As this year closes, I ponder on what I did to better the lives of those less fortunate. I ask myself, did I do enough? Did I do anything? Here is a song that will help us remember that we should help others, not just this season, but always.
Light A Candle
Wrtten by Haun, Lindsay
Sung By: Avalon
Light a candle
For the old man who sits staring
Out a frosty windowpane
Light a candle
For the woman who is lonely
And every Christmas is the same
For the children who needs
More than presents can bring.
Light a candle
Light the dark
Light the world
Light a heart or two
Light a candle for me
Light a candle for you.
Light a candle
For the homeless and the hungry
A little shelter from the cold
Light a candle
For the broken and forgotten
May the season warm their souls
Can we open our hearts
To shine through the dark?
Light a candle
Light the dark?
Light the world
Light a heart or two
Light a candle for me
I'll light a candle for you.
And in this special time of year
May peace on earth surround us here
And teach us there's a better way to live
And with every flame that burns
We must somehow learn
That love's the greatest gift that we could ever give.
Light a candle
Light the dark
Light the world
Light a heart or two
Light a candle for me
I'll light a candle for you.
Light a candle for me
Light a candle for you.
Have a safe and happy new year!
Showing posts with label song. Show all posts
Showing posts with label song. Show all posts
Friday, December 31, 2010
Monday, October 4, 2010
The Cross Still Stands
Yesterday, our minister gave a potent and personal sermon on how his family is going through some major health issues. His biggest question was "How do I minister to my own family?" It's easy to minister to outsiders, but when it is up close and personal, how do you help those closest to you, when you too are hurting and do not have all the answers. But he said over and over, (paraphrasing) 'No matter what happens, the cross still stands. I am going to follow His will and let him use me to figure this all out.'
I was inspired. I kept hearing, The cross still stands in my head and knew that a song or poem had to come out.
I was inspired. I kept hearing, The cross still stands in my head and knew that a song or poem had to come out.
The Cross Still Stands
She walked the last lonely mile
Behind the one deemed to die.
Her mind could not wrap around
The circumstances of the night.
She remembered hearing about the night he was born
The angels, the shepherds, the wiseman adorned.
And now he hung there for the world to mock
As friends and family stood in shock.
As he cried out forgiveness,
Death became evident and darkness reigned
She thought that all was gone
But at the empty tomb her hope sang
The cross still stands
For all that are lost
For all the world's sins are covered
Forever and eternity
The cross still stands
For your obedience
For light broke through the darkness
Forever and eternity.
God's will became the foundation
For Christians, on their knees will stand
And Jesus took our sin
Because
The cross still stands
For all that were lost
For all the world's sins are covered
Forever eternity
The cross still stands
For your obedience
For light broke through the darkness
Forever and eternity.
This is still in the changing stage. I hope it comes across as I want it to. Do you like it? Do you think it's just okay? Is it bad? Let me know.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Oh The Thought That Jesus Loves Me
Thanks to my parents, I found a new song and a new group that I really enjoyed. The group is The Collingsworth Family. Their style is pretty awesome. I liked that at first it sounded big band/swing style, but just as quickly went to Southern Gospel. It's pretty hard to describe. There were 14 songs on this cd, called The Answer. I kinda liked them all, but when I got to the eleventh song, I started crying.
Oh The thought That Jesus Loves Me
Wayne Haun/Lyn Rowell
VS1: Oh the thought that Jesus loves me
More than I can understand
Fills my heart with calm assurance
I am safe inside His plan.
Chorus: So I will let it change and heal me
Let it ease my troubled mind.
Oh the thought that Jesus loves me
That he loves me for all time.
Vs 2: O the thought that Jesus loves me
And He loves what I will be.
Some sweet day
When He has finished
His creative work in me.
Vs. 3: O the thought that Jesus loves me
Loved when we were far apart.
When my will was set against Him
Loved enough to win my heart.
Vs. 4: Oh the thought that Jesus loves me
That He'd choose a cross to die
Take the death I was deserving
Just to offer me new life.
************************
Isn't that something? Do you ever just think that Jesus really loves you? We say it and sing it all the time. But does it hit you that he really loves you? This song hit me was verse 2. He loves what I will be when he has finished His creative work in me. Have you thought about you being His creative work? WOW. I never thought about it in a personal perspective. We focus on how we dislike our hair, face, our bodies. We want to change our thinking, our habits, whatever else we do not feel satisfied with. But Christ was being creative when he made you. God made you in his own image. We do need to take care of ourselves, but he wants us to be satisfied and comfortable in our own skin. He loved you enough that even when you go far away from Him, He loves you. Always.
