The Life and Times of Jay

Top Dog Cow Dog Competition Oct. 27, 2012

2011-12-31T13:37:00.000-08:00

The Top Dog Cow Dog Competition, Oct. 27th, 2012, will be held at the Tehama District Fairgrounds in Red Bluff, Ca. This will be a "first-ever" type of fundraising event to benefit the "Back to School Project", a local charity. www.backtoschoolproject.com 530-529-4074

BTS annually raises funds to take children in low-come families on a "Great Shopping Day" for school clothes, shoes, and a backpack for the first day of school. BTS recruits licensed hairstylists to give free haircuts to all school-aged children for a one day "Cuts for Kids" event.

Merle and Sandi Newton, crcdc1@gmail.com of Crystal Rose Cow Dog College, www.cowdogcollege.com 530-529-3700, of Red Bluff, as well as many others, are donating their time, talents, and resources for Top Dog Cow Dog event. 12 dogs and handlers have been secured to compete in this event for buckles, cash and other donated prizes. Also, scheduled to appear are the Glory Riders, a mounted drill team from the Fresno area.

We are offering this as a free event for kids, and we looking for event sponsors.
Our hope is to present an educational event for children of the surrounding area. We are in the process of developing our promotional materials.
We would like to make this an annual event.

At the opening ceremony, representatives of our own Young Marines will "present the colors". The Sweet Adelines, a regional ladies ensemble, will sing the National Anthem in four-part harmony.
In talking with the region leader yesterday, she said the group has yet to learn the anthem music for a performance. But our event will give the group a project for the year ! She said that the members love to sing. Our event could draw "Adeline" chapter members from the Oregon border to Sacramento. Wow !

I hope that you will join me in spreading the word about this free kid's event.
We are presently looking for business sponsors for this event, as we raise money for the Back to School Project.

Like on Facebook "Top Dog Cow Dog Competition" Thanks.

Illumination Christian Music Festival in Red Bluff, Ca. ? Why not ?

2011-03-14T23:11:00.000-07:00

Standing center stage, to over 1,100 concert-goers in the Tyler Jelly building, Christian music artist Matthew West recalled the question a ticket holder had asked, minutes before he stepped to the microphone. The Sunday evening concert at the Tehama District Fairground on March 7th, was one of only three California concerts on West’s “Story of Your Life” Tour.
The woman wanted to know, “Of all places to schedule concerts in California, why in Red Bluff?” West had countered with, “Why in Red Bluff? Why not?”
This was an excellent reply, considering our city’s location at the junction of well–traveled routes-the I-5 freeway, the 36’s and 99’s. Promoters of monster truck, motocross, and drag boat events, as well as those of the rodeo, bull sale, and fiddle festival, recognized long ago, that what Red Bluff may lack in “bigger city amenities” the city makes up for in its accessibility.
Promoters of this summer’s upcoming “Illumination Christian Music Festival” also see Red Bluff’s potential. The 3 day, 2 night festival will feature over 30 bands. The schedule roster so far includes Jars of Clay, Jeremy Riddle, Addison Road, Jonny Diaz, Worth Dying For, Phil Joel, Silverline, John Reuben, Evan Wickham, Luminate, Blessed, Brother IG, The Overflow, The Trust Project, and Anthony Skinner.
Also scheduled is high-energy speaker EJ Swanson. EJ is the founder of www.SouledOutStudents.com, a youth outreach for Jr. High and High school students.
Extreme sport demonstrations, children’s AWANA Village activities, and talent contest for local musicians will be featured.
The 2011 Illumination Festival is the first Christian music festival to be held at the Tehama District Fairground. We need to seize this remarkable opportunity by supporting this Christian music venue. The Tehama County business community alone, is connected to over 85 listed Christian congregations. Such a festival can draw attendees from regions throughout California and beyond, with potential to provide an annual economic boost our area, not to mention a heavenly influence in our spiritual climate.
By comparison, in Redding to the north, the ministry training school and conferences at Bethel Church are attended by groups from around the world. These, in addition to the educational opportunities offered at Shasta Bible College, and through Simpson University of the Christian Missionary Alliance, have been a “saving grace” for Redding’s economy and Shasta County.
This Christian music festival can mark a new day here, as it coincides with the current marketing effort to “brand” Red Bluff, in order to draw visitors and commerce. Opportunities abound for local business to sponsor this event, and for church groups to serve as volunteers- rolling out a “welcome mat” in a big way.
Christian music concerts are increasing in popularity, attracting a most desirable and friendly cliental. The on-line calendars of the KLOVE.com and AIR1.com radio networks include regular posts of concerts scheduled up and down the West Coast from Seattle, Wa. to San Diego, Ca. Each month, Christian bands on tour buses pass through our city on Interstate 5 on their way north and south. It would great, if concert promoters viewed Red Bluff as an ideal place for Christian bands to stop.
Red Bluff could become a central venue for concerts, with the city and county benefiting from generated sales in busy stores, restaurants, and filled hotels.
The real key to any personal, or community revival-spiritual, or economic, for that matter-is the recognition of our deep need for God, followed by prayers of confession and repentance of sin. One may choose to dodge, argue, or dismiss this truth as religious nonsense. But restoration will not happen any other way.
More than 40 years ago, I heard of a prophecy concerning the city of Red Bluff. It said,
“people will come from places near and far to the ‘bend of the river’ to cry out to God. Their lives will be forever changed.” I have often thought of those words-wondering when it would be, and what would be the catalyst of the fulfillment. Please join me in praying for our city and county.
I am excited about the Illumination Festival with all its possibilities. This event will not be in Monterey, or Del Mar-but right here-in Red Bluff! Even now, local hotel rooms are being booked for the June event. Members of our Tehama County Peace Officers Association will serve as a volunteer security force June 10-12, 2011.

