The Way I See It.

A Promise Kept

2018-12-31T23:37:00.000-08:00

December 31, 2018. The last day of the year- and this is my last nugget on my faith for the year of 2018. I would like for it to be about "Our Sure God." Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
David could have said it in another way but he chose to say, "Surely." He could have said, "Maybe" but he didn't. Because he had enough faith to KNOW that God would give Him an eternal home. He could have said, "possibly goodness and mercy will follow me." But he didn't. He believed in a 'Sure God' who made Sure Promises. His promise is a promise kept.

We may break a promise, but God will never break His promise to us. We may falter on our faith, but he is always faithful. We may change our mood and go through behavior changes-but not God. He is the same today and tomorrow as He was yesterday...
Will I make New Year Resolutions? Nope! Why should I make a promise I probably won't keep past tomorrow. I will seek God's advice for everything.
My devotion may falter but My God will never forsake me.
I serve a loving God and that is good enough for me. And I know His goodness and mercy will always follow me.
Look forward to the New Year with hope and courage and put your faith and trust in a God who gives you a sure foundation....
God's Blessings;
Mary Frances King

The Way I See It.: Time Has Made A change

2018-04-03T09:49:00.001-07:00

The Way I See It.: Time Has Made A change: Time makes a change in the old home place...That has been something I have heard all my life and only recently realized how true...

2018-04-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

0NE DAY- SEVERAL YEARS AG0 WHILE THINKING 0F MY CHILDHOOD I WR0TE THIS P0EM WITH MY BROTHERS AND MYSELF IN MIND...
A Gift of Laughter
Three sets of dusty bare feet, and dirty faces,
Rambling the woods and a few other neat places.
We'd chase butterflies, catch frogs,
Caught dad not looking and teased the hogs.

Picked strawberries in the wild strawberry patch,
Waited for hours for baby chicks to hatch.
Went swimmin' in the ponds, creeks and streams,
Shared with each other our wishes and dreams.
Long days spent in the summer sun,
Working the fields, seeking our own kind of fun.
Sad memories of childhood is not what I'm after,
But remembering those days as, "A Gift of laughter."
Mary Frances King`

2018-03-18T15:28:00.002-07:00

There is something about LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL DAYS that makes a person come alive, the sounds are more intense, the colors more vivid, and the warm sunshine brings healing to the body and spirit.
On a warm windless day, when I am working in my yard, I can hear a church bell in the nearby town when it rings at the noon hour. Ever so faintly, it chimes. It reminds me of Sunday mornings in the past when every Church from miles around rang the bells calling everyone to get ready and come to God’s House. I miss the bells and I wish the day would come when Churches once again rang them on Sunday morning. However, I suppose that is only a dream because many of the churches have done away with the church bell. The older churches that still have one have neglected them for years and the newer buildings didn’t think it was necessary to install one. They are considered outdated.

The sunshine on a fall day feels like an arm of friendship wrapped around my shoulders, like a face of affection pressed to mine. All from my “more than friend,” He is my Father, and I can always feel the touch of His handclasp tightly holding mine.
So, I am ready for a new season of beauty to my countryside in the vast array of colors that come with autumn, or the pure white during a winter snowfall that calls for a long winter nap… and all these gifts are treasured love notes from God.
Mary Frances King~

I Wonder...

2017-10-24T10:33:00.001-07:00

I wonder!
Did God create the world with little boys’ dreams in mind.
Of magic mountains, oceans wide, and warm sunshine;
Prairies and plains, and wooded land?
Did He pause, and think..."I know a boy can
stand on top of the mountains, explore the plains, ride the seas,
and of course, climb trees?”
Did He create boys full of spirit and fun-
Just to explore and conquer, romp and run?
Those with dirty faces, and banged up shins,
Courageous hearts and impish grins.
And when He had completed the task He'd begun,
Did He smile and say, "Now that boy, is a job well done."

Quiet Things

2017-08-30T08:31:00.001-07:00

Autumn is a time of quiet things and there is such loveliness in distant sounds. I find so many of the lovely things in life are quiet; the red glowing embers of a warm fire on the hearth on a cool autumn evening, a sunset I discovered in all its glory as I raise my eyes toward the sky at the close of the day; dew sparkling at dawn, restful and refreshing. Early morning sunrise awakening the day reminding us yesterday has only become a memory; a rosebud tenderly and slowly opening its pedals; a weeping willow tree offering a shade beneath its graceful boughs as they swing back and forth like opening arms asking for a silent hug.

Yet none of these things is lovelier than an understanding look, a gentle smile of a friend from across the room; a handclasp without words, or a prayer whispered silently to the Father, "In quietness and confidence shall be thy strength."

I hope you take the time today to remind yourself, there is beauty in quiet things....
Mary Frances King~

Winter Turns to Spring

2017-03-15T23:58:00.001-07:00

Although it has not been a very cold winter here in my home state, it has been a long winter and I am eager for spring. I’m tired of seeing bare trees and lifeless brown leaves covering the ground. I long to see spring flowers poke through the greening grass and watch the woods come to life once more.

Yet, even as I anticipate my favorite season, I hear my mother’s voice saying, “Don’t wish your life away Mary Frances.”

If you’re like me, you sometimes hear yourself saying, “When such and such happens, then I will . . . or, If only so and so would do this, then I would do that . . . or, I would be happy if . . . or, I will be satisfied when . . .”

In longing for some future good, we forget that every day regardless of the weather, or our circumstances life is a gift from God to be used for His glory.

