I pray that the discussion this week has helped you to put this election into perspective. When we include God, we find that the decision is less intimidating and more satisfying. Talk with you again on Monday......and now for this mornings thought!

The last question for this week; Is it truly necessary for us to be in subjection to our leaders? According to 1 Peter 2:13-20 it tells us; "Because of the Lord, we are to submit to our human institutions! By doing this we silence the ignorance of foolish men". In searching God’s will we find Luke 12:5. "But I will warn you whom to fear; Fear the one who after He has killed has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him"! That one is God! When God asks us to submit to our leaders, we best do that. Since we have taken the name of Jesus Christ as our Savior, our negotiations were simple. We accept His ways, doing His will and we will live under His protection for ever and ever.
Recently I was reminded of the book of Lamentations. It is full of sorrow and woe! It talks of calamities beyond our imagination. However, in chapter 3 beginning with verse 21, Jeremiah says; "Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassion’s never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.""
Many people use their mute button on the TV! Especially when it comes to the political arena and the fever that is brought on by them. Personally, I think you need to know what they are all about so that when you make your decision, you will know whether or not they believe and/or follow God’s teachings. How will you know if they are in the will of God, unless you listen to what they have to say. Our Country has fallen so far away from God and yet there are those who believe and follow God’s word. Don’t hide it under a bushel and pretend it doesn’t matter. God speaks to us! Use the privilege given in our Country to voice our vote for the man or woman who closely resembles the ideals of Christianity so that God can use one of His own to lead our Country. With clean hands and a pure heart, let us pray for it is the key to any situation. Even our vote! Jane Ann

In review of yesterdays thoughts a reader concludes ‘that people are swayed by the charismatic charm and poise of a person. Generally they aren’t interested in policies! She agrees that most are vocal about their Christianity but still have different political viewpoints. She feels that it all comes down to the viewpoint of the media and how much influence they have in destroying our Christian values. Her prayer is for more Christians in the media, Congress, the cabinet and of the Presidency.....God’s knows what is upon the heart’!
In reference to Romans 13:3 we realize that rulers want good conduct from those they rule. In reading Romans 13:4-5 we ask these questions; 1) What does God want from us in relation to our Leaders? 2) What happens when we act evil or rebellious to our Leaders? 3) What kinds of rewards do our Leaders give?
We know that God wants us to obey our laws and our Leaders. When we do not obey our laws we are punished by the very laws instituted by our Leaders. We should be afraid! Our Leaders are ministers of God! They are the avenger who brings wrath upon the ones who practice evil. Therefore, when we are in subjection, we should always act in good conscience to
do what is right and in doing so, we will have no cause to fear.
I find verse 6 interesting. God says; "Pay your taxes"! Taxes are one of the major issues in today’s political campaign. In the NIV it says why we are to pay taxes; "For the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing". We know that the choice we make at the polls is the same as selecting a person to fill a position of employment and they are to receive a wage. We too are servants of God, making sound judgements and decisions in choosing a Godly person for the position. That is just one of our jobs! Jane Ann

In Reading Romans 13:2 the question is;‘What happens if we resist the authority of those in office?’ When we resist the authority of those in office we are going against God’s will. When we go against God’s will we bring condemnation upon ourselves.
We often pray ‘In your will Lord!’ and yet we continue throughout our lives living outside of God’s will. Being in God’s will is seeking His word to direct our paths and then taking the path that is outlined in that word. It isn’t always easy because we live in a world that make laws, that are outside of God’s law. When our Country and our world becomes inflamed in conflict we are on our knees asking; "God save us"! And then we wonder why God didn’t save us! Instead of saving us we have had to walk through many trials and tribulations.
Remember when the people begged God for a king? All the other regions had kings why couldn’t they? There was a young man that stood head and shoulders above the people and they were mesmerized by him. So God told Samuel to anoint Saul as king and give the people what they want. God gave him a new heart and Samuel anointed the new king and the people deserved what they got. Later on as found in 1 Samuel 15:35; God and Samuel regretted that decision but it was what the people wanted.
Our situation today is no different than it was in the days of king Saul’s reign. The people aren’t seeing or even hearing! They are shouting out with emotion and seeing the glamour but haven’t a clue what the results their decisions and actions will bring. They just want a king like all the other countries.
One of the most popular scriptures of our time is 2 Chronicles 7:14. Most of the time we are not aware of why God declared those words to Solomon. It was because the house of the Lord had been finished and Solomon declared it so. God came to Solomon and said; "I have heard your prayer and will make my house, a place of sacrifice! I want you to remember that when I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among my people; "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land". In verse 15 God continues; "Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place".
Today, our body is the place where the Holy Spirit dwells. The Holy Spirit dwells within the kingdom that belongs to God. You could say that verse 15 is for us today! "Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place"! Christian, we must become humble, seeking God’s face and turn from our wicked ways , before He will forgive and heal our land. The time is now! Don’t put it off! It will be the choice of the people that God will use! God is waiting to anoint a leader that follows Him! Jane Ann

Let’s began our study this morning, with a few questions. 1) Are you a registered voter? 2) Do you think it is necessary to cast your vote? 3) Do you think you put a candidate into office? 4) Do you still believe in the ‘secret’ ballot? These are simple questions that I ask, however in the past, these questions would cause a major discussion and a great deal of fuss. Today, it is water under not over the bridge. It amazes me that there are so many difference of opinions out there that some vote for one candidate just because they don’t like the other one. But what about their views? What about their character? What about......?
One of my viewers says; "It is a shame and a disgrace that many Americans don’t vote. It is a shame and a disgrace that many who do vote don’t take the time to learn about what they are voting for". This reader is pretty adamant that you should consider the following questions in your quest for a President: Are you in favor of abortion? Are you in favor of homosexual marriage? Are you in favor of tax increases? Are you in favor of a bigger government? Are you in favor of surrender in Iraq? Are you in favor of a weaker military? Do you want a novice for commander in chief?
If you are in favor of all these questions then your choice is clear. But ask yourself if you think God would consider any of these questions as being within His will.
Another Morning Glory follower says that she totally believes in the ‘secret’ ballot. She won’t discuss her feelings about either candidate. I believe that is the old school of thought! Today the poll watchers are ready to attack you when you come out of the voting booth to see which way you voted so they can get an early prediction of who won. Let’s look at Romans 13:1 again. What does; "no authority except from God" mean? I believe it means that those who are in authority have been allowed there by God. We have had many men as President. Some we have liked and others we found wanting. Some were immoral and some are referred to as; ‘warring Presidents’ even though they never asked for war. We think we secretly elect a person to office but God knows our hearts and it’s intent. Even when we secretly choose the one who we think is right and the other man get’s into office, God has allowed it to take place. Most Christians know this but also know that it is not easy to comprehend. Tomorrow we will talk about why God allows it to happens. Jane Ann

