What Difference Does Community Make?

Hi friends,

Bear with me while I vent a bit.

I find myself once again wondering if church really matters. If community matters - then why do I find myself alone on New Year's Eve? I guess it is my own fault - I have been feeling sick with a cold but I should have went ahead and made plans. A pot luck at my former church just rapped up. I was feeling better by about 5 p.m. so I called a friend - no answer. I called another friend and told her I was feeling better - all she said was, "oh, Natalie is coming to pick me up any minute so I have to go." No invitation for me to join them - both single Christians!! And, this was one of my close friends!! With friends like that.....sigh....who needs the Christian community - they are not much better than non-Christians!

I'm sure there are other single Christians, like me, spending a very, very lonely New Year's Eve - God be with you and comfort you (and me) tonight!!

I have a confession to make Pals, I quit going to the Kanata Wesleyan church back in September. I found it too uncomfortable and almost impossible to fit in - it was just too overwhelming for me to sit alone week after week. So, I tried going back to my former church - at least I know people there and they were happy to see me, but it just isn't the same after all the hurtful things a certain pastor said to me in 2006 (I forgive, I just can't forget), therefore I can't get comfortable there. I am a Christian without a home church. And I wonder, what difference does it really make for me to bother getting out of bed on Sunday morning? To worship God? I can do that at home - throw on some worship tunes, sing along, and I can even listen to a good sermon on-line or on TV (there are plenty).

I know it's almost impossible to live the Christian life without fellowship but I just don't know what to do! I am a very frustrated, lonely Christian - I could just scream tonight or drink myself into a drunken stupor....it's tempting....but instead I will go out to a small chapel I know of at a Catholic Church in my area. I will try and fellowship with someone else I know experience extreme loneliness and desertion at times - Jesus. I have an electronic key to get into the chapel. It is opened 24/7 for quiet prayer - this is one thing I admire about the Catholic Church - it strongly encourages contemplation on God's Holy Word and many churches offer chapels to go pray in. We all know how hard it is to pray at home with all the distractions....these chapels are great.

I know I have to get rid of the thoughts I have that God just doesn't care about me, or he is mad at me or something crazy like that. Ugh....such a human response! I know this isn't true!

LORD JESUS SAVE ME!


J. (Little Missionary)

Greetings From Heather

I hope you all had a Merry Christmas!

Greetings to Norwaystralia

Norwaystralia? Yes, I want to send New Year's greetings to two overseas friends who have meant so much to me/us over the past year(s).

First of all and farthest away is Rodney from Australia. May the Lord continue to use you and touch others through your life and radio program, dear friend. You must be already into your New Year down under. Much love in Christ, dear brother. Thanks for your encouraging words!

Second, but not second in importance, is our beloved sister Felisol from across the sea in Norway. You have been such a faithful Pilgrim Pal, always offering prayer support and words of blessing and encouragement to your fellow pilgrims. Thank you so much for always have a "word in season" for us. It has meant a lot! We love you and are praying for you as you prepare to enter a new year with new opportunities to experience God's goodness and His faithfulness.

Have a good, godly, grace-filled New Year, dear ones!

David and all the Pals

What's The Fuss?

For the believing Christian who understands the real meaning of Christmas, the unspoken question often leveled at us when we make much of our Savior is..."what's the fuss?" So today I wrote a few lines:

A baby born...

So what's the fuss?

Emmanuel

He's God with us.

Born to die

At Calvary

The Lamb of God

He died for me.

An empty tomb

A risen Christ

For all my sin

He paid the price.

And one day soon

Oh what a fuss!

He'll split the clouds

And come for us.

And that, my friend, is what the fuss is all about. God came to us in human form. He, the incarnate God, moved into our neighborhood and became one of us...only to end up on a cross...for us. Why? Because He loved us!

That is what the fuss is all about.

~ David

Little Sick Pal

Hi friends,

I'm fighting a nasty head and chest cold so I could use some of your healing prayers. I'm prone to getting bronchitis and I sure don't want it to get to that point.

I'm home resting and watching my beloved Ottawa Senators on TV - they are battling hard for a win against the Washington Capitols. Little Fish just scored two goals - woohoo!! It's 7 - 5 Washington....no wait...now it's 7-6...this is crazy - Fisher gets a hat trick - 3rd goal of the game!!!! Be back in a minute.....
Ahh crumbs....the Caps just won, 7-6 - but a great effort by the Sens.

I also wanted to tell you that I've signed up for an evening course at college - it's part of a certificate program in counselling - "Trauma/Addiction Recovery Studies". I have a strong desire to help people - especially the youth - to recovery from trauma and addictions - but not in a secular organization because I must have the freedom to speak about the healing power of Jesus Christ. If I do continue to pursue this entire program it will take me about two years to complete it on a part-time basis...but for now, one course at a time - we'll see how it goes.

God bless each of you and Happy 2008!

Julie (Little Missionary)

PS does anyone know what ever happened to "Passing thru" Bob?

Adding To My Bookshelf

This morning we visited one of the local Christian bookstores here in Ottawa. Salem Storehouse is always a "must visit" when we're in our nation's capital. You know me and books. We are inseparable!

I was able to pick up two John Piper titles. One was on sale so that made it even better. GOD IS THE GOSPEL was one title and the other was THE SUPREMACY OF CHRIST IN A POSTMODERN WORLD.

They provided good reading material as I watched the boys swim in the pool here at the Holiday Inn.

Now my library numbers 4002 titles plus or minus a few.

Read on!

Our Excellent Adventure

Last night's short drive from our hotel to the Soctiabank Place here in Ottawa quickly changed from a dream about to come true to a nightmare...and then back again.

