the internet. Dead-beat dads, moms who don’t put their kids first, abortions, stressed out families, financial burdens, me-first thinking. Feelings of unhappiness, being unfulfilled, worshipping created things instead of the Creator. What has happened to us?

Job 28: 12-28 has advice about wisdom….true wisdom. I implore you to read the whole thing, but verses 12, 13, and 28 sum it up pretty well.

“But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell? Man does not comprehend its worth; it cannot be found in the land of the living. T he fear of the Lord-that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.”

Hmmmm……I hope one day I get to travel to Italy and feast on authentic Italian food. I would like to go to India on a mission trip, and Bali would be a delightful destination, but I don’t need to go to these places in search of the meaning of life. I can find that in the pages of my Bible, in conversations with my heavenly Father, and in living in community with my other brothers and sisters in Christ at Scott Avenue Christian Church.

Are both your oars in the water? By Theresa Zuber

One of the first sermons that our son, Andy preached was on “Faith and Deeds.” He had an illustration that I have never forgotten. A man was trying to explain how faith and deeds work together. He got into a small boat and rowed out a ways from the shore. “Pretend that this oar is faith” he said as he used just one of the oars to paddle. The boat turned in a clockwise circle. “This is the progress a man makes when he lives on faith alone.” As he put down the first oar, he picked up the second. He began to row on the opposite side of the boat. “This is what it looks like when a man lives on deeds alone.” The boat began to turn in counter-clockwise circles on the water. “But” the man said, as he picked up both oars, “When you use the two together, they complement one another.” As the man rowed the boat back to shore he stated, “With both faith and deeds working together, you can accomplish something for God.”

James 2:¹⁴What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? ¹⁵Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. ¹⁶If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? ¹⁷In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. ¹⁸But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.”

The footnote for James 2:14 in my Life Application Bible says, “True faith transforms our conduct as well as our thoughts. If our lives remain unchanged, we don’t truly believe the truths we claim to believe.”

In Philippians 3:2,3 the early Christians were having a hard time getting past the old law and the mentality of earning a place with God. My footnote there says, “What believers do is a result of faith, not a prerequisite to faith… God values the attitude of our hearts above all else…God notices all you do for him and will reward you for it, but ONLY if it comes as a loving response to his free gift of salvation.”

Ephesians 2 ^{8 ”}For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- ⁹not by works, so that no one can boast. ¹⁰For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

God’s wants us to be so blown away by our salvation that we feel compelled to do good in His name. Our normal response should be an outpouring of gratitude to God that manifests itself in such works as serving others, showering love on others, sharing the gospel with those who don’t understand, encouraging fellow Christians & building his kingdom.

When my children were small, they argued with each other. Sometimes if it got loud enough, or rough enough, I would step in and calm things down. Usually I would demand that they apologize to each other. You’ve heard it before. “SORRY!”-- Said with feeling (except that the feeling is “I don’t want to be apologizing to you, YOU JERK!”) I repeatedly told them that an apology is not enough, there has to be actions to match the words. The apology was worthless unless it was meaningful. It is the same with our faith. Deeds give truth and fullness to our words of faith in God and Christ Jesus.

And like all great scriptures, it ties in with others and bleeds over into other areas. Paul instructs us that faith also works hand in hand with love; that even the greatest, mountain-moving faith is worthless without love. “1 Corinthians 13 ² If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.”

God, I am so blown away by you. Completely in awe that you would choose me. Me. Why – I don’t know, but I’m SO thankful that you did. And now, I can’t do enough for you. Not to try to pay you back, for there’s NO PRICE I could pay that would match the price your son paid for me. I do what I can because I love you. And just maybe, the “things” I do will draw others to you, also. And that would be a gift I would be honored to lay at your feet.

Late Summer Rain by Donna (Ensign) Woods

A sweet, soothing late Summer rain...

To caress and ease your pain.

Renews your strength to cope

Refreshes your sense of hope.

Washing away stressful care,

As it cleanses mind and air.

Sweet, soothing late Summer rain....

Hypnotic with it's gentle refrain

The treasured scent it brings

...As all nature sings

Hearts slowly beat with ease

While rain drops cool and tease.

It gently washes away....

The dust of a tiring day.

Blessings fall from the sky

...Tears of joy the angels cry...

Oh such sweet delight

...A lullaby for the night.

Music to my ear

...As Father God stands near.

Washing the remnant of Summer away

....And ushers in a blessed Fall day.

