Faith On Every Corner Magazine - April 2023

You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet, All sheep and oxen— Even the beasts of the field, The birds of the air, And the fish of the sea That pass through the paths of the seas.

O Lord, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth! Psalm 8:6-9 NKJV

Cover Painting by Irene Barclay

COVER PHOTO

Irene Barclay

I live and paint in the beautiful Pacific Northwest town of Ferndale, WA. I began oil painting in the 70’s, but got serious about my art in 2011. I attended workshops and classes with local artists and am a member of the Whatcom Art Guild. Aside from selling privately, I have exhibited my work at various venues including Fox Hall in Bellingham, the Depot in Anacortes, the Jansen Art Center in Lynden, and the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Currently I have some of my work on display at the Dynasty Cellars tasting room in Bellingham.

See more artwork by Irene on pages 34-35

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Happy April!

The winter months are behind us now and from what I am reading on FB, most of us are very happy to be welcoming Spring.

This year, Easter falls on April 9th. It is when we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. I remember many Easters as a child when we would take time to be quiet and remember what Jesus did for us. I think it is important that our children know what we are celebrating. The bunnies, candy, and special Easter clothes are fun and beautiful. We just need to be sure the story of Easter is also told to our kids. We hope you and your family have a blessed Easter.

I love all seasons, but Spring is one of awakening and to see life come back to the trees and flowers, and to see how nature celebrates the warmer weather just makes me wonder how anyone could not see God in all of it. I hope you and your family have a chance to get out and about, go to parks, play in the rain, and enjoy this time of year together.

As always, we love hearing from you, please drop us a note at the email below.

Much love - may God bless you all.

Karen Ruhl

Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com

Meet our newest employee, he is our Time Manager and let’s us know when it is time to take a lunch break, a nap, and time to just play.

Don’t let those blue eyes fool you though, he is a task manager.

Karen and Craig Ruhl

Table of Contents

COVER AND INSIDE COVER ART BY IRENE BARCLAY

More artwork by Irene on page 34 and 35

Note From The Editor ... page 3

April Prayer by Craig and Karen Ruhl ... page 16

My Israel Journey, Old Testament Sites with Photos by Yvonne Morganton ... page 18-21

Donkey Tale ... by John Alexander ... page 6-7

He Will Answer ... by Melissa Henderson ... page 8-9

Feet, Don’t Fail Me Now ... by Andrea Marino ... page 10-11

Morning Coffee / Seven Words ... by Michael E. Wells ... page 12-13

Even Me ...Nicole Byrum ... page 14-15

April Prayer ... by Karen and Craig Ruhl ... page 16

Ancient Cruel Cross ... Irene Suyra ... page 17

My Israel Journey, Old Testament Sites ... Yvonne Morgan ... page 18-21

What Is God? ... by Dave Evans ... page 22-23

The Nail ... by Laurie Glass ... page 24-25

Our Faith ... by Craig Ruhl ... page 26-27

Tornado ... by Steve Carter ... page 28-29

Miracles Still Happen ... by Sharon K. Connell ... page 30-31

Seasons ... Pam McCormick ... page 32-33

Artwork ... Irene Barclay ... page 34-35

I Must Have Been Listening ... by Paula Short ... page 36-37

Fresh Water ... by Mike Buchanan ... page 38

Patient Endurance ... by Gina Meredith ... page 39

Take The Risk ... by Linda Castro... page 40-41

I Didn’t Ask ... by F.D. Adkins... page 42-43

Easter, The Desire For Reversals ... Craig D. Lounsbrough ... page 44-45

Bookshelf Reviews ... by Craig and Karen Ruhl ... page 46-47

The Bakery ... by Jerry Davidson ... page 48-49

Though I Walk Through The Valley ... by Shara Bueler-Repka ... page 50-51

Spring, God’s Precious Gift ... by Brenda McDaniel ... page 52

God Came Down / A Lost Sole ... by Brenda McDaniel ... page-53

God’s Gift Of Grace ... by Kathleen Oden ... page 54-55

Crying Foul ... by Steve Wilson... page 56-57

I Have to Go Now ... by Steve Wilson ... page 58-59

That They May Be One ... by Joseph Akinrinola ... page 60-61

Stressed or Blessed? ... by Karen Ruhl ... page 62-63

A Gray Easter At The Community Church ... by Doc Arnett ... page 64

The Long Season ... by Doc Arnett ... page 65

A Sacred Place ... by Gay Herron ... page 66-67

Who Is He ... by Cindy Oriol ... page 68-69

Life Or Death ... by Rolanda Pyle ... page 70-71

God Spoke Through Second Hand Tea Roses ... by Judy Lynn Grayson

... pages 72-73

Donkey Tale

By John Alexander

I discovered my love for writing rhyming verse in 2017. I began writing children’s stories, but like most children’s stories, the messages of the stories are as meaningful to the parent or grandparent reading the story as they are to the little one listening. This, I think, is true of Donkey Tale, one of the stories I penned in rhyme that first year I began writing rhyming poetry. In March 2023, Donkey Tale became a reality in the form of a picture book for children. The message conveyed in this little book is an important one and this magazine reaches far more countries than my book will ever reach, so as I began to put together what I would share this month I decided to share the story here in this April issue of the magazine just in time for Easter. I pray you are blessed as you read it yourself and to children you know and love.

Blessings, John Alexander

QuietTimeRhymes.com

(If you would like a copy of the illustrated book it is on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1959815083)

Poems by John Alexander

Quiet Time Rhymes

Donkey Tale

I’m only a donkey, but this is my tale. I pray you’ll find wisdom in every detail. I’m not large, but I’m strong, and to me was bestowed The name Beast of Burden. I carry a load.

In my youth, as a foal, I was lonely and sad. Donkeys pushed and they shoved. I was hurt. I felt bad. The donkeys made fun of my one droopy ear. They laughed when it flopped. I asked, “Why do they jeer?”

I wore an old hat to keep both ears in place. I hated my ears. I felt shame and disgrace. I loved to play games, but I’m small and I’m slow. I was always picked last. How I wished I could grow! Many friends made bad choices that I knew were wrong. But I copied their habits. I tried to belong.

The insults from others weighed heavy like stone, Invisible burdens I carried alone. I bore burdens in silence. What else could I do? With no friends who would listen, alone, I withdrew.

One day while I walked through grass covered with dew, Past a hill, a lush meadow came into my view. I saw a man working, replacing a rail. He was mending a fence with a hammer and nail.

He turned, and he watched me as I came his way. His eyes were so kind, I knew all was okay. I stopped there beside him, my back loaded down. He shook his head gently. My load made him frown.

John Alexander lives in Frisco, Texas with his beautiful wife and his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

“You’re piled high with burdens. I see your large stack. I’m sure I can help get that weight off your back. Perhaps there’s a worry you’ve carried too long. You’ve forgotten it’s there, and it doesn’t belong.”

From the load on my back, he removed a large trunk. The trunk had turned black. It was filthy with gunk. He opened that box where I’d stored all my pain. His tears gave me comfort, like soft, gentle rain.

“I held onto hurt. I just couldn’t let go. How’d the trunk get so heavy?” I hung my head low.

He pulled from my bag the large blanket I’d made. “That got me through nights all alone and afraid.”

“When you’re scared and alone, you can tremble and hide, Or instead, find your safety from courage inside.” He placed the large blanket on top of my stash. “It is hard, but let go, and discard it as trash.”

“There’s no need to keep it. Put trash in this pile.”

“I’m lighter without it!” I felt myself smile. As we kept piling items, I looked at my hoard.

“I just hid all my junk. It’s been stuffed and ignored. I now see that the burdens were not mine to bear. You’ve helped me gain wisdom. You’ve shown me great care.”

“How can I thank you? I’m light and I’m free! Come dance with me, sir!” I then shouted with glee. I tore off my hat, threw it up in the air. We danced with abandon without any care.

I gave him a ride up a dusty old road. My heart felt so light since he’d lifted my load. In town, a great crowd lined both sides of the street. They tore branches from palms. They were placed at my feet. They danced and they shouted. I heard them all sing. They sang to my friend and they called him their King.

Photos by Karen Ruhl

He Will Answer

By Melissa Henderson Writer of inspirational messages.

http://www.melissaghenderson.com

Prayer. The open door to conversation and relationship with God. What do our prayers involve? Are we quick to ask God for physical wants and needs? Do we place spiritual needs last? What happens when we place God first? “He will answer.”

The Bible shares stories of people who faced many trials. From the Old Testament book of Genesis, we learn about family lineages that included people of great wisdom and promise. Some men and women who used their positions and status for evil deeds. They worshiped themselves and not God.

Other people desired to follow God and His law. The disciples shared the good news of Jesus Christ. Jesus chose people from all walks of life to help further the kingdom of His Father.

The New Testament tells about the conflicts Jesus faced when sharing the message of His Father. Did Jesus give up? No, He continued to show the love of God in words and actions.

Wars, arguments, territory disputes, family discord, and more are found throughout Scripture. How did people in Biblical times handle their troubles? Yes, believers turned to God. Doubts came, and the answer was to have faith and trust God.

Scripture tells that Job pleaded and cried out to God. He questioned why terrible things were happening in his life. Job asked, and God answered.

We can find comfort in knowing God always hears our prayers. We can ask and He will answer. Does this mean God will answer in the way we desire every time? No. God knows what is best for us. He will answer in His way and in His time.

Years ago, my husband and I wanted to purchase a beach house. We had saved money and thought having a second home would be a wise investment. Our family would be able to enjoy many vacations together, enjoying the sun and having fun.

Numerous trips to the beach and many meetings with a realtor yielded nothing. The homes were too expensive or not what we were hoping to buy. Not enough bedrooms or the kitchen wasn’t updated, or the roof needed repairing. These were obstacles that kept us from owning a second home.

Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.

After one particular trip to the beach, we returned home to find that our income was being drastically cut. Layoffs at work because of the economy soon led us to be thankful that we had not found a beach home to buy.

We had prayed for God to provide a home at the beach. His answer was no. God knew what would happen with our income. God always knows. My husband and I thanked God for His answer.

Recently, grandson Rowan spent the night with us. Rowan and I say prayers before we go to sleep. On this night, he asked God to take away any bad dreams that he and “Mimi” might have had that night. Hearing a five-year-old boy praying is a special blessing.

The next morning, we woke with laughter and energy. “Mimi, I didn’t have any bad dreams. Did you have any?” I replied, “No bad dreams for me.”

Rowan asked. God answered.

No matter how many times we ask God for something, He always hears our prayers. He will answer.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

(Matthew 7:7 NIV)

In His Name, Melissa Henderson

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https://www. facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440

Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons

Feet Don’t Fail Me Now

By Andrea Marino

“Feet, don’t fail me now.” It was a comical moment when my brother said these words, as we carefully walked across the trunk of a downed tree covered with ice and surrounded by brushwood. In order to reach our desired destination, we had to go through a forestland.

In ancient times, foot transportation was the main source of travel; and since sandals were the typical footwear, whenever entering someone’s home, a servant would wash your feet of accumulated mud, dirt, and animal dung picked up along the way. On the night of His betrayal, Jesus rose from the supper table, and with a basin of water and towel, proceeded to wash the disciples’ feet. Mind-boggling to consider God-in-flesh performing what was a lowly service. Peter adamantly voiced, never, to which the Lord responded, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” (John 13:8 NKJV).

An exposé of spiritual significance, right before His death, was this last Passover supper, the foot-washing ceremony of Jesus. He specified not all of them at the table were clean, but those who were in need only wash their feet. (John 13:10) In today’s modern world, foot transportation still takes place, but in an allegorical sense. Don’t we all find ourselves in places we should not have gone to? Running to God for daily purification seems right, because however willing our spirit may be to follow the Lord, our flesh is weak. (Mathew 26:41).

Holy week is about Jesus’ complete obedience to God for the love of all mankind. Amid a myriad of swaying palm branches and shouts of hosanna, the Lord made His triumphant entrance into Jerusalem on a donkey. Crowds of people lined the streets to hail their King. Within days of Palm Sunday, though, faith in this man, Jesus, waned. Truly, He had been sent by God to save them from the oppressive dictatorship they were living under. But Holy Week played out, looking nothing at all like this. As Moses lifted a snake in the wilderness, the Son of Man would be lifted up. Indeed, something markedly different was going on during Holy Week. A King, shedding His own blood—not the blood of others—surely appeared too strange a way to save anyone. Stranger still is God, pleased to crush His only Son so sinners could be made righteous. (Hebrews 12.2, John 3:14-17, Isaiah 53:5, 10).

Like Peter, we can disassociate ourselves from even knowing Jesus. Self-preservation causes slips of faith. Still, our faith will be tested. (James 1:2-4). I don’t view this as something to dread; I believe trials are to discover the riches of heaven, the greatest of things in Jesus’ possession. Who should not desire what God has and be in lack of nothing? Holding the keys of hell and death, Jesus, Messiah, displayed a steadfast character able to defy everything against Him. The testing of our faith is a pathway to acquiring more and more fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22). For the joy awaiting Him, Jesus endured the cross. (Hebrew 12:2).

The disciples may not at first have understood all that Holy Week entailed, but as the Lord gives faith and perfects it, they had the opportunity for a change of heart and a new direction. As the disciples witnessed their Lord alive again and shared the account, so can we, who walk by faith and trust in Him, be sure of a resurrected life. (Romans 6:5). “So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14 HCS). The promise is freedom from worldly oppression, therefore we are to encourage one another—be our brothers’ keeper. Far better than Heaven’s streets of gold that our feet will walk upon, is having every longing of our heart completely satisfied. Until then, “He (the Lord) will not let your foot slip—He who watches over you will not slumber.” (Psalm 121:3 NIV).

