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! We don't have any smoke like yesterday, but the sky is hazy and I hope that means a little rain later on.
Dave, my yard man came yesterday, so since he comes about lunch time, I went to Subway to get a sandwich. I like to go to the one in Pinellas Park that has a drive-thru, so I had to wait through 3 lights at 70th Ave. and 34th St! I know traffic control likes to keep the heavy traffic moving on 34th, but the light only lets three cars through on the green, and the cars behind me were a block long. Really!! So, by the time I came home, the yard was mowed and Dave was blowing off the trimmings.
He was telling me the latest developments in his family. His Mom is in a nursing home, suffering from Alzheimer's and since we have known him such a long time, he watched Louis go through all the stages of Alz. and asks me questions about this horrible disease.Even though we don't share the same beliefs my faith and his lack of... we have interesting conversations, and I enjoy our talks.
I took a ride to Sawgrass later on and saw the gopher tortoise venturing out onto the newly mowed path next to the parking lot and a tri-colored heron in the canal. I still like to see the white herons outlined against the green backgrounds. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 John 5:10
This is the message he has given us to announce to you: God is light and there is no darkness in him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living inspiritual darkness. We are not living in the truth. But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ is, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son cleanses us from every sin.
1 John 2:9-11
If anyone says," I am living in the light," but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is still living in darkness. Anyone who loves other Christians is living in the light and does not cause anyone to stumble. Anyone who hates a Christian brother or sister is living and walking in darkness. Such a person is lost, having been blinded by the darkness.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, April 13, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Philippians
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the smoky day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Yes, it's very smoky out from the wildfires burning way up on the Fl/Ga line. It has cleared up just a little now, but the air is full of it and people are advised to say in if we have allergies or respiratory problems. The wind is blowing, so maybe some of it will turn and blow out of here.
I am expecting my yard man to come and hate for him to have to work outside. He was taking his racing pigeons fifty miles up, to get them ready for a race, but I don't know how pigeons react to smoky air. I went to the park yesterday and noticed that it had been freshly mowed and looked pretty good. On the way there, I saw a woodstork by Lynch lake and then lots of people once I got there. Leaning over the bridge, where there are always interesting things to see in the water, and walking dogs, running and just enjoying the weather.
Hard to believe it was expected to be freezing in TN this morning, when it has been so perfect here, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 4:3-9
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember the Lord is coming soon.
Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I am expecting my yard man to come and hate for him to have to work outside. He was taking his racing pigeons fifty miles up, to get them ready for a race, but I don't know how pigeons react to smoky air. I went to the park yesterday and noticed that it had been freshly mowed and looked pretty good. On the way there, I saw a woodstork by Lynch lake and then lots of people once I got there. Leaning over the bridge, where there are always interesting things to see in the water, and walking dogs, running and just enjoying the weather.
Hard to believe it was expected to be freezing in TN this morning, when it has been so perfect here, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 4:3-9
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember the Lord is coming soon.
Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Easin' thru Ephesians
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 beautiful day of sunshine and clear skies with no promise of rain. But even though it has not been watered, the grass is growing and will have to be mowed this week. I have seen many blooming trees and shrubs, though, so some things thrive with very little water.
I did some ironing yesterday...I always put that off as long as I can, but it really doesn't take much time. Then I went to Steak and Shake for a hot dog and had to wait so long in the drive thru line that I kept turning off the car, so I would not waste gas. But I enjoyed the dog when I finally got home. I really like a hot dog once in a while, even though they are not so healthy.
I went to the park later on, and saw quite a few tourists, with kids looking over the bridge and walking around. It must be spring break some place, because this was during school hours. I saw the brown gopher tortoise at the entrance to his tunnel and a family walking around him to take a picture. A white ibis was posing in the canal and a tri-colored heron was a little further down. Squirrels were hanging around the cars parked in the circle, looking for handouts, so all was peaceful, though active! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do I find protection from the threat of evil?
Ephesians 6:10-18
Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world. against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realm. Use every piece of God's armor of God's righteousness. For shoes , put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
This is perhaps the Bible's most comprehensive teaching about the resources believers have to overcome evil. Spiritual forces lurk behind many of our conflicts. Therefore, we should not attack the people manipulated by evil but focus directly on the evil itself. We rely on truth, faith, the power of our testimony, the wisdom of God's work, and the power of prayer. When these are mobilized, evil succumbs, God wins, and we win.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I did some ironing yesterday...I always put that off as long as I can, but it really doesn't take much time. Then I went to Steak and Shake for a hot dog and had to wait so long in the drive thru line that I kept turning off the car, so I would not waste gas. But I enjoyed the dog when I finally got home. I really like a hot dog once in a while, even though they are not so healthy.