The Political Affairs of Mice and Men! 10/27/08

With the voting polls officially opening next week I thought it would be good to consider some of God's views regarding the subject of who is in office. We will begin our study with the devotion on 'The political affairs of mice and men' and then do a little dissecting of our own.
POLITICAL AFFAIRS OF MICE & MEN
I was 18! Fresh out of high school! The political debate was in full swing! Would Ike win the Presidency for the Republicans or would A. Stevenson, for the Democrats? During this phase of the arena our small group of politically minded Americans formed a Young Republican’s offshoot in our district. Long after hours, we would put up posters, after taking the opposing candidates posters down. We cleaned up buildings for the GOP headquarters and for returns. We held recruiting affairs to entice other like minded young people to participate in our fun. We had dinner meetings and served Eisenhower stew. We wore badges that said; "I like Ike"! Well, Ike did win the Presidency. Our local candidates lost to the Democrats and now all of this is remembered only in history. That was one of the highlights of my late teens.
History is in the making today! We have had a woman, and a man of color seeking the Democratic nomination for President. We have had six men running for the GOP. All touting their experiences in no uncertain terms. If we have a woman or a man of color holding any position for the presidency or vice president makes no difference because both would set a precedence that is unheard of in our country. On the GOP side, it has been a free for all because no incumbent is running. In the final debate it has come down to a man of color on the Democratic side and a woman sharing the ticket as vice president on the Republican side. Things are pretty heated up and will get even hotter until a final decision is made.
My mother used to be a registrar! She received a nominal amount for each person she registered who was 21. On my sister Joyce’s 21 birthday, and still in bed, my mother stood at the foot of her bed and said; " raise your right hand."! My mother already had her paper filled out. She went through the steps and while still in bed, Joyce signed her request to register for the Republican party. Not many years later the age was changed to 18 and even still later, registrar’s were not the only means used . Today, you can go to the DMV, on line or the Post Office and get a form. We use to have dead lines to be registered by but today you can do it the hour before elections and even in some states, apparently you can register many times. Bad form!
We think we elect a candidate to office but actually God allows them there. Paul writes in Romans 13:1-8; "For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God." Paul continues with; "When we resist those in office we resist what God has appointed and therefore we incur judgment. Rulers want good conduct not bad. When we do good we will receive the rulers approval and Gods. The ruler is God’s servant for your good." In the book of Esther, we love the phrase; "Who knows whether you have not come to the Kingdom for such a time as this!" I believe because of the state of God’s people and the world, God establishes the government within the United States of America to reflect that condition. You may disagree and that is alright! We are to remember that the ruler is the servant of God to execute his wrath on the wrongdoer. How this takes place is up to God. It comes down to cause and effect. Man causes trouble and God renders judgement, the effect.
1 Peter 2:13-20 tells us the same things. Because of the Lord, we are to submit to our human institutions. It is Gods will that by doing this we silence the ignorance of foolish men. We are to live as free men, yet not using our freedom as a pretext for evil. An interesting scripture is found in Luke 12:5; "But I will warn you whom to fear: Fear the One who after He has killed has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him"! When we live apart from God we have much to fear. Living as servants of God, we can honor all men and honor the brotherhood. Respect and honor brings honor to our God! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 2/3/08

Good Friday morning! Today we will finish our study of 'When the storms come'. Besides the skunk invasion, we have talked about the fact that we are never alone as we walk through the storms because God walks beside us. We have seen how through God we can have the peace that passes all understanding. We also took a look at today's national financial crisis and how Psalm 62 asks us to wait for the Lord in silence; trusting Him for His is our rock and our salvation. Several friends who have been following our study in Morning Glory have contributed with some of their thoughts. One is a gal who, like the rest of us, is experiencing some of the storms of our economy. She says that one of her favorite verses that she learned in her youth is Matthew 6:19-21; "Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth where moth and rust can corrupt and where thieves break through and steal, but lay up for youselves treasures in heaven where moth and rust do not corrupt and where thieves do not break through and steal". Another lovely lady shares that she always knew about Jesus. She always loved Him but it took one little church to finally make her feel the need for Jesus as her Saviour. When we have Jesus, storms may come and storms may go but we will stand as a tree planted by the waters that spring forth from the promises of our God.
Thank you for sharing in this weeks study. Continue to ponder on God's word and I pray we will meet again on Monday morning with a new thought found in Morning glory devotionals. Until then, enjoy being in the house of the Lord on Sunday morning. Jane Ann

As we begin our "When the storm comes" followup study this morning I want to ask the question; "Do you think the sky is falling?" Our country is presently in the midst of a national financial crisis! The stock markets are fluctuating between high and low with extreme totals which leave not only our nation, but the world with the impression that we are experiencing a fractured infrastructure. Can this be fixed? In Psalm 62 David writes about God alone is our refuge from outside oppressions. It tells us that we should wait in silence for God only because He is our salvation. He is the rock and will secure our stronghold. God will hold us fast and we shall not be shaken. We should put our trust in God only and not in man. Take our insecurities to Him for He is our only refuge. In verse 10 David says; "Do not trust in oppression, and do not vainly hope in robbery; if riches increase, do not set your heart upon them". Verses 11-12 reminds us; "Power belongs to God; and lovingkindness is thine, O Lord, for thou dost recompense a man according to his work". God's word is amazing! His answers are always timely and give us assurance in everything. Jane Ann

Friend: We talk a lot about how God gives us peace in the midst of the storms. In looking at John 14:23-27 Jesus tells His Disciples, that His peace He gives them! He goes on with; "Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful". However, earlier in these scriptures He says they can have this peace if they love Him and keep His word. The Father will send the Holy Spirit to them, who will teach them all things. He reminds us that those who do not love Him will not keep His commandments. Even though Jesus was telling these things to His Disciples before He left them, He is also telling us today the same things. In order to receive His peace in all circumstances, we are to love Him and to keep His word. Jane Ann

Friends, sometimes as we walk through storms we think we are alone. We search deep inside ourselves and wonder why! Talking our way through with a friend is always good. The first line of an old song says; 'When you walk thru a storm, hold your head up high'! That too is good! Usually the last resort should have been our first. Take hold of our Savior's hand and let Him lead us through to the end.
In thinking about 'When the storms come' I looked at another scripture in Psalm 91 where the whole chapter is talking about the security of godly people. As Christians this would apply to those who hear and follow His word. In verses 14-16 God is looking at His followers and says; "Because he cleaves to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him my salvation."

