A Meal for Daddy

It doesn’t take much to get a child excited about encouraging or helping someone else in a special way. Earlier this week, I had some excitement in my voice when I asked the kids, “Hey, would you like to help me make one of Daddy’s favorite meals?” Of course, they said YES! I believe there were two reasons for that...

(1) They knew we would be having some fun, quality time in the kitchen...working with our hands, spending time together, learning how to cook, and don’t forget taste testing everything that we make.

(2) They also knew we would be doing something special for their Daddy, whom they love and want to please.

So, with all that in mind, we set up to begin making Baked Spaghetti.... First, the kids sliced some green olives while I boiled a pot of water.

Once the olives were done, the kids helped put the spaghetti into the pot. Then, we prepared the baking pan and found the other ingredients we would need. After draining the cooked spaghetti, they both helped mix in the sauce and olives. The mixture was poured into a large baking pan, then the kids had fun sprinkling cheese all over the top (and mushrooms only on half, since Daddy is the only one who likes them. Yuck!).

Then, wahlah! We were done! The only thing left was to allow it time to bake in the oven, ready to be eaten when Daddy got home from work. Well.... aside from washing the dishes - and the kids actually did most of that as well! Our son will do anything if he gets the chance to play in the water. Ha!

The kids were so happy about the job they did, and were excited to tell Daddy what we were having for supper. By making one of his favorite meals, they took the time to not only TELL their daddy they loved him, but to also SHOW him. I know it was satisfying for them to see their daddy was pleased with his meal. It was also satisfying for me to have given my husband some positive attention after a hard day at work.

Doing something special for someone doesn’t have to happen only on a holiday or special occasion. It can (and should) happen OFTEN throughout the year.

1 John 3:18 – Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. (NIV)

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Hide Thou Me

I know I’m not alone when I quote this phrase from a favorite old gospel hymn, Hide Thou Me:

Sometimes I feel discouraged,
and I think my work’s in vain.

I’m tempted oft(en) to murmur,
to grumble and complain.

Sound familiar? Life can be so hard sometimes, can’t it? And, it can be just as hard to refrain from grumbling and complaining about it. This phrase has been on my mind more times than I can count, especially during these past few months. But, thankfully, this is not how it has to end. The next phrase of the song says:

But, then I think of Jesus and all He’s done for me.

Then I cry, “Oh, Rock of Ages, hide Thou me.”

God never said we would be exempt from difficult times. However, He did promise to be with us every step of the way. So, instead of complaining about WHY life is so hard, and WHY God hasn’t eased our discomfort, we should be taking refuge in Him, allowing Him to shelter us from the storms. It is only then that peace will come from within. 

Psalm 18:2 - The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

There are many hymns that have been written around the Lord being our rock. The traditional hymn Rock of Ages was written by Augustus M. Toplady in 1776, when he took refuge among some limestone rocks in England, during a violent thunderstorm. He was the author of several different hymns, but Rock of Ages seems to have been the most popular of them all.

Rock of Ages, cleft for me

Let me hide myself in Thee.

Click here for the tune, lyrics, and more info on this hymn:

ROCK OF AGES

Later in the 1800's, Fanny Crosby, another popular hymn writer, wrote the first version of Hide Thou Me, which also talks about our refuge in the “Rock of Ages.”

In Thy cleft, O Rock of Ages, hide Thou me!

When the fitful tempest rages, hide Thou me!

Where no mortal arm can sever

From my heart Thy love forever,

Hide me, O Thou Rock of Ages, safe in Thee!

Click here for the tune, lyrics, and more info on this hymn:
HIDE THOU ME - Fanny Crosby

In 1926, another version of Hide Thou Me (mentioned at the start) was written by L.R. Tolbert and Thoro Harris. I had a difficult time finding information around this song, but did find it has been recorded by several musical artists throughout the years, including Elvis Presley, The Cathedrals, Iris Dement, The Melody Boys Quartet, and many others. My guess is it’s because people can relate to this song in a personal way. It lets us know we are not alone in feeling discouraged, but also gives us hope and reassurance during the trials we face.

