Yesterday, Today, Forever-

GENTLE BREEZES BLOW

2012-01-18T14:09:00.001-07:00

Just read this in an e-mail:

It's winter here in Canada
And the gentle breezes blow
Umpteen miles an hour,
at thirty-five below.
Oh, how I love this Canada
when the snow's up to your butt,
You take a breath of winter
and your nose gets frozen shut.
Yes, the weather here is wonderful
so I guess I'll hang around,
...I could never leave Canada,
cuz I'm frozen to the ground!

Anonymous

Hi friends - it's supposed to be
-2C by Sunday!!
Heat wave!

UPDATE

2012-01-13T17:04:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Ruth from Ruth's Photo Blog

who allowed me to use this photo a long while ago.

I've put it on my desktop because

I'm looking forward to spring - full of HOPE!

I just LOVE when I see my first robin of the year!

Good news! The surgery went well and the sentinel node was NEGATIVE! Early morning had to get the radioactive injection and imaging done. Then went straight to the Day Ward for the surgery! "In layperson language, some cancers spread in a predictable fashion from where the cancer started. In these cases, if the cancer spreads it will spread first to lymph nodes (lymph glands) close to the tumor before it spreads to other parts of the body. The concept of sentinel lymph node surgery is to see if the cancer has spread to the very first lymph node (called the "sentinel lymph node"). If the sentinel lymph node does not contain cancer, then there is a high likelihood that the cancer has not spread to any other area of the body." (From Wikipedia)

The nurses at the Misericordia Hospital are just wonderful people! They took great care of me! My doctor is a fine and skilled surgeon and I'm thankful for everyone who was a part of the team! Our oldest daughter took the day off from work to drive me to the appointment, came back after I was out of the Recovery Room and when it was time drove me home. Our daughter-in-law took the 3 children in the meantime to check up on hubby at home. Such great family support!

By six in the evening I was home enjoying a cup of tea hubby made for me, with a piece of plain toast and half a banana! Then by eight I took some pain pills and hit the hay! Except for the 'normal' P-breaks, I had a great sleep! I haven't even felt like having a nap today!

Now I have to rest and heal. I've made the appointment to see the doctor in two weeks and then he'll arrange for the five weeks of radiation therapy at our Cross Cancer Clinic.

MORE GOOD NEWS is that hubby is now on new Parkinson's Disease medication and has started hormone therapy and injections for his prostate cancer. After a few days of symptoms, he seems to be feeling better - isn't complaining of back pain as much and is able to sleep between 4-5 hours.

Praising the Lord for these gifts

during what has been a challenging time of testing!

THANK YOU all for your continued prayers,

e-mails, fb messages and phone calls!

You are all such a joy in my life!

May the Lord reward your faithfulness to Him!

GIFTS OF FRIENDS

2012-01-11T18:20:00.002-07:00

I thank you for friends, my Father!

Each person you have sent into my life

Has come with a different gift from you.

How generous You are!

A word of truth, aptly spoken,

Strengthened my faltering faith.

A compassionate smile

Infused my heart with hope of survival.

Quick wit and light-hearted perception

made my heart merry; a good medicine.

Wrapped in a warm bear hug,

I could actually feel Your presence and love.

Through their faithful, fervent prayer

You renewed my faith, hope, and love.

Shared struggles and confidences confirmed

our mutual love, respect and appreciation.

Confronted in love because of deep caring,

You transformed my life!

I am grateful for these unexpected gifts,

From the hearts and hands of people I love!

Eternal blessings from You!

Please bless them too, Father, abundantly

And keep them forever in your care.

May I in turn use every opportunity

to share with them what You have given me!

Karin Ristau

UPDATE:
Hubby is now on hormone therapy and quarterly injections
for the prostate cancer
and new medicine for his Parkinson's.
He seems to be managing
as best as can be expected.
Thankful for every positive day!!
I'm heading for a repeat segmental
with Sentinel node biopsy tomorrow,
and after that five weeks of radiation therapy.

We are thankful to the Lord
for all you wonderful folks
praying for us!

Love to you all!

CHOICES

2012-01-05T06:58:00.000-07:00

Choose joy
and trust and gratitude
Choose faith
and hope; good attitude.
Choose grace
and gentleness today.
Choose light
to drive the gloom away.
Choose laughter
over sour face.
Choose love
that will all fears erase.
Choose now
relationships to mend.
Choose to forgive
and be a friend.
So keep on choosing
truth and right;
Choose justice
over power and might.
Choose lack of guile,
integrity.
Choose life in Christ
eternally.
So many choices
at your door!
Things can be
better than before!
Just you can choose
how you will be.
Let’s all choose
peace and unity.

Karin Ristau ©

A BLESSED NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

2011-12-30T19:15:00.001-07:00

Thank you for your support and prayers as hubby and I go through this difficult and challenging time with regards to our health. We know our heavenly Father will never leave us or forsake us! May God be glorified through it all! Hugs to you all!

GOD IS LOVE

2011-12-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

The residents at the nursing home

loved the English lyrics to a German favorite melody

that my friend and I sang for them.

1.
Christmas is here! Come praise and sing!
God is love!
Angels to shepherds news did bring,
God is love!
Go now to Bethlehem and see
God’s gift from Heaven for you and me!
Worship the Christ on bended knee
God is love!

God is love! God is love!
Come, worship and His praises sing for God is love!

2.
Share this Good News with all you meet.
God is love!
Don’t live in darkness or defeat.
God is love!
Jesus came of His own free will!
All prophecy He did fulfill!
How blest are we! My heart be still!
God is love.

God is love! God is love!
Come, worship and His praises sing for God is love!

3.
Let your light shine so all will see!
God is love!
He breaks the chains and sets us free!
God is love!
Give him your will, your heart and mind
Go where He leads and you will find
For you He has His best designed!
Yes! God is love!

God is love! God is love!
Come, worship and His praises sing for God is love!

Lyrics by Karin Ristau

Sung to the German Song – "Kommt Stimmet Alle Jubelnd Ein" Singvoegelein

PRAISE FOR 4th ADVENT

2011-12-18T06:19:00.001-07:00

Thanks Evelyn!

God of Grace and Surprise,

today we embrace the miracle

of the incarnation of your only begotten Son.

We stand in awe and wonder of your plan of salvation

which confounds the wisdom of this world.

Thank you for fulfilling your promise

given by the prophets of old--

the sign of reconciliation in and through Jesus, our Lord.

Help us to recognize the incarnation of your grace

especially with those who suffer,

those who are impoverished and victimized.

Enable us to stand in solidarity

with the least of our brothers and sisters in Christ,

so that the world will see in us

the good news of Emmanuel,

God-with-us,

in whose very name we pray.

Amen.

by Rev. F. Schaefer

Please remember us in your prayers

as both of us have been given

this past week

the diagnosis of having

prostate cancer and breast cancer.

We are still numb

yet God is in control

and our time is in His hands!

This world is not our home!

Another surgery for me in Jan.

and then treatment for both of us.

SONG FOR 3rd ADVENT

2011-12-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again:

rejoice!
Your kindness should be known to all.

The Lord is near.

Have no anxiety at all, but in everything,

by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,

make your requests known to God.

Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding

will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Phil. 4:4-7

PRAYER for 2nd ADVENT

2011-12-03T11:01:00.001-07:00

from Google Images

God of justice and God of mercy,

on this second Sunday of Advent

we await the glorious return of your Anointed One.

We also anticipate with great joy the celebration

of His coming in the flesh at Bethlehem.

We wait with confidence.

We trust in your mercy,

because you have promised us

through your prophet Isaiah

a kingdom under the righteous rule of your Messiah,

Jesus our Lord.

Yours will be a Kingdom of justice,

peace, and compassion.

A world without strife,

wars, hunger, and pain.

While we joyfully await your Kingdom,

prepare our hearts and minds

for your purposes here on earth.

Like John the Baptist,

you are sending us as messengers of light

into a darkened world;

may we be able to prepare the way for Christ

into the hearts of the people in our neighborhood,

community, nation, and world.

God of all nations, races,

confessions, and cultures;

in Christ you became one with us in our humanity.

Enable us to live as grace-filled people,

spreading the good news
wherever we go in Jesus name.

Amen.

by Rev. F. Schaefer

WARMTH OF THE FIREPLACE

2011-11-27T07:58:00.003-07:00

Since we no longer have
a real wood burning fireplace or gas fireplace,

I'm enjoying the fireplace our Shaw TV has to offer.

Benefits - there's no clean-up -
no creosote, no soot, no ashes!

Enjoy!

Have a fabulous 1. Advent!
HE is coming!

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,

though you are small among the clans of Judah,

out of you will come for me
one who will be ruler over Israel,

whose origins are from of old,
from ancient times.”

(Micah 5:2)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2011-11-24T10:11:00.002-07:00

May your grateful heart this day last throughout the whole year! Blessings!!

REMEMBERING THE SAINTS

2011-11-20T17:36:00.001-07:00

Before the month of Remembering draws to a close, I want to do some reminiscing and remembering of my own.

I remember my Sunday School teacher from before I even went to school, all the way back in Germany ~ Esther Laser – she was my aunt. My uncle was the Sunday School Superintendent. They had no children of their own but they loved other people's children as their own.

The pastor I had in my youth after we had moved to Canada and settled in Winnipeg, MB was Rev. Waldemar Laser. I remember a lot of his sermons, which were foundational to my faith. He and his wonderful wife Else Laser were excellent role models for us all. They were another uncle and aunt.

When I was about 17, I stayed all summer with an older couple to take care of them after they had a car accident and needed help. They were real saints - sincere, dedicated, committed Christians who had a special way of reaching out to others. Always joy and laughter in their house!

People of influence I remember were my parents who always took us to church and Sunday School; my grandparents - caring, godly, fun-loving people; extended family - a list too long to mention; older and also God-sent younger friends who truly care and amazing fathers and mothers in Christ who would stop everything they were doing to pray with you.

These are some of the saints who helped bring me to where I am today in my faith-journey. No one has written their biography! There will never be any special days of commemoration set aside to honor and remember them. No, they are just ordinary folks like you and me! Through their words, their example, their witness and faithfulness to show the grace of God, their encouragement, their love, they are my treasures and unforgettable.

Who are the saints you remember who brought you to this place in your journey of faith? We set aside one Sunday a year to remember and to thank God for all those saints down through the ages whose names may not be recorded in the church history books. The names of these people are, however, written in the Book of Life. God knows them by name! And, if you think about it and remember – they are written in our hearts and minds. What made them saints is that they were ordinary people who allowed the Light of Jesus Christ to shine through them.

What makes the difference in how we remember someone? We all have people we'd rather forget! So, it makes sense to me that if we want to be remembered as people of influence, that we need to allow the Holy Spirit to develop those same qualities and characteristics in all of us that were in Christ Jesus.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Gal. 5:22,23

Loving ~ not just to those who are nice to us ~ even our enemies
Joyful ~ even in the saddest of circumstances
Peaceful ~ peace-loving, peace-making, having peace of mind that surpasses all understanding
Patient ~ not irritated when things aren’t going the way you want them to, tolerant, without complaining
Kind ~ compassionate, considerate, caring, generous ~ without expectations, thoughtful of others
Goodness ~ believing the best, honest, decent, people of integrity, genuine
Faithful ~ even if others are unfaithful, loyal and true, trustworthy, dependable
Gentleness ~ not harshness, not loud, not angry ~ but tender, calm,
Self-controlled ~ strong in mind and will but not trying to control circumstances and others

When we are anything less than that, we diminish our own lives, and we diminish the lives of those around us. But when we live according to God's will, we end up experiencing life to it's fullest, and we bring joy and happiness to those around us. And those are the kind of people who will be remembered!

THE GIFT OF TIME

2011-11-14T18:18:00.001-07:00

Our daughter's clock collection!

Whenever a friend of mine went to visit her daughter she'd always come back exhausted! She would tell us her long list of duties ~ how many jars of peaches, pickles, pumpkins she canned, how many pies she baked, how many hundreds of cookies were packed away in the freezer, and so on and so on! It can be fun to work together and stock up for the winter, but this sounded like the drudgery of an assembly line! I never asked, but I always sensed that just once my friend would have loved to just be able to visit and not work so hard. She was not the youngest any more either! But this was their mother-daughter dynamic and I just listened, offering no advice.

It gave me food for thought. Even though our daughters didn't want or need me to do all that stuff - they are very capable wives, mothers and career women, in their own right - somehow the daily stuff all got done anyway! Our main focus, however, during my visits was always more on enjoying the depth of our relationship with each other, having fun together especially with the children and making new memories! What a blessing our two daughters as well as our new daughter-in-law are!! I love you all!

She didn’t want or need me,
To dust, do laundry, mop the floor,
Or do her annual cleaning,
Help plant the vegetables and flowers.

She didn’t want or need my help
To cook, and bake, do canning,
Or stock the freezer, fill the shelves,
Slave o’er the stove for countless hours.

She wanted me just to relax,
Put up my feet, enjoy my tea.
We’d sit and talk, we’d laugh and cry,
And have our heart-to-heart again.

She wanted just to be together.
We’d watch the children romp and play,
We’d sing and laugh, we’d tease and giggle,
Each day was different, none the same.

She wanted me to share the fun
Of bathing twins so full of life.
To marvel how God made each one
How they are precious in His sight.

