IT IS BELIEVED the origin of "Going to the Dogs" came from ancient China. Dogs by tradition, were not permitted within the city walls. Stray dogs roamed the area outside of the city and lived off the garbage and trash thrown there by the city dwellers. Not only dogs were there, but also criminals and social outcasts were forced to live there. When the people were sent to live among the rubbish, it was coined; "gone to the dogs!" Obviously, this would mean that their lives had taken a turn for the worse.
EVER SINCE I can remember, we have had a dog until the last 12 years. I love dogs, don't you? Just recently some friends of ours took over a 6 month old pup from their daughter. His name is Bentley! In their household it is like taking a new born baby to raise. They have been empty nesters for many years; even though grandchildren have been their name of the game.
I HAVE WANTED a small dog to love because my children are grown and my three grandsons don't need us as much as they once did. A small dog wouldn't require much, except the necessary training and perhaps letting it in or out during the day and night. Feeding a small dog wouldn't cost much; even though the vet bill could run high sometimes.
GETTING A SMALL DOG at our age doesn't mean that we would be going to the dogs. It wouldn't mean that our lives would change all that much. It doesn't mean that we would be living as we did 30 years ago because we had a dog. It would mean I would have something that loved me unconditionally and would sit on my lap and look at me with loving adoration. You know, just like my little Beagle Frosty, and even Foxy Lady did, so many years ago. Sometimes we just need that extra little loving that just makes you feel good.
USUALLY as I begin writing a Morning Glory I have no idea where it will lead me. As I began writing about dogs my thought went to; "Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under foot and turn to attack you." Matthew 7:6 I believe today, many treat their animals better than each other. On the other hand, many mistreat their animals and are taken to account for that.
SO WHAT DOES it mean, not to give dogs what is holy because they could trample them? I looked at Acts 13:45 where Paul is talking to the multitude and some of the Jews became jealous and began to make fun of him. Sometimes when we are trying to share the gospel there are some who will begin to ridicule you and laugh. "He who corrects a scoffer gets himself abused and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury." So, do not reprove a scoffer or he will hate you; reprove a wise man and he will love you." Proverbs 9:7-8 Dogs do not understand special favors except to satisfy their appetite. A scoffer doesn't want to listen to the truth and the wicked man is always ready to hurt someone.
REMEMBER the story of the Canaanite woman that cried out; "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon." Matthew 15:22 The Canaanite's were considered dogs to the Jewish people. The disciples wanted to send her away! Jesus responded to her with; "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." verse 24 After she again pleaded, Jesus said in verse 26; "It is not fair to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs."
I LOVED HER ANSWER in verse 27; "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table." Jesus liked her answer and commended her faith. Her daughter was healed! Even the worst of the worst deserves a chance in Jesus Christ! Even those we find despicable deserves to hear about the saving grace of Jesus. However, when you are rejected, let them go. Take the value of God's Word to those who have ears to hear. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/28/10
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Saturday, August 28, 2010
DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER! 8/28/10
THE OTHER MORNING I saw a banner outside of one of our most prestigious Jewelry stores in the town I live. It said; "we buy gold and diamonds!" For the past couple of years an advertisement on television requested that you send them your gold watches and jewelry and you could make money. Enough to maybe take a vacation. If I have learned anything in my many years, I have learned that if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!
DOES ANYONE sell their diamonds? I wonder! I gave my diamond out of my engagement ring to my daughter when she celebrated her 25th birthday. Not because I didn't want to keep it any more, but I wanted to give her something that was precious to me. We had the diamond mounted in a beautiful setting with some sapphires which are her birth stones. A beautiful ring for a beautiful daughter. Both remain in my heart forever.
BUT AGAIN, does anyone sell their diamonds? I suppose to a pawn shop for its redeemable value. I suppose because it has no heart felt value. Perhaps you didn't like the one who gave it to you or you just found it and decided to dispose of it. It is ironic how we can place monetary value on some things that can do nothing except have shine and glitter, while other things, that are extremely important, we just cast aside. We give no value of importance; we forget them!
I PLACE much importance on my memory because my mother's memory faded in her old age. I place significance upon my children, husband and family because I could never replace them. I have decided that much of who I am is seen in what I consider to be valuable, such as my possessions. Are you like that? Do you look upon your life as something to be desired by others; perhaps influential?
"DO NOT TOIL to acquire wealth; be wise enough to desist. When your eyes light upon it, it is gone; for suddenly it takes to itself wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven." Proberbs 23:4-5 I suppose the writer is saying acquiring wealth can be easily lost, just as if it had wings and could fly. We know all to well how quickly the pay check goes and how long we wait until we get paid again. Abundance is always a good thing but placing all our eggs in one basket can cause us to suffer.
I REMEMBER once being asked how many karats my diamond had. I didn't have a clue and never really thought about it. I asked Jim and he said; "I am sure it is probably a full cucumber." Obviously, he didn't have a clue either. I know I have learned how many karats, but because it has never been an issue for me, I don't remember; I have already forgotten how many karats!
THE VALUE I held in my diamond was that Jim saw it and bought it for me. That is what makes it precious! That is why I wanted Jennifer to have it! When something is precious we savor it with joy and we share it with gladness of heart.
"BEHOLD, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and he who believes in Him will not be put to shame." 1 Peter 2:6 "To you therefore who believe, He is precious! 1 Peter 2:7a This cornerstone is far more precious than any diamond available on the market, no matter how many karats. This cornerstone is given with gladness of heart; to be received with joy.
