tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24714298235941462682024-02-06T23:48:01.866-06:00Greetings from Austin StreetGaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.comBlogger1862125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-62639427693829822014-11-26T22:37:00.001-06:002014-11-26T22:37:24.898-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Wednesday and Happy Thanksgiving Eve! All is well here at 811. The dressing is in the fridge ready for
baking in the morning. The giblets are stewed and cooling ready for chopping
and I will make the mashed potatoes and green beans in the morning before we
leave for Allen. I love Thanksgiving. When your children grow up and begin their own
traditions sometimes it is tough on parents as we realize we have to grow up
too. Both Geni and Travis are creating their own Thanksgiving traditions apart
from Bruce and me. But we are all going
to be together at Christmas so everything works out just fine. The good news is that they are all with the
ones they love too and will give thanks.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>God, thank you for the comforting light of your presence
and the comforting strength of your arm that leads me carefully as I journey.
Thank you for creating me and each of us with unique purposes that fits in with
your people. I praise you for uniting all of us in love. Lord, today I sent in the first of the ordination documents. I ask
you to walk each step of this process with me and teach me the things you want
me to know and learn between now and April. It is my heart’s desire to serve
you as an ordained pastor. I pray to
serve you with my whole heart and that you will lead me to live, walk and work
among your people with extraordinary purpose.
May the purpose in which I serve You and your people be ordained by you
and strengthened by your very love. I love you Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Continuing with the theme of thankfulness God asks each of
us to offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving to God telling of the kindness of
God and the works of God with songs of
joy! When we bear our circumstances with
courage and thanking God for God’s holy Presence during our circumstances we
are praising and thanking God in its highest form. This practice is a divine
power that will weaken the core of the problem we are facing. And this is the
hard part, but it is also the blessing; when we place this discipline into
practice we surrender our need to understand “why” and with courage and trust
stepping out of the way letting God help us through the circumstance. The sacrifice of thanksgiving is a practiced
discipline that happens over period of time. When we offer our sacrifice we are
asking God to let us see our situation through the eyes of God. When we offer
the sacrifice of thanksgiving to God we deepen our relationship and come closer
to God. This discipline deepens our trust level in ways of mercy, seeing God’s goodness
and standing in the light of God’s love.
Besides the personal benefits of practicing the sacrifice of thanksgiving,
as others see that we are not only able to endure in our current circumstances
but thrive we are able to show God’s strength in our lives and give encouragement
to others. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“<i>For though we
live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight
with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power
to demolish strongholds.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
2 Corinthians 10: 3-4
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Trust in the LORD
with all your heart and lean not on YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Proverbs 3: 5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praising, praying, laughing, and encouraging
others as you go. Enjoy a Happy Thanksgiving Day. GO FROGS!!!! Wear purple,
comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-33565203963013498432014-11-25T22:42:00.001-06:002014-11-25T22:42:06.860-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Tuesday! All is
well here at 811. I met with Chris today and began work on the ordination
packet. We also began to put some language together for the paper. It was a really
good meeting. I am very grateful to him for all of his help. I also made the
dinner rolls with the yellow cake mix. They are pretty easy and really yummy. They
are a sweet dinner roll, but if you butter them with salted butter the flavor
balances well. I also thought that when the after thanksgiving lunch munchies occur
these rolls will be awesome with a piece of ham as a slider. Just a couple of hints: I kneaded in the final cup of flour by hand
on a cutting board, I oiled the bowl and the top of top of the dough at the
first rising, the second rising takes around 30 minutes. My recipe made 24 large rolls. I think I may
try to make the dough into individual rolls and not cut them in the pan as the
directions tell. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Lord, I do believe in You! Thank you for sending Jesus to
open the way to you and for constantly shining light on my life. Thank you for the gift of thankfulness and
when I fail to be thankful please forgive me. May I be ever mindful how fragile
life is and be thankful for all of your countless blessings. Lord, thank you
for loving me as if I was the only one in the world. As your child Wynonna
says, “To the world I am one, but to One I am the world.” Thank you loving Lord for prayer, watching
over me and again the gift of thankfulness.
I love you Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In just a little more than 24 hours we will dedicate an
entire day just for giving thanks.
According to Sarah Young, the author of <i>Jesus Calling, </i>“ A
thankful attitude opens windows of heaven through which spiritual blessings
fall freely.” There is a wonderful song with the lyric, “Thankfulness,
thankfulness is all I long for. Thankfulness, thankfulness is all I need. Thankfulness is all You want from me.” God requires and thankful heart, a heart of
gratitude and the blessings from the storehouse of God’s love will rain down
upon us. Scripture tells us that being thankful is vital to our health and
well-being and to our healing and wholeness.
Because thankfulness is a gift from God it is a spiritual blessing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God, who loves us so very much, is the God of grace and if
we forget to be grateful then all we need to do is to ask for forgiveness and
be thankful for that forgiveness.
Thankfulness is a priceless gift and if we remember the cost of Christ
on the cross it will help- each of us to practice thankfulness throughout the
day. God is good. Give thanks and God
wins.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Enter his gates
with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his
name. “<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 100: 4<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“<i>Blessed be the God,
and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual
blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Ephesians 1: 3<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, giving thanks, and
encouraging others as you go. Wear
comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-79278171245831759402014-11-24T22:35:00.001-06:002014-11-24T22:35:17.620-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Monday! All is
well here at 811. It is the first day of my thanksgiving break and I got my
extra errands done today before the cooking frenzy begins. Tomorrow I am trying
a new dinner roll recipe that you make with a cake mix. Sounds interesting! I promise a full report.
But the best part of today was the long wonderful visit we had with Bruce’s
brother, Dale from Memphis. We had a
long leisurely dinner and such a wonderful visit. We got caught up on kids,
pets, music, his precious wife Twylagayle, holiday plans and when we will see
each other again. It was great!! In my
devotional time this morning about thankfulness I was reminded that God plants
treasures of thanksgiving throughout the day and by the end of the day we have
a whole bouquet of things for which to be thankful. Our visit with Dale tonight was among one of
the most wonderful treasures. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, thank you for the treasure of Your presence in
our lives. Thank you for family and the safe arrival of Geni and Cody in
Florida. Thank you Lord for your love
and grace and that Lord I can find your heart to be a resting place and a
home. Lord, tomorrow I will begin
working on the logistics of the final ordination process. Help me to breathe
and have a calm heart and take this final leg of the journey one step at a
time. I know Lord that You will help me to do my very best and I have total
confidence in You that You will do as you have promised. You have promised to
provide the desires of my heart and I know you will help and inspire as I write
the final paper. I am trusting my ways to you Lord and asking you to work on my
behalf. I love you Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God created each of us and calls us children of God. We are
collectively the children of God no matter what we believe, how we act or what
we believe. But until we enter into a relationship with Jesus we do not come to
know God intimately and personally. When we enter into that relationship we are
given the identity as child of God and brother/sister to Jesus. We are marked
with the cross of Christ forever and begin an eternal relationship. God sends the Holy Spirit to dwell in us
making an eternal connection to the Presence of God in our lives. We can never
lose this relationship because it is not based on anything we can do or should
do. It is solely based on God’s great love for us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have known all of these things for a long time, but
tonight my meditation shares this extra piece of knowledge. When we sin we show
God dishonor because the Holy Spirit is in our heart telling us, “Stop
resisting my, beloved! Trust me. Rest in me. I will satisfy you and give you
plenty.” These words are ideas I will
continue to ponder, but they have certainly shed a new light about the presence
of the Holy Spirit. Since my heart is the home of the Holy Spirit, God’s
presence in me through faith in Jesus lets me know I need to listen to the Holy
Spirit a lot more carefully. I know I
have no fear of losing the Holy Spirit within me, but maybe I need to listen
more closely when my heart needs a good cleaning so that there is more space
for God to dwell.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“This is my
resting place forever. Here is where I want to stay. I will bless her with
plenty.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 132: 14-14<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“O Lord, arise,
and come to your resting place.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 132: 8<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging other as you go. Wear comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love
you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-27766921244982854782014-11-23T22:36:00.001-06:002014-11-23T22:36:50.140-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blessed Sunday to you all!
