Christian Photographers Community

• Prayer and Praise (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?board=3.0)    Thanks for visiting this area of our site to share prayer requests and items for praise!

Morning Devotional...



And Isaac went out to meditate in the field in the evening.
Genesis 24:63

Recommended Reading
Psalm 1

The Bible provides a clear pathway to God's plan for our lives, and meditation is a key ingredient in finding that path. Some people shy away from talking about meditation because of the influences of Eastern mysticism. But biblical meditation is the art of mentally chewing on the passages of Scripture we've been studying until they become digested by the mind and assimilated into our personalities.

In his book about the Puritan practice of scripture meditation, David W. Saxton wrote, "Though God's people should delight in meditation, the modern high-tech church has almost totally forgotten about this hidden jewel of spiritual strengthening."¹

To rediscover the art of Bible meditation, take a passage or verse you've been studying, become thoroughly acquainted with it, then spend time simply thinking about it—while you fall asleep at night, when you're driving to work, during your daily walk. According to Psalm 1, when we meditate on God's Word day and night, we're like trees planted by rivers of water, fruitful and prosperous.             

Meditation pulls the latch of the truth and looks into every closet, and every cupboard, and every angle of it... It labors to affect the heart.
Puritan William Fenner, quoted by David W. Saxton

¹David W. Saxton, God's Battle Plan for the Mind (Grand Rapids: Reformation Heritage Books), Kindle edition.

Turning Point with Dr. David Jeremiah
Copyright © 2015 Turning Point for God.

Hi everyone.  Jeanne, thanks for that fine devotional thought for us to concentrate on this week. Helpful thoughts regarding meditation.

Another clear morning and going to be hot again, as it should in the middle of summer.  I just got back from getting our usual Sunday breakfast.  We will be going to Sunday School and church and then out to lunch somewhere.  I am thinking Mexican but haven't discussed it with Pat.  Yesterday seemed to be such a long day and I wasn't up to par.  So I laid down for a couple of hours in the AM and again in the PM.  I was a bit disappointed that the British Open Golf Match was so delayed.  Hopefully they will have good weather today and tomorrow as they try to finish it.  Looking forward to listening to Don's classical music program this afternoon.  It has become a part of my Sunday afternoon schedule. 

Hope everyone will have an enjoyable Sunday.

Jeanne, your devotion is simple, clear and valuable - thanks for sharing it with us!

My work schedule has had me traveling quite a bit over the past month, which partly explains my lack of participation here.  I usually pop in for short visits now and then, but have hardly done that lately.  Things look to be quieting down a tad, so perhaps I can join in a little more here soon.

I hope you all have a blessed week!

Jeanne, I enjoyed that teaching from David Jeremiah.  He gets straight to the point and is very clear.  Thanks for sharing it!

I have been away for a night and a day.  Granddaughter Abby spent ten days in a dance camp at Oklahoma City University, and I got to go with her parents to see her dance in their closing Showcase.  The young folks did a beautiful job, and showed how much they learned in such a short time! There were 36 girls and ONE lone boy!   :)  He certainly was noticed!  ;)

Since Beth's fiancee John is here, I asked him to check on Darrel, and he did.  He also drove me to Hugoton, then came to Hugoton to pick me up late last night when we got back.  This is because of my eye problems (night blindness).  I am not supposed to drive at night, nor do I feel safe in doing so.  John is such a blessing, and not only to Beth!

I hope to be able to take a nap this afternoon, as I got only about four hours' sleep this morning.  Pastor was really fired up and preached a really good sermon this morning!  :thumbsup:

Ken, it's so good to see your post today!

Good day everyone, Jeanne I enjoyed the devotion from Brother Jeremiah.

We have been in Luke 11 for over a month now and  boy oh boy, have we dug into that chapter. Ending with  the fact that Jesus is the only way. Our pastor has a way of tying everything together that I've never heard before and makes the scriptures come alive.

Next Sunday we are having service first then going out to the Sunset Bay State park for a picnic. 
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28958-d255287-Reviews-Sunset_Bay_State_Park-Oregon.html (http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28958-d255287-Reviews-Sunset_Bay_State_Park-Oregon.html)'
http://www.americansouthwest.net/oregon/sunset-bay/state-park.html (http://www.americansouthwest.net/oregon/sunset-bay/state-park.html)

Pat I didn't think I had sleep apnea either, I just didn't know what was wrong until I had the Sleep Analysis. All O knew is that I wasn't sleeping much at night and that every time I sat down to watch TV I would fall asleep as well as being almost unable to keep my eyes open driving any distance. When I asked Savannah if I snored she made an awful face and shook her head yes. So I asked my Dr to send me for a Sleep test. that was 9 years ago.

