Saturday, September 12, 2009
Short Trip to Vegas
It was a short trip from Long Beach to Vegas. Jet Blue was delayed an hour. My first delay this trip. No problem. I am not in a hurry to go and put money into the pockets of the casino owners.
Flight Deck:Capt Matt Roff
Cabin: Alexi, Will and Laura
Nice Airbus. Good service for such a short hop less than one hour.
I had plans to go to Boulder Dam. However, I could not get the early AM bus, so leaving at 10 AM puts me back downtown Vegas an hour too late to make my flight.
I will roam around the casino area and see if I can meet someone who will admit to the fact that loosing your money on a chance to make more is a bad deal when the odds are not much in your favor. Logically one has to admit that all thse elaborate buildings were actually built by losers; all the people who lost money here on false hope. Sin is savery, and gambling is a slave addiction when you it becomes your god. The obsesson to win blocks out all logic, and you spiral down as each card turns; a dice rolls or a coin drops. Tough message here, I'll admit!
My fellow traveler over here was convinced his whole life would change once he "Hit it Big"
He did not have a good answer for where he was going ona scale of 1-10. His response was that once he hit the jackpot he would be in heaven, and since he was only 25 he'd worry about the other Heaven [if there is one] when he "Got to be an old dude like [me] you."
Well I asked for it playing before a rough crowd like this.
No problem. At least I can say I got several very good inexpensive meals.
I did get to leave a Bible with a young lady setting next to me asking what I was writing about. Don't know if it will take, but se did put the Bible in her bag and thanked me.
Leaving this afternoon for Salt Lake City.
PS I'm still trying to post the video I made in Bermuda, but having trouble uploading. I will try to add one from Huntigton Beach CA after I post this. So don't worry if things are a bit out of order.
I started to post photos of each city on my Picasa Web site. I'll publish the URL for you all to look at once I get it better organized.
See you in Church tomorrow on the Web Cast.
Flight Deck:Capt Matt Roff
Cabin: Alexi, Will and Laura
Nice Airbus. Good service for such a short hop less than one hour.
I had plans to go to Boulder Dam. However, I could not get the early AM bus, so leaving at 10 AM puts me back downtown Vegas an hour too late to make my flight.
I will roam around the casino area and see if I can meet someone who will admit to the fact that loosing your money on a chance to make more is a bad deal when the odds are not much in your favor. Logically one has to admit that all thse elaborate buildings were actually built by losers; all the people who lost money here on false hope. Sin is savery, and gambling is a slave addiction when you it becomes your god. The obsesson to win blocks out all logic, and you spiral down as each card turns; a dice rolls or a coin drops. Tough message here, I'll admit!
My fellow traveler over here was convinced his whole life would change once he "Hit it Big"
He did not have a good answer for where he was going ona scale of 1-10. His response was that once he hit the jackpot he would be in heaven, and since he was only 25 he'd worry about the other Heaven [if there is one] when he "Got to be an old dude like [me] you."
Well I asked for it playing before a rough crowd like this.
No problem. At least I can say I got several very good inexpensive meals.
I did get to leave a Bible with a young lady setting next to me asking what I was writing about. Don't know if it will take, but se did put the Bible in her bag and thanked me.
Leaving this afternoon for Salt Lake City.
PS I'm still trying to post the video I made in Bermuda, but having trouble uploading. I will try to add one from Huntigton Beach CA after I post this. So don't worry if things are a bit out of order.
I started to post photos of each city on my Picasa Web site. I'll publish the URL for you all to look at once I get it better organized.
See you in Church tomorrow on the Web Cast.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Day Five Huntington Beach, CA.
Day Five Long Beach, Ca. – Las Vegas
September 11, 2009
Pastor Larry’s book “Side By Side” spoke of Spiritual Inventory on day 12. This speaks directly to me. Did I “ Plan without praying?” Am I well balanced on this journey? Should I be more focused on issues close to me before seeking out others needs? Am I a baby Christian going into a tough world where I could do more harm than good?”
after all there are many new people I will meet; people with all kinds of perspectives. Many have provided good strong arguments for Ignoring God or “Putting off” God till later in life.