We are where we need to be and learning what we need to learn. So, stay the course because the things we experience today will lead us to where God needs us to be tomorrow.

In every season, there is a reason to rejoice and an opportunity to do well (Eccl. 3:12). The challenge for each of us every day is to find something to rejoice about and find a place where we can do some good—and then do both.

Just as the winter turns to spring,

our lives have changing seasons too;
So when a gloomy forecast comes,
Remember—God has plans for you. —

Every season brings a reason to rejoice.

Perhaps the sweetest day of all the days is that upon which we hear a wild rumor faintly whispered in the winds of March; a hint that spring is here. Warm days come and then just as quickly are gone again… The idle gossiping of the birds in the trees stops and frost returns to the slightly greening grass. Spring indeed! We say through chattering teeth…Who started such a rumor?

Then, suddenly, the golden daffodil that had been sleeping is once again resurrected and bringing new life as it does a waltz with the breeze in the warm sunshine …bringing a reminder of God’s promise of life everlasting.

The saints in prayer appear as one in word and deed and mind,

Where with the Father and the Son, sweet fellowship they find.

Prayer is made by man alone -the Holy Spirit pleads,

And Jesus on His eternal throne, for sinners

intercedes.

~Mary Frances King

This Land is My Land

2017-01-15T13:18:00.001-08:00

Kentucky is my land. It is neither southern, northern, eastern, nor western, it is the core of America.

Mr. Jesse Stuart once said, "If the United States could be called a body, Kentucky would be its heart." I totally agree with that.
I was not the one to pick where I was born, but my choice would still have been Kentucky.
And if I could have chosen wind to breathe, I would have chosen Kentucky wind with the scent of cedar, pinetree needles, Green tobacco leaves, pawpaw, persimmon, and sassafras fragrance that fills the Kentucky air.
If I could have chosen the spot in Kentucky I would still have chosen Parksville Knob to be the place where I was born. Where four generations of my people have lived, and died on that mile high Knob. It was here I grew from childhood; a place where I first saw Kentucky light creep over the hilltop and breathed the Kentucky air into my lungs until my adulthood, and even until now. It was in these hills I first heard the call of the whip-o-will, the caw of the crow, and the sound of nature creeping through the hills and hollows as night falls.
I followed the little streams that flowed over rocks between the high hills as skillful as an Indian child- and in the summer just as brown skinned as one.
I ran wild over the rock-rimmed hills enjoying this land of creeks and forests and running through the fields and valleys scratching my legs on the sawbriers and wild roses.
I enjoyed the four seasons,but if I could I would have by-passed winter and just divided those days equally with spring, summer, and fall.
Yes, Kentucky was and is my land...My home!

A Healing Jesus

2016-10-27T11:59:00.002-07:00

Autumn brings me days of mixed feelings…There are days when my heart is heavy remembering family and friends that are no longer with me; and there are days when I am so happy preparing (in my mind) for the holidays coming up.

Daydreaming is a wonderful pastime, but if our dreams are to become a reality, we must not stop at dreaming. We must set to work building brick by brick our joy for today and faith for tomorrow.

I have been working on a Christmas program for my church this year, and I have spent a lot of time thinking of the birth, life and death, of Jesus. How I would love to be able to see through my own eyes what it was really like back then when Jesus walked the roads and into the villages.

Can you imagine what would happen today if Jesus came back to earth as a preacher, wandering through the villages, healing the sick, giving sight and ears to the blind and deaf, and raising the dead? What a stir of excitement Jesus must have caused during His time here on earth! How people must have flocked around Him, following Him around the countryside, amazed at His miraculous ways.

Doubtless, He would have to preach the same message today as He did all those many years ago. For human nature probably has not changed that much. He would still have to combat with skepticism and prejudice people. “Be not afraid, only believe,” He said.

What do you think would happen today if Jesus stopped a funeral along the road to the cemetery and brought back life to a dead child right before the eyes of the parents?

One day, these things will fall upon the believer, bringing sight back to blind eyes, repairing ears that are broken, crushing cancer and other diseases, and the lame will walk again…

Just imagine the love with which Christ would have in His eyes as he looked upon the multitude that approached Him with their sick, afflicted, and the dead –Imagine the love He must have shown them for trusting Him enough and having enough faith to bring their sick and lay them at the feet of Jesus!

It is true that if Jesus should walk the roads and paths today there would be scoffers following him or breaking through the crowd just to see if this Man was real and looking for a chance to use Him as a source of entertainment.

We, in this generation stand in need of great faith. Man cannot offer a cure for what our present sin sick world holds. Only the “Great Physician” can give us a healing peace in our land.

Mary King~

June in Kentucky

2016-06-25T09:06:00.001-07:00

This week has been one of those quiet weeks in June; it is the kind of week I like when summer comes to our hills and valleys here in Kentucky. It is the time when the freshness of the morning dew gives way to the afternoon heat. It is a time when thundershowers are welcome and the trees sway in the breeze. Even flowers boast in their brightest apparel. The geraniums show off their red and white dresses, petunias raise their multi-colored faces and give the world their biggest smile and day lilies in shades of yellow, orange and gold, dance a happy jig in the evening breeze.

June is a happy month. Kindness seems to leak out at the Farmer’s Market as the smells of fresh fruits and vegetables become the backdrop for cheery discussions. Ladies sharing their favorite recipe of fruit pies, and the ole’ gents tell what their secret is to growing a bountiful supply in their gardens.

