Pilgrim Update

Dear Pals:

Many of you have asked various and sundry questions about the goings on in the Pilgrim's life lately (that's me with Pat Daley of the Peterborough Petes in the photo). I thought it would be prudent to update you on a few things. In no particular order, here are some of the things that are happening:

Our move to our "other" home will take place between June 2nd and 16th. We get possession on the 2nd but don't need to vacate our present location until the 16th. That gives us a two week cushion and will eliminate a lot of rushing around. There will be enough stress as it is but we are actually looking forward to the move now.

The book that so many have asked about is already written for the most part. It just needs to be edited and formatted with some final touches added. Much of the content has been published in one form or another over at Pilgrim Scribblings. The book will be an account of God's faithfulness over the years and I will relate many of the lifestories that helped shape me. It will have poems which I have written between each chapter. The main title, TAKING THE BUMPY ROAD HOME, is the result of a request that our son Nathan used to make of me before they paved one of the roads leading to our home. He would often ask, "can we take the bumpy road home?". Of course the application is that "my" road "home" has been anything but smooth but God has been at the helm for most of the journey.

I'm still grieving the fact that the Ottawa Senators made an early exit from the Stanley Cup playoffs. What may have happened had Mike Fisher been healthy? Guess we'll never know.

Our granddaughter Victoria is going on a Missions Trip to Belize with a group of young people from our church in late August. The church has been doing various fund raising events for the trip. Last Saturday we held a garage sale at my mother's home and raised over $1,000.00 for the trip. We'll do it again this Saturday morning, Lord willing.

This will be a busy Sunday for me. I'll be speaking at a church in Toronto in the morning then rushing back to speak at a local retirement residence at 2:00 p.m. Each month I speak on the 1st Thursday at one residence and then the 1st Sunday at another. It's rewarding for me and the "old folks" seem to enjoy our times together.

We continue to trust God to provide for the financial needs of Epistle Sports Ministries. Writing cards and letters of encouragement to athletes is the primary calling of God on my life and "when I write I feel His pleasure."

My work with Christian Horizons continues to occupy me 28 hours each week. For most of that time I'm sleeping. I'm now at a new home in Peterborough where there are presently four individuals that we care for.

Well that's about it for now, my pals. Thanks for your prayers and let's keep lifting each other up before the Father, who loves us passionately.

In His embrace,

~ David, the Pilgrim

Prayer Request From Amrita

Please pray for me. This heat is exhausting me. Also pray for our church water well project...for the Lord 's provision and help. You can read about it on my blog.....http://yesugarden.blogspot.com

The Only True God

With so many "new" gods these days, we need to determine where our allegiance lies and stand for truth in the midst of all the perversions.

It's frightening to see how large a following Oprah Winfrey and her latest flavor of the month, Eckhart Tolle, have garnered. Their "cyberchurch" is numbering in the millions.

"Father, give us discernment during these troubling times. May we seek after truth and follow the One who said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God and God, the Son. AMEN!"

These random scribblings were born out of my concern:

THE ONLY TRUE GOD

God, we know, is awesome, holy,
Not the god of Eckhart Tolle;
He, the Sovereign, reigns on high,
Those who trust Him never die.

God, we know, is faithful, mighty,
Not the god of Oprah Winfrey;
His Son Jesus died one day
Now He is the only Way.

God, we know, must get the glory
His Word, truth, inerrant wholly;
Trustworthy in every line
How I love to call Him mine.

He, with passion, we pursue,
Not some strange New Age guru,
He's my King, Ancient of Days,
To this God, I give my praise.

~ David W. Fisher, April 27th, 2008

Prayer Requests

Hello Pals,

I have a few prayer requests I'd like to share with you.

1) for my mom - she is feeling very, very weak, (a side effect of a new medication) and unable to do much of anything - she is discouraged. Pray that her doctor will try another medication or that the side effects would go away.

2) for my friend, Maureen, who has been having chemo and it's not going too well. When blood tests are done and the doctors look for a certain protein that should be low - it isn't - it is really high. Maureen has had cancer 3 times in the last 6 years! Pray for a miracle healing.

3) and for little ole me :) For a administrative job to open up with the paramedic or Fire service dept - not sure if I mentioned this but I am trained as a paramedic. However, that was over 12 years ago. God had called me to work in the Guatemalan mountains in health care back in 1999. He opened every door you can imagine and then my doubts and anxiety that God would supply for me financially took over... I "ran" back to a secular job. Haven't been at total peace since then. Hopefully someday He will give me the chance again! For now pray about the job situation.

God bless.

Julie (Little Missionary)

Swamped

Feeling swamped today? Mired in the mud of a mad busyness? Is that sinking sensation threatening to pull you under? Desperation flooding your soul? The clouds of uncertainty moving in unabated?

I've been there! And, when it seemed like hope had evaporated, God whispered forcefully yet lovingly, "Be still and know that I am God."

