Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to our Team, you our family and friends,
We are so excited to wish you all a very Happy Holiday Season! We are together as a family this year in Ecuador and enjoying the differences of celebrating the birth of our Lord in another country and culture. Our son Joshua is here now and daughter Jessica will arrive on Sunday. They have finished their next to the last semesters of college and we are very proud of them. Jordan is enjoying showing his big brother around Ecuador.
Many of you may have received our December Newsletter in the mail by now, but just in case you did not I have posted it on our web site at the following link.
http://straightpaths.org/news.aspx
We thank you so much for your prayers, support and faithfulness to our ministry. If you wish to remember us with an special end of the year Christmas Gift you can send it to Global Partners Box 50434 Indianapolis, IN 46250, account number WM04-0320.
Love and Prayers,
The McGradys
Ned, Marlene, Jordan, Joshua and Jessica
Global Partners Pastor to Missionaries in Ecuador
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Spirtual Needs of God's Older Children
One of the most important aspects in answering God’s call to our ministry of Grey Hair Is Beauty is the command, “go and remind My older children that I love them.”
We know the promises of the scriptures, we know the words to the Ethel Waters moving performance of “His Eye is on the Sparrow” and yet there are so many times in our lives that God seems to be so far away. So we often get into our cars and drive to church for fellowship, invite Christian friends over, or call someone for prayer request.
In the every day lives of an elderly or disabled person there is little opportunity for uplifting spiritual renewal. Dim eyes, can no longer read the Bible or the Devotional of choice and muffled hearing can no longer detect musical notes and certain sounds. Sadly many residents live in Long Term Care Facilities that not only do not provide opportunities for connection to God, but are not aware of the spiritual needs of their residents. This opportunity would usually be scheduled on the facilities activities calendar.
While there may be resources made available for vision and hearing impaired such as Large and Giant Print books, Bibles, and literature; as well as, audio books for the vision impaired who can hear; there remain few opportunities for attending a traditional church service. These resources would need to be requested by the resident. Family, or responsible party; so the need would go unnoticed if the person suffers from dementia of various forms or the person(s) responsible is not actively involved in the life of the resident.
It has been my experience over the years of working in facilities that our Catholic brothers and sisters come regularly and administer communion to the residents of the Catholic faith as well as other rites and rituals that are required, while the residents of other faiths look on longingly. Usually, admission forms ask for the religion of the resident and this may or may not be filled in but it usually is only addressed upon terminal or imminent death. I should also point out here that the rules and regulations put in place by the government make it difficult for this information to be shared without the involvement of the family or legal guardian.
Studies have been done and documented in Nursing Manuals of the effects spirituality and it’s necessity for healing and recovery. In school nurses are taught to assess the whole person in developing the plan of care. "Spirituality can be the intangible quality that gives meaning to our lives, gives us the strength and purpose to live our life to the full.
Main Category: (Seniors / Aging,Article Date: 13 Apr 2006 - 5:00 PDT Contact: Paul Grocottp (.grocott@uws.edu.au) Research Australia
I can offer many testimonies from the last 5 years but the one that stands out for this discussion was early in our ministry when I went to a nursing home and set up a Service with an Advent Wreath in the activities room for about eighteen residents. As I carefully explained the meaning and purpose of the Advent Wreath and the story of this celebrated season a man in a wheel chair was making his way to where I was standing. He had on a lap robe, his catheter bag attached to the wheelchair, he badly needed a shave and hair was disheveled but what I noticed first was the tears running down his cheeks. He rolled up close to the wreath and looked at me with that sorrowful face and said, “I am a Pastor, thank you for bringing it all back to me today. I Pastored two churches and have not heard this story in a very long time.” You also helped me remember how Jesus got to Paul on the road to Damascus. Tearing up, I could hardly conclude the service.
God’s older children who live in facilities must be ministered too. The facilities must consider their residents spirituality as an integral part of their care. The administration and medical staff must be taught that freedom of religion is not just a constitutional right the right to practice their beliefs. The residents must be given the opportunity and resources within the guidelines of the rules and regulations to act on their faith.
Pray with us as God leads this ministry to bring the word to the lost or lonely elderly and disabled in Long Term Care Facilities.
Pastor Judi Baxter
Vice President Grey Hair Is Beauty
We know the promises of the scriptures, we know the words to the Ethel Waters moving performance of “His Eye is on the Sparrow” and yet there are so many times in our lives that God seems to be so far away. So we often get into our cars and drive to church for fellowship, invite Christian friends over, or call someone for prayer request.
In the every day lives of an elderly or disabled person there is little opportunity for uplifting spiritual renewal. Dim eyes, can no longer read the Bible or the Devotional of choice and muffled hearing can no longer detect musical notes and certain sounds. Sadly many residents live in Long Term Care Facilities that not only do not provide opportunities for connection to God, but are not aware of the spiritual needs of their residents. This opportunity would usually be scheduled on the facilities activities calendar.
While there may be resources made available for vision and hearing impaired such as Large and Giant Print books, Bibles, and literature; as well as, audio books for the vision impaired who can hear; there remain few opportunities for attending a traditional church service. These resources would need to be requested by the resident. Family, or responsible party; so the need would go unnoticed if the person suffers from dementia of various forms or the person(s) responsible is not actively involved in the life of the resident.
It has been my experience over the years of working in facilities that our Catholic brothers and sisters come regularly and administer communion to the residents of the Catholic faith as well as other rites and rituals that are required, while the residents of other faiths look on longingly. Usually, admission forms ask for the religion of the resident and this may or may not be filled in but it usually is only addressed upon terminal or imminent death. I should also point out here that the rules and regulations put in place by the government make it difficult for this information to be shared without the involvement of the family or legal guardian.
Studies have been done and documented in Nursing Manuals of the effects spirituality and it’s necessity for healing and recovery. In school nurses are taught to assess the whole person in developing the plan of care. "Spirituality can be the intangible quality that gives meaning to our lives, gives us the strength and purpose to live our life to the full.
Main Category: (Seniors / Aging,Article Date: 13 Apr 2006 - 5:00 PDT Contact: Paul Grocottp (.grocott@uws.edu.au) Research Australia
I can offer many testimonies from the last 5 years but the one that stands out for this discussion was early in our ministry when I went to a nursing home and set up a Service with an Advent Wreath in the activities room for about eighteen residents. As I carefully explained the meaning and purpose of the Advent Wreath and the story of this celebrated season a man in a wheel chair was making his way to where I was standing. He had on a lap robe, his catheter bag attached to the wheelchair, he badly needed a shave and hair was disheveled but what I noticed first was the tears running down his cheeks. He rolled up close to the wreath and looked at me with that sorrowful face and said, “I am a Pastor, thank you for bringing it all back to me today. I Pastored two churches and have not heard this story in a very long time.” You also helped me remember how Jesus got to Paul on the road to Damascus. Tearing up, I could hardly conclude the service.
God’s older children who live in facilities must be ministered too. The facilities must consider their residents spirituality as an integral part of their care. The administration and medical staff must be taught that freedom of religion is not just a constitutional right the right to practice their beliefs. The residents must be given the opportunity and resources within the guidelines of the rules and regulations to act on their faith.
Pray with us as God leads this ministry to bring the word to the lost or lonely elderly and disabled in Long Term Care Facilities.
Pastor Judi Baxter
Vice President Grey Hair Is Beauty
Friday, October 23, 2009
Soul and Spirit of Man
What is the difference between the soul and spirit of man?
The soul and the spirit are connected, but separable (Hebrews 4:12). The soul is the essence of humanity’s being; it is who we are. The spirit is the aspect of humanity that connects with God.
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
The word “soul” can refer to both the immaterial and material aspects of humanity. Unlike human beings having a spirit, human beings are souls. In its most basic sense, the word “soul” means “life."
The word “spirit” refers only to the immaterial facet of humanity. Human beings have a spirit, but are we not spirits. However, in Scripture, only believers are said to be spiritually alive (1 Corinthians 2:11;) (NIV) For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
Think on these things; which Spirit would you have dwell in your soil, Gods or Satan? 10/21/2009 Pastor Arthur
The soul and the spirit are connected, but separable (Hebrews 4:12). The soul is the essence of humanity’s being; it is who we are. The spirit is the aspect of humanity that connects with God.
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
The word “soul” can refer to both the immaterial and material aspects of humanity. Unlike human beings having a spirit, human beings are souls. In its most basic sense, the word “soul” means “life."
The word “spirit” refers only to the immaterial facet of humanity. Human beings have a spirit, but are we not spirits. However, in Scripture, only believers are said to be spiritually alive (1 Corinthians 2:11;) (NIV) For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
Think on these things; which Spirit would you have dwell in your soil, Gods or Satan? 10/21/2009 Pastor Arthur
Soul and Spirit of Man
What is the difference between the soul and spirit of man?
The soul and the spirit are connected, but separable (Hebrews 4:12). The soul is the essence of humanity’s being; it is who we are. The spirit is the aspect of humanity that connects with God.
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
The word “soul” can refer to both the immaterial and material aspects of humanity. Unlike human beings having a spirit, human beings are souls. In its most basic sense, the word “soul” means “life
The word “spirit” refers only to the immaterial facet of humanity. Human beings have a spirit, but are we not spirits. However, in Scripture, only believers are said to be spiritually alive (1 Corinthians 2:11;) (NIV) For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
Think on these things; which Spirit would you have dwell in your soil, Gods or Satan?
10/21/2009
Pastor Arthur
The soul and the spirit are connected, but separable (Hebrews 4:12). The soul is the essence of humanity’s being; it is who we are. The spirit is the aspect of humanity that connects with God.
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
The word “soul” can refer to both the immaterial and material aspects of humanity. Unlike human beings having a spirit, human beings are souls. In its most basic sense, the word “soul” means “life
The word “spirit” refers only to the immaterial facet of humanity. Human beings have a spirit, but are we not spirits. However, in Scripture, only believers are said to be spiritually alive (1 Corinthians 2:11;) (NIV) For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
Think on these things; which Spirit would you have dwell in your soil, Gods or Satan?
10/21/2009
Pastor Arthur
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Faith
Faith
Shady Hills United
Senior Bible Study
Faith is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted,
in spite of your changing moods.
Faith- Believe what God has said and act accordingly.
Faith is one of three things that never change. In Corinthians 13:13 (NIV) So these three things continue forever: faith, hope, and love. And the greatest of these is love.
We must act on what we learned on what we believe. As in James 2:18-21 (NKJV) But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Was not
Faith is Obedience, Rest in the promises of His word, accept the word as truth and act on it.
Examples of Promises: Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
These gifts from God are not a result of selfish desires but in His plan and will for our lives. We are not going to enjoy these blessings which by the way are way better than we could imagine for ourselves but according to His will and purpose.
Promise of Salvation and eternal life
Promises in the Beatitudes: Notice the root word “attitude” there
Promises in
Promise of the living water of the well from the river that never runs dry
Rest in those promises
Romans 4:12 (KJV) And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father
When we trust God completely, we obey Him completely.
When we are faithful with small things God increases His blessings to greater things.
In the meantime we must remain prayerful, obedient, and faithful to what we have.
Faith has saved thee.
He did not say you are saved while you stand here, He said “Go Live Do and be peaceful”
Philippians 4:4-7 4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in
Rejoice
Gentleness to all
Do not be anxious
In Prayer ask God for your desires with praise and thanksgiving
Invite the Holy Spirit to come in and do an inner faith check. God will reveal where improvement is needed.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Hearing God Speak
Speak, Lord, in the stillness,
While I wait on Thee;
Hushed my heart to listen
In expectancy.
Speak, O blessed Master,
In this quiet hour;
Let me see Thy face, Lord,
Feel Thy touch of power.
For the words Thou speakest,
"They are life," indeed;
Living Bread from heaven,
Now my spirit feed!
All to Thee is yielded,
I am not my own;
Blissful, glad surrender,
I am Thine alone.
Speak, Thy servant heareth!
Be not silent, Lord;
Waits my soul upon thee
For the quickening word!
Fill me with knowledge
Of Thy glorious will;
All Thine own good pleasure
In my life fulfill.
Like "a watered garden"
Full of fragrance rare
Ling'ring in Thy presence
Let my life appear.
Emily May Grimes Crawford
While I wait on Thee;
Hushed my heart to listen
In expectancy.
Speak, O blessed Master,
In this quiet hour;
Let me see Thy face, Lord,
Feel Thy touch of power.
For the words Thou speakest,
"They are life," indeed;
Living Bread from heaven,
Now my spirit feed!
All to Thee is yielded,
I am not my own;
Blissful, glad surrender,
I am Thine alone.
Speak, Thy servant heareth!
Be not silent, Lord;
Waits my soul upon thee
For the quickening word!
Fill me with knowledge
Of Thy glorious will;
All Thine own good pleasure
In my life fulfill.
Like "a watered garden"
Full of fragrance rare
Ling'ring in Thy presence
Let my life appear.
Emily May Grimes Crawford
Monday, October 12, 2009
Be His Delight
One definition of delight is "the power of affording pleasure" Are you a delight to God? Psalm 16:3 says, But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.
Evaluate your own list of things to do today; then, give it to Him and ask Him to change the list to what pleases Him. You will be richly blessed.
Evaluate your own list of things to do today; then, give it to Him and ask Him to change the list to what pleases Him. You will be richly blessed.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Someone to Pray For
What a blessing, I was with a sister in the grocery store today and there was a sweet elderly man in front of us who joked about the two frozen meals on the counter as being enough for a "few meals" unless he said, "you want to come to my house and cook for me." I was thinking Lord I would cook for him; but I said while chuckling, "sure" He said, "God Bless You" as he left.
