EXERCISE

 He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
                                                                                                                     Philippians 1:6

Since Paul had his knee replacement surgery almost a year and a half ago, we have been trying faithfully to workout at least three times a week. This has not been easy, but find it is extremely necessary the older we get. So, we walk the treadmill, work the weights, and ride the stationary bike to keep our bodies moving. We generally have been doing this in the late afternoon as our mornings and early afternoons are full of other activities.

Keeping our bodies in shape is just one of many areas that we need to focus on.  As people get older, it's important to keep our minds sharp. Reading and thinking activities such as sudoku help to keep our minds active and sharp.

As Christians we also need to nurture our spirit with Bible study, prayers, meditation, Bible memory and listening to what God is saying to us. All of these areas of spiritual development are ongoing just like the physical exercise and our thinking skills. Philippians 1:6 tells us that God has begun a good work in us and will carry it to completion.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

MAY BASKET

Thou wilt shew me the path of life:  in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right had there are pleasures for evermore.  Psalm 16:11


When we were much younger, one of the activities that was common at that time was hanging a may basket.  Those participating would take a plain basket and decorate it with crepe paper and flowers and then fill it with popcorn, candy and other goodies.  Then they would take the basket and sneak up to some unsuspecting friends house, put the basket on the door step and yell, "May Basket" and run.  The person then had to try to catch those who were involved in hanging the basket.  For some of you, this might bring up some memories. 

Howard and Colleen Laser in their new condo

Recently we have had some of the members of Paul's Sunday School class move to a new locations.  Gail got the idea of hanging a may basket on them and giving them a house warming gift. So we gathered some other members of the class for the event. We were invited in and given a tour of their new dwelling.  At this time we also prayed a blessing over them and their new home.  As a part of the adventure they shared with us their popcorn and candy from the basket.

Dick and Rhea Butler at Grand Court

We found this to be a great time of fellowship and heard many good stories about the down sizing process each of them had to go through as they moved from a much larger dwelling to a smaller condo or apartment.  They were still dealing with boxes in the garage and looking forward to being settled.

Helen Mitchell just moving into Grand Court

The opportunity to hang a may basket on these friends brought us great joy.  However, we can have lasting joy by being in the presence of the Lord.  The verse above states that at His right hand are available pleasures evermore.  This isn't some fleeting happiness that is here today and gone tomorrow, but we can have a basket full of lasting joy. 

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

THREE AMBITIONS

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands. 
         I Thessalonians 4:11a

A day in our quiet neighborhood is a far cry from what is taking place in Baltimore. It appears that none of these mandates from the Apostle Paul have been followed by the protesters and anarchists very recently in the largest city in Maryland. If they had sought direction of the above verse there would not have been any burning of buildings, destroying of property, or injuries.

When Paul was growing up he lived on a farm that promoted hard work, which many of the young people growing up today don't have that opportunity. Baling hay, milking cows, planting crops, cleaning the chicken coop, and mowing a huge lawn my hand were a few of the responsibilities that fell on Paul. Also being involved in 4-H provided many opportunities to see the rewards of hard work.

Today was a beautiful spring day with the sun shining and the grass turning lush with green. Patsy and Penny enjoyed lounging in the soft grass and sunshine this afternoon while we worked on mulching the hostas garden. It seemed so good to be out in the spring air and enjoying the physical activity which creates sore muscles and aching backs. Even though we are very tired it's a good tired.

Look for Patsy and Penny.

Our challenge is to take inventory of your life using I Thessalonians 4:11a as a guide.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy, and Penny

THE WIND BLOWETH

And the rain descended and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not:  for it was founded upon a rock.                    Matthew 7:25

For at least two days the wind has been blowing very hard, ringing our wind chimes constantly.
Our neighbor, David Mowrey, said that he thought the winds exceeded fifty miles an hour yesterday.
In Atlanta, our daughter, Rebecca, said they had high winds with hail sending them to the basement.
As a result of all the wind, Paul spent a large chunk of time this morning picking up small sticks and branches in the yard so he could make way for the first mowing of the season. Often in the spring comes high winds because of the changing weather pattern. But the wind is beneficial because it helps to dry the muddy ground that the spring thaw creates.

In our culture, there are great winds that create various philosophies and ideas that cause many people to buy into them should they not be grounded in a strong moral code. The Apostle Paul writes to the church in Ephesus the importance of being grounded in their and knowledge of the Son of God and becoming mature in fullness of Christ. He goes on to say in Ephesians 4:14, "Then we will no longer be infants tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming." We need to be sure our lives and our homes are built on a solid rock which is the Lord Jesus Christ. Then we can know that the adversities of life or other philosophies will huff and puff and not blow the house down.