"BUT FOR THOSE who do not believe, the very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner, and a stone that will make men stumble, a rock that will make them fall; for they stumble because they disobey the word as they were destined to do." 1 Peter 2:7b-8 Those who do not accept Jesus as the Son of God are destined to fall. We place value in worthless things! Choose the cornerstone and live forever! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/25/10
DOES ANYONE sell their diamonds? I wonder! I gave my diamond out of my engagement ring to my daughter when she celebrated her 25th birthday. Not because I didn't want to keep it any more, but I wanted to give her something that was precious to me. We had the diamond mounted in a beautiful setting with some sapphires which are her birth stones. A beautiful ring for a beautiful daughter. Both remain in my heart forever.
BUT AGAIN, does anyone sell their diamonds? I suppose to a pawn shop for its redeemable value. I suppose because it has no heart felt value. Perhaps you didn't like the one who gave it to you or you just found it and decided to dispose of it. It is ironic how we can place monetary value on some things that can do nothing except have shine and glitter, while other things, that are extremely important, we just cast aside. We give no value of importance; we forget them!
I PLACE much importance on my memory because my mother's memory faded in her old age. I place significance upon my children, husband and family because I could never replace them. I have decided that much of who I am is seen in what I consider to be valuable, such as my possessions. Are you like that? Do you look upon your life as something to be desired by others; perhaps influential?
"DO NOT TOIL to acquire wealth; be wise enough to desist. When your eyes light upon it, it is gone; for suddenly it takes to itself wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven." Proberbs 23:4-5 I suppose the writer is saying acquiring wealth can be easily lost, just as if it had wings and could fly. We know all to well how quickly the pay check goes and how long we wait until we get paid again. Abundance is always a good thing but placing all our eggs in one basket can cause us to suffer.
I REMEMBER once being asked how many karats my diamond had. I didn't have a clue and never really thought about it. I asked Jim and he said; "I am sure it is probably a full cucumber." Obviously, he didn't have a clue either. I know I have learned how many karats, but because it has never been an issue for me, I don't remember; I have already forgotten how many karats!
THE VALUE I held in my diamond was that Jim saw it and bought it for me. That is what makes it precious! That is why I wanted Jennifer to have it! When something is precious we savor it with joy and we share it with gladness of heart.
"BEHOLD, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and he who believes in Him will not be put to shame." 1 Peter 2:6 "To you therefore who believe, He is precious! 1 Peter 2:7a This cornerstone is far more precious than any diamond available on the market, no matter how many karats. This cornerstone is given with gladness of heart; to be received with joy.
"BUT FOR THOSE who do not believe, the very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner, and a stone that will make men stumble, a rock that will make them fall; for they stumble because they disobey the word as they were destined to do." 1 Peter 2:7b-8 Those who do not accept Jesus as the Son of God are destined to fall. We place value in worthless things! Choose the cornerstone and live forever! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/25/10
Sunday, August 22, 2010
SIMPLY CHRISTIAN! 8/22/10
"FOR A WHOLE year they met with the church and taught a large company of people; and in Antioch the disciples were for the first time called Christians." Acts 11:26b I don't think I have ever started a morning glory with a scripture but then there is a first time for everything. A simple scripture to expound a large subject. Many descriptions were given such as "the followers of the way" but the simplicity of the name Christian merely meant they were "Christ ones!"
I HAVE OFTEN wondered why so many other names have been given for those who follow Christ and yet they conclude they are Christians. Names like Baptist; Holy Rollers' Catholic; Methodist; Presbyterians; Episcopal; Lutheran; Full Gospel; and so on and on and on. Many say they go back to the basics and yet call themselves by a different name.
YEARS AGO when filling out applications or any official document the question asked was, are you Catholic or Protestant. My answer was always; "Christian!" Have you ever been asked the question; "What do you believe?" From some perspectives the principle answer is "no creed but Christ, no book but the Bible!" I believe that is a basic fundamental answer for a sufficient guide to sound doctrine.
SO I ASK YOU Morning Glory followers; "What do you believe?" I know what my answer is, do you? I love reading about church history. In the back of Halley's Handbook he gives a history of the church that is compacted into a few pages that are easy to read. He writes with an understanding of what he reads and not one who only writes about what he believes. His insights are still being used by Theologians of today. I received my first Halley's Handbook when I graduated from highschool and I use it today, as my basic handbook to the Bible.
WHEN THE CHURCH started it was led by God's providential hand; was founded during the Roman Empire; when Rome fell the church spread rapidly. A tolerance movement began which granted to all Christians and to all others, full liberty to follow any religion they chose. Constantine favored Christianity! Eventually, Christianity became the state's religion and eventually the church was made into the image of the Roman Empire. The church changed in nature and began to move into great apostasy and became a political organization and then into the Papacy. The Pope became it's rule!
THEN THE REFORMATION began to move. Many more years passed until the Reformation became as we know it today. The church went back into it's beginning and then became known as the Protestant Movement. Whatever happened to simply, Christian?
a) "I BELIEVE the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from the Savior of the world is communicated to us through this book." Abraham Lincoln b) "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible." George Washington c) "The Bible is the sheet-anchor of our liberties." U.S. Grant d) "The New Testament is the very best book that ever was or ever will be known in the world." Charles Dickens
I HAVE NO quarrel with these churches that call themselves by a different name, after all; "He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters." Matthew 12:30 Those who preach Jesus Christ is not against Him. I preach Jesus Christ! He is the bond that encourages us to be in fellowship with one another.
