Be Still and Know That I AM GOD

Picture from Uganda, East Africa

Psa 23:1 The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack.
Psa 23:2 He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters. [Revelation 7:17]
Psa 23:3 He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness [uprightness and right standing with Him--not for my earning it, but] for His name's sake. Psa 23:4 Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me. Psa 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my [brimming] cup runs over. Psa 23:6 Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord [and His presence] shall be my dwelling place.

My Husband and I are taking a small trip tomorrow to look at an used car. His died. We are going up towards the Pocono Mts. A rather long way , so I trust this will be a good vehicle! In sharing seperately with 2 of my girlfriends about the jaunt, they both exclaimed to me (several hours apart from each other) "Oh enjoy the scenery!" Enjoy the scenery. And then I listen to a soaking song , My Busy Bride,come... rest in Me. And I see green pastures in my mind's eye. How restful it is (for me) to travel throught he countryside and feast on the lushness! A 2nd song was sent from an YouTube buddy- Alone with God... and he talked of the distractions of our days.

"Enjoy the scenery! I have much yet to show you my busy Bride, come away, don't be distracted. Spend time with ME! Even as David wrote , I will lead you to green pasture, where there is Life flowing and fresh food to eat. I will bring you to the edge of still waters where you may pause and reflect and drink deeply. Listen my love, I am singing over you with joy! Take time to listen to my love song I am singing just for you. Get up from that place where you are overwhelmed. I am the GOOD shepherd. I lead you at an appropriate pace for you. I am LOVE. Love leads. Sin drives. Remember that my beloved! I am leading you, not driving you. Let Me lead you to that place in Me, far from all strife and commotion around. There you will hear only one sound. It is My Heart beating for you. Come lose yourself in My Love!"

Song 2:10 (LITV) My Beloved answered and said to me, Arouse yourself, My love, My beautiful one, and come away.

Jer 33:3 (MSG) 'Call to me and I will answer you. I'll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.'

Mat 11:28 (AMP) Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls]

Expectation

Graphics by Brittni with permission http://www.brittnisisle.com

An Eagle Saint told me they were trying to sell a certain piece of merchandise. I asked what were they asking for it and they told me. I told them I would pray for the sale... which I did. Unbeknownst to them, I prayed and I asked God to Give them MORE than what they were asking for. Specifically $500 more than they were expecting. Later I wrote an email and asked them did they sell the thing? They wrote back and said "Yes, and I got $500 more than I expected." When I queried further I found out it was not $500 more than what they were asking... but they had set a price in their heart of what they were WILLING to take, albeit they were asking for more than that. So, they got according to their expectations.

Where is your expectation? What is your bottom line? What are you willing to "put up with" , or "accept?" What do you want changed? Are you talking with expectation of good or evil? What is in your mouth? It shows what is in your heart!

"I desire to bless you so much more than you have experienced. But sometimes my child, you limit ME by your low expectations. Do you think I cannot do it? Or just that I wouldn't do it for you? Come up higher! Come up to MY way of thinking. See it from MY perspective. It's a much better view from where I sit!"

Mar 9:23 (KJV) Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

Eph 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
Eph 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
Eph 2:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

A Banner Day

My Dad prophesied that today would be a Banner day. As I began to meditate on his prophecy that today would be a Banner Day, this is what I got:

• His Banner over me is Love
• His Banner over me is Victory -Jehovah Nissi
• A Banner proceeds a marching unit- announcing who they are
• When the enemy comes in like a flood the Lord will raise up a standard ( a Banner-an Ensign) against him.
• A Banner stakes a claim over something
• We buy Pennants and Banners as souvenirs (What Of God's doings?) of things we have seen and done and been to!
• A Banner can also be a scroll (Take eat this scroll)

So I went looking for the scroll scripture and did not find it ( I was at church with no reference helps) I was sure it was in Eze. and when I looked I found this instead which God spoke to me through:

Eze 44:4-5 Then he brought me by way of the north gate to the front of the temple; I looked, and behold, the glory of the Lord filled the house of the Lord, and I fell upon my face. [Revelation 15:8] And the Lord said to me, Son of man, mark well and set your heart to see with your eyes and hear with your ears all that I say to you concerning all the ordinances of the house of the Lord and all its laws, and mark well and set your heart to know who are allowed to enter the temple and all those who are excluded from the sanctuary.

"Mark Well" when you Mark something you are putting a seal upon it, you are setting it apart, you are appointing it, you are taking note of it.

Set your heart to see... Fix your heart, determine within yourself, purpose, pledge decide, prepare yourself, get ready...

To see (with physical and spiritual eyes) behold, understand, perceive

hear with your ears... both recognize the sound and understand what is being said.

(ex. Acts 9:3-9, Acts 22:7-9, acts 26:13-17 - only Paul heard and understood)

All that I say to you ( don't let any of it escape your notice and understanding.)

HE brought me by way of the NORTH Gate.

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praise. In the city of our God, int he mountains of His holiness. Beautiful for situation (What is YOUR situation? I make all things beautiful in My time.)The joy of the whole earth. Is Mt. Zion on the sides of the North in the city of our King.

I then left my post by the phone to go into service and walked in to hear Bro. Johnny exhorting "Whatever your situation, Jesus is there with you."

Then Pastor gets up after having the worship team sing "You are Lord and I sing to you You're the air that I breath, the song that I sing, You are Lord..." and he says. Someone just needed to know that Jesus is Lord of every situation.

