Endure

 2020.

Every year 2019 and before, when someone mentioned 2020, it was in in regards to vision.

• Someone has 2020 vision (present tense)
• Hindsight is 202 (looking back).

But it has always been about bringing clarity. Well, almost 8 months done of 12 in 2020 and clarity is the last thing any of us have. 

• Fires - Australia and California
• COVID-19 - GLOBAL PANDEMIC
• Riots and Looting - Global again, mainly in the USA though
• BLM, ANTIFA - terrorist organizations on American soil
• Election 2020 - Biden vs. Trump
• Mask mandates
• Q, Anon, - Conspiracy theorist or truth?
• Hurricanes - Marco and Laura in the Gulf of Mexico at the same time. Laura was a category 4 hurricane, and got close to being a 5.

If 2020 has taught any of us anything, is that we have absolutely zero control over anything. As a Christian, I know this. But I am human, I have flesh, and this flesh has control issues. So this year has been stressful for me.

But, looking back (see what I did there), the last few years have been rough. Specifically the last three years have been hard, on a personal level. Job changes, hardships in my marriage, a miscarriage, fincial uncertainties. 

In my last post, I shared how we were bracing for Hurricane Laura. By the grace of God, we didn't even get a drop of rain. Louisiana on the other hand, devastated completely. The timing of it all, another God thing. Three years ago we braced for and dealt with Hurricane Harvey.  Seeing the memories on Facebook - it felt like the rain would never end, and it gave me a new and greater appreciation for Noah and his family on the ark. Speaking of timing...a pastor I listen to and study is J.D. Farag out of Hawaii. His mid week sermon yesterday was titled: In His Time (Sermon LINK) It's a great one! I highly encourage you to take an hour and listen, process, and take to heart what Pastor Farag has to say.

It was a great reminder that EVERYTHING is in God's time. To be honest, I am over "it". It being the chaos, the riots, the lectures, the shut downs, the mask mandates, the trying to explain to my children everything that is going. Thankfully, I have my faith. And by reading scriptures, listening to sermons, studying God's word - I am at peace that I do not understand everything. What I do know is this.

Matthew 24:13 (KJV)

13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Jesus calls believers to endure to the end. To not give up. And what is the end? Death of the physical body, or rapture. And friends, I strongly believe that I will be raptured before this physical body of mine dies. Scripture tells us that we do not know the day or hour in which the trumpet shall sound (Scripture Link). But He did say there would be signs of the coming of the age (Luke 21:25-26). 

Thinking on everything that has occurred in the last three years, I ponder on all that the Church has gone through. The falling aways, the natural disasters, the financial and economic upheavals, the pure evil witnessed on a global level (beheading, child kidnappings, sexual slavery). And I am reminded about the plagues on Egypt from Exodus 7-12. I don't remember when I "found" this out, but I know I did not always know the following:

• 10 plagues
• The first 3, not only impacted the Egyptians, but also the Israelite's.
• The remaining 7 were on the Egyptians alone.

The first three plagues, were as Anne Graham Lotz said in series on Joel, were nuisance plagues. They made life uncomfortable. I just realized, it was 2015 when I started listening to Anne Graham Lotz when I learned this. And she is right. They got the Israelite's attention. The remaining plagues devastated every part of life for the Egyptians. 

Friends, I see the 10 plagues as an Old Testament picture of the Tribulation. Now, hear me out. 

Yes, the Tribulation is 7 years. And I believe each of the plagues that came upon Egypt represents the 7 years of sorrow on the nations that brings Israel back to their God. What about the first 3 plagues/ 3 years? Well, if 2020 is the year that the church is Raptured (I am not date setting - just thinking things out), then the last three years have been getting the attention of the Church. Pastor Farag here recently said he thinks that God is making everything so uncomfortable here on earth that we LOONG for His return in a way like we have never before. Friends, this is me. I love my family, my husband, my children, the life we have. But the world? The chaos? Uncertainty? The riots? Destruction? I am over it and want FAR AWAY from it. So much, that with each new story coming out, I look to Heaven and ask "when Lord?" 

What if the trumpet does not sound in 2020?

Hold tight friends. That means that things are going to get worse here on earth. That is why Jesus told us to endure to the end. He knew it would be hard, but for those of who do endure? Oh sweet reward! To hear:

Matthew 25:22-24 (NASB)

22 “Also the one who had received the two talents came up and said, ‘Master, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more talents.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’

There is no great reward for a believer in Christ than to hear our Lord and Savior say those words to us. So lets endure. Let's cling tight to our faith, study the Word, share the Gospel, and give what we are able to the brethen.

I want to end my post with sharing how to be saved if by chance anyone reading this post does not know Jesus.

This is from Pastor J.D. Farag's church website, but it explains saving salvation so well. ABC_Salvation

If you are unsure of your salvation, reach out to a Bible Believing and Teaching church, message me, find someone you know who saved. Do not delay. Remember, we do not know the day or hour, but the rapture will occur in the twinkling of an eye.

Prepare: The Storm is Coming

A storm is coming.

Literally, we are preparing for soon Hurricane Laura. Within the next 24 hours we will have possible category 3 or 4 strength winds, and a storm surge. Thankfully Marco did not become an event for us late last week. But let me tell you, 2 storm systems hitting area at one times screams "birth pains" to me - and many other fellow believers.

We have prepped as well as we can. We have supplies, we have brought the plants and toys into the garage. We have boards on the ready to put on the windows if we need to. And we have a plan on where to go if we lose power. 

Thanks to technology we knew the storm could be an issue as far back as August 16th - 9 days ago. That is amazing - we saw it form off the coast of Africa and have been able to keep an eye on it, take steps to be ready, and now here we are. 

In light of current world events and all that is going on I want to draw a parallel to another storm.One that will last 7 years. Friends, the Time of Jacob's trouble is soon. And all people, who have rejected Jesus, or not accepted Him fully will face a time unlike any other. I want us to consider Habakkuk 1:5 (NASB):

“Look among the nations! Observe!

Be astonished! Wonder!

Because I am doing something in your days—

You would not believe if you were told.

