No More Mourning

  

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4

Death is not a fun thing for we humans here left behind. We grieve the unexplainable loss of babies, children, teens, young mothers and any death at all for that matter. No one likes to say goodbye and know they can not longer humanly talk with their loved ones. War takes soldiers. Old age takes our grandparents. So many things happen in life to have it cut short. The thing is for the believer it is not a sad thing but is a 'home going'.  Once they have left earth they are present with the Lord.(See 2 Corinthians 5:8). 

Only God knows a person's heart. Once a person has asked Jesus into their heart they will be in heaven with Him when their time on this earth is over. Children and babies will be there with Him as they have not reached the age of asking Christ to be Lord of their life. Heaven will be glorious and no man could even begin to describe how awesome it is. Even Hollywood can not fathom how wonderful it is.

Just imagine what awaits you in the heavenly kingdom and don't fear death unless that is that you don't know Jesus as savior. Now is the time to make sure He is Lord of your life. 

PRAYER: I look forward to your heavenly kingdom when I leave this temporary home. While I am here use me Lord for your purposes to spread your love and joy to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunrise, Sunset.

"But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." Matthew 24:36

When visiting the grave of a young friend recently I walked around and looked at a few other  graves. On one the tombstone read "Sunrise" for the birthdate and "Sunset" for the date of death. That is fitting as when we are born it is a new beginning and when we pass on the sun has set on our life. 

Are you making good use of the time in between sunrise and sunset? No one knows the time they will die. It could be today, tomorrow, or years from now. Live each day well and make it count for the kingdom. The earth we live on is so very temporary. We are supposed to be here to serve and glorify God. We do this as a mother, a father, a sibling,a co worker, a friend,an employee, and as a total stranger. Our light is to shine forth in the darkness of this present age to shine Christ's love to others. 

Are you living for the Lord in this present age or just here occupying space? When I say "living for the Lord" I do not mean just attending church but truly making Him Lord of your life. Give it some thought. What changes do you need to make to really give God the time He deserves everyday? 

PRAYER: At times Lord I have gotten consumed in my own little world and forget to even give you any quality time. Help me arrange my schedule so I never shut you out. In Jesus' name. Amen.

The Tock Is Clicking

For he says, in the time of my favor I heard you and in the day of salvation I helped you. I tell you, now is the time of Gods'  favor, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2

Made you look with that title huh? A little play on words to remind us our 'clock is ticking' each and every day. We never know when we will breathe our last breath. If we could choose the way we want to die it may be just sleeping in bed, at age 95, as long as we're still in good health and not on feeding tubes. We do not  get to choose the way we die. And we do not know when. We need to be ready at all times as the Lord could come back anytime it says in the Bible.

Just because you are a church member, baptized, or a certain denomination does not guarantee you admission into the heavenly kingdom. Make sure you know beyond a shadow of a doubt you have asked Jesus to be your Lord and savior. Now is the time of salvation. Don't be left behind.

 PRAYER: Lord Jesus we know and we feel the last days are near because of prophecies being fulfilled but yet no one knows the day or the hour. I want to be sure when it is time. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Unexpected News

 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of one of His faithful servants. Psalm 116:15

 I was preparing for a night of fun with one of my best girlfriends when the phone rang and she called to let me know her sister in law, who was fairly young, had just unexpectedly passed away. Obviously besides being unprepared for something like this you are confused, sad, and not sure what to do next. I listened and then prayed with her over the phone.

 Sooner or later each of us will get some sort of unexpected news because all of us are going to eventually die. We all wish we could maybe plan to just die at about 95 laying in bed at home surrounded by family, certainly not as a baby, a teen, a young spouse, or a fifty something person. The best thing to do with a person going through this grief is to just be there, hug them, let them talk. Don't start saying "well they are in a better place" even though we may know that. No one wants to have to say goodbye to a spouse, sibling, parent, relative, or dear friend but the time is going to come.

The best thing to do is enjoy life to the fullest and reach out and help and comfort those who need comfort. Don't just say "Let me know if I can do something" which is the standard statement but maybe send them a gift card for a restaurant. Perhaps a bouquet of flowers. The best thing to do is to be there and pray.

PRAYER: Give me the words Lord God to comfort someone I may know who is grieving. Show me creative ways to reach out. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for  a song of comfort.

http://youtu.be/IVlnUbh2kfw

If Only You Had Been Here God!

That you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.Matthew 5:45

Why is it that when a tragedy occurs, and especially results in an untimely death, often we hear, "where was God"? He has not gone anywhere. Wonder why folks don't get angry and shout at Satan and say "why did you cause that car wreck" or "why did you tempt him to drink"? Things happen in life and God knows the big picture because He is God.  People have free will and sometimes that free will creates accidents. You certainly don't want to go up to someone who has just had a death in family and say "all things work together for good you know" as that is not what they need to hear.

