You Know How Kids Are

By Michelle Rocker

Finding out I was pregnant with my fourth child has been interesting, especially experiencing it from my sons' viewpoints. My two-year old daughter simply points to my stomach and says "baby," but the boys have some serious questions and observations. The subject of fat stomachs seems to be their favorite.

On the way to a doctor's appointment, the subject came up again. Brett, my 8 year old, pulled up his shirt, and said, "See, Mom, I have a fat stomach."

To which I responded, "No, you don't, honey."

"Yeah, I know," he replied. "It's because I suck it in like this." He pulled up the back of his shirt. "It pushes the fat into my back. See? That way no one knows I'm fat."

Great theory, but unfortunately all my stomach muscles are shot after carrying the fourth one, and my back has too much fat already as it is. But I told him I was happy it worked for him.

Six-year old Nolan watched and started giggling.

"But, Brett's tummy isn't fat like Mommy's tummy."

"No, Nolan," I responded with clenched teeth, "it isn't like Mommy's. But that is because Mommy is going to have a baby, right?"

"Oh, yeah," he said.

By the time we walked into the doctor's office, I was feeling quite pudgy, and was anxious to get this over with. The boys' regular doctor was not in, so they had to see a substitute. He walked in, and was great with the kids. The boys laughed and teased with him. Just as the doctor was fixing to leave, I saw Nolan staring at the doctor's potbelly.

"Please, God, no!" I thought, but oh, yes. Before I could get to Nolan, he walked right up to the doctor and patted his belly.

"Say, you have a fat tummy, too." Nolan smiled up at the doctor.

I was frozen, red-faced, and speechless. Gulping loudly, I walked over to Nolan, and pulled him away from patting the doctor's belly.

"You, uh, have to understand, uh, that I'm pregnant, so there has been lots of talk about tummies," I stuttered. Rolling my eyes, I continued, valiantly trying to think of something brilliant or funny to say, but all I came up with was, "You know how kids are."

The doctor laughed and said he had three of his own. He then proceeded to pat Nolan's head and say, "You know, I could stand to lose a little weight, huh?"

I frantically grabbed Nolan's shoulder and squeezed as he nodded his head. Let's just say, I made it out of the doctor's office in record time with three children. We all know how kids can be.

Does God look at us and understand us like we understand our kids? Does He love us dearly, but often cringes over the things we say and do? We rest in the fact that God’s love for us overcomes our “kid-like” behavior at times!

Michelle Rocker writes from Hobe Sound, Florida. mmrocker@bellsouth.net

White Out

By Beverly Hill McKinney

Many times the Lord has affirmed His love to me, but the following incident reassured me that once again He is my protector.

“Lord, protect us!” I cried.

White covered my windshield as I tried to maneuver my car through the raging blizzard.

The morning had started out with low-slung grey clouds. I had checked the weather report and although cloudy, all reports said the day would be overcast only, with snow probably arriving the following day.

I had promised a group of women from our church that I would drive them to a women’s meeting approximately thirty miles away. It would be an afternoon and evening of fellowship for us.

Our church had received an invitation to a large women’s meeting in Klamath Falls and six ladies decided to attend. After gathering at the church and having a short time of prayer, we set off for the meeting.

My husband, Jim, was the pastor of a small church 30 miles outside of Klamath Fall, Oregon. Our church was located in a large valley where snow and ice were common during the winter months. Because it was a fairly desolate area, weather reports were routinely checked before starting out.

While I and the other ladies chatted and enjoyed each other’s fellowship, I was suddenly aware small flakes were beginning to fall on my windshield.

What is this? I thought.

The weather report had said no snow. Of course, in Oregon we never relied on the weather reports, so why had I this time?

As we continued down the long straight road the snow came down heavier and heavier with larger and larger flakes. At that point I asked the ladies if they felt we should turn back. We all felt it might clear further along so continued on our way.

Ten miles later, the snow was coming down steadily. Soon I was unable to see out my front windshield. In fact, it was so bad that I could not see the hood of the car. The wipers merely shifted the snow from one side of the windshield to the other. I was very frightened, as my experience driving in snow was very limited. I asked the ladies to pray, asking the Lord for direction and protection.

Turning around was not an option. I could not see the road clearly enough to tell if any cars were coming or going, and it would be unsafe to try to go back the way we came.

The Lord seemed to say to me, “Look for lights.”

Gazing through the whiteness, I saw a slight glimmer of light over to my right. Turning toward the faint light, I bumped over what I thought was a ditch and finally got as close as I dared to the light source.

I stopped, got out of the car and realized I was within just a few inches of the front steps of a ranch house. Leaving the car I went up to the door. This family was unfamiliar to me, as I was new to the area and had not met many of our future members. Hesitantly, I knocked on the door. All of us ladies hoped to at least be able to get word to our families of our safety.

The door was opened and we were warmly greeted and welcomed into the cozy front room. I explained our situation and after trying the phone, realized that phone lines were down.

Since we had not had lunch yet, our host sat us down at the large kitchen table for a wonderful steaming hot meal with the ranch hands.

After lunch there still was concern that our families were unaware of our safety. Soon we heard a car drive up in the driveway. The local sheriff had arrived in his four- wheel-drive vehicle. He was checking the ranches to see that cattle and ranch employees were safe. We asked him to notify our families and tell them we would try to get home soon. He assured us that after he made his rounds of the ranches in the area, he would come back and drive us in his Jeep to our various homes.

Later that afternoon as the snow cleared, we looked out at our car. It was sitting on the front lawn, just inches from the front door. There was a small driveway that led up to the house with deep ditches on each side. Miraculously the Lord had directed our wheels up the driveway directly to the front door.

When the sheriff arrived to take us home, he told us there had been a bad accident at the intersection one mile ahead. The driver of a large cattle truck had become blinded in the snow and made a wrong turn, hitting a ditch and turning over his truck. Cattle were scattered across the road and two accidents had resulted. We realized at that moment that if we had continued down the road, we would have also run directly into the cattle truck causing serious injuries.
How good the Lord was to us that day! For in the midst of a blizzard, He directed us to lights and safety. He once again affirmed His love to me.