The version of Hide Thou Me which I have enjoyed the most over these past few months is sung by The Gaither Vocal Band from their album, “I Do Believe.” This video below shows them singing the hymn with great harmony and passion. Enjoy!

 



The Life of a Flower

With Spring under way, we are seeing beautiful flowers popping up all around us. I thought this would be the perfect time to share this little story I wrote in my younger years. Keep in mind as you read it, I am not much of a flower expert, and I don't believe I've ever actually seen a green flower. But, there is a point to the story, I promise. Read through it to the end and you will see what I mean....

THE LIFE OF A FLOWER

Once there was a blue flower that sat all alone in a big field. It was an old flower, yet very beautiful. It had a lot of exciting stories to share with anyone who wanted to listen. But, no one was interested in the old flower's stories. So, there it sat with all it's beauty, neglected and alone.

In another part of the field, there was a little yellow flower. This flower also sat alone, but for different reasons. It was a late bloomer and no one thought it had any value. Everyone who passed by would either ignore it or taunt it. The yellow flower grew very lonely and began to wilt with sorrow.

One day, someone came along and noticed the two flowers. He cared about both of them and decided to do something to help them. Very gently, he uprooted the blue flower, carried it over to the yellow flower, then replanted it. He hoped the two would keep each other company and become close friends.

Right away, the blue flower wanted to become friends and started telling it's stories to the little yellow flower. At first, the yellow flower was skeptical and wondered why something so beautiful wanted anything to do with it. As time went by, the yellow flower became more trusting. Soon, it loved every inch of the blue flower's petals and wanted to hear the same stories over and over again. Yes, the yellow flower finally allowed the blue flower to reach out and touch it's heart. When that happened, the yellow flower changed to a lovely shade of green and began to bloom and grow. The flowers were never alone from that day on.

(Now, go back and read the story again. But, this time, think of the blue flower as being the Bible, God's holy Word.)

-Victoria L. Stankus
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Worthy of Praise at Any Time of the Year

Last Sunday was Easter Sunday (also known as Resurrection Day). My family and I had a very nice day as we celebrated what the Lord has done for us, and especially the empty tomb. Because of what He has done for us, because of His victory in overcoming sin and death, our Lord is worthy of glory, honor and praise at ANY time of the year - not just at Easter - even during those times when we are feeling overwhelmed and discouraged by the things we are dealing with in this life.

Chris Tomlin wrote this song (below) to help us know we can praise and worship the Lord, even during our deepest, darkest moments in life. The grave has been emptied and, because of that, we have the greatest hope of a new life to come.

Take a moment to worship now, and to thank Him for His love for you....



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GUEST BLOGGER: Daneille Snowden

My friend, Daneille, currently resides in Newton, IL, where she and her husband, Brad, are ministering at New Life Christian Center. Daneille and Brad have been married for 22 years, and have been in the ministry just as long. They have 3 children: Nathan 18, Felecia 11 and Tabitha 7. Daneille says, "My heart is that everything I say and do will cause individuals to become closer to Jesus." She enjoys teaching from God's Word, first to her children, and to anyone else God sends her way.  Thankyou for sharing, Daneille!

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Asking for Prayer: It's Okay to Be Transparent

By: Daneille Snowden

I know for many people it is difficult for them to make a public prayer request known in church, e-mail or even facebook. Reasons vary; some of the most pronounced are, they are afraid others will judge them or will misunderstand their 'lack' of faith simply because they made the request. Others reserve the request to a small group who they know will REALLY pray (which is just fine).

There are always risks in being transparent and throwing your need out there, making yourself a bit vulnerable to the thoughts and words of others. I know this full well, being in the ministry for 22 years. But, the Lord has shown me time and time again; He didn't make me this way for me to hold the needs back; but to share them with brothers and sisters in Christ so they will pray and be a part of seeing God's Glorious miracles come to fruition.

Personally, I have held my dying mother in my hand believing for her restoration, I have been attacked, had my life threatened, sat at a lot of "last meals" trusting that the Lord (before the next) would supply. We have had witches from the occult surround our homes, as we called out to Jesus as well as having our church members pray.