God---Like a Grandparent? By Joyce Schafer

Are you like me and find it easy to pray for the BIG stuff but forget to pray for the LITTLE problems you experience every day? I have no trouble thanking God for the big miracles he performs but forget to show my gratitude for the multitude of small blessings I receive on a daily basis. I have to keep reminding myself that God wants to be a part of my life everyday and he wants to give me blessings all the time.
I have finally come to realize that God‘s feelings for me are a lot like my feelings for my grandchildren. I want to be a part of their lives in all things that they do whether it is ball games, band concerts, or any of their other interests and not just at birthdays or Christmas. I want to be in the stands cheering them on just like God is in heaven cheering us on. All my grandkids have to do is give me a call and they know that I will try to be there. All we have to do with God is just let him know we want and need him to be a part of our lives every day and in every way and he WILL be there.

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

SNAKES, SIN, AND SATAN (ssss…..) by Dena Wilkinson

In May on Memorial Day weekend, Mark, Scott and I traveled to Missouri to spend time with my mother-in-law Grace. It was a "working weekend" with Mark, Scott and Uncle "Chops" putting in a 16' cattle gate. I had made plans to walk down to the creek and lounge in the sun most of the weekend. That was BEFORE Mark told me about the snakes Grace had killed prior to our arrival.
I've been going to the cabin with Mark for the past 26 years, but this year was the first time I felt so skittish about the snakes. Besides the snakes being on my mind, it seemed that every bug known to Missouri was residing in the 83-year-old cabin. Mark thought it was funny, but I wasn't laughing and Scott wasn't laughing (I love that boy!) because, as he put it, "I'm really not that much into nature this time."
Despite my fears that I was going to step on a copperhead, I really did want to see one – from a distance, of course. Sunday after church, we headed to the cemetery to place flowers at the gravesites of Mark's dad and other family members. Then we headed to Potosi to visit the Old Mines Baptist Cemetery, where Mark's great-grandparents are buried. But due to the high grass, even Mark wouldn't venture into the potential snake haven. I wanted to get as close as I could in order to read the inscriptions, so I stepped out of the truck and put my foot down and immediately screamed, only to realize the "snake" that I stepped on was merely a large seed pod that happened to wiggle when I placed my foot on it. After Scott and I positioned our hearts back in their appropriate places, we had a good chuckle over it. But, the damage was done; we both were quite unnerved by that time.
On Monday, Mark and Grace cleared a path to the natural spring. I tried to convince Scott to walk down with me, but lucky for him Grace came out of the cabin just then and asked if he wanted to go with her to get some gas for the mowers. He grinned at me and quickly said yes to her. (My love for him was quickly waning!)
So I bit the bullet and headed down to the spring by myself, cautiously watching for any snakes. Naturally, every twig and branch looked like a poisonous reptile. As I made my way through the woods, I was suddenly struck by a profound thought, which literally stopped me in my tracks: Snakes=Satan=Sin. Here I had spent the whole weekend on the lookout for snakes, trying to avoid any areas where they might be hiding, but in my own personal life I could not remember trying to avoid sin quite as diligently! The thought of stepping on a snake or even getting within inches of one had me feeling uncomfortable and unnerved. Yet, I had to question the last time I purposely went out of my way to avoid a confrontation or temptation with sin. It's not that I look for ways to sin; I am just not on the lookout for them as I was with the snakes. I felt ashamed of that fact, and I resolved to be more aware of my day-to-day surroundings where temptation might strike when I least suspect it. Paul, in an almost amusing verbiage, described his attempt to avoid sin this way in Romans 7:
16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!

Above The Clouds by Vaneta Andrews

In the darkest corner of my life, I keep believing because … without belief there is no hope, there is no light!

It seems as if there has been a dark cloud hanging over our family this summer … following us around. Yet there is hope! God made these promises:
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9.
“For the Lord your God is a merciful God – he will not abandon or destroy you …” Deuteronomy 4:31 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12

As I sat in a hotel in Springfield on July 31 I started my journal with “Here I sit alone.” But God was quick to remind me that I was not truly alone. God has been with me (us) every step of the way! From wise doctors, to amazing nurses, to quick answers from disability, to generous family and friends.

I will admit … it hasn’t always been easy to see God in our circumstances but as I look back He has been there! He always is!! We just have to open ourselves up to Him; to see Him and feel Him!

They say that every cloud has a silver lining. Well I don’t know about your clouds but mine are paved with gold!

“It’s hard to see the light in the midst of the storm. But remember, just beyond the cloud cover is an amazing sight. Today allow God to show you life from His perspective.” (Quiet Moments with God Devotional Journal for Women, Feb 28)
I pray you will always see and feel God in all your circumstances!

