May's Issue of Faith On Every Corner

May 2024 Cover Photo by Karen Ruhl

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17) Visit Our Website at www.FaithOnEveryCorner.com for previous issues of our magazine.

Photographer: Nancy DeJesus My husband and I have seven children and five grandchildren. We are very active in our church and God is the center of our lives. My two favorite art mediums are watercolors and photography. I love taking pictures of nature and am always amazed at the tiny things around us that are so intricate when seen through a close-up camera lens. My photos express the beauty I see in God’s Creation every day.

My newest passion is writing books that combine my passion for photography with scripture.

My photos and books are available at www.NancyDeJesusPhotography.com

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Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor A tribute to my husband, My husband, Craig, went home to be with Jesus on March 14th of this year. I have been trying to think of a fitting tribute to this special man. He was loved by so many and will be missed.

One thing I do know, is that Craig would want us to do our best to move forward and live life to the fullest. We held a graveside service in Hudson, NC at our church cemetary and had a lovely receiving for our family and friends in Ohio.

Please take a moment to smile and remember Craig. He was such a strong Christian and husband. He served his country too. He is missed.

God bless you all, Karen

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COVER PHOTO By Karen Ruhl, PhotographerInside Cover Photos by Nancy DeJesus, Photographer

Note From The Editor ... page 3 Road Trippin’ with Karen and Donna - pages 64-67

Quiet Time Rhymes ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7 Easter In A Nursing Home ... by Melissa Henderson... Pages 8-9 Honey, Learn To Be Where You Are ... Brenda S. Baranowski ... Pages 10-11 The Parade ... by Brenda S. Baranowski... Page 11 Lone Ranger at the Crisis Hotline ... by Christine Rhyner ... Pages 12-13 Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15 Splendid Blue Dot ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16 Faith / Faith Explained ... by Jimmy Lisotto ... Page 17 The Music Of Our Hearts ...by Peter Caligiuri... Pages 18-19 The God Of All Comfort In Loss ... by Nicole Byrum ... Pages 20-21 The Beacon Of Light We Share ... by Douglas Lanzo ... Pages 22-23 Judge Not ... by Steve Carter ... Pages 24-25 The Art of Gratitude in Yoruba Culture: Lessons for a Thankful Heart ...

by Joseph Akinrinola ... Pages 26-27 I Just Don’t Know How You Are Doing It! ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 28-29 Your Hand ... by Laurie Glass ... Pages 30-31 Bluebirds in my Backyard ... by Christine Morris ... Pages 32-33 Trials and Tribulations ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 34-35 A tribute to Grandpa Craig ... by Karen Ruhl Page 36 Watch Me Play Grandma ... by Karen Ruhl ... Page 37

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Pure Motives ... by Dr. Kathleen Oden ... Pages 38-39 Book Reviews ... Pages 40-41 I Long To See You ... by Howard Isom... Pages 42-43 A New Favorite Spot ... by Janet Fichter ... Pages 44-46 May’s Prayer ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 47 The Greatest Show On Earth ... by Edward Tooley ... Pages 48-49 Road Trippin’ ... by KarenRuhl ... Pages 50-53 Photo Art ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 56-57

I want to take a moment to thank you all for sending in your articles, and for our readers who are so faithful to reading our magazine.

God Bless You All, Karen

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Time For Spring

By John Alexander It’s been a long winter, but springtime is near. The flowers, the sunshine, new beginnings are here. The birds will be singing, their songs full of joy. I pray that we too will find joy in our hearts, as we see the new life that’s beginning to bloom all around us.

I pray that these months of spring bring healing from hurts, a renewed sense of joy, and a new appreciation for all the blessings the Lord has provided. I’ve selected a few spring poems to share. I pray they’re a blessing.

John Alexander QuietTimeRhymes.com

Survive And Thrive During times when we’re down and it’s hard to survive, It’s hard to imagine we’ll once again thrive.

Even the valley grows flowers in spring, Even in hard times our hearts can still sing.

It’s not just the mountain tops covered with snow, It’s also in valleys we learn, and we grow.

Find meadows and flowers just under the hill, Take time to enjoy them, sit quiet and still.

Give thanks in the moments so peaceful, serene, Surrounded by nature a beautiful scene.

Even in times when confined to a room, Imagine the flowers so lush in full bloom.

May visions of beauty still live in our mind.

May the Lord bring us peace when our life seems unkind.

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Mornings First Light As I take in the beauty of morning’s first light Say goodbye to the darkness that came with the night, I’m dazzled by flowers that bloom in the spring, The birds in trees building nests as they sing.

The cotton tail rabbits that scamper along Are lovely but silent without any song.

God’s creatures are lovely but each one unique.

What would they say if God’s creatures could speak?

They’d give thanks for the morning, the sunshine, the day.

I think that’s the message each one would convey.

I too can give thanks for each day of my past, For each day of my future as long as it lasts, Thank God for the sunshine and also the rain, Pray my life has a purpose, it’s not lived in vain.

A Sunny Day A pleasant walk, a gentle breeze A mockingbird with songs to please Allows my heart and soul to ease Breathe deep let troubles fade away The morning sky with puffs of white The morning sun gives off its light The flowers bloom with sheer delight The summer warmth is here to stay Cold winter days I seldom miss The spring and fall to me are bliss Cool mornings rise to top my list And near the bottom skies of gray I’m grateful for a sunny day Still in my heart a child at play

Page 8 Easter In A Nursing Home

By Melissa Henderson

Have you or someone you know ever lived in a nursing home? Or maybe a rehabilitation center while recovering from surgery? What happens during the holidays?

How is Easter celebrated? Sharing God’s love at Easter is a special way to bring others closer to Him.

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers.

Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”.

Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https:// www.facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440 Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons

Several members of our family came to a point in life where they could not live alone. Due to health conditions and at the suggestion of medical professionals, these wonderful people had to decide to move out of their homes and into assisted living and nursing homes. Tears of sadness and tears of relief were experienced by everyone during the transition.

Visiting a nursing home can bring various emotions and thoughts. Some residents can communicate while others have lost the ability to express feelings. One important thing to remember when visiting a nursing home is that everyone is unique. Each person is a creation of God and loved by Him. As a young adult, I visited a nursing home with a women’s group from church. The leader had contacted the director to see if there was a way we could brighten the day for residents. The woman was thankful for our offer to visit. She suggested that we sing some new and old songs and visit with everyone.

The time shared that day was a blessing to the residents, the women’s group, the staff, volunteers, and visitors. Even though some of us could not carry a tune, we sang praise and worship songs and lifted our voices to God.

Page 9 Each year, different ways of sharing God’s love at Easter in nursing homes were presented to my husband and me. Sometimes we gathered with a group to visit and other times, we shared conversation and quiet time with individuals. Every moment was a reminder of the importance of showing love and compassion.

Another year, I dressed as “Suzy Snowflake”, which brought many laughs from everyone. My costume was white pants and a shirt with white balloons delicately pinned on, and silver glitter snowflake ornaments attached, too. Walking through the nursing home was awkward at first until I heard the first laugh. Then, I knew joy was being shared.

Through the years, Mama lived in several different places. Each one provided good and not-so- good experiences. The last place she lived was more like home. Although we wished Mama could live in the home she had shared with Daddy until he passed on to Heaven, our family realized her health and well-being were better cared for at the nursing home.

Dogwood Village was a place filled with activities for everyone. At Easter, there were colorful decorations, flowers, and trees with plastic eggs placed in different areas of the building.

Easter can be a lonely time for different reasons. Every person has a story to share. One of the most special ways of bringing joy at Easter in a nursing home and every day is to look someone in the eyes and listen to their story. I’m always amazed at the life stories of the residents.

This Easter, can you think of ways to help nursing homes, assisted living, and rehabilitation centers? Sing songs, make and deliver cards, share conversation, read Scripture aloud, pray with those folks who want prayer, and smile. Know that you are sharing the love of God with His children.

In what ways can you bring joy this Easter? Pray and ask God for direction.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NIV) In His Name, Melissa Henderson

Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.

Page 10 Honey, Learn to be Where You Are!

“Life is what happens when you’re making other plans”—John Lennon

By Brenda S. Baranowski

I sat alone on a bench at the skating rink, My nursing textbook in my hand.