Marilyn, my sister uses a C-pap machine and thinks it's the greatest thing in the world!  :)  My son-in-law Jeff snores really loudly, and I suggested to Diane that he may need to be tested, but I don't think he has, yet.  Good sleep is so important!

I had lots of laundry to do, so have been doing that today.  I don't usually do much work on Sunday, but laundry is hardly even work any more, with the wonderful machines we have!  And I have another busy week shaping up, with the Fair and its activities.  I did manage a little nap, so that's a really good thing!

I did get some really nice photos of Beth and John, and as soon as I put those on the computer, will see about getting them on here so you can see them!  I have a phone number to call tomorrow; next step in finding a good wheelchair for Beth!  And I have begun looking at possibilities for her a wedding ensemble.  ;) :)  I must start a list; it's been quite a few years since I have helped plan a wedding!  They are SO excited!!  :D

janet I also think my machine id the greatest thing in the world I do sleep good  and take it every where I am going to sleep over night.

Hi, friends,

I agree - the CPAP machine is a wonderful invention. I use mine every night, and like Marilyn, I take it everywhere I go.

I've dealt with a 24 hour headache, so now that it's over, I feel stiff muscles from holding my head so still. :)

Y'all have a great day.

Ruth Ann

Hey Everyone!

We have some terrific APPLE photos to vote on!   Have you see them?

http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=13333.0

Interesting to read all about these machines.  I don't have one.  But I've heard that they are great!

Hi everyone.  The weather remains the same, hot and humid with no rain.  Today is a day of preparation for Pat as she faces surgery tomorrow.  Other than attending a meeting at noon I will likely stay in and stay cool the rest of the day.  The builders have arrived next door and have started again on the upper story.  I fully expect that the house will be enclosed and the roof put on by the end of the week.  So far the noise hasn't been bothersome. 

Ken, nice to see you posting and do hope we will be able to see more of you in these discussions in the days ahead.   

Janet, I expect the boy in the dance class had a great time.  It is nice that Abby has the opportunity to attend such a camp.  John sounds like such an outstanding individual and our regard for him is obvious in your postings.  Glad you had the opportunity to get away for a little bit and it sounds like Darrel got along fine the short time you were away.  It seems like you just had the County Fair.  Guess it has been a very fast year. 

Ruth Ann, glad to ready your headache has abated.  I used to have them about once a week but it now has been many years since I have suffered with one and that is usually sinus related. 

Marilyn, your study of Luke sounds like it was a very good one.  We too have a fine Bible teacher in our new pastor (new to us as he is starting his 6th year at this church).  I expect Pat will hear the results of her sleep study sometime today.

Pat, have opened the apple page and will view the entries and vote a little later this morning when I finish with the message boards. I am hoping that Pat is eligible for a CPAP machine as think it would help her feel better and give her better sleep.  She is a noisy and restless sleeper. 

Oh, my!  What a day we have had!  I got up at 6 this morning and stepped in water in our bathroom.  It wouldn't have been bad, were it only the bathroom; but we had almost a full-house flood again.  :(  I just couldn't believe it had happened again!  I called our faithful friend and carpenter, Lon, and he came right out and found the source of the water--a hole in the water line to the ice maker.l  :(  We called the water cleanup people and they were here for more than half the day, and now we have a lot of VERY noisy fans running all around the house and in the garage, too.  Darrel says we will go to a motel tonight; we can't sleep in all this racket.  BUT I choose to praise my God IN everything, and I am!  I know God is for me, so who can stand against me?  This will shake out to our good, too, and the enemy cannot have the victory!!  Inconvenient?  Yes.  Lots of hard work?  Yes.  Expensive?  Most likely.  But we are alive, we are regaining our strength, and we still have much for which to thank our loving Father!

John took Beth to Garden City today.  They just came by, and I went to the van and talked to her.  They had a good time, they said.  :)

Larry, I hope Pat has a good report and gets good results from her surgery and will soon be feeling fit as a fiddle!