She wanted me to make new memories
As with the oldest one I’d play.
We’d make a tent; we’d play with Legos,
We’d wrestle and pretend to fight.

We gazed at photos, old and new,
Reliving and remembering.
We dreamed of future things to come,
And knew God shaped our destiny.

The gift of time spent in the sharing
Was treasured more than any help.
She didn’t need what I could do,
She wanted me for me.

Karin Ristau ©

Thinking of you all! Too busy with work
and doctors' appointments to come up with a
fresh post - that's why the re-post!
Both of us are booked for surgeries
at the beginning of December.
Tests then will show what we're dealing with.
Please keep us in your prayers.
Blessings!

REMEMBRANCE

2011-11-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

Far as the straining eye could hope to see
Poppies! Such delicate and filmy blooms!
A sea of red - just as the pulsing blood
That coursed the veins of soldiers, now in tombs.

They died heroically to keep our rights and freedoms;
The right to life, to liberty, security.
Their valiant deaths must never be in vain;
Though flawed and blemished our democracy.

Pay tribute to the ranks of soldiers brave
Whose acts, courageous, daring, bold
Snuffed out their very breath!
Gone was their chance to love, grow old.

Their sacrifice none must forget!
From seasoned saint to hopeful youth,
We still proclaim what’s right, what’s wrong!
We must not fear to speak God’s truth.

For if we’re silenced, then will God our Judge
Call forth the stones to shout out loud.
Lord, for your Kingdom may we be willing to endure
And suffer taunts and jeers among the crowd.

Let us stand firm in faith and fortitude.
A sea of red flows from the Cross of Calvary.
For Christ’s own blood was sacrificed
To save mankind and set the captive free!

He gives to us eternal life, security, true liberty!
He is our God; was mortal man; He is our brother.
The only Perfect One who died to save us all.
Remember His cross – the bridge to the Father!

Karin Ristau ©

Check out our Veteran's link:

I BELIEVE - VIDEO

2011-11-06T09:41:00.001-07:00

Have a blessed Lord's Day!

THOUGHTS ON OBEDIENCE

2011-10-29T22:54:00.001-06:00

Oswald Chambers once said, “If we obey God, it is going to cost other people more than it costs us and that is where the pain begins.” Our obedience to the promptings of the Holy Spirit has a powerful consequence. It can cause someone to become upset, frustrated and to suffer inner pain. On the other hand, the result of another person’s obedience to God might also be the cause of our own pain. The purposes of God are often hidden to those involved and He uses us to affect one another in powerful ways.

Have there ever been times when you have not wanted to obey immediately because you knew that if you said what the Lord wanted you to say, it would cause another person discomfort or even emotional pain? Not obeying might have been so much easier! It would have instantly resolved the situation and brought emotional relief, but it would have grieved the Lord. If you are a parent, you have been willing to incur your child’s wrath for however long it takes, just because you have drawn the line. In the same way we may have to be willing to suffer anger, humiliation, disdain and rejection from others, just because we obeyed. Sometimes people’s rejection is God’s protection! God teaches us that He will take care of the consequences in the other person’s life; we simply do and say what we are asked to. We are not here to win a popularity contest; we are sent to fulfill His purpose for us and the other person. The peace and pleasure that comes with obedience is indescribable.

How amusing it must be for our heavenly Father, when we, His foolish child, try to make a case with Him. How patient, caring and loving He is!

“Lord, would it be ok if I did this next week or next month? I don’t think the timing is right. What if they respond badly? What will they think of me?” “What if I get fired or lose my friend?” And His answer seemed to be, “I’ll tell you when the time is right. To the other person, who doesn’t want to deal with this, the timing may never seem right. It is not important what they think of you. It is really only my opinion of you that counts after all is said and done.”

“But Lord, you know that I have so many issues in my own life that need addressing. I’m not without sin; I should not even say a thing. I don’t think I’m ready.” And He seemed to answer, “What you think of you, doesn’t matter; I’ll look after your issues the same time as I deal with the other person’s. I am in control. You’ve yielded your life to me; now prove your commitment.”

“But Father, I’m not sure my motive is pure and that I’m not doing this for personal reasons. Can’t it wait and I pray this through some more, lots more, until I’m sure of my motives?” “Your side of heaven your motives will never be perfect, ideal or perfectly pure. Don’t just pray; but obey; I’ll take care of the consequences. I’ll turn all the hurts and damages into benefits. Watch me at work. Trust me,” I sensed Him say.

For us to obediently rebuke in love, confront in love, or speak truth in love may hurt someone's feelings, but it won’t harm. It brings the kind of pain that facilitates healing on the journey to wholeness. The heart attuned to God will receive the reprimand or rebuke and will credit the proper Source. The heart attuned to God will realize that the bringer of the message wanted to obey God more than man. The heart attuned to God will respect the other person for having Holy Spirit boldness and a spirit of caring enough to confront. The heart attuned to God will recognize and learn life lessons taught through His Word, His Spirit, as well as those in the body of Christ. Hearts attuned to God will reverence the Lord, because the rebuke revealed meaning, significance and results for them; if they but listen. Stay in tune with God and obey! That’s love! That’s wisdom!

SEND THE FIRE

2011-10-22T21:57:00.002-06:00

On our trip through the prairies we saw many harvested wheat fields
receiving this treatment from the farmer.
This reminded me of a poem I wrote years ago.

Send your fire, Lord!
Like the controlled fire the farmer uses;
Bulldoze away the stubble,
deadwood and chaff of our life.
May our jealousies, gossip,
deceit and lies all go up in smoke,
Prepare our heart acre
so that the seed of Your Word
will bring fruit for eternity.

Send your fire, Lord!
Like the intense heat of the refiner’s furnace;
Get rid of the impurities,
burn away pride, fear, anger, and all manner of evil.
Transform us into the beautiful people you want us to be,
Shining as pure, unblemished gold,
reflecting Your glory.

Send your fire, Lord!
Like the powerful flame of the blow torch;
Cut through the man-made boundaries,
legalistic limitations,
and high walls we’ve erected.
Fuse in harmony, unity, and freedom all your people,
Men and women, parents and children,
That we would be one in the Spirit of love!

Send the fire, Lord!
Like the raging forest fire
that strikes with lightening swiftness;
Burn to the ground
all our self-centered lofty ideals
and reaching for the stars.
Bring forth the new growth,
the delicate flowers of love, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control,
To adorn our renewed, rejoicing heart.

Let us be on fire for you Lord!
Like the crackling blaze of a campfire
Spending itself in giving warmth,
comfort, and cheer to family and friends,
Keeping at bay the perils of darkness
And those little pesky annoyances.
Refueled by the power of the Holy Spirit
to melt the icy,
soften the hard,
and warm the weary heart;
Seeing everyone beautifully reflected
in its golden glow.

Karin Ristau

HIGH LEVEL VISIT

2011-10-17T09:43:00.000-06:00

A little cloudy and drizzly the late afternoon we drove

to Hutch Lake

to take some family photos.

I'll share on another post.

Loved the white aspen against the clear blue sky

that greeted us upon our arrival!

Tall, slender, perfect spruce

on the way to the store where our

grandson works!

Looking over the tree tops to see the

North West Territories - well, almost -

just another 120 km from here.

The sun almost ready to set!

Abbi & Aidan tossing leaves!

The long drive home - so pretty!

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-10T11:44:00.004-06:00

HAPPY CANADIAN THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-07T20:38:00.000-06:00

We had a wonderful day driving up north

to visit our daughter and her family!

I had forgotten how beautiful the trip is.

We left at 7 in the morning

and arrived about 3:30.

So thankful for a safe trip!

The weather was perfect.

Hugs and kisses when we arrived!

Had a delicious supper casserole

our daughter prepared and have

already checked out the whole town!

Wow, has it ever grown since we were

here ten years ago!

Have a wonderful week-end everyone!

We'll be enjoying Canadian Thanksgiving

with our loved ones.

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-06T18:58:00.000-06:00

from Funk's Toyota, Steinbach, MB

The van is packed.

The small bookshelf we're taking along

has the back seat all to itself.

Yes, the seat belts are fastened around it

and for extra cushioning

we've got those floor

mattresses that we use when

the kids come to sleep over,

tucked right behind the front seat.

The trunk space is full of other 'stuff'

for our daughter's family

and now only has enough room

for our personal luggage which

we'll put there in the morning.

We're planning to leave at 7:00 a.m.

It's a long day's drive

and we'd like to leave the city

behind before the morning rush.

It's all gassed up and ready to roll!

Thankful for reliable transportation.

As the Lord brings us to mind

please pray for traveling mercies

and good weather!

Can't wait to hug them all!

Thank you Lord!

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-05T21:02:00.000-06:00

A fantastic sunrise viewed from our balcony!

I could never bring myself to lean out the window

so that I would have the photo without the window frame.

So thankful for such awesome views in God's Creation!

2. Samuel 23:

“The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me;
   his word was on my tongue.
The God of Israel spoke,
   the Rock of Israel said to me:
‘When one rules over people in righteousness,
   when he rules in the fear of God,
he is like the light of morning at sunrise
   on a cloudless morning,
like the brightness after rain
   that brings grass from the earth.’

Have an awesome day!

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-04T20:10:00.000-06:00

This is the place we are moving into at the end of the month!

So thankful that both these dead birch have been removed!

Hope you're smiling; yup, that's my weird sense of humor!

When I was a manager of this manor

and another one a ten minute drive away,

I sent the request that these trees be chopped down,

as they had been dead for several years.

Every time I visited mom and dad

or came to work next door,

I had to look at these

beautiful logs for someone's fireplace

still standing,

firmly planted in the ground.

Finally, this spring they were removed!

Some things do take a while to get done

and I suppose five years was not too long to wait!

I won't have to look at them when I move in!!

I'm so happy

and thankful - God was teaching me patience!

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-04T07:02:00.000-06:00

So thankful for God's awesome creation

Love the beautiful colors of fall

the cooler nights

the geese honking overhead

preparing for their journey south

the warm rays of the sun

caressing my face

the rustling of the leaves

watching kids playing in them

remembering days of childhood

the playfulness of the wind

and the harvest swaying and dancing

the early morning fog

moisturizing the skin

and so much more

one could go on

and on

and on!

Counting my blessings!

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-03T08:24:00.000-06:00

We haven't taken a whole family photo

since this one was taken over four years ago!

Meanwhile, little Aidan joined us three years ago

and Oma Laser went to be with the Lord, a year and a half ago.

You can imagine that the adults haven't changed that much,

but the children certainly have!

I love our family!

I'm thankful for each one.

Our oldest and our youngest live in town with their families.

Our middle one and family lives a ten hour drive north of us!

Hubby and I and our son with his family

plan to head up there this week-end

to spend our Thanksgiving together.

Looking forward to a time of rejoicing,

cheerful chats,

cousin commotion,

fabulous food,

and thankful hearts!

Maybe Evi or I will take some family photos -

if we don't forget!

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

2011-10-02T11:16:00.001-06:00

So thankful for my hubby! He is a gentle, kind, and caring person! He has the most loving smile and a dry sense of humor. He prefers to be serious though! It's so wonderful to marry one's best friend and be blessed to journey through this life together. God has given us two daughters and one son; two sons-in-law and one daughter-in-law; and 9 grand next generation!

Hubby and I were in the pastorate for several years before he accepted the call to become Professor of Old Testament here in Edmonton where he taught for 30 years before retiring. We've done a fair bit of traveling together and have truly enjoyed our lives. A few months back he started having some symptoms that pointed to one possible diagnosis. A few weeks ago the neurologist gave the diagnosis of Parkinson's. Never a complainer or whiner, my sweetheart is taking this well. Shall we take only the good from the Lord and not also that what we don't like? He had already decided to stop driving a while back, realizing there was something not right. It is a huge challenge that lies before us, but with the Lord's help we'll do the best we can. We're so thankful for strength, for love, for joy each and every new day! Now with our move to an independent living manor, where help can be accessed should we need it, we are again realizing how our gracious heavenly Father leads, opens doors, and walks beside us!

THOUGHTS of THANKS

2011-10-01T06:47:00.000-06:00

This is going to be one busy, crazy busy month! We're moving!
To a little smaller 2 bedroom apartment
at the site where I work.
We'll be in place should we need to ever
access more care.
Looking forward to getting settled in.
We've already got a few boxes full and lined up.
We're still taking one week vacation to visit our children
up north for the Thanksgiving weekend.
How am I going to get through this?
I'll tell you!

MY SOURCE

How do I conquer the battles of life?
What do I do when there's discord and strife?
How do I cope when there's turmoil within?
When my soul's sad and my heart cannot sing?
Who is the source of my strength?

How do I juggle demands made on me?
Who, what and where should have priority?
How do I cope when my energy is faded?
When outlook and attitude seem somewhat jaded?
Who is the source of strength?

Where do I go to recharge my soul?
Find purpose in life, to be made whole?
How can I give, and, yes, keep on giving
To others, and make life worth living?
Who is the source of my strength?

My help comes from Jesus, God's precious Son!
Only through Him are all victories won!
His Spirit teaches, comforts and guides,
His Word is the truth in which I abide.
He is the only source of my strength.

I'm touched by His love, redeemed by His grace,
Renewed to keep giving just where I am placed.
To glorify Him is my heart's desire!
Through your Spirit, Lord, keep me on fire!
Yes, Christ is the source of my strength!