“I should be reading my chapters But in this noisy place, I don’t think I can!”

My grandson skates close by And hollers, “Grandma, look at me!”

Distracted again, frustrated, I sigh.

The words are now blurry and hard to see.

A friendly lady sits down beside me.

She’s about my age. I am 46.

Her name I don’t remember, but she’s in college too.

She has no textbook and the warmth of her smile is shining through.

“I should take her advice” as we chat, “Honey, learn to be where you are!

Put away that textbook and let’s have some fun!

A round of putt-putt golf? Birthday cake, anyone?”

“How could a stranger know.

That I struggle every single day (And especially this day!)

To be where I Am?” Outa the bed in the morning, I want back in.

In traffic, I wish I was already at work again.

At work, I am mentally planning dinner at home.

During family time, I am studying and thinking about school.

In school, my mind is on family that I miss.

In bed at night to sleep, I am wide awake, Laying there in the dark saying my prayers, I remember the stranger’s words.

I ask Jesus to bless her in her world tonight And please, Lord, remind me each tomorrow To truly be where I am.

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The Parade

By Brenda S. Baranowski Life on Earth is like a beautiful, festive parade, Viewed by God in Heaven, a march in review.

He sees our beginning and the end of our days.

We keep marching forward doing His will through trials and delays, We are adorned in all His glory, a bride marching toward her Groom.

In the procession, we bestow blessings.

On mankind wherever there is room.

Banners are lifted high as we, Christians pass by, Maranatha, Come, Lord Jesus! This is our cry!

A great crowd of witnesses shout with us, and His anthem raise, To God be the glory, honor and praise!

Come, Lord Jesus, Come

Page 12 Lone Ranger at the Crisis Hotline Christine Rhyner

“Every time you say ‘God,’ I want to curse,” said Juan. And he profaned the Lord’s name. I winced, no longer able to tolerate that language.

As I suspected, Juan’s hostility towards me had to do with God. In recent weeks, he would bump into me muttering under his breath, but audibly enough for me to pick up mention of “God” a few times.

Christine Rhyner is the author of How much did you pay for her? Forgiving the Words That Hurt Adoptive Parents, CLC Publications. Her published works have appeared in Moody Magazine, Boundless Webzine, Sharing, therevolutionagainstevolution.org, Adoption Today and Virtue Magazine, among others.

She enjoys swimming and scrapbooking. She lives in Florida with her husband, daughter, two dogs and cat.

“I want to strangle you and throw you out of a window,” he continued. I searched his face for a tell that would give him away as joking. As it dawned on me that he was serious, my mind’s eye saw his hands wrapped around my neck, squeezing the life out of me next to the third story window in the office. All I could do was stare back in fear at his espresso-colored eyes, laser focused on me.

The moment one accepts Christ as Lord and Savior, the angels in heaven sing while the devil shrieks. Max Lucado said, “One of the most potentially frightening aspects of being a Christian is knowing that when you put your trust in Jesus, all of Hell takes arms against you intending evil upon your life. And, yet what trumps that fear is knowing that, no matter what comes, God is the Master Weaver. He takes what was intended for evil and reweaves it for good.”

I wish I had known that. I was so new to Christianity, I didn’t know much, including that my mentioning God could provoke animosity. But I didn’t yet have a church home or mentors. Shortly after accepting Christ through a co-worker in another state, I moved back to my hometown. All I knew was that my former co-worker told me that I must evangelize all the time now.

I wish I had known that. I was so new to Christianity, I didn’t know much, including that my mentioning God could provoke animosity. But I didn’t yet have a church home or mentors. Shortly after accepting Christ through a co-worker in another state, I moved back to my hometown. All I knew was that my former co-worker told me that I must evangelize all the time now.

Page 13 I had asked our supervisor Karen to attend the meeting she suggested I have with Juan. She declined, despite my expressed fear of him.

“Juan is totally harmless,” she said, with a hint of irritation in her voice and a wave of her hand. But had she joined us, Juan wouldn’t have spewed such fantasies in front of her. Instead, if he mentioned he had a problem with my bringing up God a crisis hotline where we worked as counselors, I didn’t doubt she would have supported him.

“No proselytizing” Karen lectured me countless times in her glass-enclosed office where she could view all of us. A Scripture verse hung above her head. I would glance at this Scripture about God making a covenant with His people, hence, The Covenant House, and feel unsettled. How was I to live out my faith at an organization that began as a means to reach the hurting with the love of Christ, if they refused to let me utter God’s name?

Karen even prohibited me from talking about God if callers brought Him up themselves. I would hear her voice break into my headset, muting the call with instructions to wrap it up. But it wasn’t uncommon for callers to express anger or disappointment towards God for their situations. I wanted to help them see God in a true light as their hope, strength and comfort. And while I always suggested and provided the appropriate resources to those in need of shelter, psychiatrists, or rehab programs, callers were not often receptive to those contacts.

So, I had no choice but to engage in my newfound duty to talk with callers about the Lord, which resulted in Elaine commanding me not to. And, Juan’s contempt that I did. And the conflict bubbled and brewed.

I struggled emotionally with shame and frustration. I also feared disappointing God, losing my paycheck and the opportunity to witness there. And now, I had Juan’s seething contempt to contend with.

All my appeals to Juan’s humanity—the part of him that just like me took calls from hurting, confused, lonely souls—failed.

Accepting Christ puts you in the midst of an invisible spiritual war where the devil will try to drag you back into the pit from which God scooped you up. But God says that no one will snatch us out of His hand (John 10:28-29), on which our names are engraved (Isaiah 49:16).

It wasn’t long before I left the job, knotted up with stress to the point of getting physically ill there.

As I regularly attended a good church and grew in my faith, though, I came to understand that the instruction I received to evangelize at all times might have been a tall order. It’s not that God can’t use baby Christians to plant seeds in unbelievers, but we need to be in tune with the Holy Spirit for discernment to witness. I didn’t understand how crucial prayer is before we put ourselves in situations of potential conflict. Or, how we need the body of Christ to pray for us just as we pray for them to lead people to the Lord. Neither was I well-versed in the Scriptures.

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Morning Coffee

by Michael E. Wells

A THANKFUL HEART

Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, his is an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.

Click on book to purchase from Amazon.

“Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His mercy endures forever.” One of life’s most important lessons is that of being grateful. Out of humility and thankfulness comes contentment and fulfillment in life. Not in the sense of doing, but in being.

The world measures success by accomplishments, but as we know, our lives can be full of activities on the outside and void in the sense of value on the inside.

The Bible makes clear our mindset in life. It states we are to “love mercy, to do justly and to walk humbly with our God.” Simplicity in life’s purpose brings peace and contentment in a world of chaos and uncertainty. We are to “take joy in the God of our salvation.” It will take us to a state of mind and place of the heart, where life makes sense and our efforts are worthwhile. Truly you and God make a majority, you do not struggle alone.

To have a thankful heart is not one who is pollyannic when confronting problems, believing none exist but one who does not forget whose they are when life happens, for “God keeps those in perfect peace whose minds are stayed on Him.” Life is mind over matter. The mind of Christ over matters of the heart. King David writes, “I would have despaired unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” So believes a thankful heart.

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PROMISES OF GOD God has promised many things to many people at different times for different reasons and delivered them all to those who heard and believed. Promises are very important in life. They give us hope and patience. There is an old hymn that reads; “Standing on the promises of God my Savior.” Now, if this is where our lives should be centered of great importance is knowing what God has promised us. In John’s first letter to the church (2:25), he makes it clear. God has promised us this... eternal life. He goes on to say he who has the Son has life, but he who does not have the Son does not have life. It is very simple. The life of God is in the Son of God. It is said of Jesus that all the promises of God are yes and amen in Him. That being established and settled in our hearts, we ask: what are His promises for me today, tomorrow, next month or next year? His promises are as varied as our needs. We ask, we pursue, we declare, and we request, but what is His response? We have to take into account that all our desires are not necessarily His promises. Yes, the word states He gives us the desires of our heart, but that is after He has changed them. Paul wrote that we don’t even know what to pray for at times. I believe our greatest challenge in life is to hear what God is promising us. The Book of Acts is filled with stories of lives directed by the voice of the Holy Spirit: what to do, where to go, what to say, or what will happen. These were not unique to them only, but available to us today to guide and direct. Some may be short term, others long term. But the key is to desire them, to listen for them and finally hear them from God. And having once heard them... hold on to them.