During the grieving process allow the person to show emotions. It is okay to cry. And cry they will often for months and possibly years to come. Trust that God will use everything for His intended purposes. We do not understand everything. Sometimes people turn their back on God, church, or religion because of the hurt and anger they feel after a prayer did not save  their loved one. When this happens only our enemy rejoices because he has this individual mad at God. 

Wherever you are at today in wondering why did someone die so young, why did God not save them just keep praying. Some day it will all be revealed. In the meantime reach out to others who hurt but do not turn your back on God.

PRAYER: I need you in my life. Sometimes I do not understand why a baby dies at birth or a teen gets killed in a wreck. These things are beyond my comprehension. Help me Lord to reach out to comfort those who are hurting. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Death Will Come

 The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart.The devout are taken away and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk up rightly are taken into peace; they find rest as they lie in death. Isaiah 57:1-2

Recently I have known of about five people who died before the "time" everyone thinks they should pass on. I guess maybe this would be 85 on up. When a baby, child, thirty something or baby boomer dies, we are shocked and especially if they were not ill. I can not imagine the immense grief this causes the family of the deceased. I know several friends this has happened to. Of course we love our family and no one wants anyone to die.

 While we are here on Earth we need to be living for the Lord as you never know when it is your time to die. We either enter heaven with Jesus or enter hell for eternity. It depends on the choice to accept or reject God. This life is only every temporary. James 4:14 says "we are a midst that vanishes" so with that in mind why are we so upset when death comes knocking on our door? As a believer, it is something we should be looking forward to. In the recent movie based on a true story 'Heaven Is For Real' ,a young boy has the true life account of seeing heaven while he was in a coma in the hospital. He said "It was wonderful"!

 Do you have peace that if you died today you would be with Jesus in heaven? If not stop now and ask Jesus to be Lord of your life.

PRAYER: Lord you are good and marvelous and I look forward to being with you in heaven some day. Help prepare my family and friends for when that times comes to rejoice that I am in heaven. I thank you for saving me from my sins. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Coming Attractions

You must also be ready for the Son of Man will come at an hour that you do not expect Him. Luke 12:40

Two things are certain and that is we are born and we will die. No one can escape that. In the 1980's movie 'Forever Young' Mel Gibson plays a military pilot who voluntarily subjects himself to being frozen since his fiancée had been in an accident and was in a coma.  This is not something we normally do although it is talked about today. I say why? Why are people afraid to die and why do we think it will be so wonderful to go on and on and on?

Of course death brings immense sadness but it also brings the promise of eternal life for those who have asked Jesus to be Lord of their life. Being a nice 'church member' and making sure you go to church are admirable but Jesus needs to be part of our life and our desire the rest of the time. Is He your consuming fire? Heaven is going to be wonderful. Not even the best Hollywood script writer is able to recreate it or even imagine it(See 1Corinthians 1:9).

Don't be left behind when Jesus returns. Make sure you are living for Him and He is truly Lord of your life. Don't take a chance with being left out of heaven.

PRAYER: I need you every hour of the day. There have been times I have ignored you and done my own thing. Forgive me Lord. I want you in my life and I want to be with you when you come back for those who have accepted you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link to listen to a wonderful song of praise to get your day started:

http://youtu.be/_rR_Rdb1CTE

Graduation Day

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

This time of year more than any other, graduations are taking place everywhere from kindergarten level to doctorate level. Thrilled parents and other family and friends excitedly gather in auditoriums or outdoor venues to honor those who achieve this milestone in their lives.

One day for believers the ultimate graduation day will come and that is passing from death unto life everlasting in heaven with God. Wow, that is something no one can imagine but can look forward to without fear.  Can't you just imagine the excitement in heaven when a sinner repents or a believer comes home to be with the Lord. What a day of rejoicing it will be indeed!

PRAYER: I am so excited for my graduation day into your heavenly kingdom. Help me continue to run the race to win. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Note: A song I truly love called 'I Can Only Imagine'. Click link below.
Check out this video on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Beyond This World

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. For the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. And there was no longer any sea.I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. Prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying. Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. For the old order of things has passed away. Revelation 21:1-4   

Death is going to come to everyone. As much as Hollywood movies such as 'Forever Young' try to depict  freezing people until a cure is found for their disease we  all will die. Death isn't to be feared. It should be feared if a person hasn't  asked Jesus into their hearts.

Grieving hurts. The loss of a baby, a child, or a teen especially is difficult. God loves you my friend. Do not turn your back on Him. There is joy to come in His kingdom. 

