Between the Pipes

Our friend David Shantz was recently assigned to the Rochester Americans, the AHL affiliate that the Florida Panthers share with the Buffalo Sabres.


Last night Shantzy shone in net as the Amerks defeated the Syracuse Crunch for the second night in a row...in overtime. David stopped about 35 shots in a stellar effort.


CONGRATULATIONS, dear friend! We're praying for you.


The Buffalo Sabres sent another ex-Pete Patrick Kaleta (pictured)down to Rochester recently. Another former Pete, Mark Flood is with Syracuse.


All the best...my friends! I'm praying for each of you!

Carrying On the Legacy

Many of you will recall the e-mails and posts I wrote concerning my friend Chuck Obremski. This servant of the Lord went "home" on September 18th, 2005 after a valiant battle with cancer.

His wife Linda continues to carry the torch for Jesus Christ. I get the prayer updates from the church which Chuck pastored, Kindred Community Church. In the latest edition this picture of Linda and her responsibilities was highlighted.

God bless you Linda as you press on towards the prize! We love you!

Slide Screen Saver

Here's a photo I took of my computer screen this evening.

I made a slide show using a program found at www.slide.com It's a great idea because you can sort your photos according to themes and make slide shows accordingly. This one is made up of pictures concerning Epistle Sports Ministries , the charitable organization I founded back in 1975.

The slide show can be used as a screen saver after you've collated all the photos you wish to use. Great idea!

Watch for further collages of my photos that I've made into slide shows and screen savers.

Have a great weekend!!!

Thirteen Things

Thirteen Things about DAVID FISHER that your probably didn't know...or want to know. 1. Back in the 70's I spent time in prison with a hockey player who went on to be a future Hall of Famer with the Detroit Red Wings. E-mail me and I will let you know who it was. And...in case I've got you worried, we were at the prison one evening as special guests at an athletic awards banquet for the prisoners. I'll give the answer...it was Steve Yzerman! 2. I wear size 13 shoes (or boats as some friends call them). 3. I love cats. 4. In November I'll celebrate my 2nd anniversary as a blogger and by then I'll have made over 1,000 posts. 5. Between Carol and me we put over 300,000 kms. on each of our last two vehicles. They were both 2001 Chrysler products. 6. I've personally prayed with Jim Cymbala at the Brooklyn Tabernacle. 7. My favorite ice cream flavor is pralines and cream. 8. Diane Sawyer once came to hear me preach. Maybe you already knew that because I posted it once...I think. 9. I started out in ministry in my early 20's conducting Kids Krusades in small towns that couldn't afford "big name" childrens' evangelists. 10. I helped to conduct hockey coach Roger Neilson's funeral. 11. I have a library of over 3,000 volumes. 12. I love Greek salad with lots of black olives and feta cheese. 13. If I could spend a day with any singer (presently alive) it would be Rodney Griffin of Greater Vision.

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I'm Blessed Beyond Measure

I've found myself getting frustrated the last few days as I've been confined (almost) to the house with this intravenous tube hanging out of my arm. I can't begin to count the number of times I've caught that tubing on cupboard drawer handles, doorknobs and various & sundry other things.

During the night I have to hook the pump up to a battery charger and each time I go to the "you know what", I have to disconnect everything and the charger makes a loud beep. Annoying!

What God is giving me during this time is a brand new appreciation of what my dear niece Holly must be going through as she is confined to her bed at the Lyndhurst Hospital in Toronto. He has to be hoisted into her wheelchair. She is still behind in her rehab because the deep wound on her backside is very slow healing. I can barely imagine what this young lady must be going through. The terrible accident took place near the end of June so she has been bedridden for three months. How does she do it? I can certainly understand any anger she must have as she lays there day after day.

I was reminded of an old poem this morning as I was thinking of Holly.

Here it is:

Today upon a bus I saw a girl with golden hair.
She seemed so gay, I envied her and wished that I were half so fair.
I watched her as she rose to leave and saw her hobble down the aisle;
She had one leg and wore a crutch; but as she passed...a smile.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two legs and the world is mine.

Later on I bought some sweets. The boy who sold them had such charm, I thought I'd stop and talk awhile.
If I were late, 'twould be no harm. And as we talked he said, "Thank you, sir. You've really been so kind.
It's nice to talk to folks like you because you see, I'm blind."
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two eyes and the world is mine.