Paul wrote to the Romans (4:20, 21) of Abraham’s faith once God had told him something. I believe we can place ourselves in this declaration and use it in our own lives concerning things God has spoken to us. Our conviction should be, “I will not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but I will be strengthened in faith, giving glory to God. For I am fully convinced that what God has promised me, He is able to perform.” First, I desire to know, then I ask to hear, now I listen... and when I know I hold on! Some may discount it, many may question your reasoning, and still others may say you must have heard wrong.

They may no longer walk with you or talk with you, but deep down there is a knowing, a sense of purpose born in a time of trial, a path chosen where others walk by. It is the journey of life led by His voice, sustained by His word, and comforted by the promises of God.

FRIENDING A word that has become popular recently in our culture. It is a casual reference to accepting one to view and participate in daily interactions and conversations online. With one click, we can bring a stranger into our innermost personal lives. With another click, we can discard them as to have never been.

It is with such ease that we do this that diminishes the word. Friendship is not to be entered into lightly or ended impulsively. It is a partnership that is approached slowly, engaged deeply, endures steadfastly and brings reward immeasurably. I read where a friend loves at all times, that they stick closer than a brother.

The power of friending. I am reminded of the words spoken by Jesus to His disciples, “Today I call you My friends.” Abraham was called a friend of God and God spoke to Moses as one would to a friend. The friending of God, it is not a simple click but can happen that quick.

A relationship born in an instant and enduring for all eternity. Jesus stands at your heart’s door and knocks, “May I come in my friend...”

Page 16 Splendid Blue Dot

By Irene Surya

God created a splendid blue dot When He sprinkled the cosmos With stars and galaxies A planet where life exists.

Arraying the magnificent mountains In accordance with His will and wisdom God colored the earth with beauty Beyond comprehension.

Dr. Irene Surya is an award-winning author of her book, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines and anthologies. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying His name through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.

God’s promises are always yes They never fail They are the same Yesterday, today and forever.

God’s promises renew life Add purpose and meaning to life Give hope of eternal life From the perishing world to a glorious home.

God created man in His image Bearing His likeness, To fill the earth and rule with Him Over His creation.

After falling to the vile craftiness of the devil Man had to be redeemed By the sacrifice of Jesus Christ To live a life of faith in the creator.

God gave His great and precious promises For man to hold onto with faith Promises of hope Promises of a blessed life in Christ.

He is the unchanging eternal God He fulfills what He has promised He is the one who was, Who is and who is to come.

Click on book to purchase from Amazon.

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FAITH

FAITH EXPLAINED

Faith is belief in something intangible, Ethereal, unseen; Yet drawing comfort from it In the heart, in the soul, in the mind.

Faith and trust fit seamlessly together Like a hand inside of a tailored glove.

Though the Lord is unseen, have no doubt whatsoever Of His Holy presence, or the fullness of His love.

When dreams start to fade and hope begins to dim, When the heart is racing, imprisoned by your fears, Lift prayers up to Heaven, and draw comfort from Him, Feel the love from up above, the Lord will dry your tears.

As bad weather rolls in and dark clouds form, The Lord will give shelter in His embrace.

Worry not about the fury of the storm, For we are protected by the gift of His grace.

Life doesn’t always go according to plan, Sometimes our steps may tread a path unknown.

Be guided by faith and the clasping of hands, With the Lord by your side, you never walk alone.

By J Jimmy Lisotto

Having faith in the Lord Who doesn’t respond in the typical way = Can be a bit difficult at times; One needs to be discerning.

Jimmy Lisotto is a writer and poet living in New Hampshire. He firmly believes that poetry is a powerful medium which can bridge the gap between people of all different walks of life. His poetry has previously appeared in The Silence Remembers and Agape Review.

Whether it’s holding a cross, Or bowing the head To send up a prayer; Being with those who are like-minded, Or attending church Do what needs to be done To maintain faith.

By J Jimmy Lisotto

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The Music of Our Hearts

by Peter Caligiuri

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23 NIV

Life has a funny way of giving us unexpected adventures and detours, and my wife Nancy and I have had more than a few over the 50 years we have shared. We have two sons, six lively grandsons and one very special granddaughter! I love to write about nursing home ministry, as well as devotional articles, poetry and even a few songs.

Peter has published the new book, A Christmas Treasury. It is a 30-day devotional. It begins with a week of looking at our Christmas carols, week two dives into the book of John. Next up are seven days with the wise men, shepherds, and Mary and Joseph, and finally a walk down memory lane, with some personal Christmas memories and treasures.

Now living through the seventh decade of life. One thing I am grateful for, is the opportunity to play my guitar and sing for folks in long-term care facilities around our community. But my musical journey didn’t begin with guitar, rather it was with the clarinet and those long music lessons after school when I was about seven. Because my Stepfather was a clarinetist, he chose that instrument for me and began teaching me the ins and outs of his favorite instrument. I am sure he figured that he was giving me a gift, but on those beautiful sunny days, while my friends were outside playing, and I was squawking away through clarinet lessons, I certainly felt differently! I trudged through those hours of endless practicing, longing for a world without lessons. But today I am grateful for the discipline of those tedious lessons and the gift of a lifetime of music they have given me.

This really came home to me several years ago, when my dad was in his final hours. As Dad sat quietly in the bed at the hospice, I was able to take my guitar, and with its gentle chords soothe us both. Though Dad could no longer sing himself, I sang for him as he stepped across the doorway into Heaven. So I thank God for those lessons and that wonderful discipline of practicing which is the most overlooked aspect of music. In the same way, God gives us the discipline of prayer and Bible reading to get us ready for the battles of life. Not one of us gets to skate through this world just playing outside in the backyard with our friends. The hours we spend in God’s practice room of prayer and reading through the symphony of His Word, prepare us for both our greatest victories as well as our deepest sorrows. Music and prayer are precious gifts, but how we practice them is our choice. Today’s verse tells us to carefully guard our hearts because God wants the melody of our life to be the music of Heaven and the song of the redeemed!

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Father taught me about keys and rests About scales and every note When my younger mind was wishing To be out fishing in the boat But by grace notes and by quarters And good old three-four time Things slowly began to make sense Like a poem starts to rhyme And His melody stayed with me Though sometimes I couldn’t hear Over my life’s strong crescendos And sonatas filled with tears But now I am just grateful As my voice begins to wane That His notes can go on singing Through both sunny days and rain And I see my Father’s presence In the notes between the lines And I thank Him for the part I play In His symphony divine

Page 20 The God Of All Comfort In Loss

by Nicole Byrum

“Jesus Wept.” John 11:35 These two words comprise the shortest verse in the Bible but perhaps offer some of the greatest comfort. As we well know, death is a reality of life. No matter the circumstance, loss is felt deeply. Death is never easy.

Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships.

Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children.

When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.

Jesus felt it deeply too. In John 11:14 we learn that Lazarus, a good friend of Jesus, had died.

Even though this death was for the purpose of God’s glory to be revealed in an amazing way, Jesus was moved with compassion when he saw the loved ones of Lazarus mourning his death. He himself had loved Lazarus and was deeply grieved. He wept. Jesus easily could have said, “Come on guys, stop your crying and watch this!” But he didn’t. In the midst of pain, grief, and heartache Jesus cried with the mourners.

Although I know the triumphant end to this story, this strikes me as a beautiful reminder that Jesus came to be our Emmanuel- God with us. How unbelievably glorious it is that we have a Savior who knows what it is to be hungry, to be tempted, and to have loved and lost. We have a Savior who cries with us in our time of grief.

Jesus assures us later on in the book of John that he came to give us a peace that cannot be found in this world (John 14:27). What a wonderful Savior. He is present with us in times of loss and is the giver of an unparalleled peace. In our grief, we can take our deepest comfort in the God who weeps with us, our Emmanuel.

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Questions: 1) How do you respond to death? 2) How can remembering Jesus is Emmanuel add comfort during a time of loss? 3) How have you seen Jesus give you peace in the face of loss/grief?

Dear God, thank you for being close to the brokenhearted. We thank you that you draw near to us in times of loss, and we thank you for a Savior who knows what it is we feel. We thank you in advance for the peace and comfort you will bring in times of grief. Amen.

Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free, a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships. Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith, relationships, and recovery. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.

Nicole’s Books are available on Amazon.com

Page 22 The Beacon of Light We Share

Unshackled to Set His Jailer Free

Strong ties of our connection and bonds of values shared are deeper than divisions daily trumpeted and aired.

Shackled and tied to chains of iron, beaten with rods for heresy, released by tremors of an earthquake, a prisoner set the jailer free, telling him how the stripes of Jesus… shed blood for sins on Calvary.

By Douglas Lanzo

Democracy resilient, institutions standing fast, show wisdom of our Founders, building liberty to last.

From the birth of our nation there were differences at play, yet principles unite us despite tempers that may fray.

An award-winning poet and novelist, 392 of Doug’s poems have found homes in 67 literary journals and 8 anthologies across the US, Canada, Caribbean, England, Wales, Austria, Mauritius, India, Japan and Australia.

Doug’s debut novel, The Year of the Bear, was released internationally in November 2022 and has received numerous awards, including Ames 2023 Best YA Book of the Year. His second book, a Christian romance suspense novel entitled I Have Lived, will be released

by Ambassador International this coming spring. Doug resides in Chevy Chase, Maryland with his wife and twin sons and fellow internationally published poets, enjoying nature, tennis, fishing and chess. His author’s website is located at www.douglaslanzo.com.

Imperfect as are humans are the forms of government, yet the most perfect systems that we ever did invent… are ones enshrining freedom – that no one should circumvent.

With cries for freedom ringing from Beijing to Teheran, with courageous protesters in Russia and Kazakhstan, there is no sanctuary for those who would freedom ban.

So stand fast with our beacon of light high upon a hill, for no power can deny divine gift of our free will.

By Douglas Lanzo

Convicted, the jailer salved Paul’s wounds, bringing him home to family, baptized by power of his witness, sharing with them his homily, of Christ’s redeeming love for sinners, exemplified when Paul did not flee — sparing the life of sword-drawn jailer, that he might fulfill God’s destiny: rejoicing as Paul’s long-lost brother, united for all eternity.

Page 23 Calling Home His Sheep

A Prayer for Angels’ Wings

His Hand guides us, through earthly fray, He lights our paths, He paves our way.

“… and I will bring my people Israel back from exile.

By Douglas Lanzo

He fills our hearts, with words of praise, thanking the Lord, His Son is raised, and seated on, a sapphire throne, judging our lives, claiming His own.

By Douglas J. Lanzo

They will rebuild the ruined cities and live in them.

They will plant vineyards and drink their wine; they will make gardens and eat their fruit.

I will plant Israel in their own land, never again to be uprooted from the land I have given them,” says the Lord your God. Amos 9: 13 - 15 (NIV)

His righteousness cleanses our sins, our faith in Him shields from within, deflecting claims from Satan’s lips, he has our souls in his vice grip.

May angel wings protect them as they search for loved ones lost— for those kidnapped from their homes, when communities were crossed, by terrorists unflinching in their hatred of the Jew— who murdered, raped and pillaged, as we learned on front page news.

We hear a choir of angel wings, as Jesus bids the gates to swing.

Children killed before their parents, mothers stripped of dignity, fathers hunted in their homes and cut down with enmity— a Holocaust survivor in a wheelchair whisked away, by masked gunmen from her home, on this dark and fateful day.

An ocean’s voice flows from time deep, calling our names…

His long-lost sheep.

Israel’s nine-eleven… even worse when viewed by size— a bloodthirsty incursion, by those seeking its demise.

May God’s justice burn brightly upon each who did these acts; may they find no safe harbor, and no human shield, when tracked.

May God’s solemn promises be recalled throughout the land as He shepherds His people, leading them by voice and hand, infused with strength and courage so that they may fight and stand, for everything they treasure— God’s oasis in the sand.

Page 24 Judge Not

By Steve Carter With racial Integration slowly and painfully moving into central Florida, and me trying my best to look like the rock star I never became, my decision to transfer to a cross-county school could not have come at a worse time.

Being a member of the local “garage” rock & roll band didn’t carry much weight and my minor celebrity status lasted about a week. Sporting hair longer than some of their daughters, soon put me at odds with many of the “locals”, most of whom worked “keeping the trains moving,” at the local depot. Like the parents, who worked together for decades, their children had been classmates since day one. This combination made for a very tight-knit community that didn’t look at change with a kind eye.

Steve Carter lives in Tupelo, Mississippi.

He is a Bible college graduate, military and hospice chaplain, and musician.

Steve may be contacted by email at: Msroadkill@bellsouth.net

Never having been taught to hate, I don’t bear the curse of prejudice. Even before developing a relationship with Jesus, I believed people that were different than me deserved the same respect as close friends. Being one of the “long-haired freaky people,” taught me the pain of being labeled negatively, sometimes before even meeting those that “disliked me.”

One of the dangers of judging, especially on looks alone, sometimes taught the narrow-minded an embarrassing lesson. Often, after spending time with me, those that sent unkind words or actions my way had to admit they were wrong and shortsighted in their initial impression When racial integration became a reality, I felt empathy for those taken away from their comfort zone and thrust into a culture completely foreign to them. Many of my classmates had their minds made up that nothing good could come from changing things from “the way it has always been,” and they were going to make sure of it!

Page 25

As a teenager, I knew little of God and less about His Son. However, I’m convinced He worked on my heart during this difficult time and showed me that judging people, especially in a prejudicial manner, had no place in my life. As Paul explained to young Timothy “do nothing out of favoritism.” The tax collector, Matthew didn’t pull any punches when he stated, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.”

Dr. Martin Luther King yearned for the day when people would be judged by “the content of their character.” Dr. King said the same thing as the apostles of Christ, only to a different generation. Like those living in Biblical times, many today struggle to understand the negative impact of judging someone simply because they don’t look, or act like them. Some of my dearest friends have different political views than I do, but we simply agree to disagree and go on about the business of serving Jesus.

I’m convinced, now as then, that all the condemnation came from those suffering low self-esteem issues. These small minds were simply looking to tear down others in order to make themselves look better. And I find that sad.

Click photo to purchase Steve’s book from Amazon.com

Page 26 I am Joseph, an author, blogger, and content writer from Nigeria. In the field of writing, I deliver unique, grammatically correct, and plagiarism-free content. Currently, I work with three online firms specializing in motivation, human capacity development, lifestyle, relationship, and spiritual writings.

You can find Joseph on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/2228667160717043

The Art of Gratitude in Yoruba Culture: Lessons for a Thankful Heart.

Psalm 100:4, Thessalonians 5:18.

By Joseph Akinrinola Gratitude is appreciating someone for a wonderful gesture or gift to you. You may have requested the offer or the person just gives you for reasons best known to him. Saying thank you to the person when we do not deserve or solicited for it.

The Yoruba people of western Nigeria have a culture of gratitude that believers naturally cultivate to show a thankful heart towards God and men.

Yoruba people will thank you. They frown at ingratitude.

You see that in their greetings, sayings, and proverbs.

An average Yoruba man or woman will thank you for any good deed done to him at least three times on the day he received that gift. That gratitude continues the next day and the next time he sees you. The next time could be next week, month, or year. The summary is a Yoruba person shows gratitude five times on average.

The first time, he says, thank you. A few hours after that, he says thanks for the other time. In the evening of the same day, he says, thanks for what you did for me in the morning or afternoon. The following day, a Yoruba person greets and says, thank you for yesterday.

On the same one good deed, the Yorubas will greet you when next you meet, maybe a week, month, or year, and still thank you by saying thanks for the other day.

Page 27 These are a few of Yorubas’ proverbs on gratitude and ingratitude. One a person who is not grateful for a good deed received is like a robber who carted someone’s property. Second, if someone cannot appreciate you for a kola, he would not pay a dowry if you give him a wife. Third, if a child appreciates yesterday’s gift, he will get another one.

What is the Yoruba culture teaching believers?

Gratitude is a key component of worship. The song is the minimal portion of worship. Worship means returning ourselves and all that we have back to God, who owns all. The song is a verbal expression of gratitude to God. Does God desire our praise?

Yes, he did. The book of Revelation chapter 4 takes place in heaven. God accepts the worship of the creatures and the twenty-four elders.

