Pay It Forward---The 17 Day Diet Day 406

Romans 12:13  Share with God`s people who are in need.  Practice hospitality.

It`s no secret, that my inactivity has allowed my aging body to slowly but surely accumulate  unwanted unhealthy weight.   I can say that I have dreaded belly-fat, repulsive muffin-top and more rolls than a bakery.   Of course, during the past years I have tried dieting with limited success.  I joined a competition at a local Nutrition Center, lost eleven pounds---- that soon returned.   I tried the buddy system with friends, Kathleen and Pat, believing that an accountability partner would help.  Nope!

  You  might ask, did I consult God in this area? O yeah!  I questioned my motives for overeating, was I still feeding some type of unresolved issues, had my addictive behavior merely shifted from alcohol to food?  Considering the obesity issues in both sides of my roots, was I still battling a generational curse?   I prayed, but didn`t seem to receive the answers.   God continued healing me spiritually and inwardly but my weight was out of control; I felt ugly, fat and frumpy.  Not to mention that my clothes didn`t fit.   Nevertheless, I kept seeking and questioning. What is it God?

Isaiah 28:23 Listen and hear my voice; pay attention and hear what I say.

One day while grocery shopping I ran into one of my God-sent friends, Linda Clugston.   Thank you God, I now realize that this wasn`t just a co-inky-dink!  God had surely orchestrated this perfect meeting.  Linda looked fantastic, she had lost a considerable amount of weight since I had last seen her.  She looked 10 years younger, she was full of joy and excitement,  she shared that she had lost 40 pounds in the last 5 months. Wow!  Psalms 23:3  He restores my soul, He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name`s sake.  Linda shared that one of her friend from church introduced her to "The 17 Day Diet."  Her friend prayed with her and Linda purchased the book, written by Dr. Mike Moreno.

In front of the meat freezer, filled with turkeys, Linda prayed with me.  She assured me that it was only with God`s assistance that she had been so successful.  No problem convincing me of that!  To make a long story short, in less than one month, I`m 16 pounds lighter!  Thank you, God thank you, God.  Dr. Moreno`s book is a simple plan that targets both belly fat and visceral fat and produces fast results that last.  I have a plan for success, thanks to Dr. Moreno, hooray!

Just like I felt 7 years ago when I stopped drinking, I now feel empowered to shed the unwanted pounds that threaten my health.  This is not a diet that relies on a tiny list of approved foods, grueling exercise routines or unrealistic calorie counts that leave you hungry and unfulfilled.  Moderation and proper portions are key factors in the 17 Day Diet.   God recently  revealed to me that I had just gotten lost in poor eating choices and bad habits. That`s all, God, just changing bad habits, thank you!

The first Saturday in January, in my home, 2 Linda`s will host a little dinner party for family and friends that struggle with weight issues.  With God`s help, Dr.  Moren`s book in hand,  healthy foods and lots of hands on prayers, we will share our success for God`s glory!  God created us in his image to be healthy and wise. Ecclesiastes 8:1  Who is like the wise man?  Who knows the explanation of things?  Wisdom brightens a man`s face and changes its hard appearance.  Proverbs 15:30  A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.

I pray that friends and family will embrace the joy and wisdom of good health in the new year!  Father God, do you think I could eventually go off my blood pressure and cholesterol medicines!  If God is for us, anything is possible!  AMEN...

FATHER`S LOVE LETTER Day 405

Isaiah 2:17-18  The arrogance of man will be brought low and the pride of men humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day, and the idols will totally disappear.

It`s been a while since I sat down to write, perhaps I just needed to spend more quality time with Father God.  In the past several months I`ve attended seminars, healing classes, read several books and forged deeper into the Father`s loving embrace.  I thank God for the continued healing for me and my entire family.  I thank Him for answered and unanswered prays, I trust  that He has the perfect plan for my existence.

 I would like to share with you the "Father`s Love Letter,"  an intimate message from God to his children.  I pray, that you will read this and allow the love of Father God to penetrate your soul.  Read it again and again, read it aloud!  Meditate on the truth, experience perhaps for the first time, how much God loves YOU!  GOOGLE IT, SHARE IT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.


             MY CHILD

You may not know me, but I know everything about you. Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways. Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image. Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being. Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring. Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb. Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born. Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me. John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father. Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love. Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore. Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you. Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires. Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being. Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you. Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you. 1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love. Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me. 1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again. Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen. Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father. Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is… Will you be my child? John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you. Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad Almighty God

AMEN, BLESSINGS AND LOVE TO ALL, Linda

Patiences and Trust, Thank You LORD Day 403

Psalm 91:1-2  He who dwells in the shelter of Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. 

To say the least, trust and patience have not always been two of my outstanding characteristics.   However, in the six year since I totally surrendered my stubborn, strong-willed self to the LORD he`s been doing lots of work, from the inside out.  Often, the process was gut wrenching, requiring buckets of tears to flush the buried misery to light of Jesus.

There are at least four kinds of healing; the one Christians have most often heard of physical healing, second there is spiritual healing, needed in the area of sin.  When people need help that goes beyond repenting and resolving not to commit the sin anymore, they can no longer control their behavior, then healing and deliverance is necessary.  The third area is inner healing, which is used to heal our disordered emotions, that are out of control, emotions that control us.  The fourth type of healing is deliverance from evil spirits. 

The four areas of healing where we most need God`s help is our sick bodies, our wounded emotions, our broken spirits(mind and will), and infection by evil spirits.  I can honestly say that I required work, massive recovery in three out of four categories; thus far no evil spirits have surfaced, thank you, God.  Once, I desired a close personal intimate relation with my heavenly Father, He navigated the healing process.  He throw me a life preserver, I held tight.  I recall praying that I wanted to be more like Jesus.  Psalm 37:4  Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Colossians 1:27  To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Galatians 2:20  I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.  The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

 As God directs the restoration process, I continually experience new levels of His unconditional love.  Yes, it is often a slow and tedious process but only God knows when I am prepared to advance to the next level of healing.  Could God heal all of my distress and brokenness in the blink of an eye, of course he could.  But, his grace is sufficient and He will not protect us from something that He can use to perfect us.  Ephesian 1:7-8  In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God`s grace that he lavishes on us with all wisdom and understanding.

  Thank you, Lord Daily I will press forward to achieve your plans and purpose for my existence.

Philippians 3:12-14  Not that I have already obtained this, or have already been made perfect but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.  Brother, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it.  But one thing I do:  Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,  I press on toward the goal to win the prized for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

I thank God for loving me through my years of not trusting and my impatience, as I rushed head first toward a dead end.  As I have shared many times in this blog, He has used the good, the bad and the ugly to get my undivided attention .  I once was lost and severely broken but now I am alive in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:20-21  But our citizenship is in heaven.  And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the LORD Jesus Christ, who , by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

It is my prayer, that as you read this, you will accept the salvation and restoration that God freely offers.   Amen! 

Help Us Jesus, Help Us Jesus!!! Day 402

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, the name that sends Satan running!   Not sure what`s going on but I`ve been struggling with blogging, and I`m not liking it.  Feels as if I`ve turned my back on my therapy sessions; or have I just been too busy enjoying the summer?  No time like the present to get started.

Two weeks ago I had the privilege of delivering my full personal testimony for our healing and prayer service.  For the first time I shared publicly the whole truth about who I am and why I am who I am!  As I delivered my twenty minute testimony, it was if I was totally naked before the entire congregation of peers, family, friends and total strangers. However, earlier that day as I prayed, I believe that Jesus told me that he would be standing right beside me.  No doubt he is a man of his word; I felt comfort, peace and protected  as I shared the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Yes, tears flowed and lives where touched for the glory of God.  It is when we allow God to expose our transparency that the truth sets us free. The light  of Christ Jesus shined brightly, as I shared the darkness that had held me captive for decades.

