God Bless this Country

Happy Canada Day to my fellow Canadians - eh!

Father God, I pray that You would bring about revival in this great land that you blessed us with. Thank you that we still have freedom to worship YOU in this country. Forgive us Lord, for the times we, as a country, have chosen a culture of death instead of your life-giving laws. Father, give us, your children, the grace and courage we need to proclaim Your gospel of life!


Julie - Little Missionary

Stay In His Word

The message this morning in church was from James 1:19-25.....but there were many other versus that were referenced, I was taking so many notes...here are some of them... Proverbs 5:7, 6:23, 8:6, 12:1, 14:29, 15:18, 16:32, 21:19 (ouch!!), 22:24, 29:22, John 15:3, Eph 4:22, 1st Peter 2:1, 2nd Cor 7:1, Psalm 119:11...










and then, I kid you not...the pastor closed with Hebrews 11:1.















I just sat in my chair...and cried

cried because I am stubborn to see
because He keeps sending me people
and keeps trying to get my attention......


and this has been quite a week and
I have been met with opposition at every turn....
I pray I am a doer of the Word....
but the enemy likes to steal, kill and destroy....
I have been discouraged and beaten up,
but Jesus came to set me free...





Posted by Donna

Paul Mackay, Welcome To Pilgrim Pals!

I just noticed a new Pilgrim Pal [Paul] so it is very fitting that we should welcome him Pals. He has been a Pal indeed to some of our Pals and it will be very nice to have him here! He is going to have to learn though that if he has a good post at his site, it will definably be lifted!While I was just visiting him [and you know it IS the dead of night and everybody over there was sleeping]], I saw and liked this post. I am sure it is a very timely one indeed for most of us over here. Thanks Paul!!!


Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Tears Are a Language
By Gordon Jensen

Often you wonder why tears come into your eyes
And burdens seem to be much more than you can stand.
But God is standing near. He sees your falling tears
And tears are a language God understands.

God sees the tears of a brokenhearted soul.
He sees your tears and hears them when they fall.
God weeps along with man and He takes him by the hand.
Tears are a language God understands.

Then grief has left you low it causes tears to flow
When things have not turned out the way that you had planned.
But God won't forget you His promises are true.
And tears are a language that my God He understands.

God sees the tears of a brokenhearted soul.
He sees your tears and hears them when they fall.
God weeps along with man and He takes him by the hand.
Tears are a language God understands

Composed by Gordon Jenson ©1971

The Great Unpacking

It was a hot, humid and a very long day yesterday for my move but all went smoothly. Thank you for your prayers Pals!

This morning I began unpacking. I didn 't get too far though, however it was a start. I seem to have some nice friendly neighbours, which is reassuring. This morning I felt I was so undeserving of this new home, but I praise and thank God for every square foot! I will post a few pictures next week. I'm at my parent's place, 1.5hrs west of my city, for a couple days "vacation" - with Alfie of course. He gets to enjoy some small town grass and clover. He is on my lap right now. My Mom is still in the hospital and may be for at least a couple more weeks. I'll go visit her tomorow.

I'm pretty tired tonight so I'm heading to bed now. Thanks again for praying.

Julie - LM

From Erin's Mom Kimberly

First off, I want to let everyone know that there will be a deadication service for Erin's marker and bench on Sunday, July 13th at 2:00p.m. Erin's bench will be opened and this will give everyone an opportunity to place cards and letters to Erin inside the bench before it is sealed. We hope to see all of her friends and loved ones there.

