Two Courageous Women
(Recipe: Bean Dip)

The Bible is the best non-fiction book on the market! It has a little bit of everything within its pages. Mystery. Romance. Comedy. Intrigue. History. It has it all. I have been reading through the Bible, rather slowly I must admit. I enjoyed Genesis, the book of beginnings. Exodus was filled with watching an Amazing God do an amazing work in developing a relationship with Israel. Leviticus with all its rules and regulations. Numbers tells the story of Israel in the wilderness journeying toward the Promised Land from Mount Siani. Deuteronomy is the story of Israel’s renewed covenant with God. We all remember Joshua and the “walls that came tumbling down!” Now on to Judges, and contained within its pages is the story of men and women whom God used during Israel’s history to rescue his people from their enemies.

Women! Yes, God chose to use women to do some might extraordinary things. When God has work to do, it doesn’t matter to him whether that work is accomplished by a man or a woman. He is just looking for a willing, obedient heart. Thus, I was intrigued by the story of two courageous women in Judges 4. Deborah and Jael.

Deborah was the reigning prophetess and judge at the time. She summoned Barak and told him he was to go and capture Sisera and he would have victory over him. Reluctant Barak said he would go to battle only if Deborah would go with him. She agrees, but not before telling him that his hesitation would cost him the honor of victory. Said victory would be placed into the hands of a woman!!

Barak does indeed kill all the warriors of the enemy. But what about Sisera? Barak fails in his capture of him. However, Sisera, in trying to escape, enters the tent of a woman named Jael. She offers him refreshment and rest. Knowing he was the enemy, and as he was sleeping, Jael drives a peg through his temple and kills him. Indeed, God used a woman to give the final blow to this enemy, and ultimately kill the man God was after.

Both these women were available, unafraid of the task, and obedient in what God was asking them to do. This is the kind of woman I want to be in the New Year. One who is available when God calls. One who is unafraid to try something new. One who is obedient to the plan God has for me.

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we (you and me) are God’s masterpiece (God’s greatest piece of work). He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do good things he planned for us long ago.”

What good things does he have planned for you in 2012? Are you ready and willing to do them for God?

BEAN DIP

1 8-oz. cream cheese
1 jar of Bean Dip
1 8-oz. shredded sharp Cheddar Cheese

In 9 x 13 pan (or smaller) spread the cream cheese on bottom. Next, spread the Bean Dip over the cream cheese. Last, sprinkle with the cheddar cheese.

Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes until hot and cheese has m

HOW DO I LOVE GOD?
(Recipe: Appetizer)

December! One month left in 2011. Twenty-four days until Christmas. Fifteen days until my grandsons first birthday. Twenty days until my oldest grandchild’s eighteenth birthday. Twenty-six days until my middle sons forty-sixth birthday. Where has the time gone? This year has flown by. What have I accomplished this past year? What have I learned? What am I still learning?

Every day we learn something new. I was reminded this week that when Jesus came into the world, his first stop, before even setting foot on earth, was the safety of a mother’s womb, cradled beneath her loving heart. For nine months he dwelt in her safety and love.

For the past three years I have been doing an on-line ministry with Campus Crusade for Christ. My mission: To respond to the many emails that I receive from around the world from people wanting to know more about Jesus. To date I have spoken with over 8,300 men, women and teens.

One of the questions I am frequently asked is: “How can I love God more?” A very good question. A question perhaps we should ask ourselves often. How would answer them?

This week as I was reading through Deuteronomy I came across Deuteronomy 11:22. There was my answer to this question – and the answer wasn’t some general answer that I chose to give – it was an answer direct from God.

“Show love to the Lord your God by walking in his ways and holding tightly to him.” (NLT).

Translation: To show God how much you love Him, walk in obedience with God and don’t let go of his hand.

Think about it. When you are with that person you love, don’t you relish being close to them, holding their hand, walking alongside them, doing everything to please them?

God wants the same thing from us. If I am going to love God, if I am going to show God how much I love him, then ‘I will walk in his ways and hold tightly to him.’ Are you doing this? If not, why not start today. Let God know how much you love him by sticking close to him, allowing him to do the leading, and, in obedience, walk wherever he leads you, never letting go of his hand.

May God bless you today with a wonderful adventure of loving God.


Candied Walnut-Camembert Puff Purses

1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts
¼ cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp. minced fresh rosemary leaves
1 17.3 oz. package Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry Sheets, thawed
2 oz. Camembert cheese, cut into 32 ½ inch cubes

Heat oven to 400. Stir walnuts, brown sugar and rosemary in small bowl.
Unfold pastry on lightly floured surface. Roll pastry sheet into a 12” square. Cut into 16 – 3” squares. Repeat with remaining sheet.

Spoon about 1 tsp. walnut mixture into the center of each pastry square. Top each with cheese cube. Brush edges with water. Fold the corners, over the filling and twist gently to seal. Place filled pastries into a mini-muffin pan.

Bake 15 min. or until golden brown. Cool in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes.

Today we celebrate Thanksgiving, a tradition started by the Pilgrims in 1621 and first held in Plymouth, Massachusetts. By the fall of 1921 only half of the pilgrims, who had sailed on the Mayflower, survived. The survivors, thankful to be alive, decided to give a thanksgiving feast. That first Thanksgiving celebration lasted three days.

Thanksgiving Day is the day of the famous Macy’s parade, a tradition which began in the 1920’s. I have never seen the parade live, but I enjoy watching it from the comforts of my living room, in the warmth of my home, on TV.

I was intrigued, as I read Facebook this week, to read the things people were thankful for. Some responses: family, friends, military, home, children, in-laws, jobs. I was also surprised to note that no one said they were thankful for Jesus, who came to earth to die for our sins, assure us of sins forgiven and the promise of eternal life.

Yes, I am thankful for all the things mentioned about, but, I am most thankful for salvation which I have through Jesus. Not having been raised in a Christian home, and not hearing the Gospel preached in the church I attended as a youth, I have often wondered where I would be today if someone had not shared the Gospel with me. Perhaps still living in my eternally lost condition. Almost every day I thank God for opening my eyes to see my need of a Savior and the gift he gave to me. I thank God that he spoke to my heart and I responded to his gift of forgiveness and eternal life. Thank you Jesus!

Today as I celebrate Thanksgiving with my children, I am thankful that each of them knows Jesus as their Savior. They have made sure their children have accepted Christ as their Savior too. Each of my three daughter-in-laws know and love Jesus. What a wonderful reason to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Today, I give praise for my heavenly Father. He is the most awesome, majestic, loving, gracious, forgiving friend I have – and I just want to say, “I love you.”
Psalm 108:1-5 - "My heart is steadfast, O God; I will sing and make music with all my soul. Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise you, O Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and let your glory be over all the earth."
Happy Thanksgiving.


Sweet Potato Bread

1-3/4 cups all purpose flour
1-1/2 cups sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground nutmeg
¾ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. ground allspice
¼ tsp. ground cloves
2 eggs
1-1/2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
½ cup vegetable oil
6 Tbsp. orange juice
½ cup chopped pecans

In bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. In a small bowl whisk eggs, sweet potatoes, oil and orange juice. Stir into dry ingredients until moistened. Fold in pecans. Pour into greased 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 for 60-65 minutes or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pan to wire rack.

No Jesus, No Power
(Recipe: Italian Pasta and Bean Soup)

What an interesting week. It began Saturday October 29 when a Nor’easter came through the North East, making certain Allentown, PA was in its path! That Saturday morning began with a gentle snowfall. As it fell, the world outside became beautiful. There is something about new fallen snow as it sprinkles the ground with its white and blankets the branches in the trees. Breathtaking really.

Soon, however, its beauty turned to “oh-no” as the weight of the snow on the trees caused branch after branch to break off and land in yards all around us. It almost looked as though a tornado had gone through. The final straw came at 3:00 on Saturday afternoon when we lost power. We’ve lost power before. Normally within a few hours we have it restored. Not this time!! Forty-eight hours later we finally had power restored.