All is well here at 811.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, I need you in my life each day and night. Your
presence is more wonderfully satisfying especially with family, friendships and
all that this life has to offer. Lord, I
do not live a perfect life because I am not perfect. But Lord I do live an
abundant life. I live a life that is filled with Your love, grace, peace,
forgiveness and tender mercies. Lord, I thank you for the people in my life
that are so precious; Bruce, Geni, Travis and Sarah. I give thanks for the
family that birthed me and all of those who have been added to the family
register through the years. I thank you for friends, work and ministry. As I
sit in Your presence my heart is filled with thankfulness. Thank you Lord for
Your continual presence in my life. I love
you Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am thankful that Jesus poured out His blood on the cross
that day at Calvary. It is that radical
gift of love that connects us all. For when that blood was shed we all became
connected through Holy DNA with God as our Creator and Father to Jesus out of
God’s great love for us. Romans 8 tells
us that nothing can ever separate us from the Love of God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is Thanksgiving week.
I have many things for which to give thanks. It has been quite a year
here at 811. And even though not everything that happened was a situation of
thankfulness, I was able to find thankfulness in the difficult times. And in the tough times I remembered the
passage from Romans 8 about never being separated from the love of God. What a great love for which to be thankful!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eph. 5: 20 tells us to “Give thanks for all things in Jesus’
name.” So what are the things for which to give thanks in Jesus name? Unfailing
love, eternal unmerited grace, tender mercies, healing and wholeness, complete
forgiveness, salvation are just some of the things that are of “Jesus’ name.” I do not see cancer, strokes or other
illnesses on the list. While life does not always hand us situations for which
to be thankful, as children of God and brother(s) and sisters(s) to Christ all carrying the same Holy DNA we
can find treasures of thanksgiving even in the toughest of situations. Because
in the most difficult of times God walks with us and never leaves our side. And if all we can pray is “Thank you Jesus.” Then
we have found ourselves on Holy ground and living the abundant life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Always giving
thanks to God the father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Ephesians 5: 20<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Give thanks to
the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” (we sang this song this morning!)<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Psalm 118: 1<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing, giving
thanks for the presence of God along the way and encourage others. Wear
comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-18853857525476611152014-11-22T22:35:00.001-06:002014-11-22T22:35:04.220-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Saturday! All
is well here at 811 and we are warm and dry at the end of this wet and chilly
day. It was my joy this evening to preside over worship and Eucharist at the Via
De Cristo supper and instructional evening.
It was great to see everyone and a joy to worship with them once again.
And finally…Happy birthday to Dr. Ken Helvey PhD. This is my dear brother. I love this man dearly and look forward to
seeing him on Thursday! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i> <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, thank you for the promise of your constant love
and the hope it brings to my life. As I continue to walk a life in grace help
me to remember to pray for those it is difficult for whom to pray and to find a
place of thanksgiving in situations that seem void of any thanksgiving at all. Tonight
I lift to you the family of Sandy Brandon. Her family has experienced a tragic
loss this week and are in great need of your love surrounding them and the
comfort and peace that only You can provide. I pray that the friendship of
others will cover them in love and kindness as they walk this sad and tragic
road. May they come to see and feel the warmth and light of your love and the
hope of a brighter day. I love you Lord
and I love sweet Sandy. Thank you Lord for being with them. In Jesus’ name,
amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most of us have walked through this life and at some time or
other been betrayed, lost a friendship, had a broken relationship, experienced
a failed relationship or lost a loved one in death. All of these occurrences
have one thing in common; the result is a broken heart. Each of these times in our lives have left us
at least for a while thinking that we will never be whole again. We may even become angry at God and ask God or
ourselves “Why did God let this happen?” When I visit with folks in a pastoral care relationship
I get this question a lot. My usual answer is that it was not God that allowed
this to happen, but life happens. Sometimes we bring life on ourselves in the
choices we make and sometimes life is thrust on us in devastating ways. I also get this question, “Does God still love
me even after the choices I have made or because of all of this tragedy I did
nothing to incur?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The answer is God always loves you eternally, completely and
unconditionally. God is far bigger than our choices, our pain, our doubts and
failures. God’s love is not a love that condemns. Listen again…<b>God’s love does not condemn.” </b>God’s love meets us where we are and does
not look back. God’s love calls us forward into forgiveness of the one(s) who
have hurt us and most importantly to forgive ourselves. The love of God is “consistent
and predictable.” Because the perfect love of God surrounds us in grace
and truth and assures us with hope. This
is the hope that will allow us to love again, trust again, healing our broken
hearts and gives us the courage to offer our hearts to love once again. God is
good and love wins!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“The LORD is close
to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 34: 18<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“My flesh and my
heart fail : but God is the strength of
my heart, and my portion forever.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 73: 26<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praising, praying, laughing and
encouraging others as you go. Pray for
Sandy’s family and they work through this most difficult time and try to find
ways to be thankful as we are in the season of Thanksgiving. Love you all,
Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-11843058801610324532014-11-20T23:19:00.001-06:002014-11-20T23:19:43.796-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Thursday! All is
well here at 811. Bruce is progressively getting over his sinus infection and
even worked some today. He will go to
rehab tomorrow for the first time this week. The funny thing is that this was
the first week he was to begin the step-down process to discharge. The plan was
to go to rehab on MWF. Well, this week he is only going on Friday. Tomorrow is another family conference and so
we will see if anything changes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, Help us to stay steadfast in hope and to trust
your perfect will. Lord, we place our
hope in you as we walk together in this life here on earth. Sometimes the road
is smooth and it is easy to stay in step with you. And then sometimes the road
is rough and steep and we are tempted to look to the past and see mistakes and
bad choices. Forgive us Lord when we fall out of step with you and try to walk
this life on our own strength. Help us to remember that any strength we have comes
from You. And Lord, when we fall behind and don’t know what to do please rescue
us by the calling of Your name. We love
you Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been to despair. It is no fun. But as I have thought about the times I have
been in despair over something I finally figured out that despair happens when
we seek out options to problems and do not include God. We believe we know what is best for us and we
may have even convinced ourselves that God has abandoned us when in truth we
have left God out of the hope of correcting the situation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We all know that without God there is no hope. The truth is that no matter what is going on
in our lives God is always there to help.