Thank you, Matthew West! Please return again to Red Bluff. Why not? Thank you, Andy Hardin, of First Southern Baptist Church for organizing the great concert to benefit the regional ministry of Teen Challenge.

I invite you visit to www.illuminationfestival.com . Make plans, purchase tickets, tell friends, encourage local businesses to be sponsors. Sign up to participate as an event volunteer. Regular meetings will begin soon for prayer and festival logistics. Contact Carl Hawkins info@illuminationfestival.com

The Fourth Man

2010-03-18T15:33:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite Bible stories is the account of three men, who disobeyed a command to bow down to worship a crazy king’s statue. As a result, the three were thrown into a flaming furnance, heated seven times hotter than ever. Those who did the throwing, immediately died from the heat. The king was shocked to see four men walking among the flames unharmed.
The king shouted, “Didn’t we throw in three? I see four men! The fourth man looks like the Son of God!” (Daniel 3)
Scholars have debated several Bible passages where it appears, that the Lord Jesus Christ presented Himself in bodily form to certain individuals, long before His incarnation. (Genesis 14:8) (Genesis 17) (Joshua 5:15) (Dan. 3:25)
The Bible is filled with stories and illustrations that elucidate the character, and the mission of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
( Granville) Oral Roberts, well-known Christian evangelist, educator, and mentor, who died Dec. 15, 2009, often preached a sermon entitled “The Fourth Man”. A detailed version of his signature discourse is available in book form. This excerpt unveils a brillant portrait of Christ’s attributes exhibited all 66 books of the Bible. Christ Jesus is the central theme in the entire volume of the holy scriptures. (Psalm 40:7)