It had been a LONG time since I experienced an outage of this length. And I don’t remember it happening during cold weather. It was not fun! As I pondered how to make this a teachable experience, I was reminded of the following:

Without electricity we are helpless. All we have ever known that makes life comfortable has been taken away in the snap of a power line. Without power we had no electricity (reading by candle light is for the birds). We had no stove (how I missed my morning coffee). We had no heat (we wore layers of sweaters and wrapped in heavy quilts). We got tired of eating PB&J (the one food we did have available and didn’t need to cook). We had no TV to entertain us. No CD player to sing along with. And worst of all – NO INTERNET! (Thankfully we did have a battery powered radio so had access to what was happening in the world).

My two-day experience made me appreciate my Pioneer Fathers and how they lived (and survived) every day! Simply; unencumbered; yet with appreciation for everything they had.

As I thought about our week, I was reminded that a life without Jesus causes us to be helpless as well. Jesus gives us the power to live a successful life. (Philippians 4:13). With his power we can be a light in this dark world. (Matthew 5:16) With his power we can share the Gospel with people who are walking in darkness, facing an uncertain future. (Matthew 28:18-20). With his power we can offer food to a hungry soul (the food that comes through God’s Word). (Ezekiel 3:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:16). With the power of Jesus in our life we find he brings us joy, gives us a reason to sing, and sets our feet to dancing. (John 15:11; Psalm 30:11,12; Psalm 150:4).

Do you know this Jesus? Is his power what motivates you? Can you face the future with peace and joy; or do you face it with dread and fear? If the world around you seems dark and foreboding, why not accept the light Jesus offers. Can you face the future with peace and joy; or do you face it with dread and fear?

Meditate on these words which were spoken by Jesus in John 3:16-21- "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. "There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. And the judgment is based on this fact: God's light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants." (NLT)

How can I be assured I am walking in the light? Romans 10:9-13 – “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. As the Scripture says, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile – the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

You don’t need to walk in darkness. Jesus offers you wonderful light.

Italian Pasta and Bean Soup

1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 med. chopped onion
¼ tsp. Salt and pepper
1 thinly sliced clove garlic
6 cups chicken broth
1-1/2 cups farfallini (small bowtie pasta)
2 15-oz. cans cannellini beans, rinsed
1 14-oz. can diced tomatoes in juice
½ cup fresh chopped parsley
¼ cup grated Parmesan (1 oz.)

Heat oil in Pan. Add onion, S & P. Cook until onion softens (4-5 minutes). Add garlic, cook 1 min. until brown.

Add broth and pasta. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until pasta is tender (8-10 minutes)

Stir in beans and tomatoes. Cook until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in parsley. Serve with the cheese.

BROKEN HEART
(Recipe: Parmesan Shrimp Bake)

I must confess that I have been quite neglectful in keeping my Blog up-to-date. It’s not that I didn’t want to, I truly did. I just didn’t have the energy to be able to do this. Whenever I would try to sit and write something my mind felt like “mush”. I couldn’t put two sentences together that even made sense!

Five weeks ago I had open-heart surgery to repair my mitral valve. I had absolutely NO idea what to expect regarding surgery and even less of an idea what my recovery time would be. Boy, have I been surprised. Although I am healing nicely, the process is slow. Slower than I imagined!!

As I mentioned, my mind felt like mush. I think my biggest challenge in this five week process has been the fact that I couldn’t concentrate enough to enjoy a quite time with my Lord. Before surgery it was common for us to enjoy an hour or more together each day. Now I was lucky to be able to enjoy 5 minutes with God. But, one thing I learned through this experience. Even though I was unable to communicate with God, others were standing in the gap for me with their prayers. I also came to realize that it was OK with God if I couldn’t meet with him as I had before. He understood. He knew my heart. He knew my desire. He knew I was healing. Satan would try to have me think otherwise – feeling guilty – but God assured me we still had precious time together. It was great to realize that in my weakness, God was my strength.

Today for the first time in 6 weeks I was able to attend my church. Now please understand. During these 6 weeks I did not forget God on Sunday. I enjoyed my own church (with Dr. David Jeremiah and Andy Stanley). It was wonderful. I didn’t have to deal with the anxiety that came from being around people, AND I was ministered to by these two great preachers. But there is something about being around other believers that cannot be equaled. Today I experienced this reunion.

It was wonderful to be able to sing with other believers, pray as a body of Christ, listen to my pastor preach a wonderful message; hearing the words of encouragement from my church family. I will say my time in church exhausted me and I came home and took an hour nap! But my time in church also refreshed me. My church and church family are precious to me and I realize anew how much I miss their encouragement.

I still have a long way to go in the healing process. But I am confident that God is with me. God continues to give me strength. I am enjoying more energy and my mind has finally cleared. A Scripture verse that has always been a favorite of mine has now become even more precious to me. Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who trust on the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”

Thanks to all of you for your prayers. I am running with Jesus, learning to trust him daily as we walk this journey together!


Parmesan Shrimp Bake

1 16-oz. package farfalle pasta
6 Tbsp. butter or margarine
3 finely chopped cloves garlic
6 Tbsp. flour
1/3 cup chicken broth
2-3/4 cup half-and-half
½ cup clam juice
1 Tbsp. tomato paste or ketchup
¾ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
1 pound uncooked peeled deveined medium shrimp, thawed
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh or 2 tsp. dried dill weed
¾ c. grated Parmesan cheese

Heat oven to 350. Grease 2 qt. casserole. Cook and drain pasta as directed on package. Melt butter over medium heat. Cook garlic in butter 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in flour. Cook, stirring constantly with wire whisk until smooth and bubbly.

Stir in chicken broth, then half-and-half, clam juice, tomato paste, salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir in shrimp, dill weed and ¼ cup of the cheese.

Stir pasta into shrimp mixture. Pour into casserole. Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup cheese. Bake uncovered 35-40 minutes or until light brown and hot.

CIRCUMSTANCES!
(Recipe: Smoky Split Pea Soup)

This is a week I have been looking forward to with both dread and excitement. Dread - because I am asked to travel a road I have never been on before – open heart surgery. Excitement – because God has give me a promise, a verse He whispered into my heart; a verse I take with me as I enter the surgical doors on Friday. This is what God whispered, Psalm 23:4,
“Even though you walk through the valley of ‘open heart surgery’ you need not fear for I am with you.” Yeah!!! I’m glad I don’t have to face this journey alone. God will be there too!

Since I was unable to attend church this morning, I had “TV” church. I found it exciting that Dr. Stanley chose this morning to have as his topic “circumstances”, taken from Philippians 4:11, “……I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” He reminded me that I am to “Focus on Christ not my circumstances.” When we do this, the truth of Philippians 1:12 becomes real, “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.” The circumstances God brings into our lives are there because God wants to use them to advance his Gospel.

Dr. Stanley went on to say, “Focus on the Sovereignty of God”. God knows all. God sees all. God is in all. God says in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things (circumstances) God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” If you are God’s child, if you have been called by him, then every circumstance you may be asked to face today, or this week, or this month - has been allowed for God’s good purpose.

Finally he encouraged us to, “Focus on the positive results rather than personal gain.” Philippians 2:12 – “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed – not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence – continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.”

What do I really want to see happen through my circumstance? I want to know Jesus more. I want to live in the center of his good purpose for me. Whatever circumstance you are going through today, the end result should be the same for you - you want to know Jesus more.

When we focus on circumstances, they still do not change. Circumstances become all about “me”. But when we focus on the sovereignty of God, not only do our circumstances change, but our outlook changes because we see, not me or what I’m going through, but God and what he desires to do in and through me.

Friend, what difficult circumstance are you going through today? Will you focus on Christ? Will you focus on God’s Sovereignty? Will you refocus from self and circumstances to see the positive results God has in store for you; allowing your circumstance to draw you closer to himself in praise and worship. “Even though you walk through the valley of (circumstance) you need not fear for God is with you.” Do you believe that? I do!!