Make Me a Blessing by Vaneta Andrews

I have always been an encourager and sending cards has always been my passion!  But somehow I had gotten away from what gave me such joy.  There was a void in my life and I didn't know it!

Then when I moved here I was blessed, like all those around me, to receive birthday cards from Anna Mae Warfel.  One could always count on finding at least one card in the mailbox on that special day and you knew it was going to be signed "Anna Mae".  When she passed away it saddened me for many reasons.  One being that her ministry was dead too.  But then in Mark's funeral sermon he challenged those of us there to carry on Anna Mae's legacy.  I bawled! This was just the nudge I needed.  I knew exactly what I had to do. So that first year after Anna Mae's passing I sent birthday cards in her memory - which totally freaked out some people.  I've been doing my best to carry on Anna Mae's legacy and start my own since then.

You too can be a part of the card ministry.  You can send your own cards for birthdays, anniversaries, get wells or just thinking about you.  Or you can help me in this ministry.  You can donate cards (blank or birthday) or even postage.

Whatever you do I pray you find your spiritual gift (we all have at least one) and that you use it to Glorify God!

Upcoming Harvest by Theresa Zuber

Soon it will be harvest time. Farmers will be comparing notes on how their crops have done this year. What type of seed did they use? What chemicals? What sort of fertilizer? And the most important question – What kind of yield did they receive? You see, although farmers can’t control the weather conditions, they do want to make the best choices for those things they can control. So, year after year, they continue to ask those same questions and do research to try to make the best of a very tough career.

You and I have a very tough assignment. We are to live in this world, but not be of it. We are to make disciples – not just church members – but full grown, mature disciples. So as you make your way through year after year, what tactics are you taking to improve your harvest for His kingdom? Have you found a more effective way to sow the seed? What about the preparation of the ground? What have you found that produces deeper roots and stronger Christians? Do you see an improvement in the harvest you are helping with?

James 2:18 But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.

Faith is believing in what is unseen – but a byproduct of true faith is action- deeds. This doesn’t mean seeing how many “jobs” you can sign up for in the church. It means putting feet on your faith so that it is not merely words, but a way of life! Hmm. Sounds like another passage:

Romans 12:1-2 1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Soak up the Son by Theresa Zuber

It’s summer and many people are soaking up the sun and enjoying all the activities that summertime allows. It seems that most products contain some form of SPF to protect you from the harmful rays. However, I heard a report recently that many children are Vitamin D deficient because their parents are so diligent about applying the sunscreen that these children are not getting this precious vitamin that the sun provides. Go figure.

I find it interesting that our English language makes such parallels with our spiritual truths. The sun (Son) is the center of our universe. If the sun (Son) were removed, our life would cease. When the sun (Son) is shining, people’s spirits are happier, uplifted and brighter. Without the sun (Son), growth is stunted and incomplete.

Come into the Son-light! Don’t slather on a protective shield that keeps his presence from penetrating to your very core. You have nothing to fear. And, just like the sun, when you spend time allowing His light to shine on you, people will see a difference when they look at you! But just as a summer tan can fade away once you stop the daily exposure to the sun, so you can lose your “glow” from being with the Lord if other priorities take His place. Soak in His presence daily to receive the spiritual nutrition you need for your life on this earth.

John 3:36 (The Message) “Whoever accepts and trusts the Son gets in on everything, life complete and forever! And that is also why the person who avoids and distrusts the Son is in the dark and doesn't see life. All he experiences of God is darkness, and an angry darkness at that."

Don't Hold Back by Susan Shull

As a teacher of junior high kids, I am surrounded each day by young people searching for their place in the world. They are so full of potential and talent and I feel that part of my job is to encourage each of them to develop the gifts God has given them. Much of that comes from being willing to try new things. Sadly, some of them are already beaten down by past failures and the negativity of others, and they are scared to death to do something out of their comfort zones. Of course, then there is the thing dreaded by all 13-14 year olds-doing anything that might label them as “different.” At this age, the tendency is to be one of the flock- blending in, not standing out.

Wait a minute……that sounds amazingly like most adults I know, including me! However, if I don’t think it is the way for kids to behave, what about the grownups? God has graciously given each of us talents and gifts to use in His kingdom for His glory. Since I want to live a life that is pleasing to Him, why wouldn’t I use what He has given me?

I grew up playing the piano in church. I’m so appreciative that the great people who attend the Hidalgo Independent Christian Church were patient when they sang “Wonderful Words of Life” and “There Will be Showers of Blessings” over and over on Sunday night because those were among the only songs I was comfortable playing!