Think on these things! Jane Ann

When storms come! 10/20/08

Good Monday morning! If you are following, you read last Friday that today, 'Morning glory devotions' will become weekly instead of daily. I believe that some times we read a scripture and go on without taking the time to feast upon what God is saying. Please read the scripture that is included in the devotional and then do your own research and look at scriptures that are familiar to you and some that you have to look for that are relative to the subject for the week. The blessings that come from searching God's word and making them a part of your daily life can only be unmeasureable. Jane Ann
WHEN THE STORMS COME
Storms come in different forms. They can be rain, wind, snow, hurricanes, tornadoes and even a tsunami. They can also be events that cause major distress, such as a death of a loved one or loss of a job. Circumstances beyond our control can not only cause mental, emotional, but physical discomfort. All family’s experience storms of all kinds but the one I want to talk about is unusual to say the least.
In 82 Danny left for Boise Bible college. In September of 83 Jennifer left for the same college. My brother had begun an extensive renovation of his home to accommodate my mother who was in the difficult stages of Alzheimer. She was coming to spend the holidays with us, and Jennifer was coming home for Thanksgiving. One Sunday evening we pulled into the driveway! Living in the country, it was not unusual to see skunks but this time the skunk was tripping along side our house and disappeared into a 1' square opening just under the south end of our home.
We both saw it and immediately Jim said; "I think we have trouble"! Actually that was not even the half of it! With the Thanksgiving holiday just ahead, we prayed that our visitor was just passing through and had no plans to stay.
The following Tuesday we left for Idaho to pick up Jennifer from school and my mother who had been staying with my sister Jeri, during the first phase of the renovation. When we arrived home we saw no evidence of our visitor from a few days before. A couple of nights after Thanksgiving we went to bed as usual. This night was to be the last night we went to bed with peace and sugar plums, dancing in our heads, for a very long time. Around 2 or 3 am we were awakened with a strange pawing sound in the heating vents under our manufactured home. Immediately, our hearts began pounding in our chests. Jim got up and dressed! I headed towards the bathroom! A nightmare of a storm began and lasted until after spring break, March of 84.
We not only battled the difficulties of caring for my mother but standing as sentinels with gun in hand, briquet fires to smoke the enemy out and many, many sleepless nights. We cleaned the house many times over, from top to bottom after being skunked seven times. Eventually my mother went home and Jim won the battle of "Skunk Ridge in Sam’s Valley" while being outnumbered 14 to 1. With gun in hand, Jim led the final charge and ended the life of the last invader. The final battle was under the north end of our home. The battlefront became quiet!
During our time of trouble Jim would not talk. You could say it was our winter of discontent. But he was strong! He did what he could! His mind and his strength was on the adversary and not on me. My home had literally been turned upside down! Every time we heard that scratching sound I had to head to the bathroom, while Jim dressed! I spent my nights watching my mother wandering throughout the house and listening for sounds of the enemy. The siege of the skunks was almost more than we could bear! We carried the noticeable skunk perfume for months and until we found a cleansing product to scour our home with, we could hardly stand one another.
Psalm 55:8 says; "I would hasten to my place of refuge. From the stormy wind and tempest." That is what I did! Jim found his strength and peace from Psalm 27:1-3 where it says; "The Lord is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the defense of my life. Whom shall I dread?" It talks about the evildoers trying to destroy and the adversaries causing us to stumble and fall. It mentions that even if the host come upon you and in spite of war all around, you shall have confidence. Yes, we battled a storm which left it scars, but with Christ as our captain we won the prize for endurance. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 2/2/08

The carpenter ants 10/17/08

Good Friday morning! The weekend is ahead which means Sunday is coming. I look forward to being in the house of the Lord on Sundays. My prayer is that the scriptures you have read daily will cause you to get excited about being in God's house also. Beginning on Monday you will find another devotion in Morning Glory. I will begin this Monday with a weekly devotional. This means you will find a new one each Monday morning. I encourage you to ponder the scriptures that will be given and do your own searching of the scriptures for a broader view and a better understanding of God's word. Getting into God's word is true joy! Jane Ann
THE CARPENTER ANTS
I’ve only seen "carpenter ants" once in my life. They are about 3/4 of an inch long and black. I’ve seen big black ants in the dirt and always felt that they could and would bite. I’ve seen tiny black ants that we called "grease ants" and they usually were found in the house in cupboards and around the sinks. They were difficult to get rid of. Red ants were also something to be careful around. Don’t know why, but that was what I was told. I have never met an ant that I liked!
Jim retired in 2000 and I retired in 2001. We decided that when we both were retired we would sell our house and move to where Dan & Faye lived to be closer to our grandsons. We finished all the up grades we were going to make to our house and so it was time to put it on the market. Our realtor made arrangements for an open house for realtor’s only. Upon returning home, one of these realtor’s was still looking around and suggested we should have an inspection because of the "carpenter ants" that were seen in our bedroom. I was shocked and perplexed! "What is a carpenter ant"; I asked.....She told me they were big black ants that eat wood. Sort of like a termite! I went into the bedroom and sure enough I saw a big black ant on my mirror above the bathroom sink. Then I found one on the dressing table in the bedroom. I began to inspect the whole room and found three more. One on the drapes, on the bed and on the floor. Where did these come from?
When Jim arrived home I told him about the ants. He called the name of the inspector that the questioning realtor left with us. The inspector came out the next day and found no carpenter ants but he did find a little dry rot on one of the corner eves of the house. We made arrangements to have that fixed but what about the carpenter ants. He had no explanation about the ants and how only five made it in. Within a couple of weeks our house sold and the rest is history.
Every once in a while I think about the carpenter ants. I still wonder about how they got into our bedroom if they did not penetrate the walls. Did they come in on someone’s clothes or were they carried in another way. I am probably a more suspicious person than Jim is but even he has wondered about the surreptitious appearance of the carpenter ants. Did someone bring them in purposely? After all the realtor gave us a name to call for the inspection. Were they in cahoots with each other?
Obviously the house needed the inspection because of the dry rot, but the idea of someone wanting to trick us into having this done is a questionable business tactic. We are all aware of advertisements which bring you in and when you get there they are out of the product but have this available which probably is not really want you want and costs more. I remember when buying a car, that was one of the things I was warned about.
In Matthew 7:15-17 this type of person is referred to as a wolf in sheep’s clothing. "Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruit. Good trees bears good fruit but bad trees bears bad fruit". Matthew 10:16-17 continues with; "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men, for they will deliver you up to the courts and scourge you in their synagogues". Even if we are called His sheep and follow wherever He leads, let us remember that many will dress up in sanctified costumes in order to cause us to stray. Know your shepherd! Know His voice! Pay attention! Be sure! Hold fast! For He will not lead you astray! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 2/1/08

