Heaven Bound

When your religious freedom is threatened, when your religious freedom is taken away, what will you do? What will I do?  This was the question facing Catholics in Mexico in the early part of the last century.

It was not until I saw the movie “For Greater Glory” that I became aware of the terrible persecution Catholics in Mexico faced at the hands of their own government in the Cristero War of 1926, a bloody conflict which lasted three years as a result of anti-clerical laws passed in 1917 by former President and atheist Plutarco Elias Callas – a conflict that would leave an estimated 90,000 people dead before it finally came to an end.

As the government moved to shut down churches and ban religious practices, it soon became clear that any who opposed them could expect the harshest of repercussions. Priests were tortured and killed in public and any who sought to oppose them could expect to be hung, if caught, from telegraph poles around the city as an example to others, who might be foolish enough to join their cause.  Initial peaceful protests were met with violent opposition and it soon became apparent that the people, if they wanted their religious freedom, would have to organize and fight to have that right.

I was very moved by this movie and especially the portrayal of a young boy by the name of Jose Luis Sanchez Del Rio, who was tortured (and, murdered) for his faith in Christ and his refusal to divulge information regarding the rebel troops, whose flag he had carried.

According to one source, this is what happened to Jose, (also portrayed in the movie) –

When they were going to take him to be executed, the soldiers had machetes, and they started to strike him with them. At every cut, the boy cried out, “Long live Christ the King!” When he got to the cemetery, he was already covered in his own blood. They had also chopped up the soles of his feet, and as the road was not paved back then, it was nothing but rocks. Those stones where he had trodden were all soaked in his blood. When they got to the cemetery, they showed him the grave, and said, “This is where we are going to bury you.” The boy responded, “That is good. I forgive all of you since we are all Christians.” He offered them his hand and said, “We’ll see each other in Heaven. I want you all to repent. Long live Christ the King!” At that point they shot him. They gave him a coup de grace to the head and he died.

The story of Jose is the story of countless others who have sacrificed their lives for the cause of Christ and, who, even now are facing ruthless governments and religious regimes who are doing everything within their power to stamp out the name of Jesus and to stamp out religious freedom. And, we may be faced with the same.

You see, we have a Commander-in Chief, who has pledged his support for a lifestyle that is diametrically opposed to God, and, a Commander-in-Chief, who opposes anyone, who should stand in the way of his re-making America, not in God’s image, but, in his own image.

From his speech at the annual Human Rights Campaign fund-raising dinner.

“I need your help to fight for equality, to pass a repeal of DOMA, to pass an inclusive employment non-discrimination bill, so that being gay is never again a fireable offensive in America,” said Obama. “And I don’t have to tell you, there are those who don’t want to just stand in our way, but want to turn the clock back, who want to return to the days when gay people couldn’t serve their country openly. Who reject the progress we’ve made. Who … want to enshrine discrimination in state laws and constitutions — efforts that we’ve got to work hard to oppose, because that’s not what America should be about. We’re not about restricting rights and restricting opportunity.”

Yes, an America made in his own image.

The day may be coming, when we will be called upon to make the same choices as did the Cristeros less than a century ago. And, if we should, will we see it, as they and so many others have – as an honor, a privilenge and a blessing  –  for greater glory?  I pray by God’s grace that we will.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper, who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cristero_War

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=37007274

http://arturovasquez.wordpress.com/2008/07/10/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plutarco_El%C3%ADas_Calles

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/01/obama-hrc-speech-gay-rights_n_990574.html

“And, do this understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over, the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently as in the day time, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do no think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh”.  Romans 13:11-14.

Yes, clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ. I cannot think of any better words for these last days we’re living in than this.  In a continuation of my last post, the Lord has put it on my heart to emphasize the absolute necessity of being spiritually prepared for what lies ahead.  The first of which, of course, is being born of the Spirit. There is no way, we can be spiritually prepared unless, we have first been born again.

Secondly, there is no way we can be prepared, if we continue to let the distractions of this present life control us. Therefore, my advice regarding this is to“purify and simplify” our lives, wherever possible.  For God will not compete against these things in order to be heard.

Think about it? Do we really need 150 television stations at our disposal? Do we really need the latest gadgets, so, that we can be plugged into entertainment and social networking 24/7?  I’m not advocating a return to the horse and buggy, but, what I am advocating is a reduction in any kind of distraction (technological, or otherwise) that prevents us from hearing God’s voice and hinders us from having a strong, powerful and effective walk with him.