LET'S BE CAREFUL to believe what we read in God's Word, and not read only, what we believe. "Study to show thyself approved unto God a workman that needeth not to be ashamed but rightly dividing the Word of Truth!" 2 Timothy 2:15 Simply Christian? I am; and happy that merely the name sends Satan packing! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/20/10
I HAVE OFTEN wondered why so many other names have been given for those who follow Christ and yet they conclude they are Christians. Names like Baptist; Holy Rollers' Catholic; Methodist; Presbyterians; Episcopal; Lutheran; Full Gospel; and so on and on and on. Many say they go back to the basics and yet call themselves by a different name.
YEARS AGO when filling out applications or any official document the question asked was, are you Catholic or Protestant. My answer was always; "Christian!" Have you ever been asked the question; "What do you believe?" From some perspectives the principle answer is "no creed but Christ, no book but the Bible!" I believe that is a basic fundamental answer for a sufficient guide to sound doctrine.
SO I ASK YOU Morning Glory followers; "What do you believe?" I know what my answer is, do you? I love reading about church history. In the back of Halley's Handbook he gives a history of the church that is compacted into a few pages that are easy to read. He writes with an understanding of what he reads and not one who only writes about what he believes. His insights are still being used by Theologians of today. I received my first Halley's Handbook when I graduated from highschool and I use it today, as my basic handbook to the Bible.
WHEN THE CHURCH started it was led by God's providential hand; was founded during the Roman Empire; when Rome fell the church spread rapidly. A tolerance movement began which granted to all Christians and to all others, full liberty to follow any religion they chose. Constantine favored Christianity! Eventually, Christianity became the state's religion and eventually the church was made into the image of the Roman Empire. The church changed in nature and began to move into great apostasy and became a political organization and then into the Papacy. The Pope became it's rule!
THEN THE REFORMATION began to move. Many more years passed until the Reformation became as we know it today. The church went back into it's beginning and then became known as the Protestant Movement. Whatever happened to simply, Christian?
a) "I BELIEVE the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from the Savior of the world is communicated to us through this book." Abraham Lincoln b) "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible." George Washington c) "The Bible is the sheet-anchor of our liberties." U.S. Grant d) "The New Testament is the very best book that ever was or ever will be known in the world." Charles Dickens
I HAVE NO quarrel with these churches that call themselves by a different name, after all; "He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters." Matthew 12:30 Those who preach Jesus Christ is not against Him. I preach Jesus Christ! He is the bond that encourages us to be in fellowship with one another.
LET'S BE CAREFUL to believe what we read in God's Word, and not read only, what we believe. "Study to show thyself approved unto God a workman that needeth not to be ashamed but rightly dividing the Word of Truth!" 2 Timothy 2:15 Simply Christian? I am; and happy that merely the name sends Satan packing! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/20/10
Saturday, August 21, 2010
SIMPLY AMERICAN! 8/21/10
WHEN I WAS in school one of the first things I learned about America is that it was a melting pot. A metaphor for a society of different nationalitites melting together into a harmonious common culture. It was used to describe the assimilation of immigrants to the United States. I understood that this concept was originally coined in the 1780's as a fusion of different nationalities, and culture blended into one flavor. Americans!
IT USE TO BE that when a foreigner came to America they learned the language and the culture; studied history, government etc and then became an American Citizen. They gave up the old ways of their country so they could be free to live and prosper. Not a bad concept!
TODAY, we fight over whether to speak English or retain their own language. They set up street names, after the country they came from, so they can retain a little bit of home. The Indian's born in this land declare themselves as "native Americans" which sets them apart. The colored people want to be called African Americans because it gives them a place in the sun as a special group of people. It seems that everyone who has some strong ties whether blood or appearance want to keep that as their identity. I suppose that is a natural feeling. I suppose if I had been born elsewhere I would want a little bit of that in me.
I WAS BORN in America! Through the years, when filling out papers, and it asks for my color or creed I just write; American, Christian. I have no other names! Why can't the rest of the people see that simply being an American sets them apart. Of course it comes with the bad but mostly, the good! History has been written, but why do we want to wade around in the whys and wherefores instead of enjoying what America has to offer.
BEING AN AMERICAN says that you live in the most prosperous land in the history of the world. The root is found in the Declaration of Independence. Being an American says we are generous. When there is a need somewhere in the world, we are there! On the Statue of Liberty it gives a call to all who are tired and poor, the humble masses yearning to be free. I suppose in our prosperity comes the takers, and not as many who are willing to give as well as take.
WHEN JESUS began His ministry, it was said; "Can anything good come out of Nazareth!" He was a stranger in His own land but He moved powerfully and deliberately. He was bringing life into the world. When America came into the world, it brought life with it because it was founded on Godly principles and ideals. Not everyone who came had those intentions but America thrived because of the hand of God.
THERE IS A anti Christian movement, that is setting out to destroy the armour that the Christians wear. I for one am not going to buckle under, nor am I going to faint. Since God has given me Morning Glory, I think I will use it in whatever way He lays out before me. I could care less if they put a mosque in New York. But I do care if it is to take the place of my God.
AS THE PEOPLE sacrificed their babies and children to the stone gods of Molech and Baal, God said; "I never commanded it, and it never entered my mind!" Jeremiah 7:31 God didn't know then that people would do such a thing as he mentions it two more times in Jeremiah. He destroys that piece of ground and turns it into the lake of fire as noted in Revelation 20:15, to which all those who reject Christ and His commandments, will ultimately be consigned.
INTERESTINGLY ENOUGH there are some who strap bombs on their children and send them out to bomb buildings, cars, bridges and in killing, call it a sacrifice for their cause. I think God is still shaking His head and saying; "I never commanded it, and it never entered my mind!"