What in the world was I thinking? 10/16/08

WHAT IN THE WORLD WAS I THINKING
Adam, my #1 grandson, was turning five. They were visiting with us so we could have a family birthday party. I was fixing lunch with Adams help. I said to him; Well, you are going to be five, huh? He replied; "No! I’m going to be seven and I am changing my name to Kyle"! Seven! Kyle! How come you are going to be seven and who’s Kyle? He was very emphatic again with; "I’m not five, I am seven and my name is going to be Kyle. Okay! Later, I checked with his Mom and Dad about this and they didn’t have a clue where any of that came from. My first thought was; "What in the world is he thinking"?
Many times when we get in the car and no matter where we have planned to go Jim starts heading for the church. It could be in the same direction or the opposite direction, he will still head for the church. "What in the world is he thinking"? Many times Jennifer and I have had to remind him where we are headed and he will just laugh and I truly believe down deep in his heart he just thinks that all roads lead to the church.
When God created man and animal, man received more than the animal. Even though man sometimes acts like an animal, he isn’t one. It is true that man and animal have some things in common. They have a reproductive nature; They want to eat and sleep; they each are into survival; they want to be warm and they thirst for water. But only man has the brain that can reason. Animals are mostly motivated by instinct but man has the ability to use his brain constructively.
Sometimes my brain has a mind of its own and because it does I know yours does too. Many times I have scenario’s playing, especially about things happening to my loved ones. I don’t want to think those things! Many times I look at something and I find myself desiring what I see. I don’t want to desire those things! When I am angry at someone I start formulating how I feel about them in my mind. I don’t want to think or say those things. When these things are playing through my mental DVD, I have learned to attribute them to Satan. I yell at him inside my head as loud as I can and use Colossians 3:2; "I am to set my mind on the things above and not on things of this earth". All of sudden these things that have crossed my mind are gone! But the one question I still have is; "What in the world was I thinking"!
The mind is Satan’s playground. We don’t want it to be, but we allow it. When we let our minds wander, thoughts filter in. Jesus said, even if we think of doing something, it is as if we did it. We are guilty! Being in God’s word helps us to feast on good things and that is a protection policy. When we allow our minds to be infiltrated by garbage then we are leaving the door open for Satan and his goons to enter for their worthless and evil purposes.
In Philippians 4:8-9 reads; "Whatever is honorable, just, pure, lovely or gracious. If there is any excellence, anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned, received and heard and seen in me, do. And the God of peace will be with you forever". In other words, be holy in all your behavior.
So what in the world were you thinking when you went ahead and did what you knew you shouldn’t? Did you think you were alone? Did you think no one could hear you or see you? What in the world were you thinking when you cut that blue car off? Did you think you would get to your destination quicker? When we remind Jim that he is going in the wrong direction, he always says; "Well, we can get there from here"! Sometimes what we are thinking delays our passage. Let’s gird our minds with forethought and devotion to Him who sits on the throne; "Praise to His name for ever and ever". Amen! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/31/08

Try me! I light up! 10/15/08

TRY ME! I LIGHT UP!
I know you have seen those kinds of toys that say; "push here", "try me" etc. Who can resist pushing here and trying there! We want to see and hear just what these toys can do. At a Christmas program at our local Christian School the drummer was using sticks that lite up with a brilliant blue color. Jim and I bought a pair of those sticks for Jordan, our #3 grandson who was becoming a teenager in February. He had been playing drums for the Worship Team at church and taking lessons. We thought it would be fun for him to be flashing color along with his rhythmic beats. On the package was "Try me! I light up!". I got to wondering about that! "Try me! I light up!"
At Christmas time it is now a custom to put up as many lights inside and outside our homes as we can. What are we trying to say with all those lights? Years ago we used multi colored lights on our Christmas trees, and today the white lights are the thing. I like the lights because they make me feel festive and happy. I like the lights because they create an ambient atmosphere of color. Bright and cheerful, yet soft and beautiful. What if we could put a button on our nose that says; "Try me! I light up!"
Jim’s Moms favorite color was red. She didn’t wear much red nor did she decorate with it but she had a set of old drinking glasses that her husband had bought for her many, many years before, that had colorful red flowers on them. Why not? That was her favorite color and just as those glasses lit up her cupboard, I bet her face lit up with joy every time she looked at them.
In the last two decades using candles for mood setting has become popular again. Two hundred years ago candles were used to light up a room, now they are for atmosphere. Recently we had a power outage. It was an evening that we had my son and his wife’s family here for dinner. We had just finished baking one pizza with two more to go when the power went off. It was pretty dark not to mention we only had one pizza and salad on the table. We went looking for all the candles we could find and put a match to the wicks, and Walla, we had light. Well, a little light. Our evening wasn’t ruined as we were all family and had such fun in candle light talking about old times for some and getting acquainted for others. We are so use to flipping a switch. Can it be, that it says; "Try me! I light up?"
It is impossible for us to have a button that can be pushed to cause us to light up. However, our new life with Christ comes with a package that ultimately gives us light and eternal life with Him. The old light has flickered out and we have come brilliantly alive with a new light that God has put in us under a persona of love and peace. It is called the Holy Spirit!
Some years ago Debbie Boone sang a song called "You Light up my Life" which sold many records. Some thought it was about Jesus. In God’s word we are told that Christ is the light of the world. We are told because we are His, we too have become lights in this world. Matthew 5:14-16 says; "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house". "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." When the power came back on we were able to finish baking the pizza. That was a good thing! But the memory of sitting around in the power of candle light, laughing and having a good time with one another was also a good thing. We do not have a sign on us that says; "Try me! I light up!" But as Christians we have a life that shouts; "Try Jesus! He can light up your life"! I know! I tried Jesus many years ago and through thick and thin, He still lights up my life. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 2/20/08