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

What Will The World Read About Us?

By Michele L. Tune

Our lives are a book so, what are we writing? What does our "book" say about us? Are we "writing" aPage-turner, or do we make "readers" want to slam our book shut? Think about it...

Our lives are like books. Our actions, words, expressions and convictions are read by others. Do we smile when we pass someone? Do we growl at people? Do we say "thank you", "please", and "you are welcome?" Or do we just rush off, paying no mind to anyone or anything except making it to our next destination?

Life is a book, this is true, and we each act as an author writing it. How will our book read? What is our index? Who is our book dedicated to? How many pages does our book have? How will it end?

My book is dedicated to those I love most: My index is filled with good and bad chapters, sad and happy chapters, sometimes life-threatening chapters, but overall the roller coaster ride my readers engage in will be one they won't be bored with. In the end, my readers will see that through my mistakes, through all the pain there has been, through battling illness, obesity, domestic violence, and much more, that joy comes in the morning and the light shines so bright.

I know my book will have a lot of pages, too many to count. I have dozens of chapters to still add and anxiously anticipate filling those blank pages with success, inspiration, smiles, love and laughter!

Each day, as I write a new page, I desire to write with all honesty, integrity, emotion, realness, genuine care, and my unique humor. As the author of my "book", I want to be categorized as "Inspirational", "Uplifting", "Different", and "Special."

When my book closes my prayer is this: Dear Lord, thank you for the life you gave that I might live and live it more abundantly. Thank you for carrying me when I felt so alone, just like you said you would. Thank you for touching my life in more ways than I can count. Thank you for showing others through my own trials, that you grant victory. Forgive all my mistakes, and show my readers how far I've come. Let them see that even when I wasn't perfect, I tried hard to always improve. Thank you for a wonderful, loving family. Thank you for friends that I cherish so dear. Thank you for smiles and tears, for all my years. Thank you for making me who I am. Thank you for my special talents and for giving me the courage to use them and share them with the world. Thank you for showing me that my writing dreams aren't as far out of reach as I once thought. And, Lord, when the day comes that you help me write the last sentence of the last chapter, let my readers know that my book isn't out of print. Tell them I'll write the sequel from Heaven.

Michele Tune writes from Doniphan, Missouri. michele@michele-tune.com

What makes a good friend?

Relationship experts Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott of the Center for Relationship Development at Seattle Pacific University have created a list of traits to look for in enduring friendships.

A good friend is someone who...

1. Makes time
Whether you're in the midst of a crisis or slogging through the mundane, a friend will have time for you.

2. Keeps a secret
Trust allows you to feel emotionally safe, share feelings and explore and understand what may be bothering you.

3. Cares deeply
The ability to enter your world and feel your pain is a cornerstone of friendship.

4. Provides space
Friends will give you time alone and are there when you need them.

5. Speaks the truth
This person asks the questions you want to ignore and helps you face reality.

6. Forgives faults .
Everyone has faults. A friend knows you and likes you anyway!

7. Remains faithful
You will not be deserted during bad times.

8. Laughs easily
We all enjoy the company of people who share our sense of humor.

9. Celebrates your success
Ideally, there's no jealousy, resentment or destructive competition between friends.

10. Connects strongly.
Whether it's bridge, books or real estate, friends share common interests.
It's more productive to work on being a good friend, rather than to look for a good friend. Legendary self-improvement expert Dale Carnegie advised that people can make more

friends in two months by simply becoming interested in other people than they can make in two years by trying to get people interested in them.

To be a good friend: Think of someone who means a lot to you, and show that person you care by contacting him/her. Schedule regular activities together. If the person does not live close by, stay connected via regular phone calls or E-mails.
Jesus said: "No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends , for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.” John 15:15

Sent in by Willa Johnson of Phoenix, Oregon.

What About The Homeless?

By Bobbie Holden

Our family goes out to Hawthorne Park on Sundays at 10:30 am. We meet with family and friends who are either homeless or hungry. These stories are true but the names have been changed to protect the privacy of the Homeless. They are written with permission.

Michael and Susan were living under a bridge. My heart went out to them because they were a young pleasant couple expecting their first child. They don’t take drugs or drink alcohol. Circumstances beyond their control forced them out on the streets. But, with perseverance on their part and help from a Christian man who reached out to them they were able to get on their feet and rent a place to start to build their future. My son and I saw this young man on the street the other day, as he was walking to work, I offered him a ride. He said he still had to go three more miles. He told me that someone had said to him; “Hey! Just hang out with me today.” (meaning don’t go to work) He said, “I need to go to work.” His concern for his family outweighed the pleasure of ease.

Philip and Ruth are homeless also. Philip is probably in his late thirties. He walks to work every day. As I stopped to talk with Ruth I met Miles and Steven. I noticed that all Steven had to sleep with was a worn out blanket. I asked him if this is what he used when he was camping out? He said; “yes.” Fortunately we were able to provide him with a sleeping bag. My heart goes out to this man. He was not prepared for the death of his wife two years ago. It left him unable to work as he has done before.

Recently I sat in the office of an agency that helps people in need. There was a young man in his early thirties at the door when I entered the building. I noticed him because he was concerned about his wheelchair falling apart. He has to use a wheelchair because of a stroke which left the left side of his body damaged. It also affected his mind. The young man made his way into the office, stood in the doorway and looked at the woman in charge. He put his hand up, with his palms outwardly, calmly, but sadly saying, “what am I going to do?” “What am I going to do? I don’t have anywhere to sleep tonight. I have to sleep out on the streets. (He had broken the rules of one of the shelters. And now was faced with a night on the streets)

We are with the homeless community sometimes twice a week. We may find out someone needs a pair of shoes or a sleeping bag. We may help get their only means of bedding dry. It is getting cold out there. We as a city need to be responsible for our homeless and poor communities. The homeless and poor are not all on drugs and drinking alcohol, and even many of the ones who are homeless, do drugs and drink alcohol don’t want to stay in this condition.

There are a lot of wonderful people who are considered poor and homeless. Jesus told us: “the poor we will always have with us.” If we try to forget the homeless community, or try to push them out of town, and perhaps even out of our minds, there will be more people running into trouble and becoming homeless. As a caring community we need to see what it is that we can do to help the homeless and not just leave it up to Government agencies.