Last night I chatted with my daughter Natalie, and we prayed for success in her and Daniel getting a house. She is helping my grandson, Christian, follow my journey by tacking pins on the large map in every city I visit.
Next I spoke to my oldest daughter Jennifer. She was driving to Orlando, and hopefully mending some fences with Jerry. It sounded like things were going better for her, and that she had some work Monday.
Both messages were prayers answered. I am really working hard to keep my balance as I grow more in the Lords work, and care for my family.
Yesterday I met a very good man from Long Beach he was traveling back home. He bought me a beer in Frisco between flights. Hew is very well traveled. He told me not to get all shook about differing points of view. He told me He and I were on the same page with God. His name is Robbie Robinson. He was looking for a travel partner because he is on the All You can Jet pass too. We may see if we can work something out.
Our God is an awesome God who provides like nothing we could imagine.
Robbie’s wife and granddaughter picked us up at the airport. Then Robbie suggested I let him drive me to Huntington Beach, and he showed me some places to stay. [ more on that later].
On the way to the beach he said he was hungry and asked if I had eaten. I said had a small salad before leaving Austin. Robbie stopped in a nice restaurant and we had a fine meal and great fellowship. We were as one on Jesus and salvation. We agreed on many other secular issues. I told him if I get back to FLL before he is tarveling there I would repay the kindness.
On a lighter note, I also took inventory of my personal items in my back pack. After only 4 days, dirty clothes outnumber clean ones 2:1. So my first stop this morning is the Long Beach Laundromat and perhaps I’ll meet and share the Word with someone there.
Hold it! Chris just walked in and we began to talk about our story. Chris is a busy working student, but he had an interest in finding out more. I gave him a blog card, and he will follow. He will be on any further updates,
Checking off reading assignments: 1) Daily Word; 2) Side By Side; 3) 12 Ordinary Men study guide and book [Scott those disks are saving my life-Thanks]; 4) Songs of Life reading in the Psalms.
OK Clothes are dry. I’ll call Robbie who is picking me up and taking me back to Long Beach airport. Off to Vegas after I don my Spiritual armor.
Almot Forgot: At 4 Am this morning I met a homeless person, Joe, on the beach. He was being shuffeled by the police. He received a bible, and some cash to help him make it another day. I told him of the bread of live and the living water. He will read from John.
September 11, 2009
Pastor Larry’s book “Side By Side” spoke of Spiritual Inventory on day 12. This speaks directly to me. Did I “ Plan without praying?” Am I well balanced on this journey? Should I be more focused on issues close to me before seeking out others needs? Am I a baby Christian going into a tough world where I could do more harm than good?”
after all there are many new people I will meet; people with all kinds of perspectives. Many have provided good strong arguments for Ignoring God or “Putting off” God till later in life.
Last night I chatted with my daughter Natalie, and we prayed for success in her and Daniel getting a house. She is helping my grandson, Christian, follow my journey by tacking pins on the large map in every city I visit.
Next I spoke to my oldest daughter Jennifer. She was driving to Orlando, and hopefully mending some fences with Jerry. It sounded like things were going better for her, and that she had some work Monday.
Both messages were prayers answered. I am really working hard to keep my balance as I grow more in the Lords work, and care for my family.
Yesterday I met a very good man from Long Beach he was traveling back home. He bought me a beer in Frisco between flights. Hew is very well traveled. He told me not to get all shook about differing points of view. He told me He and I were on the same page with God. His name is Robbie Robinson. He was looking for a travel partner because he is on the All You can Jet pass too. We may see if we can work something out.
Our God is an awesome God who provides like nothing we could imagine.
Robbie’s wife and granddaughter picked us up at the airport. Then Robbie suggested I let him drive me to Huntington Beach, and he showed me some places to stay. [ more on that later].
