Good Morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It's kind of overcast today with high thin clouds, and a very cool wind blowing. The cold snap definitely came in last night, so I have the heat on for a little while.
I made up for staying home out of the rain, Monday, by running lots of errands yesterday. After an hour and a half in the dentist's chair for my six month cleaning, x-rays, and gum check, I was tired of lying down for such a long time, and glad to go! I have a very nice hygienist who has a five month old baby girl. The last time I saw her, she was ready to take maternity leave, but now, she is back at work with pics of her family on the wall.
So, that chore over, I went home to have lunch and then did the rest of my running around, which included a drive to the park. Everything looked refreshed after the rain and lots of people were out. I have mentioned before how the squirrels were gathered under one of the oak trees...well, there is now a sign there, telling people that for the health of the little critters, they should not be fed. Aha! So that was why they were gathered there! I did not see the usual anhingas, egrets or ibises, so it must have been the wrong time of day, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Hebrews 10:25
And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. This is the new, life-giving way that Christ has opened up for us through the sacred curtain, by means of his death for us.
And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God's people, let us go right into the presence of God, with true hearts fully trusting him. For our evil consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.
Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
The Magnificat: Mary's Song of Praise
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Yesterday's rain has passed through and today we have sunshine and a much cooler breeze. I did not leave the house at all because of wet weather and there was really no reason to get out in it. However, I have a dental appointment this morning, so I will have to go clear across town right near the Mall. I don't look forward to that!
So when I went out in the garage and looked out, I saw the tiny wrens that come down from the north each winter. They were flitting about on the ground and in and out of the hibiscus next door. They are smaller than canaries and brown, and they have a tiny chirp, when they are talking with each other. Very cute. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Luke 1:47-55
Oh, how I praise the Lord. How I rejoice in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and now generation after generation will call me blessed. For he, the Mighty One, is holy, and he has done great things for me. His mercy goes on from generation to generation, to all who fear him. His mighty arm does tremendous things! How he scatters the proud and haughty ones! He has taken princes from their thrones and exalted the lowly. He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. And how he has helped his servant Israel! He has not forgotten his promise to be merciful. For he promised our ancestors - Abraham and his children - to be merciful to them forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
So when I went out in the garage and looked out, I saw the tiny wrens that come down from the north each winter. They were flitting about on the ground and in and out of the hibiscus next door. They are smaller than canaries and brown, and they have a tiny chirp, when they are talking with each other. Very cute. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Luke 1:47-55
Oh, how I praise the Lord. How I rejoice in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and now generation after generation will call me blessed. For he, the Mighty One, is holy, and he has done great things for me. His mercy goes on from generation to generation, to all who fear him. His mighty arm does tremendous things! How he scatters the proud and haughty ones! He has taken princes from their thrones and exalted the lowly. He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. And how he has helped his servant Israel! He has not forgotten his promise to be merciful. For he promised our ancestors - Abraham and his children - to be merciful to them forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Monday, November 28, 2011
Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are now looking forward to celebrating the birth of our Lord!
As I said before, Brian and I went to Dunnellon to be with family, and had a joyful time of catching up and eating too much! We had a perfect day, with no clouds in the sky at all as we made good time on the Suncoast Parkway. Very little traffic, and a few people biking, jogging or walking on the Suncoast Trail.
Then Brian took me out to dinner yesterday at the Collonnade (sp) in Tampa, because it was my and Louis' 64th wedding anniversary. Or would have been...
I got to the park a couple times over the weekend, and saw that the outside mowing crew mowed a lot of territory that they have neglected for a year, and it certainly looks better! Just as I mentioned a few days ago, that I had not seen any woodstorks at the park, sure enough, one was standing on the weir, near the anhinga that is usually there! Lots of people were there, Saturday, quite a few walking down the middle of the road, totally oblivious to the cars, including me, wanting to get around them. I was polite and did not toot the horn.
I got to watch the Broncos/Chargers game yesterday and cheered when Tim Tebow took the team, in overtime, close enough so the kicker could get a field goal to win the game! The best part was watching Tim kneel to pray and then give thanks after the win! What a witness! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 1:3-11
Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. I always pray for you, and I make my requests with a heart full of joy because you have been my pratners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work util it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes gack again.
It is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a very special place in my heart. We have shared together the blessings of God, both when I was in prison and when I was out, defending the truth and telling others the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus. I pray that your love for each other will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in your knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until Christ returns. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--those good things that are produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
As I said before, Brian and I went to Dunnellon to be with family, and had a joyful time of catching up and eating too much! We had a perfect day, with no clouds in the sky at all as we made good time on the Suncoast Parkway. Very little traffic, and a few people biking, jogging or walking on the Suncoast Trail.
Then Brian took me out to dinner yesterday at the Collonnade (sp) in Tampa, because it was my and Louis' 64th wedding anniversary. Or would have been...
I got to the park a couple times over the weekend, and saw that the outside mowing crew mowed a lot of territory that they have neglected for a year, and it certainly looks better! Just as I mentioned a few days ago, that I had not seen any woodstorks at the park, sure enough, one was standing on the weir, near the anhinga that is usually there! Lots of people were there, Saturday, quite a few walking down the middle of the road, totally oblivious to the cars, including me, wanting to get around them. I was polite and did not toot the horn.