Later walking down the street, I met a boy with eyes so blue;
But he stood and watched the others play...it seemed he knew not what to do.
I paused, and then I said, "Why don't you join the others, dear?"
But he looked straight ahead without a word, and then I knew, he couldn't hear.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two ears and the world is mine.

Two legs to take me where I go; two eyes to see the sunset's glow;
Two ears to hear all that I should know.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I'm blest indeed...this world is mine! - Grover C. Gouber

And when I think of Holly there, confined to bed, with many a care,
Oh, God forgive me when I whine, I'm blest indeed, JESUS is mine!

Note: Please continue to keep Holly in your prayers. Thanks so much!

"Eternal God, cradle Holly in your everlasting arms right now. Speak peace to her troubled heart. Touch her aching body with your healing power. Holy Spirit, remind Holly that Jesus is present in her room, lovingly watching over her. Thank You for Your ways which are beyond our understanding. You know the "whys" we struggle with and You have the plans and purposes of our lives mapped out. Assure Holly of your never-ending, unconditional love right now. We praise You for what You will do...in Jesus' strong and mighty name. AMEN!"

Nice Wallpaper, Nice Game

While browsing the Ottawa Senators' web site this evening I found some new desktop wallpaper for your computer screen.

This one looks looks especially attractive. I think I'll use it for awhile.

And, by the way, as I write this post, Mike has scored one goal and picked up two assists so far in the Sens' game in Toronto against their biggest rival, the Leafs.

Go Sens Go!

Update: The Sens added another goal to defeat the Leafs 5-3 last night.

Here's a line from the CBC report:

"The Senators put the game away at 15:27 of the third when Fisher fed a gorgeous pass to Dean McAmmond who beat Tellqvist on a breakaway with a pretty backhander."

Bold type is mine. - Uncle David

Great Song For Pilgrims

My friend Paul Mackay posted the following lyrics on his Just Rambling blog and dedicated them to me. Both Paul and I have suffered from a couple of bouts of cellulitis, we love Southern Gospel music and we have lots of other things in common. By the way, we're both skinny guys too. Oops, I stretched the truth.

These lyrics are excellent for pilgrims like me and you. Enjoy them!

A Haven Called Heaven

I’ve journeyed a lifetime, in search of a city
A haven of rest, for my tired soul
By faith I have seen it, just o’er the Horizon
From all I can tell, it sure looks like Home!

Verse 2

The winds of temptation will not blow against me
The rains of defeat, won’t beat on my face
I’ll not run for shelter, I’ll be safe forever
For nothing can harm me, there in that place!

Chorus:

There’s a Haven Called Heaven, a place for the weary!
Where those with a burden, can lay down their load;
I will rest from my labor, in the arms of my Savior,
In that Haven Called Heaven, at the end of the road.

I will rest from my labor, in the arms of my Savior,
In that Haven Called Heaven, at the end of the road.

Greater Vision Speck(tacular)

My dear friend Paul Mackay of the Just Rambling blog brought me back the long-awaited DVD "Celebration at First Baptist Atlanta" from the National Quartet Convention last week.

Wow! I wasn't disappointed. The Specks (a trio...see picture) begin the concert at Dr. Stanley's church in Atlanta. Then Greater Vision (the best male trio in the world) sing a number of selections.

On the last few numbers the two groups join together for a Grand Finale. Their anointed medley of "Who Am I/He Came To Me/O What a Saviour" will move you. If it doesn't, "your wood is wet" as George Younce of the Cathedrals used to say.

What an incredible concert and to top it off, my favorite pianist, Stan Whitmire, is at the grand piano adding his special touch!

If you love Southern Gospel music, you'll want to have this DVD. If you don't love this style of music, "please, get a life".

Seriously, it's great music and will lead your heart in worship into the presence of the King.

AMEN!

From the Edge of the Canyon

Mitzi Smith, a writer and friend, penned the following words that need to be passed along. ENJOY...and take hold of the Father's hand today!

FROM THE EDGE OF THE CANYON

I look from the edge of the canyon and see,
The hand of the Father reaching for me.
Reaching and drawing and beckoning come near,
Dispensing peace while dispelling all fear.

I look from the edge of my heartache and see,
The hand of the Father reaching for me.
Wiping away all the pain and the tears,
Restoring to me all of my lost years.

