FOOD•FAITH•LIFESTYLE
SUZANNE DUNN
JEWELRY
Taste
Cover Image
Monika Grabkowska
Contributors
Chef Leah Chase Kit Grubbs
Sam
Nora Kit Whol
Dedicated To
Ruth S. king
Carole Ann “Bunny” King
Angela Baldwin
Advertising and Subscriptions Visit www.tasteandseemagazine.com or contact
Kristen Carter carter@tasteandseemagazine.com
Phone: 332.323.4077
Published Bimonthly by Carter-Cohen Publishing All Rights Reserved. www.tasteandseemagazine.com info@tasteandseemagazine.com
Kristen
Carter
Editor's Note
Sharing what I love moves me. I love great food. I love visiting unique places. I love the lessons of extraordinary people. I love looking through the pages of a beautiful magazine, daydreaming of how it’s contents will add to the experiences in my life. My deepest love; however, is the love and message of Jesus Christ.
I hope you enjoy flipping thorough the pages of our magazine, noting new restaurants, products, and locations; using them to enrich you life and the lives of those you love...all while catching some hope and wisdom along the way.
Love one another deeply, Kristen
MonikaGrabkowska:
A Lens of Culinary Artistry
CapturingFlavor:TheEssenceofMonika’sLens
MonikaGrabkowska,anaward-winningfoodphotographerbasedin theUK,possessesalensthattranscendspixels.Herphotographsare morethanvisualcompositions;they’resensoryinvitations.Iknew whenIsawherwork.Ihadtohaveitonthecoverofthismagazine.I wasfounditinterestinghowanartistlooksthroughthelensofa cameraandisabletocapturesomethingthattherestofusdon’tgetto seewithouttheaidoftheireye.Stunningphotoisnoexception.
ACulinaryLoveAffair
Monikaisoneofourabsolutefavoritefoodphotographers.Her imagestakeourbreathaway,invitingustodiveintotheframeand savorwhatshehascaptured.Eachphotographisaloveletterto flavor,composedwithaneyelikenoother.
CollaborationDreams
Monika’sworkinspirescollaboration.Sheisaninspiringand beautifulpersontoworkwith.Ifyou’rereadytoelevateyournext project,feelfreetoreachouttoherthroughthislink:
https://monikagrabkowska.com/contact
Taste The Seasons: GrowNYC Greenmarket Celebrates 2024 Farmers Market Season in New York City!
The nonprofit celebrates the 48th season offering opportunities for New Yorkers access to farm fresh food and vital revenue for small farms in the Northeast.
June 2024 - Today, GrowNYC Greenmarket announces the opening of 22 seasonal farmers markets across the five boroughs! The year-round Greenmarket farmers market network is doubling in size as farmers bring additional delicious seasonal delights to markets from May through November. Throughout the season New Yorkers (and visitors!) can find a bounty of fresh, local products at 46 Greenmarkets throughout the city. “The seasonal bounty and selection of producers at GrowNYC Greenmarket sites is unparalleled,from just-picked fruits and vegetables, artisan breads & baked goods, jams, fresh caught fish, maple syrup, flowers, and so much more week after week, all season long. Swing by the market information tent for special cooking demonstrations, seasonal programming, and learn more about how to use your nutrition benefits to purchase the freshest produce in the Northeast!" said Angela Davis, Director of GrowNYC Food Access & Agriculture.
Since 1976, this vital food access program has offered opportunities for New Yorkers to access farm fresh food and provided a vital marketplace for farmers in the Northeast to sell directly to customers. GrowNYC Greenmarket farmers markets are producer-only, meaning producers may only sell only what they’ve grown, raised, caught, or baked themselves. Greenmarket producers come from 250 miles north, 120 miles south, and 170 miles east and west of New York City. This ensures the program is partnering with small to mid-sized farms and preserving farmland in our regional food shed .
As part of GrowNYC’s mission to provide equitable access to nutritious food, all Greenmarket locations accept SNAP/EBT, Summer EBT, Debit/Credit, Healthfirst OTC cards (LIP and CC members only), WIC & Senior FMNP coupons, FreshConnect Checks, and Greenmarket Bucks. Customers using SNAP/EBT/P-EBT that spend $2, receive a bonus $2 Health Buck, up to $10 per day.