I got to watch the Broncos/Chargers game yesterday and cheered when Tim Tebow took the team, in overtime, close enough so the kicker could get a field goal to win the game! The best part was watching Tim kneel to pray and then give thanks after the win! What a witness! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 1:3-11
Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. I always pray for you, and I make my requests with a heart full of joy because you have been my pratners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work util it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes gack again.
It is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a very special place in my heart. We have shared together the blessings of God, both when I was in prison and when I was out, defending the truth and telling others the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus. I pray that your love for each other will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in your knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until Christ returns. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--those good things that are produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Now Thank Thee All our God
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Looks like we have some rain coming in about noon today, but tomorrow should be good for Thanksgiving!
And because of that special day, this will be short this morning and I will take the day off tomorrow. Brian and I will be going out of town to join family in celebrating and eating too much!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Now thank we all our God
with hearts and hands and voices.
Who wondrous things has done,
In whom His world rejoices.
Who from our mother's arms,
Hath blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
And still is ours today.
All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given.
The Son, and Him who reigns
With them in highest heaven.
The one eternal God,
Whom earth and heaven adore.
For thus it was, is now,
And shall be ever more. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs and Happy Thanksgiving,
Amaryllis
And because of that special day, this will be short this morning and I will take the day off tomorrow. Brian and I will be going out of town to join family in celebrating and eating too much!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
Now thank we all our God
with hearts and hands and voices.
Who wondrous things has done,
In whom His world rejoices.
Who from our mother's arms,
Hath blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
And still is ours today.
All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given.
The Son, and Him who reigns
With them in highest heaven.
The one eternal God,
Whom earth and heaven adore.
For thus it was, is now,
And shall be ever more. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs and Happy Thanksgiving,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Jesus' prayer of Thanksgiving
Good Morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I hope some or all of you were able to view the sunrise this morning! It was a beautiful pink as the clouds were stretched across the eastern sky! Painted as only God can! I still have the A/C on as it continues to be warm and humid, but soon the cool weather will return.
Yesterday, I visited the Sweetbay super market on 4th St. where massive remodeling is going on. I thought it would probably be the least crowded of all the markets and it was. A couple cashiers were open with lines, so I went to one at the beginning where she was not doing anything, and got checked out right away. After she told me my total I asked if I could add 10 dollars to feed a family for a day. This is a program that they have going for Thanksgiving and Christmas. She seemed flustered and had to collect her thoughts to reach for the package and scan it, so apparently, they are not pushing the program much. This is too bad because it is very little to give.
After that, I went to the park and enjoyed the peacefulness, away from traffic and people. A couple of turtles were sunning on the bank of the weir, and an egret was standing near a lily pad watching for lunch to swim by. Since school is out, a couple of children were there on bikes and several families were starting out for a walk. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Matthew 11:25-30
Then Jesus prayed this prayer: "O Father, Lord of Heaven and Earth, thank you for hiding the truth from those who think themselves so wise and clever, and for revealing it to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way!
My Father has given me authority over everything. No one really knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."
Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I visited the Sweetbay super market on 4th St. where massive remodeling is going on. I thought it would probably be the least crowded of all the markets and it was. A couple cashiers were open with lines, so I went to one at the beginning where she was not doing anything, and got checked out right away. After she told me my total I asked if I could add 10 dollars to feed a family for a day. This is a program that they have going for Thanksgiving and Christmas. She seemed flustered and had to collect her thoughts to reach for the package and scan it, so apparently, they are not pushing the program much. This is too bad because it is very little to give.
After that, I went to the park and enjoyed the peacefulness, away from traffic and people. A couple of turtles were sunning on the bank of the weir, and an egret was standing near a lily pad watching for lunch to swim by. Since school is out, a couple of children were there on bikes and several families were starting out for a walk. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Matthew 11:25-30
Then Jesus prayed this prayer: "O Father, Lord of Heaven and Earth, thank you for hiding the truth from those who think themselves so wise and clever, and for revealing it to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way!
My Father has given me authority over everything. No one really knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."
Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, November 21, 2011
Belonging
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another cool morning and a warm afternoon in store for us. Actually, my yard and staghorn fern could use some water. Guess I will have to use the hose sometime when I don't mind getting all wet, because it leaks.
Heard a good sermon yesterday and then drove through the park on the way back home. A flock of ibis was by Lynch Lake on my way to church along with one lone woodstork, with feathers all ruffled from the wind. At the park, lots of people were hanging over the bridge rail looking at the gator, always hanging around there. He is growing up right in plain sight. Also, a lady was standing right in front of one of the gopher holes, apparently looking at him. I guess they are quite unusual to our northern visitors.
I missed the chili dinner at church last night, because I took a nap and woke up too late to take the chili and go. As a result I have a lot of white chicken chili left over, which is pretty tasty! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Belonging
What happens to those who belong to God?
Isaiah 26:19
We have this assurance; Those who belong to God will live; their bodies will rise again! Those who sleep in the earth will rise up and sing for joy! For God's light of life will fall like dew on his people in the place of the dead!