Where can the homeless go during cold winter days? If they are lucky enough to sleep in one of the shelters they have to leave during the day! They walk the streets, until time to return. Have you ever walked the streets with three small young children under the age of three? Or even try to find a place to keep warm until it was time to return? Randy and Michelle have to do this every day. Michelle will walk with the children while Randy looks for work, and when he finds work she will keep the children out during the day until the time he can provide adequate housing for them.

There are not enough services to fill all the needs in this valley. Let’s put ourselves in their shoes. There are ways we can help. We need to do our part! We must not assume that other people are going to take care of all the needs. What will Jesus have us do concerning those in need around us?

Bobbie Holden writes from Medford, Oregon. She is anxious to talk with anyone who wants to help the homeless. Call at (541) 282-4251.

Tradition…

From Behind The Counter
Perspectives on the Landscape of Life
By DJ Note

“Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD.” Leviticus 19:32

In the course of any given day I have the pleasure of meeting people of the older generation who have lived under various customs and differing traditions who fascinate, educate, and stimulate the sentimental ideals of this writer.

Recently, I spoke with a delightful elderly couple that reminisced about the societal changes, specifically moral and attitudinal that they’d witnessed over the past several decades. In a matter of minutes, we volleyed opinions of modern trends in dating, divorce, faith, and family. Just like a kitchen table conversation with old friends, the question of traditional values versus current attitudes eventually dominated.

Take marriage, for instance. It was only a few decades ago that divorce was considered taboo, an act carried out only in worst-case scenarios where adultery, abuse, (usually physical), or abandonment occurred. Today, with our “no-fault” attitudes, no one is held accountable and two people sadly walk away from what was once faithfully and lovingly vowed, before God and man, as a life commitment.

“And once-upon-a-time,” the elderly gentleman said, “the elderly were respected. Doesn’t appear to be that way with kids today. It’s too bad, they’re missing a lot. It’s a sad commentary.”

His comment got me to thinking about the famous icon of American art, Norman Rockwell, who helped define our culture by creating on canvas his devotion toward faith, family, and friends. He once said of his work, “…I was showing the America I knew.” I like to think I, at least, got in on the tail end of that homespun world. In years past, song-stylists and writers alike penned now-famous works that encouraged respect toward those longer-lived.

These elderly among us possess what the young cannot—the vast wisdom of their years and experience—and the youth need to be listening. The phrase has been coined, “Youth and ambition are no match for age and experience.” I’ve lived long enough now to see the value of that adage. History teaches that to heed the mistakes of the past is wisdom. We would do well to seek its lessons with wide-eyed enthusiasm and eager interest.

My two customers and I agreed that while not everyone experienced the idealism of the Leave It To Beaver lifestyle, there once was enough of that ideal, at least, hoped for that those popular television shows became well-watched reruns. And DVD sales of faith and family and traditional values are still going strong.

Faith, family, and friends—the phrase encompasses myriad hopes and dreams in the hearts of people everywhere. Who can resist participation in a good old-fashioned 4th of July picnic with beloved grandparents, favorite aunts and uncles, and playful cousins; a camp trip with family and friends; a backyard barbeque with long-time neighbors? It’s a condition, after all, deep inside the human heart, isn’t it—the need for acceptance, love, connectedness, and belonging? And the longer we live, the more desired it becomes.

Those who have “lived some,” are like pearls in an unopened oyster—treasures to be discovered—a wealth of life experiences just waiting to be shared. As I watched my elderly customers leave that day, I saw him slip his hand over hers. Their stride was shuffled, but their journey, like all journeys, worth-the-telling.

I love looking back at the good old days and learning about those souls who forged the way before us. It’s that love instilled in me as a youngster that inspired a work of poetry I dedicated to my grandmother, Helen Elizabeth McClure. At the age of one hundred and one, she left this life assured of eternity with her loving Savior. It’s this love of God, family and country that I, too, hope to pass on.

DJ Note writes from Eagle Point, Oregon.

Tradition
©djnote 1974

It’s strange to me the philosophy of the aging and the old,
It seems to be a tradition of all but this custom turns me cold.
For where would we be without our elders, the young people of today?
Where would we get the advise we need and who would guide the way?
The years of a person tells not their age, but the length of their time on this earth.
The years are there to symbolize their wisdom and strength and worth.
For are we not here to obtain one goal, to strive for a place by God’s side;
to live out our lives for our Lord up above, and not for the fun of the ride?
If this is so—the elders I’d say—are one step ahead of the young,
They are completing their journey to God, and the youth—they’ve only begun.

Time magazine makes the case for teaching the Bible in public schools

By Don Ruhl

The cover of Time Magazine for April 2, 2007 made this amazing declaration, “Why we should teach the bible in public school {But very, very carefully).”

Time is the number one liberal secular newsmagazine in America. Yet, a liberal and secular source argued that the Bible should be taught in public schools!

However, the magazine added, “Very, Very Carefully.” Those passionate for the teaching of God's word will have no problem with that caution. We wish all people would teach the Bible very, very carefully!

I have been praying since about 1993 that this would happen in America and no doubt many others have been uttering the same prayer. Praise God that He answers prayer!

Time Magazine: Teaching the Bible in School

The article began with this subtitle, “Should the Holy Book be on the public-school menu? Yes. It's the bedrock of Western culture. And it's constitutional-as long as we teach but don't preach it.”

The article not only argues for teaching the Bible in public school, but also shows that it is happening right now.

The students do not feel pressured into taking the class, but have signed up for it, not wanting to be ignorant and not wanting to look ignorant to their friends, because they have a sincere desire to hold intelligent conversations! Who wants to argue against that?

The article says that 460 school districts, spread over 37 states, teach a course using the textbook The Bible and Its Influence. There are over 13,000 school districts in America. So, there is a long way to go, but 460 school districts is a start.

The article makes the point that even non-religious people need Bible courses. The bold print and all capitals are in the original, “So what? I'm not a very religious person SIMPLY PUT, THE BIBLE IS THE MOST influential book ever written. Not only is the Bible the best-selling book of all time, it is the best-selling book of the year every year.”