Make sure that your house will stand no matter what kind of wind comes along.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy, and Penny

THE GOLDEN YEARS

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?  The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?  Psalm 27:1

Today Paul had the opportunity to substitute in a fourth grade classroom.  The students were well behaved but full of energy.  This was a good challenge for Paul as he often takes a nap after lunch.  There was no nap today for him.,  It was a joy to be with the students, but it was totally exhausting to keep a lid on their energy,. 

Now that we are in our seventies, we have come to the realization that we don't have the energy we used to.  When we built out two homes, Paul would work all day and then go to the construction site and work late into the night.  This would go on week after week.  Now we generally go to bed between nine and ten o'clock.  The spirit is always willing, but the body seems to be weak. 

The Message translation of the Bible brings the reality of our situation in Ecclesiastes chapter 12.  It says, "In old age, your body no longer serves you so well.  Muscles slacken, grip weakens, joints stiffen." 

Most importantly our strength comes from the Lord.

Blessings and encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

PALM SUNDAY TORNADO

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He chose for His inheritance. 
Psalm 33:11-12

Fifty years ago this coming Saturday will be the anniversary of the Palm Sunday tornadoes that swept through the Midwest. Locally, two tornadoes forty-five minutes apart hit the Devil's Lake area doing extensive damage to homes and out buildings as well as leaving a death toll of eleven people. At that time there wasn't the warning system there is now so people were not prepared for the devastation that took place. Recently we heard a gentleman by the name of Don Cherry speak at the historical museum about the tornadoes and the book he has written regarding the Palm Sunday disaster at Devil's Lake.

At that time, Paul was single and living west of Adrian on Beecher Road with his parents. He was finishing his senior year at Adrian College. On that Sunday his brother and finance were on their way to Jackson after spending Palm Sunday with the family. After they left the weather turned very windy with lots of rain. We had no idea what was transpiring just a few miles from the house. Meanwhile, Paul's brother was heading directly into the tornado. However, when he reached Rome Center they decided to take a different way to Jackson and went towards Onsted of heading directly to Devil's Lake. A few miles down Onsted Highway the wind from the tornado was so strong that it picked up Paul's brother's car and dropped it in the ditch and at the same time sucking out the rear window. Fortunately neither of them were injured and after a period of time a farmer came by on a tractor and pulled them out of the ditch. During this time neither Paul nor his parents had any idea what had transpired. All of a sudden they heard a car pull in the driveway and his brother came running in the house exclaiming that Devil's Lake had been hit by a tornado and they also had been thrown in the ditch. We had no realization of the devastation that took place that evening.

The very next day Gail had an opportunity through her job to accompany the Adrian City Engineer in a flight over the Devil's Lake area. She could not believe the wide area of destruction with trees and homes flattened. It was hardly recognizable.

Seeing this made her realize how temporary things can be. Within the blink of an eye all that man holds dear can be destroyed. But, in God's Word we realize that His plans stand forever. It speaks in Scripture that we are to store up our treasures in heaven where it will not be destroyed because things here on earth are temporary but things in heaven are eternal.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy, and Penny

VACATION - NOT

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts. to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.  Colossians 3:15

By the first of March we were getting all excited about our trip to California to visit our son, Roger.
We already had our plane tickets scheduled for March 17th and were beginning to plan our itinerary while there. At this end there were many things to keep us busy until our departure including subbing, hosting our church's evangelist, working on a painting, and helping to organize a Lenten breakfast hosted by our church. This event was held on Wednesday, March 11th, and the following day Gail began to come down with flu like symptoms. By Sunday she was feeling so bad that she called the doctor who prescribed some medication in hopes that Gail would feel better. However, after taking the medication, she not only continued with coughing and congestion but developed intestinal issues as well. With the plane flight less than 36 hours away Paul suggested that she stop taking the medication in hopes that things would settle down.