The catch for us is that God’s timing does not always coincide with our
time table. Being ever mindful that we live in 24 days and the first of the
month while God lives in eternal time, I believe there is a way to not fall
into despair. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While we are waiting for God to work in our lives it is
vital that we stay in tune with God and daily meditate on God’s Word. Spending
time in conversation with God throughout the day through prayer helps to hold
on to our real hope which is in God through faith in Jesus. Then as we wait…wait with the expectation of
God’s goodness to flow down upon us filling us with God’s very best. God is good and love wins!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Wait on the LORD;
be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the
LORD!”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 27: 14<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“I would have
despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in
the land of the living.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 27: 13<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, giving thanks and
encouraging others along the way. Stay in step with God and call on God for
help no matter what! Wear comfortable
shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-65990037365661976682014-11-19T22:21:00.001-06:002014-11-19T22:21:12.627-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Wednesday! All
is well here at 811. I think Bruce’s day spent in house really helped and your
prayers have been powerful. Thank you so very much. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>God, I thank you for giving us reason to have confidence
in You. Lord, there are many folks out there who are experiencing such devastating
brokenness in their lives. Lord, when I am hurting so badly it almost takes my
skin off You remind me of the beautiful lyric, “And when my plans have fallen
through and when my strength is nearly gone. When there is nothing left to do,
but just depend on you and the power of Your name.” Lord, there is such power in just speaking
your name. You know our hurts, our situations even before we ask. Sometimes
Lord the hurt is so bad that we cannot even voice it and all we can do is call
Your name. Thank you for Your kindness
and understanding and when we are broken. Thank you for your compassion that
does not call us to shame, but wraps us in Your loving Presence and cries with
us. Thank You Lord and Savior that whatever we are struggling with can be
conquered by Your love and tender mercies. Heal us loving Lord, and make us
whole once again. We love you so much Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Through the stories in the Bible we find people who faced
great hardships and seemingly overwhelming challenges. The interesting thing
about these folks such as Moses, Joshua, David and Paul is that they were
ordinary people of their time. Moses was a shepherd, Joshua was a stone carver,
David was also a shepherd and Paul was a tentmaker. They had no remarkable skill for
leadership, but they all had one thing
in common. They accepted the Lordship of God and Paul; Jesus into their lives
and acted in obedience to the call of God on their lives. And while they each
faced overwhelming challenges and adversity in their lives they did not rely on
their own strength, but relied on the strength in God in whom they believed
with all of their hearts. They trusted
God no matter how bad it got. They
believed that God could overcome whatever devastating situations were going on
in their lives.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are given that same right to the same confidence as these
legendary men of God. No matter what situation we find ourselves whether we
have brought it on ourselves or it has been thrust upon us God will be with us
giving us the confidence to trust in the power of God’s own love for us. And even though it is really hard for us, we
need to try not to fear being put to shame by our God who loves us so very
much. So my friends pray for healing and
wholeness believing that we are loved and made whole and in humble obedience call on the
name of the Lord.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Some trust in
their war chariots and others in their horses, but we trust in the power of the
LORD, our God. Such people will stumble and fall, but we will rise and stand
firm.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 20: 7-8<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging others as you go. Stay in step with the Lord not slower or faster
for God will walk by our side. Wear
comfortable shoes and get some sleep.
Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-85478393919884116412014-11-18T22:36:00.001-06:002014-11-18T22:36:46.775-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Tuesday! All is
well here at 811. Bruce remained at home today and is still recovering from a
sinus infection. Please continue to pray
for him. He is really tired of being miserable and miserable about being too
tired to be able to work. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, Thank you for never leaving us or forsaking us.
Lord, we are coming the time of the year where families gather and share grand
meals together and are reminded of the many things for which we are thankful. But
there are those who feel so lonely. Some
are so lonely that they feel in bondage to their loneliness. Help us to love
others as you love us and help those who are lonely to feel the love that only
you can give. I love you so much. Thank you
for your gracious love that lets us know we are never alone. In Jesus’ name,
amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I suppose there are times in all of our lives that we feel lonely.
Being alone and being lonely are two different things. Being alone simply means
that we are physically by ourselves and most of us do not mind small amounts of
alone time. But being lonely is not just the absence of another person being
near, but inner feelings of rejection, separation from loved ones and feelings
of unworthiness. These feeling of
alienation can become a “private prison.”
These feelings can become destructive and a mindset that is pretty hard
from which to escape. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those of us who believe in God know and believe from
scripture that “God will never leave us or forsake us.” (Deuteronomy 31: 6) Loneliness
is something God desires to heal in our lives through God’s enduring presence
and healing care. Because of God’s great
love and promises to us we are never alone. It is the power of the Holy Spirit
living in us that we are assured of God’s unfailing love. As we grow in our
relationship with God we learn to trust in God’s promises to be with us always. Sometimes
one of the ways we have God with us is to find other Christians and be a part
of “God with skin on.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So my friends let us be observant of those around us and see if
there is someone who needs to have a Thanksgiving dinner with a family or a
group of friends and set an extra place. The One who will never leave us or forsake
you will rejoice if you do for in that space and time it will be a glimpse into
kingdom of God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“I feel completely
secure, because you protect me from the power of death. I have served you
faithfully, and you will not abandon me.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 16: 9-10<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“You have made
known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with
eternal pleasures at your right hand.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 16: 11<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey and know that you are never alone. Go
down the path praising, praying, laughing and encouraging others as you go.
Wear comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-49257968578890512952014-11-17T22:07:00.001-06:002014-11-17T22:07:14.323-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Monday! All is
well here at 811. Bruce is improving.
Thank you for your continued prayers.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, I praise you for working out all things for the
good of those who love you and are called according to your purpose. Thank you
for using my life’s boundaries for your glory, the benefit of others and to
show us your purpose for our lives. Thank you for the rewarding work I am
blessed to do each day. I am led by you to help children learn to read and
spend time each day with friends and loved ones. And as I pray each day to place before me
someone I can help, I surrender my time each day to you. Help me to stay in tune with you throughout
each day so that I do not miss an opportunity to share your love and grace with
others. I love you Lord. In Jesus’ name,
amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tonight my meditation really hits home with me and has given
me some thoughts about how God uses our life situations to shape our
personalities and how we will choose to serve God. We may go through really tough times and even
if those difficult times are happening now they are not a mistake, but a way to
trust God to help when we are in need. Do not misunderstand I do not think God
thrusts difficulties upon us. I happen to believe that life happens and life is
not always strawberries and cream and lovin’ all the time. But I do believe that trusting our brokenness to
God for healing allows God to shape us and use the difficulties we have faced
to help others. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When life presents us with adversity and brokenness we can
ask God to heal our brokenness and use this situation for good. We can ask for the pain we are experiencing
to be changed into a purpose. We may not
always understand how God could use our situations for good and healing, but
God will bless abundantly (I love that word) if we will ask for help and then
allow our loving God of grace and mercy to lead us through. And if we are so
courageous and trusting to find a hint of praise in the brokenness no matter how
small God rejoices in our mustard seed of faith; for that is all God asks. Listening
to God and seeking God’s wisdom deepens our relationship with God and reminds
us of God’s faithfulness to us. God is
good and love wins!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“I will praise the
LORD who counsels me—even at night my conscience instructs me. I keep the LORD
in mind always, because the LORD us at my right hand, and I will not be shaken.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 16: 7-8<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing, and
encouraging others as you go. Wear comfortable shoes, extra socks and get some
sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-58418947392926372382014-11-16T22:10:00.001-06:002014-11-16T22:10:56.814-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blessed Sunday to you all!