AND...we received a check today for our wrecked 2009 Mercury Sable.  Not enough to buy another car, but it will surely be a big help!  :)

I'm going to stop.  I cannot concentrate in all this racket!!

Larry, how is Pat doing?  Hopefully the surgery went off without a hitch and she recovers quickly and completely!

Great attitude, Janet...but not a fun mess to deal with...again :(   I wish we had some of your excess water in our part of the world!  We are very dry in the north and northwest.  Amazingly enough, our wildfires situation hasn't been as bad as it could so far.  We've jumped on a number of fires, and with the good Lord's help, have been able to get them knocked down quickly and before they got very large.  That may all change beginning later today, as we had quite the storm blow through last evening, dropping 400-600 lightning strikes per hour and it lasted roughly three hours.  It started a couple new fires that were quickly contained, but we expect to see several fires "pop up" when we reach the 90's this afternoon.  Most likely there are a few (or many) trees smoldering right now, just waiting for heat and a little wind.  So we've pretty much cleared our calendars for the rest of the week in anticipation of the coming "fun!"

Just for perspective, here is a shot of our typical country when we were fighting a fire on July 4...
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CH1zXbICnNo/Va5X-Ea0N1I/AAAAAAAADGU/PWvElEWE2z8/w913-h685-no/IMG_4067-2.jpg)

Ken, that's quite a picture of fire results.  Are you a member of the fire department?

Yes, after we and 71 of our neighbors lost our homes from a lightning-caused wildfire in 2012, we joined the local VFD so that we would be better suited to defend against them in the future.  Our Bull Mountains tend to work like a lightning magnet because of the mineral make-up of our soils, so we get more than our share of fires...unfortunately.

Good for you, Ken.  I can't imagine a fire of that magnitude.  We do have some brush and forest fires once in a while, but I've never known any of them to be threatening homes or really much out of control.

Hi everyone.  Just now home from the hospital to rest for a couple of hours and then will go back for a couple of hours.  Pat's surgery was without problems and she is doing well.  Everything was on time in terms of when she went to the ER and back to her room after recovery.  Now she will be in the hospital probably until Thursday morning and then faces 6 weeks of recovery.  Our son went with us this morning and he is at his house resting but will also go back for a while later this afternoon.

Last evening we had a brief but severe wind and rain storm.  We heard this loud bang and when I looked at the window on the side of the house where the new home is under construction I saw a large piece of plywood had apparently blown off the upper level and I just checked and it had hit my Heat Pump and bent in one corner of medal.  So now will have to deal with the builder, the same builder as built my house, to get that metal casing replaced. 

I missed something Larry What was Pat having surgery for?  Adding her to my prayers.

Freckles  A'ced her final  evaluation she is now an official Furry friend Therapy Dog.  I will pick up our vests on Thursday and the monthly meeting. he is such a good little dog and so smart. Well most heelers are extremely smart and she lives up to her breed. She is a mix with Australian Shepard sand Australian cattle doe (Queensland Heeler)

Larry,  Stopping by to check on Pat's surgery and your note sounds positive. 

Janet, the more modern our appliances become, the more faulty issues happen.  Love your attitude! 

Hi, friends,

My goodness! So much news today. I thought I would cool off from being out in the heat today, so came to the computer.

Janet - my, dear, you have many difficulties, but your attitude is contagious - praise Him in all things.

How exciting to be part of the dog therapy group, now, Marilyn. Congrats to you and to Freckles.

Larry, was Pat's surgery for her back problems? Did she get a CPAP?

It's so good to be able to go to the prayer and praise section and mingle our prayers and also our praise for those requesting prayer or reporting praises.

Y'all have a good rest of the day.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Over in our "Apples" Challenge, one of our Team Leaders, Laughing Peppers,  posted this and I thought it would be good if you all saw it?

Quote

I second the motion, Pat. We need more "Janets" to post encouraging words of appreciation for the photographers who put the valuable effort in keeping the Mini Challenge afloat. Without the contenders, there will be no Mini Challenge.
Thank you, Janet.

Having said that, let me thank all the participants one more time. (photographers and voters) I truly enjoyed all the entries -- the creativity, the artistry and the originality. What a show of apples!!

I second the motion, Pat. We need more "Janets" to post encouraging words of appreciation for the photographers who put the valuable effort in keeping the Mini Challenge afloat. Without the contenders, there will be no Mini Challenge.
Thank you, Janet.

