Life's Challenges - Stories - Inspiration
The Father's Eyes
Bob Richards, the former pole-vault champion, shares a moving story about a
skinny young boy who loved football with all his heart. Practice after practice,
he eagerly gave everything he had. But being half the size of the other boys, he
got absolutely nowhere. At all the games, this hopeful athlete sat on the bench
and hardly ever played. This teenager lived alone with his father, and the two
of them had a very special relationship. Even though the son was always on the
bench, his father was always in the stands cheering. He never missed a game.
This young man was still the smallest of the class when he entered high school.
But his father continued to encourage him but also made it very clear that he
did not have to play football if he didn't want to.
But the young man loved football and decided to hang in there. He was determined
to try his best at every practice, and perhaps he'd get to play when he became a
senior. All through high school he never missed a practice nor a game but
Remained a bench-warmer all four years. His faithful father was always in the
stands, always with words of encouragement for him. When the young man went to
college, he decided to try out for the football team as a "walk-on." Everyone
was sure he could never make the cut, but he did. The coach admitted that he
kept him on the roster because he always puts his heart and soul to every
practice, and at the same time, provided the other members with the spirit and
hustle they badly needed. The news that he had survived the cut thrilled him so
much that he rushed to the nearest phone and called his father. His father
shared his excitement and was sent season tickets for all the college games.
This persistent young athlete never missed practice during his four years at
college, but he never got to play in a game. It was the end of his senior
football season, and as he trotted onto the practice field shortly before the
big playoff game, the coach met him with a telegram.
The young man read the telegram and he became deathly silent. Swallowing hard,
he mumbled to the coach, "My father died this morning. Is it all right if I miss
practice today?" The coach put his arm gently around his shoulder and said,
"Take the rest of the week off, son. And don't even plan to come back to the
game on Saturday."
Saturday arrived, and the game was not going well. In the third quarter, when
the team was ten points behind, a silent young man quietly slipped into the
empty locker room and put on his football gear. As he ran onto the sidelines,
the coach and his players were astounded to see their faithful teammate back so
soon. "Coach, please let me play. I've just got to play today," said the young
man. The coach pretended not to hear him. There was no way he wanted his worst
player in this close playoff game. But the young man persisted, and finally
feeling sorry for the kid, the coach gave in. "All right," he said. "You can go
in." Before long, the coach, the players and everyone in the stands could not
believe their eyes. This little unknown, who had never played before was doing
everything right.
The opposing team could not stop him. He ran, he passed, blocked, and tackled
like a star. His team began to triumph. The score was soon tied. In the closing
seconds of the game, this kid intercepted a pass and ran all the way for the
winning touchdown. The fans broke loose. His teammates hoisted him onto their
shoulders. Such cheering you never heard.
Finally, after the stands had emptied and the team had showered and left the
locker room, the coach noticed that this young man was sitting quietly in the
corner all alone. The coach came to him and said, "Kid, I can't believe it. You
were fantastic! Tell me what got into you? How did you do it?"
He looked at the coach, with tears in his eyes, and said, "Well, you knew my dad
died, but did you know that my dad was blind?" The young man swallowed hard and
forced a smile, "Dad came to all my games, but today was the first time he could
see me play, and I wanted to show him I could do it!"
Like the athlete's father, God is always there cheering for us. He's always
reminding us to go on. He's even offering us His hand for. He knows what is
best, and is willing to give us what we need and not simply what we want. God
has never missed a single game. What a joy to know that life is meaningful if
lived for the Highest. Live for HIM for He's watching us in the game of life!
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The Story behind "Amazing Grace"
I was born in 1725, and I died 1807. The
only godly influence in my life, as far back as I can remember, was my mother,
whom I had for only seven years. When she left my life through death, I was
virtually an orphan.
My father remarried, sent me to a strict military school, where the severity of
discipline almost broke my back. I couldn't stand it any longer, and I left in
rebellion at age of ten. One year later, deciding that I would never enter
formal education again, I became a seaman apprentice, hoping somehow to step
into my father's trade and learn at least the ability to skillfully navigate a
ship. And I determined that I would sin to my fill without restraint, now that
the righteous lamp of my life had gone out. I did that all the days in the
military service and I further rebelled.
My spirit would not break, and I became increasingly more and more a rebel.
Because of a number of things that I disagreed with in the military, I finally
deserted, only to be captured like a common criminal and beaten publicly several
times. After enduring the punishment, I again fled.
I entertained thoughts of suicide on my way to Africa. I decided on Africa,
because it would be the place I could get farthest from anyone that knew me. And
again I made a pact with the devil to live for him.
Somehow, through a process of events, I got in touch with a Portuguese slave
trader, and I lived in his home. His wife, who was brimming with hostility, took
a lot out on me. She beat me, and I ate like a dog on the floor of the home. If
I refused to do that, she would whip me with a lash.
I fled penniless, owning only the clothes on my back, to the shoreline of Africa
where I built a fire, hoping to attract a ship that was passing by. The skipper
thought that I had gold or slaves or ivory to sell and was surprised that I was
a skilled navigator. And it was there that I virtually lived for a long period
of time.
I went through all sorts of narrow escapes with death only a hairbreadth away,
on a number of occasions. One time I opened some crates of rum and got everybody
on the crew drunk. The skipper, incensed with my actions, beat me, threw me down
below, and I lived on stale bread and sour vegetables for an unendurable amount
of time. He brought me above to beat me again, and I fell overboard. Because I
couldn't swim, he harpooned me to get me back on the ship. And I lived with the
scar in my side, big enough for me to put my fist into, until the day of my
death. On board, I was inflamed with fever and enraged with the humiliation.
A storm broke out, and I wound up again in the hold of the ship, down among the
pumps. To keep the ship afloat, I worked as a servant of the slaves. There,
bruised and confused, bleeding, diseased, I was the epitome of the degenerate
man. I remembered the words of my mother.
I cried out to God, the only way I knew, calling upon His grace and His mercy to
deliver me, and upon His son to save me. The only glimmer of light I could find
was in a crack in the floor above me, and I looked up to it and screamed for
help.
God heard me.
Thirty-one years passed, I married a childhood sweetheart. I entered the
ministry. In every place that I served, rooms had to be added to the building to
handle the crowds that came to hear the gospel that was presented and the story
of God's grace in my life.
My tombstone above my head reads, "Born 1725, died 1807. A clerk, once an
infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was by the rich mercy of
our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed
to preach the faith he once long labored to destroy."
I decided before my death to put my life's story in verse. And that verse has
become a hymn.
My name? John Newton.
The hymn? "Amazing Grace
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That sav'd a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears reliev'd;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believ'd!
Thro' many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promis'd good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who call'd me here below,
Will be forever mine.
Author Unknown
Very Much Alive
The story is told of a young man who went into a taxidermist's shop. He was
noticing all of the dead, but life-like animals on display. He stopped in front
of an owl and began criticizing the shopkeeper's work, pointing out "mistakes"
in the owl's wings, legs, and angle of the head. In his pride he boasted that he
could have done a better job himself.
Suddenly, the owl turned his head and blinked. The prideful young man had
mistakenly imagined the owl to be just another dead stuffed animal, but to his
shame found himself to be the fool.