Belonging to God is an eternal relationship, not merely for this world, but for the world to come. The grave is not the last chapter, merely the transitional one.
John 15:9-17 I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you remain in my love just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! I command you to love each other in the same way that I love you. And here is how to measure it--the greatest love is shown when people lay down their lives for their friends. You are my friends if you obey me. I no longer call you servants, because a master doesn't confide in his servants. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. You didn't choose me, I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for using my name. I command you to love each other.
When we belong to God we belong to each other. Jesus' command to love is rooted in his promise of love for us. The fact that we belong to Jesus compels us to love one another. As friends of God we are responsible to all our fellow believers.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Heard a good sermon yesterday and then drove through the park on the way back home. A flock of ibis was by Lynch Lake on my way to church along with one lone woodstork, with feathers all ruffled from the wind. At the park, lots of people were hanging over the bridge rail looking at the gator, always hanging around there. He is growing up right in plain sight. Also, a lady was standing right in front of one of the gopher holes, apparently looking at him. I guess they are quite unusual to our northern visitors.
I missed the chili dinner at church last night, because I took a nap and woke up too late to take the chili and go. As a result I have a lot of white chicken chili left over, which is pretty tasty! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Belonging
What happens to those who belong to God?
Isaiah 26:19
We have this assurance; Those who belong to God will live; their bodies will rise again! Those who sleep in the earth will rise up and sing for joy! For God's light of life will fall like dew on his people in the place of the dead!
Belonging to God is an eternal relationship, not merely for this world, but for the world to come. The grave is not the last chapter, merely the transitional one.
John 15:9-17 I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you remain in my love just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! I command you to love each other in the same way that I love you. And here is how to measure it--the greatest love is shown when people lay down their lives for their friends. You are my friends if you obey me. I no longer call you servants, because a master doesn't confide in his servants. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. You didn't choose me, I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for using my name. I command you to love each other.
When we belong to God we belong to each other. Jesus' command to love is rooted in his promise of love for us. The fact that we belong to Jesus compels us to love one another. As friends of God we are responsible to all our fellow believers.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, November 18, 2011
Joy
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Well, sure enough, our one day cool front is here, but will soon move out and we will have warm weather clear through to Thanksgiving, so we enjoy the change while we can!
I had an appointment with my cardiologist yesterday, whose office is attached to the St. Anthony's complex. They have finally finished the outside of the new ER and other rooms enough so that the regular route to the office is now open, after months of driving through a maze to get to it! The new addition still has finish work to do on the inside, but is already landscaped on the grounds. Nice!
After waiting thirty minutes in the waiting room (I always bring a book),I was taken back to the examining room and, surprisingly, only waited five mins. for the doctor to come in. He's a talker and I have to interrupt him to tell him anything or ask any questions, but he is tops in his field and has interesting stories to tell. BTW, I checked out ok.
It was late when I left, so I went to the park when the shadows were long, and the sun was brilliant setting in the west...not good driving. The gopher was still sitting on his front porch, in the same position as Wed. and the squirrels were gathered under the same oak. Sometimes it seems like time stands still there, although everything is constantly moving. Then I drove to Wendy's and ordered a Jr. cheeseburger and small salad. When I got home, I discovered no burger, but the salad. So, I got in the car and drove back to Wendy's where they were very apologetic and gave me a free Frosty because of the mistake. I actually thought it was my fault, because I assumed both items were in the same bag, but they simply forgot to give the burger to me. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be joyful in hard times?
Habakkuk 3:17-18 Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation.
Philippians 4:4,12 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again---rejoice!...I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.
Joy is a choice. We may not realize it, but we choose our moods and our attitudes. God's promises in Christ are the basis for choosing joy no matter what we face.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had an appointment with my cardiologist yesterday, whose office is attached to the St. Anthony's complex. They have finally finished the outside of the new ER and other rooms enough so that the regular route to the office is now open, after months of driving through a maze to get to it! The new addition still has finish work to do on the inside, but is already landscaped on the grounds. Nice!
After waiting thirty minutes in the waiting room (I always bring a book),I was taken back to the examining room and, surprisingly, only waited five mins. for the doctor to come in. He's a talker and I have to interrupt him to tell him anything or ask any questions, but he is tops in his field and has interesting stories to tell. BTW, I checked out ok.
It was late when I left, so I went to the park when the shadows were long, and the sun was brilliant setting in the west...not good driving. The gopher was still sitting on his front porch, in the same position as Wed. and the squirrels were gathered under the same oak. Sometimes it seems like time stands still there, although everything is constantly moving. Then I drove to Wendy's and ordered a Jr. cheeseburger and small salad. When I got home, I discovered no burger, but the salad. So, I got in the car and drove back to Wendy's where they were very apologetic and gave me a free Frosty because of the mistake. I actually thought it was my fault, because I assumed both items were in the same bag, but they simply forgot to give the burger to me. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be joyful in hard times?
Habakkuk 3:17-18 Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation.
Philippians 4:4,12 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again---rejoice!...I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.