John 8:12  When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

I thank God for the opportunity to witness and testify what He has done in my life, it was such a blessing to be used as a vessel for His glory.  Several people confessed to me that my life story touched them in an amazing and powerful way.  God did not create us to walk through this life alone, He created us for love, fellowship and to witness one to the other.

 1 Timothy 1:14-16  The grace of our LORD was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.  Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance:  Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners---of whom I am the worst.  But for this very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinner, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.

The following week, Rick and I were traveling to visit family in  Lexington,Kentucky then off to Atlanta, Georgia.  With a heavy heart, I disclose that my niece Kim, has fallen once again deeper into the pit of addiction.  The soccer mom, once striving for perfection, is now a hardened criminal facing years behind bars.  Failed attempts at recovery and restoration burden Kim and her entire family.

 Even after 2 years of sobriety, poor choices have led her into the gates of hell.  In my humanness, I reached the place where I had difficulty praying for her; I just didn`t understand.  However, I thank God that His love for Kim is unconditional.  Mine, not so much.  At least temporarily, I know God will restore and open my heart through His love.  For now, I loathed what she has done to herself, her husband, children, parents, siblings, family and me.  I find myself grieving the life and relationship that Kim and I once shared.  Grieving, truly grieving!  The Kim that I love is missing, enslaved in the family curse of addiction.  Of course, I still love her but I`m angry, help me LORD.   My prayer is that God will rescue her from herself and the captivity that confines her!  The burden is beyond her capabilities.  Please, LORD help me and my baby-girl!

We had a great visit with family but, I was not emotionally prepared to see Kim!   Dressed in a green jump suit behind a thick glass wall,  I stared into Kim`s soul!  Aunt Linda, how did I get here?  I don`t know!  When, where, how, what is it that entices addicts to sell their soul to Satan.  Is there pain that`s buried deep inside that`s just too painful to confront?  Do the drugs disguise reality? Who`s in charge, the addict or the addiction? When  you reach the point of no return, then what?  Has Kim finally hit "rock bottom"?   Will she choose Satan or God?  Only God knows, I pray that there is someone in a prison ministry that God will use to save my baby-girl.

Off to Atlanta.  Thank God Rick was driving, the thought of Kim and her situation opened the flood gates of my heart.  Off and on for hundreds of miles, I just couldn't`t stop crying.  I prayed, I cried, I prayed, I cried there was not stopping the grief that flooded my soul.   Maybe, the angels in heaven joined me, we ran into a down pour!

Rain pounding sheets of rain, visibility was awful!  At least. it took my mind off of Kim, I didn`t know how Rick could see.  Bumper to bumper traffic on a five lane interstate.  I tried in vain to convince Rick to pull off the highway, but in true male fashion he was determined to push onward to Atlanta to his sister`s house.  "We`ll be alright."  The rain lessened, then picked up again.  I was not liking this, I prayed that God would protect us and all those sharing the interstate.  I was scared!

Finally, Rick thought perhaps we should get off the interstate, but we only have 60 miles to go.  Seconds later, traveling nearly 70 mph Rick lost control of the car.   The rear of the car started sliding out of control  toward the guard rail.  It was as if he was turning the steering wheel 360 degrees trying to regain control.  Next we were sliding sideways in front of approaching vehicles, it felt as if we where on two wheels, was the car going to roll? Frantically, I was crying out to Jesus!  Jesus help us, Jesus help us, Jesus help us. Jesus help us! 

Moments later we had crossed in front of four lanes of traffic resting safely on the right hand shoulder of the highway.  As traffic whizzed past, in disbelief Rick looked at me, and said what just happened? We were both in shock, nearly a half a mile from where the slide commenced.  There was no doubt in our minds that Jesus had summoned a band of heavenly angels to direct our path.  Thank you, Jesus.   Psalm 90:11-12  For he will command his angels concerning you to guard in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

Humbled beyond comprehension and profoundly grateful we continued onward!  Four days later my heart pounded with joy, excitement and relief when we arrived safely home.  Thank you, God!

Surely the experiences from this vacation will not quickly be forgotten, Sunday in church, I prayerfully rededicated my life to the LORD!   In eight short days I went from standing beside Jesus while delivering my testimony onto pleading and beckoning for His help while sliding sideways at 70 miles per hour on a five lane interstate.   Did He take the wheel?  As I was driving home from church God tenderly reminded me of my prayer, at last month`s Healing and Prayer Service in Kent Island.  I prayed to be filled with "more of Jesus."  Really God, I laughed out loud and thanked the LORD.......for answered prayers and His faithfullness . AMEN!



     

Where You Headed Captain? Day 401

Memorial day, 2012 a fantastic day fishing and boating in Smith Island for my friend Alison and love of her life, fiancee Denny.  At a glance, you would certainly think that life was great; Denny and Alison would to continue to love one another and grow old together. They even returned to Smith Island two weeks later.   However, there is no guarantees for our tomorrows.  Job 14:5 Man`s days are determined; you have directed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.

On June 27,  by chance(or one of God`s co-inky-dinks) I ran into Alison at a local convenience store.  She looked exhausted, "I`m so glad to see you, I was going to call you. God is so amazing he knew that I needed you."  Denny had a stroke, I`ve been at the hospital all night, would you please pray?

She explained that Denny had recently lost a considerable amount of weight and was feeling very fatigued with pain in his legs and feet.  However, Denny was very reluctant to visit the doctor.  Is that reluctance part of the free-will and control of our own destiny?  If God has ordained the number of our days can our choices shorten our days?  Just thinking and writing out loud!

Of course, I prayed with and for Alison and Denny. While also calling on prayer warriors, Facebook family and church family for prayer.   The very day that Denny visited his doctor, Alison came home to find that he had suffered the first stroke.   This was just the beginning of their lives being blindsided.  Further test concluded that Denny`s body was loaded with cancer that originated in the pancreas.  Four days later another stroke, this time more severe.  Denny`s daughter Pam and Alison were informed that  nothing could be done and that Denny would be sent home with Hospice care.

Alison leaned on her faith in God and prayers to deal with the shock of this devastating  news.  Less than two weeks after his first stroke in the comfortable surrounding of  home, Denny entering into eternal rest.  He was surrounded by Alison, Pam, family and had been visited by the people who loved him.

Billy, Alison`s son described Denny as a straight shooter who was like a father to him.  He lived well, loved and will be well remembered.  I never really met Denny, I only knew him through Alison and the love that she shared about him.  God did direct me to Denny`s bedside where with Billy, Pastor Jack, Rachael and I shared prayer!   My grief and the pain for Alison and the entire family is because of Jesus and how God made me.   Not sure what is better, to suffer through cancer treatments, extended life perhaps with or without quality.   Or like Denny "live" every moment until you die?  Rest in peace Denny Wolf.

James 4:14-15  Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow.  What is your life?  You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.  Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the LORD`S will, we will LIVE and do this or that. 

If you were blindsided by this type of news is your heart and soul right with Jesus?  Have you accepted His offer of salvation.   Hell is real.  Matthew 13:43  Then they will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

  Denny knew Jesus, he is in heaven!    I believe that Jesus Christ, son of God died on the cross for the forgiveness of my sins.  I ask for forgiveness of my sins, with all  my heart I surrender my will to the will of God and invite the presence of the Holy Spirit!

John 3:3  In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless is he born again.

 John 316-18  "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stand condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God`s one and only son.

 

Stormy Night Day 400

Nehemiah 9:3-6  Those of Israelite descent had separated themselves from all foreigners.  They stood in their places and confessed their sins and the wickedness of their fathers.  They stood where they were and read from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God for a quarter of the day, and spent another quarter in confession and in worshiping the LORD their God.........."Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting."  "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise.  You alone are the LORD.  You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them.  You give life to everlasting, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.