Monday, September 27, 2010
New Love
YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
V1
THAT SPARKLE IN YOUR EYE AND THAT SMILE ON YOU FACE
JOY DOWN IN YOUR HEART AND I WONDER WHAT TOOK PLACE
GOT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP AND A SONG IS ON YOUR LIPS
NOW YOU’RE ACTING LIKE ALL HEAVEN IS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM, YOU HAVE THE SYMPTOMS OF
SOMEONE WHO FELL IN LOVE, YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
C
LIKE THE LEPER AND THE LAME, LIFE CHANGED THE DAY HE CAME
LIKE THE THOUSANDS THAT WERE FED, THE DAY THE COUPLE THAT WERE WED
LIKE THE WOMAN AT THE WELL, HIS FRIEND THAT DIED TO LIVE TO TELL
YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
IT’S ONE MORE DAMASCUS FALL, SAUL BECOMING PAUL
YEAH, THAT EXPLAINS IT ALL, YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
V2
THEY SAID IF YOU HAD CHANGED THAT TIME WOULD PULL YOU BACK
YOU’VE BEEN THIS WAY BEFORE SO IT WON’T REALLY LAST
BUT LATELY THEY HAVE SEEN PREDICTIONS THOUGHT TO DIE
THIS TIME YOUR BRAND NEW LOVE CAUGHT MORE THAN JUST YOUR EYE
YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM, YOUR STEPS WERE CLEAR TO TRACE
YOU LOOK FOR AMAZING GRACE, YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
BR
YOU BECOME A STRANGER WHEN WHAT HAPPENED ISN’T BAD
WE WOULDN’T TRADE THE NEW YOU FOR THE OLD YOU THAT WE HAD
V1
THAT SPARKLE IN YOUR EYE AND THAT SMILE ON YOU FACE
JOY DOWN IN YOUR HEART AND I WONDER WHAT TOOK PLACE
GOT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP AND A SONG IS ON YOUR LIPS
NOW YOU’RE ACTING LIKE ALL HEAVEN IS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM, YOU HAVE THE SYMPTOMS OF
SOMEONE WHO FELL IN LOVE, YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
C
LIKE THE LEPER AND THE LAME, LIFE CHANGED THE DAY HE CAME
LIKE THE THOUSANDS THAT WERE FED, THE DAY THE COUPLE THAT WERE WED
LIKE THE WOMAN AT THE WELL, HIS FRIEND THAT DIED TO LIVE TO TELL
YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
IT’S ONE MORE DAMASCUS FALL, SAUL BECOMING PAUL
YEAH, THAT EXPLAINS IT ALL, YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
V2
THEY SAID IF YOU HAD CHANGED THAT TIME WOULD PULL YOU BACK
YOU’VE BEEN THIS WAY BEFORE SO IT WON’T REALLY LAST
BUT LATELY THEY HAVE SEEN PREDICTIONS THOUGHT TO DIE
THIS TIME YOUR BRAND NEW LOVE CAUGHT MORE THAN JUST YOUR EYE
YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM, YOUR STEPS WERE CLEAR TO TRACE
YOU LOOK FOR AMAZING GRACE, YOU MUST HAVE MET HIM
BR
YOU BECOME A STRANGER WHEN WHAT HAPPENED ISN’T BAD
WE WOULDN’T TRADE THE NEW YOU FOR THE OLD YOU THAT WE HAD
When I first heard this song, I thought, "That's odd. It sounds like a love song for a wedding." As I listened on, I realized it kinda was. It's not really the way I would describe my love for Jesus, but the concept intrigues me. Of all people, I am not all that lovey-dovey. I like my space, but don't mind hugs once in a while. But I like the idea of falling in love with Christ. How people see that difference in you. How you just sparkle and glow. Was it like that for you?
The first time you realize that you need Christ in your life, and you just accept the fact that no matter what, he loves you with all his heart, you do feel like you are in love. Your steps are lighter, your smile is brighter and you just know. You know that you are loved and you love him back. You know that the trust is there and you will do everything in your power to do your part. It's like with your husband/wife. When you realize you love this person and want to spend time with them and want to take care of them. It is all new and exciting.
This song is by Brian Free and Assurance. It is another on the cd , Top Ten Southern Gospel Songs of 2010, I have and of all the songs I have heard, this one was the most surprising. At first I thought it was a little silly, but now that I have heard it several times, I really like it.
John 3:16:17 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him will not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent his son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.
