Share My Journey

Sara Groves sings 'Miracle'

2012-01-23T16:46:00.000Z

God's miracles can take many different shapes, forms and sizes, but one thing that can be seen in all of them is love. Love is a miracle. Enjoy this beautiful and profound music video for Miracle by Sara Groves from her latest album Invisible Empires.
Buy it by clicking here.

Sheer Joy Music shop now also on Facebook

2012-01-21T17:06:00.002Z

Good news! Now you can check out all of my music on the Sheer Joy music page on Facebook, listen to it and then buy it. That's really cool! Just follow this link.

Here are a few of the CDs that you can check out:

Obama Supports the Muslim Brotherhood-Muslim Brotherhood Sees Weakness

2012-01-20T07:32:00.000Z

The following comes to me from Act for America, an organisation dedicated to expose the Islamic radicalisation of the West:
"How we wish it weren’t so, but the facts are clear. Numerous articles and columns, including the one by Barry Rubin (below), document how the Obama administration is sidling up to the Muslim Brotherhood.
This is not only affecting our foreign policy vis a vis countries like Egypt. It’s also affecting our domestic national security apparatus. “Troubling” does not adequately define what is happening."

Obama Supports the Muslim Brotherhood-Muslim Brotherhood Sees Weakness
By Barry Rubin
Not only is the Obama Administration, as I’ve written for the last year, favoring radical Islamist forces–despite the fact that these are anti-Western, pro-terrorism, building dictatorships, and openly anti-Semitic and anti-Christian–but now even the establishment media is admitting it.
A friend of mine said, “Oh, they are probably saying that the Brotherhood is sounding radical publicly but privately reassuring U.S. officials that they are moderate.”
“No,” I replied. “That’s the old way of doing things when it was important to be, or at least to pretend to be, somewhat balanced. Now they say that the Brotherhood sounds moderate both publicly–ignoring all evidence to the contrary–and privately. Those who disagree are merely Republicans trying to defeat Obama in the election, and so should be ignored. The mass media today in such matters is worse than our worst nightmares of a decade ago.”
And so for the first time in U.S. history an American government, to the applause of the vast majority of the mass media, is backing an anti-American authoritarian movement. Here’s how the New York Times explains it:
“The Obama administration has begun to reverse decades of mistrust and hostility as it seeks to forge closer ties with an organization [the Muslim Brotherhood] once viewed as irreconcilably opposed to United States interests.”
Any serious foreign policy analyst should see three red flags in this paragraph:
First, of course the U.S. government must deal with Egypt’s government but that doesn’t mean it should publicly proclaim that the Brotherhood is a nice group and give what amounts to an unconditional endorsement of it.
Indeed, the Obama Administration and media are using a cheap trick. They confuse the proper, responsible policy of dealing with those in power while doing something quite beyond that: a self-destructive policy of rushing to insist that sworn enemies of freedom and the United States are really nice guys and there’s no problem with having them in power.
As I’ve written before, it’s possible to elect a dictatorship. The Egyptian people have a right to do so but that doesn’t mean the West should like it.
Doesn’t anyone remember that the Obama Administration has been apologizing for all the bad regimes America supported in the past? Now Obama is using the exact same argument: claiming that we must be nice to them because they are in power. What’s the difference between that and the historic relationship to the Mubarak regime? At least Mubarak supported U.S. interests. These people don’t. They have openly supported murdering Americans, especially in Iraq!
In 1979 an Islamist revolution occurred in Iran. The United States quickly recognized that new regime and tried to be buddies with it. We all know how that worked out.
Second, why should the burden of reversing “decades of mistrust and hostility” be exclusively on the United States. Doesn’t the Brotherhood, which benefits from U.S. engagement, need to do that also or even beforehand? Why is there no conditionality here, no hint that the Obama Administration or New York Times understands how hostile the Brotherhood has been and continues to be? If the U.S. president won’t demand a quid pro quo (something in exchange for his concessions) who is going to look after U.S. interests?
Third, by saying the Brotherhood was “once viewed as irreconcilably opposed to United States interests” the author suggests this is no longer true. We know that the Obama Administration thinks the Brotherhood has changed. Yet there is no evidence in terms of deeds, ideology, or statement made in Arabic that the Brotherhood has done so.
Thus, Obama has given away all U.S. leverage and assets beforehand, just as he did by announcing a year ago, during the revolution’s opening days, that he would be happy to accept a Muslim Brotherhood government.
So the Brotherhood’s moderation is assumed. The science is settled; the debate is over.
“The reversal also reflects the administration’s growing acceptance of the Brotherhood’s repeated assurances that its lawmakers want to build a modern democracy that will respect individual freedoms, free markets and international commitments, including Egypt’s treaty with Israel.”
Wow, yes that’s it. The Obama Administration believes what the Brotherhood says and not what has been said by Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and others including many moderate Egyptians. No one has bothered to look at the actual radical record of Brotherhood lawmakers in the last parliament! Obama has chosen his friends and he’s on the wrong side.

(Continue reading article HERE)

Divine Music: the amazing 'Choir of the Crickets'

2012-01-19T12:07:00.000Z

The angelic chorus you hear accompanying the sound of the crickets is NOT a synthesizer or a chorus singing. It's the crickets themselves (slowed down) creating the effect. Really an amazing thing they've accomplished here.

This recording is an extended digitally remixed and mastered version taken from the original1992 recording entitled "Ballad of the Twisted Hair" from the album "Medicine Songs" by David Carson and Little Wolf Band produced by Jim Wilson and released on Raven Records.

This is just so beautiful that I wanted to share it with you today.

Latest edtion of The Voice Christian News & Views' is now available online

2012-01-19T09:26:00.000Z

The latest edition of The Voice Christian News & Views magazine is now available to read on-line by following this link. Find articles, cartoons, humour, stories and much more in this great magazine.

FUNERAL PROCESSION FOR FREEDOM AND PETITION AT NORTH KOREAN EMBASSY JAN 20 – PHOTO / INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY

2012-01-18T17:33:00.000Z

Release International will be staging a funeral procession for freedom in North Korea outside the country’s embassy in London on Jan 20. There will be a prayer vigil, readings from the words of North Korean defectors, and interview and picture opportunities. Release will be handing in a 48,000-signature petition calling for religious freedom.

What will happen

Release will be staging a funeral procession outside the North Korean Embassy on January 20. The procession signifies the death of freedom in North Korea under the previous leadership.

Release will then stage a prayer vigil for religious freedom in North Korea and hand in a petition. Then, from a coffin, white balloons will then be released representing the potential for hope and a new beginning under the nation’s new leader Kim Jong-un.

Release CEO Andy Dipper will then present a copy of the petition to 10 Downing Street, calling on the British government to press for religious freedom. ‘With the country’s new, young leader,’ he says, ‘now is the time for change.’

Visuals and audio

Visuals will include supporters in black mourning the death of freedom. One will be dressed as the grim reaper. A drum will accompany the procession, and there will be and prayers for the future of North Korea. A clear message to Kim Jong-un will be read out stating the changes that must take place under his leadership if North Korea is to be seen as a respecter of human rights.

Where and when

The procession will gather at Acton Town tube station at 10.30am. At 10.45am it will make its way slowly to the Embassy at 73 Gunnersbury Avenue, W5 4LP. The prayer vigil will commence outside the Embassy at 11am. The 48,000-signature petition will be handed in at noon, and the vigil will conclude with the release of balloons at 12.15pm.

Why

‘North Korea has to change,’ says Release CEO Andy Dipper. ‘And with the change of leadership comes opportunity. North Korea has been among the worst persecutors of Christians in the world. It practises a form of emperor worship, and sees people with religious beliefs as disloyal to the leadership and a potential threat.

‘Christians are among those held in prison camps, which have been likened to concentration camps. Thousands more live out their faith in secret to avoid detection by the authorities. With the country’s new, young leader, now is the time for change.’

The event is the culmination of the year-long One Day campaign, calling for an end to religious oppression in North Korea.

Through its international network of missions Release International serves persecuted Christians in 30 countries around the world by supporting pastors and Christian prisoners and their families; supplying Christian literature and Bibles, and working for justice.

John 3:16; God's message to a world in need of life rather than death.

2012-01-18T13:49:00.000Z

Here's one message that really is for every living individual in the world, but it's especially true for the folk who think that it is intended for someone else and not themselves.

Joanne Lowe's Meditations : 'Our God of Miracles'

2012-01-18T09:49:00.000Z

OUR GOD OF MIRACLES

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

John 3:16 (King James Version)

The beloved John W. Peterson wrote one of the greatest songs of all time “It Took a Miracle”. Mr. Peterson went home to be with Jesus on September 20, 2006 but his music and his love for Jesus is still touching countless hearts and lives. What a legacy of love he has left for his family.

“It took a miracle to put the stars in place; It took a miracle to hang the world in space. But when He saved my soul, Cleansed and made me whole, It took a miracle of love and grace!” The words in this song are so true. It was a miracle of love and grace. Thank God for the cross of love!

“And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots” (Luke 23:33,34).

Heavenly Father, we give You thanks for the miracle of salvation through Your Son’s shed blood on the cross. Jesus, thank You for loving us so much that even while you were hanging on that cruel cross of agony, You forgave us. I love You with all of my heart. Thank You for dying for me and for loving me. Amen.

Joanne Lowe

January 16, 2012

Lauren Elise sings "I Keep on Loving You"

2012-01-18T06:10:00.001Z

Lauren Elise had the pleasure of touring in New York and was honored to perform at Carnegie Hall as well as at St. Patricks. She performed during the CMA FEST at the historic Nashville Palace as well as The Listening Room with Host Linda Davis! Both venues have been a platform for many of the country stars of today!

She was recently placed as Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year for the North American Country Music Association in Tennessee as well as Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year in the State of Florida. Lauren has a wonderful band which are working on new music at this time. She is at home on the stage and looks forward to a future of acting in a variety of venues including film, theater and live music performances.

She is diverse in her music being able to sing theatrical, classical, country, and gospel. She performs at churches, youth rally's, charitable events, fairs, political and business functions both regionally and locally.

She has worked with such foundations as Starlight Foundation, Breast Cancer Awareness, Mended Hearts, Hope Therapy to name a few. She endeavor's to use her craft in film and commercial as well. She takes on-going classes to grow her craft and learn the industry.

Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus : Spoken Word - Ministry Videos

2012-01-12T14:25:00.003Z

I have so often responded to folk who, upon finding that I am involved in Christian ministry, say that they are not religious. They use the term as though it's a shield that will protect them from anything I might say to them. It's as if they are warning me against 'talking religion' to them. When I answer their response by saying that I'm not religious they are fazed by my answer, and question that how can I be a minister if I'm not religious.
Of course this gives me the perfect opportunity to explain that being religious means following a set of man-made rules and traditions, whereas I follow Jesus Christ, God's Messiah, and the teaching that he handed down.
So I say "Praise the Lord!" that I'm not religious! Religion might make me appear to be a good person to those who look at my outward appearance rather than my heart, but it will never even begin to be able to do what knowing Jesus Christ as my Saviour and Lord can do. It's only through Him that I have the hope of ultimately spending Eternity in God's presence. No amount of religion --- whatever the brand --- can do that.
The speaker in this video has it just right as far as I'm concerned!

Gary Ellis sings "The Price You Pay"

2012-01-11T11:15:00.000Z

The Man in The Hat, Gary Ellis with another country classic. The clip features Garys beautiful wife Priani. The song was arranged and produced by Mick Read.

A Short History of Moriah Chapel and the 1904 Welsh Revival

2012-01-11T11:09:00.001Z

It was in 1739, following the visit of the itinerant preacher Rev'd Howell Harris to the Loughor area in South Wales, that a Society of Methodists was formed. They met in the kitchen of the farmhouse of Tŷfry - now a ruined building on the opposite side of the road to the present Moriah Chapel. Rev'd Hopkin Bevan became the first minister of the Society which flourished to such an extent that the need for a chapel building became a necessity. The members were poor and unable to afford to build a meeting place. Mrs Elizabeth Morgan, however, made provision in her will for the renovation of a thatched barn which was adapted and became the first Moriah in 1827-28. it was situated at the left hand rear comer of the present burial ground, behind the vestry entrance facing north and with the back towards the present main road. It was known as Capel y To Gwellt, and was officially opened on the 11th October 1828, when the Rev'd Hopkin Bevan of Llangyfelach, preached, amongst others.