My morning walk is a time of quietness; only my footsteps break the silence as I slowly walk along the street with my little companion happily strutting along beside me. Even the birds have become silent as they nest among the trees. Only thing that seems to be stirring at all is the true pioneer of the sky the sneaky hawk as he makes a wide circle high up and is playing a “cat and mouse” game with a timid rabbit that is hiding in the underbrush.

I stop to rest and watched my neighbor’s elderly calico cat snoozing in a chair on the front porch. I stood there for a while and listened to the sound of the tree music. There is nothing quite like the music I hear as the breeze hits each note on the leaves of the trees. Such a peaceful melody instills in me an appreciation for the glory and wonder of God’s marvelous creation.

I think it is amazing how a tiny little seed grows just where God wants it. We can plant them but only God can make them grow. And it makes me think about growing things –and about faith.

When Jesus taught His disciples using the parable of the sower, He used an object familiar to them –the seed. Everybody knew about seeds. They planted them, watered them, cultivated them, and then waited for them to grow. Jesus said that God’s word was a lot like the seed. It falls upon the soil of our hearts and depending on the condition of that soil it takes root and grows. Sometimes the soil is hard and unyielding. Other times the soil nurtures the seed for a little while, then because the soil is shallow and full of weeds the sprouted seed withers and dies. But then, Jesus talked about good soil. This soil produces healthy and abundant plants.

I looked again at the beauty around me. My neighbors had beautiful plants growing in pots on their porch, in flowerbeds around their homes, and in window boxes. They have tenderly cared for them, watered them, and put them where they would get just the right sunshine. Now, their little seeds have produced a beautiful rainbow of love.

When we hear of the good seed of God’s word through good preaching and our own Bible study, we each have a choice. Will it fall on a hard heart- soil, sucked dry by the concerns of today and be cracked and dusty, will it spring up quickly to wither and die away, or will it fall on good soil and grow strong to bloom with faith.

It is here in my Kentucky home that God has planted me in my summit of contentment – in June’s kind and gentle ways…

WILDFLOWERS

2016-04-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

Most of my family is well aware of my love for wildflowers. To me, there is nothing any more beautiful than a field full of daisies blowing in the breeze, or in the spring, a hillside covered with Red bud and Dogwood trees in full bloom. I love the sweet little wild violets that stand as tall as their dainty plant will allow them to stand and proudly show off their lacy blooms of purple and white.

The week before Easter, my grandson Justin came and worked in our “Memory Flower Garden” the one we have dedicated to Papa. He promised to come back when the weather gets warmer to finish the one we have started for Grandma Martha and Uncle Glen. However, the winter will not go away. We plan to put some wildflowers in this garden. Especially Morning glories because they were Grandma Martha’s favorite and she always had them climbing up the post of her porch…

Just after my husband died my little dog and I was walking and I was pouring out my heart to Jesus. And He began showing me what a glorious scene He had created for me to be in with Him: the sun was shining on us, the birds were singing over us, and we were walking along a path that cut through a small valley near my home. The field was full of wildflowers. Different species and colors.

I felt impressed to stop and really look at all the wildflowers in front of me, to meditate on God’s creation and it was almost as if I could hear Jesus speaking to me:

“Do not worry about your life… Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don’t fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? Solomon in all his glory looks shabby alongside them. If I give such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen by a living soul don’t you think I’ll care even more for you?”

There were so many colorful wildflowers! And they were there because God wanted them there. No person had planted them. God sent breezes and birds to scatter seeds and he sent rain and sun and grew the flowers. Thousands of people drove by not far from this little valley every day but could not see the beautiful Flower garden God had planted. Still, He cared for it. Did He do it just for me? Did He know that one day I would pass by here heartbroken over the death of my husband and did He have it planned just for my eyes only?

Then God showed me a single daisy surrounded by thousands of other flowers. No one has ever laid eyes on that flower before –this wild flower did not stand out and it was not special. But I appreciated that flower! It was beautiful to me! God only gave it to me as a special reminder of His love-and to let me know that He was taking care of me!

I often thank God for that walk in the valley and I remind myself to bloom where I am planted for God – even if no one else seems to notice. That’s okay. Because my Father in heaven notices me lovingly and I can hold my head high and smile just like that little daisy was smiling in his sunshine!

When Nothing Means Something

2016-01-25T09:29:00.001-08:00

We are taught that “Nothing,” means nothing, and we think of the word as discouraging. But, that is not always the case. Let me give you a few “Nothings.”

· Nothing will ever happen to you that God does not already know about…(Psalm 139:1-4)-

· Nothing will ever happen to you that is a mistake. (Psalm 139: 4, 16)-

· Nothing will ever happen to you that God’s power and grace will not help you handle.

(2nd Corinthians 12:9-10)-

· Nothing will ever happen to you without God’s presence. (Matthew 28:20)-

· Nothing will ever happen to you that will not be eventually used by God to give you some good purpose in life.(Romans 8:28)-

These “nothings” can bring us to a place of “something” such as, loving God more. The power that we get from God’s word can lift us out of the depths of defeat, discouragement, despair, and doubt. It can set our feet on a solid rock of strength, give us hope, joy, faith, and peace at heart and mind. Then, no matter what life brings our way, we can experience victory.

Philippians 4:8-9 -^8.Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

^9.Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

I love the song --- Peace, Peace, Wonderful Peace, coming down from the Father above,

Far away in the depths of my spirit tonight, Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm;
In celestial strains it unceasingly falls O’er my soul like an infinite calm.

Refrain

Peace, peace, wonderful peace, Coming down from the Father above!
Sweep over my spirit forever, I pray in fathomless billows of love!