In Luke 17:11-19, Jesus emphasizes the importance of gratitude. The heart of the Samaritan man seals his healing and testimony.

What does gratitude prove to God? The story of King Jehoshaphat summarizes what a heart of gratitude means. Chronicles 20:1-29.

1. It shows we recognize him as the sovereign God over everything.

2. We get nothing outside him.

3. Acknowledged our success is without him.

4. He is in control now, though our situation never looks like it.

5. He can repeat what he did before in this new situation.

6. We can prove our faith in him by smiling at the storm.

What does gratitude do to us?

1. Takes us from selfishness.

2. Removed murmuring.

3. Eliminate fear and anxiety.

4. Values our relationship with God and men.

5. Opens the door of continuous blessings.

6. All God moves on our behalf.

7. Help us live in God’s plan per time.

While the Yorubas may not be the only tribe that shows gratitude, I find they are extremely good at it and often one more door to them and people who cultivate such attitudes.

In the course of your Christian journey this year, make gratitude an integral part of your life

Page 28 I Just Don’t Know How You Are Doing It!

by Karen Ruhl

The Lord will give strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace.

Psalm 29:11 (NKJV) Over the past few months, many things have happened that could have been very hard to handle. My husband got very ill and eventually ended up in the hospital. The trips back and forth to the hospital and seeing him so very sick was hard, especially when he was moved to ICU. While there, we were told to get everything in order - not what anyone wants to hear. My husband, Craig passed away on March 14.

Karen has a background in broadcasting, television and radio, and as a writer for several newspapers. She started her own marketing agency and enjoys working with her husband, Craig.

She is an author, photographer, graphic artist, and writer.

There are many other things including having our 2-year old grandson full time. Why am I telling you this?? During this past few months, I have heard many say, “I just don’t know how you are doing it.” It isn’t that I have a super power - it isn’t that I don’t have days where I just sit and some days take the time to cry. It isn’t that I am stronger than anyone else, but I had help. It was just me - and God. Psalm 29:11 Life study bible: God promises to continue to reveal His power. Paul urges us to understand how great God’s power is. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to help us with our daily problems. When you feel weak and limited, don’t despair. Remember that God can give you strength.

The same power that controls creation and raises the dead is available to you.

WOW!! So how do I do it?? Prayer, and talking to God in my quiet time. He already knows what is going on, He wants us to lean on Him, to share our needs. He wants our hearts and our devotion. Without Him, I would be lost and broken. I trusted Him, no matter what the outcome, I trusted that God was holding me and that He would give me comfort and strength.

God has surrounded me with love from my family and friends. His love is always there, and if you take the time to see how He is working in your life, you will be able to handle each day as it comes.

If you don’t know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and want to know more, please find a church, a Christian friend - or message me. Your life will change once you accept Him in your life. I was a sinner, I accepted Christ as my savior, my life changed immediately. The love I have for our God is HOW I DO IT! With Him by my side. Amen

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Page 30 Your Hand Laurie Glass

False accusations spreading rampantly, yet I did nothing wrong.

I know what lies ahead – suffering, anguish, torture.

I plead for strength to endure.

Oh Father, please!

Lashes begin, my flesh lacerated, bloody.

Only your hand on mine sustains me.

Don’t let go!

Oh Father, please!

Laurie Glass has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. She has had many poems and articles published in both print and online publications. Laurie is a contributing writer for Chronic Joy, a ministry for those affected by chronic illness and other health issues. In addition, she won the Open Medicine Foundation poetry contest in 2019.

Thorns pierce my forehead, blood trickles into my eyes and mixes with tears of travail and compassion.

I know WHY I must go on.

I know HOW I must go on.

Oh Father, only in your strength!

Burdensome weight exacerbates open wounds – stings, sears beyond imagination.

Yet I can imagine it, with every step, shouldering my own cross.

I’m spent.

Where will my strength come from to complete what I’ve been called upon to do?

Oh Father, please!

Look for Laurie’s books on Amazon.com

v

Page 31 On the hilltop, longing for a moment of relief, but pain intensifies with each strike.

Holes pounded through my flesh.

How can it get any worse?

Only your hand over my blood imbrued one can see me through.

Tighten your grasp!

Oh Father, I beg You! Laboring for each breath, no part of me escapes the torment.

Without your strength within me, endurance would be impossible.

Oh Father, only with you!

Your hand? Your hand?

Oh Father, where are you?

My inner strength?

My sustainer?

Assuring voice?

The most excruciating time of all!

Only thoughts of reuniting with you help me persevere.

Oh Father, I long to feel your hand on mine again!

Oh, I see your face, Your holy, precious face!

I feel your hand on my nail-scarred one.

To be with you, to bring others to you, elation overwhelms me!

No moment of suffering in vain.

Your strength made this moment possible, this moment which will last for eternity.

Oh Father, thank you!

Page 32 Bluebirds in my Backyard

By Christine Morris

“And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.”

(Ezekiel 37:26-27 NLT)

I am a Christian and currently retired after serving 25 years in the Air Force and a total of 34 years for the Government. I am a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Yorktown, Virginia. I help out with special needs kids at my church allowing the parents to attend church during orship hour. I volunteer for a mission group at my church that supports local charities and visits nursing homes. I work as a volunteer at Thrive, a food pantry that provides food for the needy,and Care net, a pregnancy care center providing free service to women facing unplanned pregnancies. My goal is to encourage others through my true stories and point them to Jesus.

When the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic first struck I remember there was an eerie silence everywhere. We were told to stay home. The lockdown put a lot of people in total isolation. I felt blessed to have my mom living with me. I live in Virginia and had to move her here from Indiana. She moved in with me when she started having health issues worsened by her Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). She had several falls while living alone in Indiana. I knew she needed to be with me. Once she arrived though, I couldn’t get reliable caregivers to help me with caring for her during this troubled time. Companies were short-staffed. I kept searching, but in the meantime, I would have to make quick runs to the grocery store.

The clothing stores, movie theatres, and malls were not open during this time of the pandemic, so I usually took a break by going to the grocery store. If I went out, I would rush back home to make sure mom hadn’t fallen. Of course, she had her phone with her at all times and the emergency button she could push. It was still very stressful, but I kept telling myself that better days were ahead. I trust in God and I knew he wanted me to be with Mom. In spite of the challenges, I was very glad we had each other during this difficult time.

It was during these early days of the pandemic that mom and I grew to appreciate my backyard and the little oasis it provided. I have a screened in porch at the back of my house and we would sit out on it as often as possible. I have lived in my home over 20 years, but rarely had found the time in the past to enjoy my backyard. It is surrounded by trees, flowers, and rosebushes. The trees and bushes line the fence all the way around the yard, providing privacy. My favorite tree is my sunset maple which is over 20 feet high and shows off beautiful yellow, orange, and red colors in the fall. I also love my yellow daylilies, purple irises, and blue hydrangeas. In the spring, I can look out my window and see red cardinals, white doves, and rainbow-hued hummingbirds. I never really enjoyed them until the pandemic arrived and the whole world was forced to be still. I began to realize I needed this time out on the porch.

Mom had to walk with a walker and take portable oxygen, so it was a bit of an ordeal getting her out onto the porch, but as soon as I did, she would brighten up. She would ask me to play guessing games with her or read bible verses. She loved the verse in Proverbs 3:5-6 that says “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight”. I came to love that verse too because I started to see that I needed to trust in God more. In the evenings, we would let the cool breeze freshen us as we gazed at the rosebushes. A bird would fly by and we would try to guess what type of bird it was. Later, we would see fireflies. In the daytime there would be butterflies. I would bring us a cool drink of water or tea and we would sit for hours enjoying the outdoors.

Page 33

After a few of these back porch sittings Mom and I began to notice two beautiful eastern bluebirds in my backyard. As far back as I could remember I hadn’t seen one in my yard before. I have always thought of the bluebird as a symbol of beauty and happiness. I think seeing the 1940’s movie “The Bluebird”, written by Maurice Maeterlinck and starring Shirley Temple, has always made me think of the bluebird that way.

In the movie the little girl, played by Shirley Temple, is very unhappy and begins to search for happiness. In the end she finds happiness right back home with her family.