Then I came home and began to put together what God had spoken to me and looking up the scriptures and the first scripture about Banner is one I have never read before! Ps. 60:

Psa 60:4(AMP) [But now] You have set up a banner for those who fear and worshipfully revere You [to which they may flee from the bow], a standard displayed because of the truth. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

Truth= truth, balanced verity

A Banner= 1) something lifted up, standard, signal, signal pole, ensign, banner, sign, sail

1a) standard (as rallying point), signal

1b) standard (pole)

1c) ensign, signal

Conclusion: This is the Word of the Lord, Hear Me well and pay attention to what I am saying. Whatever your situation I am Great and Greatly to be Praised. Whatever your circumstance, See me as Lord in your life and expect me to come in and cause the enemy to flee. Whatever you are facing right now and going through I AM your way of escape. I am announcing you to the enemy! I have marked you for Myself and I am identifying you as MINE says the Lord., I have called you into the army. You have a battalion with a commander and a place to report to, a place that you belong. Even as a marching unit passing by on the parade grounds for inspection, I am passing by you to inspect you and prepare you for combat. Do not fear! The weapons of your warfare are MIGHTY! My Banner is over you, my love protects and is your rear guard. I have already won the Victory, now enforce the enemy's defeat! Remember Praise routed the enemy for Jehoshaphat, and it will route the enemy for your battles. Make much of My Name! Make much of the Blood which cleanses you and delivers you and heals you! Make much of the fact that you belong to ME and I will never abandon you or leave you without my cover and protection. Stay under my Banner, keep rank and obey orders. Live fearlessly under the shadow of my wing! Take My Word and eat it. Make it your own! Fill your loins until they are girt about with My Truth. My Word is as Honey to your mouth. Even as honey gives energy and strength, so too My Word brings Life and Strength. Indeed, have I not said, "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." And again I say: "(JPS) So shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, except it accomplish that which I please, and make the thing whereto I sent it prosper. " (Isa.55:11) Raise up a Banner with your Praise of all that I have done for you. Rehearse and remember each time you have seen Me move on your behalf and then watch what I will do in this situation!

Son 2:4(AMP) He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love [for love waved as a protecting and comforting banner over my head when I was near him].

Isa 59:19

(AMP) So [as the result of the Messiah's intervention] they shall [reverently] fear the name of the Lord from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him and put him to flight [for He will come like a rushing stream which the breath of the Lord drives]. [Matthew 8:11; Luke 13:29]

(BBE) So they will see the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the east: for he will come like a rushing stream, forced on by a wind of the Lord.

(DRB) And they from the west, shall fear the name of the Lord: and they from the rising of the sun, his glory when he shall come as a violent stream, which the spirit of the Lord driveth on:

(YLT) And they fear from the west the name of Jehovah, And from the rising of the sun--His honour, When come in as a flood doth an adversary, The Spirit of Jehovah hath raised an ensign against him.

Eze 2:9(AMP) And when I looked, behold, a hand was stretched out to me and behold, a scroll of a book was in it. Eze 3:3(AMP) And He said to me, Son of man, eat this scroll that I give you and fill your stomach with it. Then I ate it, and it was as sweet as honey in my mouth.

Psa 48:1-2 and Psalm for the sons of Korah.> Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King.

Post Script: I watched Kim Clement after I posted this and he prophesied and said by the Spirit, "Invite ME into your Situations..."

OH THAT MEN WOULD PRAISE THE LORD!

Last night I was seeking the Lord what did He want posted and then also what was to be the focus of intercession today at church. He spoke this phrase to me last night: "Men's hearts failing them for fear" Then I went to bed and I dreamed this dream:

President Obama was having a round table discussion and his panelists were just regular everyday American citizens. He was questioning them, how could the government better itself in their eyes, what programs to assist them, what should it change? Trying to get a pulse and temperature of the general public's feelings towards the government.

There were about 8 or 10 men and women total and it was like I was watching this through a camera lens as it was being broadcast live on TV. It was in a large airy room with an open side area leading to a patio and a bay or some body of water coming up to it. (this is important)

One of the men there was crippled and used a quad cane to help him walk. He was in his middle 30's I would guess. He was highly agitated and it seemed as though some scholarship funding that had been promised was not being given to students- the government was going back on it's word. He asked about this, and the President made some offhand remark about it, brushing it aside. The next thing we saw was this man, with despair written all over his face get up and tell everyone, "I am going to make myself an example and show you how your reneging is hurting people." And he went to the portico/patio area and he threw himself into the water to drown! The President watched. Someone (from the group of panelists) dove in and saved him.

My second dream was about a church I was attending when I was in this certain town and they were doing all kinds of programs to reach out into the community. But there was a definite flow with in this church allowing the Lord to have free course....

When I awoke I knew we need to pray against a spirit of suicide and hopelessness that is trying to take hold of our society. And also to pray about the Church as a whole being Relevant and having a flow of the Spirit in it. ( Living waters, fresh manna, the Prophetic released as bread and water and oil to the people.)

During prayer this morning we touched on all of this and more. The Lord kept impressing upon me as we prayed "Oh that men would praise My Name!" He spoke it to me several times. I finally said, "what Lord do you want me to do with this?" He then continued to say :

"If men would Praise Me, If men would Praise Me, My glory would rise up, if men would praise Me My power would rise up, if men would praise Me my strong hand- My strong arm would be revealed,if men would praise Me if men would praise Me, if men would praise Me, instead of praising the darkness, instead of praising and talking about the things that are. If men would praise ME, praise Me- Your Father which art in Heaven, If men would praise ME, Praise ME, Praise ME, PRAISE ME!"

Luk 21:25b- 26 ...and upon the earth [there will be] distress (trouble and anguish) of nations in bewilderment and perplexity [without resources, left wanting, embarrassed, in doubt, not knowing which way to turn] at the roaring (the echo) of the tossing of the sea, [Isaiah 13:10; Joel 2:10; Zeph. 1:15] Men swooning away or expiring with fear and dread and apprehension and expectation of the things that are coming on the world; for the [very] powers of the heavens will be shaken and caused to totter.

Psa 107:8 (AMP) Oh, that men would praise [and confess to] the Lord for His goodness and loving-kindness and His wonderful works to the children of men!

Mal 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord talked often one to another; and the Lord listened and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who reverenced and worshipfully feared the Lord and who thought on His name.
Mal 3:17 And they shall be Mine, says the Lord of hosts, in that day when I publicly recognize and openly declare them to be My jewels (My special possession, My peculiar treasure). And I will spare them, as a man spares his own son who serves him.
Mal 3:18 Then shall you return and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him who serves God and him who does not serve Him.

Exhortation from the Throne of Grace

Beloved, do not be deterred by what you SEE going on around you.
Do not become alarmed and quiver or shake. Remember I have called you
to be a light in the darkness . A flame that burns bright for ME. So many voices
crying out, so many hopes are dying out, but a difference YOU can make!
Speak the truth in Love, shine your light for all to see,
pick up your Cross daily, and lead them back to ME.