We stopped at Kelsey's for some appetizers before the game and when we got into the car for the 1 mile drive to the arena, the windshield wipers and the heater/fan/defrost wouldn't work. We thought we had blown a fuse. I almost blew one myself! It was snowing ever so lightly but we couldn't see out the windshield. Carol was busily trying to clear the windshield on the inside and every few minutes I'd jump out and attempt to clear the slush from the outside. Traffic was bumper to bumper so we were moving slowly but it was scary. We couldn't see a thing!

We pulled into the parking lot of another hotel and I asked the desk clerk to call us a cab. He said that due to the traffic heading for the game, we likely wouldn't get a cab for quite some time. I went back to the van, frustrated and angry. The trip we had planned a month earlier was quickly becoming a big headache. I sat there for a few moments, quietly prayed a desperation prayer (which wasn't too reverent) and turned off the van. Immediately I started the van again and everything was working. Wow! How did that happen? We quickly pulled out of the lot and into the traffic and, miracle of miracles, were able to get to the rink before the game started. Whew!

So, dear pals, that was our excellent adventure.

Tonight we ran over a cow and ended up frying beef on the manifold. Nice steak! Just kidding but...there is a story behind this. Beg me and I'll fill you in later.

The weary pilgrim

Prayer request

Hi everyone-

We just got word that a member of my parents' church suffered a stroke last night. Please pray for Colleen and her family as they await more news and updates from her doctors.

Thanks-

Lauren-Mary

We Made It...Barely

What a great game last night! The Senators won and Mike got a nice goal. We were almost stranded within a mile of the arena. More on that later. We made it just in time to hear the national anthems and get seated.

The weather was terrible as we made our way to Ottawa but the prayers of God's people must have been effective. THANKS!

Now we're heading to the Christian bookstore. Does that surprise you?

More later...

Off To Ottawa

The Pilgrim is making the trek to our nation's capital, Ottawa, today. Carol, Victoria and the boys are joining me. Tonight we will watch Mike Fisher and the Senators take on the New York Islanders. It will exciting for us as we'll be guests in a private box at Scotiabank Place.

I'm taking my trusted SONY camera and my TOSHIBA laptop so I will post some updates while we're there.

Please pray for safety as we travel and that we will relax for a few days and get away from the "selling our home" scenario.

THANKS!

You Deserve Better

Happy Birthday, Vicki! You deserve better but I found this cake while looking for a picture to post here and I thought it was funny! Hope you do to!

All the Pals join me (and Terry) in wishing you God's best as you begin another year of service to Him.

You are such a blessing to us all!

Lots of love,

David and all the tired 10:30 pilgrims!

Vicki's Day

Happy Birthday to Vicki ...our beloved Pilgrim Pal!

Philemon 1:3-5

Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,

Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;

You are a blessing to all of us here Vicki.

We value all of your prayers and your encouraging words.

We hope that you will have a beautiful day and I really do hope that one of the Pilgrims will put a nice cake in here for you!!..............Love from all of the Pals

Christmas for Especially Heather And Her Family

December 20, 2007
First and foremost, My MRI was all clear Now I can really enjoy the holidays and not stress over my MRI. Thank you Lord!
Next my speech. I showed up at about 5 minutes before the meeting started, because I didnt want to be too early and look nervous There were about 10-15 Board members there, and I was the “opening act”. I explained that I would be reading my speech because my short term memory is below par, add that with my nervous speech twitching, needless to say they understood!
Here is what I said (If you have read “The Cancer” in my sidebar, you will noticed that I took alot off that page):
Before I tell you my Cancer story, let me tell what defines me.
First and Foremost, I am a Christian. I believe that my cancer didn’t take my God by surprise. I have no fewer days left on this earth than I did before cancer entered my life. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that, no matter what happens, this ends well for me.
I am the only child of Greg and Darlene and am the wife and best friend of Mark. We have been married for over 13 years.
I am the mother of 3.
Easton, my 10 year old daughter loves everything Hannah Montana and can dance like there is no tomorrow.My son, Elijah, is 7. He is my blonde haired, blue eyed wonder boy. My youngest daughter, Emma Grace, is 6.Emma is my miracle. She spent the first 5 months of her life in ICU on life support. On Oct 5, she received her second chance in the form of a heart transplant. She has Autism and a myriad of other diagnoses, but when we look at her, we see a child who loves life, and lives every moment to the fullest. She has lasted 6 years longer than any doctor ever predicted!
I am the founding member of Mothering Through Cancer, at the Wellness Community, a support group for Moms who are battling cancer while raising young children. This is a good time for me to tell you how wonderful the Wellness Community is. Before I was first diagnosed, I never in a million years thought I would have cancer, much less this young. But I do, and I am only 32. I didn’t know the first thing about chemo, radiation, losing my hair, how to deal with my fluctuating emotions and everything in between. While sitting in the waiting room in my radiation oncologist’s office, I saw a flyer on the wall for Cancer Survivors (because all of us are survivors!). I jotted down the number for the Wellness Community and called as soon as I got home. That was the beginning of a beautiful relationship. In our support groups, we actually have other people that are going through or have gone through chemo, radiation, loss of hair, and surgeries. We actually have people who have experienced the same exact emotions that you face when you get the diagnosis of Cancer.
We are a family, a family of Survivors. ...Heather

Merry Christmas, Pilgrim Pals

Carol joins me on this Christmas Day to wish you God's very best as we celebrate the birthday of our King.

We pray that you will sense His presence in the midst of all the activity and that you will pause to give Him praise for all He has done for us.

Thank you, each one, for your encouragement and prayer support for me and for each other over the course of the year.

We are trusting God for greater things in 2008 as we rest in His everlasting arms.

