Rearrange The Letters...

When You Rearrange The Letters…

DORMITORY becomes DIRTY ROOM
PRESBYTERIAN becomes BEST IN PRAYER
ASTRONOMER becomes MOON STARER
DESPERATION becomes A ROPE ENDS IT
THE EYES becomes THEY SEE
GEORGE BUSH becomes HE BUGS GORE
THE MORSE CODE becomes HERE COME DOTS
SLOT MACHINES becomes CASH LOST IN ME
ANIMOSITY becomes IS NO AMITY
ELECTION RESULTS becomes LIES - LET'S RECOUNT
SNOOZE ALARMS becomes ALAS! NO MORE Z 'S
A DECIMAL POINT becomes I’M A DOT IN PLACE
THE EARTHQUAKES becomes THAT QUEER SHAKE
ELEVEN PLUS TWO becomes TWELVE PLUS ONE

When Sinners Turn To Praise

By Fred Wikoff

It may be surprising to some that Chad McComas, the editor of this publication, is not the good guy that one might think. The truth is he’s a down right sinner.

I also have it on sound advice that the other writers for this publication are not as they appear. They all sound so squeaky clean and pious in their articles that one would naturally assume they are without blemish. But, I found that none of them even come close to being the saintly person one would expect of Christian writers. Sinners! They all are sinners!

Even worse, when viewing the evidence, I find that I’m as much a sinner as they are. The terrible truth is we are all sinners. All Christians are sinners. It’s a prerequisite to being admitted to Christ’s Church. If you’re not a confessed sinner, Christ doesn’t want you: “For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” Matthew 9:13

Christ says that righteous, do-gooders here on earth have received their rewards and they will have no further reward from the Father. (See Matthew 6:1-6) Only Satan is interested in these goody-too-shoes and holier-than-thou people. He knows that self-satisfaction for “good deeds” tends to draw credit and praise to one’s self instead of Christ. When we admire our own “goodness” and well-intentioned efforts, we mask the truth of God’s grace and rob Christ of the praise he rightly deserves.

Notice that Paul is especially careful to give Christ the credit for his evangelistic efforts: “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified . . . that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” 1Corinthians 2:2-6

Paul is equally quick to remind us of how Christ rescued him from his sordid past: “I formerly blasphemed and persecuted and insulted him; but I received mercy. . .” 1Timothy 1:13 He makes it clear that despite all his fame and mighty works that part of him still lives in the flesh: “For I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot do it. For I do not do the good I want. But the evil I do not want is what I do.” Romans 7:18-19

What does being a sinner have to do with praise? It depends on how we see ourselves and Christ’s plea to “repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:17 If we see ourselves as righteous, hard working, sinless people who have earned God’s love then sin has nothing to do with praise. But if we are confessed and repented sinners our very act of turning from sin to obedience praises God.

Even the angels rejoice and give praise when we take that first step in accepting God’s offer of a full and complete pardon for our sins. (See Luke 14:4:10) Indeed, God’s saving grace is our sole basis for praising him. Without Christ’s victory over sin we would have no reason to praise him. But the moment Christ prevailed, sin turned to praise.

“While we were yet sinners Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

“Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and by him everyone that believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.” Acts 13:38-40)

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 Praise God!

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise him all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father Son, and Holy Ghost. A-men.” (From Thomas Ken’s “Doxology”)

Fred Wikoff writes from Eugene, Oregon. EugeneSpud@msn.com

Film Review: Unrepentant

On March 6, 2007, a film called "Unrepentant" made its debut at Sundance Film Festival in California. It was created by Reverend Kevin Annett, a former minister of the United Church of Canada on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. Annett's film exposes the collaboration between the Canadian government and the United Church of Canada to exterminate the Native Canadian people, and control their land and its resources.

From 1880 through the 1970's, Native children were forced from their homes and placed in "Christian" residential schools where they were systematically abused and murdered. Unspeakable damage has been done to the Native people in the name of Christ, but this genocide has been a well-kept secret.

As Reverend Annett and others uncovered the truth of what happened in the residential schools, he sought to bring reconciliation between the Native and Euro-Canadian people. He also asked the Canadian government and church to take responsibility for the crimes they committed. As a result, Annett has lost his job, his family, and his life is continually under threat. By bringing his film into the public eye, he hopes the world will pressure the Canadian church and government to take responsibility for their actions, and work to restore some of the damage that's been done.

As the film "Unrepentant" brings the world's attention to this situation, I can't help but think that the body of Christ here in America should become informed and prepared to respond with compassion and courage. As the world examines the behavior of the Canadian church, they will inevitably look at the American church and gauge our reaction to this breaking news.

We have an opportunity to obey God's numerous commands in Scripture to uphold justice, defend the oppressed and restore the name of Christ where it has been defamed. We have the chance to show respect, compassion and love towards the Native people who have survived this genocide and are still trapped in a system of oppression and poverty.

For more information regarding Kevin Annett and the crimes committed against the Native people of Canada, please look at Reverend Annett's website: www.hiddenfromhistory.org . He is an excellent resource for those who wish to be informed on this subject.

A concerned minister sent this review in. He chooses to be anonymous.

Five Ways To Defeat The Goliaths In Your Life

By Beverly Hill McKinney

We face things in our lives which seem insurmountable. Challenges such as health problems, indebtedness, marriage concerns, unmanageable children and more. These become Goliaths to us.

How do we face these giants? How do we deal with the fears and the overwhelming sense of hopelessness?

Recently, I had to undergo extensive medical procedures. It was totally new territory. I had always been healthy so the idea of facing this uncertainty caused me to experience great fear. It was a Goliath to me.

I knew I “should” feel the assurance of the Lord going with me. But, I was frightened. Did I believe all I had previously told others about trust and faith? Did I believe I could entirely depend on Him? My fear stood like Goliath threatening my trust in God. How would I overcome my fear?

My pastor retold the story of David and Goliath. David faced a huge obstacle. All around him the soldiers expressed fear and doubt about winning the battle against the enemy Goliath. He loomed like a huge rock in front of them.