Joy is a choice. We may not realize it, but we choose our moods and our attitudes. God's promises in Christ are the basis for choosing joy no matter what we face.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Teaching About Giving to the Needy
Good Morning , Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, there was a peculiar light to the sky, almost yellowish, so I knew something was going to happen with the weather, Sure enough, when I turned on the TV, I saw the long line of showers that was moving toward us, bringing cooler air behind it. So I was hoping for a downpour, but instead, we had a very short rain and water is still dripping off the roof, but the rain looks to be over. The clouds are breaking up and it looks like a nice day coming up.
My ladies came to clean house yesterday afternoon, and they are always fun to be with and catch up on the neighborhood news! One likes to talk and the other likes to clean, but they make a good team together. I enjoy them and enjoy the way the house looks when they finish. Cheryl is a caregiver at heart, and always reminds me to lock the door when they leave.
I went to the park yesterday and saw a couple turtles clinging to the side of the weir, and further down, the large gopher tortoise was crouched outside his tunnel home, watching the world go by. Not many people were out, but the busy squirrels certainly were. they are getting fat and sassy! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Matthew 6:1-4
"Take care! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, because then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to someone in need, don't shout about it as the hypocrites do---blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone, don't tell your left hand what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in secret, and your Father who knows all secrets, will reward you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
My ladies came to clean house yesterday afternoon, and they are always fun to be with and catch up on the neighborhood news! One likes to talk and the other likes to clean, but they make a good team together. I enjoy them and enjoy the way the house looks when they finish. Cheryl is a caregiver at heart, and always reminds me to lock the door when they leave.
I went to the park yesterday and saw a couple turtles clinging to the side of the weir, and further down, the large gopher tortoise was crouched outside his tunnel home, watching the world go by. Not many people were out, but the busy squirrels certainly were. they are getting fat and sassy! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Matthew 6:1-4
"Take care! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, because then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to someone in need, don't shout about it as the hypocrites do---blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone, don't tell your left hand what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in secret, and your Father who knows all secrets, will reward you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Discernment
Good morning, dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another overcast day with fog, I guess, although not visible around here. This was how yesterday started, but it got up in the lower eighties by afternoon. So warm, in fact, that I turned on the A/C for awhile. Changeable weather!
I had to take the van to Ray at Cartek in the morning, because the button on my ac blower decided not to stay on, and even though this is Nov., the car still gets warm. So after taking time, to look up the problem, he showed me how to make it stay on and didn't have to work on the car. I am blessed to have a good mechanic who knows what he is doing and is reliable!
I drove to the car wash, but discovered I didn't have the right change, so came on back home to the park and observed the peace and quiet. I had seen a woodstork by Lynch Lake preening his feathers, but saw just the ibis and squirrels at the park. I think I have only seen one woodstork there, for some reason. The trees are shedding and seem to be getting ready for winter to come, when all will be a grayish color, because the greenery will mostly be gone. A time for sleeping ....God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding, and direction?
James 1:5-8 If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.
Psalm 119:125 Give discernment to me, your servant, then I will understand your decrees.
Discernment is the ability to interpret events and to understand the true nature of people and situations. Discernment is an aspect of wisdom. It enables us to see behind the facades that mask the truth. Discernment shows us the way through the maze of options that face us. Like the sun that burns away the fog, discernment cuts through confusion and distractions. Whereas the devil is the "father of lies", God is the father of the truth, and he gives discernment to those who seek it.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had to take the van to Ray at Cartek in the morning, because the button on my ac blower decided not to stay on, and even though this is Nov., the car still gets warm. So after taking time, to look up the problem, he showed me how to make it stay on and didn't have to work on the car. I am blessed to have a good mechanic who knows what he is doing and is reliable!
I drove to the car wash, but discovered I didn't have the right change, so came on back home to the park and observed the peace and quiet. I had seen a woodstork by Lynch Lake preening his feathers, but saw just the ibis and squirrels at the park. I think I have only seen one woodstork there, for some reason. The trees are shedding and seem to be getting ready for winter to come, when all will be a grayish color, because the greenery will mostly be gone. A time for sleeping ....God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding, and direction?
James 1:5-8 If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.
Psalm 119:125 Give discernment to me, your servant, then I will understand your decrees.
Discernment is the ability to interpret events and to understand the true nature of people and situations. Discernment is an aspect of wisdom. It enables us to see behind the facades that mask the truth. Discernment shows us the way through the maze of options that face us. Like the sun that burns away the fog, discernment cuts through confusion and distractions. Whereas the devil is the "father of lies", God is the father of the truth, and he gives discernment to those who seek it.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
When the Path is Dark
Good Morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! No sunshine this morning, because of fog, but that usually means a very warm day, later on.
Yesterday, in the late afternoon, I went to the park and walked out on the bridge to check on the gators. Sure enough, they were hanging in the water...the three footer and the smaller one closer together and at the other end of the bridge the small one was almost invisible in the lily pads. I watched an anhinga swallowing a fish, which was very visible going down his long neck. I have often wondered is the fish tickles when it gets to the craw or wherever it goes inside the bird. Probably it is better not to think about the eventual demise. But God means for everything in creation to have a purpose and I guess the fishes is to feed the anhinga. I saw a lot of ripples, but could not tell if they were turtles or something else. It was a very warm afternoon, so I avoided the sun as much as possible, and walked a ways in the shade. It was a good walk and God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.
