The Gate for the Sheep

Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. — John 10:7, 9-10

Do you think Jesus had to say this again because His followers weren't listening?

That happens to me at times.

I have to read a Scripture passage several times because I get distracted and lose focus.

But Jesus has patience with us and repeats the Word again, helping us understand.

Explaining the parables to His disciples who didn't get them.

And to me, when I'm not getting them either.

When we wander off, He brings us back into the fold.

And He opens the gate for us, His sheep, to enter eternal life.

Rejoice!

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! — Philippians 4:4

It's not always easy to rejoise in today's crazy world.

But God's mercy and grace give us a reason to rejoice in Him each day.

From His beautiful creation to each amazing moment He blesses our lives with, He shows His mighty power.

And His love radiates from other Christians around us.

Surrounding us with comfort and hope even when we're despairing.

Filling us with joy to face each new day.

Rejoice in the Lord!

 

Jesus Lay Down His Life

 The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. — John 10:17

Jesus loves me and gave His life for me.

He lay down His life and took it up again.

He came alive again and now lives in heaven.

Saturday I walked Lake Hodges with some friends.

This was the scenery.

What a beautiful day!

Jesus Died and Rose Again

We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. — 1 Thessalonians 4:14

Jesus is our Savior.

He died and rose again for us.

So we believe that God will bring us with Jesus.

And God will bring with Jesus those who have died in Him.

One day we will live in heaven with our Savior.

In the meantime, we will tell others about Him so they, too, can join us there.

 

Rejoice!

 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! — Philippians 4:4

Today Kirk and I celebrate 36 years of marriage.

It has flown by.

God has blessed us through the ups and downs — mostly ups.

He has surrounded us by family and friends for support and guidance. 

And He gave us models of Christian parenting in our own parents.

Here we are at our 35th Anniversary party, put together by our wonderful daughter.

And celebrated with friends, neighbors, and family.

What a fun day.

Rejoice in the Lord!