The ugly brown shoes! 10/14/08

THE UGLY BROWN SHOES
Grade school is a learning experience. Everything from the 3 R’s to how to dress, manners, and how to respond instead of react. All were learned in the early grades. It is possible I learned to deceive before I went to school but I implemented what I learned in grade school. The phrase; "Oh what a tangled web we weave, when we practice to deceive", haunts me to this day. Can you remember your first big deception or "lie"? I can and very vividly.
At the beginning of each school years all us little kids in grade school were given one new outfit to wear. Or at least new to us! This outfit included a new pair of shoes! For some reason us girls always had to wear ugly shoes that were sturdy and would last the school year. Mine were the "ugly brown shoes". When I was in the fifth grade my new shoes were "ugly brown with crape soles". Remember crape soles? I hated them! They were ugly! I was the only girl in the school that had to wear ugly brown shoes with crape soles.
Of course, those days, girls could only wear dresses or skirts. No long pants that could hide your shoes even a little bit. With dresses your shoes are very visible. Into the school year, where my confidence continued to dwindle because of the spectacle I made in these shoes, I had an epiphany! If I tore the crape around the sole it would make the shoes not serviceable or at least unwearable? So I began to tear at the crape and within a week it was all ragged and in some places just plain missing. I showed what was happening to my Mom and told her that the shoes were no good. I needed new ones. She said; "oh, they’re fine". My heart was broken!
Shortly after that I stepped into some water and stayed there long enough for the water to seep around and into the edges of the shoes and my feet got wet. I got new shoes! Brown ones but not as ugly. No crape soles!
Think about it? Do you remember a time when you planned a deception and even followed through with it?
In Revelations 12:9 it says that "Satan, is the deceiver of the whole world". We also know he is the prince of the power of the air and is known as the father of lies. When we lie and deceive we are Satan’s children. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:11; "When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways". It is important not to play Satan’s games!
Children lie and if not checked they will become adults who lie. I learned my lesson many years ago because I always felt bad about my ugly brown shoes. However, many times even in adulthood I have fallen into Satan’s trap. When we deceive we never can undo what we have done. Our Father is loving, kind and forgiving. But do not be deceived, God is not mocked. When we accept Christ as our Savior we are changed from our old ways into something new. Matthew 5:48 says; "You, therefore, must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect". In Colossians 3:9-10 it says; "Do not lie to one another" because you are new in Christ.
Don’t be afraid to wear the ugly brown shoes - all things eventually wear out and if they don’t we can just throw them away. But the person you have become in Christ is far more important than anything you can own and wear. It is who you are not what you are that can stand the test of time. Do you remember wanting to wear lipstick? All the girls were wearing it except you! I would sneak my sister Janice’s lipstick and put it on just as I was leaving for school. I was in the 7th grade!. Mothers are sentinels placed in strategic positions to keep an eye on little girls. God saw it and it never got past my Mother ! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/30/08

We should get an ice-cream! 10/13/08

Good Monday morning! When you are my age, everyday is Saturday except for Sundays. Yesterday was a good day in the house of the Lord. However, today our devotional is called 'We should get an ice-cream'....As you go enjoy your day and your week. Jane Ann

WE SHOULD GET AN ICE CREAM!
My #3 grandson, Jordan likes to watch "Sponge Bob, Square Pants". My #1 & 2, Adam and Ryan also like watching that show but not as much as Jordan. For the most part I didn’t mind the children’s TV shows like Scooby Doo and Barney the Dinosaur. There were others but I can’t readily remember the titles. However, I never really cared for "Sponge Bob, Square Pants". Maybe it was the name of the show or perhaps because they lived under the water. What were they drinking when they came up with this little community of water organisms living under the sea, talking, planning and just being obnoxious all at the same time.
Because the boys watched this show, sometimes I would find myself watching right along with them. Even Jim, reclining in his chair, would watch when he wasn’t napping. As you have probably been able to perceive, if you have been reading my treasures of Morning-Glory’s, that I can’t always remember what was happening when I glean a little phrase that becomes part of our household dialogue. Sponge Bob and his very close friend, who was a starfish, were planning some sort of project. Sponge Bob was very excited and a little distressed. He ended his tirade with; "Well, what do you think, Patrick? Patrick, thought for a moment and then with a gleam in his eye and in that low, very slow way of his, said; "I think, we should get an ice cream". I don’t remember what happened after that and neither does Jim. All we remembered was "we should get an ice cream". Knowing us, we probably did!
That has become the solution for all of the "what do you thinks" that we come up with. I suppose there are many ways to solve a problem, but what could be sweeter than ice cream. I can’t think of anyone who does not find pleasure and even solve problems over a bowl of ice cream. Make mine with nuts, if you please!
I suppose we could walk around all day with a cloud over our heads like Charlie Brown did. Or go around saying; "Oh woes es me", as the donkey Eeyore did, as one of the make believe friends of Christopher Robin. Perhaps that is just what some of us do! I think I prefer ice cream, don’t you? It is a cheer-up factor if I have ever seen one!
My mother always had a freezer full of day old bake goods that she would buy off the bakery truck every Saturday night. One evening when Lloyd mentioned that, today was some presidents birthday, my Mom calmly said; "I don’t think we have any ice cream". No matter, we ate frozen cake, but ice cream would have been good!
One afternoon my brother Layton came over to the little house I shared with my sister Jean. He asked if we wanted to go and get an ice cream cone. Of course we did! We piled into his car and set off for a 50 minute drive to Ocean Park in Santa Monica to get an ice cream cone. We should have known! This was Layton,! what were we thinking? But the ice cream not only sounded good, but was good!
Lets look at Psalms 144:15; This is a little verse that get’s overlooked even though this thought is reveal to us throughout the scriptures. "Happy the people to whom such blessings fall! Happy the people whose God is the Lord." The verses before 15, show us what the blessings were. Our sons and daughters would grow strong and regal, our cupboards would be full. We will prosper and have no fear of starvation. Distress would not be our cry. Many places it says blessed are they, and then it goes on to say what brings this blessing to us. However, all of these things come down to "whose God is the Lord" and "those who obey my commandments". I have to admit that eating ice cream is satisfying and full of calories! But then, I know that receiving God’s blessings is more than wonderful. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/29/08

It pleases me to be with you! 10/10/08

It does please me to be with you on this blog. However, I am taking the weekends off. Think on the scriptures you have read this week. Do what is pleasing to the Lord and I will return on Monday morning 10/13. Go and have a good day! Jane Ann