Lots of love,

David, Carol, Matthew, Nathan and Victoria

Note: This photo was taken looking out from our family room window after a heavy snowfall.

Merry Christmas From Bernie &Terry & Shoppper

Cradle to the Cross...He's Still the King

Jesus is the reason for the season - no matter what the "world" says - it's about a King who wore a crown of thorns - born to die and rise again for the salvation of all creation.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas from my little critter Noah (and me too!)

Julie - "Little Missionary"

Lauren-Mary's 'Results

My tests results came back, with some relatively good news. All of the more serious test results came back negative. My iron levels were really low, and they found a few small cysts that were interfering with hormone levels, which both explain why I was so tired and feeling off. I’ve been given some medication, and I have to go back in a month for more tests. I was worried about the cysts, but my doctor isn’t worried about them, and as long as I keep up the medicine and have yearly tests and screenings, it shouldn’t be a problem. The bad news is that one of the side effects of one of the pills is mild nausea…and so far I’m missing the MILD part. I’m going to talk to my doctor about that, and hopefully there’s a solution. Oh well, one day at a time right?

Thank you to all the Pals who prayed for me. I was so worried, and this has been going on for so long. It’s such a relief to be on the road to recovery!

Also, before I forget again, LPP asked me a while ago how my neighbours who lost their homes in the fire are doing. The construction companies are working practically seven days a week and even then unfortunately one home won’t be done until February and the other until April. It has been a hard few months for the families, and I was talking to one family member who mentioned that December has been the hardest month for them because they know they won’t be in their old homes for Christmas. Let’s remember them in our prayers on Christmas.

*lauren-mary

Don't Get Too Attached

As the ongoing drama of selling our home unfolds we find ourselves riding a wild roller coaster of emotions.

We received an offer that we couldn't refuse almost two weeks ago. All the conditions have been met thus far. One condition was that the perspective buyer could arrange a home inspection. This was carried out yesterday. You can imagine how Carol was feeling as the inspector thoroughly went from top to bottom checking every imaginable thing. Tapping, banging, opening, closing. He did it all!

We waited nervously. The buyer was there with the inspector and when he was done she was so excited she blurted out, "I love this home so much. I wish we could move in today." We were relieved that the inspection went well but it brings us one step closer to moving on.

The problem is that we "love" our home a lot. But...it's just bricks and mortar and the things that mean most will be going with us wherever we end up.

Each time I look out the back window and see the picturesque winter wonderland that has been ours for 13 1/2 years my heart trembles and I choke up. This will be our last Christmas in this home. I won't be sitting in my Adirondack chair beside the creek anymore. No trails to wander through. But life moves on and God has great things in store for us. That's what we believe but at times it's hard to convince myself of that fact.

Last night I drove past the home of my friends Watson and Noemi Atkinson. Watson will never return to that home. After suffering a heart attack in the Philippines recently God called him to his eternal resting place...a much better home. Seeing their empty home (Noemi and their daughter Jenalyn are still in the Philippines) helped to place things in perspective.

We are pilgrims here and we better not put our roots down too deep. The things that matter most are NOT "things" but relationships and people and our faith in a sovereign, faithful God.

"Father, don't allow me to get too attached to earthly things that will quickly fade in significance but cause me to fix my eyes and attention on You and Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for every blessing that You lavish upon Your children. We have a heavenly home whose builder and maker is God and we are but pilgrims on a journey that leads to You. Thanks for walking with us each step of the way. We praise You for who You are and what You have done for us through Jesus Christ our wonderful Lord. AMEN!"

That Night

What we celebrate:

Mary conceived
Joseph protected
Innkeeper accommodated
Straw cradled
Baby slept
Cattle lowed
Shepherds watched
Angel announced
Shepherds trembled
Angels sang
Shepherds visited
Mary pondered
Salvation birthed
Mankind delivered
Prophecy fulfilled
God smiled.

~ David W. Fisher
December 19/07

What Does It Take?

Last night the boys and I ate at Arby's. The paper placemat on the tray (pictured) told us what it takes to make "life good". ROAST BEET. CURLY FRIES. LIFE'S GOOD. Matthew & Nathan couldn't understand why I would fold up the greasy placemat and take it home. This is why. It got me thinking! What really constitutes a "good life".

Is it being physically fit by working out at one of the GOOD LIFE fitness centres?

Is it getting a "case of 24" for a "buck a bottle" as some commercials proclaim?

If you were to re-write the Arby's statement using only 4 words...two groups of 2, then adding "Life's Good", what would yours look like? For the Christian who seeks to obey God, walk in the Spirit and love others what would he/she say?

Here are a few of mine, keeping in mind that life isn't always "good" just because of the pleasant things we encounter:

"PERPLEXING PROBLEMS, GOD'S GRACE, LIFE'S GOOD!"

"STRUGGLING PILGRIMS, GOD'S FAITHFULNESS, LIFE'S GOOD!"

"PERFECT PEACE, EVERLASTING ARMS, LIFE'S GOOD!"

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." - Psalm 16:11 (KJV)

You Forsake Nor You Leave Never Will I

Dear Pilgrims,

"I will never leave you, nor forsake you."

Signed God.

Those words are written on the head post over my bed on my girl's room in Sauda.Long time ago Serina had with a girlfriend to stay at my parents, they were to sleep in my room, but there was this uneasy quarrel going on. I went up to see what was wrong. Turned out they were fighting who was to sleep just under those words. The broad bed made it easy. I just wrote the verse from Hebr. 13 once more, and they both were satisfied.Aren't we all lucky to be awake or go to sleep with him that will not leave nor forsake us?

From Felisol
December 19, 2007 2:07 AM

Just had to put Felisol's comment here Pilgrim! It is such a good one!