The piano has been a great source of pleasure and comfort to me over the years, so when I was asked again if I would join the Praise Band, this time I said yes. Believe me, it is a little scary to stand on the stage and play in front of all those people, and it is intimidating to be offering my praise to a Holy God with others watching. But, I have decided it isn’t about me and I’m going to do it even if I do have butterflies in my stomach and slightly shaky knees the whole time!

Can you imagine the blessings that would flow if each of us would step out of our boxes and live our lives 100% for His glory? God has promised a blessing to those who use their talents-they will receive more. Who wouldn’t want that?

Please join me on this journey. We probably weren’t gifted in TV watching, internet surfing, or criticizing others, (all things I am pretty good at) so let’s start today praying that God will show us the special traits we possess and the ways we can use them for Him.

My Favorite Place by Tana LeMay

My porch is my favorite spot. I love to sit out there early in the morning and watch the sun rise. The beauty of God’s creation surrounds me….in the dawning of a new day, sunlight reflected in the tiny drops of the dew topping each blade of grass. I gaze upon the hummingbirds visiting the feeder, while the joyful song of a meadow lark perched in a nearby tree flows around me. I can hear the wind rustling the leaves of the crop planted in the field and imagine I can see them reaching for the warmth of the sun.

My porch is also my favorite place for enjoying the power of a rain storm. The thunder rumbles in the distance, coming closer and closer. Billowing clouds move swiftly near, sometimes ominous in their silent approach. Streaks of lightening strike the ground, lighting up the sky with their amazing energy. A new sound is heard in the distance, quickly approaching. It’s thousands of droplets of water pouring from the sky, bouncing off the leaves of trees and plants and falling to the ground. The wind picks up and I rush for the door, barely making it inside as the wind and rain reach my porch.

Psalm 19:1 (New International Version) ¹ The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

Summer Time - Time to Trim the Ivy - by Joyce Schafer

We have an old block garage with ivy growing up one side. While some (including my husband) think of this as an eyesore, I personally think that this ivy adds charm . It was , however, growing out of control, blocking windows and heading toward my automatic garage door. Ok, I like old things but I also like the convenience of not having to get out and open doors. So, I decided it was time to trim the ivy.

As I was clipping away, this ivy reminded me of a human tongue. When kept in check it has the power to say beautiful things but when it gets out of control it can cause extreme problems. The ivy was clinging to every thing that it touched much like gossip can leave behind a trail of destruction. Some of the ivy was trying to bury itself in crevices that could weaken the building. This is much like harsh words spoken to another can become buried in that person causing a weakening in his structure.

I came to realize that just like my ivy, I need to trim the words that flow off of my tongue and to make sure they are a thing of beauty and do not grow ugly and out of control. Words are a powerful tool and they can be used to build others up or tear them down. I pray with God’s help that my words just like my ivy will be kept in check and will be a thing of beauty.

Psalm 34:13 (New International Version) ¹³ keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.

A Tribute to the Star Spangled Banner by Donna Ensign Woods

(quotes by Francis Scott Key)

Saluting the Red, White and Blue

And what it means to me and you.

“Oh, say can you see…..”

Praying for those who fight to keep us free.

“By the dawn’s early light”

….We’ll never give up the fight !

“What so proudly we hailed“

Under our flag, we marched, flew and sailed

“At the twilight’s last gleaming”

Of a brighter future continually dreaming.

“Thru the perilous fight”

The banner’s a breathtaking sight !

“And the rocket’s red glare”

Our flag continued waving there.

“The bombs bursting in air”

Remembering those who died there….

“Gave proof through the night”

We’ll never give up the fight !!

“In full glory reflected”

Trusting God…Never rejected.

“O long may it wave”

Over this land of the free and brave.

“….Battle’s confusion” ….”the havoc of war”

Continually knocks upon our door.

“Praise the power that hath made…”

And the mighty price hath paid.

In the land of the brave.

…Remembering all they gave.

“In God is our trust”

Our cause is true and just.

We raise the banner high

To those who live…..and die.

“And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave”

We are free because of what many gave !!!!

Heart of Gold by Vaneta Andrews

My Dad always signs emails, cards, etc. as “The Grouch” but you can’t judge a book by its cover. My Dad actually has a heart of gold. He would do anything for anybody.

The story begins when my Dad was 38. He had a massive heart attack, spent 4 weeks in the hospital and quit smoking. Then when he was 42 he had 5 by-passes and ten years later another 5 by-passes. A few years ago he had a pacemaker/defibulator put in and last year he had one stint put in. Through all this he never stopped giving.

Dad has taken pictures for years, not just of me or Logan but also of our friends. He always shares the pictures with our friends’ families. He also gave pictures to the year book club and to the local newspaper.