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

Keith Green's Song "O Lord Your Beautiful"
released May 7th, 1980.
I think we need to revisit this.
You can hear it here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fh4ac4znuRk

Oh Lord, you're beautiful,
Your face is all I seek,
For when your eyes are on this child,
Your grace abounds to me.

Oh Lord, you're beautiful,
Your face is all I seek,
For when your eyes are on this child,
Your grace abounds to me.

I want to take your word and shine it all around.
But first help me to just, live it Lord.
And when I'm doing well, help me to never seek a crown.
For my reward is giving glory to you.

Oh Lord, please light the fire,
That once burned bright and clear.
Replace the lamp of my first love,
That burns with Holy fear.

I want to take your word and shine it all around.
But first help me to just, live it Lord.
And when I'm doing well, help me to never seek a crown.
For my reward is giving glory to you.

Oh Lord, you're beautiful,
Your face is all I seek,
For when your eyes are on this child,
Your grace abounds to me.
Oh Lord, you're beautiful,
Your face is all I seek,
For when your eyes are on this child,
Your grace abounds to me.

Crisis or Chrysalis?

When Jesus went to the Cross, it was a time of tremendous emotional upheaval for his Mom, His Disciples and even his distant followers. It was also a time of upheaval for Heaven and Hell and Earth itself as evidenced by the natural happenings of eclipse, unusual darkness, earthquake and ripping of the temple Veil.

Some of you may indeed feel that you are in a crisis, even as you read this. But the Lord gave me a Word today that will set you free! Do not allow your vision to become eclipsed by the things in your immediate surroundings. Nor fear something that may loom in the distance. It may seem all dark around you. But the Light of the Gospel and the Love of God has been shed abroad into your heart. Walk in the Light, as He is in the Light, even as He told us I am the Light of the World. He is lighting and lightening your way.

What may sound like thunderous cheers at your struggle by the enemy is really signaling the beginning of the end of Hell's grasp on your throat. The enemy has tried to strangle you. He has wanted to keep you down, keep you quiet, keep you unable to rise and soar. But What he perceives as your "end" is really his end!

Even as a caterpillar goes into a cocoon, and it seems a death is taking place to the caterpillar, so too it seems you have entered into a "Valley of death" from which you wonder if you will escape. But there is a transformation taking place. Do not let the crisis of the moment and the tyranny of the things being demanded cause you to look away from the Face of the One who Loves you and Who gave (yielded) Himself up [to atone] for Your sins [and to save and sanctify You], in order to rescue and deliver You from this present wicked age and world order, in accordance with the will and purpose and plan of our God and Father--

Do not doubt, HE WILL bring you OUT!
The Veil that hides Him from your view is being removed.
Your eyes have seen and will yet see again the Glory of the Lord. But You need to see that it is not just in HIM, but it is in YOU and has RISEN upon you! He has taken you into the Holy of Holies with Himself and ushered you past everything that cries out that you are not worthy, you are not ready, you can not do this. He makes you both ready and worthy and He tells you when to fly and when to stay under His wing. He alone can make your tired, heavy heart to sing! He alone is your strength, your reason for being. He alone is Life and in Him is the Light you need for right now.

You are not in crisis as you suppose. You are in Chrysalis- and He is transforming
what was, into what He says IS and you shall be-
the gift of Beauty and Grace to this Earth that He has created you to be.
Selah and give thanks!

Walking it out

Today the Lord quickened several things to me. I've pondered them, what does this mean, where do they fit with this week following Resurrection? Let me share them with you, even as the figures in Jerusalem pondered how to live their lives in light of all that Jesus had shared with them...
The following two were in a safety letter I received;

• Drive carefully and attentively through construction zones.

Immediate thought: We are ALL under construction-thus we should use care in how we 'drive' through each others lives.

• Be courteous and kind to other drivers and especially to the construction workers.

Two thoughts. 1st. thought;
The Holy Spirit (Thank you sir!) reminded me of a private conversation that I had with Apostle/Prophetess Bobbie Jean Merck. I observed her after ministering for several hours, lovingly receiving people who
wished to speak to her. I commented on this. She opened her mouth
and taught me a great truth:
I always consider each person as having a sign around
their neck which says;
'Child of God with a message for You from the Throne Room.'

2ndly "Construction Workers" speaks to me of those that God puts in our lives to help Build us in the things of God; Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers, Mentors and sometimes plain 'ole difficult people to work in us the virtues of the Gifts of the Spirit! Like PATIENCE, self control, brotherly kindness, etc.

• An address was quickened to me- it had the word OVERLOOK in it.

Again several thoughts here;

Heb. 12:1 came to mind about the saints overlooking and cheering us on:
(DRB) And therefore we also having so great a cloud of witnesses over our head, laying aside every weight and sin which surrounds us, let us run by patience to the fight proposed to us:

2nd thought: Love Covers a multitude of sins.
1Pe 4:8 (AMP) Above all things have intense and unfailing love
for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins
[forgives and disregards the offenses of others].
1Cor13:5 Love hardly notices a wrong done to it...

3rd thought: This was an ADDRESS.
Does the enemy know your location? What draws you out?
What "gets your goat?"

Or do you live on Harmony Boulevard? Forgiveness Circle?
Grace and Peace Parkway? Love Light Way? Good Neighbor Alley?
Spirit Led Drive? What address do you choose?
You can live where you want to, you know!

In light of these three things, it seems to me that the Holy Spirit is
leading us into the Truth and practical application of what Jesus was teaching us throughout the Gospels.
Over and over He emphasized
Loving one another, walking in love, etc.

Instead of being driven my dear ones, allow the precious Holy Spirit to guide you. Even though the scriptures tell you to "so run" as to
obtain the prize, I do not want you "racing through life" at such a
frantic pace that you miss the signposts and subtle messages along
the way that I have posted for you. Some are warnings, some are directions, some are just love notes tucked in unexpectedly
at turns along the way!

As I spoke through Ezekiel and said how I hated the pushing and
shoving to get ahead, I tell you now again: Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another. Recognize the Gifts I place in your midst. Know that you are given these gifts because of the great value I put upon you. I never tire of working all things out for your good, and working
My good into you! For it is only what is in you that can come out and
flow through you.

This is Moving Day! You are coming out of the box of frustration
where you have lived. I am bringing y0u into a wide place.
It is spacious and there is room to grow.
Make note of your new address: Freedom Square.