I have been blessed to study the Bible via the Precept Upon Precept style for a good 5 years now. Started off in the Book of Revelation, then moved onto the Kings and Prophet Series. That has included 1 & 2 Kings/Chronicles, and many of the minor prophets books. The past few weeks we have study the 3 chapter book of Habakkuk, 56 verses. And wow, what a book. I have enjoyed studying prophecy because many times there was a near application and a future application. Habakkuk is such a book. Habakkuk was disgusted with the wickedness in Judea, and called out to the Lord. These 56 verses are the conversation the prophet had with the LORD, the LORD's response and the warning for us all. What God told Habakkuk was to happen was so astonishing, that even being told, he, Habakkuk would not believe it. God used a pagan nation to bring about judgement on His people, to turn their hearts back to Him. And what a pagan nation it was. The Chaldeans, which were Babylonians. They were their own idol, boasted in their own strength, seemed to have supernatural abilities, 100% deplorable, cannibalism, and pure wickedness towards those who they overtook. 

So back to the storms....Because of modern technology we are not being caught unaware by Hurricane Laura. 120 years ago, the storm of 1900 hit Galveston, TX. 100 people died. It has been described as the worst storm in American History. Back then people didn't know they were in a hurricane until after it hit and destroyed their lives.

Whether you like weathermen or not, they do play an important role in our lives. One that I watch made an observation the other day that was enlightening. 

"For everyone complaining about changes in the forecast for Marco, keep in mind today’s 5-Day forecast is as accurate as a 1-Day forecast in 1980. Let that sink in. We’ve come a long way."

As time has gone on, our warnings have become more accurate, and more timely. We have more time to prepare.

Friends, God's word has done the same. The Bible is filled with the warnings of what will happen on and to the earth before the Tribulation. Jesus gave us a warning in Matthew 24.

Matthew 24

The Beginning of the Birth Pangs

Jesus left the Temple and went away. As he did so, his disciples came and pointed out the Temple buildings to him. 2 ‘Yes,’ he said, ‘and you see all these things? I’m telling you the truth: not one stone will be left standing upon another. All of them will be thrown down.’

3 As he was sitting on the Mount of Olives, his disciples came to him privately.

‘Tell us,’ they said, ‘when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that you are going to appear as king, and that the end of the age is upon us?’

4 ‘Watch out,’ replied Jesus. ‘Don’t let anyone deceive you. 5 You see, there will be several who will come along, using my name, telling you “I’m the Messiah!” They will fool lots of people. 6 You’re going to hear about wars, actual wars and rumoured ones; make sure you don’t get alarmed. This has got to happen, but it doesn’t mean the end is coming yet. 7 Nations will rise against one another, and kingdoms against each other. There will be famines and earthquakes here and there. 8 All this is just the start of the birthpangs.

9 ‘Then they will hand you over to be tortured, and they will kill you. You will be hated by all nations because of my name. 10 Then several will find the going too hard, and they will betray each other and hate each other. 11 Many false prophets will arise, and they will deceive plenty of people. 12 And because lawlessness will be on the increase, many will find their love growing cold. 13 But the one who lasts out to the end will be delivered. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom must be announced to the whole world, as a witness to all the nations. Then the end will come.’

The Desolating Sacrilege

15 ‘So when you see “the sacrilege that desolates”, as Daniel the prophet put it, “standing in the holy place” (the reader should understand), 16 then those who are in Judaea should take to their heels and run to the mountains. 17 If you’re up on your roof, don’t go down into the house to get things out. 18 If you’re in the fields, don’t go back to pick up your cloak. 19 It’s going to be terrible for pregnant and nursing women during those days. 20 Pray that it won’t be winter when you have to run away, or for that matter a sabbath. 21 Yes: there’s going to be such great suffering then as has never been since the start of the world until now – no, and won’t ever be again. 22 And if those days had not been shortened, nobody at all would have been rescued. But for the sake of God’s chosen ones those days will be shortened.

23 ‘Then if anyone says to you, “Look! Here is the Messiah!” or “Look! There he is!”, don’t believe them. 24 False messiahs will arise, you see, and false prophets too. They will provide great signs and portents, so as to deceive even God’s chosen ones, if that were possible. 25 Remember, I’m telling you this beforehand!

26 ‘So if someone says to you, “Look! He’s out in the wilderness”, don’t go out. If they say, “Look, he’s in the inner room”, don’t believe them. 27 You see, the royal appearing of the son of man will be like the lightning that comes from the East and flashes across to the West. 28 Where the carcass is, there the vultures will gather.’

The Coming of the Son of Man

29 ‘Straight away,’ Jesus continued, ‘after the suffering that those days will bring,

The sun will turn to darkness,

and the moon won’t give its light;

the stars will fall from heaven,

and the powers of heaven will shake.

30 ‘And then the sign of the son of man will appear in heaven; then all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see “the son of man coming on the clouds of heaven” with power and great glory. 31 He will send off his messengers with a great trumpet-blast, and they will collect his chosen ones from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

32 ‘Learn the hidden meaning from the fig tree. When its branch begins to sprout, and to push out its leaves, then you know that summer is nearly there. 33 So with you: when you see all these things, you will know that it is near, at the very gates. 34 I’m telling you the truth: this generation won’t be gone before all these things happen. 35 Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never, ever disappear.’

The Unexpected Coming

36 ‘Nobody knows what day or time this will happen,’ Jesus went on. ‘The angels in heaven don’t know it, and nor does the son; only the father knows. 37 You see, the royal appearing of the son of man will be like the days of Noah.

38 ‘What does that mean? Well, in those days, before the flood, they were eating and drinking, they were getting married and giving children in marriage, right up to the day when Noah went into the ark. 39 They didn’t know about it until the flood came and swept them all away. That’s what it’ll be like at the royal appearing of the son of man.

40 ‘On that day there will be two people working in the field. One will be taken, the other will be left. 41 There will be two women grinding corn in the mill. One will be taken, the other will be left.

42 ‘So keep alert! You don’t know what day your master will come. 43 But bear this in mind: if the householder had known what time of night the burglar was going to come, he would have stayed awake and wouldn’t have let his house get broken into. 44 So you too must be ready! The son of man is coming at a time you don’t expect.’