The cause at Loughor was strengthened to such an extent that very soon Capel y To Gwellt became too small, and it was decided to build a larger chapel upon the same parcel of land in 1842, and it then became known as Moriah. A burial ground was attached to the place of worship. A gallery was added to the building in 1849 and before long a chapel-house was attached. The first tenants of the Ty Capel were the family of Margaret Lewis, who came from Landore, Swansea. David Lewis, a son of the household, became an Elder at Moriah. The family still retained the chapel-house for fourteen years. Traces of the house can still be seen today on the east wall of the schoolroom.

Another branch grew eastwards out of Moriah, so that in 1890 the first Libanus was built in Gorseinon. On the 15th January 1893, a Sunday School was started in a room above the Broadoak Colliery offices, kindly lent by the owner, Samuel Thomas. This flourished to such an extent that after two years, in 1895, land was acquired and the Pisgah Schoolroom built. The membership at Moriah was again increasing and soon the need arose to build a larger and more spacious building and this was done in 1898 at a cost of £1,700. the foundations being laid by Samuel Thomas, the owner of the Broadoak Colliery, and William Clement, Coed Brydwen Farm, on the 12th September, 1898. The first service was held on a Sunday in July 1899 and the resident minister, the Rev. Daniel Jones, preached the first sermon from the First Book of Kings, chapter 8, verse 57: “The Lord our God be with us, as He was with our fathers; let Him not leave us, nor forsake us.”

The old chapel, built in 1842, was transformed into a schoolroom in 1903 at a cost of £500. In 1901 the second Libanus was built, and the Rev'd Daniel Jones acted as Minister there as well as at Moriah for about three years, at the end of which time the congregation at Libanus became strong enough to maintain the upkeep of its own minister. In 1903 the members at Libanus built Bethlehem Schoolroom in Penyrheol.

Rev'd Daniel Jones resigned the ministry of Moriah on the 31st December 1904, and the church remained without a minister until the Rev J. Howell Davies took charge in June 1907. it was during the last few months of the Rev'd Daniel Jones’ ministry that the congregation at Moriah witnessed the greatest Pentecost in its exciting history when Loughor became an important centre of Christian pilgrimage, and the young Evan Roberts became the ‘man of the hour.’

The devoted son of Hannah and Henry Roberts of Island House, Bwlchymynydd, Lougher, Evan Roberts was a miner by profession. He preached his first sermon at Moriah on the Sunday morning of 18th December 1903, taking his text from Luke chapter 9, verse 23: “And He said to them all, if any man will come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”

At the age of 26, his heart was set on entering the Ministry and on the 13th September 1904, he went to Newcastle Emlyn to attend a Grammar School in order to obtain the basic qualifications needed to enter the Theological College at Trefecca, the college founded by Howell Harries, one of the men used by God in the 1859 Welsh Revival. The headmaster was John Phillips, the son of Rev'd Evan Phillips.

During the evening service at Bethel Chapel, Newcastle Emlyn, on Sunday 30th October, Evan Roberts felt the presence of the Holy Spirit urging him to return the following day to work with the young people at Moriah. His arrival at Island House at mid-day on Monday was totally unexpected, and his mother presumed that he was ill or that he was preaching somewhere in the area. The next fortnight has rightly been called `The Dawn of the Revival in Loughor.' Wales had never witnessed such a fortnight in its history since the exciting days of 1859.

Commencing on Monday evening, 31st October 1904, a series of prayer meetings was held at Moriah in which Evan Roberts made urgent appeals to the people to rise and confess Christ publicly. At first the reception he received was one of indifference, which was no doubt due to the unorthodox way in which he conducted the services, the failure to realise that what he prophesied could come about, and more than anything, the cold reception given to anyone who aspires to great things in his own locality. However, this local prejudice soon gave way to the firm reality that Evan Roberts was under the complete guidance of the Holy Spirit. On Sunday night, 6th November 1904, the Holy Spirit descended with great fire upon the people present, and they prayed until the early hours of the next morning. This religious fervour spread rapidly and there was a genuine upheaval. Night after night Moriah was crowded to capacity, and the services continued until four and five o’clock in the morning. People of all denominations took part and made their way to the scene of this great Pentecost from many different countries.

On the 28th October 1928, under the ministry of Rev'd W. J. Lunt, centenary meetings were held at Moriah to commemorate the opening of the Thatched Roof Chapel' on the 11th October 1828. It was also the 24th anniversary of the commencement of the 1904-05 Revival. The special preachers at the centenary were the veteran preacher, the Rev'd W. E. Prytherch, and Evan Roberts. To quote the Cambrian Daily Leader of the 1st November 1928: “The great congregation would bear testimony to the blessing on the cause in that place for the past hundred years. Twenty years ago to that very night, a vision had been granted to one and there were many who would celebrate the anniversaries of their salvation in the approaching days.”

On the 29th January 1951, at the age of 72, Evan Roberts passed away in Cardiff, and was buried in the family grave in Moriah cemetery.

In 1953 a memorial column was erected in front of Moriah chapel to commemorate the greatest Revival the world has known since the Day of Pentecost.

In March 1969, under the ministry of Rev'd J. H. Walters, both the schoolroom and chapel were filled to overflowing to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the 19041905 Revival. The afternoon service was conducted in English by Rev'd Dr Eifion Evans, author of The Welsh Revival of 1904. the evening service was conducted in Welsh by Rev'd Dr Martin Lloyd Jones.

Whilst visitors come to the chapel from all parts of the world, 2004 was a particularly busy year, being the centenary of the 1904 Revival. Visitors from around the globe flocked to Moriah for the celebrations, most from churches, but also many from schools and historical societies. The climax of the celebrations took place on 30th and 31st October, when a large congregation gathered in the chapel to give thanks to God for sending His Holy Spirit in great power to Moriah exactly one hundred years previously. The chairmen were Rev'd lain Hodgins, Clerk of West Glamorgan English Presbytery and Rev'd D. Leslie Jones, former Moderator of the West Glamorgan Welsh Presbytery. The guest speakers were Rev'd Geraint Fielder and Rev's Owen Milton, both natives of Loughor. The congregational singing was led by Alun Ebenezer of Caersalem, Gorseinon, the nephew of one of Evan Roberts' closest friends, Mr Sam Jenkins, known as `the Sankey of Wales'. Mrs Angela Davies of Llwynhendy was the soloist.

The Schoolroom as it is today

Moriah Chapel with the Schoolroom to the left of the photograph.

'Seiat fawr' --- The Big Seat, situated below the pulpit.

Looking to the back of the chapel from the pulpit.

Looking to the front of the chapel from the gallery.

Evan Roberts with The Hon. David Lloyd George

Evan Roberts' grave, situated in the chapel burial ground to the rear of Moriah.

Evan Roberts' parents, Hannah & Henry Roberts.

A section of the Schoolroom kitchen area.

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'No More Darkness'

2012-01-10T16:02:00.000Z

NO MORE DARKNESS

“The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.”

John 1:7-9 (King James Version)

A pastor friend of mine said in a sermon “We were in a cave and it was so dark I couldn’t see my hands”. It doesn’t matter how many dark valleys we go through and how discouraged we get, the light of Jesus will still shine in our heart and in our life. When Jesus is in our heart there is no more darkness.

I love this song that Harry Dixon Loes wrote “Shine For Jesus Where You Are”. The words in this song should challenge every Christian to shine for Jesus. “In your home today let kindness glow, Shine for Jesus where you are; Tell someone of Christ and heal sin’s woe, Just shine for Jesus where you are.”

Does our family see the light of Jesus shining through us? Are we kind and loving to our family or do we say cruel words and criticize them? How tragic it would be if someone in our family didn’t accept Jesus as personal Saviour because we criticized them. We must shine for Jesus in our home.

One day every one of us will stand before a Holy God and give an account of what we did with Jesus. May God have mercy on us if we aren’t shining for Jesus and telling people how much He loves them. Will you have to hang your head in shame because you aren’t shining for Jesus?

Heavenly Father, please forgive us for not letting others see the light of Jesus in us. Help us to be kind and loving to our family and remember that You forgive us when we hurt You. Amen.

Joanne Lowe

January 10, 2012

'My Own Little World' (A Christ Church of the Heartland Production with a song by Matthew West)

2012-01-04T13:48:00.000Z

Our world in 2012 is a world filled with need. There are so many different kinds of poverty, but all of them can be rectified by the healing power of the Holy Spirit. Some folk are 'Givers' and others are in need. Put the two together and miracles happen.
We live so often in our own little world, but the real world is a gigantic place. Turn your closed world into an all-inclusive world where others are always welcome to come in and to share what you have. By enriching the lives of others your own life will become richer.
Why not determine to be a 'Giver' this year. Everyone has the capability to fulfil this calling because it's not just about money. You can give time and love, you can give friendship and advice, you can share a meal with someone in need, buy a bag of groceries or give some cash. Whatever is within your capability you can do --- provided you want to help change the world and make it a better place for your being in it.

Do it this year

Start today

Start right now!

For God's sake!

'Faith': Jerzy Przybylski's latest Album

2012-01-04T05:21:00.002Z

The following review of the recently released album Faith by Jerzy Przybylski and the Jerzy Group Singers has just been received from Joey Welz, CEO of Canadian American Records, USA. Joey Welz was previously the pianist with the legendary Bill Haley and the Comets, and has released around 80 albums over the years.
  "I first discovered the music of Jerzy Przybylski a few years ago when he sent me two tracks to produce which I liked well enough to include on my Canadian American Album entitled American Idol. I orchestrated River of Love b/w Rainbow of Love, and they turned out to be two of my all time favourite songs of my career. I call Jerzy's music 'MAGIC' . The lyrics are uplifting and they are married perfectly to the melodies. A better title for the album would have been "OPEN YOU HEART" --- which it surely did mine.
  Congratulations to Sheer Joy Music in England for discovering the talents of Jerzy Przybylski. Personally, I think he is one of the world's best undiscovered song writers, and through 'Faith' the world will discover what I've known all these years, it not only takes talent, but a lot of faith to become successful. Jerzy has them both."
Joey Welz ceo/Canadian American USA
Pianist with BILL HALEY'S COMETS (mca)
  Why not discover the magic of Jerzy's music for yourself by downloading Faith from CD Baby, iTunes or Amazon today. If you prefer to own the CD then you can order it from Sheer Joy Music's on-line shop.

Grace Bawden sings 'If Only I Had Wings'

2012-01-03T12:59:00.001Z

It was around about April/May in 2010 when I first discovered the amazing vocal talents of Australian songstress Grace Bawden. We were soon in touch and this video of Grace singing If Only I Had Wings, released in September 2010, was the result. In the October of that year Grace and her mum, Mat, visited the UK on their way to Italy where Grace had an audition for CUBEC in Modena. Of course she excelled at the audition and turned many a head, which given the enormity of her prodigious talent is hardly surprising.

I think that the main thing that impressed me so much about Grace was the fact that she was had such humility and was so totally focussed on her ambition to deliver the very best every time she sang.

Through my involvement with Sheer Joy Music I meet many singers, musicians and songwriters, and consider this to be one of the bonuses of the job. There are singers who are very good at what they do and there are some whose talents are amazing, but without the dedication and constant focus the talent alone is insufficient to propel them to stardom. Grace Bawden has both in abundance, and I repeat what I have said on previous occasions, that she is destined for true International stardom. When it happens I can only say that it's not before time!

This song, which I co-wrote with my partner Greg Scheer, is available as a download from iTunes, CD Baby, Amazon and most digital download sites, or you can purchase the CD from the on-line shop of Sheer Joy Music.

Dick Damron sings 'Jesus It's Me'

2012-01-02T15:34:00.000Z

Canadian Country singer Dick Damron excels as he sings the beautiful song Jesus It's Me in his warm easy style. Why not pay a visit to Dick's website and check out more about him.

Trent Jeffcoat sings 'A Seed'

2012-01-01T13:20:00.000Z

Here's my first Country song post of the new year. I think this is a great song, sung by Trent Jeffcoat and hope you enjoy it too.

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'God is Angry'

2011-12-31T13:20:00.000Z

GOD IS ANGRY

“Thou answeredst them, O LORD our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions.”

Psalm 99:8 (King James Version)

Sometimes we blame the friends of our teenagers when the teenagers do drugs and get involved in crime. In many cases, this is true. However, the real enemy of our children is the television set. Yet, we allow our teenagers to watch this junk and what is worse; sometimes we watch the movies with them.