Now, I just want to share my heart. Shortly after Erin died, someone shared a verse with me. It was Isaiah 41:10 "Fear thou not; for I am with thee;be not dismayed, for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." And Oh how God has been my strength and held me up. Not just me but all of us. I have claimed this scripture and there have been times in the past few months when I've had to remind Satan that God had me in His right hand and for him to back off. There are many times that I sit and recall all of the things that took place druing those very long 5 weeks. Somehting I have been thinking of alot lately was the moment we made the decision to let Erin go home with her Savior and Heavenly Father. I will always believe that Erin knew she was going home. I feel as if Erin saw Jesus and the angels beckoning her home. The doctors had told us that she would probably struggle a little after she was unhooked from ECMO but she did not seem to struggle at all. I was standing there holding my baby and talking to her when she took her last breath here on Earth and she was peaceful and seemed perfectly at rest. Of course she was, she went to see her Father forever. I figured I would be completely hysterical and crazy when Erin left us. However, I felt like Erin was where she wanted and needed to be. I know she was healthy and at peace and whole again! Don't get me wrong, I hated it for me and my family but not for her. My heart broke in that moment and still does, but Erin is perfect. When Erin asked Jesus into her heart He answered her and lived there until he called her home. Erin lived a great 14 years here on Earth. God used my baby girl in a very remarkable and powerful way! There is a line in the song "Praise You in This Storm" by Casting Crowns that says, He give and takes away. He gave Erin to me for a little while and then he chose to take her away from me and let her return to Him. I have been angry, I have questioned, I have doubted, I have feared, and I was doubtful. But, I am always reminded that even though I cannot see or do not know God's purpose that doesn't mean He doesn't have one. I know that my God is faithful no matter what the circumstnances are and that nothing that happens is an accident. Erin had no control over how long her life lasted but she did have control over and choice about how she lived that life and she chose to live it for God and to make a difference for Him! I haven felt all alone at times and like I had no reason to continue. But, I'm not alone and God has me here for a reason. I know my God hasn't abandonded me but he has given me the opportunity to abondon myself to Him and that is what I choose to do. I want everything about me to be about HIM! Thanks again to EVERYONE who has supported us and continue to do so. God is great and I so appreciate all of you! Kimberly

Prodigals

Dear Pilgrim Pals:

I have taken the liberty, vested in me as moderator of this site, to reproduce Laura's excellent post verbatim from her blog A Perfecting Love.

Now, without all those legal sounding words, here's what I'm doing. Because Laura has written such an excellent post, I want to make sure that each of the Pilgrim Pals reads it. We're so glad that Laura has become increasingly involved as a pal and we value her insight and spiritual maturity so much. Thanks, Laura!

Laura, please deal with me severely if you are upset with me for posting your article. Just kidding...

Here's that post:

This classic parable was told at my church on Sunday morning.....Luke 15: 11-32 summarized......

- Rebellious son asks for his inheritance
- Foolishly leaves home, indulges in the pleasures of the world and loses his very dime
- He works on a pig farm, and desperately ponders eating pig slop
- He comes to his senses, comes home to repent to his father and pleads with his father to at the very least keep him on as a servant
- His father is so delighted in his return, that he ignores all that has happened and throws a huge welcome party
- The other son becomes upset, but the father pleads with him saying 'We have to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!'

The focus of this parable is God the Father and the general rebellion of His children. It’s a beautiful story of God’s patient grace and His willingness to welcome each of us home into His loving and forgiving arms. We often just think of this story in this way, or in relation to broken parent-child relationships.

But what about our friends both Christ-followers and the lost, co-workers, and other family members? I've been convicted lately regarding how I treat people who are making risky choices, choosing different paths and really in general running from God. When someone we love and care about makes a choice that is contrary to God's word or has a different but risky perspective than our own, on an important issue, it hurts so much to watch that person just walk away, blinded by the world. Our first instinct is to stop that person, and harshly tell them why we think it is wrong and force them into a better path and maybe even walk away from them.

Unfortunately I have learned from this method, the hard way! and have done damage to important friendships.

Rather than be harsh, why not carefully tell that person in love and gentleness why you are concerned about their particular choice. Give examples from God's Word and tell them you are praying for them. They may still walk away and it will hurt, but you are now their silent, but mighty prayer partner, pleading to God on their behalf. By leaving things open and wrapped in love, they will be more at ease to perhaps return to you one day, or many months or years from now looking for that old familiar face, that shines with God's love and grace.

Luke 15:7 - "I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent."

Signing Off

It sure was a busy day and it isn't quite finished for me yet at 11:30 p.m. Still those last minute little things to pack and I just needed a break. Actually I ran out of boxes!! Oh well, thank God it's just smaller items....you know, those pesky little items you keep on your dresser, plus food in the fridge, but my plan is to come back here tomorrow afternoon and pick up the food items, plus the things I can't pack tonight because I have no boxes....I'll have to grab some tomorrow on my way back here. I so thankful that I have a dear friend in the Lord who is retired and offered to help me tomorrow afternoon! Today, my sister in law, who lives close to my new place, and I popped over to see my place. The former owner left it in great shape - nice and clean - praise God!

Terry, rest easy....I have not packed up Alfie by mistake. He is wondering what is going on though! Earlier I was munching on some Sun Chips....Garden Sala flavour....well, that bunny rabbit loves them.