Micah 7:8 HCSB
Doubts come in several shapes and sizes: doubts about God, doubts about the future, and doubts about our own abilities, for starters. But when doubts creep in, as they will from time to time, we need not despair. As Sheila Walsh observed, "To wrestle with God does not mean that we have lost faith, but that we are fighting for it."
God never leaves our side, not for an instant. He is always with us, always willing to calm the storms of life. When we sincerely seek His presence-and when we genuinely seek to establish a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Him--God is prepared to touch our hearts, to calm our fears, to answer oiur doubts, and to restore oiur confidence.
Struggling with God over the issues of life doesn't show a lack of faith-that is faith.
Lee Strobel
Doubting may temporarily disturb, but will not permanently destroy, your faith in Christ.
Charles Swindoll
Dear God, sometimes this world can be a puzzling place, filled with uncertainty and doubt. When I am unsure of my next step, keep me mindful that You are always near and that you can overcome any challenge. Give me faith, Father, and let me remember always that with Your love and Your power, I can live courageously and faithfully today and every day. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, in the late afternoon, I went to the park and walked out on the bridge to check on the gators. Sure enough, they were hanging in the water...the three footer and the smaller one closer together and at the other end of the bridge the small one was almost invisible in the lily pads. I watched an anhinga swallowing a fish, which was very visible going down his long neck. I have often wondered is the fish tickles when it gets to the craw or wherever it goes inside the bird. Probably it is better not to think about the eventual demise. But God means for everything in creation to have a purpose and I guess the fishes is to feed the anhinga. I saw a lot of ripples, but could not tell if they were turtles or something else. It was a very warm afternoon, so I avoided the sun as much as possible, and walked a ways in the shade. It was a good walk and God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.
Micah 7:8 HCSB
Doubts come in several shapes and sizes: doubts about God, doubts about the future, and doubts about our own abilities, for starters. But when doubts creep in, as they will from time to time, we need not despair. As Sheila Walsh observed, "To wrestle with God does not mean that we have lost faith, but that we are fighting for it."
God never leaves our side, not for an instant. He is always with us, always willing to calm the storms of life. When we sincerely seek His presence-and when we genuinely seek to establish a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Him--God is prepared to touch our hearts, to calm our fears, to answer oiur doubts, and to restore oiur confidence.
Struggling with God over the issues of life doesn't show a lack of faith-that is faith.
Lee Strobel
Doubting may temporarily disturb, but will not permanently destroy, your faith in Christ.
Charles Swindoll
Dear God, sometimes this world can be a puzzling place, filled with uncertainty and doubt. When I am unsure of my next step, keep me mindful that You are always near and that you can overcome any challenge. Give me faith, Father, and let me remember always that with Your love and Your power, I can live courageously and faithfully today and every day. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, November 14, 2011
Psoaring thru Psalm 112
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is another beautiful day in a string of cool, warm days. Good for the visitors and good for us natives!
I visited the park yesterday and it was packed! Some group was having a meeting under the shelter and I waited for a three wheeled motorcycle to back into a space. It was really packed with a lot of traveling equipment, but I couldn't see the tag to see where he was from. John, the Ranger, was holding court under the first shelter talking to patrons, which is what he likes to do. He is a real people person. The squirrels were hanging out by all the cars parked in the circle, looking for handouts, which they have gotten used to. I think they wouldn't need much encouragement to hop in the cars, if invited. :o) God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 112:1-5
Happy are those who fear the Lord.
Yes, happy are those who delight in doing what he commands.
Their children will be successful everywhere;
an entire generation of godly people will be blessed.
They themselves will be wealthy,
and their good deeds will never be forgotten.
When darkness overtakes the godly,
light will come bursting in.
They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.
All goes well for those who are generous,
who lend freely and conduct their business fairly.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I visited the park yesterday and it was packed! Some group was having a meeting under the shelter and I waited for a three wheeled motorcycle to back into a space. It was really packed with a lot of traveling equipment, but I couldn't see the tag to see where he was from. John, the Ranger, was holding court under the first shelter talking to patrons, which is what he likes to do. He is a real people person. The squirrels were hanging out by all the cars parked in the circle, looking for handouts, which they have gotten used to. I think they wouldn't need much encouragement to hop in the cars, if invited. :o) God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 112:1-5
Happy are those who fear the Lord.
Yes, happy are those who delight in doing what he commands.
Their children will be successful everywhere;
an entire generation of godly people will be blessed.
They themselves will be wealthy,
and their good deeds will never be forgotten.
When darkness overtakes the godly,
light will come bursting in.
They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.
All goes well for those who are generous,
who lend freely and conduct their business fairly.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, November 11, 2011
Veteran's Day
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Brrr! It is finally chilly! The wind is blowing, making the fifties seem a lot colder. When I went out at daylight to put the flag up, the wind caught it before I really had it in the holder! People are wearing coats at the outdoor services commemorating Veteran's Day today.
Well, I have more information about the incident that brought out the Sheriff's Deputies to Sawgrass Monday. It seems that a couple of patrons got into a shoving match, because one was feeding the gators (illegal) and the other objected. I have often wanted to say something , but kept quiet because you never know what the reaction will be!