PRAYER: Lord losing friends and family to death is hard but help me rejoice when they go home to meet you in the clouds. I look forward to heaven when it is my time. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

OUR PRECIOUS FRIENDS

Yesterday morning upon awakening I checked my text messages and received one from son Matt letting me know one of my dear friends had died Sunday from multiple myloma. I had only found out she was sick on November 10th. This precious friend I had not seen since 1996 when our family visited them in Colorado. Now she is with Jesus and she was not even 60 yet. Just goes to show you how brief life is. Treasure your friends. Tell them you love them. If you are close make time for them. Keep in touch by letters and cards, not just email forwards.Pick up the phone and call. Ask forgiveness if you hurt them.

This particular friend Luana, I knew when our children were all pre schoolers back in Ilinois She too was a military wife. We shared many happy times over General Foods International Coffee "celebrating the moments of our lives". After 1990 we did not stay in touch as well as the military moved both of our families but I always held a fond place in my heart for her. Their family was always one of the 'special ones' to us though. I am saddened as they deal with unexpected grief but rejoicing she is in heaven.

No one likes to say goodbye forever to a loved one or friend. It hurts. Grief hurts. But for the believer there is joy in knowing we will be reunited in heaven one day. None of us expects to die young but sometimes it does happen. God has a way of healing hurts and wounds we feel but sometimes it takes time.

Matthew 5:4(NIV) says 'Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted."

Romans 8:18(NIV) says 'For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.'

Phillipians 1:22-24(ESV) says 'But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.'

Psalm 116:15(NIV) says 'Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants.'

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I pray for those who are hurting from the recent death of a family member or friend. I pray for friends to surround those hurting and be there with a hug and a prayer. In Jesus' name. Amen.


Click on link for song in Luana Killam memory.

http://youtu.be/Ped1jYLFtkA

BE PREPARED

 Shock is the only word I can use to describe the feeling I had when I heard a man a few years younger than me, apparently in good health, died Sunday, November 3rd. This was a man who lived here in the Huntsville area but whom I never got the pleasure of meeting. He had a heart and a passion like me, for God and country. He also shared my devotions with many of his friends who I also have never met. My husband and I kept saying we needed to stop by and say hello but never did. Now we can't. We have to wait till we get into heaven someday.

Jason was an encourager. He said kind things about my writing and this meant lots coming from a stranger who I felt like I knew. We just never know when God is going to call us home. No more tears, no more pain, no more heartaches of this world down here. Jason is free of that now even though dying in your fifties is way too young or so it seems.

As friends and family we are left behind with the whys. Why him? Why now? Family and friends can be comforted with memories.

If you were to die today from sickness, car wreck, accident, stroke, heart attack, choking on food at lunch, or many other things are you sure you would be with Jesus in heaven? You can be sure. Say this simple prayer "Jesus I love you. Forgive me for the things I have done wrong. Forgive me for ignoring you and going my own way. I want to know I will be in heaven with you for eternity. Come into my heart today and save me. " That's it. Pretty simple.

Psalm 116:15(NIV) says 'Precious in the site of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.'

PRAYER: Lord Jesus be with the many people who have recently lost a loved one or friend. Death hurts. We are never ready to let people go especially when they are so young and promising. Lord comfort the families of not only Jason but others going through grief and pain right now. In Jesus' name. Amen.


IN MEMORY OF JASON KLONOWSKI, HARVEST, AL

Note: I wrote this Monday, November 4 upon being informed
he was found dead. The death since then has been ruled a homicide.
Please keep friends and family in your prayers.

SOMEDAY MAY NEVER COME

Do you ever intend to do something, go somewhere, meet up with a
friend, or perhaps meet a new person? I think we all probably do. I
had good intentions of meeting a beautiful lady who was a member of
our contemporary worship team at church but never got to. She died of
cancer Monday.

I had messaged her through Facebook and mailed her cards during her
ordeal with chemo and the few times she was back in church either up
singing on stage or just in a chair I never went forward to introduce
myself. Now I have to wait till I get to heaven someday. This lady had
a wonderful spirit which came across even on messages. For several
years I watched her up front singing praises to The Lord but never got
to meet her. She is singing with Jesus now and her husband and two
children are left here on earth missing her and I am sure deeply
grieving.

The point of my devotion is do not keep saying stuff and putting it
off as you may not get another chance. That card you intend to send.
That apology you intend to render. That visit you intend to make. That
gift you intend to give. That thank you you intend to say. That love
you intend to show.

I have little notes on my phone from this friend I never met but I am
sure she is delighting to be in the arms of Jesus now. No more tears.
No more pain. No more suffering. No more earthly cares and concerns.
Left behind are people who wonder why she died so young.