What a weekend, an unpredicted devastating storm that arrived by darkness of night, Friday midnight, pounded down buckets of rain, howling winds uprooted trees while downed power lines darkened homes.  Our power was off for sixty hours.  Seven states endured a vicious angry storm that originated in Indiana, where it claimed ten lives.  By the grace of God, there where no lives lost in this area.   We were truly blessed, it could have been a lot worse!   It was a major inconvenience as thousands of homes where without power in the midst of our first heat wave of the summer.

Saturday morning as I walked through familiar neighborhoods, there was a sense of community that I  don`t witness on a regular basis.  Often as I walk, I might get a slight nod from passerbys definitely no eye contact, but today was different.  As people surveyed their damages, they were receptive to one another and willing to talk; sharing concerns for neighbors and property.  In the darkness of night had we gotten struck with God`s love "thy neighbor" lightening bolt?

Is it when we are taken out of our comfort zone that God`s love opens our eyes and souls?   Have we become a society that is so self-contained in our own little world, in the privacy of our comfortable homes.  Homes that  confine us to the prison of our luxuries, content to stay behind closed doors.  Just thinking out loud!  Perhaps, God`s trying to get our attention.

As the weekend progressed, I had flashbacks of my childhood; a slower way of life.  Not so many modern conveniences; I remember, no television(actually we got our first TV when I was six), no computers, no micowaves, no cell phones, and no air conditioners.   A time when neighbor`s talked to one another from front porches because it was too hot to sit inside. However, I`m embarrassed to admit that I barely know many of my neighbors; it`s so easy to get sucked into the ways of the world.  Don`t get me wrong, I have lots of friends, but I could certainly be a better neighbor.  Thank you, Father God for the wake-up call.

We survived the weekend, carried water from the river to flush toilets, bathed in the hot tub, cooked outside, talked to neighbors, visited family and friends, attended church on Sunday and bought a generator!  As Americans we have so much and  are so blessed, I thank God for His mercy and the awareness this storm brought to mind.  Father God, allow me to be a better neighbor here in Hack`s Point and to neighbors around the world.  Open my heart and soul to the needs of mankind, use me for your glory.   Amen!

James 1:12-14  Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.  When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me."  For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.  

Celebration of Life! Day 399

Psalm 145:13-17  Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.  The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made.  The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.  The eyes of all, look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time.  You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.  The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made.

The LORD is righteous and loves all the beautiful children that he has made.  This weekend I had the privilege of celebrating and honoring the life and faithfulness of an amazing women of God.  A celebration of life for Lisa K Kozak; after a 21 years of defying doctors prognosis about her cancer, Lisa was called home to live life eternal with Jesus.  Lisa`s small and delicate body  was finally overcome by cancer, however her faith in God and the power prayer extended her earthly life beyond  belief!  Diagnosed with breast cancer when her two children where very young Lisa`s desire was to live long enough to see them through school.  By the grace of God, faith and prayers, granddaughter Tatiyanna (6ish), sang, "In The Garden," in tribute to her grandmother.   There was not a dry eye in the room, Holy Spirit goosebumbs covered my entire body!

I first met Lisa through The Walk To Emmaus, I didn`t really know her, I just knew of her and the courage with which she battled cancer.  Several years ago when she served as lay director for a weekend, I recall thinking, this woman is so sick with cancer how could she possibly do the job required of her?  I am now convinced that her amazing strength and desire to please the LORD drove her beyond what most people could endure.   Philippians 4:13  I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.

Lisa was very active at Connections Community Church, that I am attending.  Several months ago, I joined a Friday night prayer group, I found myself praying right beside Lisa.  It had been several years since I had seen her, it was quite noticeable that her cancer had progressed. Despite her frail and pale stature her spirit and desire for praying was gigantic!  Selflessly she prayed, her true passion and ministry was prayer.

The day that she and her husband received the news that there was no more doctors could do and Hospice was the next step, Bruce drove Lisa to Boscov`s for a beauty makeover.  This outing produced the very photo to be used on her memorial bulletin.  What courage!   Pastors, Alan, Kari and Lori battled  tears as they delivered Lisa`s eulogy.  Much of the scriptures were highlighted and read from Lisa`s bible.  Kari, shared Lisa`s concern for "all to be prepared to meet Jesus."

 Jeremiah 29:11-14 For I know the plans I have for  you, "declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,  Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.  I will be found by you, "declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity.......John 14: 18-19  I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.  Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me.  Because I live, you also will live.  Revelation 21:6-7  He said to me; "It is done, I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.  To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.  He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son.

In true Emmaus style, the ceremony ended with all present, hand in hand singing "The LORD`S Prayer."  I left the service in silence, thinking what an amazing woman.

Even though I never got to personally know Lisa, I knew her very well.  I knew her spirit and her love for our savior JESUS CHRIST.  I thank God for the  life of such a faithful servant and prayer warrior!  I was so blessed, I prayed with Bruce at church the day before Lisa passed, thank you God for directing my steps to Connections Community Church.  What an incredible church family!  Blessing and peace, for husband Bruce, son John, daughter Lesley, granddaughter Tatiyanna and Lisa`s entire family and many beloved friends.   Amen

        LISA K. KOZAK  OCTOBER 26, 1956 - JUNE 18, 2012

Escape To Jesus Day 398

Psalm 55:6-8  I said, "Oh, that I had wings of a dove!  I would fly away and be at rest---I would flee far away and stay in the desert; I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm.

My place of shelter, JESUS.  Perhaps with age has come wisdom, the wisdom to realize that it`s not about me, it`s all about JESUS.  Without Jesus I wondered aimlessly in a world of darkness, lies, bondage and strongholds.  What a blessing to have received what Jesus died on the cross for me to dwell within.  The forgiveness of sins.  Isaiah 9:6  For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and this government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

  Have you received this free gift?  Have you invited Jesus into your heart?  Once I truly desired to know Jesus, God began the process of awakening,  healing and cleansing.  He supplied me with God-sent friends and a well equipped tool-box to get the job started.  Have you erected walls of protection to keep everyone out, even Jesus!  I did, but thanks to the Sozo Healing Ministry, the walls came crumbling down, allowing me to receive God`s blessings!

Ask yourself (the Holy Spirit within) the following questions:  Is there a wall I have used to protect myself?  Is it safe for the wall to comes down?  If "yes" ask Father God to send angels to protect you if the wall comes down.  Show me the wall.  Give me a tool to tear down the wall.  As you pray, tear down the wall.....What do you see now that the wall is gone?  If parts of the wall remains ask, "Who do I need to forgive?"   

Who do I need to forgive, my list was long and painful but God took it easy on me.......directing my from heaven above.  Knowing when I was prepared and healthy enough to forgive!  Indeed a process and long-term journey of healing!  There were ladders to climb and doors to close. 

THE FATHER LADDER, earthly family members representing your heavenly family.  Your earthly father representing FATHER GOD,---your BODY, identity, value, protection and provision.  JESUS, your relationship with siblings and friends, the SOUL--communication and companionship.  THE HOLY SPIRIT,---- your SPIRIT, fulfilled by your earthly mother----the comforter your teacher.   Was there a break somewhere in your family?  Like me, do you need to forgive family members?

THE FOUR DOORS, getting to the root of issues, discovering the door that will allows us to forgive and be released to finally close the doors behind us.   The door of FEAR---includes--worryy, unbelief, need to control, anxiety, isolation apathy, drugs and alcohol.  HATRED--bitterness, envy, gossiping, slander, anger, self-hatred(low self worth).   SEXUAL SIN---adultery, pornography, fornication, lewdness, molestation and rape.  OCCULT-WITCHCRAFT----astrology, fortune telling-tarot cards, seances-Ouija boards, manipulation, participation in covens, casting curses- witchcraft practices.  Oh yea, I had to close some doors!