There are very few movies on television that make us think of Jesus and bring honor to Him. Most of the movies have sex, cursing and violence in them. God is angry because we have allowed the television set to become like a god to us. In some homes, the television is turned on as soon as they wake up.

There are some people who spend more time watching television than they do reading their Bible. This not only makes God angry, it also hurts Him and breaks His heart. What a sad commentary it is on those of us who claim to be Christians that we watch television more than we read our Bible.

Like an ostrich, parents sometimes bury their head in the sand so they can’t see what is happening to their children. One of the definitions in Webster’s Dictionary for ostrich is “one who attempts to avoid danger or difficulty by refusing to face it”. We must face the reality that our teenagers need help.

Heavenly Father, please forgive us for allowing our children to watch movies that hurt You. Help us as parents to set a good example for our children. May we protect our children and love them unconditionally just as You protect us and love us. Amen.

Joanne Lowe

December 31, 2011

A Happy, Peaceful & Prosperous New Year for 2012 to all of my readers.

2011-12-31T12:01:00.000Z

2011 is on the way out and by this time tomorrow we will be celebrating the first day of 2012.

It only seems a short time since we were looking forward to celebrating the new millennium! So much has happened during the first eleven years of this new millennium, not least of all the economic woes that have affected most folk in some way or another.

We have experienced increasing lawlessness in our nations and increasing violence on our streets. Figures show that throughout all of the problems here in the United Kingdom, the church, both leadership and body, have proved their ineffectiveness. The figureheads of mainstream denominations, when it comes to leadership and example, have been weak and ineffective.

I have said before, and will repeat many times in the future, that unless and until this nation bows before God and repents of its ways then things will worsen. A nation cannot turn its collective back upon God and when times are good and then expect Him to get them out of trouble when they are bad.

It is time for a National Day of Prayer. Why wait for politicians who are more concerned with votes to keep them in power than honouring God, or for Church leaders such as the Archbishop of Canterbury who appear too weak-willed to call the people to their knees in repentance?

The time is long overdue for those who claim to be Christians to lead the way by example. It's time for Vicars, Priests-in-Charge, Pastors, Ministers, Priests --- whatever the title may be --- to open their churches and for the people to go and renew their commitment to God and to Christ. It's time for those with a message from God to the people to take that message and proclaim it boldly and without fear throughout the land.

Of course there will be countless numbers who continue to reject God and all that He stands for, but if they continue to do so in this eleventh hour then they are foolish and unconcerned for their future.

Are YOU a follower of Jesus Christ?
Will YOU lead the way in your community?
Will YOU repent and seek God in all things?
When Christ returns, will YOU be amongst those caught up in the rapture or will YOU be one of those left behind?

Nobody else can make the decisions for you, only YOU can do that. Don't delay, make 2012 a Year of Prayer and make it the year when YOU turned your life around so that YOU face life in the right direction!

I wish every one of you a truly blessed New Year!

More Great Christian Quotes on Prayer

2011-12-30T07:04:00.001Z

“The neglected heart will soon be a heart overrun with worldly thoughts; the neglected life will soon become a moral chaos; the church that is not jealously protected by mighty intercession and sacrificial labours will before long become the abode of every evil bird and the hiding place for unsuspected corruption. The creeping wilderness will soon take over that church that trusts in its own strength and forgets to watch and pray."

- A. W. Tozer

"True prayer is a lonely business."

- Samuel Chadwick

"Prayer is life passionately wanting, wishing, desiring God's triumph. Prayer is life striving and toiling everywhere and always for that ultimate victory."

- George Campbell Morgan

"Real prayer is communion with God"

- Arthur W. Pink

"Prayer is the first thing, the second thing, the third thing necessary to a minister. Pray, then, my dear brother; pray, pray, pray." - Edward Payson

"The secret of praying is praying in secret."

Leonard Ravenhill

"Prayer itself is an art which only the Holy Ghost can teach us. He is the giver of all prayer. Pray for prayer - pray till you can pray."

Charles Haddon Spurgeon.

"Too busy; O forgive, Dear Lord, that I should ever be, too much engrossed in earthly tasks, to spend an hour with thee."

- A.B. Christiansen

"Prayer is not an exercise, it is the life."

Oswald Chambers

Ci permetta di fare 2012 per anno di Preghiera

2011-12-29T12:16:00.000Z

Un altro anno pressocché la chiusura di che vuole dire che noi entriamo in un anno nuovo riempito con opportunità fresche di servire il Dio. Ci permetta di costituirgli un anno di Preghiera di Intercessionary persone sapere Cristo.

Paul c'esorta a 'Preghi senza cessare.' è l'obbedienza a questa chiamata che produce i risultati associata con preghiera durevole. Quelli Cristiano che pregano il più più porti a termine la più, e durevole preghiera provoca revival durevole.

Il tardo Leonard Ravenhill, un grande uomo di Dio ed uomo di preghiera scrisse:
"Preghiera non condiziona Dio; preghiera ci condiziona. Preghiera non vince Dio alla nostra vista; rivela la prospettiva di Dio a noi. Preghiera non è merito, così che prelevando dal mondo noi di guadagno di necessità favours speciale da Dio. Se Lei chiede perché noi così molto enfatizziamo preghiera e così spesso, noi rispondiamo, "Perché Gesù faceva così." Il Vangelo di Luke dà conto di notti intere speso in preghiera dal Salvatore. Siamo migliori di Lui? " (Revival Pregando: Leonard Ravenhill: Casa di Bethany).

Quindi perché 2012 dovrebbero essere un anno di Preghiera? Semplicemente perché Dio ci chiama per pregare senza cessare. Quello è buono abbastanza per me.

Laissez-nous en faire 2012 par année de Prière

2011-12-29T12:15:00.000Z

Presque la fin d'une autre année que les moyens que nous introduisons dans une nouvelle année ont rempli d'occasions fraîches de servir le Seigneur. Laissez-nous le faire une année de Prière Intercessionary pour les gens pour connaître Le Christ.

Paul nous préconise à 'Priez sans cesser.' C'est obéissance à cet appel qui produit les résultats associé avec prière durable. Ces Chrétien qui prient le plus accomplissent la prière plus, et durable provoque la renaissance durable.

Le Leonard Ravenhill tardif, un grand homme de Dieu et homme de prière, a écrit:
"La prière ne prépare pas Dieu; la prière nous prépare. La prière ne gagne pas Dieu à notre vue; il révèle la vue de Dieu à nous. La prière n'est pas mérite, afin qu'en retirant du monde nous de gain de la nécessité faveurs spéciales de Dieu. Si vous demandez pourquoi nous accentuons si beaucoup la prière et si souvent, nous répondons, "Parce que Jésus a fait donc." L'Évangile par Luke donne compte de nuits entières dépensé dans prière par le Sauveur. Est-ce que nous sommes meilleurs que Lui? " (Renaissance Prier: Leonard Ravenhill: Maison Bethany).

Donc pourquoi est-ce que 2012 devraient être une année de Prière? Simplement parce que Dieu nous appelle pour prier sans cesser. C'est bon assez pour moi.

Lassen Sie uns 2012 pro Jahr von Gebet machen

2011-12-29T12:12:00.000Z

Fast das Ende von einem anderen Jahr, das bedeutet, daß wir in ein neues Jahr, das mit frischen Gelegenheiten gefüllt wird, dem Herrn zu dienen, hineingehen. Lassen Sie uns es einem Jahr Intercessionary Prayer für Leute machen, Christus zu kennen.

Paul drängt uns, ', ohne aufzuhören zu beten.' Es ist Gehorsam zu diesem Anruf, der die Ergebnisse produziert, der mit dauerndem Gebet assoziiert wird. Jene Christen schaffen, die das Meiste beten, das meiste, und dauerhafte Gebet führt dauernde Wiederbelebung herbei.

Der späte Leonard Ravenhill, ein großer Mann von Gott und Mann des Gebetes schrieben:
"Gebet konditioniert keinen Gott; Gebet konditioniert uns. Gebet gewinnt keinen Gott zu unserer Sicht; es enthüllt Gottes Sicht zu uns. Gebet ist, verdienen Sie nicht, damit wir von Notwendigkeit besondere Gunst von Gott profitieren, indem wir uns von der Welt zurückziehen. Wenn Sie fragen, warum wir Gebet so sehr und so oft betonen, antworten wir, machte "Because Jesus damit." Das Evangelium von Luke gibt Konto von ganzen Nächten, das in Gebet vom Retter ausgegeben wird. Sind wir besser als er"? (Wiederbelebung, die betet,: Leonard Ravenhill: Bethany-Haus).

Deshalb, warum sollten 2012 ein Jahr Gebet sein? Einfach, weil uns Gott ruft, um, ohne aufzuhören zu beten. Das ist gut genug für mich.

Let's make 2012 a Year of Prayer

2011-12-29T12:09:00.000Z

Almost the close of another year which means that we enter into a new year filled with fresh opportunities to serve the Lord. Let us make it a Year of Intercessionary Prayer for people to know Christ.

Paul urges us to 'Pray without ceasing.' It is obedience to this call that produces the results associated with lasting prayer. Those Christians who pray the most accomplish the most, and lasting prayer brings about lasting revival.

The late Leonard Ravenhill, a great man of God and man of prayer, wrote:
"Prayer does not condition God; prayer conditions us. Prayer does not win God to our view; it reveals God's view to us. Prayer is not merit, so that by withdrawing from the world we of necessity gain special favours from God. If you ask why we emphasise prayer so much and so often, we reply, "Because Jesus did so." The Gospel by Luke gives account of whole nights spent in prayer by the Saviour. Are we better than He?" (Revival Praying (p124) : Leonard Ravenhill : Bethany House).

So why should 2012 be a Year of Prayer? Simply because God calls us to pray without ceasing. That's good enough for me.

Simon's Cat in 'Double Trouble'

2011-12-27T13:34:00.000Z

Here is another brilliant cartoon of the antics of Simon's Cat. Check out the website for more.

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'He is Still Calling'

2011-12-26T11:17:00.000Z

HE IS STILL CALLING

“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.”

Isaiah 6:8 (King James Version)

Have you said yes to the call of Jesus on your life? It’s not too late to say yes to Him. He is still calling. We read in the Bible “Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest” (John 4:35).

We need foreign missionaries. However, we have neighbours and family members who aren’t saved. We desperately need home missionaries. They show pictures of children who are hungry on television. There are children in our own neighbourhood who are hungry to know that someone loves them.

In less than a week, we will start a new year. Instead of making resolutions that are hard to keep, surrender your life to Jesus in full time service. It will make Him very happy if you will start the new year by giving Him your time, your talents and everything you have. Will you give your life to Jesus today?

Heavenly Father, help us to get out of our comfort zones and serve the One who left His home and everything He had to come to earth and die for our sins. Please plant deep within our heart not only a desire to serve Jesus but also the importance and the urgency of serving Jesus. Amen.

Joanne Lowe

December 26, 2011

The Unacceptable Face of Islamic Militant Terrorism Strikes Again

2011-12-26T11:12:00.000Z

CALL FOR PRAYER AND INCREASED SECURITY FOR NIGERIA’S CHRISTIANS AFTER CHRISTMAS BOMB ATTACKS

Release International has called for prayer and tighter security for Nigeria’s Christians after Islamist militants bombed churches for the second Christmas running. Some observers warn that Boko Haram, which wants to impose strict Islamic law in the country, is trying to spark a sectarian civil war.

In the second wave of attacks within a week Boko Haram planted bombs at churches in Madalla, near the capital Abuja, and in Jos and Gadaka. The bomb in Madalla went off as worshippers packed the church for the Christmas service, killing around 35 and injuring at least 50 others.

Gadaka is in Yobe state in the north, where Islamic law has already been imposed, but where a Christian minority remains. Jos is in Plateau state, the dividing line between the largely Muslim north and the mainly Christian south.

Partners of Release International, which serves the suffering church worldwide, believe the Islamists’ aim may be to tear the country in two, creating a separate north ruled by strict Sharia law.

Release CEO Andy Dipper, says: ‘Please pray for those whose family members have been killed and injured as they celebrate Christmas. Pray that in their grief they will know the presence of Jesus, who is both Emmanuel, God with us, and the Prince of Peace.