Today, I took the first step to get back on track with my call to longer term missons....- that means I contacted a former organization I went to Guatemala and Romania with. You might be thinking..."hey you just bought a condo!" Well, I doubt I'm going anywhere long term for at least a couple years, but I need to work on some goals now. More on that subject another time.

Okay, better get back at it (sigh).

Bless you all and thank you soooooo much for praying me through this move.

Julie - Little Missionary ....on the move....

Cellulitis

Dear Pilgrim Pals:

Thanks again for the outpouring of love on LPP, prayingsensfaninmontreal and their family. It was so exciting that Paul and Donna could attend their father's funeral to extend Christian love and to represent each of us. Thanks again, Paul and Donna!

Please pray for me over the next few days. The cellulitis that I have battled in recent years has come back again. This time it's in my left elbow. It's swollen but not nearly as bad as my right elbow was last summer. I started on some heavy duty antibiotics yesterday and they are playing havoc with my stomach. The discomfort last night prevented me from sleeping well. Please pray that the cellulitis has been caught early and that the antibiotics will eradicate it from my system. Thanks so much!

Also, I begin my first 2-week stint as Chapel Director at Elim Lodge on Saturday evening. Please pray that God will be honoured in our services and that lives will be changed for eternity as we lift up Jesus. Thanks!

As well, please keep Julie, our Little Missionary, in your prayers as she moves into her new condo and seeks employment that will utilize her incredible gifts and talents. Thanks!

In His great love,

David

Pilgrim Pals are Blessed

Wow! I've been so touched reading all the comments and outreach to LPP and her family. This is what being in Jesus' family is all about! We are blessed to support each other. Nobody judges, we just pray and encourage one another. It's just beautiful. I'm so glad Donna and Paul could go support LPP and her family at this difficult time. What a wonderful surprise!!

I'm moving Friday so I may be out of commission for a few days with unpacking and settling to my new place. The deal was officially closed today and I pick up the keys tomorrow. I can hardly believe I own.....uhmmmm....a mortgage :)

I'll be going to stay with my dad for a couple days next week and visit my mom who is still in the hospital. This is her 3rd stay in the hospital in about two months - it's so frustrating. She seems to be getting worse - not better.

Last night I couldn't get to sleep so I worked on my cover letter and resume for the job I mentioned a few days ago. Finally at 3:30 a.m. I was satisfied and sent it.

Well, I better get to bed....and try and sleep. Thank you all for praying for my needs. God bless you!

Julie - LM

Morning and Evening

The following thoughts were posted on Pilgrim Scribblings this morning:

This morning Psalm 141 caught my attention. Our first thoughts upon rising should be heavenward, a prayer of thanksgiving and commitment to the Father. Why wait until the cares of the day have distracted us? We petition God, "hasten to me". We should rush to Him at the beginning of a new day invoking His strength and presence as we embark on another adventure.

As I child I remember hearing the question posed, "Do the members of an orchestra tune their instruments after a concert or before?" Of course we know the answer. In the same way, we should be in touch with the Giver of Life as we begin the day rather than waiting until we fall into bed exhausted at day's end.

So, we begin our day in prayer, which God counts as precious incense, pleasing to Him. Hours later after a full day we raise our hands (figuratively or actually depending on our preference) in praise and thanksgiving as our evening sacrifice.

Will we offer our sovereign God the incense and sacrifice due to His name today?

A Psalm of David

"O LORD, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you! Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice! Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!

But my eyes are toward you, O GOD, my Lord; in you I seek refuge..." - Psalm 141:1-3,8(a) (ESV)

Outpouring

Thank you, Pilgrim Pals, for the outpouring of sympathy and support for our dear friends LPP and prayingsensfaninmontreal as they have grieved the homecall of their father.

As a gesture of Christian love, Paul Mackay and Donna Butler showed up unannounced at the funeral. You can imagine how much this meant to LPP, prayingsensfaninmontreal and their family.

Many miles were driven yesterday for a worthy cause. These two Pilgrim Pals literally went the extra mile on behalf of all of us. They sacrificed their time because they care.

That's what Pilgrim Pals is all about!

"Father, we pray that You will undergird this family today and in the days ahead as they adjust to life without their earthly father. Be their strength we pray. Thank you for Your all-sufficient grace. We pray through Jesus Christ our wonderful Lord. AMEN."

- David, the Pilgrim

LPP

LPP - Lots of Purposeful Prayers

Our dear friend and prayer partner LPP needs our fervent prayers tonight and tomorrow. Let's be sure to lift LPP and prayingsensfaninmontreal before the Father in the hours ahead. They need the gracious touch of our loving Father.