Leave the baggage behind that has burdened you down.
No more hand me downs from past generations.
I am outfitting you in new garments. Garments of praise and glory!

Royalty is always generous to the disadvantaged and less fortunate. Behave in ways befitting of the crown I place upon you.
Remember my Son took time to bless the children, to minister to the widow of Nain, to speak kindly to a blind beggar. Do not forget that once you were that blind beggar! Go forth in the strength and dignity of purpose that I the Almighty bestow upon you. You are my gifts to the world, which waits eagerly for your unwrapping. It is My Joy to present you!
Love, Dad

(MSG) Eze 34:21 Because you forced your way with shoulder and rump and butted at all the weaker animals with your horns till you scattered them all over the hills,
Eze 34:22 I'll come in and save my dear flock, no longer let them be pushed around. I'll step in and set things right between one sheep and another.

(AMP) 1Th 5:12 Now also we beseech you, brethren, get to know those who labor among you [recognize them for what they are, acknowledge and appreciate and respect them all]--your leaders who are over you in the Lord and those who warn and kindly reprove and exhort you.

1Th 5:13 And hold them in very high and most affectionate esteem in [intelligent and sympathetic] appreciation of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.

(MSG) Psa 1:1 How well God must like you-- you don't hang out at Sin Saloon, you don't slink along Dead-End Road, you don't go to Smart-Mouth College.
Psa 1:2 Instead you thrill to GOD's Word, you chew on Scripture
day and night.
Psa 1:3 You're a tree replanted in Eden, bearing fresh fruit every month, Never dropping a leaf, always in blossom.
Psa 1:4 You're not at all like the wicked, who are mere windblown dust-- Psa 1:5 Without defense in court, unfit company for innocent people.
Psa 1:6 GOD charts the road you take. The road they take is Skid Row.

(AMP) Rom 8:19For [even the whole] creation (all nature) waits expectantly and longs earnestly for God's sons to be made known [waits for the revealing, the disclosing of their sonship]. Rom 8:22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

Father Speaks

My Children, you are fretful and concerned over many things.
Do not let multitudinous questions, scenarios and fears
cloud your eyes, or steal the JOY
that you experienced at My Son's Resurrection.

He is ALIVE! He has paved the way HOME to ME once and for all.
You are FREE to approach My Throne and find
Grace and Help in time of need.
All of Heaven is at your disposal.

As it was for Elisha so it is for you- more are they
that be with you than they that be against you.
I still have horses and Chariots of fire, and angels
enough to surround you. I've got you covered!

Go forth is confidence. Go forth in peace.
Let the Spirit lead you into all Truth,
just as My Son has said He would. It is all good!
Every good and perfect gift comes down from ME,
and there is no shadow, no darkness, there is nothing to fear,
for I AM is here with you and will be forever more.
My eagles, it is time for you to soar!


Refuse to fret.
Refuse to frown
Don't let the enemy's lies
get you down.

His words are stout
His words are strong
but he can spout them
off all the day long!

At the end of the day
when all is said and done
he's still the loser for the
battle's already been won!

Hold fast to My Word
it is sure and True
Do not fear my child
I will never let go of you!

So spread your wings
It's time to soar
Ask of the Spirit
He'll give you More!

More of My Power
More of my Love
Crave for More of Me
And you shall Rise above.

Ask me, and I will tell you things that
you don't know and can't find out.
Great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden,
which you do not know (do not distinguish and recognize,
have knowledge of and understand).

Remember, it is MY good pleasure to give you the kingdom!
I delight in seeing you reign as Kings and Priests.
Please ask of Me!

Abba

Where Do We Go From Here?

Now What Jesus? You're alive. What is the game plan from here?

In My name the message about repentance and the forgiveness of sins must be preached to all nations..."God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. Behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye until ye be endued with power from on high.

Wait for the Father to give you the Holy Spirit, just as I told you he has promised to do. But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends (the very bounds) of the earth. Go into all the world and preach and publish openly the good news (the Gospel) to every creature [of the whole human race].

But Jesus! We aren't learned! We dont' have special training... we don't know anything about how to do any of this!

I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, He may give it you. For the Father Himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand--shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.

GOD bless you and keep you,
May the light of the Lord's face be shining on you in grace:
GOD smile on you and gift you, the LORD be kind and gracious to you;
The LORD look on you with favor ;
GOD look you full in the face and make you prosper.
May the Lord's approval be resting on you and may he give you peace.
Amen. So be it.

Commandment of a Dead Man

All authority in Heaven and on earth was given to Me.

So wherever you go, make disciples of all nations:
Baptize them in the name of the Father,
and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Teach them to do everything I have commanded you.
"And remember that I am always with you until the end of time."

Commands:

• Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, all thy soul and all thy mind and all thy strength.
• Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
• Love one another as I have loved you.
• Love your neighbor as yourself.
• Receive ye the Holy Spirit.
• And as you go, proclaim, saying, The kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
• Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.
• This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
• Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
• Love each other. This is what I'm commanding you to do.

Rev 1:17b-18
I am the first and the last.
I am the Living One!
I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever.
I have authority over death and the world of the dead.

"I am the first and the last," says the Lord God Almighty, who is, who was, and who is to come.

HE'S ALIVE!!!

It sends electric shock waves through my body! I thought I
would faint right on the spot!
The tomb that held his battered body is EMPTY!

EMPTYYYYY!!!

Death's vicious grip has come up empty handed!
O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
My son HE'S ALIVE! Alive forever more! He is ALIVE!!!

Oh but He is more than just my son, my precious little boy
all grown up, touching the world with God's love...

HE IS THE SON OF GOD.

Just as the angel told me 34 years ago:

"He will be great and will be called
the Son of the Most High God."

Today, I am rejoicing like those angels who sang to the shepherds that came to visit the night he was born. They told us what had happened when they came to visit:

"An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone over them. They were terribly afraid, but the angel said to them, "Don't be afraid! I am here with good news for you, which will bring great joy to all the people. This very day in David's town your Savior was born---Christ the Lord! Suddenly a multitude of the Heavenly Army appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth to people who enjoy his favor!"