Many mistakenly imagine the Word of God to be just another piece of dead
literature, or the Gospel a poor work of men's hands. Nevertheless, it is alive,
truly the work of God's hands!
Author Unknown
God is....
God is Lord Almighty, Omnipotent King, Lion of Judah, Rock of Ages, Prince of
Peace, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Provider, Protector, Paternal Leader,
Ruling Lord and Reigning King of all the universe.
He is Father, Helper, Guardian and God. He is the First and Last, the Beginning
and the End. He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all He keeps. The
Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was, is, and will be: Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never
Undone. He was bruised and brought healing. He was pierced and eased pain. He
was persecuted and brought freedom. He was dead and brought life. He is risen
and brings power. He reigns and brings Peace.
The world can't understand him, the armies can't defeat Him, the schools can't
explain Him, and the leaders can't ignore Him. Herod couldn't kill Him, the
Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, the people couldn't hold Him! Nero couldn't
crush Him. Hitler couldn't silence Him, the New Age can't replace Him and
Donahue can't explain Him away!
He is light, love, longevity, and Lord. He is goodness, kindness, gentleness,
and God. He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure. His ways are right,
His word is eternal, His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me! His is my
redeemer, He is my savior, He is my guide, He is my peace, He is my Joy, He is
my comfort, He is my Lord and He rules my life.
I serve Him because His bond is love, His burden is light, and His goal for me
is abundant life. I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise, the power
of the powerful, the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of
leaders, the overseer of the over comers, and the sovereign Lord of all that
was, is and is to come.
And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size. His goal is a
relationship with ME! He will never leave me, forsake me, mislead me, forget me,
overlook me, and never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!
When I fall, He lifts me up. When I fail, He forgives me. When I am weak, He is
strong. When I am lost, He is The Way. When I am afraid, He is my courage. When
I stumble, He steadies me. When I am hurt, He heals me. When I am broken, He
mends me. When I am blind, He leads me. When I am hungry, He feeds me. When I
face trials, He is with me When I face persecution, He stills me. When I face
problems, He comforts me. When I face loss, He provides for me. When I face
Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time, and in every way. He is
God, He is faithful, I am His, and He is mine. My Father in heaven can whip the
father of this world, and so, if you're wondering why I feel so secure,
understand this: He said it, and that settles it.
God is in control, I am on His side, and that means all is well with my soul.
Author Unknown
A Girl's Love & Faith
About six years ago, I went to the Pocono's for a winter
retreat with my church. It was a small, simple gathering
of about forty kids.
We were not yet teens but slowly coming to realize
ourselves as more than just children.
Since I was new to the church, a few friends of mine
gave me a basic overview on the kids of our youth group.
I can still remember a few random faces and the
descriptions that went with them:
"Oh, that's so-and-so. He's such a pussy; he wet the bed
at last year's retreat." or "That's the kid that kicked
so-and-so's butt cuz he bothered his sister."
Yet the one that haunts me with such clarity to this day
is of a little girl, probably in the third grade at the
time. With uneven locks of greasy hair adorning her
misshapen face, she was constantly bombarded with
ridicule from the heartless and unsympathetic. She was
born with a physical ailment that affected her
coordination and altered her facial features. It would
be almost a daily retreat tradition for us to yell
"retard" as she passed by on her way to the chapel.
Yet, as the final day of our retreat neared, we all
prepared our hearts for the most emotional night...the
night in which voices would cry, hands would be raised,
and eyes would flow freely without considering what the
person next to you would think the following day. Yet,
instead of pouring our hearts out in a scattered groups
on the floor as expected, our pastor told us to stay in
our seats for a moment.
After about three minutes of composed silence, he said
with calm, monotone sincerity,
"Who here loves Jesus?"
Everyone raised their hand; some even shouted small
cries of their devotion.
"Who here really loves Jesus?" he repeated.
Again, everyone raised their arms, some fists clenched,
accompanied by countless amen's and hallelujahs. Then,
as the silence reentered the room, he slowly produced a
seven-inch long, steel stake from behind his back. With
eyes of ice, he said,
"Then those of you that really love Jesus please come to
the front of the room...and suffer his fate."
A confused and scared silence congested the air of the
room. No one dared make a sound, even a cough, for fear
that everyone else may look at him. It seemed as though
everything had been frozen in a heavy fog that engulfed
the room. Watches seemed to have stopped. Eyes ceased to
blink. The only thing that moved was the flowing
perspiration as we all waited for something to happen.
The pastor clenched the stake high above his head.
"Who here is willing to place their hand out for this
stake to puncture it? Who? WHO?!"
A small, scraping sound arose from the back row. It was
the sound of a little girl, whimpering and stumbling,
slowly rising from her chair. She broke the expectations
of every person that had looked down on her, the retard,
the ugly retard, just as Jesus had been resurrected in
spite of the Romans' hatred of him. She bore the weight
of everyone's stares and snickers as she limped up the
aisle to the front of the room, just as Jesus had
arduously carried his cross. Slowly lifting her ugly
head to the pastor, she muttered,
"I will."
Tears coursed from the pastor's eyes as he asked her
with fervent conviction,
"Are you willing to pierce your hands for Jesus? Are
you?!"
Her face was streaked with the rivers of tears, not
emotional tears like that of all of ours had been, but
spiritual tears flowing from her dull eyes. She slowly
peeled her arms from her sides and lifted them to the
man before her.
"Yes."
Not much changed the next day. She didn't miraculously
lose her physical defects. She was still made fun
of...mostly by the kids that weren't at the last night's
service. And I'm sure that if I asked any of the kids
that were in that room the final night if they ever made
fun of anyone ever again that they would all say yes.
But the fact of the matter is, that occurrence will stay
with all of us, the teachers, the kids, everyone, for
the rest of our lives.
And perhaps we should all stop being so judgmental, so
ready to accuse or ridicule or hate, and stop modeling
ourselves to be like the Romans. Because as much as it
surprised us all, the only one of us that approached the
pastor with a sincere courage was that "retard, that
ugly retard" girl.
And even though we already know to do this, do we really
always follow it? Well, that just shows the
understanding and love of Jesus, of how much he can
allow himself to be spit on and laughed at and still
forgive us...just like a humble, disabled little girl
with a monumental spirit. Pass this on...and I hope this
girl's courage and sincere faith has affected you and
will remind you of Christ's love as much as it has me.
Author Unknown
The Seed
A successful Christian business man was growing old and knew it was time to
chose a successor to take over the business. Instead of choosing one of his
directors or his children, he decided to do something different.
He called all the young executives in his company together. "It is time for me
to step down and choose the next CEO," he said. "I have decided to choose one of
you."
The young executives were shocked, but the boss continued. "I am going to give
each one of you a seed today - a very special seed. I want you to plant the
seed, water it, and come back here one year from today with what you have grown
from the seed I have given you. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and
the one I choose will be the next CEO."
One man, named Jim, was there that day and he, like the others, received a seed.
He went home and excitedly, told his wife the story. She helped him get a pot,
soil and compost and he planted the seed.