David was undaunted. He cast aside the armor given to him and reached down to pick up five smooth stones. David didn’t see Goliath as a huge obstacle, but as a huge target! How could he miss a target that was that big?

So, I decided to look at the medical tests facing me--through the eyes of David. I realized that the five stones that David picked up represent five ways we overcome fear. I saw five things we can do to reduce fear when we face Goliaths in our lives.

1. Admit We Are Afraid.
Jesus asked His Father to take the cup of suffering from Him the night before the crucifixion. He had His own challenge, so we must believe that Jesus understands our fears. He is able to handle our trials. “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15

2. Ask For Prayer Support.
We must not be afraid to ask friends to pray with us and for us as we face our “Goliaths.” There is nothing like experiencing the prayers of others. As we immerse ourselves in prayer we have less time to worry. At the time of my medical procedures, I had the assurance of friends praying for me at that instant.

3. Find Verses On Courage And Peace.
God’s Word is full of encouragement. I write down verses that specifically speak to me and memorize them so I can recall them when I need them. Some verses that were important to me were:

Psalms 17:8 “Keep me as the apple of thy eye; hide me under the shadow of thy wings.”

Isaiah 41:10 “Fear thou not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed for I am thy God; I will strengthen thee: yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Isaiah 43:1 “Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

The verse that spoke most to me that week was Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”

4. Sing And Listen To Praise Music.
God lives in the praise of His people. When we sing and listen to praise songs it calms us and helps us focus on our powerful God. At one point in my tests, I was quite frightened. I began to think of praise songs such as “Lord I Lift Your Name on High” and “I See the Lord, Sitting on the Throne, Exalted.” By repeating these praises a peace descended on me and I was able to finish the procedure with calm and assurance.

5. Thank The Lord
James tells us to consider it all joy for the trials we face. (See James 1:2-5) Paul tells us to present our requests to God with thanksgiving. That’s when the peace comes. (See Philippians 4:6,7)

As I sat in church on the Sunday awaiting the final test results, the greeting from our pastor that morning was, “Be strong and courageous. If you are facing obstacles in your life, remember these words.” Those were the exact words which started the verse I claimed that week as mine from the Lord.

A peace descended on me and I knew that whatever the outcome of the medical tests I had the assurance that I would be strong and courageous. Later that week my doctor called and told me all tests were negative. I was fine.

The results may not always be the same in everything we face, but our Lord has promised to always be there for us in our Goliath times. By remembering our five stones of attack we will be able to win the battles ahead.

Beverly Hill McKinney writes from Rogue River, Oregon. bmckinnehill@yahoo.com

Through The Eyes Of Children

By Daris Howard

It is springtime and my two youngest daughters have been cooped up in the house all winter and are fretting to get out every chance they get. They were born after we thought we were done having children and they have complicated our household in many wonderful ways. They have colored our lives with a tapestry of awareness that we should have had with our other children, but did not.

I help them on with sweaters, for even though it is late May, it is still chilly. Each of them puts a hand in mine and we step outside for an educational walk through the garden as I plan to show them the many wonders of spring. The first thing we come to are the wild roses that bloom along the ditches and canals near our house. Their fragrance fills the air with a scent that tingles the nose. My two-year old, Elliana, points to them. “What are those?” she asks.

Before I can answer, her four-year old sister, Heather, jumps in. “Those,” she says, “are called noses. They are called that because they smell so good. But be careful because those sharp things on them are called pokies.”

A large orange and black Monarch butterfly lands on the bushes next to us. Heather points to it. “Oh, look, Ellie, it’s a flutterby.”

As we stand there watching the ‘flutterby’ a flock of geese noisily wings its way north in formation above us. Heather points to them. “Those are called gooses. The noise they make is honking.”

Elliana looked impressed with her big sister’s knowledge. “Why are they honking?” she asked.
“Because,” Heather answered with an air of four-year old wisdom, “they are anxious to get home and the ones in the front are going too slow so the ones in the back want them to get out of the road.”

As we continued our walk through the garden a pungent smell filled the air. Heather and Ellie both sniffed and wrinkled their noses. Heather turned to her little sister. “That is called a ‘stunk’, and I’m sure I don’t need to tell you why it is called that.”

Our walk takes us through the strawberry patch that is waking from the cold winter and starting to put on flowers like a springtime snow. Heather points to them. “Do you know what these are, Ellie?” Ellie shakes her head so Heather continues. “These are called yum berries. That is their real name, but some people call them slow berries because they take too long before they can be eaten.”

I just kept quiet and listened to Heather describe the world around us with her vivid imagery and imaginative way. I realized this educational walk was more of an education for me than for them. God gave me eyes to see, ears to hear, a nose to smell, a mouth to taste, and fingers with which to feel, but he gave me children to cause me to stop and look. They help me pause and listen, remind me to take time out and smell the roses, help me be grateful for the flavors of the bounty around me, and cause me to reach out and enjoy touching what I see.

Thank you, God, for children.

Daris Howard writes from St. Anthony, Idaho.

Three Things In Life...

Three things in life that, once gone, never come back
1. Time
2. Words
3. Opportunity
Three things in life that can destroy a person
1. Anger
2. Pride
3. Unforgiveness
Three things in life that you should never lose
1. Hope
2. Peace
3. Honesty
Three things in life that are most valuable
1. Love
2. Family and Friends
3. Kindness
Three things in life that are never certain
1. Fortune
2. Success
3. Dreams
Three things in life that make a person
1. Commitment
2. Sincerity
3. Hard Work
Three things that are truly constant
1. Father
2. Son
3. Holy Spirit

Sent by Nancy Corliss from Anchorage, Alaska.

The Voice Of God

By JT Martinson

Speak to me God, I long to hear
Where is Your voice, I know You care.
Speak to me God, I'll open my eyes
I'll turn to You, please hear my cries.

Is that You in the wind?
It whispers sometimes
The mountains shake
The cathedral bell chimes.