I look from the edge of the desert and see,
The hand of the Father reaching for me.
Providing refreshment for my parched soul,
Filling me deeply, and making me whole.

I look from the start of a vision and see,
The hand of My Father reaching for me.
Wanting to show me what is really real,
As the journey’s purpose is becoming so clear.

I look from the start of my dreams to see,
The hand of My Father reaching for me.
In the Land of the Living, the blessings I see,
Were always intended to satisfy me.

Here We Go Again

Walking around with my intravneous pumping into my veins, I got thinking about my first bout with cellulitis last Christmas. I checked my blogging archives to see if I had posted anything concerning this. Here's what I found:

David's Health Update...As I mentioned in an earlier update, I've spent much of the last week in the hospital. Carol took me back in to Emergency early Thursday morning. The doctors determined that I have cellulitis of the skin (around my face) and treated me agressively with antibiotics intravenously. They admitted me Thursday morning and I was able to come home yesterday (Saturday) around noon. I'll continue to take the antibiotics for another week. Thanks for your prayers over the next few days. I'm still very weak and tired.While laying on my hospital bed the other morning the Lord gave me a brief poem of praise. I was grateful for the protection of God's angelic hosts who attend to Christian believers in our time of need. Here are the lyrics:

Holy, Holy, Almighty God
Enthroned in glorious splendor on high;
From whence He gives His angels charge
To guard and keep us in all our ways,
For this we offer our endless praise
For this we offer our endless praise.

The other night while lying in the hallway at the hospital I wrote another short poem of praise. Unfortunately I didn't write it down when I got home and I've forgotten it.

The truth remains, "He giveth me songs in the night." Thank You Father!

UPDATE: Even as I was writing this "post" the words came back that the Lord had given me. Here they are:

"O the joy of loving Jesus,
O what peace His name affords;
Songs of vic'try, songs of glory
Flow from me in mighty chords.

Holy, holy, Lord of glory,
Worthy, worthy, is the Lamb;
I will ever tell the story
Of the mighty, great I AM."

Join me tonight in giving Him praise. He is certainly worthy! AMEN!

Fall Beauty...God's Design

Thanks to Debra (As I See It Now) for this beautiful fall picture. Need I say more?

Yes, I MUST say more. God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things and He has done all things well.

There, I've said it!

AMEN?

Sick Fish With A Pump

Greetings, blogging friends and my other nine or ten readers who drop by occasionally.

On Thursday evening I knew I was coming down with something. I was lethargic and didn't feel like going to the Peterborough Petes' home opener. On Friday I went to the office but I was a "zombie". Just ask my colleague David Kennedy. After picking up the kids at school in the afternoon I went home and went straight to bed. On Saturday we had planned on attending a Blue Jays' game but those plans fell by the wayside.

By Saturday evening I was suspecting another bout with cellulitis so Carol insisted on taking me to the hospital. I'm glad she did. The doctor verified that it was cellulitis in my head (I had a bout with this last Christmas when I was hospitalized) and gave me some antibiotics intravenously. He let me go home but I was back for more IV on Sunday morning.

They have prescribed home care where a nurse comes in every morning for 5 days to change the bag of medication. I carry around my meds which are continually running into my arm intravenously. A computerized pump which I carry around in a little pouch constantly sends the fluid into my veins.

I've been exhausted for several days now and continue to sleep much of the time.

Thanks for your prayers, dear friends! I'll keep you posted on how this "pumped up" blogger is doing.

Time for bed again. Sweet dreams!

Every Eye Shall See Him

While driving the kids to school yesterday I saw a most unusual hot air balloon above the city of Peterborough. I told Victoria that Mr. Peanut was high above the crowd. She thought I was "nuts" because she had just seen the ReMax hot air balloon getting ready to launch. She couldn't understand why I thought the ReMax red, white and blue "above the crowd" balloon looked like a peanut. Then she saw what I was talking about!

My good friend Paul Mackay captured the friendly nut on camera as he drifted across our city. He's one of Paul's shot. For more pix, check out his Just Rambling blog.

I was reminded of the day when Christ will appear in the clouds in all His glory. Are you ready for His coming? Do you have that "blessed hope" of the soon return of our Saviour?

"Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of Him." - Revelation 1:7

Holy Rollers

One of the highlights at the International Ploughing (or Plowing) Match was watching the Logging Sports activities. There was pole climbing, log rolling, jousting, cross-saw cutting contests, etc. There was a "hole" filled with water for the log rollers to land in if they fell. Thus...the holy rollers.