This is what Pilgrim Pals is all about...praying for each other during times of crisis.

THANK YOU!

~ David, the Pilgrim

NOTE: Thanks for all the comments that have been left on the HELD post. Please keep those comments coming. They will be such a blessing to our friends. THANKS!

Held

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort

Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

II Cor. 1:3-5

Bless you LPP....you are loved
Donna

Bad News...Good News

The following post appears on Pilgrim Scribblings as well. These are the kinds of scenarios I encounter on a regular basis as a sports chaplain. Lives are filled with exciting moments and discouraging disappointments. In the midst of them all we seek to point athletes to the greatest friend and Saviour they could ever have and know, Jesus Christ.

Here's that post:

Friday! Bad news...good news! Two friends go in two different directions.

Tuning in to The Fan 590 I learned that my friend John Gibbons, the manager of the Toronto Blue Jays, had been fired. I wasn't shocked but I was certainly disappointed. John is such a good guy. Down to earth, easy to like, affable, always accommodating. He was always so good to me. I'll miss him but we'll stay in touch.

Later in the day another friend, Zach Bogosian, was picked 3rd overall in the NHL draft by the Atlanta Thrashers. Zach's dream is to play in the NHL at 18 years of age. He will. We'll miss him here in Peterborough with the Petes. Zach and his parents became good friends during his sojourn in Peterborough. Now he's on a fast track to the NHL.

Two friends, two different directions. That's sports. That's life. That's what my life and ministry, Epistle Sports Ministries, is all about. Consoling athletes during the tough times. Congratulating them when things are going well. And...all the time...pointing them to Jesus.

God bless you John and Zach! Our friendship will continue no matter what!

There is a name I Love to Hear

Hi Pals,

This morning at morning meeting, I noticed a line from the hymn 'There is a Name I Love to Hear' and it reminded me so much of all the Pals as we are journeying home together.....

This name (Jesus) shall shed its fragrance still, Along life's thorny road

Shall sweetly smooth the rugged hill, That leads me up to God.

How true this is!

~Laura

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

My heart goes out to Terry and her mom. I'm praying Terry! I certainly relate as my mom is beginning to despair. Her illness is a mystery. She has been extremely weak for about two months now. Weak to the point that she can't even sit up, never mind stand! Her appetite is also decreasing now. Mom had a chest x-ray last week and a spot showed on one lung, so they did a CAT-Scan to confirm and the spot was still there. However, they are not pursuing that!

On another subject.....

I'm applying for an administrative position with the paramedics. The competition closes on Wednesday this week. This particular position is one that I've been hoping and praying for several years would open up. When I saw the job posting tears came to my eyes. I just couldn't believe it! You can't imagine how much I want this position! With my training as a paramedic and all my years experience in administrative jobs my Resume should get noticed. I want a new beginning - new home, new job and just a fresh start all around! I'm desperate for it! And because I'm so desperate for it, I am experiencing major doubts that God will give me this job. For some reason I figure the more I want something, the more God will withhold - as if he is only gives grudgingly and would not want to bless the likes of me!

Heavenly Father, forgive me for thinking of you as a reluctant, grumpy Father who isn't concerned with blessing your children with good things. Father, in Jesus' Name, I come to you like the persistant widow, and I boldly ask you to open the door to this job! Lord you can open this door - that I have full confidence in - nothing is not impossible for you! So, please let them notice my Resume and call me for an interview. I need your supernatural intervention Lord God. I give you all the glory and praise. I love you Lord and I hate doubting your goodness. You know I want to honour you by working wholeheartly for your Kingdom! Lord you know I want to continue to go on mission trips and Lord, perhaps this is just my dream but I feel if I get in with the paramedics I may be able to take advantage of some re-training which I can then bring to those in a third-world nation who can't afford medical attention! O God, you know this is a profound desire in my heart - it comes from your Son Jesus who ministered to the sick and lonely; the lost and rejected ones!

Whew....that just poured out of my heart Pals!

Little Paramedic Missionary :)

Gold From Vicki

I just now came from Vicki's site. Quite often when I am discouraged I go there and I hope that Vicki doesn't mind but this latest Post of hers is exactly what I needed and perhaps some of the other Pals need it also.