All is not well here at 811. Bruce seems to have a pretty nasty sinus
infection. It has been a few years since
he has had one and it has hit him pretty hard. He will not be going to rehab
tomorrow and hopefully another day at home will help. Say an extra prayer for
him. Thank you so very much. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Lord, thank you for your gracious presence in our lives. Thank
you for helping when we ask and making the provision we need. Thank you for
days of dedicated worship when we can praise you in song, Word, preaching,
prayer and offering. Lord, I am not
worthy on my own of your love and eternal life so I have trusted you for my salvation.
Thank you for covering me with your goodness, your grace, your mercy and
forgiveness. But most of all Lord, thank you for loving me through the life of
Jesus your Son. I love you Lord so much,
amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have a confession to make. I have spent most of my life
thinking I would never measure up to those around me. I felt others were
smarter, faster, prettier, better liked etc…in my meditation tonight I read
Psalm 15 and it discusses this very
issue. I love the Psalms as they are the
prayers of God’s people to God written for all kinds of reasons. It examines “the heart of humanity’s deepest
problem—is anyone worthy of living in heaven with God?” If you read the psalms they tell that we must
be honest, kind, keep all of the commandments and never do wrong to others. “ I don’t know if I can meet all of these
requirements. But of these two things I
am sure…first, because I do not have the ability to be “good enough” shows my
great need for God’s help and presence in my life. Second, my help comes from
the Lord through the death and resurrection of Jesus as I trust Jesus for my
personal salvation. When Jesus goes before God to plead for us we are covered
in righteousness and we are worthy of dwelling in heaven and to be a part of
the kingdom on earth. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Lord, who can
dwell in Your tent? Who can live on Your holy mountain?”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 15: 1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Such people will
stand firm forever.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 15: 5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, giving thanks,
laughing and encouraging as you go. Wear comfortable shoes, stay warm and get
some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and
Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-36590098344425711912014-11-15T23:10:00.001-06:002014-11-15T23:10:24.951-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Saturday! All is well here at 811. Today I spent time
with my beautiful daughter running some errands and having lunch and tonight
Geni, Travis and Sarah and Bruce took me to dinner at Lupe’s Mexican Restaurant
to continue my weekend birthday celebration.
I am at an age where the best gifts do not always come wrapped in paper
with pretty bows. My gifts today were spending time with my daughter, waking up
next to Bruce and then having all of them around a table tonight together. The
best memories of growing up with the kids were time around the table. It was never quiet. It was fun, silly, welcoming,
filled with love and good food. For me
the table whether in my dining room or at a restaurant when surrounded by family is a holy
place. So my dear family, thank you for
a wonderful evening. I will not soon
forget the joy and laughter, the sangria and the cherries!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, thank you for your blessings of friends and
family. Thank you for being in our lives and building our family. You have been
the foundation of our family since we became a two person family and then
caused it to increase. Lord, you have promised that all things grounded in You
will receive joy because they have been established by your wisdom and your
gracious love. So tonight Lord, I thank you for my family. They bring me great
joy and I am ever grateful to your for them and Your life being lived out in
them. I love you Lord so much. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have talked about waiting before. Waiting for us is just
not that easy or any fun at all. We are so used to instant responses that
waiting on answers to prayers can sometimes get really tough. Well, here is a news flash…God does not work
on a chronological time table or respond like speed dial. God works on <i>eternal
time. </i> And even when we pray for things for a very
long time and we are not seeing a response to our prayer just remember that the
power is not in the one who prays. The power is in the One who hears the
prayer. Our time does not always coincide with God’s time, but God’s timing is
always perfect. During this time of
waiting we are growing in our faith and building an even deeper relationship
with God than we had before. No matter what the circumstances are God reminds
us to trust Him and to not be discouraged.
We have not been forgotten and answers to our questions and our cries
for help are being heard. Count on God’s
unfailing love and unmerited grace to cover us while we wait helping us to
trust God even more deeply than we ever have before. God is good and love wins!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“I have thrown
myself headlong into your arms__I’m celebrating your rescue. I’sm singing at
the top of my voice. I am so full of answered prayers.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing, and encouraging
others as you go. Wear comfortable
shoes, stay warm and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-19096053119882243822014-11-14T23:16:00.001-06:002014-11-14T23:16:12.964-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TGIF Today God is
First! All is well here at 811. Bruce
and I spent the evening with a PPV movie; <i>The Jersey Boys</i> , pizza from New
Yorker and shared a cannoli. The
children at school and many teachers wished me a Happy Birthday. I received more
FB good wishes that I may be possibly able to respond, but I will try! And came
home to several card in the mailbox. This birthday was really wonderful! Thank you
all so very much.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, thank you for seeing me though another birthday
here on earth. Through your precious people I have felt love from all sides today.
I give you thanks that you are turning what could have been tragic illness in the last year into great healing victories.
Thank you for your gracious comfort and help me to bring comfort to others.
Lord, help me to continue to trust in you so that I remain in the center of
your perfect care. Thank you for seeing the
path ahead for me and leading me through by your guiding light and trusted
hand. I love you Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is sometimes hard to understand how we can use the
difficult times in our lives for something good. Scripture tells us that God
catches every tear not letting any of them fall to the ground and making them
into something beautiful. When tough
times happen in my life and the situation makes no sense and is very hurtful I often
ask God “What am I supposed to learn from this?” The truth is that if we stay in tune with God
in times of hurt we are being trained to help others through similar
situations. I have found over the years that one of the best ways to heal is to
help someone else. Walking through adversity with a friend is most often
healing for both parties. You know how it feels to hurt and for me these
difficult life events give a new direction of ministry and opportunities to minister to those who
have had similar tough times in their own lives. While I find it impossible to give thanks to God
for hard times, I find it joyous to give thanks when the trial is over.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So my friends, if you
have gone through a difficult time you have wisdom that someone else might need
to get through what they are going through. Let us pray and ask God to place us
in contact with those who need a listening ear, some direction and more than
anything else…hope for a brighter day. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“They who sow in
tears shall reap in joy and singing.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 126: 5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“He who goes out
weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 126: 6<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, singing, laughing
and encouraging others as you go. Stay warm, wear comfortable shoes and get
some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-27748367957184479192014-11-13T22:40:00.001-06:002014-11-13T22:40:47.527-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Thursday! All
is well here at 811. I have to share that I have the most wonderful surprising
husband on the planet. I will be 59
tomorrow. He surprised me with gifts tonight and dinner tomorrow night. The
night he had the stroke a year and a half ago I told him I was not through
loving him yet. And after almost thirty
four years of marriage I cannot even imagine being married to anyone else. I
told him as we were standing together tonight that my birthday gift happens
each morning when I wake up next to him and say good night each evening. So, thank you my beloved for the surprises you
continue to bring to my life and the joy I live in loving you. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, I want to know you more---teach me your ways.