Hopefully I'm going back tomorrow to see the things I missed on Tuesday.

Bucket or Spoon?

Recently I've had several cases of memory loss. I had an MRI to check this out and they found nothing, absolutely NOTHING.

Carol has been concerned about my mental health so she booked an appointment with a doctor at our local mental health hospital.

As part of our session I was given a test. Dr. M. T. Tubbs took me into the bathroom where the bathtub was filled with water. He posed a simple question and I was quick to respond. It was a no-brainer. "What would you use to empty this tub, a bucket, a tea cup or a spoon?" A bucket, of course.

The doc quickly began making arrangements to have me committed. "Most sane people would just pull the plug. Do you want a bed beside a window?"

PLEASE COME AND VISIT ME!!!

Checkin' the Bus

Good morning, blogging buddies. Some of you are in Australia, some in Texas, some in Illinois, Manitoba, California, Welland (ON) and several right here in Peterborough. Often it's hard to get some of those local yokels to stay "regular". Brodie and Di...oops, I didn't mean to center you out.

Anyhow, Julie is getting pretty good about posting regularly. This morning I teased her about my alarm clock, her diesel bus which she fires up around 8:00 a.m. to get 'er ready for the morning pick-ups. Her bus doesn't really wake me up when I'm at work (Christian Horizons) but it's fun to tease.

After starting 'er up, Julie does her morning check up. Mmmmmmmm. Sounds like a good topic for a new "post", eh Julie.

There...I've set the table for you. Now you can bring on the spiritual food, my friend.

Check Sweet Inspirations for a few thoughts on morning check-ups.

Phone Phish Is No Phoney

Here's a shot of my nephew and favorite NHL player, Mike Fisher, taking a call from his uncle David or from one of his many friends, family or fans. I got this photo from the Training Camp Gallery on the Senators' site.

Mike is sitting in the Baton Rouge Restaurant in Kanata having lunch. If you've never checked out the ribs at a Baton Rouge restaurant you better find one near you and pay them a visit. I've eaten in the Kanata location, the one in the Eaton's Centre in Toronto and the one on Leslie Avenue just off the 404 north of Toronto.

Mmmmmmmmmm good!

P. S. Nice goal against the Leafs last night, Mike!

A Veritable Feast

Walk into my work office and you’re confronted with shelves of books. What’s on top of the shelves? More books? (see photo) Need to visit the restroom? You’ll find, you guessed it, books.

The same thing at home. Books piled beside our bed. Just ask Carol. When the pile gets too high she carries them down to my basement office where the majority of my volumes are stacked. Books everywhere!

So what’s my point? I’ll pick up a book when I’m going out for lunch for some spiritual nourishment. I’ll take one along if I’m anticipating a long line-up somewhere (like at Tim Horton’s).

Yes, there’s a veritable feast of good food in those books, a smorgasbord of rich truth…in most of them at least.

This morning I took along a book of 140 meditations by John Piper entitled “Taste and See” when I went up the street for coffee and toast.

I just “happened” to flip to a devotional entitled, “Thank God For Diaries, Journals, and Biographies”. Piper echoes my feelings precisely.

He writes, “Oh, the refreshing, liberating, exhilarating experience of living for several days with the saints in another century!” He goes on to write about David Brainerd’s expulsion from college over something he said in passing about one of the faculty who, according to Brainerd, “had no more grace than a chair.”

Brainerd never married, battled loneliness and depression and writes, “my heart sometimes was ready to sink with the thought of my work, and going alone into the wilderness. I knew not where.”

Looking back over his work with North American Indians, Brainerd writes, “I have little appearance of success to comfort me…I have taken many considerable journeys…and yet God has never suffered one of my bones to be broken…though I have often been exposed to cold and hunger in the wilderness…have frequently been lost in the woods…Blessed be God that has preserved me.”

Piper writes, “Why is David Brainerd so encouraging to me? Because God took this pain-wracked, moody, lonely, compulsive, struggling young lover of God and used him to lead several hundred Indians to eternal glory, to spark the founding of Princeton and Dartmouth colleges and to inflame two hundred years of missionaries with his radically dedicated four-year missionary life. William Carey had Brainerd’s “Life” with him in Indian; Henry Martyn in Persia; Robert M’Cheyne in Scotland; David Livingstone in Africa; and Jim Elliot in Ecuador. And I venture to say that none of this would have come about without his heartbreaking expulsion from college. Oh let us sing, brothers and sisters:

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense
But trust Him for His grace
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face.”