Karin Ristau

COME, FOLLOW ME! - JESUS

2011-09-28T15:44:00.000-06:00

Saw this on facebook today and wanted to share!

from Washington Window - but there was no link!

ONLY THE BEST

2011-09-21T20:55:00.000-06:00

From Google Images

Because I want what is best for my children, I can understand that my heavenly Father wants what is best for me. I have three children, who each have children of their own. They love their children and are guiding and nurturing them to love the Lord. I am blessed by them every day, even if they don’t live close to us. I delight in their successes and their victories. But… I also feel their hurts and their pains as they face difficulties and go through the valleys of life. To remove those would be to deprive them the opportunity to learn life’s lessons for themselves. Certainly it would be easier to leave difficult situations than to stay and grow in grace through them.

Yet, growing in grace is the purpose and plan of God our lives. “He gives only the best to those who leave the choice with Him,” I once read. When we know that God is on our side, we can face anything and everything. This I know, that God is for me. I rest on that promise. God wants only the best; He wants Christ to be formed in my children. That, too, is what I as a mother want for them.

That reminds me that pearls are made in a wonderful and fascinating way. The oyster literally takes the grain of sand that causes it irritation and pain and wraps it in layer after layer of mother of pearl. Instead of trying to escape the pain, it works with it until a pearl is produced. That worthless piece of sand has been the catalyst for growing a precious gem that has great value.

God gives each of us opportunities to take the people and circumstances in life that irritate us and cover them with layers of grace, layers of patience, layers of faith, layers of loyalty, layers of compassion, and layers of love. This type of work does not just happen instantly. It is a long and arduous work; but it will ultimately, perhaps years down the road, produce in us only the best. The irritant may still be an irritant, but it will have produced something beautiful and of everlasting value in our own character. Let’s seek His face until He be seen in ours.

HIS TRUTH

2011-09-13T07:15:00.000-06:00

We’ve all sinned
Fallen short of the glory of God!
No one can throw the first stone.
Know this truth
As you look at your own reflection
Perfect is Jesus alone!
By His Touch,
Imperfect, we’re cut to reflect His light,
Precious diamonds, His very own!
The process, though painful, exceedingly fine
Will make every facet to perfectly shine.
God’s purpose in this? A brilliant design!
Fits us for His kingdom, IN HIS GOOD TIME!
Sometimes it’s my turn and sometimes it’s yours,
Sometimes it’s gentle and sometimes it coarse,
Sometimes it’s subtle, yet sometimes direct,
Yet slowly, but surely it has its effect.
This cutting I thought God intended for you
Was really intended for me.
I was so dense and so blind to my flaws,
My own impurities I would not see.
It grieves God to see us all bloated with pride,
In desperate need for control,
Our grasping for power, prestige and success,
Our virtues we always extol!
He lets us make choices in our stubborn will
Confirming the foolishness of our own ways.
Shows us the heartache and pain that they bring
Stunting our growth the rest of our days.
God is not finished with you or with me,
With infinite patience He fashions each one
Every facet designed to scatter His Light
Reflecting to others His glorious Son!
Yield to His Touch!
In His wisdom and love
He will discipline us!
Make each of us perfect and whole!

Karin Ristau

OUR FATHER

2011-09-11T07:26:00.003-06:00

Be blessed today my friends and always!

LOVE THROUGH ME

2011-09-03T15:45:00.001-06:00

You, Father,
love me and accept me as I am.
Even when I have failed You,
You remain faithful.
I know that I don’t love others as You love me.
I honestly want to, but I don’t.

There are those who are very easy to love;
I have no difficulty returning their love;
The ones who encourage me, support me
Openly show their affinity and affection.

Then there are those who don’t like me,
Who have no use for me, who doubt my motives,
Who disapprove of my actions, who are critical of me
Without really knowing me in the depth of my being.

Then there are those who think they know me well,
And, of course, I never meet their expectations.
They have given me labels, and have put me in a box.
I won’t ever by loved by them, so I don’t want to love them back.

But Lord,
when I fail to love them, I fail to love you!
You have shown me once again that then I am only self serving.
Forgive me, Lord, for wanting to take the easy way out and
Only loving those who love me first.

Teach me that because You are Love
I need to allow Your love to flow through me
Unhindered by my stubborn, selfish spirit.
Teach me what it means to love
And accept others,
As You love and accept me.
Teach me that love is a commitment
To bless the other person until the end of time.

THE OLD DENTED BUCKET

2011-08-24T19:48:00.000-06:00

Read this years ago and received it in an e-mail today! Just had to share. Why should I be the only one with tears in my eyes! Hugs to you all!

Our house was directly across the street from the clinic entrance of Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore . We lived downstairs and rented the upstairs rooms to out-patients at the clinic.

One summer evening as I was fixing supper, there was a knock at the door. I opened it to see a truly awful looking man. "Why, he's hardly taller than my 8-year-old," I thought as I stared at the stooped, shriveled body. But the appalling thing was his face, lopsided from swelling, red and raw.

Yet his voice was pleasant as he said, "Good evening. I've come to see if you've a room for just one night. I came for a treatment this morning from the eastern shore, and there's no bus 'til morning."

He told me he'd been hunting for a room since noon but with no success, no one seemed to have a room. "I guess it's my face .... I know it looks terrible, but my doctor says with a few more treatments .."

For a moment I hesitated, but his next words convinced me: "I could sleep in this rocking chair on the porch. My bus leaves early in the morning." I told him we would find him a bed, but to rest on the porch.. I went inside and finished getting supper. When we were ready, I asked the old man if he would join us. "No, thank you. I have plenty." And he held up a brown paper bag.

When I had finished the dishes, I went out on the porch to talk with him a few minutes. It didn't take a long time to see that this old man had an oversized heart crowded into that tiny body. He told me he fished for a living to support his daughter, her 5 children, and her husband, who was hopelessly crippled from a back injury.

He didn't tell it by way of complaint; in fact, every other sentence was preface with a thanks to God for a blessing. He was grateful that no pain accompanied his disease, which was apparently a form of skin cancer. He thanked God for giving him the strength to keep going...

At bedtime, we put a camp cot in the children's room for him. When I got up in the morning, the bed linens were neatly folded and the little man was out on the porch. He refused breakfast, but just before he left for his bus, haltingly, as if asking a great favor, he said, "Could I please come back and stay the next time I have a treatment? I won't put you out a bit. I can sleep fine in a chair." He paused a moment and then added, "Your children made me feel at home. Grownups are bothered by my face, but children don't seem to mind." I told him he was welcome to come again.

And, on his next trip, he arrived a little after 7 in the morning. As a gift, he brought a big fish and a quart of the largest oysters I had ever seen! He said he had shucked them that morning before he left so that they'd be nice and fresh. I knew his bus left at 4:00 a.m. And I wondered what time he had to get up in order to do this for us.

In the years he came to stay overnight with us, there was never a time that he did not bring us fish or oysters or vegetables from his garden.

Other times we received packages in the mail, always by special delivery; fish and oysters packed in a box of fresh young spinach or kale, every leaf carefully washed. Knowing that he must walk 3 miles to mail these, and knowing how little money he had made the gifts doubly precious.

When I received these little remembrances, I often thought of a comment our next-door neighbor made after he left that first morning. "Did you keep that awful looking man last night? I turned him away! You can lose roomers by putting up such people!" Maybe we did lose roomers once or twice. But, oh!, if only they could have known him, perhaps their illnesses would have been easier to bear.

I know our family always will be grateful to have known him; from him we learned what it was to accept the bad without complaint and the good with gratitude to God. Recently I was visiting a friend, who has a greenhouse, as she showed me her flowers, we came to the most beautiful one of all, a golden chrysanthemum, bursting with blooms. But to my great surprise, it was growing in an old dented, rusty bucket. I thought to myself, "If this were my plant, I'd put it in the loveliest container I had!"

My friend changed my mind. "I ran short of pots," she explained, "and knowing how beautiful this one would be, I thought it wouldn't mind starting out in this old pail. It's just for a little while, till I can put it out in the garden." She must have wondered why I laughed so delightedly, but I was imagining just such a scene in heaven. "Here's an especially beautiful one," God might have said when he came to the soul of the sweet old fisherman. "He won't mind starting in this small body." All this happened long ago - and now, in God's garden, how tall this lovely soul must stand.

The LORD does not look at the things man looks at..

Man looks at the outward appearance,

but the LORD looks at the heart."

1 Samuel 16:7b

HIS LIGHT

2011-08-20T21:04:00.000-06:00

God brings to light all the evil desires
And He makes known all deceit of the heart.
For in the presence of His Holy Purity
All of the darkness must flee and depart.
He will reveal all the wicked intentions.
He will reveal the real motives inside.
For in the presence of His Power and Majesty
He will reveal all, and no one can hide.
And God will frustrate the private agendas
And He will thwart every devious plan
For in the presence of God’s Holy Will
What are the lofty plans of man?
If there’s repentance and total surrender
He’ll cleanse the soul with His perfect Light.
For in the presence of His Loving kindness
There’s healing, and cleansing, then doing what’s right.
For once we did live in the darkness of sin
But now we are bathed in the Light of our Lord!
The fruit of the Light is to live in His goodness,
Be filled with His Spirit and live by His Word.

Karin Ristau

CRITICISM

2011-08-11T08:22:00.000-06:00

No one I know likes criticism. I believe that criticism is a misunderstood concept, almost always seen in the negative light. I see criticism more as an observation, an analysis, or a discernment.

Athletes never perform to their peak ability unless they respond humbly to the critique delivered by the coach. The coach analyzes every move and helps the athlete to improve his or her performance. Sometimes the coach has to give tough love. He knows the potential of the athlete and incites him to respond positively to the criticism. He has the athlete’s best interest at heart. The athlete can chose to see what the coach does as criticism, or as encouragement, or as motivation. The coach is doing his job and helping to turn him into a top notch athlete.

In the same way, we should not be so thin-skinned that every little input into our lives is seen as negative. In my Christian walk I have been very grateful to God for those very few people in my life who were not afraid to level a word of criticism. Sometimes we become so tolerant and uncritical of the way we ourselves behave and respond that it requires someone who cares to give us a cuff upside the head.

When the criticism was first given I was hurt, insecure, even defensive. That’s probably why people didn’t dare say anything. But some dared to love me despite my wrong responses. After receiving the criticism, however, and thinking it over, I was diligently gleaning from it the truth that needed to be applied to my life. When I finally learned to open myself up to hear the criticism, especially from those who had proven to me that they actually cared and loved me, I was able to start growing.

None of us should be above criticism; even pastors require that some times. As a young pastor’s wife in leadership I received my share. One lady in particular seemed to be the self-appointed critic, leader of the opposition. She had the highest respect for me as I found out through other people, but always made sure that I knew I wasn’t the cat’s meow! God allowed her to do that so I would grow. Not that I have achieved it, mind you. I’m not done yet. I'm still a work in progress. Years later, she was most grateful to me when her husband was admitted to the nursing home where I worked and she found me to be very supportive of her in her time of need. Yes, and I even thanked her for the valuable part she played in my life.

That kind of response was only wrought through the power of the Holy Spirit. In my own strength I could not have done that. Thanks be to God.

FAITH LIFT

I'd lost my faith in all mankind!
People had disappointed me,
They’d let me down, they'd criticized,
They’d used me too! I'd realized
The only one in whom I still had faith, was me.

Yet as I pondered my position
Paid rapt attention to my pain,
I realized with a sudden jolt
I'd really been an awful dolt,
Even I could not be trusted, to have this faith in me.

I was no better than the ones
In whom I thought I could believe.
I, too, was of the human race,
Was one who God saved by HIS grace.
And now my faith rests only on the ONE who rescued me.

Karin Ristau

ABUNDANT LIFE IN JESUS

2011-08-04T16:14:00.000-06:00

Abundant fruit this year!

"I am come that they might have life,"
Abundant, full and free.
Not earthly treasures, wealth or gain,
But truth and liberty.
I am come that in the midst of strife,
They may find true and lasting peace.

"I am come that they might have life,"
And blessings from above.
Not free from thorny paths or pain,
But fullness of my love.
I am come that in the midst of sorrow
They may find real and wonderful joy.

"I am come that they might have life,"
And guidance without end.
Not loneliness, but fellowship,
I am their trusted Friend!
I am come that in the midst of darkness
They may find radiance in my light.

"I am come that they might have life,"
Abundant life eternally.
Not fear, anxiety or tears,
But life that sets the captive free.
I am come that in the midst of despair,
They may find fulfillment of their hope.

Karin Ristau©

GOOD MORNING LORD!

2011-07-29T15:58:00.002-06:00

What are we going to do today?

I know that I have my own plans perfectly laid out;
there is so much on my to-do list.

But my heart’s desire is
to follow your plans for my life.

Lord, surprise me with out-of-the-ordinary adventures.

Using my time to discover more about who I am,

trying desperately to understand the inner workings of my soul,

dwelling on my weaknesses and my need to be transformed,

is an exercise in futility.

Spending my time in discovering more about you Lord,

all your wonderful attributes,

will assuredly produce by your Holy Spirit
the transformation I seek.

Life is not about how you fit into my story,

but rather how my life fits
into the story of God with humanity.

Though each new day reveals another facet of you,

we will never exhaust it all.