Let me ask you this.

Do you have meals together with your family away from the television set, where everyone gathers together, first asking God’s blessing over the food?  If not, I suggest you break that former bad habit and start a new good one. Your family and your marriage will be strengthened immeasurably by this simple step. After dinner, take a walk, go out and play with the kids, get to know your neighbors.  Read scripture and other books of fine character together as a family. Go back to playing board games, limit the use of addictive and, non-healthy video games.  Pray together and play together. Find healthy activities that take you away from the television set, videos and video games. Your children, (and, society) will thank you, for I guarantee, what your children want more than anything from you, is your attention.

Choose weekend projects, where, you can be in service to others. Feed the homeless, help a neighbor, visit a convalescent home.  I guarantee, you will be blessed by the Lord as well as building character in your children that will last a life time.  As you know, until the Lord returns, our children are faced with a most violent and vile world. How are we helping them prepare?  Are we teaching them to feed an addiction or we teaching them to have faith in Christ and to live in service to Him? It is imperative that we, as parents and grandparents lead by example in our faith and commitment to Jesus Christ, if we expect to have any impact on our children and our world. It’s not enough that we occasionally do these things, they must visibly and, consistently be the foundation for our lives. The meat and potatoes on our plate, and not, just the garnish.

For as it says in Galatians 5:25 –

If we live by the Spirit, let us also, walk by the Spirit”.

Yes, brothers and sisters, it has never been more important than now to purify and simplify our lives before God.  The times are such that we cannot afford to be distracted from hearing his voice. We need to be ready in full armor and in a constant Spirit of prayer for whatever God brings our way each day. May God, therefore, help us to know what changes need to be made and may he give us the strength we need, for making them.

And, as always,

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, the shall prosper, who love thee” Psalm 122:6  Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

In case you have not noticed, the demonic seems to be manifesting around us in ways never seen before. A sure sign that the day of the Lord is near  – for not since the days before the flood has evil of this magnitude been made manifest.  Therefore, it is imperative that believers in Christ have their spiritual armour intact and ready for use.  If you’ve let your sword get a bit rusty, sharpen it up – you’re going to need it. If you’ve let your helmet slip slightly askew, get it straightened on now.  Fasten your breastplate and get ready for action – for there will be no sitting on the sidelines, when this battle gets rolling. 

Many of us are crossing our fingers and hoping to be raptured before ever being called to battle; but, the reality is this –  the battle is already underway and is intensifying daily ….. and, there is not a soul on this planet, who will not be directly affected by this in one way or another in the days to come.

In Revelation 9:1-3, we are told that one day soon the abyss will open up and the demons that have been held there (described as locusts and scorpions), will emerge to torment all those on the earth who do not have the seal of God in their foreheads.  I cannot tell you when that day will happen, but, if what we are seeing now is any indication, it can’t be far away.

How many of you saw this horrific headline this weekend – “South Beach cannibal growled like wild animal … ate the face of homeless man “.

http://www.local10.com/news/News/Witness-describes-face-eating-man-shot-by-police/-/7659550/14236278/-/djbd6z/-/index.html..

Or this recent news story – “Japanese man cooks and serves his own genitals to paying guests.”   http://japandailypress.com/

Isolated incidents?  We’d like to think so. One, a victim of his own inner demon and a culture that seems to have a penchant for the bizarre. The other, the victim of some psychopathic drug crazed individual. Or, so we would like to believe. So much easier to believe than the reality that cannibalism like sodomy are serious indicators of a culture in decay, a culture sliding dangerously close to the edge of the abyss.

Yesterday, my friend Nan and I went to Waikiki as we often do to minister among the homeless and to some of the other general population (local and tourists) that live and play in the area.  And, as we were walking through the park, we noticed a very thin man who appeared to be in his late fifties sitting at a picnic table. He had a back pack with him and was smoking a cigarette and while,  I wasn’t certain that he was homeless, I was certain he had not eaten in a while, or at least not regularly, as all his ribs were showing.  I pointed him out to Nan and said, “I wonder if he could use some food?”  But, for some reason, she shook her head “no” – “I have a bad vibe about him”, she said.  I was surprised at her remarks and argued – “But, look how thin he is”.  And, she again said, that she had a bad feeling about him.  Stumped, I thought it over briefly and decided to approach the man anyway.  I was carrying a lot of food and I couldn’t see not offering it to someone, who appeared to be in need.  So, I walked over and ask him if he could use some food – to which, he replied –   “Why, yes, I could”  and, “thank you very much”  And, he seemed genuinely grateful, as I unloaded a number of items from my bag on to the table.