SMOKY SPLIT PEA SOUP

1 lb. green split peas, rinsed
4 med. carrots, cut into small pieces
2 med. parsnips, cut into small pieces
2 stalks celery, cut into small pieces
2 finely chopped cloves
1 large onion
½ tsp. dried thyme
2 ham hocks (about 1-1/2 lb. total)
Salt and pepper

In 5-6 qt. slow cooker combine the peas, carrots, parsnips, celery, garlic, onion, thyme and 6 cups of water, (I use 3 cups water and 3 cups chicken broth).

Add the ham hocks and cook, covered, on low 7-8 hours or on high 4-5 hours

Transfer ham hocks to plate. When cool, shred the meat. Put back into soup along with ½ tsp. salt and ¼ tsp. pepper.

FEASTING ON GOD’S WORD
(Recipe: Dutch Apple Salad

I am enjoying working my way through Psalm 119. Each day I take a section and use it to meditate on, pray over, and allow God to speak to me through what I have read. It has been exciting to have God speak to me along the journey. I was especially challenged as I read Psalm 119:97-104. Let me share this Psalm with you.

=Psalm 119:97-104=

(97) Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.
(98) Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are ever with me.
(99) I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes.
(100) I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts.
(101) I have kept my feet from every evil path so that I might obey your word.
(102) I have not departed from your laws, for you yourself have taught me.
(103) How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
(104) I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path.

What can we learn from these few verses?

-Verse 97 says we are to meditate on God’s word all day long. Meditate means to “contemplate; to think deeply about.” Do we do this? Think deeply about the words God has put in his Love Letter to us? Why would God want us to do this? Meditate – ponder – think deeply about? The remainder of these verses give us the answer.

-Verse 98 reminds us that God’s word makes us wiser than our enemies. Knowledge of God’s word causes us to make good life choices; unlike those who are an enemy to God’s word.

-Verse 99 says God’s word gives us more insight that our teachers. Throughout our life we have been taught Scripture. Through Bible studies, sermons, radio, TV…..The more we study, the more we learn. Eventually we can surpass even what our teachers have taught us – having more knowledge than them! Keep studying friend.

-Verse 100 says we can have more knowledge than our elders. Can this be? Our elders have had many years to store up God’s word in their hearts. I have elders I look up to because of their Bible knowledge – but God says if I keep studying, keep meditating, keep storing God’s word in my heart, one day I can have more knowledge than those elders I look up to. Hmmmm!

-Verse 101 tells us a knowledge of God’s word keeps us from every evil path. Truly, I want to walk down a healthy, God-honoring path and there is only one way to do this – know God’s Word! What path have you chosen for your life?

-Verse 102 reminds us that God himself with teach us through the Holy Spirit. Are you not excited to know that we have the greatest teacher of all teaching us God’s Word – the Holy Spirit! He is such a GOOD teacher too. Are you allowing Him the privilege of teaching you today?

-Verse 103 the Psalmist discovers that God’s words are sweet; sweeter than honey. I love what Ezekiel 3:3 tells us - “God told Ezekiel to eat God’s word and he replied, ‘So I ate it and it tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth.’” Do you enjoy eating God’s Word? Do you find it sweet to your taste? The next time you read God’s word ask God to fill your mouth with its sweetness; and eat until you are full!

-Verse 104 tells us that a good understanding of God’s word reveals what God hates; and if God hates it we must too.

Seems to me reading God’s word is a good thing. If you are not in the habit of feasting on this Book every day, make a new commitment that you are going to start today. Perhaps starting with Psalm 119 and taking a short section each day (there are 22 sections = 22 days). You will be blessed. You will be refreshed. You will delight the heart of God.

DUTCH APPLE SALAD

2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp. sugar
1 egg
1 cup milk
2 large Golden Delicious apples, chopped
2 large Red Delicious apples, chopped
½ cup finely chopped celery
½ cup seedless red grapes, quartered
½ cup chopped walnuts (toasted, if desired)

In a small pan, combine flour and sugar. Whisk the egg and milk; stir into flour mixture until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Put in small bowl; cover and refrigerate until chilled.

Just before serving, combine the apples, and celery in large bowl. Drizzle with dressing; gently toss to coat. Sprinkle with grapes and walnuts. Serves 8

EARTHQUAKE!
(Recipe: Orange Tapioca Salad)

EARTHQUAKE! What do you mean an earthquake here on the East coast of all places? I was at my table having lunch when I heard this news over the radio. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Then my husband said, “Yes, my desk at work moved and my computer was shaking” and we live in Pennsylvania!

I immediately thought of the verse in Matthew 24:7-8 where Jesus, along with his disciples, were on the Mount of Olives speaking with Jesus privately. They were asking “what sign will signal your return and the end of the world?” One comment Jesus spoke seems appropriate for today when he said, “Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come.”

We are in the beginning of those birth pains!!

Truly our world is in chaos. Could one of the reasons be because we have forsaken the God who loves us? We have taken him out of all that is good. People want to do their own thing. Things which bring pleasure to themselves – forget God. One day we know that God’s patience will cease and we will know the fury of his anger. God says in Amos 3:10 – “My people have forgotten how to do right, says the Lord.” Certainly this is true of our nation.

We need to be praying for our nation, its people, and our world to humbly come back to the God who loves them. Read through the book of Amos. We can learn some wonderful lessons from this man of faith. Amos tried to warn the people. They would not listen. Amos 7:14-16, “But Amos replied, “I’m not a professional prophet, and I was never trained to be one. I’m just a shepherd, and I take care of sycamore-fig trees. But the Lord called me away from my flock and told me, ‘Go and prophesy to my people in Israel.’ Now then, listen to this message from the Lord.” But they would not listen.

God used a humble man like Amos, untrained, uneducated, to speak to a lost nation. He can use you and me as well. God speaks these words in Amos 8:11-12, “The time is surely coming,” says the Sovereign Lord, “when I will send a famine on the land – not a famine of bread or water but of hearing the words of the Lord. People will stagger from sea to sea and wander from border to border searching for the word of the Lord, but they will not find it.”

America is experiencing a famine – of hearing the words of the Lord. But God is calling you and me who believe the Gospel message to share the Good News of hope, peace and joy. Will you do your part to turn our land from a land of spiritual famine into a land that bows down and worships the Almighty God? It might mean taking you out of your comfort zone. Truly, it was for Amos, but he remained a faithful servant. I want to be that kind of faithful servant – do you?

ORANGE TAPIOCA SALAD

3 cups water
1 package (3-oz) orange gelatin
1 package (3.4 oz) INSTANT vanilla pudding mix
1 package (3 oz.) tapioca pudding mix
1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, DRAINED
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, DRAINED
1 carton (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed

In saucepan, bring water to a boil. Whisk in gelatin and pudding mixes. Return to a boil, stirring constantly; boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and cool completely. Fold in oranges, pineapple and shipped topping. Spoon into a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. Yield 12-14 servings.

GOD IS ALWAYS GOOD
(Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff)

We have all heard the saying, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going.” This has been my experience this week. I don’t know how “tough” I am, but I have a feeling I am about to find out. Having not felt well for a number of weeks, I finally went to the doctor. He did an EKG. You know you are in trouble when your doctor says “oh-oh”. I said, “Is that a good oh-oh or a bad oh-oh.” He replied, “We have a new problem.”

He said, “you have A-Fib.” Not exactly the words I wanted to hear. He immediately sent me to my cardiologist who confirmed his suspicion. A-Fib (arterial fibrillation) a rapid and irregular heartbeat. They scheduled a Cardioversion (shocking the heart back into rhythm), along with a TEE (internal echocardiogram). This was done last Thursday. After shocking the heart three times, the procedure proved to be a failure.