And once again I sing as I did the day I visited my cousin Elizabeth: My soul doth magnify the Lord, With all my heart I praise the Lord, and I am glad, my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. I am Blessed (favored of God) above all other women!
Except now I sing a new song! Listen while I sing:

He has turned my mourning into dancing!
He has turned my sorrow into joy!
He has wiped away my teardrops,
He has restored life to more than just my boy!

He has opened the way to Heaven!
He has shown us all the Way-
He has torn down the wall of separation,
He has taken every sin and offense away!

He has bought us all from bondage
He has restored our liberty.
Now I understand what he told me
Whom the Son sets free, indeed is free!

He has become my Salvation!
He has become my Lord and King!
He is become my refuge and strong tower-
My God, forever I will praise and sing!

No longer the little child I carry,
When He returns again He will be
My long awaited Bridegroom I will Marry
Come! Celebrate LIFE in HIM with me!

Mary's Musings for Shabbat

What? Where am I? I feel drugged and in a stupor... Oh! Yes. Now I remember, as the events of yesterday come rushing back in upon me. Yesterday my son was crucified!
Today is Shabbat. The Sabbath after Passover.

Why didn't the death angel pass over my son? We ate the Passover together so many times, recounting the story of how the blood of the lamb on the door posts kept out the Angel of Death from entering the homes of our ancestors as they waited out that long night of visitation upon Pharaoh. Their release from captivity and slavery would be complete in the morning. Well, it's morning Lord. But my heart is still captive to the grief and pain I feel inside of me. Will it never end?

Good morning John, although I don't know what is good about it. I know our father David declared, "This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it." Please help me find something to rejoice about Lord.

John! What was it my son spoke of about this particular passover? I want to remember everything he ever said... "Ima, He said to us, With desire I desired to eat this Passover with you before My suffering. " John, did you know what He was talking about? "Well, I supposed that He was going to have a confrontation of sorts with the Pharisees. How He hated the way they kept people from God, acting all holier than thou with folks."

Yes, he hated their pomposity. He always used to tell me that God wanted relationship with our hearts, not empty works that got us the praise of men. The things that boy would say! Unlike anything any Rabbi has said, that I have ever heard. I asked him once, "where do you come up with this stuff?" Do you know what he said? "I only say and do what I hear my Father say and do." Joseph taught you this I queried? "NO, Mother" he said kissing my cheek. "Our Father who art in Heaven taught me this."

His heart was always so tender towards God and very protective of the Books of God. He often whispered, "they are missing the whole point of that text" when the priest stood up to read! Later he would explain it to me in a way that was simple, profound and beautiful and it always made sense, although I'd never seen it that way, before he showed it to me.

Ahh John. When he was small I could kiss away his scrapes and bruises! As he grew, I watched him tenderly care for hurt creatures of the field that were around us. He would ask me to make them well. As if I had all power! He kept insisting, Imi touch the poor thing. It will get better! Don't you believe? There came a day, when he didn't bring the bird to me that had the broken wing, instead I watched from the window. I saw him hold it so gently and whisper something to it. Then my son did the most amazing thing. He took that wounded bird with broken wing and threw it up into the sky! Doesn't he know it can't fly? I thought. It will surely fall to the ground and die! But it flew away perfectly whole! Later when I casually asked him abut the bird he had found he said to me; "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And [yet] not one of them is forgotten or uncared for in the presence of God."

Oh John! He brought such light and life wherever He went! And now they've snuffed out His life. And yet, I remember as if it were yesterday, what the Angel said to me, when He spoke with me : "He will be a great man and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. Your son will be king of Jacob's people forever, and his kingdom will never end." I don't know how that will be possible now. But I didn't know how it would be possible for me to conceive a child then when I was yet in my virginity, yet somehow God did it and Jesus was born- not of Joseph or any other man, for I had not lain with anyone, except to lay before our God in worship and adoration.

As soon as Shabbat is over, please take me to the tomb. I want to make sure all is as it should be for my son. I don't understand why this has happened. But I want to honor him and God the best I know how, even in this his death. How I HATE that word. Death. So final. So cold. Such an enemy to all that He brought into this world. He raised Lazarus from the dead... but Lazarus hadn't been crucified ... John, do you think that somehow, someway....? No, I can't even let my mind go there and think like that. And yet...

Where are his boys now? The rest of the gang? Peter? James? Nathaniel? Do you think it is safe for you to go out? Can you go bring them so we can all be together? You boys spent the last 3 1/2 years with him. Being with you, is as close as I can get now to being with him. Please bring me comfort in my days of mourning. Go then and gather them up and bring them here. Will you? Yes, I'll be fine John. Yes, I'll keep the door locked. Thank you son that my son gave to me... please be careful! Go now and hurry back to me. I don't want to be alone too long! Yes, there's a good boy. God be with you. God be with us all...

Behold your Mother!

Mary you must be exhausted. This Friday has been one of the most emotionally draining days ever!
Yes it has.
Has there ever been a day like this?

Not that I can ever remember. When He was born I was exhausted- but it was a good exhaustion. But this?!!... And John bless his heart is so solicitous. He is watching me with worried eyes. "Ima (ee-ma translated from Hebrew it means Mother) please eat something and try to lie down."

That was so like my son to instruct some one he knew he could trust to take care of me... "Mother Behold your son! John- Behold your Mother!" Jesus always took His duties as a first born son so seriously. But he told me more than once, it was never a burden, but a delight and a privileage for him to care for me! Even from the cross, he was still discharging the responsibility of my care to John...Indeed John has been around so much he feels like my own. And now he watches me as a son worried over his mother's health and well-being.

I've cried myself numb. My breathing is like quiet shudders, such as a baby does when it has wailed until it is too tired and weak to cry any more. So it just snuffles and shudders. Like I am doing right now.

I never wanted this day to come. You know life is going to be very unusual and different when an Angel announces a pregnancy! But nothing could have prepared me for this day. Simeon's words come back to haunt me,
"Behold this child is set for the fall and for the resurrection of many in Israel and for a sign which shall be contradicted. And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts thoughts may be revealed."

"Come Mother, you must try to rest." I nod blankly, thinking how deathly quiet it is. "I wonder, is HE resting?" I whisper, as a tear slides down from my swollen eyes. I think of his body, beaten beyond imagination, bruised and mangled, laying on the cold hard stone inside Joseph of Arimathaea's tomb. I'm grateful that Joseph came to get his body, for I don't know if Pilate would have given it to us otherwise...Had I thought, we could have laid him beside my own dear Joseph...God rest his soul.