When Nan saw me talking to him and unloading food, she came on over and joined in the conversation. We found out that the man’s name was Ken and that he was here from California.  According to Ken, he had recently purchased a one way ticket to Hawaii on the advice of his doctor, so that he could de-stress and bring his blood pressure down – a less than plausible story, (in my opinion) as Ken obviously had no money for food or lodging, which is not exactly the way to de-stress, but, we listened to him anyway and waited for an opening to interject about the Lord.

He went on to tell us how he had once lived a very privileged lifestyle, was college educated and had even driven a Ferrari at one time. He pulled out his driver’s license and indeed a much healthier and prosperous looking Ken smiled back from the photo, proving that at least at one point in time, he was a very different individual than the one sitting before us on the beach today. He told us he was the son of a very wealthy father, who had acquired vast amounts of money by buying up real estate in California. He also told us that his father was missing three fingers on one hand and that in his opinion, his father had always felt the need to over achieve in order to make up for that deficiency.  He also, told us that he had never been told about Jesus when he was growing up and that he was worried now that his aging father was going to die before ever knowing Jesus himself. Ken also told us that he felt that he has been a disappointment to his father because, he never made money or excelled in business the way his father expected.

Nan and I were quite taken by this story and Ken even pulled a small Bible out of his satchel. When ask if we could pray for him, Ken readily said, “yes” and, when we finished praying, there were visible tears in his eyes. Ken told us that he was hoping to receive some money from home soon so that he could go back home.  At that, Nan gave him a small amount of money and we bid him farewell –  but, just as were turning to walk away, Ken said something unexpected to Nan, which turned the whole conversation up-side down. He looked at her and ask her –

“how is your daughter doing?” 

How is your daughter doing?  It was as if a switch had flipped, and a formerly warm conversation suddenly grew ice-cold.  I could see Nan stiffen up as she replied, “I don’t have a daughter,” – (although, she does).  “Why, do you ask?”  To which, he replied rather confusedly, “I don’t know”.

Both of us were taken aback and I could tell that Nan was visibly shaken by his question as neither of us had offered up any personal information about ourselves. Therefore, the question was completely bizarre and out of context to the rest of the conversation, we had been having.

I woke up this morning thinking about this incident and the strange headlines that I had read recently and wondered if there was any connection. After praying about it and mulling it over, I called my younger daughter “Pix” to get her take on it.  

Immediately, she pointed out that there is much more going on with Ken than meets the eye, to which I agreed.  No one comes to Hawaii in an emaciated state on a one way ticket without something else going on. It just didn’t make sense.  And, while Ken himself seemed touched by the little bit, we had to share with him – the demon, Nan had sensed inside him was not. And, he wanted her to know it.

“And, how is your daughter doing?  Also, to be interpreted as – “I know you have a daughter, …… maybe, I know her name, ….. maybe, I even know where she lives …….”

 A chilling thought for any mother …. the question itself, a repulsive violation of everything that is pure and good.  The parting shot, I believe by a mocking entity, who wanted the last laugh on Nan, as, it was she who did not want to approach Ken.

Yes, we are living at a point in time, when evil is openly manifesting around us or is swirling just below the surface. It’s important that we are aware of this for the Lord has not called us to sit idly by. Now more than ever, we need to gear up and pray up in order to be ready for the battle at hand for Jesus has given us everything we need to exercise authority against the forces of darkness in the power of his name until he deems the time is right for taking us home.  May we therefore, wisely make use of all of the weapons he has made available to us as we serve him in these last days.

Please keep Nan and I in prayer, as we minister in Waikiki. And, please let me know how I can pray for you. May the Lord’s blessing be upon each and every one of you. And, as always,

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee.”  Psalm 122:6   Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

NETANYAHU HOSTS TWO-HOUR BIBLE STUDY IN THE BOOK OF RUTH: Says “the Bible is the foundation of our existence.”