Thank you that when I seek you, I find everything I need and all that my heart desires. You will always be my perfect Defender. I
praise you for covering me with your wisdom, strength, and love. Lord, may you
be exalted forever. Please continue to bless Bruce with healing and progress in
the stroke recovery and for blessing his heart with love for you, love for
others; me, his son and daughter, and daughter-in-law. Thank you for giving him
a heart of joy, caring and surprise or two. I love you Lord and I thank you for
the blessings of love, family and friends and your eternal grace that covers
all of us. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The world tells us to pursue fame, power, accomplishments,
brighter, whiter smiles, great financial gains and great amounts of busyness. When we take inventory of our lives what do
we find? Do we find that some of our relationships and activities do not bring
about a lasting satisfaction that we are seeking? And even diamonds (yes, I love diamonds)
while they make sparkle with brilliant fire do not bring warmth. (Except maybe
for the memories of the one who gave them to you…just saying.) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pursuing the intangibles are the things that bring lasting
joy and fulfillment. Seek God. Joy and fulfillment will fill the empty
spaces when the fleeting things of earth have grown cold. Seeking a relationship
with God gives us a firm place on which to stand and to find satisfaction for
our souls through the Presence of God’s love, enduring grace and purpose for
our lives. Seek God with all of your heart my friends. God will teach our hearts lasting peace that
can never be taken away, run out, tarnish or end. Seeking God allows us to be
surrounded by God’s love, wisdom and strength forever. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Those who know
your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek
you.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 9: 10<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Those who trust
the LORD, are like Mount Zion, which can never be shaken. It remains firm.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 125: 1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging others as you go. Stay warm, wear comfortable shoes and get some
sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-77964751565837582702014-11-12T22:32:00.001-06:002014-11-12T22:32:21.070-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Wednesday! All
is well here at 811. I hope this writing finds you all warm and happy this
night.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, thank you for teaching me about your healing
and forgiveness. I don’t want to sin against you; I want to have a loving reverence
for you that You have placed your strength in me. The strength that I find when
I need it comes from the joy I have in being your child and in Your promises
found in scripture.. By myself I know I am not strong, but you are strong
enough for all of us. Thank you for Your comfort and letting us cry when we are
sad or hurt or grieving. For You who created tears also created laughter. When
times come for strength in me or any of us I/we trust you to be strong enough
for all of us. Thank you Lord for all of
these things. I love you Lord, in Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have always believed in God and in my mid-teens I came into
personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus. I began to learn more about God by reading
the Bible. I read some scriptures that
disturbed me and I did not understand about fearing God. I had met and fallen
in love with Christ and learned about God’s unfailing love and saw no reason to
fear God who proclaimed love for us so passionately through the stories of
Jesus. This seemed very contradictory to
me!! How could a God who loved and
forgave me be someone to be feared? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I began to mature in faith and knowledge I began to
understand that godly fear is not fright or terror, but reverence and respect. Godly reverence means honoring God with our
life in piety; study, service, prayer and worship practices. These practices help us to maintain our relationship
with God. When we tell God much we need help in our weakness then we can trust
that God will give us the strength to do what we cannot do on our own. When we are honest with God confessing our
sins to God causes God to heal us and forgive us teaching us that God is one to
be loved, respected and revered. God is our friend and a better friend we will
never have. God is good and love wins!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“With all my
heart, I am waiting, LORD, for you! I trust your promises…Trust the LORD! God
is always merciful, and God has the power to save you.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 130: 5. 7<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging others as you go. Super cold tonight so throw on an extra blanket
(we used my beautiful TCU quilt!) tonight and warm clothes for the morning.
Wear comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-27781964786195018692014-11-11T22:41:00.001-06:002014-11-11T22:41:48.491-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Tuesday! All is
well here at 811. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>DearGod, I never want to be without you. I know you will
always love and help me. God, your flawless character and wonderful name always
perfectly provide for all my needs. You name is above every other, and I praise
you forever! You are the God who defends
us. You are the God who heals all of our wounds and provides for all of our
needs. You forgive us completely and perfectly and provide tender mercies. God
you are peace. You are grace and have named each of us highly favored and
filled us with your grace in Jesus’ name. You are love. Thank you Lord Jesus
for being our all in all. I love you so much, in Jesus’ name, amen<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I was living at MD Anderson with Casey while he was
receiving treatment it occurred to me that I could not imagine trying to fight
cancer without God in our lives. To my way of thinking when it comes to that
disease if you do not have faith in God who heals and sustains then you have no
tools with which to fight. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After reading my meditation tonight I came to the
realization that I never want to be without God. In times of plenty or want,
sickness or health or good times and
adversity God will always be there to take care, to heal, to provide and
sustain. While other people even those we love will fail us God will never fail
us. It takes a lot of life events to experience God’s faithfulness and
understand how God is unlike anyone else we know and will never let us
down. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trust is not easy for most of when we start out in a
relationship with God. I give thanks that God is a “patient and wise teacher.” But as we continue to set our hearts on
learning more about God each day through the life and character of Jesus, we
begin to learn and understand the truth.
We begin to understand that God loves us and wants to help us in all the
ways we ask no matter what we need. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“O LORD, in Your
favor toward Your people; visit me with Your salvation, that I may see the
prosperity of Your chosen ones, that I may rejoice in the gladness of Your
nation.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 106: 4-5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Then they believed
his words were true and broke out in songs of praise.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 106: 12<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, thanking God and encouraging
others as you go. Throw an extra blanket on the bed because baby it’s cold
outside! Wear comfortable shoes and get
some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-66308042513440845632014-11-10T22:31:00.001-06:002014-11-10T22:31:34.154-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Monday! All is
well and in recovery from a very busy and spirit filled weekend. I served as a
Spiritual director at a Vic De Cristo Weekend and we attended the TCU vs. KSU
football game in Fort Worth. Frogs Won! It was a great weekend. I think one more good
night’s sleep and I will be ready for the children tomorrow! Thank you for praying for this weekend; the participants
and staff felt the powerful presence of
God through the prayers from here in the Metroplex and around the world.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, I praise you for your holy loving ways. Thank you
that I can always count on you. You are so wonderful. Thank you for your
wonderful provision. Thank you for your perfect grace that covers, and comforts
us completely. And Lord, when we don’t understand what is going on in our lives
and life seems to be doing a turnaround help us remember that even we turn
around you are there. Help us to remember that when our plans have fallen
through and when our strength is nearly gone that there is nothing left to do
but just depend on you and the power of your name. I love you Lord, in Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We think of God as one who can see all, do all, be all and
is all powerful. But God, because of His
perfect character has some things that God will not do. God does not break promises to us. God will
never use His knowledge for evil, but
will only use wisdom to help us. It is
not in the mind or heart of God to every, no matter what, stop caring about us,
but cause at the heart of God’s perfect character is love. And if or when we start down a path of destruction
we are offered salvation to seal our eternal relationship. Life is not a linear journey. Sometimes predictable
things happen and sometimes we are blindsided by life. But here is the good news…no matter what, God is with us and loves us with unfailing and
everlasting love. Let us trust our God with all our heart and soul because God
can’t fail!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Ascribe to the
Lord, you families of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 96: 7<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging others along the way. Wear comfortable shoes and get some sleep.
Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-42056087360587876562014-11-05T22:29:00.001-06:002014-11-05T22:29:30.788-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Wednesday! All is
well here at 811. I really like sweatshirt/sweater weather! I have worn boots every day this week.
Yesterday when I got out of the car and the school to cast my vote it was cold
wet and rainy. But I was warm and dry from the feet on up. My friends, I will
be leaving for the via De Cristo Weekend tomorrow afternoon and will not be
able to write again until possibly Sunday night. Please pray for the weekend, the staff and
participants. I know that you may not even know for whom you are praying, but
remember that the power of the prayer does not lie with the one who prays, but
the One who hears the prayer. Thank you
mighty and faithful prayer warriors!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>God, How awesome it is to communicate with You in prayer.
You are the King of the universe and creator of all and you desire
communication with your human creation above all others. Thank you that we can come before you for
help, praise, thanksgiving and forgiveness and receive all of what we have
asked and praise You not for what you do, but for who You are. Thank you that we may delight in You and that
we may approach Your throne of grace receiving mercy and finding the grace we
need in time of need. I love You Lord, in Jesus name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was raised on two television shows on Saturday night
growing up. I knew if I was at home or at my Mamo’s (if Mom and Dad had gone
out) that I would watch these two shows; The Gospel Singing Jubilee and
Lawrence Welk. Remember I am old. The Gospel Singing Jubilee was an hour long
program of gospel quartet singing. The headline group that sang was The Happy
Goodman Family. This family of a mother,
father, son and brother sang classic southern gospel music. The lead in most of
the pieces was a woman with a big voice and big hair named Vestal Goodman. She
was beloved by many. Vestal and her
husband Howard went on to sing with the Gaither Homecoming folks. ( I have
always wanted to sing with the Gaither Homecoming folks and believe that I can
sing with the best of them, but I am pretty sure that I do not have enough
hair.) The folks who sang with Vestal have spoken of her faith and her extraordinary
prayer life. Her prayer life was pretty simple. When she wanted to talk to God
she stopped, walked into the throne room of grace and told God how she needed
help, gave thanks, asked for forgiveness, praised him and told God how much she
loved Him. She was bold in her prayer
life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Prayer is a wonderful privilege that brings changes in our
circumstances and in the people with who we encounter. “Prayer can be the
difference in confusion and clarity, hurt and healing, defeat and victory and
even between life and death.” (Joyce Meyer)
There are a lot of ways to pray, but the most effective way to pray is
to pray boldly and using the words that come straight from our hearts. God wants us to come before Him without fear
and confidently being specific in our needs.
Our God knows us and loves so much that we will receive the promised
help when we need it. God listens to our hearts as well as our words.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Let us then
fearlessly and confidently and boldly draw near to the throne of grace,,,that
we may receive mercy…and find grace to help in good time for every need
[appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it.]<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Hebrews 4: 16<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, encouraging and
asking for help as you go. Wear comfortable
shoes and a warm jacket. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-71308817137041623822014-11-04T23:43:00.001-06:002014-11-04T23:43:42.942-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Tuesday! All is
well here at 811.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>My blessed and holy God, You are the great I AM. I thank
you for being faithful and trustworthy in my life and in the lives of all your
people. May your name be cherished forever. Lord, there are times I have questions.
Please settle my heart and help me to rest in the hope that one day all my
questions will be answered as I stand in your presence. Lord. There are
wonderful people preparing to serve you in the Via De Cristo Weekend. Please
continue to prepare our hearts so serve you. Lord please calm the anxiousness of
the participants as they come in faith to learn so much more about you. I love you Lord, in Jesus name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I tutor first through fourth graders in reading each day.
When they get stuck on a word then often look on the ceiling, around the room
or on my face to try and figure out the word. The mantra in my teaching is that
“A good reader always looks at the words.”
The children learn this simple verse the first time I meet with them. When they look for answers anywhere except on
the page of writing I remind them that the words are not written on my face or
on the ceiling, but are written on the page. Then I have them repeat what a good reader
does. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think this is a pretty good less for all of us when it
comes to our study of scripture and using it as the place to find answers to
our questions. As believers in God we
have a book that will help us find answers to the questions in our lives. And if
we combine the reading of scripture with prayer allowing God wo speak to us
through His Written Word and then to reveal its meaning to us in prayer through
the Holy Spirit then I don’t know about you, but I find peace in the Presence
of God in both written word and revealed understanding. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We may never know the answers to all of our questions from
all of the experiences in our loves. And maybe we will be given those answers
when we meet Jesus face to face or maybe when we reach heaven the questions won’t
even matter. But I know we can trustingly place our faith in God and our hope
in the wisdom of God and God’s eternal love. The words are not written on our
faces or on the ceiling, but they are written in a pretty amazing book. Remember, “A good reader always looks at the
WORD.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“I look up to the mountains;
does my strength come from mountains? No, my strength comes from God who made
heaven and earth and mountains.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 121: 1<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging others as you go. Wear
comfortable shoes, pray for others and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-77944233047132625432014-11-03T22:30:00.001-06:002014-11-03T22:30:05.813-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Monday! All is
well here at 811. Bruce is stepping out once again and has returned to Bible
Study Fellowship. He seems to be really
enjoying it. I am not sure how much he discusses in his BSF group, but I know
he devotes time each day to studying the lesson for the upcoming week. Way to
go darlin’!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I received in the mail today my application for ordination,
paper topics and search and call papers. Even though I do not yet feel called to
serve as a congregational leader I most assuredly feel and believe I am called
to the ministry of Jesus Christ as a ministerial presence in representative ministry. Please be in pray as I prepare these
documents for presentation to my local committee, the area and region of the
Christian Church Disciples of Christ in preparation for my final ordination
interview to be held at the end of April 2015.
Thank you all. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>God, in you is my all in all. My worth, glory and joy is because
you loved me first making me a part of Your good creation. I thank you for accepting me and loving me. I
praise you for delighting in me and leading me in a path that leads right back
to you. Thank you for your words of encouragement. As You encourage me I become
the person you created me to be. Thank you for looking far enough inside the
sacred space of my heart strengthening my skills…even the ones I don’t know are
there. I love you Lord so very much. In
Jesus’s name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do you ever have days when you think that you are an epic
failure? I know that is a really awful question, but I have those days. Those
are the days when I want to sing the song we used to sing to the kids when they
were down in the dumps…”Nobody loves me, everybody hates me, I going to the
garden and eat worms!” We all get down
in the dumps every now and then and when those days happen we need to stop and
remember something or better yet…someone very important. We need to remember
our Creator. Our Creator; God created us
out of great love for us and cares for us deeply. God has created us for a
deeply personal relationship with Him through the life of Jesus and the power
of the Holy Spirit. One of the reasons
this relationship is so important is as we each commit acts of sin, God does
not approve, but because of this relationship we have with God we are empowered
to turn from those sins and receive forgiveness. When we receive forgiveness our feelings of
failure and doubt are turned into streams of victory and we know the delight
God has in us once again. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“The Lord takes
pleasure in His people; He adorns the humble with salvation. Let the godly
celebrate in triumphal glory; let them shout for joy.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 149: 4-5<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and encouraging
others as you go. Wear comfortable shoes,
pray for yourself and others and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and
Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-58803307355309102182014-11-02T22:21:00.001-06:002014-11-02T22:21:25.945-06:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blessed Sunday to you all.