What I am saying is, as one who has a need, don't hestitate to let your friends know so they can lift you up to the Throne Room. The larger percent really do care and will not judge, gossip or preach to you. They really will have godly compassion. As for those who don't, they will learn one day and be in need as well, in God's time. We all have something to learn.

To the ones who are reading or listening to a request, do that "listen-whisper" to God, praying, "If you have something for me to share with him (or her) to uplift him at this time, give me Your Words Lord."

One day this past week, I woke up at 4:30 a.m. with this heavy on my heart. I believe God wants more people to be open and to share their needs; and for more and more to really interceed. I feel the Lord challenging us. Let's really increase our ministry of intercession, more now than ever. We need each other.

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GUEST BLOGGER: Rein Schmidt

Rein Schmidt lives in Newton, Illinois. He and his family are all involved at First Baptist Church where Rein teaches a Sunday School class, and helps teach with the Personal Touch Ministry (small groups) which meet once a month. The family loves being involved in the various ministries the Lord has given to them! Rein and his wife, Karen, have been married since 1973. He and his son, Eric, have their own Meteorology business in their home. Rein is the one in RED in the picture below. Thankyou for sharing, Rein!

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Running the Race

By: Rein Schmidt

Since the time I was a little boy, I always enjoyed watching the Winter Olympics. I was always fascinated by the athletes. They showed stamina, strength, and dedication to their particular sport. During each coverage of the Winter Olympics, the broadcasters would highlight a few of the athletes and tell the story of their achievements and success in getting to this point in their life. It was always remarkable to learn that each athlete dedicated an enormous amount of time to perfect their talents in their sport. For example, one story told of a figure skater who started at a very early age, learning to skate all the required elements so as to be able to compete competently. As she became older, she would get up and be at the ice rink by 4:00 in the morning and practice for 2 hours before school. After school she went back to the rink and practiced some more. This routine went on year after year. A broadcaster would ask her how she felt about giving up a normal childhood pursuing the goal of competing in the Olympics? She responded by saying, she sometimes wished she could spend more time with family and friends, but she just keeps her focus on the goal - the goal of winning a gold medal in the Olympics. That is the common element of all the athletes that compete in the Olympics. They all have sacrificed so much for the chance to win a gold metal.

This reminds me of 1 Corinthians 9:25, "Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable". If the athletes sacrifice so much in pursuit of a perishable reward, how much more should we sacrifice in pursuit of an imperishable. When we accept Jesus as savior we become new creatures in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). At that moment, a new process starts in our lives - the process of becoming more and more like Christ as we run in our faith. Our goal is worth so much more than a perishable reward.

Just as the athletes lay aside every encumbrance that would hinder them in achieving their goal, so are we to lay aside every encumbrance that hinders us from becoming more like Christ. According to Galatians 5:16-23, the deeds of the flesh are what hinder us from running the race. But, in comparison, the fruit of the Spirit is the right training for that race. Hebrews 12:1 says, "Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith…"

As we grow in Christ, we need to remember that He always has our best interest in mind (Romans 8:28). We have the assurance that God helps us in our running of the race. So let us continue to run. Let us keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus. When we get to the end, let us be able to say what the Apostle Paul said in 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Our reward will last forever and ever!
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Some Do, But Only A Few...

As we near St. Patrick's Day, I think about the kind of life "St. Patrick" led and how he became determined to share his beliefs in Christ with others in the country of Ireland.

Below, you will see a little diaglogue I wrote that is meant to encourage us all to tell others about the Lord and what He has done for us. This can be done through our words AND our actions.....

SOME DO, BUT ONLY A FEW...

"Do you consider yourself to be a missionary?"

"A missionary! Me?"

"Yes, You."

"No, not me."

"Why not you? You're a Christian, aren't you?
"Yes. But, I . . . "

"You what?"

"Oh, I hate bugs!"

"Heh heh. I'm sorry, but that's not an excuse."

"What do you mean?"

"It's silly. You can't get away from bugs no matter where you are."

"That's true, I guess, but I'm allergic to the jungle."

"The jungle? Who said anything about a jungle?"

"You did."