In high school a fellow basketball player of mine didn’t have anyone supporting her so my dad decided to be that supporter. He insisted on taking her with us after games to get our free drink. He often gave her a ride home as well.

My dad never let a “little” chest pain stop him. He practiced softball with me even when I know he really didn’t feel like it. Often times it would be just he and I on the softball field till I was tired and ready to quit. He taught me everything I know except maybe how to “throw like a girl”.

Dad also taught me to ride motorcycles, shoot, hunt and fish. He taught me that you never give up no matter what and you give what you can to others. So even though his heart may not be made of gold it sure is “worth its weight in gold”.

Men in My Life by Joyce Schafer

Over the years, I have been blessed with several special guys in my life and I would like to take this opportunity to honor them.

Even though my father has been gone for many years I still remember his kind and gentle nature whether he was dealing with animals or people. The times I remember most were when orphan animals would need special care and he would bring them into the house to warm up. I also remember how he would quit working and take me to a 4H meeting or band practice and not complain about it. Sunday mornings he would get up early to do chores so that he could take his family to church.

Growing up with three brothers taught me perseverance. I always knew that despite all the teasing and put-downs that they really liked me. It took maturity for them to be able to actually show it. Today I know that if I ever needed anything they are always there for me.

My husband has taught me what real love is. It is being able to talk, cry and laugh about anything. It is about putting others first. I got one of the Good Guys and for that I thank God every day.

As a mother, I have been amazed to watch my sons become grownups. I look back and remember these two little boys playing with their little tractors in the dirt. Today they are all grown-up and spend their days working on great big tractors. The only thing that hasn’t changed is they still get dirty. All I can say is they remind me of their father and that is the best compliment that I can give them.

We are blessed with six grandsons. These boys have been following their fathers and grandpa around from the time they could walk. They too have spent a lot of time playing in the dirt and now are driving tractors and taking care of animals. Will they also grow up to be good fathers and Godly men? I can only do what grandmothers have been doing for many years and that is to pray for them.

Proverbs 20:7 “The righteous man leads a blameless life, blessed are his children after him.”

Happy Father’s Day!

Daddy by Donna (Ensign) Woods

Becoming a Father is easy enough

But being a Daddy...can be really tough!

Exhausted at the end of each work day...

But his pride and joy wants to play.

...So he plays dolls with his little dove...

Or grabs a ball and glove...

Daddys know the importance of a "play-date"

...Things like that, just can't wait.

Kids imitate all he will do and say,

As they grow along the way.

Learning by the way he treats their mother

and the way he helps a sister or brother.

They watch him stand for what is good and right

...And they hear him pray at night.

No greater task is found on Earth

Than to grow children of honest worth.

He creates memories for them to treasure,

From simple games of learning pleasure.

Holding his child's hand

He teaches them to stand.

He won't do everything right...

But he will always be "Daddy" in their sight.

He doesn't tell his child how to live

...Just lets them watch him love and give.

Watching him at work and play

He teaches them every day

As he loves with all his heart

He blesses each child with a healthy start.

Encouraging them to do their best

.......Trusting God with all the rest.

It's not an Even Trade! by Theresa Zuber

“I’m trading my sorrows. I’m trading my shame. I’m laying them down for the joy of the Lord.
I’m trading my sickness. I’m trading my pain. I’m laying them down for the joy of the Lord.”

Recently during our Sunday morning corporate worship, Tina encouraged us to be sure that when we “trade” God our sorrows, our pain, our worries, etc., that we make sure we take back His joy, His comfort – since that’s what trading is all about! Psalm 55:22 tells us to cast our cares on Him!

Have you ever tried to just GIVE someone something expecting nothing in return? You may no longer have use for it and you just want to pass it on. Some people insist on keeping up their end of the “deal.” My dad’s like that. Rarely will he just let me bless him with something. Even if I give him leftovers, sometimes he will bring me some food (or something) back in return. You just can’t out give my dad.

Our Heavenly Father is just like that- even more so!! He asks for a tithe, not because He needs our money but He needs us to LET GO of it! He promises us in Malachi 3:10 that He will bless us more abundantly than we can imagine: blessings of all types – not just monetary. We serve – He rewards. We worship – He inhabits the praises of His people. We obey – He is faithful. Even when we fall short on our side of the “trade” – God still gives to His children out of His abundant love. 1 John 3:1 How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

Looking for a last minute Father’s Day gift? How about a Christian CD? Try Mark Schultz “Come Alive” , “WOW Hits 2010” which features various artists, or Phillips, Craig & Dean’s “Fearless.”