Time said that if someone cannot see that the Bible should be taught for literature purposes, then it should be for historical reasons, “If literature doesn't interest you, you also need the Bible to make sense of the ideas and rhetoric that have helped drive U.S. history.”

Perhaps what caused the writing of this article was the publication of a book by Stephen Prothero, Religious Literacy: What Every American Needs to Know-and Doesn't. Mr. Prothero chairs the Boston University religion department and he believes that classes will be taught in an objectionable manner, but that the courts will settle the problem. To which Time said, “Prothero may be overly sanguine about the workings of the U.S. court system. But even if he's wrong, this shouldn't stop schools from making some effort to teach the Bible.”

Finally, the article ended with this paragraph, “And, oh yes, there should be one faith test. Faith in our country. Sure, there will be bumps along the way. But in the end, what is required in teaching about the Bible in our public schools is patriotism: a belief that we live in a nation that understands the wisdom of its Constitution clearly enough to allow the most important book in its history to remain vibrantly accessible for everyone.

What Can We Do?
First, let us replace our negative, critical, and bitter attitudes with hope for America's schools. Things are changing. Ecclesiastes says that there is, “A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” Ecclesiastes 3:4 Now is the time to laugh! Now is the time to dance! Just think how much America can change if the Bible is taught in public schools again!

Second, get involved in getting The Bible and Its Influence used in our schools. I have already started the process myself. Go to this web site and click on Volunteers: http://www.bibleliteracy.org/Site/index2.htm

Third, pray that this movement grow, and that we have the wisdom, courage, knowledge, funding, and tenacity to get this done!
Fourth, teach the Bible as the word of God.

Don Ruhl writes from Grants Pass, Oregon.

Thy Kingdom Come

By Willa Johnson

When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, the phrase “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven” was included within the prayer. At the time they thought Jesus came to establish a worldly kingdom. After all, they were being oppressed by the Romans. They were looking for relief from the way they were being treated. What a disappointment it was when they learned that Jesus would not release them from their woes by establishing an earthly kingdom. In fact, they learned that they would suffer even worse persecution.

The Internet is an interesting place to seek information. We must always remember that, just because it’s there doesn’t mean it’s true. The Holy Bible is still the best authority on almost any subject as it is God’s only inspired Word to mankind.

An interesting email recently related how one of the largest mega-churches in America has finished a study in which they discovered the important thing was to disciple…to teach and nurture…their people instead of striving for numbers. Well, DUH! Isn’t that what Christ uttered in Matthew 28:19, 20 just before he ascended into heaven? “Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

The leaders of the aforementioned mega-church cited Dr. Benjamin Spock who ruined a whole generation of children because parents followed his advice instead of the teachings of the Bible. The church leaders now believe they have not been true to the scriptures because they concentrated on gathering numbers instead of teaching the true gospel.

As for the second part of the quotation from Christ’s prayer: “Thy will be done” isn’t that where most of us have failed? We want “our” will, not Christ’s. We are not willing to submit to His will. That is, not until we hit bottom.

Many years ago at a Sunday School party we were asked to use an adjective with our first initial to describe ourselves. It was an easy one for me… “Willful Willa.” What a perfect description it was for me because that’s exactly what I was at the time. It wasn’t until I learned that my son, an only child, had a heart condition that may or may not be serious that I turned everything over to God. I was seeking peace and comfort when I asked God to keep Steve in His care, to totally restore him to good health, but if that wasn’t to be, to give me the strength to endure whatever the outcome. God graciously answered my prayer and today I am blessed with two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Truthfully, my willfulness springs to the forefront at times even today and certainly there have been many struggles and heartaches along life’s highway, but I’ve learned that it’s only when I turn everything over to God, seeking HIS will, that I am blessed.

In recent weeks we have heard about one tragic shooting after another in crowded places, two in churches. To think an armed church guard shot the shooter makes me wonder what this world is coming to when a church has a need for an armed guard.

It is my belief that we should practice all of the prayer that Christ taught his disciples and not just the asking portion. Christ also told us that we will have tribulations in this world and that his kingdom was not of this world. When I hear and read about the horrible events taking place today, I realize there is nothing new under the sun. God destroyed two cities, Sodom and Gomorrah, thousands of years ago because of sin. (See Genesis 19)

During New Testament times Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3 the following: “For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, without self control, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” Further on: “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of.”

These words could have been written today. Christ’s kingdom is made up of His followers here on earth because it is spiritual and will be completed on that day of His returning. Until then, let us practice seeking His Will, not ours.

Willa Johnson writes from Phoenix, Oregon. wjhat@ccountry.com

Through A Child’s Eyes

We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly sitting and talking.

Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, 'Hi.' He pounded his fat baby hands on the high chair tray. His eyes were crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment.

I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map. We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists.

'Hi there, baby. Hi there, big boy. I see ya, buster,' the man said to Erik.
My husband and I exchanged looks, 'What do we do?'

Erik continued to laugh and answer, 'Hi.'

Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby.

Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, 'Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo.'

Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk.

My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skid-row bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments. We finally got through the meal and headed for the door.

My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot
The old man sat poised between me and the door. 'Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik,' I prayed. As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's' 'pick-me-up' position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man's.

Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love and kinship. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back.

No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time. I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, 'You take care of this baby.'

Somehow I managed, 'I will,' from a throat that contained a stone.

He pried Erik from his chest, lovingly and longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, 'God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift.' I said nothing more than a muttered thanks.

With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, 'My God, my God, forgive me.'

I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a Mother who saw a suit of clothes. I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not.

I felt it was God asking, “Are you willing to share your son for a moment?” I shared mine for all eternity.

The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me that… 'To enter the Kingdom of God we must become as little children.'

Sent in by Gayla Vick

The Secret Of The Kingdom

By David Snyder

I don’t know how I could have missed it. I had studied and preached for over twenty years. I had digested hundreds of books and read through the Bible numerous times. Yet, somehow it never got through. I know if I had understood this “ancient secret” years ago I would have preached on one subject and one subject only.