Exciting news from the blog of Joel Rosenberg. The Prime Minister of Israel has hosted his first Bible study and the timing couldn’t be better!  While it is traditional to read the book of Ruth at Shavuot, for the Prime Minister to hold his first Bible study at this particular time (and, on this particular topic) can be no accident.  A sure sign, in my opinion that God is about to begin a mighty work in the hearts of the Jewish people and, a possible sign that the prophetic clock is about to change.  For more on this exciting news from the blog of Joel Rosenberg, click here: http://flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com/

Shavuot is a wonderfully exciting feast with tremendous prophetic implication for both Israel and the Church. And, with the story of Ruth woven in to the picture, it becomes even more exciting.  While the Prime Minister is reading about the Gentile Ruth, who married Boaz, the Jewish kinsman redeemer and, who left her own people in order to be united to the Jewish people, the church is ready to be separated and called up to heaven for marriage to her own heavenly bridegroom, the Jewish Messiah, Yeshua – our, kinsman redeemer.  An event, when, it happens that is certain as it says in Romans 11:11, “to provoke Israel to envy”.

“Again, I ask: Did they (Israel) stumble so as to fall beyond recovery?  Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious” 

And, an event, I might add, (should it happen soon), which, will be cause for thought by a very thoughtful Prime Minister, whose heart, I believe, God is even now preparing. 

What an exciting time to be living in!  Happy Shavuot everyone!  Our joy is about to be made complete!

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper, who love thee”  Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

      Sky Tree Tower Tokyo

Why worry about Fukushima, when you can build a tower. Yes, that’s right. The Japanese have erected the world’s tallest tower – not building, (the Burj in Dubai holds that distinction), but tower.  At 2080 feet, Japan’s newest tower handily beats the former record holder in China, which, stands at a mere 1968.5 feet high.

And, while Japan is busy celebrating its newest achievement, their government is involved in a high stakes game with God regarding Israel and Iran. And, this is not their first go around – March 11, 2011, proved that – as, one year to the day that Japan announced that they “deplored” Israel’s decision to build housing units in East Jerusalem, God proved that there are some things that he deplores too, and anti-Israel rhetoric is one of them.  http://www.mofa.go.jp/announce/announce/2010/3/0311_01.html

A harsh lesson, indeed, but, one apparently not learned, as Japan moves against Israel once again, by breaking the oil embargo being held against Iran, as reported by the Debkafile today. http://www.debka.com/   A move, I’m afraid that could render, a second, and more powerful judgment by the release of massive amounts of radiation from the severely damaged Fukushima reactor which, if the reports are to be believed is even now, hanging by a thread. A release of radiation that would have devastating consequences, not only for Japan, but, for the ocean and the world at large should even a minor earthquake further damage the reactor.  A judgment, I believe that God is even now, holding in reserve.  http://theintelhub.com/2012/05/21/fukushima-forever/

Yes, today Japan is basking in the glory of their new tower, and, the “name that they have made for themselves” in building it, but, that glory is about to be short-lived, for Japan is about to find out the hard way; you can only poke God in the eye so many times without evoking a response – and, messing with Israel is poking God in the eye, the Bible is clear on this:

“This is what the Lord Almighty says, ‘whoever touches you, (Israel)    touches the apple of my eye'”  Zechariah 2:8

And, woe to those that do!

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee”  Psalm 122:6  Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!   Cindy

–

“Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood”.  Revelation 22:15

On Wednesday May 9, President Obama came out publicly in an ABC news interview in favor of homosexual marriage.  A startling, yet not completely surprising reversal from his previously stated position, where, he reportedly favored civil unions, but, not marriage; a reversal, (like the shot heard round the world) causing many around the world to celebrate, leaving as many or more to weep.  http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/may/10/gay-rights-around-the-world-obama

The President knowingly or not, has embarked upon a dangerous and unpredictable course; for marriage and the family has been the bedrock of civilization since time began. To experiment with the very fabric of society is a reckless proposition, the failure of which, will only be realized long after the damage has been done. 

The arrogance of man and one man in particular has reached its pinnacle.  And, an evil from which the world will stagger at its intensity has been unleashed. For once the genie is out of this bottle, it can never be returned.  That is why, Sodom and Gomorrah are to this day, a heap of burned out ruins.

It’s clear from Daniel 7:25 that the man of sin will seek to change the set times and laws. Marriage is one of those laws –  for God has ordained from the beginning that marriage is between one man and one woman.