Having said that, let me thank all the participants one more time. (photographers and voters) I truly enjoyed all the entries -- the creativity, the artistry and the originality. What a show of apples!!

http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=13333.0
[/quote]

My son, Andrew, came to look at his bees today and to add two boxes (1 each to two hives).  As he put the 2nd box on the second hive, the bees turned a wee bit nasty and he got about 3 or 4 stings in his hand.  I went to my kitchen and quickly found my Benedryl and got out two capsules and gave him as he cooled his hand under my cold tap.  Then he went back to finish adding the 2nd box to the hive he had to leave open while he went into my kitchen and finished the job.  He came back late to show me his hand and arm and it was all pretty swollen but no heart palpitations or anything like that so no hospital visit and he's gone to bed as he needs to be at work in a nearby city (Burlington) by 6 am.   

Hi everyone on an early July morning.  Yesterday was an exceedingly hot day and my poor flowers on the front porch showed the impact of it this morning as I had to pinch off quite a few of the fading blossoms.  It will be very hot again today. 

Pat seems to be doing very well.  I just talked with her this morning and she didn't have a bad night.  She said they will let her take a shower this morning, remove the pain pump, and get her up and moving about.   I will head down that way later this morning to spend several hours with her, come home to rest a couple of hours this afternoon, and then plan on going back down to spend a couple of more hours with her this evening.   


Pat, sorry to hear of Andrew getting stung yesterday.  Are these bee hives in your yard?

Marilyn, congratulations on your training of Freckles.  I answered your question, as well as Ruth Ann's, in private emails.   

Yes, Larry, they are tucked away down at the back.  They are no bother at all usually. 

Please give my love to Pat.  How long do you think she'll be in the hospital?

Larry, I am glad to hear Pat's surgery went well and that her recovery is so far looking good.  Will keep you both in thought and prayer.  And while I am at it, I might ask for a little cooling in your neighborhood ;)

We were back in the 90's yesterday, and as predicted the previous evening's lightning started a number of wildfires.  I spent the afternoon on one of them.  Fortunately we didn't have too much wind to deal with, so the fires were contained before they burned up very much real estate.  Unfortunately more lightning occurred last night :(  So we continue to maintain our vigil and hold off on making any real plans until the weather improves.

Pat, as much as I love honey and really enjoy shooting photos of bees, I don't think I'd want the hives too close to my house!  When I was young I got too close to hives my uncle was tending and was swarmed by a bunch of angry bees, with several in my hair and stinging my head.  Ever since then, I get nervous around hives!  The whole ordeal probably wasn't as terrifying as my memory, as the mind of a ten year old kid can exaggerate a little!

Have a blessed day, everyone!

Ken, thank you for your encouraging words!  And you have a great attitude, staying there and helping to fight fires, after one took away your house!  That is so scary!  About the worst we get here are prairie fires, and thankfully, not too often.  Of course, there is the occasional house fire, but not weather related.

Larry, I also wondered about Pat's surgery, as I don't recall the things you mentioned needing surgery.  So glad she is doing well, and pray for a supernaturally fast recovery!

Today came with yet another challenge for us!  We got THREE INCHES of rain last night, and when I got up this morning, we had no water!  I mean, none came out of the tap!  Our well flooded, floated the pressure tank up, breaking the lines and doing I'm not sure what all in the way of damages.   :'(  This is getting really tiresome!  But I know that every test comes for a reason; that He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world!  And I know that in spite of what I see or feel, God loves me, he is for me and never against me!  So I will stand and praise Him, no matter what comes against me!  This, too, shall pass, and one day I will understand why it is happening.  God is able to turn what the devil means for our destruction to our good, and He will do that for us in this, too.  I pray the repairs will not be too costly, and please, God, don't ever allow us to have water damage or well problems again!

I got out to the fairgrounds to do my job at quarter to nine, as we were supposed to do.  My helper and I waited....and waited...and waited... and our judge did not appear.  Finally, the Home Economist came by and asked, "Where is your judge?" then made some phone calls and learned the judge had cleared it with "someone in my office" to come at 1:30 instead of 9!   The word didn't make it down the pipeline, and now my whole day is out of whack.  But I came home and Darrel and I went to Dollar General and bought a few grocery items we have been needing for weeks, so It's not a total wash!  Just another test.  And I am determined to pass every test, as I don't want to have to do any re-takes!!

