On Sunday evening there was a peace march in my city in support of the Orissa anti-Christian violence.I also took part in it.
Believers living in Christian countries face a different kind of opposition I believe.God is being mocked and His Word trampled underfoot.
1 Cor 12 (NIV)
25so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
Phil .1 (NIV) 29For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him,
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Please pray for me I have a painful swelling on my face and nose. It could be an insect bite or allergy ???
Hello to you. My right thumb narrowly escaped amputation ? I will recommend that it ain't a bad idea to train your left hand to take over when your right hand lets you down ?
You know that all your life if you are right handed that every time you set down to eat every time your right elbow bends your mouth flies open ? I'll have to say with my left hand my mouth has been disappointed several times !!
The pain is slowly going away and thanks be to our Master I'll be back close to being normal in a few more days ? Now if I can just convince my brain that part of my finger is gone I'll be good to go ! Two or three sharp pains wake me up in the middle of night shooting down into my finger sharp enough to wake you !
Another thought I will leave you with , when they amputated my index finger that they just put a nerve block on my hand , but I was able to stay awake but they wouldn't let me watch ? I could hear when they cranked up the saw and I could hear someone say that that didn't take long ?
Wed when they split my thumb they put a nerve block on my thumb and I got to watch the whole thing ? Very interesting ain't it ? I asked him if He had ever did this before and knew what He was doing . He just laughed ?
Thanks for all your prayers and love ya'll have shown ! It humbles my heart !
Good Morning Pals Trusting the Lord is Blessing All - Amrita with turmoil all around her , let us remember her ----- Amazing Grace Ron with his hurting hand -- Lil M , we are thinking of U -------- Thankyou Terry for such nice Birthday Reminders and for Donna and LMG sending Birthday Reminders as well ------ ALSO BIG HELLOS to the Fly-By Girl Jel,LPP and the Lauras , the other Julie - David and family at Elim - Felisol theNorwegian Prayer -- Vicki the soft spoken one , Claire the Utah evangelist -- Donna the BusyOne and Terry, the Sunday School Driving, Blog Jumping Birthday Beaming Card Sending Canadian Sweetheart
Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to make war against the rest of her offspring—those who obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus.(Rev 12;17) This not merely a flesh and blood battle. Thank you friends for praying for the saints in Orissa. The newspaper tells me there a shoot at sight order in places where violence and arson is raging.
I got an email from an Indian missionary friend with a whole of list of separate incidents. Many Christians are taking shelter in forests.I will post that letter on my blog, later on (the power is about to go off).
Tomorrow Christian Schools all over India will close as a sign of protest. God reigns in all this.The gates of hell shall not prevail against what God is building. Remember the saints in the catacombs.
The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church - John Wesley
Since several days Christians in the eastern state of Orissa are facing violence , crime and murder.The situation seems out of control.I have published a CNN IBN news report which Julia passed on to me.Thank you Julia.The VHP is a right wing Hindu organization.Rev Richard Howell , representing Christians is a family friend.