” And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.” Daniel 7:25

Can it be any more clear than this – he will “think to change times and laws”.  God’s law means nothing to him.  And, he in fact, mocks God by using his faux Christianity in support of that which God detests.  In his own words:

“ … [Michelle and I] are both practicing Christians and obviously this position may be considered to put us at odds with the views of others but, you know, when we think about our faith, the thing at root that we think about is not only Christ sacrificing himself on our behalf, but it’s also the Golden Rule, you know, treat others the way you would want to be treated. And I think that’s what we try to impart to our kids and that’s what motivates me as president and I figure the most consistent I can be in being true to those precepts, the better I’ll be as a dad and a husband and hopefully the better I’ll be as president.”   (Emphasis mine) –  http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/under-god/post/obama-christ-and-the-golden-rule-informed-support-of-same-sex-marriage/2012/05/09/gIQAeJshDU_blog.html

The arrogance in this is appalling! And, if you think his influence has diminished with his decline in popularity, think again, as his position of the leader of the “free world” continues to carry enormous impact with other nations, who seek to emulate the United States in its progressive views.

I cannot tell you if the Presidents actions are a fulfillment of Daniel 7:25. But, I can tell you this.  In my opinion, there has been an “unleashing” of a spirit this past week, the likes of which, we have never seen before. Because an attack on marriage is a direct attack against Christ and his church.  For the Bible says regarding marriage:

” For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.”  Ephesians 5:31,32.

Brothers and sisters, mourn and pray for the darkness just got a whole lot darker!  For an attack on marriage is an attack on God himself! And, the enemy like a rabid dog is ready to attack anyone and anything, who stands in its way. Will we be raptured before this ? It’s my hope, but, I cannot say, therefore, we need to be ready.

Have you noticed how many references regarding dogs have been attached to President Obama since he came in to public view? Interesting, as dogs in the Bible are most often symbolic of evildoers – not that dogs are evil, but, those whom they represent are. Perhaps, because, as the Bible says, ” a dog returns to its vomit”.  A graphic, but, accurate portrayal of the behavior of the canine species and for those who after hearing the gospel, remain unrepentant.  

Most recently, we saw the banter between Romney and Obama over their treatment of dogs. Romney, who was criticized for carrying his pet in a crate strapped atop his car as the family traveled cross-country and Obama for his admission to eating dog as a child in Indonesia.

If you look in to it, you will see that references to dogs have “dogged” Obama since he first came in to public view.  Remember on September 6, 2010, when, Obama complained that his critics talked about him, “like he was a dog”.

And, his reference to himself as a “mutt” – when, the family was choosing a pet:  

“Our preference would be to get a shelter dog, but, obviously, shelter dogs are mutts like me”.

Apparently, not wanting a “mutt” the Obama’s chose a fairly rare breed, a Portuguese Water dog, which, they interestingly, they named, Bo – the President’s initials.

Brothers and sisters, as you know, we live in unprecedented times. We are encompassed by dogs (evil doers) on every side, as Jesus was, when, he hung on the cross. But, Jesus was victorious, over the “power of the dog”, and so, shall we, be too!

“For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid! Deliver my soul from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dog! …”  Psalm 22: 16-21         

Stand steadfast in Jesus, dear friends and grow not weary in waiting, for the finish line is in sight and one day soon, we shall all be home!

“Pray for the peace of Jersualem, they shall prosper who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus! Cindy

      Waikiki at Sunset  

It would be hard to imagine a much more beautiful scene – Waikiki at sunset. But, for the dozens living homeless on the beach of one of the most sought after vacations spots in the world, it is anything but.  When the sun goes down, the beaches empty and people hungry from a day of fun in the sun flock to the nearest restaurant in hopes of finding, some of the best cuisine on the island.  But, for a growing number of others, dinner is a trip to the nearest trash receptacle in the hope of finding, the remnants of an afternoon hotdog or a forgotten slice of pizza, if they are lucky.

For the past couple of years, my friend Nan and I have going to Waikiki periodically for the express purpose of becoming acquainted with some of these people and for sharing with them both the gospel and a few physical necesssities as we are able. It’s been an interesting couple of years and we have met some people, we will never forget (both homeless and otherwise); for a day at the beach, when God is in control can hold some unexpected surprises!

In the beginning, we set out to take small packages of toiletries for giving out but, soon found that a sandwich far and away beat out a bar of soap as far as most are concerned, so armed with a few small bags of food, we made our way to the beach this past Saturday to see what God had for us.

As we made our way down the beach, we came to a large park area, where we could hear a man talking on a microphone.  A number of people had gathered around and were listening and several men were protecting a picnic table of food from flies and pigeons, who were hovering nearby hoping to score an easy meal.  We stopped to listen and although the man had a heavy Korean accent, it was clear that he was preaching the gospel.