You are awesome, worthy of awe!

Thank you for showing me the direction of my journey
one step at a time.

Your plans for my life are perfect.

Your provisions for the trip are wonderful.

Your promises are tried and true.

Your protection will keep me in your care.

Your power is working a mighty work in me.

Your prayers intercede for me at the Throne of Grace.

In amazement and wonder I see
and feel your loving hand

holding me,

helping me,

healing me.

Make me like Christ is my prayer.

As we journey back home, from whence I came,

I know this will be an exciting day!

ARTIFICIAL OR REAL?

2011-07-23T10:35:00.000-06:00

The pastor made comments about the lovely flower arrangements decorating the front of the church. He used them as an excellent illustration about being real! They looked deceptively real, but were in fact artificial, fake, and phony.

Not all things, or people for that matter, are the real thing. Imitations are passed off as the real thing everywhere one goes. Fake flowers and fake people can deceive us, but thankfully not for long. Counterfeit coins or counterfeit Christians – neither can be taken at face value. Being totally acquainted with the real thing, however, will give us the discernment to know when something or someone is fake! As I mulled over this picture, other thoughts crowded my mind.

In our sanctuary, there is no access to natural light streaming in through beautiful, wide or stained glass windows. Even a child knows that without natural light real plants cannot grow. The reason we don’t have too many windows is probably because we fear they would invite vandalism. What if someone left them open and it rained in? Whose job would it be to open and close them all the time? Hence the decision was made to have no windows and to use fake greenery and flowers to at least give the appearance of beauty, softening the strong lines and edges.

Without windows the bright light on the inside cannot be viewed on the outside either. We come together as a family of God to worship Him inside our beautifully designed, decorated, huge and comfortable house; but we don’t let the sunshine in or allow our light to be seen on the outside. Is there perhaps a spiritual lesson in this as well? Much more important, however, is whether this is the case in our personal life.

Do the windows of our soul allow for the Light of Jesus Christ to penetrate so that we can grow – naturally and beautifully? Do they in turn allow us to radiate that light back to the world so that they can see the works of our Father in our life? Are we real, growing and bearing fruit in our season and for eternity? Are we a joy for others to behold in all our diversity?

Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with a co-worker, I was surprised when she made the strong comment that, “religion should be a very private thing.” In an accusing tone she said that my friend and I, who were partners in ministry at that time, were so different; we were always talking about our faith, beliefs and values in one way or another, making it a normal part of every day conversation. “I like to keep my religion to myself,” she continued. “That’s like keeping the shades drawn in my house so no one can see inside. I’m a very private person and no one needs to know what goes on in my house or my heart. That’s my business only. God sees me and that’s all,” she insisted. Then, in a disapproving tone, she persisted, “The two of you never have the shades drawn. You are both so transparent about your beliefs and values in Jesus and the Bible that everyone can see the light that’s inside, just shining out there for everyone to see!” and she spread her hands wide for drama!

Noting her defensiveness and her unwillingness to hear any more of what I had to share about the Lord, my comment to her was an incredulous, “My, then I’d better make sure my windows are always washed.” This seemed to disarm her and we both chuckled.

What she meant to be insulting and a put-down has been to me a most valued acknowledgment of my role as Christ’s disciple. It never fails to cause me to ask myself if I truly am reflecting the Light of Jesus everywhere I go and with whom I come in contact on a daily basis. Am I real because I’m growing in the Light of Jesus or am I a plastic, fake, phony Christian because there is no light? I rejoiced that our windows were clean and people could see the Light of our Savior radiating in and through us; in our daily lives and in our ministry team. She still sometimes makes disparaging remarks about other Christians and I continue to pray for her.

After the pastor’s vivid picture about being real or fake, I checked my heart before the Lord. I asked forgiveness for the times I don’t allow myself to be real because of fear of what people might think. Then I was also reminded to make sure that my windows are always washed so His Light can shine through – in both directions. How about you? Any thoughts come to mind?

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.” Matthew 23:26-28

HEAVENLY DISPLAY

2011-07-19T21:40:00.001-06:00

Check this out:

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/photos/Gallery+Thunderstorm/5119281/story.html

THE KIDS ARE HERE!

2011-07-10T23:02:00.000-06:00

It's cousins week around here!

I'll be taking a two week break!

I'll try to catch up with everyone when I return

or when I have a few moments

in the evening!

Have a happy week

and

God bless you!

THANK YOU

2011-07-09T07:09:00.000-06:00

Thank you for the robin's song
That sings so sweetly in the trees.
Thank you for the warmth of sunshine
The light caresses of each breeze!

Thank you for the bright blue sky
The soothing green upon the hill!
Thank you for the fragrant flowers,
The babbling brook down by the mill.

Thank you for the love of family,
Abundant joy, each morning new!
Thank you for the joy of friendships,
All good things, God, come from you!

Thank you that you send upon us
Awesome blessings every day!
Thank you that You are my Father!
You'll never leave me, come what may!

© Karin Ristau

MY DECLARATION OF DEPENDENCE

2011-07-03T18:20:00.000-06:00

I had been wronged and mistreated,
I had been shamed and rejected
There was bitterness threatening to throttle my soul.
I’ve been sad and lonely; feeling discouraged.
Is there no escape? Is there no one who cares?
I felt I’d been dropped down a bottomless hole.
Yet, hidden away where only God sees,
In the intimate depths of my heart
I had never lost sight of His Almighty Hand!
HE brought me down, so I would look up!
He did something new and exciting!
He took all my crutches so I’d learn to stand!
I confessed all my sins, admitted my needs,
I was honest and humble, and in meekness down
On my knees, I declared my TOTAL DEPENDENCE on HIM.
My circumstances had stayed much the same,
But as I waited in patience for His leading,
I realized it’s me who had been changed from within.
God is gracious to all; His wings give safe refuge!
O taste and see that the Lord is good!
Exalting His Name, my heart soars and sings!
Faith and love became stronger, driving out fear;
Hope more steadfast, unwavering and sure!
I rejoice in the freedom this dependence now brings.

Karin Ristau©

CELEBRATING 45!

2011-07-02T10:04:00.004-06:00

Married July 2, 1966

It poured buckets and was very hot and humid in Winnipeg, Manitoba at the German Baptist Mission Church on our wedding day. Not once did the sun peek through! Showers of blessing someone said!

Our out-door photo sessions had to be cancelled. We had to get dressed up again on Sunday for the casual photo shoot at the City Park. We did have some portraits done in a studio. However, I had signed us up with a young and still inexperienced photographer and our photos had shadows and so on and so on. Not such a great start – but we took it all in stride. We had each other and that is all that mattered. So, here’s one photo from that memorable day!

The verse our pastor, my uncle, gave us to lead our lives together was Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Our focus was to be JESUS! While we don't live in the past, YESTERDAY, we love to go down memory lane to visit. We live in the present, TODAY, and experience everything it has to offer that God sends our way. We look towards the future, TOMORROW, with hope and great anticipation for someday we will live FOREVER with our Savior, Lord and King - JESUS. He is the ONE who was and is and is to come - the great I AM!

Having been brought together and joined together by our Lord, we have walked with Him a long distance now and are so much closer to home than we’ve ever been before! Ours is a long-term LOVE!!

We’ll celebrate with a lovely dinner at Red Lobster - just the two of us!

CELEBRATE CANADA

2011-06-30T19:40:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Canada!
From B.C. to Newfoundland
We want to
celebrate this day!
There never was
a land more grand!
Let’s cherish our democracy
Though threatened
morals, family, unity.
We know that we
shall always stand
Faithful and proud
on guard for thee.
We don’t know
what the future holds
For this our precious
native land.
But this one thing
I surely know
God holds this country
in His Hand.

Karin Ristau ©

A BLUE ROSE

2011-06-27T21:58:00.002-06:00

Having four visiting family members, my wife was very busy, so I offered to go to the store for her to get some needed items, which included light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags, detergent and bleach. So off I went.

I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies and headed for the checkout counter, only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man who appeared to be about sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was there. This was when he waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy, I'm over here."

It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged and also startled as he turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy, what's your name?"

"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he responded proudly.

"Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but my name is Steve."

"Steve, like Stevarino?" he asked.

"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"

"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she slowly came over from the next aisle..

"You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be a good boy and let the man pass by."

I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for several more minutes about summer, bicycles and school. I watched his brown eyes dance with excitement, because he was the center of someone's attention. He then abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.

Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me for taking the time to talk with her son. She told me that most people wouldn't even look at him, much less talk to him.

I told her that it was my pleasure and then I said something I have no idea where it came from, other than by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. I said, "There are plenty of red, yellow, and pink roses in God's Garden; however, "Blue Roses" are very rare and should be appreciated for their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a Blue Rose and if someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart and touch that rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God."

She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she asked, "Who are you?"

Without thinking I said, "Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion, but I sure love living in God's garden."

She reached out, squeezed my hand and said, "God bless you!" and then I had tears in my eyes.

May I suggest, the next time you see a BLUE ROSE, don't turn your head and walk off. Take the time to smile and say Hello. Why? Because, by the grace of GOD, this mother or father could be you. This could be your child, grandchild, niece or nephew. What a difference a moment can mean to that person or their family.

From an old dandelion! Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.

"People will forget what you said, People will forget what you did,

but people will never forget how you made them feel!"

ANONYMOUS

A friend sent me this by E-mail and I was so blessed I just had to share it. If this story blesses you today, feel free to pass it on.

DAYS OF SUMMER

2011-06-22T20:42:00.000-06:00

In the lazy days of summer

We’ll be sipping lemonade.

With the bright blue sky above us

We will try to find some shade.

We will visit sandy beaches

Cross the lake in our canoe.

In the lazy days of summer

What a joy to be with you.

We will watch the children playing,

Or we’ll sit and read a book!

We may hike and tent on mountains,

Splashing in the babbling brook.

In the evening by the fire,

We’ll sing every camping song,

We will do much outdoor living,

For our summers are not long.

We’ll enjoy the fruits in season,

And we’ll watch our garden grow!

We will gather juicy berries,

Canning jellies by the row!

We’ll have friends and family picnics!

Take a trip to far away,

Yes, our summer months are precious;

God gives joy each brand new day!

Karin Ristau

(Can be sung to the tune of "When it's Springtime in the Rockies)

MARRIED LIFE

2011-06-20T09:19:00.001-06:00

If you will daily spread a banquet feast before each other's eyes,

You’ll never have to fret or worry if either one will stray.

If every time you look at him, your face with pride aglow,

His heart is yours, you can be sure, he will not walk away.

Delicious morsels filled with praise for who he really is

A man can’t get enough of those, but they must be sincere!

A dish of gentleness, that overlooks each other's faults,

May even wean that man of yours from sports, or nuts and beer.

A glass of laughter filled to the brim with bubbly joy,

Will serve him well to chase away those ugly blues.

I bet he cannot have just one, but will come back for more.

Don’t keep him tied with apron strings, controlling all his moves.

And then together drink your love,

served with delight and playfulness,

Don’t let your children or the folks use all you have to give.

Offer it up in many different and exciting ways,

Your married life will be a blissful way to live.

Don’t serve up selfishness, or jealousy or pride

Those don’t sit well, cause allergies or even indigestion.

Serve up the milk of kindness without self-righteousness

And faithfulness will never be in doubt or question.

And don’t forget to start this feast by speaking words of grace,

Accept the gift God gave to you with grateful, thankful heart.

Then if one’s ever tempted to taste what others have to offer,

Don’t dish out blame if you both haven’t done your part.

This banquet feast is one which both must keep abounding

What feeds his soul and spirit, nurtures her heart, her life.

With bounty in your home,

you need not fear to love and cherish others,

Because you trust each other perfectly as husband and as wife.

If Christ is King upon the throne of each one’s heart,

You’re in submission to His perfect Will,

Then He will lead you, give you strength for every trial,

Then He will guide you both to live eternally upon His Holy Hill.

Karin Ristau ©

F~A~T~H~E~R

2011-06-18T16:57:00.000-06:00

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

to all the wonderful dads out there!

MY HEAVENLY FATHER

F is for the faithfulness He shows me

A for His amazing, awesome care

T for truth in tenderness He taught me

H for heart that hears my humble prayer

E is for eternal life He gave me

R is for His righteousness I wear

Put them all together, they spell F~A~T~H~E~R

A God of Love! The Only One!

MY CHILDREN'S FATHER

F is for the faith in God he taught well

A for warm affection, always there.

T is for together times of travel

H is for our happy home with prayer

E is for his energy unfailing

R is the respect he showed each one

Put them all together, they spell F~A~T~H~E~R!

A man of love! He’s Number One!

Karin Ristau ©

PS - Can't figure out why I can't post pictures nor how to fix it! Sorry!!

PENTECOST SUNDAY

2011-06-11T15:39:00.000-06:00

Sometimes the Spirit speaks

in a thunderous roar,

His Power to impart.

Sometimes He speaks

in a still small voice,

To start a blaze within a heart.

But always as He comes along one's side,

He is the Comforter, the Trusted Guide.

And as I yield my life to Him,

Confess to Him my every sin

He is so faithful to forgive,

To heal, to cleanse, new life to give.

He fills my heart with gratitude,

He even changed my attitude.

He gives great joy and lasting peace,

Abundant life which will not cease.

In daily life there's victory,

To serve Him is real ecstasy.