I remember how patiently he had worked with Jesus, teaching him the carpentry trade that he himself loved so well! I will never forget the time Jesus smashed his thumb with the hammer. He must have been 10 or 12 years old. (Hmm, was it before or after the time we lost him during passover and found him days later in the temple, disputing like one of the sages themselves? The years all run together in a blur- they went by oh too fast!) Anyway, his thumb was bleeding and he had cried out when he hit it, but when I came to tend him, he looked at me and said, "It's okay Imi (my mother) the pain will only last a little while, but the thing of beauty I am creating will last forever." The way he said it, and the look in his eyes... like he was older than time itself...caused me to stop and shiver although I could not grasp why. Later Joseph said, "you know Mary, it was the darndest thing. I could almost swear ( if I were a man to make oaths) that he hit his thumb on purpose, as if to see if he could bear the pain! What do you make of that?" Of course, I didn't know WHAT to make of it, so I just hid it away with all the other things I'd tucked into my heart about this precious gift and son of mine.

But what now? After so many miracles? After the rising hopes of so many of us, that He really was Messiah... After all the Angel said he would save His people from their sin. His cousin John announced him as the lamb who takes away the sin of the world. The world! Can you imagine?!! But the only way I know lambs to take away sin, is to die so their blood can cover our sins for the coming year. And now my own little lamb has died at the hands of cruel and merciless men. For what? What did he do? What will we now do? It is more than I can fathom and I shake my head wearily, as if trying to clear it. Yes, maybe what I need is a good nights sleep. Maybe somehow, someway, things will look different in the light of a new day... I doubt it, but I can only hope that there is something I have missed, that he has told me that will come back to me, and I will understand it all by and by. I hope so. I truly hope so.

Thank you John for the blanket. I'll just close my eyes for a minute... I pray the horror of this day will fade from their view....

Maundy Thursday

Happy Maundy Thursday

Foot washing
I've conducted a couple of foot washings- one on the Indian Reservation in New town, ND. I've also had my feet washed... very humbling all around.

Maundy Thursday. What does Maundy mean? Do you know? Does it matter?
I looked it up in Websters 1913 Dictionary online:

Maun´dy

n.	1.	The sacrament of the Lord's Supper.
	2.	The ceremony of washing the feet of the poor on Maundy Thursday.
	3.	The alms distributed in connection with this ceremony or on Maundy Thursday.

American College Dictionary further supplied this information:
1. The ceremony of washing the feet of the poor, es. commemorating Jesus' washing of
His disciples' feet on Maundy Thursday. (See John 13: 5, 14, 34)
Latin mandatum a command, mandate

Interesting. A command or mandate. Let's look at the passage:

John 13:3 (Amp) [That] Jesus, knowing (fully aware) that the Father had put everything into His hands, and that He had come from God and was [now] returning to God,
Joh 13:4 Got up from supper, took off His garments, and taking a [servant's] towel, He fastened it around His waist.
Joh 13:5 Then He poured water into the washbasin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the [servant's] towel with which He was girded.
Joh 13:6 When He came to Simon Peter, [Peter] said to Him, Lord, are my feet to be washed by You? [Is it for You to wash my feet?]
Joh 13:7 Jesus said to him, You do not understand now what I am doing, but you will understand later on.
Joh 13:8 Peter said to Him, You shall never wash my feet! Jesus answered him, Unless I wash you, you have no part with (in) Me [you have no share in companionship with Me].
Joh 13:9 Simon Peter said to Him, Lord, [wash] not only my feet, but my hands and my head too!
Joh 13:10 Jesus said to him, Anyone who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is clean all over. And you [My disciples] are clean, but not all of you.
Joh 13:11 For He knew who was going to betray Him; that was the reason He said, Not all of you are clean.
Joh 13:12 So when He had finished washing their feet and had put on His garments and had sat down again, He said to them, Do you understand what I have done to you?
Joh 13:13 You call Me the Teacher (Master) and the Lord, and you are right in doing so, for that is what I am.
Joh 13:14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher (Master), have washed your feet, you ought [it is your duty, you are under obligation, you owe it] to wash one another's feet.
Joh 13:15 For I have given you this as an example, so that you should do [in your turn] what I have done to you.
Joh 13:16 I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, a servant is not greater than his master, and no one who is sent is superior to the one who sent him.
Joh 13:17 If you know these things, blessed and happy and to be envied are you if you practice them [if you act accordingly and really do them].

Now here is the command:
Joh 13:34 I give you a new commandment: that you should love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another.
Joh 13:35 By this shall all [men] know that you are My disciples, if you love one another [if you keep on showing love among yourselves].

Jesus did not draw back from lovingly washing Judas' feet, even though He knew that Judas was about to betray him. He did not withhold himself, even from Judas! Do we then have the right to withhold ourselves from those who wound or offend us?

Joh 13:29 (CEV) But because Judas was in charge of the money, some of them thought that Jesus had told him to buy something they needed for the festival. Others thought that Jesus had told him to give some money to the poor.

Now why would they think that, unless it had been either the custom of the day to give to the poor during this time, or else it was simply they knew Jesus' heart? He had great compassion on the masses and fed them more than once. He made a strong point of pointing out the widow who threw in all that she had.

At Easter we concentrate on trying to get people to church, trying to get sinners to get saved, and counting our personal blessings of how He saved us.

This year why don't we do something different? Why don't we wash our brother's and sister's feet? Maybe it won't actually include water- maybe it will be clean their house, or bake them bread, show them tangible love...you get the idea? And why don't we give something to the truly poor. Go find a homeless person and buy them a meal on Easter? Or the day after? And show them it is because of Easter, because Jesus cares. You could also send 30 pieces of silver to a mission outreach overseas. 30 quarters is $7.50. But to a starving pastor it is several meals for he and his family! Or 7 1/2 days of schooling w/ meals for a child. I challenge you to do something different this Easter. Don't just talk about Christ's love for sinners. SHOW His Love for mankind.
Selah.
Happy Maundy Thursday.

This Same Jesus

Acts 1: 10-11

(KJV) And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

(MSG) They said, "You Galileans!--why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly--and mysteriously--as he left."


This SAME Jesus- not another. The Jesus you have relationship with. The one you have come to know and love. Not a different Jesus. How well do you know this SAME Jesus?


Malachi 3:6 (MSG) "I am GOD--yes, I AM. I haven't changed. And because I haven't changed, you, the descendants of Jacob, haven't been destroyed.

(Thank God, God isn't fickle minded!)

James 1:17 (WNT) Every gift which is good, and every perfect boon, is from above, and comes down from the Father, who is the source of all Light. In Him there is no variation nor the slightest suggestion of change.

2Cor 1:20 (AMP) For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God.

Hebrews 13:8

(AMP) Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes] and forever (to the ages).

(MSG) For Jesus doesn't change--yesterday, today, tomorrow, he's always totally himself.

Jesus is totally Himself! He was that way here on earth, and He is that way in Heaven and He will be that way when He comes back again. And He is looking for people who will be themselves in Him! The "self" that He saw when He looked down the portals of time and saw you right here right now, as you are and as you are yet to be! This Same Jesus who wept, who laughed, who spent 3 years teaching the same truths over and over to a handful of followers who were willing to stick it out...

Do you think He is exasperated with you, wringing His hands and saying, "WHAT am I going to do with them?" I hardly think so! YOU may be exasperated with you, but He isn't! You may wonder how things are going to turn out, but He has the answer to that in the words below:

Jer 29:11

(GNB) I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.

(MSG) I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out--plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.

This same Jesus, who hung the stars in space, who came to Earth to rescue and redeem Mankind from endless misery and separation from the One who DESIRED them in the first place... This same Jesus who willing tasted the depths of being human adn took our place on the cross...

It is THIS JESUS who will come again to collect His property, to gather His treaure, to claim His Bride!

He hasn't changed his mind about you. He hasn't regretted the sacrifice made for you. In fact there is a hunger and a passion in His heart for you that grows daily.

"How long my chosen ones? How long before you 'get it?' How long before you see the depths of my love for you? Before you walk in the fullness of my stature that is available to you? How long before you operate in the power grid zone of My Love and Provision, instead of on rechargeable batteries only? How long will you halt between two opinions, that of your own and that of Mine? Your opinion of yourself and others and the way I see things are totally different! You are looking about you, you are looking within you and you are seeing much chaos in areas. Yes, I see, but I see beyong what you are seeing and you must too. Filter it through My Spirit and through My Word. Even a you see the days grow evil, be sure that you also see My Glory shining into the darkness. Don't you realize that YOU are the carriers of My Glory and YOU bring Hope and Light into the darkness! You may feel your light is not all that bright, but if you will look to ME, I will teach you how to focus and concentrate that light into powerful glory beams! You are MY Workmanship and I created you for great and good things, because I am a Great and a Good God and you were created to reflect ME! Let Me turn up the wattage of Myself in you...plug into Me as never before and I will be unto you as I have hereunto never been before... for NOW is the time and now is the hour for demonstration of My Love and Power."

Dan 11:32 (JPS) And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall be corrupt by blandishments; but the people that know their God shall show strength, and prevail.

(AMP) And such as violate the covenant he shall pervert and seduce with flatteries, but the people who know their God shall prove themselves strong and shall stand firm and do exploits [for God].

In Your Presence

In Your presence O God

In Your presence
That's where I am strong
In Your presence
O Lord my God
In Your presence
That's where I belong
Seeking Your face
Touching Your grace
In the cleft of the Rock


I want to go
Where the rivers
Cannot overflow me
Where my feet are
On the rock
I want to hide
Where the blazing
Fire cannot burn me
In Your presence O God

I want to hide
Where the flood of
Evil cannot reach me
Where I'm covered by the blood
I want to be where
The schemes of darkness
Cannot touch me
In Your presence O God

You are my firm foundation
I trust in You all day long
I am Your child
And Your servant
And You are my
Strength and my song
You're my song

Seeking Your face
Touching Your grace
In the cleft of the Rock
In Your presence O God
In Your presence

© 1995 Integrity's Hosanna! Music
Words and Music by Lynn DeShazo
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

One of my sons and I were chatting tonight and something said reminded me of this song.

I love this song. It is the yearning of my heart and soul to be so immersed in HIM. Can't live without Him! Don't even want to try!

No matter how deep we go, there is always more to be had, more to be found, more to see... We will spend all of Eternity plumbing the depths of God!

I want to be hidden in HIM so that when my enemies come looking, they are blinded by His Glory! I want to be His surprise attack on darkness... everywhere I go dispelling darkness as HE shines through me.

I want to be His Warrior Princess, His Virgin Bride who has not prostituted herself with the ways of the World and it's system.

I mean to be all these things...but I see my shortcomings. But HE sees my end. And it is a GLORIOUS one! Without Spot or Wrinkle. Exultant in Holy Matrimony with my Holy King.

I invite you to come along with me as I prepare and am being prepared for that day. You have your own day to prepare for also. Where are you in YOUR preparations?

See you at the Wedding!

+++++++++++++++++++++++
Beloved- after I posted this, I went to my mailbox to find this word from Sandy Warner as confirmation to what I just wrote! So I am adding it as an Addendum to my post. Be Blessed!


{Word To Ponder} To Reveal The Face Of My Bride
Sandy Warner
Apr 7, 2009

TO REVEAL THE FACE OF MY BRIDE

From the rhema journals of Sandy Warner * swauthor@usa.net * www.thequickenedword.com

---

WORD TO PONDER: TO REVEAL THE FACE OF MY BRIDE 11/23/08

My beloved bride, even when in the midst of a cold and dark season, when you feel vulnerable and violated by the world, always know that as you abide in Me, you are safe. I AM your covering as you accept that your weapons are not carnal against men, but mighty against the spiritual world that seeks to plunder.

I cover your head as you pray and prophesy. I cover your life as you boldly make known the mysteries of My wisdom to the spirit world.

In the fullness of time and maturity, I will reveal My bride and she shall take her place to rule by My side. As I reveal the face of My church, My bride, you shall radiate the glory of My Presence and be sent as My deliverers to nations, kings and governments.