MY FRIEND written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

My Friend is always beside me

To share in all I do and see.

Behind me to guard my back,

From Satan's plan of attack.

In front of me to lead the way

Lighting my path for each day.

He is under me---for strength to stand

For trials and joys He has planned

Up over...to release blessings rain

Showering me with mercy....soothing my pain.

In my heart... He lives within

An awesome Friend, I have in Him.

Under, Over, Beside, Behind....

In front of me, to ease my mind.

My Friend protects me under His wing...

Forever gives me a song to sing.

Daily refills my cup of hope

Renewing my strength to laugh and cope.

I feel His arms hug me tight.

For me....I know He'll fight.

He shares in my laughter and my tears,

Calming my doubts, and my fears.

My friend is always very near,

To whisper His truth in my ear.

Caressing my aching soul,

When trials of life take their tole.

When I stumble and fall

I hear Him gently call.

.....Or if I lose my way

....Close by me He will stay.

Long ago.....He went before me

....So my heart could see

.....His forever love....on Calvary.

Worship Spotlight 5 17 10

Babies, babies everywhere!! What joy these little innocents bring to our hearts, our spirits, putting smiles on the most stoic faces. Who can resist those tiny little fingers and toes, the soft pink skin and those gurgling noises that infants tend to make? They fill us with hope for what their lives will bring. They bring us back to a few carefree moments when all we want to do is see them smile or yawn or sleep and for a moment it brightens our day – lifts our spirits.

Psalm 42: 11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
God wants our hope to be in Him. He wants to be the source of our strength and our joy. Yet, we focus on our trials and troubles, and as the world presses in we allow it to squelch our joy. Then God sends us a friend who makes us smile. He paints the sky with a double rainbow for us to “ooh” and “ah” over. He sends a song on the radio that speaks to our sorrow. God, our heavenly Father, knows our situations intimately – and He sees the hope of what we CAN be – what good can come from our sometimes overwhelming circumstances.

2 Cor 4: 16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

“Praise You in This Storm” -words by Mark Hall/music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herms



Psalm 52:8b—9: I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever. 9 I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints.

See you Sunday!!!

Praying Mothers (and Grandmothers) by Tana LeMay

One of my daily devotionals is titled Praying Grandmothers. These godly women were citizens of the country of Latvia. In the early 1940s, Latvia came under the control of the atheistic Soviet regime. Their church was taken over by the invaders and turned into a sports hall. These women began praying for independence from the Soviets and the freedom to worship in their church building. God answered their prayers……50 years later.

During those 50 years, these faithful prayer warriors refused to give up, trusting in God’s will and schedule. Though they were in their 80’s when Latvia gained freedom from Soviet control, they immediately went to work, securing a minister for their congregation of 2, then seeking others to help turn the church building back into a sanctuary. They knew their work wouldn’t end until God called them home.
I see similarities between their role and ours as Christian mothers. Our days begin while the rest of the family is still asleep and generally ends long after everyone has gone to bed. During our waking hours, we serve as judge, teacher, nurse, counselor, confidant, cook, maid, chauffeur…etc. We’ve spent many a night holding a sick child, praying for another who is hurting, crying out to God to touch those children who have gone astray. Like our Christian Latvia sisters, we refuse to give up, standing in the gap, holding firm to the promises in God’s word.
1 Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
Psalm 125:1

To all of our mothers, grandmothers, sisters and friends – stand firm and keep believing. Happy Mother’s Day!

One of God's Greatest Inventions by Joyce Schafer

I have been reading about great inventors who have ideas pop into their heads and go on to become very rich. Let me tell you, if I invented something based on ideas that pop into my brain we would now have a washer that sorted clothes before washing, a clothes dryer that not only dried the clothes but folded them and put them away, a floor that cleaned itself automatically, a system where cobwebs were always removed from the corners of the ceiling, and a genie who could throw together a meal in minutes. Oh, wait, God already invented these wonders in one. She is called Woman and in most cases she is also called wife, mother and maybe even grandmother. God gave women a special talent for seeing spills, dirt, cobwebs, wrinkles and clutter that most men do not even notice. He also gave us the talent for appreciating dandelion bouquets, knowing when a child is sick or sad without them saying a word and being able to love our child unconditionally no matter what they do. God really knew what he was doing when he had that light bulb moment and looked at Adam and thought “He really needs a Helpmate!”