Hear His still small voice today in the midst of your crisis. Fall into His arms. Give up your striving and yield every thread of your being to Him. He cares! He really does!

"Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you. " - 2 Chronicles 20:15,17 (NIV)

Encouragement From Vicki

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Abiding
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress,my God, in whom I trust."~ Psalm 91:1-2

This verse was found on Vicki's blog

"Window To My Soul"...http://www.windowstomysoul.blogspot.com/

And it is soooooo good!

Good Report For Dad Golden

Yesterday Dad Golden heard good news from his doctor in Hamilton.
The operation that he had a few months ago was a great success.
Dad Golden is not getting dizzy anymore and he is not getting cramps in his legs.
The operation on his neck for heart coronary disease was a complete success and as long as Dad Golden eats properly and gets proper exercise, he will continue in good health..
This is all God's doing, I am sure and He has heard all of your prayers for Dad Golden and I want to thank you all very much.
Dad Golden is also open to the gospel and he listens when we bring up the subject of eternity.
One of these days we will hear even better news that he has been gloriously saved!
Thank you all so very much.
Mom Golden is doing well also and she is very happy about her sweetheart of almost 61 years!

God's blessings on you all!........Love Terry

His Grace Is Sufficient

This video is for Little Pilgrim Pal and her family.

This is not the same hymn that she posted in the comments but is is very nice so I am thinking that she will like it!

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=tvRgMeugsQ4&feature=related

Update on Lil' Pilgrim Pals Father.....

Dearest Pals,

It has been so long since I wrote you all a real update on my dad and our family in general, and so much has happened. I will try to recap in chronological order.First the swelling in my dad’s foot went down so much that it almost looked normal: he was shuffling about without crutches for short distances; he didn’t have any pain; he had so much energy that he would go without napping easily. And then it all changed for the worse: the pain came back in his foot, the swelling returned to look like what it did last year, and his energy waned. I don’t know what happened, only God knows. At any rate, as everything began to bother him again, his morale grew very low again, too. My mom always tells us that she can tell us something until she is blue in the face, but we will only see it when the Spirit reveals it to us through God’s work in our heart. So it goes with my dad…we children get so frustrated that he isn’t happy, etc. but that doesn’t change his attitude. Only God can do that.

It is so hard some days. I stay busy so as not to think about it, but that doesn’t change the situation…Two weeks ago the hospital visits began again after a small break after chemo. First he went to the orthopaedic dr., and then for a CT scan: we haven’t gotten the results yet. However, he did have an x-ray, in which he saw that nothing had changed either way in his foot. Changes take a year to take place and be noticed, so this is good news in that it hasn’t gotten any worse. However, on further review from the doctors, they decided to tell my dad he will need 5 radiation treatments on his foot, 5 days in a row. That is NOT good news. I cringe just writing it. He is so exhausted after a trip out, and they are asking for 5 consecutive days out?! When my mom told me, I expressed my concern, but she gently reminded me that it is my dad’s decision to go with it, or re-schedule it. She said that she will do the research and contact his childhood friend who has been such a help, having gone through cancer and now a naturopathic doctor and she will give my dad the info so that he can better answer the doctors. It eats me up just thinking of it.

They don’t know what a busy time of year this is for us….Speaking of which, my sister and I were looking forward to a trip to Ottawa on May 1st, but my aunt called the other day to say that she is coming up at the beginning of May for my mom’s birthday!!! This is my favourite aunt, on whose birthday I was born. I am soooo excited! Two weeks later we are going to Ottawa as a family with other homeschooling families apart of our newspaper to visit Parliament, several MP’s, and museums. That is a joy to look forward to, as well. If only every day were half as much a joy…I’ve stopped dog-walking for now…my client moved away and left me their duplex to manage, and some work to take care of. A different job than I’ve ever dreamed of, but fun and rewarding all the same.

Speaking of fun, my siblings have been selling Habs flags at the corner, and they are really having fun! They’ve sold over half of the amount purchased, and are making a lot of profit off it.This post is really long, but I wanted to share a song that my youngest brother really liked from my sister’s Greater Vision CD, and it has really touched all of us. I’ll leave it in a separate comment if someone can just post it separately please.Thank you for your prayers and encouragement.

Love and Prayers,LPP

Good Report For Vicki

Thank you for praying for my surgery to go well this past Friday. Everything went well.
The pathology report came back today "all benign". . . so I just wanted to share the good news!

Well, back to recuperating. So far, life on Levoxyl is all good.
Grateful for you!

Love,
Vicki


So happy for you Vicki!
Thanks be to God!

God's Promises

I'm still clinging to the Old Rugged Cross to get help in due time.
Also reminding you of dearest Terry, who has suffered much pains in her legs and and her back.
She is always the first to pray for others. Let us join hands for her, that she may be healed and regain strength.
From Felisol
Fil.4:3
3Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!

5Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.

6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

7And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.