Every day, he would water it and watch to see if it had grown. After about three
weeks, some of the other executives began to talk about their seeds and the
plants that were beginning to grow. Jim kept checking his seed, but nothing ever
grew.
Three weeks, four weeks, five weeks went by, still nothing. By now, others were
talking about their plants, but Jim didn't have a plant and he felt like a
failure.
Six months went by - still nothing in Jim's pot. He just knew he had killed his
seed. Everyone else had trees and tall plants, but he had nothing. Jim didn't
say anything to his colleagues, however. He just kept watering and fertilizing
the soil - he so wanted the seed to grow.
A year finally went by and all the young executives of the company brought their
plants to the CEO for inspection. Jim told his wife that he wasn't going to take
an empty pot. But she asked him to be honest about what happened.
Jim felt sick at his stomach. It was going to be the most embarrassing moment of
his life, but he knew his wife was right.
He took his empty pot to the board room. When Jim arrived, he was amazed at the
variety of plants grown by the other executives. They were beautiful--in all
shapes and sizes. Jim put his empty pot on the floor and many of his colleagues
laughed. A few felt sorry for him!
When the CEO arrived, he surveyed the room and greeted his young executives.
Jim just tried to hide in the back.
"My, what great plants, trees, and flowers you have grown," said the CEO.
"Today one of you will be appointed the next CEO!"
All of a sudden, the CEO spotted Jim at the back of the room with his empty pot.
He ordered the financial director to bring him to the front.
Jim was terrified. He thought, "The CEO knows I'm a failure! Maybe he will have
me fired!"
When Jim got to the front, the CEO asked him what had happened to his seed. Jim
told him the story.
The CEO asked everyone to sit down except Jim. He looked at Jim, and then
announced to the young executives, "Here is your next Chief Executive! His name
is JIM!"
Jim couldn't believe it. Jim couldn't even grow his seed. How could he be the
new CEO the others said?
Then the CEO said, "One year ago today, I gave everyone in this room a seed. I
told you to take the seed, plant it, water it, and bring it back to me today.
But I gave you all boiled seeds; they were dead - it was not possible for them
to grow.
All of you, except Jim, have brought me trees and plants and flowers. "When you
found that the seed would not grow, you substituted another seed for the one I
gave you. Jim was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot
with my seed in it. Therefore, he is the one who will be the new Chief
Executive!"
If you plant honesty, you will reap trust.
If you plant goodness, you will reap friends.
If you plant humility, you will reap greatness.
If you plant perseverance, you will reap contentment
If you plant consideration, you will reap perspective.
If you plant hard work, you will reap success.
If you plant forgiveness, you will reap reconciliation.
If you plant faith in Christ, you will reap a harvest.
So, be careful what you plant now; it will determine what you will reap later.
Two thousand years ago Paul wrote to the church at Galatia the same story but
with fewer words, "What you sow, so shall you reap" (Gal. 6:7).
"We are grass that will wither and die but the incorruptible seed of God's Word
will live forever - sow it daily into the life of your family! (1 Peter 1: 23 -
25).
Author Unknown
The Secret
A woman named Frances once knew a young person at church named Debbie. Debbie
always seemed effervescent and happy, although Frances knew she had faced
struggles in her life. Her long-awaited marriage had quickly ended in divorce.
She had struggled to get a grip on her single life. She hadn't chosen it, but
she decided she would live it with utmost enjoyment and satisfaction.
Debbie was active in Sunday school, in the choir, as a leader of the junior high
girl's group and in the church renewal movement. Frances enjoyed knowing Debbie.
Debbie's whole face seemed to smile and she always greeted Frances with a hug.
One day Frances asked Debbie, "How is it that you are always so happy you have
so much energy, and you never seem to get down?" With her eyes smiling, Debbie
said, "I know the secret!" "What secret is that?" "What are you talking about?"
Frances asked. Debbie replied, "I'll tell you all about it, but you have to
promise to share the 'secret' with others." Frances agreed, "Okay, now what is
it?"
The secret is this: I have learned there is little I can do in my life that will
make me truly happy. I must depend on God to make me happy and meet my needs.
When a need arises in my life, I have to trust God to supply according to His
riches. I have learned most of the time I don't need half of what I think I do.
HE has never let me down. Since I learned that secret, I am happy.
Frances' first thought was, That's too simple! But upon reflecting over her own
life she recalled how she thought a bigger house would make her happy-but it
didn't! She thought a better-paying job would make her happy-but it hadn't.
When did she realize her greatest happiness? Sitting on the floor with her
grandchildren, eating pizza and watching a movie, a simple gift from God. Debbie
knew the secret, Frances learned the secret, and now you know it too! We can't
depend on people to make us happy -- only GOD in His wisdom can do that. Trust
Him.
Author Unknown
The Daffodil
Principle
Several times my daughter had telephoned to say, "Mother, you must come see the
daffodils before they are over." I wanted to go, but it was a two-hour drive
from Laguna to Lake Arrowhead. "I will come next Tuesday," I promised, a little
reluctantly, on her third call.
Next Tuesday dawned cold and rainy. Still, I had promised, and so I drove there.
When I finally walked into Carolyn's house and hugged and greeted my
grandchildren, I said, "Forget the daffodils, Carolyn! The road is invisible in
the clouds and fog, and there is nothing in the world except you and these
children that I want to see bad enough to drive another inch!"
My daughter smiled calmly and said, "We drive in this all the time, Mother."
"Well, you won't get me back on the road until it clears, and then I'm heading
for home!" I assured her.
"I was hoping you'd take me over to the garage to pick up my car." "How far will
we have to drive?" "Just a few blocks," Carolyn said. "I'll drive. I'm used to
this." After several minutes, I had to ask, "Where are we going? This isn't the
way to the garage!"
"We're going to my garage the long way," Carolyn smiled, "by way of the
daffodils." "Carolyn," I said sternly, "please turn around." "It's all right,
Mother, I promise. You will never forgive yourself if you miss this experience."
After about twenty minutes, we turned onto a small gravel road and I saw a small
church. On the far side of the church, I saw a hand-lettered sign that read,
"Daffodil Garden."
We got out of the car and each took a child's hand, and I followed Carolyn down
the path. Then, we turned a corner of the path, and I looked up and gasped.
Before me lay the most glorious sight. It looked as though someone had taken a
great vat of gold and poured it down over the mountain peak and slopes. The
flowers were planted in majestic, swirling patterns-great ribbons and swaths of
deep orange, white, lemon yellow, salmon pink, saffron, and butter yellow. Each
different-colored variety was planted as a group so that it swirled and flowed
like its own river with its own unique hue.
There were five acres of flowers. "But who has done this?" I asked Carolyn.
"It's just one woman," Carolyn answered. "She lives on the property. That's her
home." Carolyn pointed to a well kept A-frame house that looked small and modest
in the midst of all that glory. We walked up to the house.
On the patio, we saw a poster. "Answers to the Questions I Know You Are Asking"
was the headline. The first answer was a simple one."50,000 bulbs," it read. The
second answer was, "One at a time, by one woman. Two hands, two feet, and very
little brain." The third answer was, "Began in 1958."