‘Pray that Christians will not allow themselves to be provoked into retaliation, and that the government will protect Christians where they are in a minority and deal effectively with the terrorist threat to their nation.’

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'Are You Telling?'

2011-12-25T14:09:00.001Z

ARE YOU TELLING

“And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.”

Luke 2:16,17 (King James Version)

John W. Work Jr. wrote one of my favourite hymns “Go, Tell it on the Mountain”. “Go, tell it on the mountain, Over the hills and everywhere Go, tell it on the mountain, That Jesus Christ is born.” We may be telling people with our mouth but are we telling them with our actions?

Are we telling our family about Jesus? We may be the only Christian in our family and we want our family to be saved. If we tell them they need Jesus but yell at them and are hateful to them, they won’t want to be saved because they don’t see the difference Jesus has made in our life.

Can you honestly say that you have forgiven everyone who has hurt you? If you have told them that you forgive them but allow bitterness, unforgiveness, jealousy and hatred to remain in your heart, you have not forgiven them. True forgiveness is when we forgive from our heart.

One of the greatest gifts we can give Jesus on His birthday is to forgive those who have hurt us just as He forgives us when we hurt Him. We need to remember that none of us are perfect. All of us hurt one another. There was only one perfect person who ever lived or ever will live and His name is Jesus.

Heavenly Father, may we make Jesus happy today on His birthday not only by what we say, but especially by the way we treat one another. Happy Birthday, Jesus! Amen.

Joanne Lowe

December 25, 2011

Jackie Evancho sings 'The First Noel'

2011-12-24T13:02:00.001Z

I am following the career of the amazing young singer Jackie Evancho with great interest. The maturity and clarity of her voice is amazing, and she sings with passion. Her rendition of the Christmas Carol, The First Noel' is a prime example of her prodigious talent.

A Very Happy Christmas to All My Readers

2011-12-24T09:41:00.001Z

We grow up with different ideas about the meaning of Christmas, and we conjure up different images according to which idea we focus on. For some the true meaning of Christmas is lost amidst the desire to get bigger and better and more presents each year, and about eating and drinking as much as possible. In the Western world, despite the current economic woes, the majority of folk will still enjoy more or less the same sort of feast that they usually do. Now, there is nothing wrong with a feast, but there is a lot wrong with focusing only on yourself.
The real story of Christmas, sung by carollers like those in the picture above which depicts a Victorian Christmas scene, is the story of how God came down to dwell amongst mankind in order to offer the world a plan whereby mankind can shake off the bonds of sin and embrace the arms of heaven.
Christ is the reason for the season. He came to give life, not to take it; to give joy to others rather than selfishly being concerned only about His own pleasure. It is in the baby in the manger that we find the real meaning of Christmas. The meaning is love and sacrificial giving, leading to eternal life.
This Christmas, why not determine to give and share rather than take and hoard. If you do, then you will start to discover the true meaning of Christmas, and discover the joy of being loved because you love others enough to share what you have with them.

I wish every one of you a

Peaceful and Joyful Christmas!

'Twas the night before Christmas ...

2011-12-24T09:25:00.000Z

I love this poem which manages to stir the very heart of people in its own unique way, and that is why I post it every Christmas Eve on my blog. In many households it's as much a part of Christmas, especially of course Christmas Eve, as hanging up your stocking. Read it again or read it for the first time. Whichever category you fall in to, the main thing is that you enjoy the very special nature of all the imagery contained in the words. Also, of course, for many people it will transport you back to childhood for a moment, and that can't be bad!

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

by Clement Clarke Moore

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled down for a long winter's nap,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! on Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky,
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my hand, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;
A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."

Christmas Flash Mob by Journey of Faith at South Bay Galleria

2011-12-22T08:54:00.000Z

What an inspiration I found this video to be! Good singing --- good message --- good sense of joyful spirit --- simply GREAT!

Funny Christmas Church Notice Boards

2011-12-20T13:27:00.000Z

The Beatbox Nativity video

2011-12-20T10:07:00.000Z

iBand Christmas video

2011-12-18T08:23:00.002Z

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'We Want To See You'

2011-12-17T10:18:00.000Z

WE WANT TO SEE YOU

“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

1 Thessalonians 4:16,17 (King James Version)

Carrie Breck wrote one of my favourite hymns “Face to Face with Christ, My Saviour”. The words in this hymn describe the longing in my heart. “Face to face I shall behold Him, Far beyond the starry sky; Face to face in all His glory, I shall see Him by and by!” O how I want to see You, Jesus.

For those of us who have confessed our sins, repented of them, asked God to forgive us and invited Jesus into our heart, we will have the privilege of seeing Jesus face to face. There is no event on earth that can even come close to the joy we will feel when we see Him face to face.

Jesus, You are the joy of our heart and we want to see You. Thank You for loving us so much that You walked that long lonely road to Calvary and died on the cross for our sins. You are a loving and compassionate Saviour. I love You with all of my heart. Even so, come Lord Jesus!

Joanne Lowe

December 17, 2011

joannelowe8@cox.net

www.joanne-ourprecioussaviour.blogspot.com

More Funny Church Notice Boards

2011-12-17T10:12:00.000Z

CAIR now attempting to control law enforcement training programs

2011-12-17T10:08:00.000Z

CAIR (the Council on American-Islamic Relations) has, either through its national organization or its chapter affiliates, repeatedly tried to intimidate federal and local elected officials who have the courage to stand up to radical Islam.
The latest from CAIR is its effort to dictate who the FBI uses as trainers in its counterterrorism programs. (See the CAIR release below).
Apparently, it's not sufficient that the Obama administration has stripped all references to jihad and radical Islam from its national security strategy regarding terrorism.
CAIR won't be happy until every government entity in America knuckles under to its sharia-driven agenda aimed at silencing any critique of radical Islam and any connection between radical Islam and Islamic terrorism.
CAIR has also made it clear it will aggressively fight our efforts to pass "American Laws in American Courts," legislation that will prohibit courts from applying sharia law. Will we win? Or will CAIR win?

We need to hear from you, that you are in support of this effort. Please sign the pledge to protect your state from sharia law today! Nearly 35,000 people have signed thus far. Thank you! But surely out of our 175,000 members there are more than 35,000 people who support this effort! Check out how your state is doing here

CAIR Files Multi-State Records Requests on Anti-Muslim Law Enforcement Trainings
Group seeks information about state-level trainings that may have used taxpayer dollars to fund anti-Muslim trainers.
http://ca.cair.com/losangeles/news/anti-muslim_trainings
(Nov 15, 2011 - LOS ANGELES, CA)

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) announced today that 15 of its chapters nationwide have filed 87 separate public records requests about possible Islamophobic training of local, state and national law enforcement personnel.

CAIR is seeking information about state-level trainings that may have used federal taxpayer dollars to fund anti-Muslim trainers, a phenomenon highlighted in recent research and media reports.

Attorney General: FBI Hurt Terror Fight with 'Violent Muslim' Training

In a statement, CAIR said:

"CAIR's public records requests seek to ensure that law enforcement agencies are using qualified trainers who present objective and unbiased information to help protect Americans from violent extremists of all types. We firmly believe that good training leads to good investigations, while biased training leads to biased investigations. We are particularly concerned with ensuring that taxpayer dollars are not wasted on training that is agenda-driven, inaccurate or Islamophobic."

Both Attorney General Holder and FBI Director Mueller have acknowledged that the Department of Justice and the FBI are reviewing their training materials to remove inaccurate and biased information. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which provides most of the Federal funding for state and local training, recently issued a set of recommendations for countering violent extremism training.

Le caniche français de Merkel garde un jappement!

2011-12-16T22:56:00.000Z

Je suis sûr que beaucoup de gens ont trouvé Napoléon Bonaparte un petit Français ennuyeux. Il est réclamé quelquefois que le plus court vous êtes le plus bruyant vous avez besoin d'être pour faire votre voix a entendu sur la foule.
C'est aussi un fait que très souvent le plus petit le chien le plus il jacasse et aboiements, souvent à la grande contrariété de tout du neighbours.
Cela paraît certainement être aussi vrai du caniche français avec qu'Angela Merkel est souvent vue dans public. Il paraît qu'il est bien formé, pour Sarkozy vient, en courant toutes les fois que Merkel siffle pour lui. Cela qui un petit Français ennuyeux qu'il est, et cela qui beaucoup de bruit qu'il fait.
Pour enlever des malheurs économiques de son propre Pays il revient à ce que les Français ont fait pour les années--- frapper loin aux Anglais. Ils n'ont jamais pardonné les Anglais pour battre Bonaparte, et c'est le problème.
Bien sûr, ici dans le Royaume-Uni il y a beaucoup qui paraissent danser à l'air que Merkel et Sarkozy jouent actuellement. Nick Clegg--- le chef LibDem qui est meilleur à vaciller et fait attention à changer, et les plusieurs autres qui ont peur pour voir le jus de viande train de l'UE ont fait dérailler et leurs occasions pour travaux de la retraite doré sur tranche faits dérailler à quai--- étend tant de morceaux de bavard méchant au sujet des dangers créés par le veto de Cameron la semaine dernière de la part de Grande-Bretagne. Ils réclament ce Cameron a, par suite du veto, Grande-Bretagne gauche a exposé dangereusement et a isolé. Cela qui une charge d'absurdité! En ne joignant pas l'Euro condamné monnaie la Grande-Bretagne a été isolé depuis que l'Euro a été lancé en janvier 1999, donc ce qui est nouveau?
À tout observateur assaisonné c'est évident que l'Euro est condamné à échec et le dustbin d'histoire économique et politique. Déjà nous avons eu des renflouements pour l'Euro qui a manqué spectaculairement d'accomplir la stabilité, et jeter plus de billions dans le pot étirera simplement dehors les mort douleurs de l'Euro et l'Eurozone.
Aucun émerveillement que Merkel et ses vieux copains d'UE veulent amener une loi qui interdit tout pays dans l'UE de tenir un référendum sur toute politique d'UE!
Paraît à moi que derrière tout de ceci le désir est pour le Nouveau Monde Ordonnez d'établir un étranglement plus serré sur ce coin du globe. Je ne suis pas d'accord avec beaucoup que les politiciens font ces jours parce qu'il paraît si souvent qu'ils s'inquiètent plus d'eux-mêmes que les gens ils sont nommés pour représenter. Cependant, j'étais les deux content et ai surpris par le courage politique

Carlson School of Management Flash Mob, Deck the Halls

2011-12-16T16:20:00.001Z

I love these Flash mob videos! The event in this one happened recently in November when The Carlson School of Management received a surprise visit from a saxophonist ... and nearly 300 of his friends from the University of Minnesota's School of Music.

Don Yarber and the 'Kip Yardley Mysteries' : Good reads for the Holidays!

2011-12-16T15:32:00.002Z

Here's a trio of books that will keep you engrossed through the holidays. Written by Don Yarber, they feature Kip Yardley in a series of mysteries. Buy them from your book store or online from Amazon, or download them onto your nice new Kindle. Whatever way you do it, one thing is for sure, these mystery will keep you guessing!

Check out these reviews:

Corpses and Canyons:

Kip Yardley is called to the wild, desert areas of Arizona to find the killers of a highway surveyor. He gets shot at, left to die in the desert, and warned by Flagstaff Police to drop the case and go back home to LA. Kip is determined to find out what the clues in an old Inidian Peace pipe, a topography map, and a drawing in the sand all add up to.

The bad guys are out to kill him and the girls are out to tease him. But when the daughter of the higway construction boss disappears, things start getting hot in a hurry. Fast paced, hard hitting, and cleverly constructed, this mystery will keep you guessing "who done it?"

Bodies and Beaches:

In "Bodies and Beaches" Don has created Kip Yardley, hard hitting Private Eye, former California Highway Patrol officer. Kip is hired by beautiful Starla Lang to find her brother's killers.
Kip fights his way through beaches full of beach bums, barns full of marijuana and topless bars full of sleazy dancers and illegal aliens.
Something keeps nagging Kip about the connection between the killers and a friend, Toby Smith, who is Kip's connection to the California Highway Patrol, and a guy who has always dealt his cards straight.
Kip needs to prove to himself that Toby isn't a bad guy but all indications are that he is being set up for a hard fall.
Funny at times, serious at others, this book is fast paced and easy reading.

Death and Deep Water:

The third in the "Kip Yardley" mysteries, Kip is asked by an aging Hollywood movie star to find the remains of her WWII pilot husband, shot down over a South Pacific island. Kip's fee: $250,000.