This Mother’s Day please take the times to thank that special lady who does so much for you and all she wants in return is your love and respect. HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

When? by Donna (Ensign) Woods

When to scold
When to simply hold.
When to laugh or cry
Or simply breathe a sigh
When to give stern advice
Or agree.....while smiling nice...
When to stand up
And when to shut up
When to share and teach
Or stomp your foot and preach
When to speak up and be heard
Or quietly listen to their every word
.....When to speak....
And when to just pray and seek.
When to lend a helping hand
Or step back and teach them to stand
When to praise and encourage
Or weigh the facts...and discourage.
When to be humble and apologize
Or simply agree to compromise
When laughter and love is enough
Knowing sometimes love is tough
Hoping and praying for what is best
Knowing each day is trial and test
Choosing carefully the words we say
Making memories along the way
When to have faith and be strong
Facing each day with a song
.....A job that compares to no other
A labor of love....being a Mother !

Amazing Love... by Vaneta Andrews

Amazing Love, how can it be?
That you my king would die for me.

This song brings me to tears every time I hear it! And with good reason!! Have you ever really thought about it? How can it be … that Jesus, a sinless man – God’s own son, was willing to die a horrific death … FOR ME, FOR YOU?

How can it be that God would be willing to sacrifice His only son … FOR ME, FOR YOU? I think about that sacrifice often and I’m pretty sure I couldn’t and wouldn’t sacrifice my son.

Amazing love I know it’s true
It’s my joy to honor you.

It’s my joy to honor you … or is it? I want it to be and it should be but I don’t always honor Him. I definitely don’t always find joy in honoring Him. Some of the things He asks me to do take hard work, require some form of sacrifice, or takes me out of my comfort zone. I don’t always find joy in those things until the lesson has been learned. And yet none of these things compare to the sacrifice He gave for a people so undeserving.

We are forgiven because He was forsaken
We are accepted, He was condemned.

If He is tugging at your heart to make a decision to follow Him … Don’t wait, Don’t hesitate. He didn’t. When called upon He willingly left Heaven to walk & live as man. The only difference is that He was sinless and not deserving of the death He faced.

Lord – I am so sorry you had to die for me but I am so thankful that you did!

Worship Spotlight 4 5 2010

Her husband says he loves her; that she's the most important thing in the world to him. Yet his actions speak louder than his words of love and devotion. His free time is divided between his favorite sports events, television shows and online computer games. No time is left for quiet time with his wife. No time spent enjoying life together. Does this fictional husband really love his wife more than himself?

Using this example, take a good look at your relationship with Jesus. Do you love God? Of course we would most likely all answer "Yes!" Is He the most important thing in your world? What is your time and energy spent on? There are 24 hours in a day but they seem to be filled with sleeping, working, eating and other responsibilities. What free time we have is quickly filled with other activities or just vegging out.

God can be glorified while we prepare meals for our family or patiently help with homework or other household chores. But he still desires our attention and devotion. He wants to have some quality alone time with YOU! He has written you a book of love letters, poetry and stories of the past that he wants to share. He wants to whisper words in your ear that are just for you. Are you quiet enough to hear them?

Worshiping God is so much more than attending a Sunday morning service for an hour and fifteen minutes. If we truly worship God, our whole lives will be affected by it. Our Sunday morning corporate worship is important. (Heb 10: 25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.) But - it is only one small part of our worship.

Col 3:23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,
Deut 11: 18 Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 19 Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up
Psalm 46: 10 "Be still, and know that I am God;
Mark 12: 30Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.

If we are Christians, worshiping God can not be a small part of our lives. It should be woven through every part of every day. Be intentional in your relationship with Christ and encourage those around you to do the same! God will amaze you with the results.

Spring Prelude by Dena Wilkinson

The Conductor lifts His hands
And lightning blazes in the darkness.
Anticipation shivers with electricity—
The opera is ready to begin.
A shout of thunder fills the silence of the night;
The voice of the Performer is unmistakable.
His power resonates,
Permeating an invisible moon
While creating a tympanic disturbance.
Cacophonous chords crescendo
Reaching climactic proportions.
Spellbound, immense trees gaze upward
Their limbs outstretched in acclamation.

And then…silence.

But in the distance
Woodwinds whisper in soft harmony,
"Winter is dead, winter is dead."
As their symphony fades into dark obscurity,
Spring humbly bows to a thunderous ovation.