What a treasure I have in this wonderful peace, Buried deep in the heart of my soul,
So secure that no power can mine it away, While the years of eternity roll!

Refrain

I am resting tonight in this wonderful peace, Resting sweetly in Jesus’ control;
For I’m kept from all danger by night and by day, And His glory is flooding my soul!

Just reading the words of this beautiful old hymn gives me peace….

~Unknown.

Thank You. Lord, for your marvelous Peace.

Walk in Peace'

Mary Frances King~

Joshua Fought the Battle.

2016-01-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

January 1, 2016

This year, when our lives seem to be under siege from the demands of work, bills, family, and the situation our world seems to be taking, seeking and finding God is never difficult....
Psalm 27:1 -The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Just like with Joshua-the Lord will help us fight our battles. The people of Jericho had reason to be afraid because they had seen evidence of God's strength and support of His children. As a key resident of Canaan, Ole' Joshua planned to conquer that fair land and set the people free. Only one smart lady knew the right course of action for when Joshua and his army arrived -Ole' Sister Rehab called upon God, and then she opened her doors to Joshua's agents. In return, they made sure she and her family were kept safe. All because Rehab knew that with the strength of God she was safe in His care.
So, may I say Facebook family, no matter what comes our way for the year of 2016 let us keep our faith in God. Never give up the battle because just as it is stated in Matthew 10:29-31, He cares for even the tiniest bird and what more can He care for you and me.
Enjoy the year and look to Him for your strength...

Faithfully,
Mary Frances King

BEING GOD'S FRIEND.

2015-11-29T10:45:00.001-08:00

I have been following the news daily on the fight a small town is having about the cross on their water tower. So sad, a group of atheist in another state is demanding they remove a cross. It has been a part of their town for many years. I am yet again saddened at the thought that we are losing so many of our Christian freedoms. It makes me want to speak out in anger that a small group has the right to take away our Christian rights and freedoms. But, I don’t think anger is the right way to handle things.

When we argue the existence of God with a non-believer, we usually end up angry and feeling like we have failed to hold God up to the highest level. We may be very interesting intellectuals and have a wonderful debate with an atheist, but I wonder, is God really pleased with our clever argument. I have not found any place in the Bible where Jesus debated or argued with anyone the existence of God. Instead, He continually explained in clear and simple terms the way for His children to come closer to Him. We humans love to find loopholes, to seek contradictions, and to try out elegant arguments to win. But all too often, we wind up where we began. We cannot force anyone to change his or her views. And one thing for sure, if we do find ourselves in a debate with a non-believer, we better have our schoolwork done and be well educated. Otherwise, they will stomp us in the mud.

When Jesus talked to His disciples one day, He talked about the vine and its branches and about how to remain close to Him. In a simple sentence He said, “If we would love each other the way He loves us, we would be His friend always.”

Imagine that! Being God’s friend is the most important thing of all. We don’t have to live in isolation and confusion. We don’t even have to defend God by arguing His existence. We just have to copy Him, and He promises He will be with us and be our friend. How do we do that? Well, I think for starters we forgive others who have wronged us, giving up our rights to seek revenge and seek peace instead of confrontation; listen with our hearts, not just our ears.

Yes, there are times when we need to stand strong for God and we must let our heart lead us. Jesus warned us that there would always be those who hate us for our belief because they hated Him first. They will scoff at us, mock us, make fun, and call us names, but that will not keep a true believer from following God.

The atheist may win the battle over the cross in Wilmore, and the town may be forced to remove it from the water tower. But the atheist will not be the real winners. Because forcing the removal of crosses, Ten Commandments, Nativity scenes, or Bibles, will never kill off Jesus Christ and His followers. We will live on because we have all these things, and more, buried deep within our heart and no man will ever remove them, and Satan cannot touch them, or us, as long as we hold strong to the hand of God. How wonderful to know there will be no such thing as non-belief in Heaven.

Brotherly Love

2015-07-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

When I think back to the time of my childhood and growing up in the Kentucky Knob during the 1940s and 50s, I remember best the closeness of our family and the love we shared. There was no fun at being “big sis” to two little brothers, but I still loved those two little scrappers and often had bruises caused from trying to be their protector. I think the first time I got into a school fight was because of some bully trying to use my little brother as a source of entertainment by shoving him around. I went into that boy just like “Ugly on an ape,” and got creamed. However, that boy never bothered my brother, or me, again….

I have a book titled, God’s Little Devotional Book, and one of the stories in that book makes me think of my two brothers.

__ Two brothers farmed together. They lived in separate houses on the family farm, but met in the fields every day to work together. One brother married and had a very large family. The other lived alone. Still, they shared the crops equally.

One night the single brother thought, my brother is struggling to make ends meet and feed his large family and it is not fair for me to get half the harvest. With love in his heart, he gathered a box of things he had bought from his profit ---items he knew would help his brother’s family. He planned to slip over to his brother’s house and hide the things in the shed for his brother to find later.

That same night the married brother thought, my poor brother. He lives alone and doesn’t know the joy of having a family. He went to his barn, got a basket, went into the house, and filled the basket with a warm quilt, homemade breads, and jellies. He planned to leave the items on the front porch and never say a word about them.

Both men left their homes at the same time. Feeling their way through the night they bumped into each other. They were forced to tell each other what they were doing and there in the darkness they embraced. Each one realized the wealth of having a brother who loved and respected him.

I have shewed you all things, how that so laboring you ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20-35….