Spiritual healing, inner healing and physical healing, I encourage you to pray to God and invite Him to begin the process!  Be patient, it takes time--- God`s time, but well worth the journey!  What you might expect to feel--- SYMPTOMS OF SPIRITUAL AWAKENING AND HEALING---- --an increased tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen----frequent attacks of smiling----feelings of being connected with others and nature----frequent overwhelming episodes of appreciation----a tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than from fear based on past experiences-----an unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment----a loss of interest to worry----a loss of interest in conflict-----a loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others---a loss of interest in judging others-----a loss of interest in judging self----gaining the ability to love without expecting anything.

Once restored and healed always healed, not really, but equipped and prepared for battle!  I just strap on my God-given tool belt.  Ephesians 6:10-14  Finally, be strong in the LORD and in his  mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil`s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Therefore  put on the full armor of God, so that when then evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground........

Thank you Father God, for the years of love and Patience as you have walked with me, hand in hand,  navigating this broken vessel into a  journey of healing and  holiness!  I pray Father that you will open the hearts and souls of readers of  your  blog to receive  JESUS CHRIST!  LET THE HEALING SPREAD LIKE WILD FIRE, AMEN

Working For God Day 397

Matthew 16:24-25  The Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me..  For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.
In 2006 when I closed my Curves franchises, I remember the puzzled look on Rose`s face when she ask of me what was I going to do next.  Without hesitation I responded, "I`m going to work for God."  I must confess at the time I had no idea when, where, what or how! 

Six years later without formal schooling, I was recently hired by Marketplace Chaplains USA, as a part-time chaplain and member of their chaplain team.  If you are like me, you had no clue that such a company exist.  So how did I find out about their open position. God!  Well, for sure He has been answering prayer and directing my steps. Isaiah 25:1  O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago.

My friend, Debbie our administrative assistant at church, invited me to her home to join she and a friend for lunch and a time prayer.  Through out the past year Debbie and I have prayed together many times, mid-week in the privacy of the sanctuary at church.  Just the two of us, praising and praying to God, soaking in the presence of the LORD.

This time, my spirit filled friend felt the nudge to get her ordained friend Donna, a current chaplain at Marketplace, and I together.  She had no clue why,  just for a time of prayer.  After sharing a delightful lunch Donna and I started chatting.  Her job involved visiting work places and ministering to employees as a trained, experienced, dedicated care-giver.  I was amazed, that was the exact thing that God had me doing while I worked at my Little Debbie job.  That was the reason I started this blog, to share my experiences and to glorify God and His mighty works  Psalm 73:28  But as for me, it is good to be near God.  I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.

 Donna also shared that she was planning to leave her position at Marketplace, one thing lead to another.  I now have new part-time job.  God has placed me in a new and exciting position at Marketplace Chaplains, yes I get paid to share the "Good News and Pray."    I`m still in awe of my faithful God!

 In the past six years, God had truly taken me by the hand, healed, taught, restored, renewed, answered prayers and directed my steps.  What are his plans for me for the next six years, not sure!  Maybe some additional education, I`m only 61 years young.  He`s large and in charge, and I know his voice; I will continue in obedience with desire  for His divine guidance.

I`ve included parts of a Memorial Day message from Marketplace Chaplains, please visit website if you desire additional info.

Blessings and Peace, ROSE, I`M WORKING FOR GOD, AMEN!



Marketplace Chaplains USA's Rallying Cry
"CHAPLAINS CARING FOR WORKERS AND THEIR FAMILIES"

May 2012

I was privileged to serve for more than 20 years as an Air Force Reserve Officer in readiness for being called to battle. The faces and names of so many with whom I served flood my mind on Memorial Day.

The battlefield is a stark reality and our troops in far distant lands are in danger moment by moment. We pray for their safety and safe return. You and I, here at home, see the front lines of another battlefield in our neighborhoods and communities and, perhaps, in our own families.

The evil one lurks at every turn, seeking to devour and destroy; drugs, depression, discord ... just look at the rate of divorce in our churches, and outside of them as well. Conflict - absolutely ... danger, for sure. Lives literally snuffed out with anger, hate, jealousy and disconnection that impact all of life going forward. We have often heard ... "we're still friends" and "we did it for the kids" ... that is not the reality.

You and I are on the front lines. You and I are setting examples in our family and the extended family of our client employees we visit daily. You and I are being watched ... do you know it; can you feel it

Our strength, presence and image comes not from us, but from Christ and Christ alone. When we are in His Word, when we are prayed up, when we are humbled by the reality of our representing HIM, when there is nothing more of us, then, it is Him, praise God. Those we serve must see that and, I want you to know, they do. The client owners are so grateful for your every expression of care in word and deed, and so am I. When I'm talking to company Presidents everywhere and they say "thank you, I just love my Chaplains," my buttons burst with thanksgiving.


We have built and continue to build our Marketplace Chaplain family with warriors ready to face battle - that's what you are doing, around the clock, moment by moment. I just heard a client owner telling another client owner in the same business that having a Marketplace Chaplain was the very best decision they had ever made. Did you hear that ... the very best decision, to have you by their side, in and through the battle of life. You and I are truly on the front lines and I thank you for your service. You are seeking out the wounded, binding them up and saving lives ... oh, we pray, that none might perish.

Did I tell you I am proud of you - well, I am. To God be all the Glory and Praise.
Press on; keep looking up.

Blessings.

Unbound Day 396

Last week I attended another healing seminar, this one is called "Unbound."  Neil Lozano and his wife travel extensively lecturing, teaching and applying their foundations of love for Jesus, as the requisite for all deliverance.  Deliverance what an intimidating word!  Not.  Deliverance is a good word.  It is taking hold of the full freedom God has given to you in His Kingdom.

Did I receive deliverance? Yes.  Did green bile flow from my mouth as my head spun out of control, of course not!  Deliverance is not exorcism, deliverance transfers us from one kingdom to another; from darkness to truth and light.  1 John 5:19  We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.  We know also that the son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true.  And we are in him who is true---even in his son Jesus Christ.  He is the true God and eternal life.

As I strive and pray to walk a life of holiness, God has begun and continues the tedious job of cleansing, restoring and renewing me to the fearfully and wonderfully made daughter that he created. This on going clean-up is proving to be a long and extensive process, but well worth the work.  Psalm 139:23-24  Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thought.  See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

The Unbound ministry teaches deliverance as understanding, "Five Keys," repent, forgive, renounce in the name of Jesus, take authority in the name of Jesus, and receive the Father`s blessing.  How simple is that?  Just imagine a treasure chest of riches yours for the taking, five keys open the chest and receive the riches. Freedom and deliverance.

 But what stands in the way; is it God given free-will that holds us captive in bondage to sin under Satan authority. Is it my will to stay in the stagnation of hurts, lies and strongholds or do I choose to make healing progress by walking in and through the pain and discomfort.  Bring on the Kleenex's Father God, I`m ready.  I choose to depart from the wilderness striving to reach the mountain top, receiving all that God has planned for me. Show me the face of Jesus!  Matthew 17:1-2  After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves.  There he was tranformed before them.  His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.

Renounce--- to give up, especially by formal declaration, repudiate,disown; I am so done with this!  Renunciation breaks the power of our enemies, verbalizing the authority releases the stronghold of lies over us and breaks Satan's legal access over us.  Renunciation is part of our ongoing conversion.  After we make a personal decision to follow Christ, we must choose to become His disciple and be like Him by renouncing anything that does not belong to Christ.

In the name of Jesus, I renounce bitterness. In the name of Jesus I renounce hatred. In the name of Jesus, I renounce anger, rebellion, self-will, stubbornness, quarreling, control, retaliation, accusation, rejection, insecurity, jealousy, withdrawal, escape(biggy for addiction), depression, heaviness, fear, pride, doubt, lust, greed, compulsive behavior, guilt, the occult.....anything strike home?