I love chatting with people and meeting a friendly guy in the store whatever the conversation is joyful and I believe for him too. I believe that God puts people in our path who has a need for acceptance, friendly conversation with a person no matter how brief can not only mean a bright spot in your day but also someone to pray for.
I love chatting with people and meeting a friendly guy in the store whatever the conversation is joyful and I believe for him too. I believe that God puts people in our path who has a need for acceptance, friendly conversation with a person no matter how brief can not only mean a bright spot in your day but also someone to pray for.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Missionaries the McGrady Family
McGrady's Mission Moment
August 14, 2009
Never Too Old!
Ever think that you were just too old to do missionary work? We returned to our call to missions during our mid-life and found that God has blessed us beyond what we could have imagined. But how about if you were 84 years old? Do you think you could do anything for the Lord in missions? Well let me tell you the story about my mom. When Jordan and I returned to Ecuador on July 27, my 84 year old mother along with my brother and his wife joined us. Our trip flying from Columbus, Ohio to Guayaquil, Ecuador met with many delays and we spent 21 hours to get there from the time we got up till we finally went to bed that night. But we were safe and for that we were thankful. We spent a couple of days
traveling around Guayaquil visting our churches and meeting some of the people there. The picture above on the left is my mom and I greeting some of the congregation. We saw first hand that there is a great harvest field of people to reach with the Gospel and our pastors are reaching out to make a difference in their communities.
We traveled by plane up to Cuenca where we live and have re-planted the church there. We took in many sites of the city as well as visting the Ruins at Inga Pirca.
It was amazing to learn the history of the Canare people as they were conquered by the Inga Indians and then later by the Spanards. We learned that the people of this area went from worshiping the moon to worshiping the sun to the catholic influence of the cross. See below the face of an Inga Indian carved
in the mountain. It was amazing to see engineering feats that would have taken place with out the use of modern day tools. Huge rocks were cut and carved and transported across mountains with out the aid of the wheel. We truly enjoed seeing all of these amazing sites.
We learned a lot about the history of the people that God has called us to minister to and my mom took it all in.
Well, the week moved on and it was time to prepare for our first Sunday back at "The Carport Church" at our home in Cuenca. We had been traveling in the USA since June 10 and we returned ready to worship. My mom preaches every Sunday back in Rockbridge, Ohio. She has been a lay speaker for years and has a two point charge that she preaches at every Sunday. Did I mention that she is 84 years old? Well she was ready to tell the Good News of Jesus Christ to the people here in Cuenca, Ecuador. On Sunday, August 2, my mom preached to the congregation of 24 persons in our house church that God planted earlier this year. She told the people of Christ's love for them and how she was saved as a young girl and Jesus took all her fears away and gave her a peace in her heart that has lasted all these years. She shared the hope that only Jesus Christ can bring to the heart. It was my privilege to translate my mom words into Spanish. What a blessing it was for me and for all the church to hear her heart. Who says that you are ever too old to serve the Lord anywhere? My mom proved to me, you're not! What are you getting ready to do for Him? You're never too old.
For the latest go to http://straightpaths.org/default.aspx For our August Newsletter "Never Too Old" go to http://straightpaths.org/news.aspx For the latest in Jordan's ministry, go to http://straightpaths.org/jordanscorner.aspx God Bless You,Ned, Marlene and Jordan
August 14, 2009
Never Too Old!
Ever think that you were just too old to do missionary work? We returned to our call to missions during our mid-life and found that God has blessed us beyond what we could have imagined. But how about if you were 84 years old? Do you think you could do anything for the Lord in missions? Well let me tell you the story about my mom. When Jordan and I returned to Ecuador on July 27, my 84 year old mother along with my brother and his wife joined us. Our trip flying from Columbus, Ohio to Guayaquil, Ecuador met with many delays and we spent 21 hours to get there from the time we got up till we finally went to bed that night. But we were safe and for that we were thankful. We spent a couple of days
traveling around Guayaquil visting our churches and meeting some of the people there. The picture above on the left is my mom and I greeting some of the congregation. We saw first hand that there is a great harvest field of people to reach with the Gospel and our pastors are reaching out to make a difference in their communities.
We traveled by plane up to Cuenca where we live and have re-planted the church there. We took in many sites of the city as well as visting the Ruins at Inga Pirca.
It was amazing to learn the history of the Canare people as they were conquered by the Inga Indians and then later by the Spanards. We learned that the people of this area went from worshiping the moon to worshiping the sun to the catholic influence of the cross. See below the face of an Inga Indian carved
in the mountain. It was amazing to see engineering feats that would have taken place with out the use of modern day tools. Huge rocks were cut and carved and transported across mountains with out the aid of the wheel. We truly enjoed seeing all of these amazing sites.
We learned a lot about the history of the people that God has called us to minister to and my mom took it all in.
Well, the week moved on and it was time to prepare for our first Sunday back at "The Carport Church" at our home in Cuenca. We had been traveling in the USA since June 10 and we returned ready to worship. My mom preaches every Sunday back in Rockbridge, Ohio. She has been a lay speaker for years and has a two point charge that she preaches at every Sunday. Did I mention that she is 84 years old? Well she was ready to tell the Good News of Jesus Christ to the people here in Cuenca, Ecuador. On Sunday, August 2, my mom preached to the congregation of 24 persons in our house church that God planted earlier this year. She told the people of Christ's love for them and how she was saved as a young girl and Jesus took all her fears away and gave her a peace in her heart that has lasted all these years. She shared the hope that only Jesus Christ can bring to the heart. It was my privilege to translate my mom words into Spanish. What a blessing it was for me and for all the church to hear her heart. Who says that you are ever too old to serve the Lord anywhere? My mom proved to me, you're not! What are you getting ready to do for Him? You're never too old.
For the latest go to http://straightpaths.org/default.aspx For our August Newsletter "Never Too Old" go to http://straightpaths.org/news.aspx For the latest in Jordan's ministry, go to http://straightpaths.org/jordanscorner.aspx God Bless You,Ned, Marlene and Jordan
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Missionaries Ron and Janice Jones- Newsletter
Greeting in the name of Jesus,
It is hard to believe that we are finishing up our 23rd month in the Caribbean. It just seems like yesterday we
stepped out onto the tarmack at the V.C. Bird Airport in St Johns, Antigua, and began the journey that God had ordained
for us. Time flies when you are having fun. And that really sums up our ministry here. It has been fun because
we have seen God do so many things in our lives, the lives of the team members who came for ministry, and
the lives of the people themselves here in Antigua, Montserrat and Dominica. We are excited about what the future
holds for our ministry here in the years to come. Please pray for us as we return home on August 1 and begin raising
our support to return in June 2010. We have many slots open to speak in churches that have not been filled, so
we encourage pastors to email us and get us slated in your churches. Laypersons, your pastor may be really busy
and has not had the time to schedule us, so encourage him to contact us.
This past month we have been busy with special services in some of the churches. I have been preaching quite
regularly, and Janice was busy organizing a “Mother’s Day” service at the Grays Farm Church. We have pictures
below of that service. Janice met with the children for about 3 weeks twice a week learning songs and memorizing
recitations. We had 17 children in all, and they were pretty excited about the program. The children also did a
craft which was making a picture frame for their picture we took of them, and they were able to present that to
their mom’s in the service along with a long stem red rose. We sent out personal invitations to each mother and we
had a good response. In a congregation of about 20 every Sunday, the Grays Farm church had over 50 in attendance
on that Sunday. It was a real blessing! I was asked to preach that Sunday by Pastor Michael and brought a
message entitled: “Hannah: The Model Mother”. Our hearts were really stirred when we saw the hurt in some of
the children’s faces whose mother’s did not attend. Two little sisters who practiced a special song to sing for their
mom, were heart broken telling us their mom wasn’t coming, but they did a great job singing “Moms Are Special
People”. We were excited that we were able to purchase the song online and download it to our iPod for them to
perform. We wish you could have heard their angelic voices. Their names are Nadine and Jessica. The church was
thrilled with the performances of the children. The grand finale’ of the day was a short tribute to moms created
by Janice. She came up with the idea of each child wearing a different hat that portrays what moms do. For example:
Nurse’s hat, chef ’s hat, chauffeur’s hat, policemen’s hat, ball cap, garbage man’s hat, cleaning lady hat, business
man hat, fashion hat. Each child had a short recitation about what the hat meant which related to what their
mom’s do for them. And at the end each child said, “We love you mom and our hats are off to you”. At that time
each took their hat off in honor of their mom. The church exploded with applause and we saw many mom’s shed
tears of appreciation. Janice is a genius at pulling these kinds of programs off and she has definitely been in her
element with children’s ministry while here in the caribbean. Oh, by the way, the church has asked her to do “Father;
s Day”!
Pray for us as we host 4 teams before we leave May 31-June6 Brandon & Lynn Baker; June 19-27 Shady Grove
Colfax Youth, July 4-11 High Pine Wesleyan and July 18-25 Gibsonville Brown Youth. To God be the glory!
In Christ-Ron & Janice Jones
May 2009
P . O . B o x 2 2 3 4 S t J o h n s A n t i g u a W e s t I n d i e s E m a i l : r o n n i e j o n e s 1 @ m a c . c o m
THE
ANTIGUAN WAVE
N e w s l e t t e r
“I can do all things through
Christ who gives me the
strength”. Philippians 4:13
http://web.mac.com/ronniejones1/Site/Home_Page.html
May 2009
It is hard to believe that we are finishing up our 23rd month in the Caribbean. It just seems like yesterday we
stepped out onto the tarmack at the V.C. Bird Airport in St Johns, Antigua, and began the journey that God had ordained
for us. Time flies when you are having fun. And that really sums up our ministry here. It has been fun because
we have seen God do so many things in our lives, the lives of the team members who came for ministry, and
the lives of the people themselves here in Antigua, Montserrat and Dominica. We are excited about what the future
holds for our ministry here in the years to come. Please pray for us as we return home on August 1 and begin raising
our support to return in June 2010. We have many slots open to speak in churches that have not been filled, so
we encourage pastors to email us and get us slated in your churches. Laypersons, your pastor may be really busy
and has not had the time to schedule us, so encourage him to contact us.
This past month we have been busy with special services in some of the churches. I have been preaching quite
regularly, and Janice was busy organizing a “Mother’s Day” service at the Grays Farm Church. We have pictures
below of that service. Janice met with the children for about 3 weeks twice a week learning songs and memorizing
recitations. We had 17 children in all, and they were pretty excited about the program. The children also did a
craft which was making a picture frame for their picture we took of them, and they were able to present that to
their mom’s in the service along with a long stem red rose. We sent out personal invitations to each mother and we
had a good response. In a congregation of about 20 every Sunday, the Grays Farm church had over 50 in attendance
on that Sunday. It was a real blessing! I was asked to preach that Sunday by Pastor Michael and brought a
message entitled: “Hannah: The Model Mother”. Our hearts were really stirred when we saw the hurt in some of
the children’s faces whose mother’s did not attend. Two little sisters who practiced a special song to sing for their
mom, were heart broken telling us their mom wasn’t coming, but they did a great job singing “Moms Are Special
People”. We were excited that we were able to purchase the song online and download it to our iPod for them to
perform. We wish you could have heard their angelic voices. Their names are Nadine and Jessica. The church was
thrilled with the performances of the children. The grand finale’ of the day was a short tribute to moms created
by Janice. She came up with the idea of each child wearing a different hat that portrays what moms do. For example:
Nurse’s hat, chef ’s hat, chauffeur’s hat, policemen’s hat, ball cap, garbage man’s hat, cleaning lady hat, business
man hat, fashion hat. Each child had a short recitation about what the hat meant which related to what their
mom’s do for them. And at the end each child said, “We love you mom and our hats are off to you”. At that time
each took their hat off in honor of their mom. The church exploded with applause and we saw many mom’s shed
tears of appreciation. Janice is a genius at pulling these kinds of programs off and she has definitely been in her
element with children’s ministry while here in the caribbean. Oh, by the way, the church has asked her to do “Father;
s Day”!
Pray for us as we host 4 teams before we leave May 31-June6 Brandon & Lynn Baker; June 19-27 Shady Grove
Colfax Youth, July 4-11 High Pine Wesleyan and July 18-25 Gibsonville Brown Youth. To God be the glory!