Thanks again to all of you who know how to take good photos and POST them.  :-[ :-[  I will get the engagement ones of Beth and John either on here or get help and get them posted so you can see those happy smiles of theirs!!

I'm getting much too hot here, as the heaters and fans are still running, it is 95* in here and very, very noisy!!  So I will retreat to my prayer room!

Love you all!

I came back to say I'm glad Andrew is okay after the bee stings; and to congratulate Marilyn and Freckles on their accomplishment!  I think that would be such fun, taking a therapy dog in to visit folks.  So many dog lovers out there!  :)

 :'(

HEART TEARS

Theres a smile on my lips
Twinkles in my eyes
Laughter in my voice
But it hides a thousand sighs
For you cant see the pain
That rips my soul apart
Or see all the tears
Falling from my heart

They are hidden tears, heart tears
You will never see them flow
They come from a broken heart
But their falling you never know
All you see is my smiling face
You never know my fears
But inside there is an aching
As I shed my heart tears

There is One who loves me
Who can look so deep
See the beating of my heart
And when its tears will weep
He can wipe the tears from eyes
It's truly is His art
But best of all He catches tears
Falling from my heart

They are hidden tears, heart tears
You will never see them flow
They come from a broken heart
But their falling you never know
There's a Saviour who cares for me
Who knows all my fears
Is there to comfort me every time
I shed my heart tears

Colin Moffett

Hi, friends,

Today has been an out and about day. Now it's almost time to go out again. This time, friends are meeting me for dinner at a nice Thai restaurant.

So sorry about the continuing troubles, Janet. Larry, I hope Pat's recovery is quick and that she will be able to feel better right away. Ken, I appreciate your work in fire fighting. Pat, those bees would have to go if someone wanted to put hives in my yard - I really have an allergy to them. :)

Well, must go.  Y'all have a good rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Colin, I love your new poem Heart Tears.  It is very meaningful to me right now!

You are all so busy! 

Larry, I'm praying, of course, for a quick recovery for Pat and strength for you as you care for her.

Janet, what is it with water in your house! :yikes:

Ruth Ann, at least one of your outings will be for your benefit and enjoyable.

Colin, thank you for posting that poem.  How about some more?

 :thumbsup:

POSITIVE

I am positive that I am saved
Redeemed by His mercy and His grace
I am positive that some day
I will see Jesus face to face
I am positive He will take my hand
Welcome me to a better land
Freed by His blood from my sin
I am positive He will take me in

I am positive that my trials
Make me stronger every day
I am positive that sorrow, pain
Will soon be taken all away
I am positive that He walks with me
His path for my feet only He can see
But as we walk this weary road
I am positive that He bears my load

I am positive He has my problems
Although sometimes I worry so
I am positive though my way looks dark
My Saviour knows the way to go
I am positive He has made me whole
That His precious blood redeemed my soul
Though sometimes in sorrow I may weep
I am positive I am always in His keep

I am positive for tomorrow
Although my time is while I breathe
I am positive if death calls my name
From this world of sin my soul shall leave
I am so positive of His love
Flowing to me from Him above
The hands that were nailed to that tree
I am positive are the ones that are guiding me

I am positive I rest in Him
The world a turmoil but I have such peace
I am positive when the storm rages
He calls the angry winds to cease
I am positive that I am in His arms
Shielding me from all alarms
O I know that Jesus loves  me
Of that I am as positive as can be

Colin Moffett

Hi everyone.  I am writing from Pat's hospital room and she be going home later this morning.    She is definitely doing a lot better and is stronger when she gets up. 

My morning got started early as the workmen started using the nail gun on the roof of the new house a little after 6 am.  They were putting down the black tar paper and expect them to start putting on the shingles today.  The house is really moving along.  I went to Walmart at 7 this morning (great time to go) and stocked up on TV type dinners and some other items.  I can prepare the TV dinners.  :)  I think I am stocked up so won't need to leave home for a couple of days as don't want to leave her until I know she can pretty will manage on her own. 

Colin, nice to see you posting the poems again.  You are very talented.

Janet, surely things will calm down for you all soon.  You are certainly not having a good 2015 so far but your attitude will certainly help you deal with all the challenges.  No sense carrying around a feeling of anger or self-pity as that just adds to one's burdens. 