The Wise and Wicked Slaves

45 ‘So,’ Jesus went on, ‘who then is the trustworthy and sensible slave, the one the master will set over his household, so that he will give them their meals at the right time? 46 Blessings on the servant whom the master, when he comes, finds doing just that. 47 I’m telling you the truth: he’ll promote him to be over all his belongings. 48 But if the wicked slave says in his heart, “My master’s taking his time”, 49 and starts to beat the other slaves, and to feast and drink with the drunkards, 50 the master of that slave will come on a day he doesn’t expect, and at a time he doesn’t know. 51 He will cut him in two, and put him along with the hypocrites, where people will weep and grind their teeth.’

I will finish by saying, we are running out of time to prepare for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. What are you doing to ensure that as many can will be caught up from the wrath to come? Let the urgency you have prepared your home be mimicked in your kingdom work. As you reached out to the elderly you know to see if they needed supplies, or boards put on their windows - seek them out and ask them if they have a personal relationship with Jesus.

We know, roughly, when the storm will hit us tomorrow. None of know when Jesus will return. We have signs, and we need to be ready. Stay safe friends. Be secure in Jesus.

God and Government Authority

I heard an amazing sermon last week on God and Government Authority.

Pastor Nathan Cothen is the Pastor for Calvary Baptist Church in Beaumont, TX - just a short one hour drive from where I live. I listen to him most afternoons on my way home, local station 100.7 FM. He preaches God's word, and in unapologetic about it.  He is one of my favorite pastors to listen to these days.

Their Day in Court - Sermon Audio

If you are able, please listen to the sermon. Below are my notes that I took when I had a chance to re-listen. 

Their Day in Court

Acts 4:13-22

Trouble: Government says "No" and we say "Yes" to GOD

What are believers to do when the laws of the state are in conflict with the laws of God?

Acts 4:13-22 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Threat and Release

13 Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus. 

14 And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they had nothing to say in reply. 

15 But when they had ordered them to leave the Council, they began to confer with one another, 

16 saying, “What shall we do with these men? For the fact that a noteworthy miracle has taken place through them is apparent to all who live in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 

17 But so that it will not spread any further among the people, let us warn them to speak no longer to any man in this name.” 

18 And when they had summoned them, they commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 

19 But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; 

20 for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” 

21 When they had threatened them further, they let them go (finding no basis on which to punish them) on account of the people, because they were all glorifying God for what had happened; 

22 for the man was more than forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.

Guilty - Peter and John

• healing a cripple (a miracle)
• speaking truth

Charges not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus.

Jesus to Pilate, night before crucifixion - "You would have no authority over me if it were not given to you from above."

Natural Revelation - everyone deep in their heart knows there is a God (Romans 1).

Nobody who thinks he is a god wants to hear about sin.

Verdict - The Sanhedrin wanted to kill Peter and John but too many were watching. So for the time, told them to shut up.

PROBLEM - Sanhedrin told them to stop preaching about Jesus, and Jesus told them to preach Jesus no matter what!

Romans 13:1-7 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Be Subject to Government

13 Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 

2 Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

3 For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same;

4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. 

5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. 

6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. 

7 Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

How do we deal with when God says one thing and man says another?

• Does God put in place irreligious governments? Yes. He uses even those who do not bow to Him, as agents of restraint and unregenerate men to keep some semblance of order in the world.

God & Government Authority

What ranks what place? Is the state above authority? No. GOD is!

3 Categories:

1.Agreement
        When everyone agrees.

        Even in non-Christian societies, have some general guidelines (Hindu, Communist, etc) they all say on "paper" - 

            - murder is wrong

            - rape is bad

            - lying is an offense (sworn in at court)

Remember - all truth is God's truth.

John 14:6 - "Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me."

On the BIG stuff, there is generally agreement, no problem, all on the same page.

2. Aggravation

        Not Morally or Biblically wrong, just irritate you.

            - IRS - take your money and do not ask you waht should be done with it.

                     - we may disagree with them and their policies - it is not immoral or Biblically wrong - so                         we all pay our taxes

            - Motor Cycle vs. Car

                    - in a motor cycle

                        no helmet

                        no doors

                        no seat belt

                    Perfectly Legal

                    - in a car - roughly 6,000 pounds can get a ticket for not wearing a seat-belt

3. Abomination

• God says one thing and government says another. 
• 2 sub types
• Gov. says "yes" & we (Christians) say "No"
• i.e. 1973 ROE v. Wade
• Prior to this God and Gov. said no to abortion.
• If there is any good news, when evil people are allowed to do evil things, and we says no, they cannot flog us, put us in jail, or kill us.

Where we run into trouble is when...

• Gov says "no" and we say "yes to God.
• God said to do it, not only did He say to do it, but we are under compulsion to do it.

What then?

3 answers

1. Obey God - Don't even need to pray it. When the two are in conflict, we are going to obey God.
2. Accept what comes (man up!) (don't organize an army)
1. Peter was in jail twice.
1. 1 time freed
2. 2nd time crucified

Why was it God's will to miraculously free him one time, an angel escorting him out of the city and next time he goes in, its God's will for him to be crucified?

What do both of these have in common?

Glorifying God

• Enhance the reputation of Jesus Christ
• and we as believers in Jesus Christ signed on the dotted line that we no longer live but die to ourselves and live for Jesus Christ.

Pastor Cothen -

"I don't mind dying for Christ, its the flogging. Dying for Christ is relatively easy, being in prison for heat speech, which is three (3) things away from happening in this country. Me being in prison, for hate crimes ir right around the corner. Hate speech . If you have any grit, you too."

Do what the original disciples did - we suffer.

    3. Watch

            Do you know what did Saul in? Holy Spirit was bringing a number of things against him. But, at the end of Chapter 7 of Acts, "stoning Stephen, to death, in total innocence, they laid their clothing at the feet of the man named Saul, who had told them to do it.

You know what breaks people inside? Watching innocent people suffer, unless you are a total mental case, it will break you watching innocent people suffer, because of your corruption. It is what turned the Roman Empires into the Christian world order. He'll do it again, but He has to have people ready to man up, and do what He says, which is obey Him and accept whatever comes and watch because what God chooses to do with it - that is His business.

Romans 8:28 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

When we follow "obey, accept, watch & know" we may be delivered on this side or in heaven. His will, will be accomplished and we will hear....

Matthew 25:23 New King James Version (NKJV)

23 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’

And that is what it means to be a Christian.

Sermons To Watch Concerning Pentacost

Dear friends,

I hope you will take the time to watch these 3 videos. Brother Chad reveals some connections in scripture that I find very enlightening.