Friend you may not get another chance to show kindness or say
something to someone you love. Do not keep putting things off. Be pro
active and initiate things so later on you won't have regrets. We do
not know how long we will be on this Earth. Don't hold grudges and
hatred in your heart but instead make an effort to be loving and forgive people.

Read the Bible and study it. Don't wait for someone else to read it on
Sunday. Get to know about Jesus. Pick up His word and start growing in
Christ right now.

Do you know you would go to heaven if you suddenly died? Are you sure?
You can ask forgiveness of your sins and ask Him into your heart
today. He is only a prayer away.

In Philippians 1:22-23(NIV) it says 'If I am to go on living in the body this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know.I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ , which is better by far.'

Do the best you can to serve Christ down here and on Earth and live like today may be your last on Earth. Do not always wait for the other person to initiate the first contact.

PRAYER: Thank You Lord for the opportunities for impacting others lives. Help me Lord not to always think of ways to make myself more comfortable but help me reach out to others and make a difference in their life and they in mine, before it is too late. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below and praise God for who He is today and always!

http://youtu.be/_YFGzY_8li8

FOUR CROSSES

 

Recently I was driving on a five mile stretch of highway in the nearby countryside close to New Market, Alabama and on this short road there were four "memory" crosses within two miles of each other with a name of a loved one who had tragically died in a vehicular accident. I am not sure if those of you living outside Alabama and Tennessee have these homemade crosses on the roadside but they make you stop and think about your life and about your habits in your car while driving. No doubt these deaths left a huge hole in the hearts of at least four families and possibly more.

Life is very short. Recently one of my favorite actresses from my childhood passed away as a result of Multiple Sclerosis. Having your life is a true gift from God and we are never promised tomorrow. Whatever you do live like it may be your last day. An accident could cut your life shorter than you expected. Perhaps an illness. Also some will just peacefully die in their sleep. A stroke is what caused the death recently of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher at the age of 87.

The Bible says we are here today and gone tomorrow. James 4:14(NIV) says '

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.' Our real mission on this earth as a follower of Jesus Christ is to try to help share His love with others so they might come to know Him. Satan works around the clock with his demons twisting the truth, deceiving,hurting, killing and stealing. In order to get Satan out of your life, why not try getting up daily and first thank God for another day He blessed you with ask Him in pray to help impact the world he has placed you in. You are not here for yourself. Get into His word to hear the truth. Read the Bible daily. It is more than a bookend or coffee table decoration.

I heard somewhere that a Bible that is falling apart if owned by someone who is not. The Bible is to be used. Yes you can even write in it. It is a study manual and guidebook for your life on Earth. How can you have power to defeat Satan if you do nothing but look at it?
Proverbs 27:1(NIV) tell us 'Do not boast about tomorrow for you do not know what tomorrow will bring forth.' That is such a true statement. In Psalm 90:10(NIV) '

Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.' Enjoy your life and do not sit around wondering how long you will live or how you will die.

Isaiah 57:21(NIV) says '

The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil.' Hopefully all reading this will be around to read them over and over again for many more days. Do you know for certain that if you died today you would be with Jesus? If not why not ask Him in to your heart today. Then open up that "instruction" manual called The Bible and study to be ready.

PRAYER: Lord you are good and your mercies are new every morning. You give me so many wonderful blessings and benefits. It is hard to fathom just how much you truly love me. I want to live like tomorrow may never come. Give me your strength to do this. In Jesus'name.Amen.

Click on link for wonderful song:
http://youtu.be/UGFazR4iCbo

Note:Yesterday, due to technical difficulties, some of you may not have received this blog. If you were one of those and want to read it you can also go to www.godslemonadestand.blogspot.com and there you will find all my blogs for the past 3 years as well. Thanks. Be blessed to be a blessing!

EVIL FOR EVIL? NOT!!

Here we are one day prior to the celebration of Easter Sunday. I think today of the evil forces in this world that hate Jesus and God and hated him so much back then that they hung him on a cross to die. Even when all this torture was going on what did He do? He wanted us to forgive those soldiers who hammered nails into His hands and feet, put a crown of thorns on Him and treated him so horribly. In Luke 23:34(ESV) it says 'Father forgive them for they know not what they do'.

Evil for evil, no way. God is good, and Satan is evil, the king of evil and lies. He is at work overtime even in the lives of Christians to trick, deceive and lie to them. That is why it is so essential that we saturate ourselves with the truths found only in God's word, The Bible. Do you study it and take time to "know Jesus"?