IT PLEASES ME TO BE WITH YOU!
The movie "Rooster Cogburn and the Lady", with John Wayne and Kathryn Hepburn, had a line in it that both Jim and I began to use as ours. Rubin was a blustery type of fellow and Kathryn was an outspoken spinster who was bent on following God’s word as she knew it. On the trail to safety they became fond of the battles of wit between them and became comfortable with each other. At one point Rubin says to her; "It pleases me to be with you". Through the years Jim has remembered our favorite lines from movies and would say them to me or write them on cards. Even though these lines are second hand, I always feel Jim’s love for me when he uses them. Makes me feel very warm and special, especially this line, It is not only fun, it is true!
Love is such a simple word to describe the magnitude of emotions that love is. Love can be full of excitement which fills your stomach with butterflies and the feeling of being on a roller coaster. Love can fill you with heartache because of unrequited love or because of watching a Love One in heart wenching situations. When you lose a loved one your love is torn and tossed about as you grieve. But then Love can be filled with the pleasures of just being together. This kind of love is full of peace and comfort and fun. It allows us to see beauty in all things and when you feel that special someone take a hold of your hand, you feel safe and secured.
Why is it that we can’t just be satisfied with what we have. We think we would be much happier if we had that or if we had a bigger one. This color is not me, but oh look at that color! We have a tendency to use the word love for foods that we like. We love that house. I love that movie! I love this or I love that. We are certainly a complex people, aren’t we? I can’t remember what it was that Danny loved, but he was exclaiming how he loved it and his Grandma quickly set him straight. "You can’t love an inanimate object, because it can’t love you back". All of these things that I have just mentioned, that we say we love, have never loved us back and eventually they are gone. This word love, has become so common, we forget what it means and how we should be using it.
God thought the word "love" was so important that He placed it in the greatest commandment of all as the chatelaine that holds His Kingdom together. Mark 12:30-31 says; "And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this, you shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these". There is a song that says; "I Love Him because He first loved me". Sometimes that is how it works! When Jim told me for the first time that he loved me, I knew I did not love him like he loved me. I liked him! He was a nice guy! Today, I love him so much I am sure it makes the angels shout for joy. It pleases me to be with him! In John 3:16 it is recorded; "That God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." In other words, God is saying; "It pleases me to be with you"!
What is your response to the Father? Does it please you to go to Him in prayer? Does it please you to be in His house when the doors are open? Does it please you to see His face in nature all around you? Do you relish the moments of watching others praising God? I would like to think my response would be; "Lord, it pleases me to be with you, today and everyday! It reminds me of a chorus that says; "I love you Lord and I lift my voice, to worship you, oh my soul rejoice"! Yes, it pleases me to be with Him and It pleases me more, that Jim and I find pleasure in our Lord together. Think on these things! Finding pleasures in our world brings pleasure to our Lord who gave us our world. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/28/08

New slippers and strawberry shortcake 10/9/08

NEW SLIPPERS AND STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE
January 27th is our anniversary. We have made it a practice to take a short trip and enjoy being together in a different place for that day. This year we planned to attend a family wedding and so our date was already taken. However, we had made previous arrangements to go away for a few days in April to celebrate with three other couples in our family.
Jim and I very seldom buy each other anniversary gifts. Once, we dressed to the nines and went out in a snow storm. We drove about 15 miles to this wonderful old house that had became a restaurant of renown. The Mon Desir! Most who tasted their delicious fare would say it was an elegant night out. The snow storm was so bad that it was difficult to see the road. Some corners were hard to maneuver, but we arrived safely because Jim knew the way. That evening Jim gave me a emerald neckless with earrings to match. It was the thought, not the cost that mattered! I know I gave him something but all I can remember is setting near a window watching the snow fall and looking at Him. What an evening!
The wedding we attended was yesterday and so as I write this, it is our 46th anniversary. We weren’t planning to do anything special because we had April to look forward to. However, we did go to Wal-Mart to get me a pair of slippers. The ones I had been wearing fell apart! As we looked for me, we decided Jim should get a new pair too. We left the store with our slippers and went to a BBQ joint that had just recently reopened so that Jim could have a steak. Of course I really knew why we went there. You guessed it! They serve strawberry shortcake all year round. It’s big enough for us to share. Jim looks lovingly at me across the table and asks and then answers his own question; "What did you do on your 46th anniversary? Why we bought new slippers and had strawberry shortcake". As we left Red’s, the snow was falling so fast and hard that during the short time we were in the restaurant our car disappeared under a blanket of snow. Seemed like dajevu!
How blessed we are! It matters not if we go away and stay in a grand hotel or just go shopping and to a local eatery. Jim and I love to be together! We are not necessarily like a pair of comfortable old shoes but close to it. Jim always makes me feel special! I pray that I make him feel special! Feeling the touch of his hand and knowing that there is nothing I can do or can say that could make it any better than this, is a blessing from God!
God says; "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you". These things that God talks about are in Matthew 6:25-34. What we should eat, wear, sleep, even our health. When a marriage has God as its Lord and master all things are possible.
When things get tight, we manage. When we are troubled, there is a light just up ahead. When we are apart, we feel naked. When we take care of the things that are important to God, He takes care of the things that are important to us. I often wonder how the world survives without the Lord and His kingdom. Most of the time they seem more prosperous than us. But are they? He is our comforter and guide. James 4:14 is a curious verse. It says; "Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away". It is good to make plans for tomorrow. It is good to have savings put away. It is good to find pleasures in the moment. In fact, the greatest gift of all is eternity with Him and it encompasses all of our tomorrow’s. Without Him there is no peace and no direction! Because of Him, we celebrated happily, in a snowstorm with new slippers and strawberry short cake. Because of Him we can find pleasure just being together and doing simple things that draw us to God and to each other. How wonderful is that! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/29/08

Want to dance? 10/8/08

WANT TO DANCE?
When I was in my early twenties, my brother Layton wanted to take up square dancing. Why he wanted to do that is another story but because I ended up learning to square dance, this part has become my story. This was the furthest thing from my mind and yet I found myself learning to square dance. I loved it! When Jim found out I was doing that, he came. He made me nervous. Not because I was interested in him but because he was interested in me. I didn't want him in my square. He made me all feet! My brother Layton didn't care because it kept me occupied so that he could concentrate on his mission. You know, in square dancing you have to pay attention to the caller and do what he is saying. Each member of the square listens and moves to the call together. When you do, it is beautiful and very much fun. When one is not listening and basically doing her own thing it trips up the others in the square and pure disaster is ahead. When it is Aleman Left with the old left hand and you go Aleman Right with the old left hand everyone gets confused. If your partner is quick & strong enough he can keep you from falling underfoot.
In learning ball room dancing they use to have footprints all over the floor. By arranging forward steps, side steps, sliding steps, half steps, and backward steps in just the right patterns, it was clear that one could waltz, fox trot, tango, rhumba or whatever. I realize that some of the current dances defy any sort of diagraming. As a matter of fact, even those old dances could not happen just by putting the correct footsteps together. You need music, rhythm and communication plus cooperation between the dancers.
In the church, 1 Corinthians 12:12_27 says we are different but we are all part of the body of Christ. There should be no division or distinctions. Even though we may be different we should have equal concern for each other. The bond of Christ holds us together like glue and causes unity in our differences. Let's look at the church as if it were a dance. Where are you in the dance? Are you taking the lead, or holding back in fear. Are you in rhythm with others or stumbling, feeling like you have two left feet. Perhaps others are out of sync with you. Can you imagine you are the wallflower, watching but never participating?
My husband Jim wrote the following for a sermon on singing. I thought it worked well here. When we are part of the church dance team this is what happens. "There's work on the grounds...work on the buildings...work in the bathrooms...cleaning going on everywhere. There are bills being paid...news letter prepared...communion prepared...lessons prepared and given...sermons prepared and preached...prayers being said...scriptures read. There are Sunday School teachers...a church secretary...musicians tunning up...the worship team prepared with singing, prayer and scripture. There is a youth group...children's church... the nursery...men serving communion following the meditation...special music...and there is fellowship. There is calling on people in the homes and in the hospitals...there are 50's plus dinners....There are mid_week bible studies and quilters....women’s ministry activities. Do you hear it? Can you see it? It's the church dancing to the beat of God's leading. The Gospel is the melody and any activity that supports it, is the harmony. Faithfulness to do the work promptly, is the rhythm and when everything is done in harmony and regularly, the dance is beautiful.
Any activity that does not support the Gospel produces discord. Failure to do the work regularly confuses the rhythm of the dance. Do we cringe when someone isn’t good at it or do we lend a hand to make it better. "Jesus is the cornerstone". The church dance should never make anyone cringe. How about it....Do you want to dance? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/25/08