Is that You when the earth is still,
When the cold frost freezes
And the flowers wilt?

Maybe it's You in the spark of a flame,
In the heat of the sun,
And the tears of the rain.

Or maybe You breath in the depths of my soul,
An inner voice,
That's ancient and old.

It's a Father's wisdom that comes from above.
And He often chooses to speak
In the echoes of love.

Where sometimes He's clear,
With words that are strong,
But many times He's subtle
In the tune of a song.

JT Martinson writes from Central Point, Oregon.

The Power Of Praise

By Chad McComas

Christians have a secret power that the Devil knows about. He does everything in his power to keep us from knowing and understanding this power and especially from using this power. He knows that when we use this power we have tremendous joy in our experience with God and His people and we experience success and victory in our Christianity where we once had failure and defeat.

Praise is our secret power.

Praise that wells up in our hearts and minds and exits through our lips can change the world. Praise changes attitudes and changes outcomes. Praise ushers in the power of God. Praise chases away the Devil and his schemes. Praise is the language of winners. Whiners complain. Winners praise in all circumstances and change those circumstances because of their praise.

Remember when Paul and Silas were thrown into jail in Philippi? They were beaten and tossed into an dirty, smelly, dark, cold dungeon of a jail. Some say that prisons in those days were down in cisterns that ran with raw sewage. It was definitely a tough situation. But Paul and Silas knew about the power of praise.

We read: “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose.” Acts 16:25,26

Because Paul and Silas choose to praise God in their difficult situation the whole town was affected. The jailer and his family were baptized. The other prisoners experienced something that changed the rest of their lives. The town leaders were shaken to the core. And from history we discover that Philippi had a church that made a mark. Even the letter that Paul wrote to them is one of the most positive and powerful.

Remember story of King Jehoshaphat when he faced the destruction of his kingdom from an army that was huge? Remember what God told him and what he did when he went to battle. It is an amazing story of the power of Praise.

"Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. 16 Tomorrow march down against them…You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.'" Jehoshaphat bowed with his face to the ground, and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down in worship before the LORD. Then some Levites from the Kohathites and Korahites stood up and praised the LORD, the God of Israel, with very loud voice. Early in the morning they left for the Desert of Tekoa. As they set out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, "Listen to me, Judah and people of Jerusalem! Have faith in the LORD your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful." After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: "Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever." As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.” 2 Chronicles 20:15-22

So…how often do we use the power of praise in our lives? What victories do we miss when we choose to whine rather than choose to be thankful and praise? James and Peter both talk about the troubles that Christians face. They both talk about the joy and praise that Christians need to practice in tough situations. They talk about how tough situations make us stronger. The stronger we get, the more we praise. The more we praise, the stronger we get! (See James 1:2-8 and 1 Peter 1:3-7)

Paul tells us, in the letter to Philippi, that we are to be in a constant attitude of praise. That attitude produces peace in our hearts that sets us apart from the rest of the world. Notice: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7

We have the secret power. Let’s use it and change the world!

Chad McComas is the editor of The Christian Journal and writes from Medford, Oregon.

The Great Exchange With God

By Troy Pomeroy

Our economy is based on exchange. People watch the paper, the news, and other sources to see what their stocks, gold, silver, and precious jewels are worth. These items have value because we have attached a value to them. That value rises and falls based on factors like need, supply and demand, and current trends. We will end up exchanging a little or a lot of what we do have for something we don’t have based on how important that something is to us.

God’s economy works in a similar way. We are supposed to exchange. The difference is we are supposed to exchange in each other’s lives – the things that are eternal. Most of the time we are exchanging in the temporary things of the world like cars, houses, gold, and silver. These are all enjoyable things, but will perish in the end.

From the beginning, God has desired a personal relationship with His children. That is spelled put clearly in the covenant relationship He establishes. Although we tend to make this difficult, it is really an easy relationship. It’s all based on a good exchange. We give Him praise and He gives us peace. In exchange for our heart, he fills us with hope. If we pray, we receive His promises. This is a good thing.

But it gets better. All of those exchanges or “trades” are easily made because they are good things and a sign of a positive, healthy relationship. It’s easy to give something of value to someone you love when they are giving something of value in return. God goes a huge step further. He also takes our garbage – our sins, mistakes, and imperfections. And he trades them for the most valuable commodity of all – eternity with Him. Most of us wouldn’t be willing to make that kind of trade, giving something of high value in exchange for something worthless or repulsive.

It proves how much He loves us and how much higher His ways are than ours. He takes our sorrow and sickness and gives us salvation. He carries our burden and gives us blessing. He removes our worries and gives us worth. It is beyond our ability to understand why and how He does this. Fortunately, we don’t have to understand it. All we have to do is make the great exchange!

Troy Pomeroy writes from Eagle Point, Oregon. pastortroy@epacenter.com

God's Answers To My Prayers Are...Sometimes Immediate, Sometimes Not

By Elizabeth Schatz

I get so tired of the rain! And it's raining again!

As we left church Sunday morning, it was raining---again. What was I to do with my daughter with autism while the rest of the family went to their Sunday school classes? Normally, I take my daughter on a walk, then we sit in our van and we do our own Sunday school lesson.

The others left and the tears flooded my eyes. God, I am so tired of it all! So tired of going forward. I don't want to go on anymore. Where are You, God? I need Your help right now. Please God, I need Your help! Amid the tears and crying out to God because of the struggles and difficulties in my life, I got my daughter and myself ready for our walk. When I opened the van door, it wasn't raining. "Thank You, God," I said aloud. "I know You are here. Thank You."

Later that morning I was hit with a migraine headache. I curled up on the bed, blanket over my head to keep the light out. I pressed my fingers, hands against my skull to try to stop the stabbing pain. The medicine wasn't working. I cried as the sharp pain intensified within my head. Please, God, make the pain go away. But the pain didn't go away. Instead of focusing on the pain and how utterly miserable I was, I repeated Blessed be the name of the Lord. The lyrics played through my mind: “Blessed be Your name. Though I walk through the wilderness, blessed be Your name. Blessed be Your glorious name. Blessed be Your name on the road that is marked with suffering. When the darkness closes in, Lord, still I will say, blessed be the name of the Lord. You give and take away. My heart will choose to say, Lord, blessed be Your name.”