What encouragement I received as I picked up this treasure from my “veritable feast” of books this morning! What a challenge to give all to Him is spite of my misgivings, my lack of education, my shortcomings, my besetting sins!

And I would have missed these nuggets of truth had I not had a variety of books scattered around my work place.

What are you reading these days? Is the Word of God still # 1? Are you feasting on the riches of His grace?

What a veritable feast!

Notes:

1. Piper’s book, Taste and See, is published by Multnomah Publishers (1999, 2005) and can be ordered at your local Christian bookstore. The 140 meditations are short yet insightful and challenging.

2. The “Life” that is refered to here is Jonathan Edwards’ “The Life of David Brainerd, The Works of Jonathan Edwards” vol. 7. Norman Pettit, ed., Yale University Press (1985)

3. The hymn quoted is “God Moves In A Mysterious Way” by William Cowper.

4. David Brainerd was only twenty-nine years old when God called him home. Robert Murray M’Cheyne was the same age when his life on earth ended.

Standing Alone

Have you ever felt like you were standing alone? I'm sure you have! We all experience that frightening scenario at one point or another.

This photo on Saija's Thro' A Glass Darkly blog reminded me of a time in my life when I took a stand and felt like I was all alone "out in left field".

Even as Christian pilgrims we can go through times when it seems like we're the only one that feels the way we do about an issue.

During those dark, lonely times we have to ascertain, from the Scriptures, that we made the right decision and then be willing to stand alone knowing that a sovereign, holy God is there by our side. Enter into the truth of Jesus' statement when He said, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20) He meant it and it's true!

Transformation

This should be the desire and prayer of every believing Christian...that we would be transformed by the renewing of our minds. (Romans 12:1,2)

For much too long many of us have "checked our minds at the door" rather than engaging in the pursuit of God's truth.

Ploughs 'n' Washboards

NOTE: Here we go again! When I added this post the pictures were there. Sometimes when I go to check it out there are some there and others are appearing. What is happening with BLOGGER? Rather than erasing those annoying squares with a red X in them I'll wait and hopefully the pix will miraculously return.

One other thing...do you spell PLOUGH this way or this way...PLOW?

This year's International Ploughing Match is being held near Keene, ON just outside Peterborough. The tent city is set up on a farm there and exhibits stretch for acres and acres.

The grades 6 & 8 classes from Rhema Christian School went by bus to the ploughing match today. The competition doesn't start until tomorrow but there was lots to see. I'd like to go back again because you just couldn't see it all in a few hours.

There were logging competitions (see photos) lots of enternainment (see pictures of Washboard Hank, my cousin). He plays just about every instrument imaginable...the washboard, the fallopian tuba (kitchen sink), harmonica, horn, kazoo, guitar, banjo, etc.

It was a great day and Matthew (pictured) was pretty tired when we headed for home.

If you live anywhere near Peterborough, make every attempt to attend.

Monday Madness From Cindy

Thanks to Cindy at Notes in the Key of Life for this "meme" whatever that means:

And just for fun...Monday Madness!

1. How do you eat an oreo cookie? I take it in my hand then put it in my mouth.

2. How long does it take you to eat lunch? If I'm alone, 10 minutes. If I'm with a friend, an hour.

3. Caffeine or decaf? Caffeine of course.

4. Chicken or beef? Always chicken if I have a choice. I'd rather be afraid of something than always complaining.

5. Pen or pencil? Pen for sure! I hate pencils. I press so hard they either break or get worn down after 20 words.

6. Autumn or spring? I like both but I like what comes after spring better than what comes after fall so I'll take spring.

7. Baseball or basketball? I like watching baseball but I enjoy playing basketball more.

8. 'Survivor' or 'The Amazing Race?' - Neither!

9. Come up with one question I can ask our Monday Madness participants in the weeks to come. - Where would you rather browse? Bookstore or shopping mall?

THANKS, Cindy!

And...how are David Fisher and a ship with a hole in it alike? They are both "listing". Sick eh! By the way, "eh" is a Canajun word.