Crossword Puzzles 10/7/08

CROSSWORD PUZZLES
A few years ago, when having my annual checkup, the Doctor suggested that because of my age it would be good for me to do crossword puzzles to keep my mind active. I did crossword puzzles many years ago when my children were preschool age. I could hardly wait each night for the Daily Breeze, the local newspaper. I am an addictive person, even with crossword puzzles. I would turn as fast as I could to the page holding the answers from the day before. Why? Why was I so anxious to know if I was right or wrong. I wasn’t going to win anything and it didn’t get me any closer to being free from anything. I told the Doctor I had been there and done that and I didn’t think I wanted to do that again.
When we got our first computer in 1992, Jim and I thought it would be good to write down our memories for future generations to read. We both began with as far back as we could remember. I started with 5 and got as far as 9 years old. I didn’t think much about it again for many years until the Doctor said I should keep my mind active. I began to work at bringing me up to date, but instead of continuing with me, I started remembering my siblings. Then I wrote about my mother and father. I wrote my early memories of my children. I loved doing all of that! Unknowingly to each other we began a battle over the computer. Jim doing his sermons, lessons, commentaries on the Bible and on life while I wrote memories.
Some of my memories on these loved ones I was able to bring to a conclusion because they were now home with our Father in heaven. The rest I can keep going back to add a little here and tweak a little there. What an adventure of reliving old times and even being able to settle some of my own issues. But most of all, being able to put my life on paper with respect and love. Of course, I didn’t plan that anyone should read these memories. These are my memories! Interestingly enough, the ones I wrote about probably would remember everything I remember differently. I guess that is why they are "MY" memories!
I had no idea that I would condense some of my memories into stories or thoughts that I would call Morning Glory. I had no idea that they would become a daily or weekly devotion giving God the glory through His word. I had no idea that I would send these to my family and friends to lift them up with love and encouragement. Morning Glory has served as a medicine to my soul and I thank the Lord for giving me the scriptures to fulfil the message intended.
I read in Proverbs 10:7 that the memory of the righteous is blessed and then it says that the name of the wicked will rot. Wow! What does that mean? I believe it is saying that those who do right have no regrets but those who do not do right, even their name is lost.
God has revealed Himself to each of us in special ways. His memory is without blemish. If God chooses to remember for eternity everything I was and am, he would. However Hebrews 10:12-18 says He will remember my sins no more. These scriptures say much but usually that line is the only one we can bring to our memory. This passage says that Christ went to the cross to offer a single sacrifice for sins. With this single offering He has given those who have believed and followed his commandments a passage of forgiveness through eternity. This is the new covenant! This is one of God’s promises!
Knowing us so well, God set up a way for us to remember Him. It is like carrying a picture in our pocket of a loved one. 1 Corinthians 11:24-26 and in Luke, Jesus set up what we call Communion. The important thing in these passages is "in remembrance of me". Let’s keep our minds actively focused on Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who through His life on earth showed us the way to the Father. His Father and mine! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/24/08

Dirty Rotten, Dirty Rotten! 10/6/08

Good morning. This past weekend as we traveled we saw the the colors of fall are very evident. God's creation gives great pleasures. My prayer this week is for those who have found Morning Glory Devotionals refreshing and that as you go about your day you will take God's words with you as an encouragement. Jane Ann
DIRTY ROTTEN, DIRTY ROTTEN!
I began my first job at 18. Five days after my high school graduation! I was to be a clerk in an Electronic Engineering Dept with Engineers and Draftsmen. I was no longer playing school or secretary, I was one. I had a desk with pencils, pads and paper clips. I loved my new job! As my days flew into weeks and then months I began to realize that my sheltered life had broadened into a world of profanity. I had heard most of these words before, but not on a regular basis nor in such diverse ways. No matter how I tried not to, I began to want to say these words myself. I could almost smell them formulating in my little brain and running down onto my tongue just like a faucet was being turned on. I didn’t want to say these words and I was afraid that eventually my lips would not be able to stop them and would start speaking filthy words whether I wanted to or not.
I was telling my brother Lloyd about this and asked him how I could stop this from happening. You would have to know this brother of mine to appreciate all that he would say to help me to grow up. Lloyd said; "Each time you feel like you want to say a bad word, just start saying to yourself, dirty rotten, dirty rotten, dirty rotten. I’m serious, I exclaimed and he said; "Give it a try and just see if it doesn’t work, but remember to say it three times".
The next day I tried using Lloyds formula to keep bad words from watering my gums, tripping over my teeth and spilling out of my mouth. The first time, I had to laugh to myself thinking everyone around me knew what I was doing. As time went on it got easier and easier and before I knew it I no longer had the desire to say these words and they were no longer able to make even the slightest impression upon my brain. It worked!
I am sure Jim had used such words before we were married but since we have been married, neither of us have used this kind of language. My kids never heard us use these words.
When Jennifer was very small she would make up her own swear words like "donk" "gicker"and even "oh wax". We never understood what those words meant because Jennifer couldn’t talk very well anyway. When Jennifer was in her teens she was telling us about something that she was quite passionate about. She was so adamant in telling us this, that she ended it with the "h" word. What a shocker! My mother used to say that she never said anything worse than baloney. I have to admit, I have used that word. However, I am glad that I never began to use foul language. I don’t like hearing anyone use it, let alone having it come from me. I think it is disgraceful and unbecoming. It is not lady like nor does it make a man appear attractive!
As Jim and I were leaving a movie theater, on a snowy night, the attendant opened the door and exclaimed; "Jesus Christ"! I immediately responded with; "Where? Is He here"?
James 3:1-12 goes into great detail about taming the tongue. In verse 8a it says; "but no human being can tame the tongue. A restless evil, full of deadly poison". In verses 2-3 it says; "For we all make many mistakes and if any one makes no mistakes in what he says he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also". In verses 9-10 we find; "With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brethren, this ought not to be so". Then there is verse 11; "Does a spring, pour forth from the same opening, fresh water and brackish?" Today our world is inundated with foul language. It is common to find these words in books, newspapers, movies, TV and video games. Parents use these words loosely. Kids have learned to speak it as though it is their second language. Try saying ‘dirty rotten’ three times each time you are tempted to use bad words. The words you use are windows into your character! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/24/08
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Caught in a pickle 10/3/08