Friday, September 24, 2010
He Locked the Gates
Revelations 1: 18
and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.I never thought about this until I heard this song the other day. When I accepted Christ as my Savior, was baptized and started truly following him, he locked the gates of Hell. Now I can unlock them, I suppose. I would have to do a 180 and that is something I don't want to do, nor do I intend to do. But this song gives us the hope and security that Jesus did save us from eternal damnation! Give him the glory!
HE LOCKED THE GATES
V1
ONE DAY I HEARD A PREACHER PREACH
HE SAID THIS WORLD WE’RE GONNA LEAVE
AND WHEN WE DIE WE’LL EITHER GO
TO HEAV’N ABOVE OR HELL BELOW
I BOWED MY HEART CONFESSED MY SIN
INVITED JESUS HE CAME IN
THE SAVIOR TURNED ME FROM THE FLAMES
AND WITH A WORD HE LOCKED THE GATES
CHORUS
HE LOCKED THE GATES OF HELL BEHIND ME
AND THEN HE THREW THE KEYS AWAY
O GIVE HIM GLORY
THERE’LL NEVER COME A DAY
I’LL HAVE TO ENTER SUCH A PLACE
FOR THE DAY THAT I GOT SAVED
HE LOCKED THE GATES
V2
NOW I LIVE A LIFE SO FREE
KNOWING JESUS LIVES IN ME
AND WHEN I FAIL I PLEAD THE BLOOD
ALIVE AND WELL IT’S STILL ENOUGH
THEN WHEN THE DEVIL COMES MY WAY
AND SAYS IN HELL FOR SIN I’LL PAY
I POINT HIM TO A RUGGED HILL
AND SAY THANKS TO JESUS I NEVER WILL
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Nothing Equals Everything
Each year, my parents go to the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. They love it! All those wonderful groups and singers, acquaintances they have come to know and of course the songs! Each year, I ask for two things. First, any new cd by the trio Greater Vision. They are my favorite group (that still sings). The other thing I ask for is the Singing News Fan Awards Top Ten Southern Gospel Songs of (the current year).
Today was the first day I was able to listen to these songs. These songs are picked by the fans of Southern Gospel music. Each song that comes on makes me think of something I never thought of before. The first one that stands out is called When They Found Nothing by Legacy Five. This song starts at the crucifixion and has a powerful message.
Today was the first day I was able to listen to these songs. These songs are picked by the fans of Southern Gospel music. Each song that comes on makes me think of something I never thought of before. The first one that stands out is called When They Found Nothing by Legacy Five. This song starts at the crucifixion and has a powerful message.
When They Found Nothing
They watched as soldiers
nailed their Savior to a tree;
They witnessed all the anguish, the agony.
They waited for His Father to rescue Him but then
He cried out, “It is finished” – He
nailed their Savior to a tree;
They witnessed all the anguish, the agony.
They waited for His Father to rescue Him but then
He cried out, “It is finished” – He
knew it was the end.
The stone that sealed the tomb, fin’llysealed their fate,
For all their hopes now laid within that borrowed grave.
And left with only questions, they pondered all He said;
But answers didn’t matter – for now
their Lord was dead.
And left with only questions, they pondered all He said;
But answers didn’t matter – for now
their Lord was dead.
They began their final walk to say one last goodbye;
But when they reached the tomb
They could not believe their eyes.
But when they reached the tomb
They could not believe their eyes.
When they found nothing,
They found EV’RYTHING!
In an empty tomb they realized
What Christ Himself prophesied;
That death could never hold their King.
When they found nothing
They found EV’RYTHING!
They found EV’RYTHING!
In an empty tomb they realized
What Christ Himself prophesied;
That death could never hold their King.
When they found nothing
They found EV’RYTHING!
Oh, Hallelujah! He is Risen!
Hallelujah! Praise the Lamb!
Who conquered Death and Hell
Who died and rose again!
Hallelujah! Praise the Lamb!
Who conquered Death and Hell
Who died and rose again!
What an amazing story. The disciples and followers of Christ were dejected, frustrated, and afraid. But think about it, when the went to the tomb, they found nothing, and that means everything to us! It opened their eyes to what Christ had been saying to them all along. Praise God! What a fantastic message!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Psalm 42:1
Psalm 42:1
As the deer pants for the water brooks,
So my soul pants for You, O God.
I have this application on my Droid that gives me a daily Bible verse. For the month of July, I am going to use this as the verse I will write about. This should make for some very interesting or very boring devotions. I hope I can bring some insight to this with inspiration from God.