“Who is the Fourth Man?
In Genesis, He is the Seed of the Woman.
In Exodus, He is the Passover Lamb.
In Leviticus, He is our High Priest.
In Numbers, He is the Pillar of Cloud by day and the Pillar of Fire by night.
In Deuteronomy, He is the Prophet like unto Moses.
In Joshua, He is the Captain of our Salvation.
In Judges, He is our Judge and Lawgiver.
In Ruth, He is our Kinsman Redeemer.
In I and II Samuel, He is our Trusted Prophet.
In Kings and Chronicles, He is our Reigning King.
In Ezra, He is our Faithful Scribe.
In Nehemiah, He is the Rebuilder of the Broken Down Walls of Human Life.
In Esther, He is our Mordecai.
In Job, He is our Dayspring from on high, and our Ever-Living Redeemer.
In Psalms, He is the Lord, our Shepherd.
In Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, He is our Wisdom.
In the Song of Solomon, He is our Lover and Bridegroom.
In Isaiah, He is the Prince of Peace.
In Jeremiah, He is the Righteous Branch.
In Lamentations, He is the Weeping Prophet.
In Ezekiel, He is the Wonderful Four-Faced Man.
In Daniel, He is the Fourth Man in the burning fiery furnace.
In Hosea, He is the Faithful Husband, forever married to the backslider.
In Joel, He is the Baptizer with the Holy Ghost and fire.
In Amos, He is our Burden-Bearer.
In Obadiah, He is the Mighty Savior, Mighty to Save.
In Jonah He is our Great Foreign Missionary.
In Micah, He is the Messenger with Beautiful Feet.
In Nahum, He is the Avenger of God's Elect.
In Habakkuk, He is God's Evangelist, crying, "Revive thy work in the midst of the years."
In Zephaniah, He is the Savior.
In Haggai, He is the Restorer of God's Lost Heritage.
In Zechariah, He is the Fountain Opened in the House of David, for sin and uncleanness.
And in Malachi, He is the Son of Righteousness, rising with healing in His wings.
In Matthew, He is the Messiah.
In Mark, He is the Wonder-Worker.
In Luke, He is the Son of Man.
In John, He is the Son of God.
In Acts, He is the Holy Spirit.
In Romans, He is our Justifier.
In Corinthians, He is the Sanctifier
In Galatians, He is the Redeemer from the curse of the law.
In Ephesians, He is the Christ of Unreachable Riches.
In Philippians, He is the God Who Supplies All Our Needs.
In Colossians, He is the Fullness of the Godhead Bodily.
In ! and II Thessalonians, He is our Soon-Coming King.
In I and II Timothy, He is our Mediator between God and Man.
In Titus, He is our Faithful Pastor.
In Philemon, He is a Friend, that Sticks Closer that a Brother.
In Hebrews, He is the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant.
In James, He is the Great Physician.
In I an II Peter, He is the Chief Shepherd, who soon shall appear with a crown of unfading glory.
In I, II, and III John, He is Everlasting Love.
In Jude, He is the Lord, Coming with Ten Thousands of His Saints.
And in Revelation, He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.”

To this sermon, I add- search the scriptures and discover that Jesus Christ, He is the Risen Lord, who loves YOU ! (Lk. 24:4-8) (John 3:16)
In 2006, Jeoffery Benward, of Christian singing duo Aaron Jeffery, compiled a similar list in a song entitled “He Is ”.

Tehama County Pastor's Dinner 2010

2010-02-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

October 2, 2010 -A dinner is being planned for all Senior and Associate pastors, and their wives of Tehama County, California. This will be an event to bless our local leaders. In the coming months, efforts will be made to find the correct contact information for each church, so that no pastor in our county will be left out of the invitation.

Interview Taping Fox 30 Chico

2010-02-04T14:34:00.000-08:00

Thursday was great. Pastor Chris Officer and I taped an interview with Jim Wilson today at Fox 30 in Chico. It will air on March 15th. We are praying that it will raise interest in the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival for March 20th. The Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival can be found on Facebook.

www.thelifeandtimesofjay.blogspot.com

2010-01-19T14:49:00.000-08:00

I started this blog back in 2006. It was started as a place to post the articles I have contributed to the God Talk column in our local Red Bluff Daily News. I am planning the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival for March 20, 2010.
I am presently looking for information on Thomas Nelson- the founder of Thomas Nelson Publishing. He appears to have been a very motivated man. He established his company with the intent of publishing the "Christian classics" of his day- such as John Bunyan's Pilgrim Progress. In those days, only the wealthy had access to books. Thomas Nelson was determined to change that.
I am also very interested in a film I recently heard about called "All For Liberty" www.allforliberty.com The setting is during the American Revolutionary War. The story tells of Capt. Felder and his stand against the British forces. He risks everything- his possessions, his family, his life. All for Liberty ! Go the web address, order a DVD, and support this film. It is a film that every American needs to see.

www.sntradio.com

2010-01-07T14:43:00.000-08:00

I praise the Lord for His goodness.! I checked my blog tracker. It appears there have been many over the past several months that have visited this blog. Hopefully, as they have visited, there has been something they have read that has ministered to them.
I would like to recommend that all would listen to www.sntradio.com . They play 4 decades of Christian music. Some of these songs, I have not heard in over 30 years. What fun ! I hope that you will log on, and enjoy !