As I read this , I could not help but think of Mom Golden. For the last week, it seems that she is in the depths of despair and there just doesn't seem any way that we can help her. It is not a pretty sight. Bernie and I will be going over as usual today and I am going to print out Vicki's post and give it to Mom. I think that it will be a help. Mom is like a little wilted flower herself these days and it would be so nice if this revives her.

Vicki writes;

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." ~ John 15:5

From the porch I could see my mailbox petunias were wilting, so I hurried to investigate, bringing along my trusty watering can.

Down on my knees, I pulled up a few plants whose roots were barely covered with soil, then quickly replanted them.

Some of the roots had dried up completely.

Petunias that once stood in full bloom, now drooped pitifully to the ground in solitary confinement.

I lifted each sagging flower to pack extra soil around its roots, but there was no use - they fell limp in my hands.

I sighed.

They'd snapped in two from the weight of clunky debris blown during a recent thunderstorm.

I plucked the dead plants and cleaned the debris, replanting a choice few that remained.

My back ached as I pinched off dead blooms and branches, hoping for new growth in weeks to come.

What money I'd spent on these gorgeous specimens was lost forever if they couldn't survive. . .. . . but not my object lesson.

You knew it was coming, didn't you? :-)

God didn't have to say a word.

The thought came as I tossed all those withered branches into my bucket.

Abide.

This is what happens when we don't.

When we're disconnected from Him, we're limp, weak, and ineffective.

We can't grow on our own.

Only God Himself establishes us as we abide in Christ.

Our roots in Him must go deep.

And deep they go, when we abide.

I noticed something peculiar about one petunia.

Of all the others, this bright magenta darling waved in the breeze, oblivious to it's own cuts and bruises.

Her roots ran deep. I pinched off the broken places and let her be.

I can't force any growth, but I know this plant will bide well through the summer months with a little water and love.

Like that peculiar petunia, I want to stand firm through the adversities of life.

How can this be?

We all get knocked around, someone said.

All I know is, the lilies of the field neither toil nor spin; neither does my little petunia.

It rests in the heart of the soil.

Likewise, I trust the Holy Spirit is working to grow my faith stronger and brighter in Him each day, whether I realize it or not.

He is my Living connection; no other union will do.

Fruitfulness in my life comes as I draw from the lifesap of the Vine.

So I open His Word expectantly and hopefully, and rejoice that His life is being cultivated in me.

I want to grow in spite of life's "cuts and bruises," but I leave the gardening to Him.

When I'm resting and well-rooted in Him, I know that He will do the rest.

"Rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." ~ Colossians 2:7

Thanks Vicki!....http://windowstomysoul.blogspot.com

Discouragement

Psalm 68:19 Blessed by the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. When we ask God for our daily bread, what do we mean? Is it merely food to nourish our body? Is it all the basic necessities of life? Does it include the bread Jesus spoke of: the Word of God? It is all these things and more. Our heavenly Father wants us to have everything we need to affirm His image within us. God never calls His children to tasks they are not ready for, and He will not abandon us without the resources we need to succeed. Our God provides us with everything we need to be the best people we can be. Call upon the Lord to load you daily with benefits. He will do even more than you expect. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Prayer: Lord, I do not even know what I need to be better than I am today, but in Your wisdom, You see my every need. Give me what You will, in order that I might be an honor and a glory to You. Amen.

Wings of Prayer

When you're feeling low and lonely and no one seems to care,

Reach out to God who loves you and unfold your wings of prayer.

Rise above the daily heartaches so common to us all.

Just spread your wings and fly away before the teardrops fall.

Don't let trials and temptations like anchors weigh you down.

Reach out to God...

He loves you and will not let you drown.

You can rise above your problems; you can soar most anywhere.

Just put your faith into action and unfold your wings of prayer.

The Day God Dropped By

God gently knocked on my office door. With halting words I welcomed Him. He had dropped by before. Many times. This time he wore a crisply ironed blue dress shirt and a complimentary yellow tie. Coffee in hand, He looked dapper, not ostentatious. That rare mix of professionalism and humility.

First, he listened to my troubled heart. As I unburdened my cares the Burden Bearer cared. Then He spoke peace. No pat answers. No clichés. “This is NOT a today thing”, he said. “We will get it done!”

His empathy touched me deeply. As tears surfaced He reached behind me, took a tissue from the box and lovingly handed it to me.

As quietly as He entered the room, He was gone. My dark day lightened. My anxious spirit was lifted. His presence lingered.

Looking back on this serendipitous meeting, I praise God that He chooses to engage us at the point of our deepest need. I required the counsel of an accountant. He came as a CA, a good one.