Backing up on the story a little, when Nan and I arrived at Waikiki, we stopped to pray as is our custom, before setting out, but, this time, we prayed a little differently, this time, we asked God to bring to us those people, whose hearts were ready to receive the message. So many of the people, we have been talking to over the past few months seem as far from receiving the gospel today as the day we first met them. Sure, they are happy to see us, and sure they want a sandwich, they’re just not sure that they want to receive Jesus. A million excuses, (which, is fine, we love them anyway) but, this time, instead of us finding them, we ask God for them to find us.

As we were standing on the periphery of the group, a young woman walked over to us and ask us what was going on.  Very pretty with dark hair and eyes, she looked to be in her early twenties and was obviously someone, who was out to enjoy the beach for the day.  We told her, “The man on the microphone is preaching, he’s telling people about Jesus.” “Oh” she, said. Nan then ask her, if she knew Jesus and if he was her Savior. To which, she replied, “No, I’m Muslim”. Suddenly, trying to remember everything I had learned about Islam, my brain came up empty except to say, “Did you know that Jesus is mentioned in the Koran, but, only as a prophet, but, the Bible tells us that he is the son of God.”  “I’m not really observant”, she said, indicating that she probably did not much more about the Koran than I did. We then ask her to tell us a little bit about her self and she said, that she was just getting ready to start college. We told her that Jesus loves her very much and has a plan for her life and in fact, just meeting in the way we had was proof  – in other words, a divine appointment.  Warmly interested, she told us that her name was Farusa and, we ask, if she would mind if we prayed for her, to which, she said, “yes”, so there in the park the three of us held hands and Nan and I prayed for our new friend Farusa. And, while she did not make a decision at that moment, we encouraged her to go home and to ask God to reveal to her the truth about Jesus Christ and we assured her that if she asked in sincerity, God was sure to hear her and answer her prayer.

When we had finished praying with Farusa, Nan and I walked over to talk with the men, who were serving the food.  After introducing ourselves, we learned that they take turns with volunteers from various Churches bringing the gospel and food to the homeless in various parks around the city. But, they told us, donations were down and it was getting harder and harder to get food and volunteers together every week.  We took down their phone number and told them that we would be glad to help them and would pass on the word to others, who might be interested. 

Excited about our new contacts and our new friend Farusa, we were walking away from the park, when I saw a man, who appeared to be in his mid-late thirties standing with a bicycle by a trash can. He was very thin and had a back pack, whether, he was looking for bottles or food, I wasn’t sure, so, I asked him if he could use some food.  He hesitated for a moment and the said, “sure”.  As I was handing him the food, he said, “I saw you guys in the park and wanted to come over and pray with you, but, then didn’t.” I was very surprised as I couldn’t recall seeing this guy, but, then, it’s very large park and a lot of people were milling around – but, apparently, he had seen us and, had wanted to come over to us. I told him, “well, we can pray with you now, are you a Christian?” And, he said, “no, I’m Jewish.”  Nan and I looked at each other and were blown away – first a Muslim woman and now a Jewish man -and, he had wanted to pray with us!  I ask him what he had wanted to pray about and he told us that he was very stressed; having difficulty getting his life on track and, had even once been homeless himself.  He then confessed that he felt very far from God and unable to fulfill the things the law (Jewish) required.  To which, I responded, “that’s exactly, the point, we can’t and that is why God sent the Jewish Messiah, Yeshua”. We talked some more about the commandments and I could see that he was familiar with much of the scripture and had probably grown up in an observant home. I mentioned that we had just observed Passover and that we had held a Seder of our own and he seemed shocked that Christians were interested in Passover and sad that he had not been able to attend a Seder himself. I ask him his name and he told me, it was  “Moses”.  His name was Moses. 

He seemed a bit distracted and kept saying, should he or should he not go in swimming as it was getting late and the sun was soon going to be going down. Finally, he decided, yes, he would swim, but, he wanted to pray first. So the three of us sat down on the edge of the sidewalk facing the ocean and with Moses between us, I began to pray. Using every Hebrew word and phrase, I had ever learned, I prayed for Moses.  And, as I prayed, I felt his arms go up as he placed a hand on each of our shoulders, as is the custom of Jewish men, when they meet for prayer. What a touching moment it was!   When, we had finished praying, we said, goodbye, and God-speed and Moses thanked us for sharing our “wisdom” with him and for praying for him and, we in turn, encouraged him to seek Yeshua for himself, knowing that God has promised that if we wholeheartedly seek him, we will find him. (Jeremiah 29:13).