In God We Trust Free Patriotic Christian Flash Movie

2010-01-02T00:41:00.000-08:00

In God We Trust Free Patriotic Christian Flash Movie

January 1, 2010

2010-01-01T21:10:00.000-08:00

First day of the new year !
I am posting on this first day, with the intent to post something every few days, or at least once a week. Recently, I watched the movie Julie and Julia. It has inspired me to stay dilegent in updating this blog.
As I look ahead to the coming year, I am excited about the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival we planning to present at New Hope Foursquare Church in Red Bluff, Ca. on March 20.
Since the summer, I have been connected to a number of really great people in involved in producing Christian films. HOSFU, "christian film" on Facebook is a great resource, as well as "Christian networking".
I set this goal one year ago, but never followed through. I intend to learn more about computers this year, and familarize myself with more programs in order to enhance this blog. I plan to attend computer classes offered through the high school. I want to work with uploading pictures, and eventually develop my own website for the BCCFF.
I will continue to write and post articles for God Talk. This is a great ministry opportunity, that I want to which I want to devote a great deal of time.

Sherwood Pictures-Courageous

2009-12-29T17:02:00.000-08:00

A vision formed in the hearts of Alex and Stephen Kendrick as they played with cameras in their backyard in Smyrna, Georgia, has grown into a world-wide movie ministry.
The movies “Flywheel”, “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof” are the realization of that vision through Sherwood Pictures, the unique filmmaking ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. The Kendrick brothers, associate pastors at Sherwood, had a lifelong dream to make movies.
The themes and principles framed in lead characters and each storyline are based on the example set, and lessons learned from their father, Larry Kendrick. God is the hero in each film, as He works through people’s lives. The message “ God can overwhelm us with His goodness. When God is at the center, it impacts the rest of your life.”
When they were kids, their neighbor had a Super 8 film camera. "We played with that camera for two or three years until camcorders came out," Alex said. "We created our own entertainment."
Through trial and error, the brothers learned visual angles, editing, and eventually began producing their own short movies. Alex majored in communications at Kennesaw State University. After college, the Kendrick brothers continued making short movies as the leaders of college student and teen ministries. Their productions premiered at Sherwood Baptist Church on makeshift screens of paper tablecloths.
In 2002, Alex read an article citing a study by researcher George Barna that reported- movies have more influence over current society than any church; they are the most effective means of communication to this generation.
Alex proposed the church make a family-friendly movie that could be filmed affordably in Albany. "A huge segment of people love movies but leave theaters disappointed in the profanity, immorality, and messages that trample their family's values and faith," Stephen said. Senior Pastor Michael Catt agreed, and the church created Sherwood Pictures.
Their first movie, “Flywheel“ was filmed on video with a $20,000 budget that came from private contributions. Using an all-volunteer cast of actors, the movie utilized local homes and businesses as sets. The wardrobe department amounted to each actor's own closet. The camera crane, dolly, and steady cam equipment were built with supplies purchased from Home Depot.
Several crises occurred during production, including loss of 30 minutes of edited film. “It became another opportunity to pray”, recalled Alex. “The Lord can make a better movie than we can. We asked the Lord for creativity, and to allow things to happen beyond what we had planned.”
After three weeks of around the clock re-filming, dubbing, and editing, the final completed version of the film was burned to DVD on April 9, 2003, just six hours, 30 minutes before it premiered at their local Carmike Cinemas theater!
The overwhelming response to “Flywheel’ shocked the Kendrick brothers. They are still amazed the movie was ever completed. The movie intended for a community outreach through their local theater has been viewed around the world.
The next two films produced were “Facing the Giants” 2006 and “Fireproof” 2008. These productions were blessed with larger budgets, but as with “Flywheel”, no actors were paid. The talents of cameraman, Bob Scott added to the production quality of these films.
Scott, whose film credits include the “Bourne Ultimatum”, was impressed with the unified effort on set. Everyone gathered to start and end filming each day. “The attitude was ‘do whatever it takes’ to get the movie made. This just doesn’t happen in the movie business. It was great to be at work each day”, said Scott.
“The formula that has worked for us is “seek the Lord first, ask Him to bless it’” said Stephen Kendrick.
“Each film is a testimony that God can use what we give Him, and our sincerity. He will multiply it for His glory. Our desire is to touch the world from Albany”, said Executive Producer and Senior Pastor Michael Catt.- “We want to inspire other churches to find creative ways to reach people with the message that Jesus Christ loves each of them.”
Sherwood Pictures has announced a fourth film: “Courageous“. It will embrace God’s promise to “turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and hearts of children to their fathers.” (Malachi 4:5,6)
“Fireproof” is the story of a firefighter. “Courageous” will focus on four law enforcement officers. Fathers, wrestling with their hopes, their fears, and their faith in Christ. Called to serve and protect, each faces danger on the streets, as well as daily challenges at home.
Sherwood Pictures promises more action in “Courageous“, beyond anything they have previously attempted. The intent is to encourage men, as fathers, to rise up and be actively engaged in the lives of their children. The film will offer a challenge to be .... courageous! http://www.courageousthemovie.com/
Rent each locally, or purchase/ http://www.sherwoodpictures.com/