I went to the park later on, and saw quite a few tourists, with kids looking over the bridge and walking around. It must be spring break some place, because this was during school hours. I saw the brown gopher tortoise at the entrance to his tunnel and a family walking around him to take a picture. A white ibis was posing in the canal and a tri-colored heron was a little further down. Squirrels were hanging around the cars parked in the circle, looking for handouts, so all was peaceful, though active! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do I find protection from the threat of evil?
Ephesians 6:10-18
Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world. against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realm. Use every piece of God's armor of God's righteousness. For shoes , put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
This is perhaps the Bible's most comprehensive teaching about the resources believers have to overcome evil. Spiritual forces lurk behind many of our conflicts. Therefore, we should not attack the people manipulated by evil but focus directly on the evil itself. We rely on truth, faith, the power of our testimony, the wisdom of God's work, and the power of prayer. When these are mobilized, evil succumbs, God wins, and we win.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
The Advantages of Companionship
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 is another in our string of dry, sunny beautiful days, but even the weathermen are saying how badly we need rain. All in God's timing...
When I stepped outside this morning, everything was alive with birds chirping, three squirrels racing along the oak tree limbs, chasing each other from one tree to another. Seems like all the critters get active as soon as they wake up. When I used to walk in the park at seven, all the animals and birds became active with ibis taking off from their sleeping roosts across the lake and even raccoons had not quite gone to sleep yet. I don't get over there that early any more, but it is the best time for a walk. My neighbor called when I was in the shower with a dripping head. She was concerned because my porch light was still on. I forgot to turn it off, when I opened up the drapes. (I had left it on all day Monday and did not get a call) but I appreciate that she looks out for me. I am blessed.
Well, I saw the large gecko in the afternoon yesterday...he had left my bedroom and scooted across the hall to another bedroom, but no telling where he is now. He will probably make his way to the door soon, I hope, so I can escort him out. He is much too lively for me to catch!
I notice that one of the baby mangos that I have been watching on the neighbor's tree, has fallen off. Whether due to the dryness or wind, I don't know, but the others are hanging on. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back- to- back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
The Futility of Political Power
It is better to be a poor but wise youth than to be and old and foolish king who refuses all advice. Such a youth could come from prison and succeed. He might even become king, though he was born in poverty. Everyone is eager to help such a youth, even to help him take the throne. He might become the leader of millions and be very popular. But then the next generation grows up and rejects him! So, again, it is all meaningless. like chasing the wind.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I stepped outside this morning, everything was alive with birds chirping, three squirrels racing along the oak tree limbs, chasing each other from one tree to another. Seems like all the critters get active as soon as they wake up. When I used to walk in the park at seven, all the animals and birds became active with ibis taking off from their sleeping roosts across the lake and even raccoons had not quite gone to sleep yet. I don't get over there that early any more, but it is the best time for a walk. My neighbor called when I was in the shower with a dripping head. She was concerned because my porch light was still on. I forgot to turn it off, when I opened up the drapes. (I had left it on all day Monday and did not get a call) but I appreciate that she looks out for me. I am blessed.
Well, I saw the large gecko in the afternoon yesterday...he had left my bedroom and scooted across the hall to another bedroom, but no telling where he is now. He will probably make his way to the door soon, I hope, so I can escort him out. He is much too lively for me to catch!
I notice that one of the baby mangos that I have been watching on the neighbor's tree, has fallen off. Whether due to the dryness or wind, I don't know, but the others are hanging on. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back- to- back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
The Futility of Political Power
It is better to be a poor but wise youth than to be and old and foolish king who refuses all advice. Such a youth could come from prison and succeed. He might even become king, though he was born in poverty. Everyone is eager to help such a youth, even to help him take the throne. He might become the leader of millions and be very popular. But then the next generation grows up and rejects him! So, again, it is all meaningless. like chasing the wind.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, April 9, 2012
Paul and Apollos
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! We are having cooler temps for the next few days, but still in the eighties in the daytime, so no heavy blankets again!
We had an inspiring sermon yesterday as we celebrated the Resurrection, and I was surprised by a visit from Brian. He had already attended service at his church, but I didn't expect him at mine. He had planned to take me to dinner at the Hangar, so we got there a little earlier and were seated immediately. We had a good dinner and watched the planes take off and land on a perfect day. After touring downtown, which was teeming with people, walking or sitting outdoors at cafes, we headed out to Bay Pines, noticing all the pretty flowers on the graves. There were lots of people visiting, but we squeezed into a parking place under a shady tree, and walked out to visit Louis.