So I think this one has been used before. I think it is one of the most poetic verses in the book of Psalm. The imagery of a deer looking for water and panting sounds so much better than an dog panting. Besides, in the Bible, dogs are not looked at as a thing of beauty, but something that tears apart, and begs for food.
The song that goes with this is so pretty. The song is for God and how much the author wants to be with him and worship him. The second verse talks about how Jesus is our brother and friend, but he is our King too. The third verse, what stands out to me is that Jesus is the the reason for the author's joy and "the apple of his eye". I love that part. Here are the words.
As the deer pants for the water brooks,
So my soul pants for You, O God.
I have this application on my Droid that gives me a daily Bible verse. For the month of July, I am going to use this as the verse I will write about. This should make for some very interesting or very boring devotions. I hope I can bring some insight to this with inspiration from God.
So I think this one has been used before. I think it is one of the most poetic verses in the book of Psalm. The imagery of a deer looking for water and panting sounds so much better than an dog panting. Besides, in the Bible, dogs are not looked at as a thing of beauty, but something that tears apart, and begs for food.
The song that goes with this is so pretty. The song is for God and how much the author wants to be with him and worship him. The second verse talks about how Jesus is our brother and friend, but he is our King too. The third verse, what stands out to me is that Jesus is the the reason for the author's joy and "the apple of his eye". I love that part. Here are the words.
As A Deer
As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after Thee
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship Thee
(Chorus)
You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship Thee
You're my friend and You are my brother
Even though You are a king
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything
I want You more than gold or silver
Only You can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye
Friday, June 11, 2010
My Jesus, I Love Thee
My Jesus, I Love Thee by William R. Featherston
My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine.
For me all the follies of sin I resign.
My precious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou.
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus 'tis now.
I love Thee because Thou hast first loved me,
And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree;
I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow;
If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.
I’ll love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death,
And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath;
And say when the death dew lies cold on my brow,
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
In mansions of glory and endless delight,
I'll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright;
I'll sing with the glittering crown on my brow,
If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.
When I feel lost or down, hymns always come to mind. When I was told my dad had cancer, this song started singing in my head. Whenever I feel lost or worried, this is how I give the problem to God. I sing about how much I love him. I sing about what He has done for me and what I can do to show my love for him. I praise my Lord!
This song talks about how I know I am loved by Jesus. How I know that he is mine and that I will give up everything for him. It tells how he gave his life for me. It tells what I will do in my dying days and how much I will praise him when i get to heaven. I love the last line. I'll sing with the glittering crown on my brow... I can see the sparkles when I close my eyes. I love this song. How do you give your problems to God?
John 14:23
Jesus answered and said to him, " If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him.
My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine.
For me all the follies of sin I resign.
My precious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou.
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus 'tis now.
I love Thee because Thou hast first loved me,
And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree;
I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow;
If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.
I’ll love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death,
And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath;
And say when the death dew lies cold on my brow,
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
In mansions of glory and endless delight,
I'll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright;
I'll sing with the glittering crown on my brow,
If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.
When I feel lost or down, hymns always come to mind. When I was told my dad had cancer, this song started singing in my head. Whenever I feel lost or worried, this is how I give the problem to God. I sing about how much I love him. I sing about what He has done for me and what I can do to show my love for him. I praise my Lord!
This song talks about how I know I am loved by Jesus. How I know that he is mine and that I will give up everything for him. It tells how he gave his life for me. It tells what I will do in my dying days and how much I will praise him when i get to heaven. I love the last line. I'll sing with the glittering crown on my brow... I can see the sparkles when I close my eyes. I love this song. How do you give your problems to God?
John 14:23
Jesus answered and said to him, " If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Psalm 42:1
Today is April 21, 2010. I decided to look up a passage, so I typed in Psalm 42:1. Here is what that is.
1As the deer pants for the water brooks,
So my soul pants for You, O God.
So my soul pants for You, O God.
Isn't that strange? I honestly didn't know what to expect, but what a wonderful verse! I love the song that was made from this psalm. This verse always make me think of spring. I think because of the warmer weather, when it is easiest for most of us to become thirsty. We sweat as we work outside in the yard, and then we go get a drink to quench that desire.
During Dad's days of treatment, the radiation killed his saliva glands. He has none. His mouth is always dry and he has to have water with him constantly. The doctor told him that if he goes eight or more hours without liquid, he would be in serious jeopardy. Dad always has the metal coffee cup or a bottle of water with him. He prefers ice water, and almost always asks someone to fill his cup with ice and water. I scares me sometimes when I think about how close Dad could be to dehydrating. But, there are so many people around him that will make sure he is taken care of.