No longer chained! I've been set free,

To live the life He's willed for me!

The purpose of this full release?

To share the faith and never cease

To love, to pray, to praise the Lord,

To live according to His Word.

Karin Ristau©

Have a blessed Pentecost everyone!

HIRO - A DOG FOR OUR GRANDSON

2011-06-08T11:10:00.002-06:00

From Melissa's MOMents,
our daughter-in-law's blog,

where you can read the story of Aidan!

Still learning to humble ourselves

and ask for help - not easy when

you've been raised to say,
"I can do this on my own."

Check out the link where you can give

should you feel led to participate and help.

Ristau Family

http://www.siberiansnowbabies.com/service_animal_sponsorships

THANK YOU and GOD BLESS!

THANKS & PRAISE BOUQUET

2011-06-06T09:36:00.001-06:00

In the old country Ascension Day was always celebrated. Here, not at all and not even mention made of it in many churches. What a day of rejoicing that must have been for our Lord that He could finally be reunited with His Father! Just think of it!! And how long until Pentecost? Are we there yet? Just a few more days!

Our son Ken and his dear family moved here at the end of November. So grateful that after 6 months of uncertainty, no job for either one of them, the Lord provided. His dissertation studies on hold, Ken was offered a job with Mustard Seed of Edmonton as Executive Assistant. He worked during our national elections, which gave him connections so that he is also working in his spare time with the census for Stats Canada. He has also been offered a position, starting September, to teach 2 subjects at Grant McEwan College. The time of trial has been very difficult and challenging, but there is renewed hope and joy that he’ll be able to provide for his family. Praising the Lord for His provision!

Meanwhile, Melissa has been busy submitting all kinds of forms, applications and papers to access specialized help for Aidan, who is autistic. So thankful that all her hard work is paying off and programs for Aidan have begun or are underway.

Grateful that their older two are doing great in school! Not easy to adjust to a cross -country move and change schools in the middle of the year! Praising the Lord that they are bringing home achievement certificates that mom and dad can put on the fridge!!

Thankful for the beautiful flowers, blossoming trees and delicate green foliage that is a sight to behold every morning. We haven’t had it too warm yet, but I’m very content with the weather we’ve been having. Not a sun worshipper here – I burn too quickly!

Rejoicing when I hear birdsong – especially the robin’s song waking me in the morning and then signing off for the evening.

Grateful that after a week of suffering with viral bronchitis and sinusitis, I am making good progress! Pray that the Lord would return me to full strength. Praising the Lord that He is the Healer! Spent the night in the emergency room with some issues that will require follow-up with the doctor. Thankful for our oldest, an ER nurse, who picked me up and brought me home.

One of the receptionists where I work, is going in for knee surgery and I’ve agreed to take some of her shifts for the next 4-6 months just to help out. Having been sick last week it means that I’ll start later. I’m trusting that the Lord will provide the good health that I’ll need for this extra workload. I hope to be around to read your blogs, but will most likely not be doing many posts myself.

HAVE A BLESSED WEEK!

A FATHER'S LOVE

2011-06-01T17:05:00.001-06:00

Blessings to all godly men who are fathers,
not perfect, but relying totally on God's help!

A father's hands provide well for his family,

In quiet strength he leads and he protects.

Gently he guides, builds up, gives affirmation,

Each child in truth and tenderness corrects.

A father's soul is blessed with joy and gladness

He sees each one with tender eyes of love.

He finds new strength while listening, talking, praying

With God, His heavenly Father up above.

A father's heart is open wide for others.

He shares his faith and is a loyal friend.

Gives of himself in ways one cannot measure,

Is patient, kind, each quarrel he will mend.

A father's love, a precious, treasured blessing!
It gives assurance for the trials children face.

It conquers fear, gives strength for every testing.

May you always know his love, his heart of grace!

Karin Ristau©

I know it's not Father's Day yet
but feel free to use this -
just keep my name with it!
Thanks!

HIS CHILD

2011-05-29T08:53:00.003-06:00

The joy of Jesus Christ my Savior is
My source of strength from day to day.
He leads beside the still clear waters,
Restores my soul, shows me His way,
And though I weep, am tired or weary,
I will proclaim His faithfulness.
Rejoicing comes new in the morning,
Hallelujah, my heart is blessed.

His marvelous grace beyond all measure
Delivered me from sin and shame.
He sent His Light and Truth to guide me,
A new creation! Praise His name!
The gracious God’s my heavenly Father,
I am His child, called by His Name.
His boundless love endures forever,
Through all eternity the same.

The comfort of God’s Holy Spirit
Brought healing to my fainting soul.
I lift my hands to sing His praises,
Oh Lord, my God, I’ve been made whole.
With oil of joy He does anoint me,
And makes my cup to overflow.
Sweet fellowship is mine forever,
A perfect peace in Him I know.

Karin Ristau

IF DOGS COULD TALK

2011-05-28T07:34:00.000-06:00

Most interesting thing I ever saw done to a dog. by muttlutt

INVITED

2011-05-19T17:45:00.000-06:00

God loves the unlovely, gives worth the unworthy,
The folks who don’t matter to anyone.
It’s for people like that and for sinners like me
God sent to the cross His only Son.

God loves the self-righteous, the angry, the jealous,
Even those who are perfect in their very own eyes.
There’s no one on earth who is righteous, no one!
Don’t for one second believe Satan’s lies!

Christ shouted His love as He stretched out His arms
Embracing each one who would come!
Unlovely, unworthy, but saved by His Grace!
It’s at the cross that new life has begun.

Bag-ladies and bums are invited to dine
At the banquet feast at the foot of His Throne.
We may be surprised, who’ll be all dressed in white
Clothed in His righteousness, now His very own!.

Yes, there’s a place at the table for you and for me
With all our loved ones who have gone on before.
Oh my friend, come! You have been invited!
Please make the choice to walk through The Door.

Karin Ristau

SPRING CLEANING

2011-05-14T12:16:00.001-06:00

O God, my life is really an awful mess!
Is there any hope for someone like me?
I need you to come and transform this heart,
I heard you can do that, and that Your help is free!

My clothes are tattered and torn, filthy rags,
I’ve buried and hidden so much o’er the years
The closet is stuffed to the ceiling with things
Old baggage, old pain, and all kinds of fears.

O God, it is time to take out the trash
To once and for all clean this heart of mine!
That thick layer of pride should be dusted away
And my windows are clouded with jealousy grime.

Much idle talk’s been swept under the rug,
There are cobwebs of anger everywhere,
Greasy streaks of criticism mark up the walls
And selfishness clutters each room here and there.

I’ve tried real hard to clean it myself,
But I simply can’t! I’m tired, I’m weary, I’m worn.
“The blood of the Lamb will cleanse every stain,
Just give me your heart, child, and you’ll be reborn!”

Now that was an offer I did not refuse!
I opened my heart’s door and let You come in,
And the rest, as they say, is now history.
Your promise held true and You cleansed me from sin.

You do the work and I just relax
And bask in Your love, Your peace and Your grace!
That was the best decision I’ve ever made!
And, Father, I really like what you’ve done in this place.

Karin Ristau©

WOW!

2011-05-07T20:34:00.002-06:00

You’re a woman of worth
Loved perfectly by the Lord!
Be a woman of wisdom,
Your life fully based on His Word,
Be a woman of wealth,
As you store up eternal treasure!
Be a woman of warmth
Giving and loving
In bountiful measure.
In valleys, as a woman of weeping,
Discover His wellspring of joy;
With praises and singing and prayer
The works of the devil destroy.
Be a woman of wonder -
How God is working
In and through you!
Let your wisdom and wealth,
Bring glory to Him in all that you do.
Be a woman of worship,
He alone is worthy of praise!
In everything, giving thanks always,
Your voice of true freedom raise.
Let your sweet, winning smile,
Your warm, welcome heart
Show others what life’s all about!
Don’t be a woman of worries,
Or fears, frustrations and doubt.
It is through Christ
You CAN do all things,
His strength is yours
Each new day on this earth!
Let no one persuade you
To think otherwise!
You are a woman of worth!
Karin Ristau ©

MEMORIES OF MOM

2011-05-06T14:56:00.000-06:00

With the first anniversary of mom's homegoing almost upon us,

it is natural that we should remember her at this time!

Mom was born August 17th, 1919

She died, slipping away peacefully to be with Jesus,

May 17th, 2010

All of us are thankful for a praying mother

and grandmother.

This was mom's passport picture

when the family immigrated to Canada

from Germany in October of 1954.

There's no date on the photo

but I believe my parents to be in their

middle forties.

When mom and dad lived in the independent apartments

right next to where I worked,

mom spent thousands of volunteer hours

for the organization.

She made crafts and then sold them

all profit going to the Care Centre.

I believe mom was in her early to

mid eighties here.

Family was together when mom turned 85.

Dad had already passed away six years prior.

Soon after that mom had to be admitted

to the nursing home.

She loved family celebrations!

We always made sure to serve her favorite meal

KFC

with a lovely cake and coffee to follow!

Wonderful memories of a

mom who loved the Lord and did her best!

Love you mom and miss you!

EACH ONE OF US WAS BORN OF A MOTHER

THANK GOD FOR HER GIVING YOU LIFE!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

SPRINGTIME

2011-05-02T08:25:00.000-06:00

When it's springtime on the prairies
And the tulips are in bloom
When the robins sing a new song
And young lovers start to spoon
When the trees unfold their blossoms
And the gentle breezes blow
When it's springtime on the prairies,
All my love to you I'll show.

Many signs that spring is staying
Are the warmer days, cold nights.
Yes, the sun now gets up sooner
We can save electric lights.
Pussy willows by the roadside
Some days rain; yet some days snow.
Time to do the big spring cleaning;
Soon there’ll be green grass to mow.

Time for planting pretty flowers
Peas and carrots in a row.
Time to water and to nourish
So that everything can grow.
All the beauty of Creation
Once again bursts forth in bloom!
Just enjoy the days of springtime,
Summer will come far to soon!

Karin Ristau

can be sung to the tune of "Springtime in the Rockies"

BOUQUET OF THANKS & PRAISE

2011-04-27T12:07:00.003-06:00

Spring is finally arriving in our part of the world!

Had a lovely drive through the countryside

to the southern end of the province to visit
our daughter and family for Easter!

Congratulations to our son-in-law Tim
on becoming Principal at a Christian School!

He had been on one year teaching contracts for a while,
necessitating several major moves with the family –
to Central Manitoba, Southern Manitoba,
Central Alberta, Southern Alberta
and now a move to Northern Alberta starting Aug. 1/2011.
We wish them well. Now for a great place to live there!

So glad I got to visit them in every place that he worked –
sometimes in the summer months
yet other times in the bitter winter!
Over the years they’ve had interesting and challenging times
that God brought them through and have loving friends everywhere.

Their 4 children have grown quite close
and interact very well together –
as do most siblings, lol!! I’m so blessed
to watch them grow and mature!
It’s always been such a joy.
Listening to them sing together as we’re driving
home was a highlight this time!

So proud of daughter Evi who is in the middle of studies to become a Registered Massage Therapist! I had my first massage from her and she did a fantastic job! I could handle that twice a week for sure! Presently she still works with special needs children –
who will truly miss her!

Enjoyed an outing with the grandchildren on Good Friday–

stopped at a local greenhouse to enjoy the flowers!

Saw a gazillion wasps in the tree out front!

Seems because the season is late
they were amazingly busy, busy, busy – a steady hum.

Heading back home tomorrow – it’s a 6 hour trip!

Do miss hubby when we’re not together!

Praising the Lord for His love and mercy,

which is new every morning!

AFTER THE DARKEST NIGHT

2011-04-24T07:44:00.002-06:00

Sunrise!

Come - celebrate the glorious Light of His Presence.

Darkness must flee where Jesus Christ is King!

Other ‘saviors’ lie stone cold in their final resting place.

Christ Jesus arose triumphantly! Come worship, rejoice and sing!

He died!

The One who died once and for all mankind on the cross,

Shed His precious blood to cover all of my sin and shame.

I’ve been redeemed, made His own! Oh, what an awesome love!

He died also for you. Come; call on His Name.

He lives!

The tomb is empty. The angels declare, “Do not be afraid.

He is not here; for He has been raised.”

Come, see the place where He lay.”

With fear and joy they told everyone.

God, in Heaven be praised!

He will return!

This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven,

Will return in the same way as you saw Him go.

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations.

Christ will return, but exactly when, we don’t know.

But until then,

Be salt and light. Seek peace and pursue it.

Turn from evil! Do good. Show others The Way.

Honor everyone. Love each other deeply and from the heart.

Fight the good fight of faith, until that very day.

Karin Ristau©

A BLESSED EASTER TO YOU ALL!

THE OLD RUGGED CROSS

2011-04-22T12:51:00.003-06:00

My apologies, but the first video, It's Friday, but Sunday is coming

was removed from YouTube!

AT THE CROSS

2011-04-18T19:25:00.001-06:00

Alas, and did my Savior bleed,
And did my Sov'reign die?
Would He devote that sacred head
For such a worm as I?
Chorus:
At the cross, at the cross
Where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!

2. Was it for crimes that I had done
He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity, grace unknown,
And love beyond degree!

3. Well might the sun in darkness hide,
And shut his glories in,
When Christ the mighty Maker died
For man, the creature's sin.