Also, Dave C. the Park Ranger who does my yard, said there were about ten complaints of squirrels biting people who didn't feed them, so he and another ranger took a walk with traps and got about six to relocate them to Weedon Island. It always seems such a peaceful place on the surface, but much is going on behind the scenes, so to speak. God is good!
Psoaring thru Psalm 82 NLT:
God presides over heaven's court:
he pronounces judgment on the judges:
How long will you judges hand down unjust decisions?
How long will you shower special favors on the wicked?
Give fair treatment to the poor and orphan;
uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.
Rescue the poor and helpless;
deliver them from the grasp of evil people.
But these oppressors know nothing; they are so ignorant!
And because they are in darkness,
the whole world is shaken to the core.
I say, "You are gods and children of the most High.
But in death you are mere men.
You will fall as any prince, for all must die.
Rise up, O God, and judge the earth,
for all the nations belong to you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, I have more information about the incident that brought out the Sheriff's Deputies to Sawgrass Monday. It seems that a couple of patrons got into a shoving match, because one was feeding the gators (illegal) and the other objected. I have often wanted to say something , but kept quiet because you never know what the reaction will be!
Also, Dave C. the Park Ranger who does my yard, said there were about ten complaints of squirrels biting people who didn't feed them, so he and another ranger took a walk with traps and got about six to relocate them to Weedon Island. It always seems such a peaceful place on the surface, but much is going on behind the scenes, so to speak. God is good!
Psoaring thru Psalm 82 NLT:
God presides over heaven's court:
he pronounces judgment on the judges:
How long will you judges hand down unjust decisions?
How long will you shower special favors on the wicked?
Give fair treatment to the poor and orphan;
uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.
Rescue the poor and helpless;
deliver them from the grasp of evil people.
But these oppressors know nothing; they are so ignorant!
And because they are in darkness,
the whole world is shaken to the core.
I say, "You are gods and children of the most High.
But in death you are mere men.
You will fall as any prince, for all must die.
Rise up, O God, and judge the earth,
for all the nations belong to you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Prayer of Concern for Others
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Today is another beautiful day with the cold front creeping closer, so we will probably have a reason to wear sweaters in the next couple days.
I hope many of you stepped outside or had occasion to see the gorgeous full moon and Jupiter right beside it in the night sky last evening. It was just awesome! No one can outdo God when it comes to putting on a heavenly show! I am thankful for eyes to see!
I drove out to Bay Pines Cemetery yesterday to visit Louis' grave and was surprised to see a lot of construction going on. I read in the Times that a program will be held there tomorrow, but I was wondering how that will be handled, because the entrance road is torn up and the old office building is torn down and a new one being built. There is a substitute road made for a new entrance and exit, so I was able to go back to the section I was headed for. Everything was so peaceful and the grass was freshly cut. I was the only one there for a few minutes, until some people drove up saying they were having a funeral later that afternoon and asking directions as to where they should go. I directed them back to the temporary office, so I hope everything went well with them. I arranged the flowers I brought and put them in the container provided, so they should stay fresh for several days. It was a good visit. God is good!
This is from Hymns For the Family of God:
Prayer of Concern for Others
Father, help me to talk like a Christian:
to speak in such a way that I build up another person's confidence in himself, instead of tearing down his reputation.
Father, help me to drive like a Christian:
to be watchful and careful lest I cause harm to someone else on the highways.
Father, help me to give like a Christian;
without thought of return, without anyone knowing what I do, and with Your approval as sufficient reward.
Father, Help me to dress like a Christian:
by not attracting attention to myself for being too fashionable or too casual; and help me to show by my appearance that I want people to know me for what I am inside myself.
Father, help me to sleep like a Christian
at peace with myself because sin is forgiven; and at peace with others because I do not allow my anger to last through a day.
Father, help me to eat like a Christian;
to eat healthily, to eat moderately, to eat gratefully, giving thanks to you who provide my food, and for the one who prepares my food.
Father, keep me from being so pious that I keep You out of the practical areas or life. Be with me when I am alone, and when I shed my inhibitions, lest in those moments I cancel out all that I seem to be when I'm on my best behavior.
Father, I ask this because I follow a Master who was never guilty of the slightest wrong doing, and who always showed His love in the small details of living. Amen.
Bryan Jeffery Leech
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and Love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I hope many of you stepped outside or had occasion to see the gorgeous full moon and Jupiter right beside it in the night sky last evening. It was just awesome! No one can outdo God when it comes to putting on a heavenly show! I am thankful for eyes to see!
I drove out to Bay Pines Cemetery yesterday to visit Louis' grave and was surprised to see a lot of construction going on. I read in the Times that a program will be held there tomorrow, but I was wondering how that will be handled, because the entrance road is torn up and the old office building is torn down and a new one being built. There is a substitute road made for a new entrance and exit, so I was able to go back to the section I was headed for. Everything was so peaceful and the grass was freshly cut. I was the only one there for a few minutes, until some people drove up saying they were having a funeral later that afternoon and asking directions as to where they should go. I directed them back to the temporary office, so I hope everything went well with them. I arranged the flowers I brought and put them in the container provided, so they should stay fresh for several days. It was a good visit. God is good!
This is from Hymns For the Family of God:
Prayer of Concern for Others
Father, help me to talk like a Christian:
to speak in such a way that I build up another person's confidence in himself, instead of tearing down his reputation.
Father, help me to drive like a Christian:
to be watchful and careful lest I cause harm to someone else on the highways.
Father, help me to give like a Christian;
without thought of return, without anyone knowing what I do, and with Your approval as sufficient reward.
Father, Help me to dress like a Christian:
by not attracting attention to myself for being too fashionable or too casual; and help me to show by my appearance that I want people to know me for what I am inside myself.
Father, help me to sleep like a Christian
at peace with myself because sin is forgiven; and at peace with others because I do not allow my anger to last through a day.
Father, help me to eat like a Christian;
to eat healthily, to eat moderately, to eat gratefully, giving thanks to you who provide my food, and for the one who prepares my food.
Father, keep me from being so pious that I keep You out of the practical areas or life. Be with me when I am alone, and when I shed my inhibitions, lest in those moments I cancel out all that I seem to be when I'm on my best behavior.
Father, I ask this because I follow a Master who was never guilty of the slightest wrong doing, and who always showed His love in the small details of living. Amen.
Bryan Jeffery Leech
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and Love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
God's Plan
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! This will be a day like yesterday....cool start and warm finish, but then comes another cold front, so tomorrow night we will finally have a big change and I may have to turn the furnace on for the first time this year!
I got some good walking yesterday when I visited the Neighborhood Walmart store. All in all, it was a good shopping experience. Not many people in the store and they had everything I wanted and then some! I had seen a segment on the local news yesterday of some of the weird things and people that happen in Walmart stores, featuring the manager of the local superstore. Unbelievable what some people will do in public!
So, after that I put away the groceries and drove to the park to see what was going on. On the way there, I saw the ever present woodstorks and ibis around Lynch Lake. But just as I got through the gate at the park, a crowd of people, with cars parked along the road, were gathered at the lake on the right, looking at a large gator. He hasn't been there in quite a
while, but, until he sank from all the onlookers, he really thrilled a lot of people. I can't blame them, because I never lose my excitement over seeing them in the wild. God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
Genesis 2:15 Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.
Thomas Edison, probably the greatest inventor in history, once said, "I never did a day's work in my life. It was all fun."
He changed the lives of millions with his inventions of the electric light and the phonograph. He also helped perfect the motion picture, the telephone, and the electric generator. Edison patented more tha 1100 inventions in sixty years.
What was the secret of his success? He defined it himself as "1 percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration," Perhaps Edison's greatest contribution to modern society was his attitude toward work.
Have you ever thought about the fact that God worked? After He had completed His Creation work in six days, He rested on the seventh. Some people think work was a condemnation upon human beings after Adam's sin. But work was part of Adam's life from the very beginning. God created Adam in His image, and He placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate His creation.
Work has its rewards and laziness its consequences. The ant is a good worker. It busily gathers food for the winter without anyone giving a command. In like manner we are to initiate work ourselves and do our best. Paul reminds us not to grow weary of doing good. Work may not always be fun, but it is essential and gives us a sense of accomplishment that nothing else can bring.
Now I wake me up to work,
I pray thee, Lord, I will not shirk.
And if You should come tonight,
I pray You'll find my work's all right.
It is our best work that God wants, not the dregs of our exhaustion. I think he must prefer quality to quantity.
Gordon MacDonald
I always give thanks for you, remembering you with joy, thanksgiving, and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I got some good walking yesterday when I visited the Neighborhood Walmart store. All in all, it was a good shopping experience. Not many people in the store and they had everything I wanted and then some! I had seen a segment on the local news yesterday of some of the weird things and people that happen in Walmart stores, featuring the manager of the local superstore. Unbelievable what some people will do in public!
So, after that I put away the groceries and drove to the park to see what was going on. On the way there, I saw the ever present woodstorks and ibis around Lynch Lake. But just as I got through the gate at the park, a crowd of people, with cars parked along the road, were gathered at the lake on the right, looking at a large gator. He hasn't been there in quite a
while, but, until he sank from all the onlookers, he really thrilled a lot of people. I can't blame them, because I never lose my excitement over seeing them in the wild. God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
Genesis 2:15 Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.
Thomas Edison, probably the greatest inventor in history, once said, "I never did a day's work in my life. It was all fun."
He changed the lives of millions with his inventions of the electric light and the phonograph. He also helped perfect the motion picture, the telephone, and the electric generator. Edison patented more tha 1100 inventions in sixty years.
What was the secret of his success? He defined it himself as "1 percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration," Perhaps Edison's greatest contribution to modern society was his attitude toward work.
Have you ever thought about the fact that God worked? After He had completed His Creation work in six days, He rested on the seventh. Some people think work was a condemnation upon human beings after Adam's sin. But work was part of Adam's life from the very beginning. God created Adam in His image, and He placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate His creation.
Work has its rewards and laziness its consequences. The ant is a good worker. It busily gathers food for the winter without anyone giving a command. In like manner we are to initiate work ourselves and do our best. Paul reminds us not to grow weary of doing good. Work may not always be fun, but it is essential and gives us a sense of accomplishment that nothing else can bring.
Now I wake me up to work,
I pray thee, Lord, I will not shirk.
And if You should come tonight,
I pray You'll find my work's all right.
It is our best work that God wants, not the dregs of our exhaustion. I think he must prefer quality to quantity.
Gordon MacDonald
I always give thanks for you, remembering you with joy, thanksgiving, and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Roamin' thru Romans 8
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another bright sunshiny day with cool temps now, but warming up again this afternoon. Just perfect weather!
I did laundry yesterday and still have closets to clean out..seems like I have a lot more clothes than I really need, and I have already eliminated bags and bags of clothes. It takes time..
But I took time to go to the park after running a few errands, and saw just one black turtle sunning himself on the bank of the weir. Not many people were out in the middle of the day, but a flock of ibis, and a beautiful egret fishing were admired by me. I think the egrets look so Florida when standing against the greens and grays of the woods and muddy banks. They look like a postcard. The young gators are still hanging around the entrance bridge. They seem to like it there.
I don't know what was going on at the park, but two sheriff's deputy cars were parked outside the office and the Ranger's SUV came in just as I was leaving. Guess I will hear about it from Dave, the yard man. But, God is still in control and He is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 8
For if you already have something, you don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently.
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying , for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I did laundry yesterday and still have closets to clean out..seems like I have a lot more clothes than I really need, and I have already eliminated bags and bags of clothes. It takes time..
But I took time to go to the park after running a few errands, and saw just one black turtle sunning himself on the bank of the weir. Not many people were out in the middle of the day, but a flock of ibis, and a beautiful egret fishing were admired by me. I think the egrets look so Florida when standing against the greens and grays of the woods and muddy banks. They look like a postcard. The young gators are still hanging around the entrance bridge. They seem to like it there.
I don't know what was going on at the park, but two sheriff's deputy cars were parked outside the office and the Ranger's SUV came in just as I was leaving. Guess I will hear about it from Dave, the yard man. But, God is still in control and He is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 8
For if you already have something, you don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently.
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying , for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, November 7, 2011
A letter from John
Good Morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another cool, sunshiny morning in a string of beautiful days! The weather was perfect for the airfest at MacDill over the weekend. At one time, it sounded like one of the jets flew directly over the house, but was going so fast, it only lasted a few seconds and then the sound was gone I should have gone to Gandy beach to see if I could catch sight of the Thunderbirds as they flew over the air show. Oh, well, maybe another time...
For the first time, I saw a woodstork standing in the water in Lynch Lake. They are always standing on the bank, looking sad, but this time, he was in the water up to his ankles. Well, I guess he has ankles. I hardly ever see any at the park, for some reason, but maybe they are not fast enough to escape the small gators.
I had to stop and wait for several ducks to cross over the street, because, as numerous as they are, people still protect them. We had two of them hanging around this meighborhood for a week or two, but they finally moved on. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
2 John (written to the chosen lady and her children)
May grace, mercy, and peace, which come from God our Father and from Jesus Christ his Son, be with us who live in truth and love.
How happy I was to meet some of your children and find them living in the truth, just as we have been commanded by the Father.
And now I want to urge you, dear lady, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we had from the beginning. Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.
Many deceivers have gone out into the world. They do not believe that Jesus Christ came to earth in a real body. Such a person is a deceiver and an antichrist. Watch out, so that you do not lose the prize for which we have been working so hard. Be diligent so that you will receive your full reward. For if you wander beyond the teaching of Christ, you will not have fellowship with God. But if you continue in the teaching of Christ, you will have fellowship with both the Father and the Son.
If someone comes to your meetings and does not teach the truth about Christ, don't invite him into your house or encourage him in any way. Anyone who encourages him becomes a partner in his evil work.
I allways give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
For the first time, I saw a woodstork standing in the water in Lynch Lake. They are always standing on the bank, looking sad, but this time, he was in the water up to his ankles. Well, I guess he has ankles. I hardly ever see any at the park, for some reason, but maybe they are not fast enough to escape the small gators.
I had to stop and wait for several ducks to cross over the street, because, as numerous as they are, people still protect them. We had two of them hanging around this meighborhood for a week or two, but they finally moved on. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
2 John (written to the chosen lady and her children)
May grace, mercy, and peace, which come from God our Father and from Jesus Christ his Son, be with us who live in truth and love.
How happy I was to meet some of your children and find them living in the truth, just as we have been commanded by the Father.
And now I want to urge you, dear lady, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we had from the beginning. Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.
Many deceivers have gone out into the world. They do not believe that Jesus Christ came to earth in a real body. Such a person is a deceiver and an antichrist. Watch out, so that you do not lose the prize for which we have been working so hard. Be diligent so that you will receive your full reward. For if you wander beyond the teaching of Christ, you will not have fellowship with God. But if you continue in the teaching of Christ, you will have fellowship with both the Father and the Son.
If someone comes to your meetings and does not teach the truth about Christ, don't invite him into your house or encourage him in any way. Anyone who encourages him becomes a partner in his evil work.
I allways give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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