*Volume 76 *No. 09 *Published by Christian Triumph Co. *Permit # 695 *NOVEMBER 2005
A CHILD-LIKE STORY That Big Ole Punkin Pie Eleven-year-old Jennifer woke up with a big smile and a little twitch of her nose, “Mama, What is that wonderful smell?” From the warm kitchen, her mother’s voice replied happily, “Hurry and come see! It’s the best Pumpkin pie that I ever made!” Jennifer jumped out of her small bed grabbing the heavy quilt to keep warm. The bedroom was cold, but she could already feel the heat from the wood-burning stove in the parlor. Mama stood stirring molasses into a bowl of oats as she glanced at the table. There sat a big pie dish overflowing with a beautiful golden crust. Inside the crust was an orange-colored filling made from one of the pumpkins found in the Fall garden. It looked very creamy and thick. “I used some of ole Bossy’s best cream to make the pie and lots of spices and sugar,” said Mama. Jennifer licked her lips with eagerness; she could hardly wait to taste such a delight. Suddenly the door opened with a gust of cold air and in walked her smiling Papa. “How are my two best girls?” he asked with a wink of his eye. “Are you just about ready to go to Grandma’s? That gray sky looks like it might snow at any time, and we sure don’t want to miss out on Grandma’s turkey.” Mama looked at him with soft, sad eyes and then glanced at the Pumpkin pie. Papa caught on real quick! “Oh, yes, and I cannot wait to taste that delicious, creamy pie.” Mama smiled with pleasure and gave him a little hug, and then said to Jennifer, “Eat your oats and get dressed. I’ll get the food ready to go.” Before Papa went outside to harness the horse to the wagon, he checked the fire in the heating stove and peered out the small window. The sky was overcast and big clouds filled the heavens. Going through the kitchen, he patted Jennifer on the arm and asked her to hurry. Mama finished wrapping a cloth over the last dish – her
special Pumpkin pie, and laid it gently by itself. Then she went to find her boots and warm coat. Jennifer dressed quickly in the long flannel dress that Grandma made for these cold days. She was so excited about Thanksgiving that she threw on her bulky coat, grabbed her hat and mittens, and skipped towards the kitchen. It would be fun to carry that big ole pie to the wagon, she thought and hastily, she picked it up moving towards the door. All of a sudden, Papa hurried in causing Jennifer to step back and cry out as she tripped, slightly twisting her ankle. She tried to hold onto the pie but it flew out of her hands and fell hard against the wooden floor. Pumpkin flew everywhere as Jennifer watched with alarm. Mama ran into the room, stopping to stare at the sight. Papa was trying to help Jennifer up and examine her ankle all at the same time. Jennifer’s eyes were tearful, and she hung her head in disbelief. Angrily, she cried out, “Oh, look at what I did to that ole pie!” Mama quietly began cleaning up the floor while Papa sorrowfully picked up Jen and carried her to the wagon. Old Molly, the brown mare, stood fastened and ready to go. In the back was a couple of hay bales, one of them spread out, and covered with a blanket. Jennifer huddled down in the soft hay for the wind had risen and was blowing little icy particles. Papa helped Mama bring out the rest of the dishes, crocks of buttered yellow squash, cooked corn, home-made bread, and another box all covered with a white flour sack. He helped her up onto the wagon seat and then followed, clicking his tongue and hollering at Molly to “get up.” The snow began to fall in huge, frosty flakes, and Papa made the horse walk just a little faster. Grandma only lived about a mile through the woods, but the wind was colder than usual. Jennifer grabbed the woolen blanket, pulling it over her head. She was troubled, feeling as if her heart was becoming as bitter as the wind. How could she do such a stupid thing as dropping that beautiful pie? Why did she even try to help? It certainly did not pay off! The wind moaned as in agreement with her