On the way to the beach he said he was hungry and asked if I had eaten. I said had a small salad before leaving Austin. Robbie stopped in a nice restaurant and we had a fine meal and great fellowship. We were as one on Jesus and salvation. We agreed on many other secular issues. I told him if I get back to FLL before he is tarveling there I would repay the kindness.
On a lighter note, I also took inventory of my personal items in my back pack. After only 4 days, dirty clothes outnumber clean ones 2:1. So my first stop this morning is the Long Beach Laundromat and perhaps I’ll meet and share the Word with someone there.
Hold it! Chris just walked in and we began to talk about our story. Chris is a busy working student, but he had an interest in finding out more. I gave him a blog card, and he will follow. He will be on any further updates,
Checking off reading assignments: 1) Daily Word; 2) Side By Side; 3) 12 Ordinary Men study guide and book [Scott those disks are saving my life-Thanks]; 4) Songs of Life reading in the Psalms.
OK Clothes are dry. I’ll call Robbie who is picking me up and taking me back to Long Beach airport. Off to Vegas after I don my Spiritual armor.
Almot Forgot: At 4 Am this morning I met a homeless person, Joe, on the beach. He was being shuffeled by the police. He received a bible, and some cash to help him make it another day. I told him of the bread of live and the living water. He will read from John.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Day Three - Austin -Frisco- Long Beach, CA
Had a great flight from JFK to Austin.
Jet Blue Crew was great. Thanks Tiffany and Jeff and second seat Alex.
Austin was uneventul. Did not met anyone of interest there. I read and prepared for the next day.
I do remember meeting Captin King, and I noted that he made the smoothest landing I ever experienced in a large commercial carrier.
On the way off the aircraft I found that he had been the charter pilot who carried then Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin around during this past election.
I have been very happy with ther service and the employees of Jet Blue.
My fellow traveler was Kevin. He had a lot to say about the morals and work ethics of Americans. He is a hard worker and a dedicated family man. He told me he has thought much about eternal life. He believes people should work hard and help themselves to build character. I felt no great need to share much more with Kevin. He was there and doing well. Kevin is a softwqare Marketing Guru who alos happens to have a gift for languages.. He could speak russian in High School. I'm struggling with basic words at this point, but He did tell me he was losing some of it by not using it.
Have to go Library is closing. Tomorrow I am off to Las Vegas.
Jet Blue Crew was great. Thanks Tiffany and Jeff and second seat Alex.
Austin was uneventul. Did not met anyone of interest there. I read and prepared for the next day.
I do remember meeting Captin King, and I noted that he made the smoothest landing I ever experienced in a large commercial carrier.
On the way off the aircraft I found that he had been the charter pilot who carried then Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin around during this past election.
I have been very happy with ther service and the employees of Jet Blue.
My fellow traveler was Kevin. He had a lot to say about the morals and work ethics of Americans. He is a hard worker and a dedicated family man. He told me he has thought much about eternal life. He believes people should work hard and help themselves to build character. I felt no great need to share much more with Kevin. He was there and doing well. Kevin is a softwqare Marketing Guru who alos happens to have a gift for languages.. He could speak russian in High School. I'm struggling with basic words at this point, but He did tell me he was losing some of it by not using it.
Have to go Library is closing. Tomorrow I am off to Las Vegas.
Day Two - Bermuda-JFK-Austin, TX
Light morning rain as I headed to the Bermuda airport. God answered my prayers, and I slept under stars and not in rain. No Starbucks in Bermuda. No Wi FI service. I will post from JFK when I arrive.
Whoa! Having big PC problems. It can't travel as well as I. I did a video in front Fort St. Catherine which is right on the beach at St Georges, Bermuda. Now I can't find it to post.
The main point was in reading Pastor Larry's Side By Side and sleeping on the beach at the foot of the fortress walls reminded me of the families who helped Nehemiah rebuild the Walls of Jerusalem. I looked at those walls and was in awe of the work it must have took to build. Then I think of the walls in Jerusalem and think of how much more that task was. Yet God accomplished it through His faithful. It just led me to think of all the potential each of has if we would only be quiet like Nehemiah and listen for God's instructions.