Sibling closeness is hard to beat. They may often fight like “cats and dogs” among themselves but let an outsider start a fight with a brother or sister and ever how many siblings there might be will gang up on the troublemaker and clean their plow…

I lost my younger brother on July 28, 2014...I miss him so much. But I have peace in knowing that one day, I will see him again. That time will be forever. Until then, rest well.

Way Back When

2015-07-02T13:05:00.001-07:00

As I have gotten older, I realize that I cannot change how others think, and actually, it is not my place to even try to change their way of viewing things. Just because I don't always understand people and things in this world does not give me the right to judge them or try to change what they have become. Who knows, it just might be me that is wrong....(WOW! That hurt, but I said it)! It is true that I DO NOT like changes. I would be just as pleased as a "dog with a bone" if I could go back in time to how things and people, used to be. Way back to when a radio was the luxury in the family. Back to when we hiked to the grocery store in the village for a five pound bag of sugar for mama. Back to when the whole family met at grandma's house on Sunday for dinner and everyone was expected to be there. Back to summer evenings of sitting on the porch watching lightening bugs and listening to the crickets; and winter evenings of sitting around the stove listening to daddy tell his famous ghost stories...Back to the basics of life. Back to slow paced days and peaceful living. Back to the belief of helping your neighbor, and knowing brotherly love. Back to how it used to be when you was a kid and the most fun you had was swinging on the farm gate when papa was not looking...
Yeah! I miss those days, but they will not come back. So, we must move on. We can still love sitting on the front porch in the summer and even spin a few of our own "yarns" to our children. And most importantly, we can always share our Way Back When memories.

Old Country Church

2015-05-12T15:24:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite things to do is to go far out in the country and look for old abandoned houses, churches, and barns. Photograph them and use the photo somewhere in my writings.
I stare at the old churches and l can picture them in my mind as they might have been a hundred years ago. Were there oil lamps placed around the walls in order to give out light? Did they have an old wood stove sitting in the corner to heat the building with? I am sure that was true because I can remember such a church with the same way to heat it. I also remember how everyone would try to get as close to the old stove as they possibly could on cold evenings. Most of the churches were not easily heated. The walls were thin, planks in the floor were wide apart and the cold air seeped through, making your feet feel like two ice cubes even with heavy socks and shoes on.
The first little white church where I attended was such a structure. Many years ago there was always someone to come and build a fire to warm the church for service on cold days. A large bucket of coal sat behind the stove and during the service one of the men would get up and fill the stove to keep the church from cooling down too much. The preacher would never miss a beat. He continued to share the "Word of God" through all the clinking of coal being tossed in the stove, slamming the door shut, and finally shaking down the ashes. We didn't seem to notice because we were glad they were filling the stove...It was cold!
In the summer, the windows were thrown wide open to let the breeze come in. That was wonderful on a spring day, but didn't work on a hot summer day in August. I can still see the dear old sisters of the church wiping their faces with their hanky and fanning with the hand-held fans bearing the advertisement of a Funeral Homes in the area. Free hand-outs to the churches.
There is a beautiful memory here -the little white clapboard church was always full and running over for every service. So full that often the men and boys would stand outside the church during the summertime. Nobody missed church unless there was sickness in the family; and still at least one family member would most always show up.
What has happened to us? Today, we have central air and heating, the pews are padded, we have fellowship halls, nice classrooms, running water, and inside Privy's! However, our people do not have the same desire to hear God's word. We come when we want to, stay home when we want to, and our churches are only half-filled on Sunday morning. The evenings have so many empty pews that some churches have cancelled Sunday night service... God has blessed us and we are less thankful. Those dear saints of yesterday had spiritual endurance. Where is our long-suffering and Patience....our fruit of the spirit! Are we letting our fruit trees go without care?

Old Friend

2015-05-05T10:34:00.003-07:00

It takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, and a day to love them, but it takes an entire lifetime to forget them.In other words Sarah, I will never forget you. I loved you from the very first time we met until the last day I was with you...Last Saturday. What a good day we had remembering all the times we worked together, vacationed together, and the smiles we shared remembering our own boys and their years of growing up.

What will I miss the most about you? EVERYTHING!!!
I will remember the times when lonely hours came to me, I called you and before I hung up I always felt better. Just talking with you calmed my fears, eased my loneliness, and made me smile again. I will remember how you never forgot to send me a birthday card. Even when I was trying to forget the birthdays you would not let me...Some cute little card from my friend Sarah came in the mail. Always giving me a chuckle. I will remember that no matter how hard life became for you, you never complained. I will remember that everyone was your friend and you treated them as such. Always frisky, always feisty, always full of joy.
I love you my sister. Rest in the arms of Christ. You have completed your walk here on earth. A whole new adventure is waiting for you now...I will miss you, but I will one day join you again, "OLD FRIEND," and we will take up our walk together...Eternally!

A Father's Wish for his Children

2015-05-04T19:55:00.002-07:00

Remembering my dad and my husband, I feel like I can relate to some of the feelings a dad has regarding his children, and I would like to put it into words for you. If I am wrong, you can let me know by leaving me a comment telling me I am way off track. I welcome a Man’s point of view on why I have no idea of what I am talking about. However, I daresay you will tell me that some of my comments are on target.

If I were to give this piece a title it would be, “A Father’s Wish for His Children.”

“MY Child, I wish for you unconditional and unending love, a caring heart and an open mind. I don’t have all the answers to life’s questions but with determination we can go after the answers together, make it work, and do it the right way.