Disappointing news to say the least. But, the doctor went on to explain because they had done the internal echo they discovered my Mitral-Valve was leaking more seriously than they realized, which caused the A-Fib, which meant I would need open heart surgery to repair/replace the valve.

As I lay digesting the news, I couldn’t help but smile as I contemplated the goodness of God, even in this difficult situation. Had I not been feeling well, I would never have gone to the doctor and we would never have discovered the real problem. My Mitral Valve Prolapse had taken a turn for the worse. God is so good!

In the next few weeks/months my faith is going to be tested. I have a feeling God is smiling as he says, “OK, Marilyn. Let’s see what you’re really made of. Let’s see if all your years of teaching My word to others will prove to be real in your own life.” I believe God is good and powerful; loving and kind; gracious and good; and is and always will be my Jehovah Rapha – my Healer. He continues to be the Great Physician, the Good Shepherd, my Savior, and this week it is my privilege to teach 20 moms for DVBS this truth about God. Yes, God is good. What I am about to experience is simply a “bump in the road” and bumps don’t hurt all that much!!

God’s word continues to be my source of strength, and my cry to him continues to be the words of Psalm 95:1-3, “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the Lord is the GREAT GOD, the GREAT KING above all gods.”

So, friend, whatever trial you may be facing in your own life today; persevere. God is in control. He will walk the journey with you. You can trust Him!!

SLOW COOKER BEEF STROGANOFF

2 pounds beef stew meat
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of golden mushroom soup
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of onion soup
1 jar (6 ounces) Green Giant® sliced mushrooms, drained
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
1 container (8 ounces) sour cream
6 cups hot cooked noodles or rice

1. 1 In 3 1/2- to 4 1/2-quart slow cooker, mix beef, onion, soups, mushrooms and pepper.
2. 2 Cover and cook on low heat setting 8 to 10 hours or until beef is very tender.
3. 3 Stir cream cheese into beef mixture until melted. Stir sour cream into beef mixture. Serve over noodles.

WHEN CHANGE COMES
(Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream Cake)


I have been teaching through the book of Ruth in my home Bible study. I love this little book. Although very little of God is mentioned in the book, God is vividly portrayed throughout its pages.

A few years ago when Paul retired from District ministry, I also left my post as the DS wife. I remember sharing with the other pastors’ wives a devotional from this book. I used the acronym CHANGE for my message. Ruth was the perfect book for this as there were certainly many changes that took place in her and Naomi’s life. Let me share these thoughts with you.

C – Contentment. In the beginning of Naomi’s life (as well as Ruth) they were women who enjoyed contentment. They were content in their surroundings, their family, their relationships and where God had placed them. Life seemed to be good.

H – Heartache. Then they were asked to endure some heartache. First Naomi’s husband died. Then the husbands of Ruth and Orpah died; who were Naomi’s only sons. None of these women were prepared for this kind of heartache. Not only did they lose the love of their lives, they lost the men who provided them security.

A – Accepting a new plan. Alone and frightened these women had to make a choice that would drastically change their circumstances. Naomi was returning to her homeland. She encouraged Ruth & Orpah to return to their homeland as well. Naomi was insistent they do this. Orpah agreed; Ruth did not. She accepted a new plan for her life. Rather than return to Moab and the land of idols, she returned with Naomi to Bethlehem.

N – Nothing but God. Ruth had come from a very idolatrous country. Having lived with Naomi and Elimelech; being married to their son Mahlon, and being taught about the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Ruth fell in love with their God. She had come to depend on him. Trust him. Love him. And when heartache entered her life, she confessed she wanted to follow him no matter where he took her. She said to Naomi, “Your God will be my God.” If God was enough for Naomi, God was enough for her and her future was safely in His hands.

E – Enjoying God’s blessings. Truly, with God in your life you have no need for anything else, and with God in your life, he keeps pouring out blessing upon blessing. This was true for Ruth. Within God’s plan for her life, she found the right field to glean barley in. When the owner saw Ruth working, he was taken with her character and showed her kindness. The field she chose was owned by a near relative (although Ruth did not know this). When confronted with the possibility of becoming her Kingsman-Redeemer, he did not hesitate. Ultimately Ruth and Boaz were married. A son was born to them. Naomi was overjoyed. God’s blessings continued throughout many generations. It was through their son Obed and the lineage to follow that our Savior, Jesus was born.

Does God have some changes taking place in your life today? You can trust him. Through heartache or joy, let God be at the center and He will see you through. Don’t run from CHANGE in your life; embrace it as an exciting adventure you and God will go on together.

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER ICE CREAM CAKE

4 cups rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies)
6 oz. semisweet Chocolate, chopped
¾ cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
3 pints chocolate chip or other ice cream

Place cereal in bowl. In small pan, combine the chocolate and peanut butter. Cook over low heat, stirring until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth (about 2 minutes). Add the chocolate-peanut butter mixture to the cereal and mix to coat. Spread into the bottom and 1-1/2 inches up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Freeze until set, about 10 minutes.

Let the ice cream soften at room temperature just until spreadable, about 10 minutes. Spread ice cream evenly into the chilled crust and freeze until firm – 4 hours and up to 2 days.

INDEPENDENCE DAY
(Mamie Eisenhower’s Million Dollar Fudge)

As I stand at my kitchen window I can see the fireworks display coming from a local park. I love the noise, the beauty in the shower of lights, the excitement – all to celebrate July 4th – our Independence Day, which has been celebrated every year on July 4 since l776 – 215 years ago.

Independence Day honors the birthday of the United States of America and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. It's a day of picnics and patriotic parades, a night of concerts and fireworks, and a reason to fly the American flag.

In July 1776, the estimated number of people living in the newly independent nation was 2.5 million.

Today, the nation's estimated population on this July Fourth is 311.7 million.

We claim our Nation is ‘The Land of the Free’ – and it is. Yet I’m afraid we take our freedom for granted. Yet this should not be. Freedom always comes with a cost. Many men and women have given their lives so this country might remain free. We are deeply indebted to each one of them. Without their sacrifice, this Nation and our lives would be very different.

To be “free” is defined this way - “enjoying personal rights or liberty, as a person who is not in slavery; a land of free people”.

Every day we enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness because we are not enslaved to bondage or slavery. We are a free people.

As Christians, we are indebted to the One who was willing to sacrifice His life so that we could be free from slavery to sin. Jesus went to the cross and died for you and me. If he had not done this, where would we be? Still living a life enslaved in our sin. Still living a life which offers no joy or peace. We would have no hope, and no assurance of eternal life. But Jesus did die. He willingly gave his life. He became our sacrifice for freedom; just as men and women have done in the past.

On this Fourth of July, I want to thank these brave young people who sacrificially gave their lives so this Nation might remain free. Thank you.

I want to thank God’s Son, Jesus, who sacrificially gave His life on the Cross at Calvary so this sinner might be free from slavery to sin. Because of Jesus I can enjoy freedom from the bondage of sin and have assurance and hope of eternal life.

Are you enjoying this same freedom? I truly hope so. If not, ask Jesus to show you how you can experience the joy of being free from the bondage of sin.

Romans 5:6-8 – “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this, While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Romans 10:9-10 – “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”


Mamie’s (Eisenhower) Million Dollar Fudge

4 1/2 cups sugar pinch of salt 2 tablespoons butter 1 tall can evaporated milk 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate bits 12 ounces German-sweet chocolate 1 pint marshmallow cream 2 cups nutmeats

Boil the sugar, salt, butter, evaporated milk together for six minutes.

Put chocolate bits and German chocolate, marshmallow cream and nutmeats in a bowl. Pour the boiling syrup over the ingredients. Beat until chocolate is all melted, then pour in pan.

Let stand a few hours before cutting. Remember it is better the second day. Store in tin box.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!
(Recipe: Apple Blueberry Pie)

He didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.
-C.B Kelland

I had no idea when or how Father’s Day began, so I did a little research. Perhaps this is something you did not know either.