This year, GrowNYC will celebrate several market milestones:
15 YEARS - Corona and Staten Island Mall
20 YEARS - Bronx Borough Hall and Columbia (Sunday)
30 YEARS - 97th Street, Abingdon Square, Bowling Green (Thursday), and Saint George
35 YEARS - Grand Army Plaza
Check out individual market webpages for daily farmer attendance and information about upcoming activities such as cooking demonstrations and family-friendly programming. Follow GrowNYC on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for up-to-date news and special announcements.
May 5
May 19
June 1
June 2
June 4
June 4
June 4
June 8
June 11
June 14
June 16
June 18
June 19
June 23
June 25
June 27
June 28
June 28
July 3
July 6
July 11
About GrowNYC
Bartel-Pritchard Square Greenmarket Sundays (also open on Wednesdays) Stuyvesant Town Greenmarket Sundays
57th Street Greenmarket Saturdays
Bensonhurst Greenmarket Sundays
Astor Place Greenmarket Tuesdays
Fort Washington Greenmarket Tuesdays
Bronx Borough Hall Greenmarket Tuesdays
Staten Island Mall Greenmarket Saturdays
Elmhurst Greenmarket Tuesdays
Corona Greenmarket Fridays
Domino Park Greenmarket Sundays
Greenmarket at the Oculus Tuesdays
Mount Sinai Hospital Greenmarket Wednesdays
92nd Street Greenmarket Sundays
175th Street Greenmarket Thursdays
Poe Park Greenmarket Tuesdays
Parkchester Greenmarket Fridays
Lincoln Hospital Greenmarket Fridays (open Tuesdays June 25)
Flushing Greenmarket Wednesdays
4th Ave Sunset Park Greenmarket Saturdays
Boro Park Greenmarket Thursdays
GrowNYC is an environmental 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a sustainable and more resilient New York City, touching the lives of 3 million New Yorkers with environmental services and programs, including equitable access to fresh, locally grown food, neighborhood green spaces, waste reduction, and environmental education. www.grownyc.org
Feature Recipe
Sweet berry clafoutis
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh raspberries
1 cup fresh blackberries (or blueberries)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
1.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Grease a cast iron skillet or baking dish (such as a pie plate).
3.
Arrange the raspberries and blackberries (or blueberries) evenly in the dish.
4. In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, flour, milk, and vanilla extract. Blend or whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the batter over the berries in the dish.
6.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
The beauty of clafoutis lies in its rustic simplicity The berries burst with flavor, and the custardy base is delightful Feel free to experiment with other fruits like cherries or sliced peaches A cast iron skillet adds a lovely touch, but any oven-safe dish will work
berries
ice decore
Berry-Infused Ice Cubes
: Elevate your summer sips by freezing fresh berries into ice cubes. Drop a handful of plump raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries into each cube tray compartment, fill with water, and freeze. These jewel-like ice cubes add a burst of color and flavor to your favorite beverages, from sparkling water to cocktails. It’s the chicest way to keep your drinks cool.
Ideas for using tart
BerryArtistry
Imagine your kitchen, bathed in soft morning light. On the countertop, a clear glass vase cradles a handful of fresh berries— raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries. Their jewel-like colors peek through slender twigs, creating an understated yet captivating arrangement. As you brew your coffee, take a moment to appreciate this simple elegance.
Berry Dessert
Capture the essence of summer with a luscious strawberry tart. Start with a buttery, flaky pastry crust. Then layer it with a velvety vanilla custard or a light almond cream. Arrange plump, ruby-red strawberries in concentric circles, their glossy surfaces glistening under a delicate glaze.
Enjoy your homemade strawberry galette! It’s a rustic and delightful dessert that celebrates the sweetness of fresh strawberries
Dessert Strawberry galette
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
4-6 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
3 cups fresh strawberry slices (about 1 quart of whole berries)
2 teaspoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
3 tablespoons turbinado sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
For Assembly:
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water
Honey (for drizzling after baking)
1.
Prepare the Crust:
In a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough comes together.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2.
Make the Filling:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the strawberry slices, cornstarch, salt, ground cloves, and turbinado sugar. Toss gently to coat.Roll Out the Crust:
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3.
Assemble the Galette:
Arrange the strawberry mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as you go.
Beat the egg with water and brush it over the crust edges.
Sprinkle additional turbinado sugar over the crust.
4.