Backwards or forwards it is the same promise!!

Precious Promises

The promise of Christmas and every day of the year for the believing Christian - I will never leave you nor forsake you.

He has blessed us richly!

Our Great High Priest

As I read Lauren-Mary's post my heart ached for her. The uncertainties of life can be so debilitating. Biding time on a snowy weekend, waiting to hear the news from a doctor is so unsettling. No, Lauren-Mary, you're not whining...you're just expressing the feelings that any of your pals would feel if we were facing similar circumstances.

We are praying for you but, greater by far, our Great High Priest, Jesus Himself, is going before the Father continuously on your behalf. He knows your need, the knows what the doctor is going to tell you and He's boldly approaching the God of heaven with YOU in mind.

That reminds me of the poem I penned years ago when facing a seemingly insurmountable mountain:

Our Great High Priest above
In righteousness arrayed;
Presents our every need to God
Before we've even prayed.

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." - Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIV)

Sick of waiting

This week-end has been rough, and it’s only half over. I haven’t wanted to say anything because I hate complaining and sounding like a whiner, but for the past year I haven’t been feeling well, and these past six months have been the worst. I’m exhausted all the time, and I just don’t feel like myself. On Wednesday I went in to see my doctor again, and I got to endure the silence as she once again studied my chart. (By the way, “I don’t know what to tell you” is NOT the most reassuring thing to hear from a doctor!). So, I spent Wednesday afternoon having more blood samples taken.
My doctor’s office has a policy where they only call you if your test results are positive. On Friday I got home from work and there was a message for me from the doctor’s office asking me to call, but they had already closed up for the week-end when I called back. So, now I get to wait until Monday morning. I can’t wait that long! I JUST WANT TO KNOW!!! They tested for so many different things that I just want to know what they found- or if they found anything, or if they’re just calling to say “someone lost a glove-was it you?” or something equally trivial.
This has been stressing me out since I got the message- it’s all I can think about. The entire time the phone was ringing I found myself praying, and just asking God that it not be something serious. So, please pray that I can relax and actually get some sleep and be patient while I wait for Monday to come. I’m already exhausted- I don’t want to miss even more sleep, plus this is a big week-end for my swimmers as they’re at another meet and I need to keep my focus on them. (This is probably the first time in my life I’ve ever looked forward to the week-end being over!).

*lauren-mary

A Special Hug For A Special Friend

Our dear friend Pilot Mom posted this cyber hug for LPP, Little Pilgrim Pal on her blog. I've taken the liberty to repost it here on Pilgrim Pals.

We all join Pilot Mom (Claire) in giving LPP a group hug and we want you to know, dear friend, that we are praying for you.

Lots of love,

David, the Pilgrim

Here's that post:

This cyber hug is being sent to my precious friend in Canada who is having to deal with life and death issues right now. I just want her to know that I continue to pray for her and her family. I know our Lord is sustaining you, that He is sufficient unto the day...May He be glorified and honored throughout this time. May your love and devotion for your family shine forth brightly even though your heart is hurting. I pray, too, for restful nights where He is able to renew your strength for another day. Enjoy every minute you are able to share with each family member. I know He will guide and direct you in ways to minister to each other. Remember I am always here if you need a shoulder or a listening ear. We, the body of Christ, are to bear one another's burdens...to weep when there is weeping and to rejoice when there is joy. I want you to know that I am walking beside you in prayer! Love, Pilot Mom

Faith Is The Victory...David Ring

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMzYR0l7Sbs

JESUS...What a Wonderful Name!

End of Construction

Taken from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Christmas newsletter:

"Years ago Ruth (Billy's wife who went to be with Jesus earlier this year) noticed a highway sign and told us she wanted that sign as her epitaph. If you visit her burial place today in Charlotte, you will find the words of the sign etched on her marker stone:

'End of construction. Thank you for your patience.' "

How fitting! We are continually being fashioned into His likeness. It's an ongoing work that won't be completed until we see His lovely face. In the meantime we ask that friends, family and associates be patient with us. We are a work in progress.

"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - Philippians 1:6 (NIV)

Italics mine - David

When You Don't Understand

Today I read the following quote by J. I. Packer and it's so good I need to share it.

Packer writes, "We should not abandon faith in anything that God has taught us merely because we cannot solve all the problems which it raises. Our own intellectual competence is not the test and measure of divine truth. It is not for us to stop believing because we lack understanding, or to postpone believing till we can get understanding, but to believe in order than we may understand. This is the core issue of authority - are we going to trust our own minds, or are we going to trust God's Word?" taken from Fundamentalism and the Word of God

Something to think about...

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5,6 (NIV)

My Financial Career

The following thoughts were posted on Pilgrim Scribblings earlier today:

One of Canada's most recognized writers from a past generation was Stephen Leacock (1869-1944). Born in England, Leacock's family emigrated to Canada and settled on a farm near Sutton, Ontario. Many of his summers were spent in Orillia, Ontario, not too far from where I live.

The short piece of Leacock's work that I recall most vividly is his "My Financial Career." Check it out here. Banks and Leacock weren't good friends. Likely enemies. I can relate! My first job after graduating from my 2nd year in Grade 12 was with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. I persevered for two months then made a withdrawal. I removed myself from the bank and deposited myself in the family business for 7 years before buying the local Christian bookstore which I kept afloat with God's help for 15 years with frequent visits to the bank manager. How I despised those visits!

When you live on the edge, with no visible means of support, eking out a hand to mouth (God's hand to my mouth) existence, banks can be a life saver or a curse. You're always waiting for "the call" when the crusty clerk calls to say that your cheque was made of rubber. The bank statements arrive in the mail and you quickly shred them and line the bird cage with the pieces. You never read them. You hate bad news!