I wish you Faith: To put God first in your life, man second and self, last. However, trust in yourself, trust in your abilities to do the job and hold your head high when at first you do not succeed.

I wish you Joy: a sense of humor and pride in what you do. The ability to easily forgive and the comfort of inner peace.

I wish for you a gentle nature. To touch, to feel, to experience goodness, honesty, integrity and loyalty throughout your life. In doing these things, you can carry your name with pride wherever you may go.

Finally, I wish you fulfillment: enough time to do what you enjoy, someone to share the good times with as well as the bad, the ability to recognize when something isn’t working, and the courage to change.”

With all my love,

Dad.

***

The Painting

2015-03-10T17:58:00.001-07:00

This is a beautiful story and I know it is very long, but I hope you will take the time to read it all. The end is worth your time.

The Painting

Author Unknown

Years ago, there was a very wealthy man who, with his devoted young son, shared a passion for art collecting. Together they traveled around the world, adding only the finest art treasures to their collection. Priceless works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet and many others adorned the walls of the family estate.

The widowed elder man looked on with satisfaction, as his only child became an experienced art collector. The son's trained eye and sharp business mind caused his father to beam with pride as they dealt with art collectors around the world.

As winter approached, war engulfed the nation, and the young man left to serve his country. After only a few short weeks, his father received a telegram. His beloved son was missing in action. The art collector anxiously awaited more news, fearing he would never see his son again.

Within days, his fears were confirmed. The young man had died while rushing a fellow soldier to a medic.

Distraught and lonely, the old man faced the upcoming Easter holidays with anguish and sadness. The joy of the season, a season that he and his son had so looked forward to, would visit his house no longer. On Easter morning, a knock on the door awakened the depressed old man.

As he walked to the door, the masterpieces of art on the walls only reminded him that his son was not coming home. As he opened the door, he was greeted by a soldier with a large package in his hand. He introduced himself to the man by saying, "I was a friend of your son. I was the one he was rescuing when he died. May I come in for a few moments? I have something to show you."

As the two began to talk, the soldier told of how the man's son had told everyone of his father's love of fine art. "I'm an artist," said the soldier, "and I want to give you this." As the old man unwrapped the package, the paper gave way to reveal a portrait of the man's son. Though the world would never consider it the work of a genius, the painting featured the young man's face in striking detail.

Overcome with emotion, the man thanked the soldier, promising to hang the picture above the fireplace. A few hours later, after the soldier had departed, the old man set about his task.

True to his word, the painting went above the fireplace, pushing aside thousands of dollars of paintings. And then the man sat in his chair and spent Easter gazing at the gift he had been given. During the days and weeks that followed, the man realized that even though his son was no longer with him, the boy's life would live on because of those he had touched. He would soon learn that his son had rescued dozens of wounded soldiers before a bullet stilled his caring heart.

As the stories of his son's gallantry continued to reach him, fatherly pride and satisfaction began to ease the grief. The painting of his son soon became his most prized possession, far eclipsing any interest in the pieces for which museums around the world clamored. He told his neighbors it was the greatest gift he had ever received. The following spring, the old man became ill and passed away. The art world was in anticipation.

With the collector's passing, and his only son dead, those paintings would be sold at an auction. According to the will of the old man, all of the art works would be auctioned on Easter day, the day he had received his greatest gift.

The day soon arrived. Art collectors from around the world gathered to bid on some of the world's most spectacular paintings. Dreams would be fulfilled this day; greatness would be achieved as many would claim "I have the greatest collection." The auction began with a painting that was not on any museum's list. It was the painting of the man's son.

The auctioneer asked for an opening bid. The room was silent. "Who will open the bidding with $100?" he asked. Minutes passed. No one spoke. From the back of the room came, "Who cares about that painting? It's just a picture of his son. Let's forget it and go on to the good stuff." More voices echoed in agreement. "No, we have to sell this one first," replied the auctioneer.

"Now, who will take the son?" Finally, a friend of the old man spoke. "Will you take ten dollars for the painting? That's all I have. I knew the boy, so I'd like to have it."

"I have ten dollars. Will anyone go higher?" called the auctioneer. After more silence, the auctioneer said, "Going once, going twice. Gone." The gavel fell. Cheers filled the room and someone exclaimed, "Now we can get on with it and we can bid on these treasures!" The auctioneer looked at the audience and announced the auction was over.

Stunned disbelief quieted the room. Someone spoke up and asked, "What do you mean it's over? We didn't come here for a picture of some old guy's son. What about all of these paintings? There are millions of dollars of art here! I demand that you explain what's going on here!" The auctioneer replied, "It's very simple. According to the will of the father, whoever takes the son ... gets it all!"

Just as those art collectors discovered on that Easter day, the message is still the same - the love of a Father - a Father whose greatest joy came from His Son who went away and gave his life rescuing others. And because of that Father's love... whoever takes the Son gets it all.

-------
Jesus said to them, "Whoever receives this little child in my name receives me. Whoever receives me receives Him who sent me. For whoever is least among you all, the same shall be great." (Luke 9:48)

2015-03-08T13:01:00.001-07:00

Winter Beauty
Thank you, Deb Campbell for the use of your photo shot in the beautiful Smokey Mountain area...

Winter Beauty

Winter has its own beauty for us who live in the country. We see the bare branches as lovely works of art when decorated by newly fallen snow, or when cased in ice with the sun reluctantly shining through their limbs. We see the meadow with its frozen grass standing straight and looking as if sprinkled with diamond dust. We hear the melody of the water in the brook softly running under a sheath of ice. We know the beauty of a dark night with only the stars to light up the vast sky. What a picture the moonlight shadows create, stretching across the fallen snow, and even if there is no moon, we see the silvery light from the snow itself.