And in light of what the world is going through currently, I found tremendous peace as his outlined the scritpures. Please read his disclaimer before watching.

J.S.

Disclaimer: I am not saying the rapture of the Church will occur this year in 2020 ( it very well could), and I am not saying the rapture of the Church must occur on the Feast of Pentecost. This is simply a study. However out of all 7 feasts of the Lord...I believe Pentecost without a doubt paints one of the most beautiful pictures of the pre tribulation rapture of the Church. This year on the Gregorian Calendar Pentecost falls on Sunday, May 31, 2020. Other calendars have it in late May- early June time frame.

The way you should live your life is in constant expectation as if today could be the day Jesus comes for His Church...but at the same time occupying if it's years from now ( I believe Jesus is at the door ). Keep watching with me. Keep looking up! Jesus is coming soon!

Video #1

Video #2

Video #3

The Battle Line Has Been Drawn

If you still watch/read the news, and are a believer waiting for the trumpet call....you know that the battle line has been drawn in the sand. My news feed contains the following stories these days:

Day Care Provider Who Hanged Toddler Sentenced
Is Israel Headed for Another War
81 Year Old Man Wearing MAGA Hat Assaulted
Dems Block Born Alive Bill to Provide Medical Care to Infants Who Survive Failed Abortions
Theybies: Some Parents Raising Their Babies Gender Neutral
Anti-Abortion Movie Gets R Rating: MPAA claims decision isn't politically motivated
Couple Sues Planned Parenthood for Child Support after Failed Abortion
Measles Outbreak

With these eight headlines we have the following:

• People killing children
• War
• Hatred/violence towards an individual for their political beliefs
• Healthcare being denied to babies who survive abortion
• Parent's denying God's ordained gender
• An Anti-abortion movie being rated R - a 15 y/o can get an abortion w/o consent of a parent but cannot watch a movie against abortion unless a parent watches with them
• A toddler's parents are suing for child support because the child survived an abortion, and now the parents want money to help raise the child they did not want.
• Measles - basically eliminated now it has made a comeback. 

And honestly, even more and more stories just as horrific have popped up in my feed since I started typing this post. Mother's throwing their children off balconies, drunk drivers plowing into a grocery cart with a toddler (who died from the injuries), infanticide, LGBTQ movement pushed, transgender drag queens reading to kids in libraries.

Friends, the hour is near. The time is approaching, soon the trumpet will sound. But until then, the world is going to get uglier, more depraved, and horrific. Nothing is "off-limits" anymore, except speaking out against the depravity of sin that is being paraded about in the news, the court houses, and dare I say the churches.

The past few weeks have been so disheartening to my faith and my heart. The stories above...the fact that humanity is so depraved is not new. There is nothing new under the sun. I think what is shocking to myself and so many others is how brazenly sin/debauchery/pure evil is being promoted, displayed, paraded, and applauded. The fact that people are openly and publicly mocking God, not even shaking their fist at Him...its so much more. It is as if people are living and doing all they can to deny Him, punish those who serve Him, and...I can't put it into words. But what they are doing....its bad friends, it is bad.

But not bad enough. Because if it were enough, the trumpet would have already sounded. Which means in the weeks and months (I can't dare to think it could go on for years) to come, our world is going to fall further into this pit of brokenness and lawlessness. As horrified as we are with the news stories these days...they will get worse.

Satan is in his heyday currently. He is unrestrained. There is no other answer simply put. He has touched everything. He is in our churches. Let that sink in! If you do not believe me lets consider the following two stories that have been in the news:

Pope Sex Abuse Summit

Purity Ring Vagina Sculpture

For years, bit by bit news stories have come out about priest abusing children within the Catholic church. But here recently, it came out that even nun's were being abused by priest. The Pope was silent for a good long while, but he did finally speak out. Many parishioners within the Catholic faith are still not happy with the new proposals to fix this issue, or the fact that it took so long for information to come out. Woe unto these priests, the day of accountability before the LORD is a day they need to fear.

This second story....I use the word "church" lightly because well, lets be honest, if this "lady" truly was leading a biblical church...well that is part of the problem. there are many groups claiming them and their groups are churches, that they are representing Jesus. Friends, be careful! This lady is not promoting the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ or His teachings. That sculpture is an idol. Have we forgotten the 10 commandments? Have we forgotten what happened to Israel in the wilderness when they made the golden calf? (And don't get me started on the awards show The Oscars!).

But I want to get to the "bottom" of these stories, and the rest. Satan is going after our children. That is the final battlefield my friends. He has us adults arguing about border walls, immigration, we are distracted by gay marriage, and bakers/accountants being sued for not wanting to violate their beliefs, we are distracted by outrageous property taxes, and the national debt. We are also distracted by our TV shows and our cell phones. And our children...they are being left alone. And so the world is teaching them, is giving them attention. Satan is going after our children, and not many of us are standing up against him. We are not praying hard enough.

You ask what proof do I have of this? Look at the stories I listed above.

Infanticide - if a mother chooses to abort her child, and the child survives, that baby has no protections. The mother and doctor can decide to kill it even though the first attempt failed.

A toddler was hung by his care provider. HUNG!

Parents are raising their children as gender neutral - letting the child decide what gender they want to identify as - totally disregarding God's design, plan, and intention. 

Parents are suing Planned Parenthood for child support because the abortion they received failed. Can you imagine what that poor child will one day experience? Hearing about the case, googling his family name and seeing that his parents did not want him? I can only imagine the life that the child is living currently. Speaking of Planned Parenthood, did you see this article:

Progressive Church Plans to Open a Brewery and Donate Proceeds to Planned Parenthood

Again, I use the word church lightly in this scenario. Because a church teaching the Jesus of the Bible would not be doing this.

If you need further proof that Satan is running amok and going after our children, let me introduce you to Annie Christ.

That is not a typo, this gentleman's name is Annie Christ. Does he think he is being cute with his play on words? This man, dresses as a woman, and apparently has put on some vulgar shows for other adults, but also reads stories to little children. And not secretly! The parents willingly allowed their children to participate. 

Drag Queen Story Hour

I watched a video recently suggesting the Transgender Movement is demonically based. Looking at these pictures.....I cannot find an argument against this assessment. What I also see is an individual doing all they can to denounce God.