It’s all encompassed in a few words spoken by our Lord 2000 years ago. The scripture is very familiar to most of us, yet it incases a subtle message that could change the face of modern Christianity if only it was the focus of all that was taught.

Allow me to explain. The crowds have gathered on a mountain side one day and Jesus is there teaching and speaks these life changing words: “So do not worry, saying, “What shall we eat?’ or “What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly father knows that you have need of them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given unto you as well.”

In the past I emphasized the “don’t worry” portion of this scripture. But there is much more to these profound words. If we miss the last part of these verses we will miss everything Jesus was attempting to teach. Jesus instructs us to “seek first his kingdom and His righteousness as our greatest priority. These are the only two things we need to do as Christians. In fact, if we check we will find that the “Kingdom” is all that Jesus really spoke about.

We forget that Jesus came to reestablish His kingdom here on earth. Of course the final phase of reestablishment will take place when He returns to do away with the sin problem. But, His kingdom is here now! If we are believers we are presently living in that kingdom. On one occasion Jesus told His disciples: “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of Heaven has been given to you…” Secrets? Yes! That is why Jesus said we must “seek” in order to understand.

What does it mean to seek? It means we must study the truths of the kingdom. We must study it with diligence. We must explore just what the kingdom is, how it operates and what is required of us to live as kingdom citizens. Because we live in a democracy here in America, we need to be enlightened that a kingdom system works very differently.

For instance think about this…
1. In a democracy the people vote into law what they think is best for society. This can change from generation to generation. Our culture operates on this principle of government.
2. In a kingdom the king determines the laws and regulations for the people. The people do not have a voice in determining what is right and wrong, etc.
3. Every government has a constitution. In God’s Kingdom He alone developed the constitution and the rules we must live by.
4. God’s constitution is the Bible. It is as unchangeable as God Himself. Mankind had no input into God’s constitution and cannot change it.
Because our society has so shaped our thinking we must renew our minds to think Kingdom thoughts. When Jesus instructed us to seek the Kingdom “first” He meant for this to be the highest priority. Everything we think, do or say should be focused on the Kingdom. We evaluate every decision as to how it will affect our Kingdom living.

Jesus also admonished us to seek “His righteousness.” We are to have a passion to know how the King would have us live. We are called to be in right alignment with the King and His constitution, the Bible. When we seek to know God’s constitution and to live by it…the blessings can flow into our lives!

We must always remember that we have no righteousness of our own. Jesus gave His life so He could declare us righteous. This was the legal act that only God could provide. But, we must never forget that we are called to live in alignment with the King’s laws. To willfully live outside the King’s constitution, the Bible, we commit treason to the government of heaven. This puts us outside the kingdom and kingdom blessings stop flowing.

To seek His righteousness is to know the laws of His government and to stay in alignment with them. It is to have a “right” relationship with God.
Jesus said as we seek “first” His kingdom and His righteousness everything we need will be added. What could be simpler?

Do you wish to study this subject further? Read through the New Testament and notice every time the word “kingdom” is mentioned. Start in Matthew and be amazed at all the references. Check out books at your local Christian bookstore on the topic of “kingdom.” Or you can contact the Christian Journal for ideas on materials that are helpful on this most important subject.

Dave Snyder writes from Milwaukie, Oregon.

The Kingdom Of Heaven Is Now

By Barry Shaw

Before I knew Jesus Christ, I believed that if I led a clean life and did good deeds, I would go to heaven when I died. Now that I believe in and trust Jesus Christ, I know by His grace and not on the basis of my own merit, that I’ll be with Him in heaven. (Ephesians 1:13-14) Moreover, as I have walked with Him deeper in His River of Life, I have come to know that heaven is not a place that I shall know only when I die. It is the place that I have known ever since the Lord chose me as one of His elect. (John 15:16)

Heaven is a spiritual dimension that is just beyond our human time/space continuum. The Bible is replete with examples of the presence of God’s realm just beyond the sight of humans. The Prophet Elisha prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened so that he could see the surrounding hills full of horses and chariots of fire filled with unseen angels ready to defend the Prophet. (See 2 Kings 6:15-17) The writer of Hebrews wrote that though unseen in our flesh, “we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses.” Hebrews 12:1 Angels surround us though we cannot see them with our eyes. (1 Corinthians 11:10)

Jesus Christ came to earth as God in the person of a man to preach His kingdom and to teach that the kingdom of heaven was now. (See Luke 4:43) He proclaimed: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:15. He came to change our destiny by believing in Him. His intention is to draw each of us nearer to Him so that we will be conformed to His heavenly image. (Romans 8:29) By His Holy Spirit we are empowered to experience the fruits of the kingdom life now: “...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23. This is the heavenly life.

The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “...now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face...” We can experience heaven now, but in Paul’s view, our flesh keeps us from seeing heaven clearly. He continued: “...now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12 The point the Apostle Paul makes is that although we can only “see but a poor reflection as in a mirror,” we can experience heaven now, not just in the future. We don’t have to die first in order to experience the kingdom of heaven.

Although as earthly beings we can only see through a “glass, darkly,” the part of heaven that we can and do experience in this life as apprentices of Jesus Christ is glorious and wonderful. The realization that we are now in the Lord’s kingdom of heaven enables us to have a totally different attitude toward others in our everyday lives. We live uplifted with God’s perspective. The Lord changes us and puts on our hearts the desire to be more considerate, more polite, more respectful and more loving of others.

In a recent teaching, Pastor Rick Booye described the Lord’s intention for His saints now into eternity: “God’s intention for you as His child is that you will have a never-ending life of unutterable joy, peace, beauty and creativity. You will live in an entirely safe and secure, yet ever-expanding and constantly more wonderful universe where you will contribute to and cooperate with unimaginably marvelous leadership and teamwork in the achievement of infinitely good and meaningful ends. Your relationships will all be profoundly deep and fulfilling and you will have infinite time and resources to develop them.” He added: “The quality of this life begins now.”

When we die, we shall sit at His throne and worship Him with the multitude of believers. We look forward to that glorious life. But now, in our present life even though we are only able to look in that mirror dimly, we are assured of more than just a taste of the fruits of the Spirit. “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

By our union with the exalted Christ, we have already been made beneficiaries of every spiritual blessing that belongs to and comes from the heavenly realm.
Rejoice in the Lord for the kingdom of heaven is now!