"WHO IS THE LIAR but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist!" 1 John 2:22a The mosque belongs to the Anti Christ! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/17/10
IT USE TO BE that when a foreigner came to America they learned the language and the culture; studied history, government etc and then became an American Citizen. They gave up the old ways of their country so they could be free to live and prosper. Not a bad concept!
TODAY, we fight over whether to speak English or retain their own language. They set up street names, after the country they came from, so they can retain a little bit of home. The Indian's born in this land declare themselves as "native Americans" which sets them apart. The colored people want to be called African Americans because it gives them a place in the sun as a special group of people. It seems that everyone who has some strong ties whether blood or appearance want to keep that as their identity. I suppose that is a natural feeling. I suppose if I had been born elsewhere I would want a little bit of that in me.
I WAS BORN in America! Through the years, when filling out papers, and it asks for my color or creed I just write; American, Christian. I have no other names! Why can't the rest of the people see that simply being an American sets them apart. Of course it comes with the bad but mostly, the good! History has been written, but why do we want to wade around in the whys and wherefores instead of enjoying what America has to offer.
BEING AN AMERICAN says that you live in the most prosperous land in the history of the world. The root is found in the Declaration of Independence. Being an American says we are generous. When there is a need somewhere in the world, we are there! On the Statue of Liberty it gives a call to all who are tired and poor, the humble masses yearning to be free. I suppose in our prosperity comes the takers, and not as many who are willing to give as well as take.
WHEN JESUS began His ministry, it was said; "Can anything good come out of Nazareth!" He was a stranger in His own land but He moved powerfully and deliberately. He was bringing life into the world. When America came into the world, it brought life with it because it was founded on Godly principles and ideals. Not everyone who came had those intentions but America thrived because of the hand of God.
THERE IS A anti Christian movement, that is setting out to destroy the armour that the Christians wear. I for one am not going to buckle under, nor am I going to faint. Since God has given me Morning Glory, I think I will use it in whatever way He lays out before me. I could care less if they put a mosque in New York. But I do care if it is to take the place of my God.
AS THE PEOPLE sacrificed their babies and children to the stone gods of Molech and Baal, God said; "I never commanded it, and it never entered my mind!" Jeremiah 7:31 God didn't know then that people would do such a thing as he mentions it two more times in Jeremiah. He destroys that piece of ground and turns it into the lake of fire as noted in Revelation 20:15, to which all those who reject Christ and His commandments, will ultimately be consigned.
INTERESTINGLY ENOUGH there are some who strap bombs on their children and send them out to bomb buildings, cars, bridges and in killing, call it a sacrifice for their cause. I think God is still shaking His head and saying; "I never commanded it, and it never entered my mind!"
"WHO IS THE LIAR but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist!" 1 John 2:22a The mosque belongs to the Anti Christ! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/17/10
Sunday, August 15, 2010
ALL IS WELL! 8/15/10
REMEMBER the story of the Shunammite woman? I have loved reading this story along with teaching it to children and to women. I especially love the part when after her son dies and she goes to her husband and says; "Send me one of the servants and one of the donkeys that I may quickly go to the man of God and come back again." 2 Kings 4:22 Her husband was a little puzzled because there was no reason for her to go to the man of God. He asks her; "Why will you go to him today? She replies; "It will be well." 2 Kings 4:23-24
HER HUSBAND listens to her request, and her response to him, then quickly calls a servant and off she goes. It is always nice when our husbands listens to our sudden requests and knows us well enough that their response is positive, isn't it! When she is still in a distance from Elijah the servant comes to her and asks; "Is it well with you? Is it well with your husband? Is it well with the child?" And she answered, "It is well."
IT IS WELL is one of my favorite lines in this story. It is well! This morning I can say that it is well with Jim. I have been playing nurse and have paid close attention to my instructions and for the most part Jim is listening and doing what I ask. He takes his blood pressure, checks his sugar, lets me check the pulse in his right foot but ignores me when I say so shower.
TOMORROW we will know if Jim is good to go in continuing his recovery mode. I know that the Shunammite woman was anxious about her son but calm because her trust was in God. We all know these feelings and we all have felt these moments of anxiety. Let us recite together; But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be yours as well. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day's own trouble be sufficient for the day."
GOD IS talking about our life; food, drink and our bodies in general. Moment by moment; hour by hour; day by day should be our cry when we are faced with our frailness and mortality. There is no reason to cling to this life because heaven awaits. However, tomorrow can always be a glorious day! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/15/10
HER HUSBAND listens to her request, and her response to him, then quickly calls a servant and off she goes. It is always nice when our husbands listens to our sudden requests and knows us well enough that their response is positive, isn't it! When she is still in a distance from Elijah the servant comes to her and asks; "Is it well with you? Is it well with your husband? Is it well with the child?" And she answered, "It is well."
IT IS WELL is one of my favorite lines in this story. It is well! This morning I can say that it is well with Jim. I have been playing nurse and have paid close attention to my instructions and for the most part Jim is listening and doing what I ask. He takes his blood pressure, checks his sugar, lets me check the pulse in his right foot but ignores me when I say so shower.
TOMORROW we will know if Jim is good to go in continuing his recovery mode. I know that the Shunammite woman was anxious about her son but calm because her trust was in God. We all know these feelings and we all have felt these moments of anxiety. Let us recite together; But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be yours as well. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day's own trouble be sufficient for the day."