In my own backyard I began to feel a lighthearted happiness whenever the bluebirds would show up. The vivid blue color of their wings and bright orange of their body would flash by. I realized that even in difficult, troubled times, God had given mom and I our own little peaceful place. It was such a gift from God to have this kind of peace in the midst of all the turmoil going on in the world. It made me think of the bible verse in Mathew 11:28: “Come to me all ye who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Mom and I got through almost two years of the pandemic just taking time to enjoy my backyard.

The bluebirds continued to return to my backyard whenever Mom and I sat outside. They loved the old bird house I had put up years ago.

We would watch the two of them flying back and forth building a nest inside that birdhouse. One would fly to a tree and sit while the other would sit in front of the birdhouse. After about twenty minutes of doing that, they would eventually fly off. I wish we had taken pictures of them. We were so fascinated watching them we never got a picture. We enjoyed them so much during those years. She was with me during most of the two years of the pandemic.

It is winter now and it has been two years since Mom passed away. The world is still filled with variants of COVID-19, shootings, the high cost of inflation, and disasters from weather. Yet, there is also good in the world. All I have to do is look out in my backyard, and I am reminded how much God cares. He has promised to “never leave us or forsake us” (Hebrews 13:5). He took care of Mom and I during the pandemic and he is still bringing good things to me. Even though it is winter, I know that spring is right around the corner, and the flowers will bloom again. I have learned to just trust in His care. He has promised “love and compassion” in Lamentations 3: 22-23). It says, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

I think I learned a lot from my time with Mom. God is all around us in the people we love, in the trees and birds, and in the time we all share.

He loves us and wants us to enjoy the beauty he created. He wants us to spend time with the people we love too. We never know how much time we will have with them. If we just take the time to sit for a while, and stop and look at the beauty around, we can experience God’s great goodness and love. Mom and I felt every bit of that love and care just sitting on my back porch.

Page 34 Trials and Tribulations

by Karen Ruhl

Our Pastor in California was preaching one day and talked about trials and tribulations. I will never forget his words when he said, “don’t wonder if you will go through trials and tribulations, just know you will experience them.” That was a hard time for us as someone very close to us had been arrested and we were in great pain that morning. I remember we found the last pew and sat on the outside of the pew in case we had to leave. I was crying softly as I heard the Pastor’s words. We made it through the service and left a bit early. Neither of us was ready to talk to anyone yet.

2 Timothy 3:12 (NKJV) reflects the meaning of the sermon: “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.”

Karen has a background in broadcasting, television and radio, and as a writer for several newspapers. She started her own marketing agency and enjoys working with her husband, Craig.

She is an author, photographer, graphic artist, and writer.

We are in another trial and have been for a couple of years. Craig has had and has continuing significant health issues. We know we have seen God’s hand and Craig has received healing more than once. We carry that with us as we enter another health matter that needs surgery.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3 NIV) It is difficult to count trials as joyous, and yet, when we look back on each situation, we see God’s hand and cannot help but feel thankful and joyful.

I am only giving my opinion and advise you to take time to look up these verses in a study Bible to see what the meaning is and learn more about our loving Father God.

Page 35

You might ask why we go through these times. The trials we go through result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. The trials in our lives test our faith. They prove the genuineness of our faith, which is more precious than gold that perishes.

It is so easy to get caught up in our own situations and sometimes think it is just too hard to manage them. It isn’t hard to see how most of us are very blessed when we watch the news and see what is happening around the world right now. We watch the news and see countries being destroyed and thousands of men, women, and children being killed. It is so hard to watch those atrocities and still feel the strain of what we are going through.

I recently read where someone said that maybe God lets us experience these hardships so we can take a good look at ourselves. Yes, they are painful, frightening, tiring, and sometimes very costly. But when we take the time to take these problems to the cross, He brings comfort—the kind of comfort that comes only from Him. It might just be a feeling, or a scripture, that resonates with you. Or it could be something that lets you know it is from God and that there is no other explanation. Why do we look for explanations, anyway? Our God is a great God. He wants everything for us.

The next time you are facing a trial or tribulation, be sure to take it to God. Father God, Help us come to you when we face the trials and tribulations in life. Open our eyes to let us see how you are working through these times with us. Lord, let us come beside each other as we face the challenges in life and help each other get through the hard times. I lift up our family and friends to you and ask that you help them through their hard moments. Let them feel your love.

In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray.

Amen

Page 36

A tribute to Grandpa Craig Grandpa (Pop Pop) and Grandson Craig absolutely loved his little buddy, They would play all day.

Craig would sing the ABC’s to Damien in a high pitched voice that would authomatically bring laughs.

In the morning, Damien would sit in his high chair next to Pop Pop’s desk and eat his breakfast with him while watching cartoons.

One time while eating his food, Craig said “wow, you must really be hungry.” Damien looked at Craig and said a long drawn out , “wow.” Then he laughed and they clapped hands, he continued to say wow as long as Craig smiled or laughed.

Damien seemed to know that he had to be careful around his Pop Pop. He would play harder with me and turn very gentle around Craig.

I have so many photos I will share with Damien as he gets older. I want him to know how much Pop Pop loved him.

Page 37 Watch me play, Grandma

by Karen Ruhl

I’m getting so big, grandma.

My Aunt gave me two new toys that let me play outside.

I like to play in water and run and even hide.

I’m learning my ABC’s, And I love numbers like 1-2-3’s.

I really like my daycare, And my teachers are really great.

They are teaching me so much this year, And we even learn about our ears!

My life is really nice and I am happy most of the time, Did you know that in school, we even learn to rhyme?

Please keep loving me, Grandma, I love my family so, I hope you keep enjoying watching me grow, and grow, and grow.

Karen Ruhl is an author of children’s books and is currently working on a Christian devotional book due to be released soon. She is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Faith On Every Corner Magazine, a Writing Coach, and Social Media Marketer. You can reach Karen by email at Team@faithoneverycorner.com

Page 38 Pure Motives

By Dr. Kathleen Oden In the journey of faith, the purity of our motives often determines the authenticity of our worship and the depth of our relationship with God. It is the unseen driving force behind our actions and the hidden things in our heart. Pure motives are not tainted by selfish desires or pride.

The Bible speaks to the importance of purity in our intentions. In Proverbs 16:2 (KJV), it says, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.” This scripture reminds us that while we may justify our actions as righteous, it is the Lord who discerns the true nature of our spirits. He sees beyond the face value of our deeds into the core of our intentions which resides in our heart.

Pure motives come from a place of love and surrender. They are not about seeking recognition or reward but about desiring to please God and serve others. When our actions stem from a Dr. Kathleen B. Oden is an author, missionary, place of genuine care and selflessness, we align ourselves with the heart of Christ, who “came and Bible teacher. She has been the Admin- not to be ministered unto, but to minister” (Mark 10:45). istrator of God’s House of Refuge Church & School of Evangelism, for 25 years. Dr. Oden In our daily walk, we must examine the seeds from which our actions grow. Are we serving to attained a Doctorate degree in Christian The- be seen by others, or are we serving because we have seen God? Are we giving to get someology in 2000. After a bad fall in 2014, she re- thing in return, or are we giving because we have already received the greatest gift in Jesus alized that she had to start eating healthy, in Christ? order to fully recover. She became a Certified Health Minister and a Certified Essential Oil The pursuit of pure motives means submitting to transformation. It is recognizing that our Coach. She loves ministering to people and human nature is prone to impurity and that only through the sanctifying work of the Holy God gave her a health ministry called, Create Spirit can our motives be refined. As we draw closer to God, spending time in His Word and in AnewU Health Ministry. Her health ministry prayer, we allow Him to purify our hearts by submitting to His will. has opened the door for her to share what the WORD OF GOD has to say about eating Similarly, Matthew 5:8 (KJV) blesses the pure in heart: “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they healthy. Dr. Oden has published over 20 books shall see God.” To see God is to understand His nature, to perceive His will, and to experience through Amazon.com and several of them are His presence. about health and wellness. https://createan- The impact of pure motives extends beyond our personal relationship with God. It influences the church, the community, and the world. ewuhealthministry.com

Page 39 Avocado and Spinach Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette When we act out of pure love, our genuine care and compassion can break down barriers, heal wounds, and draw others to Christ. Only then can we approach others with no hidden agendas or self-interest. And as we strive for purity in our motives, remember that it is not about applause, or how many friends we have on Facebook or how many LIKES but it is about the approval of God. Pure lemon juice acts as a natural detox cleansing our bodies. Therefore, we must also strive for purity in our motives to cleanse our spirit. This is a good time to reflect on WHY. If we answer that question honestly, we will know without a shadow of a doubt, if we have any hidden agendas lurking in our hearts.