Then the old lady turns up dead, shot through the head with a .22 calibre handgun. LA police find a contract for Kip's assignment, signed by the old lady. All Kip has to do to make the quarter million dollars she offered is to sign the contract and find the remains.

There are dark forces and deep waters between Kip and the quarter million.

Merkel's French poodle keeps on yapping!

2011-12-16T14:57:00.003Z

I'm sure that many people found Napoleon Bonaparte an annoying little Frenchman. It is sometimes claimed that the shorter you are the louder you need to be in order to make your voice heard over the crowd.
It is also a fact that very often the smaller the dog the more it yaps and barks, often to the great annoyance of all of the neighbours.
This certainly seems to be true also of the French poodle that Angela Merkel is often seen in public with. It seems that he is well trained, for Sarkozy comes running whenever Merkel whistles for him What an annoying little Frenchman he is, and what a lot of noise he makes.
In order to detract from his own Country's economic woes he reverts to what the French have done for years --- bashing away at the British. They have never forgiven the British for defeating Bonaparte, and that's the problem.
Of course, here in the UK there are many who seem to dance to the tune that Merkel & Sarkozy are currently playing. Nick Clegg --- the LibDem leader who is best at wavering and mind-changing, and various others who are afraid to see the gravy-train of the EU derailed and their opportunities for gilt-edged retirement jobs derailed alongside --- are spreading so many bits of malicious gossip about the dangers created by Cameron's veto last week on behalf of Britain. They claim that Cameron has, as a result of the veto, left Britain dangerously exposed and isolated. What a load of nonsense! By not joining the doomed Euro currency Britain has been isolated since the Euro was launched in January 1999, so what's new?
To any seasoned observer it is obvious that the Euro is doomed to failure and the dustbin of economic and political history. Already we have had bailouts for the Euro that have spectacularly failed to achieve stability, and throwing more billions into the pot will simply stretch out the death-throes of the Euro and the Eurozone.
No wonder Merkel and her EU cronies want to bring in a law which bans any country in the EU from holding a referendum on any EU policy!
Seems to me that behind all of this is the desire for the New World Order to establish a tighter stranglehold on this corner of the globe. I don't agree with much that the politicians do these days because it so often appears that they are more concerned about themselves than the people they are appointed to represent. However, I was both pleased and surprised by David Cameron's political courage in vetoing what he perceived to be bad for the UK, despite the whining of the assorted Europhiles, especially those in the LibDem camp.

Hank Locklin sings 'Almost Persuaded'

2011-12-16T14:32:00.000Z

I love the old-time Country singers, and so you'll understand that I like Hank Locklin. I remember when this song was released and loved it then. Hope you enjoy it.

Promo for Samantha Link's new CD: 'Bring Me To Life'

2011-12-16T14:16:00.000Z

Samantha Link 'Bring me to life' album out now on Amazon.

Purchase via the Classical Crossover shop :-

http://astore.amazon.co.uk/classicalcros-21/detail/B004S24EL2

or go to Samantha's website at

www.samanthalink.co.uk

What a great Christmas present this would make!

Out of the Mouths of Babes!

2011-12-16T13:59:00.000Z

This vintage home video features an adorable little girl that has her own special way of performing in a choir. Most kids are shy and quiet when on stage, but this little girl belts out the song even though she doesn't quite know the words. Classic and hilarious!
Just sit back, watch, smile, laugh and, above all, enjoy.

Sign the Petition supporting Lowe’s right to end advertising on TLC’s TV show “All-American Muslim”

2011-12-16T08:17:00.003Z

Imagine for a moment that the propaganda arm for Hamas in the United States, CAIR, was viciously attacking an American company for its decision to stop running commercials on a television show highlighting a CAIR community organizer.

And imagine that a California State Senator took to the media airwaves to call this American company "bigoted, shameful and un-American." Imagine further that he even suggested he would propose a law to make what the company did illegal.

Rewind.

No longer are we in an America of imagination. This is today’s reality. Lowe’s Home Improvement made a lawful business decision to end its advertising on TLC’s TV show, “All-American Muslim.” The available evidence is that Lowe’s did so because the show’s ratings had tanked so badly it hardly had any viewers. It’s not uncommon for businesses to stop advertising on shows with low ratings.

But CAIR and its radical allies have claimed something more sinister is going on. They have joined voices in a chorus of vicious allegations, name-calling, and outrageous demands—all intended to bully an all-American company, Lowe’s Home Improvement, into submission to their radical agenda.

This is an outrage!

If CAIR and its radical allies succeed in bullying Lowe’s into submission, consider the message this intimidation will send to businesses across America.

We are calling on you to join us TODAY in encouraging Lowe’s to resist this intimidation campaign. Please add your name HERE in SUPPORT of Lowe’s Home Improvement and its right to make decisions regarding when and where it will advertise.

Remember, CAIR is a front organization for the Muslim Brotherhood. CAIR is an organization that was named as an unindicted co-conspirator in our country’s largest terrorism financing trial in history. CAIR and its radical allies must not be allowed to impose their agenda on Lowe’s—or any other company in America.

So please exercise your freedom today and sign our petition in support of Lowe’s.

Thank you!

One Christmas Morning : Recollections of a small boy

2011-12-15T12:33:00.000Z

Barefoot and excited, I stepped out of the snug warmth of my bed onto the cold linoleum that stretched across my bedroom floor, my eyes rapidly adjusting to the half-light of the room which the crack in the door allowed. Every day was even more exciting to me then than it is now, and each new day brought with it the possibility of fresh, and previously undreamed of, adventures. But today was even more special, because today was Christmas Day, and that meant it was the day when perhaps my boyhood dreams of new books, new toys and lots of shared excitement, would come to fruition.

Quietly and carefully I reached out for the sock that I had left, flat and empty, yet full of the hope of things to come, the night before. At first I had difficulty picking it out against the dark bedspread, but then my fingers seized upon the now-bulging sock and I eagerly climbed back into the cocoon of bed-clothes that had quickly started to cool down, once they were deprived of the warmth of my little body. Not that I noticed, for I was too excited to care about such a minor irritation when the riches of my Christmas stocking waited to be discovered.

I determined to extract the items one by one, savouring each one as I did so in order to get the most pleasure from the exercise, but soon I was too excited to bother about being patient, and I upended the stocking onto the bed-cover, the contents spilling out in the half-dark of the fast-approaching dawn. As they tumbled out they knocked together, and something rolled off the bed and onto the floor, seeming to me to make enough noise to wake the whole household. I held my breath, hardly daring to move, listening for the sound of my mother's tread on the landing below. It seemed ages, although it was probably only about thirty seconds, until I was reassured that all was well, and that nobody had heard. I knew that if I got caught at my game then everything would be taken from me until later and I would be told quite firmly to go back to sleep. 'Go back to sleep!' I thought. How can you go back to sleep when there's a whole world waiting to be discovered in the unwrapping of a small present?

My fingers found the little orange and I started to pick off the peel, savouring the fresh smell of citrus as I did so, my mouth watering at the thought of the treat to come. I picked off one segment at a time, enjoying the lingering taste of each before I moved on to the next, getting the most out of my prize. Then came the sweets and then unwrapping of a model car and unrolling the rolled up colouring book, quickly discarded because I had no crayons in my room. Soon I had checked and re-checked every item, had eaten all that I could except for the nuts which I was unable to get into. As I had wondered before, I wondered once again at the wisdom of nuts, so difficult to open, being part of the treasure trove in my stocking.

Satisfied finally from my adventure in the solitary confine of my room, I let the warmth of my bed gradually lull me back into sleep. No doubt in the morning I would recall it like a half-remembered dream, and start looking forward, as boys do, to next Christmas, when the excitement would wake me once again in the half-light. But for now there was the rest of today to enjoy, with the promise of untold, yet not unimagined, happiness as the day unfolded.

Darren Mullan sings 'Hallelujah'

2011-12-15T08:31:00.002Z

A few months ago, on August 6th, Darren Mullan, Australian singer/musician/CEO of Wrapit Records, was married at St Martin's Lutheran Church in Mannum, South Australia. This video was shot at the wedding, with Darren, the nervous groom, singing Leonard Cohen's great song 'Hallelujah' for his bride Andrea Murphy. What a treat for everyone, us included!

Great news about Milli Alaira

2011-12-15T07:15:00.000Z

I'm a great fan of Milli Alaira! She has such a fabulous voice, and I have just heard a whisper that she is going back into the recording studio in January. I can't wait to hear the results!!! Her hit recording of If Only I Had Wings, which charted at #2 in the NCM Charts awhile back, is such a beautiful song. You can buy it on iTunes if you haven't already got it on your iPod.

The photo below of Milli and myself was taken when she gave one of her stunning performances a couple of months back.

Breathtaking Performance as Susan Boyle sings 'O Holy Night'

2011-12-15T07:06:00.000Z

What a wonderful gift Susan Boyle has! Her voice brings joy to millions of folk around the world. Here she is singing the beautifully moving song O Holy Night.

Tim Hawkins on 'Christmas iPods and Cassettes'

2011-12-15T06:59:00.000Z

We all love our children the same... except maybe when they bellyache about getting the wrong color iPod for Christmas. Tim Hawkins jokes about the trials and tribulations of Christmas gift shopping in this GodTube Exclusive clip, which comes from Tim's concert DVD Insanitized - Get it for Christmas @ http://timhawkins.net/url/59

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'Have You Been to the Garden With Jesus?'

2011-12-15T06:54:00.000Z

HAVE YOU BEEN TO THE GARDEN WITH JESUS

“Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.”

Matthew 26:36-38 (King James Version)

Have you been to the Garden of Gethsemane with Jesus? Have you stayed up all night crying and praying for your lost loved ones and friends? If the tears haven’t rolled down your cheeks or you haven’t felt the agony and the compassion that Jesus feels for us, you haven’t been to the Garden with Jesus.

Why is it we have no trouble staying up and watching movies on television all night but we are too sleepy to stay up and pray all night? Jesus is coming back for us. We don’t know when He is coming back for us but He is coming back and He can come back even as you read this devotion.

How it would hurt Jesus and break His heart if when He comes back for us, He sees us watching television instead of praying for our lost loved ones. Someone made the statement “I do pray. I pray for an hour a day”. Yet this same person watches football games and movies several hours a day.

What a sad commentary it is on those of us who claim to be Christians that we watch television more than we pray. The world is watching us to see how we live. May God have mercy on us if people go to hell because we didn’t pray for them.

Shut off the television and cry out to God for the salvation of your lost loved ones, your friends and the world.

Joanne Lowe

December 14, 2011

Milli Alaira sings 'Dance!'

2011-12-13T08:20:00.000Z

Here's the fabulous Milli Alaira singing her hit song Dance!

This should get your feet tapping and your dance muscles twitching and itching to go!!!

Rudolph - I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000Z

I hope you enjoy this cute video dear reader!

The Amazing Grace Christmas Light House

2011-12-11T08:40:00.001Z

Now these really are CHRISTmas lights!

This incredible light display, honouring the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, involved the use of over 50,000 lights!

Jerzy Przybylski's Album, 'Faith' is a Big Hit Over the Airwaves!

2011-12-11T08:03:00.000Z

Jerzy Przybylski's latest album release is getting a lot of attention on the airwaves. Check it out by listening in on Jango. Jerzy's Christmas song, Once A Year is being played over and over every day at present, but there are three other tracks from the album on Jango as well, and they are all getting plenty of airplay. You can download the whole album or just individual tracks by going to CD Baby, iTunes or Amazon, so why not do it right away! There's still time to get the CD from Sheer Joy Music in time to give it to your friends as a gift for Christmas as well. Order today and it will be despatched to you by the first available high-speed post option.

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'Our Words and Our Thoughts'

2011-12-11T07:48:00.000Z

OUR WORDS AND OUR THOUGHTS

“Let the words of my mouth, and the mediation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.”

Psalm 19:14

King James Version

I wonder if the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart are always acceptable in His sight. We may not say the criticizing and angry words that we want to say but we are thinking them. Jesus knows what we are thinking and He knows what we want to say.

“Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether” (Psalm 139:2-4).

The greatest gift we can give Jesus on His birthday is to turn off the television, get out of our comfort zone and surrender our heart and life to Him in full time service. Another gift we can give Jesus on His birthday is to love one another as He has commanded us to love each other.