My New Friend

Hi Pals,

Life without a pet just wasn't going over well with me.....specifically, life without a bunny was dull. So, I am bunny-less no more! I picked up an 8 week old Holland Lop yesterday (pictured above). He will get to be about 4 to 5 pounds as an adult. His name.....Alfie - yes, after Daniel Alfredson, my second favorite Ottawa Senator. You know my favorite, don't you? I considered calling the bun Little Mike, but he seemed more of an Alfie to me.

Right now Alfie is laying on my couch - already very spoiled!!

I pray everyone has a good week in the Lord and I pray we all have the grace to keep our eyes on Jesus.

Julie (Little Missionary)

Post-Op Praises

Vicki posted the following post-op update on her blog, Windows To My Soul. We will continue to pray for a quick and complete recovery.

Lots of love from David and all the Pilgrim Pals

Vicki writes:

I'm home already! Laryngoscopy and surgery went well. Was loopy all day yesterday, and the kids laughed because (evidently) I'm quite funny while coming out of anesthesia. I'd rather be funny than nauseous, let me tell you. At this point I'm still a little hoarse from the surgery, but I think my voice is coming back.

So halleluiah...and thank you very much for praying! Not completely out of the woods yet. Waiting for the pathology report (15 % chance of malignancy), instructed to watch for symptoms of dangerously low calcium levels (tingling & numbness around lips, fingers, etc), and while I need to rest, I also need to walk and move about to avoid blood clots - always a post-op risk.

I know many of you are still praying, and I'm so grateful for you. For now, I'm wiped out. No sleep last night. But wonderful doctors, nurses, and patient techs. I'm in the cradle of God's loving watchcare, there's no doubt. Oh, the stories I long to tell! More soon from your recovering sister-in-the Lord.

Vicki

Thanks Julie, Little Missionary

Julie:

Thanks so much for reminding the Pals to pray for our dear sister, Vicki! She has been in touch with me this week, filling me in on the details of her surgery. I woke early this morning and have been praying for Vicki. We will await the GOOD NEWS. She was apprehensive but trusting God.

Thanks again, Julie. You truly are a Little Missionary but...little is much when God is in it.

~ David, the Pilgrim

Don't Forget....

...to pray for Vicki - her thyroid surgery is tomorrow.

Julie (LM)

Prayer Changes the Man

Here's another gem from the pen of the late A. W. Tozer. I posted this on Pilgrim Scribblings today but, as Pilgrim Pals is a "prayer" blog, thought I should include it here as well:

"And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it." - John 14:13-14 (KJV)

In all our praying, however, it is important that we keep in mind that God will not alter His eternal purposes at the word of a man. We do not pray in order to persuade God to change His mind. Prayer is not an assault upon the reluctance of God, nor an effort to secure a suspension of His will for us or for those for whom we pray.

Prayer is not intended to overcome God and "move His arm." God will never be other than Himself, no matter how many people pray, nor how long nor how earnestly.

God's love desires the best for all of us, and He desires to give us the best at any cost. He will open rivers in desert places, still turbulent waves, quiet the wind, bring water from the rock, send an angel to release an apostle from prison, feed an orphanage, open a land long closed to the gospel.

All these things and a thousand others He has done and will do in answer to prayer, but only because it had been His will to do it from the beginning. No one persuades Him.

What the praying man does is to bring his will into line with the will of God so God can do what He has all along been willing to do. Thus prayer changes the man and enables God to change things in answer to man's prayer.

from The Price of Neglect, pp. 51-52

He Giveth More Grace

Lately I heard that a dear lady who is awaiting cancer surgery has been reading my Pilgrim Scribblings (our sister site) and has been blessed during these uncertain days. Our prayer is that Christians and non-believers alike would be encouraged and uplifted by these random, scattered "scribblings".

Pilgrim Scribblings was born out of my own struggles and pain. When we turn our trials around and use them as stepping stones instead of stumbling blocks others can be enriched in their own walk with God. That is our prayer.

A singer who never ceases to bless my soul is Larry Ford. He has often appeared on the Gaither videos and his rich tenor voice can move me to tears. Of course the lyrics play a huge part as well.

Horatio Spafford wrote It Is Well With My Soul after tragically losing his daughters at sea. Click here to hear Larry Ford's powerful rendition of this beloved hymn. Then when you have been blessed by this song, click here to hear him sing He Giveth More Grace. I praise God that He often uses music to minister to our spirits.

(Note: With both of these links, the YouTube screen will come up and you may have to click on the screen again for the song to continue.)

May these wonderful hymns lift you up and give you a sense of His presence as you journey home.

~ David, the Pilgrim

Mountain Reflections

Our Pilgrim Pal Lisa J. often posts her Morning Coffee on her excellent blog - Thoughts From the Teahouse. She always combines a photo with a passage of scripture. Here's one of Lisa's recent posts. ENJOY!