I repented of the times when I thought one girl in high school with me was a wimp when she had a migraine. I now knew how real the pain was and asked God to forgive my callousness and uncaring.

The pain continued---intense, unbearable, excruciating. Please God lessen the pain. Let me fall asleep so I don't have to feel this pain. I called upon the Great Physician to heal me, to take away, to lessen the pain. If there was even a microscopic lessening of the pain, I thanked Jesus and continued to pray, blessed be the name of the Lord .

The entire day passed. It was dark outside and I was still curled up in pain. It felt like my head was going to explode, the pressure was so intense and the pain so strong. Finally, at 7:30 pm I got up and readied myself for bed. I felt dizzy and moved at a snail's pace. I sat on the couch, leaning against the cushion. The rest of the family went to bed. I continued to ask God for healing, to take away the pain. The pain persisted.

I may have fallen asleep for short periods of time, but I heard the grandfather clock many times tolling at fifteen minute intervals. At 1:30 am the pain was much less intense, but my head still pounded. God, please make it stop. I took some ibuprofen and lay back down on the couch. Blessed be the Lord.

I awoke at five am and immediately noticed I felt no pain. Thank You, Jesus!
Why did God immediately answer my plea for His presence earlier in the day and then take fourteen hours to answer the second request? God knew I needed to know He is here for me, by stopping the rain, so through the pain of a migraine I would seek Him, praise Him, know He is here, for I needed that in my heart to get through the pain I was experiencing in my head.
Perhaps these two experiences are short lessons in how I am to rely on God and His infinite wisdom, mercy, and grace as I continue in a difficult marriage, one in which I've struggled for over a decade. God is here; He is watching over me, carrying me through the difficulties in my marriage. Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Elizabeth Schatz writes from Medford, Oregon.

Sister To Sister

By Patti Iverson

Peggy is more than a sister. She’s my twin! We are separate bodies, different personalities, disparate lives, but one heart and one Savior. She lives in California and I call her the ‘wicked (say with a growl) twin of the south” while me, in Oregon, am the “Good (falsetto voice) twin of the north.” Nobody buys it, but it always gets a laugh.

Memories are tricky details of life. We shared the same experiences growing up, but for some reason, Peggy’s memories diverge from mine. Of course, I say, “Peggy, you just remember wrong.” That always goes over real well.

Los Angeles in the 1950’s was a golden era. Orange trees, Hollywood movie stars, clean air, and good people were the norm. At the wee age of five we traipsed all over our small town of South Pasadena visiting (harassing?) neighbors, and going to the corner grocery store. We each guarded the quarter in our sweaty palms to buy a pack of Pall Mall cigarettes for mom and a half-gallon of milk for daddy. Then the owners would give us candy and we’d fight over it. Twins!

Our family only went to church on Christmas and Easter. Nobody knew what a “personal relationship” with Jesus was, but I am convinced He was there, watching over us all the time. Loving, guiding, and guarding, even though we did not know it at the time. God’s amazing grace. We were blessed by the Blesser Himself, and never even knew Who to thank! But Psalms 121 says: “The Lord will keep you from all harm. He will watch over your life.” Ahhhhh! Awwwww! Awe.

The big kids on the block put on shows with music, drama, and magic acts. At twilight everybody joined up for Hide ‘n Seek. I recall being mad because Peggy wanted to hide alone, without me. How dare she assert her autonomous nature so early on in life? Harrumph!

Fun times playing house, dress up, arts ‘n crafts, swimming and all the other childhood joys during that delightful decade. We also fought our sibling battles with fervor worthy of the Civil War. Like those soldiers, we always had times of socializing and sharing common bonds between the bloodshed. I tied Peggy up during a rousing round of Cowboys ‘n Indians and pushed her off the front porch. Oh, how I cried along with her as if it were MY tooth that was chipped and bloodied. It sure wasn’t nice when she zoomed me down the lengthy banister during a sisterly skirmish! I’m still sorry for throwing that glass Prell shampoo bottle into the shower at her, cutting her back.

Occasionally we came together to join forces against a common enemy. One Easter Sunday, as we proudly walked up Meridian Avenue in our holiday finery with our new plush bunnies under our arms, a nasty boy named Ricky started his usual bullying. Well, ya just don’t mess with the twins on a religious holiday! We started fighting like a couple of banty hens. Flying bonnets, ripped lacy white socks and frilly dresses didn’t matter. Maryjanes, muddied and scuffed, kicked poor Ricky where he wished he’d been sitting. No more problems ever ensued with that neighborhood bully!

Both parents died when we were still in school, after lengthy battles with alcoholism and sorrow, which brought twinship bonds even more into focus. Years fly by. Marriages, babies, and life challenges strengthen us as sisters. ESP is a real thing between twins. (Not just extra sensory power, also extra spiritual power!) We held the same jobs, although thousands of miles apart, never discussing it beforehand. Clowns, preschool teachers, telephone operators, and activity directors are a few. One year we mailed each other the exact same tote bag for our birthday. I thought she was just cheap, and sending it back to me! Truly odd to me is how our illnesses/surgeries seem to follow us together. We’ve both had asthma/allergies, hysterectomies, arthritis, diabetes, and other maladies at the same time only to discover it when we chat on the phone. “You too? Your back hurts? Well then it’s your fault that I’m struggling up here!” Twins are really good at placing blame, y’know…

Now, as middle-aged, matronly grandmas, we continue to live, learn, and love as twins with the best bond of all: joyfully serving the Family of God with unconditional love for each other. (Even if she still has faulty memory!)