I think that we sometimes forget that loving one another unconditionally is not an option, it is a commandment. “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12). Can we honestly say that we always love one another as He loves us?

Let’s give Jesus our heart and our life on His birthday and also give Him our words and our thoughts. Happy Birthday, Jesus! I love You with all of my heart.

Joanne Lowe

December 11, 2011

More Great Christian Quotes

2011-12-09T12:02:00.000Z

Germany's Current Attempt to Control Europe Must Fail!

2011-12-08T08:50:00.000Z

Germany is so persistent when it comes to their desire to dominate and control Europe, and the current attempt by this German Chancellor must be made to fail just as the attempt by another German Chancellor did in the Second World War.

Back in 1914-1918 we defeated Kaiser Bill.

In 1939-1945 we defeated Adolf Hitler

In 2011-201? will we defeat Angela Merkel?

What we need is a leader with the courage of Winston Churchill who is not afraid to face up to the bullying tactics of German Chancellor Merkel and her French poodle. Is David Cameron strong enough? Personally I doubt it. He says one thing when challenged by one group and another when faced with opposition from a different source.

Just as history has judged the failures of the last two German attempts at dominating Europe so it will judge the current attempt. The last two attempts were won by the people. Let us ensure that the current attempt is won by people power as well!

Charlotte Kerce sings 'Trusting You, Lord'

2011-12-07T17:01:00.001Z

Have a listen to Charlotte Kerce singing Trusting You, Lord, from her album 'He's Always With Me' on the SJM label. The Cd can be purchased from the Sheer Joy Music Store or you can download either individual tracks or the whole album from CD Baby, Amazon or iTunes.

'Wherever You Are', sung by The Military Wives Choir.

2011-12-07T13:10:00.000Z

Let us all help to get this song to the Christmas #1 position and knock the chances of X-Factor with a really worthwhile song, a really worthwhile choir and a really worthwhile cause. Anyone who watched the programme on the BBC which showed the amazingly inspiring Gareth Malone forming this choir from amongst a group of military wives. We saw the effort that was put in at every stage. We felt the stress and had our confidence in these women built up as Gareth inspired them to greater and greater heights, until they truly soared to the heights that they now have, loved by the nation.
Please help to make this the #1 Christmas Song this year, because it's such a deserving thing to do. Whilst I'm on about 'deserving', don't you agree with me that Gareth Malone most definitely deserves official national recognition for his inspirational work in the community. I believe that he should be honoured for it in the New Year's Honours List.

Drunken Somali Muslim Girls in Racial Attack

2011-12-07T13:00:00.000Z

Three sisters and their cousin, all Somali Muslims, walked free from court yesterday because a liberally-minded judge allowed the defence that they were not used to being drunk, and had committed the offence of causing actual bodily harm --- a charge which all four of them admitted --- as a result of their binge-drinking prior to the assault.
Screaming racially-motivated abuse at their 22 year-old white victim, the four girls called her 'a white slag' amongst other things.
The Qur'an forbids Muslims from consuming alcohol, apart from for medical reasons, but these girls were obviously not interested in what their Holy Book taught.
The girls concerned in the attack are sisters Ambaro, Ayan and Hibo Maxamed, and their cousin Ifra Nhur, two of them aged 24 and two aged 28. They showed no remorse for their actions, which was all the more reason for a custodial sentence being passed upon them.
What shame they have heaped on their families and their communities, and what disrespect for their religion.
I hope that one outcome from this episode is not that others will feel that they can do as they please, assured that the UK Legal System will free them with little more than a slap on the wrist.

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'His Precious Face'

2011-12-07T12:45:00.000Z

HIS PRECIOUS FACE

“Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands, Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?”

Matthew 26:67,68 (King James Version)

Jesus was abused and treated worse than anyone has ever been treated. Not only did they curse Him and nail Him to the cross, they also spit in His precious face. Has it entered your heart yet how much Jesus loves you? He loves you so much He died for your sins. What a Saviour, this Jesus of Nazareth!

If you ever feel like nobody loves you, remember the cross and all the suffering that Jesus endured for you. You are very precious to Him and He loves you unconditionally. What a comfort and encouragement it is to our weary and battle scarred heart to know that Jesus loves us.

We know how much Jesus loves us because He proved His love for us when He allowed them to crucify Him on the cross but how much do we love Him? What are we doing to prove to Him that we love Him? Jesus got out of His comfort zone for us. He left His Father and His home and came to earth to die for us.

Are we serving Him with all of our heart? Have we got out of our comfort zone for Him or are we still watching television hour after hour? How we must hurt Jesus and break His heart because we don’t always serve Him like we should serve Him. Are you willing to get out of your comfort zone and serve Him?

Heavenly Father, help us to get out of our comfort zone and serve Jesus with all of our heart and all of our time. Jesus, thank You for loving us so much that You died for us. I love You, Jesus. Worthy is the Lamb of God! Amen.

Joanne Lowe

December 7, 2011

Linda Welby sings 'A Christmas Child'

2011-12-07T12:37:00.000Z

I hope you enjoy the talented Irish songstress, Linda Welby, singing this pretty Christmas song. I do!

Pete Rivers sings 'Another Girl Like You'

2011-12-07T12:28:00.000Z

A wonderful and funny tale from the greatest voice in irish country music today Pete Rivers, and another great track from the album The Long Way Home.
I love an awful lot of the current batch of country artists in Ireland/UK today but, in my opinion Pete is the best, and the album of all original compositions is fantastic. Every track is a winner, packed with sad heartfelt emotions , and wonderful up tempo numbers. I can thoroughly recommend this CD as a grteat stocking filler!

PAKISTAN TALIBAN THREATEN CHRISTIAN WITH DEATH FOR OPPOSING BLASPHEMY LAWS

2011-12-07T07:46:00.003Z

Challenging blasphemy laws is condemned as blasphemous by militants. New death threat rachets up risk to Christian minority in Pakistan

From Release International 6.12.11

A Pakistan Christian has received death threats for blasphemy after speaking out against the assassination of a government minister, himself killed for opposing the blasphemy laws. This latest death threat ratchets up the risk to Christians in Pakistan, where militants regard even questioning the blasphemy laws as blasphemous.

36-year-old Arif Ferguson and his entire family have had to go into hiding, following death threats by the Pakistan Taliban and others.

The threats began when Arif shared his Christian faith with Muslims. More death threats followed in earnest after he expressed his views in a local newspaper.

Arif condemned the assassination of Minorities Minister Shahbaz Bhatti, a Christian, who had spoken up against the blasphemy law, and went on to tell the newspaper that Christians are insecure in Pakistan.

‘That seems to have been an understatement, judging by events,’ says Release CEO Andy Dipper. ‘This latest death threat confirms that militants now regard even opposing the blasphemy laws as blasphemous – a ‘crime’ deserving of death.

‘They will not permit debate in parliament or in the press. This ratchets up the risk to all Christians in Pakistan who take issue with intolerance and extremism.’

Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan claimed responsibility for killing Minorities Minister Shahbaz Bhatti, describing him as a blasphemer of Mohammed. The same group is now threatening to kill Arif Ferguson.

Arif fled for Karachi after being tipped off that the Islamist militants were trying to track him down. But even there death threats by post and by phone forced the family of nine to go into hiding again. Lab technician Arif and his sisters have now lost their jobs, throwing the family into financial crisis.

Arif said: ‘I trust in Jesus. If I die it will be for Christ.’

A safe house has been found for Arif, and accommodation is being prepared for the rest of his family.

In January Release presented a petition with more than 50,000 signatures to the Pakistan High Commission, calling on the nation to protect its Christian minority who are coming under increasing threat.

Release presented the petition following the gunning down of Punjab governor Salman Taseer by his own bodyguard, while others tasked to protect him looked on. The killing was celebrated in the streets.

Mr Taseer was murdered for calling for the blasphemy laws to be repealed, and for standing with Asia Bibi, the first Christian woman to be sentenced to death for blasphemy. She remains today on death row, pending appeal. Regardless of the outcome extremists have put a reward out to anyone who kills her.

"Only a handful of politicians have had the courage to challenge the blasphemy laws," says Andy Dipper. "Two have been murdered and now the killers are threatening Arif Ferguson with assassination – just for wanting a change in the law.

Pakistan’s leaders must take a stand against this climate of fear and safeguard the freedom to debate – in the press and in Parliament. They must act with courage to end intimidation. And the blasphemy law – which is used to justify religious killing – must be repealed.

Please pray that the voice of reason will be heard and respected in Pakistan. Pray for Arif and his family – for their protection, support and encouragement. Pray also for courage for all working to see the repeal of Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws."

Genocide Warning for the Middle East!

2011-12-06T17:10:00.000Z

Christian church burns in Cairo

Most people aren’t aware that since we toppled the regime of Saddam Hussein, over a half million Christians have been forced to flee Iraq due to persecution by Iraqi Muslims.
Now, the so-called “Arab Spring” is turning into a nightmare for non-Muslims in countries throughout the Middle East. It will likely only get worse. In Egypt’s recent election it has been estimated that Muslim Brotherhood candidates won about 45% of contested seats, and hardcore Islamist Salafist candidates (comparable to Wahhabists in Saudi Arabia), won 20%.
Please see the genocide warning and add your name to the petition below!

CSI Issues Genocide Warning for Religious Minorities in the Middle East

New Petition Calls on President Obama to Help Halt Religious Cleansing

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Christian Solidarity International (CSI) issued a Genocide Warning today for endangered religious minorities in the Islamic Middle East, and called on President Barack Obama to make their survival a priority as the United States responds to the "Arab Spring".
CSI simultaneously launched a petition to the President, asking him to respond to the upsurge of violence against religious minorities in the Middle East in his upcoming State of the Union Address.
Christians, Jews, Baha'i, Yezidis, Sabeans, and Ahmadias, numbering collectively over 12 million, are among the endangered minorities.
Writing today to President Obama, Dr. John Eibner, CEO of CSI-USA, stated:
"Conditions for genocide against non-Muslim communities exist in varying degrees throughout the region stretching from Pakistan to Morocco. The crisis of survival for non-Muslim communities is especially acute in Iraq, Syria, Egypt, Sudan, the Palestinian territories, Iran and Pakistan."
Eibner also reminded President Obama of genocide warnings issued this year by French President Nicholas Sarkozy and former Lebanese President Amine Gemayal.
He furthermore recalled the President's May 19 speech on events in the Middle East, in which he committed to establish universal human rights, including religious freedom, as "a top priority that must be translated into concrete actions, and supported by all of the diplomatic, economic and strategic tools at our disposal."
CSI urged President Obama to present in his State of the Union Address a Middle East policy that includes:

An appeal to the UN Secretary General for the issuance of a Genocide Warning and implementation of preventative measures on the basis of Security Council Resolution 1366 (2001),

The commitment of at least 15% of US funding pledged for the support of democratic transition in the region to be devoted to combating Islamic supremacism, and

A pledge to withhold U.S. funding for institutions that promote religious discrimination.

Eibner concluded his letter to the President stating: "Millions of lives and the future of a religiously pluralistic civilization in the Middle East are at stake."
CSI is an international, Christian human rights organization, campaigning for religious liberty and human dignity, and assisting victims of religious persecution, victimized children and victims of catastrophe.

Negative attitudes towards Islam on the rise in Europe

2011-12-06T17:03:00.000Z

A recent study in Europe found that half of Europeans now believe Islam is a religion of intolerance (see story below). This is revealing, because for decades European countries and Great Britain have bent over backwards to accommodate Muslim immigrants and increasingly unreasonable demands from Islamic leaders and organizations.
Pushback by Europeans has resulted in the Swiss passage of a referendum banning the construction of minarets and the growing strength of Geert Wilders’ political party in the Netherlands.

It appears that, as more and more Europeans have seen the intolerance of radical Islam, they are understandably reacting negatively to that intolerance.
This is what leaders like German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister David Cameron were referring to last year when they said, speaking of Muslim immigration, that “multiculturalism” had failed. Cameron went so far as to say it was time to stop being tolerant of intolerance.
The same trend is happening in America, with polls showing negative attitudes towards Islam on the rise. From the Ground Zero Mosque controversy to the rise of homegrown terrorism, Americans are waking up to the threat of radical Islam.
Groups like CAIR and ISNA will continue to claim this is all about worldwide Islamophobia. They claim that people have negative views of Islam because they aren’t exposed to “genuine” Islam.
But the mounting evidence argues that the more people in the West are exposed to Islam, the less they like what they see. Reformist Muslim Tawfik Hamid is correct—it’s time for the Muslim world to stop pointing fingers of blame at the West and start examining itself.