All is well here at 811. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Lord, how blessed and fitting to praise You! May my life
be a psalm of adoration to you from this time forth and forevermore. I’ll love
you always, my God. God, bring peace and constancy to my heart and may You find
it a fitting place for You to dwell. I am hoping in your goodness and believing
in Your kindness. Thank you for the remembrances of Mom and Casey today. You
were there when I shed my tears of grief and loss and remained until I could
smile and sing again. I know they are in heaven with You and basking in the
worship and praise of Your Holy Presence.
Thank you for taking care of them Lord. Give them an extra hug from me.
Lord, I love you so much. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The psalms are the most wonderful words. The book of Psalms
begins with “Happy are those who…love the Lord’s teachings.” (Ps. 1: 1-2) and
ends with the must jubilant Praise the Lord in Ps. 150. Psalm 150 is one we had
read at Mom’s service. Mom would have never wanted sad songs or scriptures at a
service that honored her life spent in faith with God. Anyway, the Psalms have within them words
that represent the vast expanse of human experience and the faithfulness of God
and how God walks with each of us through each experience we have in our lives.
Tonight the author of my meditation writes that the psalms represent every
situation of life-- “trials, losses, betrayals, joys, hopes, promises and
desires.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tonight’s scripture passages have particularly special
meaning for me. Psalm 150 was spoken at Mom’s memorial service and the same
psalm was purchased by the choir at Advent and dedicated to Casey. If I am so
humbly honored to be ordained, the choral piece <i>Let Everything that Has Breath
</i>will be sung by combined choirs as the musical offering for the ordination
service. Scripture is the best place to begin in a faithful relationship with God.
God’s Word is where we can learn to trust God and God’s love for us as we praise
God and journey together. My friends take joy in the Lord in worship and in
love from the dwelling place of your heart where God lives. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heaven! Praise him for
his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness!”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 150: 1-2<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Let everything
that has breath praise the Lord. “<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 150: 6<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging others as you go. Wear comfortable shoes, spend some time in God’s
Word and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-29144312333890654132014-11-01T22:17:00.001-05:002014-11-01T22:17:15.118-05:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Saturday! All
is well here at 811. FROGS WIN! FROGS WIN!
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I have turned the page in my devotional book the theme of
the month is:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“Because of all that
the Son is, we have been given one blessing after another. John 1: 16<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, through your word of encouragement, I become
myself. Thank you for looking far enough in me to see strengths and skills I
don’t know are there. God, in you is all my worth, glory and joy. I thank you
for accepting and loving me. I praise you for delighting in me and leading me
to victory. Thank you Lord for placing
in each of us a heart-place where you find a place to dwell. Lord, I lift the Via deCristo Weekend coming
up. Bless all who will serve and all who will participate with your Presence
and unconditional love. Thank you Lord, I love you so much. I pray all of this
in Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tonight I was asked to provide the homily and preside over Eucharist
for the final team meeting of the Via deCristo weekend to be held this coming
weekend. This evening’s writing is sort
of a pre-Advent thought and a portion of the homily I shared this evening.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>My Heart would be Your Bethlehem. A Shelter for Your
birth; My body be Your dwelling place, A sacred temple on earth. By holy
intervention and act of the divine in union with mortality make incarnation
mine. </i>(First verse of <i>My Heart Would be Your Bethlehem</i> by Stephen
Hill)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it comes to the month of November I think of three
things; my birthday, Thanksgiving and usually the beginning of Advent. This
weekend I began reading a small book titled <i>Not A Silent Night</i> by Adam
Hamilton; a minister of a Methodist Church in Kansas. He writes this 68 page
book to look at the life of Jesus through Mary’s eyes in the most unusual way.
He writes this book from the time of Mary’s death to the birth of Jesus. It is
a fascinating read. I have for about six
years now felt a kinship with Mary as we have both lost adult children in very tragic
ways and watched them die. Her son died in a public viewing and our son died in
my arms. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Casey and I had a deeply personal relationship. Mary’s relationship with Jesus was deeply
personal and this lyric is somewhat like the beautiful song of praise Mary
sings in Luke as she accepts the responsibility of carrying the Son of God in
her body and mothering him not only as God’s son, but her son as well. The song reminds us of her life
changing surrender but it is also a song that belongs to us. It is a reminder
that our relationship with Jesus is deeply personal. This tiny revelation
wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed in a manger must be placed in us. We
must be willing as was Mary to bear the cost of discipleship and face whatever
scorn, or misunderstanding or whatever life hands out to us to its full
conclusion—making our personal heart-space the place where Jesus can be born
over and over as our life matures and admitting our moment by moment need for
Him to find a dwelling place in our hearts. We are all called to bring the Holy
Son of God to earth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The chorus of this piece speaks of our own surrender and commitment
to a life lived with, in and through the love of Jesus: “<i>My heart, my will, my mind, my all, I
consecrate to bring the Holy Son of God to earth. Oh, let the angels sing!” </i>Let
us let Advent begin, just a little early.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
carry Jesus with you wherever the journey leads. Wear comfortable shoes; set
your clock one hour back and get some extra sleep. Love you all, Bruce and
Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-87425964389385327432014-10-31T22:57:00.001-05:002014-10-31T22:57:14.786-05:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TGIF Today God is First and Happy Halloween. All is well here at 811. Several trick-or-treaters, but fewer than
last year. I think the Friday Night Lights may have slowed down the
trick-or-treaters. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God, I want to know you in an authentic, profound
relationship. Teach me to have full confidence in you, my God, for you are
surely worthy of all my trust. I will focus y my eyes on your faithfulness
rather than my own failures. I will look to you to help me fulfill the promise
of all that my life can be. Lord, you
are the great promise keeper and I know I can count on your promises. I know
you know of every wrong choice I have ever made and every opportunity I have
missed and each mistake I have made. I know these life errors have caused you
grief. Lord, I will never be able to thank you enough for the grace you offer
as you meet me where I am and restore hope to my life. I love you Lord, in
Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am kind of a sequential learner. I learn stories and
information in order; beginning to end. But today I began reading a short piece
of writing, only 68 pages that tells and expounds on a story we have all heard
all of our lives. The title of the book is <i>Not a Silent Night </i>by Adam
Hamilton. It tells the story of Jesus as seen through the eyes of Mary, his
mother beginning with the time near her death and ending with the birth of
Jesus. It is a fascinating book. My time today allowed me to read approximately
half of the piece of writing. I have
always believed that the greatest witness in scripture to the life of Christ was
the mother of Jesus; Mary. She and I
have a few things in common. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I share this with you to offer that sometimes in order to
put a spark in our spiritual lives we have to look at things from a different
angle. Sometimes our spiritual lives can
become somewhat routine and maybe just a bit boring. And while I place great
value in scripture study, pray and regular worship attendance is it possible
that there are times that when we do these tasks God gets left out? Perhaps if we
do many of these things alone consider
being part of a weekly fellowship group that studies scripture, has discussions
and prays together is the spark our spiritual lives need. Could we be so bold and courageous as to
change some of our practices and pursue a deeper relationship with God by
fellowshipping with others? Advent is coming soon and it is a time of preparation. Traditions ae important, but making new
traditions can be just as meaningful.