There it was, The Daffodil Principle. For me, that moment was a life-changing
experience. I thought of this woman whom I had never met, who, more than forty
years before, had begun -one bulb at a time- to bring her vision of beauty and
joy to an obscure mountain top. Still, just planting one bulb at a time, year
after year, had changed the world. This unknown woman had forever changed the
world in which she lived. She had created something of ineffable (indescribable)
magnificence,
beauty, and inspiration.
The principle her daffodil garden taught is one of the greatest principles of
celebration. That is, learning to move toward our goals and desires one step at
a time - often just one baby-step at a time - and learning to love the doing,
learning to use the accumulation of time. When we multiply tiny pieces of time
with small increments of daily effort, we too will find we can accomplish
magnificent things. We can change the world.
"It makes me sad in a way," I admitted to Carolyn. "What might I have
accomplished if I had thought of a wonderful goal thirty-five or forty years ago
and had worked away at it 'one bulb at a time' through all those years. Just
think what I might have been able to achieve!"
My daughter summed up the message of the day in her usual direct way. "Start
tomorrow," she said.
It's so pointless to think of the lost hours of yesterdays. The way to make
learning a lesson of celebration instead of a cause for regret is to only ask,
"How can I put this to use today?"
Author Unknown
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Start With Yourself
The following words were written on the tomb of the Anglican Bishop in the
Crypts of Westminster Abbey:
"When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of
changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered that the world would
not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my
country,
But it, too, seemed immovable.
As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for
changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of
it.
And now as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize: If only I had changed
myself first, then by example I would have changed my family.
From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better
my country and, who knows, I may have even changed the world."
Author Unknown
A Letter To Patrick
Dear Patrick,
I was then an only child who had everything I could ever want. But even a
pretty, spoiled and rich kid could get lonely once in a while so when Mom told
me that she was pregnant, I was ecstatic. I imagined how wonderful you would be
and how we'd always be together and how much you would look like me. So, when
you were born, I looked at your tiny hands and feet and marveled at how
beautiful you were. We took you home and I showed you proudly to my friends.
They would touch you and sometimes pinch you, but you never reacted.
When you were five months old, some things began to bother Mom. You seemed so
unmoving and numb, and your cry sounded odd -- almost like a kitten's. So we
brought you to many doctors.
The thirteenth doctor who looked at you quietly said you have the "cry du chat"
(pronounced kree-do-sha) syndrome, 'cry of the cat' in French. When I asked what
that meant, he looked at me with pity and softly said, "Your brother will never
walk nor talk." The doctor told us that it is a condition that afflicts one in
50,000 babies, rendering victims severely retarded. Mom was shocked and I was
furious. I thought it was unfair.
When we went home, Mom took you in her arms and cried. I looked at you and
realized that word will get around that you're not normal. So to hold on to my
popularity, I did the unthinkable ... I disowned you.
Mom and Dad didn't know but I steeled myself not to love you as you grew. Mom
and Dad showered you with love and attention and that made me bitter. And as the
years passed, that bitterness turned to anger, and then hate.
Mom never gave up on you. She knew she had to do it for your sake. Every time
she put your toys down, you'd roll instead of crawl. I watched her heart break
every time she took away your toys and strapped your tummy with foam so you
couldn't roll. You'd struggle and you'd cry in that pitiful way, the cry of the
kitten. But she still didn't give up. And then one day, you defied what all your
doctors said -- you crawled!
When Mom saw this, she knew that you would eventually walk. So when you were
still crawling at age four , she'd put you on the grass with only your diapers
on knowing that you hate the feel of the grass your skin, and smile at your
discomfort. You would crawl to the sidewalk and Mom would put you back. Again
and again, Mom repeated this on the lawn. Until one day, Mom saw you pull
yourself up and toddle off the grass as fast as your little legs could carry
you. Laughing and crying, she shouted for Dad and I to come. Dad hugged you
crying openly. I watched from my bedroom window this heartbreaking scene.
Over the years, Mom taught you to speak, read and write. From then on, I would
sometimes see you walk outside, smell the flowers, marvel at the birds, or just
smile at no one. I began to see the beauty of the world around me, the
simplicity of life and the wonders of this world, through your eyes. It was then
that I realized that you were my brother and no matter how much I tried to hate
you, I couldn't, because I had grown to love you.
During the next few days, we again became acquainted with each other. I would
buy you toys and give you all the love that a sister could ever give to her
brother. And you would reward me by smiling and hugging me. But I guess, you
were never really meant for us. On your tenth birthday, you felt severe
headaches.
The doctor's diagnosis -- leukemia. Mom gasped and Dad held her, while I fought
hard to keep my tears from falling. At that moment, I loved you all the more. I
couldn't even bear to leave your side. Then the doctors told us that your only
hope was to have a bone marrow transplant. You became the subject of a
nationwide donor search. When at last we found the right match, you were too
sick, and the doctor reluctantly ruled out the operations. Since then, you
underwent chemotherapy and radiation.
Even at the end, you continued to pursue life. Just a month before you died, you
made me draw up a list of things you wanted to do when you got out of the
hospital. Two days after the list was completed, you asked the doctors to send
you home. There, we ate ice cream and cake, run across the grass, flew kites,
went fishing, took pictures of one another and let the balloons fly.
I remember the last conversation that we had. You said that if you die, and if I
need of help, I could send you a note to heaven by tying it on the string any a
balloon and letting it fly. When you said this, I started crying. Then you
hugged me. Then again, for the last time, you got sick.
That last night, you asked for water, a back rub, a cuddle. Finally, you went
into seizure with tears streaming down your face. Later, at the hospital, you
struggled to talk but the words wouldn't come. I know what you wanted to say. "I
hear you," I whispered. And for the last time, I said, "I'll always love you and
I will never forget you. Don't be afraid. You'll soon be with God in heaven."
Then, with my tears flowing freely, I watched the bravest boy I had ever known
finally stop breathing. Dad, Mom and I cried until I felt as if there were no
more tears left.
Patrick was finally gone, leaving us behind. From then on, you were my source of
inspiration. You showed me how to love life and live life to the fullest. With
your simplicity and honesty, you showed me a world full of love and caring. And
you made me realize that the most important thing in this life is to continue
loving without asking why or how and without setting any limit. Thank you, my
little brother, for all these.
Your sister,
Sarah
Your Property
A tax assessor came one day to a poor but honest man to determine the amount of
taxes he would have to pay.
The following conversation took place;
"What property do you possess?" asked the assessor.
"I am a very wealthy man," replied the man.
"List your possessions, please," the assessor instructed.
"First , I have everlasting life, John 3:16.
"Second, I have a mansion in heaven, John 14:2.
"Third, I have peace that passeth understanding, Philippians 4:7.
"Fourth, I have joy unspeakable, 1 Peter 1:8.
"Fifth, I have divine love which never faileth, 1 Corinthians 13:8.
"Sixth, I have a faithful precious wife, Proverbs 31:10.
"Seventh, I have healthy, happy obedient children, Exodus 20:12.
"Eighth, I have true, loyal friends Proverbs 18:24.
"Ninth, I have songs in the night, Psalms 42:8.