Wishing you a Happy New Year !

2009-12-28T13:23:00.005-08:00

Hello All,
Just wanted to wish you a Happy New Year. Hope you have a prosperous new year. Have not posted anything since Nov. I suffered a tragic computer crash.

Recently, I saw the movie, "Julie and Julia". I liked the movie. It has inspired me to do more blogging. In the coming year 2010, I am going to attempt a weekly entry, maybe something every couple of days, if I can manage it.
Planning the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival for March 20, 2010 at New Hope Foursquare Church in Red Bluff, Ca. I would appreciate your prayers for this venture. Not sure how it will all come together at this point.
If you enjoy reading my blog, I would like to hear from you. Jay jlauriem@att.net
Jay

"A Wade In The Creek' Nov. 27th

2009-11-04T17:56:00.000-08:00

"A Wade In The Creek" is a special film preview night that will take place at New Hope Foursquare Church on Friday Nov. 27th, from 6 pm-9 pm--the day after Thansgiving.

This will be a promotion and discussion of the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival that will be presented on March 20, 2010 at the church.

Preview of films

"Flywheel" from Sherwood Pictures

"The Rainy Day" from Affect Eternity Ministries

"Lost Along The Way" from Quiet No More.

Please visit Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival on Facebook.

Questions: send an email to jlauriem@att.net

Blog for the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival

2009-09-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival blog--news and film updates

www.brickyardcreekchristianfilmfestival.blogspot.com

A Spiritual Legacy-from shoe store to shoe boxes

2009-09-22T22:28:00.000-07:00

When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put
When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That day in the stockroom, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to repent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
.his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That day in the stock room, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to repent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That in the stock room, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to represent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203

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October 2009 and beyond.......