(L-R Sagarika Ghosh (news editor) Ram Madhav (RSS -Hindu organization spokesman) Prof Mohanty and Rev Richard Howell) Religion has split Orissa and the divide is murderous. Several people have been killed in communal clashes in Kandhamal district after the murder of a Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader on Saturday.The VHP called for a statewide shutdown in the state on Monday during which churches, prayer houses and vehicles were attacked in many places.The communal tension began after Swami Laxmananand Saraswati, a member of VHP’s central advisory committee, and four others were murdered by suspected Naxals (Naxals are a left - wing group) in Kandhamal district.Police and paramilitary forces are on guard in towns of Kandhamal district. Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people, has been clamped across Kandhamal.Saraswati was leading a campaign against cow slaughter and religious conversion in the communally sensitive district. Rightwing Hindu groups allege that Christians killed Saraswati because he opposed conversion. Christian organisations reject such allegations.In one of the worst attacks, a Christian woman died and a priest was severely burnt when a mob set fire to an orphanage run by Christian missionaries in Bargarh district on Monday.The incident again brought shame to the state. Nine years ago, Australian missionary Graham Staines and his two young sons were burnt alive by a Hindu mob in Keonjhar district.What has caused the communal divide in Orissa? Is religion to blame or politics? Are conversions pitting Hindus against Christians? CNN-IBN’s Sagarika Ghose asked this on Face The Nation.The guests on the show were: RSS spokesperson Ram Madhav, Reverend Dr Richard Howell, general secretary of the Evangelical Fellowship of India, and Professor Manoranjan Mohanty, of the Council for Social Development.Madhav was infuriated at allegations that Hindu groups were targeting missionaries and Christians in Orissa. “The situation is quite different. Hindus are at the receiving end. A highly respected saint was killed. There is enough evidence to prove the complicity of Christian organisations in the murder,” he claimed.Howell rejected the Madhav’s allegation and claimed conversion has become an excuse to attack Christians and malign them. “The VHP gets the maximum amount of money in India than Christians. Christians have used money to serve and empower the poor and marginalized. Not a single case has been proved till date in the courts of forced conversion (by Christian groups),” he said.The issue is not religion but poverty, said Professor Mohanty. “Kandhamal is one of the poorest regions in the country. Seventy per cent people here are below the poverty line; 51 per cent are tribals and 16 per cent are Dalits,” he said. a situation of poverty and landlessness, both among Hindus and Christians. Orissa has become the experiment ground of globalisation, economic reforms, mega projects and Hindutva politics.”Hindu groups are not to blame for the violence and the state is in turmoil because of Christian missionaries, alleged Madhav. “Every conversion in Orissa has to be registered with the local police or magistrate but no such thing happens. Where is the chance for Hindutva politics when missionaries are going about aggressively and alluring people,” he said.The Sangh Parivar doesn’t hate conversions as much as it does Christians, alleged Howell. “An ideology of hatred has been propagated by some sections of the Sangh Parivar. They don’t hate Christian service; it is the very identity of being a Christian that is hated. There are just 2.4 per cent Christians in India and we too have contributed to the growth of the country.”Christians are not hated, insisted Madhav. “Every religion is respected in this country but Christians criticise and attack Hindu religion. It this attitude of Christians which is leading to tension in this country,” he alleged.The communal divide in Orissa’s tribal districts is the result of poverty and “competitive politics”, said Mohanty. “The shrinking rights of tribals over forests and land and the coming of mega projects is the economic issue there. They are all poor there and poverty is being diverted to communalism. It is competitive politics,” he said.Madhav called such an analysis wrong. “There is a clear cut division between Hindus and Christians and it is because of their (missionaries) wrongdoing and Congress leaders. A holy person is killed and the very next day the Congress tables a no-confidence motion against the state government—what does it suggest? The Congress is a part of a larger political conspiracy,” he alleged.Howell announced Christian institutions in the country would close on August 29 to protest against the attacks in Orissa. “I hope the civil society wakes up before it’s too late,” he said.Madhav said Christian groups were free to shut their schools and institutions but they must also shut “proselytization” activity.“Do not make this a Christian versus Hindu issue. We must go into the sources of violence,” said Mohanty.(Courtesy CNN IBN)I tried to post videos of the talk show but for some reason they did not load. You can go to the IBN Live website HERE and watch the videos , there is live footage too. Please pray for peace in Orissa. It is the state where Australian missionary Graham Stains and his 2 little sons were burnt to death in 1999
Although by God 's grace we are safe but the powers of darkness are very active all around us. The office of a leading Hindu fundamentalist organization is very close to us. We 've had visits from strangers and people who tried to frame us for forced conversions and property grabbers.The Lord has kept us safe and we are not afraid to share the Gospel. ______________________________________
Rise N - ?? - Who uses Brooms ? -- Whose porch had a well on it ? --Who is rideing thru Canada in a new vehicle ? Who chases down thieves ? Who only has time to do a "fly-by" (Gee , these are hard questions) -- Who is eager to feed me fish eyes and Viking food ?