When I started out writing these devotions they were imagined as weekly devotionals. I have been sending them daily to get established on the blog but since I am going to be gone for a few days, todays devotion 'Caught in a pickle' will be the last one until Monday 10/6. The idea of weekly is to give those reading to take a few days for the scriptures to take hold. To think about what God is saying not for just a morning but for always. Let's give that try! Jane Ann
CAUGHT IN A PICKLE
I know you have probably been in a pickle, but have you ever been caught in a pickle? How about the term "a run down". You are probably thinking I am a pickle for even bringing this to your attention. I learned about the pickle from my grandsons. They played little league. After one game Ryan asked me very excitedly; "Did you see the pickle, grandma"? I watched the game but had no clue as to what the pickle was. Ryan left 3rd base. As the runner he headed for home plate. The catcher had the ball and ran towards Ryan. Ryan turned and started back for 3rd. The catcher threw the ball to the 3rd baseman and now Ryan was caught in a pickle. Even though Ryan was put out, he was excited about being caught in a pickle. Over 50 years ago it was called "a run down" and today the term is "caught in a pickle". Makes no difference, Ryan was caught in a pickle and survived, even while being put out.
When my brother Lynn got his drivers license, my sister Jean would take us kids to Wrigley Field to watch the Angel’s play baseball. Even now the names like Bilko, Kluzewski and Roseboro, bring back memories of sitting in the old seats just beyond first base, eating tuna sandwiches and yelling until our throats were sore. A few times we went to Gilmore Field, where the home team was the Hollywood Star’s. Their stadium was about to fall down but people went there anyway and mostly had to stand because there were fewer seats than people.
Baseball used to be the game for hero’s, now it is a game for many I would consider loser’s. Character does count! It has always counted! It’s just that we are so conditioned to the ways of the world that we find ourselves being caught up in it’s ways without fully realizing it.
I suppose most of us do all we can, to be better than someone else, whether it is in sports politics or just life. The "all’s fair in love and war" has been the call, down through the ages. We feel compassion but we still walk over our competitors in order to be the victor. At any cost? I’ve been in pickles but I didn’t want to be caught. Lies are handy when we need an excuse for the fumbles we make. We don’t do something and just say that "I forgot". We talk behind the backs of those we really don’t want to hurt but they get hurt by us anyway. Doesn’t it seem like we feel we are safe running towards home plate only to find out that they know, so we turn about face and discover we have been found out there also. We are dead in the water! We need an escape route so we won’t be caught in a pickle.
I believe the escape route is Jesus Christ. I have heard it said that it is easy to become a Christian. I think that is a careless statement. The idea of surrendering your life to Christ, facing up to your evil ways, making a public confession and submitting to baptism requires much courage and humility. Perhaps it should be said that it is simple. Being able to receive forgiveness of sins and to receive the hope of eternal life are reasonably simple. However, even the simple plan of salvation as found in the New Testament has been condensed into a prayer that man says gives you the assurance of salvation.
When I was a child the steps were made very clear that even a child could understood and recognized the importance of each one. Hear - Romans 10:17; Believe - John 3: 16; Repent - Acts 17:30; Confess - Matthew 16:16; Be Baptized; Acts 2:38; Live a Godly Life - Hebrews 5:9. It is easy to understand but hard to do! It is not one step but many steps. Many scriptures are given and each one says; "you will be saved". I call it a process! A process given by God’s word and it requires our full attention so that we do not get caught in the pickle of life. Accepting Jesus Christ as my Savior, was the best game plan of my life. I praise God daily that I am no longer caught in a pickle, but am free to be the kind of person God has created me to be.
By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/24/08

What was I going to do? 10/1/08

WHAT WAS I GOING TO DO?
After I finished my ablutions one morning I decided I would check my blood pressure. I was to see the Doctor tomorrow and for several weeks have been keeping track because of a change in medicines. I walk down the hall went into the kitchen and put some dishes into the dishwasher. Went on into the living room and folded a blanket I use in the evenings to keep the chill off and then put it away in the bedroom. As I returned to the living room, I stopped and asked myself; "what was I going to do"? I stood there perplexed and headed back down the hall and stopped into the office and told Jim; "I know I was going into the living room to do something but I just can’t remember"! He laughed! He always laughs at me! I stepped back into the bathroom to turn the light off and instead a light went on in my head. I had to return to the origin of the idea to pick up the scent of remembrance. I was going to check my blood pressure!
I have three books out of a set of "The Book of Knowledge, the Children’s Encyclopedia" which was copyrighted in the mid 1800's. I love reading old books from authors who have not been tainted from the muses of the 20th & 21st centuries. Out of the 15th volume under "How to Remember" is a section entitled, "Why old people remember best the things of long ago". I know this thought has crossed your minds many times. Well, I am going to give you a brief if not a compelling reason as to why. The explanation is that the latest impression you made was on a brain that was losing its ability of being impressed as well as it did when you were younger and you had a young, impressionable brain. Memory does not make our brains more impressionable. However, the great objective of education is to train the memory. So it seems that our brains although capable of handling lots of information is just not able to retain the latest information because material for impressions is not as impressionable. Well, enough of that. I am sure you get the picture.
Have you ever stood looking at that huge body of water and can’t think of what it is called. You see that huge wave filled with foam and blue water but can’t think of what it is called. You try to express what you are thinking and then someone says ocean and it all comes flooding back to you. That’s it! The ocean and the monstrous wave coming towards you. None of us are immune to this memory lapse condition. It can attack us at any age but it is more pronounced as we get older and more worrisome.
Jim experience a lapse of memory that the Doctor called "transient global amnesia". Jim’s memory lapse was with numbers. He couldn’t remember his pin number, phone number, address or even his birth date. After several hours it started coming back. My brother Lynn experienced a similar episode where he kept repeating certain things like a golf date. Sometimes even when we pray we just can’t think of what to say or even how to begin.
Believe me, God knew we would need help in this area. God made us, why shouldn’t He know. In Joshua 4:1-9 God had the Israelites set up the stones of remembrance. In Malachi 3:6-18 The book of remembrance was written to remind the people to fear and trust God. In Luke 22:19-20 Jesus used the bread and wine as a memorial to Him and what He did. In Psalm 119:11 it says to hide God’s word in our hearts so that we would remember His word. One of my favorite verses is Romans 8:26-28. When we can’t, the Holy Spirit can. Simple as that! The Spirit is there to help us in our weaknesses. He intercedes for us with groaning’s too deep for words. He knows our hearts and minds. We all have short memories, however, God never forgets His first love! Do you ever forget God? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 1/23/08