In Christ-Ron & Janice Jones
May 2009
P . O . B o x 2 2 3 4 S t J o h n s A n t i g u a W e s t I n d i e s E m a i l : r o n n i e j o n e s 1 @ m a c . c o m
THE
ANTIGUAN WAVE
N e w s l e t t e r
“I can do all things through
Christ who gives me the
strength”. Philippians 4:13
http://web.mac.com/ronniejones1/Site/Home_Page.html
May 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
by Roger Campbell
LESSONS LEARNED FROM A GENTLE MAN
I met Orlen while in my twenties and serving my first church. He was the pastor of a thriving congregation. Like Paul, Orlen had poor eyesight, but his spiritual insight more than compensated for his limited vision. Impressed by his accomplishments and the relationship he enjoyed with his church, I once questioned him about how to have an effective ministry. “The Bible says the meek shall inherit the earth,” Orlen replied. “What do you mean?” I asked, a bit bewildered by his answer. “The pastor who is meek will inherit his church,” he explained. Orlen’s view was new to me, but, to my surprise, I found it to be true for leaders through the centuries. Moses, chosen to lead his people out of slavery, was known as the meekest man on earth (Numbers 12:3). Earlier, while in a position of power and influence, he had failed as a leader. Finally, after losing his high place in government and leading sheep for forty years, he was meek enough to lead people. It’s important to know, however, that meekness doesn’t mean weakness. Biblically speaking, meekness means gentleness or humility. Orlen was a gentle, humble man, like his Lord. No wonder he inherited his church, along with their love and devotion. My second lesson learned from Orlen came when our church joined his in aiding a needy family. The husband and father had recently been released from jail where men from our two churches carried on a weekly outreach to prisoners. Together our churches supplied food, clothing and lodging for this homeless family and made numerous attempts to help them find work so they could have a new start. As time passed with little progress being made in moving them to self-sufficiency, I began to be discouraged, doubting that this former prisoner was putting forth much effort to provide for his family. I saw our earnest efforts failing and the whole project as a poor investment, so voiced my concerns to Orlen. His response to my negative attitude has been unforgettable. “It is better that they fail us than that we fail them,” he said. An anonymous writer in a brief but powerful piece, titled “My Eternal Preference” summed up Orlen’s attitude about people and their problems: “When we are given our rewards, I would prefer to be found to have erred on the side of grace rather than judgment: to have loved too much rather than too little; to have forgiven an undeserving rather than to have refused forgiveness to one who deserved it; to have fed a parasite rather than to have neglected one who was truly hungry; to have been taken advantage of rather than to have taken undue advantage; to have believed too much in my brothers rather than too little; having been wrong on the side of too much trust than too much cynicism; to have believed the best and been wrong, than to have believed the worst and been right.” My third lesson from Orlen grew out of his view that newspapers are the most overlooked means of telling people of God’s love. I took his words to heart and started writing a column. You’re reading it. And that’s the rest of the story. Recently, I tried to call Orlen to thank him for his influence in my life, but found I had called too late. We ought to thank people while we can. This may be the greatest lesson of all.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
I met Orlen while in my twenties and serving my first church. He was the pastor of a thriving congregation. Like Paul, Orlen had poor eyesight, but his spiritual insight more than compensated for his limited vision. Impressed by his accomplishments and the relationship he enjoyed with his church, I once questioned him about how to have an effective ministry. “The Bible says the meek shall inherit the earth,” Orlen replied. “What do you mean?” I asked, a bit bewildered by his answer. “The pastor who is meek will inherit his church,” he explained. Orlen’s view was new to me, but, to my surprise, I found it to be true for leaders through the centuries. Moses, chosen to lead his people out of slavery, was known as the meekest man on earth (Numbers 12:3). Earlier, while in a position of power and influence, he had failed as a leader. Finally, after losing his high place in government and leading sheep for forty years, he was meek enough to lead people. It’s important to know, however, that meekness doesn’t mean weakness. Biblically speaking, meekness means gentleness or humility. Orlen was a gentle, humble man, like his Lord. No wonder he inherited his church, along with their love and devotion. My second lesson learned from Orlen came when our church joined his in aiding a needy family. The husband and father had recently been released from jail where men from our two churches carried on a weekly outreach to prisoners. Together our churches supplied food, clothing and lodging for this homeless family and made numerous attempts to help them find work so they could have a new start. As time passed with little progress being made in moving them to self-sufficiency, I began to be discouraged, doubting that this former prisoner was putting forth much effort to provide for his family. I saw our earnest efforts failing and the whole project as a poor investment, so voiced my concerns to Orlen. His response to my negative attitude has been unforgettable. “It is better that they fail us than that we fail them,” he said. An anonymous writer in a brief but powerful piece, titled “My Eternal Preference” summed up Orlen’s attitude about people and their problems: “When we are given our rewards, I would prefer to be found to have erred on the side of grace rather than judgment: to have loved too much rather than too little; to have forgiven an undeserving rather than to have refused forgiveness to one who deserved it; to have fed a parasite rather than to have neglected one who was truly hungry; to have been taken advantage of rather than to have taken undue advantage; to have believed too much in my brothers rather than too little; having been wrong on the side of too much trust than too much cynicism; to have believed the best and been wrong, than to have believed the worst and been right.” My third lesson from Orlen grew out of his view that newspapers are the most overlooked means of telling people of God’s love. I took his words to heart and started writing a column. You’re reading it. And that’s the rest of the story. Recently, I tried to call Orlen to thank him for his influence in my life, but found I had called too late. We ought to thank people while we can. This may be the greatest lesson of all.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Lonliness
CBN TEACHING SHEETS
Overcoming Loneliness
By CBN.com
CBN.com – I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever (John 14:16)
"Loneliness was the first thing that God's eye named not good." - John Milton
It was the sixth day. God Almighty had just finished creating all the living creatures that move along the ground. As He had at each stage of creation, God paused and evaluated His work. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:25). Only one more task remained.
"And the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being" (Genesis 2:7).
Here was God's only creation that would not live its life in total ignorance of its Creator. Rather, made in God's image, Adam would fulfill a role no other creature could -- he would have fellowship with God and be the object of His love. But after placing Adam in the Garden, God observed that there was still something missing.
"The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him'" (Genesis 2:18).
God recognized Adam's need for contact with another human being -- a need God had built into him. More than just a fellow inhabitant of Eden, Eve would be the object of Adam's love and would love him in return. She would share the wonders of creation and the responsibilities of stewardship. With the creation of Eve, Adam's intimate relationship with God was complemented by communion and companionship with someone like himself.
By God's design we have an innate need to be loved and belong. As children we learn to give and receive affection and are taught the skills that will help us find acceptance in society. Through our relationships with family, friends, co-workers and others, we form our sense of individuality and find our place in the mosaic of life. It's when that need for affection and fellowship goes unfulfilled, that we become restless, unhappy...lonely.
If you are struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Everyone experiences seasons of isolation for one reason or another. Usually we overcome loneliness by meeting new friends, entering new social circles, or taking some other action that reengages us with people.
However, a variety of personal factors and other circumstances can sometimes short-circuit our ability to connect with others. Perhaps you have become insecure about meeting new people after the death of a loved one. Maybe some social setbacks have led you to think that no one would be interested in your company. Relocating to a new area may have left you yearning for old friendships and unable to start new ones. There are many ways that long-term loneliness can take over our lives.
Causes of Loneliness
Loneliness doesn't develop overnight. It can be the result of a lifetime of influences that shape our personality. Or it can evolve after a major transition or trauma. Often we are unaware of the subtle forces that can slowly lead us into self-imposed isolation.
Some people tend to be loners because of circumstances in their childhood development. For example, growing up with an unaffectionate or overly critical parent may make one shy away from intimacy with others. Some people simply never learn to communicate well or get along with their peers. Others have overly aggressive or demanding personalities that make people withdraw out of intimidation. Conversely, people with low self-esteem often withdraw from social situations they believe will lead to rejection. Loneliness can become a lifestyle for the person who struggles with poorly developed interpersonal skills.
There are also many social factors that contribute to loneliness. We live in an age in which modern technology has made it easier to do things without other people and without leaving our homes. Television is the chief culprit that robs us of time with relatives and neighbors. For some, especially the elderly, the increased likelihood of becoming the victim of a crime keeps them from venturing out of their homes. Also, because our society is more mobile than in the past, families may relocate several times for career advancement or other reasons, which tends to discourage the development of deep friendships.
Loneliness can result from "situational factors," circumstances in life that increase the possibility of isolation. People who are unmarried, divorced or widowed are more likely to encounter loneliness simply because they are more likely to be alone. However, loneliness can also occur when a marriage relationship doesn't produce the closeness we expect. The student separated from home, the leader who must remain aloof from his subordinates, the individual with a disability or disease -- all face a greater chance of loneliness due to a situation in their lives.
Often loneliness brought on by developmental, social or situational factors leads to problems that only worsen loneliness. Alcoholism, drug abuse, family breakdown and other social ills are frequently rooted in loneliness and usually lead to greater alienation from meaningful human contact. The proliferation of gangs, religious cults and other deviant social groups can be attributed largely to people's need to belong somewhere and their failure to find acceptance in a traditional setting.
Whatever may be contributing to your loneliness, there is a way out. It begins with confronting a cause of loneliness that every human being must come to terms with -- the spiritual loneliness of being separated from God. Each of us has a need to connect with something larger than ourselves in order to fill the spiritual vacuum that exists within us all. The Bible is God's plan for developing the most important relationship in our lives.
Loneliness and The Bible
As the story of Adam and Eve illustrates, God intends for us to share our lives with other people. The importance of personal relationships in God's eyes is evident in the amount of space devoted to them in the Bible. Both the Old and New Testaments have a lot to say about marriage, parenthood, friendship and church fellowship. But it is also clear from God's Word that there is one relationship that is preeminent from God's point of view. That is the fellowship He wants to have with us, which forms the foundation of all other relationships.
When we accept God's gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, we enter into communion with the Creator of the universe. God Almighty becomes our Heavenly Father and He places His Holy Spirit within us. Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the "Counselor" (John 14:16), whose presence would guide us into all truth (John 16:13). The Apostles Paul and John said God's Spirit would fill believers with assurance of our membership in God's family (Romans 8:16; I John 14:13). Day by day, through prayer and Bible reading, we can experience the wonderful fellowship that God wants to have with each of His children. He is never too busy to listen.
A dynamic walk with God is a solid foundation for building relationships with others. As God's children, we are members of an incredibly large extended family that encompasses the world. Our brothers and sisters inhabit every nation on the globe. Spiritually speaking, our "immediate family" is the group of believers with whom we attend church. They form an important support group that functions much like our natural family does. Christians who don't go to church or don't get involved in church activities cut themselves off from a rich source of companionship.
If you are a Christian who is suffering from loneliness, ask yourself if you have taken full possession of the abundant life God wants you to have. Are you spending regular quality time with your Heavenly Father? Are you active in a local church? Ask God to lead you into a deeper relationship with Him and greater involvement with fellow believers.
If you have never invited Jesus Christ to be your Savior, now is a good time to do so. Making Jesus the Lord of your life will put you on a path that leads to intimacy with God, new friendships with fellow Christians in this life and an eternal place in God's presence in the life hereafter.
Steps for Overcoming Loneliness
Perhaps you've heard these suggestions from well-meaning friends: "Why not join a club?" or "You should do some traveling." They aren't bad ideas but they aren't solutions to the problem of loneliness either. The following steps will help you break free from thinking, emotions and behaviors that may be at the root of your loneliness. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify actions you can take to overcome loneliness.
Admit the Problem - Only after you acknowledge that you are lonely can you take the steps necessary to escape from your isolation.
Consider the causes - Evaluate your life honestly in light of the factors mentioned above. Do any of them apply to you?
Accept What Cannot Be Changed - The death of a spouse, a relocation away from old friends, and other unalterable circumstances must be faced squarely. God can use transitions in our lives to open doors to new experiences, but we must be willing to let go of the past and move on.
Alter What Can Be Changed - Many of the causes of loneliness discussed above can be overcome. Do you fear rejection because you feel inadequate? Do you stay in your home watching television when you could be at a social function? Has your best friend just moved away? Regardless of the reason for your loneliness, you owe it to yourself to take measures that will meet the problem head-on.
§ Work on developing self-esteem by stopping destructive self-talk, such as telling yourself that you are unlikable. There are many good books on the subjects or rational thinking and misbelief therapy that can help you.
§ Practice looking at yourself from God's perspective. Study the Scriptures and meditate on verses that depict God's view of His children.
§ Make it a point to get out of the house at least once a week. Attend church activities; participate in community functions; take a class, etc...
§ Get involved in a cause. There are many groups looking for faithful volunteers who want to make a difference. Of course, working for a ministry or charity is also a great way to meet people.
Develop New Habits That Build Up Your Inner Self - As you become a stronger, more self-assured person, you'll find it easier to make new friends and encounter new situations. Try some of these strategies for self-improvement:
§ Meditate on God's Word for relaxation and to ease the effects of stress on your life.
§ Establish a schedule for a day, weekend or a week. Loneliness often seems more intense when we have nothing to do. Organize your time and be sure to include some outside activities.
§ Start exercising regularly. Take walks around your neighborhood, a local park or a shopping mall. You'll feel better physically and emotionally.
Make the most out of your time alone. Aloneness (as opposed to loneliness) can be a very positive experience. Aloneness, or solitude, gives us a chance to reflect on our lives, to meditate on God's will for us and to find healing for the wounds inflicted by the world. Many experts feel that we spend too little time alone and that we would all be better off by planning regular times of solitude in our lives.
Make an Effort to Make New Friends - Often all that is required to escape loneliness is the determination to seek out a new friend. Overcoming shyness and the fear of rejection are usually the biggest obstacles to initiating a friendship. Keep the following in mind as you try to establish new relationships:
§ Look for someone with whom you share a common interest.
§ Take the initiative and give the person a call. Chances are that person may be looking for a friend as well.
§ Build a friendship slowly. Don't overwhelm a new acquaintance with your problems and opinions. With time the openness to express feelings will develop. Give compliments and be thoughtful. Refrain from giving unsolicited advice. Be a good listener.
Consider Buying a Pet - Pets can be a wonderful source of companionship. Don't overlook the possibilities. Pets offer uncomplicated companionship and unquestioning affection. They can even become the catalyst for friendships with other pet owners.
Loneliness can be overcome. But it's up to you to take the steps necessary to break free from its grip. Ask your Heavenly Father for the courage to reach out to others and try new things. Trust Him to give you what He wants you to have -- an abundant life that includes intimate and faithful friends.