And in this pursuit, let us hold fast to the promise that the pure in heart shall see God, for in every pure intention, every selfless act, and every loving deed, we catch a glimpse of what it is like to see GOD. In embracing the purifying essence of lemon, we are reminded to approach our actions and decisions with a heart that seeks to honor God. This is the only reason WHY we should say or doing anything, ensuring that our motives remain untainted as the refreshing zest of a freshly cut lemon. Then we know for sure that we have PURE MOTIVES!

Ingredients: - 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced - 4 cups fresh baby spinach - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional) - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional) For the Lemon Vinaigrette: - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - 1 teaspoon honey - 1 small clove garlic, minced - Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: 1. In a large salad bowl, combine avocados, spinach, onion, and tomatoes.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, salt and pepper 3. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.

4. Sprinkle the toasted almonds and crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. (optional) A simple and pure salad to remind us to keep your intentions pure and our heart aligned with God’s will. https://cahm.now.site/

Page 40

Bookshelf Reviews

Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues Princess Tiara and the Battle for Fruitful Reviewed by Karen Ruhl “I write to inspire a passion for serving Jesus Christ with a conviction that as He transforms us, our words, prayers and acts of compassion shine His light into the lives of others.” Janet E. Fichter Set aside some time to read Janet’s books, they will hold your attention, entertain you, and will make you stop and think! Princess Tiara was written for teachers to use for instructional purposes, I believe it is a great book to read and share with your middle grade children.

You can find her books on Amazon.

Page 41

Bookshelf Reviews

the Dance of Easter

By Sally Cressman Reviewed by Karen Ruhl This book is an Easter book and yet I will be reading it to my grandson over and over. While reading to your children, be ready to sing and dance as they search for Jesus and celebrate the empty tomb!

Many times, it is hard for younger children to understand what we teach them from the Bible. This book is so wonderfully written and illustrated. I urge you to get it today and start reading! It will be a family favorite for years to come.

Page 42 Howard Isom is an author and speaker. You can learn more about Howard by visiting https://hemakesallthingsnewministry.com/about-howard-isom/

For I Long To See You

By Howard Isom

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Recently, while reading the first chapter of Romans, I was particularly drawn to verse 11. Paul writes to the Romans these words, For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established (KJV). Paul had a reason, a goal, a purpose for writing to these Romans. He had never been in Rome when he wrote these words. He had no personal relationships with the believers there. He had never looked them in the face, but his heart went out towards them, and he was not ashamed to show it. I long to see you - in the original language, the word long is epipotheo. It describes a strong desire, an intense craving for possession, a great affection for, a deep desire, an earnest yearning for something. It expresses a very intense amount of yearning. It’s also in the present tense indicating Paul continually longed to see the believers in Rome. What Paul is saying in essence is that “my heart aches to see you.” The idea is that one wants something so bad it makes your heart hurt on the inside. Have you ever wanted something so badly it made your heart hurt when you thought about it? Paul is saying, “I want to see you so badly that it makes my heart hurt when I think about it.” Paul’s service and ministry was truly from the heart. The people to whom he was writing were in his heart.

Mary and I often comment on how amazing it is that God can put people in our hearts. I’ve often stated it this way – like a surgeon doing heart surgery, God opens our heart up, places someone inside it and sews it back up, tells you to love them, to care for them, and then enables you to do so. Although we have never met most of you, we’ve never seen you face to face and we may not have a personal relationship with you, Mary and I want you to know today, dear reader, all of you, and in a special way, our incarcerated readers, are in our hearts. God has placed you there!

Page 43 This past Saturday Mary and I attended the launching of a new ministry by a formerly incarcerated man who I had done time with. There were several formerly incarcerated people in attendance. I was asked to speak at this event and Mary gave a brief testimony. I was really touched as I watched my wife and listened as she shared how God had placed the incarcerated community in her heart. I am so thankful for my wife, friend, and colaborer, who shares the same passion I have, loves the same people I love, and serves alongside of me in this ministry and is a vital part of getting this newsletter out This past Saturday Mary and I attended the launching of a new ministry by a formerly incarcerated man who I had done time with. There were several formerly incarcerated people in attendance. I was asked to speak at this event and Mary gave a brief testimony. I was really touched as I watched my wife and listened as she shared how God had placed the incarcerated community in her heart. I am so thankful for my wife, friend, and colaborer, who shares the same passion I have, loves the same people I love, and serves alongside of me in this ministry and is a vital part of getting this newsletter out.

General Booth, founder of the Salvation Army made this statement, “some people’s passion is money, and some people’s passion is fame, but my passion has been men.” Our passion is people. Mary and I long to see God do amazing things in your life. We desire to see each one of you walk out or live out your faith in the full potential of all that God has in store for you.

General Booth, founder of the Salvation Army made this statement, “some people’s passion is money, and some people’s passion is fame, but my passion has been men.” Our passion is people. Mary and I long to see God do amazing things in your life. We desire to see each one of you walk out or live out your faith in the full potential of all that God has in store for you.

But For Mercy is a story of ruin and redemption, of despair and hope, of brokenness and restoration. Isom’s collected letters and personal writings from his 20 years of incarceration following a conviction for second-degree murder, paint an honest picture of his journey from rock bottom to new heights in walking with God. Available on Amazon - click the book image to learn more.

Page 44 A NEW FAVORITE SPOT

by Janet Fichter

Our beloved doggie, Benjamin Franklin Fichter (the real B.F.F.) use to love jumping up on the couch to share space with us. It was his favorite spot. But once arthritis took its toll, he was forced to find a new favorite spot. We got one of those eggshell cushions and placed it on the living room floor near the couch and television. He learned a new space not only helped with his physical limitations but also made a way for him to still be near us.

After my father had a significant stroke in 1993, he had to abruptly abandon many of his favorite places and activities. No more fishing trips along the Big Thompson River. No more gardening. No more camping trips in his beloved camper. He found Janet Fichter writes to inspire readers to himself confined to a wheelchair, eventually having to move to a nursing home. His gain a broader, more spiritual perspective true character rose as he purposed to make the best of life’s challenges, finding a of life’s events. Having a long career in new favorite spot to read the daily newspaper, watch television, and listen to music. public education, she now enjoys writing narratives and thought-provoking essays to Though far more confined, his new space still allowed him to watch over and care kindle a passion for serving Christ. for his beloved wife, Margaret, until the day he went home to Jesus.

Janet is Author of a spiritual reflection guide, The Ministry of the Unveiled Face (published by Ambassador, International) and two young adult fantasies, Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues and Princess Tiara and the Battle for Fruitful (both published by At Jesus Feet Publishing).

I could go on, right? Aging and physical challenges necessitate new routines and evolving levels of comfort. Spaces we once enjoyed change for a variety of reasons, but—by God’s grace—we resolve to look for fresh comforts and experiences.

This is also true for job changes, relocations, relationships, raising children, etc. Life is ever faithful to ask us to find a new favorite spot to appreciate, even enjoy. And, the good news is those new places can be found, though we often wrestle with fear, frustration, worry and anger before we settle in.

Janet also maintains an active blog (atjesusfeet.com) which contains her favorite non-fiction and poetry pieces. Janet’s Face- I could go on, right? Aging and physical challenges necessitate new routines and evolving levels of comfort. Spaces we once enjoyed change for a variety of reasons, book page on prayer, Prayer Vigil, Jesus’ Sacre Coeur, offers written prayers for those but—by God’s grace—we resolve to look for fresh comforts and experiences. called to intercede. Additionally, her writing has appeared in literary journals and poetry/story anthologies.

Page 45 This is also true for job changes, relocations, relationships, raising children, etc. Life is ever faithful to ask us to find a new favorite spot to appreciate, even enjoy. And, the good news is those new places can be found, though we often wrestle with fear, frustration, worry and anger before we settle in.