OK -- just alittle humor ---- ok , now it's time to go back into our serious mode, dark clothing and no smile --
Trusting all will be blessed this day , in some way
NEW DAY - NEW HOPE -- NEW THOUGHTS -- NEW CHALLENGES -- NEW SOLUTIONS -Yes it is a challenge to rise each day, it is not always easy -- We live in a world of "quick fixes" -Drive thru remedys --
To All the Pals , Blessings to each and every one , some for healing , some for support , some for answers , some for just enough "vision" to "see" the end of a day --
God is the Same -- His Love for us have never changed --
Take heart ---
Thankyou to Vicki and Amrita and Donna and Felisol and Terry for contribution SO MUCH in encouraging others in here -----and also to Lil M for encouraging us in here also and to Ron and LPP and LMG for their smiles and songs and picture stealing -- We must thank David for teaching us all how to "borrow" pictures ------ HAVE A GREAT DAY BRETHREN
"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him." ~ 2 Corinthians 2:14
Hey everybody, I've been trying to post for over a week now, and each time Blogger just booted me out!
But that's okay, 'cause you can't keep a good Pal down for long. Hope I'm not too late in dropping off a few gifts for our very own Terry Shirkie.
Terry, you are the sweet aroma of Christ, bearing His fruit, blessing us with your life. Thanks for the way you care about us, love us, encourage us, and pray for all of us.
HaPpY bIrThDay!!
Now, I baked you & Bernie some cookies and picked some roses for you, dear. Hope you've had a wonderful day!
CONGRATULATIONS on another birthday! I'm celebrating with you...from a distance - Elim Lodge. I was asked to return for another week as Chapel Director so I'm sitting here, catching up on my e-mails and posts and thanking God for you! We all pray that this coming year will be a special and meaningful one for you as you continue to serve the King. Thanks for all you do for the Pilgrim Pals.
Sorry, I wasn't going to post but I know I can count on your prayer support. Things are getting pretty dark for me....I'm becoming almost immobile, unable to get out of bed in the morning....just lay there in a daze. I think I know what God wants but I'm stuck in a storm right now and can't see Jesus through the "waves". He will have to find me. Please, I am not looking for advise - I have enough advice from doctors and even other Christian friends. Right now, I just need someone to interceed on my behalf...I am unable to even pray anymore. The Spirit prays/groans on my behalf. Thanks. Little Missionary
Dearest Terry, I let Dylan greet you: May your hands always be busy, May your feet always be swift, May you have a strong foundation When the winds of changes shift. May your heart always be joyful, May your song always be sung, May you stay forever young. From Felisol
I love this picture of our friend Terry. It's rare for me to pick pocket blog pictures, but I couldn't resist this one.....Terry is one of those people who always has time for others, never forgets their anniversary, birthday; is always there even though there are times when we know her plate is full...overflowing...helping and caring for Mom and Dad Golden, for her church family and the little ones, praying and serving the Lord....being a loving wife to Bernie and a friend to all of us here....
I was over at her blog today reading some of her old posts and found a funny story about this cake....
I wanted to dish up a plate of her favorite food, but this is the best I could do over cyber space... in time for her big day tomorrow....
I wanted her to have her own special cake this year, but I wasnt sure this one was big enough to serve all her family and friends..... we all know she doesn't like to leave anyone out....
so I added these pretty cupcakes to make sure everyone could join in the celebration of wishing our own Terry a
Happy Birthday...
Favor is deceitful and beauty is vain; but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. Proverbs 31:30,31
Join with me in wishing Terry a Happy Birthday, a day blessed with family and friends, love and laughter...............
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2 NIV
Last night when our church security guard came on duty he reported that the padlock and chain from the front gate was missing. We were very disturbed as it seemed someone had stolen them. Earlier thieves have broken into the church campus and have stolen things. Anyway we committed everything into the Lord 's hands and went to bed. Our Pastor had a dream at night in which he saw the chain and lock hanging on the gate. In the morning he told his wife this and went out to examine the gate and sure enough there was the chain and lock intact on the gate. The Lord God is our keeper! Posted by Amrita at08:27:00Saturday, 23 August 2008
I'm taking a break from posting at Pals for awhile. Just wanted you to know so you will not be concerned.
The primary reason, I feel that I may be kind of frustrating to others when I ask for prayer and get an answer (re my recent job) then I say in the next post that I'm all in a panic and feeling depressed. The problem is I'm not sure at times which direction the Lord is leading me - I make assumptions, like a lot of Christians and then realize I've jumped ahead of God. I need to focus more on Him and less on posting I think. And, also I think I am way too honest and opened about all that is going on in my life.
I will continue reading the posts, as I enjoy them so much and may even comment from time to time if I really feel moved by the Spirit of God. I will pray for your needs as I see them posted.
Blessings and thanks for all your prayers and encouragement!
Trusting this Saturday will be a blessing to all -------- For those that are at crossroads or needing or hurting , the ONLY real remedy is the ONE we know of already ---------
Many things I could post about but looking back over this week , I feel the best post I have read in many a month was Donna's on "The Many Caves of Mine" --
Her words were as "INSPIRED" as any I have read of --- and the result of all her words leads us to " REST " in HIM
I've been sleeping a lot for the last few days - part of depression. When I'm awake I am focusing as much as possible on the Lord and His plan for me....that is going on a long term mission. I'm praying about going to Mexico City to work in an orphanage that I visited twice. They are desperate for volunteers. There are other possibilities I'm praying about too. I have a good friend who is very wise in the ways of God. He was living in Halifax for several years and has come back to Ottawa and is holding me accountable and ensuring I follow through on certain things. That's what I needed - a Christian to walk the walk with me...right to the mission field.
Following Jesus can cost us much - sometimes He calls us to give everything up and drop our "nets" to follow Him. The cost of not following Him, (I mean as a Christian), is far worse in my view....in my case - it is literally costing me my mental health. I keep putting off looking into long term missions. I know it will "cost" me great comforts etc so I procrastinate.
Now, having said that, an interesting development this morning....
Remember the paramedic - admin position I applied for last June and thought was a done deal and I wasn't going to get an interview for? In fact the HR consultant said union candidates were chosen for interviews and there would more than likely be a successful person from that batch. This influenced my decision to take the new position I'm in now. The HR consultant called me this morning and said there was NOT a suitable candidate for the job with the medics and asked if I would still like to be interviewed. Once again I jumped the "gun" and did things my way....taking another job before the first door was even closed completely! Anyway, I'm going for the interview next Tuesday afternoon. I've got nothing to lose. It would be nice to be at least working in an area of interest while I seriously take steps to leave on a long term mission. I'm considering going back to Mexico City in November and taking to some Mexican people I got to know about working with them - living arrangements etc...
[Jesus] poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet. -John 13:5 Questions about God's existence often troubled H. A. Hodges, a brilliant young professor of philosophy at Oxford University. One day as he strolled down the street, he passed by an art store. His attention was gripped by a simple picture in the window. It showed Jesus kneeling to wash His disciples' feet.
Hodges knew the story recorded in John 13-God incarnate washing human feet. But suddenly the sheer meaning of that scene gripped the heart of this young philosopher. God-God!-humbling Himself to do that lowliest of tasks! He thought, If God is like that, then that God shall be my God! Seeing that painting was one of the circumstances that caused Hodges to surrender his life to the true God-the foot-washing God.
We Christians sometimes take God's existence for granted. We believe what the Bible tells us about the eternal Spirit who had no beginning and whose existence will never end. But we may wonder sometimes about His character. If He allows disaster, how could He also be kind and loving?
As we read John 13 thoughtfully, we see that God is the foot-washing God. His unfathomable, sacrificial love for us should cause us to surrender to Him too. - Vernon C. Grounds
All to Jesus I surrender, Make me, Savior, wholly Thine; Let me feel the Holy Spirit- Truly know that Thou art mine. -Van de Venter
No life is more secure than a life surrendered to God.
I don't usually break in on another Pilgrim's post but...
I'm sure passing-thru won't mind and I trust that Donna won't either. Passing-thru encouraged us to check out Donna's awesome thoughts. They are truly worth reading. So...I've copied and pasted them to this post. Check them out under the link that passing-thru left for us.
here David is fleeing to the cave, burdened, the enemy is out to get him, yet he proclaims....yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge...how awesome are those words...He is the light, the hope in the cave...
OH !! when I think of the many caves I have been in, created by my own sinful nature......some I ended up in when I was simply trying to figure things out, trying to work something out, and landed myself in the dark and dreary cave....in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge...
as I read further, the psalmist says...I will cry unto God most high...unto God that performeth all things for me...how desperately I need to remember when my "feelings barometer" is working overtime and emotions are all over the place, I need to stop and look to the One in control....God is still on the throne...
my perspective of the trial makes all the difference in the world....and there in verse 5,if I flick the switch from me, myself and I to GOD...now I understand the purpose of the trial... to bring glory to God...He will redeem my trials for His glory......
towards the end the psalmist repeats ......my heart is fixed, Oh God my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise...I will praise thee O Lord among the people, I will sing unto thee among the nations.....
I will be steadfast... trusting, seeking, with a heart fixed on the Lord...when I am in the midst of a trial....
Never doubt in darkness what God has revealed in the light...
Amazing isn't it -- how Time Flies -- We roll from one week into the next -- BUT ------------- IT WON'T ALWAYS BE THIS WAY -----------------
Everything we work at -- struggle with -- and try to achieve will be absorbed into the Moment -
THE MOMENT THE LORD CLOSES THE GATE TO THE VINEYARD and says that the "work" that HE calls us to -- is done --------
Hoping U are doing better Lil M ------ keep us updated -- Vicki let us know how Shelby is getting on ---- LMG is your van getting any "bites" Amrita -- how is mom and your church project going - Saija thanks for posting pic and scripture ------- Claire , again good news on "R" -- Terry , how is your legs and body strength doing ---------- Ron , May God bless your healing --- Felisol --- Is Gunnar feeling better these days ? David , trusting your needs are met ------ Jel the sunshine girl -- Where can I buy some "Fly - by - Hugs" ? Donna the poet --- the prayer blogger --- good people this Donna --- Robin the Random Red Head with good stuff on her blog ----------- And the other Julie and the Lauras ---- Has anyone heard from Susan (formerly Bunts) lately -----
BLESSINGS ON THE PALS THIS THURSDAY EVENING ------
Early tomorrow morning our granddaughter Victoria flies out of Pearson International Airport in Toronto by way of Houston to Belize City, Belize. She's excited! We're so proud of her! She is joining several other young people from our church on this Missions trip!
She will be helping to run some kids' programs while she's there. She'll be gone for 10 days and we'll really miss her but she will be having a life-changing experience. Thanks for your prayers for Victoria! It means a lot!
~ David, the Pilgrim
Note: Victoria is pictured on the left with Jolene, one of our youth leaders.
A friend sent me this and I don't usually pass along forwards but thought I'd try posting this one here. Check it out! Click here.
In His love, David
Note: I don't believe that if you pass along a "forward" you receive a miracle. That's not how our sovereign God works. Just wanted to make that clear. ENJOY!
Just a short post about my experience ? This past week was quite an experience ! I haven’t ever had sugery but two times in my life , once when I was 5 years old I had a tonsilectomy and in 1998 had surgery in my left arm to clean out the bugs and that is all ? I appreciate all the prayers and well wishes ! This mornings Doctor’s visit the Doctor said it was healing just fine ! I know that this has been one of the oddest weeks in my life ? First I have to get used to my long time friend [ all my life ] not being there ? When you are right handed your left hand only serves as a back up for your right hand ! Just yesterday 2 times my ignorance caught up with me and I bumped it hard enough to cry or cuss , but just decided to sing Jesus Loves Me . My friends don’t you ever believe for one minute that Our Shepherd don’t guard His Flock ! I have felt his presence many times in my life but never as much as I have this week ? I know He has helped me several days with my pain ? I am so blessed to Have Jesus in my life and so many of my friends and church family that I love very much !
This beautiful picture is compliments of two of my fellow church members that have been close friends for over 45 years ? Every summer they work in a resort in Montana ! Both are retired school employes ?
As you view this picture imagine The Shepherd sitting on top of that mountain and watching over His Flock and watching over one of His wooliest children [ Me ] ? Below is a few good words ?
The one who loves me most — even at my wooliest –is My Shepherd ! It was in such a ” wooly ” time that He helped me see how much He really loves His Sheep . All of my daily adventures and hardships causes me to leap into the Shepherds open arms and trust Him for dear life ! I hope you find the same encouragement I find in Him and you’ll be encouraged by His Faithfulness Too !
It was a discouraging day and I'm second guessing taking this job. I was left alone all morning with nothing to do!! It was a long, long day. There is nothing much worse than being bored all day. I wasn't given any work until 2:30 p.m. I don't know if I'm going to get proper training on the job. It all seems weird. What if I was too much in a hurry to get out of the other place and now I'm in a job that is boring. O Lord - will I ever be content in a job!!?? I know, I know...it's only the first day, but that's my report Pals. Another job came up on the postings for a position with the paramedics...that is truly my area of interest and giftedness....please pray. I'm so unsettled in my heart....can't anything go right for me?!
Hi to Felisol and hoping her Serina is adjusting to new college life , and Gunnar is feeling better - Lpp , has the van had any "bites" on selling it ? ----- Vicki is still waiting to hear from Shelby -- lets remember to ask God to influence that judge -- Terry , did Bernie get the Shirkie van fixed ? --- and most importantly , how are U feeling, --am sure VBS tired U out and hoping your legs and health get better -------- Lil M , hope your first day on the job went well ---------------- Donna the poet, hoping your Jen and Vera are doing well -- Saija and Leo and Claire and Pilot are doing well -- Happy to see U again to the "Fly - by - Hugger" JEL - Hello to the "Other Julie" --- and the Lauras ----- David , any better on your finances and your home we hope ----- Amrita, hoping all is well with U too and your mom --- Ron , Amazing Grace man -- trusting U are healing --- "R"s name has been written into the Lamb's Book of Life --- neat ---
Going to "relax" been a tough weekend -------- Blessings on the "Pals"
Great post from Lil M below this one ----- Blessings on U tomorrow Lil M
We had a great time in Branson Mo over the weekend and came home to a backed up septic system -- HA -- EH -- FROSTY FRIDAY -- but the Lord is Still Good -------
Highlight of Weekend was a Song sung by two brothers performing at the Lawrence Welk Resort , they played "My Anchor Holds" with a Big Screen in the background with a 17th century Sailing ship being hammered by wind and wave with the Anchor Cable stretched TIGHT but never breaking --- AWESOME MUSIC AND VIDEO ------
Blessings on all the "pals" and good news about "R"
Remember the needs --------- good nite from a tired
I start my new job tomorrow and I have a few jitters but I know that is perfectly normal - the Lord goes before me!
I had the day off work today and was praying this morning about my desire to be successful in this new position. "What does that success look like?", I thought. As I reflected, the following came to mind: quick to learn new technical terminology, make very few mistakes, have a feeling of accomplishment and confidence in a job well done at the end of the day, be looked at by my co-workers as a dependable, hard working, knowledgeable person in my area.
Then I thought, "What is God's idea of being a success?" The fruit of the Spirit came to mind. We are a success, by God's standards, when we demonstrate the fruit of His Spirit.
If I have the Spirit of God living in me, then I will produce fruit - fruit that is pleasing to God. I am sure to have favour, first with my Heavenly Father and secondly with my co-workers....in that order!
Please say a little pray for me that I will sleep well tonight and wake up refreshed and ready for the new job!
Revelation 22 1And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.
2In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.
3And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:
4And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.
5And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
6And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done.
7Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.
8And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things.
9Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.
10And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.
11He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.
12And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
13I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.
14Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
15For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
16I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.
17And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
18For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
19And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
20He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
21The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
The following post was taken from Ann Voskamp's Holy Experience blog. Thank you, Ann, for your thought-provoking and awe-inspiring writing. Keep it up!
Ann writes:
I found the evidence yesterday, unexpectedly, on the trail to the woods. It was at the the curve, just before that large made-for-sitting-on stone, where one can see down into the valley of fields from the top of the hill.
A sea of corn tassels stood stilled, waiting for me to know. The woods behind the fields, dark and green, worshipped silently, anticipating the unveiling, in the morning coming down. Yet I would have missed it not for the words on the open page of the Bible in hand:
“…but he never left them without evidence of himself and his goodness.
For instance, he sends you rain and good crops and gives you food and joyful hearts.”
Looking up from His Word, I saw plainly. Right there, on the walk to the woods, stood the stark evidence of the reality of God. Right there, across the undulating fields: undeniable evidence of the Creator of the Universe, spread out before my very eyes.
The earth beneath my feet was damp from the rains He had sent in the night. (Acts 14:17 NLT)
The good crop of corn stood stock still , iron bars bearing tons of produce. We had food on the table, in mason jars lining the pantry, in bags of summer sealed in the freezer.
And my heart, the last witness to give testimony to the evidence of God: yes, my heart was full.
The evidence was unmistakable, the proof of God and His goodness so obvious...in a moment in time on the walk to the woods.
I saw and I know.
Lord, You left the evidence where I couldn’t miss it. And to think I almost did. But You unveiled it: rain, good crops, food, joyful hearts. Now to remember: You are real.
On Saturday afternoon I received quite a scare. While cutting the lawn my heart began to race and I suddenly felt very fatigued and weak. I rested for awhile but later I sensed that something was definitely wrong with my heart. When I stood up I experienced severe dizziness and went to bed.
Carol wasn't home but when she returned I told her how I was feeling and she drove me to our local hospital. It's a good thing she did.
My heart rate was twice what it should be and then it would slow right down and speed up again. I was rushed inside immediately and intravenous was administered within 10 minutes to stabilize my heart. They gave me an ECG and a doctor saw me within minutes. They were concerned with the extreme variation in my heartbeat and, after all the blood work was done and chest x-rays taken they monitored me closely.
My heart rate stabilized within an hour or so and they kept me for another six hours so they could repeat the blood tests and do another ECG. They let me go home at 2 in the morning but the doctor who saw me consulted with a cardiologist and I will be having a battery of tests done in the next little while.
They told me that what I had experienced was atrial fibrillation.
Here is some information on this condition from the internet:
Atrial fibrillation (A-tre-al fi-bri-LA-shun), or AF, is the most common arrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah). An arrhythmia is a problem with the speed or rhythm of the heartbeat. A disorder in the heart’s electrical system causes AF and other types of arrhythmia.
AF occurs when rapid, disorganized electrical signals in the heart’s two upper chambers, called the atria (AY-tree-uh), cause them to contract very fast and irregularly (this is called fibrillation). As a result, blood pools in the atria and isn’t pumped completely into the heart’s two lower chambers, called the ventricles (VEN-trih-kuls). When this happens, the heart’s upper and lower chambers don’t work together as they should.
Often, people who have AF may not even feel symptoms. However, even when not noticed, AF can lead to an increased risk of stroke. In many patients, particularly when the rhythm is extremely rapid, AF can cause chest pain, heart attack, or heart failure. AF may occur rarely or every now and then, or it may become a persistent or permanent heart rhythm lasting for years.
I'm feeling much better today although I am still very tired. Thanks for your prayers, Pilgrim Pals.
It's a nice thing to NOT be able to tell who is sending these posts these days -- lol --- Either it's LPP or LMG or Donna or Terry , sending pictures with scripture is such a blessing -
"We" all are ambassadors of the Good News --
Remember our friends -- Ron , Colby, Taylor - David's home and needs - Felisol's Gunnar - Amrita and her mom -- Shelby -- and to remember "R" -- for growth and for the Lord to "build a hedge round about her " for the powers of darkness does not like to lose anyone FROM the cults ---
"...And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth...." Luke 15:5-7
"And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth."
I for the life of me cannot remember the email addy to sign into Pals! :( However, I have great news to share so someone please, please post for me!!
Would you give a huge welcome to our new sister in the LORD?!! Yes, R is now officially a follower of Christ. The Lord of Lords and King of Kings. The One Eternal, everlasting God of the Bible!!! :)
Thank you for your faithful prayers! What a mighty God we serve!
This morning, Saturday, I returned from my two-week stint at Elim Lodgeas the Chapel Director. I'm sure it will take a few days to get acclimatized to the real world and then it will be time to return for the final week of August. I was asked to come back to fill in for another Chapel Director who couldn't return. Where has the summer gone?
My time at Elim Lodge was a little taste of heaven on earth. Over the four weeks that I was there I had the privilege and responsibility of leading close to 50 chapel services, four concerts and several devotional times with the Junior staff.
Singing the old hymns and sitting under the ministry of several different Bible teachers has been such an incredible blessing. John Rush (pictured) of HCJB Global was this past week's Bible teacher. John is a long-time friend and it was good to fellowship with him.
Now that I'm back I'll have to resume the difficult task of making our "new to us" house a home. We still haven't hung any pictures yet and there are still many boxes to unpack. Carol and I decided weeks ago that we would enjoy the summer and then tackle the other duties after the kids go back to school.