Do you ever catch yourself saying you do not like someone or even utter the word "hate"? Maybe someone has hurt you, been mean to you, or just treated you poorly. In Matthew 5:43-48(NIV) says 'You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?Are not even the tax collectors doing that?And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.'

Try an experiment. Try actually forgiving people who have wronged you. Even if they are no longer around and you are unable to do it in person. Try just loving for a change. Ask God to transform the hate you may feel into His love for them. Only Satan wants revenge, not God.

Memorize this verse below if you can, found in 1 Peter 3:9(NIV). '

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.' When you start to get mad or let your thoughts dwell on being mad, turn it into love instead. PRAYER: This is the day you have made for us to enjoy and serve you. I know Lord at times I allow the enemy to capture my thoughts and start wrong thinking. I allow hate and anger in when I should instead be allowing your transforming power of love. Help me Lord as I seek to stay on the path of love and forgiveness. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link before and enjoy this Easter melody.

http://youtu.be/Li8Ld8KWTbA 

TRAGEDY, SADNESS, AND CHRISTMAS

Christmas time is happy and joyous for most or so we might think. Many people associate a family members death around this time of year and can not seem to get past it. Death may have occurred prematurely for a young person and when it is time for Christmas, the ache of that memory of that loss lingers on.

Yesterday the unspeakable tragedy occurred when a gunman opened fire at an elementary school in Connecticut with 20 young children among those killed. The families of these children will indeed have a horrible time at Christmas this year. Who would think of killing small innocent elementary school children? It is hard to comprehend why this would even happen. Who knows? Evil is out there and it works overtime to destroy our world.
The news media will be on the bandwagon now to ban all guns. It is a fact that this world has become ultra violent. People who are against guns always use times like this to try to take them away from law abiding citizens. It is not having a gun that is the problem, but it is what is in the heart of man. It is no wonder people do evil things especially since look at what is on television and in the movie theaters these days. Why on earth does everything have to be about killing and violence? Why is it necessary to make video games depicting crime and violence? Taking prayer out of our public schools in 1963 was certainly a huge factor in the downfall of our American society as well as removing the Ten Commandments.

Why are some so offended about the name of Jesus and the word of God? First of all Satan is alive and well and working his evil schemes in the heart of mankind. The Bible says in Proverbs 18:10(NIV) that ' the name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and are safe.' It is only through Jesus that you have eternal life.
There is good and evil in our world and yesterday's shootings were definitely in the very evil category. We need to pray for the families of the victims, the family of the shooter, and the entire community. Also pray for First Responders who had to come upon this unimaginable scene. Pray also for clergy and counselors in the area to use words of faith and wisdom in their counseling for the many people affected by this tragedy. Also pray for our government to not overreact to try to abolish our Second Amendment rights.

Once again we do not know why bad things happen to good people and especially to little children. This is not the time to get angry at God although many people do. They say 'why didn't you stop this Lord?' God can bring goodness out of tragedy although it may not seem so at the time.

In attempting to comfort those in grief, it is not the time to give them a bunch of Bible verses. It is time to be a friend and comfort them and pray for them.
Jeremiah 17:9 (NIV) says 'The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?' Mark 7:21(NIV) says 'for from within, out of man's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder and adultery.' You can see from reading these two Bible verses how important it is to get your heart right with God. You keep it right by feeding it a steady diet of scripture. This is how you grow in love and learn to stop hating. For now we all need to simply keep all those involved in this senseless tragedy in our prayers.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus help us keep in the word of God and stay on the path of goodness and righteousness. We know Lord you too are hurting to see little children gunned down but we also pity this shooter who obviously had some problems. Father God we ask that you work something good out of all this tragedy. In Jesus' name. Amen.

TRAGEDY UNEXPLAINED

After yesterdays horrific shooting spree in a suburban Denver theater I decided to change my topic for today. First my heart goes out to the parents of the shooter. You do not hear that on TV. When I was watching this unfold yesterday while working out at the gym, not one time did I hear anyone on television news broadcasts say "let's pray" but all I heard were things like "the government was working on it" and "mental health was there to help." They may have mentioned this after I left but not while I was there. If you  are a parent imagine the pain, blame and suffering they are going through and wondering about  the 'whys'. This young man's actions hurt and killed many but no one would have classified him, a doctoral student, as a mass murderer.Something was obviously troubling him.

 What causes this? My first guess is that we allow violent entertainment into our homes in the form of video games, television programs, music,  and allow children to go to movies like Dark Knight. Among the  deceased I heard was a 6 years old!  The Batman I grew up watching on television was harmless and fun. None of this glorified movie violence like you see today and sensuality. But 'cute' programs and movies apparently do not sit well with those in decision making positions who crank out this unnecessary violence people seem to crave. 