Okay, so you are thinking, "Well, I would never allow my child to go to such an event, we attend a church that teaches God word, we are good. Satan can't get to my children." If your children are in public school, or if you live in Minnesota - wrong. 

Abraham Lincoln

16th President

“The philosophy of the school

room in one generation will be

the philosophy of the

government in the next.”

I recently attended a convention and heard a session on the LGBTQ Movement and how it is being pushed in public schools. Here are some of the notes:

Where Did this Battle Unfold?

•Nova Classical Academy, St. Paul Minnesota

• K-12 Charter school – high academic and spiritual standards

• Excellent partnership with parents

• Parents on school board

• Fall, 2015 New Kindergarten Student Enrolled

• Gender nonconforming student – liked girl things

• To prepare students, ALL were read the book, My Princess Boy by Cheryl Kilodavis

• About her son, Dyson who loved 

Response from Parents

•Pushed back

• Exposing children to these strange gender concepts

• School Board indicated book not approved for use

Results

• Parents, Dave and Hannah Edwards - accused school of failing to protect their child’s “choices”

• Lawyers for Edwards soon involved

• Next school board meeting

• Packed with LGBT advocacy group,

Transforming Families and Gender Justice

• Transgender kids talked about “bullying”

• Protesting parents called “bigots” 

Results

• February, 2016, father demanded gender inclusion policy

• School board delayed

• Edward’s boy pulled from school

• Discrimination complaint submitted to Department of Human Rights

• Result: June 2017, Edwards family won lawsuit

• Required ‘gender inclusion policy’ for school

**FYI, Dave Edwards represents and is a trainer for Welcoming Schools, a LGBT Human Rights Campaign group

Ask yourself, "Was this a test case?"

Outcome for ALL Minnesota Schools

• Implementation through Minnesota’s Department of Education Gender Toolkit for staff training

• Nondiscriminatory dialogue and activities

• Choose own name AND clothes

• He and she removed from classroom

• Called students and scholars

• No boys basketball, No boy scouts

• No girl scouts, No girls volleyball

• Staff training required for gender inclusion

• Families could not opt out of policy

What’s missing in all of this?

• Forces everyone else to change

**Your beliefs/rights and opinions as parents don’t count

**Your choice doesn’t matter

• Where’s the inclusiveness for opposing beliefs?

• 0.6% controlling 99.4%

Want to see what they are using in classrooms to appeal to our children?

Unicorns. Usually seen as an image/idea of purity and innocence, being corrupted by Satan to confuse our children. Folks, this hits home for me. For Valentine's I worked with my 6 year old to make a unicorn box. We had so much fun, even though we argued about flower placement. I even had a shirt made to match! Then the very next day I learned about the Gender Unicorn. I am not going to get rid of the box or the shirt. But, in our household we will stay away from unicorns. If this is going to be the accepted image of the gender issue, we are going to get away from it.

Not too long ago an article came out, that in California they are gong to start teaching children about the 15 genders there now are. Did you know there were 15 genders? My Bible says there are two:

Genesis 1:27 (NASB)

27 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

California Wants to Teach Kindergartners There are 15 Genders

Folks...our children are under attack. No where is safe. We cannot live in fear, but we need to pray. We need to cover our children in prayer. We need to know who their friends are, who we are leaving them with (church/sports groups), what they are watching/listening to, we need to be involved. Put your cell phone downs, turn the TV off, and get praying! Jesus has warned us:

Matthew 18:6  (NASB)

6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.

DISCIPLINE: Christianity & America

I like this definition of "discipline:" train oneself to do something in a controlled and habitual way:

Unfortunately, discipline is lacking from society in general, but I see it lacking more dominantly in American society and in most lives of Christians. And I am not immune from this lacking. I have become more aware of the lack of discipline in my life since being diagnosed with gestational diabetes at the beginning of July, But in reality, my awareness of started a few months prior when my OBGYN has my omit carbs from my diet. I was gaining weight a bit too quickly for my pregnancy, and reached the max weight I had gained when preggers with Abigail. 

My first step in getting my weight under control was omitting pretty much all carbs: pasta, bread, cakey sweets,etc. I was still enjoying fruits, in moderation. Basically think lazy keto. I lost weight, baby boy was still growing on target, but I was feeling and looking better. Then I failed the 1 hour glucose test. And then a few days later, I failed the 3 hour glucose test. And my life has been different every since. I had to go hard-core on the carb cutting. The dietitian didn't like that idea, but if I have carbs, my glucose levels spike out of control. I had a great conversation/meeting with the diabetic educator. She told me to try carbs,and if I could manage eating them without spiking great, if not, do what is best for Ari and I. 

So for the last 6 weeks or so, I have been essentially hard-core Keto. No fruits. Very restrictive on veggies. Plenty of meats/proteins, healthy fats, nuts, and good cheeses. Has it been easy? Heavens no! I am essentially eating the anti-American diet. I can't really eat out, unless all I want is a salad with some grilled chicken. I have to cook, meal prep is a must, and since I am eating anti-processed foods, I am going shopping every 3 or 4 days so, instead of 1 time a week. 

And at my last check up, my doctor was happy. My only level (I test 4 times a day) that has been of concern has been my fasting/wake up level. But with more research, and modifying my evening I believe I have taken the steps to get that under control. WITHOUT medication! But it has taken work, and I have to be focused. I have had to keep a good log so if my #'s spike I can figure out what I ate differently. I also live by a clock now. Eat breakfast by a certain point, make sure that I have time for lunch/testing, get in an afternoon snack, eat dinner early enough to have a snack before bed time, but it must be 30 minutes prior to bed, and finally I have to make sure there is 8 hours of fasting after that snack before I test again but before I eat breakfast. 

Its all worth it though. I am doing what is required to keep Ari healthy and myself healthy. And I want to do this as naturally as possible. I had resigned myself midweek last week that I would have to take medication to keep my fasting level in check, but thankfully, after more research I discovered the importance of a protein snack 30 minutes prior to bed. And if I can make that work every day until my my appointment this upcoming Wednesday, I think my doctor will agree. 