"Tenth, I have a crown of life, James 1:12."
The tax assessor closed his book, and said, "Truly you are a very rich man, but
your property is not subject to taxation. "
Author Unknown
Parable Of The Pencil
The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside, just before putting him into the box.
"There are 5 things you need to know," he told the pencil, "Before I send you
out into the world. Always remember them and never forget, and you will become
the best pencil you can be."
"One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself
to be held in Someone's hand."
"Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you'll
need it to become a better pencil."
"Three: You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make."
"Four: The most important part of you will always be what's inside."
"And Five: On every surface you are used on, you must leave your mark. No matter
what the condition, you must continue to write."
The pencil understood and promised to remember, and went into the box with
purpose in its heart.
Now replacing the place of the pencil with you. Always remember them and never
forget, and you will become the best person you can be.
One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to
be held in God's hand. And allow other human beings to access you for the many
gifts you possess.
Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, by going
through various problems, but you'll need it to become a stronger person.
Three: You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make.
Four: The most important part of you will always be what's on the inside.
And Five: On every surface you walk through, you must leave your mark. No matter
what the situation, you must continue to do your duties.
By understanding and remembering, let us proceed with our life on this earth
having a meaningful purpose in our heart.
Author Unknown
Rain Washed
A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in Target. She must have been 6
years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was
pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so
much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all
stood there under the awning and just inside the door of the Target.
We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their
hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and
sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of
running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve
from the worries of my day.
The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught
in, "Mom, let's run through the rain," she said. "What?" Mom asked.
"Let's run through the rain!" She repeated.
"No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit," Mom replied.
This young child waited about another minute and repeated, "Mom, let's run
through the rain."
"We'll get soaked if we do," Mom said.
"No, we won't, Mom. That's not what you said this morning," the young girl said
as she tugged at her Mom's arm.
"This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?"
" Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said,
'If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything!'"
The entire crowd stopped dead silent. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the
rain. We all stood silently. No one came or left in the next few minutes. Mom
paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh
it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But
this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent
trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.
"Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If God let's us
get wet, well maybe we just needed washing," Mom said.
Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted
past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over
their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who
screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars.
And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.
Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take
away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take
away your precious memories... So, don't forget to make time and take
opportunities to make memories everyday. To everything there is a season and a
time to every purpose under heaven.
I HOPE YOU STILL TAKE THE TIME TO RUN THROUGH THE RAIN.
Author Unknown
A Quiet Voice
This little story reminds us to listen to that small quiet voice from within --
you never know where it will lead you.
As a teacher of origami (the ancient Japanese art of paper folding) at the
LaFarge Lifelong Learning Institute in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Art Beaudry was
asked to represent the school at an exhibit at a large mall in Milwaukee. He
decided to take along a couple hundred folded paper cranes to pass out to people
who stopped at his booth.
Before that day, something strange happened -- a voice told him to find a piece
of gold foil paper and make a gold origami crane. The voice was so insistent
that Art actually found himself rummaging through his collection of origami
papers at home until he found one flat, shiny piece of gold foil.
"Why am I doing this?" he asked himself. Art had never worked with the shiny
gold paper; it didn't fold as easily or neatly as the crisp multicolored papers.
But that little voice kept nudging. Art tried to ignore the voice. "Why gold
foil anyway? Paper is much easier to work with," he grumbled.
The voice continued. "Do it! And give it to a special person." By now Art was
getting a little cranky. "What special person?" he asked the voice. "You'll know
which one," the voice said.
That evening Art carefully folded and shaped the unforgiving gold foil until it
became as graceful and delicate as a real crane about to take flight. He packed
the exquisite crane in the box along with about 200 other colorful paper cranes
he'd made over the previous few weeks.
The next day at the mall, dozens upon dozens of people stopped by Art's booth to
ask questions about origami. He demonstrated the art. He folded, unfolded and
refolded. He explained the intricate details, the need for sharp creases.
Then, suddenly, there was a woman standing in front of Art. Was this that
special person? Art had never seen her before, and she hadn't said a word as she
watched him carefully fold a pink piece of paper into a crane with pointed,
graceful wings.
Art glanced up at her face, and before he realized it, he found himself reaching
for the "gold-foil crane" he'd labored over the night before. Carefully he
picked up the gold crane, and gently placed it in the woman's hand.
Art said: "I don't know why, but a voice told me to give you that golden crane.
The crane is the ancient symbol of peace," Art said simply.
The woman didn't say a word as she slowly cupped her hand around the fragile
bird as if it were alive. When Art looked at her face, he saw tears filling her
eyes.
Finally, the woman took a deep breath and said, "My husband died three weeks
ago. This is the first time I've been out. Today ...." She wiped her eyes with
her free hand, still gently cradling the golden crane with the other. Then she
said very quietly, as tears streamed down her face. "Today would have been our
'golden' wedding anniversary."
Then the lady said in a clear voice, "Thank you so much for this beautiful gift.
Now I know that my husband is at peace.
Don't you see? The voice you heard, it was the voice of God, and this beautiful
crane is a gift from Him. It's the most wonderful 50th wedding anniversary gift
I could have received. Thank you for listening to Holy Spirit within your
heart."
And that's how Art learned to listen very carefully, when the Holy Spirit speaks
to him within, and tells him to do things he may not understand -- now or even
later.
Are you listening? God may be speaking to you.
Author Unknown
Listen Or Wait
A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street, going
a bit to fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids running out from
between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something.
As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's
side door! He slammed on the brakes and reversed back to the spot from where the
brick had been thrown. He jumped out of the car, grabbed the kid who threw the
brick and pushed him against a parked car shouting. "What was that all about?
Just what the heck are you doing?"
Building a head of steam he went on. "That's a new car and that brick you threw
is going to cost a lot of money!!"
"Please, mister, please. I'm sorry, I didn't know what else to do!!" pleaded the
youngster. "I threw the brick because no one else would stop..." tears were
dripping down the boy's chin as he pointed around the parked car. "It's my
brother," he said. "He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I
can't lift him up." Sobbing, the boy asked the executive, "Would you please help
me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me."
Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his
throat. He lifted the young man back into the wheelchair and took out his
handkerchief and wiped the scrapes and cuts, checking to see` that everything
was going to be okay. "Thank you and May God bless you," the grateful child said
to him. The man then watched the little boy push his brother down the sidewalk
toward their home.
It was a long walk back to his Jaguar ....a long, slow walk. He never did repair
the side door. He kept the dent to remind him not to go through life so fast
that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention.
God whispers in your soul and speaks to your heart. Sometimes when you don't
have time to listen, He has to throw a "brick" at you. It's your choice: Listen
to the whisper, or wait for the brick...
Author Unknown
Hands
An old man, probably some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the park bench. He
didn't move, just sat with his head down staring at his hands. When I sat down
beside him he didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if
he was ok.
Finally, not really wanting to disturb him but wanting to check on him at the
same time, I asked him if he was ok. He raised his head and looked at me and
smiled.
Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking, he said in a clear strong voice.
I didn't mean to disturb you, sir, but you were just sitting here staring at
your hands and I wanted to make sure you were ok I explained to him.