Father's Day started in 1910 and is credited to Sonora Smart Dodd from Spokane.

The story is that she got the idea while listening to a Mother's Day sermon in church. The June holiday is recognized for being the birth month of Dodd's own father, who raised six children after their mother died in childbirth.

The event received almost immediate support, including that from William Jennings Bryan, President Woodrow Wilson and later by President Calvin Coolidge, who recommended it for national holiday in 1924. It wasn't until 62 years after its origin that it became a national holiday by President Richard Nixon.

It could be debated that the holiday started as early as July 5, 1908, when Grace Golden Clayton suggested to her Fairmont, WV congregation that the 250 fathers killed, including her own, in the nearby Monangah Miners Disaster in December of 1907, be honored.

Because of the many events that take place within the same holiday timeframe, this event was not promoted well. It didn't pick up momentum or gain awareness outside of Clayton's community to catapult into the modern holiday that we celebrate today.

The white and red rose was made the official flowers for Father's Day celebration. While the white rose commemorated gratitude for a father, who was deceased, a red rose expressed thankfulness to one, who was living.

And now you know!

To all dads everywhere, thank you for your part in providing for your family. You are the tower of strength to your wife and children – at least my husband has been for our family – thank you. God bless each of you.

"The greatest gift I ever had
Came from God, and I call him Dad!"
~~Author Unknown.

Apple Blueberry Pie

3/4 c sugar
3 tbsp. cornstarch
1/2 tsp. salt
5 C. apples, peeled and sliced
1 C. blueberries, fresh if possible
1 tbsp. lemon juice
1 unbaked double pastry shell (or make your own pie crust)
2 tbsp margarine
Double-Crust Pastry for 9" pie

In a large bowl, stir together sugar, cornstarch and salt. Add apples, blueberries and lemon juice; toss to evenly coat the fruit.

Turn into pastry lined 9" pie plate. Dot with margarine. Add top crust; seal and flute edge. Bake in a 425 degree oven until crust is browned and filling is bubbly.

WHAT GOD SAYS ABOUT ME
(Recipe: Coconut Macaroon Brownies)

Recently my husband and I attended a retreat. it was an awesome few days away, especially since the retreat was held on the beach! There is something magical about standing on the ocean’s shore and looking out at the massive expanse, amazed at God’s creation.

Our speaker for those few days was challenging. Made us do a lot of soul searching as we spent time alone with God, and discussed together as a group. During one of our sessions he had us look at a list of things that God says about us. We all know God loves us. We are forgiven. We are part of his family. As I looked over the list we were given, I stared in wonder and humility at all the things God says about us – about me – and realized anew how very much God loves me and how very special I am to him. Let me share some of these awesome thoughts with you as well, for you to ponder and think about. (taken from Neil Andersons’s ‘Bondage Breaker’)

I AM ACCEPTED
a. I am God’s child – John 1:12
b. I am Christ’s friend – John 15:5
c. I have been bought with a price; I belong to God – 1 Corinthians 6:20
d. I am a member of Christ’s body – 1 Corinthians 12:27
e. I am a saint – Ephesians 1:11
f. I have been adopted as God’s child – Ephesians 1:5
g. I am complete in Christ – Colossians 2:10

I AM SECURE
a. I am free forever from condemnation – Romans 8:1-2
b. I cannot be separated from the love of God – Romans 8:35, 38-39
c. I have been established, anointed and sealed by God – 2 Corinthians :21-22
d. I am a citizen of heaven – Philippians 3:20
e. I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind – 2 Timothy 1:7
f. I am born of God, and the evil one cannot touch me – 1 John 5:18

I AM SIGNIFICANT
a. I am the salt of the earth – Matthew 5:13-14
b. I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit – John 15:16
c. I am God’s temple – 2 Corinthians 3:16
d. I am a minister of reconciliation – 2 Corinthians 5:17-20
e. I am God’s co-worker – 2 Corinthians 6:1
f. I am God’s workmanship – Ephesians 2:10
g. I can approach God with freedom and confidence – Ephesians 3:12
h. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength – Philippians 4:13

If you are a child of God through faith in His Son Jesus then you are a SOMEBODY! In God’s eyes you have much worth. Take time to thank God for his awesome thoughts toward you.

COCONUT MACAROON BROWNIES
1 cup soft butter
2 cups white sugar
4 eggs
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 cups four
¾ tsp. cream of tartar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup chopped walnuts
4 cups unsweetened flaked coconut]
1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 Tbsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 350. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla. Combine the flour, cream of tartar and cocoa; stir into the egg mixture until well blended. Fold in walnuts. Spread half of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Make the middle layer. In a medium bowl, stir together the coconut, sweetened condensed milk and 1 tablespoon vanilla. Carefully layer this over the chocolate layer in the pan. Top with the remaining chocolate batter. Spread to cover evenly. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes in the preheated oven, until top is no longer shiny. Cool in the pan before cutting into bars.

HOPE
(Recipe: Fruit and Spinach Salad)

I was conversing with a friend this past week. We were talking about our walk with God. What we have been learning about God. What God seems to be saying to us. Her comment was, “I keep thinking about HOPE. That is a powerful word, and yet a word of mystery.”

As I thought about it, I would have to agree with her. How do you define hope, really? The dictionary defines it this way, “to desire something with confident expectation of its fulfillment.”

Wow! Confidently expecting what I desire to be fulfilled. I was then reminded of Psalm 34:4 which says, “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

Desire means, “to have a longing for; to wish or request.”

I am getting the sense that what I desire and what God desires for me are two different things. God desires me to delight myself in him, long for him, put my hope completely in him. When I do this, everything else seems to fall into place perfectly.

Psalm 130:5, 7 says, “I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope. O Israel, (you could add your name), put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love, and with him is full redemption.”

As I hope in the Lord, I am fully expecting God to love me unfailingly. As I hope in the Lord, I fully expect his full redemption.

Yes, hope in the Lord is a good thing. Psalm 147:11 reminds us, “The Lord DELIGHTS in those who fear him, who put their HOPE in his unfailing love.”

And my all-time favorite verse, Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope (to desire something with confident expectation of its fulfillment)….those who hope in the Lord WILL
a. renew their strength
b. will soar on wings like eagles
c. will run and not grow weary
d. will walk and not be faint

An old hymn expresses these thoughts on hope well:

The Solid Rock

My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on His unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale my anchor holds within the veil.

His oath, His covenant, His blood support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.

When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found,
Dressed in His righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne.

Chorus: On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

On what is your hope grounded this morning? On the temporal hope of the world, or on the hope that comes through knowing Jesus, through studying and obeying his Word? If you’re feeling hopeless, open God’s word and let God minister to your heart today; with confidence expect God to turn your hopelessness into hope.

Fruit and Spinach Salad

1 pound fresh spinach, torn
4 cups whole strawberries, sliced
1 11-oz. can mandarin oranges, drained
1 star fruit, sliced

Ginger Dressing:
1/3 cup lemon juice
2 T. olive oil
2 T. sugar
¾ tsp. ginger or 1 T. minced fresh gingerroot
2 tsp. grated lemon peel

Arrange spinach and fruit on salad plate. Mix the dressing well. Drizzle over salad. Serve immediately. Serves 4

MEMORIAL DAY
(Recipe: Strawberry Smoothie)

We are celebrating Memorial Day Weekend – but what exactly does that mean. For many it is a weekend with an extra day off from work. It is a time of watching the Indy 500 race, enjoying a BBQ with family and friends, perhaps a day at the beach – or just plan relaxing.

As a little girl growing up in Illinois I remember Memorial Day (or Independence Day) as being a day to celebrate the many who gave their lives for our country. Our little town would host a big parade to honor both the living hero’s and the deceased. Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, the military – all marched proudly through our city streets. As a Girl Scout I enjoyed this march, smiling and waving my American flag as we walked by the crowds of people, who cheered enthusiastically. The parade would end at our county cemetery where a moving ceremony was held. Poppy flowers, a symbol of the day, were seen all over our city. Many proudly wore them in their hair or tucked into their lapel.