Bake:
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and cool slightly.
Drizzle with honey before serving.
Season of berries is always great inspiration for new combinations and tastes. We use them from the first moment to the last whole seasion.
Enjoy it fresh
The Elevated Countertop Snack Station Fueling Your Hustle:
We all know the power of aesthetics- beautiful surroundings can elevate our mood and focus. But this philosophy extends far beyond mere table settings for grand occasions. By transforming the often-boring food storage into a curated display, we elevate the act of nourishing ourselves into a daily ritual that sets the tone for living luxuriously.
This approach isn't just about aesthetics; it's about transforming your space into a haven that inspires you to be the best version of yourself. Each time you glance at your beautifully curated countertop, it's a gentle reminder that you deserve to be treated well, both physically and mentally.
The Art of the Grazing Table: A Countertop Feast
The key to this practice lies in creating a grazing table on your countertop. Unlike a traditional charcuterie board, a grazing table is designed for individual portions and throughout-the-day snacking. This allows you to create a visually-appealing spread that nourishes you not just physically, but mentally as well.
Choosing Your Palette: Ingredients for a Curated Display
The beauty of the grazing table lies in its customizability. Select a wooden cutting board or platter that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic. Arrange a variety of cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers, choosing a color palette that creates a sense of harmony. Here are some pairings to inspire you:
The Classic: Sharp cheddar cheese, sliced apples, and Marcona almonds. The Mediterranean: Creamy goat cheese, dried figs, and pistachios. The Tropical: Coconut cheese, pineapple chunks, and macadamia nuts.
Sweet Breakfast German apple pancake
1. Batter:
4 eggs 1/2 cup non-fat milk
2 tablespoons whipping cream
3/4 cup bread flour
1 1/2 teaspoons wheat gluten
1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Apples and Saigon cinnamon sugar:
3 tablespoons plus
1 1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter
2 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored
3 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 teaspoons superfine sugar
2 3/4 teaspoons ground Saigon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon cornstarch
Additional sugar
2.
Beat eggs until foamy with an electric mixer (with the whisk attachment, if you have one) on medium speed; add milk and cream, beating until well blended. Sift flour, gluten, confectioners sugar, salt and nutmeg together in a medium bowl. Gradually add flour mixture to egg mixture, beating on low speed, until well blended, about 2 minutes. Set aside 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat oven to 300 degrees. Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in an 8-inch non-stick oven-safe skillet over medium heat; add apple slices. Cook, turning occasionally, until apples begin to soften but not brown, about 4 minutes; transfer to a bowl
3.
Meanwhile, stir together the brown sugar, superfine sugar and Saigon cinnamon in a small bowl. Sift the cornstarch into the mix; blend thoroughly with a fork. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 teaspoons of the butter in a small saucepan.
Slowly pour butter into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, stirring with a fork until it resembles a streusel like topping; spread the mixture over the bottom of the skillet. Layer apples (without piling up in the middle) over the sugar mixture to cover the bottom of the skillet.
4.
Pour the batter over the apples. Place skillet in oven; reduce heat to 250 degrees. Bake 30 minutes.
Remove from oven; cover with foil to keep warm. Increase oven heat to 500 degrees. Lower heat to 450 degrees. Return pancake to oven; bake until pancake puffs and edges begin to brown, 12-15 minutes. Remove pan from oven, carefully invert pan onto a platter or plate.
Add your own special character and build in a rectangular pan for a qunue apple pie treat at the end of the day. Hot apple pie tastes the best with brown sugar and cinnamon. Some people love it also with cacao or caramel.
Achieving a nice sear on salmon is essential for both flavor and presentation. Click here for some tips to ensure your salmon gets that beautiful golden crust.
Enjoy it fresh
with roasted cherry tomatoes Salmon Florentine
Ingredients:
Salmon Fillet: 2 pounds
Fresh Spinach: 4 cups
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
Lemon Zest: from 1 lemon
Salt and Pepper: to taste
Heavy Cream: ½ cup
Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated
Nutmeg: A pinch (optional)
Fresh Basil or Parsley: for garnish
1.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Roast the Cherry Tomatoes:
Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the Salmon:
Season the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil or butter.
Sear the Salmon:
Place the seasoned salmon fillet in the hot skillet, skin-side down (if it has skin). Sear for about 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms on the skin. Flip the salmon and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until it’s nicely browned. Remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside.