Have you ever looked at your hands he asked. I mean really looked at your hands?
I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up
and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I
tried to figure out the point he was making.
Then he smiled and related this story:
Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you
well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled, shriveled and weak
have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace
life. They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor.
They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child my mother taught me
to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They dried
the tears of my children and caressed the love of my life. They held my rifle
and wiped my tears when I went off to war. They have been dirty, scraped and
raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my
newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was
married and loved someone special. They wrote the letters home and trembled and
shook when I buried my parents and spouse and walked my daughter down the aisle.
Yet, they were strong and sure when I dug my buddy out of a foxhole and lifted a
plow off of my best friends foot. They have held children, consoled neighbors,
and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand. They have covered my face,
combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been
sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of
anything else of me works real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and
again continue to fold in prayer. These hands are the mark of where I've been
and the ruggedness of my life. But more importantly it will be these hands that
God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And He won't care about where
these hands have been or what they have done. What He will care about is to whom
these hands belong and how much He loves these hands. And with these hands He
will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of
Christ.
No doubt I will never look at my hands the same again. I never saw the old man
again after I left the park that day but I will never forget him and the words
he spoke. When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my
children and wife I think of the man in the park. I have a feeling he has been
stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God. I, too, want to touch the
face of God and feel his hands upon my face. Thank you, Father God, for hands.
Author Unknown
The Race
Defeat! He lay there silently, a tear dropped from his eye,"
There's no sense running anymore- three strikes and I'm out- why try?"
The will to rise has disappeared, all hope had fled away,
so far behind, so error prone, closer all the way.
"I've lost, so what's the use," he thought "I'll live with my disgrace."
But then he thought about his dad who soon he'd have to face.
Get up, and echo sounded low, get up and take your place.
You were not meant for failure here, so get up and win the race.
With Borrowed will, "Get up!", It said, "You haven't lost at all,
for winning is not more than this, to rise each time you fall."
So he rose to win once more, and with new commitment he resolved to win
or lose, at least he wouldn't quit.
So far behind the others now, the most he'd ever been,
still he gave it all he had, and ran as though to win.
Three times he'd fallen stumbling, three times he rose again.
To far behind to hope to win, he still ran to the end.
They cheered the winning runner as he crossed.
First place, head high and proud and happy, no falling, no disgrace.
But when the fallen youngster crossed the line, last place,
the crowd gave him the greater cheer for finishing the race.
And even though he came in last, with head bow low, unproud.
You would have thought he won the race, to listen to the crowd.
And to his dad he sadly said, "I didn't do so well."
To me, you won, his father said, you rose each time you fell.
And now when things seem dark and hard and difficult to face,
the memory of that little boy helps me in my own race.
For all of life is like that race, with ups and downs and all.
And all you have to do to win is rise each time you fall.
"Quit! Give up you're beaten," they will shout in my face.
But another voice within me says, "Get up and win that race!"
Author Unknown
Back To Top
Things to Remember
God writes with a pen that never blots, speaks with a tongue that never slips,
and acts with a hand that never fails.
God can heal a broken heart, but He has to have all the pieces.
God has a history of using the insignificant to accomplish the impossible.
God never asks about our ability or inability - just our availability.
Without God the world would be a maze without a clue.
Many millions search for God and find Him in their hearts.
Sometimes God calms the storm; sometimes He lets the storm rage and calms His
child.
God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with Him.
When God measures a man, He puts the tape around the heart instead of the head.
God does not wish us to remember what He is willing to forget.
God has two dwellings - one in heaven and the other in a grateful heart.
God is more interested in making us what He wants us to be than in giving us
what we think we ought to have.
The man who walks with God always knows in what direction he is going.
In order to receive the direction from God you must be able to receive the
correction from God.
The measure of a man is not how great his faith is but how great his love is.
To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover the prisoner was You.
Let us so live that when we die, even the undertaker will be sorry.
You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips.
Christianity is a religion of paradoxes: The way up is down; the way to get is
to give; the way to be first is to be last; and the way to live is to die.
Most people wish to serve God - but only in an advisory capacity.
Christianity helps us to face the music even when we don't like the tune.
A Christian...Is a mind through which Christ thinks, Is a heart through which
Christ lives, Is a voice through which Christ speaks, Is a hand through which
Christ helps!
Most men forget God all day and ask Him to remember them at night.
Some people complain because God put thorns on roses while others praise Him for
putting roses on thorns.
Author Unknown
The Price of
a Miracle
Sally was only eight years old when she heard Mommy and
Daddy talking about her little brother, Georgi. He was
very sick and they had done everything they could afford
to save his life. Only a very expensive surgery could
help him now and that was out of the financial question.
She heard Daddy say it with a whispered desperation,
''Only a miracle can save him now.''
Sally went to her bedroom and pulled
her piggy bank from its hiding place in the closet. She
shook all the change out on the floor and counted it
carefully. Three times. The total had to be exactly
perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Tying the coins up
in a kerchief, she slipped out of the apartment and made
her way to the corner drug store.
She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her
attention but he was too busy talking to another man to
be bothered by an eight year old. Sally twisted her feet
to make a scuffing noise. She cleared her throat. No
good. Finally she took a quarter from its hiding place
and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!
''And what do you want?'' the pharmacist asked in an
annoyed tone of voice. ''I'm talking to my brother.''
''Well, I want to talk to you about my brother,'' Sally
answered back in the same annoyed tone. ''He's sick ...
and I want to buy a miracle.'' ''I beg your pardon,''
said the pharmacist. ''My Daddy says only a miracle can
save him now. So how much does a miracle cost?'' ''We
don't sell miracles here, little girl. I can't help
you.'' ''Listen, I have the money to pay for it. Just
tell me how much it costs.''
The well dressed man stooped down and asked, ''What kind
of a miracle does you brother need?'' ''I don't know,''
Sally answered. A tear started down her cheek. ''I just
know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an
operation. But my folks can't pay for it, so I have my
money. ''How much do you have?'' asked the well dressed
man. ''A dollar and eleven cents,'' Sally answered
proudly. ''And it's all the money I have in the world.''
''Well, what a coincidence,'' smiled the man. A dollar
and eleven cents -- the exact price of a miracle to save
a little brother. He took her money in one hand and with
the other hand he grasped her mitten and said ''Take me
to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet
your parents.''
That well dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong,
renowned surgeon, specializing in solving Georgi's
malady. The operation was completed without charge and
it wasn't long until Georgi was home again and doing
well. Mommy and Daddy were happily talking about the
chain of events that had led them to this place. ''That
surgery,'' Mommy whispered. ''It's like a miracle. I
wonder how much it would have cost?''
Sally smiled to herself. She knew exactly how much a
miracle cost ... one dollar and eleven cents ... plus
the faith of a little child.
Author Unknown
Just For Today
Trust God one day at a time!