4. Thus might I hide my blushing face
While Calvary's cross appears,
Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,
And melt mine eyes to tears.

5. But drops of grief can ne'er repay
The debt of love I owe;
Here, Lord, I give myself away,
'Tis all that I can do.
Chorus:

Isaac Watts
Chorus: Ralph E. Hudson
photo: from the net

PALM SUNDAY - ACCORDING TO PLAN

2011-04-17T08:20:00.000-06:00

visit Joyful Heart - an interesting site

to view paintings depicting happenings leading up to Easter

"A very large crowd

spread their cloaks on the road,

while others cut branches

from the trees and spread them on the road.

The crowds that went ahead of him

and those that followed shouted,

“Hosanna to the Son of David!”

“Blessed is he who comes

in the name of the Lord!”

“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

Matth. 21:8...

Wonder what thoughts

were in each heart

as they attended this parade,

jostling for a good place to see,

joining in with gathering crowd mentality,

waving and spreading branches,

possibly a time honored tradition...

"On the first day you are to take

branches from luxuriant trees

—from palms, willows and other leafy trees—

and rejoice before the LORD your God

for seven days."

Leviticus 23:40

Whatever expectations of Jesus

each one had in his heart,

Jesus himself set out to follow

only the expectations of His Father.

His purpose and mission for coming,

fulfilling ancient prophecy

by riding on a colt,

was to die

so that you and I may live

and enjoy His salvation forever!

Be renewed in your spirit

during this special season!

DANCING FOR JOY

2011-04-15T15:43:00.000-06:00

NEW LIFE

2011-04-10T21:53:00.001-06:00

Winter’s white blanket is melting away;
Warm breezes gently are blowing.
Sun sends her rays to awaken the flowers.
New life through everything’s flowing.
Robins return with their beautiful song.
Trees will be dressing in velvety green.
Blossoms abound with a heady perfume.
Everywhere new life is seen.
Just as the earth is now filled with new life,
Christ can bring cold hearts the newness of spring.
For a life that awakes from the ice frost of winter
Will blossom, bear fruit, be a beautiful thing!

Karin Ristau

A re-post from when I first started blogging! It fits well for this time of year!

APRIL - AUTISM AWARENESS

2011-04-09T13:43:00.001-06:00

Just sharing with you, my blogfriends, our dear daughter-in-law's post
where she shares the story of our youngest grandson, Aidan!
That's him trying to pull his sissy's hair!

We sure need to get an updated photo
of hubby and me with our grands!

Enjoy!

MELISSA'S MOMENTS

TOUCH WOOD AD

2011-04-07T21:51:00.003-06:00

THEY'RE BACK!

2011-04-04T18:11:00.000-06:00

The goose and gander are back and have set up house

on the building across from us!

So fun to watch their coming and going!

Love the flying Vs overhead!

Spring is here! Let it still snow now and then, but it's here to stay!

“As long as the earth endures,

seedtime and harvest,

cold and heat, summer and winter,

day and night will never cease.”

Genesis 8:22

HAPPY LORD'S DAY

2011-04-03T09:17:00.002-06:00

A to Z about me

2011-04-01T13:43:00.004-06:00

Liked this list of questions over at
Betty's place, A Glimpse into mid-life.

Age – LXVI

Bed size – KING

Chore you hate – Ironing – avoid it as much as possible!

Dogs – a stuffed one named Puddles who lives with one of the grandgirls now.

Essential start of your day – shower, breakfast and then devotions with hubby

Favorite color – any shade of purple

Gold or silver – still love my gold rings and a few necklaces

Height –5’8” in my youth but have probably shrunk by now!

Instruments I play (or have played) – Recorder in my youth; was given 3 months of accordion lessons and learned to play for the church music group on my own; piano – self taught, definitely not by ear; organ – self taught; can tune a guitar but not play it.

Job title – Volunteer Services Manager/Recreation Attendant for 20 yrs.; then Manager of two independent housing apartments and Homecare Coordinator of both; then retired and now Pastoral Care Assistant – all for the same organization.

Kids – Two daughters, one son, two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law and 9 grands!!

Live – in Canada after moving here from the old country – Germany - in the last century - ’54 to be exact!

Mom’s name – Erna. Hey, what about dad’s name? Heinrich

Nickname – don’t have one – oh, unless I can use what hubby calls me – HONEY!

Overnight hospital stays – Gallbladder surgery; three maternity stays; one miscarriage stay; knee surgery; heart arrhythmia.

Pet peeve – people who complain ALL the time!

Quote from a movie – "There’s no place like home!”

Right or left-handed – Right

Siblings – I have a younger brother and a younger sister. Though they will always be younger than me, they are much older now than they used to be. Laughing out loud – my silliness is leaking through!

Time you wake up – more often than not I awake at 5:55 – I kid you not!

Underwear – Always cotton and boring white or boring black!

Vegetable you dislike – just can’t think of one – possibly gumbo!

What makes you run late – It would be highly unusual for either one of us to ever be late. I know that it is fashionable, but I feel it is not respectful of the other person’s time. So, if I’m late start worrying and send a search party!

X-rays you have had done – chest, abdominal, ankle, back. Maybe I should have had my head examined too!

Yummy food you make – Beef Rouladen – my family’s fav!

Zoo animal – Last time I was in a zoo the kids were youngsters! I do love watching all animal shows on National Geographic – does that count?

Thanks Betty!

BOUQUET OF THANKS & PRAISE

2011-03-28T08:30:00.002-06:00

Thanks Irene from Academy Florists for use of your photo!

Check this out on the budding of flowers!

Praising the Lord that our dear daughter-in-law is healing from her unbelievable ordeal last weekend for which she had to stay in hospital 5 days. She was not in a private room, but in one with four other women. I didn’t realize we still had such units in some of our older hospitals. Most everywhere it is either private or semi-private. Melissa was so grateful not to have to be alone – waiting for tests and test results can be disheartening. Her hubby, our son, was with her almost the whole time. One of the other ladies in the room came over to pray specifically for Melissa! What a comfort and a blessing!!

Thankful for those who pay a kindness forward! Another lady was already being discharged, but because she had asked many questions and found out that Mel’s work permit has not yet been processed – some papers were misplaced - and our son has not found a job yet either after 4 months of being back here and sending out countless resumes, she wanted to give the two of them a gift! Mel gave her their home address and phone # so they could keep in touch. How surprised they were when the lady showed up at their home after Mel had been released to give them a wonderful financial gift. Tears of joy as you can well imagine for God's provision even when we think we've been forgotten!

Thankful for our health care system – wonderful doctors, nurses, and all other care and professional staff! Can’t imagine how much a hospital stay, as well as doctor’s and procedure fees like this one, would have cost elsewhere, but the family will not be charged a penny.

Thankful that God will provide a job - in His good timing. Mel has had several offers, but they could not hire her until her work permit comes through. Ken's main focus is still in working hard to finish his Ph.D. dissertation, but any part-time job would certainly help. Some won't hire as he is over-qualified!

Thankful for a great night’s sleep! After weeks of sinus issues, and after dental work last Thursday where I’ve had to pop extra pain pills during the night – last night I didn’t need extra pain meds and slept through! More dental work this Thursday though.

Very special worship services with great messages yesterday at the long-term care centre – English in the morning and German in the afternoon. The residents – and I – simply love the old hymns – even with our not so perfect voices – singing to the glory of God! For the afternoon service, the pastor and a resident both brought their violins and played along! Fantastic accompaniment.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Praise Him all creatures here below.

Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts.

Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost!

Have a wonderful week that draws you

closer to the Lord!

SPRING SPLASH

2011-03-26T19:04:00.000-06:00

Like all little kids everywhere!

WHAT IF

2011-03-22T17:05:00.006-06:00

It's probably always been this way. We, self included,

are so quick to peg someone and give them labels.

Sometimes it's at first impressions

at other times it is after frustration with the individual.

They didn't do what we wanted and

we were happy to plant a label on them.

How often has a person been labeled 'critical', when in fact he/she is very adept at being a problem solver! Their brain works in such a way that they immediately see what needs doing; they are practical and rather than being 'judgmental', they are perceptive and decisive.

We probably get very defensive the minute they open their mouth.

What if instead we listened and heard them out?

Our parents raised us to be punctual, which meant we were to be thoughtful of other people's time. I cannot count the times I have been labeled 'rigid' because I believe in being early or punctual rather than late. Oh, I know that circumstances beyond our control can make any one of us late, but cultivating it as a habit is another thing. I've been told that some people have the need to be late;

this affirms to themselves their importance
by making everyone wait upon them.

Meetings should always start on time - even if folks will be late.

What if some of us learned patience?

What if others of us learned to be punctual?

The friends that I think are totally fun-loving, outgoing and free-spirited, others have labeled as silly, loud and irresponsible. I love their spontaneity and energy, it rubs off on me, but others whisper that they are so goofy, immature and hyper! I still remember a young wife who hated when the rest of us laughed at the quick wit her husband displayed; she wanted him to grow up! She couldn't see the natural joy of life that the rest of us saw
and wanted him not to embarrass her.

What if she was the one who needed to mature and chill a little?

So many other character traits come to mind.

What if we found a more positive label?

What if someone you have labeled a manipulator

is actually a skilled negotiator or go between?

What if the person is a friendly and great communicator,

but you think they talk too much?

What if you look down upon someone you see as a doormat,

when in fact they are very thoughtful
and know how to be accommodating,

yet they still get their own work done excellently and efficiently?

What if you don't like what you perceive to be
a people pleaser or mushy,

when in fact they are sympathetic and compassionate?

What if to you he's a snob, so cool and aloof,
perhaps even boring,

but I know that he is shy, calm, even-tempered,
private, philosophical and reserved?

I'm sure there must be those who impressed
you so highly at the outset and later,

as their true character revealed itself,

all you could feel for them was pity!

But, are there times when your first labels were wrong or unfair,

and you had to change your mind or even apologize,

once you understood the other person better?

Just something I've been mulling over lately......

What do you think?

PRAISE UPDATE!

2011-03-20T19:31:00.000-06:00

The scope done today has been successful and surgery will NOT be needed.
Mel is still in hospital for another day of observation!
She's been through so much, but is on the mend.
Ken has been faithfully at her side!
The children have been amazingly cooperative here at home.

From the bottom of my heart: Thank you for your prayers!
God is good all the time!

TAKING A BREAK

2011-03-19T15:56:00.000-06:00

Dear Blog Friends!

Asking you for prayer for our dear daughter-in-law.
She been in hospital the last two days.
They were told that the doctors will be by shortly
to discuss what to do next with the bowel obstruction.
This young family has been through challenges that are unbelievable.
We're standing with them in prayer and support.
Right now I'm babysitting their two boys!

Blessings to you all!

DIGGING DEEPER, GROWING STRONGER

2011-03-12T17:07:00.006-07:00

“Read your Bible, pray everyday ….and you’ll grow,” was a little action chorus I memorized as a child. As a mother, I taught it to my children, who have taught it to theirs. Reading the Bible with my husband for our morning devotions or alone in my personal quiet time has become a holy habit, a delightful discipline, a time of daily refreshing.

The older I get the greater is my desire to read, be taught, learn, understand and talk about the Scriptures. That was not always the case. While I’ve held the Word of God in high esteem since I was saved as a young girl, there were many times when I did not make reading it faithfully a priority. I allowed other time pressures to encroach; especially during the years of raising the little ones, having foster children, holding down a job and all kinds of church involvement. Discussions at home or at church about the Bible were enough, I reasoned. Over time my casual attitude left me parched however, and I asked the Lord to restore my thirst for His Word. Thankfully He answered!

My deepest desire and fervent prayer is that the Word of God, illuminated through the power of His Holy Spirit, would bring about firstly, a revival and renewal among all of us who are new creations in Christ, starting with me. Then secondly, as we go and tell others, that there would come a great awakening among those not yet saved, especially in our nation of Canada. In Nehemiah 8:1-3 it says, “All the people assembled as one man in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the scribe to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded for Israel. So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.”

Imagine, from daybreak until noon! What an appreciation of the Word the people must have had after many years of neglect. No one forced their attendance; they wanted to hear! I’d love to have an evening service focused just on reading the Word of God aloud, in its various translations and paraphrases; simply having it proclaimed by various members and allowing the Holy Spirit to teach us one verse or one chapter after another. Intersperse that with the singing of Scripture and you’ve got a spiritual banquet feast for the soul!

As the Body of Christ we need to make the Word of God, the message of the good news of Jesus Christ, central in our lives. It talks to us about what ails us personally and as a society! We find that we're not alone in the deepest traumas of life! None of the other books, however helpful, fascinating, entertaining and encouraging they may be, can or should ever take the place of God’s Word in our lives. A passionate desire to understand His Word will bring about revival and renewal in our own hearts, and make us a refreshing river to others. Let us be forever grateful that we have His Word! Let’s respond with a willing heart to what we have read, and let us obediently do what it says! Then we will certainly become more effective in our service for HIM. Keep digging deeper and growing stronger!
....

WHY NOT.....

2011-03-08T21:45:00.003-07:00

WHY NOT...