On Tuesday, March 17th we flew to San Francisco by way of Seattle and met our son in sunny California. But, even with the sun and 80 degree temperatures Gail's illness progressively got worse. By Thursday we found ourselves in the emergency room trying to get some answers as to what could be done to relieve the illness. She was given some medication which she reacted to adversely. So, by Saturday we were back at the emergency room still trying to get some answers. A strong antibiotic was prescribed which only made matters worse. By Monday we were back at the emergency room was completely packed with at least 80 people. We waited almost six hours and finally after 10:00 p.m. we decided to leave without seeing a doctor. There was a real dilemma as our flight was scheduled for Tuesday, March 24th. No way was Gail able to fly on that date. Our only solution was to call our daughter Christiane who frequently flies Delta Airlines, which was the airline we were flying. She had a special phone number she was able to call and with very little trouble she was able to change our tickets to a direct flight on Saturday, March 28th. Even better than that, she was able to do it at no charge. Fortunately, Gail was able to fly home on that date and was so glad to be home. Christiane suggested that a wheelchair be available at both airports for Gail's convenience because she was too weak to walk any distance. That was truly a blessing.

Many times in life things don't turn out as you have planned them. This was one of those times that all the activities that we had planned during our stay were scrapped, and we basically spend the entire time in Roger's townhouse. The weather was spectacular as the sun shined everyday with the temperature in the 80s. Roger was truly a saint during this entire time as he never complained or made any indication of his disappointment. He had even taken the entire week off from work just to spend time doing things with us. It was not in the plans to visit the emergency room three times. We keep wondering why God allowed all of this to happen, but we just have to trust and to believe that He is able to bring good from all things.

We were hoping to have several beautiful pictures of California to show with our blog but this is the best we can do.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

WAITING

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.
                                                                                                                          I Thessalonians 4:16-18


Already, in spite of the piles of snow, there are reports of a robin sighting here and there. Those that have returned are probably wondering if they made a mistake and should head back south. There's no way they can get through the snow to find any food so they must rely on the bird feeders to help carry them over until the snow melts. However, realizing robins are beginning to return and listening to the chorus of birds in the morning makes us anticipate that spring is just round the corner. We've heard people more than ever say that they are anxious for spring to come especially when we understand that this past February was the coldest on record.

Robin on a warm spring day

 

There are definitely signs that clue us in on the ushering in of spring. Gail often says she can smell spring in the air. Of course, the sighting of robins and the daffodils and crocuses poking their green stems out of the ground on the south side of the house foretell that spring is at hand. The Bible gives us very clear clues as to the soon return of Christ. There are several places in the New Testament that describe the things that will take place just before our Savior comes back. As we eagerly await the coming of spring we as Christians anticipate Christ's return.  It is imperative that we are ready because we don't know the day or time this will take place.

Daffodils and crosuses poking their heads through the snow

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy, and Penny

HABAKKUK

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.  Habakkuk 3:17-18

This past Sunday we had a wonderful morning worship service in our church.  Even though our pastor did not preach, the Spirit of the Lord was definitely in the sanctuary.  Of course the service contained worship songs, but there were many other facets to the worship time.  A baby dedication took place as we witnessed a couple dedicating their two daughters to the Lord.  The grandparents are in Paul's Sunday School class, and they were so excited and happy for this event in the life of their family. 

The church brought in a number of new members.  It was especially moving because one of those who became a member was born into an atheist family.  The Lord certainly has moved in both her and her husband's life.  They are a young couple, and I'm sure the Lord is going to use them mightily in the years to come.  Along with the baby dedication and the induction of new members, there was also a baptismal service.   Some younger children were baptized followed by two men who were probably in their 30s.  To hear the testimony of these two men was extremely moving.  The Lord has worked in their lives in a marvelous way. The verses that were shared by one of the young men is the passage that is quoted above.  It just thrilled our hearts to see these younger people taking these giant steps in their Christian faith.  The service concluded with communion which is always a very sacred time.

May we continue to see young people making a strong commitment for the Lord and growing in their Christian faith.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

NEXT GENERATION

And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, according to all that his father Amaziah did. 
2 Chronicles 26:4

The above verse tells of the influence of a parent on the next generation.  We influence our children in many ways whether for good or not so good.  Many times they are influenced more by what we do than by what we say.  Little did we know that our daughter, Christiane, had such an interest in pursuing art as a hobby.  Of course, her mother has been knee deep in the art world for many years.  In the past few years Christiane has picked up a brush and begun putting oils to canvas.  Her style is totally different than Gail's, but it has a uniqueness of its own.

Christiane is ready to paint.

This past weekend the two of them decided to do some painting together.  Paul put together four large panels for her to paint on as she likes to paint big.  She flew in Saturday morning and by mid-Saturday afternoon they were beginning to do their thing.  They spent the rest of Saturday, all day Monday and most of Tuesday painting together.  Obviously this was a great mother-daughter time as they painted and chatted the whole time.  This also gave Gail an opportunity to share some of the tricks of the trade with Christiane, which she made their time together very valuable and meaningful.  By the end of the day on Tuesday Christiane had completed a painting that was 76" x 80".