GOD IS talking about our life; food, drink and our bodies in general. Moment by moment; hour by hour; day by day should be our cry when we are faced with our frailness and mortality. There is no reason to cling to this life because heaven awaits. However, tomorrow can always be a glorious day! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/15/10
Saturday, August 14, 2010
MAJOR EVENTS! 8/14/10
THROUGHOUT MY LIFE I have experienced major events. As a kid just about everything out of the ordinary was a major event. When it comes to sports I witnessed my brothers and years later my grandsons excel in this arena of major events. Life is full of major events and many times we accept these occasions with a oh hum and move on. Once in a while one of these events causes us to set up and take notice. I know you all have been there in one way or another.
FOR QUITE A FEW YEARS I have witnessed many of my siblings go through difficulties that are best described as major health events. About seven years ago my son Danny experienced a huge event and two years ago I experienced a similar one. This week Jim went out on a limb and confided in his Doctor and has just experienced one of those same kind of events. Heart issues!
WHILE OUT WALKING this last Tuesday Jim experienced an episode. Two hours later he experienced another one exactly like the first except this time he was sitting in his chair. While at a routine follow up visit with his Doctor that same afternoon, Jim shared with him these two episodes and within two hours found himself in the hospital.
AFTER MUCH TESTING and finally an Angiogram, Jim had a stint put in his left major artery that was 95% blocked. I would say this was a major event, wouldn't you? That procedure was successful after several tries; however, they couldn't put the plug in where the catheter entered because the hole was to large. Jim had to wait in ICU and then the tubes, etc were removed only to find that a tiny aneurism was causing a problem.
AFTER SEVERAL days of trying to stop the leakage, no matter how small, was a trying ordeal. To operate or not to operate, that was the question. We finally were able to take Jim home without added surgery. Praise God!
I RECENTLY READ that we should endure the aches and pains of our body with patience. This is something that we should do also with our spiritual afflictions. Many times troubles come our way that we have no control over. Andrae Crouch's song helps me to put into perspective troubles that come. "I thank God for the mountains and I thank Him for the valleys; I thank Him for the storms He brought me through; For if I'd never had a problem, I wouldn't know that he could solve them; I'd never know what faith in God could do!"
WHEN WE REALIZE that God will not remove us from the pain and suffering but will walk along side us as we go through it, we are lifted higher and higher than we ever thought possible. Many times we think we are walking with God and we should, but when we realize that He is walking with us, it puts us on a different playing field. We discover that when it doesn't turn out exactly like we thought it would or wanted it to; God has shown us His way.
I KNOW I HAVE used this passage many times but then it is one of my favorites. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
WE HAVE EXPERIENCED many new emotions this week! We looked at each other with different eyes! These things come to us each time someone we love is hurting and suffering. Let us never forget the comforter is ours, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. Who comforts us in all our afflictions so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
GOD HAS GIVEN us experiences so that we may help others who will walk through the same things we have walked through. Let us help one another! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/13/10
FOR QUITE A FEW YEARS I have witnessed many of my siblings go through difficulties that are best described as major health events. About seven years ago my son Danny experienced a huge event and two years ago I experienced a similar one. This week Jim went out on a limb and confided in his Doctor and has just experienced one of those same kind of events. Heart issues!
WHILE OUT WALKING this last Tuesday Jim experienced an episode. Two hours later he experienced another one exactly like the first except this time he was sitting in his chair. While at a routine follow up visit with his Doctor that same afternoon, Jim shared with him these two episodes and within two hours found himself in the hospital.
AFTER MUCH TESTING and finally an Angiogram, Jim had a stint put in his left major artery that was 95% blocked. I would say this was a major event, wouldn't you? That procedure was successful after several tries; however, they couldn't put the plug in where the catheter entered because the hole was to large. Jim had to wait in ICU and then the tubes, etc were removed only to find that a tiny aneurism was causing a problem.
AFTER SEVERAL days of trying to stop the leakage, no matter how small, was a trying ordeal. To operate or not to operate, that was the question. We finally were able to take Jim home without added surgery. Praise God!
I RECENTLY READ that we should endure the aches and pains of our body with patience. This is something that we should do also with our spiritual afflictions. Many times troubles come our way that we have no control over. Andrae Crouch's song helps me to put into perspective troubles that come. "I thank God for the mountains and I thank Him for the valleys; I thank Him for the storms He brought me through; For if I'd never had a problem, I wouldn't know that he could solve them; I'd never know what faith in God could do!"
WHEN WE REALIZE that God will not remove us from the pain and suffering but will walk along side us as we go through it, we are lifted higher and higher than we ever thought possible. Many times we think we are walking with God and we should, but when we realize that He is walking with us, it puts us on a different playing field. We discover that when it doesn't turn out exactly like we thought it would or wanted it to; God has shown us His way.
I KNOW I HAVE used this passage many times but then it is one of my favorites. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
WE HAVE EXPERIENCED many new emotions this week! We looked at each other with different eyes! These things come to us each time someone we love is hurting and suffering. Let us never forget the comforter is ours, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. Who comforts us in all our afflictions so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
GOD HAS GIVEN us experiences so that we may help others who will walk through the same things we have walked through. Let us help one another! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/13/10
Sunday, August 8, 2010
HE GOT THE LOAN! 8/8/10
I RETIRED from a title company some years ago. While there, one of the title officers passed around a paper that I thoroughly enjoy reading and then quickly lost it. A few years ago I received another paper, not as official looking, through email. I kept it on my computer and wish to share it with you this morning.
A NEW ORLEANS Lawyer sought an FHA loan for a client. He was told the loan would be granted if he could prove satisfactory title to the parcel of the property being offered as collateral. The title to the property dated back to 1803, which took the lawyer three months to track down.