On the way back, we drove by Memorial Park, and stopped in to see my mother and my step-father's grave. Except for being dry, the grounds are well cared for, which is always a comfort.We also visited Sawgrass Park and saw lots of people enjoying picnics and exercise. All in all, it was a very good day! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 Corinthians 3:5=9
Who is Apollos and who is Paul, that we should be the cause of such quarrels?
Why, we're only servants. Through us God caused you to believe. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. My job was to plant the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God, not we, who made it grow. The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important because he is the one who makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded individually, according to their own hard work. We work together as partners who belong to God. You are God's field, God's building , not ours.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We had an inspiring sermon yesterday as we celebrated the Resurrection, and I was surprised by a visit from Brian. He had already attended service at his church, but I didn't expect him at mine. He had planned to take me to dinner at the Hangar, so we got there a little earlier and were seated immediately. We had a good dinner and watched the planes take off and land on a perfect day. After touring downtown, which was teeming with people, walking or sitting outdoors at cafes, we headed out to Bay Pines, noticing all the pretty flowers on the graves. There were lots of people visiting, but we squeezed into a parking place under a shady tree, and walked out to visit Louis.
On the way back, we drove by Memorial Park, and stopped in to see my mother and my step-father's grave. Except for being dry, the grounds are well cared for, which is always a comfort.We also visited Sawgrass Park and saw lots of people enjoying picnics and exercise. All in all, it was a very good day! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 Corinthians 3:5=9
Who is Apollos and who is Paul, that we should be the cause of such quarrels?
Why, we're only servants. Through us God caused you to believe. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. My job was to plant the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God, not we, who made it grow. The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important because he is the one who makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded individually, according to their own hard work. We work together as partners who belong to God. You are God's field, God's building , not ours.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, April 6, 2012
Then Came Sunday
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! After a wonderful presentation of Seder meal last night at church, I thought I would just present Luke's version of Jesus' death, on this Good Friday.
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Luke 23:44-49
By this time it was noon, and darkness fell across the whole land until three o'clock. The light from the sun was gone. And suddenly, the thick veil hanging in the Temple was torn apart. Then Jesus shouted, "Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!" And with those words he breathed his last.
When the captain of the Roman soldiers handling the executions saw what had happened, he praised God and said, "Surely this man was innocent." And when the crowd that came to see the crucifixion saw all that had happened, they went home in deep sorrow. But Jesus' friends, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance watching.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Happy Birthday, Daryl!!!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Luke 23:44-49
By this time it was noon, and darkness fell across the whole land until three o'clock. The light from the sun was gone. And suddenly, the thick veil hanging in the Temple was torn apart. Then Jesus shouted, "Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!" And with those words he breathed his last.
When the captain of the Roman soldiers handling the executions saw what had happened, he praised God and said, "Surely this man was innocent." And when the crowd that came to see the crucifixion saw all that had happened, they went home in deep sorrow. But Jesus' friends, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance watching.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Happy Birthday, Daryl!!!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 37
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, I went to bed last night with the sound of thunder in the distance and bright flashes of lightning shining through the drapes. Sure enough, we did get some rain, but I don't think very much. However, more rough weather is predicted for tonight and maybe tomorrow morning. If it holds off long enough for me to get to church for the services tonight, I will be grateful. We are having a Seder service with a Rabbi. I have been to one before, but it has been a long time...looking forward to it!
I had a fun time chatting with my cleaning duo while they worked. They always have something interesting to say , especially since one of them went camping last weekend and found out her tent did not leak. :o) Later in the afternoon, I went to the park, saw the long shadows and no one on the bridge. In fact, very few people were there for a weekday afternoon.
But the sun was shining and the birds were chirping. The trees were all green and God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 37:3-9
Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord,
Trust him, and he will help you..
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine
like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop your anger!
Turn from your rage!
Do not envy others--
it only leads to harm,
For the wicked will be destroyed,
but those who trust in the Lord will
possess the land.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had a fun time chatting with my cleaning duo while they worked. They always have something interesting to say , especially since one of them went camping last weekend and found out her tent did not leak. :o) Later in the afternoon, I went to the park, saw the long shadows and no one on the bridge. In fact, very few people were there for a weekday afternoon.
But the sun was shining and the birds were chirping. The trees were all green and God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 37:3-9
Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord,
Trust him, and he will help you..
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine
like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop your anger!
Turn from your rage!
Do not envy others--
it only leads to harm,
For the wicked will be destroyed,
but those who trust in the Lord will
possess the land.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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