What an amazing day it was. A day of double blessing! For God more than met our expectations by bringing these two very different people our way – both representative of two people groups very much at enmity against one another.  One Muslim and one Jewish, one male and one female; both in need of a Savior. 

Please pray this week for Farusa and for Moses that they might sincerely seek the truth about Jesus Christ and that they might soon come to salvation.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee”  Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

It’s been one of those days!  You know the kind, when nothing seems to go right? Actually, its been more than a day, more like a week of two. First of all, computer problems and, then problems renewing my driver’s license, neither problem completely solved yet. I thought this afternoon, I might have a meltdown after having been to the DMV twice in the past few weeks, only to come away empty-handed both times.

As of March 5, in order to renew a driver’s license in Hawaii, you will need a social security card, birth certificate and/or unexpired passport and marriage certificate.  None of which is explained clearly, in my opinion, on the information card that was mailed out.  So on my first visit, I was under the impression that I had only to produce one form of identification, in addition to my present drivers license. So, with SS card in hand, I waited in the never-ending line at the DMV only to find out that two forms of identification are required, not just one.  Not having a passport or a copy of my birth certificate, I  was at a loss as to what to do until someone suggested ordering one on-line, which I did, and a little over a week later, I had a copy of my birth certificate.

So, with a fair amount of time remaining until my birthday, at which, time my license will officially expire, I waited until my next day off, (which, was today) to go to the DMV again. Happy to think that I would soon be able to cross this off my “to do” list, I once again waited in line, my impatience at the long wait, tempered by the thought that I would soon be finished and walking out the door with my new license in hand.

When it came my turn, I walked up to the clerks desk and handed him my documents.  Looking them over briefly, he said, “do you have a copy of your marriage certificate?” “My marriage certificate?” I said – not grasping, what he was getting at.  “Yes,” he said, “Your marriage certificate; you’ll need it in order to prove how your name was changed.”   I was stunned!  I couldn’t believe it!  The card in the mail had not said anything about needing a marriage certificate.  “Come back”, he said, “when, you have a copy of your marriage license”.  Knowing it would be futile to argue with the DMV, I once again, left empty-handed.

All the way home, I brooded over this. When I got home, I called the DMV to complain that the information on the cards they send out, is incomplete.  Their response –  “did you see the part on the card, where it says, ‘for more information, go to the website? -that’s where you’ll find it!'”  Oy!

Now short on time, before my license expires, I came home and tore my house apart looking for my marriage license. After an hour, of fruitless searching. I decided, the next best thing to do would be to go “on-line” and order it, and, hope that it would arrive in time.  So, I went on-line, (same web site as before) and found that copies of marriage certificates only went back to 1978.  1978!!!!  You’ve got to be kidding!  And, I need 1975!  For records prior to 1978, it would be necessary to call the state office.  Easier, said than done, when you work a full-time job and are calling from Hawaii.

About to have a melt-down, hot flashes included, I called my youngest daughter on the mainland to unload.  Listening patiently as I carried on for about 15 minutes without coming up for air, she finally said, “don’t worry mom, I’ll help you,” then, she asked, if I had prayed about it.  Well, “yes”, I said, “sort-of,” –  if you count, “Oh God, please, help me find this” while tearing apart boxes and shelves. So, after we had talked for a little while longer, I then hung up and this time stopped to pray properly as I should have in the first place. And immediately, I started to feel better. Thank you God for the blessing of wise and godly children!

Feeling much less frazzled after talking to her and then praying, I began to realize that my marriage certificate most likely was not even in Hawaii and was most probably in storage with some stuff I had left at my Mom’s on house on the mainland.  So calling my mom, she went out to her garage and looked through some stuff, I had left, and, Praise God! – there it was!  Thank you, Mom, you’re my hero!  Mom will mail it tomorrow and I should receive it, God willing, with time to spare before my license expires early next month.