No Comment From the Fish

Dear Blogging Buddies:

Just a note of clarification...

Since going to BLOGGER beta I've been unable to post COMMENTS on blogs that aren't configured to the BLOGGER beta format.

I continue to read your posts every day and would often like to comment on them but I can't.

Be encouraged as you continue to share God's love, grace and faithfulness through this effective means of communication...blogging through cyberspace.

We'll never know 'til we get home just how much our "scribblings" have touched other lives.

Your friend,

David

Five Things I'd Do

I don't have a clue what the definition of a "meme" is but it's a buzz word amongst bloggers. Maybe it has something to do with making lists and getting others to do the same. Maybe not. Who knows?

Anyhow I love "lists". It's one of those things that makes me wierd in some people's eyes and unique in other's minds. After viewing this incredible picture on Saija's Thro' A Glass Darkly blog, I thought of this heading:

FIVE THINGS I'D DO (if money was not a problem):

1. I'd make sure that the ministries and missionaries who mean a lot to us would never have to struggle financially.

2. I'd finally fly to England to visit the sights there, especially those pertaining to people like George Muller, William Cowper, Charles Spurgeon, John Newton, the Wesleys, etc.

3. I'd take our kids out of school for a year, rent a mobile home and travel throughout Canada and the U.S.A., visiting friends and checking out the sights we've never seen.

4. I'd give generously to medical agencies to speed up research to find cures for cancer and other debilitating diseases.

5. I'd build a library like the one in Saija's picture and buy the necessary books to fill it.

What about you? List five (5) things you'd do if money wasn't a factor. Go ahead. I'm anxious to read the responses. So are my 10 readers.

Have a great week!

Breaking Through the Fog

Early Saturday morning I had to fight the fog that blanketed our area as I headed off to Guelph, Ontario. The sun was trying to break through the overcast sky. I didn't have my camera handy so I asked our granddaughter Victoria to take a picture as I was pulling out of our driveway.

In our hurried lives it often seems like we're in a fog. We don't see clearly. Vision is blurred. Perception is off-kilter. We're tired, run-down and weary. In the midst of our our "fuzziness" the Son attempts to break through to get our attention. Depending on where we're at spiritually we could miss hearing His voice or not even recognize His face.

Is the Son trying to break through the fog of your life these days? Ask Him to clear away the things that hide His face and let Him have control.

"He'll shout the vict'ry, Break through the blue;
Some golden daybreak, For me, for you."

Photo by Victoria Milligan - September 16/06

The Demands of the Cross

This morning in our communion service we were encouraged to think of the challenge that accompanies our viewing of the cross of Christ. As we think of what the cross really means and what it meant for God to give up His Son, how should our lives be impacted?

Two verses of a hymn by Isaac Watts came to mind...the verse half of the first verse and the last half of the last...

"When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died;

Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all."

Driving home I saw the following personalized license plate:

E Z 2 C Y I O

Think about it...What message was the driver of this new, expensive truck trying to convey?

In like manner, when we look at the cross it should be easy for us to see why we owe so much. Christ gave His all at no cost to us. What should our response be? We owe Him so much. We could never repay Him. He doesn't ask us to. He has extended grace so rich and free.

Can't we give Him our soul, our life, our all?

Robber of the Cruel Streets

Today I posted a couple of new items on my George Muller site. Have you visited it yet? Be sure you drop by. George Muller impacted my life in many ways.

This week I ordered a copy of a new DVD entitled Robber of the Cruel Streets. It is a depiction of George Muller's life of trust in an all-sufficient Christ.

As soon as I receive my copy I'll view, review and pass along my comments. As you might imagine, I can't wait until it arrives.

Mr. Muller insisted that he didn't have "the gift of faith" any more than other believers. He just took God at His Word.

Are you? Am I?

Book Launch

Well, dear dummies, oops, I mean friends, my new book PILGRIM SCRIBBLINGS FOR FRIENDS is finally published and will be launched some day before I die, I hope.

Here's a picture of it at least. The cover is ready, the contents are being worked on.

To design your own "Dummies" book, click here:

Where True Joys Are Found

We miss out on so much when we fail to avail ourselves of some of the written prayers found in books like the Anglican "The Book of Common Prayer". We are often so afraid of liturgy and ritual that we rob ourselves of the beauty and meaningfulness of much that has been written for our edification. Strong words from one who is deeply rooted in the brethren assemblies...