"You make springs gush forth in the valleys;
they flow between the hills;
they give drink to every beast of the field;
the wild donkeys quench their thirst.
Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell;
they sing among the branches.
From your lofty abode you water the mountains;
the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work."
- Psalm 104:10-13

Penguins Prevail

Yuck! The Senators lost 4-1 to the Pittsburgh Penguins tonight and are on the brink of elimination.

Ex-Peterborough Pete Jordan Staal (pictured) scored one of the Pittsburgh goals. Things are really scary now!

GO SENS GO!

The Unknown

Several years ago my son Matthew, who was 5 at the time, begged me to take him on a hike through a densely treed forest. An old trail was vaguely visible through the tangled mesh of vines and rotting branches. Several times we stumbled as we trekked through the bush.

Matthew asked me what we'd do if we got lost. I reassured him that I knew the way back and we'd be alright. We crossed an old man-made suspension bridge with a few rotting boards that we had to step around. Matthew was enjoying his "adventure" and when I asked if he was scared he quickly responded with a definite "no".

When questioned if he'd like to make the trip back to the car by himself he quickly said "no" and told me he'd be afraid if he was alone. He said that having his hand in mine made him brave and afraid of nothing.

You get the point! Take God's hand as you venture into the unknown. He knows what lies ahead. Let Him take you through to a "wider place". There's no fear when He's leading the way.

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

Hope You're Smiling Later Tonight

Our Pilgrim Pal Laura-Mae was at a Senators' game recently and our Sens lost miserably. Not much to smile about but Laura-Mae and Heather put on a happy face anyway.

Hopefully they'll have lots to smile about after tonight's game.

Do Or Die...Almost

I'm not one who prays for wins but I DO pray that athletes get healthy quickly after an injury. When that athlete is my nephew Mike Fisher I REALLY pray for a speedy recovery.

The Senators face a "must win" situation tonight in our nation's capital. They are down 2-0 to the Penguins but another loss would really make it tough to come back.

So, Montreal fans (you know who I mean), I'm praying for Little Fish and the rest of the Senators. Some of you think I've been unusually quiet this year during the playoffs. I am and I'm scared!

~ the Pilgrim

My Mom

Hi Pals,

First, I want to thank you all for praying. It never ceases to amaze me when God's children rally and pray for a "weak" one the feeling of being covered is so real. I am sure God sent his ministering angels to protect me this week (Heb. 1 vs 14). I am going to meet with a professional because I want to learn better coping strategies when I come up against certain situations (eg my aggressive supervisor) that trigger very negative reactions in me.

Now about my mom; please pray for her. She is suffering terribly from depression. She is not interested in doing anything. She sleeps way too much, doesn't knit, which she loves to do normally, she isn't going to church much and says she is hardly able to pray. I just spoke to her on the phone and she told me she didn't even watch the Senators game last night. She is a big fan, so that just isn't like her! True depression, (not just the "blues") runs deep on her side of the family. Seven aunts and uncles and every one of them has suffered through it at one time or another - to the point of not being able to get out of bed! Unfortunately this disease was passed on to my generation on the family tree. Although my depression is relatively mild and usually based on a significant negative situation which arises in my life (eg unemployment or a very critical boss - even my bunny's death). I've never been quite as bad as my mom though. I always manage to function - get out of bed and do what has to be done. I do take meds (I am not ashamed to admit when I need help) - most of the time I just need a good non-judgemental friend to cry with and talk too and I'm fine - I get through it with support - like my online Pals. Mom doesn't seem to have that support system. She is going to be 79 years old in June and I suspect at times that age and drawing near the end is depressing her. Another medical condition the two of us have that can contribute to feeling depressed is hypothyroid - it's mild in both of us - but even a slightly under active thyroid will effect a person's feeling of well being. Mom has a doctor's appointment on Monday and I told her to ask for blood tests to see how her thyroid is functioning. I remember when mine was "off" last year I felt "crazy". Once the thyroid meds where adjusted within a month I began to feel better!

Have a wonderful weekend friends.

Julie (LM)

Felisol's Uncle Leif Welcomed To Heaven

My very best uncle Leif has had a massive brain hemorrhage a week ago, and is now waiting to meet the Lord and his earthly family in Heaven.His wife and three children are waking by his side 24/7.We are all mourning, hundreds and hundreds of Sunday school pupils, nieces and nephews, athletics, alcoholics and their families, the sick, sailors and foreigns he met through his work, the poor and the elderly.We were all time after time touched by his smile, his sincere concern, his extraordinary charm and vivid enthusiasm.To me the greatest moments were in Sunday school when he would engage a class of 150 pupils so that neither would ever forget their way to heaven.Now he is about to finish his race, and I know there'll be a happy crowd to welcome him.Last year he followed my Dad step by step on his way to heaven. They comforted each other that they soon were going to wear again the beautiful rose-pullovers they got for Christmas as small boys. The grown-ups laughed at the little brethren who wondered if they might wear those beautiful pullovers in Heaven. When my grandma passed away a few years after and left them motherless as small schoolboys, they still were comforted by the thought of the reunion in their rose-pullovers.He left quietly at 02.15 this afternoon, April 10th.All of his nearest and dearest family gathered around him.We lent my uncle, they owned him.

1Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

let me hide myself in thee;

let the water and the blood,

from thy wounded side which flowed,

be of sin the double cure;

save from wrath and make me pure.

2. Not the labors of my hands

can fulfill thy law's commands;

could my zeal no respite know,

could my tears forever flow,

all for sin could not atone;

thou must save, and thou alone.

3. Nothing in my hand I bring,

simply to the cross I cling;

naked, come to thee for dress;

helpless, look to thee for grace;

foul, I to the fountain fly;

wash me, Savior, or I die.

4. While I draw this fleeting breath,

when mine eyes shall close in death,

when I soar to worlds unknown,

see thee on thy judgment throne,

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

let me hide myself in thee.

Move Over, Ron MacLean

Hockey Night In Canada may have found a new right-hand-man for Don Cherry. If Ron MacLean decides to pack it in, Matthew Fisher (in the blue jersey) is ready to fill the void.

Matthew met Grapes (Don Cherry) at his hockey tournament this morning in Toronto.

Don told Matthew to tell his cousin (Mike Fisher) to hurry back from his injury or Ottawa is "toast".

Matthew's team won 5-4 this afternoon and Matthew scored 4 goals.

CONGRATULATIONS MATTHEW!

Pray For Port Au Prince, Haiti

My friend and blogging buddy Rodney Olsen has been in Haiti and sends along this prayer request. Thanks for remembering Rodney, Compassion Australia and the situation in Haiti in your prayers. - David

Rodney writes:

Just a quick note to ask for you to pray over the coming days for the people of Haiti.

I'm here with Compassion Australia to observe their work here. Unfortunately, due to riots and looting in streets here, we're heading out early. We'll travel to Dominican Republic to see Compassion's work there.

Please pray for peace to return to the streets. As always in these situations those who suffer most are the poor who get caught up in the situation.

I've written a little about the situation on my blog and have linked to a radio interview that I did with Sonshine FM back home. http://rodneyolsen.net/2008/04/dont-panic.html

If you're a blogger, please ask your readers to pray.

Thanks for your assistance.

Rodney

AMEN to Donna's Request

Donna, thanks for posting the prayer request concerning Paul Mackay (pictured in the center with his dad David on the left and his son Taylor on the right). As many of you know, Paul is a good friend of mine who lives at my mother's house in Peterborough during the week and then heads home to Brantford on the weekends.

PLEASE KEEP PAUL IN YOUR PRAYERS!

Again, check out the situation with his health concerns here.

THANKS, PALS!

Paul MacKay- UPDATE

UPDATE 4:21 p.m.

Thanks for the prayers...he has posted a positive report from the doctors.



Please be praying for Paul MacKay....if you have a few minutes, stop over at his blog, leave a note of encouragement; let him know we are lifting him up in prayer.

http://www.paulamackay.blogspot.com/


God Bless
Donna

Prayer Power

Pals, I felt covered in pray today - thank you. I was sheltered by the Lord. I feel it's important for everyone to know because I truly sensed His mighty arm of protection. I think an army of angels surrounded my desk today - not only my desk but my mind!

Even though this lastest storm passed there will be another at work....it's not over. The meeting did not happen today with the manager and supervisor to remove her supervisory role. I trust this is God's wisdom at work. I've been told it will happen - just not today. It did bother me though because my complaint of feeling "threatened" seems to have gone by the wayside. There has been some very inappropriate behaviour by this supervisor - like swearing and tossing office equipment she doesn't like in the area of the admin staff. Her mouth can be quite foul. I'm too afraid to say anything at the time when she does stuff like that. She has caused rifts between some staff - in sneaky ways. My work productivity went down and all I heard was "you need to work harder to get up to speed"....the cause of my "mistakes" hasn't been addressed. Until her supervisory role is removed I may well remain tense and....probably make mistakes. Although today I seemed more focused and able to block out stuff. Keep praying I can continue to do this and keep up good work while she remains my supervisor. The thing about her is, she comes across as very nice and friendly one day but then "stabs" you when you least expect it....that makes for a tense environment - for me anyway. You just never know what you are going to get. Keep praying that this is resolved and that eventually I will end up in a work environment where I am more valued by my supervisor. Pray also for my healing journey - I know there are some issues I need to look at again - my coping mechanisms for example. I want to live a victorious Christian life - not a life in fear and anger - that does not bring glory to the Father.

Thanks.

J (LM)

PS Pilgrim David - please let "little Fish" Mike know we Sens fans are praying for his healing!!

25 Years Married! April 2 2008

Last Wednesday it was Donna and her darling's 25th wedding anniversary. I had it marked down and then didn't I forget it! I am usually wishing belated birthdays and anniversaries these days but I guess congratulations are still in order!
Happy Anniversry ! Twenty five years!