It seems a little silly now, (getting so worked up about it) but, in retrospect, I can see how the day is coming and is in-fact, very near, when, without proper documentation, aka, “the mark” people will not be able to buy, sell, drive or anything else. It’s almost that way now.  This is my third time getting a license in Hawaii, and it has never been this difficult before – changes, I’m sure, thanks to the Dept. of Homeland Security.  I don’t know if these changes are nationwide or not, but, if you will be renewing a driver’s license anytime soon, I suggest you check your local DMV for any changes in  regulations well in advance.  I also noticed as I was waiting  in line that people getting their licenses were being finger printed. I don’t recall that being part of the process before.

Thank you every one for your patience, prayers and advice as I have endured computer problems the past couple of weeks. I have not officially solved the problem, but, have at least found a way to circumvent it. And, so far it seems to be working just fine!

Yes, it’s been a frustrating day and in some ways, a frustrating couple of weeks, but, the blessings have also been many.  I had a wonderful time teaching on Passover just a couple of weeks ago and an out-standing encounter with two non-believers (one Jewish and one Muslim) on Waikiki this past week – both of which, I hope to write about soon on a future post.

Forgive me Lord, when I get so wrapped up in the experiences of the day that I forget to just quiet my heart and come before you. Thank you for a daughter, who had the wisdom to know and remind me of just exactly what was needed. Yes, God, you are good, you are good all the time!  And, I thank you for your many blessings, big and small.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee.”  Psalm 122:6  Waiting and watching with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

Hi everyone!  I’ve been  experiencing some problems with my computer recently that have prevented me from up-dating my blog.  Right now, I am using a friend’s computer but, hope to have mine up and running soon.  I can access e-mail but,  when I try to log on to WordPress, my computer immediately freezes up. I suspect I may have a virus, but, not sure. Please bear with me and if you have any ideas on what how this problem can be solved, I would be more that happy to hear from you.

Grace and blessings in Jesus!  Cindy

     Thomas Kinkade, 1958-2012

If there is one thing that sets apart the work of Thomas Kinkade from any other, it would be his usage of light and his ability to draw the viewer in to his work. Creating idyllic scenes in soft pastels, Kinkade captured with the stroke of a brush, the simple beauty of American life as expressed through faith and hope; a theme that still resonates with millions of Americans today, as evidenced, by the tremendous popularity of his work and the millions of dollars in sales his work has generated over the past several years.

But, not everyone understands and appreciates his work and, in fact, the professional art world has been his harshest critic; one referring to his work, as, a “hallmark card” in a frame. And, another inferring his work to be something akin to sinister, even creepy –

“A Kinkade painting was typically rendered in slightly surreal pastels. It typically featured a cottage or a house of such insistent coziness as to seem actually sinister, suggestive of a trap designed to attract Hansel and Gretel. Every window was lit, to lurid effect, as if the interior of the structure might be on fire.”  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Kinkade

Can you imagine?  Kinkade’s work, sinister?  I guess for some people, unless art work makes one want to gag or gasp in shock, it really isn’t “art”.  Apparently, anything too hopeful, sweet, kind or inspiring is more frightening than even the raunchiest of art work.  A reaction, I believe, in this case, not to the quality of the work, but, rather of whom, and, what, the work represents.

Kinkade, though not perfect, (as, none of us are) was a self-proclaimed Christian, who called himself a “painter of light” and a “warrior of light.”  In a style reminiscent of Norman Rockwell, whom, he very much admired, Kinkade painted an America that is for the most part, a fading memory. An effort on his part, I believe, to draw America back to her roots and to the things that were once good and true in her. His work a beautiful example, I believe, of Philippians 4:8 –

“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 on these things.”

Yes, think on these things.  When, America, is the last time you have thought on these things?  For virtue is more than just an expensive painting hanging on a wall. Virtue is something, we practice each and every day of our lives. We admire, what Kinkade art work represents, but, are we willing to live the kind of lives that make it a reality?  If not, then all, we have done is invested in a very pricey and comforting illusion.

I find it interesting that Mr. Kinkade went home to be with the Lord on Friday, April 6, which, was Good Friday.  The day, we observe the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross; the day, the light of the world was extinguished.  And, I wondered on hearing the news of Mr. Kinkade’s death today, if, the light of God’s blessing over America (so prominently displayed in his artwork) was similarly dimmed, if not, extinguished yesterday, as well.  Hmmmm ……. I wonder ……

Thank you, Mr. Kinkade, “warrior of light” for the joy that you brought to so many through your work – may the beauty of heaven and the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ, inspire you anew.

* http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/07/thomas-kinkade-dead_n_1409501.html?ncid=wsc-huffpost-cards-headline

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper, who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Waiting and watching with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy