JIM WAS scheduled this week for a stress test. The first day was “resting” with nuclear stuff injected into this arm, and then lying on his back in a semi covered contraption that encircled his whole body; and tells the Doctors what they want to know. The second day was the tread mill. Now this is where they hook him up to a heart monitor, and IV with encouragement to walk very fast, for a short period of time, causing his heart rate to increase rapidly. This also will cause his blood pressure to become elevated. The Doctor is happy when the numbers are like 132 for his heart rate and the blood pressure is over 200. Strange procedures when they are always giving you medicines to keep these numbers low. But then, this was a test!
I WAS reading a cure all magazine while I was waiting for Jim. It had a great article on the benefits of hydrogen peroxide. Most of us have this brown bottle under the bathroom sink, and use it to clean wounds. I have always liked the way it would foam up when you poured it over an open wound. But did you know that you can use this liquid to sanitize things, whiten your teeth, get rid of various gum diseases and even cure the fungus under your finger and toe nails? This amazing liquid can also be used as an astringent when cleansing your face. Not to mention the removal of age spots. But then, I would imagine the label would read “comes with patience!”
I VAGUELY remember my Mother giving us younger kids a spoonful of sugar, with a little turpentine sprinkled on top. I think it was to get rid of worms! I remember the Cod Liver oil also, but it didn’t come with a spoonful of sugar. In cooking, I have discovered a little sugar helps to balance many recipes. Even Mary Poppin’s suggested in one of her songs; “Just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down!”
WHY IS IT that we like a little sugar at the end of a meal? No matter how full you are, there is always room for dessert! I’ve heard it said; “we should eat dessert first!” I have also heard it said; “The elderly should eat whatever they want to, whenever they want!” Of course those who say these things are probably not prone to diabetes or heart disease. Could be, they are not even prone to seeking a Doctor regularly.
JIM’S MOM would crush an aspirin in a spoon, then add a little bit of water and put it in his mouth. I can almost see your faces scrunching up, thinking of the bitterness of that medicine. Could be that sugar, would have help this medicine go down without the faces being made. Brings to mind the commercial of the little boy finding all kinds of places to hide when it was time for a spoonful of medicine to go down.
WE HAVE COME to depend upon the medicines we take for various ailments and conditions, and we have come to rely upon their effectiveness to make us feel better. We are especially happy when the coating is flavored with a little fruit and sweetness, which encourages us to be faithful in taking them. “A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22 Proverbs is always a good place to go when you need a pick me up. When we feel sorry for ourselves, we have no room for a cheerful heart! But if we have a cheerful heart, we have no time for self pity!
OUR HEAVENLY FATHER has a prescription for us to have filled, and to begin using immediately. We are to follow the directions and remember to take everyday for the rest of our lives. He promises us that if we do, His steadfast love will endure forever. “It is He who remembered us in our low estate, for His loving-kindness is everlasting, and has rescued us from our adversaries; for His loving-kindness is everlasting. He gives food to all flesh, for His loving-kindness is everlasting. Let’s give thanks to the God of heaven, for He is faithful, and His loving-kindness is everlasting.” Psalms 136:23-26
SUGAR, CAN MAKE it easier for us to take our medicines. A little sugar at the end, or at the beginning of a meal, can make it more pleasant. Sugar coating has helped on many occasion in bringing peace among friends. So a special sugar, which can come in many different colors, shapes and sizes; could bring a sweetness that can’t be denied. As you begin your day, lining up your pills next to your cereal bowl, perhaps adding one more, won’t hurt anything. Even God says that just having this, is a good thing! So what if we began our day with a parfait dish full of something wonderful. Something good! How about a little dish of cheerfulness to bring about a renewed spring in our step? By Jane Ann Crenshaw 9/23/11
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Sunday, September 18, 2011
AS TIME GOES BY! 9/18/11
AS YOU get older it becomes easier to think about how time flies! As a child you can hardly wait for Christmas to come again, even though it was just last week. But it seems like a life time, until it rolls around again. Birthdays are looked forward to but it goes by so fast, it makes your head spin. I remember being 10 and wishing I was 15. When I was 15 I wanted to be 18 and out of highschool. When I was in my early twenties, I was wishing I had paid closer attention to my studies, while I was in school.
MANY of my young friends went on to school and became teachers, lawyers and educated in whatever field they were looking toward. I wanted to become a missionary but was encouraged by my pastor to because a missionary close to home. He felt that a Christian young woman in the work place was the field I should go into. And so I did! I became a clerk in an office, later a secretary and low and behold a bookkeeper; me, who had failed general math in my freshman year and had to retake it, in my senior year. I became a bookkeeper! Go figure!
AS TIME went by, I was married and became a mother! I probably could have failed at that but I had a husband who was a father before his time. He did not help to deliver my babies, as young men do today; but he delivered my children from me, by helping in every possible way. He bathed them, fed them, dressed them, rocked them to sleep. In the middle of the night; he would get up with them; “just one more time!” I was a stay at home Mom and he was a working Dad. But when I would say; “Jim, just one more time?” He would!
AS I SIT HERE at the computer, I am again reminded how time goes by. Yesterday, I was able to get up without help and maybe I will tomorrow, but just 10 years ago I was able to not only get up, but I could run if I had to. I don’t think I remember how to run now! You may have to show me how that is done again! While you’re at it show me how to hop!
AS TIME GOES BY I have noticed how my heart is comforted! As time goes by I realize my anger has softened! As time goes by, the taste of home is more pleasant and as time goes by the smells are less fragrant, and sometimes, fleeting. Age comes softly as time goes by!
HAVE YOU noticed that the man you married is walking a little more stooped and his walk is not as sure as it used to be? Have you noticed that his smile is just for you and the gleam in his eye brightens your day? God planned that we should grow old together! The plan doesn’t always work for many; but for Jim and me it is still working. We still walk hand in hand, even though we know the day is quickly fading, as time goes by.
CHRISTIAN take your God seriously! Wake up and smell the roses! Don’t you know that your time is just a puff of smoke? “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 Knowing God’s will is to “Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength and mind; second to this is to love your neighbor as yourself!” Luke 25:27 You can do this, as time goes by! Give it a try!
CHRISTIAN if we do this, everything else will fall into place! Love is the first fruit in the list of the fruits of the Spirit. With the Holy Spirit within us, how is it we go wrong? Are you waiting for the Spirit to move you? He did that when you accepted Jesus and were baptized. He convicted you; now it is your move! It is time for you to give the Spirit the go ahead and become the person God has created you to be, before too much more time goes by!
“BE STRONG, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!” Psalms 31:24 In Revelation 1:3d it says; “for the time is near!” Jesus is talking about reading the book of Revelation. I say, time is of the essence! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 9/11/11
MANY of my young friends went on to school and became teachers, lawyers and educated in whatever field they were looking toward. I wanted to become a missionary but was encouraged by my pastor to because a missionary close to home. He felt that a Christian young woman in the work place was the field I should go into. And so I did! I became a clerk in an office, later a secretary and low and behold a bookkeeper; me, who had failed general math in my freshman year and had to retake it, in my senior year. I became a bookkeeper! Go figure!
AS TIME went by, I was married and became a mother! I probably could have failed at that but I had a husband who was a father before his time. He did not help to deliver my babies, as young men do today; but he delivered my children from me, by helping in every possible way. He bathed them, fed them, dressed them, rocked them to sleep. In the middle of the night; he would get up with them; “just one more time!” I was a stay at home Mom and he was a working Dad. But when I would say; “Jim, just one more time?” He would!
AS I SIT HERE at the computer, I am again reminded how time goes by. Yesterday, I was able to get up without help and maybe I will tomorrow, but just 10 years ago I was able to not only get up, but I could run if I had to. I don’t think I remember how to run now! You may have to show me how that is done again! While you’re at it show me how to hop!
AS TIME GOES BY I have noticed how my heart is comforted! As time goes by I realize my anger has softened! As time goes by, the taste of home is more pleasant and as time goes by the smells are less fragrant, and sometimes, fleeting. Age comes softly as time goes by!
HAVE YOU noticed that the man you married is walking a little more stooped and his walk is not as sure as it used to be? Have you noticed that his smile is just for you and the gleam in his eye brightens your day? God planned that we should grow old together! The plan doesn’t always work for many; but for Jim and me it is still working. We still walk hand in hand, even though we know the day is quickly fading, as time goes by.
CHRISTIAN take your God seriously! Wake up and smell the roses! Don’t you know that your time is just a puff of smoke? “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 Knowing God’s will is to “Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength and mind; second to this is to love your neighbor as yourself!” Luke 25:27 You can do this, as time goes by! Give it a try!
CHRISTIAN if we do this, everything else will fall into place! Love is the first fruit in the list of the fruits of the Spirit. With the Holy Spirit within us, how is it we go wrong? Are you waiting for the Spirit to move you? He did that when you accepted Jesus and were baptized. He convicted you; now it is your move! It is time for you to give the Spirit the go ahead and become the person God has created you to be, before too much more time goes by!
“BE STRONG, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!” Psalms 31:24 In Revelation 1:3d it says; “for the time is near!” Jesus is talking about reading the book of Revelation. I say, time is of the essence! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 9/11/11
Thursday, September 8, 2011
THE TOWERS! 9/11/11 Composed by Jim Crenshaw
A LION was prowling the earth one day, seeking someone to devour.
His attention was caught as he passed our way, in the shadow of the twin towers.
THOSE TOWERS, he thought, represent the nation, that was founded on the law of God.
So I’ll bring them down, on all the people around, and they’ll know where Satan has trod.
THE 737 was his weapon of choice, and those that flew them, were filled with hate.
Their targets were the towers that stood so tall, and the crash ,would seal their fate.
THERE WAS fire and smoke and blood and tears when the towers hit the ground.
And the devil danced in glee, and pranced, through the rubble of America’s town.
THEY WOUNDED us again, that very same day, as they struck the Pentagon.
And the devil screamed out his terrible hate, as he thought, that he had won.
BUT THERE was trouble on the next,737, that set the devil’s plans back.
“Let’s roll” was the cry in the passengers cabin, as American people struck back.
SATAN TREMBLED, when he saw the Sleeping Giant wake up, and he retreated in fury and fear. When God’s people resisted, he could do no more, than turn and run away from here.
IN THE ten years since, that evil event, Al Qaeda has wondered; “What happened?”
They’re on the run and Osama is done, and their organization is flattened.
SO LOOK UP Church to the Head of yourself, and know, that He’s still there.
Our commander in chief still calls the shots; He is, beyond compare.
NO FEAR Christian, He’s in your corner, where He promised to be; always.
So trust in the Lord and know He loves you, and He will, for all of your days.
Note: Jim writes his poems as “say a song” and plays along on his guitar. If you are a guitar player then say this poem and play along using (D) (A7) (Somewhere along (G) back to (D) (A7) chords....He thinks it would sound better playing in the minor chords but he doesn’t know how. If you remember Johnnie Cash and his style, you will get the hang of a “say a song!” Have fun and remember 9/11
His attention was caught as he passed our way, in the shadow of the twin towers.
THOSE TOWERS, he thought, represent the nation, that was founded on the law of God.
So I’ll bring them down, on all the people around, and they’ll know where Satan has trod.
THE 737 was his weapon of choice, and those that flew them, were filled with hate.
Their targets were the towers that stood so tall, and the crash ,would seal their fate.
THERE WAS fire and smoke and blood and tears when the towers hit the ground.
And the devil danced in glee, and pranced, through the rubble of America’s town.
THEY WOUNDED us again, that very same day, as they struck the Pentagon.
And the devil screamed out his terrible hate, as he thought, that he had won.
BUT THERE was trouble on the next,737, that set the devil’s plans back.
“Let’s roll” was the cry in the passengers cabin, as American people struck back.
SATAN TREMBLED, when he saw the Sleeping Giant wake up, and he retreated in fury and fear. When God’s people resisted, he could do no more, than turn and run away from here.
IN THE ten years since, that evil event, Al Qaeda has wondered; “What happened?”
They’re on the run and Osama is done, and their organization is flattened.
SO LOOK UP Church to the Head of yourself, and know, that He’s still there.
Our commander in chief still calls the shots; He is, beyond compare.
NO FEAR Christian, He’s in your corner, where He promised to be; always.
So trust in the Lord and know He loves you, and He will, for all of your days.
Note: Jim writes his poems as “say a song” and plays along on his guitar. If you are a guitar player then say this poem and play along using (D) (A7) (Somewhere along (G) back to (D) (A7) chords....He thinks it would sound better playing in the minor chords but he doesn’t know how. If you remember Johnnie Cash and his style, you will get the hang of a “say a song!” Have fun and remember 9/11
Sunday, September 4, 2011
LABOR DAY 9/4/11
LIFE IN the fast lane gives us the first weekend in September
off to celebrate the first Monday in September. This year that Monday is tomorrow; September 5th! For some, it is a celebration denoting the end of summer and the last camping out hurrah; for others it is an occasion for parties, parades and athletic events. But actually it is to celebrate the economic and social achievements of the American workforce.
IT ALL BEGAN in the later part of the 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. For the Labor Union movement, this day gave credence to their strengths and contributions to the prosperity and well being of the American workers. For the most part, the Union began as a good thing for the common laborer. But in the long haul, it has become a chatelaine around our necks. Looking at today’s spread sheet, gives me this viewpoint!
AMERICA has been, indeed an economic success story until about the last decade or so. Because of inflation more money has been needed to keep up with the cost of living. Because of the financial burden of wars and rumors of wars; and the banking system encouraging more and more debt, the national treasure began to print more money to satisfy the bellies of the coffers.
I GREW UP in a low income household! I remember my brother Lloyd fixing lunch for us kids. Sometimes it was just tomatoes; sometimes potatoes; and then there was bread, spread with mustard, and sugar sprinkled on top. I think we became healthy, wealthy and wise! Use up what is in the cupboard before worrying about when you have enough to refill the cupboard.
YOU AND I have lived during the most successful period in America’s history. When Congress got involved with the financial bargaining table; the seller’s market, with rinky dink homes, began to sell beyond a reasonable housing market. The buyer, who should beware, began to buy far beyond their means! This was made possible because Congress encouraged the banks to give loans on outrageously priced properties and those of substandard quality, whether credit was good or not! Banks agreed, jumping upon this profit building scheme. Then foreclosures; repossessions by the hundreds and bankruptcies, became an everyday event. In the end, it all crashed! The stock market suffers and our pockets are close to being empty.
“TAKE COURAGE, all you people of the land, says the Lord; work, for I am with you, says the Lord of hosts, according to the promise that I made you when you came out of Egypt. My Spirit abides among you; fear not. For thus says the Lord of hosts; Once again, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land; and I will shake all nations, so that the treasures of all the nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with splendor says the Lord of hosts. The silver and gold is mine, says the Lord of hosts.” Haggai 2:4b-7 God was talking through Haggai to the leaders of that day. This was a prophecy of political upheavals and earthquakes that would be used by God to accomplish His purposes. The earthly confusion would be evidence, that God was preparing to act.
WHEN I READ THIS, I couldn’t help but think of our world today. I couldn’t put aside the idea that if we would seek His face and turn from our wicked ways as is stated in 2nd Chronicles 7:14, that God would truly save our world from this economical disaster. However, Haggai is not talking about external splendor as much as he is referring to the spiritual glory that would abound when Jesus Himself, began to preach His gospel. Celebrating our labor of Love for our Lord, would be more in line for a celebration on Labor Day than to give glory to our sinking economy. My choice is; “Labor day of Love”! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/27/11
off to celebrate the first Monday in September. This year that Monday is tomorrow; September 5th! For some, it is a celebration denoting the end of summer and the last camping out hurrah; for others it is an occasion for parties, parades and athletic events. But actually it is to celebrate the economic and social achievements of the American workforce.
IT ALL BEGAN in the later part of the 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. For the Labor Union movement, this day gave credence to their strengths and contributions to the prosperity and well being of the American workers. For the most part, the Union began as a good thing for the common laborer. But in the long haul, it has become a chatelaine around our necks. Looking at today’s spread sheet, gives me this viewpoint!
AMERICA has been, indeed an economic success story until about the last decade or so. Because of inflation more money has been needed to keep up with the cost of living. Because of the financial burden of wars and rumors of wars; and the banking system encouraging more and more debt, the national treasure began to print more money to satisfy the bellies of the coffers.
I GREW UP in a low income household! I remember my brother Lloyd fixing lunch for us kids. Sometimes it was just tomatoes; sometimes potatoes; and then there was bread, spread with mustard, and sugar sprinkled on top. I think we became healthy, wealthy and wise! Use up what is in the cupboard before worrying about when you have enough to refill the cupboard.
YOU AND I have lived during the most successful period in America’s history. When Congress got involved with the financial bargaining table; the seller’s market, with rinky dink homes, began to sell beyond a reasonable housing market. The buyer, who should beware, began to buy far beyond their means! This was made possible because Congress encouraged the banks to give loans on outrageously priced properties and those of substandard quality, whether credit was good or not! Banks agreed, jumping upon this profit building scheme. Then foreclosures; repossessions by the hundreds and bankruptcies, became an everyday event. In the end, it all crashed! The stock market suffers and our pockets are close to being empty.
“TAKE COURAGE, all you people of the land, says the Lord; work, for I am with you, says the Lord of hosts, according to the promise that I made you when you came out of Egypt. My Spirit abides among you; fear not. For thus says the Lord of hosts; Once again, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land; and I will shake all nations, so that the treasures of all the nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with splendor says the Lord of hosts. The silver and gold is mine, says the Lord of hosts.” Haggai 2:4b-7 God was talking through Haggai to the leaders of that day. This was a prophecy of political upheavals and earthquakes that would be used by God to accomplish His purposes. The earthly confusion would be evidence, that God was preparing to act.
WHEN I READ THIS, I couldn’t help but think of our world today. I couldn’t put aside the idea that if we would seek His face and turn from our wicked ways as is stated in 2nd Chronicles 7:14, that God would truly save our world from this economical disaster. However, Haggai is not talking about external splendor as much as he is referring to the spiritual glory that would abound when Jesus Himself, began to preach His gospel. Celebrating our labor of Love for our Lord, would be more in line for a celebration on Labor Day than to give glory to our sinking economy. My choice is; “Labor day of Love”! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 8/27/11
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