Patti Iverson writes from Medford, Oregon. randpi@charter.net

The Silver Ring Thing

Special Event For Teens…
The Silver Ring Thing Is Coming To Grants Pass

The Pregnancy Care Center of Grants Pass will be hosting the Silver Ring Thing, a national touring group promoting abstinence on Wednesday, May 9 at 6:30 pm. This 2 1/2 hour stage performace incorporates high-energy music, special effects, fast-paced video, personal testimonies, and comedy all delivered in a concert-style approach with which teenagers can respond and relate. The program conveys God's message of forgiveness and new beginnings with an opportunity to embrace a "second virginity."

Students who make a commitment to abstinence can purchase a sterling silver ring ($15) as a symbol and reminder of their decision. After each event, students who make this commitment are followed-up by SRT staff with 40 e-mails over the next four months that encourage and equip these students in their commitment.

A parent's seminar is also held at each event to educate parents about what is happening in today's youth culture and how they can encourage and support their child's abstinence commitment.

Youth Pastors are encouraged to bring along their youth group. The seminar will help build a generation of teens who are unafraid to both share and live the Gospel. The Silver Ring Thing is a relevant, new and real way to talk to youth about sexual purity. The program engages youth with a compelling and challenging approach, drawing them into a serious commitment of abstinence until marriage.

Here is what others are saying:
"There is no doubt that in our sex saturated culture, one of the greatest challenges we face is getting the abstinence message out to our students in a way that will have a powerful and lasting effect. To help in this crucial task, I can highly and without reservation recommend the Silver Ring Thing sexual abstinence program. There is no doubt that the Lord is working in a very powerful way through the ministry of the Silver Ring Thing."
Mark Orr, New England Regional Coordinator of the National Network of Youth Ministries

" The Silver Ring Thing blew us away!! Their show was relevant and captivating to our students and adults. Their message of salvation and commitment to Christ hit right to the heart of where this generation of young people is at. Our students still talk about SRT almost a year later. I highly recommend SRT to anyone wanting to impact this generation of young people to live lives of purity."
Kevin Valentine, Student Ministries Pastor of NorthRidge Church in Plymouth, Michigan.

Silver Ring Thing promotional materials are free and available. These include: A SRT DVD which features a two minute promo to share with a group gathering; a youth talking to youth promo to get teens excited about the event; “the letter” promo of teens talking about writing a letter to present to their spouse on their wedding day and more. Posters, invitation postcards, bulletin inserts and more. Call Jo Lisa at the Pregnancy Care Center – (541) 479-6264 to get materials or to volunteer.

Shoes In the Church

Author Unknown

I showered and shaved. I adjusted my tie.
I got there and sat in a pew just in time.
Bowing my head in prayer as I closed my eyes.
I saw the shoe of the man next to me
Touch my own. I sighed.
With plenty of room on either side
I thought, "Why must our soles touch?"
It bothered me, his shoe touching mine.
But it didn't bother him much.
A prayer began: "Our Father"
I thought, "This man with the shoes
Has no pride. They're dusty, worn, and scratched.
Even worse, there are holes on the side."
"Thank you for blessings," the prayer went on
The shoe man said a quiet "Amen"
I tried to focus on the prayer
But my thoughts were on his shoes again.
Aren't we supposed to look our best
When we walk through that door?
"Well, this certainly isn't it," I thought
Glancing toward the floor.
Then the prayer was ended
And the songs of praise began.
The shoe man was certainly loud,
Sounding proud as he sang.
His voice lifted the rafters,
His hands were raised high.
The Lord could surely hear
The shoe man's voice from the sky.
It was time for the offering
And what I threw in was steep.
I watched as the shoe man reached into his pockets so deep.
I saw what was pulled out. What the shoe man put in.
Then I heard a soft "clink" when silver hits tin.
The sermon bored me to tears and that's no lie.
It was the same for the shoe man, for tears fell from his eyes.
At the end of the service as the custom is here.
We must greet new visitors and show them good cheer.
I felt moved somehow and wanted to meet the shoe man.
So after the closing prayer I reached over and shook his hand.
He was old and his skin was dark. His hair truly a mess.
But I thanked him for coming for being our guest.
He said "My name's Charlie. I'm glad to meet you my friend."
There were tears in his eyes, but he had a large, wide grin.
"Let me explain", he said wiping tears from his eyes.
"I've been coming here for months and you're the first to say "Hi."
"I know that my appearance is not like all the rest,
But I really do try to always look my best.
I always clean and polish my shoes before my a very long walk,
but by the time I get here they're dirty and dusty like chalk."
My heart filled with pain and I swallowed to hide my tears,
As he continued to apologize for daring to sit so near.
He said, "When I thought if I could touch you...then maybe our souls might unite."
I was silent for a moment, knowing whatever was said would pale
in comparison.
I spoke from my heart, not my head.
"Oh, you've touched me," I said, "and taught me in part that the
best in any man is what is found in his heart."
The rest, I thought this shoe man will never know.
Like just how thankful I really am that his dirty old shoe touched my soul.

Sent in by Kathy Anderst from Medford, Oregon.

Rush Hour

By Veronica Moore

Driving down the highway in rush hour traffic the Lord began to minister to me. When He began to speak to my heart, tears began to fall. I was so glad that the traffic was not as heavy as it usually was.

He said that I AM getting you ready. Everything that you are going through my child is according to MY plan. I AM the Lord God. I change not. When you don't hear MY voice I want you to trust MY plan. Take MY word. Take it one step at a time. I know you feel like giving up, but trust MY plan. I AM the Lord. I see, I understand, I have a plan. MY plan is to prosper you, give you hope, give you a future. I hear you, I see you, I care. I feel what you feel. I know what you are going through. I AM the Lord God. I change not. Take one more step, one more breath, one more day. You are no stranger to me you are MY child. Preparations that you go through are for you, for ME. The times when you feel all alone and those times when you are alone, remember, I will always be there. I see, I hear, I care! I AM the Lord God. I change not. I formed the world, you and every thing that exist. Every test, trial, struggle and storm, I direct! I won't leave you. I AM the Lord God. Can't you hear ME softly calling you, wiping the tears from your eyes? I AM the Lord God. I AM never far from your side. As I opened the red sea for Moses and the children of Israel, I have performed for you as well MY child. If you look back over that last ordeal you went through remember how I brought you out of it and through it and now you don't even remember it? I AM the same God that will deliver you again. I AM unlike lovers of your yesterday, that claim to love you, walk away leaving you with tears in your eyes, your feet on the floor and your back against the wall. I AM the Lord your God. I will never leave you, nor forsake you. I will be with you always. No place can you run or hide from ME. I died so that I could have You with me throughout eternity. I AM just getting you ready for what I have had planned for you since the foundations of the world. Trust me, I understand, I know, I care. GOD.