Whoa! Having big PC problems. It can't travel as well as I. I did a video in front Fort St. Catherine which is right on the beach at St Georges, Bermuda. Now I can't find it to post.
The main point was in reading Pastor Larry's Side By Side and sleeping on the beach at the foot of the fortress walls reminded me of the families who helped Nehemiah rebuild the Walls of Jerusalem. I looked at those walls and was in awe of the work it must have took to build. Then I think of the walls in Jerusalem and think of how much more that task was. Yet God accomplished it through His faithful. It just led me to think of all the potential each of has if we would only be quiet like Nehemiah and listen for God's instructions.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Day One Boston- Bermuda
September 8, 2009
Jet Blue: Boston to Bermuda
Flight Deck: Capt. TR Woods
Cabin Crew Ron and Brita
Fellow Traveler: Andrew
I have been really impressed with Jet Blue. This is a discount airline that runs like a first rate air carrier. I find the serves great, and the drinks and snacks refreshing [no pun]. I mean other discount carriers like Spirit treat you worse than a UPS package. Forget service, and even a glass of water. They hardly give you the time of day.
Brita handled our section this trip and she is a gracious and efficient host and a definite positive advertisement for Jet Blue.
Andrew sat with me and was a very good conversationalist. We both had a lot in common: like to travel; highly motivated; at one time I was training to be an underwriter. Andrew is one. We hit it off. His home is in Connecticut, but he lives in Bermuda.
He gave me his contact info and I will send him “Arguing with God”. Although Andrew has a good secure job and he travels as he wishes he feels his life is somewhat unfulfilled. He knows that money does not make people happy. I sensed he is looking for more. I think e will become a blog Follower. He said he will leave me with his email and phone contacts. I believe we will make more progress in the future. Andrew encouraged me to make a book out of the travel log, and to write up all my Skype Chats into a book connected with various chats with people I speak with all over the world. I told him I think it is a good idea and I will work on both when I complete this journey.
Ducked into the K & C Royal Artillery club over looking Drews Bay, St . George, Bermuda House rule #1 is that you must remove your had before you go into the restaurant.. Met some interesting locals there. They asked where I was staying, and I pointed to the beach. “Bravo” they all cheered, after making a slew of comments about “Will Rodgers”.
After a beer I headed to the beach. It is at the foot of Fort St. Catherine. Achilles beach was deserted on both sides of the fort. I had the entire place to myself. Earlier in the day I took a dip in another small cove off Rose Hill. I later saw a sign posted that it was a private beach. However, this was deserted too, so who was to know.
Had a great sleep under the stars listening to the soft waves lap on the shore. Beautiful full moon rising, kept things light all night. The moon along with the lights bathing St Catherines Fort made me feel secure out in the open. It was wonderful. I prayed for a cool dry evening, and God was good to me. I awoke to a breathtaking sunrise Directed by our Great Creator.
Took the bus after a 3 KM walk from the beach back to the airport. Leave at 1PM for JFK and on to Austin, Tx. this evening.
Jet Blue: Boston to Bermuda
Flight Deck: Capt. TR Woods
Cabin Crew Ron and Brita
Fellow Traveler: Andrew
I have been really impressed with Jet Blue. This is a discount airline that runs like a first rate air carrier. I find the serves great, and the drinks and snacks refreshing [no pun]. I mean other discount carriers like Spirit treat you worse than a UPS package. Forget service, and even a glass of water. They hardly give you the time of day.
Brita handled our section this trip and she is a gracious and efficient host and a definite positive advertisement for Jet Blue.
Andrew sat with me and was a very good conversationalist. We both had a lot in common: like to travel; highly motivated; at one time I was training to be an underwriter. Andrew is one. We hit it off. His home is in Connecticut, but he lives in Bermuda.
He gave me his contact info and I will send him “Arguing with God”. Although Andrew has a good secure job and he travels as he wishes he feels his life is somewhat unfulfilled. He knows that money does not make people happy. I sensed he is looking for more. I think e will become a blog Follower. He said he will leave me with his email and phone contacts. I believe we will make more progress in the future. Andrew encouraged me to make a book out of the travel log, and to write up all my Skype Chats into a book connected with various chats with people I speak with all over the world. I told him I think it is a good idea and I will work on both when I complete this journey.