Overcoming Loneliness
By CBN.com
CBN.com – I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever (John 14:16)
"Loneliness was the first thing that God's eye named not good." - John Milton
It was the sixth day. God Almighty had just finished creating all the living creatures that move along the ground. As He had at each stage of creation, God paused and evaluated His work. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:25). Only one more task remained.
"And the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being" (Genesis 2:7).
Here was God's only creation that would not live its life in total ignorance of its Creator. Rather, made in God's image, Adam would fulfill a role no other creature could -- he would have fellowship with God and be the object of His love. But after placing Adam in the Garden, God observed that there was still something missing.
"The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him'" (Genesis 2:18).
God recognized Adam's need for contact with another human being -- a need God had built into him. More than just a fellow inhabitant of Eden, Eve would be the object of Adam's love and would love him in return. She would share the wonders of creation and the responsibilities of stewardship. With the creation of Eve, Adam's intimate relationship with God was complemented by communion and companionship with someone like himself.
By God's design we have an innate need to be loved and belong. As children we learn to give and receive affection and are taught the skills that will help us find acceptance in society. Through our relationships with family, friends, co-workers and others, we form our sense of individuality and find our place in the mosaic of life. It's when that need for affection and fellowship goes unfulfilled, that we become restless, unhappy...lonely.
If you are struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Everyone experiences seasons of isolation for one reason or another. Usually we overcome loneliness by meeting new friends, entering new social circles, or taking some other action that reengages us with people.
However, a variety of personal factors and other circumstances can sometimes short-circuit our ability to connect with others. Perhaps you have become insecure about meeting new people after the death of a loved one. Maybe some social setbacks have led you to think that no one would be interested in your company. Relocating to a new area may have left you yearning for old friendships and unable to start new ones. There are many ways that long-term loneliness can take over our lives.
Causes of Loneliness
Loneliness doesn't develop overnight. It can be the result of a lifetime of influences that shape our personality. Or it can evolve after a major transition or trauma. Often we are unaware of the subtle forces that can slowly lead us into self-imposed isolation.
Some people tend to be loners because of circumstances in their childhood development. For example, growing up with an unaffectionate or overly critical parent may make one shy away from intimacy with others. Some people simply never learn to communicate well or get along with their peers. Others have overly aggressive or demanding personalities that make people withdraw out of intimidation. Conversely, people with low self-esteem often withdraw from social situations they believe will lead to rejection. Loneliness can become a lifestyle for the person who struggles with poorly developed interpersonal skills.
There are also many social factors that contribute to loneliness. We live in an age in which modern technology has made it easier to do things without other people and without leaving our homes. Television is the chief culprit that robs us of time with relatives and neighbors. For some, especially the elderly, the increased likelihood of becoming the victim of a crime keeps them from venturing out of their homes. Also, because our society is more mobile than in the past, families may relocate several times for career advancement or other reasons, which tends to discourage the development of deep friendships.
Loneliness can result from "situational factors," circumstances in life that increase the possibility of isolation. People who are unmarried, divorced or widowed are more likely to encounter loneliness simply because they are more likely to be alone. However, loneliness can also occur when a marriage relationship doesn't produce the closeness we expect. The student separated from home, the leader who must remain aloof from his subordinates, the individual with a disability or disease -- all face a greater chance of loneliness due to a situation in their lives.
Often loneliness brought on by developmental, social or situational factors leads to problems that only worsen loneliness. Alcoholism, drug abuse, family breakdown and other social ills are frequently rooted in loneliness and usually lead to greater alienation from meaningful human contact. The proliferation of gangs, religious cults and other deviant social groups can be attributed largely to people's need to belong somewhere and their failure to find acceptance in a traditional setting.
Whatever may be contributing to your loneliness, there is a way out. It begins with confronting a cause of loneliness that every human being must come to terms with -- the spiritual loneliness of being separated from God. Each of us has a need to connect with something larger than ourselves in order to fill the spiritual vacuum that exists within us all. The Bible is God's plan for developing the most important relationship in our lives.
Loneliness and The Bible
As the story of Adam and Eve illustrates, God intends for us to share our lives with other people. The importance of personal relationships in God's eyes is evident in the amount of space devoted to them in the Bible. Both the Old and New Testaments have a lot to say about marriage, parenthood, friendship and church fellowship. But it is also clear from God's Word that there is one relationship that is preeminent from God's point of view. That is the fellowship He wants to have with us, which forms the foundation of all other relationships.
When we accept God's gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, we enter into communion with the Creator of the universe. God Almighty becomes our Heavenly Father and He places His Holy Spirit within us. Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the "Counselor" (John 14:16), whose presence would guide us into all truth (John 16:13). The Apostles Paul and John said God's Spirit would fill believers with assurance of our membership in God's family (Romans 8:16; I John 14:13). Day by day, through prayer and Bible reading, we can experience the wonderful fellowship that God wants to have with each of His children. He is never too busy to listen.
A dynamic walk with God is a solid foundation for building relationships with others. As God's children, we are members of an incredibly large extended family that encompasses the world. Our brothers and sisters inhabit every nation on the globe. Spiritually speaking, our "immediate family" is the group of believers with whom we attend church. They form an important support group that functions much like our natural family does. Christians who don't go to church or don't get involved in church activities cut themselves off from a rich source of companionship.
If you are a Christian who is suffering from loneliness, ask yourself if you have taken full possession of the abundant life God wants you to have. Are you spending regular quality time with your Heavenly Father? Are you active in a local church? Ask God to lead you into a deeper relationship with Him and greater involvement with fellow believers.
If you have never invited Jesus Christ to be your Savior, now is a good time to do so. Making Jesus the Lord of your life will put you on a path that leads to intimacy with God, new friendships with fellow Christians in this life and an eternal place in God's presence in the life hereafter.
Steps for Overcoming Loneliness
Perhaps you've heard these suggestions from well-meaning friends: "Why not join a club?" or "You should do some traveling." They aren't bad ideas but they aren't solutions to the problem of loneliness either. The following steps will help you break free from thinking, emotions and behaviors that may be at the root of your loneliness. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify actions you can take to overcome loneliness.
Admit the Problem - Only after you acknowledge that you are lonely can you take the steps necessary to escape from your isolation.
Consider the causes - Evaluate your life honestly in light of the factors mentioned above. Do any of them apply to you?
Accept What Cannot Be Changed - The death of a spouse, a relocation away from old friends, and other unalterable circumstances must be faced squarely. God can use transitions in our lives to open doors to new experiences, but we must be willing to let go of the past and move on.
Alter What Can Be Changed - Many of the causes of loneliness discussed above can be overcome. Do you fear rejection because you feel inadequate? Do you stay in your home watching television when you could be at a social function? Has your best friend just moved away? Regardless of the reason for your loneliness, you owe it to yourself to take measures that will meet the problem head-on.
§ Work on developing self-esteem by stopping destructive self-talk, such as telling yourself that you are unlikable. There are many good books on the subjects or rational thinking and misbelief therapy that can help you.
§ Practice looking at yourself from God's perspective. Study the Scriptures and meditate on verses that depict God's view of His children.
§ Make it a point to get out of the house at least once a week. Attend church activities; participate in community functions; take a class, etc...
§ Get involved in a cause. There are many groups looking for faithful volunteers who want to make a difference. Of course, working for a ministry or charity is also a great way to meet people.
Develop New Habits That Build Up Your Inner Self - As you become a stronger, more self-assured person, you'll find it easier to make new friends and encounter new situations. Try some of these strategies for self-improvement:
§ Meditate on God's Word for relaxation and to ease the effects of stress on your life.
§ Establish a schedule for a day, weekend or a week. Loneliness often seems more intense when we have nothing to do. Organize your time and be sure to include some outside activities.
§ Start exercising regularly. Take walks around your neighborhood, a local park or a shopping mall. You'll feel better physically and emotionally.
Make the most out of your time alone. Aloneness (as opposed to loneliness) can be a very positive experience. Aloneness, or solitude, gives us a chance to reflect on our lives, to meditate on God's will for us and to find healing for the wounds inflicted by the world. Many experts feel that we spend too little time alone and that we would all be better off by planning regular times of solitude in our lives.
Make an Effort to Make New Friends - Often all that is required to escape loneliness is the determination to seek out a new friend. Overcoming shyness and the fear of rejection are usually the biggest obstacles to initiating a friendship. Keep the following in mind as you try to establish new relationships:
§ Look for someone with whom you share a common interest.
§ Take the initiative and give the person a call. Chances are that person may be looking for a friend as well.
§ Build a friendship slowly. Don't overwhelm a new acquaintance with your problems and opinions. With time the openness to express feelings will develop. Give compliments and be thoughtful. Refrain from giving unsolicited advice. Be a good listener.
Consider Buying a Pet - Pets can be a wonderful source of companionship. Don't overlook the possibilities. Pets offer uncomplicated companionship and unquestioning affection. They can even become the catalyst for friendships with other pet owners.
Loneliness can be overcome. But it's up to you to take the steps necessary to break free from its grip. Ask your Heavenly Father for the courage to reach out to others and try new things. Trust Him to give you what He wants you to have -- an abundant life that includes intimate and faithful friends.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Ascension Sunday
Luke 24:50-51 And He led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up His hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while He blesseed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.
Forty days after His resurrection on Easter Sunday, the Lord led His followers out of Jerusalem toward Bethany. This was the church being gathered by the Lord: disciples, tax collectors, women, and fisherman. Workers everyday folks like you and me. Behold, over this group the Lord of Easter lifts up His hands! And listen: from His resurrected mouth proceed words of blessing for this group. And "it came to pass, while He was blessing them" with His hands, then streteched out still--He rose from the earth, "was parted from them and carried up into heaven." Why, did Jesus lift His hands in blessing? The Son of God, church, had come to earth to work reconciliation between God and man. It was accomplised on the cross, Jesus gave up His life and with His last breath came the ripping of the temple veil separating the Holy of Holies to give us direct access to the throne of God.
Renew yourselves in the blessing of peace everyday. That is the message that the Lord Jesus would impress upon His church at His ascension into heaven, and that is the message that He continues to impress on His congregaion today. Lift up your hands, hearts, and voices with me today in praise to our Lord. Thank God for Him and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in your life.
Forty days after His resurrection on Easter Sunday, the Lord led His followers out of Jerusalem toward Bethany. This was the church being gathered by the Lord: disciples, tax collectors, women, and fisherman. Workers everyday folks like you and me. Behold, over this group the Lord of Easter lifts up His hands! And listen: from His resurrected mouth proceed words of blessing for this group. And "it came to pass, while He was blessing them" with His hands, then streteched out still--He rose from the earth, "was parted from them and carried up into heaven." Why, did Jesus lift His hands in blessing? The Son of God, church, had come to earth to work reconciliation between God and man. It was accomplised on the cross, Jesus gave up His life and with His last breath came the ripping of the temple veil separating the Holy of Holies to give us direct access to the throne of God.
Renew yourselves in the blessing of peace everyday. That is the message that the Lord Jesus would impress upon His church at His ascension into heaven, and that is the message that He continues to impress on His congregaion today. Lift up your hands, hearts, and voices with me today in praise to our Lord. Thank God for Him and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in your life.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
McGrady's-Missionaries to Ecuador-Update
Dear Faithful Friends of our Team, Greetings to everyone from Cuenca, Ecuador. We are so thankful to you for your support and prayers and interest in our ministry. We have updated our web site and we want you to take a look at all that God is doing through out ministry. Your faithful support has allowed us to see the following accomplished: 1. Read "Who Knew You Could Meet God on a Carport." http://straightpaths.org/news.aspx 2. Read about our Pastor Visit with Cora Gorman Missionary to Surinamehttp://straightpaths.org/pastorstomissionaries.aspx 3. Read what's going on with Jordanhttp://straightpaths.org/jordanscorner.aspx 4. Read about our plans for the summer months in the USAhttp://straightpaths.org/default.aspx Thanks again for the great blessing you are to our work and ministry. May God grant you peace to you and yours today and always. Ned, Marlene and Jordan McGradyRev. Ned R. McGradyGlobal Partners Pastor to Missionaries in EcuadorApartado 01.01.338Cuenca, Ecuador South AmericaEcuador Home Phone 593-07-408-2545
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Mother With A Singing Heart
NEWSPAPER COLUMN Roger Campbell
THE MOTHER WITH A SINGING HEART
When Susanna Annesley married young Samuel Wesley, she probably didn’t expect to give birth to nineteen children, eight of whom would die at birth. Nevertheless, as her life unfolded, making motherhood her main responsibility, Susanna learned to draw on her faith in God to gain strength to carry her through every trial and the world still benefits from her amazing example.
Eighteenth century England was a difficult setting in which to raise a family. One historian describes the conditions then as religiously stagnant and morally corrupt.
Churches were of little help to struggling families. Most sermons of that period are said to have lacked warmth and enthusiasm and were but dry, cold, colorless talks on morality. Furthermore, many ministers hobnobbed with the rich, neglecting their poorer parishioners.
Samuel and Susanna raised their children in a coarse and brutal society. Drunkenness was common, which, not surprisingly, compounded the problems of crime, poverty and domestic violence.
Susanna’s husband became the pastor of a church in rural Epworth, England, increasing her responsibilities to include serving in the church and setting a good example for the women in the congregation.