With modern technology we can stick a plastic card in a metal machine and get paper money for free or at least that's what my kids think. Insert the card, enter your PIN and the amount needed than pray fervently that NOT APPROVED doesn't flash on the screen. I've seen those dreaded words far too often., this morning for example, and this may have prompted me to write this post.

You only have $5.00 left in your pocket and you need gas in the car. You know your credit card is maxed, your chequing account is taxed and you have to make a choice. Rather than suffer embarassment twice you choose to pay cash and go without milk. How come the outstanding balance owing on your card is always higher than you thought and the available balance in your bank account is always lower than you guessed?

It's not that the bank employees I've dealt with in recent years have been hard to deal with. On the contrary they have been exceptional. They had to be to deal with me! All twelve managers in the last eight years have been understanding women. Not a guy in the group. I wonder why. Of course it takes a month or two to explain what "living by faith" is all about. A foreign concept. You work but you might not get paid. Such uncertainty! When the tellers see me coming they know that I either have to do some juggling or another miracle has happened. Some unknown donor has taken pity and sent along a charitable gift.

Will there be financial institutions in heaven? I'm banking on the assurance that there won't be any such thing. I pray that there won't be. No need! The Giver of every good and perfect gift will be enthroned there. We will have all we need...in Him.

'Til then I guess I have to make my treks to the TD Canada Trust after waiting for the mailman's miracle deliveries either to make a deposit or arrange a loan to carry me 'til the next miracle.

Am I stressed? YES! Do I need to be? NO!

I've been writing this while waiting for the mailman to arrive. It's two o'clock. He should arrive soon. Maybe this is the day!

Excuse me while I check the mailbox.

AND PLEASE PRAY...

THANKS!

A quick hello

Hi Pals,

Just want to ask you to keep me in your prayers. The bubble of grace I was in after my mission trip is slowly giving away to the day to day loneliness I so often feel. I am also not crazy about Christmas - it is the least favorite time of year for me - I am grateful for Jesus' birth but I dislike everything else about this time of year. It represents a lot of lonely and unhappy times in my life as a child.

Also, I am feeling a little discouraged these days because Todd has not contacted me since I returned from Mexico. I sent him pics of the trip and thought I'd atleast hear, "great pictures" from him, but nothing. One day last week at work I pulled into the parking lot and Todd pulled into the lot next over - he looked at me and I was about to wave and he turned away. Before I left on my trip I gave him a book by Lee Strobel, "The Case for a Creator" - if you remember, Todd isn't even sure he believes there is a God. Ultimately, it is okay that Todd and I don't speak anymore - it's his choice and I will respect that. I only hope and pray someday Todd reads the book with an opened heart and begins a relationship with God.

Thanks my friends for your prayers.

Julie (LM)

Shepherd In The Woods by Will Greenleaf

Below is a painting that I asked Will Greenleaf's permission to use for this post. I have loved this painting ever since he created it. This picture of the Good Shepherd surrounded by his sheep, reminds me of His love to Dad Golden. As He is resting with His sheep, the Good Sheperd's loving eyes are looking into the distance where He sees the sheep that is far from the rest of the flock and from Him. Out by himself in the dark... The Good Sheperd longs for that sheep with all of His heart and I really believe that that sheep is my dad!

There were ninety and nine that safely lay
In the shelter of the fold;
But one was out on the hills away,
Far off from the gates of gold.
Away on the mountains wild and bare;
Away from the tender Shepherd’s care.


“Lord, Thou hast here Thy ninety and nine;
Are they not enough for Thee?”
But the Shepherd made answer: “This of Mine
Has wandered away from Me.
And although the road be rough and steep,
I go to the desert to find My sheep.”

But none of the ransomed ever knew
How deep were the waters crossed;
Nor how dark was the night the Lord passed through
Ere He found His sheep that was lost.
Out in the desert He heard its cry;
’Twas sick and helpless and ready to die.

“Lord, whence are those blood-drops all the way,
That mark out the mountain’s track?”
“They were shed for one who had gone astray
Ere the Shepherd could bring him back.”
“Lord, whence are Thy hands so rent and torn?”
“They’re pierced tonight by many a thorn.”

And all through the mountains, thunder-riv’n,
And up from the rocky steep,
There arose a glad cry to the gate of heav’n,
“Rejoice! I have found My sheep!”
And the angels echoed around the throne,
“Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!”



Thank you so much Curious Servant for allowing me to use this wonderful painting.... You can find some more of Will's creations at his art blog.. http://csart.blogspot.com/

Staying Mum

I posted this earlier today on my own blog (Lauren's Life), but I thought I'd post it here too.

Lately I’ve been very discouraged about my blogging (as evidenced by my lack of posting anything!). There are countless times when I’ve sat down to try and write something and can’t find the words. Anyone who takes a look at my laptop contents will see easily thirty half-written attempts at posting something.
As I spoke about in my last post, my relationship with Christ has been going well- I’m lacking in zeal no more! My devotions have been great and I really feel like I’m creating a deeper relationship with God. (I still haven’t found a new church yet, but I’ve been praying and I’m optimistic that God will lead me to the right one). So what have I found so discouraging? I feel like I have nothing of value to share. I’ll read all my regular blogs and get so much out of them. Verses or sentiments that people write about really touch me, and there are so many times when something I read will prompt me to study my Bible even more. I’ll sit down to write something and feel like I have absolutely nothing to say back. Somehow it just grew easier to say nothing at all then something boring and irrelevant.
Last week-end I had brunch with a friend who is also a recent university grad. Our topic of conversation was how this is a very uncertain time in our lives, with so many decisions to make and no idea what path our decisions would lead us down. My friend made the comment “I wish you could predict life”. I couldn’t help but think of my favourite verse. Even though we can’t predict life, as Christians we DO know that God has a plan for our lives- a plan to prosper us and not harm us, a plan to give us hope and a future. That’s something to be thankful for and carry in our hearts, especially with so many of us facing uncertainties.