My opinion is if you are a Christian  man or woman you need to watch what you take into your brain. You have heard the saying 'garbage in, garbage out'. Some will say "well men like stuff like that" and I say "what was wrong with John Wayne and the action films we had in the 60's and 70's? Some older readers may totally identify with how movies have gotten pretty raunchy.

There will be lots of speculation about this in the days to come but the main thing that is needed is prayer.Do not be guilty of judging others.  Do not get fearful to go places. Violence happens everywhere so go on about your life. Above all be careful what you watch and parents ,use common sense when selecting a movie for your young child. I do not recommend adult themed movies for grade school children. This is not about guns but this is about the condition of the human heart.
 I will leave you with a couple Bible verses and the first  is Philippians 4:8 which says "Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, think on these things."  Finally remember what it says in Romans 3:23 and that is "all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory." In the meantime let's remember to pray for all involved in this horrible shooting and pray for the shooter as well. Let us remember to keep those affected by this in our prayers. Romans 12:15 says "Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep."


PRAYER: Lord God we cry out to you for the hurting families of this senseless tragedy in Colorado and even the family of the shooter. Father we ask for healing for the wounded and healing for their lives as well. Father help us be wise in what we choose to watch, listen to and read. Give us discipline in our lives so we know the right choices to make that please you.In Jesus name. Amen.

 For information on movie content from a Christian perspective check out www.pluggedin.com

WEEPING MAY LAST FOR A NIGHT....

 ....But joy comes  in the morning. Death is part of life but no one is really ready for it especially if it comes too early such as in the case of a baby,child, or teenager. In the past couple weeks a young lady I worked with a few years ago died at the age of 28. A friend of mine lost a work colleague who was in her thirties. Just a couple days ago my daughter in laws' 98 year old great grandma also passed away. No matter what the age or how it happens it is sad and leaves a hole in your life. It takes time to heal wounds and get beyond it and death anniversaries are particularly difficult. In the area I live in when someone dies in a vehicular accident at times some family or friends place a roadside cross with the name of the victim on the cross. This is a way to remember them and perhaps helps with the healing.

 For the believer there is hope of seeing your loved ones and friends in heaven some day. They are in a better place. Now do not go up to some one grieving and quote Romans 8:28 which many are familiar with. It says " All things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose." Perhaps later on that is okay but it is not necessary to say anything. Just give a hug.

Psalm 116:15 is a good verse for this time and it says "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." A dear friend of mine died at the very young age of 44 several years ago and in her obituary in the newspaper it had the following verse from Philippians 1:21-24. It reads "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.If I am to go on living in the body this will mean fruitful labor  for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know.I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ which is better by far but is is more necessary for you that I remain in the body."


Many times the person is sick and getting up there in years and it is still hard to say goodbye. Once in heaven all the pain, sadness, sickness will end and your loved one will be seeing Jesus face to face in a glorious place. There have been accounts of those people who have died and been brought back to life and have spoken of the peacefulness they felt as they were entering heaven and on occasion some said they wished they could have stayed.

2 Corinthians 4:17 says " For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."   We are on this earth such a short time compared to eternity.James 4:14 says "How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? For your life is like the morning fog. It is here a little while then it is gone."

 I have heard this acronym for the word Bible which is good and useful. Bible could mean Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth. Are you reading your instruction manual now? You never know when God will call you home. Be ready.

1 Corinthians 7:31 says "Those who use the things of the world should not become attached to them. For this world as we know it will soon pass away."  If you were to die today do you know for sure you will go to heaven? If not say this simple prayer. "Lord Jesus I want you to be Lord of my life. Come into my heart today and transform me. I want to live for you and serve you. Forgive me for my sins. Come into my heart now."

PRAYER: Lord I know life is short compared to eternity. Help me make the best use of each day living for you and serving you and help me not be scared to die. Thank you Lord for being my Saviour. Comfort those who have recently lost a loved one. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to be comforted in song
http://youtu.be/LJTQPZuvAKo
Reference for title: Psalm 30:5

LIFE COMES TO THIS....DEATH

This past Saturday, pop icon Whitney Houston, was laid to rest after an untimely death at an early age, which stunned her many fans. Throngs of her adoring fans stood with signs, pictures, balloons, and flowers outside the  Baptist church in Newark, New Jersey where her funeral was held.

Famous people seem to get a better break at funerals. Lots of folks there, many news stories at no charge to them, and non stop talk of the wonderful life they led. Everyone seems to be great  at the end so it seems.