Eph 3:9-13 NKJV

...to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; 10 to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, 11 according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him. 13 Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

---

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, the Life, and He died for you. Words from the email list, The Quickened Word are excerpts from the rhema journals of Sandy Warner. To better understand how God speaks, read Sandy’s book, “101+ Ways God Speaks, And How to Hear Him.” Website: www.thequickenedword.com Email: swauthor@usa.net Permission to forward and/or post at websites is given with this footer attached.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Honouring Father and Mother

We have need of recognizing our God given
Spiritual Parents and being subject unto them.
Too many children doing their own thing,
running around, and not remembering the parents
who have nurtured and helped along the way.

1Co 4:15 (MSG) There are a lot of people around who can't wait
to tell you what you've done wrong, but there aren't many
fathers willing to take the time and effort to help you grow up.
It was as Jesus helped me proclaim God's Message to you that
I became your father.

KJV says I have begotten you. Thayer Definition:
1) of men who fathered children
1a) to be born
1b) to be begotten
1b1) of women giving birth to children

I think of Jesus. God was His father... but He was put in
the care of Mary and Joseph.

Luk 2:51 (ISV) Then he went down with them and returned
to Nazareth; and he remained in submission to them.
His mother continued to treasure all these things in her heart.

Do you remember the movie, "The Passion of Christ"?
One of my favorite scenes (I have 3) is when he was working on
the fine table for rich folk. There is a playful interchange
between him and his mother that I just love. Even though he was God
in human flesh, he still chose to love and honor his Mom,
take care of her, and promote her well being as a son.

Phillipians 2:1-4 (AMP) So by whatever [appeal to you there is in our mutual dwelling in Christ, by whatever] strengthening and consoling and encouraging [our relationship] in Him [affords], by whatever persuasive incentive there is in love, by whatever participation in the [Holy] Spirit [we share], and by whatever depth of affection and compassionate sympathy, Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of the same mind and one in purpose, having the same love, being in full accord and of one harmonious mind and intention. Do nothing from factional motives [through contentiousness, strife, selfishness, or for unworthy ends] or prompted by conceit and empty arrogance. Instead, in the true spirit of humility (lowliness of mind) let each regard the others as better than and superior to himself [thinking more highly of one another than you do of yourselves]. Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also each for the interests of others.

It is time to learn how to keep rank! Stay in formation, finish the assignment. Release comes to those who honor. The Hebrew word Honour has this among it's various meanings: be made abundant 1b2) to get oneself glory or honour, gain glory, promote. Are you causing your parents to be made abundant? Are you gaining glory for them? (1Th 2:19 (BBE) For what is our hope or joy or crown of glory? Are not even you, before our Lord Jesus, at his coming? ) Are you seeking THEIR promotion in the Kingdom and the things of God, or just your own?

Take stock of your Spiritual Parents. Your parent(s) may not be the same one(s) who brought you into the Faith, but rather the one(s) who have or who are bringing you up in the faith. The ones who are covering you, encouraging you, stretching you and requiring accountability from you. Honour them every way possible. They hold the key to many things for you.

You may grow up and fly high, but remember, "there is no place like home!"

Love you Dad and Linda.

No Place like Home part 2

Got a call from a customer yesterday, needing some assistance. As I was verifying their account they gave me their address. You will never guess where they lived. On Golden Square! I know you are thinking, so what? Tune your ears, to hear. As they gave me the address, my spirit man just went bonkers inside. I was thinking "The Wizard of Oz again!" And Heaven!

Are you living on Golden Square? Are you living within the anointing of His Call and giftings in and on your life? Have you found "your company?" Or do you feel you've been relegated to a "tent city" and are an outcast? Beloved, we are Ambassadors for Christ! Emissaries from a Heavenly Realm that is paved in gold! Remember Canaan land? Flowing with milk and honey? Everything in the natural is but a type and shadow- a glimpse of the other world that co-exists with us.

We are here, but this is not REALLY home! But just like when an Ambassador goes to a foreign land, the country (or Kingdom) that he/she is from provides for him and creates a haven for them to dwell in, in the midst of perhaps hostile lands. When we keep with our company and we flow in our giftings and we make a place for the Holy Spirit to live and a place for the Presence of God to DWELL with us, then we have a bit of HOME, a bit of Heaven on Earth.

And regardless of whether people like us or don't like us. Whether they accept us or reject us. Whether they appear to acknowledge our words or rebel. Regardless of ALL these things. Faithful is HE who called us and HE makes us more than conquerors through Christ. And if we have set our affections above, and we focus and worship the ONE who holds the keys to death and hell, and our very lives, then we have created a place that we can call home. And where others can come and be sheltered and nurtured and launched. Selah.

No Place like Home Part 1

My Spiritual Dad preached on dumpster diving one Sunday. He talked of how God has prepared a magnificent meal for us and has the table all set and waiting for us. He has fixed Filet Mignon, fresh salad and hot bread. But we choose instead to go scavenging in the garbage can, looking for "something good" to eat.

God puts people in our path for our edification and growth, but we go off seeking somewhere and someone to connect with, because they don't stroke us just he right way. We fail to recognize the gift that God has bestowed on us, because it isn't wrapped how we thought it should be. Jesus came special delivery, but was rejected by His own, because He was wrapped in the guise of a servant, born in a manger and reached out to the rejects of the day!

In the movie the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy decides to run away from home because of some unhappy things that happened. During her departure a terrible storm arises and her very house is lifted off of it's foundations with her in it, and carried to a mystical land far away. Though filled with wonderful sights to see, she now must try to find here way home and deal with the wicked witch who wants her dead. If you know the story line, she finds her self repeating over and over, there is no place like home, there is no place like home...

There IS no place like Home! The place of love, nurturing, welcome, training, correction and launching.

Psa 68:6 God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.

Solitary= lonely, those alone and without anyone to help them. Rebellious= those who turn away, are stubborn, withdraw and backslide.

Act 4:23 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.

1Ch 12:33 Of Zebulun, such as went forth to battle, expert in war, with all instruments of war, fifty thousand, which could keep rank: they were not of double heart.

I am calling you into position. I have placed you strategically for this end time battle, but you MUST keep rank! You must walk, not after your own understanding, but keep cadence with My heart and step in time with the tune of My Spirit. I am marking you, you are Mine. Together we are a terrible and fierce team! Keep your eyes on Me and I will direct you. Put on your battle vestures and listen for the battle cry. It is sounding in your spirit even now as deep calling unto deep.