The Pilgrim's Progress

Greetings, dear friends! Just a brief update on a few matters.

First of all, let's continue to pray for Terry as she deals with the health issues of her parents. We continue to pray for Dad Golden's salvation. This is our fervent prayer and we are trusting that God will draw Terry's father to Himself.

The new Pilgrim Pals blog, Be Encouraged, belongs to my youngest sibling Mark. I've encouraged him to post regularly. I trust that you will be blessed as you visit his site.

Now a few personal items:

Carol and I are still trusting that our home will sell. We have a couple coming to see our home tomorrow morning (Saturday). We had an offer earlier this week but it was much lower than our asking price so we turned it down. The problem we were having with our well seems to be solved as we had an ultra-violet filter system installed this week. This has been a very stressful time for our family. Thanks for your ongoing prayers!

God has graciously and miraculously provided for us again this week. Living by faith can be very taxing but when we see the faithfulness of God week after week our faith is strengthened and we marvel at God's incredible provision. We still need a financial miracle but "with God all things are possible!"

Earlier this week I received an encouraging note from a dear friend who enclosed a $50.00 bill with her letter. What a blessing that note was! We never know who God is going to use to meet our needs but He always finds someone who is generous and obedient.

Mike Fisher (pictured with our son Nathan) and the Ottawa Senators have won two games in a row now. Mike scored a goal in each of those wins. Uncle David continues to be proud of his talented nephew who loves the Lord and lets his light shine for Him.

My other nephew, Bud Fisher, helped lead his team, the Quinnipiac Bobcats, to a 4-2 win over Robert Morris tonight. CONGRATULATIONS Bud!

I can't post or comment on our home computers again. This is SO frustrating! Hopefully we can solve this problem soon so I can post with more regularity.

Finally, dear friends, thanks for your friendship and prayers! I love you all and praise God for you!

~ David

P. S. Felisol, your comments to me have been so encouraging lately. Thanks for the love and support that you offer from the other side of the sea.

PRAY FOR OUR DEAR SISTER TERRY

Dear Pilgrim Pals,
Sister Terry, the first to pray for others and the first to salute and remember her friend's anniversaries, is now in need of our help.
Please lift her and Mom and Dad Golden up in prayer.
Let us join hands and efforts to remind our Lord to strengthen, ease and comfort his true and compassionate servant.
I greet you all with Psalm 121.
From Felisol

A Letter From My friend Tish

*I received this request from a friend this morning. The writer is his > sister, Saundra. Please add her request to your prayers.> Love,> Tish
tclark6951@suddenlink.net
Subject:*/ My friend Carla> > On this journey we get to meet a lot of people...most are good, some are> excellent, and occasionally there is someone who is superior. Carla Baumann> is one of those superior people. She was a co-worker at the health> department where she continues to work. She and her husband, Lothar, are> Berea graduates, younger than I, and have a son, Bryce.> > She is patient, kind, compassionate, gentle, and filled with love. And she> is this way day in and day out. I have never heard her gossip. And with> these wonderful attributes, she is humble. In fact, she would be> embarrassed by my description of her.> I can tell you with confidence, she is the closest to a saint that I will> know while on Earth.> > Carla has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She is not questioning> why.> She has asked me, and I am asking you, for your prayers. Lothar is in need> of extra support and love. Two weeks ago, his brother David was diagnosed> with metastatic melanoma. So please remember them.> > I am also asking you to consider putting them on your prayer chain or give> their names to the prayer warriors that you know.> > Love, Saundra

Nudge In Tight

Last Friday was one of those times when the events of the day mirrored the weather or vice versa. One minute the sun was shining, the next it seemed like a blizzard was blowing the roof off. One minute I felt at peace and then my sense of well-being would be shattered. Being the end of the month there's always a bit of apprehension. Will we able to make the mortgage payment? Will God provide miraculously again like He's always done before? Back and forth I went...all day, riding an emotional roller coaster that seemed out of control.

In the midst of the turmoil God, by His Spirit, was giving comfort and encouragement. Without His whispers urging me to carry on I wouldn't have made it. I would have crashed and it wouldn't have been pretty.

Every time I would begin to despair God would whisper, "Nudge in tight, things WILL be alright!" I'd cozy up to Him, so to speak, get under "shadow of the Almighty, be carried along by His everlasting arms and I'd sense a calm release. This happened repeatedly throughout the day.

Friday night I was awake in the middle of the night...thinking too much, of course, and God whispered again. I finally got up, went down to my computer and typed out this dialogue between the Father and me.

First a poem:

The whisper of God came out of the heavens.
Caring, compassionate words filled with love,
The whisper of God, so intimate, personal
Meant just for me and they came from above.

Now the dialogue:

GOD: “Nudge in tight, things will be alright!”

DAVID: “Nudge in tight, things will be alright?” Nudge? Doesn’t that mean to push aside? Surely that’s not what You’re trying to say.

GOD: “Your mere human words can’t ever describe
And convey to you what I’m trying to say.
Nudge, nestle, cuddle?…you know what I mean
Just trust me and do what I tell you today.”

GOD: “Nudge in tight, things will be alright!”

DAVID: "Yes, Father! I’ll nudge in tight, Things WILL be alright!

Dear friend, are you battling something that looms so large that it threatens to defeat you? Nudge in tight to God. Allow Him to take your burdens and cares. He has never lost a battle yet...and never will.