This verse is a good picture. I see a young doe, down by a stream, dropping her head to take a drink of the cool water. I see my spirit, delving into the Word, getting another glimpse of what God has for me to learn today. That is how I see reading the Bible. Each day that I read, I feel God has something for me to take from that reading. Sometimes it is private and something I need for me. Sometimes it is something for me to teach my kids or talk over with a friend. But each time I read, I know I want more.
Here are the words to the praise song that I love to sing.
As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after Thee
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship Thee
(Chorus)
You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship Thee
You're my friend and You are my brother
Even though You are a king
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything
I want You more than gold or silver
Only You can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
I Am Free
There are 26 days until Resurrection Sunday. So that means there are 18 weekdays of Lifting You Up that I can do on the events that surrounded the Resurrection. Here is the first one.
This morning, as I do every morning, I drive to work listening to the Easter cantata. I realized today that I know the first three songs really well. The rest of the songs, well either the driving gets intense and I do not concentrate very well, or my mind wanders. Who knows?
The first song in the cantata is called I Am Free. It is a popular, well played Christian radio song that I first heard when Allie went to 79er's week of camp. It is an upbeat, happy song that reminds us that we can are free from the sins and free from the world. We do not have to be the sad, serious, stern Christians that are stereo-types. We should be happy that we have a weight lifted from us. We are no longer slaves with shackles around our hands and feet and necks. Have you ever seen a dog that has gotten off it's leash? What does it do? My dog, Josie Belle, takes off running! She is free and she knows it! The last thing she wants is to come back to be and be put on that leash. But because she disobeys by running away, getting into things she shouldn't, she has to be put back on that leash. God expects the same from us that I expect from Josie Belle. He gives us the freedom, but we have a responsibility to follow him and do his will. He gives us the free will to make our own choices. I usually do not give my dog that choice. I know what mischief she gets into, so I have to set boundaries for her.
2 Corinthians 3:17
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Galations 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Here is an excerpt from the song I Am Free by Jon Egan.
This morning, as I do every morning, I drive to work listening to the Easter cantata. I realized today that I know the first three songs really well. The rest of the songs, well either the driving gets intense and I do not concentrate very well, or my mind wanders. Who knows?
The first song in the cantata is called I Am Free. It is a popular, well played Christian radio song that I first heard when Allie went to 79er's week of camp. It is an upbeat, happy song that reminds us that we can are free from the sins and free from the world. We do not have to be the sad, serious, stern Christians that are stereo-types. We should be happy that we have a weight lifted from us. We are no longer slaves with shackles around our hands and feet and necks. Have you ever seen a dog that has gotten off it's leash? What does it do? My dog, Josie Belle, takes off running! She is free and she knows it! The last thing she wants is to come back to be and be put on that leash. But because she disobeys by running away, getting into things she shouldn't, she has to be put back on that leash. God expects the same from us that I expect from Josie Belle. He gives us the freedom, but we have a responsibility to follow him and do his will. He gives us the free will to make our own choices. I usually do not give my dog that choice. I know what mischief she gets into, so I have to set boundaries for her.
2 Corinthians 3:17
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Galations 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Here is an excerpt from the song I Am Free by Jon Egan.
I Am Free
I am free to dance
(I am free to dance)
I am free to run
(I am free to run)
I am free to live for you
(I am free to live for you)
I am free
(I am free)
Yes, I am free
(I am free)
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
The Lord is My Shepherd, and that is all I need to know.
I don't know how much of devotion this will be today. There is several things going on in my life that I want to expound up on.
First, in the news this AM, there was a bit about a man from Middletown that is missing. He has Alzheimer's and he has been gone overnight. He is 80 years old and is in need of his meds. The name was very familiar, especially because he is from Middletown, so I emailed mom and found out that yes, this is my Great-Uncle. He and my Great-Aunt live in Middletown and his disease must not be too bad that he can still go off on his own at times. So he told her he was going to talk to a friend and took off. He went over to his son's house and then didn't come home. He was last seen in Blanchester. He has never been gone overnight, so it is kinda scary. Pray that Delbert is found safe.
I am going to the doctor today. I started having some pains yesterday afternoon that have seem to settle in my lower back. It is now a dull ache, so it is tolerable to an extent. I don't know what it is, but it has not gone away. So pray that it is nothing serious and I am over-reacting.