EU: Half of Europeans say Islam is a religion of intolerance
http://europenews.dk/en/node/50157
The Friedrich-Ebert-Foundation published a study on intolerance and prejudice in Europe. The study "Intolerance, Prejudice and Discrimination" is available in German and English. I bring below the section relating to Muslims.
After statistical testing, three statements were used to produce the anti-Muslim attitudes mean scale (Table 7, items 18 to 20). These cover the general impression that there are too many Muslims in the country, the charge that Muslims make too many demands, and broad-brush criticism of Islam as a religion of intolerance. Four further statements were surveyed in a random half of the sample. These cover a positive attitude that sees Muslims as an enrichment and the idea that there are great cultural differences between the majority society and Muslims, especially concerning attitudes towards women. We also surveyed the idea that Muslims generally support and condone terrorism.
In most of the countries a majority believe Islam to be a religion of intolerance, with agreement just below 50 percent only in Great Britain and the Netherlands. In almost all the countries more than half of respondents said that Muslims make too many demands; Portugal was the only exception with about one third. The statement that there are too many Muslims in the country is affirmed by just over one quarter in Portugal and by about one third in France. In Germany, Great Britain, Italy and the Netherlands more than 40 percent of respondents complain that there are too many Muslims in their country, in Hungary about 60 percent.
Interviewees were also asked to respond to four further statements covering perceived cultural differences and supposed affinity of Muslims toward terrorism (Table 7, items 22 to 25). Despite correlating closely with anti-Muslim attitudes these items represent separate constructs and were therefore excluded from the scale measure.
The figures for those who say that Muslim culture is compatible with their own range from 17 percent in Poland and 19 percent in Germany to about half the population in Portugal and France. A majority of more than 70 percent of European respondents find that Muslim attitudes towards women are incompatible with their own values. Overall in the surveyed countries about one third think that Muslims treat Islamist terrorists as heroes, although somewhat fewer believe that terrorism finds moral support in the Muslim community (ranging from under 20 percent in Germany and the Netherlands to nearly 30 percent in Hungary).
The scale created from the first three statements clearly illustrates the extent of anti-Muslim attitudes in the studied countries (Figure 5). It is conspicuous that Europeans are largely united in their rejection of Muslims and Islam. The significantly most widespread anti-Muslim attitudes are found in Germany, Hungary, Italy and Poland, closely followed by France, Great Britain and the Netherlands. The extent of anti-Muslim attitudes is least in Portugal. In absolute terms, however, the eight countries differ little in their levels of prejudice towards Muslims.

Tim Hawkins - What I Believe

2011-12-06T16:48:00.001Z

Underneath the humour of Tim Hawkins is a man with a gigantic heart for Christ, and this is what comes across in this song, What I Believe.

Halal Cornflakes? No thanks, Mr Kellogg!

2011-12-06T16:22:00.002Z

This little logo is to be found on your box of Kellogg's cereal now, and it may well make you question whether or not you wish to continue buying Kellogg's products any longer. The reason is that it is the mark used to certify that a food product is halal.
The company claims that using the certification mark is "due to legislation for our multi-cultural society" but personally I don't think that holds much water!!!
The use of the certification mark identifies the product as having been approved by the Halal Food Authority as not containing any alcohol or animal derivatives.
I wonder whether Kellogg's would consider producing packaging with the sign of the Christian ichthus or the sign of the cross on the side to show that it's food which has been blessed, not in the name of Allah (the Moon god), but in the name of the one and only Living God, Jehovah. If they did this then Christians could be sure of buying food which has not been blessed in the name of any false gods of any description. After all, we do live in a predominantly Christian country and are not bound by sharia law.

Bethlehemian Rhapsody

2011-12-02T15:27:00.000Z

What a fabulous piece of creativity!

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'Walking and Talking'

2011-12-01T09:21:00.000Z

WALKING AND TALKING

“And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?”

Luke 24:32 (King James Version)

William Appel wrote a beautiful hymn “Walking and Talking with Jesus”. “You may walk with Him today! Believe it, weary soul; He will cause your heart to burn; His words will make you whole; With the smile of His dear face, He’ll cheer you on the way; Safely He will guide and lead you on from day to day.”

Jesus is not only our Saviour, He also guides us and leads us. When we grow weary, He encourages us and He dries our tears with tender compassionate kisses. Are you walking and talking with Jesus? It’s wonderful that He comforts us, encourages us and comforts us but what are we doing and giving up for Him?

Many years ago when I was going door to door on visitation for church, I asked this lady “If you knew that God was telling you to sell your home and give the money to missions, would you do it?” She didn’t hesitate. She said “Absolutely not! This house is mine. I worked very hard for the money to buy it.”

How that statement must have hurt Jesus and broke His heart. Nothing we have belongs to us and that includes our time and our talents. Jesus bought the right to our heart and our life with His own blood when He allowed them to crucify Him on the cross of Calvary for our sins.

Heavenly Father, I pray that we will get out of our comfort zone and serve Jesus with all of our heart. How can we do less than serve Him when He gave His life for us on the cross? I love You, dear Father. I love You, Jesus. I love You, Holy Spirit. Amen.

Joanne Lowe

joannelowe8@cox.net

www.joanne-ourprecioussaviour.blogspot.com

Linda Welby sings 'Im Telling You Now'

2011-11-30T12:38:00.001Z

Here's a great track by Linda Welby, who hails from Galway in Northern Ireland. You can learn more about her by visiting her website.

This picture shows Linda with the Award she was presented with for her album Story to Tell.
Linda really is the genuine article, as commented upon by Pat Boone in the following review:
"After spending time with her and listening her music, I can say Linda Welby is the genuine article. Everything about her is genuine. She's a singer, musician, recording artist, -- but so much more. She's a mother, a wife, a beautiful woman (I've seen her up close) and a true joy to know. I put her in the same class with Emmy Lou Harris and Joan Collins. Her songs are lovely, emotional, melodic and they spring from real life experience. I feel her heartbeat in every one. She's the genuine article!" - Pat Boone

Living a Double Life in North Korea

2011-11-30T05:34:00.000Z

North Korean Border guards taking a break outside their guardhouse on the South Korean border. They are ordered to shoot any who attempt to escape their country.

Dear Friends,

Let me tell you about Mrs. Sun (not her real name), a North Korean woman who is not all that she seems to be.

To the North Korean government and many of her influential friends and family, she is a doctor and a loyal, upstanding citizen.

To hungry and impoverished North Korean Christians, she is a Good Samaritan who helps sustain them by smuggling food, medicine, and Bibles into North Korea from China.

Mrs. Sun’s official life began decades ago, during a time of relative prosperity in North Korea. As a college student, Mrs. Sun had the opportunity to pursue the career of her choice. Due to her strong desire to help others, she chose medicine. Years later, when Mrs. Sun was in her thirties, North Korea endured the worst famine the country had ever experienced. Once again she heeded the call to help those in need by offering food, which she obtained from neighboring China.

Twenty years later, her life as a “double agent” had become routine. By “day” she served her people as a medical professional (under the guise of a loyal national), and by “night” she served as one of our most effective underground food distributors and evangelists. Using her influential status to travel into China, she gathered food, medical supplies, and other aid to bring back to the hundreds of people in her home city.

Last month, however, the unthinkable happened. During her stay with some friends in China, she received an urgent message from a trusted friend. Government spies had discovered the true purpose of her frequent border crossings. The message warned that officials were waiting to arrest her as soon as she stepped foot on North Korean soil.

Mrs. Sun was devastated. She knew that she faced certain death if she tried to return home, but the thought of leaving her husband and pregnant daughter in North Korea was unbearable. Making the hardest decision of her life, Mrs. Sun entrusted herself to God and went into hiding with the help of her friends in China.

But Mrs. Sun could not stay in China—she was now a hunted woman, as China cooperates with North Korea in searching for and returning North Koreans who have escaped. Those who are caught in China and returned to North Korea are sent to concentration camps where they are not likely to survive their sentences.

Using gifts from the North Korean Christians Fund, Heaven’s Family funded Mrs. Sun’s safe passage to Thailand, where she is now living. She will be there for three months and then relocate to South Korea. Please pray this month for her to have a smooth transition to her new life in South Korea as well as for her family left behind in North Korea.

For our suffering family in North Korea,

Elisabeth Servant
Director, North Korean Christians Fund

This correspondence is not intended to be an appeal for funds, but as an informational update for those who have already contributed to the North Korean Christians Fund or signed up to receive these updates. Thank you so much.

Our goal is to serve you as you serve the “least of these” among Christ’s family. If, however, you would like to contribute again to this fund, we want to make it easy for you, either through credit card or automatic bank withdrawal. Just click here or call our office during regular business hours (8:30AM – 5PM EST) at (412) 833-5826.

To contribute by cheque in the U.K., please write the designated fund name in the memo line and mail it to Heaven’s Family, P.O. Box 7402, Bournemouth, U.K. BH11 0EJ.

Heaven’s Family is a 501c3 non-profit organization recognized by the IRS. Heaven’s Family is also a registered charity in the U.K., and most gifts qualify for Gift Aid, significantly increasing the size of your gift. Please visit our website at HeavensFamily.org.

Toby Keith sings 'Does That Blue Moon Ever Shine On You'

2011-11-29T17:16:00.000Z

Here's a great Country singer who sings a mean Country song! Toby Keith sings Does That Blue Moon Ever Shine On You.
My verdict is simply that it's a great song and a great singer.

Trent Jeffcoat sings 'When I Find Me That Mountain'

2011-11-29T16:54:00.001Z

I hope that Trent Jeffcoat will be recording the Country version of my song 'We All Need Our Heroes' in a couple of weeks time in Nashville. I think that he'll make a great job of it! The completed CD will be released on the SJM label and will be sold to raise money for the Help for Heroes Fund to help all of our troops who give up so much to help make the world a safer place to live in.

Tim Hawkins in The Government Can LIVE!

2011-11-29T13:44:00.001Z

I always enjoy Tim Hawkins' videos, and this one is well up to scratch. I hope that you enjoy this LIVE version of one of Tim's most popular viral videos. Part of Tim's new Rockshow Comedy Tour audio CD which brings you 65+ minutes of Tim solo in concert.

Also new = Pretty Pink Tractor CD with 17 of Tim's new and classic studio cuts including
Pretty Pink Tractor, The Government Can, and Homeschool Blues. Both CDs are ON SALE NOW athttp://www.timhawkins.net

What would you want for Christmas? : Cute video

2011-11-29T13:38:00.000Z

Mary Margaret sings 'I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas' in this video. Cute or what?

More Great Christian Quotes by Richard Sibbes and others

2011-11-29T11:35:00.000Z

"Not to be afflicted is a sign of weakness; for, therefore God imposeth no more on me, because he sees I can bear no more."
- Joseph Hall

"When we grow careless of keeping our souls, then God recovers our taste of good things again by sharp crosses."
- Richard Sibbes

"The winter prepares the earth for the spring, so do afflictions sanctified prepare the soul for glory."
- Richard Sibbes

"Do not even such things as are most bitter to the flesh, tend to awaken Christians to faith and prayer, to a sight of the emptiness of this world, and the fadingness of the best it yield? ... How then can we be offended at things by which we reap so much good?"
- John Bunyan

"As the wicked are hurt by the best things, so the godly are bettered by the worst."
- William Jenkyn

"He that rides to be crowned, will not think much of a rainy day."
- John Trapp

"Afflictions are light when compared with what we really deserve. They are light when compared with the sufferings of the Lord Jesus. But perhaps their real lightness is best seen by comparing them with the weight of glory which is awaiting us."
-Arthur W. Pink

I'm currently reading ... 'Revival Praying' by Leonard Ravenhill

2011-11-29T06:22:00.002Z

I'm currently about halfway through this Spirit-inspired book by the late Leonard Ravenhill, and I completely concur with the writer of the following review which comes from the Amazon website.