My accountant was truly a CA yesterday. Christ’s Ambassador. He represented his Master well. He always does. A man of integrity for sure.

Have you had a life-changing encounter with the Burden Bearer lately?

Listen! He may be knocking at the door.

~ David W. Fisher, May 18th, 2008

Laminin

"He is before all things and in Him all things hold together." Colossians 1:17

"A fool says in his heart, there is no God...." Psalm 14:1

Perhaps you have already heard about Laminin. I hadn't until this week when I watched a video on Youtube by Louie Giglio. If you haven't heard about this - be prepared to have you mind blown! Laminin is a protein found in our bodies. The sheets of protein in all internal organs are vital to making sure overall body structures hold together.

What does it look like? A cross!

Julie - Little Missionary

No Words Needed

Well, maybe a few...

a Master Designer named God created this!

May our hearts be filled with wonder as we admire Your handiwork.

HOW GREAT THOU ART!

Many thanks to Donna for this photo.

Change Me

Thank you Pilgrim Pal Saija for this excellent graphic. How true! We wait for God to change our circumstances when it might be us who needs to undergo some renovations.

"Father, change me if that's what is needed. I may balk at first but deep down inside I'm convinced that You know best. Through Jesus Christ I pray, AMEN!"

Morning Mercies

Morning Meditations, Morning Mercies

"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope:

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD." - Lamentations 3:21-26 (NIV)

Slipping Into the Shadows

Today we drove away from our Cavan home for the last time. Carol and I had gone in separate vehicles so we didn't get to talk about our feelings as we pulled away. Maybe that's a good thing! The pain was almost unbearable. I didn't want to talk to anybody for fear of hearing pat answers.

Tonight was the year-end program at our children's Christian school. It was a great evening but I didn't want to be there. I didn't want to see anyone. Didn't want to talk. Just wanted to bury my head...and cry.

I'll be alright though. The sovereign God of the universe is also this pilgrim's heavenly Father and He chooses to draw me close and whisper "peace". What a tender, gracious Father to those who grieve the loss of things we deem important!

Tonight I feel like I'm slipping into the shadows. Even if I do, He will go with me there and bring me back into His glorious Light.

Thus...the following poem came easily this evening. Please pray for Carol and me. Carol is experiencing her own grief and loss. We perceive things differently, grieve in different ways but both feel the same pain. Thanks for praying, precious Pilgrim Pals.

SHADOWS

Darkness surrounds me
Discouragement buffets me
Despair is waiting just 'round the next bend,
Can't seem to shake it
Don't want to fake it
Slipping into the shadows
Where fear bares its teeth.

Nothing excites me
Everything frightens me
When will this cloudy sky turn into blue?
Frustrated, angry
Wondering...why me
Groping round in the shadows
God's hiding from me.

This is the heartcry
Of many who pass by
How can I ever escape from this pain?
Father can see you
Jesus will free you
From dark, fearful shadows and
Fill you with Light.

- David W. Fisher - June 16th, 2008

Note: Please keep Terry in your prayers this evening too. She is not feeling well. THANK YOU!

Held.....

Dear Pals....

As per my email....my interpretation was correct....
David....I wanted to post this here....everyone can visit my blog to hear it http://www.bhgalone.blogspot.com/ or visit the link below
or perhaps you could post the video here...

The song is Held by Natalie Grant....



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yviPtVYpRs&feature=related#

Held

Dear Pals,

I wanted to confirm that he has passed on to glory and
is with our Lord...I wanted to post this here, but David would need to..
so please visit my blog
http://www.bhgalone.blogspot.com
and pray for
our sweet pal...LPP and her family

the song is Held by Natalie Grant

Prayers for Terry

Please keep Terry in your prayers.....she is battling a chest cold and the doctor has prescribed anti-biotics for it....she is not feeling well at all...

For I will restore health unto thee,
and I will
heal thee of thy wounds,
saith the Lord
Jeremiah 30:17a



Posted by donna

From Across the Sea

Our beloved Felisol has been such an encouragement in recent weeks. Today was no exception. You could read the following sentiments in the "comments" section but I wanted to publicly thank Felisol tonight for her encouragement.

She writes the following from the far across the sea:

Dear Pilgrim Father,

Happy Father's Day from across the sea. You truly are a good father figure to all Pilgrims and I love you for that.