Mom is doing better. She goes to the doctor today. She has no pain so that is a good thing.
I have many verses and songs going through my mind today. When I am troubled, I look for verses of songs and Bible verses I remember. I keep going back to "I once was lost, but now I am found. Was blind, but now I see", from Amazing Grace. That verse brings me comfort. I also think of "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4.
Sometimes I feel like this little boy...
A Sunday School teacher decided to have her young class memorize one of the most quoted passages in the Bible - Psalm 23. She gave the youngsters a month to learn the chapter. Little Rick was excited about the task - but he just couldn't remember the Psalm. After much practice, he could barely get past the first line.
On the day that the kids were scheduled to recite Psalm 23 in front of the congregation, Ricky was so nervous. When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, 'The Lord is my Shepherd, and that's all I need to know.'
I hope your day is going much better and you will send your good thoughts our way. Dad went to the doctor yesterday, but I do not have an update at this time.
First, in the news this AM, there was a bit about a man from Middletown that is missing. He has Alzheimer's and he has been gone overnight. He is 80 years old and is in need of his meds. The name was very familiar, especially because he is from Middletown, so I emailed mom and found out that yes, this is my Great-Uncle. He and my Great-Aunt live in Middletown and his disease must not be too bad that he can still go off on his own at times. So he told her he was going to talk to a friend and took off. He went over to his son's house and then didn't come home. He was last seen in Blanchester. He has never been gone overnight, so it is kinda scary. Pray that Delbert is found safe.
I am going to the doctor today. I started having some pains yesterday afternoon that have seem to settle in my lower back. It is now a dull ache, so it is tolerable to an extent. I don't know what it is, but it has not gone away. So pray that it is nothing serious and I am over-reacting.
Mom is doing better. She goes to the doctor today. She has no pain so that is a good thing.
I have many verses and songs going through my mind today. When I am troubled, I look for verses of songs and Bible verses I remember. I keep going back to "I once was lost, but now I am found. Was blind, but now I see", from Amazing Grace. That verse brings me comfort. I also think of "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4.
Sometimes I feel like this little boy...
A Sunday School teacher decided to have her young class memorize one of the most quoted passages in the Bible - Psalm 23. She gave the youngsters a month to learn the chapter. Little Rick was excited about the task - but he just couldn't remember the Psalm. After much practice, he could barely get past the first line.
On the day that the kids were scheduled to recite Psalm 23 in front of the congregation, Ricky was so nervous. When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, 'The Lord is my Shepherd, and that's all I need to know.'
I hope your day is going much better and you will send your good thoughts our way. Dad went to the doctor yesterday, but I do not have an update at this time.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
All He Knows is Jesus Loves Me!
When I woke up this morning, everything outside looked peaceful. Peaceful and clean, covered with new, fresh snow. As I looked out and saw the snow shower that was adding to the already piled up fluffy white death (as my co-workers call it), I thought of the end of the chorus that says, "Now wash me and I will be whiter than snow."
Doesn't it seem like that in your back yard? Everything is snow-covered, white and just has this purity about it. When the sun hits it, it just seems like sparkling diamonds that are spread over the whole area. When you are covered by Jesus' blood, that is how you look to God. Pure and white, without a blemish on us. He sees us and loves us as his children; as we see and love our children.
At the funeral we went to on Saturday, hymns were being played. I looked at the kids and said, "Name that tune." Allie got it right. It was Amazing Grace. Timm looked at me with a twinkle in his eye and said, "Jesus Loves Me." I told him he needs to be in regular church more.
Sunday morning, our organist played a version of Amazing Grace, but it is called My Chains Are Gone. I looked at Timm and said, "Name that tune." He said, "Jesus Loves Me." A little while later, the Williams Sisters sang a song, and near the end of it the sang part of "Jesus Loves Me." I looked at Timm and he said, "See, I told you."
I said, "Yeah, they sang that just for you."
But, isn't that why we have amazing grace? Because Jesus loves us? The more I thought of it, the more I realized that though he was teasing, Timm was right. Jesus Loves Me can be the name of almost any song we sing in praise and any thing we do to obey God can be called...Jesus Loves Me.
JESUS LOVES MY
For the Bible tells me so;
Little ones to Him belong,
They are weak but He is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! He who died,
Heaven's gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin,
Let His little child come in.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! loves me still,
When I'm very weak and ill;
From His shining throne on high,
Comes to watch me where I lie.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! He will stay,
Close beside me all the way;
He's prepared a home for me,
And some day His face I'll see.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Doesn't it seem like that in your back yard? Everything is snow-covered, white and just has this purity about it. When the sun hits it, it just seems like sparkling diamonds that are spread over the whole area. When you are covered by Jesus' blood, that is how you look to God. Pure and white, without a blemish on us. He sees us and loves us as his children; as we see and love our children.
At the funeral we went to on Saturday, hymns were being played. I looked at the kids and said, "Name that tune." Allie got it right. It was Amazing Grace. Timm looked at me with a twinkle in his eye and said, "Jesus Loves Me." I told him he needs to be in regular church more.
Sunday morning, our organist played a version of Amazing Grace, but it is called My Chains Are Gone. I looked at Timm and said, "Name that tune." He said, "Jesus Loves Me." A little while later, the Williams Sisters sang a song, and near the end of it the sang part of "Jesus Loves Me." I looked at Timm and he said, "See, I told you."
I said, "Yeah, they sang that just for you."
But, isn't that why we have amazing grace? Because Jesus loves us? The more I thought of it, the more I realized that though he was teasing, Timm was right. Jesus Loves Me can be the name of almost any song we sing in praise and any thing we do to obey God can be called...Jesus Loves Me.
JESUS LOVES MY
Traditional, Words By: Anna B. Warner
Jesus loves me! This I know,For the Bible tells me so;
Little ones to Him belong,
They are weak but He is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! He who died,
Heaven's gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin,
Let His little child come in.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! loves me still,
When I'm very weak and ill;
From His shining throne on high,
Comes to watch me where I lie.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! He will stay,
Close beside me all the way;
He's prepared a home for me,
And some day His face I'll see.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Come and Dine!
Song of Solomon 2:4
4"He has brought me to his banquet hall,
And his banner over me is love.
This verse, of course, inspired the song His Banner Over Me Is Love.
Come with me to His banquet eating table.
His banner over me is love.
Come with me to His banquet eating table.
His banner over me is love.
Come with me to His banquet eating table.
His banner over me is love.
His banner over me is love.
He is the vine and we are the branches.
His banner over me is love.
He is the vine and we are the branches.
His banner over me is love.
He is the vine and we are the branches.
His banner over me is love.
His banner over me is love.
The one way to peace is the power of the cross.
His banner over me is love.
The one way to peace is the power of the cross.
His banner over me is love.
The one way to peace is the power of the cross.
His banner over me is love.
His banner over me is love.
Do you remember this song? There are many different verses and variations. These are the ones I remember (and I still needed help with them). God wants to dine with you. He wants you to eat of what he gives, sustaining yourself and living. He doesn't want you to over do it, but to be satisfied. Each time you open your Bible, you are eating from His Word, living and breathing how he wants you to live your life. Every time you are at church, taking communion, you are following God's will. You are and need this. We all do. I need it every week. I think it helps strenghthen me. Every day I mess up and say something or do something that is sinful. So every day I need the Bible and every week I need communion to remind me that Jesus died for me, that God loves me enough to show me through the cross. Yes...the one way to peace is the power of the cross, His banner over me is love.
1 Corinthians 11:23-29
23For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." 25In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." 26For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. 27Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 29For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself.
4"He has brought me to his banquet hall,
And his banner over me is love.
This verse, of course, inspired the song His Banner Over Me Is Love.
Come with me to His banquet eating table.
His banner over me is love.
Come with me to His banquet eating table.
His banner over me is love.
Come with me to His banquet eating table.
His banner over me is love.
His banner over me is love.
He is the vine and we are the branches.
His banner over me is love.
He is the vine and we are the branches.
His banner over me is love.
He is the vine and we are the branches.
His banner over me is love.
His banner over me is love.
The one way to peace is the power of the cross.
His banner over me is love.
The one way to peace is the power of the cross.
His banner over me is love.
The one way to peace is the power of the cross.
His banner over me is love.
His banner over me is love.
Do you remember this song? There are many different verses and variations. These are the ones I remember (and I still needed help with them). God wants to dine with you. He wants you to eat of what he gives, sustaining yourself and living. He doesn't want you to over do it, but to be satisfied. Each time you open your Bible, you are eating from His Word, living and breathing how he wants you to live your life. Every time you are at church, taking communion, you are following God's will. You are and need this. We all do. I need it every week. I think it helps strenghthen me. Every day I mess up and say something or do something that is sinful. So every day I need the Bible and every week I need communion to remind me that Jesus died for me, that God loves me enough to show me through the cross. Yes...the one way to peace is the power of the cross, His banner over me is love.