Desire, another very important key. Desire to know the will and the ways of our Heavenly Father!  Psalm 37:4  Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of you heart.  Psalm 119:2  Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their hearts.  Proverb 13:12  Hope deferred makes a heart sick but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.  Isaiah 26:9  My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you.  When your judgments come upon earth, the people of the world learn righteousness. 1 John 2:15-17  Do not love the world or anything in the world.  if anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For everything in the world---the craving of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--come not from the Father but from the world.  The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.   What is the desire of your heart?

Last night at another healing and prayer class that I `m taking, my friend Maria said to me, "you look good.....I mean from the inside out good, peaceful good!"  I responded, "I`m UNBOUND."

Father God, I thank you for the desire that I have for you, I thank you for the Unbound Ministry, I look forward to sharing what I`m learning for your glory.  Amen.

I Was, I Am, I Will Be Day 395

James 1:2-6  Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trails of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.  Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and will be given to him.  But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

I was a lost vessel, bobbing and weaving aimlessly in a sea of defeat destruction and bondage.  I now have a captain who is large and in charge!  I`m merely a passenger, as God navigates this fractured earthly container.  Thank you, Father God!  It wasn`t until I truly received Jesus Christ as my savior, that I surrendered the helm to His control and direction.

James 1:12  Blessed is the man who perseveres under trail, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

I was in bondage, a believer of lies decieved by the Satan and his band of ruling spirits.  Deuteronomy 11:16  Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods, and bow down to them.  I was an alcoholic, nurturing the addiction that allowed me to escape reality, pain and suffering.  I am celebrating six years of sobriety while walking in and through spiritual, physical and inner healing.

I was trapped in guilt, shame, insecurity, rejection and feeling unworthy, excising in a life of fear and doubts.  Ignorant to the truth.   Not any more, with perseverance and obedience to God`s will for my life, I have died from self---- striving and desiring holiness.  Ephesians 5:15-18  Be very careful, then how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are full of evil.  Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the LORD`S will is.  Do not get drunk on wine, which lead to debauchery.  Instead, be filled with the Spirit.

 I am God`s child.  I have been justified, (just as if I`ve never sinned).   I am united with the LORD and I am one spirit with Him.   I have been bought with a price.  I belong to God.  I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit.

I am free forever from condemnation.   I  am free from any condemning charges against me.  I cannot be separated from the love of God.  I am confident that the good work that God has begun in me will be perfected.    I have not been given the spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind.  I can find grace and mercy in time of need.  So long Satan-----I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me.

I am a branch of the true Vine, and channel of His life.  I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit.   I am Christ`s personal witness.  I am God`s co-worker.  I am God`s workmanship.  I may approach God with freedom and confidence.  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

To function in the will of God: apply Biblical principles, seek wise council, know the Spirit man and live in peace!  Colossians 3:15-16  Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.  And be thankful.  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your heart to God.

I was, I am, I will be, thank you Father God!  I was unemployed, I now have a new job (tell you about it later) Have a blessed day!

James 4:7-10  Submit yourselves, then, to God.  Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  Come near to God and he will come near to you.  Wash your hands, you sinners and purify your hearts, you double-minded.  Grieve, mourn and wail.  Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.  HUMBLE yourselves before the LORD, and he will lift you up.

Thank your LORD, AMEN!

Stocking Shelves Day 394

Isaiah 55:6  Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.

Since I`m still unemployed, yes I looking for a job but the right job for this season of my life, I`ve been helping fellow distributors pack out shelves on weekends.   As independent distributors the only way they get a weekend off is to hire someone, like me, to replenish their product to the shelves on weekends.   Preforming this simplistic task often allows distributors a much needed break; preventing burn-out which was one of down-falls! 

This weekend I packed out for Thomas England/Arnold bread distributor, Josh at three of his stores.  Sure are a lots of different kinds of breads and muffins.   I remember when there was only white, rye and wheat; do we really need all of these choices or does it just add confusion to a simple task?  Too many choices and free-will, is that how we get into trouble?

One of the benefits of packing out, is that I get to see familiar faces and visit with friends from my distributor days.  I surely miss the people more than my Little Debbie job itself!  Saturday morning Dusty was the receiver of the day at Walmart, a single mother working hard to raise and support her children.  I immediately sensed that something was wrong with the usual smiling upbeat receiver. 

When I inquired she tired to conceal her pain, but it showed through.   She shared that she was just having some difficult times and consumed with worry.  Her sister`s wedding was coming up and anything that could go wrong was indeed going wrong.   I tried to assure her that worrying wasn`t the answered and that everything would work out.  As tears trickled down her face, she confessed that her 58 year old father was recently diagnosed with third stage cancer.  No doubt the true reason for pain and suffering.  She was consumed by fear.

Philippians 4:4-7  Rejoice in the LORD always, I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evidentt to all.  The LORD is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Without reservation, she accepted my offer for prayer.  I gently hugged her as I softly whispered prayerful words of love, encouragement and faith in God.  She said that she has been praying and that perhaps for the first time in his life, her father is turning to the LORD.   Dusty thanked me, I assured her that I would continue to pray.

The next day when I returned to pack out, I found Dusty busy at her receiving duties.  I gently slipped two small wooden  pocket crosses into her hand; one for her and one for her father.   Again, tears peacefully flowed as she graciously accepted the gift.  In our times of pain and suffering holding on to Jesus is our strength.

Psalm 18:32-33  It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.  He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to standd on the heights.

Father God, I thank you for this special time to witness and minister to Dusty, seems that her shelves were empty too!  I pray that you will heal her father, but most importantly, draw him into an eternal relationship with you.  Open his eyes and soul to receive the precious gift of Jesus Christ.  Amen!

Blood Work - God`s Work Day 393

Colossians 4:2-6  Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.  And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.  Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.  Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Sometimes I am just blown away by our amazing God; how does he do what he does?  That`s simple he`s God,  I don`t have to understand, I just have to have faith and believe in his awesome power.  After a twelve hour fast I was off to get some routine blood work, nothing special!   A half a mile from the house I realized that I left the paperwork for the lab work laying on the kitchen counter.  U-turn. 

Once I checked in at Lab Corp, I peacefully enjoyed a magazine as I waited my turn.  Soon I was called with a lady named Kay to proceed to the next room.  As we waited side by side, Kay and I started to chat.  Within our three to four minute conversation, I learned that Kay was on short tern medical leave from her work from home job of fifteen years.  A job that consumes as much as 15 to 18 hour a day, often on international calls in the middle of the night.  

She shared family tragedies that had consumed family members with unforgiveness.  She has two children but also had several miscarriages and had buried an infant.  All of this while working diligently for her employer; rarely missing time from work.  

Granted she, her husband and children live in a beautiful show-place home, and by social standards were living the "American dream," the good life.  But, what was the price she and her family paid to live this existence.  She was breaking point, requiring medical attention and therapy.  I listened attentively with compassion. I asked if she had a good relationship with Jesus, "yes I do!"  As she was called to have her blood drawn, I introduced myself and told her that I would pray for her.

Kay exited the room and I moved on to give a urine specimen, sorry probably TMI.  I assumed I would not see Kay again but I would pray for her.  Minutes later I headed toward my car, driving a new shiny high-dollar vehicle, Kay was right in front of me.  Was this one of my favorite God-winks?  God, you want me to lay hands on her and pray with her right now!  Oh, yeah!

With a huge smile she was very receptive to my offer to pray, I told her of my connection with spiritual healing.  I encouraged her to slow down and smell the roses, life is not all about stuff and what we have.  Enjoy your children while they are young. She shared that these where the exact words she had recently heard from her therapist. She confessed she wasn`t sure why she had opened up to me; I was covered with Holy Spirit goosebumps, thank you God.

I prayed.  "Your name is Linda, right." Yes.  God will use us for his glory if we are obedient and willing!  Matthew 5:6  Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Father God, thank you for directing my steps and actions for your glory!  I pray that Kay and her family will spend time in your presence appreciating all non-material things you have given them.  Father God, if I had not forgotten my paperwork and returned home to get it, I would have missed Kay, guess that was no co-inky-dink.........You are awesome Father, God!  Amen.