Barry N. Shaw writes from Applegate Valley, Oregon

His Kingdom Is Within Us

By Troy Pomeroy

The topic of the “kingdom of heaven” has long been misunderstood by man. Our human nature leads us to look for a kingdom of this earth; a kingdom that we can see. None of us can fully understand or appreciate what His kingdom will be like. Jesus spent much time trying to teach His followers to be heavenly minded instead of being fixated on this current world. He also tried to show people that the One they had been waiting for had arrived. Sadly, many missed out on the fact that the Messiah was among them. And those who did understand who He is still misunderstood the realm of His kingdom.

Even with the benefit of 2000 years of history and scholarly research, we are not much closer in our understanding of His kingdom. We still focus on the present reality, our current physical needs, and the things of this world. And we need regular reminders to be heavenly minded.

The patriarch Jacob seems to have had a confidence in the kingdom. At the end of his days, after blessing each of his sons and Joseph’s sons, he made one last request. He wanted to be buried in Canaan, with his fathers, instead of in Egypt. (See Genesis 49-50) Egypt represented the world. But Canaan represented a promise made by God to Jacob and his fathers Abraham and Isaac.
Jacob had been promised that his number would greatly increase and his people would inherit the land. Jacob never saw these promises fulfilled. He couldn’t completely comprehend its meaning or how it would be carried out. Yet, he rested in confidence on a future unseen.

Jacob had a relationship with God that gave him confidence. He had wrestled with God and he had seen angels ascending and descending on a ladder from heaven. God had spoken to him and given him small glimpses of heaven. Those experiences would embolden anyone’s faith.

In many ways our journey toward the kingdom is like Jacob’s. Jesus spoke many parables about the kingdom of heaven recorded in the gospel accounts. He described it as seed a good man sowed in his field, yeast that a woman works into dough, treasure hidden in a field, a merchant looking for fine pearls, a net down to catch fish, a land owner paying wages to workers, a king preparing a banquet, among other things.

Jesus also taught that the “kingdom” was not what we would expect and will be very different than any earthly kingdom. His economy is different than ours. The first shall be last and the last shall be first. The meek shall inherit the earth. It is difficult for a rich man to enter the kingdom, and if we are to enter, we are to enter as children. The poor and the persecuted will inherit the kingdom. These are difficult things to understand. Indeed, the mysteries of His Kingdom are not meant to be fully understood until His kingdom comes. That’s why he said to only His closest few: "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.” Matthew 13:11-12

Glimpses of the kingdom come to those who seek Jesus and are closest to Him. The closer we get to Him, the more He reveals. Those who have the discipline, faithfulness and perseverance in seeking the things of God, receive greater revelations of things eternal. So the more we focus on Jesus and serve Him, the closer we get to an understanding of His kingdom. And like Jacob, we may not see it in this lifetime, but we can rest on God’s promises of a future and hope for us.

Perhaps the greatest hope concerning the “Kingdom” is what Jesus said in Luke 17:20-21: "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you." We may not see it or fully understand it, but for those who follow Jesus, His kingdom is within us. We don’t have to wait to reap the benefits of our citizenship under the rule of the King of Kings. We can attend to kingdom business even now.

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

Finding The Kingdom of God

By Chad McComas

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” With these words Jesus started His ministry. He had come for a purpose. He had a mission. He knew that He was the Son of God who was to save the world. As He told Nicodemus “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.” Jesus' life and death provided the way of salvation, but there was the kingdom. Jesus came to call us to become part of the kingdom. He told Nicodemus “I tell you the truth, unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Salvation is a gift from God, but we must make the choice to enter the kingdom.

In His famous “Sermon on the Mount” Jesus began by saying “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus was countering the thought that only the very religious and rich were worthy of God's attention. The Pharisees and religious leaders were controlling the nation, the temple, the worship, the sacrifices and “salvation.” There was little hope for the common man and woman to find a place in God's kingdom. But Jesus came to shatter that thought and rescue the people from the hold of religion to the invitation to join the kingdom. It was available to anyone. Religion had nothing to do with it. In fact, religion often tries to build it's own kingdom rather than God's kingdom. Religion teaches exclusivity, Jesus taught that all were welcome. He told us that we are invited to join and that we must make the kingdom our life-long quest. He said: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” He was promising that when we make His kingdom our primary goal in life that He will take care of us. Just like a good king takes care of his citizens. It is the king's job to take care of the people. It is God's job to take care of us. Perhaps the first key principle of God's kingdom is that to enter we must let God be God. We have to stop trying to be our own god in our own kingdoms!

Jesus taught us how to pray as part of God's kingdom. He said: “This is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven...” Once we accept Jesus we enter God's kingdom and spend our lives under His protection and seeking to build His kingdom daily.

Jesus told us that we are in the world, but not of the world. (See John 15:18,19 and 17:14-18) We are brought out of the darkness of this world kingdom into the light of God's kingdom. Jesus told us that He was the light. And when we join His kingdom we are the light. Paul told us that “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” Then he told us that “we are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.”

We are called into God's kingdom NOW. We are citizens of God's kingdom NOW. We are living in God's kingdom NOW. We are representing God's kingdom NOW. The Pharisees made the mistake of thinking that God's kingdom was a physical one. Jesus set them straight by saying: “The kingdom of God does not come visibly, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you.” How do we find the kingdom of God? Look inside.

When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord...as our king...we are given the kingdom. Our eternal existence in His kingdom is secure NOW. We have the right to enjoy the kingdom every day. We have the opportunity to share the kingdom every day. We join together with others of the kingdom of God in growing that kingdom. It's not about a religion. It's not about a denomination. It's all about God's kingdom. Let's dedicate this year to living in and for that kingdom. There is so much more to share about the kingdom. I'd like to suggest we read through the New Testament and seek out all that Jesus said and His disciples said about the kingdom. I believe we will all be amazed and our spiritual experience will be set free.