There must have been times when this mother of so many felt like throwing in the towel; like giving up in he face of her many duties. But Susanna had discovered a great stress reducer that carried her through the pressure periods: she had learned to give her daily difficulties to her Lord and expressed her secret of successful living and mothering
A SINGING HEART PAGE TWO Roger Campbell
in what has become one of her best known quotes: “Give others the sunshine. Give Jesus the rest.”
Samuel had a happy wife and his children had a happy mother.
When Susana’s eighteenth child, Charles, later wrote the well known hymn “OH FOR A THOUSAND TONGUES TO SING MY GREAT REDEEMER’S PRAISE” he was drawing on his childhood memories. He had grown up under the loving influence of a mother who was known for praising rather than pouting no matter what was going on around her
Susanna’s faith and discipline paid off. Her fifteenth and eighteenth children (John and Charles) shook their century for God and the tremors of that historic spiritual earthquake still rumble through churches around the world.”
So deep was Susanna’s devotion to her Lord that she prayed daily for her children to serve Him and her prayers were eventually answered. John and Charles finally entered into the genuine faith their mother had longed to see in them and for which she had prayed. They became the prime movers in what is now known as the Wesleyan Revival, a movement that changed their nation, impacted the world and gave birth to the Methodist Church.
Today, millions around the world worship God singing hymns composed by two men whose mother had a sunny disposition and a singing heart.
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist who was a pastor for 22 years.
He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
THE MOTHER WITH A SINGING HEART
When Susanna Annesley married young Samuel Wesley, she probably didn’t expect to give birth to nineteen children, eight of whom would die at birth. Nevertheless, as her life unfolded, making motherhood her main responsibility, Susanna learned to draw on her faith in God to gain strength to carry her through every trial and the world still benefits from her amazing example.
Eighteenth century England was a difficult setting in which to raise a family. One historian describes the conditions then as religiously stagnant and morally corrupt.
Churches were of little help to struggling families. Most sermons of that period are said to have lacked warmth and enthusiasm and were but dry, cold, colorless talks on morality. Furthermore, many ministers hobnobbed with the rich, neglecting their poorer parishioners.
Samuel and Susanna raised their children in a coarse and brutal society. Drunkenness was common, which, not surprisingly, compounded the problems of crime, poverty and domestic violence.
Susanna’s husband became the pastor of a church in rural Epworth, England, increasing her responsibilities to include serving in the church and setting a good example for the women in the congregation.
There must have been times when this mother of so many felt like throwing in the towel; like giving up in he face of her many duties. But Susanna had discovered a great stress reducer that carried her through the pressure periods: she had learned to give her daily difficulties to her Lord and expressed her secret of successful living and mothering
A SINGING HEART PAGE TWO Roger Campbell
in what has become one of her best known quotes: “Give others the sunshine. Give Jesus the rest.”
Samuel had a happy wife and his children had a happy mother.
When Susana’s eighteenth child, Charles, later wrote the well known hymn “OH FOR A THOUSAND TONGUES TO SING MY GREAT REDEEMER’S PRAISE” he was drawing on his childhood memories. He had grown up under the loving influence of a mother who was known for praising rather than pouting no matter what was going on around her
Susanna’s faith and discipline paid off. Her fifteenth and eighteenth children (John and Charles) shook their century for God and the tremors of that historic spiritual earthquake still rumble through churches around the world.”
So deep was Susanna’s devotion to her Lord that she prayed daily for her children to serve Him and her prayers were eventually answered. John and Charles finally entered into the genuine faith their mother had longed to see in them and for which she had prayed. They became the prime movers in what is now known as the Wesleyan Revival, a movement that changed their nation, impacted the world and gave birth to the Methodist Church.
Today, millions around the world worship God singing hymns composed by two men whose mother had a sunny disposition and a singing heart.
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist who was a pastor for 22 years.
He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
Friday, May 8, 2009
Guest Article:
Spirituality Between The Lines
by Heath Davis
In every sport there are boundary markers representing the field of play. As a kid who grew up playing baseball, something magical that transpired each time fresh white chalk graces the presence of the field. those fresh white lines down first an third meant only one thing. It was game day. I may have practiced on that same field a hundred times, but those white lines now transformed that field into something more than dirt and grass. It became the place where everything practiced was put on the line. You see even the novice athlete realizes that the game is not won during practice sessions. What matters most is what happens between the white lines on game day. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged in the Scriptures to train ourselves in godliness, join together with our teammates and receive coaching from those who can help us move forward. But, ultimately the proof of our discipleship, the test of Christian spirituality, is fleshed out in between the white lines of our everyday lives. Today, we live in a world that's inundated with talk about spirituality. The plethora of beliefs on spirituality that swim around our culture has led many to simply misunderstand Christian spirituality. Many who come to our churches hungry and searching have wrongly categorized Christianity as some esoteric feeling that comes over me when I have a "God-moment". Others are tempted to define spirituality as a tranquil state of consciousness or even good "vibe" that one gets when worshiping in church. These misconceptions of Christian spirituality ultimately reduce God to some feeling of emotional ecstasy. This view of God both depersonalizes His character and reduces His ability to transform our everyday experiences. True Christian spirituality at its heart is the surrender of my entire life for God's kind of life. Hence, spirituality for the Christian can never be divorced from the intentions, choices and behaviors that are fleshed out within those white lines we call "everyday life". Christian spirituality is the stuff of loving our spouse even when they are less than lovely on a given day. It is found in practicing patience at Wal-Mart when your unmotivated teenage cashier seems to be more busy scanning cute guys than the products in her line. It's discovered in releasing my emotional emptiness to God at the end of the day instead of turning to artificial substitutes to fill the void (junk food, shopping, Facebook, etc.). Jesus believed that all of life was spiritual. Therefore, every single moment of my waking life is the raw material God wants to use to transform my character into the character of Christ...even the seemingly mundane things like changing dirty diapers or flat tires. As spiritual leaders and guides, it is essential that we help those under our direction really get this. The Church must come to see that ll of life is spiritual. And, that starts with us as leaders. We must continue to nurture and encourage our church to assess itself by whether or not Christ is located between the white lines of everyday life. God has provided a field. It's called everyday life. Our objective is simple. Each day we are to strive in between the lines to be formed into the likeness of His Son little more than we were yesterday. Sure, God graces us with refreshing time-outs, much needed huddles, and refreshing sideline breaks along the way (and hopefully the church provides such necessities). But it's not long before our Father nudges us back towards the ominous field, the field of life, and waits for us to put to the test what we've worked on in practice. So what are we waiting for? Let's get in the game!
Adult Ministries E-News-Department of Spiritual Formtion-www.wesleyan.org
Spirituality Between The Lines
by Heath Davis
In every sport there are boundary markers representing the field of play. As a kid who grew up playing baseball, something magical that transpired each time fresh white chalk graces the presence of the field. those fresh white lines down first an third meant only one thing. It was game day. I may have practiced on that same field a hundred times, but those white lines now transformed that field into something more than dirt and grass. It became the place where everything practiced was put on the line. You see even the novice athlete realizes that the game is not won during practice sessions. What matters most is what happens between the white lines on game day. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged in the Scriptures to train ourselves in godliness, join together with our teammates and receive coaching from those who can help us move forward. But, ultimately the proof of our discipleship, the test of Christian spirituality, is fleshed out in between the white lines of our everyday lives. Today, we live in a world that's inundated with talk about spirituality. The plethora of beliefs on spirituality that swim around our culture has led many to simply misunderstand Christian spirituality. Many who come to our churches hungry and searching have wrongly categorized Christianity as some esoteric feeling that comes over me when I have a "God-moment". Others are tempted to define spirituality as a tranquil state of consciousness or even good "vibe" that one gets when worshiping in church. These misconceptions of Christian spirituality ultimately reduce God to some feeling of emotional ecstasy. This view of God both depersonalizes His character and reduces His ability to transform our everyday experiences. True Christian spirituality at its heart is the surrender of my entire life for God's kind of life. Hence, spirituality for the Christian can never be divorced from the intentions, choices and behaviors that are fleshed out within those white lines we call "everyday life". Christian spirituality is the stuff of loving our spouse even when they are less than lovely on a given day. It is found in practicing patience at Wal-Mart when your unmotivated teenage cashier seems to be more busy scanning cute guys than the products in her line. It's discovered in releasing my emotional emptiness to God at the end of the day instead of turning to artificial substitutes to fill the void (junk food, shopping, Facebook, etc.). Jesus believed that all of life was spiritual. Therefore, every single moment of my waking life is the raw material God wants to use to transform my character into the character of Christ...even the seemingly mundane things like changing dirty diapers or flat tires. As spiritual leaders and guides, it is essential that we help those under our direction really get this. The Church must come to see that ll of life is spiritual. And, that starts with us as leaders. We must continue to nurture and encourage our church to assess itself by whether or not Christ is located between the white lines of everyday life. God has provided a field. It's called everyday life. Our objective is simple. Each day we are to strive in between the lines to be formed into the likeness of His Son little more than we were yesterday. Sure, God graces us with refreshing time-outs, much needed huddles, and refreshing sideline breaks along the way (and hopefully the church provides such necessities). But it's not long before our Father nudges us back towards the ominous field, the field of life, and waits for us to put to the test what we've worked on in practice. So what are we waiting for? Let's get in the game!
Adult Ministries E-News-Department of Spiritual Formtion-www.wesleyan.org
Please Don't Stop...
Praying, yesterday President Barrack H. Obama signed a proclamtion making May 7, 2009 the National Day of Prayer. I urge you to continue on in those prayers. During the service that I attended at the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey FL, the following passage was read: First, I tell you to pray for all people, asking God for what they need and being thankful to him. 2 Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives full of worship and respect for God. 3 This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to know the truth. 5 There is one God and one mediator so that human beings can reach God. That way is through Christ Jesus, who is himself human. 6 He gave himself as a payment to free all people. He is proof that came at the right time I Timothy 2:1-6 (NCV) www.biblegateway.com
Also consider the upcoming Global Day of Prayer May 31, 2009, for more information go to www.waymakers.org. Shirley Dobson said it best for this years National Day of Prayer theme, "Prayer is America's Hope."
Also consider the upcoming Global Day of Prayer May 31, 2009, for more information go to www.waymakers.org. Shirley Dobson said it best for this years National Day of Prayer theme, "Prayer is America's Hope."
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
What can we do?
Don't just read the word, "Be a doer of the word." The disciples went about teaching and preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ with adversity on their left and on their right. The Jewish leaders were against them, the Romans were against them. All disciples continued on with faith in their saviour Jesus Christ, joy in their hearts and prayer for the new frail churches never ceased. What can you do? Make a decision today just step out in faith. Early in my walk a new opportunity arose, one that I had no experience in. I asked, "God should I do this thing?" He answered, "Judi, you have to start somewhere, go on." You too, just go on.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Habbuck 2:6-11
But all the nations the Babylonians have hurt will laugh at them.
They will make fun of the Babylonians and say, 'How terrible it will be for the one that steals many things.
How long will that nation get rich by forcing others to pay them?' 7 "One day the people from whom you have taken money will turn against you.
They will realize what is happening and make you shake with fear.
Then they will take everything you have. 8 Because you have stolen from many nations, those who are left will take much from you. This is because you have killed many people, destroying countries and cities and everyone in them. 9 "How terrible it will be for the nation that becomes rich by doing wrong, thinking they will live in a safe place and escape harm.
10 Because you have made plans to destroy many people, you have made your own houses ashamed of you. Because of it, you will lose your lives. 11 The stones of the walls will cry out against you, and the boards that support the roof will agree that you are wrong.
They will make fun of the Babylonians and say, 'How terrible it will be for the one that steals many things.
How long will that nation get rich by forcing others to pay them?' 7 "One day the people from whom you have taken money will turn against you.
They will realize what is happening and make you shake with fear.
Then they will take everything you have. 8 Because you have stolen from many nations, those who are left will take much from you. This is because you have killed many people, destroying countries and cities and everyone in them. 9 "How terrible it will be for the nation that becomes rich by doing wrong, thinking they will live in a safe place and escape harm.
10 Because you have made plans to destroy many people, you have made your own houses ashamed of you. Because of it, you will lose your lives. 11 The stones of the walls will cry out against you, and the boards that support the roof will agree that you are wrong.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Call to Worship
1 Corinthians 1:6-9 (New International Reader's Version)
6 Our witness about Christ has been proved to be true in you.
7 There is no gift of the Holy Spirit that you don't have. You are full of hope as you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to come again. 8 God will keep you strong to the very end. Then you will be without blame on the day our Lord Jesus Christ returns.
9 God is faithful. He has chosen you to share life with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
God is faithful, His desire is to have a close relationship with each of us. In order to do that spend time in His word the Holy Bible and attend a Bible Believing Jesus Following Church. My testimony, "I walk with God by following Jesus as guided by the Holy Spirit. Enjoy praise and worship today, fellowship with other believers, bring your tithe into the storehouse, share the gospel. These things are the very least we can do to please God while we are waiting here on Earth for our Heavenly Home.
6 Our witness about Christ has been proved to be true in you.
7 There is no gift of the Holy Spirit that you don't have. You are full of hope as you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to come again. 8 God will keep you strong to the very end. Then you will be without blame on the day our Lord Jesus Christ returns.
9 God is faithful. He has chosen you to share life with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
God is faithful, His desire is to have a close relationship with each of us. In order to do that spend time in His word the Holy Bible and attend a Bible Believing Jesus Following Church. My testimony, "I walk with God by following Jesus as guided by the Holy Spirit. Enjoy praise and worship today, fellowship with other believers, bring your tithe into the storehouse, share the gospel. These things are the very least we can do to please God while we are waiting here on Earth for our Heavenly Home.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Enjoying a Ride with Mr. Baseball
ENJOYING A RIDE WITH MR. BASEBALL
The season opener of Major League Baseball has reminded me of an enjoyable ride across our state while listening to one of the most recognizable voices in North America.