There have been many disruptions in typical routines in recent years. From devastating storms, fires, heat waves and droughts, to health problems and the death of loved ones, to loss of employment or housing. Recent years filled with one piece of bad news after another bring frustration at best and grief at worst. Sudden heartbreaking news as well as ongoing troubles that refuse to go away threaten to entangle us in unwanted emotions of fear and even despair.

Like my father, we prove our character when we persevere and do the best we can to find new places of comfort.

New jobs, new homes, new states and new friendships invite hope, and that is good. Often God repositions us, bringing us to places of abundant blessing. I like that. But I also know that true comfort can only be found in deepening our relationship with Jesus.

Psalms 71:3 is one of many scriptures reminding us that when all is said and done, only God’s presence provides the place of safety and assurance we long for: “Be my rock of refuge to which I can always go. Give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.” (See also Psalm 46:1, Psalm 62:8, Psalm 5:11, Psalm 34:8) Moving to the New Testament, Jesus uses a powerful analogy to help us wisely weigh the places (or people) we gravitate toward as we seek new favorite spots of comfort. “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (Matthew 7:24-27) Considering the recent natural disasters, this is a very poignant comparison.

Continued on page 46

Page 46 Jesus warned us to be careful regarding where we seek to find comfort. Like shifting sand, retreating into unhealthy habits only brings greater problems. Dulling emotional pain with substance abuse or taking our anger out on those we love only adds guilt and shame to our list of sorrows. Trying to “remake” ourselves into the latest and greatest societal version of cool or hip (something God never intended) leads to greater confusion about life and identity. Reliance on self-determination will bring our foolish house down as the sand keeps shifting. And hibernating in our homes away from a society wrought with violence and hatred is not the stance of character and virtue we know our society is desperate for. Indeed, a large percentage of American society precariously wobbles on shifting sand.

Compromise, neglect and complacency are false spots of comfort, to be sure.

Life is faithful to demand that we adjust daily routines. And sometimes, life gives us quite the gut punch. In every difficult situation, there is hope for those who build their house upon the rock of God’s refuge. He strengthens the hurting, the anxious and the fearful. He guides us to new places of abundance and carries us through gut punching seasons.

Lord, help us build our lives upon You, our rock and redeemer. Lead us away from relying on the false comforts of shifting sand. Bring us to the place of true abundance and blessing. Amen.

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May’s Prayer

by Karen Ruhl

Heavenly Father, we thank you for each day.

Please help us to look to you for all of our needs.

Father God, you have given us instructions on how to pray “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

(Matthew 7:7) “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” ( Mark 11:24) We thank you for all you do for us.

Our Father, who art in Heaven, Hallowed be thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done On earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.

Amen

Page 48 Edward Tooley has had numerous articles published about education, adolescence, parenting, creation, and Christian Living. His work has also been featured in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.

Edward’s first book for children, Rounding Third and Headed for Home, is written in rhyme and is based on a true story of perseverance.

The Greatest Show On Earth

Edward’s second book for children, recently released, is a fictional account based on a true story of hope and a miracle. The Lighthouse/El Faro is a dual language book - both English and Spanish on the same page.

by Edward Tooley

Growing up, I could not wait until the circus came to town. It was known as the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. It was hailed as being The Greatest Show on Earth. I admit it was pretty grand but not “The Greatest.” I would have to place what my wife and I witnessed not that long ago as being the greatest. Various words besides the greatest were uttered by other fortunate bystanders. Words like unbelievable, breathtaking, astonishing, and mind-boggling. I must add that there were also those left speechless by what we witnessed. When I made eye contact with some of the onlookers, all they could do was shake their heads in awe. One woman I encountered had so much difficulty expressing her emotions that tears filled her eyes as she tried helplessly to communicate her feelings.

What could we possibly be viewing that overwhelmed us with such strong emotions? Waterfalls!! The waterfalls at Yosemite National Park were rushing at an all-time high. The mountain range adjacent to these falls had experienced a one hundred and eighty percent increase in snowfall that past winter. As the snow melted, the waterfalls gushed. A reverberating noise throughout the valley sounded like a fighter plane was flying overhead. We kept looking up, trying to locate the jet before a startling realization occurred. The loud sound was not made from some supersonic jet. Believe it or not…… it was coming from Yosemite Falls. The roar was caused by a torrent of water pouring over the granite facade.

The beauty and magnificence of Yosemite are both legendary and historic. Twenty-six years before it was declared a National Park, Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Land Grant in 1864 to protect the Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley. Yellowstone has the distinction of becoming our nation’s first National Park in 1872. It wasn’t until 1890 that Yosemite was designated our third National Park.

Page 49 John Muir spent much of his adult life living and writing about Yosemite. He witnessed one of those legendary moments that one can only experience in God’s creation. He observed water being suspended in midair as it fell from Yosemite Falls. That’s correct. The water was not falling but being held up by a strong wind current. This wind current must have been strong because Muir reported counting to 190 before the water began to decline. I have also witnessed this phenomenon while watching the falls from a distance. I was standing in the Yosemite Lodge area, marveling at the gushing water descending from such a dazzling height. Then it happened. A wind current swept in and held the water in midair. Remembering the story Muir told, I began to count. Even though I only made it to the number 40, I thanked our Lord for allowing me to witness His power and might. Jeremiah 10:12 says best, “ But God made the earth by His power.” Another marvel that can be seen on rare occasions at night is rainbows. I am not making this up.

John Muir called them Lunar-Spray bows. The more popular terms used are moon-bows or lunar rainbows. When the conditions are just right, these scientific wonders appear and astonish those fortunate to behold them.

During this particular visit, we had to continually stop and ponder our Lord’s magnificence while hiking. The words in Psalm 96 verse 1 -2 said it ideally, “ Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it; let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them.”

Sometimes, while hiking, we stopped to catch our breath and drink in the view. No words were spoken because they could not capture the splendor of what our eyes were perceiving. These emotions surfaced again recently as we took a short trip to Yosemite during the fall. Fall colors were on full display this time. The aspens and cottonwoods were clothed in such bright yellow foliage that they looked like they were being powered by electricity. The sugar maples were dressed in radiant red, and the dogwoods were barking loudly in glorious ruddy hues. The sites and sounds of God’s handiwork placed us in a humble and worshipful attitude toward our Creator.

Stop today and breathe in the miraculous process of the changing seasons. Marvel at the metamorphosis of the trees and how they change so dramatically from season to season. Be reawakened by watching the first blooms of spring as magnificent and dazzling colors fill the landscapes. We do not need to pack up and head to a National Park to witness these sites. You will be surprised by the transformation in your front or backyard, neighborhood, or surrounding area. Our Lord God is performing the greatest show on earth that is taking place right before our very eyes…….if only we notice.

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ROAD TRIPPIN’ YEAH!

by Karen Ruhl with my friend Donna Miller.

Donna has been such a blessing and has been keeping me busy. We decided to go visit her cabin in the mountains but she had far more in store for me. As we drove up the mountain, it was socked in with fog. We didn’t care, we were out for a girfields day and boy did we have a great one.

We visited Grandfather’s Mountain - if you haven’t been, I highly recommend a visit. Here are a few photos from there.

On the way up the mountain I swore I wouldn’t walk across the mile high bridge. The photo on the right shows me celebrating my victory over fear. And sweet, beautiful, Donna enjoyed her trip across too!

Page 51

These photos are a sampling of what we saw on our visit. Be sure to visit the museum and watch the movie about Grandfather Mountain.

There is an area with wild animals but we ran out of time after our walk and visiting the museum rooms.

One thing I have promised myself is to continue to take road trips, even if they are close to home. North Carolina is beautiful, tons of water falls and of course The Blue Ridge Parkway. There is something for everyone here, so please come and visit.

A special thank you to Donna for driving, taking me to see Frescos, a thrift store, and a truly remarkable church. I may feature that one next month, the story about the church is fascinating.

So until next month, be safe, get out and travel, and be blessed.

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Donna took me to Crossnore Presbyterian Church, A Miracle In The HIlls Church.

What a magnificent church. They are in need of a new roof, but it isn’t that simple.

Construction is about to begin. While the church has had a funding campaign and hopefully it will take care of their needs, I am certain that they would appreciate us saying a prayer that all goes well for this church that was built in 1926.

We were greeted by Mrs. Sloop who took time to open the church and tell us its history and the story about the roof. If you want to see an incredible church, look them up.

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