Praying For Felisol's Cousin

1. Praise the Lord, and leave to-morrow

In thy loving Father’s hands;

Burden not thyself with sorrow,

For secure the promise stands.

He is faithful! :

Leave thy troubles in His hands.

2. Trust to-day, and leave to-morrow,

Each day has enough of care;

Therefore, whatso’er thy burden,

God will give thee strength to bear.

He is faithful! :

Cast on Him thine every care.

3. Pray to-day, and let to-morrow,

Bring with it whate’er it may;

Hear thy loving Father promise

Strength according to thy day.

He is faithful!

Trust Him therefore, come what may.

4. Watch to-day, and leave to-morrow,

For to-morrow may not come;

Ever to-day thy loving Saviour

May appear to take thee home.

He is faithful!

Look for Him, the coming One.

5. Work to-day, and leave to-morrow;

All around there’s urgent need;

All around there’s sin and sorrow;

Broadcast, daily sow thy seed.

God is faithful!

He shall bless thy work indeed.

6. This by trusting, watching, praying,

Each day, as our time rolls on,

We shall find the promised blessing,

Daily strength till Jesus come.

He is faithful!

He will come to take us home.

Pray today for Felisol's cousin, Bjorn.

His father who is a Christian is on his dying bed and his son is not saved.

Felisol's words;

"I talked with my cousin just this morning. Told him I was praying for him.

Don't do that, I ll get by on my own, he said.

Well, I said with a laugh, all the prayers that have been sent for you just can't be retrieved. He just mumbled, but it is all right, he knows I will continue to pray for him as long as I live, the same will his sister and Mom. My uncle lies in a coma, getting weaker every day. I hope Jesus will not prolong his sufferings, but the immortal soul of my cousin is also at a stake. He takes the nightshifts waking over his beloved father. I have lent him my i Pod with lots and lots of Norwegian and English spiritual songs on it, also ordinary pop and classic as well. . He told me that the music helped him through the night. I pray that God will talk to him through the old, familiar redemption songs. Well, I am grateful for your prayers, as you can understand from the situation here.

Honestly I think God had to put me aside to do some unpaid work for him.
There has not been a day that I have not had use of my education or the spare hours. I have no time at all to get bored, hardly time to watch TV or read a book.
As for money God has been a solid provider till this day. I cannot worry about tomorrow."

Prayer Request For Serina

Dear Pilgrim Pals
Got a phone call from Azerbaijan. Serina had caught some nasty bacterias, and now she needed to get confirmed which Antibiotics she's not allergic to.
Her immune system has never functioned very well, she was on another antibiotic cure just this Easter.
Now I pray you to remember her in prayer while she's so far away.
I am confident that God will heal and help, but like Terry says the rope of many cords is stronger.
Thank you fellow Pilgrims. It's such a comfort to know that you are out there.
From Yours Felisol


Psalm 50.:15
15Call upon Me in the day of trouble;
I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me."

56 and Counting

Today I'll celebrate 56 years of Christian pilgrimage. As a 6-year-old boy on April 6th, 1952 I placed my trust in Jesus Christ and became a follower and disciple of His.

Following a Christian radio program for kids, Young Canada Bible Hour, I prayed with my mother at the kitchen table and began my Christian life. Praise God for godly parents who raised me to love and serve the One who gave His all for me.

The road has been rough and the journey has been marked with many disappointments but God has faithfully led me each step of the way.

As I begin year #57 I pray that I will discover new insights and learn to trust Him more. What an awesome God we serve!

Lay It Down

This one is for you Julie (LM) and I hope I am not crossing the line in dedicating this to you..............

This morning the song, 'Lay It Down' came across my iPod and I immediately thought of you. I am trying to recall if someone has posted these particular lyrics on here before....I can't remember. I am sure that we can all relate to this song, so click on the link below and listen/watch/enjoy the video.

Laura

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gROBmvsW0qE

Sens Are In...Barely

The Ottawa Senators squeaked into post-season play last night after losing 2-1 to the Boston Bruins. Carolina's 4-3 loss to the Florida Panthers paved the way for the Sens to sneak past the Hurricanes and secure a playoff berth.

Boston's Tim Thomas closed the door on Ottawa's offence until a third period goal by Antoine Vermette, his 4th tally in the last two games, got the Sens on the scoreboard.

With front-line players Daniel Alfredsson and Mike Fisher out for "weeks" as a result of injuries inflicted during the game against Toronto, the Senators are "lucky" to be where they are after last night's action.

So...they are in...but it took someone else to get them there...in spite of a 94 point season.

Just like me! I've been guaranteed a place in heaven following the "game of life" but it's not due to anything I've done. It took the action of Someone else to secure my position, my guarantee of life in heaven after this life is over. Jesus stepped in and took the penalty for my sin, taking my place and my punishment. Now, on the merit of His shed blood, I will spend eternity with the Great Emancipator, the King of kings and Lord of lords. That's grace! That's mercy! That's love!