Veronica Moore

Creating Moments That Matter

By Trisha McCoy

Each year, Royal Family Kids’ Camps (RFKC) offers 6,000 abused, neglected, and abandoned children the opportunity to spend a week at camp. The 167 currently operating camps are designed to specifically meet the needs of the campers through the support of Christ-centered, loving adults who provide guidance and positive role modeling. In 2005, I went to an RFKC in Washington to learn how to establish a camp in Jackson County.

The transformation that I saw during my week at camp was beyond belief. I watched the campers, all under the age of 12, come off the bus broken and defeated on the first day. Their beaten-down spirits laid dormant inside fragile bodies, waiting to be sparked to life. By the end of the week, the kids were filled with hope. They were encouraged to play and create. They were given opportunities to succeed. And, most importantly, they were loved.

I came home at the end of the week ready to do whatever was necessary to start a camp in Jackson County. I worked with Kay Stainbrook, who attended training as the Phoenix, Oregon camp director, to start a local camp. We took 23 children to camp last summer.

Looking through the camper applications, it was clear that the defining moments in their lives were both painful and confusing. We took children to camp who had experienced the pain of rejection from multiple foster placements and failed adoptions. We took children who had been beaten by people who were supposed to love them. We took children who had never known what it felt like to be wanted.

Like the kids at the Washington camp, our campers came off the bus on Monday with their heads hanging low. During the week, they learned that there are people who will care for them and not hurt them. They learned they can be successful. Most importantly, they learned that they are worthy of love and that there is a Creator who loves them more than they will ever know.

Our camp staff also underwent a transformation during the week. Most of the counselors were hesitant to come to camp because they had no experience working with abused kids. But, by the end of the first day, they were having as much fun as the campers. The counselors had skinned knees, painted faces and grass-stained clothes. It was more difficult to get the staff to go home on Friday than the campers.

Somewhere in the middle of campfire songs and watermelon relays, love filled the campground and infected everyone that was there. The staff helped the children create moments of love and compassion to fight back the pain and rejection the kids live with during the other 51 weeks of the year. Instead of the life of despair that often follows an abusive childhood, these kids now have the potential for healthy, fulfilling lives. And maybe, they will come back someday and help the next generation of abused children.

I went to RFKC training because I wanted to do something to help the nearly 500 kids in Jackson County that are in foster care. But sometimes I think I benefit more from camp than the campers do. And, like most of the staff, I am already counting down the days until the kids get off the bus this summer.

If you would like more information about Royal Family Kids’ Camps or are interested in donating time or materials, please contact one of the local camps. We also ask that you prayerfully consider sponsoring a child this summer.

Phoenix, Oregon
Kay Stainbrook, Director
541-621-3857
Trisha McCoy, Assistant Director
541-941-1610
trishacastillo@aol.com

Grants Pass, Oregon
Denise Pemberton, Director
541-660-4392

Trisha McCoy writes from Phoenix, Oregon.

What's The Fuss About "Purity Balls?"

By Pam Frantz, Minneapolis, MN

A “Purity Ball” is an event held by fathers for their daughter. They are fancy affairs, with girls dressed in formal attire. At the event the young women sign pledges to remain virgins until married. Yet…the media is upset!

Quoting from an article in glamour.com: “The first ‘Purity Ball’ was held in 1998 by the founders of Generations of Light, a popular Christian ministry in Colorado Springs, Colorado. “We wanted to set a standard of dignity and honor for the way the girls should be treated by the men in their lives,” says Lisa, a warm, exuberant woman with a ready smile and seven children, ages 4 to 22. Lisa’s own father left her family when she was two and despite a kind stepfather she grew up not feeling valued or understood. “Looking back, it’s a miracle I remained pure,” she says. “I believe if girls feel beautiful and cherished by their fathers, they don’t go looking for love from random guys.“

The movement’s latest mission is to make abstinence cool, dubbing it “chastity chic.”
I find the whole idea wonderful. That is how it was intended since the beginning.
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”

The act of intercourse actually meant something once. It wasn’t just recreational. It wasn’t just “something to do” if you liked a guy. So, I ask, what is wrong with encouraging a young woman to maintain her purity until marriage?

Glamour Magazine, (popular with the 15-24 age group) is just one voice in the media speaking out against “Purity Balls.” As the “Purity Movement” begins to swell, so does the press coverage railing against it. Glamour’s article denounces the whole concept of encouraging women to remain virgins until marriage. It quotes so-called “experts” in the field of psychology and health. The general consensus is that these girls are being set up for failure, and the ability to remain a virgin until marriage is unrealistic an emotionally and psychologically unhealthy. The studies indicate that girls who take the “purity pledge” are twice as likely to end up with STD’s because they won’t use condoms when they first have sex. Apparently these “pure” young women will eventually be swept up in the moment and not plan correctly for their sexual experience. The so-called “experts” seem to assume that women who have not pledged “purity” plan to have sex and always carry and use condoms.

The article goes on to indicate there is something intrinsically weird about dressing up in a ball gown and dancing with your dad. It suggests that girls feel uncomfortable being so close to their dads and are embarrassed discussing such personal matters with them. The article states that when the writer attended a ball, she felt the fathers seemed uncomfortable themselves, or if not uncomfortable, the father/daughter couples seemed too close, basically inferring that maybe there was something not quite right going on.