Going through this has been having me evaluate my spiritual life. And taking a look at the world around me. I need structure. And when precept is going on at my church, I can tell you my spiritual life is ablaze. When summer comes (and precept ends)...there is still a flame but its not blazing. I need a study, I need something requires me to dig deeper, have homework, come to class prepared. I like studies. I like having something to give my focus too. It helps me. I do well with my prayer life, and meditations, when I don't have a study to focus on. But I will admit that my Bible reading isn't as indepth during that time. But oh boy! Precept starts, I am in the word, I am checking cross references, I blog more (sorry folks, but I am being honest).

And so I have come to realize that the discipline I am exerting in my personal life for my health, I need to exert in my spiritual life. I easily read a few scriptures a day, but God's Word, it is our daily bread. It feeds our soul. Summer time fasting is not what is needed. During the heat (literally and figuratively) we need to eat as well as possible, give our bodies what it needs. And Scripture is the bread of life. We have God's word to sustain us. Yet most of us are not "eating" correctly. A verse or two a day will keep you alive. But when the storms come, the trials....your "fat" stores are going to be low, and you will not last long. But if you are going in depth into God's word, reading more and more each day, overlaying God's word with current events, studying with a passion. You will be ready for the days that are hard.

I wish this lack of discipline I see in myself was a rarity in the christian world. But I feel it is not. Overall, when you look at the world, discipline is the farthest thing from anyone's mind. Society has become about "self" and doing "what feels right." Life is about excess. Governments are taking children from parents for "disciplining," psychiatrist say that telling a child "no" will harm their belief in themselves, and there are so many more examples, just watch the mainstream media.  The word discipline is not in most people's vocabulary anymore. And unfortunately, many in the kingdom are flowing with the world. Scripture tells us this will happen.

Matthew 24:10  (NASB)

10 At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another.

1 Timothy 4:1 N (NASB)
Apostasy

4 But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons,

Discipline isn't fun. Whether it is a parent discipline a child, or a person restraining themselves from treats/pleasures. It takes work, its hard, and it can be frustrating. But there are generally long term rewards. We discipline our children so they that they learn what is right & wrong, and hopefully they will become adults who are beneficial to society, and biblicaly, they serve the LORD for His glory. I am disciplining myself with my diet so my unborn child will not be overly large, we can avoid a c-section (faster recovery for me), and eventually hopefully not have diabetes as I get older. Remember, God disciplines us too.

Hebrews 12:6 (NASB)

6 For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines,

Discipline is about love.

• we (parents) discipline our children because we love them
• we discipline ourselves with diet/exercise so we can be a better version of ourself (a type of self love - which can go to far)
• God disciplines us, because He loves us.

Discipline is about love. Not harm. And though when the LORD disciplines us it can be painful, it can be uncomfortable, in the end it is for the betterment of ourselves, and His glory. Which is our purpose in life, to bring glory to God. The world, the little "c" church, and America, for sure, all need more discipline. And now is the time, before God's discipline changes to His wrath. 

Praying for a Hard Person in the Call for Life

Do you know this woman? Do you know who she is? What her profession is?

Cecile Richards

If you are apart of the pro-life movement, or even follow it remotely, you know who she is. 
Cecile Richards. Since 2006 she has been the president of Planned Parenthood. Later this year she plans to step down from that position. Now that does sound like a reason to celebrate, especially if it meant that Planned Parenthood was finally shut down. But alas, no she is stepping down to further her ambitions as a writer. Her book, "Make Trouble," has the tag line of, "Standing Up, Speaking Out, and Finding the Courage to Lead."

I do not like who this woman is or what she "stands" for. I believe it is an absolute sign of the depravity and fallenness of this world when a woman leads an organization known for murdering millions of babies before birth. Thirteen months ago my husband and I lost a child, just weeks after finding out we had conceived. That time was hard. We cried, I yelled, I begged, I prayed, I pleaded with God - save Charli. It was not to be. Barely 3 weeks after discovering we were pregant with #3, we lost our sweet baby. And we have mourned - not always the prettiest or even the nicest, but thirteen months later, we have come out stronger together. As much as I could, I fought to save that life, that baby.

If you are friends with me personally, or follow the Facebook page for this blog (link), you know that a week ago, my husband and I found out that once again we are expecting #4. I am just barely 5 1/2 weeks pregnant, but pregnant is pregnant. Something my OB noted on the medical portal has irked me, "Very early pregnant." Maybe the hormones (which are doubling like they need to) have me sensitive, but "early" pregnant? That seems like double speak to me. I am sorry, but you are either pregnant or you are not. Not just a little pregnant or a lot pregnant. Pregnancy is an absolute. Yes you are. Or no you are not.

The woman above, she thinks, no, believes to her core, that I have every right to get rid of this child if:

• it is not convenient to have a baby right now
• to call my baby a lump of cells if the notion of aborting a "baby"is offensive
• if there is something "genetically" wrong with my fetus, by all means get rid of it
• that what I am carrying inside me isn't a baby, it is a lump of cells, or at most a fetus, but not a human being worth the dignity of having someone fight for it.

She is a mother and that baffles me to the core. How can a woman who has children fight for women to murder their own? 

I digress. I am not here to judge her, that is God's job. My job and your job is to pray for her. But not only her. She is stepping down from the butcher shop. She is going to be replaced. People have been selected to head the committee to replace her. My conviction is that her replacement will be more depraved, more inhuman than she could even imagine. Evil doesn't tame its self, evil doesn't dilute it's poison, it ramps it up. Evil spreads like cockroaches. 

Since Roe v. Wade (1973) over 50 million babies have been murdered. The blood of our land has been polluted by the murder of our young. They are crying for justice, and some day soon God will avenge them. Until then, until the Rapture, you and I need to pray. But not just for our friends, community, pastor's, loved one's. We need to pray for people like Cecile Richards and those like her. 

Matthew 5:43-48  (NASB)
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

If you are pro-life, a defender of God's creation, Satan and his ilk, those he uses for his wickedness will persecute you. Mrs. Richards was recently reported as saying, in response to President Trump wanting protections for Christians apposed to abortion who are in the medical field, she wants them to not have any protection, but be forced to give the abortions.

Brothers and Sisters, join me in prayer. We need to pray for the unborn, for the women who are at risk of manipulation of murdering their own child, pray for the individuals who are on the committee to replace Mrs. Richards, pray for her. Let heart's be changed, lives be saved. I leave you with some verses to pray for the situation at hand.