At the conclusion of our parade, and ceremony, families gathered at our local park where we united in a picnic with neighbors, friends and strangers (who fast became our friend). As folks gathered around the table, the men told tales of their days in battle, while children listened with fascination at what they were hearing. Truly, Memorial Day (and the sacrifice) was understood by all.

Before the evening would conclude, a favorite hymn was shared by all. Perhaps a hymn we don’t sing much anymore, but one that is still dear to me (and perhaps to you as well).

MINE EYES HAVE SEEN THE GLORY

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord,
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored,
He hath loosed the fateful lighting of His terrible swift sword –
His truth is marching on.

I have seen Him in the watchfires of a hundred circling camps,
They have builded Him an altar in the evening dews and damps
I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps –
His day is marching on.

He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never sound retreat
He is sifting out the hearts of men before His judgment seat;
O be swift, my soul, to answer Him! be jubilant my feet!
Our God is marching on.

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free,
While God is marching on.

Glory! glory, hallelujah! Glory! glory, hallelujah!
Glory! glory, hallelujah! His truth is marching on.

As you celebrate your Memorial Day Weekend, please remember those who have sacrificed their lives so that we can celebrate our freedom.

STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE

1 cup fresh strawberries, rinsed and hulled (or frozen strawberries, partially thawed
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup frozen cranberry juice concentrate
2 ice cubes, crushed
1 tsp. sugar

Combine strawberries, buttermilk, cranberry concentrate and crushed ice in a blender. Cover and blend until smooth and frothy. Sweeten with sugar (if desired). Serve immediately

MOTHERS
(Recipe: Sour Cream Coffee Cake)]

Today we celebrate Mother’s Day. Even though my mother is no longer living, she was a great example to me. I often find myself doing things the way she did them and have to smile at the impact she had in my life. I smile when I see my boys repeating what they learned from me with their own children. I am especially grateful my boys know and love Jesus – and it is a joy to see them instilling these same values into the lives of their children.

I came across this little story and thought it appropriate to share with you today, Mother’s Day.

My little boy came into the kitchen this evening while I was fixing dinner. He handed me a piece of paper on which he had been writing. So after wiping my hands on my apron, I read it. This is what it said:


For mowing the grass….$5.00
For making my own bed this week … $1.00
For going to the store….$.50
For playing with baby brother while you went shopping….$.25
For taking out the trash …..$1.00
For getting a good report card….$5.00
For raking the yard…$2.00
My allowance……$14.75

I looked at him standing there expectantly, and a thousand memories flushed through my mind. So I picked up the paper, and turning it over, this is what I wrote.

For the nine months I carried you, growing inside me….No Charge
For the nights I sat up with you, doctored you, prayed for you….No Charge
For the time and the tears; and the cost through the years….No Charge
For the nights filled with dread, and the worries ahead….No Charge
For advice and the knowledge, and the cost of your college…No Charge
For the toys, food and clothes and for wiping your nose….No Charge
Son, when you add it all up, the full cost of my love is….No Charge

Well, when he finished reading he had great big tears in his eyes. He looked up at me and said, “Mom, I sure do love you.” Then he took the pen and in great big letters he wrote …. PAID IN FULL. (By Georgy)

Proverbs 17:6 says, “Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children.”

Enjoy every day God gives you with your children and your grandchildren. Those years fly by much too quickly. I know. My oldest son will be 48 this year! God bless.

Sour Cream Coffee Cake

1-1/2 C. sugar
¾ cup soft margarine
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda
1 cup sour cream
1 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1-1/2 tsp. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350. Beat sugar, margarine and vanilla till light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time. Mix flour, baking powder and baking soda and add to sugar mixture alternately with sour cream, beat after each addition.
Mix pecans, brown sugar and cinnamon. Spoon half of the pecan mixture into greased tube pan; top with half of cake batter. Repeat layers.
Bake 55 – 60 minutes, till toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Loosen cake, invert on cooking rack; gently remove pan. Cool completely.

Jesus, My Guide
(Recipe: Key Lime Dessert)

I heard a message this morning in church on “Choices”. It is our choice whether we will follow Jesus down the narrow road which leads to eternal life; or the wide road which leads to eternal death. Herod Antipas (Mark 6:14ff) took the wide road. His life ended in destruction. The sermon was a reminder to me that I must make sure I am letting Jesus be the one who guides me every day; making the choice to allow him to lead me on the narrow road.

Over the weekend I spoke at a women’s seminar. It was held in a tiny, country church in western Pennsylvania. We opened the event with a time of worship. I found their song selections refreshing for each song they sung was an old hymn – something we don’t sing all that often anymore. As I was thinking about these two events – the message and the old hymns – a song I used to sing when we were ministering on Staten Island came to mind. It is a wonderful reminder to me of the importance of following Jesus anywhere he would lead us. Letting Jesus be our guide through life. I would like to share this wonderful old hymn with you. May it be your prayer for your future as well.

ANYWHERE WITH JESUS

Anywhere with Jesus I can safely go; Anywhere He leads me in this world below;
Anywhere without Him dearest joys would fade; Anywhere with Jesus I am not afraid.

Anywhere with Jesus I am not alone; Other friends may fail me, He is still my own;
Though His hand may lead me over dreary ways, Anywhere with Jesus is a house of praise.

Anywhere with Jesus I can go to sleep, When the darkening shadows round about me creep;
Knowing I shall waken never more to roam, Anywhere with Jesus will be home, sweet home.

CHORUS:
Anywhere! Anywhere! Fear I cannot know;
Anywhere with Jesus I can safely go.

Psalm 73:23-26, 28 – “Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever….But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.”

Key Lime Dessert

Preheat oven to 350
1 package Oatmeal Cookie Mix
½ cup butter
2 can sweetened condensed milk
¾ cup lime juice
2 8-oz. containers of cool whip
2 6-oz. Key Lime Pie Yogurt
1 Tbsp. grated lime zest
½ cup strawberries
green food coloring, if desired

Put cookie mix into a bowl. Cut the butter into it until it is crumbly. Press this mixture into a 9 x 13 pan. Bake 10-12 minutes, until golden brown. COOL.

Beat milk and lime juice until thick. Remove 1 cup of the cool whip from one container and fold the rest into the milk mixture, yogurt and food coloring. Mix well. Spoon into COOLED crust. Cover and refrigerate. Garnish with a dollop of cool whip and fresh strawberries.

Walking in Fellowship
(Recipe: Pistachio Dream)

This past Sunday, April 10, I celebrated my 70th birthday. A new decade!! I thought this new number might depress me, but actually I find it rather exciting. To think God has allowed me to live these past seventy years. I had to ask myself, “What have I accomplished during those years?” Would God be pleased?

As I was reading through Genesis again I was reminded of some words found in Chapter 5. Genesis 5:1ff gives us the genealogy from the time of Adam to Noah. In this lineage we find that Enoch was born. Verse 23 -24 says of Enoch, “Enoch lived 365 years, walking in close fellowship with God….” It was one of those “ah-ha” moments. I said to myself, “that is what I want to be remembered for. That I walked in close fellowship with God all the years God gives to me.

Fellowship is defined this way: “friendly relationship; companionship.”

I can think of no other person I want to have a friendly relationship with, or be a companion of, then God. If we are walking in fellowship with God, and he is our greatest companion, what would that relationship look like?

We would love God with all our heart, all our soul, all our mind as he instructs in Mark 12:30. We would be deeply in love with this wonderful Companion.

We would love our neighbor as our self, as God instructs in Mark 12:31. Our life would show others how much we love Jesus, our Companion.

Our worship would be sweet for we would "worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness." Psalm 29:2. Worship is NOT about me, or what I like. It is about the person of Jesus. When I worship I am experiencing sweet fellowship with my Great Companion.