"No I didn't. I asked if you consider yourself as a missionary."

"Well, don't missionaries go to the jungle?"

"Some do, but only a few."

"You mean, as a missionary I wouldn't have to go to Africa or South America?"

"Of course not. You don't even have to go overseas."

"Isn't that what missionaries do?"

"Some do, but only a few."

"So, where do the rest go?"

"They stay where they are."

"I don't understand."

"The definition of a missionary is: One who is sent to do a religious or charitable work in a certain territory. In other words, you can stay right here in your home town, tell others about the difference Jesus Christ has made in your life, and be considered a missionary."

"So, if a person is a Christian and is being a good witness for Christ through his words and actions, he is a missionary?"

"That's right. Not every Christian is commanded to go overseas, but we ARE all commanded to be witnesses for Christ."

"But, not every Christian obeys this command, do they?"

"Some do, but only a few."


-Victoria L. Stankus

Acts 22:15 - For you will be a witness for Him to all men of what you have seen and heard. (NAS)
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Here for Each Other

I admit there are times when, in spite of all the encouraging words I have dished out, I can get just as discouraged and overwhelmed as anyone else. This past Friday was one of those times.

I had 5 different things I was trying to work through at once and, finally, it all came to a head. I was completely overwhelmed with trying to “fix” everything that wasn’t the way I thought it should be... my recent health issues related to my thyroid, my son’s issues related to his Tourettes Syndrome, my daughter’s issues related to her autism, curriculum issues related to finding the right fit for my children, and my husband’s issues related to the stress he has been under for various reasons. I’ve always been very pro-active in researching various things to help my family and I make the right decisions, and it is enough to have just one of these issues to deal with, let along FIVE of them! (I’m not trying to make anyone feel sorry for me, but am just explaining what I was feeling and how overwhelmed I was at the time.)

However, through the encouragement and prayers of friends and family, I was able to make it through this difficult spell. I am so thankful for all of you who reached out to me in my time of need.

I espeically want to thank Derek Martell for allowing God to speak to me through your sermon at church today. Derek was talking about the trials we go through in life and, at one point said, instead of asking God “Why?” we should ask Him, “What can I do to use this for Your glory?” I realized, at that point, the reason I was so overwhelmed by my recent struggles was because my focus was in the wrong place. I was focusing on ME and how these issues are interfering with MY life when, instead, I should have been focusing on how God can be glorified through them. That’s what life is supposed to be about. Its not about US, but about serving God and glorifying Him in all we do.

So, the next time I get discouraged and overwhelmed by something, I give anyone who is reading this blog permission to remind me of this. And, I hope you will not be upset with me if I remind you of it as well. We are all here for each other, and we need to help keep each other on track.

GUEST BLOGGER: Scherry Willis

Today's guest blogger comes to us from Newton, IL. She currently works as a guidance secretary for the local school district. She is also active in the church as a leader of the children's choirs, and directs the adult choir as well. She is a mother of 2 grown daughters, one son-in-law, and is the wife of Dr. Steve Willis, pastor of First Baptist Church in Newton. Scherry and Steve have been married since 1977 and have served at First Baptist for the past 26 years. Thanks, Scherry, for sharing what God has placed on your heart about worshipping our Lord!

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I look forward to Sunday mornings and the opportunity for a family of believers to come together to give God worship and praise. I thank God every day for all His blessings, direction, and forgiveness; however, Sundays are different. I reflect in a different way than I do any other day of the week. Being married to a pastor might make others think that I don’t have a choice as to how I spend my Sundays. I am so thankful that this is not the case. My worship on Sunday is a time to be thankful for who God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit are and how that relates to my life. This is a time set aside to be saturated by His word, to be taught, and to praise Him with a host of other believers.

Our church, like many, went through the process of trying to find a healthy compromise for hymnal music and contemporary Christian music. I thank God that our church is very diversified in age and with that comes different likes and dislikes in music. I love having both in our worship service. When I read the words to songs we sing from our hymnals; I am so thankful for the words penned to remind me of God’s amazing grace and that my faith is planted on a firm foundation. I love the songs that pertain to the Lord’s Supper. All of these reminders enhance my worship time with God.