1 Corinthians 11:23-29
23For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." 25In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." 26For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. 27Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 29For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
A Baby Changes Everything
All of us know that when a family is started, your whole life gets turned upside down, especially the first child. New parents are frightened that they won't be able to handle the responsibility. The what-ifs creep in. Mary felt that way, I am sure. I can't imagine the ridicule she went through from family, friends, and even strangers. But I am sure those closest to her showed compassion. But that time for Mary was almost as wrought with turmoil as when her son was older and the Jewish council turned against him. This song by Faith Hill captures that turmoil, as well as what the little baby in a manger can do for each of us.
A Baby Changes Everything
by Faith Hill
Teenage girl, much too young
Unprepared for what`s to come
A baby changes everything
Not a ring
On her hand
All her dreams and all her plans
A baby changes everything (x2)
The man she loves she`s never touched
How will she keep his trust
A baby changes everything (x2)
And she cries, oh she cries
She has to leave, go far away
Heaven knows she can`t stay
A baby changes everything
She can feel it`s coming soon
There`s no place, there`s no room
A baby changes everything (x2)
And she cries and she cries o she cries
Shepherds on a hillside lay �
Star shines down�
Choir of angels sing
Glory to the newborn king
A baby changes everything (x2)
Everything, everything, every day
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah.
My whole life is turned around
I was lost and now i`m found
A baby changes everything (x2)
Friday, September 25, 2009
In His Image
My parents went to Louisville last week to the Southern Gospel Convention. They spent 6 nights watching groups perform and hearing lots of music. I always ask my Mom to get me the newest Greater Vision cd. I love that group and the songs they sing. But this time, my mom brought me back like seven cds. Good grief! Three of them are soundtracks. One I absolutely love. Three are really good and one is a big Greater Vision Christmas cd.
Anyway, one of the cds is of the top ten songs of 2009 in Southern Gospel music. I enjoyed all the songs, but one struck me the most. It is called When God Ran by the Kingsmen. The second verse talks about the prodigal son and how he broke his father's heart when he left. Then it talks about the day he returned and how his dad ran to him, put his head to his chest and hugged him because he had returned. The singer says that it was the only time he saw his father run. The chorus talks about how when we return to God, he runs to us, hugs us and holds us close. How he is so happy we are back in his arms. Isn't that the best image of God? That he gets so happy to see us come back that he will run to us?
I never thought of him as really having legs, you know? But that song just made me realize that we are made in his image and that means he has arms, legs, a face and he is capable of so much more than we ever think about with our limited knowledge.
Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Anyway, one of the cds is of the top ten songs of 2009 in Southern Gospel music. I enjoyed all the songs, but one struck me the most. It is called When God Ran by the Kingsmen. The second verse talks about the prodigal son and how he broke his father's heart when he left. Then it talks about the day he returned and how his dad ran to him, put his head to his chest and hugged him because he had returned. The singer says that it was the only time he saw his father run. The chorus talks about how when we return to God, he runs to us, hugs us and holds us close. How he is so happy we are back in his arms. Isn't that the best image of God? That he gets so happy to see us come back that he will run to us?
I never thought of him as really having legs, you know? But that song just made me realize that we are made in his image and that means he has arms, legs, a face and he is capable of so much more than we ever think about with our limited knowledge.
Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Monday, August 3, 2009
TakeTime to Be Holy - words by William D. Longstaff
The second verse speaks to me as a busy wife, mother and employee. The world is rushing on and I need to spend time in secret with Jesus, praying, reading my devotion, preparing. But I always wonder, how can my children see me reading and spending time in with God in prayer and devotions if it is done in secret? I actually do realize that it really means do not make a big show of what you are doing. Sometimes though, it turns into that without you meaning it to.
Take time to read these words and evaluate your life as this song tells you. What time are you taking?
- Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord;
Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.
Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak,
Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek. - Take time to be holy, the world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret, with Jesus alone.
By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be;
Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see. - Take time to be holy, let Him be thy Guide;
And run not before Him, whatever betide.
In joy or in sorrow, still follow the Lord,
And, looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word. - Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul,
Each thought and each motive beneath His control.
Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love,
Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.
The second verse speaks to me as a busy wife, mother and employee. The world is rushing on and I need to spend time in secret with Jesus, praying, reading my devotion, preparing. But I always wonder, how can my children see me reading and spending time in with God in prayer and devotions if it is done in secret? I actually do realize that it really means do not make a big show of what you are doing. Sometimes though, it turns into that without you meaning it to.
Take time to read these words and evaluate your life as this song tells you. What time are you taking?
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