Well, I ask, what is wrong with a father expressing his care and concern for his daughter? Telling her she is beautiful and valued and that she is a gift that he will eventually bestow upon a worthy young man? What is wrong with instilling a sense of morality and decency in a daughter, and making it clear to her, in front of family and friends, that he will be there for her, protect her and watch over her?

The Glamour writer concludes her seven-page “Purity Ball” article as follows: “I deeply wish that the lovely things I have seen tonight - the delighted young women, the caring, doting dads- might evolve into father-daughter events not tied to exhorting a promise from a girl that may hang over her head as the struggles to become a woman. When Lauren Wilson hit adolescence, her father gave her a purity ring and a charm necklace with a tiny lock and key. Randy Wilson took the key, which he will hand over to her husband on their wedding day. The image of a locked area behind which a girl stores all of her messy desires until one day a man comes along with the key haunts me. By the end of the ball, as I watch fathers carrying out sleepy little girls with dropping tiaras and enveloping older girls with wraps, I want to take every one of those girls aside and whisper to them the real secret of womanhood: The key to any treasure you’ve got is held by one person: you.”

I ask what is wrong with that? In my eyes-not a thing.

Pam Frantz writes from Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Praise Verses

Here are some praise verses to encourage you with...

“PRAISE be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3,4

“PRAISE be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” Ephesians 1:3

“Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of PRAISE.” James 5:13,14

“PRAISE be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade-kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith-of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-may be proved genuine and may result in PRAISE, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1,3-7

“However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but PRAISE God that you bear that name.” 1 Peter 4:16

Praise The Lord!

By Willa Johnson

“Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts; Praise Father Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.”

During my childhood, every Sunday morning in church, after the offering, we stood and loudly proclaimed the Doxology, dragging out the “Amen..” Because the theme for this month is praise, I became curious about this beloved hymn seldom sung in churches today.

The music was written by Louis bourgeois in the 1500’s and became known as “The Hundreth” after words based on Psalm 100 were incorporated. We know that hymn today as “All People That On Earth Do Dwell.”

Thomas Ken, an Englishman, (1637-1711) wrote the words to what we know as the Doxology, based on Psalm 86:12. It has been said that those four lines of the hymn have been sung in all churches than any other song since then. In fact, it is believed they teach the doctrine of the Trinity better than any theological book ever written.

Let’s think about each line.

Line 1: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.”
Can that be right? ALL Blessings! Yes, I believe it’s true. After all, all good and perfect things come from God, the Creator. Even the things which cause us heartache and sadness usually occur because we misuse their purpose. A gun, a knife, a cane have all been instruments of death, but it is the individual misusing them; not the item itself.

Line 2: “ Praise Him all creatures here below.”
That means you, me and every other person alive. Even the animals among us seem to have an instinctual way of obeying their Creator.

Line 3: “Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts.”
At Christmastime, probably more than any other time, we think of choirs of angels proclaiming the birth of the Christ child. In Hebrews 1:14 we read: “Are they (speaking of angels) not all ministering spirits, sent fort to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” These heavenly hosts are with us today, guiding and protecting us and still singing praises to God.

Line 4: “Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.”
There it is: the complete Godhead, Three-in-one, Triune being.
It’s true that the praise hymns we sing today are powerful and thrilling, because many are taken directly from scripture. But, to me, the simple four lines written over 300 years ago can’t be matched for the majesty they convey.

Willa Johnson writes from Phoenix, Oregon.

Praise Sends The Enemy Running

Praise manifests God’s presence, so praise repels the presence of the enemy, Satan. An atmosphere which is filled with sincere worship and praise to God by humble and contrite hearts is disgusting to the Devil. He fears the power in the name of Jesus, and flees from the Lord’s habitation in praise. “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God” (Psalms 50:23).

When the children of Judah found themselves outnumbered by the hostile armies of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, King Jehoshophat and all the people sought the Lord for His help. The Lord assured the people that this would be His battle. He told them to go out against them, and He would do the fighting for them. So what did the children of Judah do? Being the people of “praise” (Judah actually means Praise), and knowing that God manifests His power through praise, they sent their army against their enemies, led by the praisers!

So on they went, ahead of the army declaring, “Praise the Lord, for His mercy endureth forever!” And the scripture says, “...when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten” 2 Chronicles 20:22

When God’s people begin to praise His name, it sends the enemy running! Become a person of praise and you will experience the release of the power of God!

Passover Haroset

By Deborah Davis

“Your love is better than wine… Sustain me with raisons, revive me with apples, for I am faint with love.” King Solomon from Song of Songs.

Song of Songs is a book of psalms written by King Solomon, is filled with beautiful verses on various foods, including honey, nuts, apples, raisons, figs, wine and spices. Many credit Song of Songs with the creation of the Passover food haroset.

Haroset is a traditional dish for Passover. On this holiday, Jews celebrate freedom from Egyptian slavery with a special dinner called a seder. A Passover seder was also the Last Supper that Jesus attended, and, for this reason, many Christians also host Passover seders.

There are two types main types of haroset. Ashkenazic Jews make a very simple haroset that usually consists of apples, walnuts, cinnamon, red wine/dark grape juice, and maybe raisons. This is the haroset that most Jews in North America eat each Passover.

Sephardic Jews make a spicier haroset. Unlike the Ashkenazim, the Sephardim do not have one recipe for haroset, or one typical type of haroset. What the various recipes agree on is that haroset should include fruit, and that it should be sweet and spicy. It may include apples, but may also have other fruits, such as oranges, dates, pomegranates, figs, bananas, coconut, almonds, pistachios, pecans, raisons, cranberries, walnuts, pine nuts, apricots, prunes, peanuts, sesame seeds or pears. It may be sweetened with red wine or grape juice, but may also include orange juice, white wine, wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, sugar, brandy, or jam. They may use cinnamon like the Ashkenazim, but they may also include other spices such as ginger, cardamom, cumin, coriander, cayenne, cloves, chili pepper, or nutmeg. If, as Elijah is believed to do, we could travel to all the seders, we would get to try many different kinds of haroset.