2.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Wilt the Spinach and Add Tomatoes: Add fresh spinach to the pan and sauté until wilted. Season with salt and pepper
Toss in the roasted cherry tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Create the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
3.
Assemble the Dish:
Place the salmon (prepared separately) over the sautéed
Bake the Salmon:
Place the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
DUNN JEWELRY
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Taste and See Magazine is about community. We excitedly invite of our upcoming ebooks below, and submit your conte
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Explore tips and recipes from renowned and homegrown experts. Design unforgettable gatherings with our menu planner. Personalize listed recipes to suit your taste. Additionally, we provide dedicated space for your favorite recipes, preserving your culinary favorites.
FAITH Journal/Ebook
“O Taste and See: Experiencing God's transformative workbook to encounter God's through Scripture reflection
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invite you to take part in our future publications. Choose one or all content to carter@tsmags.com to be considered!
Journal/Ebook
See: 52 Weeks of God's Goodness” is a workbook guiding readers abundant goodness Scripture and personal reflection
LIFESTYLE Journal/Ebook
“Effortless Elevation: A Practical Guide to Streamline and Elevate Your Everyday Experience" workbook, provides a comprehensive yet straightforward solution for curating an elevated and automated life.
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Contributors
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Subscriptions
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Phone: 332.323.4077 Jane
www.tasteandseemagazine.com info@tasteandseemagazine.com
Legendary Message to the World
Chef Leah Chase:::
This section, Food for the Soul is dedicated to the woman, no, the legend who helped me name it. My friend, Mrs Chef Leah Chase. Most people know the Queen of Creole as the woman who boldly served incredible food to anyone, black or white, in her restaurant Dookie Chase’s during the Civil Rights Movement. Yes, she fed Martin Luther King Jr., George W. Bush, and as the story goes, Barack Obama, who was scolded by her for adding salt to her gumbo before he even tasted it.
Others know her as the woman who Disney patterned their first African-American princess after in the movie Princess and the Frog. For me, she was a deeply committed woman of God, and my friend.A woman of grace, dignity, standards, filled with God’s Word and who was not shy in speaking her mind. . When I first met Chef Chase, I told her about this magazine, she kissed my hand, squeezed it tight, and told me how proud she was of me. She strongly encouraged me ( it was more like marching orders) to go boldly and bring the love of God through this magazine anywhere and everywhere God allowed my feet to take me. I wanted her to be a part of it, not just for the sake of her being part of it, but to share the message of who she was to the world. One October afternoon I visited with her and told herI wanted to put her message to the world in this magazine. What she and I did not know is that three months after this interview she go on to be with the Lord.
Although the purpose of “Food for the Soul” in this magazine is first and foremost to Glorify God by sharing the love of Jesus Christ, this section is dedicated to the wise, beautiful, Quees of Creole, daughter of God, Mrs. Leah Chase. I look forward to share some of the wisdom that she shared with me, and with others, in subsequent issues of Taste and See Magazine.
“being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6
Youareneverbeyondhope FoodfortheSoul
Ifthe truth isknown, farmore people livewith fear rath- er than hope. Are you in need of hope today? Throughlife’sdeepestpits,darkesthoursandevenin death,youareneverbeyondhope.Hopeislike oxygentothesoul.Itwillgiveyoupurposeand enableyoutoexpressconfidence,joyandpeace.
Biblical hopeis not simplyoptimismor positive thinking; it is confident expectation. Haveyouever plannedadreamvacation?As you nearedthe departuredate, weren’t youmoreenergized becauseyouwere livingforward?That is exactlywhat hope can do in your life.
“For inthishope wewere saved. Nowhopethat isseen isnot hope. For whohopes forwhat hesees?But ifwe hopefor what wedonot see, we wait for it withpatience” (Romans 8:24-25).
MaytheGod of hope fill youwith all joy and peacein believing, so thatbythepower oftheHolySpirit youmayabound in hope.
Romans 15:13
HopeRests in aPerson—“the God of hope”
Thesourceofyourhopehaseverythingtodowiththe strengthofyourhope.Ifyourhopeisbasedonaweak source(money,government,job,possessions,friends, spouse),theoutcomewillbedisappointing.Butifyour hopeisrootedinthecharacterandnatureofGod,then hope will bring joy even when everything else goes wrong.