Here's a prayer that I stumbled across recently. Note the majesty and devotion...

"Almighty God, You alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant Your people grace to love what You command and desire what You promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. AMEN." - The Book of Common Prayer

Roaring Waters

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble...though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High...be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." - Psalm 46:1,3,4,10

Photo by David W. Fisher

Be Quiet

Just found the following poem/verse in an Elisabeth Elliot newsletter:

Be quiet, why this anxious heed

About thy tangled ways?

God knows them all, He giveth speed,

And He allows delays.

- E.W.

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in His way." - Psalm 37:23 (KJV)

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The Great Unknown

This sometimes frightening experience we call daily living can, at the same time, be exciting and downright scary. Venturing into the "great unknown" can be debilitating.

Our existence is often strewn with unknowns, those chapters in the book of life that add suspense and drama to the finished product.

I've never known the terror of living without a Guide to walk me through those dark nights, those paths littered with the debri of broken promises and shattered dreams. With Christ in my life since I was a young child, I've, to some degree, been able to place my hand in His nailed-scarred hands and let Him lead into those dark, shadowy places. That's not to say I've never been scared. I'm at a cross-roads in life as I pen these words. What lies ahead is unknown but, as William Carey once said, "The future is as bright as the promises of God."

I'm amazed that people in this day and age continue to walk independently, stating that they don't need anything to do with God in their lives. How can they have any measure of peace?

My prayer:

"Father, teach those of us who have met You, through Your Son Jesus, to be brave and be strong, knowing that the Lord our God is with us. May the realities that accompanied our salvation when we first believed be realized and entered in to as we walk this pilgrim pathway. As we enter unknown, virgin territory today, tomorrow or next week, remind us that we never walk alone. Guide us O Thou Great Jehovah, pilgrims in this barren land. Father, make us instruments of Your peace, agents of redemption and reconciliation, lighthouses in our neighborhoods, shining lights who radiate Your love. May those who have never met You see Christ in us. Use us in spite of our brokenness and imperfections. Take us to our desired haven at Your right hand, but until then, may we sense Your abiding presence in the midst of the storm. Thank You for leading us "home" through Jesus Christ our Lord and Master! AMEN!"

Note: I took this photo yesterday as Matthew and I walked along a nature trail close to our home. The opening into the "great unknown" almost looked like a circle of light and I had to start clicking.

What A Day!

Yesterday afternoon Matthew and I hiked on an area nature trail, went to scenic, nearby Burleigh Falls then came back to Peterborough to feed the ducks at Little Lake in the center of town.

The weather was perfect and being out in God's playground was exhilarating. Here's a shot I took with my ever-present camera.

Have a great week, dear friends and keep looking to Jesus, the "Pioneer and Perfecter of our faith" as the RSV rendition of Hebrews 12:2 states.

Lest We Forget

The following post appeared on Vicki's Windows to My Soul blog:


September 11: Praying & Remembering

"I know I can't change the tragedy of September 11 or even those who caused it. Ultimately, I can be responsible only for my own choices. The Bible says that God causes all things to work together for good—not that everything is good, but He will work it for good—to those who love God…We choose to trust God and follow his desire for our lives, He promises to work everything for good to us both now and in the future."

~ Lisa Beamer, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Heroic Choices, The Todd M. Beamer Foundation and widow of flight 93 hero, Todd Beamer.

" My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." ~ Lamentations 3:20-23, ESV

A Shot Of The Moon

Another great night for moon shots out here in the country. I took this shot about an hour ago. This is my last post (do I hear a trumpet) for the day.

The moon is shining brightly and God is staying awake all night so why should I?

Have a good and godly weekend as Woodrow Kroll from the Back to the Bible Broadcast would say!

My Desktop and My Mentor

Just thought you might want to see what my desktop (at work) and my desktop (on my computer) look like.
I certainly enjoy writing, reading, praying, studying and blogging (of course) from this office. Come and see me some time!

It's my own personal retreat centre and it's especially enjoyable when my mentor, Paul Collet, comes to visit. Paul came by yesterday and took me out for lunch. He is my only male connection to my wonderful childhood years at McDonnel Street Gospel Hall. Paul's son Dennis was a good friend who I lost touch with for about 40 years. Dennis moved to British Columbia many years ago but we've been re-united again over the last few years. Paul's claim to fame...he loves Jesus passionately and it's contagious when you've around him.