'REVIVAL PRAYING is one of the best books on prayer. In fact, I would rate it just a bit ahead of Leonard Ravenhill's best known book, WHY REVIVAL TARRIES?. The book focuses not on revival as much as prayer. It is Ravenhill's firm belief that we lack a true sense and awe of God's holiness and majesty because we don't pray (Luke 18:1). Despite the church being very active in politics, programs, and everything else under the sun, the average church's prayer meeting is either non-existent or lacking. For example a local church near me boasts in their 500 members but only 6 usually come to their prayer meeting. How sad!
If you are a weak, defeated, sinning, dead in your sins, no hunger for God "Christian" then please don't read this book on prayer. Try a lighter book such as Bill Hybels' TOO BUSY NOT TO PRAY but don't read any books by Tozer, Wesley, Ravenhill, M'Cheyne, Morgan, Torrey, or any other of the older saints of God (Colossians 4:2; 1 Thess. 5:17; James 5:16). These books are not books on HOW to pray but are written to encourage those who DO pray (Matthew 7:7-11; Luke 11:1; Acts 2:42; Romans 12:12).'

Of course, if all you do is read this book and then put it back on your bookshelf then you will have only got a taste of a good book. What you need to do is to pray before, during and after you read it, begging God to help you apply the wisdom and truths found in it to your own life, for this is a Spirit-inspired book which has the ability to change your life if you so desire and so permit.

A Year ago we had Snow! Snow! Snow!

2011-11-29T06:10:00.000Z

This was the scene in Gateshead in the North East of the UK, this time last year.

(Courtesy of freefoto.com)

There was plenty of traffic chaos where the roads were passable.

What a bunch of Winter wimps we've become ... (READ the story by Tony Parsons in The Mirror, 16th January, 2010

New book by Brigitte Gabriel: “Understanding the Threat of Radical Islam”

2011-11-29T05:44:00.002Z

A book on Radical Islam—for our youth!
by Brigitte Gabriel,
President, ACT! for America
I am so excited to be able to announce the completion of a new ACT! for America book for our youth—

“Understanding the Threat of Radical Islam”

Everywhere I go I hear from parents and grandparents who ask me, “is there a good resource about radical Islam available for young people?”

Now there is—and just in time for holiday gift-giving!!

This illustrated book covers all the essential topics needed for a young person to gain an understanding of radical Islam—without being too long or too weighty. They’ll learn about everything from al Qaeda to Khomeini, from jihad to the Muslim Brotherhood, from sharia law to Wahhabism. The book even contains a timeline and an index.

Designed for middle school and early high school ages, this book will provide your teen or grandchild, or a friend of the family, the facts they aren’t getting in school, movies or the media.

We’re making this important book available for a contribution of just $26. For just $26 you can put this book into the hands of your teenager, a grandchild, or the friend of your family.

Simply log on here, select the “Contributing Member” option, then select the $26 gift level. It’s safe, simple, and secure.

If you would like multiple copies, we’re offering bulk orders of six copies or more for a contribution of just $20 per copy. After you log on here, select the “Quantity Discount Orders” option, then scroll down to the $20 gift amount.

If you would prefer to make your contribution with a check, just click here to print out an easy-to-use reply form that you can mail in with your check.

The holidays are just around the corner, so if you’re interested, please act today. This book is a great gift for teenagers—but I’ve been told by adults who have read it that the information is packaged so well they enjoyed reading it as well.

You can change the heart and mind of a young person today by getting a copy of this book. In doing so, you’ll be helping to shape the next generation’s understanding of radical Islam.

Thank you for your support of ACT! for America. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Always devoted,

Brigitte Gabriel

PENSION STRIKE CANNOT BE JUSTIFIED

2011-11-28T16:36:00.000Z

The Association of Christian Financial Advisers (ACFA) believes the public-workers’ strike over pensions is unjustified. ACFA says society can no longer afford ‘unfunded’ final-salary pensions when people are living longer – without either increased personal contributions or reducing the benefits. ACFA sees a growing and ‘unfair’ gap between public and private sector pensions and wants the government to go further to encourage pension saving.

The following statement is by ACFA chairman Aidan Vaughan.

Public sector pensions - time for a reality check!

‘Everyone wants a pension but nobody wants to pay for one’

Wednesday sees a planned day of action by major public sector trade unions over pensions - the Association of Christian Financial Advisers (ACFA) consider whether their cause is justified. Chairman Aidan Vaughan writes:

Final salary pensions provide a guaranteed pension based on years of service and the final salary - they provide tremendous security in old age for the member and their spouse. Pensions can be as much as two-thirds of final salary on 40 years of work, or much shorter periods for certain groups of key workers such as policeman, fireman, high court judges or members of parliament.

Local Authority pension schemes are funded but others, notably the Civil Service, Teachers and the NHS, are un-funded and are paid for by the taxpayer, you and me. 30 years ago a virtuous combination of factors made the schemes affordable.

Times have changed such that very few comparable workers in the private sector have the luxury of a promise of guaranteed pensions, in fact out of the top 100 FTSE quoted companies only five offer new workers membership of a final salary-related pension.

According to the Occupational Pension Scheme survey for 2010 there were 2.1million private sector active members in final salary schemes as opposed to 5.3m public sector employees. There was another 1m active members in private sector defined contribution schemes where the employee takes the risk of the ultimate returns. Overall, public sector pension costs for 2010 were £32billion, less £5b paid for by employee contributions.

Even very successful companies realize that they cannot offer open-ended promises of indexed-linked pensions for retirees who could live into their eighties or nineties (we expect to live a third longer than in the 1950s).

The scope for ‘final salary’ manipulation is legion – promotions or bonuses at or near to retirement to inflate the final salary figure, early retirement without actuarial reduction due to adverse health, favourable early retirement as part of a ‘down-sizing’ package, retiring and then immediate re-hiring etc.

An extreme private sector example of this was that of the former banker Fred Goodwin originally being awarded a pension reportedly up to £703,000pa (until voluntarily reduced) in August 2008 at age 50 after his disastrous tenure at Royal Bank of Scotland (precipitating the biggest loss in UK corporate history).

In truth, all of us would love the security of an indexed final salary pension where someone else provides the guarantee, takes on the investment risk, longevity/annuity risk, not to mention the administration and compliance costs. But if final salary pensions are to be maintained personal contributions will have to increase or benefits will have to be reduced.

Governments, who are themselves public servants, have been afraid to tackle the real issues. Our last government tinkered around the edges but refused to grasp the nettle. The current government, after the Hutton report, has shown some courage by seeking to cap the overall costs of schemes (most to 20 per cent of salary bill) and requesting a higher contribution from workers (either directly or by using a career average, working longer, less indexation, capping total benefits etc).

The latest compromise (‘no reduction for anyone within 10 years of retirement’, when that is exactly the group who has the greatest accrual of benefits and the greatest scope for giving something up) shows just how difficult it is to try and reform such an emotive issue as public sector pensions.

Spare a thought for the millions who have to fund their own private money purchase pension arrangements, especially if policy holders buy annuities at derisory rates. Based on a hypothetical funding calculation (using recent annuity rates - see below) a 25-year-old male would have to contribute 28 per cent of his salary to provide an indexed-linked two-thirds final salary at the age of 65 - an impossible task.

Let’s make no bones about it, final salary pensions can be the best possible and most efficient form of pension provision - it is a travesty that the private sector has largely had to withdraw them.

To retain the support of taxpayers for public sector final salary pensions, there needs to be a reality check of what is ‘affordable’ to us all - citizens of an indebted and ageing western nation, struggling to adjust to a changing world order.

The Hutton report was commissioned and reported in October 2010 and, very reasonably, suggested that solutions should involve affordability and sustainability; adequacy and fairness; transparency and simplicity.

When negotiation is taking place we are struggling to see the logic of industrial action - please make your points quickly and go back to work!

This issue is of enormous importance to everyone in our nation, especially the younger generations who have to help fund the retiring ‘baby boomer’ generations as well as themselves! There has to be justice between the generations as well as between competing groups of workers for society to work effectively. It is a time to think beyond our own interest groups.

Final salary pensions are a great thing. It would be wonderful if they could be available for all, but who should pay for yours – you or other taxpayers? There is an issue of fairness and integrity here that affects the whole of our society.

ACFA is the UK network of Christian financial advisers and related professionals. It aims to be the voice of Christian financial advice and champions best practice in the UK. The ACFA website offers links to Christian financial advisers across the UK.

Note: Male aged 25 retiring 40 years later, final salary £23,700 (national average earnings), starting salary £7,269pa, salary and contributions escalating at 3%pa, investment return of 7%pa, allowance for expenses of 1%pa, spouse 3 years younger, RPI escalating annuity 3.2% and 50% spouse’s pension, retirement fund £492,700, no tax free cash.

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'Don't Be Anxious'

2011-11-24T11:15:00.000Z

DON’T BE ANXIOUS

“Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”

Psalm 55:22 (King James Version)

Edward Henry Joy, who was an officer in the Salvation Army, wrote a beautiful hymn about leaving our anxiety with Jesus “Is There a Heart O’erbound by Sorrow?” If we would leave our burdens and our anxiety with Jesus and trust Him to take care of us and our loved ones, we would have less stress in our life.

Jesus is the greatest Friend we could ever have. I believe that Edward Joy wrote this hymn from personal experience and from the depths of his heart. “All your anxiety, all your care, Bring to the mercy seat, leave it there; Never a burden He cannot bear, Never a Friend like Jesus.” There is no friend like Jesus!

I wonder how many times we have shared our heart with Jesus and asked Him to take care of us and our loved ones and then as soon as we said “Amen” we started worrying again and trying to solve our problems. O we may be able to fix the immediate crisis but it won’t last. The problem will come back again.

It is time that we start trusting Jesus because what He says, He will do. When we worry and try to fix the problems after we have said “Amen”, we are telling Jesus that we don’t trust Him and don’t believe He can solve our problems. How we must hurt Him and break His heart.

Heavenly Father, please forgive us for not trusting Jesus and for hurting Him. When we hurt Jesus, we also hurt You. Thank You for being a loving, forgiving and compassionate Father. I am so thankful that You love me enough that you sent Jesus to die on the cross for my sins. I love You, dear Father. Amen.

Joanne Lowe

November 24, 2011

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:52:00.002Z

A Happy Thanksgiving to all my readers in the United States.

I hope that you all have a great day surrounded by your loved ones!

More Great Christian Quotes

2011-11-23T17:26:00.000Z

"A man who loves you the most is the man who tells you the most truth about yourself."
- Robert Murray M'Cheyne

"You don't need to know the word of God; you need to know the God of the word."
- Leonard Ravenhill

"God's will is hard only when it comes up against our stubbornness, then it is as cruel as a ploughshare and as devastating as an earthquake."
- Oswald Chambers

"Half a dozen men on their knees for 60 minutes waiting upon the Lord with the absolute conviction that they have no answer, that their human ideas and programmes are ineffective and bankrupt - they will accomplish more than 50 men around a table discussing problems for a whole year."
- Alan Redpath

"It takes spiritual authority to bless others. Many Christians say, "God bless you," but one clearly senses that although the words express a kind wish, they lack real spiritual authority."
- M. Basilea Schlink

"We are never, never so much in danger of being proud as when we think we are humble."
- Charles Haddon Spurgeon

Joanne Lowe's Meditations: 'Are We Peacemakers?'

2011-11-23T17:22:00.000Z

ARE WE PEACEMAKERS

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

Matthew 5:9 (King James Version)

Our Scripture verse tells us that we are called the children of God if are peacemakers. Are we called peacemakers by our families and by our friends or do we create chaos and cause problems in our homes? May God have mercy on us if we are causing problems and starting arguments in our homes.

If we have repented of our sins, confessed them and asked God to forgive us for our sins and invited Jesus into our heart to be our personal Saviour, we are saved. Jesus lives in us. He hears the criticizing and sarcastic words that we sometimes say to one another when we are angry and it breaks His heart.

Next month, we will celebrate the birthday of our Saviour. When Jesus was born, He brought love, unconditional love, joy, peace and happiness into the world. One of the greatest gifts we can give Jesus on His birthday is to be kind and loving to everyone and be a peacemaker in our home.

Is Jesus happy because you are a peacemaker in your home or is He sad because are you causing problems and starting arguments? It’s not easy to say kind and loving words in return when people attack us verbally. We need to ask Jesus to help us so we won’t say unkind and cruel words to them.

Heavenly Father, please help us to be peacemakers in our homes and with our friends. May we never forget that when we say cruel and criticizing words to one another it hurts You. I pray that we will be children that make You happy instead of children that make You sad. Amen.

Joanne Lowe

November 20, 2011