In the small farm house warmed with the big wood heater, Jennifer removed her coat and hobbled into the kitchen. Grandma and Mama were already putting the food on the table, and it all smelled so good. She glanced over at the stand which usually held Grandma’s coal-oil lamp, and instead, there laid a big plate covered with a flour sack (the box was on the floor). Softly, Jennifer edged closer and drew back the cloth. There to her complete surprise was a big golden crust with a creamy, Pumpkin pie filling. “Mama, look! Here is a pie just like yours!” cried Jennifer and then saw her mother smiling with happiness. “That’s right, Jennifer! I made two Pumpkin pies. I did not tell you because of your anger, and I wanted to give you time to talk with Jesus. And that is just what happened! The first piece of this big pie goes to you, Jen.” As Jennifer smiled her understanding, the door opened with a flurry even as big snowflakes chased Papa into the room. He winked at Grandma and said, “I think we will spend the night; no use in getting back out in that cold weather. Besides, I want to eat dinner right now and then eat lots more at suppertime!” Everyone laughed. Later, sitting at the table while Papa prayed, Jennifer bowed her head and told Jesus how glad she was that He knew just what she needed to feel better. This was going to be a good Thanksgiving after all, and she had so much to be thankful for, especially that “second, big ole Punkin pie.” NH
thoughts, and she dug deeper into the hay closing her eyes. The minutes passed by, and slowly, a quiet thought tiptoed into her mind. It’s not my Mama’s fault that I fell down and dropped her only pie. So why don’t I just tell her that I am sorry and ask her to forgive me. In Sunday school, Jennifer learned that Jesus said to ask forgiveness and also to give it many, many times. Even in His special prayer, Jesus asked God to “forgive us as we forgive those who sin against us.” Yes, she would stand up right now on her sore foot, put her arms around her mother, and ask to be forgiven. And then, just maybe, her heart might stop hurting so much! The glittering snow fell gently as old Molly pulled the wagon over the last hill, the harness jingling merrily with its little bells. Beautiful red and yellow leaves whirled and danced while the November wind whistled in the trees. Jennifer clutched the wagon seat and slowly pulled herself up to stand behind her mother. With big tears, she put her arms around Mama’s shoulders, whispering in her ear, “Mama, I am so sorry I dropped your pie. Will you forgive me?” Mama quickly turned and tenderly drew her close, “Of course, I will forgive you. My pie was special but not nearly as special as you. Jen, I love you dearly and am sure that Jesus is really proud of you right now.” Suddenly, Jennifer felt very peaceful as that cold icy feeling began melting from her heart. As she sat down, snuggling in the warm hay, the fluffy snowflakes fell as light as feathers on her cheeks; even the wind grew calmer. Up ahead, she could see the yellow light coming from Grandma’s windows and the smoke rising from the chimney. Maybe, after eating the Thanksgiving meal, they could even spend the night. Already, the snow was piling up and would be slick before morning. When they reached the house, Papa helped both Mama and Jennifer to the door and then brought in the food. Then he and old Molly went on to the small barn where Grandpa had kept his own horse. There was even some hay in the stall, and Papa pumped some water from the well to give Molly a drink.
(Dedicated to all of us who are children - in heart) “Let the children come to Me! Do not stop them because the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Remember this! Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” -Jesus HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
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GIVING THANKS Ivan J. Smith, CSM Belleville, Illinois 10-28-98 It was something small, but the widow gave her all, giving thanks.
We Care! God bless and heal you. If you are suffering In other ways, We feel your need deeply! We believe - God will help you! We support you with our prayers. Thank you for reading the Faith Messenger. Thank you for being our friend. Thanksgiving Is a special time to tell you How much we appreciate YOU! Love, Christian Triumph Family _______________________________________
It was something large, but the Centurion put it in Jesus’charge, giving thanks. Our futures by our Lord, bought; we can ask a little or a lot, giving thanks. Our lives Jesus does guide, if in Him we’ll abide, giving thanks. Our Lord gives His best, when our daily bread we request, giving thanks.
MILITARY PRAYER CORNER Please remember our friends and loved ones in the Military, those who guard us, stand firm for the cause of freedom, and sacrifice for the Peace of our nation and others:
We are each God’s tool, whether at work or at school, giving thanks. Whether in a valley dark or on the mountain bright, we can walk in His light, giving thanks.
Sgt. Nathaniel Clum, Army National Guard Spc. Eric Ea., Army National Guard Raymond Hanks, Army National Guard Gary Miller, Army National Guard
In whatever situation we are found, in His strength we will abound, giving thanks. + A SPECIAL WORD of THANKSGIVING TO YOU! Our thoughts and good wishes Are with you today! If you are without family, You are not alone Because We are with you in spirit! Our prayers are for youThat God will provide your needs. If you are ill,
(Please send names of military personnel for prayer. + The Sweetest Words “It is I.” (A Bible Story) The disciples were tired but amazed! Jesus had just fed 5,000 men (plus their families) with a couple of fish and five barley loaves. What a day! If ever they felt inspired, this was it! Now, the evening had come, and they were at the sea shore patiently waiting on Jesus. It was getting dark, and they wondered where He had gone? One by one, the disciples reluctantly got into the boat and headed out for Capernaum. Tonight, 3
the darkness felt mysterious; the sky was becoming overcast with black clouds. Suddenly, a strong gust of wind blew their clothes, and a sensation of fear swept through their bodies. What was about to happen? Where was Jesus? On the dark, murky waters, a powerful storm began to blow; the waves grew enormously high, then endlessly deep; and the disciples began rowing with all their might. They were still more than three miles from the shore, and the gale was increasing. Why was this happening? They had just experienced one of the most spiritual, compelling days of their lives. Jesus had worked a miracle! But where was he now when they needed him so badly? Terrified, they watched the sea bursting with violent force, and they were very afraid. Then, before their eyes, they glimpsed a misty figure, walking…on the crest of the wild, uncontrollable waves. Their terror knew no bounds! Panic devoured their minds. What spiritual being was this? How could things get any worse! Not only were they threatened with drowning in this sea of hopelessness, now unknown forces surrounded them. At once, from the night of gloom and despair, a voice called. The words resounded over the powerful forces of nature, past the mystery of the night, through the vibrations of the wind, and flowed into the anxious hearts of the frightened men, “Be not afraid; It is I.” The sweetest words, commanding yet comforting, flooded their emotions and calmed their fear. Jesus had not forsaken them! He was there all the time! With overwhelming relief, the disciples brought Jesus into the boat, and immediately the boat was at its intended destination – the shore of Capernaum. -John 6 +
A Note from Christian Triumph Church By Pastor Israel Hernandez Our church was grateful for the privilege of enjoying the ministry of two internationally known musicians. In their earlier years, they sang for the secular public but now sing for the Lord. One musician was Brother Marino who preached and sang beautifully; his sermon was a great blessing. Additionally, Ruben Munoz, an extrio member of Los Panchos from Mexico City, led the praise with heartfelt songs. We also had a local band “Generation of Corpus Christi,” join with us. There were approximately 130 people from the neighborhood and surrounding churches. Joel Gonzales, pastor of Alfa & Omega Church of God, and many of his congregation gathered at the mission church to support our efforts. We saw a number of our neighbors who came to enjoy the concert. Our plans for the future are to continue having monthly concerts out-of-doors to express our love and to show persons that God our Savior cares for them. The next concert will be lead by our Brother from Vera Cruz, Mexico, Jose Arguelles, and our own local brother, Andres de Leon. It is encouraging to see the Christian Triumph church members work together and support such endeavors. I thank God for all the help He has sent our way.
CHRISTIAN TRIUMPH MISSIONARIES Thanksgiving is a good time to say “thank you” to the four employees who work diligently to keep the wheels turning at Christian Triumph Ministry. In 2004, these dedicated missionaries, put in many hours of labor and yet only received $16,460.47, all four combined, for the whole year. Their sacrificial efforts also involve volunteering in many areas, especially helping in the Church Mission work. We love and appreciate each one, and praise God for their commitments. Bless you: Israel, Vitalina, Diana, and Elena. Appreciation also goes to those wonderful persons who volunteer their time to help with the Christian Triumph literature ministry and the 4
Christ as their Lord and personal saviour. Very soon, we will establish a Bible College to teach, train and equip the saint to fulfilled the five fold ministries. I hereby request for Quantities of Holy Bibles-giant print, study Bibles and gospel books including Christian materials for Evangelism and Christian library. Hope to hear from you soonest, God blessings! Yours in Christ, Evang. Sams Vigbinu’s
Mission Church. A special thanks to Steve Beletic, President, who volunteers time from his busy life. + “Sing a new song to the Lord! Sing it everywhere around the world! Sing out His Praises! Bless His Name! Each day tell someone that He saves.” (Psalms 96:1-2)
JEHOVAH IS KING! Let all the earth rejoice! Tell the farthest islands to be glad. - Psalms 97:1
A Personal Testimony By Jimmy Huff (Jimmy Huff Ministry) I was born in Big Spring, Texas…to a family of 10 children. My mother was a good Christian woman who loved her Savior. In my younger years we moved around…at the age of 6 years, old daddy started me to hoeing and picking cotton only I never saw any of the money. He spent it on beer and other things. My mother had to work at 2 jobs to feed us. I did not like my childhood life at all, but a minister built a Church of God, and Mother started going to the church. I enjoyed the church very much only I didn’t let any of the messages go into my heart. I started to school, and I liked it. I passed every grade. While going to school, 4 ladies took me into their lives and worked me; they bought me what I needed for school. Because of this, I was the only one in my family to finish and upon finishing went into the Navy. I went to Boot Camp in San Diego, California. Upon finishing Boot Camp, I was assigned to the USS KING-DLG 10 and was sent to Japan to catch my ship. While in Japan, I learned to drink and to become drunk. I thought I would never drink because of my father, but I think I got worse than he was. Then I was sent to Vietnam where I was introduced to drugs. I became an alcoholic and a drug addict. After 3 years, I got discharged from the Navy.