2009-09-22T22:20:00.000-07:00

I am looking forward to the remaining months of 2009, and into next year. There are many activities to be involved in, and contribute to, from now to the end of the year, especially during our Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. There are a variety of happenings to mention.
But first, I want to share that my family and I spent our Labor Day weekend at Joshua Fest, an annual three-day Christian music festival at the Plumas District Fairground in Quincy. After a one year hiatus, the festival returned this year better than ever. Let it be known, far and wide, that Joshua Fest is on for next year! I encourage all youth leaders to make plans to take a bunch of kids to the event next year. Visit http://www.joshuafest.net/
I am pleased to say that our fair city of Red Bluff was well represented at the music festival by several dedicated volunteers. Rick and Melanie Lytle arrived in Quincy early in the week to help with set up for the event. Throughout the festival, the couple assisted in the management of the AIR1.com Main Stage. They moved sound equipment, and handled many last minute details for a smooth transition between music groups. After the last band performed late on the final night, Rick and Melanie helped with the “tear down”. Working through the night, into the next day, the Lytles were among the last to leave the grounds.
Matt and Tonya Tatro, Rich and Gretchen Davidson, Larry and Chaunda Jensen were among a group of 15 volunteers from Bethel Assembly of God who served with the “around the clock” security team. Many thanks to all who gave of their time to serve at this wonderful event.-Joshua Fest’09
The memories of the festival are still fresh in my mind. I think of the Biblical patriarch-Joshua. Who, at a crossroad in his life and culture, he determined, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!” (Joshua 24:15) May that be my resolve and yours, in all the decisions we make.
We are now in October, with less than three months until we start writing 2010 to indicate the current year. If you’re like me, you’re asking, “Where did the days go?”.
October has been designated “Pastor Appreciation Month”. I hope each church congregation will honor their pastor in some way, during this month, and during the other 11 months of the year. Please include your pastor’s family in all the celebration. Cook their favorite meal, buy that thing everyone knows they need, landscape their yard, or have their vehicles serviced. Be creative in your blessing to each of them.
If your church, or one you frequently visit, is planning a kid’s ministry activity for Oct. 31st, as a safe alternative to neighborhood “trick or treat” tours through the busy streets-
please support the ministry activity. Don’t wait to be asked-jump in to volunteer, especially, if you’re taking your kids there. Be part of the event’s success. Prepare a snack, roam the parking lot, help with clean-up, etc.
If you love to sing, you can join the Masterworks chorale, and orchestra lead by Pastor Mark Franklin. The chorale is open to all singers in high school and beyond. Auditions are not required to join the other 60-plus voices in song. Weekly rehearsals are Monday, 6:45-8:30 p.m. at the Red Bluff Presbyterian Church at Hickory and Jefferson Streets.
The chorale has a concert coming up Sunday, November 8th at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. They will perform the Solemn Mass in A by Cesar Franck.
In December, the chorale and orchestra will present the ‘Messiah” by George F. Handel. at the First Church of God, This annual performance is a local Christmas tradition Jackson and Luther Rd. Be there, to stand and sing, “Hallelujah!“
At some date, before the end of the year, the Masterworks Chorale will be singing in the vespers chapel at the New Clairvaux Abby in Vina. (The chapel acoustics are incredible!)
November 16-23, is shoe box Collections Week for the Operation Christmas Child project of Samaritan’s Purse. Our local drop-off location will be Community Baptist Church at 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff. Pam Price is the collection coordinator. For information as to how to prepare a shoe box gift visit http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
Make plans now to be a bell ringer for the Salvation Army in December. Call Major Frank Severs, and fill his food pantry to the brim. 527-8530 Donate coats, and other items for “Recycle the Warmth” hosted by Bethel Assembly in partnership with the Salvation Army.
Looking on to March 2010, New Hope Foursquare Church will present the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival. The purpose will be to provide a unique venue for viewing short films produced by Christian filmmakers. More information is posted at
www.lifeandtimesofjay.blogspot.com

Update-Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival

2009-09-21T14:20:00.000-07:00

Today has been an exciting day. I received a favorable reply from BIOLA University in LA (Bible Institute Of Los Angeles). March 20, 2010, I hope to feature many films produced by BIOLA students at the first annual Brickyard Creek Christian film festival. I have seen the trailers from a couple of films produced in BIOLA students-we are in for a terrific weekend of film viewing.
My hope is that others will be encouraged to produce quality Christian films. Hallelujah !!

Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival -March 2010

2009-08-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

Red Bluff, Ca.
The Brickyard Christian Film Festival is in the works for March 2010 at New Hope Foursquare Church. Christian Film-Creators-professional, future-professional, high school and college, are welcome to send films. Short and longer films -drama, comedy, action films, etc. Animated films would be neat too.
This festival will not be a competition, but a celebration of the art of producing Christian films. Depending on the number, and length of films selected it is our desire to present a two day event.
I have received email responses from a number of film creators-we are in for a fabulous weekend. There is a lot of excellent work being done out there !
I am interested in viewing festival winners, and any film you think should have won.
The Brickyard Christian Festival will have no entry submission fees, and we will not be charging admission. I hope to secure sponsorship from local businesses, and snacks, and soda during the event.
The purpose of the Brickyard Christian Film Festival is to create a unique annual venue here to draw individuals to the Lord Jesus Christ, and the ministry of His Church. Looking forward to hearing from many and display your work that glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ. jlauriem@att.net

If you are a filmmaker looking to link with others in film production, fellowship and assistance go to www.christianfilmmakers.org