Love intently
Respect mutually
Appreciate deeply
Give generously
Receive graciously
Smile naturally
Encourage eagerly
Forgive immediately
Pray unceasingly
Help diligently
Prepare thoughtfully
Think thoroughly
Laugh joyfully
Trust appropriately
Bless continually
Wait patiently
Serve gladly
Live purposefully
Choose wisely
Act authentically
Hope expectantly
Speak kindly
Nurture lovingly
Disciple devotedly
Fellowship faithfully
Lead effectively
Listen compassionately
Counsel carefully
Work willingly
Tell truthfully
Plan prudently
Preach passionately
Rest reasonably
Teach intelligently
Discuss skilfully
Drive defensively
Sing harmoniously
Play happily
Age gracefully
Die peacefully

Karin Ristau©

A PSALM - devotional thoughts

2011-03-04T15:22:00.008-07:00

Psalm 119

is written in a manner in which there are 8 lines (verses)
for each letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
As part of my devotional time

I wrote in the same manner using our alphabet.

Age after age, God, You have been the same.

Awesome and majestic are the works of Your hands.

Abundant are Your mercies and Your grace.

All Your promises are true.

As for You, Your ways are perfect.

As long as heaven and earth remain, You are I AM

A God of love,

Always.

Because of Your great faithfulness, lives are changed.

Blessings are showered on everyone, without favouritism.

Burdens are lifted for those who believe on You.

Bondages are broken by Holy Spirit Power!

Boldly giving testimony of Your goodness,

Becoming the person You want me to be,

Bowing in reverence and adoration ,

Bearing the fruit of the Holy Spirit, is my heart’s desire.

Could we brag that we are acceptable in Your eyes?

Conviction of our own sin is the work of Your Holy Spirit.

Confessing our sins to You, You cleanse us from unrighteousness.

Committing our lives to You we find:

Contentment in submitting our will,

Courage to face every trial,

Comfort for every situation,

Communion that renews our strength.

Does not God work mysteriously in the hearts of all?

Delivered from the power of sin, we worship You.

Daily dialogue with You is where we learn Your ways.

Delighting in Your presence, we learn to love.

Dead to sin, we have been set free from its power.

Disciples of the Master do what is right.

Dear Father, draw us daily closer to You,

Display Your glory through our lives!

Exalted is Your name in the heavens and on earth.

Every knee will one day bow before Your Majesty.

Everything was made by Your spoken Word.

Evidence of Your greatness fills the whole earth!

Each new day, my heart is filled with a new song.

Everlasting life is mine through the marvelous gift of salvation.

Energize my being Lord for service in Your Kingdom.

Eternally may I live with You in the mansions You've prepared.

Following Your precepts is what I truly want to do.

Faith grows through the hearing of Your Word.

Forgiveness is mine as I forgive all others.

Fear is cast out by Your perfect love.

Freedom is the result.

Fellowship with You and with others is then restored.

Fully committed to You, we Your children can live and love in unity.

Forever You love me, my Father, the author and finisher of my faith.

God of the Universe.

Giver of life.

Gracious Redeemer.

Great is Your faithfulness.

Gladness and joy fill my heart to overflowing.

Goodness and mercy follow me always.

Glorious is Your Name forever.

God of my life.

Hope lives in the human heart while there is still the breath of life.

Here on earth, we have but a temporary tent.

Home is the place You have gone ahead to prepare.

Heaven is a wonderful eternal place -

How marvelous and beyond our comprehension!

Hallelujah, Your kingdom is from everlasting to everlasting.

Happy is the child of the King ready to go home.

How long do we have to wait for Your return, oh Lord?

In this world we are called to live out our faith.

Injustice reigns wherever we look.

Instead of being afraid, we put our trust in You.

If we let our lives be as salt and light in our family and community,

Influencing others to live beyond reproach,

Ignoring the taunts of the enemy,

Integrity and honesty will not disown us.

It will glorify Your Holy Name.

Just as I am, I worship You, my King!

Jesus, Son of God You will return as You have promised.

Jubilant Your Bride awaits Your coming!

Joy in Your presence fills my heart to overflowing!

Judge not each other, rather forgive and you will be forgiven.

Justice will be done on the whole earth, in Your time.

Just one look at Your face and our joy will be complete.

Jesus, You are the joy-giver!

King of Kings!

Keeper of promises given,

Kingdom authority.

Kindles hearts with

Kindness to all.

Keep on asking.

Keep on seeking.

Keep on knocking.

Loving the Lord with all of our heart;

Leaning on Him, and not our own understanding;

Learning to love, as He has loved us;

Losing our self in service for Him;

Longing for the fellowship of believers;

Leading a blameless life, by the power of the Holy Spirit;

Leaving the painful past behind;

Living in His powerful presence, teaches us how to be ourselves.

Magnify His Name, for He alone is worthy.

Make known His love to children and grandchildren.

Many are the blessings He has given.

Mercy and grace have surrounded us since before each was born.

Miraculous are the works of His hands in forming each one!

Matchless is His creation!

Mysterious are Your ways,

Marvelous Master!

No one comes to the Father but through Jesus Christ.

Now is the time to obey and to follow Him forever.

Nothing can separate us from His love, if our life is in Him.

Never will He leave us forsake us.

Night after night, I reflect on His goodness to me.

Near to my heart, is His Word, my pearl of great price.

Name above all names, Jesus, You are my light and my salvation.

Nurture my spirit with your love.

Our God, you are an awesome God!

Only You can satisfy the heart with Your presence.

Open my eyes to see You at work in everything You have created.

Of Your kingdom and Your glory there will be no end.

On You I call every day, and You supply my every need.

O Lord, thank you for caring for me.

Out of the miry clay You have rescued me.

Other people have strange gods, but I have You, God, my Father.

Praise the Lord every moment of every day.

Perfect are His ways, He makes no mistakes.

Precious are His promises, He keeps His word.

Powerful are His words, He transforms lives.

Pleasant is time spent with Him in prayer.

Prayer is answered in His time and in His way.

Pleasing to the soul are His abundant blessings.

Prophecy His amazing works!

Quiet moments with You allow for deep reflection.

Questions that plague the mind need no answer in Your presence.

Quickly You come to help!

Quicken my heart to desire Your perfect will, O Father.

Quality of life can truly be known in Your presence alone.

Quantities of earthly possessions have lost their appeal.

Quotes from Your love letter are on my mind constantly,

Quenching my deepest longings.

Remember the days when you lived without Him?

Repentance brought Him near.

Renewed in your Spirit, you returned to Him.

Restoration was complete!

Real living begins when He is in control of our life.

Rise up and call Him blessed, oh ye saints!

Rejoice in His goodness!

Revel in His Love!

Serve the Lord with a willing and glad heart.

See to it that no one can fault your testimony.

Sing His praises!

Spend time in fervent prayer.

Sensitivity to others needs He will teach.

Speak to all who ask the hope in you of your faith.

Stand firm on the sure foundation of your faith.

Seek the fellowship of believers to encourage each other.

Truly You are awesome, O mighty God.

Trusting You with my life is the best thing I’ve ever done.

Trials and testing have been Your vote of confidence.

Truth revealed in my life has healed my soul.

Traumas of the past have been erased.

Triumphs have taken their place.

Therefore You have my undying gratitude.

These things I will tell to those who come after me.

Unhappy faces, undermine the message of the gospel.

Under the law, we did not have freedom.

Under grace, we have freedom from the shackels of sin.

Unending and perfect is only God’s love.

Understanding the depth of Your love is impossible.

Unless we love each other deeply and from the heart,

we are not Your children.

United in the love of our Father we can defeat the enemy.

Unlike us, You, O God are faithful and keep Your promises.

Very important are Your precepts in our life.

Victory is ours only as we wear Your protective armour.

Views of right and wrong are formed through knowing Your Word.

Vivid pictures of how You work are written in Your Word.

Vitality fills the spirit that yields completely to Your Holy Spirit.

Visions of seeing the whole world worship Christ are before me.

Value each other higher than you value yourself.

Vibrant and filled with joy are the testimonies of the saints.

Worthy are You, O God to receive my praise.

Whispers of love throughout Your Word flood my soul.

Wonderful are Your plans for my life.

Writing down all my prayers and praises is edifying.

Welcome, yes, I welcome every opportunity to grow in faith.

Worship.

Work.

Witness.

X - Χχ*

You are the Christ!

Examine your own life!

Experience His forgiveness and love.

Extend to others His grace!

Exhort one another in love!

Excellent are His ways!

Explore His Word daily, always digging deeper.

Exclaim the Good News to all you meet!

Exalt His Name forever!

Yesterday You showed Your people Your law-no one could keep it.

Yet You laid the plan of redemption before the beginning of time.

Years You have been patient and longsuffering with us.

Your love is the full message of the gospel!

Yielded to You in humility You have lifted us up in Your Grace!

Yearning for His guidance and His will in all things,

You can climb the impossible mountains.

Young will your spirit remain within you under His protection.

ZZZZZs - refreshing sleep - you give to those you love!

Zeal is admirable if it is for a good and right purpose.

Zealously You shield Your children from the enemy.

Zephyrs in the sky remind us that You will return in the clouds.

Zenith of perfection, what no eye has seen, nor ear heard is

Zion – it awaits for us, the city on the great hill!.

Zion – perfect in beauty – God shines forth!

Zion – shout aloud and sing for joy for great is the Holy One!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Oh the joy of praising Your Name with all the letters of the alphabet!

Karin Ristau©

*
*Chi or X is often used to abbreviate the name Christ , as in the holiday Christmas (Xmas ). When fused within a single typespace with the Greek letter Rho , it is called the labarum and used to represent the person of Jesus Christ.

BOUQUET OF THANKS & PRAISE

2011-03-02T06:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Irene, Academy Florists, for this photo!

It snowed almost all week reminding us that, “though our sins are as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow!” It’s coming down again as I write!

God’s Word – an awesome treasure! As the pastor has been using verses from Psalm 119 on which to base his message for our seniors, I’ve been reviewing my writings of a personal psalm, which I wrote in the same manner – 8 lines for every letter of our alphabet, just as Psalm 119 is written. I will share it on here in future posts!

A fantastic breakfast meeting with the team from work! One of our chaplains shared his wonderful gift of hospitality! They had just finished renovating their home and it looks great – especially the kitchen! Meetings around the table are good for the bonding of our team, as we have added three new pastoral care staff corporately in the past year.

Nothing like having prayer partners who know you and your personal and family situation at a deeper heart level and vice versa. Every time the Lord brings someone to mind we lift them up in prayer.

Plans for an annual fundraiser for our organization are in the works. We’ve got a dedicated and faithful team of auxilians, called the Shepherd’s Caring Friends. We’re feeling the crunch as the event is only two months away and most of the committee are taking a couple of weeks of vacation to warmer climates during March. We received the good news that our former fund development director, who left to become CEO of another company, is willing to be our consultant for this important event. May the Lord give health and strength to each one of us to do our utmost! It promises to be a very busy time!

All praise to Him Who reigns above

In majesty supreme,

Who gave His Son for man to die,

That He might man redeem!

Refrain

Blessèd be the Name! Blessèd be the Name!

Blessèd be the Name of the Lord!

Blessèd be the Name! Blessèd be the Name!

Blessèd be the Name of the Lord!

His Name above all names shall stand,

Exalted more and more,

At God the Father’s own right hand,

Where angel hosts adore.

Redeemer, Savior, Friend of man

Once ruined by the fall,

Thou hast devised salvation’s plan,

For Thou hast died for all.

His Name shall be the Counselor,

The mighty Prince of Peace,

Of all earth’s kingdoms Conqueror,

Whose reign shall never cease.

GOD AT WORK

2011-02-26T17:49:00.001-07:00

God is working everywhere,
We just need to join him there!
His love extends to everyone!
There is so much to be done.

Often where we see a life,
Full of darkness, anger, strife,
Where we’d stay away in fear,
Jesus enters and draws near.

As we roll our eyes in scorn,
Over one messed up, forlorn,
Jesus calls him to repent,
For it is to those He’s sent.

Where we toss someone away,
Won’t give them the time of day,
Jesus builds a bridge of love
From the Father up above.

Jesus lifts a heart that’s weary,
Dries the eyes of one who’s teary,
Intercedes for all His own,
Brings them to the Father’s throne.

He wants us to show His Grace
Loving all the human race!
He wants you to be His Hands,
Loving here or distant lands!

There is so much to be done,
Here and there for everyone.
Yes, He’s working everywhere!
Thank you that you’ve joined Him here!

Karin Ristau

Read three years ago as a THANK YOU for our volunteer clergy where I work.

JUST A SILLY

2011-02-25T21:26:00.002-07:00

SPRING IS ALMOST HERE!

HAVE A LOOK AT THE DEER IN THE BACK YARD!

Showed this picture that I received in an E-mail last year
and it made me laugh!!
Someone took this photo though and I do wonder where!

THANKFUL FOR.....

2011-02-21T09:00:00.003-07:00

Taken 2007 - I think it's time to take another family photo

It’s Family Day up here! Thanking God for family who went before to those to whom we will pass the torch! Each person has their unique spot in our hearts and left a unique imprint on our lives. OK, the imprint from one or another may have been painful but God turned it for my good!

“The family. We were a strange little band of characters trudging through life sharing diseases and toothpaste, coveting one another's desserts, hiding shampoo, borrowing money, locking each other out of our rooms, inflicting pain and kissing to heal it in the same instant, loving, laughing, defending, and trying to figure out the common thread that bound us all together.” -Erma Bombeck

My family of origin – dad and mom are already in the Presence of the Lord! A storehouse of memories growing up with my younger brother and sister, leaving our dear Opa and Oma and many uncles and aunts and cousins in the old country – Germany - to join the ones that had moved to Canada before us. Just love when we are able to get together!