Ducked into the K & C Royal Artillery club over looking Drews Bay, St . George, Bermuda House rule #1 is that you must remove your had before you go into the restaurant.. Met some interesting locals there. They asked where I was staying, and I pointed to the beach. “Bravo” they all cheered, after making a slew of comments about “Will Rodgers”.
After a beer I headed to the beach. It is at the foot of Fort St. Catherine. Achilles beach was deserted on both sides of the fort. I had the entire place to myself. Earlier in the day I took a dip in another small cove off Rose Hill. I later saw a sign posted that it was a private beach. However, this was deserted too, so who was to know.
Had a great sleep under the stars listening to the soft waves lap on the shore. Beautiful full moon rising, kept things light all night. The moon along with the lights bathing St Catherines Fort made me feel secure out in the open. It was wonderful. I prayed for a cool dry evening, and God was good to me. I awoke to a breathtaking sunrise Directed by our Great Creator.
Took the bus after a 3 KM walk from the beach back to the airport. Leave at 1PM for JFK and on to Austin, Tx. this evening.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Passport Required
I am on the way. It is interesting that today's passage in Side By Side required Nehemiah to have safe passage to the Holy Land.
He was given a passport and an escort by the king.
As I waited at the Jet Blue Check in, Kathie fumbled and had to enter my passsport several times [nt her fault i sur]. I am going to Bermuda today. As she did so, I said a silent prayer. God, no errors please. Just that second Kathie smiled, and I knew everything was OK.
I made it, and now I am on my way to do His will.
He was given a passport and an escort by the king.
As I waited at the Jet Blue Check in, Kathie fumbled and had to enter my passsport several times [nt her fault i sur]. I am going to Bermuda today. As she did so, I said a silent prayer. God, no errors please. Just that second Kathie smiled, and I knew everything was OK.
I made it, and now I am on my way to do His will.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Serendipity
What is it? The act of discovering something wonderful and fulfilling while looking for something totally unrelated. [OK Esther, grade me...HAHAHA!]
I had been getting a few bad vibes about my trip, and I sought some advise not knowing what I'd find. Unsolicited, I received an e-mail form my daughter Natalie:
WHEN YOUR HUT'S ON FIRE
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Everyday he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions.
One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger He cried out, 'God! How could you do this to me?'
Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! 'How did you know I was here?,' asked the weary man of his rescuers. 'We saw your smoke signal,' they replied.
The Moral of This Story:
It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives.... even in the midst of our pain and suffering. Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God.
OK, my hut was on fire from doubt, and despair was creeping in.
This morning I got a call from good friend who is a prominent local Eye Doctor [Like my friend Herb this man is also Jewish] He is a man of great character and much love and compassion in his heart. He wanted to see me before I left. We met, and he gave me a large bag of snacks for the plane, and a generous cash gift for food along the way.
More importantly, he gave me great words of support and encouragement. He told me to stay focused on this mission, and that he would be following me. He further offered me any support I would need for the trip.
Yes, I was looking for something else when something good found me. That is Serendipity; or in simpler terms for an ordinary guy like me this is God saying "You have my blessing."
I had been getting a few bad vibes about my trip, and I sought some advise not knowing what I'd find. Unsolicited, I received an e-mail form my daughter Natalie:
WHEN YOUR HUT'S ON FIRE
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Everyday he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions.
One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger He cried out, 'God! How could you do this to me?'
Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! 'How did you know I was here?,' asked the weary man of his rescuers. 'We saw your smoke signal,' they replied.
The Moral of This Story:
It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives.... even in the midst of our pain and suffering. Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God.
OK, my hut was on fire from doubt, and despair was creeping in.
This morning I got a call from good friend who is a prominent local Eye Doctor [Like my friend Herb this man is also Jewish] He is a man of great character and much love and compassion in his heart. He wanted to see me before I left. We met, and he gave me a large bag of snacks for the plane, and a generous cash gift for food along the way.