Strugglescandimanddarkenyourhopeifyouonly lookatyourcircumstances.Althoughadimeisthe small-estcoinincirculation,itcanblocklightifyou placeitinfrontofyoureye.Itisthesamewhenyou focusoncircumstances—everythingisdimmed, cloudedandshadowed.Butwhenyourhopeisin theLord,thereisanewsenseofperspective.
“Forwhateverwaswritteninformerdayswaswritten forourinstruction,thatthroughenduranceand throughtheencouragementoftheScriptureswemight havehope”(Romans15:4).
Where is your focus during life’s deepest hurts and heartaches?
“WithoutfaithitisimpossibletopleaseHim,forwhoeverwoulddrawneartoGodmustbelievethatHe existsandthatHerewardsthosewhoseekHim (Hebrews11:6).
“AndweknowthatforthosewholoveGodall thingsworktogetherforgood,forthosewhoare calledac-cordingtoHispurpose”(Romans8:28).
“Rejoiceinhope,bepatientintribulation,beconstant ioprayer”(Romans12:12).
HopeEnhances
Performance—“abound”
Whenathletesworkasateam,theirtalentscreatea synergy of force.Their combined strength and impactaregreaterthantheirindividualtalent.When you em-brace the hope found in God and know the power of the Holy Spirit, you will be spiritually energized.
You Are Never Beyond Hope, continued…
Hope Enhances Performance—“abound”
When athletes work as a team, their talents create a synergy of force. Their combined strength and impact are greater than their individual talent. When you embrace the hope found in God and know the power of the Holy Spirit, you will be spiritually ener- gized. Hope has an incredible ability to change resolve and attitude. This is not a hope that comes from personal will, grit or resolve, because it is not sourced through you; it is sourced in God and re-alized through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit empowers, changes and strength-ens you on the inside. I do not write this to be disre-spectful, but the Holy Spirit is like helium in your life. The Spirit lifts you up to defy the gravity of adversity.
Hope Brings Joy and Peace
... in Adversity
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfast-ness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing" (James 1 :1-4).
... in Stress
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You" (Isaiah 26:3).
... in Loss
"Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me [Jesus]. In My Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going ... " (John 14:1-4).
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" (John 14:27).
"Other men see only a hopeless end, but the Christian rejoices in an endless hope:' -Gilbert M. Beeken
You are never beyond hope!
Dr. David H. McKinley is Pastor-Teacher of Warren Baptist Church, warrenbaptist.org
...morning coffee while spending time with God's Word just feels good...
Food for the Soul
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
Peace with God Steps to
1.God’s Plan—Peace and Life
God loves you and wants you to experience His peace and life.
The BIBLE says: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
2.Our Problem—Separation
Being at peace with God is not automatic, because by nature you are separated from God.The BIBLE says: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
3.God’s Remedy—The Cross
God’s love bridges the gap of separation between God and you. When Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose from the grave, He paid the penalty for your sins. The BIBLE says: “He personally carried the load of our sins in his own body when he died on the cross” (1 Peter 2:24, tl b).
4.Our Response—Receive Christ
You cross the bridge into God’s family when you receive Christ by personal invitation. The BIBLE says: “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in Hisname” (John 1:12).
5
To receive Christ you need to do four things: 1.ADMIT your spiritual need. “I am a sinner.” 2.REPENT and be willing to turn from your sin. 3.BELIEVE that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross. 4.RECEIVE, through prayer, Jesus Christ into your heart and life. CHRIST says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in” (Revelation 3:20). The BIBLE says, “Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13). What to Pray: Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for mysins. I want to turn from my sins. I now invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust andfollow You as Lord and Savior. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
IT’S THE JOY FOR ME
BY:NIKETHA GRUBBS
“SISTER PRAISE”
“It’s the JOY for me.” These simple words encapsulate a profound truth: joy transcends external circumstances. It is an internal experience, rooted in our relationship with God. In this article, we explore the essence of joy, drawing inspiration from the life of David and the unchanging love of Jesus.
Finding Joy Amidst Adversity
David, the psalmist, faced relentless challenges. Pursued by King Saul’s army, he found himself in life-threatening situations. Yet, amidst hardship, David looked beyond the immediate danger and glimpsed the goodness of God. His joy wasn’t tied to favorable circumstances; it flowed from his unwavering trust in the Creator—the One who governs all things.