AFTER SENDING the information to the FHA, he received the following: (actual letter) "Upon review of your letter adjoining your client's loan application, we note that the request is supported by an Abstract of Title. While we compliment the able manner in which you have prepared and presented the application, we must point out that you have only cleared title to the proposed collateral property back to 1803. Before final approval can be accorded, it will be necessary to clear the title back to its origin."
ANNOYED, the lawyer responded as follows: (actual letter) "Your letter regarding title in Case No. 189156 has been received. I note that you wish to have title extended further than the 194 year covered by the present application. I was unaware that any educated person in this country, particularly those working in the property area, would not know that Louisiana was purchased, by the U.S. from France in 1803; the year of origin identified in our application. For the edification of uninformed FHA bureaucrats, the title to the land prior to U.S. ownership was obtained from France, which had acquired it by Right of Conquest from Spain. The land came into the possession of Spain by Right of Discovery made in the year 1492 by a sea captain names Christopher Columbus, who had been granted the privilege of seeking a new route to India by the Spanish monarch, Isabella. The good queen, Isabella, being a pious woman and almost as careful about titles as the FHA, took the precaution of securing the blessing of the Pope before she sold her jewels to finance Columbus' expedition. Now the Pope, as I'm sure you may know, is the emissary of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; and God, it is commonly accepted, created this world. Therefore, I believe it is safe to presume that God also made that part of the world called Louisiana. God, therefore, would be the owner of origin and His origins date back to before the beginning of time; the world as we know it AND the FHA. I hope you find God's original claim to be satisfactory. Now, may we have our loan? (Note) He hot the loan!
"IN THE BEGINNING God created the heavens and the earth!" Genesis 1:1 The first four words in this verse says; "In the beginning God!" You must believe that God is if you believe in God's Word. "IN THE BEGINNING was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John 1:1 Again you must believe that the Word is God; who was in the beginning. "All things were made through Him and without Him was not anything made that was made." John 1:3
FROM THESE SCRIPTURES we have come to believe and accept that all we have and will ever have comes from God. We are caretakers of our land, our possessions and even our existence. When we purchase a home and carry a mortage we say we are owners. When we purchase and carry no mortgage we say we are owners. God refers to us stewards; are we owners?
LET US consider how faithful or unfaithful we are as God's stewards; our responsibilities may be small or great. Our master is returning soon! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/6/10
A NEW ORLEANS Lawyer sought an FHA loan for a client. He was told the loan would be granted if he could prove satisfactory title to the parcel of the property being offered as collateral. The title to the property dated back to 1803, which took the lawyer three months to track down.
AFTER SENDING the information to the FHA, he received the following: (actual letter) "Upon review of your letter adjoining your client's loan application, we note that the request is supported by an Abstract of Title. While we compliment the able manner in which you have prepared and presented the application, we must point out that you have only cleared title to the proposed collateral property back to 1803. Before final approval can be accorded, it will be necessary to clear the title back to its origin."
ANNOYED, the lawyer responded as follows: (actual letter) "Your letter regarding title in Case No. 189156 has been received. I note that you wish to have title extended further than the 194 year covered by the present application. I was unaware that any educated person in this country, particularly those working in the property area, would not know that Louisiana was purchased, by the U.S. from France in 1803; the year of origin identified in our application. For the edification of uninformed FHA bureaucrats, the title to the land prior to U.S. ownership was obtained from France, which had acquired it by Right of Conquest from Spain. The land came into the possession of Spain by Right of Discovery made in the year 1492 by a sea captain names Christopher Columbus, who had been granted the privilege of seeking a new route to India by the Spanish monarch, Isabella. The good queen, Isabella, being a pious woman and almost as careful about titles as the FHA, took the precaution of securing the blessing of the Pope before she sold her jewels to finance Columbus' expedition. Now the Pope, as I'm sure you may know, is the emissary of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; and God, it is commonly accepted, created this world. Therefore, I believe it is safe to presume that God also made that part of the world called Louisiana. God, therefore, would be the owner of origin and His origins date back to before the beginning of time; the world as we know it AND the FHA. I hope you find God's original claim to be satisfactory. Now, may we have our loan? (Note) He hot the loan!
"IN THE BEGINNING God created the heavens and the earth!" Genesis 1:1 The first four words in this verse says; "In the beginning God!" You must believe that God is if you believe in God's Word. "IN THE BEGINNING was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John 1:1 Again you must believe that the Word is God; who was in the beginning. "All things were made through Him and without Him was not anything made that was made." John 1:3
FROM THESE SCRIPTURES we have come to believe and accept that all we have and will ever have comes from God. We are caretakers of our land, our possessions and even our existence. When we purchase a home and carry a mortage we say we are owners. When we purchase and carry no mortgage we say we are owners. God refers to us stewards; are we owners?
LET US consider how faithful or unfaithful we are as God's stewards; our responsibilities may be small or great. Our master is returning soon! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/6/10
Saturday, August 7, 2010
RED SUNSET! 8/7/10
UPRIGHT BRANCHING, oval tree! Foliage is dark green, glossy and in the fall the color is orange red to red. Can't wait! We put in a couple of new trees in our front yard. We saw the Red Sunset in a yard a few streets away from us this last fall and was thrilled at the brilliance of it's red color. Because there was a sale, buy one tree get a second one free; we ended up with a Purple Robe also. It is sort of on the order of our Golden Chain except the flowers are purple. During the fall it's foliage is yellowish!
MOST OF OUR Hollyhocks are red; we have a red front door and Jennifer has some red in her curtains. Jim's Mom loved red and we have some old glasses with red flowers in them that his Dad had given his mother many years ago. Years ago I wore a red chiffon over taffeta gown as a maid of honor in a wedding. I loved the dress, so I had it cut off and wore it as a cocktail dress without the cocktails. My favorite cologne is Red Door. Red is a spectacular color whether it is in your clothing; garden; your home or even in your hair.