Emotions Day 392

Proverbs 17:22  A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

I wouldn`t say that my spirit is crushed but surely feeling the effects of pain and grieving.  I struggle to make sense of  my niece Kim`s poor choices to return to the deadly life of drug addiction.  Even though I understand addiction, I can`t fathom how she allowed herself to be consumed by the lifestyle, again.  I reached a place where I couldn`t even pray for her; revealing my weakness and conditional love!  I thank God for His "unconditional love" for Kim.  Isaiah 54:10  Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, say the LORD, who has compassion on you.

I believe that God is using this time of suffering to teach and open my heart to his ways!  Psalms 33:18  But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.   Father God, please deliver Kim from the bondage of addiction, restore and renew her soul, fill her with the Holy Spirit!  She knows you.........but!

Recently, my emotions surfaced causing my resistance to take a noise dive; for the first time in a long while I got some kind of 48 hour flu bug.  I didn`t want to get sick, but I felt like crap, belly cramps, dreadful headache, no appetite or energy.   Did my emotions sabotage my body?  Had I allowed Satan to whisper to my soul; you`ve been through a lot in the past month, you deserve to shut down for a few days.  Crawl up in bed, feel the aches and pain of your distress.  Sure worth pondering, he is the great deceiver!  Was it a co-inky-dink that this flu bug surfaced on the one month anniversary of Rose`s death? Hum, Satan?

Can I manage my emotions during times of difficulties?  I believe so with God`s help and extra prayer, I just need to call on Jesus.  According to David Seamands, "Healing for Damaged Emotions," "here is the good news of the Gospel for people with damaged emotions:  God loves us, not because we are good, but because we need His love in order to be good.  Christ, our high priest, bore our sins and our infirmities, not because we are good, but because we need his love and acceptance in order to be good.  The Holy Spirit offers us His continuous enabling presence and power, not because we are good, but because we need Him in order to be good."

Satan, you have no authority, the doorway to my soul belongs to Jesus!  Ephesians 6:10-14  Finally, be strong in the LORD and in his might power.  Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil`s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the power of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.  Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.

So long, Satan...... got to go get dressed for battle!  Does this suit of armor make me look fat?

Resurrection Day 391

It is finished. Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.  HE IS RISEN...............

Thank you LORD.  AMEN!

The Empty Chair Day 390

Rose`s house sits just as we left it the day that 911 attendants rolled her out the front door.  The wheel chair, the chariot of her farewell ride from her bedroom to living room, empty!  A chariot that she resisted as long as possible, the nurse in her knowing that surrendering to it`s comfort would lead  her to dependency and physical decline.  A house once warm with love and compassion now barren empty lifeless, as if eagerly awaiting her return.

As I reflect on the last months of Rose`s  life, I believe that denial prevented me from processing, what I knew that I knew.  Slowly but surely, day by day I was loosing a precious gift from God, a mentor, a true friend and second mother that loved me and all of my faults, unconditionally.  I thank God for the blessing of free time and for allowing me to spend so much quality time with Rose, no regrets!  Now, pain sorrow and grief, but in due time this too shall pass, to be replaced with precious memories of her love.  Once I got the water-works under control, a gentle peace filled my soul.

In a visit last week, one of Rose`s nieces by marriage, suggested that I should have Rose`s Catholic study bible.  A gift that I graciously and eagerly received.   In the process of helping to plan Rose`s funeral service, I learned that the Catholic bible has a Book of Wisdom; why in the world would that not be included  in all Bibles?  Are  Catholics the only one privy to wisdom?  I want wisdom!

In the warmth of the afternoon sun I began to explore The Book of Wisdom, which was written a hundred years before the coming of Christ.  Its author, whose name is not known to us, was a member of the Jewish community at Alexandria, in Egypt.  Written in Greek, in a style patterned on that of Hebrew verse.  He speaks in the person of Solomon, placing his teachings on the lips of wise kings of Hebrew tradition in order to emphasize their value.  Profound knowledge of the earlier Old Testament writings is reflected in almost every line of the book, marking him as an outstanding representative of religious devotion and learning among the sages of post-exilic Judaism.  I was mesmerized, as The Book of Wisdom consumed the time that I should have been weeding flower beds.  Weeds are God beautiful creatures and have a right to exist, right!  I`m sure you`ll be hearing more from the Book of Wisdom, thanks Rose!

As I thumbed through papers gently stashed in Rose`s Bible I found another treasury worthy on sharing:  Healing Corner----The Empty Chair----A man`s daughter had asked her pastor to come and pray with her dad.  When he arrived, he found the man lying in bed, with his head propped up on two pillows and an empty chair beside his bed.  Assuming the old fellow had been informed of his visit, he said, "I guess you were expecting me."  "No, who are you?" asked the man.  "I`m the new pastor here in town," he said, "and when I saw the chair, I figured you were expecting me."

"O yeah, the chair, "said the bedridden man.  "Would you mind closing the door?"  Puzzled, the pastor shut the door.  "I`ve never told anyone , even my daughter, "said the man, "but I`ve never known how to pray.  All the talk at church always went right over my head. finally, I abandoned any attempt at prayer until a friend talked to me about four years ago.

"Joe," he said, "prayer is a simple matter of having a talk with Jesus.  Put an empty chair next to you and picture the LORD.  It`s not spooky, because He said He`d be with us always.  Just speak to Him and listen to Him as you`re doing right now with me." " So I tried it," he continued, "and I like it so much that I do it a couple of hours every day.  I`m careful though.   If  my daughter saw me talking to an empty chair, she`d send me off to the funny farm."

The pastor was deeply moved by the story and encouraged the man to continue on the journey.  Then he prayed with the man and left.  Two nights later, the daughter called to say her dad had died that afternoon.  "Did he seem to go in peace?" asked the pastor.  "Yes, When I left the house around two O`clock, he called me to his bedside, told me one of his corny jokes, and kissed me on the cheek.

When I came home from the store about an hour later,  I found him dead.  But there was something strange.  Apparently, just before Daddy died, he leaned over and rested his head on the chair beside the bed."

Thank you Rose, what a joy to find and share this with the readers of God`s blog,   Did Rose teach me to pray, no but she taught me a lot about LOVE!  AMEN........

Mountain High---Valley Low Day 389

Luke 12:28-31  If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!  And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it.  For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them.  But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.

When I committed to a forty day Lenten fast, I had no clue what God would be walking me through.  Without exaggeration, this has been a most difficult and trying month; perhaps God knew the strength and fortitude that I would require to survive. Fasting, voluntarily depriving yourself of certain foods and beverages, with the desire for a closer more intimate relationship and wisdom filled experience with our heavenly Father.  Mission nearly accomplished!

I thank God for the insight that lead me to this fast.  Can`t image going through the past month without His divine guidance.  I thank God for the obedience and insight that lead me and three other women to the bedside of a dying young man, Joseph Feeley.  Perhaps, our prayers help lead him and his mother to the gates of heaven, a visit with Jesus.  What a sacred time and place.  Thank you, God!    Daniel 10:12  Then he continued, "Do not be afraid, Daniel.  Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them."

Next a mountain top experience at the Healing Ministry in Kent Island, as Miss Jackie imparted healing to me.   My knees weakened, my body surrendering to the Holy Spirit, collapsing to the floor.  Consumed by the Spirit, the joyful intoxication of his presence.  Peacefully inhaling, receiving and lingering in the delight of the moment.  As I slowly ascended, returning to my pew, it was as if my feet where elevated a foot above the floor.  I felt different, my hands felt different!  Am I different, time will tell!  Acts 2:17-18  In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men, will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.  Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they will prophesy.