Christiane just beginning her creation.

Doing things together, such as creating with mother and daughter, will foster memories that will last a lifetime.  They can't wait for the next opportunity to paint together.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

SNOW ANGEL

He hurls down his hail like pebbles.  Who can withstand his icy blast?  Psalm 147:17

Life certainly has a way of bringing twists and turns into your everyday activities.  Things were going along quite well last week when Paul walked into the high school office of Lenawee Christian School and was informed that he had been "challenged".  Apparently Donna Baker has challenged Paul to make a snow angel or pay money to the scholarship fund.  However, it wasn't that easy.  The snow angel was to be made in shorts, T-shirt and flip flops.  The immediate reaction was that a person of Paul's age should not be flopping around in the snow with such light apparel.  Just pay the money and eliminate the possibility of catching pneumonia was his conclusion. 

When Paul got home, he told Gail about the challenge, she immediately responded, "You can do it."   That was easy for her to say as she didn't have to get in the snow.  After being challenged by both Donna and Gail, what was a man to do but go for it.  So on Friday morning, Paul found a pair of shorts, grabbed a special T-shirt from his principal days,dug out a pair of flip flops, and equipped Gail with a camera.  Before he made the plunge he challenged others to do the same.  Then it was snow angel time.  Once the snow angel was completed, it was off to a nice warm shower. Fortunately, as of this blog, there has been no adverse health issues from this dive into the cold.

However, Paul received a call from his brother, Vic, in Tennessee indicating what he saw on Facebook confirmed what he knew all along.  It might have something to do with a frozen brain. 

There are challenges in life (maybe not always snow angels), but through God we can do all things.
I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.  Philippians 4:13

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

WONDERFUL NEIGHBORS

Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:  though your sins be as scarlet; they shall be as white as snow; though they be like crimson, they shall be as wool.  Isaiah 1:18

Early Sunday morning the snow began to fall creating a mantle of white as far as the eye could see.  It continued to snow throughout the day on Sunday, and it didn't subside until early Monday morning.  We discussed the reality of having to shovel the snow and thought it best to do it in stages since the weather forecast predicted at least a foot of snow. Since church was canceled, we got out around 10:00 a.m. and started shoveling before it got too deep.  We cleared the side walk and the front of the garage when our neighbor, Bruce Worlock, came over and offered his snow blower.  WOW!!!  That would sure make life a lot easier since his snow blower can move the snow at least 10 times as fast as both of us shoveling.  In just a few minutes, our driveway was clear for the time being.

Paul shoveling the walk after the snow storm of 12".

We went in to get warm and have a wonderful Sunday dinner of pork chops and mashed potatoes and all the trimmings.  After watching the U of M and MSU basketball game and taking a little snooze, Paul decided he better get out and do some more shoveling.  At least five inches of snow had already accumulated.  Paul cleared the sidewalk and was working on shoveling the patios when another neighbor, Joel Case, brought his tractor with a front end loader and blade on the back.  He offered to clear our drive as he saw Paul struggling to clear the walk. In just minutes, he had the entire drive cleared.

What a beautiful snow!!

The snow continued to fall until early Monday morning so that meant more snow to shovel in the morning.  However, we received a call from our neighbors right across the street, Rich and Alice McAfee, offering their snow blower.  So Monday morning Paul borrowed their snow blower and was able to clear the driveway in short order.  Because of these three neighbors our backs are no where near as sore as they could be. 

Neighbor Rich McAfee clearing his driveway with his snow blower.

In the past few months, we have contemplated moving, but we are surrounded by such great neighbors that we have second thoughts about making this transition to another home.  We are very thankful for the wonderful neighbors we are blessed to have.  Gail plans on making some of her special rolls to say "thanks".

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

P.S.  Belive it or not, this is blog number 150. 

NUMBER OUR DAYS

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.       Psalm 90:12

It’s hard to believe that the year just started but January is almost over.  At our age the years seem to fly by faster and faster. Another thing we have noticed is that we don’t have the energy we used to have which makes it difficult to get as much accomplished as we would like.  As a result we don’t have the productive hours that we had twenty years ago.  It seems like the day just begins and before you know it evening is settling in. Therefore, we need wisdom from on High to use our time wisely and to work wisely. We have been clinging to Psalm 90:12 to help us wisely number our days.

We have set several goals for 2015 and are eager to meet and exceed those goals. Gail is in the process of creating a painting for the 2015 ArtPrize in Grand Rapids as well as developing a body of work of her own creativity. This year’s ArtPrize project will include many members of our family contributing to the final art piece. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that the piece will be accepted in the competition. We look at it as building memories with the family.