The indisputable fact of life is we all will die. Many people live like there is no consequence and atheists laugh off the after life or heaven and hell. Guess what? You will either go to heaven or you will go to hell whether you believe the Bible or not. Period. End of story. Why chance it? Your life could end today in a head on crash, a heart attack, a stroke, an unexpected illness, or a myriad of other things. No one knows when. Young people die, babies die, celebrities die in their forties like Miss Houston, and people die late in life. Nobody can predict it. This could be your last day on earth. We are all valuable to God whether we are a platinum album singer, bank president, business leader, politician, teacher, homeless man  or factory worker. There is not some social class to get into heaven. It boils down to have you asked Jesus into your life.

Do you know if you were to take your last breath you would spend eternity in heaven?  I did not say "are you a good person" or "are you a church member" or "have you worked on lots of church committees" or "have you gone to Sunday School class" or "are you baptized"  but do you know Jesus as your saviour and has your life been lived for Him? Does your life reflect Him?

Is your life ready for a 'Home Going' to heaven? Are you sure? We can not assume just because we were in church every Sunday that is what is required. People who have rejected Jesus during their life will not be with Him in heaven but it is never too late to ask Him into your heart.

1 Timothy 2:4 says "who wants everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth." Ezekiel 18:23 says "do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked declares the Sovereign Lord. Rather am I not pleased when they turn from their wicked ways and live?" James 4:13-15 says "Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”

Psalm 90:12 tells us "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Do not live like death will never come because believe me it will and it may catch you off guard. But guess what, once you are dead you can not decide to accept Christ. Ecclesiastes 7:2 says "It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart."


 I can not imagine someone not wanting to be sure they are going to heaven. In Romans 3:23 it says "All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory." Acts 3:19 says "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord". Repent means to turn away from. When you know something is wrong do not keep doing it. Ask God to help you. He is ready to save. Give your heart to Him today.

PRAYER: Father I know my days are numbered here on this earth. Help me to make a difference for the kingdom of God during the short time I am here. Help me to not get caught up in the craziness and sinfulness of the world but to be set apart for the work of Christ and let me leave an imprint for you when I leave this earth. In Jesus Name. Amen.


Click on link to worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/iB-yX5p0p4I

LIFE IS SHORT

One month ago a friend's 58 year old husband died unexpectedly. We just never know when it is 'our time'. We live as if we will go on forever. Many people live like there are no tomorrows. Luke 12:20 says "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?' The Bible says in James 4:14 "Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away." Picture that! A vapor, like steam, that just floats away. What are you doing in this life to make a difference and are you leaving a legacy that others will be able to see you loved the Lord? Death is a part of life. We all seem to expect we will live to be 80 or 90 but we do not know. Live fully and make each day count!

My friend Barb went to be with the Lord back in the early 90's at the young age of 44 after a short bout with cancer. In her obituary it had this verse from Philippians 1:22-24 and it says "Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. I am pressured by both. I have the desire to depart and be with Christ—which is far better but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you." She left a true legacy.

The minute you are born you begin to die. It is true. One day we will all stand before God. Atheists do not think so but as the 60's TV character Gomer Pyle used to say "Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!" It is true.  2 Corinthians 4:16 says "Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day." There is a heaven and there is a hell.

Psalm 39:6 says "Man is a mere phantom as he goes to and fro: He bustles about, but only in vain; he heaps up wealth, not knowing who will get it." We build big homes, buy all the fancy things we think we need to be happy, but in the end none of it goes with us to the cemetery. As I heard once, there are no U Hauls following the hearse to the graveyard. What are you doing to leave a lasting legacy? If you are a parent are you instilling God's word into the hearts of your children?

Who are you building your foundation on?  Do you know if you died today you would go to heaven?  Hell is for those who reject Jesus Christ. The lake of fire is a real place. It is a place where God is not there and you will be in constant torment separated from God forever. There is hope and there is forgiveness. 2 Peter 3:9 says "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

Do you know if you died today you would go to heaven? I mean do you really know? Church membership is not the key to heaven. Being in a certain denomination is not the way to eternal life. Simply being baptized as a baby is not enough. You have to ask Jesus to be Lord of you life and live for Him. Say "Jesus come into my life. Forgive me for not living for you. I want to live for you and serve you Lord. Come into my heart today and save me." You can pray that prayer now and let Jesus be Lord of your life.

John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." Jesus does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked but he wants all men to repent and turn to Him. Ezekiel 33:11 says "Say to them, 'As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?"  Jesus died so that all men might have eternal life.

Where are you today? Do not take a chance. We do not know when we will breathe our last breath. Turn to Jesus today. He is waiting and wants to be Lord of your life. Proverbs 27:1 says "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth".
Start living like today may be your last. If you do not have the assurance you will enter heaven upon your death why not say that prayer today?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for preparing a wonderful place for us after our time here on Earth is over. Father help those skeptics who can not seem to grasp that hell is real. Some reading this may not believe or we may know of someone who claims there is no God. Forgive those people and turn their hearts to you Lord. Help me Lord keep my heart turned to you and live for the kingdom of God each and every day. In Jesus Name. Amen.