Thanks for your prayers while I was at Elim. Please keep praying for a financial breakthrough. God is still the Great Provider and we are trusting Him for the much-needed miracle.
Thanks, everyone, for keeping Pilgrim Pals a vital prayer and encouragement ministry while I was away.
Update on amazing grace man.Dear everyone. I received this email from Grandpaw Ron's very good friend and pastor, Gorden Cloud the pastor of Pine Park Baptist Church. http://heavenlyheartburn.wordpress.com/about"I talked with Bro. Ron this evening. He is at home and resting. The procedure went as expected, he is in a good deal of pain right now, however. He wanted me to express his thanks for your concern and prayers and he hopes to be able to try typing in a couple of days.Thanks again for your concern for him."God bless,Bro. Gordon
Such a bright morning! Jel is back and she is casting her sun rays and her fly by hugs all over the blog world again! To collect your hug, just go to Little Pilgrim Pal's previous post and GRAB it!!!....Ha!
I read about this event recently, called "The Cry"...and as it says on their website (http://www.thecry.ca/), "...THIS IS NOT A CONCERT. THIS IS NOT A CONFERENCE. THIS IS A CRY." It is a big gathering of Canadian Christians, particularly young people, in Ottawa to pray together for our country, and her people. I was very moved as I read their website and watched the videos on it...and I thought I'd put this up on Pals in case any in Ottawa or elsewhere in Ontario might be interested in going to this event. It is next Saturday, August 23rd, beginning at 9:30am and continuing into the evening. My sister and I asked my mom about our family going, but I don't think we are going to be able to make it. Here is their official promo video.....
The video below illustrates the temptations and problems facing young Canadians today as well as talking about the many unreached lost Canadians...viewer discretion advised...it made me cry!
Let's all never forget to pray for the nation of Canada together!
Reading the book of Esther this morning -- 10 chapters of rich , full lessons for believers.
Chapters 2-5 especially shows how God never forgets , How He is never late, no matter the circumstances or how things seem to appear ------- He didn't forget Mordecai , Mordecai may have thought He did --
If u want great truths , read Esther this weekend --- take heart my friends -----
This morning as I was thinking about amazing grace man, I received this in my email and it has been such a help to me that I wanted to post it. I know that amazing grace man has accepted from the hand of the Lord about his having to lose half of his index finger but me, I am always so doubtful and worrying that sometimes I wonder how the Lord can put up with me! This little write-up has helped me...Please, Please remember to pray for our dear friend and fellow pilgrim, amazing grace man today......love Terry If you could can you please go to Donna's prayer blog,"By His Stripes"
Gathering Sticks READ: Acts 28:1-10 Through love serve one another. -Galatians 5:13 A painful illness had prevented Bible teacher Billy Walker from carrying on his active schedule for several months. He told a group of men that he especially missed being able to preach, but that God was teaching him throughout his recovery.
One day during his illness, as he meditated and prayed, Billy's attention was drawn to the passage about Paul's shipwreck on Malta recorded in Acts 28. There is more to the story than Paul's miraculous immunity to a venomous snakebite (vv.3-6).
This great apostle to the Gentiles, preacher to thousands, worker of miracles, and writer of much of the New Testament, was stuck on an island as a prisoner. Did he lie back and bemoan his condition? Did he think he should be treated better than others because he was an apostle? No! The Scriptures tell us that he chose to contribute to the work and needs of his fellowmen. It was cold and rainy, so Paul "gathered a bundle of sticks" for a much-needed, warming fire (v.3).
Perhaps you've been set aside for a while due to difficult circumstances. Maybe you've reached the time in your life when vigorous activity is no longer possible. Don't despair. Remember Paul's example, and do what you can do-even if it's simply "gathering sticks." - David C. Egner
Start where you are in serving the Lord, Claim His sure promise and trust in His Word; God simply asks you to do what you can, He'll use your efforts to further His plan. -Anon.
God never puts you in the wrong place to serve Him.
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(L-R Sagarika Ghosh (news editor) Ram Madhav (RSS -Hindu organization spokesman) Prof Mohanty and Rev Richard Howell)