Just for today! I will begin the day by praying: "This is the day the Lord has
made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24)
Just for today! I will say, "I can do everything through Him who gives me
strength." (Philippians 4:13)
Just for today! I will not worry about my needs, for "...my God will meet all
your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Just for today! I will not fear, "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity;
but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline." (II Timothy 1:7)
Just for today! I will not harbor doubt and lack faith, for "...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)
Just for today! I will not lack strength, for "...the Lord is the stronghold of
my life - of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1b)
Just for today! I will not admit defeat, for God "...always leads us in
triumphal procession in Christ, ..." (II Corinthians 2:14b)
Just for today! I will not lack wisdom, for, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he
should ask Cod, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will
be given to him." (James 1:5)
Just for today! I will not feel condemned, for "..., there is now no
condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1)
Just for today! I will not be worried or frustrated: "Cast all your anxiety on
him because he cares for you." (I Peter 5:7)
Just for today! I will not be depressed, "...for his compassion's never fail.
They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22b,23)
Just for today! I will not feel alone for Jesus said, "And surely I am with you
always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:20b)
Just for today! I will not be discontented, "...for I have learned to be content
whatever the circumstances." (Philippians 4:llb)
Just for today! I will not feel worthless, for "God made him who had no sin to
be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (II
Corinthians 5:21)
Just for today! I will not be confused, "For God is not the author of confusion,
but of peace…" (I Corinthians 14:33a KJV)
Just for today! I will not let the pressures of life bother me, when Christ
said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the
world." (John 16:33b)
Just for today! I will not feel like a failure, when "…in all these things we
are more than conquerors through him who loved us." (Romans 8:37)
Author Unknown
A Soldier's
Playing Cards
After heavy fighting, a soldier returned to camp. The next day being Sunday, the
Chaplain had set up church service.
The men were asked to take out their Bible or Prayer Books. The Chaplain noticed
one soldier looking at a deck of cards. After service, he was taken by the
Chaplain to see the Major.
The Chaplain explained to the Major what he had seen. The Major told the young
soldier he would be punished if he could not explain himself.
The young soldier told the Major that during the battle, he had neither a Bible
or a Prayer Book so he would use his deck of cards and explained:
You see, Sir, when I look at the ACE, it tells me that there is one GOD and no
other.
When I see the "2," it reminds me that there are two parts the Bible, the OLD
TESTAMENT and the NEW TESTAMENT.
The "3" tells me of the TRINITY OF GOD THE FATHER, GOD THE SON and GOD THE HOLY
SPIRIT.
The "4" reminds me of the FOUR GOSPELS, MATTHEW, MARK, LUKE and JOHN.
When I see the "5," it tells me of the FIVE UNWISE VIRGINS who were lost and
that five were saved.
The "6" makes me mindful that GOD CREATED THE EARTH IN JUST SIX DAYS, and GOD
said that it was good.
When I see the "7," it reminds me that GOD RESTED ON THE SEVENTH DAY.
As I look at the "8," it reminds me that GOD DESTROYED ALL HUMAN LIFE BY WATER
EXCEPT FOR EIGHT PEOPLE, Noah, his wife, their three sons, and their three son's
wives.
When I see the "9," I think of the NINE LEPERS that GOD healed. There were ten
lepers in all, but only one stopped to thank him.
The "10" reminds me of the TEN COMMANDMENTS carved in stone by the hand of GOD.
The "JACK" makes me remember the Prince of Darkness. Like a roaring lion, he
devours those that he can.
When I look at the "QUEEN," I see THE CHURCH, THE BRIDE OF JESUS.
As I look at the last card, THE KING," it reminds me that JESUS IS LORD OF LORDS
and KING OF KINGS."
There are 365 spots on a deck of cards, and that is the number of days in each
year.
There are 52 cards to a deck and that is the number of weeks in a year.
There are 12 picture cards and that is the number of months in a year.
There are 4 different suits in a deck and that is the number of seasons in a
year..."
And so, the young soldier then said to the Major, "You see, Sir, my intentions
were honorable. My deck of cards serves as my BIBLE, my PRAYER BOOK and my
ALMANAC.
Most importantly, my deck of cards reminds me that I need JESUS... 365 days, 52
weeks and 12 months a year and that I should always PRAY 4 others."
May you never look at a deck of cards the same way!
Author Unknown
Wise Words
God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain,
but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for
the way.
Disappointments are like road humps, they slow you down a bit but you enjoy the
smooth road afterwards. Don't stay on the humps too long. Move on!
When you feel down because you didn't get what you want, just sit tight and be
happy, because God is thinking of something better to give you.
When something happens to you, good or bad, consider what it means. There's a
purpose to life's events, to teach you how to laugh more or not to cry too hard.
You can't make someone love you, all you can do is be someone who can be loved,
the rest is up to the person to realize your worth.
What the heart gives away is never gone...It is kept in the hearts of others.
Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risks.
Secure a special place in your heart. A certain place only you can enter. For
there will come a time when you need to find yourself and only your heart will
show you the way.
The measure of love is when you love without measure. In life there are very
rare chances that you'll meet the person you love and loves you in return.
So once you have it don't ever let go, the chance might never come your way
again.
It's better to lose your pride to the one you love, than to lose the one you
love because of pride.
We spend so much time looking for the right person to love or finding fault with
those we already love, when instead we should be perfecting the love we give.
When you truly care for someone, you don't look for faults, you don't look for
answers, you don't look for mistakes.
Instead, you fight the mistakes, you accept the faults, and you overlook
excuses.
Never abandon an old friend. You will never find one who can take his place.
Five rules to be happy:
1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less.
Author Unknown
My Never Again List
Never again will I confess, "I can't". For I can do ALL Things Through Christ
which strengthen me. Philippians 4:13
Never again will I confess, lack, for "My God shall supply All me needs
according to His riches in glory by Jesus. Philippians 4:19
Never again will I confess Fear, for "God has not given me the spirit of fear,
but of power, and love, and of sound mind." II Timothy 1:7
Never again will I confess Doubt and lack of faith, for "God hath Given to every
man the measure of faith." Romans 12:3
Never again will I confess weakness, for "The Lord is the strength of my life"
Psalms.27:1 and "The people will know their God shall be strong and do
exploits." Daniel. 11:32
Never again will I confess supremacy of Satan over my life for, "Greater Is He
that is within me that he that is in the world." 1 John 4:4.
Never again will I confess defeat, for "God always causes me to triumph in
Christ Jesus." II Corinthians 2:14
Never again will I confess lack of wisdom for, "Christ Jesus is made unto me
wisdom from God." I Corinthians 1:30
Never again will I confess sickness for, "With His stripes I am healed." Isaiah
53:5: and Jesus "Himself took my infirmities and bare my sickness." Matthew 8:17
Never again will I confess worries and frustrations for, I am "Casting all my
cares upon Him who cares for me. 1 Peter 5:7
Never again will I confess bondage for, "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there
is liberty." II Corinthians. 3:17.
Never again will I confess condemnation for, "There is therefore now no
condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." Romans .8:1
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever
believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
Author Unknown
Things I Have Learned
I've learned....
That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in
some other way.
I've learned....
That the Lord didn't do it all in one day. What makes me think I can?
I've learned....
That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.
I've learned....
That when you're in love, it shows.
I've learned....
That just one person saying to me, "You've made my day!" makes my day.
I've learned....
That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful
feelings in the world.
I've learned....
That being kind is more important than being right.
I've learned....