Fellowship is found through talking. Who doesn’t enjoy talking with their best friend? Why wouldn’t we want to talk to our best companion? 1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us, “Never stop praying.” We can never talk to God too much. He loves to hear from us.

These are only the tip of the iceberg, but it is a reminder to me how I want to live out the remaining years of my life. I want to walk in close fellowship with God – in all areas of my life. Is this your desire as well? Read Genesis 5:23-24 again only this time put your name and your years in the verse. If God had penned this verse for you, would it be true – that you walk in close fellowship with God? Think of ways you have done this, or ways you need to work on so this might be true of your life.

PISTACHIO DREAM

1 cup flour
½ cup soft margarine
½ cup chopped fine walnuts

Mix together well (will be crumbly). Spread into a 9 x 13 pan and press into pan. Bake at 325 for 25 minutes. Cool completely.

1 large tub of cool whip
1 cup powdered sugar
1 8-oz. softened cream cheese

In a bowl place 1-1/2 cup- cool whip, powdered sugar and cream cheese. Beat until smooth. Spread carefully over the cooled crust.

2 INSTANT packages of Pistachio pudding mix
3 C. milk

In bowl, combine these two ingredients. Beat well according to package directions (at least 2-3 minutes). Pudding will be soft-set. Spread over cream cheese. Refrigerate 20 minutes. Cover with cool whip – enough to adequately cover the pudding. Cover and chill.

Follow Jesus Example
(Berry Tossed Salad)

I have spent the past two weekends speaking on the subject of evangelism; more specifically, following in the steps of Jesus and doing what he would do. Over and over again I quoted 1 Peter 2:21 which says; “For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.”

As we walk through our daily life we are to follow the example of Jesus and walk in his footsteps. What would this walk look like? We get a glimpse of this walk as we continue in 1 Peter 2.

vs. 22 – “He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone.” Only Jesus was perfect when it came to sin. We are all sinners, in need of a Savior, however, once saved, it should be our desire to walk away from sin and walk in righteousness, as Jesus did.

vs. 23 – “He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.” How quick are we to retaliate when we are insulted or threaten revenge when things don’t go our way? Our actions may not be severe, but how many times have we gotten angry and said things we should not have. Are we walking in the steps of Jesus, following His example when others treat us harshly? Are we content to let God be our judge for us?

vs. 24 – “He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed.” Thankfully, we will never be asked to walk in Jesus’ steps when it comes to the Cross. Jesus did it all. Jesus walked that lonely walk for us. But Jesus does tell us in Luke 14:27 – “And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple.” If we want to be one of Jesus’ disciples, complete submission is what Jesus wants from us, even if it means going to our death. Are we willing to carry our cross and walk as a faithful disciple of Jesus, walking in His steps?

vs. 25 – “Once you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.” Have you found this to be true in your life? You wandered away from God. You wanted to do things your own way, which brought disaster into your life. But one day, thankfully, you turned to Jesus and found joy and peace and forgiveness. Are you now willing to let Jesus be your example and walk in his footsteps until such a time as you are called home? May God help you to be able to “walk in his steps.”

Berry Tossed Salad
• 1 package (10 ounces) ready-to-serve salad greens
• 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
• 1 kiwifruit, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
•
Creamy Raspberry Dressing
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon raspberry vinegar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 2-1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 2-1/2 teaspoons seedless raspberry jam
• In a large salad bowl, combine the greens, strawberries, kiwi, onion, feta cheese and almonds. In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients. Drizzle desired amount over salad and toss to coat. Serve immediately. Refrigerate any leftover dressing. Yield: 8 servings.

I Won't Let Go
(Recipe: Cracker Barrel Carrots

Last Sunday while visiting our church in Clearwater, Florida, the pastor spoke from the book of Job. It was a powerful sermon entitled “Why Should I Keep Believing?” – especially when things seem to go wrong for me. He closed with the following poem, and I share it with you. As he so aptly said, hang on to Jesus – Don’t let go – no matter how rough the seas or rocky your boat.

I Won't Let Go

I want to let go, but I won't let go.
There are battles to fight,
By day and night,
For God and the right—
And I'll never let go.

I want to let go, but I won't let go.
I'm sick, tis true,
Worried and blue,
And worn through and through,
But I won't let go.

I want to let go, but I won't let go.
I will never yield!
What! Lie down on the field
And surrender my shield?
No, I'll never let go!

I want to let go, but I won't let go.
May this be my song:
"Mid legions of wrong—
Oh, God, keep me strong
That I may never let go!"

Author Unknown

Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots.

2 pounds fresh baby carrots,
1 tsp. salt,
1 Tbsp. brown sugar,
2 Tbsp. margarine.

Rinse carrots and place in a 2 qt. saucepan. Pour enough water in pan to just cover the top of the carrots. Cover and place on medium heat. Bring to boil. Turn heat to low and simmer 30-45 min, until carrots are tender when pricked with a fork. (Test carrots at 20 minutes). When carrots start to become tender, pour off half the water and add salt, brown sugar and margarine. Place lid on pan and cook until completely tender but not mushy. Serves 6

GIVE HIM PRAISE!
(Recipe: Chicken Salad)

Greetings from Florida! My husband and I came down on Thursday and will be here a week or two. The weather is beautiful. So much nicer than the cold and snow we left in Pennsylvania. Love sitting on the beach. We enjoyed a wonderful worship service at our favorite church here in Clearwater. Life is good!

I am going to divert from my “Alphabet Scriptures” and share a Psalm God put on my heart this morning. It is Psalm 148 and I was struck with the simply beginning which says – “Praise the Lord.” Instructions follow as to who or what is to Praise the Lord. People are to praise the Lord – or they are suppose to – but I was amazed at what else God’s Word says regarding praising Him. Let me share this with you. Psalm 148:

vs. 1 – Praise the Lord from the heavens – Think about it, the heavens Praise the Lord!
vs. 2 – Praise him, all his angels and heavenly hosts –Angels give Praise to God.
vs. 3 – Praise him sun, moon, shining stars - I wondered how these might praise the Lord. Then
it occurred to me. Every time they shine in the heavens they are Praising the God who
created them.
vs. 4 – Praise him you highest heavens and waters about the skies – the clouds praise him. I
don’t think I will look at clouds the same way again. Every one of them – as they
move across the heavens – are Praising the Lord!
vs. 7 – Praise the Lord from the earth you sea creatures – Earth and sea life give praise to the
Lord. Next time you see a dolphin jumping from the water – think of him as Praising
the Lord!
vs. 8 – The heavenly elements praise the Lord – lightening, hail, snow, winds – all Praise their
Creator. And we thought snow was a nuisance!! Actually, God is delighted with his
creation. He has given it to us for our enjoyment to remind us of who He is.
vs. 9 - Mountains, hills, trees – all Praise the Lord. When I see a tree swaying in the breeze, I
am reminded “that tree is giving Praise to God.”
vs. 10 – Wild animals, cattle, small creatures and birds – All, in their own way, praise the Lord.
Every song a bird sings is his way of Praising the Lord.
vs. 11 – Kings, princes and all rulers on earth are to praise the Lord …..
vs. 12 – Young, old, men, women, children are to praise the Lord. I’m afraid God might be disappointed with these last two categories. We might be quicker to blame God than
we are to give him praise. How many times this past week have you stopped to simply
Praise The Lord!! Belt out your song to God! Perhaps this week can be a week in which
you, along with all Creation, gives a heartfelt PRAISE TO THE LORD!

Chicken Salad (for sandwich or salad)

4 cups cubed, cooked chicken meat (preferably chicken breast)
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. paprika
1-1/2 cups dried cranberries
1 cup chopped celery
2 green onions, chopped (scallions)
½ cup minced green bell pepper
1 cup chopped pecans
1 tsp. seasoning salt
ground pepper to taste

In medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, paprika and seasoned salt. Blend in dried cranberries, celery, bell pepper, onion and nuts. Add chicken, mix well. Season with pepper to taste. Chill 1 hour.