More importantly, he gave me great words of support and encouragement. He told me to stay focused on this mission, and that he would be following me. He further offered me any support I would need for the trip.
Yes, I was looking for something else when something good found me. That is Serendipity; or in simpler terms for an ordinary guy like me this is God saying "You have my blessing."
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Message of Hope and Support from Herb
My daughter, Natalie, sent me a moving story of hope, help and grace[see below]. I shared it with my Jewish friend, Herb. He told me that it moved him so much that he cried. More importantly, he said that if this is what accepting Jesus does for people, then he was beginning to get the feeling of having Jesus in his heart.
Keep up your prayers for him.
Here is the story that moved Herb, and it moves me too:
Think of this phrase, and then read this story.
'To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.' When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better. Concentrate on this sentence... 'The Will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.' Something good will happen to you today; something that you have been waiting to hear.
>"Hello!!!"
>
> The man slowly looked up. And it was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new. She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before.
>
> "Leave me alone," he growled... To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows.
>
> "Are you hungry?" she asked.
> "No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president.. Now go away."
>
> The woman's smile became even broader.
>
> Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. "What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily. "I said to leave me alone.
>
> Just then a policeman came up. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked..
>
> "No problem here, officer," the woman answered. "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?"
>
> The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?"
>
> "See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile."
>
> "Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!" Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up.
>
> "Let me go, officer. I didn't d o anything.."
>
> "This is a good deal for you, Jack," the officer answered. "Don't blow it."
>
> Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived.
>
> The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table. "What's going on here, officer?" he asked."What is all this, is this man in trouble?"
>
> "This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered.
>
> "Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business."
>
> Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place."
>
> The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?"
>
> "Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms."
>
> "And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?"
>
> "What business is that of yours?"
>
> I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company."
>
> "Oh.."
>
> The woman smiled again.. "I thought that might make a difference."
>
> She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a laugh. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?"
>
> "No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty."
>
> "Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?"
>
> "Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice."
>
> The cafeteria manager turned on his heel. "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer."
>
> The officer watched him walk away. "You certainly put him in his place," he said.
>
> "That was not my intent... Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this."
>
> She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently.
>
> "Jack, do you remember me?"
>
> Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. "I think so -- I mean you do look familiar."
>
> "I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry."
>
> "Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry.
>
> "I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment.. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I
> saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat."
>
> Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy."
>
> "I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my
> food in the cash register, I knew then that everything would be all right."
>
> "So you started your own business?" Old Jack said.
>
> "I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business that, with the help of God, prospered.." She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll
> find something for you to do around the office."
>
> She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet. If you ever need anything, my door is always open to you."
>
> There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you?" he asked.
>
> "Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory. He led me to you."
>
> Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways.. "Thank you for your help officer," she said.
>
> "On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget, And thank you for the coffee."
>
> Have a Wonderful Day. May God Bless You always and don't forget that when you "cast your bread upon the waters," you never know how it will be returned to you. God is so big He can cover the whole world with his
> Love and so small He can curl up inside your heart.
>
> When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go.
>
>
> Only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly!
>
> The power of one sentence! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor.
>
> God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close..
>
> If you need God to open some doors for you...share this with a friend.
>
> Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing...
>
> "The Task Ahead of Me is Never as Great as the Power Behind Me!!"
I shared this story with Herb, and in it he saw God, and he began to understand the story of Grace and the power of Jesus. Herb knew I was taking a trip to share Jesus message with fellow travelers.
He gave me a light jacket and told me I'd need it because, " these planes are just too darn cold." Herb then told me to reach in the right pocket. I did and there I found a small kind of oval solid Sterling Silver medallion. It was like an old Roman coin: imperfect; not round like a modern minted coin, It was more like a lump of silver hand made ... a coin from ancient times. Stamped on the face of it was an angel.
"Take it with you. and keep with you throughout the trip. I found it in that jacket. I never knew it was there."