We country folk know the delicate marks of the pheasant, a rabbit, and the rare shape of a deer’s footprint stamped in the snow. We recognize the sounds and fragrance of winter because it is far different from any other time and season. Believe it or not -but a heavy snow filters out the harshness of noise and leaves us with a warm feeling of peace and contentment inside our homes. It is the best time to enjoy a cup of hot tea, or as my friend Elsie says, “A cup of hot coffee.”

When I look upon a newly fallen snow untouched and unmarred, I think of the pure, clean, sinless Robe of Christ. It does not take long for animal and man to mar the beauty and cleanliness of snow, but the purity of Christ cannot be marred. There are those who try to destroy Him every day, but they cannot; they will never be able to touch Him. No matter what instrument they use - be it pen, pencil, or tongue, they cannot disprove Him. He will forever remain the “Spotless Lamb of God.”

Although I do not like snow and simply hate the cold weather, I must listen when God whispers to me, “All seasons are Mine. Take each one as it comes and be proud of every day I lend you.” He also reminds me, “Your days are numbered on earth so for the sake of goodness, enjoy them no matter what the temperature is outside."

Therefore, I do thank God for the days He gives me to be with my family and friends, and I am trying to like some things about winter but God knows my heart. He knows I am looking forward to warmer weather. He will help me through the depressing times while I am slipping and sliding through these cold days and nights, and I will no more than turn around until the warm days of spring will slip down from the hills and come dancing across the fields. I will look up and see all those bulbs I planted last fall sprout up and come alive with color just in time to welcome the little birds back home. My backyard will come alive with a symphony from the tweeters. My roses will bloom again...I cannot wait for the fragrance of honeysuckles to fill the night air; Oh the heavenly scent of an apple tree in bloom...

I will put away the three sweaters, two coats, snow boots, thick socks, denim pants, hat, gloves, and long johns I wore (All at the same time!) this winter. I will sit back in the rocking chair on my front porch and enjoy the sights and sounds around me, especially the warm breezes of spring.

Paul said, “I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”

I am still trying to contentedly live in the moment but I often "Blow it." Because I’m still dwelling on the "good ol’ days" by daydreaming on what I could have had, if only….not really living in the now. I have good intentions of starting out each day as being the best day of my life but for some reason something will throw me into the worry mode and start worrying about stuff. Mostly stuff I have no control over.

I listen to the daily news and I find myself asking the same old question, “Lord, what will this bring? Will we be blown away by a terrorist group, or will the country fall into a deep depression? What will happen with the wars raging, how many more of our men and women will lose their lives?” All these things float around in my head until I remind myself how ridiculous I am for even thinking along these lines...What will be-will be. Then, I picked up my Bible and started reading. I read from Deuteronomy... This is beautiful scripture. Please mark and read the whole Chapter 11 when you have your devotional time. I am stating verses 11-15 (This is Moses addressing the people)

11…. But the land, whither ye go to possess it, is a land of hills and valleys, and drinketh water of the rain of heaven: 12... A land of which the Lord thy God careth for: the eyes of the Lord thy God are always upon it, from the beginning of the year even unto the end of the year. 13…And it shall come to pass, if ye shall harken diligently unto my commandments which I command you this day, to love the Lord your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul….14…That I will give you rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain, that thou mayest gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil….15…And I will send grass in thy fields for thy cattle, and thou mayest eat and be full .

This whole chapter speaks of obeying God. If we are doing so, He will take care of His own. No matter what may rage around us, if we obey His commandments and love Him with all our heart and soul, we have nothing to fear. Nations may rise against us, disasters may come and things will occur to put us in a state of panic I feel sure, but with God on our side we should not fear…verse 22-23…For if ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you…Then will the Lord drive out all these nations from before you, and ye shall possess greater nations and mightier than yourselves….

Sometimes I feel our nation has fallen away from God. The eyes of America are looking in the wrong places, but God has not forgotten His true followers. He will lead us through any disaster, will hear our prayers and provide our needs, accordingly.

This land is a land of hills and valleys. Our life is not all smooth and downhill. We must have some of the rough and uphill stuff, too . If we did not, we would grow slack in remembering to Thank Him for the blessing. It is the hill difficulties that drive us to the throne of grace. The bleak hills of life that we wonder about, worry about, and perhaps spend a lot of time grumbling about, are the very showers that rain down the "Showers of Blessings." We do not know what trials and sorrows we have coming in our future; we do not know what our loss will be. But we can rest assured that our Father will come to take our hand and lead us down the pathway we must go whatever may happen. With Him holding our hand, it will be a blessed year, all year.

~Mary Frances King

A Cup of Coffee

2015-02-19T12:04:00.000-08:00

Inside my house all sung and warm,

I watched the chilling winter storm.

Freezing rain as slick as glass,

Coats trees, bush, and blades of grass.

Mounds and peaks pile `round my door,

And I am thankful forever more,

That I am safe, snug, and warm

Inside my home from the chilling storm.

Mary Frances King~

Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things, but just look what they can do when they stick together. We should do that as a Church family.

…Be ye holy; for I am holy" 1 Peter 1:16

I am not a very happy camper in the morning until I’ve had at least two or three cups of coffee. One morning this past week, I started to think how we as Christian are just like a cup of coffee…We can be weak, bitter, cold, or strong. Here is a cup of Mary’s philosophy…

1. Weak.
As weak Christians, we don't have much faith. In our weakness, we don't read God's Word enough to be able to share what we stand on or have a good testimony to share with others. The way to remedy that weakness is to add some grounds. Grind into God's Word and Study so you can learn what you believe concerning doctrine and know how to share living the Christian life. Enrich yourself with a vibrant prayer life and rely on God's strength and not your own.

2. Bitter.
I've known my share of bitter Christians and I've been there at a few times in my own life but if bitterness isn't dealt with, it boils and eats away at your heart. Bitterness doesn't leave a pleasant aroma. You can't do much with a bitter cup of coffee. No matter how much cream or sugar you add to the cup, the bitter taste is still there. No matter how many good deeds we do, how many church programs we become involved with, if our bitterness is still there, we need to empty our heart of all bitterness to allow the Holy Spirit to take control of our lives.

3. Cold.
How many times have you taken a sip of coffee and realize it has gotten cold. Sometimes we grow cold as a Christian. There are probably many reasons why we let this happen. We get away from Christ by slowdown in our bible reading, stop going to church, stop taking the time to talk with Him in prayer and soon we grow cold. What do you do to a cold cup of coffee? Most of us just zap it in the microwave for a minute, or two. We go to the source for heat. That's how we should do as Christians. Go to the Source. Get on our knees and talk to the Lord. Draw closer to Him and He will draw closer to you.

4. Strong.
Lord, please help me be a strong cup of coffee. Spending time with the Lord through prayer, bible reading is what's going to make us into those strong cups of coffee. It will allow us to let the Holy Spirit stir us. I know I need to work on spending more time with Christ. We think of it as just a devotional time or bible reading time, but when we realize that we are spending time in the "presence of the Lord" it really puts things into perspective. He's a great and holy God and He'll blend us to perfection if we'll perk up and spend time with Him. Let Him stir us every day…

Photography of Deb Campbell...Check out her site.

God, Are You There?

2015-01-28T12:46:00.002-08:00

We don't have to think about it long enough to realize that the people we go to church with-work with, or come in contact with throughout our day are truly like a part of our family---deserving our love, our concerns about their lives, our support and comfort. Surely they deserve our prayers. It does not matter what field you are in you need prayer...
*For the artist, prayer will bring you more in tune with God --to His nature and the inspiration of His beauty will flow through your performance on canvas.
* For the Physician, prayer will bring you to encouragement in making the decisions you know you will have to make. His hands will automatically guide yours. His wisdom becomes your wisdom.
* For the teacher, prayer will take you through the day with the children you have in your care; the same children that test your patience are the same ones that look to you for understanding and guidance.
* For the mother, prayer is a MUST... to face the day with a prayer tucked neatly in a corner of your heart gives you peace. It keeps your day in balance and reminds you that your family is safely placed in God's hands. He is there with them when you can not be.

To borrow the words from Helen Steiner Rice....

I'm way down Here!
You're way up There!
Are You sure You can hear
my faint, faltering prayer?
   For I'm so unsure
   of just how to pray ---
I don't know what to say...
I just know I am lonely
and vaguely disturbed,
   Bewildered and restless,
   confused and perturbed.

And they tell me that prayer helps to quiet the mind
And to unburden the heart for a stillness we find.
A newborn assurance that Someone does care
And Someone does answer each small sincere prayer...
"God, Are You There?"

MY Home...Kentucky

2014-09-25T23:25:00.001-07:00

I've been to a lot of places, seen beauty in them all, but no place is as
beautiful as the land I call home...
A place with its rocky creeks, lakes, rivers, and natural bridges,
Waterfalls, moon-bows, underground caves, bluegrass fields, and horses.
In the spring the hills are filled with the brilliant bloom
of both Dogwood and redbud trees; the color of autumn is
a breathtaking view. Sacred burial grounds scattered throughout the
hills and hollows, each bearing the name of families well known in their part of the county...

The awakening of Nature

We have "Hills" people with self-taught talent playing their guitars, fiddles, mandolins, and making sweet music that rings out over the hillsides and spill down in the valley below and spreading out for the world to hear.
A place where laughing children, singing elders, and all ages in between wish for you to be blessed.
It is our home….Kentucky.

Put It in God's Hands

2014-09-24T14:38:00.001-07:00

Often we use the words,"Things will get better" to those who are going through trials. I am sure there are those who are just a little tired of hearing those words. Truthfully, what is going to get better? Will the cost of living get better? Will our health improve as we grow older? Will our nation continue to thrive? Will our family only have sunny days and happy moments and never have a worry or care? Will we reach a place in our lives when we never have a teardrop fall? Will we never have to face another death here on earth?

It all depends on how you look at things as to whether"things" will get better. True, the rainy days we all have will eventually break away to show a rainbow for a while. The cost of living may fall back a little in years to come. Gas may once again fall below $3.00 a gallon. But our teardrops will never completely fade away while we are living on this earth. Our hearts will continue to break from time-to-time, and sorrows will come that we cannot control. So when you look at things in that respect, things are not going to get better. However, I have a solution to the whole problem...Put all things in God's hands. He will lead you through all your troubles, heartaches, and disappointments. Then, at the end of your earthly journey He will lead you to a place where there are no troubles, worries and disappointments. To a place of continued rainbows and sunny days. Just thinking about this,don't it make you wanna' go home? I will take whatever God sees fit to give me, even a humble abode will suit me just fine...