Ernie Harwell was announcing a Detroit Tiger baseball game and his usual mastery of the microphone, added to the fact that I was once Ernie’s pastor, made my long trip a pleasant sentimental journey.
What made Ernie Harwell so effective as a baseball announcer and so loved by the public in general?
A Detroit newspaper once quoted Ernie as follows: “The most important thing to me is how I walk with God, whether I please Him or not. My family is second and my job third. I try to keep things in perspective.”
Driving and listening to Ernie at his best, reminded me of a time he and I had visited a woman who had been hospitalized for several weeks following serious surgery. Knowing she was an ardent Tiger fan, I thought a visit from Ernie might encourage her, brightening one of those routine, sometimes boring, days that can be part of a long hospital stay.
When I called Ernie to ask if he’d be willing to make the visit with me, his reply was characteristic Harwell. “Sure, I’ll be glad to go,” he said.
During our drive to the hospital, I told Ernie about the woman we were going to see: her faith, her illness, the long recovery period expected and her husband’s response when he heard of our planned visit. “You’ll make her day!” he’d said. “She must be easily satisfied,” Ernie replied.
Upon arriving at our destination, we headed down a corridor and approached a room that was decorated with Tiger signs. Here was a true blue fan who had chosen the Tigers as her team while growing up in New York just to have a team other than the one boosted by her brothers. That year, she had picked the team that finished last and had remained loyal through all the good and lean years that followed.
Ernie and I stepped into that hospital room without fanfare, but I knew immediately that this patient’s husband had been right in his prediction about the effect Ernie’s appearance would have on his suffering wife.
The distinguished voice this faithful fan had heard addressing thousands so many times before was now directed to her personally, but baseball wasn’t its primary theme. Here was Ernie Harwell, the man of faith, now a sermon in shoes, ministering to someone who was going through a difficult time; encouraging her and representing his Lord.
Some seldom reach out to hurting people. They just stand there, as Ernie often said after a great pitch flew by an unmoved batter, “like a house by the side of the road.” So they never get to first base in bringing others to their Lord.
Others care enough to go and show what faith and compassion are like in action.
May their numbers increase!
When they reach home, they’ll find their names recorded in heaven’s hall of fame.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.
He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
The season opener of Major League Baseball has reminded me of an enjoyable ride across our state while listening to one of the most recognizable voices in North America.
Ernie Harwell was announcing a Detroit Tiger baseball game and his usual mastery of the microphone, added to the fact that I was once Ernie’s pastor, made my long trip a pleasant sentimental journey.
What made Ernie Harwell so effective as a baseball announcer and so loved by the public in general?
A Detroit newspaper once quoted Ernie as follows: “The most important thing to me is how I walk with God, whether I please Him or not. My family is second and my job third. I try to keep things in perspective.”
Driving and listening to Ernie at his best, reminded me of a time he and I had visited a woman who had been hospitalized for several weeks following serious surgery. Knowing she was an ardent Tiger fan, I thought a visit from Ernie might encourage her, brightening one of those routine, sometimes boring, days that can be part of a long hospital stay.
When I called Ernie to ask if he’d be willing to make the visit with me, his reply was characteristic Harwell. “Sure, I’ll be glad to go,” he said.
During our drive to the hospital, I told Ernie about the woman we were going to see: her faith, her illness, the long recovery period expected and her husband’s response when he heard of our planned visit. “You’ll make her day!” he’d said. “She must be easily satisfied,” Ernie replied.
Upon arriving at our destination, we headed down a corridor and approached a room that was decorated with Tiger signs. Here was a true blue fan who had chosen the Tigers as her team while growing up in New York just to have a team other than the one boosted by her brothers. That year, she had picked the team that finished last and had remained loyal through all the good and lean years that followed.
Ernie and I stepped into that hospital room without fanfare, but I knew immediately that this patient’s husband had been right in his prediction about the effect Ernie’s appearance would have on his suffering wife.
The distinguished voice this faithful fan had heard addressing thousands so many times before was now directed to her personally, but baseball wasn’t its primary theme. Here was Ernie Harwell, the man of faith, now a sermon in shoes, ministering to someone who was going through a difficult time; encouraging her and representing his Lord.
Some seldom reach out to hurting people. They just stand there, as Ernie often said after a great pitch flew by an unmoved batter, “like a house by the side of the road.” So they never get to first base in bringing others to their Lord.
Others care enough to go and show what faith and compassion are like in action.
May their numbers increase!
When they reach home, they’ll find their names recorded in heaven’s hall of fame.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.
He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
Take A Moment
Jeremiah 9:23-24
23 This is what the Lord says: "The wise must not brag about their wisdom.
The strong must not brag about their strength. The rich must not brag about their money.
24 But if people want to brag, let them brag that they understand and know me.
Let them brag that I am the Lord, and that I am kind and fair, and that I do things
that are right on earth. This kind of bragging pleases me," says the Lord.
23 This is what the Lord says: "The wise must not brag about their wisdom.
The strong must not brag about their strength. The rich must not brag about their money.
24 But if people want to brag, let them brag that they understand and know me.
Let them brag that I am the Lord, and that I am kind and fair, and that I do things
that are right on earth. This kind of bragging pleases me," says the Lord.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Ron & Janice Jones April 2009 Newsletter
Hello friends and team members,
We write with grateful hearts to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the great success of our trip to the Island of
Dominica. Dominica is an island of 350 square miles with numerous mountain ranges and a huge rainforest that covers
most of the island. The island is inhabited by numerous nationalities from all over the Caribbean, but have an
indigenous race of people called the “Caribe’s’ who are the original indians of the Caribbean. 13 from Antigua accompanied
Janice and myself who represented 5 different local churches and Dr. Ruth Allen from Montserrat. 16 in
all converged in Dominica from April 4-9. On Saturday night we had an evangelistic crusade at the Castle Bruce WHC
pastored by Rev. Joan Lockhart. That crusade continued on Sunday morning and evening. Sunday afternoon we had a
preregistration and get to know you service which was the kickoff for our VBS. The VBS lasted through Wednesday
and we ministered to over 80 children. Monday we went into the primary school at Castle Bruce and were able to do a
devotion that lasted about 45 minutes. Dr. Ruth Allen, pastor of the Montserrat Beulah WHC, gave the devotion about
the wise man and foolish man that built there houses of rock and sand. Sister Priscilla Michael led the children in
some songs. There favorite song was “I may never march in the infantry, ride in the calvary, shoot the artillery; I may
never fly o’er the enemy, but I’m in the Lord’s army.” Also on Monday and Wednesday we were able to go onto the
Caribe reserve and conduct devotions for one public school and a Nazarene school. I provided one day of devotions
sharing with the children about Jesus using the young lad’s lunch in feeding over 5,000 and Dr. Olson Daniel, who is
the Assistant District Superintendent for the Antigua District of the WHC, the committee chair-person for missions
and evangelism, and also the pastor of Swetes WHC, provided a devotion also and spoke about Daniel in the lion’s
den. With a great “ROAR” Dr. Daniel challenged the children to trust in God for all they need. Janice provided the
leadership for the VBS and did a great job of organization. We also went out in the community of Castle Bruce and
the Caribe Reserve sharing our faith with individuals, passing out 100’s of gospel tracts, and making many new
friends. We had gathered clothes months before we left for Dominica for adults, children and infants and gave many
of those out and left some with Pastor Lockhart to distribute as needs arrive. There are pictures below of Janice passing
out some of the clothes. It was Christmas in April for these families who have great needs. If interested, we have
one family in which the mother asked if we could raise some funds to buy a TV so her children would have something
to do in their very small home at night instead of going out at night on the reserve where it is not safe. Just a small 15-
20 inch TV with a DVD player built in. We could then buy them some family and religious oriented dvd’s for their entertainment.
We have pictures below of this family dwelling.
We now have around 100 days left in Antigua and are busy trying to fill our speaking schedule for Sept. 2009
through May 2010. We are scheduled to be home August 1. Please contact us through email listed at the bottom
of this page or through our blog on our website listed above. Thanks for your prayers and financial support. Without
you none of the great strides made here would have ever happened. Pray for the teams we have scheduled this summer:
Brandon & Lynn Baker May 30-June 6; Shady Grove Colfax Wesleyan; June 19-27, High Pine Wesleyan July
4-11; Gibsonville Brown Wesleyan July 18-25. God Bless!! Go to website for over 1000 more pictures of Dominica.
In Christ,
Ron & Janice Jones
P.O.Box 2234 St Johns antigua West Indies Email: r o n n i e j o n e s 1@ma c . c om
We write with grateful hearts to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the great success of our trip to the Island of
Dominica. Dominica is an island of 350 square miles with numerous mountain ranges and a huge rainforest that covers
most of the island. The island is inhabited by numerous nationalities from all over the Caribbean, but have an
indigenous race of people called the “Caribe’s’ who are the original indians of the Caribbean. 13 from Antigua accompanied
Janice and myself who represented 5 different local churches and Dr. Ruth Allen from Montserrat. 16 in
all converged in Dominica from April 4-9. On Saturday night we had an evangelistic crusade at the Castle Bruce WHC
pastored by Rev. Joan Lockhart. That crusade continued on Sunday morning and evening. Sunday afternoon we had a
preregistration and get to know you service which was the kickoff for our VBS. The VBS lasted through Wednesday
and we ministered to over 80 children. Monday we went into the primary school at Castle Bruce and were able to do a
devotion that lasted about 45 minutes. Dr. Ruth Allen, pastor of the Montserrat Beulah WHC, gave the devotion about
the wise man and foolish man that built there houses of rock and sand. Sister Priscilla Michael led the children in
some songs. There favorite song was “I may never march in the infantry, ride in the calvary, shoot the artillery; I may
never fly o’er the enemy, but I’m in the Lord’s army.” Also on Monday and Wednesday we were able to go onto the
Caribe reserve and conduct devotions for one public school and a Nazarene school. I provided one day of devotions
sharing with the children about Jesus using the young lad’s lunch in feeding over 5,000 and Dr. Olson Daniel, who is
the Assistant District Superintendent for the Antigua District of the WHC, the committee chair-person for missions
and evangelism, and also the pastor of Swetes WHC, provided a devotion also and spoke about Daniel in the lion’s
den. With a great “ROAR” Dr. Daniel challenged the children to trust in God for all they need. Janice provided the
leadership for the VBS and did a great job of organization. We also went out in the community of Castle Bruce and
the Caribe Reserve sharing our faith with individuals, passing out 100’s of gospel tracts, and making many new
friends. We had gathered clothes months before we left for Dominica for adults, children and infants and gave many
of those out and left some with Pastor Lockhart to distribute as needs arrive. There are pictures below of Janice passing
out some of the clothes. It was Christmas in April for these families who have great needs. If interested, we have
one family in which the mother asked if we could raise some funds to buy a TV so her children would have something
to do in their very small home at night instead of going out at night on the reserve where it is not safe. Just a small 15-
20 inch TV with a DVD player built in. We could then buy them some family and religious oriented dvd’s for their entertainment.
We have pictures below of this family dwelling.
We now have around 100 days left in Antigua and are busy trying to fill our speaking schedule for Sept. 2009
through May 2010. We are scheduled to be home August 1. Please contact us through email listed at the bottom
of this page or through our blog on our website listed above. Thanks for your prayers and financial support. Without
you none of the great strides made here would have ever happened. Pray for the teams we have scheduled this summer:
Brandon & Lynn Baker May 30-June 6; Shady Grove Colfax Wesleyan; June 19-27, High Pine Wesleyan July
4-11; Gibsonville Brown Wesleyan July 18-25. God Bless!! Go to website for over 1000 more pictures of Dominica.