When the praise and worship music begins I have to admit that, on a purely human note, I love the beat of most of the contemporary music. I realize that enjoying the music does not make me less Godly. Even though I know most of the songs by heart, I still read the words on the screen to help me focus on the message of the song.

When I sing, “Holy, Holy, Holy, worthy is the Lamb,” my mind is immediately transported to a different place. I can’t remember the timeline that God first allowed me to have this visual moment. However, when I sing praise and worship music I immediately go back to this visual place without reservation. There are no limitations; it is an immediate reaction to singing about praise and adoration of our King. I picture a place in heaven that I can only describe as being insignificant as to what is going on in this place. There is a visual representation of a building. There are large columns with several seats for persons of honor perched between them. I have a mental image of more than one seat; but I only see one figure .The figure represents Christ. No, I am not seeing visions; however, I feel the very presence of Christ as I worship. As we sing these words of adoration, I perceive a countless number of people filling the area below these seats of honor. Everyone is clothed in white that actually makes the place appear to shine. As we sing, “Holy, Holy, Holy,” Christ stands to His feet with His arms stretched out toward the crowd. It is though this cloud of witnesses is gathered at His feet to give endless praise and adoration. His presence is utterly radiant as we sing. I always smile because it is such an awesome place! It is as though Christ is saying that He loves the time we have to sing for Him.

God tells us in His Word in both the Old and New Testament to worship. What a wonderful gift He has bestowed upon us as believers.

Psalms 95:6 - “Come, let us bow down in worship.”

John 4:24 - “God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.”

I am thankful for those moments when God allows me to have a place that helps me concentrate on Christ and Christ alone. I hope you have those moments in worship where it is just about you and the Lord. I have no idea what all we will be doing in Heaven. However, I sure hope that we have lots of singing and praising together. With all of those perfect bodies; the choir should be wonderful. We will be with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Of course, we are going to be praising and worshipping our King. I can’t wait!

~Scherry Willis

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Sky Time

I guess its been about three weeks since I last posted anything. Time sure flies, doesn’t it? Whew.... And, you know what? Its hard for me to even recollect what these past 3 weeks have entailed.

That reminds me of a poem I wrote quite a few years ago. It’s a poem about how just ONE DAY can flash by us so quickly. It refers to the fact that we, and those around us, can tend to get caught up in life and forget to take time for what is really important. If we're not careful, we end up rising each morning, doing our duties, then going to bed each night - all out of habit. It then becomes easy to miss out on the beauty of nature that God has created for us; to miss out on getting to know our children and family members better; and to miss out on spending time with God.

Please don’t let life pass you by without “taking a look” at what is most important... BEFORE its all gone.....

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SKY TIME

Silent night. Peaceful dawn.

Take a look before it's gone.

Twinkle twinkle little star.

You seem so close, but yet so far.

I watch you as you fade away.

The sunrise greets a brand new day.

The wind blows softly o'er the lake.

All the birds are now awake.

The birds fly by just like the time.

The sun begins to make it's climb.

Peaceful dawn. Busy day.

Take some time to stop and pray.

Don't forget the God of love

Who made the stars and sun above.

Morning madness makes you ill.

The sun above is rising still.

Noontime meals. A coffee break.

Friends around are now awake.

The wind blows swiftly through the trees.

The time whips by just like the breeze.

Busy day. Calming eve.

The sun begins to make it's leave.

The wind blows gently o'er the lake.

The birds sleep in the nests they make.

The sun will sink a slowing pace.

The stars begin to take it's place.

Twinkle twinkle little star.

You seem so close, but yet so far.

The sun is going...going...gone.

It will return at peaceful dawn.

Calming eve. Silent night.

The moon serves as sufficient light.

A glimpse of light flies through the sky.

A falling star softly whispers good-bye.

Everyone is now asleep.

The stars will twinkle as they weep.

Twinkle twinkle little star.

You seemed so close, but yet so far.

The wind blows swiftly through the trees.

The time whips by just like the breeze.

Silent night. Peaceful dawn.

Take a look before it's gone.

– Victoria L. Stankus