Andrea is mom to four great kids and Grammy to four delightful grands. Passionate about Jesus, friends, and people, Andrea loves to share all He has taught her in life. When not writing, Andrea enjoys simple things, such as music, heartwarming movies, reinventing recipes to be healthier, and cycling along one wooded road or other with the Lord.

Please visit her Facebook blog: https:// www.facebook.com/In-The-Way-Everlasting-1770074853062907 Andrea is always ready to hear thoughts from her readers. Or you can email her at: rapture927@aol.com

Email: rapture927@aol.com

Facebook Blog: In the Way Everlasting

Click on the photo of the book to purchase from Amazon.

Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired, and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, he leads an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.

Morning Coffee With Michael E. Wells

Seven Words

GOD - Creator and Sustainer of all that is known and unknown without beginning or end supreme in all things.

Of all the books that attempt to describe the nature and character of God, the origin and purpose of man, the Bible stands out as unique and definitive. Only here will you find direction and fulfillment, knowledge and understanding. The word God can mean many things to many people, but what book best describes the most detailed interaction with His creation? There is truly only one that gives purpose and plan, intention and relationship.

Of all the stories of ancient peoples, only those detailed in the Bible are constant and coherent. To read of a loving Creator, forgiving Redeemer, and returning Deity is to bring awareness and purpose, peace and contentment to all who would believe. The question today is not do I believe in a god, but will I wisely choose the only God in which to place my life and eternity?

CONSCIENCE - An awareness of moral considerations for actions taken unique only to man in all of creation.

This observation alone should remove all doubt that man is truly special and separate from the animal kingdom. This is the God element and moral compass our soul is given at birth. The apostle Paul in writing to the church (Romans 1:19, 2) expresses this truth; God places within man an awareness of Himself and also confirms His existence through creation.

Yes, we are unique, but with that awareness comes remorse over past mistakes and a longing to make all things right. So, God, as He gives us a conscience, also provides reconciliation. Here is where Creator becomes Redeemer. God speaks over us three life-changing words through Christ: “I forgive you.” It is ours for the asking and gives us something we can find nowhere else, that of a good conscience towards God. (1 Peter 3:21)

BELIEVE - To have confidence in the existence or truth of something.

This is where it all begins. The Bible states that those who desire to come to God must first believe He is God, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. And what is our reward? Jesus said it best in John 6:38-40. I will quote verse 40 (Amplified Bible), “And this is My Father’s will and purpose, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in and cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up from the dead on the last day.”

Paul wrote of the tangible result now of our belief, the Holy Spirit. In Ephesians, Paul wrote that the Holy Spirit sealed us, who believed and is the guarantee of our inheritance. Jesus said He would not leave us as orphans but would send a helper in this life. The Holy Spirit is not only sent to us in this life but at death will carry us to the next...only believe!

FAITH - The ability to believe a truth that is not discerned through natural thought.

Everyone exercises expectant faith; lights to come on, water to turn on, car to start, elevator doors to open, etc. But real faith is spiritual in nature and eternal in consequence. It is not just the act of believing, but what to believe in. Bible faith is not a term used much these days, but it is exactly the kind of faith that is needed to receive the outcome for our believing. There may be many beliefs, but only one faith with the result of heaven. As the apostle Paul wrote, there is only one faith and one Lord.

Faith is encouraged by devotion and meditation, by experience and revelation. It is not something to be swayed by the external, but protected and nurtured within. Confidant faith is necessary for a desired end. Many have heard the acronym for BIBLE, a very true statement but I have added a second word acronym; it is FAITH. BIBLE FAITH... Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth For Arrival In To Heaven!

HOPE - Confident expectation of a fulfilled desire.

It is unique to humankind to hold fast a belief of desired change through earnest longing. To some, it is wishful thinking. To others, it is a confident belief. To the Christian, it is the belief in One Who acts upon their requests. Sometimes it is because of past experiences that one has these assurances, other times simply because they have read - it is written - and have spoken it out. This is where hope ignites, and faith burns bright. James writes you have not because you ask not. Jesus said to ask what you will (according to His will) and His Father will do for you it. God says to put Him in remembrance of His word.

Paul said the word of faith was in our mouths. If the spoken word brings us into relationship, how much more for answered prayer than the continued proclaiming of His written word? God says His word will not return void but will accomplish that thing for

which it was sent out. In the movie Ten Commandments, Pharaoh, played by Yul Brynner, after he had made a decree, would say to the scribe, “So let it be written, so let it be done.” But with God, His word is already written so our decree is, “So let it be spoken, so let it be done in the Name of Jesus.” I have an acronym for HOPE. It is... Hold On Praying Earnestly!

DISCIPLINE - The training of the mind and character.

“But like a boxer I buffet my body and handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit and not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit.” (1 Cor 9:27 Amplified Bible) This is not an easy task and seemingly it needs to be done daily. But there is a valid reason we try.

We all have lines we do not want to cross, but sometimes after straddling it we fall over. I’m reminded of Dorothy in Oz who, while walking on the fence, fell into the pigpen and had to be rescued. When this happens, we shouldn’t beat ourselves up but dust ourselves off, receive the rescue, and move on. Remember, the Bible says, “The just shall live by faith.” There is truth to the old saying, “Christians aren’t perfect, just forgiven.”

PERSEVERANCE - Continuing in a state of grace, leading to a state of glory.

This is how Webster’s Dictionary actually defines the word perseverance. The writer of Hebrews states, “You have need of steadfast patience and endurance so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God and thus receive and enjoy what was promised...” John in his writings to the church clearly states the promise of God... eternal life. Paul said, “If in this life only do we hope we are of all people to be pitied.”

There is a life to come, one worth waiting for. So, it’s too early to quit and too late to turn back. Listen to that still small voice that reminds you, “This is the way, walk in it. Do not turn to the left or to the right.” Paul said all who compete in a race do not win. Therefore, run in such a way that you may receive the prize. They run for an earthly reward; ours is eternal. Godspeed!

Even Me

by Nicole Byrum

My mind can scarcely comprehend it. Try as I might, I do not know why God invited me in. Me, a sinner with no righteousness of my own. What business have I to enter into the courts of the most Holy One?

As I reflect, I remember...

Human rebellion and garments of skin. The choosing of a people, a nation. One baby drawn from the water to lead and one shepherd boy turned mighty king. A prostitute in a Messianic genealogy and twelve men chosen to follow. One blood-stained cross. One empty tomb.

God chose that way. He chose the people, the history, and the story of redemption. And He chose to love even me. How can I fully fathom the magnitude of this truth? I can only through tears ask, “Why?”

The answer is the same as it has been from the beginning: mercy and grace, glory and good pleasure. All belonging to God alone.

He is just to give justice and loving to bestow mercy and compassion. His attributes never wavering, He is all of who He is at all times. Doing all for His glory, He does all that

He was pleased to make coverings, to save and redeem. Pleased to invite me in. In all, He is glorified, for He alone is sovereign. I, only a sinner, saved by grace.

The Lord of all chooses the plot, and He has called me by name. His ways are higher. How can I possibly understand?

Again I remember...

An imperfect rock to start His church and a zealot in chains to spread His Word. One man martyred by stones, another to behold a beatific vision of what is yet to come.

Why and for what reason He has chosen even me, this side of heaven I cannot fully know. Of only this am I certain: it is for His glory and because it pleases Him to do so.

What response can I possibly offer my King but that of surrender and reverent worship? With joy, I submit my life and offer Him my all.

Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships.

Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.

April 2023 Prayer

By Karen and Craig Ruhl

So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17

NKJV

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the new birth that comes with Spring. April is such a special month, with the trees and flowers blooming. The warmer air usually comes with the changes in April.

Thank you, Father God, for letting us experience the beauty you have created for us while here on earth.

Lord God, we lift up our families and friends and ask for all strongholds to be broken. We ask for your will with physical, mental, financial, and especially spiritual healing.

We are praying for all those affected by fires, floods, wars, and violence around the world. As we pray today, we ask that all strongholds be broken for those who are reading this prayer.

We thank you and praise you for being such a loving God. We thank you for who you are and for Jesus and the Holy Spirit (3 in one). Thank you for the resurrection of our Savior, Christ Jesus.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.’”

(John 11:25-26)

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Dr. Irene Surya is an award-winning author of her book, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines and anthologies. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying His name through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.

Ancient Cruel Cross

By Dr. Irene Surya

On a hill beyond the horizon, I found an ancient cruel cross

I found grace at the cross

The outpouring grace of the Father Who sent His own Son

To save a sinner like me.

I found love at the cross

The sacrificial love of the Son

Who gave Himself for me

And brought me as a ransom.

I found life at the cross

The everlasting life given by God

To those who are redeemed by His blood And forgiven of their trespasses.

I found justice at the cross

The righteous justice of the Father Who dealt with my sins

By burdening them on His Son.

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I found companionship at the cross

The merciful guidance of the Holy Spirit

Who came to be my guide and counsellor

In my sojourn to the eternal home.

I love to travel and God has made it possible for me to explore many places in our big, beautiful world. In fact, my next fiction book incorporates lots of travel. It’s called A Gypsy for God and should be out later this summer. But for now, I want to take you on a journey to the Holy Land of the Old Testament. Next month, we will continue the adventure with a look at the New Testament Israel. So, grab a cup of coffee and help me relive my two weeks tour of Israel this past February. I’m sharing the trip in Biblical order.

Genesis 19:18-29 Sodom & Gomora

We spent several days in the area around the Dead Sea and even floated in the water, but I will spare you those photos. A small area of resorts lines the shore and draws Israelis for weekend escapes. Otherwise, the area is desolate and surrounded by wildness and bleak mountains. In Genesis, we learn the Lord rained down sulfur on the area because of the wickedness of Sodom and Gomora. Verse 29 explains it this way: “Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all those living in the cities–and also the vegetation in the land.” And that destruction is still visible today. To the west of the Dead Sea, we found mountains made from the salt. Along the top of the mountains, a pillar of salt stands tall. These structures remind us of what happened to Lot’s wife when she looked back toward the cities against the Lord’s instructions. God’s wrath is very clear in this area. Thousands of years later, nothing grows in the area. Ezekiel 47 foretells us of a time when the Dead Sea will get transformed from its current salty state that cannot support life into fresh waters teeming with sea life. And freshwater fishes are now found swimming in a few of the 6000 sinkholes which developed over the last few years, very interesting.

Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker

https://yvonne-morgan.com

Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org

Twitter: @ymmauthor

Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YMMauthor/ Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)

My Israel Journey–Old Testament Sites

by Yvonne M. Morgan

A pillar of salt

Mountains of Salt Sodom region (above)

The edge of the dead sea (left)

Salt of the mountain

17 David & Goliath in the Elah Valley

Some sites we visited took hours to explore while others only took minutes, but the time did not add or lessen the importance of the stop. As we headed into Jerusalem, we pulled off to the side of the road to visit a field. We stomp down a hill as the traffic flew past us. Then we discovered we stood on the battlefield from David and Goliath. For such a quick stop, it really stirred my heart to picture the Philistines on one hill and the Israelite army on the other as Goliath yelled across the expanse. And then God granted David the victory. After the Bible reading, we walked down to the remains of a stream and picked up five rocks each. I brought my rocks home to remind me that God will allow me to succeed when I follow His plans for my life

Photos: David and Goliath field and rocks

1 Samuel 23:29-24:13 and 31; En Gedi and Beit-She’an

For our next group of stops, we visited more of the areas from David and Saul’s time in the Old Testament. In 1 Samuel 23, we find David hiding out in caves to escape the wrath of Saul in the En Gedi region. This area is now a national park with steep trails, caves, waterfalls, and wildlife. Hundreds of caves dot the mountainsides on both sides of a stream that runs through the middle. The ruggedness of the area provided for a great hideout. In this same area, David encountered Saul using one cave as a toilet. David snuck up and cut off a piece of Saul’s robe. Later, David regretted his action and called across the valley to Saul to ask for forgiveness. I could almost hear the shouts of both armies calling out to each other and echoing down to the streams below.

We also visited the ruins of Beit-She’an from 1 Samuel 31. This is the city where they found Saul’s dead body and displayed him on the walls of the city. The ruins from those days sit high atop a mountain. But below that city, the Romans built another city many years later. We explored these ruins as well. Here, we found some interesting spots that showed how advanced the Romans were in their building skills. They built indoor public bathrooms, along with spas and saunas. Another amazing day of exploring.

Beit She’an newer ruins (more on page 20)

My Israel Journey–Old Testament Sites / continued

by Yvonne M. Morgan

1 Kings 12:25-33, 18:16-45 The Dan region and Mt Carmel

The Dan Stream rises in the Tel Dan nature reserve–the largest and most important of the sources of the Jordan River. Archaeologists uncovered the remains from the Canaanite (Bronze) period and the monarchal period and included sections of the city wall with a well-preserved Canaanite city gate. Another gate from the Iron age showed an area where a king would sit as he heard from the citizens of the city. These ruins gave a vivid picture of life around the gates of these ancient cities, as they were the center of activity in times of peace. In times of war, the gates would be closed. This area sits on the border with Syria, so the gates might be closed in our modern times. The military still has watch areas to spy on their enemies.

We read about Mt Carmel in 1 Kings 18. The spot is the place Elijah called for 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah in a spiritual challenge. Elijah told the pagan prophets to call down fire from their gods to light the flames of the altar. Elijah mocked them by telling them to shout louder. By evening, they gave up and now it was Elijah’s turn. But first, he doused the altar with water three times before calling on our God to light the fire. I love verse 38; “Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. God showed up mightily, as He will do in our lives, too. Elijah then had all the false prophets killed in the valley below and the people returned to worshiping the one true God.

Photo - border with Syria below

Beit She’an ruins above and indoor plumbing below View from Mt. Carmel below

Old Testament

Seeing these sights (and others from the OT) made the Bible stories jump for the pages. As our guide said often, Israel is the land where the Bible hugs you. And he was correct. The difficulties and survival of God’s people stood out in these desolate lands. They could not do what they did without God and neither can we. If you ever get the chance to go, I recommend it and we felt safe the entire time we were in the country.

Join me next month as we look at the New Testament sites.

Below, Dan area, source of the Jordan / statue of Elijah

Left - Dan area, original gate to the city below - border strong hold

Gedi caves below left Gedi water source below

What Is God?

by Dave Evans

But through Jesus Christ’s atoning death on the cross, the chasm is bridged and people can receive forgiveness of sin and be brought into a personal relationship with this personal God, their Creator. And as believers who have entered into this personal relationship with God, we should desire to learn of God’s nature, characteristics, and attributes in order to know Him more devotedly. In Job we read: “Now acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace; Thereby good will come to you.” (Job 22:11 NKJV). There’s a peace that comes from having a relationship with God, a relationship that is characterized by learning and growing in Him. And spiritual good is an outgrowth of becoming acquainted with Him.

What is God? God is spirit, but that is just one of His attributes. Some of the others are indicated in the answer given to question four in the Westminster Catechism: “God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.” Let’s challenge ourselves to get better acquainted with Him and His attributes through His Word.

As we do, we will “Behold your God!” (Isaiah 40:9b NKJV).

Laurie Glass has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. She has had many poems and articles published in both print and online publications. Laurie is a contributing writer for Chronic Joy, a ministry for those affected by chronic illness and other health issues. In addition, she won the Open Medicine Foundation poetry contest in 2019.

Look for Laurie’s books on Amazon, click the covers below.

The Nail

By Laurie Glass

Who am I? With no special purpose, traveling upward, unsure of my destination. How useful can I be?

Who am I? Where am I? Through blurry haze steep hill appears. Accusing crowd, jeers fill the air, abominable stench permeates eerie summit.

Who is that woman? Why is she so burdened, forlorn? Who will comfort her?

Who is the One, beaten, bruised, bearing a cross, gasping for breath, being mocked, ridiculed, with thorn-filled crown, bloodshot eyes exuding compassion, scarcely able to endure?

Why am I here?

What is happening?

I’m moving toward an open hand! Strike! Strike! Strike! Pierce faultless flesh, crimson spurts forth, covers me, drips to the groundred pool of redemption.

Who am I?

One who attaches innocence to a cross, holds merciful Savior in place as He fulfills prophesies foretold, provides pardon for sinful human race.

Who am I?

Scar provider of blessed Son, resurrected Prince of Peace, who resides in celestial paradise and sits at His Father’s right hand.

Our Faith

By Craig Ruhl

In July 2017, almost six years ago, God gave Karen and me the vision and mission of creating a digital magazine. During one of our country photography road trips, we were discussing how we would like to combine our loves of photography, writing, and reading into a ministry that would fulfill our call to spread the wonderful news of Jesus Christ. We became filled with the Holy Spirit during that drive. Suddenly, we were mentally downloading ideas and concepts at an alarming rate. As I remember that day, the admonishment to “be careful what you ask for” comes to mind. Karen and I, inspired by Spirit, gave birth to Faith On Every Corner Magazine. The key component has always been “faith.” It was our faith in Jesus Christ that we wanted to share. We also wanted to hear and read other people’s stories about their faith and how they were living through that faith in their families and communities. The Holy Spirit showed us how to use articles, stories, and photography to encourage and support our fellow Christians. We also believed that our magazine could help someone who was questioning or seeking to become a Christian. So, in faith, we set out on what has been a blessed journey and we continue to fulfill our mission, by God’s grace and using the gifts we have received from Him.

Faith. Just what is this word “faith” that is in the name of our company and on the masthead of our magazine? The Merriam-Webster dictionary offers several definitions, one of which is “firm belief in something for which there is no proof.” We find a better definition of our Christian faith in the Bible: “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” (Hebrews 11:1 NLT). The concept of faith is a key foundation block of our Christian life. Another factor is the concept that faith requires trust. We do not have genuine faith in something or somebody until we have complete trust as well; the two go hand in hand.

We must establish faith and trust and then take the next step and act. In James 2:26 (NLT), we are told, “Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.” You have likely heard one or more of these expressions: “walk your talk”, “talk is cheap”, or “action speaks louder than words.” Until we put our thoughts and words into practice, our faith lacks substance. The way we lead our lives says much about the strength of our faith.

That day, Karen and I became filled with the mission of sharing our faith with others. Karen has been a graphic designer, photographer, and writer for many years. I like to read, write, and edit. We each have many years of business experience. Between us, we had the God-given gifts and talents to publish a faith-based digital magazine. We both had been on social media for over 25 years and knew many other Christians that we could approach for content, support, and encouragement. When we returned home that night, Karen got started on laying out the design of the first issue. We each wrote articles and stories that we felt would touch the hearts and stimulate the minds of our readers. Karen contacted friends and business associates who began contributing to the magazine. An idea had been born. It would soon learn to walk and then run. Our faith was being placed into action. We were actively pursuing the mission that was placed in our hands through our faith and trust in Jesus Christ. Although we could not know for certain if our magazine would be successful, we believed that the Holy Spirit, who dwelled in us, was guiding our every step. We found one of our favorite Bible verses that supports our faith in Jeremiah 29:11, “For 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.” The ideas and mission that we received while on that road trip were God-inspired and so, based on faith, we proceeded, trusting completely. With God, a promise made is a promise kept.

We must not be selfish with our faith. Throughout the Bible, we are called to share our faith with others. People shared their faith verbally in the centuries before paper, pen, and computers. They passed down the foundation of our Christian beliefs and values through stories from generation to generation. A limited number of people could read when the first Bible was printed, let alone afford to own a book. Bibles were in the churches and the preachers would read to the congregation, explaining the text and relating the teachings to everyday life. Today, there are many books and magazines available that aid in understanding Biblical principles and how we should apply them to our lives in these modern and often confusing times.

In each issue of Faith On Every Corner Magazine, we bring together articles and stories that further our mission of sharing not just our faith, but that of people from around the world. We pray that our words will touch hearts and open minds, so that readers can learn more about their personal faith and be encouraged to put that faith into action. Many of our readers have written to let us know of the difference an article or story has made in their lives. Faith On Every Corner is being read over 106 countries and in some parts of the world where it is illegal and dangerous to have or read the Bible, or any Christian literature for that matter. We do not know how much of a difference our mission is making, but God does, and that is whom we serve.

“Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Tornado

By Steve Carter

The televised meteorologist broadcasted in an excited voice that radar had confirmed a tornado touching down just outside of Tupelo. Suddenly, after double-checking his monitor for accuracy, he warned, “everyone in East Tupelo should take cover now!”

I dozed through the announcement but was startled awake as my wife answered a phone call from her mother’s caretaker at an assisted living facility. The call informed her that their building had taken a hit, and the residents were being evacuated! While my wife made note of where they were being taken, I put on the rain gear I habitually kept at hand anytime tornadoes were prowling around. Grabbing the address on the run, I bounded to my truck and pulled into the maelstrom with my flashers giving it all they had while trying to keep up with the windshield wipers!

Headed into the torrent, my heart kept up with the pounding thunder. With all this stacking up, my blood pressure surely shot through the roof from the fear I felt for my mother-in-law. I found out later that along with other elderly, frail, confused, and frightened residents, she had to navigate dark hallways while freezing rain poured through where a roof used to be! You guys can rest assured, the prayers I sent up were both urgent and earnest while I “white knuckled” my steering wheel, navigating around downed limbs and over dark roads.

The 15-minute drive to the designated church seemed to last for hours, but this time my sometimes-faithful G.P.S. did not lead me astray. I pulled in to find many other concerned relatives gathered. I could see the urgency of our situation in the clothing being worn in the parking lot. I saw shirts buttoned askew, pants that matched nothing, and a lot of caps trying to tame “sleep hair.” No one seemed to give anyone’s wardrobe a second glance, as we were all watching for the arrival of our loved ones! Relieved voices soon announced headlights following the road’s contour, bringing the caravan to our parking lot. We all quickly fell in and followed the rescue vans to the church’s entrance.

I knew my “maw-in-law” would likely be freezing, and I wanted to get her warm. After parking, I moved swiftly toward the vans and spotted “Miss Elsie.” We made eye contact while I positioned myself to scoop her up before she even touched the ground. Following mutual looks of relief, I took her hand and elbow and steered her to my warm truck. In just a jiffy, I literally “tossed” her in, then hurriedly wrapped a blanket around her to stop the shivering. Between the heater and blanket, she soon warmed up, and we both calmed down to where I felt safe to jog inside the building to secure her medication.

Steve Carter lives in Tupelo, Mississippi. He is a Bible college graduate, military and hospice chaplain, and musician.

Steve may be contacted by email at: Msroadkill@bellsouth.net

Back in the comfort of my warm cab, we pulled away into the type of weather only a rogue tornado can cause. Backtracking down unfamiliar roads, my mind centered on not being caught “flat-footed” if our visitor doubled back. Running into man, beast, or tree held no appeal, so I kept my eyes peeled for any lurking dangers. With my ears tuned to anything that might suggest another “finger of God” dropping in to pummel the unwary, I traveled mostly empty roadways to my neighborhood.

As I pulled in, my wife joined me in the driveway where we teamed up to get her mother out of the still-violent weather. Towels and a blow dryer quickly did their jobs before I lifted her into bed in the guest room, where she fell asleep within seconds. After checking the weather, I went on off to sleep pretty quickly myself, glad to be away from flying objects and away from anything that could drop me into Kansas!

By daylight, the tornado spawning weather had moved off to the east. “Elsie Mae” didn’t stir until around 10:00 A.M., and then with little vigor. It took freshly brewed coffee to get her to the table and while sipping from her cup, she looked at me and said, “Thank you, Steve.” This simple show of gratitude meant the world to me and exemplified why I never considered not going to her rescue.

When we find ourselves in a position of responsibility or faced with the temptation to do stupid stuff, it will likely (to say the least) be inconvenient. But regardless of the situation, God plainly gets more glory when the job is done well. A calling is not always a blessing and without adequate preparation and forethought from us, it can be a full-fledged (continued on next page)

nightmare. As I’m sure all of you guys have noticed, our common enemy, the devil, certainly keeps himself prepared. He has studied us our entire lives and knows exactly which buttons to push, if nothing else, simply to make our lives difficult. He gave the disciples a fit and even tried to trick Jesus a time or two! Didn’t work with Jesus then and won’t work if there is a next time. Even the likes of me are falling for his lies less every day! Why, you ask? Well, I’ll tell you. As one of His followers, I’m constantly preparing myself for the inevitable onslaught from old you-know-who.

I know what you guys are thinking. What does picking up your mother-in-law have to do with an assignment God gives us? I thought you’d never ask!

For you folks that don’t live in “Tornado Alley,” if you have any desire to live through one of those bad boys, preparation is a must. The same goes for winning souls for Jesus. Without knowing and understanding the Word, how in the world are we going to lead the lost to salvation? My “dance” with nature’s most destructive force went well due to indepth preparation and precise execution. The assisted living location stood ready at all times, with an evacuation plan in place. Are you and me ready for the next time (and there will be a next time) the devil brings us under attack? Do we have a plan in place to defend against him and help others?

The only joy that tornado brought me was when we tucked my mother-in-law in, safe and sound. Were we just “lucky” that night? Read back through this true story and see how much luck you can find! Along with the assisted living residence, my wife and I were prepared to do our part and retrieve her beloved mother. I cringe at the thought of her being stranded because I had not planned for that very threat.

Glorifying God and helping the lost find Christ cannot be done in a slipshod manner. Take the time, go to the effort. The inconvenience is nothing compared to the reward. God will see to that!

Miracles Still Happen

by Sharon K. Connell

Some of us are enjoying the new sprouts that have come forth from the ground after a winter’s freeze. It always amazes me how the plants bounce back (well, most of them). Just when you think they have succumbed to winter’s freeze, they pop their beautiful little heads out of the ground. The crocus are the ones that truly astonish me. Even before the snow is gone, they are blossoming their little hearts out.

We don’t see crocus very much here in the Houston area. Only in pots, as a rule. But when I lived in Illinois, I was filled with joy at the first glimpse of a crocus pushing up through the snow and standing tall. Well, as tall as a crocus can stand, anyway.

It’s the same miracle with planting seeds and expecting a plant to emerge from the soil. The seed must die, in essence, before it can be born a new plant. It’s a miracle.

A miracle.

Some people don’t believe in miracles today. I can’t imagine how they can’t see the miracles all around us. The earth stays on a steady course around the sun without getting too close to it so it won’t burn up. It also doesn’t get too far away from the sun and freeze. Who keeps the earth on track?

An egg is germinated in a mother’s womb. It forms a human being. A bird hatches from an egg all on its own and can walk within minutes. The sun rises in the east every morning at the same time within the appointed season and sets in the west and never varies its track around the earth. How is it that all these things happen and have happened since the beginning of time? I’d call it a miracle.

People are diagnosed with life-threatening diseases, and sometimes they recover against the odds. Accidents happen where a life should have been taken, and yet they survive.

Yes, miracles still do happen today.

Are you looking for a miracle? Don’t stop praying for one. God might say no to your request, and for a good reason, although we may never know what it is until we get home to Glory. But He may say yes. Miracles still happen. I’ve seen a few in my almost eighty years on this earth.

In John 2:23, we see the beginning of the miracles Jesus did on earth. But no verse indicates an end to miracles.

I read an article where it was said that Paul said miracles would cease. The Scriptures used were I Corinthians 13:8-10 and James 1:25. Nowhere in those verses does Paul say miracles will be done away with.

This article went on to say that once the last apostle died, the ability to perform miracles could not be passed on to others. Well, where did those miracles come from? Not from weak and sinful humans. They came from God. And God is still in the miracle business. It was never a man that performed the miracle. It was only God using man to bring them about. Jesus Christ was indeed man, but He was also God. He did perform miracles by His own power. The apostles did not.

Don’t ever let someone tell you that God is not performing miracles today. The fact that we are alive, standing on earth, which is floating basically in thin air, is a miracle in itself.

If you are in a situation requiring a miracle, do not hesitate to call out to God for one. As I said, He may say, “No.” If He does, it’s for your own good.

Here’s another thing I’ve learned in my almost 78 years living on this earth, 65 of them being a bornagain child of God. When God says, “No,” He has a good reason for it. And accepting that answer is called faith. But then so is reaching out to Him and asking for that miracle.

God’s hand is not shortened. In Isaiah 59:1, we read, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:” His Hand was not shortened when it came to raising from the dead after dying on the cross. And it’s not shortened when it comes to saving a sinner from hell today.

Click on photo to order Sharon’s books.

Philippians 4:6 says, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”

Then leave your request in His hands. Have faith that He will answer you, even if it takes a long time, which in some cases it does. Believe in a miracle. Then accept His answer.

Take stock in the world around you and note how many miracles are seen every day. Gather encouragement from those. God’s hand is not shortened. It never will be.

All scripture quoted is taken from the Authorized King James Version.

All Scripture is King James AV

Website www.authorsharonkconnell.com

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SEASONS

by Pamela McCormick

In the spring, the tree was full of life; its branches reaching up to the sky, awaiting the sunshine and rain, which would cause it to have new growth. Summer came and went. The tree’s leaves wilted, knowing that soon, all of its branches would be empty and bare, because fall was coming. The tree awaited each season patiently, not fearing the results, because it knew that spring would once again return and its branches would be full of life again. Even though some of its limbs fell to the ground and the tree lost some of its beauty, it still waited, knowing new growth would appear. It knew that life would return again to its bare limbs. Had it really lost its beauty? It never was more beautiful, and trusting, knowing that this was just a moment in time.

Do we go through periods or seasons of stagnation and no growth? Do we need to wait patiently like the tree to see color and life returning to us, too? Do others see life in us or death? How often, when things are not green around us, do we show death when we are really alive? How often do we lose pieces of ourselves, like limbs off a tree, and forget that springtime is coming again? If we would wait and have faith, we too would show growth and have new life restored to us, but a lot of times, we forget and see the dead limbs, the pieces of us that were broken. We droop and sag and appear lifeless to those around us. Real beauty is standing firm, no matter the season, knowing that we have hope and we will be restored.

We have to ask ourselves, “Do we believe that spring is coming?” Do we realize that seasons offer us a chance to see ourselves inwardly if we take a moment to look? Are we willing to wait, knowing that each season of life will bring change? It is the beauty of the seasons, the hope that causes us to hold on, to persevere when hard times surround us. We need to remember that even in the dryness and appearance of death in the fall and winter, spring will return, and with it, color and the sounds of baby birds chirping in the limbs. The birds will make their homes all nestled in the leaves that protect them from the heat of the noonday sun. Even with the heat of the sun, they are safe. The birds trust. What about us?

Yes, there is hope. Hope is holding on, patiently expecting. We know we will show signs of life again. We know we will live. We know that time will move slowly, but that it will move, and if we wait expectantly, as if for a newborn child, new life to hold on to, peace will be restored and life will overflow in us, as we gain new insight into what it means to die and yet live again.

If we see only brokenness and death and pieces of us strewn about, needing to be gathered, then we need to know that is normal. What is important is that we get past that and cling to the opportunity that is waiting to be alive again. We wait. We have hope. We know life will return again.

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

(Hebrews 11:1 NKJV)

“For if men do these things when the tree is green, what will they do when the tree is dry?” (Luke 23:31 KJV)

“And we know that all things work together for good, for those who are in Christ Jesus and are called according to His purpose.”

(Romans 8:28 KJV)

“What a blessed peace, what a joy divine, leaning on the everlasting arms. What have I to fear, what have I to dread, leaning on the everlasting arms. Leaning… Leaning…, safe and secure from all alarms; leaning… leaning… I’m leaning on the everlasting arms.“

(Words from Leaning On the Everlasting Arms, a song written by Elisha A. Hoffman, 1839-1929, Public domain)

Pam McCormick is a writer and retired from teaching in the public school and community college setting. Pam had a story, “The End,” published in Isothermal’s magazine, The Mentor, in December, 2014. Pam was also published in December 2016 in collaboration with eight other authors to write a devotional book, Ancient Stones Timeless Encouragement. Pam is a member of the Encouragers’ Christian Writers’ Group that meets monthly. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and tent camping with her husband, watching old time westerns, doing crossword puzzles and spending time with her daughter in Maryland and her son, his wife and granddaughters, in Fuquay-Varina.

Pam has a new book coming out in early 2023.

You can contact her at pjmc411@gmail.com.

Artwork by Irene Barclay

See her bio on the inside cover, page 2

Paula considers herself an ordinary Christian woman traversing through the wilderness of an everyday mess. She is a retired Social Worker with a BSW who lives in Western Pennsylvania with her emotional support dog, a spoiled rotten amusing beagle named Little Girl. She has two adult daughters off doing their own thing. Please visit her blog at: simplycoffeeandjesus.com

I MUST HAVE BEEN LISTENING

BY PAULA SHORT

As a teenager, I spent a lot of time doing typical teenage things like listening to music and hanging out with friends, talking on the phone, or I had my nose in a horse story.

It’s common for parents to think their children aren’t paying attention when they’re talking about something important. This was the case for me when my parents talked about Jesus. They would have conversations about church, faith, His word, and evils to look out for in the world. I remember my dad saying, “Paula, you should be paying attention.” I would look up from my dinner plate from time to time, but I was really daydreaming. Yes, I was a daydreamer. However, I must have been listening because Jesus has become the love of my life.

I grew up in a Christian home, and my mom modeled living for Christ. We would go to church together as a family, and they taught me about Jesus. Still, I was never paying close enough attention to connect with Him. It wasn’t until I went through some difficult times, not just poor choices; they were terrible hardships and downright hitting rock bottom, not once but several times, and losing precious family in my life, that I sought out a deeper understanding of Him.

As I explored and “paid attention,” I found myself drawn to Jesus. His message of love and acceptance, grace and mercy struck me, and I felt a deep connection to his teachings. It was then that I realized that my parents’ conversations about Jesus had impacted me, even if I didn’t realize it then.

Boy, was it a long road, but it wasn’t long before Jesus became the love of my life. While my parents may not have seen it then, their conversations about Jesus helped shape my faith and bring me closer to Him and the love I feel today. I find comfort in his teachings and feel a sense of purpose in following his example.

It’s funny how sometimes things that seem insignificant or go unnoticed at the time can profoundly impact our lives. I’m grateful for those moments of unintentional listening that helped shape my faith. I must have taken in more than I realized because here I am today, living my life for Him.

I Was Listening After All

They spoke of Jesus oh so often, But I pretended not to care. I thought it was just talking, forgotten, But their words became my prayer.

They taught of love, forgiveness, grace, And how He died to set us free.

I listened quietly, with no trace Of how their words were changing me.

Now I see that they were right, Jesus is the love of my life. Their teachings, once out of sight, Are now my beacon in the night.

So thank you, Mom and Dad, for sharing the truth that set my heart ablaze. I may have seemed like I wasn’t caring, But I was listening all those days.

Food For Thought

“The Bible reveals the Father’s overall plan for the world and provides general guidelines for life. But how can we know His specific plans for us? Listening to God is essential to walking with God.”

— Charles Stanley

Mike Buchanan is an author and freelance writer. His love for writing and poetry, along with his passion to be of help to cancer patients, inspired him to author the book “Mountains of Hope: Surrounding the Valley of Cancer.” This inspirational book provides daily doses of encouragement for those challenged by the disease. Mike is also a featured contributing writer for several Christian magazines. Mike and his wife, Darlene, live in Buckeye, Arizona.

Fresh Water

By Mike Buchanan

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.” (Psalm 42:1 NIV)

I’m told cats are the only domesticated animal not mentioned in the Bible. Lions, yes, house cats, no. Perhaps because every time Moses or the Apostle Paul wanted to write something about them, they wandered off. Who knows?

My wife and I have a cat named Boaz. Yes, we named him after King David’s great-grandfather. Boaz loves fresh water. It might be water from the sink, it might be water from the shower head, etc., but Boaz will come running for fresh water. He will even follow my wife and me from one to the other. He reminds me of the deer above. He reminds me of what Christians should be like.

Jesus is the Living Water, fresh water if you will. Do we go running to Him when we hear His Voice? Do we go and wait for Him as He prepares what He has ready to pour into our lives? Are we willing to move with Him from one place to the next, to partake of His Living Water constantly? He is The Shepherd who leads us beside still water after all.

I once was young (I don’t always remember those times that well), but now I’m older. Although I’m still young enough to know, if I am willing, God can teach us things using just about anything. Even cats.

Maybe you’re reading this, and you’re looking for that Living Water. Jesus said, “… Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.” (John 7:37 NIV). Are you thirsty? Ask Him to forgive the sins that are spiritually dehydrating you to death. If you ask, He’ll give.

Gina Bargon Meredith is a mom and grandma who lives in the Dallas, Texas area, where she enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She loves to write about Jesus and encourage others. Gina shares her journey on her website:

https://ginabartonsewell.wordpress.com/

Patient Endurance

By Gina Barton Meredith

So I had someone come up to me the other day. They wanted to thank me for helping them. I wasn’t quite sure what I had done for them and they explained how my story had helped them get through things that they had gone through, such as drug abuse and alcoholism.

I told them how happy I was to hear that it helped them, but I also explained to them that it wasn’t me. That was God. You know when God gives you the words to write to help others, He also knows that others are needing to read what you’re writing. He orchestrates this entire scenario. I explained to her the only thing that I had done myself was to obey what He had asked me to do.

But how do we stay on task, being obedient each day? That’s a tough question. Satan will throw all kinds of things at you to keep you distracted, but I think Jesus gave us the answer when he said, in Luke 9:23 (NIV), “whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

This means, quite simply, putting God’s will above oneself. Before long, we will delight in being obedient and will gladly choose to put others ahead of ourselves.

The more we choose to do this and the more we focus on Jesus, the easier this becomes. It becomes who we are. The more we give to God, the more He will take it and turn it around for our good.

“This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus.” (Revelation 14:12 NIV)

“Then you will call on 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.” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 NIV)

Take The Risk

By Linda Castro

Are you a risk-taker for God? It has been said, ‘’without risk there is no faith, and the greater the risk, the greater the faith.”

Sitting in the waiting room of the medical office on this cloudy afternoon, I pull my notebook and pen from my purse and begin a review of what I have planned to accomplish during the remainder of the week. My “to-do” list is always with me.

Looking at my new “to-do” list, I remember how things used to be. In the past, even when I have felt strongly that God was asking me to do something out of my comfort zone and definitely out of my control, I would be so analytical! I would look at it from every possible angle. Contemplating every likely scenario, I would make my list of the pro and con assessments. Then, I weighed possible failure against probable success. I would estimate the amount of time involved and compare it to the number of other things already on my agenda. It seemed that I was always consulting my ‘’to-do” list to see if there was any time to work God’s request into my already busy schedule! I know how that sounds and while it might sound selfish and “un-Christian” to consult my commitments over a new assignment from God, I thought everything I was already doing was for God!

At the time, it seemed, at Church, there was always something else to be done. There was always a new committee to be formed and meetings attended. New volunteer work needed to be organized and assigned. And, there were age-related Bible classes that needed teachers for each age group. And so much more! There seemed to be no way I could add something else! But. This verse kept coming up in my thoughts, “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.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). So, finally, I said, “Yes, God.” That’s when God changed my life!

That’s when I took the risk! I started over.

Without knowing anyone there, I soon found myself following God and agreeing to leave my comfort zone and move to another part of the state. My grown son had developed some medical difficulties and, by listening to God, I was able to be with him for the final years of his life. I would have missed that if I had not taken the risk of following God and leaving that previous position and ‘’to-do” list behind.

There were other things in my life when I believe God prompted me to ‘take the risk”, including joining a mission trip and spending some time in Egypt helping Sudanese refugees, and visiting the schools set up by one of the members in my group as well as visiting the orphanage of abandoned children. I would have missed all that if I had not taken the risk.

Many of the things I once thought were so important required little or no risk. Looking back, I remember thinking my life was so full of those responsibilities. But someone else is doing them now.

Being a risk-taker for God can be scary, but also very rewarding! I am waiting for the next “God assignment” and wondering what my next risk-taking adventure will be. My faith is growing with each one. Jesus demonstrated the “take the risk” attitude in many things He taught the disciples.

“The doctor is ready for you now.” The nurse’s voice brought me out of my memories and back to the present. I stood up, ready to follow her to the exam room. But first I glanced at my “to-do” list before putting it back into my purse. I smiled at what was on the top of the page:

“Follow God. Take the Risk.”

What is God asking you to risk? Is He stretching your faith in a particular area? We need to be like Abram when God told him in Genesis 12:1 to “leave everything and go to a land I will show you”. He didn’t tell him where he was going or what he would ask him to do when he got there. He just told Abram to go. As in, you don’t need to know everything upfront. Follow God.

Take the Risk!

“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9 KJV).

As former owner and creative director of two advertising agencies, Linda has years of experience creating a public impression of a product through the media using television commercials, radio and print advertising, press releases, and marketing campaigns .

Linda has been a caregiver for her son; a volunteer who travelled to Egypt and helped Sudanese refugees; a volunteer for a local food ministry, and a Creative Writing teacher for the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa for their Artists in the Schools program.

I Didn’t Ask

By F.D. Adkins

The burden weighs like a concrete block sitting on my chest, and panic builds inside me. My airway constricts at the thought of bringing up the topic, but I know I cannot rest until I do. Squeezing my eyes closed, I take a deep breath in an attempt to calm myself and let it out slowly. Enough procrastinating. I pick up the phone, reminding myself of how important this is. I need to find a way to ask him today. No, I have to find a way to ask him today. As my trembling finger taps the numbers on the screen, I recite in my mind what I am going to say. With every ring, the words I had rehearsed get more and more jumbled in my head, and when he answers, the words vanish like they were never there. I try to think fast, but I cannot even remember the first line of my speech. Why didn’t I write it down?

Shaking my head in frustration with myself, I sit quietly and let him talk. He immediately informs me he has gotten his flu shot and instructs me I better get mine soon. Then I listen as he tells me of his latest self-diagnosis and how he no longer has diabetes. I listen as he complains about the lack of work in the small town in which he lives. I listen as he talks about politics, the economy, and how everything is getting worse. I listen as he reminisces about the time President Kennedy spent in the office.

Of course, we only scratch the surface of these topics. Our conversations never get too personal. A wall stands in the way of the relationship that we should share. Our blood could not be of closer relation, and our mannerisms match in more ways than either of us would ever admit. However, circumstances voided the bond between us early in my life. Unfortunately, we could only rebuild superficial ties, and we converse as if we are nothing more than acquaintances. I love him dearly, and I know he feels the same. We just cannot break through that awkward barrier that allows us to express it.

My mind drifts away from the cacophony of his political speech as a voice deep inside keeps distracting me. Over and over, the phrase “just ask him” repeats, but I can’t. I am afraid that he will get angry. Why would he get mad? I ask, trying to reassure myself. Well, if he doesn’t get mad, I might hurt his feelings. He probably expects me to know. I drop my head. But I don’t. For years I have pretended that I know, but in reality, I am ashamed to say that I don’t, not for sure anyway, and that’s not good enough.

When I was a little girl, we would go to church. Back then, I remember him saying he was saved, and that he had even been baptized, but I never recollect seeing him pray. For that matter, other than his recitation of the verses about wives submitting to their husbands and children obeying their parents, I do not remember him reading his Bible. And now that I am older, well, he never even mentions his faith. As I hold the phone to my ear, my stomach twists into knots. The conviction to ask him sends a pang through my heart, but fear will not let the words escape my lips. I try to make excuses. I make every effort to convince myself that he would not be honest anyway, but that does not silence the voice nagging from within. Pushing the anxiety down, I force myself from my thoughts and snap my attention back to the conversation.

Oh, brother! He is still rambling about the election. Suddenly, I have an idea that might break the ice and give me a chance to read his reaction. I wait for him to take a breath so I can get a word in, and when the moment finally comes, I rattle the question off so fast that I don’t even hear the words come out. “Is Grandma a Christian?”

“What?” his voice reflects surprise. I suppose my inquiry is a little off the topic at hand.

Great. Now I have to repeat myself. “Grandma. She is getting older, and it has me worried. Do you know if she has accepted Jesus? I want to know for sure that she is going to Heaven.”

“Oh, well, she… that’s just… just something you never really know about another person…,” he chokes out, then pauses for a second before he continues. “But anyway, who do you think is going to win the election?”

I swallow the lump in my throat and try to pretend that I know something about politics.

I never worked up the nerve to approach the subject again, and I no longer have the opportunity. Less than a year after this phone conversation, he passed away at the age of sixty-four from a heart attack. And now, seven years later, this sin of omission continues to haunt me. Yes, I have prayed and asked for forgiveness, and of course, I know that our loving God has forgiven me. But the fact remains that I am still troubled because I am not one hundred percent certain that someone I love is in Heaven. So, now I ask myself over and over how I could ever let fear stand in the way of asking someone the most important question that could ever be asked.

I cling to the childhood memory of him taking our family to church. I cling to his Bible engraved with his name. I cling to a picture with the lyrics of “Amazing Grace” that he had displayed on his wall. I cling to these items in hopes that he did have a personal relationship with Jesus.

I have learned firsthand that tomorrow is not a guarantee. For that matter, the next minute is not a guarantee. I have learned firsthand that I may not get a second chance to tell another person about Jesus, so I better seize every opportunity. After all, sharing the Gospel is a command from God, one that came out of the very mouth of Jesus.

F. D. Adkins is a Christian fiction author and freelance writer. She hopes to pass along the comfort that comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus while offering her readers a brief escape from life’s struggles through an action-packed story full of suspense, twists, turns, love, and a few laughs. She has written two Christian Suspense Thriller novels, Truth In The Name and Truth In The Word. The third in her Truth series is underway. She has published articles in Focus on the Family magazine.

She lives in South Carolina with her husband of 24 years, Steve, their two teenage children,Landon and Layna, and their dog, Lucy. You may sign up for her newsletter and read her blog at fdadkins.com. For links to her Facebook, Instagram, Amazon, and book trailers, visit her Linktree site at https://linktr.ee/fdadkins.

Easter, The Desire for Reversals

By Craig D. Lounsbrough

What we want is opposite of what we have. We want world peace, but instead, we are beset with world chaos. We want the hungry fed, but millions go hungry and millions more die from that very hunger. We want medical cures to the diseases that ravage lives, families, and nations, but untold thousands perish hourly. We want communities that are free of crime, yet our prisons are filled to overflowing. We want our children free from the scourge of suicide, but thousands take their lives without ever really having lived them. We want to know with confidence that we can trust our fellow man, but we live in dread of our neighbors. In the oddity of life, what we want is often the direct opposite of what we have. The desire of our hearts is positioned 180 degrees removed from the stark and foreboding realities that play themselves out all around us. What we want is the opposite of what we have. And to our ever-darkening dismay, over time, it seems that we have surrendered to those opposites.

A Life of Radical Opposites

Jesus lived a life of radical opposites. He walked about on top of the water when He should have been thrashing under it. He had the dead walk out of tombs into the light of day after they’d been carried into tombs enshrouded in the darkness of death. He helped them step out of coffins that were headed to cemeteries, and He had them step back into the arms of loved ones who were now headed home. He amply fed tens of thousands on what might have fed two, maybe three. He took the crippled and in the wildest sort of reversal; He made them walk when they had long given up the hope of ever understanding what walking might be like. He took people who were born into worlds locked down into a forever darkness, and He brought to blind eyes a radical revolution of color and texture and movement and the faces of family.

Jesus lived a life of radical opposites. He said that a few scant pennies given in faith exceeded millions given out of obligation. He said that a bunch of backwoods fishermen, surrendered to an infinite God, could change an empire. He said that a woman who sold her body to the lust of men could give her life to the love of God and leave a legacy that would inspire millions. He said that faith as small as a mustard seed could move the mountain that dwarfed it. He said that the impossible was a figment of our imagination and that God could do things leagues beyond that imagination. Jesus lived a life of radical opposites rather than just hoping for them.

Craig’s background includes over thirty years of experience as a counselor in a variety of treatment settings, including psychiatric hospitals, schools for the blind, organizations for the physically handicapped, churches, and outpatient settings. He also possesses ten years of experience in pastoral ministry. Craig spent two years broadcasting on Christian radio and has published both nationally and internationally.

To date, he has published six books and has had many other works published in a wide variety of magazines. Craig founded an outpatient practice that provides counseling, coaching, and consulting services to individuals, marriages, families, various businesses, and church and ministry organizations. Craig may be reached at: craiglpc4@gmail.com

You can find Craig’s books by clicking this link: Amazon.

The Grandest Display of Opposites

Yet, the grandest display of radical opposites involved none of the above. The grandest display of all was an empty tomb in a quiet garden in the first pastel-thin light of a new day. The world was done with Him, but He was not done with the world. The world had said that His radical opposites were disturbing the status quo, when the only thing that was disturbing was mankind’s desire to perpetuate the status quo. When faced with the reality of turning it all around, the world fell to fear and shut Him down. But the unrelenting desire for radical opposites will not be deterred.

This man Jesus turned everything around, and in the end, He turned His own death around just to show us that reversals are nothing of myth but everything of reality. He declared that even though the odds appear entirely impossible, the desire for something better lays the groundwork for the creation of something better. That we need not forfeit the desire for opposites because of the realities that would seem to render that desire both fantasy and foolhardy. And what better way to decisively prove that than by doing that Himself?

The God of Opposites

Easter declares opposites are not simply the stuff of dreams or the hope of whimsy. Easter is Jesus walking out of a tomb that He had been carried into, breathing in the agile air of an accelerating morning and declaring that what is not, can be. What is hoped for can move beyond hope. What imprisons us always has an open door. That walking is just one step in front of us. That death is life on the way. The darkness is only light waiting to happen, and the impossible is myth. We want what is opposite of what we have. And without hesitation or apology, Easter says that opposites are waiting to happen if we’re willing to link arms with the God of opposites.

Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf

Click on book covers to learn more and purchase.

Being Discipled by the Holy Spirit

By Mark Judy

Reviewed by Craig and Karen Ruhl

This is an interesting and hope-filled book that explains and teaches a method of discipleship that makes perfect sense to me. As we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we must also become discipled from the inside out. The author comes to us from a perspective that differs from the mainstream “outside-in” method of discipleship. In striving to be true disciples of Jesus Christ, we must create a strong relationship with the Holy Spirit, who is the helper Jesus promised to us believers.

Mark Judy has written an exceptional work in this book that serves well as a road map and guide along the discipleship journey. Besides sharing his personal testimony and stories of discipleship, he includes several testimonies at the conclusion of the book that further reinforce theimportance of a Spirit led discipleship in Jesus Christ.

We recommend this book to our readers and have placed a copy on the Faith On Every Corner bookshelf.

Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf

The Awakening

by Press Barnhill

Steve Carter

Reviewed by Craig Ruhl

The Awakening is the first book in the Freedom In Healing Series written by Press Barnhill. In this book, the author lays out the foundation for the Simple Effective Prayer model. Through this short fictional story, we learn the concepts and practice of healing prayer as a group of people learn about and start a Healing Prayer Ministry. Written in an easy to understand, non-preachy manner, The Awakening is not only educational; it is also encouraging and inspirational. In this book, we learn that the truths that we read about in the Bible still hold true today and are accessible to all believers. I enjoyed the story just as much as I appreciated learning about Simple Effective Prayer. Press Barnhill has delivered a well-written introduction to a subject that will benefit and heal many readers.

I recommend this book to our readers, and we have placed a copy on the Faith On Every Corner Bookshelf.

Call For Writers For Faith On Every Corner Magazine

We are looking for testimonials, acts of service, devotions, and articles of how you have witnessed God working in your life or the life of family and friends. Email for submission guidelines.

Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com

Jerry Davidson is an author, songwriter, and fitness consultant. He married his wife, Amy, in August 2020 and lives in Bryant, Arkansas. His topics of writing include theology, philosophy, politics, and fiction.

THE BAKERY

By Jerry Davidson

A young man on pilgrimage saw a bakery. Being famished as he was, he entered. With much glee, the handsome owner greeted him.

“How now, my young friend? Thou look famished, unable to take another step. Of my goods, take your pick. A taste of any is free before you choose. Many of your age find the Lusty Morsel to be their favorite,” the owner said, pleasantly placing a sample under the young man’s face.

“I fair decent, sir, better now to be in the presence of yourself and your goods. I shall try said morsel to assess its delights,” replied the young man.

He took the small piece offered to him by the owner and savored it. It was sweet, swelling with satisfaction, making him see that the full pastry must crescendo with flavor.

“I need not taste any of your other goods. For none could be as delightful as this. I shall have one Lusty Morsel,” the young man said.

“Excellent!” replied the owner, handing him an entire pastry wrapped in a silk napkin.

The young man walked to a table, but before he bit into it, he espied a large man across from him eating greedily. The large man looked at him, scoffed, and continued. Puzzled, the young man was about to inquire of the large man, but the owner saw this taking place and said, “My friend, I would eat that Lusty Morsel now. For it spoils quickly if not eaten immediately.”

Urgently, the young man ate bite after bite, for his hunger was great, but now he sensed a sickness building. The flavor he had felt from his first taste faded more with each bite, and as the flavor faded, a nausea began.

“Sir, I believe this one is spoiled. For its flavor dies and inflicts a guilt upon my insides,” cried the young man.

“Oh! Your tongue must require a different flavor,” the owner exclaimed as he rushed to bring over two new items: a small, white cracker and a large loaf. “A few who take the Lusty Morsel find it’s not enough. First, to rid yourself of the sickness, eat this cracker. It is called a Reason.”

The young man ate the Reason, and his stomach began to settle. A minute later, his tongue ached for the flavor of the Lusty Morsel again. The owner, seeing his hunger, cut a slice of the loaf for him.

“This slice is free,” the owner said. “I have found the Lusty Loaf to be more satisfying to those who cannot continually stomach the Morsel.”

The young man ate it, and he immediately bought the loaf, eating until he could stomach no more. He felt satisfied for only a minute, however, as his fullness soon turned to emptiness. He spied the large man again, seeing his pleasure at the meal before him, and asked, “Good sir, what is your meal that you find so pleasing?

The large man looked up and said, “It is a plate of Glutton Puffs. These are my favorite. Now don’t fret, lad. If you eat them, it shan’t make you fat. I’m as large as I am because I can no longer rise from this table. You, however, are a young traveler. These will not affect you at all. It’s just a meal.””

Thinking this might satisfy his hunger, he went to the owner and bought one. The owner gave him an extra out of a pity for his ravenous state. Being agitated by his body’s refusal to be satisfied, the young man gorged himself on both pastries. Yet

again, his body ached for more, and worse now, something in these pastries made his mind grow bitter toward his body. He bought and ate another, then another, then another, each time finding himself dissatisfied after only a few minutes of relief. He asked the owner desperately, “Good sir, what have you that might satisfy my aching stomach? For truly, I feel my pilgrimage is at an end unless I quench this ravenous demon within me.”

The owner said, “I have a pastry called the Money Honey which will expand in your stomach and be sure to fill you! Here, taste and see this is good!”

Taking this pastry from the owner’s hands, the young man ate it with glee. His body lightened, and it was as if some burden came off his back. Yet as he finished the pastry, his stomach could not handle whatever was taking form inside of him. Soon, he felt as if the pressure would kill him. He cried to the owner, “Help, for some decadent thing has taken form inside me!”

The owner rushed over with a tray of treats, saying, “Here, take but a nibble of these to find relief. Here, try an Affair, Power, and now Fame.”

Each of these, the young man took, providing a small relief that soon waned. Finally, the young man, devoid of hope, said, “Sir, I’m sure your goods are fine for some, but none do seem to suit my appetites. Also, I am now empty and have no more to offer in exchange for your goods. I must take my leave of your establishment.”

“My friend, please stay but a moment more,” said the owner. “For I now make it my mission to satisfy you. I promise that with your time and participation, I will bring you to a place of ecstasy! For in mere minutes, my associates and I have planned a Pride Feast, where we share our indulgent creations. I will make you my honored guest. Come, join us, and I will satisfy your every need.”

The young man agreed. When they arrived, the young man quickly saw that all the other bakers regarded his host prominently. The feast was a procession in which he was to try the bakers’ creations in order. With each, he found himself fuller and emptier, bloated, and hollow. He was given wines to fill his void. By the end, he was despairing for satisfaction. He cried to the last baker, “Please, what from thine table will make me full?” This fat-faced baker replied, “Surely, you have not tried my meat treats. Taken from young animals, these shall satisfy.”

The young man ate. His stomach felt satisfied more than before, but his face turned white. He knew this meat was not like any that is natural. He asked, in a quivering voice, “Sir, from which young animal is this made?”

“The young children, of course,” said this baker, “whose parents despised them and whose lives are better for ending. Their deaths provide relief to those in discomfort. Their dying is a service to many, and so it is good that we eat.”

The young man grew paler. He wanders in that feast to this day, as many men and women do, looking for whatever new treats arrive that might satisfy them. Yet, if that young man had gone any further on his path, he would have met the lovingkindness of a kind child who offers water and bread sure to satisfy. Alas, the young man lives now on the death of the innocent, storing up contempt for his former path.

Though I Walk Through the Valley… Adventure 2 (Psalm

23)

by Shara Bueler-Repka

Stranded on the fairgrounds with a blown truck engine and abandonedandbetrayedbyafriend,webattleddismalthoughts of the future. Was our road ministry finished? Would we face a financial wipe-out? Would God rescue us? Or…

Our truck, which we affectionately called The Black Stallion, lay in pieces on the mechanic’s floor. The bad news came hard: “We can’t fix it,” said the final mechanic.

With heavy hearts, we posted our truck online for $5,000, as is—a truck, if running, worth around $20,000. It was a punch in the gut.

In desperation, we found a used truck at a dealership that seemed to fit what we needed. However, having a truck payment weighed on us, but we figured it was the only way out of this mess and the Lord would somehow work it out.

Our Good Samaritan friends still camped nearby and took us to the dealership. Confident this truck could be the answer to our escape, we followed the salesman out to the shop where it perched on a lift—“for a normal check.”

“It’ll be ready by Friday,” he promised. Our hopes rose again. We put a deposit down and breathed a sigh of relief.

Meanwhile, we received an offer on our truck. The plan was to buy and pick up the “new” truck, then meet the buyer of our “old” truck at the mechanic’s shop. Everything seemed to fall into place.

Until we walked into the dealership on Friday.

“They’re detailing the truck,” our salesman stated. “In the meantime, we can get the paperwork started.”

But as the “deal” unfolded, the salesman and manager pulled a bait and switch with the price. They sensed our desperation like a pack of wolves. When the payment plan was finalized, I felt like throwing up. We live by faith, and God has made sure we’ve stayed debt free. Now we faced a big truck payment.

The morning drug on into the late afternoon and still the truck’s detailing wasn’t done. Something smelled fishy, but we were too tired and hungry to give it much thought. We decided to go eat and regroup.

As we drove to the restaurant, we received a call from the salesman: “Your truck is ready,” he chirped. “I’ll bring it to you for the test drive.”

We waited… and waited. Then, a text from him: “I was called back to the dealership.”

Dazed, we sat in the restaurant. But as the food took effect, the fog cleared. We discussed some things that didn’t make sense: Why was there no spare tire underneath the truck? Why was it taking so long to “detail” this truck? Why all the delays?

We also prayed a more pointed prayer: “Lord, if this is a bad idea, shut the door. Slam it if you have to!”

We returned to the dealership with newfound energy and resolve. This time we would inspect the truck… thoroughly.

Even in the waning sunlight, we noticed paint peeling, scratches, and dents. And then, we dropped to our knees at the back of the truck and looked underneath. The reason for no spare tire? No crossbar! With our heavy load? A fatal accident was ready to happen!

Yep, that door slammed shut! We marched up the stairs of the dealership just as the salesman came out the door. “No deal!” we said, firmly.

Driving down the highway with our friends, I numbly stared out the window. We were out of options and fresh out of hope. By the time we left the dealership, the mechanic’s shop was closed for the weekend. We contacted our truck buyer, informing him the truck deal didn’t go through, and apologizing that we couldn’t meet him until Monday. But even when we sold our truck, what then?

Before we reached our “camp,” Bruce received a text from the buyer. “U want me to just fix yours? I have several motors ready to go.”

What?

We called AAA to haul our truck and its pieces to his shop. For six weeks, we searched for an engine—everywhere—and this guy was 10 minutes away. But God brought him into the picture in His perfect timing.

Our friends had promised to stick by us until we could all pull out together. In two days, two rigs sailed down the Interstate, looking out the windows at freedom. The rust-colored mesas, quiet streams, grass-filled canyons, and even the smell of a polecat were blessings we’d never take for granted again.

And the added miracle? By the time we left, all of our truck bills had been paid. Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego: we walked through the fire, but we drove out, not even smelling like smoke.

We finally rolled in at our home base in Hallettsville. Bruce, literally, dropped to his knees and kissed the ground.

When the dust settled, we realized the heavy load we haul required a tougher truck, and we sold The Black Stallion. We also knew if the Lord still wanted us on the road, He would have to provide that truck.

And that’s when a whole new adventure began. We would need the testimony of God’s grace, in our recent rescue, to encourage us during the next four years…

Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/ songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and award-winning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mailbase, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.

Brenda McDaniel is the author of My Angel My Hero with two more books soon to be published. She is from Roanoke, VA. She holds a B.S in Psychology and M.A. in Counseling. She has enjoyed writing poetry and short stories, even as a small child. Brenda says she is now living her dream come true!

Spring, God’s Precious Gift

By Brenda McDaniel

It’s the month of April and beautiful birds are flying everywhere. All the plants and trees are heavy with pretty blossoms. The air is warm and the smell of spring is in the air. The animals and insects have come out to enjoy the sunshine and nice, warm weather. Again, spring is the rebirth of nature, plants, and animals. The newborn animals are running around, and new plants, flowers, bushes, and trees are growing everywhere. Spring is such a beautiful, wonderful season of, renewal, birth, and beauty.

Spring is also the month when we celebrate Easter, a time of reflection, grace, forgiveness, love, and faith. On Easter, our dear Savior was resurrected from the dead. In the New Testament, we are told it occurred on the third day after his burial, following his Crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary. It’s one of the principal holidays, or feasts, of Christianity. For many Christian churches, Easter is the joyful end to the Lenten season of fasting and penitence. This year it is on Sunday, April 9th.

The Easter bunny and Easter eggs originated as pagan symbols of spring and rebirth. Over the centuries, these ancient symbols became associated with the Christian holiday of Easter. Both traditions have merged now.

So, this spring, remember that you were saved by our Lord. His blood was shed on the cruel cross for our sins. You, as a Christian, can be forgiven now if you believe and trust in the Lord! You, as a Christian, will be able to live a life of faith, hope, and love. Without him, you will struggle and be confused, as, this hurting and sinful world constantly shows us.

Spring is a new beginning for nature in all its beauty. And if you accept our Lord Jesus Christ? His gift of forgiveness! And eternal life with him in Heaven! You can also have a New Beginning and, live a Life Worth Living. And, see the true beauty of living a life for Christ our Lord!

“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” (1Peter 2:24 NIV)

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 NIV)

God Came Down

By Brenda McDaniel

The World was lost! No, matter the cost! He, died on the cruel Cross! No one has to be Lost! God’s only Son! Fought the Battle and Won! So, stop all the Strife! He will give you a New Life!!

A Lost Soul

By Brenda McDaniel

I never knew love or kindness, So, I suffered in blindness. Hated people, despised myself, Put my heart on the shelf. Why was I born?

All I do his mourn. No happiness, no reasons. I just survive the seasons.

I heard a voice say, I Love You, don’t stray! For, I rolled away the Stone! You’re Never Alone! To purchase, click on the book cover.

Dr. Kathleen B. Oden is an author, missionary, and Bible teacher. She has been the Administrator of God’s House of Refuge Church & School of Evangelism, for 25 years. Dr. Oden attained a Doctorate degree in Christian Theology in 2000. After a bad fall in 2014, she realized that she had to start eating healthy, in order to fully recover. She became a Certified Health Minister and a Certified Essential Oil Coach. She loves ministering to people and God gave her a health ministry called, Create AnewU Health Ministry. Her health ministry has opened the door for her to share what the WORD OF GOD has to say about eating healthy. Dr. Oden has published over 20 books through Amazon.com and several of them are about health and wellness.

https://createanewuhealthministry.com

God’s Gift Of Grace

By Dr. Kathleen B. Oden

God’s gift of Grace is a beautiful and indescribable “GIFT” that all of us have the privilege of experiencing. Sometimes He will allow us to bump our heads if we need a wake-up call, but He is yet there for us. And sometimes His grace abounds, and we are rescued immediately. Whatever the case might be, His gift of grace is sufficient! The Scripture that says “his grace is sufficient” is found in 2 Corinthians 12:9. In this context, Paul is discussing a thorn in his flesh that he had asked God to remove.

But God responds by saying, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9). This verse reminds us that God’s grace is all we need, regardless of our circumstances or weaknesses. His gift of grace is enough to sustain us and empower us to overcome any obstacle we face.

The gift of grace stems from the love of God. His grace represents His deep love for us, which is so great that He was willing to sacrifice Himself to save us from our sins. God gives us grace by continually loving us, no matter what we do or don’t do. Through the gift of grace, God extends His love and mercy to us, offering us a second chance to live a life of hope, peace, and purpose.

And because of His gift of grace, God looks upon us not as we are, but as who we can become in Christ Jesus. The Bible tells us we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23). Our past mistakes and poor choices have separated us from God and made us undeserving of His love and favor.

However, in Christ, we are no longer defined by our past or present conditions, but we are transformed into a new creation with a bright and promising future. We should continually seek to experience His grace and extend it to others in our lives. God’s gift of grace helps us to recognize His presence in our lives and reminds us to draw nigh to Him and He will draw nigh to us!

We are also transformed into a new creation when we start eating healthy and taking care of these wonderful bodies that the Lord has blessed us with. Transformation is part of Christianity as well as health and wellness. As Christians, we believe in the transformation power of God to change our hearts and minds. This transformation can also extend to our physical bodies through healthy eating habits and taking care of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. By prioritizing health and wellness, we can experience transformation in many areas of our lives, including physical, mental, and spiritual health.

The idea of transformation is not new to Christianity. The Bible teaches us about the value of selfcare, discipline, and stewardship of our bodies to live a fulfilling life. Being mindful of what we eat, staying active, getting enough rest, and seeking medical attention when necessary are all ways in which we can honor and take care of the bodies that God has blessed us with.

Learning to live a healthy lifestyle is not just a personal matter, but it also aligns with the spiritual values we hold as Christians. By transforming our physical bodies, we open ourselves up to more opportunities to serve God and others, whether it be through volunteering, evangelizing, or simply engaging more fully in our daily lives.

Therefore, let us take care of the bodies God has given us to honor Him and experience spiritual transformation as well. Spring and summer are coming! This is the perfect time to enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget that Covid is still a threat. Be sure to keep working on your immune system to stay healthy and safe during this season of fun and relaxation. Are you ready to shed a few winter pounds? Remember that the ability to live a healthy and happy life is God’s gift of grace to us all. Don’t take His awesome gift of grace for granted!

Health Maintenance Regime

Dr. Kathleen B. Oden

Here is a simple and easy weight-loss smoothie that can help you transform in 4 different ways:

- Helps with constipation

- Promotes weight loss

- Boosts your energy

- Builds up your immune system

EASY

PEASY GREEN SMOOTHIE

2 Cups of chopped spinach

1 Large Apple (remove core)

DO NOT PEAL

1 Large Pear (remove core)

DO NOT PEAL

1 16 oz. Bottle of Water.

Blend on high for 1 minute. Drink 1 a day for 30 days and you will be amazed at how fast your body will be Transformed!

To supercharge it, add:

1 Cup of chopped kale

1Cup of chopped collard

Get 30 more delicious smoothies to keep your transformation going: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/f33865e42a. html

A healthcare Business Analyst by trade, Steve Wilson is a retired husband, father, and grandfather who loves to see and write about finding God in the everyday. Originally from Ohio, he and his wife Jenny now live in Granite Falls, North Carolina. In his spare time, Steve enjoys reflective writing, dabbling in stained glass, and, of course, spending time with their daughter and her family.

Crying Fowl

By Steve Wilson

Have you ever had one of those days where everything seemed to make you jump? My wife had one of those times a few nights ago.

Her “Trilogy of Terror” began when she was looking for me in the house, which was getting a little dark since it was early evening and we hadn’t yet turned on the lights. I heard her calling my name, but I remained silent as my juvenile side took over and I waited until she stood in the dark hallway. I flung my jacket out of the bedroom and into the hallway; the “cloak of death” hurled itself toward Jenny and she let out a scream, stammering back as if she would surely faint. I was completely prepared for a beating from that one.

The second small scare occurred when we were lying in bed, watching some TV when suddenly Jenny looked up and screamed, “SPIDER!” It turned out to be a large mosquito, which I quickly squashed with a tissue. The Peace de la Resistance occurred as we were preparing for bed.

As a general routine, I take the dog out for one last elimination, thus eliminating the middle-ofthe-night whines. On this particular night, we were receiving torrential downpours. I let Izzy have a moment of solitude as I stood in the doorway with my back to the door, adorned with our Christmas wreath hanging from it. I had on my hooded robe, as I normally did. After Izzy returned, I closed up shop, headed up the stairs, and waltzed into the bedroom. About that time, I felt air on my neck, heard a “whoosh” sound, and saw a dark form swoop over my head and land on one of the pictures on the other side of the room. Jenny let out a blood-curdling scream and dove under the covers. A Carolina house wren had evidently been in the wreath to escape the deluge and jumped into the hood of my robe and hitchhiked his way into the house. The bird was staring down his very long, sharp beak at me with small beady eyes and I just knew he wanted to peck my eyes out!

Steve and Jenny Wilson

Jenny and I developed a strategic game plan on how to isolate our feathered friend so we could catch and free the little pooper. Armed with a long nylon feather duster and bath towel, we closed the doors to all the other rooms, which left the kitchen and living room exposed. The little flyer flew into the kitchen and up on the cabinet ledge; he must have thought he was in an aviary version of a little shop of horrors as positioned on every cabinet ledge were Jenny’s still life Hens & Roosters she had collected over the years. The pointy-beaked wonder flew back and forth between and on top of the variety of ledge fowl; meanwhile, Jenny followed suit with feather duster in hand, trying to corral the feathered beast. We orchestrated our bright idea of turning out every light except for the one at the back door. After several minutes of failed attempts to lure him to safety, a combination of a samurai duster, a matador cape bath towel, and ultimate fatigue on the part of the bird finally brought him down to the floor by the back door. I urged him on out with the towel and that was that. All the while we were working to free our uninvited guest back to the great outdoors, I realized how we just wanted him safe and uninjured, back to where he belonged.

God must feel that way about us at times when we flit about from here to there, wanting to do our own thing when all He wants is for us to be safe under His guidance and protection. As Psalm 91:4 (NIV) puts it, “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” So often, we just don’t get it. Our selfish nature screams out for the “freedom” WE deserve and when God tries to guide us or chastise us for our greater good, we cry foul! Unfortunately, all along we are like that bird, flying back and forth from one ledge (vice, habit, sin) to another, trapped by our own distorted sense of freedom. If we could just stop for once, rest, take a breath, and allow our Heavenly Father to pick us up and release us into His perfect will, where we would be totally free indeed…

Coincidentally, after all the ruckus was over and the bird was safe, we still had to clean up all the mess he left behind, including bird droppings and small feathers everywhere. But we could still hold on to the satisfaction that one of God’s creatures was still safe and able to once again fly free.

“Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26 ESV)

A healthcare Business Analyst by trade, Steve Wilson is a retired husband, father, and grandfather who loves to see and write about finding God in the everyday. Originally from Ohio, he and his wife Jenny now live in Granite Falls, North Carolina. In his spare time, Steve enjoys reflective writing, dabbling in stained glass, and, of course, spending time with their daughter and her family.

I Have To Go Now

By Steve Wilson

“When you gotta go, you gotta go”… how many times have you heard this phrase? It could mean anything from “I’ve got to get going” to “I have to use your facilities”. The phrase describes action; moving from one place to another. Several verses in the New Testament reflect Jesus telling his disciples to “go and do”. Mark 16:15 (NIV) states — “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’” If we are believers in Christ, we are indeed tasked to go and do, to reach out and minister to those around us.

But have we forgotten that Jesus was sent first?

Luke 19:10 (NIV) says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Where would we be if God had not sent His son to “seek and save” the lost? That is what the poem reflected below is all about; Christ, leaving His perfect kingdom to save our condemned world…

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8 NIV).

I Have to Go Now

Walking around my Father’s place In heaven’s magnificent splendor, This is the only home I have ever known His light, love, and blessings are mine forever.

But I desire to do His will

My full heart yearns to obey, So I must leave this home I know To save the lost in another place.

I have to go now to do my Father’s will You see, the world below is hurting and needs some saving grace, I know it won’t be easy, but these souls are well worth pain

So I will become a little child and one day take their place. ***

Steve and Jenny Wilson

It has been over three decades that I have walked here on earth

My ministry is almost over, but my very being throbs and hurts, For there are so many needs, the sin is great and life here is very hard

Even my disciples seem to be discouraged and think our work here is cursed.

But as my Father has led me on and kept me spotless still

The love my Father has for these helpless souls will soothe my pain to come, For I am here to teach and love, to share my Father’s promises

And now I am to lay my life as an unblemished lamb to by all means save some.

So I have to go now to do my Father’s will To take on the sin of all, to climb Golgotha’s hill, And as they pierce my hands and feet, and lift me to the sky

My love for you has not diminished, as I cry out “it is finished” and I die. ***

I open my eyes; it is cold and dark, and I can’t hear my Father’s voice

But I hear the demons hiss and sneer, “you’ve done it master!” are their cries, “I have you now,” Satan screams.

“All humanity is mine!”

Everything seems lost in this pitch-black hell, but I know it’s only lies.

All at once the ground is shaking as I hear my Father’s cry

Arise, my son, the time has come. Now leave this grave behind, Satan shouted “that’s not fair”, his death was the final blow “You fool”, God stated, “through my Son is salvation to all and death has been denied”.

I have to go now to share that I’m alive

To show my disciples that I beat death’s eternal sting, Now I go to prepare a place for all those who believe

But I will send a Comforter friend that will encourage you just like me.

I will be back someday soon to complete my Father’s plan

To collect my beautiful, faultless bride, to take her lovely hand,

When my Father gives the call, I will break the eastern sky

And gather to gather the faithful, those who will never ever die.

“Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.’ And with that he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.’”

(John 20:21-23 NIV).

“He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.”

(Revelation 22:20 NIV).

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

I am Joseph, an author, blogger, and content writer from Nigeria. In the field of writing, I deliver unique, grammatically correct, and plagiarism-free content. Currently, I work with three online firms specializing in motivation, human capacity development, lifestyle, relationship, and spiritual writings.

That They May Be One

By Joseph Akinrinola

“That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me, and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”

(John 17:21 NIV)

One prayer at the heart of Jesus is the unity of his church. Check the secret of the growth of the early church, and you will discover it was the oneness of thought and purpose. Not only that, the power of the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples while they gathered in unity in the upper room. With that, we saw the power of God moving in an unprecedented manner among them. That was an answer to the prayer of Jesus for them.

Unlike the early disciples, the opposite is our case as modern Christians. You may excuse that most of them are Jews. That would not be correct, as we saw gentiles being part of the church as missionary works increased by individuals and corporately.

The early Christians had diversity in culture, language, and nature like ours. Examples of such uniqueness, human shortcomings, and different value system led to the conflict in the early church—the feud between Paul and Barnabas. That was also what necessitated the first Jerusalem council meeting. One common thing in all these cases was they worked through their differences and preserved the bond of unity. That is what Christ expects from us as we relate together as one family. (Acts 6:1-7, 15: 1-41).

Before the prayer of Jesus for the church, He had warned John and His disciples about denominational differences. In his statement, Jesus foretold a time like ours when the church would include believers from every tongue and culture. (John 10:16, Luke 9:49). That was in tandem with his God’s purpose and a reflection of the unity that existed between Him, God, and the Holy Spirit.

Today, the church is divided along denominational and personal differences. As a result, that has restricted the movement of God. Added to this is the unbelievers leveraging on our disunity to deny us some rights. That has also affected the way we should jointly resist ungodly legislation, modern slavery, and unfettered liberty that are leading our young ones to the part of the destruction. I know idol worshippers rarely castigate one another on the television or pages of the newspaper. Instead, they collaborate to fight a common battle. We could do better as the body of Christ.

Amazingly, cult people, mafias, and politicians seem more united than believers. Jesus gave a picture of how the kingdom of darkness operates in unity.

Jesus said something about the unity of demons, which believers could learn from. (Matthew 12:4345). Then the spirit finds seven other spirits eviler than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. (Matthew 12: 45). The demon invited other demons to keep its place because it felt joining forces with other demons would be better than going solo.

You can find Joseph on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/2228667160717043

I believe that was what happened in the early church. An injury to one is an injury to all. In a real sense, no height Christians could not attain together if we do not mind who gets the credit.

Let believers imbibe such attitudes as we walk through this year. Jesus prayed we may be one not to remove our differences. Instead, it only means unity in diversity. Together, we could achieve more when we work as a team than as an individual. Life is a relay and not a sprint. A classical example is car manufacturing. Parts that make a brand of a car are not always produced by that brand alone. Paul uses the part of the body to explain the functionality of the body of Christ. So we must come together once again as the body of Christ in our locality to jointly retreat from the kingdom of darkness while we advance the kingdom of Christ. If there is any time we need to act the prayer of Jesus for his church; I think it is now. With no prophet or a soothsayer, the return of Christ is imminent more than ever.

As a member of the body of Christ, can you answer this question of Christ? I tell you, He will be quick to help them. But when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth? ” (Luke 18:8).

While the faith in this passage refers to our persistence in prayer and trusting God’s intervention. However, would Christ meet us having faith in one another and faith in what God could do through us if we are united irrespective of our differences? The question is better answered if you and I play our part despite our differences.

Joseph Akinrinola lives in Lagos, Nigeria, with his wife and four adorable children. He served with the Gospel Faith Mission International for over three decades. Besides, he is a Sunday school coach, an author, a blogger, and a freelance. He has served in Sunday school for over three decades. His friends and students call him “Mr. Sunday school”. Joseph has published five books with two classics titled “Effective Sunday School Management Made Simple” and “Effective Sunday School Teacher.”

While with the Gospel Faith Mission International, he was a regional coordinator. He oversees the activities of the Sunday school in over a hundred and twenty churches. Then, he sat on the extended board of his Sunday school writing the weekly and daily devotionals read by over 2 million readers globally. Currently, he is the pastor of a new church, the Levites Chapel International, Lagos, Nigeria.

His passion is to reach young people with the Bible truth about relationships, Christian lifestyle, and personal development. This informs the creation of his blog, www.thewisdombase.com. In addition, he writes for online and international magazines. He is a member of Amnesty International.

Stressed or Blessed?

By Karen Ruhl

We were asked in November 2022 if we would care for our only grandson. The reasons are not important—what we have learned is that through unexpected circumstances, we will choose to feel blessed.

Our grandson was 11 months old when he first came to live with us. He was pretty easy to watch; he was crawling, went down fairly easy at bedtime, and was a good eater. As the weeks passed, he started to walk—not just walk, but run, and everything was now in his reach. I call that age the Inspector Gadget age. Their arms and legs seem to stretch out of proportion and allow them to reach far beyond their actual height or arm’s length. Along with walking, he was now exploring everything and developed a love for climbing under, over, and through everything.

Weeks went on and we celebrated his first birthday with him in January. Now one-year-old, he has become a strong toddler with the greatest personality we could wish for.

So, what is the stress you ask? Craig and I both work from home, not only publishing this magazine, but we also have marketing clients and coaching clients. And we edit and design books, helping writers get their books published.

We quickly tried to establish a schedule that would work for us. We are both late-nighters and thankfully, so is our grandson. He may stay up late, but then he sleeps in until about noon, allowing us to get work done in the morning. We then share play time so each of us has time in the afternoon to work.

I’m going to stop here for a minute to claim this as a blessing. Now at 15 months old, our little muscle man is even more active, learning some words, and definitely has an opinion. He is also learning his voice, so every once in a while, we hear this piercing scream coming from this little man.

As we welcome April, we also have our minds and hearts on Easter. This one week in our lives is the saddest and happiest we know. First, we lose Jesus to crucifixion, and then we find out He was resurrected and came back to save us from our sins.

When we stop to think about our circumstances, we also count our blessings that we have good health and a home where our grandson is welcome.

We also have a home where He is welcome. Yes, Jesus! Do you have a home that welcomes Jesus to your table? Wouldn’t it be a wonderful experience to have Jesus join us for dinner?

Click on Book Cover to Order from Amazon.

Scooter And The Blanket Snatcher! is coming soon!

During this Easter season, take time with your children to tell them about Jesus. Easter baskets filled with goodies are fun, and a stuffed Easter bunny is cute, but what does it say about why we celebrate this day?

So, I asked in the title—stressed or blessed? We have had many conversations about how tired we are and ask what the future is going to hold. We have even talked about how this is not the way we thought we would live our life in this season of our lives.

I think the best thing any of us can do is to lift our concerns up to God; we are told to give Him our burdens. And then, I believe we should count our blessings. What better time of year than Easter to thank God for giving us His one and only son so that we may be saved?

And so, I count my blessings. My husband and I are side-by-side through this time and trying our best to help each other. We have a 15-month-old who loves to play with us and is healthy, smart, and cute as a button. We have a home that we love: food, hot water, electricity, etc. And, most importantly, we have been saved by our Savior, Christ Jesus. What else could we ask for, you might ask.

We would like to extend an invitation for you to give your life to Christ Jesus, your Savior. To thank God for His resurrection and for leaving us The Word.

Blessings it is! Yes, we are able to choose.

Receive Your Blessing

If you want to receive Christ Jesus and have your faith strengthened, follow these simple things to do. (By the way, we are all sinners)

1. Admit your need. (I am a sinner)

2. Be willing to turn from your sins. (Repent)

3. Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross and rose from the grave. (Be saved by faith)

4. Through prayer, invite Jesus Christ to control your life through the Holy Spirit. (Receive him as Lord and Savior)

We suggest a prayer like this one:

“Dear God, I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died for my sin and that you raised Him to life. I want to trust Him as my Savior and follow Him as Lord, from this day forward. Guide my life and help me to do your will. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.”

*If you prayed this prayer, send us an email to Team@FaithOnEveryCorner.com And welcome to the family.

It wasn’t the sort of weather any of us would order for Easter: a bitter wind sending the temperature below freezing and a dismal gray sky. The eggs were hidden and found in a shorter time than usual and not many bothered with that third scouring search around the edge of the yard, just in case one or two had been missed.

It wasn’t the sort of morning in southern Kansas that would draw out many for the sunrise service. “Sunrise” was a sort of dubious concept anyway, with all that gray and no perceptible shift to clearly say when a sun you couldn’t see had risen. Just a few gathered among the hardwood pews for that particular celebration.

It wasn’t the sort of situation that you hope for when you are planning a potluck breakfast for Easter morning. If it had been sunny and sixty, there might well have been thirty or forty gathered there to share sausage-and-egg casserole and fried sweet rolls covered in granulated sugar. While the few who made it over sipped coffee between bites of breakfast, they wondered aloud how the crowd would be affected by the weather.

A Gray Easter at the Community Church

By Doc Arnett

And though there must have been some who stayed away on such a dismal day, there were enough who came to nearly fill the building. They packed into the pews until only the very first seats were empty. They came, shook hands and hugged one another, sang hymns, and stood together beneath pastel banners that testified “He Is Risen.” They listened to the Children’s Sermon about the “Colors of Christ” and to the adults’ sermon about “The Witness of Stones.”

And in the sharing of bread and cup, reminded each other of sacrifice and hope, of pain and promise. As they kneeled before the altar, they remembered the stones of Abraham’s faith, the Stone of Calvary, and the stone that an angel moved away. They remembered an empty grave, a prophecy fulfilled, and love that will conquer all things.

They remembered that wherever two or three are gathered in his name; he is there among them. And here, on this gray day and its chilling wind, they had Easter. And were glad for the having.

The Long Season

By Doc Arnett

Like a poor cousin or a friend who can’t shut up about a bitter divorce, winter came early and stayed late.

From November to May, a month longer each way, it came with its callused cold and a long, lingering gray that turned day into twilight and night into a darkness that you could feel.

We waited, worked through the ashen shades of beige and brown and the pale shadows of summer dead on the stems and blades.

We worked through the brief teasings of spring— those first tinges of green along the banks and ditches and buds swelling with stubborn hope at the ends of thin branches.

The wild plum has come with its burst of white against dark trunks and the redbud has born its boughs of lavender.

The Bradford pear opposite the huge cottonwood beside the driveway yields its blooms to the stirring wind: all this earth’s good hope bending toward Resurrection Day.

Since 1975, Doc Arnett served as a bi-vocational, non-denominational minister for congregations in Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, Missouri, and Kansas. In January 2020, he retired after a forty-year career in education, including teaching and administration. A native of West Kentucky, he currently lives with his wife Randa in northeastern Kansas. They share eight children and thirty grandchildren. Doc enjoys writing, public speaking, playing guitar, singing, woodworking, and remodeling

A SACRED PLACE

By Gay Herron

Tracy had been coming to the little park in her small town and meeting up with her one true love at the same time each day, twice a week, for the last eight years.

She would sit there every Tuesday and Thursday, for about an hour’s time on the black wrought-iron bench that overlooked the lake in the middle of the park. The bench was just off of the walking trail that circled the lake and it sat up on a little hill in the grass beneath a giant red maple tree. From there she could watch the joggers and the walkers and see the children in the playground just across the way.

Even those messy, wet weather days didn’t stop her from her usual visits to the bench. You’d see her in her winter coat and gloves or her raincoat with her hood up sitting beneath her umbrella. She was quiet, a picture of determination, dedication, and promptness.

And He was all of those things as well. He always showed up, never disappointing her. Never late. The closeness between them had grown in depth and intimacy over the years, and each week, she longed for their special time together.

This was a meeting between Tracy and God. You see, This was a meeting between Tracy and God. You see, she had her prayer times with Him and her worship times at church, but this, well, this was different. There on that bench, she just sat with Him, enjoying His presence, His love, and His peace.

He was in the soft breeze that caressed her face on warm days; she saw Him sparkling in the sunlight as it danced on the water across the lake. The songs of the birds carried His voice and the laughter of the children revealed His joy. She saw Him in the faces of the path walkers, their smiles revealed His compassion and care and concern for her and, yes, sometimes even His pain or grief. The rain and the snow that came at times with cold strong winds showed His power and His strength and the dark gloomy skies and gray clouds held the steady hands of His righteous anger and justice.

Sitting there each day on that little bench, Tracy grew closer to Him and understood and trusted Him more deeply as time went on. This was true love.

Tracy loved Him, and she knew in her heart that He loved her as well. This time was intentional, set apart, to just be still with one another and listen and delight in one another’s company.

This was their sacred place.

Gay and her husband live in the foothills of Western North Carolina on a small farm with horses, turkeys, goats, chickens and two hard working barn cats. She is a devoted wife, mom, and grandmom who loves spending time with her family and enjoying all the farm life offers. Writing has always been a passion since she was a young girl and now, at this stage in her life, she finally has the time to explore all the possibilities.

Married and divorced at a young age, she struggled as a single parent, but God was always faithful to care for her and her two boys. Her youngest, born with a severe disability, Spina Bifida, had a childhood of many operations, physical therapy and doctor appointments. A native of Georgia, she moved to the mountains of western North Carolina with her two young sons to be close to family and start a new chapter in her life. She enjoyed working as a floral designer and later in bookkeeping and sales.

At 44 she met her husband at church in 2003 and they married in 2004, blending their family and now have three children and two grandsons. Along with the farm to keep her busy, she also manages a successful mountain vacation home in Black Mountain, NC. Gay can be reached at mountainskyjoy@gmail.com

Who Is He

By Cindy Oriol

One morning after finishing a long and busy 12-hour shift at Gateway Rehab where I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for the past 7 years, I came home and just plopped down on my very comfortable couch that I had just bought from Value City.

As I was gazing out of my patio doors, the sun was shining right onto my patio. There was a beautiful ray of sunshine just beaming down and it was extremely bright that morning., as it entered my living room.

You are the one who made the sunshine for light and the moon for darkness. When I get to Heaven, the only light I will need is you, the Light of the World.

It was very quiet and then I heard the Holy Spirit urge me to write in my binder about someone who was very special to me. You, Most High, I hold you closest to my heart. I can not wait to bow down before you in my heavenly home.

Who are you?

You are my blessed Redeemer, Most Sovereign, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. You are my comforter, my Savior, and my best friend. You are the blessed one who wakes me each morning and tucks me in at night.

You are the one I come running to when I am happy or sad. You make me jump for joy and dry my tears when I cry. You took away my tears and replaced them with smiles for you. You are He who has taken away the hurt and pain and has replaced it with goodness and gladness of you.

You are blessed who have called me to walk by your side and to become a disciple for you. To go and share your good news scattered around the earth.

You are the righteous one who has taken me out of the pit and renewed my life. At times, my life had so many cracks in it, but you were and still are there to pick up the broken pieces.

While I was going through my trials and tribulations of this messy world, I called on you and you told me I was the clay and you were the potter. I began as a blob of clay. Then you molded me into the person you wanted me to be. While I was broken, I chose to be in your light.

No matter what circumstances I had to go through, you, my Prince of Peace, were always there. I may not have seen you or heard you, but you, my Teacher, have been my guide in every step of the way.

Holy and Righteous one, you are all these things and so much more. When others ask me who you are, I will answer, “HE IS LORD”

In Christ’s love, Cindy

Cindy Oriol is the author of “IF ONLY” and “HAVING JOY IN THE MIDST OF THE STORM.” They were written by the Holy Spirit and me to encourage anyone that is going through a storm in their life. No matter how many storms we have to endure as long as we hold tight to Jesus we can make it through anything.

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Rolanda T. Pyle is a licensed social worker and works in the field of aging with seniors, caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren. Rolanda is the author of Grandma’s Hands, a children’s storybook, Finally, a collection of inspirational poems; and the compiler of and contributor to Beneath His Everlasting Wings, a collection of devotionals. Her work has been published in religious and community newspapers, anthologies, collections, and journals. In April 2004, New York’s Daily News named her one of the “100 Women Who Shape Our City.” Her website is https://bit.ly/roroscommunications

LIFE AND DEATH

By Rolanda T. Pyle

Life, oh Life Life, Life, Life

In the midst of life is death Life can be complex and complicated

In the midst of life is death... sometimes it comes suddenly, often expected, but you can never get used to it. Death has come to my family in many ways, on way too many days In the midst of life, there is death.

Oh Life, oh death

Oh, death, where is thy victory? Where is thy sting?

You come, and you kill, steal, and destroy You take away those most meaningful to us

Oh death, oh death

In the midst of death, there is life Life on earth is not promised forever You never know when it will end

Life, life, life

Enjoy to the fullest Fulfill your dreams

Laugh a lot, love a lot Take care of yourself

Life and death go hand in hand

As Christians, we have the victory Victory, Victory, Victory Oh, death, where is thy sting? Only Life in Christ gives victory

So we have victory in life and victory in death

Life and Death

Death and Life

Life and Death! Victory!

GOD SPOKE THROUGH SECOND CHANCE TEA ROSES

By Judy Lynn Grayson

There’s an old red bench that sits at the edge of my rock garden, covering two small tea roses that died last summer. Who doesn’t love a tea rose? Tiny little roses filled with lovely little petals, they come in all colors. One of mine was pink with a fading yellow center, and the other was a radiant yellow that brilliantly shone like the sun upon all the green earth.

The whole world is living through a most devasting time. We are all living in fear, not knowing who will be the next to fall to COVID-19. It came in waves from faraway places, and the news began to color in the states of our country that were the most infected. And finally, North Carolina was shaded in, and it was here!

Now about my little tea roses: I cut the little dried dead stems to the ground and sat the old red bench over them. By now, we were in mid-August and nothing grows at such a time of year.

When tragedy hits like the COVID-19 virus, people react differently. Some curse God and some pray to Him. But ultimately, we are all the same in God’s eyes. So the virus began to fall on our little town, hitting whole households, a couple of members, or a single one. Then, our church and my baby sister, Hope. She was already compromised because of a near-death experience years prior. Now, a second attack on her life came with COVID-19. The world’s most uncontrollable, modern virus. People were dying all over the world, and there was no place to hide. And my heart almost stopped as she worsened, developed pneumonia, and was then hospitalized. Fear took over my body and spirit, and I wondered if she had ever really confessed Jesus Christ as Lord. Would she be with our precious mom and sister if she died like my little roses did?

For two long days, I wrestled with my thoughts, and then I remembered that fear comes from the enemy. And I prayed and cried out to Jesus for an answer! Earlier, sitting on my back deck while looking at all of God’s beauty, I noticed the tea roses were growing back under the old red bench, and I could hardly believe what I saw. God spoke to me that very evening and I earnestly prayed for assurance that my sister would live and not die. God reminded me of the tea roses, and how they would bloom again. I knew that He was telling me she would live.

God had given her a second chance to acknowledge Him as her Lord and Savior, to know Him, and the love He has or her. I don’t know why our living God sometimes answers so unexpectedly, speaking through something as small as a little summer tea roses, but He will.

Judy Lynn Grayson is a prayer, praise, and thankful short story and devotional writer. Her true stories about the adventures of her family convey her relationship with our Lord. She says that without Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, she would have nothing inside her heart to write about. She is a retired hairdresser, paraprofessional, and school cafeteria cook for public schools. Now, most importantly, she is a mom, a grandmom, and a friend. (Philippians 4:6-7).

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