 Paul has been busy caning a chair along with subbing at Lenawee Christian School. However, his one big goal is to begin working on a book that captures the history of Lenawee Christian School. He’s hoping to have the book completed in time for the fortieth anniversary of the school in 2017.  There will be many people to interview and many pictures to pour over that will make the story of Lenawee Christian come alive. He will be looking for anyone who might have special pictures that could be included in the book.

We encourage everyone to meditate on Psalm 90:12 and use it to help you wisely use your days. Life is precious - - - - don’t waste it.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy, and Penny

RIGHT TO LIFE

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.  Jeremiah 1:5a

Since the Roe v. Wade decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1973, there has been a call by many people to overturn this decision, which allows for the abortion of an unborn baby.  Each year people from all walks of life across the nation assemble to draw attention to this atrocity,  Some gather in small towns and villages while thousands join together in Washington D.C. to march in representation of the unborn. 

For several years now, a large group from Lenawee County begins by meeting in a local church to hear a special speaker.  During this time, local government officials are introduced who support life.  It is great to know that our U.S. Congressman, State Senator and State Representative all are 100% pro-life.  After the service at the church, everyone assembles outside and marches to the Lenawee County Courthouse.  There, further comments are made by various dignitaries along with pledges, special music and prayer.

Right To Life March

It is wonderful to see so many being a voice for the unborn.,  Because of what is being done, we are seeing a decrease in abortion clinics and in the effect of Planned Parenthood.  Our local organizations such as Care Pregnancy Center are doing effective work with unwed mothers.  At yesterday's rally the Executivc Director of the CPC stated that this past year any pregnant woman who had a 3D ultrasound did not proceed with an abortion.  The CPC also served over 1600 people this past year.  Another thing that was noted had to do with the younger generation being more pro-life than has been in the past.  Good things are happening for the unborn, but the battle will continue until the US Supreme Court decision is reversed.  Please continue to pray to this end.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

.   

PEACE

We are in very troubling times with the threat of Islamic terrorists committing evil acts around the world.  So many Christians and even Muslims are being tortured and killed by these beasts.  There seems to be uncertainty in many areas of our nation and the world.  We thought we would just share some Scripture in this blog that has to do with peace.  Even though things are out of control in this world, we can have great peace because we know where our faith and hope is.  We trust these verses will speak to you and bring you great peace.

I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.  Psalm 4:11

The LORD gives strength to his people, the LORD blesses his people with peace.  Psalm 29:11

But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.  Psalm 37:11

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.             Matthew 5:9

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I  do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.          John 14:27

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world.  John 16:33

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.            Romans 15:13

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:7

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny

MICHIGAN 2015 INAUGURATION

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.                                                                    Romans 13:1

After ringing in the new year Wednesday night, we got up early New Year's Day to head to Lansing for the inauguration.  It began with a wonderful breakfast put on by Attorney General Bill Schuette. The room was filled to overflowing with over 700 people. Once everyone was seated, the granddaughter of George Romney opened by introducing several officials and finally Bill Schuette himself. He began his statements by calling his wife and two children up on the platform, and he indicated what an important role they play in his life. It was also very clear that his faith is a very important part in his life as well. He also shared some of the goals that he has for his office, one of them being sex trafficking. His slogan is, "I'm Bill Schuette and I'm on duty."
The breakfast ended by calling up a pastor from the Jackson area who closed in a prayer of blessing.

Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette speaking at the inaugural breakfast.

Afterwards we relaxed in the lobby of the hotel where the breakfast was held since we had a good hour and a half before the inauguration would begin.  As we looked out the windows of the lobby, we could see the wind whipping the branches of the trees and a light snow coming blowing around.  This would not have caused us any concern, but the inauguration was going to be held outdoors.  After some debate, we felt it would be best to head home instead of braving the cold and wind as the event would probably last well over an hour.  We didn't want to end up from a bad cold or worse the flu.  Instead, we decided to head to the warm comfort of our home.  Later we talked with several who attended the outdoor ceremony, and they indicated that the weather was brutal.  They couldn't even feel their feet  because they were so cold.  You make think we are wimps, but we don't think we're crazy.

Attorney General Bill Schuette speaking at the 2015 Michigan inauguration.

It is so important for us to be praying for our government leaders during these very trying times. They need wisdom and direction from God.

Blessings and Encouragement.

Paul, Gail, Patsy and Penny