CRUCIFY HIM by Donna (Ensign) Woods

They didn’t sing, “How Great Thou Art”.
They didn’t parise Him with a joyful heart.
Instead, they screamed, “Crucify Him!!!”
As He prepared to die for all our sin.
Barabas was released from prison, and set free,
But Jesus was led away to die for you and me.
So many laughed, and mocked His name,
As He was nailed to the cross for all sin and shame.
I’m sure He shed a tear or two,
As He prayed to God for me and you.
Jesus prayed for believers to be united as one
As the Father is united with His son.
His love and compassion is so great,
Here in the midst of so much anger and hate.
His beloved Peter denied Him three times that night.
The number of times we’ve denied Him is a terrible sight!
They cast lots for His clothes and mocked Him with sneers
While Mary and the others watched with heart-felt tears.
A King with no jewels to adorn
Only a dirty…bloody crown of thorns!
From the sixth hour until the ninth, the sun refused to shine.
As Jesus died for all sin…theirs, yours and mine…
Close your eyes and feel the awesome power of it…
“Father unto your hands I commit my Spirit.”
We were all there, you and I…
For each of us… He chose to suffer and die.
It doesn’t matter how great or small our sin and shame,
The price He paid for it was still the same.
The sights and sounds of that crucifiction day
Should make us all eager to bow and pray.
The sounds of a nail, being pounded into His hand…
We should still hear it…echo across this land.
Imagine the blood…crimson upon His face
As He hung there…in YOUR place!!!
Joseph took His body to the tomb…His burial place
Later, they found only the cloth, He was gone…without a trace.
Can you imagine their horror and dismay??
They thought someone had stolen their Lord away.
The angel said, He is not here, but do not weep.
Jesus rose from the dead to fulfill the promise to His sheep.
Then, He went to Heaven, to prepare us a place.
Through Baptism, He blesses us with His saving grace.
You are the one He loves and adores…
But, It’s Heaven or Hell, the choice is yours!!!
Imagine…looking into Jesus eyes, as He died for you.
Then search your heart and ask…”WHAT AM I GOING TO DO??”

Circle of Love by Joyce Schafer

There are flowers everywhere! Having moved into our “new” old home in the summer, I had no idea what pleasant surprises awaited me this Spring. I had carefully dug up some of my tulips and lilies to take with me but this spring I was surprised to learn that the former owners loved these flowers as much as I do. They are popping up all over the place!

Last summer we had removed a jungle of old vines and discovered an unsafe cistern in our back yard. With all the grandkids running around, we knew this was not a good thing so the cistern was filled in with lots of dirt. Over the winter the dirt settled and we were left with a sunken hole in the center of the mound . We were planning on filling in the hole again and then I was going to make a flower bed so that the grandkids would stay out of it. Imagine my surprise when I discovered flowers popping up in a horseshoe shape around this hole. A couple of days later another row of the same Spring bulbs showed up in the center of my backyard- just perfect to be moved and to make a complete circle. This will be my “Circle of Love Flower Garden” to keep my little ones protected.

When I think of all the adversity (not to mention dirt) these bulbs went through to grow, I am reminded of a lot of Christians I have known over the years. They have suffered greatly but have kept their faith alive and have continued to grow and like my flowers they have become a “Circle of Love” in my life.

1 Peter 1:24-25 “All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever…”

Worship Spotlight 3 22 10 - by Theresa Zuber

What will you and your family do to make this Easter more meaningful? Perhaps watch the movie, “Passion of the Christ”? Each day read through the appropriate passages that depict what transpired during Christ’s final week? Attend the Seder Meal at Scott Avenue on Thursday evening? Take some time to spend in silence on Good Friday, remembering the hours Christ suffered on the cross? Invite your un-churched family to join you on Easter morning as you attend either our 8 am or 10:30 am service?

Jesus Christ overcame death so that we could have hope of living forever with our Father in heaven! Don’t let this Easter come and go in a whirlwind of eggs and bunnies. Worship our Risen Savior for the gift He has give us!!!

The Triumphal Entry – Mark 11:1-11
Clearing of the Temple – Mark 11:15-19
Plot to Kill Jesus/Judas – Mark 14:1-11
The Last Supper – Mark 14:12-16
Jesus Washes Disciples’ Feet – John 13:1-17
He Predicts Peter’s Denial – Luke 11:31-34
Jesus Prayer for All Believers – John 17:1-26
Garden of Gethsemane/Betrayal/Arrest – Matt 26:36-56
Peter’s denial’s – Luke 22:54-62
Jesus Sentenced to Death – Matt 27:15-26
Crucifixion – Luke 23:26-49
Burial/Guard – Matt 27:57-66
Resurrection – Luke 24:1-12

Seder Meal – Reminder: April 1st at 6:30 will be our Seder Meal. This service will give you an in depth appreciation of the symbolism of Jesus as the true sacrificial lamb. Come join us as we explore the Jewish Passover traditions and focus on the way it ties into our Christian celebration of the Lord’s Supper.

Please note: Although this is called a Seder Meal, it is symbolic in nature and not intended to replace your evening meal.