It's in a way only right that you too have to strive with all the difficulties, illness, exhaustion, lack of time and money and all the other things we mortals have to face. By sharing we also get to follow your way through the dark tunnels and into the open. Best of all, never have you forgotten to care about your fellow Pilgrims, not even in your darkest hours.

Let's hope we'll get to wander along further on.

I thank God for leading us and pray that He in His special way will bless this week in a new home for you and your family.

From Felisol

Happy Father's Day

Well, another Father's Day has almost passed. (The picture on the left is of Felisol and her father). We hardly had time to think about it today. We are down to the 11th hour (well, the 8th hour) at our old home. We'll have everything cleared out by midnight tonight, I hope.

I thought of my dad several times throughout the day. What a fine, godly man!

I also thought of LPP and the worsening condition of her father. LPP, we love you and we're praying for your dad.

We can't forget to pray for Terry's father, Dad Golden. God is going to gloriously save him one of these days.

We also pray for Donna's friend's father!

Thanks for your prayers over the past few weeks, dear Pilgrim Pals. You have refreshed the troubled spirit of this stumbling pilgrim. You have been a blessing! In several hours I'll leave for work and I trust I'll have a restful night! Keep abiding in the shadow of the Almighty One. ~ David, the pilgrim

P. S. Thanks for sharing that scripture verse, Laura. It's been a favourite of mine for many years. HE WILL BRING US THROUGH!

For a Little While...

Hi Friends! It's been a long and uncertain week for a few of our Most Special Pals. I've been praying that God would touch you in a very special way and give you an absolute sense of peace. I want to share with you a verse that was recently shared with me. It brought a real sense of calm as I reflected on it....

'And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.' 1 Peter 5:10

~Laura

For Us All!

Dear David...I can see how you were moved to tears.
Just lately Felisol has written a post about her Dad and the precious memories that they shared and this, I believe is what you were thinking about as you played the piano for your dear mom.....the old memories, of you being a naughty boy and not wanting to practise but your mom made you and look at the results!
Here you sit playing the beautiful hymns that must be so heart soothing to that dear widowed Mom of yours.
Just like David played the harp for Saul!
When we left my beloved Manitoba, there was a sing at somebodies house and the song that they sang was. "If We Never Meet Again This Side Of Heaven"
I cannot listen to that song now without out weeping! ...

Donna's Request

Our dear Pilgrim Pal Donna (pictured) has sent out the following request. Let's get behind Donna and send a note of encouragement as a comment on her prayer blog. See the link below or just click here.

Dear Friends,

Father's Day is quickly approaching and I need your help.

The last time I celebrated Father's day with my dad was 26 years ago. He died in 1982, a year and a half after my mom. Fond memories linger of him...his demeanor, his quirks, his smile and laughter, his voice, the roughness of his hands, his never ending efforts to be the best dad he could to eight children. He did not walk me down the aisle at my wedding, he never knew my children or grandbaby. I will always miss him....It seems so long ago that he was here; it seems long ago that I was young; unprepared to lose another parent within such a short span of time.

I have an on-line acquaintance, an internet friend, whose name I cannot mention. I also cannot provide explicit details. In fact, the only thing I can do is tell you the immediate need for prayer. Prayer, because I fear the reality I faced 26 years ago with my dad, may soon become a reality for my young friend..and family members.

I have anguished over the situation; it is delicate, private, and anonymity is imperative. Yet my heart's cry is to reach out into the blogging community for prayer and words of encouragement for my friend....a friend who may be spending the last father's day with a loving earthly dad....

Would you please do two things for me.....would you visit my prayer blog and leave a prayer or words of encouragement ? http://www.bhs-dsb.blogspot.com..... under the Post titled Psalm 46

and then.......

Would you send this email out to as many of your friends...and ask them to please do the same.....

The Christian blogging community has come together many times...we have stood strong in faith and love, bearing the needs of others, lifting our voices in praise and prayer to the Lord....asking for healing, comfort, courage, strength.....Thank you for joining me in prayer once again....

In His Love,

Donna

Moved To Tears

Today I stopped at my mother's home to say "hi" and to play a few hymns on her piano, the one I unwillingly practiced on 50 years ago as a kid.

The hymn book was opened to one of my all-time favourite hymns. You could fittingly classify this one as a missions anthem. It's compelling! It's victorious! It's moving!

As I played this piece of music I couldn't hold back the tears. What a glorious message we have to tell to the nations! Why are so few going, sending or supporting?

Here are those powerful lyrics:

O Zion, haste, thy mission high fulfilling,
To tell to all the world that God is light,
That He who made all nations is not willing
One soul should perish, lost in shades of night.