DELIGHT!

I was on a women’s retreat last weekend with my church ladies. What a wonderful experience! One hundred seven women spending time in laughter, fellowship, studying, and fun. The speaker was great, the food delightful, and my roommates the best! If I were to describe the entire weekend with one word it would be the word – DELIGHTFUL!

Delight means, “something that gives great pleasure; to enjoy” - - Yep! That describes my weekend.

As I continue with my Alphabet Scriptures – we come to D – and, you guessed it, my word is “delight or delightful”.

We use this word easily. “The food was delightful.” “It is a delight to know you.” “I can’t remember when I did anything so delightful!”

What does God’s Word have to say about this word, and how are we to apply it to our life?

When it comes to reading Scripture God’s Word says, “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” (Psalm 1:2). Is God’s Word something that gives you great pleasure as you read it?

How are we to respond to our salvation? “Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation.” Do you delight in your salvation?

Psalm 37:4 reminds us to, “Delight yourself in the Lord….” How well do we do this? Do you enjoy sitting in the presence of Jesus? Does being there bring you great pleasure? He should be the first person we encounter every day.

Does God ever show delight toward us?

Proverbs 12:22 says, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.” If we want to bring delight to the heart of God, let’s be people who are truthful – in everything.

2 Samuel 22:1 begins, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.” King David then goes on to say in verse 20, “He (God) led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.” (NLT). Isn’t it great to know that God delights in us – delights to keep us safe – delights to rescue us when we need rescuing. No wonder He is my rock, my fortress and my savior.

How should I respond to others?

1 Corinthians 13:6 tells us, “Love does not delight in evil…”. There is evil all around us, yet God says we should not delight in it. God is the final judge. God will reprimand evil. We don’t have to.

Romans 12:10 reminds us, “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.” (NLT). Whom could you show genuine affection to, and honor today? This week? In whom could you show your delight?

This being Valentine’s week, I’m certain we could find someone or Someone in whom we can take extreme delight!

Marilyn’s Chili

2 pounds ground beef, browned
2 cans dark kidney beans, not drained
2 large cans (29 oz.) tomatoes, (puree and diced)
½ large green pepper cut into small pieces
½ large red pepper cut into small pieces
3 stalks celery, cut into small pieces
½ large onion, diced
salt and pepper to taste
¼ tsp crushed red pepper
2 Tbsp. sugar
¼ cup parmesan cheese
3 slices American cheese
chili powder to taste

Mix all into a slow-cooker and cook 6-8 hours.

COMPLAIN OR REJOICE

SNOW! Lots of snow. We woke up to 10-12 inches here in Pennsylvania. Arrrrrrhhhhh. More shoveling (well not for me, but for my husband). Rather than awake and say “oh my, how beautiful” the first words are usually, “Oh great. More snow. More shoveling. I hate winter!!”

I thought about what I could use as my Alphabet letter for C today. Then, it dawned on me!!

Why is it we complain over things we have no control over? The amount of snow we get. The fact that kids are home and don’t have school. “Why can’t the schools be open” we complain. “The kids have already lost enough school days.” What else have you complained about this week? Your health? Your job? Your circumstances?

Jesus said to the people, who began to murmur as they disagreed with what Jesus told them, “Stop complaining about what I said.” (John 6:43). I think Jesus would give this same advice to us today. “Stop complaining about what I am doing.”

Complain means “to express grief, pain, or discontent; to make a formal accusation or charge.” Have you stopped to think that most of the things we complain about we are expressing a complaint toward God? “God, why are you doing this?” is what we are really saying.

I was reminded recently that when God brings something like a 12” snowfall to my neighborhood, this is pleasing to God. He is sitting in heaven and thinking “My, what beautiful snow this is. My handiwork is something for Me to enjoy. See how I layer it on the trees. See how the sun glistens off of new-fallen snow and it sparkles. I did this. I did this for you to remember who I am. I think even the angels in heaven dance with joy at what God has done.”

But, we don’t. Remember God in the snow, that is. We think only of complaining. Scripture reminds us about this. Philippians 2:14, “Do everything without complaining and arguing.” Does that mean while shoveling snow? Does that mean when my kids are running around the house on a snow-day home from school? Does that mean when my job stinks?

Yes.

The opposite word from complain is “rejoice.” How different our day would be if we would remember this. Psalms 118:24 says, “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Note: it did not say “complain”). Philippians 4:4 tells us to “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again – rejoice!”

Got a lot of shoveling to do – rejoice! Snow is beautiful to God. Kids schedules have upset your day – rejoice. God gave you a free day to have fun with them.

Complaining aside ….. REJOICING, Here I Come!!

**********************

Beef & Bean Crock-Pot Meal

½ cup chopped onion
1-1/2 lbs. ground chuck, browned and drained
6 medium potatoes, sliced
1 can red beans, drained
1 can tomatoes mixed with 2 Tbsp. flour or 1 can tomato soup
salt and pepper
garlic to taste

Put chopped onion in the bottom of your slow cooker/crock pot. Layer with browned ground beef, sliced potatoes and beans. Spread tomatoes or soup over all. Sprinkle with seasonings, as desired. Cover and cook on low 7-9 hours. Can serve over rice or noodles. Serves 4-6.

DEFINING “BLOT”
(Recipe: Peanut Butter Apple Rings)

As I think about writing on my blog for the coming year, the idea came to me to take one unusual word from the Bible and write about it, starting with the letter A (I spoke on the word awesome last Sunday) and ending with the word Z. I like to phrase it “An Alphabet Study”. My word for today is “blot.”

When I was a little girl I could entertain myself for a long time with some old fashioned ink, an ink blotter and some paper. I would drop a little ink on some paper and then use a blotter to cover the spot; counting how many times I had to blot it before it would come clean.

Sometimes as I used the blotter, the drop of ink would take on another shape. I would then try to imagine what that shape might be. A flower. A bug. Or something else. You may be thinking, “How weird is that?” and yet for a little girl growing up in the 40’s, there wasn’t a lot to entertain myself with. No iPods, no TV, no x-box…..so we made up our own entertainment which proved to be fun.

The word blot means…. “a spot or stain, esp. of ink on paper” – “obliterate” or ”to wipe away, destroy; to erase or cover up.”

The Bible briefly mentions the word “blot”. It is found in two key passages. I quote from the NLT (New Living Translation).

Ps 51:1 “Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.”

Isa 43:25 "I—yes, I alone—will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again.”

Using our definition that a blot is a ‘spot or stain’; as well as meaning ‘erase’, I want to apply this to God working in my life. I can imagine God taking his great big blotter to erase each of our sins, blotting them out, destroying them. Both David and Isaiah plead with God to “blot out their sins”. That should be our plea as well. Our sin keeps us from a holy God, from enjoying eternity in heaven. We need to have our sin blotted out and only God can do that. Our sin is removed when we ask God for forgiveness. When we do, God forgives our sin and our sin is wiped away. Rather than having our sin weigh heavy in our life – once forgiven – we know joy and peace.

Has your sin been removed from your life? Have you allowed God to forgive you? He longs to wipe your slate clean and give you a new start. Will you let him? Remember, Jesus paid for all your sin when he died for you at Calvary. He arose to prove he was the victor over the grave. Ask God to blot out your sin, remove it, forgive it, and experience what a clean heart feels like.

Peanut Butter Apple Rings
1/3 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
4 tsp. honey
¼ tsp. ground cinnamon
1 large red delicious apple
½ cup granola cereal with raisins

Stir peanut butter, honey and cinnamon in small bowl. Peel apple, core and slice apple into rings. Arrange apple rings on serving plates. Spread rings evenly with thin layer of peanut butter mixture. Lightly press granola cereal into peanut butter mixture. Serve immediately.