• 1 John 4:4 Dear children, you belong to God. So you have won the victory over these people, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 
• 2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen
• Proverbs 1:33-34 but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you,
• Proverbs 19:23 The fear of the LORD leads to life; one will sleep at night without danger. you and guard you from the evil one.
• Proverbs 12:21 No harm comes to the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.
• Ecclesiastes 8:5 Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure.
• Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
• Psalm 46:1-2 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
• Psalm 9:9-10 The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you.
• Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

ARTICLE: The Luther Family and the Reformation of Marriage

I love learning about church history. And today being the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther nailing his 95 thesis to the door of the church, and the fact that my ministry emphasis is marriage, coming across this article had me excited!

Please take time to read this. Marriage's under attack is not a new thing, in fact, it has been happening since the very first marriage: Adam & Eve.

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/book-review-katharina-and-martin-luther-radical-marriage

These three highlights are outstanding:

1. Marriage done God’s way is a pathway to abundant joy.

2. The home is a little church, and parenting is a holy vocation.

3. A faithful Proverbs 31 woman is not a passive, demurring wife.

Just those three statements alone, show you how wonderful marriage can be and should be. God's word is not dormant, it is alive, and His plan for us is joyous!

REVELATION: He is Coming; the 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ; The Millennial Kingdom & Beyond

Friends, the day is coming. Jesus will call the church home, and shortly after, the Tribulation will begin. 

• The 7th Bowl (Revelation 16:17-21) finishes the Wrath of God.
• And with that, Babylon (the world system and city) will be "remembered" by God (Revelation 18) - destroyed.
• Revelation 19 - there is rejoicing in Heaven (over the fall of Babylon), Jesus returns, judges the nations, and sets up His millennial kingdom.

What follows is the who and what in order starting with the return of Jesus:

• Jesus
• Descends from Heaven and returns to the earth for the 2nd time
• Matt. 24: 29, 30; 25: 31; Rev. 19: 11-13
• The armies in Heaven (The raptured Church…His bride)
• Follow Jesus on white horses as he descends to earth
• Rev. 19: 14 
• SOULS of all BELIEVERS who died before Christ was crucified
• Descend to earth with Jesus. 
• 1. Jesus resurrects their bodies from their graves, 
• 2. Jesus gives them glorified bodies, 
• 3. Jesus joins their souls with their glorified bodies, and 
• 4. They all remain on earth with Him. 
• 1 Cor. 15: 22-24; Dan. 12: 2a, 13; Rev. 20: 5b-6
• SOULS of all BELIEVERS who died during the 7 year period
• Descend to earth with Jesus. 
• 1. Jesus resurrects their bodies from their graves, 
• 2. Jesus gives them glorified bodies, 
• 3. Jesus joins their souls with their glorified bodies, and 
• 4. They all remain on earth with Him. 
• 1 Cor. 15: 22-24; Rev. 6: 9-11; 20: 4-6
• SATAN
• Cast into the Abyss for 1000 years
• Rev. 20: 1-3
• THE ANTI-CHRIST
• Cast into The Lake Of Fire (Hell)
• Dan. 7: 11, 26; Rev. 19: 20
• THE FALSE PROPHET
• Cast into The Lake Of Fire (Hell)
• Rev. 19: 20
• All LIVING JEWISH UNBELIEVERS
• 1. Gathered & Slaughtered by Jesus, 
• 2. Their BODIES are buried on earth, ashes or in the sea, 
• 3. Their SOULS descend into The Well of Departed Souls (Hades) 
• Dan. 12: 1, 7, 11-12; Matt. 24: 15-22; Zech. 13: 8; Amos 9: 8-10; Isaiah 10: 20-23; Num. 16: 30, 33;Luke 16: 22-28
• THE NATIONS (Living Gentile Unbelievers who gather for war with Satan against Jesus) 
• 1. Jesus wages war against them by TREADING THE WINE PRESS from Bosrah, through the Kidron Valley, to The Jezreel Valley (Har Magedon-Armageddon), 
• 2. Their BODIES are buried on earth, ashes or in the sea, 
• 3. Their SOULS descend into The Well of Departed Souls (Hades) 
• Isaiah 34: 1-8; 63: 1-6; Joel 3: 12-14; Rev. 16: 12-16; 14: 20; Rev. 19: 15-16; Rev. 20: 5a-6
• JESUS
• Establishes His throne in Jerusalem on the Temple Mount
• Dan. 7: 13-14; Matt. 25: 31
• JESUS
• JUDGMENT OF THE NATIONS
• Dan. 7: 9-12; Matt. 25: 32
• All LIVING GENTILE BELIEVERS
• Jesus queue's them in a line and declares them to be SHEEP
• Matt. 25: 32-40 (Sheep)
• All LIVING GENTILE UNBELIEVERS
• Jesus queue's them in a line and declares them to be GOATS
• Matt. 25: 32-33, 41-45 (Goats)
• All LIVING GENTILE UNBELIEVERS (GOATS)
• Cast ALIVE into The Lake Of Fire (Hell)
• Matt. 25: 46
• ALL LIVING JEWISH & GENTILE BELIEVERS
• Only these are left to populate the earth. 
• They NEVER die, continue to have children, and live eternally with Him 
• Matt. 25: 32-40, 46 (Gentiles) Matt.24: 31; Isaiah 11: 11-12; Zech. 13: 8-9; 8: 1-23 (Jewish)

Jesus is going to reign on earth 1,000 years! He will rightfully be King of Kings!

Millenial Kingdom: 1,000 years

• JEWISH PEOPLE
• No more Jewish unbelievers EVER AGAIN on earth.
• Dan. 9: 24;   Zeph. 3: 12-13; Zech. 14: 9-11, 20-21; Isaiah 59: 20-1; Isaiah 60: 1-22; Jer. 31: 33-34
• SOULS of GENTILE UNBELIEVERS who died during the 1000 year reign
• Descended to The Well Of Departed Souls (Hades)
• Num. 16: 30, 33: Luke 16: 22-28
• BODIES of GENTILE UNBELIEVERS who died during the 1000 year reign
• On earth in the ground, in ashes or in the sea
• Rev. 20: 5a-6
• ALL LIVING BELIEVERS during the 1000 year reign
• ETERNAL LIFE WITH JESUS ON EARTH
• Dan. 7: 27; Rev. 20: 4-6

And at the end of the 1,000 years Satan will be released to deceive the nations once again, there will be a battle, and we already know the end: JESUS WINS! HE IS VICTORIOUS!