Then he told me, " Now don't forget to bring it back. Remember, it's just for the trip."
I knew this meant a lot to Herb because he has a wonderful collection of silver coins which he cherishes. So I kind of doubted that he just found it in the jacket pocket, but I took him at his word.
"Thanks, Herb. I'll carry it with me as a reminder of your goodness and your big heart. God Bless you!"
Keep up your prayers for him.
Here is the story that moved Herb, and it moves me too:
Think of this phrase, and then read this story.
'To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.' When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better. Concentrate on this sentence... 'The Will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.' Something good will happen to you today; something that you have been waiting to hear.
>"Hello!!!"
>
> The man slowly looked up. And it was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new. She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before.
>
> "Leave me alone," he growled... To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows.
>
> "Are you hungry?" she asked.
> "No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president.. Now go away."
>
> The woman's smile became even broader.
>
> Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. "What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily. "I said to leave me alone.
>
> Just then a policeman came up. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked..
>
> "No problem here, officer," the woman answered. "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?"
>
> The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?"
>
> "See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile."
>
> "Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!" Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up.
>
> "Let me go, officer. I didn't d o anything.."
>
> "This is a good deal for you, Jack," the officer answered. "Don't blow it."
>
> Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived.
>
> The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table. "What's going on here, officer?" he asked."What is all this, is this man in trouble?"
>
> "This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered.
>
> "Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business."
>
> Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place."
>
> The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?"
>
> "Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms."
>
> "And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?"
>
> "What business is that of yours?"
>
> I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company."
>
> "Oh.."
>
> The woman smiled again.. "I thought that might make a difference."
>
> She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a laugh. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?"
>
> "No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty."
>
> "Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?"
>
> "Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice."
>
> The cafeteria manager turned on his heel. "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer."
>
> The officer watched him walk away. "You certainly put him in his place," he said.
>
> "That was not my intent... Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this."
>
> She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently.
>
> "Jack, do you remember me?"
>
> Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. "I think so -- I mean you do look familiar."
>
> "I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry."
>
> "Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry.
>
> "I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment.. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I
> saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat."
>
> Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy."
>
> "I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my
> food in the cash register, I knew then that everything would be all right."
>
> "So you started your own business?" Old Jack said.
>
> "I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business that, with the help of God, prospered.." She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll
> find something for you to do around the office."
>
> She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet. If you ever need anything, my door is always open to you."
>
> There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you?" he asked.
>
> "Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory. He led me to you."
>
> Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways.. "Thank you for your help officer," she said.
>
> "On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget, And thank you for the coffee."
>
> Have a Wonderful Day. May God Bless You always and don't forget that when you "cast your bread upon the waters," you never know how it will be returned to you. God is so big He can cover the whole world with his
> Love and so small He can curl up inside your heart.
>
> When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go.
>
>
> Only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly!
>
> The power of one sentence! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor.
>
> God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close..
>
> If you need God to open some doors for you...share this with a friend.
>
> Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing...
>
> "The Task Ahead of Me is Never as Great as the Power Behind Me!!"
I shared this story with Herb, and in it he saw God, and he began to understand the story of Grace and the power of Jesus. Herb knew I was taking a trip to share Jesus message with fellow travelers.
He gave me a light jacket and told me I'd need it because, " these planes are just too darn cold." Herb then told me to reach in the right pocket. I did and there I found a small kind of oval solid Sterling Silver medallion. It was like an old Roman coin: imperfect; not round like a modern minted coin, It was more like a lump of silver hand made ... a coin from ancient times. Stamped on the face of it was an angel.
"Take it with you. and keep with you throughout the trip. I found it in that jacket. I never knew it was there."
Then he told me, " Now don't forget to bring it back. Remember, it's just for the trip."
I knew this meant a lot to Herb because he has a wonderful collection of silver coins which he cherishes. So I kind of doubted that he just found it in the jacket pocket, but I took him at his word.
"Thanks, Herb. I'll carry it with me as a reminder of your goodness and your big heart. God Bless you!"
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