Colin:  Many thanks for the POSITIVE message!  It is good to "see" you again.

My laptop was absolutely dead yesterday until Don began to work on it - for hours.  Now, I may be missing a few things but just can't remember what they are and the most important sites are back - CP for sure. 

Pat:  Very good that you had the Benadryl handy - I am glad to hear that Andrew is alright.  Do hope you are having a super summer at your home.

Janet:  All those water problems - there must be someone who can identify the cause and fix it  Morning hug to you!

Have a wonderful day all!  Or, evening overseas!

Colin, thank you for the quick response to my request!   :thumbsup:

Larry, Pat must be home by now, and with your loving care and thoughtfulness she's sure to be on the mend in no time.   ;)

So some people do remember who I am!! Anything for you Jeannine!

Jeanne, I was also going to commend Colin on his quick response!

Glad to read that Pat will soon be home in Larry's loving care!

And I don't know, what's with the water problems in our house!  I do know I hope it never, ever happens again!!  The well got fixed yesterday, and today, no water--again.   :(  This time the guy says it is the pump, so that means around a $3000.00 repair.  Darrel said we may have to use the money we got for the car, to pay for the repairs to the house and the well.  ??? :-\.

But I WILL praise the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth!  We both had chiropractor appointments today, and Dr. Saxon put a five gallon jug of water in the car for us.  He said he would come out at noon and bring it into the house, as he didn't want either of us lifting it.  But I got three one-gallon jugs and poured that much from the big jug to the smaller ones, then was able to carry it in.  He is always so busy, I didn't want him to have to worry about bringing it in for us.  Such a blessing!  Now, we can at least have water to drink, and to wash our hands!!  :) ;)

And I really do hope the house is dry and they will take away these hot, noisy fans!  The noise is almost more than I can stand!  But,,,this, too shall pass!

Have a happy!

We are home a few minutes before noon.  I will leave shortly to make another trip to the Walmart Pharmacy to fill some prescriptions that doctor gave Pat upon discharge.

Janet, what a nice chiropractor you have.  I doubt that many would be that caring.

Larry

Hi, friends,

Well, I let myself sleep late today, since that was my birthday treat to me. Friends took me out to dinner last night and then this afternoon it was back to business for the dentist and me. She had mistakenly pulled, then reimplanted it when so many teeth were pulled. Well, the implant didn't take, so another tooth was added to the lower denture and the reimplanted tooth was pulled again. So, birthday lunch was soup that I could drink, then a Wendy's frosty instead of a cake. After all, as my brother reminded me with a chuckle, I would need to alert the Nashville Fire Department if I were to light up 75 candles, and the heat would melt all the icing off the cake. :)

Y'all have a good day with our Lord.

Ruth Ann

Even if late, the wishes are as warm as those 75 candles!!  HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RUTH ANN!!!

Hi everyone.  Things are going well here and am happy to have Pat home from the hospital.  She is getting along well.  Our son came over yesterday afternoon and fixed us dinner, which was very good.  He also fried some sausage patties that are in the refrigerator to be heated in the microwave for Pat's breakfast. He is coming back this morning and will prepare meat loaf and other things for a main meal at noon today.  He has to work tonight.  This is certainly a blessing for Pat and for me as I am simply not a cook and he loves to cook. 

This will be a quiet day as don't plan on going anywhere.  I tried to prepare so that I would be available to help Pat when needed.  It looks like we will get a break from the very high temperatures with it getting only to 89 today with a slight chance of showers. 

Ruth Ann, Happy Birthday on your 75th.  Glad you could still enjoy time with your family yesterday even with the dental work you experienced.  You have had quite a time with that tooth. 

Colin  We will never forget you!  Thank you for your insightful poetry.

Ruth Ann:  Belated birthday greetings.  May you heal quickly and have more sleep-ins this year. 

Larry, the hot day here is today - into the 90's.  Every day it sounds like you and Pat made the right decision to move closer to your son and to a smaller community. 

Thank you Carol. Happy Birthday Ruth Ann!
:D

SHUT OUT!

The marriage supper of the Lamb
The holy feast of the great I AM
Come ye fed of the living bread
To the bountiful goodness of the table spread
Now eat your fill of all sweet things
In the presence of angels with folded wings
Closed now shut the banquet door
The hall is full no room for more!