Step out on your faith and enjoy a greater abundant life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“The Lord takes
pleasure in those who reverently and worshipfully fear Him, in those who hope
in His mercy and loving-kindness.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 147: 11<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing and
encouraging others as you go. Wear comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-64950315718147588762014-10-29T22:53:00.001-05:002014-10-29T22:53:47.430-05:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Wednesday! All
is well here at 811. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Thank you dear Lord for the words of life you speak to
me. By your words I am named and claimed. By your words I am held, molded and
sent out. Lord, Your Word means so much
to me. I am comforted by your words. Your Presence is affirmed in Your Word and
I find your grace sufficient in your word. I love you Lord. In Jesus’ name,
amen<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the things I have enjoyed since graduating from the
seminary is reading for pleasure. For
about six years reading for fun was something I remembered. But I still enjoy
reading for meaning. The meaning for
which I read is learning more about God and the power of the Holy Scriptures. The
power of the Word is made to inspire, encourage and help. I especially love the
Psalms. Tonight my meditation recalls the psalmist calling the words of God
being “sweeter than honey.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love to speak words and sing words and write words and
listen to words, but God’s words are always life-giving and life affirming. The
words of God have the power to transform us from the depths of our souls. God’s Word enters in through our ears and
eyes to our minds and finds its way to our hearts where it becomes a part of
our lives changing us and transforming us. Reading God’s Word, speaking God’s Word,
listening to God’s Word, singing God’s Word and living out God’s Word will result
a life in abundance causing each of us to thrive. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“How sweet are
Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 119: 103<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“I will sing unto the
Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. My
meditation of him shall be sweet; I will be glad in the Lord.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 104: 33-34<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing, and
encouraging someone as you go. Wear comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love
you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-61164136681272502182014-10-28T22:54:00.001-05:002014-10-28T22:54:30.138-05:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Tuesday! All is
well here at 811. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>God, I know I have often focused on the very things that
make me stumble and sin. Transform me, God because I want to honor you with my
whole life. Give me wisdom to know what to look over and what to overlook.
Teach me that the greatest wisdom is a loving heart, and when I am afraid of
not measuring up or just afraid; make me wise beyond my years. I love you Lord. Thank you for being ever
present with me and giving me reminders of your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Temptations are just what they say…tempting! In our speed dial world of fast communication
we can order anything with just a few touches of some buttons on our phone. In
really short order, books, pizza games,
new dresses and shoes are either downloaded on our phone or at our doorstep in
a very short amount of time. I mean when was the last time we paid for something
using real green cash or spoke to someone in customer service. I rarely go to
the bank. How about you? As long as we live here on this earth and
technology continues to upgrade and increase, temptations are always very close at hand…as
near as our phones. I think we can call this instant gratification. And I must admit I am guilty of giving in to
temptation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While these things may not be sinful how do we stop falling
into sinful patterns; things that lure us into sin? We know that Jesus has
broken the power of sin at the cross of Calvary, but how do we change and stop
wanting things that harm us in our hearts, minds, souls and bodies? Sometimes
when I am driving in the car I let my mind wander and my thoughts are not godly
thoughts. Lately when this happens I have been turning on the Christian artists
I have downloaded on my phone so I can listen and sing while I am on the way
home. This strategy is helping! Romans
12: 2 instructs, “Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way
you think.” Temptation begins in our
thoughts and travels down into our feet and hands causing us to act on those
thoughts. We have to change our thinking;
change the things on which we set our mind. We need to focus on God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Singing Christian music helps me focus on God. The
temptations in our thoughts will not go away immediately. Transformation takes
time! But praying for God to take away our
desire to sin is found in scripture and if we claim and pray this scripture I
hope to find my/our desire to keep focused on God when temptation comes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Take away my
desire for to do evil or to join others in doing wrong.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 141: 4<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“My eyes are upon
You, O God the Lord; in You I take refuge.”
<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take joy in the journey praying, praising, laughing, giving
thanks as you go and encourage someone else along the way. Stay focused on God.
Wear comfortable shoes and get some sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471429823594146268.post-83876591097799120712014-10-27T22:32:00.001-05:002014-10-27T22:32:22.625-05:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings from Austin Street<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Monday! All is
well here at 811. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The candle is lit…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dear God of all creation and giver of every good and
perfect gift. You my Lord exceed all things and love with a love so perfect
that we cannot even begin to understand. I come before you to ask you to use me to
encourage others. Please empower me tomorrow to bless those around me with the
spiritual gifts you have given. Lord, there are folks out there that need your
love, grace and encouragement just to get through the day. You have loved us so
very powerfully and with such compassion that we out of our thankfulness and
gratitude need to tell others of that
great love. Lord, help us to not be shy
about sharing your love with others around us where we work and with whom we
live. Thank you Lord for this great opportunity to encourage others in loving
ways. I love you Lord, in Jesus’s name, amen.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each of us sometime today used the gifts and talents given
to us to further a career, improve ourselves, get someone ready for school or
work or simply to survive the day. Some
of us may have gone to further our education to increase these gifts and be
better able to do our jobs or careers. Those for whom we work trust us to do these
jobs or perform the skills necessary to the best of our abilities each day. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We also have spiritual gifts that God has entrusted to us to
help further the kingdom here on earth by helping others. God gave us these
different gifts to be a blessing to others and to encourage those around us who
are in need. Maybe you think you do not have spiritual gifts, but when you
signed on to be a believer in Jesus those gifts were given to each of us. Your gift could be praying, serving, providing
comfort to someone just by listening, or being the minister of presence as you
represent Jesus by simply sitting with someone who just does not want to be
alone. These spiritual gifts can be taking food to a neighbor or making
sandwiches for the local homeless shelter.
Our gift from God is the trusted privilege of showing the love of God in
gracious ways to all those we encounter. And as Dolly Parton once said, “If you
see someone without a smile, give them yours.” It is amazing how a smile can
brighten someone’s day. Smiling is something I do often and to all I meet. We are not called to use these spiritual gifts
to make ourselves feel better but for the glory of God. The amazing thing that
always happens to me is that even though I am serving to be a blessing to someone
I always walk away knowing I have been blessed.
Be a blessing to someone and encourage them in some way and way and
watch how God works in both of your lives. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“May those who fear
You see me and be glad, because I wait for Your word.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 119: 74<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Let your
steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. Let your
mercy come to me that I may live; for your law is my delight.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Psalm 119: 76-77<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Take joy in the journey praying,
praising, laughing and blessing someone as you go. Wear comfortable shoes and get some
sleep. Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Gaylenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747215758428309092noreply@blogger.com0