Steve's Bible Study

2009-05-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday morning, 7:30 a.m., at The Feedbag Grill on S. Main St. in Red Bluff, you can find a small group that meets for a study of the Bible. Several groups use the restaurant’s room off to the side each week-including another Bible study group that meets at 7:30 a.m. each Tuesday morning.
I am rather partial to the Saturday morning study group that is lead by my older brother, Stephen. My work schedule does not allow me to be there regularly. When I can attend, I am always greeted with friendly, familiar faces, an interesting Bible study session, and plenty of hot coffee poured by Betty.
Then, there is Steve-with his overloaded tote bag, equipped with copies of multiple versions of the Bible, commentaries, expository dictionary, lexicon, maps, Bible encyclopedia-and his notebooks. Ah, yes, the notebooks! Over the years, Steve has filled 20 spiral-bound college rule notebooks with handwritten notations, recording the treasures he has discovered and mined from the pages of the Holy Bible. One can tell that Steve aims to give a thorough presentation. The man comes prepared!
In earlier days, Steve was involved in leading three separate study sessions on various days each week, focusing on a different book of the Bible with each group.
My brother, Steve has a really laid-back teaching style, but there is no question that he is passionate about communicating the truth of God’s Word in a practical way. His method is to cross-reference and carefully compare Bible passages. There is also ample opportunity for discussion too.
Steve works the graveyard shift at our local Raley’s Store. Each Saturday morning, after a night of work, Steve faithfully sets off toward The Feedbag Grill, a few blocks away. Leading this weekly study speaks to me of his diligence, and dedication to God’s Word, and his deep concern for those who attend.
Steve is on a personal, verse by verse trek through the scriptures. This is a Bible study with a history! His “journey” started with Genesis 1:1 back in 1983. What began as a Thursday night, after-work Bible study, at the request of employees at Francisco's Mexican Restaurant, has continued for nearly three decades. Back in the day, Steve was a cook and I washed dishes.
Steve, with his wife Laura, and daughter Ashley, enjoy fellowship at Bethel Assembly of God in Red Bluff.
Steve’s Bible study session is an informal “come as you are” meeting, where everyone is welcome. Some need to leave early in the hour, as others arrive later. Some stay afterward, to eat breakfast. (I like the “Trail Boss”.) While others head off to do their list of Saturday morning projects. Either way, a Bible study is a great way to start the day.
The location of his Bible study session, and the participants have changed with time, but Steve has stayed with it, sharing gained insight each week- chapter by chapter.
I recently discovered a newspaper article I had written some years ago about Steve’s Bible study for the North State edition of the Christian Times. In April 2000, Steve concluded a reading of the Old Testament book of Joshua.
Paul, the Apostle gave an invitation to his student Timothy, which recorded in the New Testament. It reads “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15.) Please consider this also, a personal invitation from me to you.
As we approach the middle of 2009, Steve is currently studying the Old Testament book of 2 Samuel. So, make your way to The Feedbag Grill early some Saturday morning around 7:30 a.m. Grab a cup of coffee, open your Bible, and enjoy!