Chad McComas writes from Medford, Oregon. info@thechristianjournal.org

The Battle For Aunt Helen

By Marcia K. Leaser

When the nursing home called and said Aunt Helen was having a bad day, I wasn't expecting what I found.

As I walked into the room I had an ugly feeling I couldn't explain. I knelt beside her and spoke her name.

Her frantic eyes looked into mine as she grabbed my hands.
I'm dying,” she shrieked.

I didn't know what to say.

"I don't want to die like this," she screamed in a frightened voice.

"I'll stay with you tonight." I whispered as I caressed her wrinkled cheek.

The hours passed slowly and quite often she would cry out that she was afraid.
By this time I’d figured out what the ugly feeling was. There was a battle going on in that tiny room. A fight between Satan and Jesus for Aunt Helen's soul. I could actually smell the conflict.

At ten o'clock that night I knew I had an important question that needed asking.
I spoke to the nurse sitting by her bed requesting some time alone with my aunt.
The efficient woman smiled and walked out of the room.

I always felt deep in my heart that my Aunt had not asked Jesus into her heart. I knew she knew who Jesus was, and believed He was God's Son and her savior, but I'd wanted to talk to her about whether she'd taken the final step to salvation.

I always dismissed the nagging feeling because I felt I had plenty of time to confront her with this. Now, I was worried it might be too late.

Her eyes remained closed except for the few times when she'd open them wide and look anxiously out into the empty darkness.

The frantic look in them told me she saw something her eyes alone could see.
"Aunt Helen?" I inquired in a calm voice.

She turned her head and looked directly into my eyes. I knew she was aware of what I was saying, Breathing a prayer for strength, I whispered, "I have something to ask you." She didn't move.

"Have you ever asked Jesus into your heart?" Her eyes looked away. "I know you love Jesus and always have," I quickly soothed. "But you must accept Him as your Savior by asking Him into your heart."

Her tormented eyes again looked briefly into mine. There was sadness in them I'd never seen before.

I knew my Aunt had had an abortion when she was a young woman, and I'd always thought deep in my heart that she felt unworthy of life because of it. I never once thought, though, that she felt unworthy of death as well.

She had allowed that one sin to keep her from the many blessings our Father in Heaven has for all His children.

That one mistake had burdened her for sixty-eight years. Now she was even afraid to die because she didn't feel worthy of Heaven.

"Aunt Helen," I began softly. "Do you feel you're not going to heaven because of the abortion you had when you were eighteen?"

She lowered her head and her eyes filled with tears.

"God forgave you of that a long time ago, Aunt Helen," I said in a confident voice. "But you never have. Please forgive yourself and ask Jesus into your Heart. Then you will be assured of your place in Heaven."

Quite a few minutes passed and I could actually feel the battle still raging in the shadowy room.

Suddenly Aunt Helen grabbed both my hands with her trembling ones. She wrapped her bony fingers tightly around mine and said in an authoritative voice. "Lord Jesus come into my heart!"

We both heaved a mighty sigh of relief as I gathered her into my arms.
The room was immediately filled with peace. The battle was over, and once again Jesus had been victorious.

The rest of the night was spent with me singing songs and reading the Bible to my Aunt. Never once, after that, did she scream she was afraid to die.

Death came at 10:10 the following morning. My eyes filled with tears of sadness as well as joy, because I knew she was safe.

I thanked God for the opportunity to talk to my dear Aunt about her salvation. I thanked Him, also, for the lessons I learned in those few tormented hours; I learned that our Savior never gives up on us. That He's fighting for our souls as long as there is breath in our bodies. I also learned it sometimes takes more faith to die...than it does to live.

Marcia K. Leaser writes from Fremont, Ohio. dawtam@nwonline.net

Spiritually Fit....

By Stewart Whittemore

"For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8

As we head into the New Year, many will make a resolution to get into spiritual shape. Paul reminds us that as we keep our spirit in shape it is "profitable" for this life and for the life to come.

Some sixteen years ago now, and shortly before my suicide attempt, I was religiously working out physically three times a week. I was probably in the best physical condition of my life then. But, I had no relationship with God. Jesus was not part of my life. Spiritually I was anemic, to say the least, and it almost cost me my life. But by the grace and the love from God, when I did turn to Him in those last seconds, He gave me new life that I plan to take care of both spiritually and physically.

Staying spiritually fit takes discipline like exercising physically helps keep our bodies in shape. Paul shares with us in 1 Thessalonians 5:15-22 some spiritual disciplines which can help us in developing our "godliness" needed for a strong faith. He says: "...follow that which is good, both among (ourselves), and to all men" when we:

1. "Rejoice always."
We can do this when we remember that God is in control. (Job 1:12)

2. "Pray without ceasing."
God answers prayer. He is waiting for us to humble ourselves in prayer. Unceasing prayer is being in constant contact with God throughout our days.

3. " In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
Like silver that is refined and gold that is tested, we do not become pure until the hard and crusty surface is removed. (Zechariah 13:9) We learn to be thankful for all things.

4. "Do not quench the Spirit."
Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit. (John 14:16) We submit to His help so that God can work in us "both to will and to do for His good pleasure." Philippians 2:13

5. "Do not despise prophecies."
The Bible is our source for truth. We live to "please God" and will be lost without it. (Romans 8:8)

6. "Test all things; hold fast to what is good."
We test all things through the Bible. Jesus said; "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6

7. "Abstain from every form of evil."
We are called to "walk the talk.” Saint Thomas Aquinas said, "Preach the Gospel always, and if necessary, use words."

We have the daily opportunity to apply God words in our lives and live in "godliness.”

Stewart Whittemore writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. stewart33@earthlink.net

Spiritual Discipline (Poem)

By Sindy Williams

I'm fighting like a boxer,
something solid do I hit.
Not just swinging in the air,
I keep my spirit fit.

I treat my body hard,
make it like a slave.
I will not follow foolishness,
God's truth help's me be brave.

Training helps me in some ways,
In this life and the future too.
Serving God, it brings me peace,
and helps me go on through.

I have people all around me,
who show me what faith means.
The race that's set before me,
It's run together as a team.

I will never give up hope,
I'll remove what holds me back.
Jesus is the only One,
who keeps my faith on track.