Sure, I've done a lot of "good things" but they were not enough. I would have fallen far short of God's standard but Jesus opened the door. Hallelujah!

Where will you spend eternity, my friend?

update

I'm sorry if I caused anyone major concerns about my post. Thanks for all your prayers. I realized this week I really am not well emotionally. I suffered such a major trauma 2 years ago - a huge breach of trust also - and that left me with anxiety beyond belief. My self-esteem was crushed and hasn't fully recovered yet. I thought it was all dealt with but when push comes to shove in this world I don't cope well anymore. So much came down on me this week - so much - I just couldn't handle it. I'm profoundly sad about my inability to be healthy and it's a mystery why God seems so "hands off" on my life - that makes me sad too. When I think about the incredible faith I used to have in Him to move mountains.....I just don't have that kind of faith anymore. It's like I can't handle any upset anymore - my fear rages so high. If you knew the whole story of two years ago you'd say "no wonder!" But of course it didn't all begin there - I had a difficult childhood and overcame so much in my 20's - that's when I met the Lord and my whole perception of who I am changed for the better. That seems to have been lost as a result of what happened 2 years ago. I retreated in such fear and even when I cry out to the Lord in desperation (like last night) all I hear is silence and that scares me! Anyway, to be honest I think it's time for professional intervention (again). I needed intervention initially 2 years ago but now I have to deal with the aftermath - a kind of post-traumatic stress syndrome. No wonder no guy wants to be with me! I don't want to be with me!

About work - I'll try and keep this brief - my "wicked" boss was off today and things came to a head because I was still so upset about yesterday. Well, we had a meeting (admins and one manager) - apparently the manager has had it with my supervisor's unprofessionalism because it is effecting my productivity and the team in general. I had to hear some hard things but true....she was very compassionate and good. I do have issues around my work - stemming from my fear of my supervisor and when is she going to strike again. But she has been up to no good with others - not just me - it's effecting everyone......I just showed it more in my lack-luster attitude and make mistakes (fear - trying to be perfect causes even more mistakes).

All that to say, my supervisor is going to be disciplined on Monday and her supervisory role removed....yikes - I'm afraid! But it is a good thing in the long run.

Please be in prayer on Monday for my workplace. And as always, pray for my "recovery".

Bless you all.

J. (LM)

Leo's Sweetheart In Good Old Ontario!!!

Friday, April 04, 2008
in Canada
i am at my aunt's place here in Toronto as i type this!

the journey back home went so well ... super well ... we made tight connections and had an uneventful trip (except maybe the sideway bumping landing in Toronto!) ... and i am now waiting looking forward to getting home to my leo!

:o)

i've appreciated your prayer ... it has made my trip so blessed!

soon - i hope to be at my own computer and sharing pics ...

i fly out in the late evening ...

just an FYI!

Lord bless you guys!

Pray For Serina

Dear Pilgrim Pals:

I just received the following note from our beloved Felisol on the far side of the sea:

Dear Pilgrims:

Thanks for the beautiful made picture and for the poem. It certainly brightened my day.

I sent in a prayer request for Serina (pictured) earlier this evening. She has caught some nasty bacterias in Azerbaijan and must on a new antibiotics cure. She just finished her last cure at Easter. She just sounded so little and lost on the phone.

I would be glad if any of the Pilgrims will remember my daughter in your prayers.

~ Felisol

"Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me." - Psalm 50:15

Let's keep Felisol and Serina in our prayers!

~ David, the Pilgrim

worst week....

I'm having the worst week - it's one thing after another and I just can't take another disappointment! Don't know why I'm bothing to post....deperation I guess. I'm just so tired of all the hurtful things people do.

The week started with me having to put my bunny down. Lord this apartment is empty! Then the next day, already sad about Noah, I find out I didn't win the competition for two positions - two! I didn't get either one! They said my skills are not current enough - another slap and I'm down futher. Then I meet T. (remember him) - he sees me (two feet from me) and turns away without a "hello" - ugh - guess my invitation to church a couple weeks ago really turned him off! We aren't friends anymore I guess. If that weren't bad enough, today my boss asks to meet with me for an update on a couple projects - next thing I know I'm being shown a whole list (a list!!) of things I did wrong recently or haven't been keeping up on - one of which was I didn't order chair mats from Grand & Toy for the admin staff....earth shattering eh? Apparently, the other admins were angry about this. I asked one of them at the end of the day - she denied being upset about a chair mat! Who knows who to believe!? I was off sick the other admins were apparently scrambling and upset about stuff I left - my flu wasn't exactly planned! The other admins didn't indicate one little thing to me about any issues from last week so I felt blind-sided and guilty about being sick! What else was discussed behind my back I wonder? Not to mention I feel totally defeated - can't do anything correctly - this has happened a few times in the last year - out of the blue - never are the good things pointed out - I'd say 98% of the time my work is done and done well - but no credit for that! I walk on "egg shells" half the time...never knowing when I'll be in "trouble" for something. And that added pressure causes me to make more mistakes! Also, I am the only admin out of 3 that ever hears the negative....the other two are praised all the time and in front of me. I'm I jealous? Perhaps - but it's so much more than that - I am a good worker and yes, I make mistakes....welcome to the human race. I have no problem admitting a mistake but it's the way it's approached by my boss and the fact that there is only emphasis on the negative the majority of the time. I've had women supervisors before and I find them so cold and calculating for the most part. I want a man for a boss next time!