Dear Beloved in Christ, God bless you. We are 35 in number that went for evangelism outreach in a riverianarea-muslim centre. To the glory of God, many accepted Jesus Christ as their lord personal saviour, baptize and Holy Spirit filled and a church was planted as a worship center. After 3 months, we went back for visitation and train the church for evangelism; we were beaten, wounded, killed 25 evangelism outreach members and destroyed all our gospel materials; still Christ must be preached!...I hereby request for quantities of Holy Bibles-giant-print audio videocassettes, CD’S and gospel book for library and soul winning; many are perished for lack of knowledge! The evangelism outreach members gathered together to pray for you and church members every 5 days in a week, at 5:00 p.m.; expect the more anointing hand of the Lord. Hope to hear from you. Yours to do His will, Evang. Godson Oluseun, Nigeria
Dear Brethren, I am 50 years old, born and traditionalized in a muslim culture. Today, am born again, baptize and Holy Spirit filled as the senior evangelism outreach campaign in the 10 brancheses. Many muslim, idolworshippers and secretcults accepted Jesus 5
Hello to all the people at Christian Triumph Company. The Marshalltown Church of God would like to encourage your ministry. We are donating these Sunday school books and miscellaneous books for anywhere you wish to use them. May someone come to know and accept our Lord into their heart by your efforts. Your Faith Messenger shares God’s love to us and many others. We thank you and pray for you. Pastor Donnie Linton + CHRISTIAN TRIUMPH RECEIVED THIS SPECIAL EMAIL FROM A KILGORE, TEXAS CHURCH REGARDING HURRICANE RITA
When I got home, I still had my two friends with me “Mr. Alcohol and Mr. Dope.” So I had to support them. They got so big that I had a $200 a day habit so I started stealing checks and cashing them. As a result of this, I was sent to prison for 3 years. While in prison, I started reading the Bible. I got it from the Gideons. After a few months of reading the Bible, I fell on my knees and asked God into my life. I was called into the ministry and started the Jimmy Huff Prison and Jail Ministry. (Next page) Now it has been 35 years, and I still love it, also now have a nursing home ministry and help the mission to needy and homeless. I love the mission work helping people. Thank you, Chaplain Jimmy Huff 125 S. Main St. #213 Loraine, Texas 79532 (Needs are for baby food, clothing, donations)
“Greetings Church of God Churches in South Texas. We would like for you to know that should anyone need a place to stay during Hurricane Rita, we are here for you. We have a gym that you are welcome to stay in.” +
+ Dear Friends, I am incarcerated with several men who would like to have Bible studies in Spanish. Can you send me something so I can help them? Thank you, G. B. +
Editor’s note: Our prayers are with each person who was affected by the recent hurricanes. We especially ask God to help the little children to find their families.
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Dear Friends, We are so happy you had some time to renew yourselves…hope you are inspired in the work of the Lord. In spite of all the suffering souls at New Orleans and all the coast of Mississippi, we are grateful for the outpouring of help hat has been provided. We love you, our family in the Lord, Sister Beverly Cary +
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To Christian Triumph: I receive the Faith Messenger, and I really like this little magazine and I read in the May 05 about the little girl…that found a little stone doll on the Ozark hills in South Missouri and she loved the little doll so very much. If you come across any more nice old stories, I would like very much to read them. I also many years ago lived with my Grandmother…she was working outside in the nice weather and I found a little stone (white) doll about 3 inches long. I loved it very much and I still have it yet today. I thanked dear God for it. I love Jesus for all the very wonderful things he done for me. M. Yoder +
Dear Christian Triumph Family, Warm greetings. Hope everyone is well. I enjoy reading the Faith Messenger. Please send about 20 copies (English and Spanish) to me for our church. Thanks. May God continue to bless your ministry and provide the resources to continue. With love and prayers, Mr. and Mrs. G. Barberena. 6
+ Dear Ones at Christian Triumph Greetings! ‌I just thank Jesus for all the wonderful blessings He has bestowed on me. I did meet Brother and Sister Janes once. Their love and prayers I remember. My dad, Casper Hornsby knew them all. I love and appreciate all of you, and may God bless you. Your Sister in Christ, M. O’Keefe
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