At the end of the Millenial Reign of Christ

• SATAN
• Released from prison in the Abyss
• Rev. 20: 7
• SATAN
• Comes out to deceive the Nations (Gentile Unbelievers)
• Rev. 20: 8
• SATAN
• Gathers the Nations (Gentile Unbelievers) for war against Jesus
• Rev. 20: 8
• SATAN
• Amasses his army and surrounds Jerusalem
• Rev. 20: 9
• SATAN
• Fire comes down from Heaven and devours his army
• Rev. 20: 9
• SATAN
• Cast into the Lake of Fire (Hell)
• Rev. 20: 10
• JESUS
• Sits on His GREAT WHITE THRONE.
• No more Heaven and Earth as we know it
• Rev. 20: 11
• All DEAD UNBELIEVERS: JEWISH AND GENTILE
• (Except for the "Goats", who's sentence has already been carried out during the Judgment of the Nations)
• The Well of Departed Souls is emptied out and their souls are united with their dead bodies from in the ground, in ashes or in the sea
• Dan. 12: 2b;  Rev. 20: 5-6; 12-15
• All DEAD UNBELIEVERS: JEWISH AND GENTILE
• (Except for the "Goats", who's sentence has already been carried out during the Judgment of the Nations)
• They ALL stand before the GREAT WHITE THRONE
• Rev. 20: 12-15
• ALL LIVING/SPIRITUALLY DEAD GENTILE UNBELIEVERS
• who were born during the 1000 year reign and still living at the time of The Great White Throne Judgment
• They ALL stand before the GREAT WHITE THRONE
• Rev. 20: 12-15
• ALL OF THE ABOVE LIVING AND DEAD UNBELIEVERS
• Cast into the Lake of Fire (Hell)
• Rev. 20: 15
• BELIEVERS
• Those in glorified bodies as well as those living in their bodies eternally reside with Jesus in the NEW HEAVEN, NEW EARTH & NEW JERUSALEM
• Rev. 21: 1-3, 7, 23-27; 22: 1-4

I will confess, there is a part of me that longs for the Rapture, the 1,000 years, and the New: Heaven, Earth, & Jerusalem. But there is the bigger part that knows that so many are not ready, spiritually. Once the church is gone from earth...there will be terrible times and happenings on earth. Friend, I do not want you to go through the Tribulation. I do not want you to live during the time of the Man of Lawlessness, the Anti-Christ. I want you to among those who are called to heaven by Jesus, who are spared the Wrath of God.

Please message me. Reach out to me. Let us talk. 

God has laid out in His word. We know what is going to happen. And I hope you make the right choice before the time is too late.

LIFE: Terror and Tribulations

I remember the first few days after my daughter Abigail was born as a peaceful time. I took time off, and her and I basically stayed home. I didn't watch t.v. I spent time with her, we mastered nursing, we figured out sleeping. If I was awake, I made small meals, and tidied the house. It was a quiet and blissful time.

And finally one morning, I decided to reconnect with the rest of humanity and I turned on the news.
The date was December 14, 2012.

And the news headline was:

Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting

After an hour or so of watching the news I shut the t.v. off and held my newborn daughter tight.

There are tragedies in this world that are hard to fathom. And throughout my growing up years numerous events rocked the world with a devastation that the anniversary of the events are celebrated even today. The one's though that seemed to shake everyone to a different level of devastation were the events that brought tragedy upon children.

April 19, 1995 - Oklahoma City Bombing 

- 168 people, including 19 young children, killed

 

September 11, 2001 - American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175, were crashed into the North and South towers, of the World Trade Center complex; American Airlines Flight 77, was crashed into the Pentagon 

-  2,996 people were killed and more than 6,000 others wounded, "The dead included 8 children: 5 on American 77 ranging in age from 3 to 11, 3 on United 175 ages 2, 3, and 4. The youngest victim was a 2 year-old child on Flight 175, the oldest an 82 year-old passenger on Flight 11. In the buildings, the youngest victim was 17 and the oldest was 79."

And on that December morning, reading that, "20 children between six and seven years old, as well as six adult staff members" had been shot and killed shook me to the core. Becoming a parent changes how you are affected. And anytime, since become a parent, that I hear of a child dying, no matter the circumstance, I am saddened.

Yesterday in the UK, at a concert a bomb went off, and the death toll has climbed to 22, with children among the dead. ISIS has claimed responsibility. The performer is a young woman who has fans that are children and teenagers. That is her target demographic. So, those who planted that bomb knew that children and teenagers would be in attendance.

It disgusts me that people have so little regard for life, and even more so, less regard for the life children. My faith, my God, tells me:
"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward." Psalm 127:3 (ESV)

And having faced the possibility of infertility, I cherish my children even more. And when I am away from them, I want to be with them. Just being in the same building with them gives me a peace; and when I hear that children have been killed, murdered for a theology that is warped and not living, my heart is hurt.

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

¹⁰ fear not, for I am with you;

    be not dismayed, for I am your God;

I will strengthen you, I will help you,

    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

 

John 16:33 (ESV)

³³ I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

I started writing this last week after the bombing in Manchester. But it has been hard to finish - children lost their lives. That is never easy to process. And then today, another bombing, at an ice cream shop.
"Baghdad blasts: Ice cream shop among attack targets, 31 killed" & "ISIS targets the young, then the old in twin Baghdad bombings"


My heart is still heavy. And while I am devastated at the loss of young life (any life) I know that in the end this all apart of His plan. That this world has to fall apart so His Kingdom may come. Hold your children tight, tell them you love them every chance you get, take a million pictures, record silly videos - print those and have those put on dvd. As bad as things are, we do know that things will get worse but we also know the ending of the story. God wins - and those of us that believe in His Son, have put our faith in His Son - we win with Him.

Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting
Oklahoma-City-Bombing
Casualties_of_the_September_11_Attacks

September_11_Attacks_Fatalities

baghdad-blasts-ice-cream-shop-among-attack-targets-31-killed.html

baghdad-ice-cream-shop-bombing/index.html