Pray for me please - I hate life right now! I'm so discouraged.

J (LM)

Felisol And Mom Ljung Looking For Spring

Bring Back the Springtime

When in the spring, the flowers are blooming bright and fair,

After the grey of winter's gone.

Once again the lark begins his tuning,

Back in the meadows of my heart.

Chorus

Lord, to my heart bring back the springtime.

Take away the cold and dark of sin.

And, Oh refill me now, sweet Holy Spirit:

May I warm and tender be again.

Lord, make me like that stream that flows so cool and clear

Down from the mountains high above;

I will tell the world the wondrous story

Of the precious stream filled with your Love.

Chorus

Lord, to my heart bring back the springtime.

Take away the cold and dark of sin.

And, Oh refill me now, sweet Holy Spirit:

May I warm and tender be again.

Song of Solomon 2:12The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land

Ouch!!!

Some of you have asked why I've been noticeably silent regarding the Ottawa Senators recently. To be honest, I didn't know what to say. I still don't! Last night I was at the game in Ottawa. The Canadiens beat the Sens soundly 3-0. The game was bittersweet because I DO like the Habs' young goaltender Carey Price but I wasn't praying for a shutout (which he got).

Nobody seems to be able to figure out the Senators recently. Who would have thought in early November that they'd be struggling to secure a playoff berth during the last week of the season.

Anyhow, it was good to see Mike and Chris Neil (pictured) briefly after the game. As always, Mike played a strong game but the Sens just didn't get any bounces. Little Fish bounced a few Canadiens off the boards though.

Hopefully the Sens can put away the Leafs on Thursday night.

GO SENS GO!

Saija Of The Prairies On Her Way Home Tomorrow!

another evening in Finland ...
there are many stories i would like to share with you guys ... but that will have to wait until i get home and can post pictures ...it has truly been a whirlwind trip .... tomorrow will be the last visit with my aunt and uncle who lost their eldest son - my cousin ... that will be sad to give them that last farewell hug ... there have been so many tears and laughter mingled ... plus those strong, bone breaking hugs, the kind where you rock back and forth ... and times of eating until my tummy is full ...sauna's every night ... and many folks who i just do not have time to see - are disappointed ...through it all, i have had a peace that the Lord is with me - even though my prayer time and bible reading have been limited ... He knew ahead of time and prepared my heart, then prepared others to pray for me ... and i thank Him for that ... and i also thank those of you who have remembered me ...we head home to canada on thursday ... but i don't think i will get home to leo until sunday ... unless my flight can be changed ... we shall see how things fall into place ...blessings to you all ... time to head for bed!(even though the time underneath is early afternoon - it is close to 10 p.m. here)

Feeling Empty Tonight

Susan, I can really empathize with you tonight. I didn't expect to have to do this so soon, but I too had to part with my dear little pet - Noah, a Netherland Dwarf bunny. I noticed Noah wasn't eating a lot in the last few days. However, he has gone through times in the past when he avoided bunny food - in favour of Cheerios (cereal for those of you who don't know), so I didn't worry too much about him. Then I noticed too much weight loss for such a little guy, and finally some neurological signs, like losing his balance and falling over - not being able to get up. Today, coming home from work I found him in much difficulty. I knew I had to make a difficult decision. It was time - I couldn't stand to see him suffer; he was, after all a "senior" bunny at 7 years old (dwarfs don't live much past 7 years). So, I brought him to the Vet - who was so compassionate and caring. I couldn't believe just how difficult it was to part with Noah and to wait for the little guy to pass on and say "goodbye my little friend." To come home to his dishes still filled with food and water....I cried like a baby! Noah had such a cute little personality - he'd hop and run so fast and then buck like a horse - it was so funny! Affection was on his terms and time - not on mine - sort of like some cats. But when he was in the mood to sit on my lap, as I stroked his little ears he would lick my other hand. I will certainly miss the way he'd stand on his hind feet in the morning looking at me waiting for his treats of Cheerios....my only regret....not indulging his taste buds with many, many more Cheerios.

By the way, my mom named him Noah. When I bought him I jokingly said I should give him a biblical name....mom suggested Noah - I guess based on Noah and the animals on the ark.

NOAH - Feb 2001-April 2008