That you should never say no to a gift from a child.
I've learned....
That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend
to act goofy with.
I've learned....
That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.
I've learned....
That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a
child did wonders for me as an adult.
I've learned....
That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the
faster it goes.
I've learned....
That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.
I've learned....
That money doesn't buy class.
I've learned....
That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
I've learned....
That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and
loved.
I've learned....
That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
I've learned....
That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person
continue to hurt you.
I've learned....
That love, not time, heals all wounds.
I've learned....
That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with
people smarter than I am.
I've learned....
That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.
I've learned....
That there's nothing sweeter than sleeping with your babies and feeling their
breath on your cheeks.
I've learned....
That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
I've learned....
That life is tough, but I'm tougher.
I've learned....
That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.
I've learned....
That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
I've learned....
That I wish I could have told my Dad that I love him one more time before he
passed away.
I've learned....
That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may
have to eat them.
I've learned....
That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
I've learned....
That I can't choose how I feel, but I can choose what I do about it.
I've learned....
That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little
fist, that you're hooked for life.
I've learned....
That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and
growth occurs while you're climbing it.
I've learned....
That it is best to give advice in only two circumstances; when it is requested
and when it is a life threatening situation.
I've learned....
That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
Author Unknown
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The Choice
He placed one scoop of clay upon another until a form lay lifeless on the
ground.
All of the Garden's inhabitants paused to witness the event. Hawks hovered.
Giraffes stretched. Trees bowed. Butterflies paused on petals and watched.
"You will love me, nature," God said. "I made you that way. You will obey me,
universe. For you were designed to do so. You will reflect my glory, skies, for
that is how you were created. But this one will be like me. This one will be
able to choose."
All were silent as the Creator reached into himself and removed something yet
unseen. A seed. "It's called 'choice.' The seed of choice."
Creation stood in silence and gazed upon the lifeless form.
An angel spoke, "But what if he..."
"What if he chooses not to love?" the Creator finished. "Come, I will show you."
Unbound by today, God and the angel walked into the realm of tomorrow. "There,
see the fruit of the seed of choice, both the sweet and the bitter."
The angel gasped at what he saw. Spontaneous love. Voluntary devotion. Chosen
tenderness. Never had he seen anything like these. He felt the love of the
Adams. He heard the joy of Eve and her daughters.
He saw the food and the burdens shared. He absorbed the kindness and marveled at
the warmth.
"Heaven has never seen such beauty, my Lord. Truly, this is your greatest
creation."
"Ah, but you've only seen the sweet. Now witness the bitter." A stench enveloped
the pair. The angel turned in horror and proclaimed,
"What is it?"
The Creator spoke only one word: "Selfishness."
The angel stood speechless as they passed through centuries of repugnance. Never
had he seen such filth. Rotten hearts. Ruptured promises. Forgotten loyalties.
Children of the creation wandering blindly in lonely labyrinths.
"This is the result of choice? the angel asked.
"Yes."
"They will forget you?"
"Yes."
"They will reject you?"
"Yes."
They will never come back?
"Some will. Most won't."
"What will it take to make them listen?"
The Creator walked on in time, further and further into the future, until he
stood by a tree. A tree that would be fashioned into a cradle. Even then he
could smell the hay that would surround him.
With another step into the future, he paused before another tree. It stood
alone, a stubborn ruler on a bald hill. The trunk was thick, and the wood was
strong. Soon it would be cut. Soon it would be trimmed. Soon it would be mounted
on the stony brow of another hill. And soon he would be hung on it.
He felt the wood rub against a back he did not yet wear.
"Will you go down there?" the angel asked.
"I will."
"Is there no other way?"
"There is not."
"Wouldn't it be easier to not plant the seed? Wouldn't it be easier to not give
the choice?"
"It would," the Creator spoke slowly. "But to remove the choice is to remove the
love."
He look around the hill and foresaw a scene. Three figures hung on three
crosses. Arms spread. Heads fallen forward. They moaned with the wind. Men clad
in soldier's garb sat on the ground near the trio. They played games in the dirt
and laughed.
Men clad in religion stood off to one side. They smiled. Arrogant, cocky. They
had protected God, they thought by killing this false one.
Women clad in sorrow huddled at the foot of the hill. Speechless. Faces tear
streaked. Eyes downward. One put her arm around another and tried to lead her
away. She wouldn't leave. "I will stay," she said softly, "I will stay."
All heaven stood to fight. All nature rose to rescue. All eternity poised to
protect. But the Creator gave no command.
"It must be done...," he said, and withdrew.
But as he stepped in time, he heard the cry that he would someday scream: "My
God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" He wrenched at tomorrow's agony.
The angel spoke again. "It would be less painful........"
The Creator interrupted softly. "But it wouldn't be love."
They stepped into the Garden again. The Maker looked earnestly at the clay
creation. A monsoon of love swelled up within him. He had died for the creation
before he had made him. God's form bent over the sculptured face and breathed.
Dust stirred on the lips of the new one. The chest rose, cracking the red mud.
The cheeks fleshened. A finger moved. And an eye opened.
But more incredible than the moving of the flesh was the stirring of the spirit.
Those who could see the unseen gasped. Perhaps it was the wind that said it
first. Perhaps what the star saw that moment is what has made it blink ever
since. Maybe it was left to an angel to whisper it:
"It looks like ... it appears to so much like ... it is him!"
The angel wasn't speaking of the face, the features, or the body. He was looking
inside - at the soul.
"It's eternal!" gasped another.
Within the man, God has placed a divine seed. A seed of his self (A seed of
choice). The God of might had created earth's mightiest... And the One who had
chosen to love had created one who could love in return.
Now it's our choice
Author Unknown
Today I will ....
I will begin the day by praying: "This is the day the Lord has made; let us
rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24)
I will say, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."
(Philippians 4:13)
I will not worry about my needs, for "...my God will meet all your needs
according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
I will not fear, "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity; but a spirit of
power, of love, and of self-discipline." (II Timothy 1:7)
I will not harbor doubt and lack faith, for "...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)
I will not lack strength, for "...the Lord is the stronghold of my life - of
whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1b)
I will not admit defeat, for God "...always leads us in triumphal procession in
Christ, ..." (II Corinthians 2:14b)
I will not lack wisdom, for, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask Cod, who
gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."
(James 1:5)
I will not feel condemned, for "..., there is now no condemnation for those who
are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1)
I will not be worried or frustrated: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he
cares for you." (I Peter 5:7)
I will not be depressed, "...for his compassion's never fail. They are new every
morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22b,23)
I will not feel alone for Jesus said, "And surely I am with you always, to the
very end of the age." (Matthew 28:20b)
I will not be discontented, "...for I have learned to be content whatever the
circumstances." (Philippians 4:llb)
I will not feel worthless, for "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so
that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (II Corinthians 5:21)
I will not be confused, "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace…"
(I Corinthians 14:33a KJV)
I will not let the pressures of life bother me, when Christ said, "In this world
you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33b)
I will not feel like a failure, when "…in all these things we are more than
conquerors through him who loved us." (Romans 8:37)
Today and tomorrow, I will ......
Author Unknown
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