Sindy Williams writes from Groveland, Florida. SinWillia@aol.com

The Refiner’s Fire

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.

One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver."
She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined.

The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy – when I see my image in it"

Sent in by Gayla Vick from Medford, Oregon.

Red Marbles

I was at the corner grocery store buying some early potatoes when I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily apprizing a basket of freshly picked green peas. I paid for my potatoes, but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes. Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between the store owner and the ragged boy next to me.

“Hello Barry, how are you today?”

“H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. They sure look good.”

“They are good, Barry. How's your Ma?”

“Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time.”

“Good. Anything I can help you with?”

“No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas.”

“Would you like take some home?” asked Mr. Miller.

“No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with.”

“Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?”

“All I got's my prize marble here.”

“Is that right? Let me see it,” said Miller.

“Here 'tis. She's a dandy.”

“I can see that. Hmmmmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?” He asked.

“Not zackley but almost.”

“Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble,” Mr. Miller told the boy.

“Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller.”

Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me.

With a smile said, “There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever.

When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, when they come on their next trip to the store.”

I left the store smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado , but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering for marbles.

Several years went by and just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community. While I was there I learned that Mr. Miller had died. I went to his viewing with some friends. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could.

Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts...all very professional looking.

They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one, each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes.

Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and reminded her of the story from those many years ago and what she had told me about her husband's bartering for marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket.

“Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about. They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim 'traded' them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size...they came to pay their debt. We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world,” she confided, “but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho.”

With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles.

Sent by Gayla Vick of Medford.

Prayer Is Fruitful Not Futile

PrayerPower
By Petey Prater

12 pm, January 21, 2006
Two miners are trapped hundreds of feet underground in Melville, West Virginia, for the second day. Fire and smoke in the coal mine has kept rescuers from reaching Don Brag and Ellery “Elvis” Hatfield. No one knows if they are dead or alive.

A television news anchorwoman stands in the Melville street airing frequent updates. Visible behind her is the Badger Lumber Company sign; one word is written there: PRAY.

Praying is what their wives and six children desperately hope we are doing as the community of Melville keeps vigil with them in the church. Prayer is for all seasons of life, but especially in desperate times, wise men and women pray.

3 pm Breaking News
Don Brag and Elvis Hatfield have been found dead. Tragedy, in spite of believing prayer.

Does God answer prayer? Yes. Is it always the answer we want? No. Must we keep on praying even when we do not understand His ways? Yes. When prayers are not answered, God is always present with grace and help to strengthen our hearts and spirits.

What is prayer?
Prayer is talking with God. It is praise and worship and giving thanks. To pray is to meditate on His wonderworks and His character. Prayer is interceding for others, warring against the enemy for the souls of men.

Nothing matches the high privilege of prayer. There is no awe or wonder as great as an audience with the King of Kings. No power is greater than prayer power. Wealth, personal power and influence all run a poor second to the thrill of daily prayer. Life offers no greater joy. As Beth Moore states, in her book, The Patriarchs, “There ain’t no high like the Most High”.

Are we qualified to pray?
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 Faith rests in God, trusting in His love to hear and answer prayer. Faith qualifies us as God’s children and gives us a right to our Father’s provisions. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Mark 9:23

Why pray to God?
We are commanded to pray. “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.“ 1 Timothy 2:1,2

All power resides in Jesus as the Son of God. He calls us to pray in His name. As we ask, believing, He defeats evil, heals the sick, frees the captive, restores hope, releases counsel. Prayer rises to God and returns with answers or peace. Nothing in the spiritual realm happens without prayer.

God desires intimacy and fellowship with us. “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.” Jeremiah 31:3 Wonderful Counselor longs to talk with us! He is waiting to pour miracles and gifts through us. Will we pray?

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God; that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us – whatever we ask – we know that we have what we asked of him.” 1 John 5:14,15

What a promise! Let’s pray.

Petey Prater writes from Beaverton, Oregon. peteyprater@yahoo.com

Our Presence Makes It Real

By Randy Knapp

If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?
Imagine a raging storm and a lonely tree clinging to the soil twenty feet down from the crest of a jagged ridge. A lightning bolt flashes near the ridge, releasing over a billion volts of electricity, heating the adjacent air to twice the temperature of the surface of the sun.

The tree has shrugged off the clutching talons of a thousand similar storms, but the relentless years have pressed onward and it has grown tired. Fingers of fatigue reach upward through the tiniest root fibers, and the tree’s grasp in the ground has weakened.

The barometric pressure on a distant plain has dropped ten millibars lower than ever before and the mountain winds are whipping past the summits, stampeding along the ridges, and flailing furiously through the valleys in a frenzied effort to stabilize the distant depression.

A seventy-mile per hour gust whips past the upper branches of the tree, and the tip bends leeward in subjugation to its force. The stress of the bending tree is telegraphed through the trunk into the subterranean root mass, and a single root fiber snaps. The pressure from an eighty-mile per hour gust separates a whole cluster of root fibers, and a category one hurricane gust breaks a one-inch root.
It seems only a matter of time before the inevitable collapse of the stately sentinel.

The storm peaks at the strength of a category two hurricane, and with wind shrieking at 110 miles per hour the tree can hold on no longer. With a great shout into the sky it releases its tenacious two-century grasp and plunges to the ground sending a shock wave reverberating into the side canyons and echoing down to the distant valley floor.

But when the tree finally falls, does it make a sound? The century old philosophical riddle brings the almost obvious answer into question.

It is undeniable that the tree’s fall generated a strong vibrating pressure wave that was propagated through the air for miles around. But, in order for that wave to take on the substance of reality, it must encounter a receptor that will interpret the meaning of the vibrations.

In humans, the oscillating pressure wave is collected by the outer ear where it is focused and intensified. When the waves hit the eardrum, the vibration crosses into the fluid canal of the inner ear. Microscopic protein hairs imbedded in the sensory epithelium bend as they are hit by each wave. As the hairs bend, the nerves fire, transforming the sound energy into electrical impulses. The impulses travel along the cranial nerve, past the brain stem, and into the cerebral cortex where they are finally interpreted as sound.

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