While maintaining my fast, only two days later to the valley; the beginning of my final earthly journey with "Sweet Little Rose."  Farewells, grieving, highs and lows comforted only by God.  Recognizing his voice and trusting.  What sorrowful blessings, constantly reminding myself of Rose`s ailing body, renewed restored for life eternal, in the presence of Jesus!  John 14:1-4  "Do not let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God; trust also in me.  In my Father`s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you.  I am going there to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.  You know the way to the place where I am going."

Days later while making homemade meatballs, to share with friends and family after Rose`s funeral, yet another precious moment.   Joy, overwhelming joy.  Even though my niece Mandy was baptized as a infant, like myself she drifted far from God`s grace.  Believing that she was alone on her own to battle through life`s journey.  As I lead her in the prayer of salvation, she surrendered her will to the will of God.  Receiving Jesus as savior, flooded with the LORDs grace and mercy.  Praise the LORD!   Oops, almost forgot, I turned 61 in the midst of this; thank you God, for this year of growth and love!

For the first time, Mandy attended church with me; beaming from ear to ear expression her comfort and joy to be there.  Welcomed, prayed for in unison by her new church family, tears of acceptance, grace and love.  "Aunt Linda, Rose gave us the most amazing gift of all, Jesus!"  Thank you, Rose.

John 17:15-17  "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.  They are not of the world, even  as I am not of it.  Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.

Broke my fast, felt entitled at Rose`s funeral reception, to indulged in the sweets that adorned the dessert table!  Forgive my weakness, Father God.  Was it this moment of weakness that encouraged further disobedience or the overwhelming pressure of impending events? 

Just eight days after Rose`s funeral, while traveling to Kent Island for their monthly Healing and Prayer Service, I received a call from Mandy that her mom was in the hospital.  Joyce had pneumonia, suddenly it had  caused her blood pressure to drop, she would soon be moved into intensive care unit.  I shared this news with the lady with me, immediately we prayed.  Yet another phone call from my niece Tammy in Kentucky, "Aunt Linda, we`re taking Kim to the hospital, she tried to commit suicide."    Really Father God!

No doubt, God knew where I needed to be; surrounded with love and compassion in the arms of Jesus.  After receiving communion and anointing, Pastor Kyung-hee Sa held me tight, as I cried to the Lord on behalf of my sister Joyce and niece Kim.  My heart was breaking, throbbing with pain, while renouncing the bondage that strangles my family.  Please Father God, strengthen us in your love.  Pastor Kyung-hee Sa`s prayers and loving embrace comforted my soul.  Matthew 18:19 "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven."

What a month.  Joyce is out of the hospital, strengthen by the hand of God, determined to quit smoking and drinking!  Thank you, Jesus, perhaps our relationship will be healed along the way, by your grace and presence.  After years of battling addiction, Kim faces a lengthy visit to another rehab program.  Praying she gets it this time!  Thank you God, for "do overs."  In my weakness of the moment, I could hardly pray for Kim, I am so sick of the destruction and pain that her addiction is causing our family!  I love Kim, but hate the sin of addiction that holds her hostage.  Yet, I understand.....please strengthen my family LORD!

This week, God forgave my weakness and allowed me a "do over" start for my fast!  Thank you, Father God.   I love so much....thank you for the afternoon that I crawled up in your lap and you gently rocked away my pain and sorrow!   AMEN!

John 4:23  "Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshiper will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks."

Grieving Day 388

Proverbs 25:20 Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.

Grief.   Dried eyed, I awake from slumber as if tears have fallen from my soul.  My grief is visible exposed for all it witness, I hurt from the inside out.  The pain is real ,worthy of my time demanding my vigilance.  Yes, I have a heavy heart, death and separation are difficult, life shattering.   However,I know because of my faith in God, I don`t have to remain in this grief and sorrow; I give  myself permission to grieve but I will not be anchored or consumed by it.

Joel 2 12:13  "Even now, " declares the LORD, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning."  Rend your heart and not your garment.  Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.

In our sorrow we are dwarfed by the reality that earthly life continues as normal.  It is our freewill that determines the length of time we permit grief and sorrow to control our thought and actions. Our quest is to trust God then accept, receive and adjust to our new normal.  Job 9:10  He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.

In our lifetime, the grief we have experienced lays dormant until trigger by yet a new life experience or tradegy.  Wide-eyed it surfaces, rekindles and awakens the pain that we have either dealt with previously or stashed for a later time. Grief, often only consumed  by our daily existence, postponed.   We are built for solitary progress.  Freewill.  Will we choose our spirituality or remain in bondage to our carnal senses and emotions.

Romans 8:6-11  The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God.  It does not submit to God`s law, nor can it do so.  Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.

 You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you.  And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.  But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive becausee of righteousness.  And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.

Once we have received the Holy Spirit we have the mighty power of our LORD within.  We no longer are expected to walk this walk along, in our sorrows and discomfort.  1 Corinthians 2:12-13  We have not received the  spirit of the world but THE SPIRIT WHO IS FROM GOD, that we may understand what God has freely given us.  This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the SPIRIT, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.

Father God, I humbly thank you for the life of "Sweet Little Rose," and all that I learned from her, your faithful servant.  Thank you for allowing Paula, Nancy and myself to witness and experience the peacefulness of her passing, as we ushered her into your presence.  As we stood at her bedside, we shared your Majesty with love and compassion.  I will rejoice and cherish sweet memories, as gifts from you.

Father God, twelve years ago when my mom joined you in Heaven, I didnt have the personal relationship with you. I drank to camouflage the feelings of pain and suffering; I just didn`t know how much you loved and wanting to help me, my bad!  What an amazing difference you have made in my life.  Philippians 4:13  I can do everything through Christ Jesus who gives me strength.

 Thank you, for the tender embrace from a total stranger at Connections on Sunday.  In my moment of distress, I felt the arms of Jesus in her loving hug.  Thank you, for Fran and her willingness to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

 I am truly blessed, thank you for igniting the passion that I have for YOU.....Thank you, for Mandy and her new found desire for you, I`m so excited for her.......AMEN

Stuff Day 387

Hebrews 4:16  Let us then approach the Thorn of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Time of need......time of need......most definitely where I am right now, as I face the days and weeks ahead, Lord give me strength.  Burial mass was said, eulogies read, respects where paid, precious memories where shared and "Sweet Little Rose`s," earthly body was laid rest on a beautiful sunny Saturday.  Now just as I did for my mom 12 years ago, the most difficult and dreadfully painful job of cleaning out Rose`s home and sorting through "her stuff.".   What do you do with a lifetime of stuff, treasuries and trinkets collected over the years, that made a house a home!  A home that was so important to Rose that she pushed herself to extreme measures to stay there with all  the comforts of home and "her stuff."

One day at a time, Sweet Jesus, the tears will flow, the healing and grieving will continue and one room, one closet, one dresser, and one cabinet at a time, the job will be done with love, honor and compassion for my "Sweet Little Rose."

Early this morning I found my first treasure!  In the silence of early morn, at my kitchen counter I thumbed through Rose`s collection of prayers booklets and cards that she kept close at hand, on the nightstand by her bed.   Tears of joy and excitement flowed as I came across a yellowed- well- worn page with  handwritten names at the top.  Peg, Linda & Rick, Gosyes((not sure of this name difficult to read) Joe and Joe........Rose did you pray the following prayer on a regular basis for all of us?  Are you still praying for us from heaven?

PRAYER BEFORE A CRUCIFIX:  Look down upon me, good and gentle Jesus, while before Your face I humbly kneel: and with burning soul pray and beseech You to fix deep in my heart lively sentiment of Faith, Hope and Charity; true contrition for my sins and a firm purpose of amendment; while I contemplate with great love and tender pity Your five wounds, pondering upon the within me; while I call to mind the words which David your prophet said to You, my Jesus, "They have pierced My hands and My feet, they have numbered all My bones."  Amen.....I miss you so much, I know the pain will subside and that your love and memories with carry me to complete the task at hand!