Shut out now all who cursed His name
Who wanted to live in sin and shame
Alas for them it is too late
To ask for admission through Heaven's gate
The wedding feast, hear the laughter peal
But you're shut out from the Bridegroom's meal
Prepared by Him for the church His bride
Saved sinners all in and you're outside

Wail o wail with dread you're numb
From oft that table not for you a crumb
In life you were offered the Living bread
But you choose fancy goods of the world instead
Turn away from here with gnashing of teeth
To the darkness of hell and flames beneath
Hope I give while living oh do not doubt
Come to the Saviour and you wont be shut out!

Colin Moffett

I wrote this poem after missing the wedding ceremony of my son Gregory to Michelle on the 15th. April 2015. I was ok in the morning and videoed Michelle in at her own house but when I came home again I was violently sick..so sick that the doctor had to be sent for and then an ambulance came to take me to the hospital. The ambulance came at the same time as the wedding car arrived at our gate but I told my wife and all to go on to the wedding and I would be ok. Later on in the day Gregory and Michelle came to see me in hospital and I begged to get back to the hotel with them for the reception and the night do which was granted to me. I was so vexed because I was to video the wedding but the girlfriend of my other son stepped in and set up my camera and let it roll so some of the wedding ceremony was captured at least. I am still sore at heart thinking about it all.

Oh, Colin!  That is so sad.  :(  What a heartbreaking time to get sick.  But you wrote a beautiful poem, so all is not lost.  And at least you did get to go to the reception.

Boy, it is HOT here again today!  Whew!  But at least we have water again!   :)  :thumbsup:  The guys said the well had been struck by lightning, and the wires were burned in two.  They were here early today, and pulled the well.  The good thing (I hope!) is that since it was caused by lightning, it should be covered by our homeowners' insurance.

And I have more good news!  John got his information about his retirement income, so has turned that in, and is quite sure he will get the apartment he wants!  :)  AND.....drum roll, please!....... the gal from the place where they measure for custom made wheelchairs called and gave me a date to bring Beth to Lamar, Colorado.  August 20th!!  Later than I had hoped, but it will be fine.  Please join me in praying that we will get a chair that is perfectly suited to her needs and is comfortable and easy to maneuver!  :)  What a big difference that will make in her life--and John's--and mine!  :)

When I got home from an appointment yesterday afternoon, the hot, noisy fans were gone, and the house was blessedly quiet!!  You don't realize how wonderful silence is until you are trapped in the noise!  So, even though we couldn't shower, we could sleep in our own bed in the quiet, with the AC on!

Did I tell you that Beth and John have chosen November 14 as the tentative date for their wedding?  That should work, should give us time to get her wheelchair before then!   :thumbsup:

I got a good, and very welcome nap this afternoon!!  Just what I needed!  8)

I hope you are all well, and if it's HOT where you are, that you can stay inside where it's cool!

It's thrilling to be able to read Colin's poems in here.  I love them so much.  Hope you're feeling better now than you were the wedding day, Colin.

Thank you Janet and Pat. I don't think I will ever get over missing the wedding ceremony and I never will appear in the photos no matter how many times I look at them and the wedding video will never be as I planned it.

And behold the angel of the Lord came upon him and a light shined in the prison and he smote Peter on the side and raised him up saying, Arise up quickly. And the chains fell off from his hands

Acts 12:7 KGV

THE CHAIN

The chains of sin get tighter
Binding more each day
The devil is working hard
So you wont break away

He gives you a heavy load
Of sorrow and despair
The vehicle of sin he uses
To bring you to his lair

It is the lake of fire
The awful darkened pit
Oh who will really save you
From the pain of it

There is One who is standing
With nailed scarred hands and feet
He bled, He died and rose again
And reigns from Glory seat

He can unloose the fetters
Break the awful chains
Bring comfort to your wounded heart
And take away your pains

His blood it washes the deepest sin
Until you are as white as snow
His arms opened up for you
Are the only place to go

Go seek Him while He is willing
Dont let Him call in vain
For He will surely save you
From the binding of the chain

Colin Moffett

Hi everyone.  After an overcast day yesterday with a few very brief little showers this day is bright and sunny.  The workmen continue the construction next door.  The stack of building lumber is almost gone and the shingles are still to be put on the roof.  It has been a busy morning as I fixed Pat's breakfast (the scrambled eggs with some cheese and butter)  turned out well.  She had wanted me to go down to coffee with my church friends but am not yet comfortable leaving her alone and there is laundry that I need to attend to and a few other choirs.  I am feeling more up to par today than yesterday.Tomorrow Scott plans to come out and stay with his mother while I go to Sunday School and church.  He doesn't work until evening.  He made a delicious meatloaf dinner for us yesterday with a new hot salad that was so good I had a second helping.  We won't see him today as he works most of the day and evening. 