During the seder the story of the Jewish slaves’ escape is told and symbolic foods are eaten. One food is haroset, which is meant to represent the mortar that the Jewish slaves used to make bricks for the Egyptians. The haroset is eaten alone, and also with bitter herbs. The bitter herbs remind the Jews of the bitterness of slavery. By eating haroset with the bitter herbs, the sweet is combined with the bitter. Some say that this is symbolic of life.

Below are a few recipes for haroset. Why not try something new for your Passover seder?

Sephardic Haroset #1
2 Valencia oranges, cut into bite size pieces
1 sliced ripe banana
1 cup chopped pistachios
1/4 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon cardamom
1 teaspoon ginger
1/2 cup honey
3 dates rolled in coconut, cut into small bite size pieces (These are available prepackaged at several local stores, or you could roll them on your own)

In a large bowl, place oranges and bananas. Add 1/4 cup honey and orange juice. Mix. Add remaining ingredients. Mix. Add 1/4 cup honey. Mix. Refrigerate 1/2 hour. Serve. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Sephardic Haroset #2
2 Oranges, cut into bite size pieces
1 1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup raisons
1 cup cut figs
1/4 cup muscatel or other sweet white wine
1/2 cup honey
1 Tablespoon chili pepper oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon cumin

In a large bowl, place almonds, cranberries, raisons, and figs. Mix. Add muscatel and chili pepper oil. Mix. Add black pepper, coriander, and cumin. Mix. Add honey and oranges. Mix. Serve. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Sephardic Haroset #3
2 apples, cored
2 bananas, peeled
4 dates, peeled
1/3 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup white grape juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon chili pepper
1 teaspoon lemon juice

In a food processor, chop apples, bananas, dates, and spices until finely chopped. Pour into large bowl, add juices, and nuts. Stir until juice is absorbed. Refrigerate 1 hour. Serve. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Ashkenazic Haroset
3 apples, cored
½ cup walnuts
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon lemon juice
3 teaspoons honey
3 Tablespoons sweet red wine

In a food processor, blend until it is a paste. Serve. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Deborah Davis writes from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Journalist@DeborahDavis.Info

Our Deepest Fear

By Marianne Williamson

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate,
our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child
of God. Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other
people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to
make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously
give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear,

Sent in by Cassidy Janisch, Central Point, Oregon.

No More Pain

By Stewart Whittmore

“For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.” 1 Corinthians 7:10

Recently I returned from a memorial service for my godson, Roger. At the age of 45 and after much pain in his life, he passed on.

Roger called me "Uncle Stu" even though he was the son of my cousin Roger. He was liked and loved by many people. In fact, there was standing room only at his service. I don't think I have ever attended any memorial like it before.

Drugs and alcohol were the demons in Roger's life causing much pain for his family, especially his children. But with a heart of "godly sorrow" before he passed on, he received repentance and forgiveness. It led to his salvation and again demonstrated that we have a wonderful loving and merciful God.

The testimonies by his family and friends at the Spirit-filled service reflected his repentance and the sorrow he had caused to his family and to himself.

I easily identified with his addiction because those very same demons almost left me in a pit of despair causing tremendous pain in my own family.

The testimony that touched my heart the most was that sometime during his own painful time before he died he asked the Lord to "increase his pain" because of the pain he had caused his children. Not long after that petition Roger's pain ceased and he died in peace. It was if the Lord was telling Roger: "By (my) stripes (you) are healed."

Roger certainly taught me something that day about "godly sorrow.” As sorrowful as I am for the pain I have caused my family, especially my children, I never asked God to "increase my pain" because of my transgressions. It is obvious I still have a lot to learn.

Thank you, Roger, for that lesson. I wish I had lived a better life that influenced you in a Christ-like way while you were still with us.

I thank God that He is always in control and Jesus is the only Savior we need!
"And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." Revelation 21:4

Thank You, Lord, that we sinners, including Roger will one day be home with you with "no more pain.”

"For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning." Psalms 30:5

Stewart Whittmore writes from Grants Pass, Oregon.

My Prayer List

By Lynn Ludwick

I was nearing the end of a spring-cleaning frenzy when I happened upon a basket of Christmas cards way back in a corner. Some I’d already seen, others I’d tossed in for later review. I meant to read them in January, but… Needing a break, I poured a cup of coffee and settled at the kitchen table.

As I read the cards and newsletters I jotted notes for my prayer journal. The list became a litany of woundedness: the aged who lug around their infirmities day after painful day; others claiming fewer years, but equally as sick; young people whose character is weak and there appears no strengthening on the horizon; adults hobbling along, crippled by unresolved issues; marriages, once bright and strong, now disintegrating. From Satan’s point of view the list would be considered a victory roster.

Discouragement threatened to settle like winter fog, yet I knew God maintained a different view of that list. He’d want me to pray for these folks because He is infinitely able to do something about their woes. “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

But other than Christmas communications, how many times do I happen upon bad news? I mean Bad News! The five or eleven o’clock TV reports comes to mind, as well as a quick scan of the newspaper. I could easily pray my way through the Mail Tribune.

Or how about a drive around town? Hopelessness bearing a cardboard sign inhabits freeway off ramps. Rebellion sporting in-your-face clothes and hairdos swaggers down a lonely street. Poverty pushes a borrowed grocery cart across a littered vacant lot, while failure trudges its way into the rescue mission. All reminders of just how fallen this sin sick, weary world is. And all reminders to pray, pray, pray. “Pray continually” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 suggests—no, commands. Is that so hard? Not if I maintain an ongoing conversation with God throughout my day. “Did you notice that guy? Please help him, Lord.” “Oh Father, my temper is threatening to escape, help me keep it in.” “Wow! You did awesome job on the sunrise this morning.” “What is that You just whispered to my heart?” Etc.

If I grow weary from noting the obviously needy, I need only look around me at chu