Thanks, Paul, for your love, support and encouragement over these many years. I love you, dear brother!

A Mother's Prayer

A praying mother led me to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ on a Sunday morning in Toronto when I was six (6) years old. I'll forever be grateful for godly, praying parents. The story of Hudson Taylor's salvation is heartwarming and encouraging. - David


J. Hudson Taylor 1832-1905

The beginning of it all was a quiet hour among his father’s books, when young Hudson Taylor sought something to interest him. His mother was away from home and the boy was missing her. The house seemed empty, so he took the story he found to a favorite corner in the old warehouse, thinking he would read it as long as it did not get prosy.

Many miles away, the mother was specially burdened that Saturday afternoon about her only son. Leaving her friends she went alone to plead with God for his salvation. Hour after hour passed while that mother was still upon her knees, until her heart was flooded with a joyful assurance that her prayers were heard and answered.

The boy was reading, meanwhile, the booklet he had picked up, and as the story merged into something more serious he was arrested by the words: “The finished work of Christ.” Who can explain the mystery of the Holy Spirit’s working? Truth long familiar, though neglected, came back to mind and heart.

“Why does the writer use those words?” he questioned. “Why does he not say, ’the atoning or propitiatory work of Christ'?”

Immediately, It is finished shone out as in letters of light. Finished? What was finished?

“A full and perfect atonement for sin,” his heart replied. “The debt was paid by the great Substitute. 'Christ died for our sins,' and 'not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.'”

Then came the thought with startling clearness, “If the whole work is finished, the whole debt paid, what is there left for me to do?”

The one, the only answer took possession of his soul: “There was nothing in the world for me to do save to fall upon my knees and accepting this Savior and His salvation to praise Him for evermore.”

Old doubts and fears were gone. The reality of the wonderful experience we call conversion filled him with peace and joy. New life came with that simple acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ, for to “as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” And great was the change that new life brought.

Longing to share his new-found joy with his mother, he was the first to welcome her on her return.

"I know, my boy, I know,” she said with her arms about him. “I have been rejoicing for a fortnight in the glad news you have to tell.” (Howard, Spiritual Secret 16-18)

Turnips

Today I read the following from an old newsletter issued by Elisabeth Elliot. She quotes the famous British cricketer, C. T. Studd, who gave up the sport to heed God's call to World Missions.

Studd said, "What God wants is hot hearts. Any old turnip will do for a head."

What will it be? Your heart or just your head?

The Unforced Rhythms of Grace

This morning I read the following passage from Matthew's gospel from Eugene Peterson's rendition in The Message. What a glorious invitation from the Prince of Glory to submit to His loving care!

Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message)

The Message (MSG)
Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson



"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

NOTE: Check out the "post" entitled Peterson's Choice of Words. It appears earlier on my blog but it was written after I posted this one. Don't ask me why! Sometimes I can't figure out what's going on with BLOGGER.

Despairing Darkness

A friend is presently going through a Dark Night of the Soul. This dear brother is a godly man whose life has refreshed me time and time again. I can identify with his pain. I've been there! I've wallowed in the slough of despair. I've pounded those ceilings of brass with my prayers and dodged them as they bounced back.

Perhaps you are experiencing one of those deep valleys. As I went through my archives this evening I found the following "post" which I wrote some time ago. I trust that you will sense God's loving embrace as you fall into His everlasting arms. He will carry you through!

A SUGGESTION...Have you ever checked the PILGRIM SCRIBBLINGS archives? With 900 "posts" over the last 21 months, there's likely something that will bless and encourage you. CHECK THEM OUT!

Here's that post:

Fear
Pain
Panic
Terror
Shaking
Hot Sweats
Desperation
Cold Sweats
Apprehension
Introspection
Uncertainty
Trembling
Heartache
Insomnia
Anxiety
Horror
Dread
Guilt

The Alternative . . .


“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, O Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.” – Psalm 4:8 (KJV)


Perfect Peace

Courtesy of Diana Johnson's Scrapbook - Check out her web site at: www.cedarchest.blogspot.com
Eternal God, give us Your perfect peace as we face uncertain days (and nights). Give us the assurance that we are firmly ensconced and safely sequestered in Your everlasting arms. In the strong name of Jesus, I pray! AMEN!