Colin, thanks for sharing more of your poetry.  I can understand your disappointment about not being able to participate in the wedding for your son but your well being was more important and the bride and groom knew you had wanted to be there.  Sometimes life events interfere with our best made plans. 

Janet, it sounds like things are getting in order for you after a hectic week.  We have no control over lightning and better your well than your beautiful home.  Will there be much repair work required from the new water in your house from the leak?  Good news on the wheelchair front as well.  Can you get someone to go to Colorado with you to help with Beth so the measurements can be made?  What excitement with the upcoming wedding on November 14th.  Beth and John will likely be marking off the days on the calendar. 

Hi everyone on this beautiful Sunday morning.  The skies are clear here today starting out at a nice 73 degrees on its way into the mid 90's.  Pat and I had a quiet day yesterday.  Just stayed in where it was cool.  I am expecting our son here by about 9:15 as he is going to stay with his mother while I go to church.  He has to work today starting at 2 pm but I will be home shortly after noon.  It should be a quiet day as the workmen don't usually work on a Sunday. 

Hello Larry, and hello to all others who come in later!

We had a full house at church this morning, and a wonderful, powerful and anointed sermon!  Yea, God!!  :)  :thumbsup:

I am doing laundry, as I got behind while we had no water.  It's so easy with the washer and dryer that I don't really think of it as "work."  May God forgive me if it's wrong to do this on Sunday.  Do you think it is wrong?   :-\

I am talking with Beth and John about their wedding plans.  I want the day to fulfill their dreams, and I need their input.  We need to be making a master list of things.  We do not plan an elaborate nor expensive wedding, just simple, sweet and God-honoring.

Darrel continues his progress toward total recovery!!  He said today his knee pain is almost gone, and the ankle hurts less, too.  We have so much for which to thank our God!

I am feeling the "itch" to paint!  Need to clear a few hours so I can do that!  Sort of like "buying hyacinths to feed the soul!"  :)

Great news on the new chair for Beth!  Lamar is close to your border so it can't be that long of a day for you.  I hope. Janet,

Colin: I try not to think of huge disappointments in life (and there have been many) life isn't fair at time but the miracles we see make up for those dark times. 

This Sunday has been full of computer headaches for me - Don finally got everything straightened out.  This is a total of two days of hours upon hours fixing problems that are not our fault - just changes made that come from out of nowhere.  Now a severe storm warning is upon us and that too shall pass. 

Hi, friends,

i must have had lots of celebrating to do - no posts for a while, I see. Thank you all for your nice birthday wishes.

What exciting news I hear - Colin is again sharing his poetry, Janet is getting a new wheelchair and a new son, Larry's Pat is home from surgery and recuperating, and all the other things that have been reported.

I've been out and about today, and it was so hot I've taken my second shower today. Now, I feel clean again!

Y'all have a wonderful evening with our Lord.

Ruth Ann

Carol, Lamar is only about 99 miles from us, so that is certainly doable!  I am praying that we get the very best chair possible for Beth's particular needs.

Sorry about your technical problems.  I'm so completely at sea concerning those things it is embarrassing!  :-[

Ruth Ann, stay inside in the air conditioning so you won't have to take a third shower!  We don't want you melting and going down the drain!  ;)

I have been in talking with Beth and John about their wedding plans, and now have a notebook with things jotted down to see about/think about/decide.  8)  They have been given a lovely solid gold wedding ring for Beth, that will save them a bundle of $$$.   :)  I'm sure all of the plans will come together in due time.  John says he has never worn a ring and doesn't really want one, unless it is important to Beth for him to have one.  She said it doesn't matter to her, another thing resolved.

I want to see if I can find The Wedding Song (And There is Love) on the computer.  They want a friend to sing that for them!

Hi Everyone on this very hot day in Guelph...

Time to open another Thoughts for the Week.   You can find it HERE  (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=13350.0)