Chorus:

Publish glad tidings, tidings of peace;
Tidings of Jesus, redemption and release.

Behold how many thousands still are lying
Bound in the darksome prison house of sin,
With none to tell them of the Savior’s dying,
Or of the life He died for them to win.

Proclaim to every people, tongue, and nation
That God, in Whom they live and move, is love;
Tell how He stooped to save His lost creation,
And died on earth that we might live above.

Give of thy sons to bear the message glorious;
Give of thy wealth to speed them on their way;
Pour out thy soul for them in prayer victorious;
O Zion, haste to bring the brighter day.

Prayer for Christian based Job

I've been doing some job searching today and found a job right up my "alley" as they say. It is with a local Christian organization that ministers to the homeless and those going through other difficulties such as addiction recovery. The job is for an administrative assistant to the manager of fundraising. I could definately do the job! There is no doubt in my mind it would be a good fit for me. I just need to get an interview! With the 18 years administrative experience I offer and my heart for the poor - reflected in my Resume under volunteer experience, surely they will take notice of that!

My dear Pals, please ask our Heavenly Father in Jesus Name to open this door....to a new beginning - a fresh start in a job that will be rewarding knowing I am helping the poor in my own community.

Julie - Little Missionary

Where'd the bunny go?

Packing is fun, packing is fun, packing is fun.... whew...I keep saying that but I can't quite convince myself of it.

No....this is not the tower of babel.

Where did that Alfie get to? Alfie, oooh Alfie.....where are you? Come out come out wherever you are!

There you are - you silly bunny. My gosh, Terry said I should be careful not to pack you! Come out of there!

Now come on Alfie.....I promise I'll pack your Senator's blanket.

This packing moment brought to you by....

Julie - Little Packing Missionary!

An Anxious Heart

The following post appears on Pilgrim Scribblings today but I wanted to make sure that each of the Pilgrim Pals read these encouraging words. Be blessed today, dear friends, and be a blessing to others.

My dear friends Stephen and Brooksyne Weber (pictured) carry on a vital ministry of encouragement online. Their Daily Encouragement devotionals are always meaningful, Christ-centered and uplifting. Today's was no exception.

I've already been the recipient of God's loving kindness today. I was battling an anxious heart. Feeling overwhelmed by the cares of life, I called my dear friend and mentor Paul Collet and came away with a refreshed spirit. He cheered me up and my anxiety subsided.

Enjoy Stephen and Brooksyne's thoughts today:

"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up" (Proverbs 12:25).

Have you personally experienced the first part of today's verse? That is; an "anxious heart""weighs a man down." Of course I know what your answer is to that question. Someone once defined worry as "a small trickle of fear that meanders through the mind, cutting a channel into which all other thoughts flow."

The perspective of trust is at the very heart of being a child of God. It's great to be a child of God today! My sins are forgiven and the God of the universe beckons me to call Him "Father." I have an assurance that He cares for me and His promise is that He will never leave me nor forsake me. Wow, if I just keep that bright perspective the troubling "things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace."

But I still find myself identifying with the first phrase in the daily verse. An inner battle rages between trust and worry. Trust dispels worry, but much like the popup figures in an arcade shooting gallery, worry tends to keep popping back up!

The anxieties of this life really do weigh one down. Sometimes it seems they really press on the heart and one can literally feel the weight (the KJV says it "maketh it stoop"). I'm sure most of you know what I mean. And I wouldn't be surprised if some of you reading this message are experiencing a heavy anxious heart even now.

Thank God for the power of a kind word! I have so often been the recipient of such words. An earnest "I'm praying for you", a caring "How's your health?", or a sincere "I really appreciate you." Words like these really cheer the heart up and in each of the above examples I can recall a specific instance that I continue to draw energy from. The word for "cheer" is literally derived from a Hebrew word meaning to "brighten up."

I hope you receive some kind words today and dispense some kind words yourself, as you fulfill the Biblical principle of sowing what you desire to reap.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, the cares of this world often press in on us and weigh our hearts down. It's not your desire that we carry a heavy load because You are the Burden Bearer. You use the difficult circumstances of our lives to bring glory to Yourself as You bring spiritual maturity into our relationship with You. Our faith is strengthened and our understanding deepened as You take the evil that Satan hurls at us and turn it into glorious occasion for Your power to be released and deliverance to take place. You are the same God who led us into battle that will also lead us to victory in Jesus name, amen.