In Christ,
Ron & Janice Jones
P.O.Box 2234 St Johns antigua West Indies Email: r o n n i e j o n e s 1@ma c . c om
An Encouraging Easter Word From Roger Campbell
EASTER’S HAPPY HEADLINE
The week beginning on Palm Sunday and ending with the crucifixion of Christ focuses on the darkest period of history. Yet, throughout this passionate period, a light shines through the darkness: the hope of the resurrection. These seven sacred days reveal the seriousness of sin and the price required to redeem us. Martin Luther called our tendency to do wrong so deep and horrible a corruption of nature that, “no reason can comprehend it.” And Augustine wrote: “We are capable of every sin that we have seen our neighbor commit unless God’s grace restrains us.” Old Testament prophets foresaw and wrote about the coming painful passion of the coming deliverer. David penned the most mysterious of the seven last words of Christ on the cross centuries before they were spoken (Psalm 22). Isaiah saw the suffering Savior being wounded and bruised to pay for our transgressions (Isaiah 53). Zechariah wrote about his pierced body and wounded hands (Zechariah 12:10; 13:6). While Handel was composing his great “Messiah,” a friend came to visit him just as he was working on the music for “He was despised.” Handel sobbed as he worked because his heart was broken as he thought about the shame and suffering of Christ described in the text before him. The disciples were devastated by the events of Passion Week. Peter was the first to fall, denying his Lord three times before leaving the scene in tears but ultimately they all fled for their lives, abandoning the one who loved them in their darkest hour. Earlier, Jesus had been challenged by critics who demanded a sign to prove His authority to teach and work miracles. “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up,” He had replied (John 2:9). Thinking He was speaking of the temple in Jerusalem, they reminded Him it had taken forty-six years to build and that rebuilding it in three days would be impossible. But He had been speaking of the resurrection of His body after the crucifixion, a promise He repeated to His disciples. Interestingly while the enemies of Christ remembered His promise of resurrection, His disciples seem to have forgotten it. His accusers would later ask Pilate for a Roman guard to be set at the tomb because He had said He would rise again (Matthew 27:63). Matthew Henry, the noted Bible commentator, explained this strange turn of events by writing “hate is keener sighted than love.” Considering how much more likely our enemies are to attack us than some of our friends to defend us, he may have been right. The passion of Christ and all that was part of His cruel condemnation and crucifixion created an atmosphere of darkness, but then came Sunday. Three days after Jesus was placed in Joseph’s tomb the stone that sealed Him in was touched by an angel and rolled away, allowing light to enter that dark place. This demonstration of authenticity transformed the disciples into dynamic people of faith. God still meets those He loves during their dark times. The happy headline of Easter announces “Christ Arose!” And right on time, in response to your faith, He’ll roll away the stone that’s troubling you today.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
The week beginning on Palm Sunday and ending with the crucifixion of Christ focuses on the darkest period of history. Yet, throughout this passionate period, a light shines through the darkness: the hope of the resurrection. These seven sacred days reveal the seriousness of sin and the price required to redeem us. Martin Luther called our tendency to do wrong so deep and horrible a corruption of nature that, “no reason can comprehend it.” And Augustine wrote: “We are capable of every sin that we have seen our neighbor commit unless God’s grace restrains us.” Old Testament prophets foresaw and wrote about the coming painful passion of the coming deliverer. David penned the most mysterious of the seven last words of Christ on the cross centuries before they were spoken (Psalm 22). Isaiah saw the suffering Savior being wounded and bruised to pay for our transgressions (Isaiah 53). Zechariah wrote about his pierced body and wounded hands (Zechariah 12:10; 13:6). While Handel was composing his great “Messiah,” a friend came to visit him just as he was working on the music for “He was despised.” Handel sobbed as he worked because his heart was broken as he thought about the shame and suffering of Christ described in the text before him. The disciples were devastated by the events of Passion Week. Peter was the first to fall, denying his Lord three times before leaving the scene in tears but ultimately they all fled for their lives, abandoning the one who loved them in their darkest hour. Earlier, Jesus had been challenged by critics who demanded a sign to prove His authority to teach and work miracles. “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up,” He had replied (John 2:9). Thinking He was speaking of the temple in Jerusalem, they reminded Him it had taken forty-six years to build and that rebuilding it in three days would be impossible. But He had been speaking of the resurrection of His body after the crucifixion, a promise He repeated to His disciples. Interestingly while the enemies of Christ remembered His promise of resurrection, His disciples seem to have forgotten it. His accusers would later ask Pilate for a Roman guard to be set at the tomb because He had said He would rise again (Matthew 27:63). Matthew Henry, the noted Bible commentator, explained this strange turn of events by writing “hate is keener sighted than love.” Considering how much more likely our enemies are to attack us than some of our friends to defend us, he may have been right. The passion of Christ and all that was part of His cruel condemnation and crucifixion created an atmosphere of darkness, but then came Sunday. Three days after Jesus was placed in Joseph’s tomb the stone that sealed Him in was touched by an angel and rolled away, allowing light to enter that dark place. This demonstration of authenticity transformed the disciples into dynamic people of faith. God still meets those He loves during their dark times. The happy headline of Easter announces “Christ Arose!” And right on time, in response to your faith, He’ll roll away the stone that’s troubling you today.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
The McGrady's
Dear Praying Friends, We just wanted to give you an update from Cuenca, Ecuador. God Blessed us with 30 people in attendence at our Easter Service at our home. We began our service with a time of worship prepared by Jordan and lead by Marlene. Ned shared some devotional thoughts from the resurrection story and we celebrated communion together. Following an awesome worship service, we had a ping pong tournament on our newly made table while many of the ladies cooked a delicious meal from 4 different countries, including foods from Peru, Columbia, Ecuador and the USA. We had a huge turkey and a chocolate bunny cake to top things off. After our meal and recreation time, we watched the movie the "End of the Spear", (slain missionaries, in the Ecuadorian jungle,1950's), which was well received by all. God's blessings were abundent during our day of celebration and we praise God for it. We have transformed a portion of our carport into a church and God is blessing as we reach out into our community and new people are coming in. Some of you have been praying for Absolem, a neighbor that Ned has become friends with. Absolem came to church today. He continues to show interest in the things of God. Keep praying for the work here Cuenca. God is doing great things here. The work is growing and we need your prayers to continue to be equiped to serve the Lord as He has called us to. Thanks for your prayers and support. The McGrady'sNed, Marlene and JordanRev. Ned R. McGradyGlobal Partners Pastor to Missionaries in EcuadorApartado 01.01.338Cuenca, Ecuador South AmericaEcuador Home Phone 593-07-408-2545
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Sunday, April 12, 2009
History of Colored Easter Eggs
Easter Eggs
Easter is a religious holiday, but some of its customs, such as Easter eggs, are likely linked to pagan traditions. The egg, an ancient symbol of new life, has been associated with pagan festivals celebrating spring. From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs are said to represent Jesus' emergence from the tomb and resurrection. Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back to at least the 13th century, according to some sources. One explanation for this custom is that eggs were formerly a forbidden food during the Lenten season, so people would paint and decorate them to mark the end of the period of penance and fasting, then eat them on Easter as a celebration.
Easter egg hunts and egg rolling are two popular egg-related traditions. In the U.S., the White House Easter Egg Roll, a race in which children push decorated, hard-boiled eggs across the White House lawn, is an annual event held the Monday after Easter. The first official White House egg roll occurred in 1878, when Rutherford B. Hayes was president. The event has no religious significance, although some people have considered egg rolling symbolic of the stone blocking Jesus' tomb being rolled away, leading to his resurrection.
Easter is a religious holiday, but some of its customs, such as Easter eggs, are likely linked to pagan traditions. The egg, an ancient symbol of new life, has been associated with pagan festivals celebrating spring. From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs are said to represent Jesus' emergence from the tomb and resurrection. Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back to at least the 13th century, according to some sources. One explanation for this custom is that eggs were formerly a forbidden food during the Lenten season, so people would paint and decorate them to mark the end of the period of penance and fasting, then eat them on Easter as a celebration.
Easter egg hunts and egg rolling are two popular egg-related traditions. In the U.S., the White House Easter Egg Roll, a race in which children push decorated, hard-boiled eggs across the White House lawn, is an annual event held the Monday after Easter. The first official White House egg roll occurred in 1878, when Rutherford B. Hayes was president. The event has no religious significance, although some people have considered egg rolling symbolic of the stone blocking Jesus' tomb being rolled away, leading to his resurrection.
An Encouraging Word From Roger Campbell
PALM SUNDAY’S TEARS TODAY
The praises and palm branches of Psalm Sunday’s crowd when Jesus entered Jerusalem are remembered at this time of year but many forget the tears of Jesus over what that sacred city would face in the years ahead. Jerusalem means “city of peace” but the history of that embattled city is one of war and destruction and today it is the location of the most volatile political, religious, economic and military problem on the planet…so the tears continue. Interestingly, the Hebrew prophet, Zechariah, foretold this worldwide focus on the woes of Jerusalem and the alarm they would bring to the world in our time (Zechariah 12:2-3). David Grossman, while living in Israel, once wrote the following in a letter to the editor of Newsweek: “Fear masters everything; when you walk down the street you inspect all those who pass you with, as we say in Hebrew, seven eyes. Every decision is a fateful one. Everything is so fragile.” He said even making his way down a main street in Jerusalem that he had traveled since boyhood he found his mind cutting the landscape in pieces, looking for some source of danger. No wonder Jesus wept. Fear is a miserable master and to some degree this enemy stalks us all, wherever we live, bringing depression, stifling ability, draining energy, diminishing courage and robbing life of adventure and success. When fear is in control, we, like Grossman, are constantly scanning the landscape in search of anything that might harm us. Familiar sights and sounds become sentinels that continually warn us of impending disasters, keeping us ever on high alert. Even a ringing telephone can place one under fear’s control, dreading what unwelcome words may dwell at the bell. What breaks fear’s bondage? Faith in Palm Sunday’s weeping one. Faith and fear are opposites. And faith always enlists prayer to summon its faithful protector. The tears of Jesus on Palm Sunday, as He descended into Jerusalem, revealed His love for those who faced terrible things in the future. Ahead lay His betrayal by Judas, a mock trial before spineless Pilate and the crucifixion. Yet His tears that day weren’t for himself but for other suffering ones. “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” pleaded the psalmist (Psalm 122:6), and this ancient call to prayer is as needed today as it was when it was first issued. Will peace finally come to Jerusalem? Yes! Prayers will be answered and prophetic promises of peace fulfilled (Isaiah 62). Can we find peace as individuals? Absolutely! The One who stilled a stormy sea has a “Peace be still” for you and me.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
The praises and palm branches of Psalm Sunday’s crowd when Jesus entered Jerusalem are remembered at this time of year but many forget the tears of Jesus over what that sacred city would face in the years ahead. Jerusalem means “city of peace” but the history of that embattled city is one of war and destruction and today it is the location of the most volatile political, religious, economic and military problem on the planet…so the tears continue. Interestingly, the Hebrew prophet, Zechariah, foretold this worldwide focus on the woes of Jerusalem and the alarm they would bring to the world in our time (Zechariah 12:2-3). David Grossman, while living in Israel, once wrote the following in a letter to the editor of Newsweek: “Fear masters everything; when you walk down the street you inspect all those who pass you with, as we say in Hebrew, seven eyes. Every decision is a fateful one. Everything is so fragile.” He said even making his way down a main street in Jerusalem that he had traveled since boyhood he found his mind cutting the landscape in pieces, looking for some source of danger. No wonder Jesus wept. Fear is a miserable master and to some degree this enemy stalks us all, wherever we live, bringing depression, stifling ability, draining energy, diminishing courage and robbing life of adventure and success. When fear is in control, we, like Grossman, are constantly scanning the landscape in search of anything that might harm us. Familiar sights and sounds become sentinels that continually warn us of impending disasters, keeping us ever on high alert. Even a ringing telephone can place one under fear’s control, dreading what unwelcome words may dwell at the bell. What breaks fear’s bondage? Faith in Palm Sunday’s weeping one. Faith and fear are opposites. And faith always enlists prayer to summon its faithful protector. The tears of Jesus on Palm Sunday, as He descended into Jerusalem, revealed His love for those who faced terrible things in the future. Ahead lay His betrayal by Judas, a mock trial before spineless Pilate and the crucifixion. Yet His tears that day weren’t for himself but for other suffering ones. “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” pleaded the psalmist (Psalm 122:6), and this ancient call to prayer is as needed today as it was when it was first issued. Will peace finally come to Jerusalem? Yes! Prayers will be answered and prophetic promises of peace fulfilled (Isaiah 62). Can we find peace as individuals? Absolutely! The One who stilled a stormy sea has a “Peace be still” for you and me.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
McGrady's Mission Moment April 09
Happy Easter to Our Missionary Support Team! Thank you so much for standing with us in prayer and faithful support for our work here in Ecuador and beyond. We sincerly hope and pray that you will have a blessed Easter Season. We appreciate all you do for us and hope that you will enjoy the time you have with your families and friends. We will miss being with our families at this time, and ask that you continue to pray for our kids Jessica and Joshua as they finish their year at college. Pray for Jordan as he continues his on-line classes and his ministry to the youth. We appreciate your prayers for Marlene's dad as he continues to recover from surgery. We ask that you pray for us as we work to plant the church here and carry on our regular pastor duties to our missionaries. Pray for our special Easter Celebration. Please click the links below to see our most recent updates of our visit to Peru and our work here in Ecuador. God Bless, Ned, Marlene and Jordan http://straightpaths.org/news.aspx http://straightpaths.org/pastorstomissionaries.aspx http://straightpaths.org/jordanscorner.aspxRev. Ned R. McGradyGlobal Partners Pastor to Missionaries in EcuadorApartado 01.01.338Cuenca, Ecuador South AmericaEcuador Home Phone 593-07-408-2545
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Celular: 593-08-049-8723Email ned@straightpaths.orgSkype ned.mcgradySkype Phone (727) 231-4151www.straightpaths.org
Monday, April 6, 2009
Desperate Prayer
The world does not offer much hope in our times of great need.
At rock bottom, his own family kidnapped wtih the others, David strengthened himself in the Lord.
1 Samuel 30:6 (New Century Version)
The men in the army were threatening to kill David with stones, which greatly upset David. Each man was sad and angry because his sons and daughters had been captured, but David found strength in the Lord his God.
Here is a five step spiritual process for answered prayer using David's prayer as an example:
1) Repentance-change of mind
2) Recalled-God's faithfulness
3) Reflected-Heavenly power
4) Remembered-God's promises in His word
5) Resolved-to trust God
David's trust in the Lord was rewarded. In response to his faith, God rewarded David with all the strength needed for the circumstance.
I Samuel 30:16-19 So the Egyptian led David to the Amalekites. They were lying around on the ground, eating and drinking and celebrating with the things they had taken from the land of the Philistines and from Judah.17 David fought them from sunset until the evening of the next day. None of them escaped, except four hundred young men who rode off on their camels.18 David got his two wives back and everything the Amalekites had taken.19 Nothing was missing. David brought back everyone, young and old, sons and daughters. He recovered the valuable things and everything the Amalekites had taken.
God never changes he will do the same for you and me.
At rock bottom, his own family kidnapped wtih the others, David strengthened himself in the Lord.
1 Samuel 30:6 (New Century Version)
The men in the army were threatening to kill David with stones, which greatly upset David. Each man was sad and angry because his sons and daughters had been captured, but David found strength in the Lord his God.
Here is a five step spiritual process for answered prayer using David's prayer as an example:
1) Repentance-change of mind
2) Recalled-God's faithfulness
3) Reflected-Heavenly power
4) Remembered-God's promises in His word
5) Resolved-to trust God
David's trust in the Lord was rewarded. In response to his faith, God rewarded David with all the strength needed for the circumstance.
I Samuel 30:16-19 So the Egyptian led David to the Amalekites. They were lying around on the ground, eating and drinking and celebrating with the things they had taken from the land of the Philistines and from Judah.17 David fought them from sunset until the evening of the next day. None of them escaped, except four hundred young men who rode off on their camels.18 David got his two wives back and everything the Amalekites had taken.19 Nothing was missing. David brought back everyone, young and old, sons and daughters. He recovered the valuable things and everything the Amalekites had taken.
God never changes he will do the same for you and me.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Week of Witness/Spring Life 2009
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SpringLife '09Free Evanglism & Discipleship ResourcesEverySoul.org March 15 - May 3, 2009
This Sunday begins the “Week of Witness” across The Wesleyan Church.” As part of the SpringLife emphasis focusing on evangelism and discipleship – the “Week of Witness” has two specific goals:
1. To share your personal faith in Jesus Christ with at least one person verbally/intentionally; and
2. To invite as many people as you can to join you for Easter Sunday services/activities at your church.
This is our opportunity to help everyone around us to realize that Jesus lives! This is our time to share the hope of Christ with our family, friends and co-workers. This is the week for the world to understand what Easter is all about.
We have prayed for many to accept Christ as their personal Savior during the Week of Witness. We are expecting Easter Weekend to be a special celebration of the transformation of eternal life that only Jesus can make happen. Listen for the opportunities to share your faith. Engage in purposeful conversations about what Jesus means to you personally. Invite everyone you interact with to Easter in anticipation that the Good News of Jesus will be the focus of the entire weekend. Expect that many new believers will be intentionally discipled to and baptized throughout April and May through the ministry of the local church. Visit www.everysoul.org for more details, visit the prayer wall and share your stories of Christ's work.
Take as many as possible with you to heaven!Dr. Jim Dunn Rev. Phil StevensonSpiritual Formation Evangelism & Church Growth
The Leadership Network of the Spiritual Formation Department of The Wesleyan Church provides resources, updates and special offers to subscribers.Forward this email to a friend.Update your profile.Unsubscribe jbaxter16@tampabay.rr.com from this list. Our mailing address is:PO Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250Copyright (C) 2009 The Wesleyan Church. All rights reserved.Compliments of the departments of Evanglism & Church Growth and Spiritual Formation.
SpringLife '09Free Evanglism & Discipleship ResourcesEverySoul.org March 15 - May 3, 2009
This Sunday begins the “Week of Witness” across The Wesleyan Church.” As part of the SpringLife emphasis focusing on evangelism and discipleship – the “Week of Witness” has two specific goals:
1. To share your personal faith in Jesus Christ with at least one person verbally/intentionally; and
2. To invite as many people as you can to join you for Easter Sunday services/activities at your church.
This is our opportunity to help everyone around us to realize that Jesus lives! This is our time to share the hope of Christ with our family, friends and co-workers. This is the week for the world to understand what Easter is all about.
We have prayed for many to accept Christ as their personal Savior during the Week of Witness. We are expecting Easter Weekend to be a special celebration of the transformation of eternal life that only Jesus can make happen. Listen for the opportunities to share your faith. Engage in purposeful conversations about what Jesus means to you personally. Invite everyone you interact with to Easter in anticipation that the Good News of Jesus will be the focus of the entire weekend. Expect that many new believers will be intentionally discipled to and baptized throughout April and May through the ministry of the local church. Visit www.everysoul.org for more details, visit the prayer wall and share your stories of Christ's work.
Take as many as possible with you to heaven!Dr. Jim Dunn Rev. Phil StevensonSpiritual Formation Evangelism & Church Growth
The Leadership Network of the Spiritual Formation Department of The Wesleyan Church provides resources, updates and special offers to subscribers.Forward this email to a friend.Update your profile.Unsubscribe jbaxter16@tampabay.rr.com from this list. Our mailing address is:PO Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250Copyright (C) 2009 The Wesleyan Church. All rights reserved.Compliments of the departments of Evanglism & Church Growth and Spiritual Formation.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Words to remember
Remember what God called me to do
Align my priorities up with His priorities.
Expect difficulty in accomplishing worthwhile goals
I shouldn't be surprised that juggling all my roles and responsibilities is complicated.
Set my mind on my goals
Knowing I won't get it all done, I determine to get some things done--the needs of that day.
Trust God, no matter how tough it gets.
When there's too much to do, the first thing I should do is pray, seeking God's promised guidance.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG): Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He's the one who will keep you on track.
Align my priorities up with His priorities.
Expect difficulty in accomplishing worthwhile goals
I shouldn't be surprised that juggling all my roles and responsibilities is complicated.
Set my mind on my goals
Knowing I won't get it all done, I determine to get some things done--the needs of that day.
Trust God, no matter how tough it gets.
When there's too much to do, the first thing I should do is pray, seeking God's promised guidance.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG): Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He's the one who will keep you on track.
Encouraging Word from Pastor Roger Campbell
YOUR SONG CAN RETURN
Solomon’s poetic portrayal of spring is about to be reenacted: “The winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the 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” (Song of Solomon 2:11-12). Spring is an annual celebration of creation and resurrection. And at this time of the year all nature joins in saying: “God is alive so no matter how dark and cold it gets the sun will soon break through the clouds announcing the arrival of spring.” While being interviewed on a call-in radio program, I was surprised to hear the voice of a Missouri woman who had written to me nearly ten years earlier seeking help during a time of trouble. Her husband had just deserted her and their children. Understandably, she had been devastated by this heartbreaking development. Now, after all these years, she had turned on her radio and upon hearing the interview called to tell me she was doing very well in spite of her past problems. She wanted me to know that her song had returned. Spring insists cold dark days only endure for a season. New life and light are waiting in the wings to take the stage. Spring may produce praise for the majesty and minuteness of creation more than any other season. Miracles start showing up everywhere in greening grass, budding trees,blooming flowers and returning birds bent on staking out their territories with nesting and family plans in mind. While all this action is taking place, thunderstorms are forming to bring life-giving rain and nitrogen to the soil so the earth can blaze with beauty and ultimately produce bountiful harvests. These all reveal a divine plan that ought to make us aware we’re far more than accidental offshoots of a bogus big bang. We have a wise and loving Creator who is the source and sustainer of life. Our Lord often appealed to lessons in nature to demonstrate His love, speaking of birds that neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns but are fed by their heavenly Father. And His unforgettable parable about God clothing lilies of the field has comforted many during tough economic times: “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these” (Matthew 6:28-29). In his book, “God’s Cure for Anxious Care,” the late Dr. John R. Rice wrote: “Believe me, the birds can sing for you again! God can give joy for mourning and beauty for ashes. I tell you earnestly, as one who has had many sorrows but found sweet comfort, as one who is a sinner and has been forgiven, as one who has worried and chafed and fretted and, thank God, who has found peace.” All trouble is temporary. Better days are ahead. Dark days only last for a season so refuse to be dominated by darkness. Remember God loves you and spring past your storm to a song.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
Solomon’s poetic portrayal of spring is about to be reenacted: “The winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the 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” (Song of Solomon 2:11-12). Spring is an annual celebration of creation and resurrection. And at this time of the year all nature joins in saying: “God is alive so no matter how dark and cold it gets the sun will soon break through the clouds announcing the arrival of spring.” While being interviewed on a call-in radio program, I was surprised to hear the voice of a Missouri woman who had written to me nearly ten years earlier seeking help during a time of trouble. Her husband had just deserted her and their children. Understandably, she had been devastated by this heartbreaking development. Now, after all these years, she had turned on her radio and upon hearing the interview called to tell me she was doing very well in spite of her past problems. She wanted me to know that her song had returned. Spring insists cold dark days only endure for a season. New life and light are waiting in the wings to take the stage. Spring may produce praise for the majesty and minuteness of creation more than any other season. Miracles start showing up everywhere in greening grass, budding trees,blooming flowers and returning birds bent on staking out their territories with nesting and family plans in mind. While all this action is taking place, thunderstorms are forming to bring life-giving rain and nitrogen to the soil so the earth can blaze with beauty and ultimately produce bountiful harvests. These all reveal a divine plan that ought to make us aware we’re far more than accidental offshoots of a bogus big bang. We have a wise and loving Creator who is the source and sustainer of life. Our Lord often appealed to lessons in nature to demonstrate His love, speaking of birds that neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns but are fed by their heavenly Father. And His unforgettable parable about God clothing lilies of the field has comforted many during tough economic times: “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these” (Matthew 6:28-29). In his book, “God’s Cure for Anxious Care,” the late Dr. John R. Rice wrote: “Believe me, the birds can sing for you again! God can give joy for mourning and beauty for ashes. I tell you earnestly, as one who has had many sorrows but found sweet comfort, as one who is a sinner and has been forgiven, as one who has worried and chafed and fretted and, thank God, who has found peace.” All trouble is temporary. Better days are ahead. Dark days only last for a season so refuse to be dominated by darkness. Remember God loves you and spring past your storm to a song.
Roger Campbell MinistriesPO Box 301004 Waterford MI. 48330248-623-6882 (Office Hours 9:00 AM-5:00 PM [eastern time] Monday through Friday)
Roger Campbell is an author, broadcaster and columnist and has been a pastor for over 22 years.He can be reached at rcministry@ameritech.net
Friday, March 20, 2009
Excellent thoughts for today!
"Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can."
John Wesley
John Wesley
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Please, help us by just clicking your mouse!
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5). Use the search engine (it is powered by Yahoo) and .01 cent will be given to our nursing home for every search that you perform. (Checks are mailed out annually).
It also has a feature where money is donated if you shop on-line through GoodSearch (Target, Wal-Mart, Amazon, E-Bay, and more).
Now you can do a web search or better yet—Before doing a search, click on “Make GoodSearch your homepage” Follow the instructions. When done, every time you go to the internet and use this search engine, the church or school, or ministry of your choice, depending on which one you selected, will receive,.01 cent per search. This adds up rapidly! You can also use GoodSearch to do online shopping and we will get an even bigger percentage. It’s free so please do it and then tell your family and friends!
Here is an example of how much your organization can earn:
If 100 people do 2 searches per day, it would be $730 a year! If some do online shopping, this amount would be even larger!
If you wish to verify us in the list of non-profits, we are on page 53 of the G’s.
1). Type in http://www.goodsearch.com/ in the URL box
2) In the 2nd box down, type Grey Hair Is Beauty, Inc.
3) Click the yellow “verify” button
4) Choose Grey Hair Is Beauty Shady Hills FL from the pull down option by clicking on it. (This will set up a cookie on your computer so that you do not have to do it every time).
5). Use the search engine (it is powered by Yahoo) and .01 cent will be given to our nursing home for every search that you perform. (Checks are mailed out annually).
It also has a feature where money is donated if you shop on-line through GoodSearch (Target, Wal-Mart, Amazon, E-Bay, and more).
Now you can do a web search or better yet—Before doing a search, click on “Make GoodSearch your homepage” Follow the instructions. When done, every time you go to the internet and use this search engine, the church or school, or ministry of your choice, depending on which one you selected, will receive,.01 cent per search. This adds up rapidly! You can also use GoodSearch to do online shopping and we will get an even bigger percentage. It’s free so please do it and then tell your family and friends!
Here is an example of how much your organization can earn:
If 100 people do 2 searches per day, it would be $730 a year! If some do online shopping, this amount would be even larger!
If you wish to verify us in the list of non-profits, we are on page 53 of the G’s.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Joining Facebook has inspired me to get going here again!
Good Morning! I want to celebrate returning to the blog with an awesome receipe that my family loves. It is great for Sunday Brunch, especially because it is quick and easy. This brunch cake is not for a strict diet, just remember, " portion control!"
Banana Brunch Cake
2 1/2 cups any Pancake Mix
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 cups mashed banana (about 4 medium)
3/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 13x9 inch baking pan.
Combine pancake mix, 3/4 cup brown suganr and cinnamon. Add banana, milk, egg and oil; mix well. Spread into prepared pan. (hint: I added an extra banana and a just a splash of oil)
Combine nuts, 1/4 cup brown sugar and butter, sprinkle evenly over battter.
Bake about 30 minutes or until golden brown. 12 Servings
Banana Brunch Cake
2 1/2 cups any Pancake Mix
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 cups mashed banana (about 4 medium)
3/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 13x9 inch baking pan.
Combine pancake mix, 3/4 cup brown suganr and cinnamon. Add banana, milk, egg and oil; mix well. Spread into prepared pan. (hint: I added an extra banana and a just a splash of oil)
Combine nuts, 1/4 cup brown sugar and butter, sprinkle evenly over battter.
Bake about 30 minutes or until golden brown. 12 Servings
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