The Joy of Jesus
When Jesus becomes our joy, nothing can steal it away. His sacrifice on Calvary secured our salvation. He conquered sin, death, shame, and darkness. The resurrection—victory personified—brings us lasting joy. Jesus, the unchanging Savior, offers joy that defies life’s storms.
Beyond Material Blessings
Our joy isn’t contingent on material wealth or earthly comforts. Instead, we seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Joy is a spiritual fruit—a gift from the Holy Spirit. As we set our affections on heavenly things, joy becomes our strength, sustaining us through life’s challenges.
The Eternal Joy
Psalm 16:11 reminds us that in God’s presence, there is fullness of joy. It’s not fleeting; it’s everlasting. Real joy overflows, abundant and glorious. It defies expression because it’s rooted in the eternal.
For further studies
Romans 5:1-2
Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
Psalm 68:3
But let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God’s presence. Let them be filled with joy.
Romans 5:11
So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God—all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God.
Psalm 16:11
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
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GrandmaBunny’sHideaway A World of Whimsy and Wonder
Gather, little children. I’m Bunny Carole, that’s Carole with an “E” on the end, but you can call me Grandma Bunny. Along with my pals Tommit the Turtle, Kiki Mouse, and my adorable grandson Felix the Fox, we’re excited to share many adventures with you.
There will be games to play and stories to read; cookies to bake, and things to see. With so much fun, what’s the first thing we should do?
Let’s read about Lilly the Llamas journey into love.
The Golden Promise
LILY'S JOURNEY INTO THE LOVE OF GOD
IBY: CASIE WILLIAMS
n the picturesque town of Meadowville, where green hills rolled and the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, there lived a spirited girl named Lily. Lily was known for her love of stories and adventures that sparkled like the sunlight filtering through the leaves.
One lazy afternoon, as Lily sat under her favorite tree, she noticed her neighbor, Mrs. Thompson, engrossed in a book. Intrigued, Lily skipped over and asked, "What are you reading, Mrs. Thompson?"
Mrs. Thompson looked up with a warm smile, "Ah, Lily, it's a wonderful story about the greatest love of all. Would you like to hear?"
Lily's eyes widened with excitement, and she eagerly nodded.
Mrs. Thompson began to read aloud from the book. It was the story of a wise and caring man named Jesus, who showed incredible love to everyone around Him. Lily listened intently as Mrs. Thompson shared a part of the story that made her heart glow.
Curiosity shining in her eyes, Lily asked, "How do we know God truly loves us?"
Mrs. Thompson paused, her eyes twinkling. "Lily, in the book of John, chapter 3, verse 16, it says, 'For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.'"
Lily tilted her head, "But what does that mean?"
Mrs. Thompson explained with a gentle smile, "It means that God loves us so much, He gave us Jesus as a special gift. If we believe in Him, we get to be with God forever, like a never-ending adventure of love and joy."
Lily pondered these words, feeling a warmth in her heart. As Mrs. Thompson continued reading, Lily realized that the love of Jesus was like a story that never ended, full of excitement, happiness, and the promise of forever friendship.
From that day forward, Lily embraced the truth of Jesus' love in her heart. She shared it with her friends and family, bringing smiles to their faces. In the heart of Meadowville, Lily discovered that God's love, as revealed in the story of Jesus, was the most beautiful and enduring truth of all, a reality to be treasured and shared, just like the golden sunlight that painted the town with warmth and love. And so, in the town of Meadowville, the truth of Jesus' love continued to be passed from one heart to another, creating a bond that was as strong and everlasting as the love it celebrated.
The End
CREATED FOR YOU
TAILORED AFFIRMATONS
THE ART OF PERSONALIZED NAME AFFIRMATIONS, A THOUGHTFUL GESTURE FIT FOR BIRTHDAYS, EXPECTANT MOTHERS, HOLIDAYS OR SIMPLY BECAUSE COMISSION YOURS BY CLICKING LOGO BELOW
TAILORED AFFIRMATONS
ARTISTIC PERSONALIZED NAME AFFIRMATIONS, A THOUGHTFUL GESTURE FIT FOR BIRTHDAYS, EXPECTANT MOTHERS, HOLIDAYS OR SIMPLY BECAUSE COMISSION YOURS BY CLICKING LOGO BELOW