I LOVE RED sunsets during the fall. The huge round harvest moon at night casts it's reflected lights around the perimeter of the sky line and fills it with colors of orange, reds and various shades of yellow. Just another one of God's masterpieces as he uses splashes of red!!
WHEN I WAS a child we would play outdoors until we were called in to go to bed. The sky was always a focal point as we would eventually run out of steam to the point of just laying on the grass looking up at the sky to see if we could count the stars. We would find the big dipper, the small dipper and speculate on what stars were actually planets.
THE SKY is our universe isn't it? The sky has kept the Astronomers in the scientific field busy since the beginning of time. The sky is a fascinating wonder of God's creation and probably was put there, not for our amusement and amazement, but purposely designed for our well being.
SOMETIMES, when I read the story of Job I am perplexed by how completely Satan set out to destroy his home, family, wealth, friendships, prominence, health and his faith in God. Seeing Red is what I imagined God saw, when he finally confronted Job with; "Where were you!" Sometimes I am amazed that anyone can falter in their belief of God and question His awesomeness and power. Has God ever said to you; "Where were you!"
WE ARE no better than Job! We falter throughout our days and entire life; stumbling, staggering and downright disobedient in our ways when it comes to knowing the will of God. Man is unable to understand totally God's creation and it's mysteries! We are still searching to understand the mysteries of animal and bird life let alone the mysteries of man.
"BEHOLD, God is great and we know Him not; the number of His years is unsearchable." Job 36:26 We revel in our own understanding and yet God is infinite and unsearchable. Man knows that God is, but he does not know who or what God is, except what He chooses to reveal.
"HE SEALS up the hand of every man, that all men may know His work!" Job 37:7 God uses His creation to establish mans days and his works. Through God's control of the elements He is able to control the actions of men. For instance, in the winter the farmer cannot plough and in blizzards all laborers stay at home. When we see God's sunsets, no matter where we live, we understand it is time for rest. Works for me!
WHEN GOD asks Job; "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me if you have understanding." Job 38:4 Sort of puts us into our place as part of His creation doesn't it? Sort of sets the tone of who is in charge, doesn't it? Where are you in your understanding of God? Are you at the foot of the cross? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/4/10
MOST OF OUR Hollyhocks are red; we have a red front door and Jennifer has some red in her curtains. Jim's Mom loved red and we have some old glasses with red flowers in them that his Dad had given his mother many years ago. Years ago I wore a red chiffon over taffeta gown as a maid of honor in a wedding. I loved the dress, so I had it cut off and wore it as a cocktail dress without the cocktails. My favorite cologne is Red Door. Red is a spectacular color whether it is in your clothing; garden; your home or even in your hair.
I LOVE RED sunsets during the fall. The huge round harvest moon at night casts it's reflected lights around the perimeter of the sky line and fills it with colors of orange, reds and various shades of yellow. Just another one of God's masterpieces as he uses splashes of red!!
WHEN I WAS a child we would play outdoors until we were called in to go to bed. The sky was always a focal point as we would eventually run out of steam to the point of just laying on the grass looking up at the sky to see if we could count the stars. We would find the big dipper, the small dipper and speculate on what stars were actually planets.
THE SKY is our universe isn't it? The sky has kept the Astronomers in the scientific field busy since the beginning of time. The sky is a fascinating wonder of God's creation and probably was put there, not for our amusement and amazement, but purposely designed for our well being.
SOMETIMES, when I read the story of Job I am perplexed by how completely Satan set out to destroy his home, family, wealth, friendships, prominence, health and his faith in God. Seeing Red is what I imagined God saw, when he finally confronted Job with; "Where were you!" Sometimes I am amazed that anyone can falter in their belief of God and question His awesomeness and power. Has God ever said to you; "Where were you!"
WE ARE no better than Job! We falter throughout our days and entire life; stumbling, staggering and downright disobedient in our ways when it comes to knowing the will of God. Man is unable to understand totally God's creation and it's mysteries! We are still searching to understand the mysteries of animal and bird life let alone the mysteries of man.
"BEHOLD, God is great and we know Him not; the number of His years is unsearchable." Job 36:26 We revel in our own understanding and yet God is infinite and unsearchable. Man knows that God is, but he does not know who or what God is, except what He chooses to reveal.
"HE SEALS up the hand of every man, that all men may know His work!" Job 37:7 God uses His creation to establish mans days and his works. Through God's control of the elements He is able to control the actions of men. For instance, in the winter the farmer cannot plough and in blizzards all laborers stay at home. When we see God's sunsets, no matter where we live, we understand it is time for rest. Works for me!
WHEN GOD asks Job; "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me if you have understanding." Job 38:4 Sort of puts us into our place as part of His creation doesn't it? Sort of sets the tone of who is in charge, doesn't it? Where are you in your understanding of God? Are you at the foot of the cross? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/4/10
Sunday, August 1, 2010
I LOVE HOLLYHOCKS! 8/1/10
MY MEMORY is vague as I remember the Hollyhocks of my youth. I see an alley behind our house on 4th avenue. Along a fence there were Hollyhocks blooming with red, pink, white with soft shades of pink, yellow and purple flowers popping out on long green stems with dark green foliage.
WHEN WE MOVED into our house in Klamath Falls,along the north side of the house, lots of long stems of green grew in the soft dirt which left no room to walk. At first they were just stumps and as the months passed and the weather warmed they grew tall. Around June and Into July they began to bloom. They were not only tall but full of color and sparkle which is what brought pleasurable memories flooding my mind.