~ David W. Fisher
December 3rd, 2007

Dad

Yesterday afternoon, the hospital phoned to tell us to pick up dad. I guess because of the shortage of beds they sent him home and he will have to wait for an opening for the operation.

We will just have to keep a close eye on him ,as he gets dizzy when he is not sitting.
The Lord know what he is doing and I like the way Mrs.Mac commented.

"Miss Terry, I just read the past four posts about your dad's condition and now your mom. Your dad is in a good situation now to receive the Lord. May his heart literally be softened to accept his free gift! Hugs and more prayers. "

Therefore I will not question....Love Terry


PS..Bernie will be spending the morning with him while I take Mom Golden to the church.
Mom is feeling a bit better after her rest at Betty's...

Update On Dad golden

My dear friends....I am sorry that I didn't update sooner.It has been such a burden yesterday.Dad was in good spirits when my two uncles and I went with him to the hospital.He was made all ready for the operation and then my two uncles left and it would be just a matter of one and a half hours of waiting for the nurses to take my dad down.Well 3:30 and past, nothing.My dad was getting very distraught and losing his temper. I could barley stand it as he was hollering..Finally a nurse came in and said, "I have bad news..the operation has been cancelled.They wanted dad to go home!I went to the desk and inquired," What has happened? My dad has been on the waiting list for months for this and now he isn't getting it?!"I was so upset that they called the operating nurse down and while we waited for her to come, dad was getting out of control.When she did come down, I asked her what was going on. She said dad's heart was medically unfit to take the operation and" there was nothing we can do"..A NURSE told me that. Now in my former years of nursing, we were never permitted to tell a person anything. It had to be the doctor himself relaying the message." Well my dad has been getting very dizzy. I am not taking him home, please even if you can't find a room at least let him stay in a hallway.""He can't because he has to be monitored".And we have no free bed""Well I am NOT taking him home!"I guess she did not know about the army of folks that were praying as she changed her mind and said, "OK I will call the doctor and ask what has to be done."She did call him and the doctor told her to admit dad.NOW...I had to wait with dad for that!And he kept getting worse and worse! Finally I couldn't stand it anymore and I told dad, "Please at least calm down while I go and use the phone!"He promised and I went to call mom.I was just down the hall so I could see dad. There is a spot where I was allowed to use my cell phone.I called Grampa Yade first and told Gramma Yade that we were in a situation that only prayer and the Lord could solve.She said they would be praying for this after I told her what it was all about.Then I dialled mom's number but had to drop it quick as I saw a tall young man going to dad.Well when I got to his side, the young man said that he was bringing dad up to the fifth floor to the "step down" heart unit.Oh boy what a relief!They sent a heart specialist to dad who checked him very thoroughly as dad lay in a soft bed fit for a king!That doctor told him that he was fit for the operation and now they will do it hopefully today if they find an opening....Oh I hope so.I will phone the hospital and tell them to leave me a message as to when this will be because for now I have to take mom to the hospital for some tests she has to take for her throat. She hasn't been able to swallow her food lately and she is down to 92 pounds..Thank you for your help...I just don't know what we would do without it!!....Love Terry

I am going to put this same comment on my Canadian Blog because my hands are shaking too much for me to write it again

Checking in...

It's been a pretty sleepless night for me but I have put it to good use praying for Dad Golden and the other Pals. I'm eager to here from Terry how everything went yesterday.

Also, I have pics up from our Thanksgiving celebration in Ohio. Enjoy!

Blessings! ~Pilot Mom

Satisfied

My friends Stephen and Brooksyne Weber posted this picture on their Daily Encouragement web site today.

What a wonderful portion of scripture! He truly provides the ultimate satisfaction for each of us. His unfailing love can be counted on in the midst of every circumstance.

May you know His peace, comfort and satisfaction today!

Three Things

Dear Pilgrim Pals:

Warm Christian greetings to all of you! There are three things on my mind as I write this post.

1. Let's all pray for Terry's dad, Dad Golden as he undergoes surgery on Thursday, November 29th at 3:30 in the afternoon. One unifying thread that has been woven through the Pilgrim Pals posts since we began this blog has been our desire and prayer to see Dad Golden come to faith in Christ and be gloriously saved. I know that each of us have a deep-seated burden to see this happen. What rejoicing there will be in heaven when Dad Golden surrenders his life to the One who gave His all for him!

2. Thank you for your notes of encouragement and your congratulations on the 3rd anniversary of Pilgrim Scribblings. At times it would be so easy to quit but your encouragement spurs me on to greater things.

3. I've been feeling under the weather for the last three days. Last night was my first shift back at Christian Horizons after my five-week sick leave. I was sick as a dog and barely got any sleep. I went straight home from work this morning at 9:00 a.m. and spent most of the day in bed. I'm back at work now and wanted to post this brief update and prayer request before going to bed. Thanks for your prayers.

Be encouraged, dear friends! We are saved by His matchless grace and we have many great and precious promises that we can stake our lives upon. We serve an awesome God who has redeemed us and given us life eternal. WOW!

Good night, pals. I love you all very much!

Dad Golden's Old Fireman Friend

Here is a picture of Dad Golden, reading a letter from a man that he worked with over 4o years ago when they were both in the air force as fire fighters in Rivers, Manitoba.

Here is the letter...