Click on link to enjoy a wonderful praise song.
http://youtu.be/5wWDhl_nICc

Book suggestion:
First of course is the Bible but after that is "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be An Atheist" .

THE GRIEVING SPIRIT

Today I changed my original topic I had planned in order to honor one of my dear college friends and sorority sister Jill whose husband died unexpectedly Christmas Eve at the age of 58. This is a memorial to him, Billy, and hopefully will help others grieving a recent loss of a loved one or a continuing grief or wound that will not heal. Billy's earthly pain is gone and any suffering he had on Earth and in heaven he is promised 'no more tears, no more pain, and a heavenly body.' His children and wife hurt right now in a big way. Words will not really help them now, but the love,prayers and support of friends will ease their pain somewhat.

 Death is going to come for all of us. We can not escape it, but we never know when or what age. My younger son lost about 8 friends, 3 of which I knew, between the ages of 17 and his 26th birthday. The death of a child, baby, or young person is especially difficult. Death of anyone at any age is sad and leaves a gaping unexplained hole even though as people get up in years you expect it more. An aunt of mine also died on Christmas Eve this year and she was in her 90's and my husbands' mom died several years ago on Christmas Eve as well and she was well up in years. Still she is missed. My husband said she went home to celebrate Jesus birthday with him. Parents should never have to bury children, but it happens. By the way, God is not the one to blame although many grieving people sure get angry at Him.

In the big scheme of things nothing else is important in the world when death knocks on your door. You realize your priorities and they may change. Funerals even bring people together at times as strange as that sounds. God can use all things bad or good in life for His ultimate purposes.

Hebrews 9:27 says " it is appointed unto men once to die and after that the judgment." Ecclesiastes 3:2 tells us " there is a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot." 1 Corinthians 15:55 says "where oh death is your victory and where oh death is your sting?"

 I have known of cases where people go to doctor for something routine and something goes wrong. Do not blame the doctors. People always want someone to pin blame on a person to 'get back' at someone, be it God or a human. Sometimes things just happen and there is no explanation. Our time here on this earth is relatively short.James 4:14 says "For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away." Be sure to not let a day go by where you do not tell your spouse you love them  and stop the quarrels and learn to forgive. Try to forgive those who hurt you as you may not get another chance. Life is indeed short. Too short to stay mad and hopeless. No one is promised tomorrow. We all will die be it from cancer, accidents, old age, natural causes, illness, or however. It is unavoidable. Do not sit and worry about it but live life to the fullest and make sure you know Jesus as your savior so you can spend eternity with Him.

One of my favorite Bible verses concerning death does not come from the traditional Psalm 23 you hear read at funerals but it is found in Psalm 116:15 and it says "Precious in the site of the Lord is the death of his saints". Maybe someone deeply grieving is not ready to give up their loved one but God calls it precious. Give God your grief and pain. Jesus suffered the ultimate death on the cross but rose again. Those who die in Christ we will see again in God's heavenly kingdom. Death is not the end.

We will all go to a final resting place. If you know Jesus it is heaven. Isaiah 14:3 says "When the LORD has given you rest from your pain and turmoil and the hard service with which you were made to serve". It is time for rest from the work on earth. Do not dread it but embrace it as your reward for a life well served. Death is not fun for those left behind grieving so we need to stay close to God and believe in the promise of seeing our loved ones again in glory. John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have EVERLASTING life."

Pray for this family today as they lay Billy to rest. One day we will be reunited in heaven.

PRAYER: Do you know if the Lord called you home today you are ready to meet Him? I did not say " are you baptized or are you a church member" but have you asked Jesus to be Lord of your life? We do not know the day nor hour He will return to take us home. Do not be mad at Him. He uses all things for ultimate good. Do not use that verse in Romans 8:28 to comfort any one with a loss, at least not now. Lord help me reach out to those who grieve and just be their friend and pray for them. Give me a heart of compassion for those hurting. Give me the right words to say. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on the link below to listen to a comforting song.
http://youtu.be/MN59zfhAjnI

 NOTE:May I heartily  recommend a  book by my friend Kathe Wunnenburg who has experienced the death of children. It is called 'Grieving the Loss of a Loved One'. Check Amazon to order it.

Also the book entitled 'A Twentieth Century Miracle' by Jerry Parrick which is now out of print is a true account about a man who died and came back to life only to serve the Lord. My grandma had me read it years ago.