THAT FIRST SUMMER my grandsons had picked many of the blooms and Faye, their mother, had memories of her own. She took those little flowers and made tiny girls spinning as though they were at a ball. I never knew you could do that! No one had ever showed me how to turn the flower upside down into a ball gown. They were so beautiful! Exquisite! Like, right out of a fairy tale. I discoverd that day, Faye and I love Hollyhocks!
THAT FALL Jim had a sidewalk put in, all around our house. This was so we could walk around the house as we got older without any problems. This meant he was going to have the Hollyhocks removed. I begged him not to take the ones out closest to the fence since the sidewalk would be up against the house. Today as I write, the fence is lined with tall stems filled with bright red blooms. Soon we will have many different colors lining the fence and I am already drawn back into my memories. In the morning as I talk with my Lord while walking around the house, I tell him; "Lord, thank you for Hollyhocks; I just love them!"
DO YOU HAVE A FLOWER that brings a memory along with it. Does it have a fragrance that reminds you of someone? When I smell the "Night Blooming Jasmine" I think of my mother. When I smell the fragrance of a Gardenia I remember my wedding and also think of my sister Joyce. God has given us such a wonderful tool that has so many wonderful aspects and yet we take it for granted. Our minds! While we have a mind let's use it to our advantage! Let's exercise it and keep it fresh and active! It's our mind that keeps us young; learning; seeking for answers.
WHEN MY MOTHER had forgotten something she would say; "I just put it out of my mind!" Perhaps she did and perhaps she had just forgotten. I am at the place in my life where I forget things. I forget where I put things; what I said and what I was going to do. My mother eventually came to a place in her life where she didn't even remember who her children were or who she was. She had Alzheimer's!
GOD USES HIS WORD to call to mind the ways of man, doesn't He? "A man's mind plans his ways, but the Lord directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9 "A man of crooked mind does not prosper, and one with a perverse tongue falls into calamity." Proverbs 17:20 "Just as water reflects your image; so the mind of man reflects the man!" Proverbs 27:19
I HAVE HEARD that when Christ went to the cross, we were on His mind! Do you believe that? We know that His mother was on His mind because as He was suffering He made arrangements for John to care for her as his own mother. When the thief confessed his belief and asked to be remembered, he was immediately upon Jesus' mind. He prayed for the church while in the garden and yet the church was not yet in motion. We are the church and yes, I believe we were on His mind. We are on His mind today! One of my favorite verses, that I use often in Morning Glory is; "I should set my mind on the things above and not on the things of this earth!" Colossians 3:2 Oh, how I love you Lord; let me count the ways! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/27/10
WHEN WE MOVED into our house in Klamath Falls,along the north side of the house, lots of long stems of green grew in the soft dirt which left no room to walk. At first they were just stumps and as the months passed and the weather warmed they grew tall. Around June and Into July they began to bloom. They were not only tall but full of color and sparkle which is what brought pleasurable memories flooding my mind.
THAT FIRST SUMMER my grandsons had picked many of the blooms and Faye, their mother, had memories of her own. She took those little flowers and made tiny girls spinning as though they were at a ball. I never knew you could do that! No one had ever showed me how to turn the flower upside down into a ball gown. They were so beautiful! Exquisite! Like, right out of a fairy tale. I discoverd that day, Faye and I love Hollyhocks!
THAT FALL Jim had a sidewalk put in, all around our house. This was so we could walk around the house as we got older without any problems. This meant he was going to have the Hollyhocks removed. I begged him not to take the ones out closest to the fence since the sidewalk would be up against the house. Today as I write, the fence is lined with tall stems filled with bright red blooms. Soon we will have many different colors lining the fence and I am already drawn back into my memories. In the morning as I talk with my Lord while walking around the house, I tell him; "Lord, thank you for Hollyhocks; I just love them!"
DO YOU HAVE A FLOWER that brings a memory along with it. Does it have a fragrance that reminds you of someone? When I smell the "Night Blooming Jasmine" I think of my mother. When I smell the fragrance of a Gardenia I remember my wedding and also think of my sister Joyce. God has given us such a wonderful tool that has so many wonderful aspects and yet we take it for granted. Our minds! While we have a mind let's use it to our advantage! Let's exercise it and keep it fresh and active! It's our mind that keeps us young; learning; seeking for answers.
WHEN MY MOTHER had forgotten something she would say; "I just put it out of my mind!" Perhaps she did and perhaps she had just forgotten. I am at the place in my life where I forget things. I forget where I put things; what I said and what I was going to do. My mother eventually came to a place in her life where she didn't even remember who her children were or who she was. She had Alzheimer's!
GOD USES HIS WORD to call to mind the ways of man, doesn't He? "A man's mind plans his ways, but the Lord directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9 "A man of crooked mind does not prosper, and one with a perverse tongue falls into calamity." Proverbs 17:20 "Just as water reflects your image; so the mind of man reflects the man!" Proverbs 27:19
I HAVE HEARD that when Christ went to the cross, we were on His mind! Do you believe that? We know that His mother was on His mind because as He was suffering He made arrangements for John to care for her as his own mother. When the thief confessed his belief and asked to be remembered, he was immediately upon Jesus' mind. He prayed for the church while in the garden and yet the church was not yet in motion. We are the church and yes, I believe we were on His mind. We are on His mind today! One of my favorite verses, that I use often in Morning Glory is; "I should set my mind on the things above and not on the things of this earth!" Colossians 3:2 Oh, how I love you Lord; let me count the ways! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 7/27/10
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