July 14, 1922 - March 11, 2012 Day 386

Ecclesiastes 3:1-2  There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:  a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot.

In four hours a community of love will gather to celebrate the life of Rose Violet Schiavone Pepiora.  I can only imagine that her church will be filled in her honor.  Her body will be laid to rest beside her beloved Mike, in a cemetery just outside of town.  As a tribute to my wonderful friend, I will deliver the following eulogy.

Sweet Little Rose, who can say that without a gigantic smile?  Sweet Little Rose
 All 4 foot 7 inches of her drenched and filled to over flowing with love and faith in GOD. Matthew 22 The greatest Commandment…. tells us……Jesus replied: “Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it; Love your neighbor as yourself……. For 89 years… Rose Violet Schiavone Pepiora…. did exactly as Jesus commanded. SHE LOVED….

From 1 Corinthians 13 we hear of Love----And now I will show you the most excellent way. If I speak in the tongues of men and of angel, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails…..ROSE WAS LOVE…..

People come into our lives for a REASON, a SEASON, or a LIFETIME. When someone is in our life for a reason it is usually to meet needs that you require. After that need is met and our desire is fulfilled… their work is done. Perhaps you met Rose for REASON!

Some people come into our life for a season, your time together is to share, grow and learn. They may bring you an experience of great peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something, they usually give you and unbelievable amount of joy. Receive it, it is real but only for a season. You may have known Rose for a SEASON!

Some people come into our lives for a lifetime. This relationship teaches you life lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. You are to accept the lesson, love that person and put to use what you have received from them. Perhaps you have known Rose for a LIFETIME!

I have been blessed to have Rose as a life time friend…. for nearly 40 years. To me…. she was a mother,… a mentor…. and a best friend, someone who loved me unconditionally, just the way I am!  I have learned a lifetime of lessons from her love. I will strive to live the rest of my life as a living testimony and walk in the light and the hope of her LOVE!

Whether you have known Rose for months, years or a lifetime, we were all truly blessed by her presence. Many of you know that Rose`s desire was to live in the comfort and security of her long time home on Crystal Beach Road. Within the last year Rose`s physical body began to fail…..but certainly not her mind. We had many talks about her living independently …… she didn`t want to burden anyone, she told me that she wanted to leave her home “feet first. I promised her that I would do everything in my power to help her.

I would personally like to thank each and every one of you, and there are many…. who helped me keep my promise to “SWEET LITTLE ROSE.” You visited, you called, ran errands, got her mail, fixed her bath tub, brought her food…. especially Christmas cookies that she love, gave her gifts, called her, delivered her holy communion, took her to get her hair done, brought her library books, took her to Dr visits and cleaned her house,….. together we respected her wishes and allowed her to live with dignity……but most importantly we showered  her with LOVE.

On a February 29th on a stretcher she left her house….” feet first”…. for her final ride,….. after only eleven day away her precious abode she was called to her eternal home with JESUS …….

Ephesians 2:8-9 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is a gift from God---not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God`s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

FATHER GOD, ALL  PRAISE AND GLORY TO YOU,….. I humbly thank this community of love that HELPED ME KEEP A PROMISE. Father, I thank you for our “SWEET LITTLE ROSE, MAY SHE REST IN ETERNAL PEACE!  The end.


Father God, I thank you for the words of this eulogy, I found out last night that you woke both Rose`s niece Karen and myself at 4 am on Wednesday to write our eulogies!  Probably no co-inky-dink, thank you!  Father, thank you for the love, support and strength during these last couple of weeks.  As difficult as it was to bid farewell to Rose, it brings me immense comfort to know that she is pain free from this earthly body and in your presence.   Father, please send angels to hold me up as I deliver this eulogy and tribute for my lovely friend!  Big strong angels!

Father God, I will keep my focus on you, day by day, to complete the task that lay in front of me.  Thank you for leading me to this fast, you certainly knew that I would need to have my heart, soul and Spirit in alignment to receive your love and mercy.  Father God, thank you for the life lessons that you have walked me through; I know that you will never leave or forsake me.

Father, thank you for the healing that has begun in my family.  What a blessing to lead my niece Mandy in prayer yesterday, as she shared her heart`s desire for you.  I know that angels in heaven rejoiced upon hearing her confessions of  repentance, forgiveness and acceptance of your free gift, JESUS THE CHRIST.  Thank you for this amazing gift in the midst of our sorrow as we mourn the passing of "Sweet Little Rose."  Isaiah 26:12  LORD you establish peace for us; all we have accomplished you have done for us.  AMEN........your faithful servant and precious daughter, Linda!

"Feet First" Day 385

Matthew 15:29-30  Jesus left there and went along the Sea of Galilee.  Then he went up on the mountain and sat down.  Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others and laid them at his feet; and He healed them.

Early morn on February 28th I received a call from my dear friend Rose, "Linda can you come right away, I`ve been sick and throwing up all night."  What we thought to be just a belly bug led us into a journey that would change my life and daily existence.   It took great persistence and pleading for Rose to allow us to call 911, what a stubborn little retired nurse! It was time for a visit to the hospital.  At the time, I believed a short visit for re- hydration, would soon allow Rose to return to her "home sweet home."

Rose was very determined to remain independent and dwell in the home that she had shared with her late beloved husband, Mike.   A lovely modest ranch home that sat amidst 30 some acres, that she and Mike had worked hard to pay for.  For over 50 years this was a home full of love, compassion, family and friendship!  I certainly couldn`t fault her for wanting to abide in the comfort of her own home.

I promised her that I would do whatever it took to help her to stay in her home; "Linda, I want to leave here feet first."  Alright, Rose I get it, who am I  to argue with an 89 year old head strong little Italian woman?    Job 29:4-6  Oh, for the day when I was in my prime, when God`s intimate friendship blessed my house, when the Almighty was still  and my children(family and friends) were around me, when my path was drenched with cream and the rock poured out for me streams of olive oil.

On a rainy night on the extra day in February, Rose rolled out her front door " feet first" on a stretcher en route to Union hospital.  My niece Mandy and I followed the ambulance close behind; none of us where prepared for the next eleven days.  Rose truly believed that she soon return home!  At the time, I failed to question the definition of  "HOME."

As nieces, Karen, Paula and Nancy arrived  we share a roller coaster of highs and lows, praying that "God`s Will be done."  I was embraced as a sister as we endured the difficulties and pain that we witnessed for our beloved, Rose.  The love that Rose had shed for each of us opened our souls to one another.

During the week like many, I had the opportunity to express my love  to Rose and receive in return her smiles of love and compassion.   She knew that she was loved, with strength and dignity she told me not to cry; that was something that I couldn`t promise!  Psalms 23:4  Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

On Sunday morning March 11th, I was called to Union Hospital for a final farewell.  As I drove, I clenched my Emmaus cross, praying and begging God to allow me to arrive before He called her "HOME."  Help me Jesus, help me Jesus, help me Jesus, help me Jesus!   My heart was breaking, I was strenghtned by Jesus.....he may have been driving, Jesus take the wheel!  Philippians 4:13 I can do everything through Christ Jesus who gives me strength.

I joined Paula and Nancy at Rose`s bed side, God had answered my call, once again I whispered words of love and prayed for God to welcome her into her eternal home.  Approximately 10 minutes after my arrival, Rose peacefully went HOME!  Thank you, Jesus.....John 3:16  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Revelation 21:6  He said to me; "It is done, I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.  To him who is thirsty, I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life...............AMEN.


Father God, I thank you for Rose Violet Schiavone Pepiora, what a blessing to share nearly 40 years of love and friendship.  Thank you for answering prayers and for allowing me and many others to help Rose to stay in her home!  She was surrounded by a community of love.  She loved you so, she lived the fruits of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Rose was love, the hands and feet of Jesus.