Hello!
My name is Phillip Stoddard and I am a friend of your Dads from CJATC Rivers. WE worked together at the fire hall.
Roy Hunby from Newfoundland worked on the same shift as well as Keith Willows. I don't know if your Dad will remember me but I have some fond memories from our days together. I got this info from firehouse .com as I am a member. I got your blog from Joy Humby who you will remember from RCI. Its nice to know some of your old friends are still alive and doing well for the age. Please say hello to your Father for me. I am a Christian and attend Pentecostal church in Yarmouth Nova Scotia. I will pray for your Dad that the Holy Spirit will reveal Himself and he will be gloriously saved and you will all see the family in the heavenlies. Its hard to see family pass without knowing the Lord but we don't speak up when we get the chance and go through life lukewarm. Please tell Dad being a Christian does not hurt and the great load will be lifted from his life. I don't know how he will take this from me but then again if we don't try then we will never know. Thank you for this small favour and maybe we can chat sometime. Phil Stoddard (phillip_patricia

PS Dad goes in tomorrow for 1:30 and his operation will be a 3:30...

Happy Anniversary Pilgrim David

Tuesday, November 30, 2004
50 Years in God's Family
On April 6th, 2002 I celebrated 50 years as a child of God. A half century in God's family. Five decades of knowing Christ as my Savior and Friend. I'd say "Savior and Lord" but He hasn't always been Lord, in my life, sad to say. I can well remember the Sunday morning as a 6-year-old boy when my mother explained God's love to me. We knelt and prayed at the kitchen table and I became a young follower of Jesus. Did I completely understand the decision I'd made? No, but the Holy Spirit did His work and I realized that God had given His Son as a sacrifice for my sin. The pilgrimage hasn't always been easy. The road has had its bumps and detours along the way. But God has been faithful! He has been there each step of the way!

In the midst of life's storms He has been my anchor, my refuge, my lighthouse. A favorite scripture verse has been, "The eternal God is your refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms." (Deuteronomy 33:27) As I look back over 50 years, I'm grateful for the godly influence of Christian parents who led the way.

Even as a boy, the Lord used Christian radio programs like Billy Graham's Hour of Decision and the Back to the Bible Broadcast to encourage me on my journey. Christian visionaries from the past like George Muller and J. Hudson Taylor taught me faith principles that would shape my life. Missionaries like Isobel Kuhn and Jim and Elisabeth Elliot impacted my life through their writings. God has blessed me over the years with faithful Christian friends who stood by me during the good times and the bad.

Looking back, I'm a blessed man. God has lavished His love on me through His Son, Jesus Christ, and allowed me to share His love with a hurting, lost world. Thank you, Father, for reaching down and saving me so many years ago. May my life make a difference in the remaining years that You give me. Thank you! Amen!


Posted by David Warren Fisher at 11:43 PM

1 comments
Stevie B said...
Hey there Mr. Fisher!
My name is Steve Bremner, I don't believe we've "met" but I am from Auburn and know who you are. I stumbled across your blog and as soon as I saw your location in your profile and your description I was like "hey I know this guy". Isn't the blogosphere neat?

Steve
11:55 PM


Dear David....This is my all time favourite of your hundreds of posts from, http://pilgrimscribblings.blogspot.com

Pilgrim Scribblings Celebrates

1429 posts later we are celebrating the 3rd Anniversary of Pilgrim Scribblings.

There have been times when I haven't posted as regularly as I would have liked but when you average it out, there has been more than 1 post per day over these last three years.

The readership isn't as high as I would like but the discipline has been good for me even if nobody drops by to visit or read.

I trust that these scribblings have been a blessing to you and I hope to continue writing as God gives me strength.

Mission

The recent mission trip I went on was very healing for my heart. The Lord graced me with courage to go again after being told (in a condemning way) by some Christians that I shouldn’t go on mission again because I am too weak and emotionally unstable, (because I had a so called “breakdown” over a year ago). By the way, that “breakdown” had nothing to do with going on a mission trip but, rather, everything to do with taking my eyes of Jesus and “sinking” into a pit. It was a hard lesson to learn, but one I believe I learned well. Perhaps these few people were correct in their estimation – purely on human terms I am too weak and unstable (we all are), however, “….with God all things are possible”. God chooses the weak to shame the strong – AMEN! No one, certainly no Christian, should ever think of themselves as strong enough to do any service for the Lord without the Lord Himself providing the strength! That is a dangerous attitude – to go forth on any mission field in your own strength – such foolishness! Satan loves when we get prideful and step onto the mission field (wherever that is) without the amour of God on!

After a time of praise and worship and a teaching about the Lord, we set up the stations: food/water/clothing, medical/pharmacy and prayer. My assignment on this trip was on the prayer ministry team – laying hands on and praying over those who live in the dump. This is something I’m not really used to doing, especially in another culture where I don’t know much of the language. But I’m always willing for the Lord.

Below is part of an email I received this past week from my friend, Magda, who lives in Mexico City. My friend Leo in Ottawa translated the note for me. Magda’s words sum up the powerful time of prayer I experienced with the people living in the dump. One of the key things I “heard” from the Lord as I prayed was; “Thank Me now for the healings I am doing.” In faith I had to thank the Lord before I saw or heard any evidence that my prayers made a difference.

“I want to share something with you, that I believe it's the fruit of your service. The day that we were in the dump, you were in the Prayer Station, praying for the people. I remember you praying with love and compassion over the people of the dump.

One of the people that you prayed over came to me and told me that for a few months she was feeling very sad and depressed, she didn't want to work or do anything else, she did not want to live until you prayed over her, and she felt like a peace and tranquility came over her. She told me that thanks to the prayers she felt that God was giving her the strength to go on in life and that the pain that she had on her body was gone, she doesn't feel pain anymore. Praise be to God! Thank you Julie, because I'm sure you prayed with compassion over this lady and the people of the dump. Thank you for your hands, your mouth and your prayers that were tools for Jesus to reach His people.”

Thank you all Pilgrims who prayed for me!

Little Missionary