“Nobody has ever before asked the nuclear family to live all by itself in a box the way we do. With no relatives, no support, we've put it in an impossible situation.” -Margaret Mead

“Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one.” -Jane Howard

“I don't have to look up my family tree, because I know that I'm the sap.” –Fred Allen

My nuclear family - hubby is a gentle, loving, steadfast man, a gift from God to me and together we have two daughters and one son. We’re blessed with two sons-in-law and one daughter-in-law. We rejoice at the generous gift of nine very special grandchildren!

“You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you as you are to them.” - Desmond Tutu

"Like branches on a tree, our lives may grow in different directions yet our roots remain as one." - Author Unknown

The family of God – brothers and sisters in Christ who faithfully show love, respect, appreciation, freely give encouragement, rebuke, prayer, join in laughter, tears, or song - and I’m thankful God sent them to enhance our lives in our journey of faith.

“The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life.” -Richard Bach

"Family and Friends are hidden treasures, seek them and enjoy their riches." - Wanda Hope Carter

Treasure the memories and influences of yesterday,

Live joyfully in the moments and impressions of today,

Hope steadfastly! God's mercy, love and grace is

sufficient for tomorrow!

ENCOURAGEMENT

2011-02-20T08:22:00.001-07:00

Thank you Father
That you see into the innermost recesses

of our hearts and still love us.
Why do people fear to be vulnerable with each other?
Especially in the Family of God
there should be such transparency
so that you can instantly use us

to minister to each other’s need.
We all have needs.
We are all flawed.
No one has achieved perfection

or even a level of maturity
that does not struggle with one issue or another.
You want us to be a source of encouragement to each other.
How can we be that

if we will not allow the other one to see our heart?
Father help us to deal with each other with

gentleness
kindness,
patience,
and understanding
which comes from having experienced

your help first-hand
in our all our own trying circumstances.
You are always there for us.
Let us be the catalyst through

which you affect the needed transformation.
Let us hold each others heart

with the utmost of care and tender pure love.
Let us care more for the others needs than our own.
For it is so often that when we meet anothers needs

our own are met.
Thank you for the incredible way you

accelerate our growth
when we drop our masks
abandon pretense
shake off pride
acknowledge weakness
recognize our need
lose our self-sufficiency
develop other-centered focus
in order to become

beautiful Christ-led servant-heart followers
who live in forgiveness and true love.

Amen

GOING SHOPPING

2011-02-19T07:01:00.000-07:00

I'll be shopping for more than just fish!

Have a great day everyone and enjoy your week-end.

We have Family Day on Monday!

God bless all families!

LOVE

2011-02-13T22:12:00.001-07:00

Painting by Gustav Semler

Shepherd of Love!

If I could speak in thousand tongues

And had the gift of prophecy,

If I could move the greatest mount

And understood all mystery,

But had not love to show the world

How meaningless my life would be.

If I gave all that I posses

And gave my body to be burned;

If I had knowledge of all things,

All wisdom of this world had learned,

But had not love to show my friend,

Then I would be an empty shell.

Love show it's patient, kind and true.

Love is not rude, it does not boast.

Love keeps not score, is not puffed up

Love always trusts and always hopes.

Now there is Faith and Hope and Love,

Love is the greatest of all three.

Now there is Faith and Hope and Love,

Lord let the world see Love in me.

Lord let my friends see Christ in me!

Karin Ristau

Based on 1. Corinthians 13

OVER AT BETSY'S

2011-02-11T08:02:00.002-07:00

Just a photo of what I'm hoping for soon!

Up here it will probably be another 4 months, lol!

Betsy, over at Joyful Reflections, is asking an interesting question today on her new post - Let's Talk Fridays. Rather than write her such a long comment, I decided to add my thoughts to the conversation on my own post.

One of my favorite life verses is

"Be joyful always; pray continually;
give thanks in all circumstances,

for this is GOD'S WILL for you."

Seems to me, however, that those who whine, spew negativity and complain a lot are hurting, angry people. Perhaps they have experienced unparalleled trauma, are in chronic pain or have one setback after another. What if those things were happening to me and I became weepy, whiny or always wistful? How would I want to be treated?

I’m going to share with you something my son said quite a while back when we were discussing this topic of how to deal with negative folks.

“People who are hurt and depressed are afflicted. Our afflictions are from God and we are not always joyful and thankful. Fortunately, the Hebrew Bible provides a voice for those times, voices of lamentation, grieving, anger, and consolation.... How has that one verse -

"Be joyful always; pray continually;
give thanks in all circumstances,
for this is GOD'S WILL for you"

done so much to obliterate this testimony,

creating communities

that demand false joy, happy faces,

and who ignore the biblical ministry

of lament, grief, anger, and consolation?

I see no perpetually happy prophets

and often hear the voices of

conflicted, oppressed, and angry psalmists!

Is there a place for the hurt

and the depressed and the bored

to come and praise God?

I am indeed thankful that God wills

that I should be joyful;

I am also relieved that God
doesn't require it of me.

Maybe people should take less offense

to hurt and depressed people,

and commiserate instead of judge or help

(with a joyful heart!) instead of criticize.”

Ken Ristau

I’m still learning more and more, to not be offended by negative people, to commiserate, to validate what people feel, to allow others to vent, to listen with compassion, to gently or firmly as the need may be, show people the error in their thinking patterns by mirroring back to them what I heard them say. I can't fix them, only God can, but perhaps He is using my positive influence to affect the change in their lives.

I guess that’s why I work in pastoral care and counseling. I’m also still learning to not let Satan steal my energy and joy because I know Who is the true source of my joy and energy and He will supply all I need.

Oh, my dear friends, I'm not there yet...

and God is still working on me!

Finally, brothers and sisters,

whatever is true,

whatever is noble,

whatever is right,

whatever is pure,

whatever is lovely,

whatever is admirable—
if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—

think about such things.

Philippians 4:8

If we all did that

there would be no room

for negativity in our lives!

THANKFUL FOR.....

2011-02-07T09:27:00.007-07:00

Our freebie table in the basement lobby! It’s a place where the tenants of our building can place things that they don’t need, that someone else may still enjoy. First come, first gone. I’ve put so much on there already, but the other day I found a beautiful, strong, sturdy box which I’m sure one of my girls will love to have. Isn’t it lovely?

I've seen folks take a grocery cart full of stuff,
put it in their storage unit
and I think in the spring they host a garage sale at their son's place.

A favorite chorus: “Freely, freely, you have received.
Freely, freely give.
Go in my Name and because you believe,
others will know that I live.”

Oldest granddaughter turning 16! Lots of family fun going for lunch and sharing a big birthday cake in the evening! Way back in the day I thought 50 was young to be a grandmother! Now our 42-year old daughter can’t believe she has a 16 year old already!

Oh, the memories that flood when looking at old family photos
– oh my!!
Need to sort those and scan them someday
– yup, someday.

Brass ensemble at church yesterday –
beautiful smooth tones of traditional hymns!

Didn’t want it to end.

Knowing I can leave all my anxieties at the cross. Yesterday’s comment from the pastor, “Lord, I prayed and told you all my cares. Why do I still feel so bad?”
“Yes, my child, you brought them to the cross and yes, you prayed,

but when you left you took the bundle with you again!”

A sense of humor!
Here’s a quote for you:
“I regard golf as an expensive way of playing marbles.”
G. K. Chesterton

My cane – with an ice pick on the bottom! Ever since my knee surgery I hate walking when the streets are icy or snow packed. Hauled out my cane yesterday and it definitely helped me to feel more secure and steady on my feet. Don’t need to fall and have a broken hip!
Still cold and miserable outside -
although the sun is trying to peak through!

My fabulous warm winter leather jacket! Have not needed a new coat in 15 years. Would never have believed it. I used to get a new winter coat every other year!

Enjoying my day off – going back to work tomorrow.

THE QUOTABLE CHESTERTON - BOOK REVIEW

2011-02-03T12:38:00.001-07:00

When preparing for a speech, a talk or a sermon, one almost always looks for a striking quote, a meaningful word of wisdom, or an amusing anecdote. When you have a huge collection of such from a literary giant of his age, you have this book – The Quotable Chesterton by Kevin Belmonte. The Wit and Wisdom of G.K. Chesterton is a handy 284 page paper-back resource. “With much of his finest material out of print or hard to find, modern readers have long needed a standard collection of his best thoughts. Kevin Belmonte’s The Quotable Chesterton brings them to you arranged alphabetically by topic, with complete original source documentation.” Thank you Kevin Belmonte!! If this is your first time reading Chesterton, this book may get you started on reading more.

Just to pick a few quotes:

“I have a simple, melodramatic mind; there is nothing lofty or peace-loving about me; and I thoroughly enjoy seeing people knocked down on the stage. I should have no objection to seeing them knocked down in real life, if the people were wisely and thoughtfully selected.”

“His pathos was natural, almost casual. The Stoics, ancient and modern, were proud, proud of concealing their tears. Christ never concealed His tears’ He showed them plainly on His open face at any daily sight, such as the far sight of His native city.”

“The telescope makes the world smaller; it is only the microscope that makes it larger. Before long the world will be cloven with a war between the telescopists and microscopists. The first study large things and live in a small world; the second study small things and live in a large world."

“Of a sane man there is only one safe definition. He is a man who can have tragedy in his heart and comedy in his head.”

“Fallacies do not cease to be fallacies because they become fashions.”

My favorite is the still his answer to the NYTimes question: “What’s wrong with the World?” His answer was profound.

Dear Sirs,
I am.
Sincerely yours,
G. K. Chesterton

I’ve really enjoyed reading and using this fine book and can heartily recommend it. Thank you Thomas Nelson Publishers for a free copy to review it.

THANKFUL FOR......

2011-01-31T07:55:00.002-07:00

Amazing Grace how sweet the sound,

that saved a wretch like me.

I once was lost, but now am found;

was blind, but now I see!

Mercy – new every morning!!!

A nice warm apartment

when it’s bitter cold outside –

should warm up a bit later this week.

My violets that provide a splash of color!

Starting to feel the desire again

to visit a local greenhouse as I do every year.

My unhurried yet steady rhythm of life.

Strength to still clean my own place,

do my own laundry, my own shopping,
and work part-time.

A manageable to-do list!

A chat with Evi as she is taking a new course at Red Deer College! She’s happy and finds the studies very interesting!
She’s back to work on Tuesday.

Her hubby is such a support

and her children are old enough

to support mom in this new venture.

Cherishing every moment hubby and I

have together to just do what we feel like!

Opportunities to learn new things every day –

especially from wonderful blog buds!!

TWO SPECIAL GRANDS

2011-01-30T08:00:00.002-07:00

Sharing a video from Jayne's Journey through Grace -
thanks so much!

We are blessed with nine grandchildren.
This is in

honor of two of our special grandsons

who changed all our lives completely!

They have amazing parents

and we all have an

AWESOME LOVING GOD!

"Love is stronger than the pain!"

OLD PEOPLE

2011-01-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

Busy but uneventful week around here!

Missing the sunshine!

Going to make some soup today!

That's all folks!

THANKFUL FOR......

2011-01-24T08:10:00.000-07:00

A warmer week-end – a welcome break from the deep freeze!

Yesterdays temp was a few degrees in the plus

and we had snowmelt on the streets.

Loved the warmth and brilliance of the sun yesterday

and hope for more of the same today.

She should be rising in another hour!

Enjoy watching the phases of the moon

– it’s outside my living room window every morning

and it is traveling higher in the sky -

just a few clouds hiding it occasionally!

A supper date with my cousin and hubby –

great to reminisce and get caught up –

hadn’t seen each other since just before Christmas!

Please pray for F. as he faces surgery on January 31.

God’s provision of our daily needs!

Please pray for jobs for our son and his wife –

lots of resumes have been sent out but responses have been slow.

Medications that are helping our daughter-in-law,

who has ankylosing spondylitis,

cope much better with her pain.

Thank you Lord!

Walking hand-in-hand with hubby wherever we go!

The Lord’s grace and mercy, which is new every morning!

Hymns, like How Great Thou Art, that echo in my heart so often!

Learning more about prayer.

BUT

2011-01-22T20:34:00.001-07:00

Proverbs has such practical sayings.
I love reading them and letting the wisdom and advice sink in.
Just a few excerpts.......

Ill-gotten gain has no lasting value,
BUT
Right living can save your life.

Hatred stirs up quarrels,
BUT
Love covers all offenses.

People who wink at wrong cause trouble,
BUT
a bold reproof promotes peace.

Trust in your money and down you go!
BUT,
The godly flourish like leaves in spring.

The wise are glad to be instructed,
BUT
Babbling fools fall flat on their faces.

People who accept correction are on the pathway to life,
BUT
Those who ignore it will lead others astray.

The godly give good advice,
BUT
Fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.

Your own soul is nourished when you are kind,
BUT
You destroy yourself when you are cruel.

Everyone admires a person with good sense,
BUT
A warped mind is despised.

Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren,
BUT
The sinner’s wealth passes to the godly.

Godliness exalts a nation,
BUT
Sin is a disgrace to any people.

We can make our plans,
BUT
The Lord determines our steps.