My Son for the World

2009-05-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

This is a fictional story, but one that illustrates a great spiritual truth. jay

Just imagine this....
The day is over, you are driving home. You tune in your radio. You hear a little blurb about a little village in India where some villagers have died suddenly, strangely, of a flu that has never been seen before. It's not influenza, but three or four fellows are dead, and it's kind of interesting, and they're sending some doctors over there to investigate it. You don't think much about it, but on Sunday, coming home from church, you hear another radio spot. Only they say it's not three villagers, it's 30,000 villagers in the back hills of this particular area of India, and it's on TV that night. CNN runs a little blurb; people are heading there from the disease center in Atlanta because this disease strain has never been seen before.
By Monday morning when you get up, it's the lead story. For it's not just India; it's Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and before you know it, you're hearing this story everywhere and they have coined it now as "the mystery flu". The President has made some comment that he and everyone are praying and hoping that all will go well over there. But everyone is wondering, "How are we going to contain it?"
That's when the President of France makes an announcement that shocks Europe. He is closing their borders. No flights from India, Pakistan, or any of the countries where this thing has been seen. And that's why that night you are watching a little bit of CNN before going to bed. Your jaw hits your chest when a weeping woman is translated from a French news program into English: "There's a man lying in a hospital in Paris dying of the mystery flu." It has come to Europe. Panic strikes. As best they can tell, once you get it, you have it for a week and you don't know it. Then you have four days of unbelievable symptoms. And then you die.
Britain closes it's borders, but it's too late. South Hampton, Liverpool, North Hampton, and it's Tuesday morning when the President of the United States makes the following announcement "Due to a national security risk, all flights to and from Europe and Asia have been canceled. If your loved ones are overseas, I'm sorry. They cannot come back until we find a cure for this thing."
Within four days our nation has been plunged into an unbelievable fear. People are selling little masks for your face. People are talking about what if it comes to this country, and preachers on Tuesday are saying, "It's the scourge of God."
It's Wednesday night and you are at a church prayer meeting when somebody runs in from the parking lot and says, "Turn on a radio, turn on a radio." And while the church listens to a little transistor radio with a microphone stuck up to it, the announcement is made. "Two women are lying in a Long Island hospital dying from the mystery flu." Within hours it seems, this thing just sweeps across the country. People are working around the clock trying to find an antidote. Nothing is working. California. Oregon. Arizona. Florida. Massachusetts. It's as though it's just sweeping in from the borders.
Then, all of a sudden the news comes out. The code has been broken. A cure can be found. A vaccine can be made. It's going to take the blood of somebody who hasn't been infected, and so, sure enough, all through the Midwest, through all those channels of emergency broadcasting, everyone is asked to do one simple thing "Go to your downtown hospital and have your blood type taken. That's all we ask of you. And when you hear the sirens go off in your neighborhood, please make your way quickly, quietly, and safely to the hospitals."
Sure enough, when you and your family get down there late on that Friday night, there is a long line, and they've got nurses and doctors coming out and pricking fingers and taking blood and putting labels on it. Your wife and your kids are out there, and they take your blood type and they say, "Wait here in the parking lot and if we call your name, you can be dismissed and go home."
You stand around scared with your neighbors, wondering what in the world is going on, and if this is the end of the world. Suddenly a young man comes running out of the hospital screaming. He's yelling a name and waving a clipboard.
What? He yells it again! And your son tugs on your jacket and says, "Daddy, that's me."
Before you know it, they have grabbed your boy. "Wait a minute, hold it!" And they say, "It's okay, his blood is clean. His blood is pure. We want to make sure he doesn't have the disease. We think he has got the right type."
Five tense minutes later, out come the doctors and nurses, crying and hugging one another - some are even laughing. It's the first time you have seen anybody laugh in a week, and an old doctor walks up to you and says, "Thank you, sir. Your son's blood type is perfect. It's clean, it is pure, and we can make the vaccine."
As the word begins to spread all across that parking lot full of folks, people are screaming and praying and laughing and crying. But then the gray-haired doctor pulls you and you wife aside and says, "May we see you for a moment? We didn't realize that the donor would be a minor and we need . . . we need you to sign a consent form." You begin to sign and then you see that the number of pints of blood to be taken is empty. "H-h-h-how many pints?" And that is when the old doctor's smile fades and he says, "We had no idea it would be a little child. We weren't prepared. We need it all!"
" But -but..."
"You don't understand. We are talking about the world here. Please sign. We - we need it all - we need it all!"
"But can't you give him a transfusion?"
"If we had clean blood we would. Can you sign? Would you sign?"
In numb silence you do. Then they say, "Would you like to have a moment with him before we begin?"
Can you walk back? Can you walk back to that room where he sits on a table saying, "Daddy? Mommy? What's going on?" Can you take his hands and say, "Son, your mommy and I love you, and we would never ever let anything happen to you that didn't just have to be. Do you understand that?" And when that old doctor comes back in and says, "I'm sorry, we've - we've got to get started. People all over the world are dying."
Can you leave? Can you walk out while he is saying, "Dad? Mom? Dad? Why - why have you forsaken me?" And then next week, when they have the ceremony to honor your son, and some folks sleep through it, and some folks don't even come because they go to the lake, and some folks come with a pretentious smile and just pretend to care. Would you want to jump up and say, "My Son Died! Don't You Care?" Is that what He wants to say? "My Son Died. Don't You Know How Much I Care?
"Father, seeing it from your eyes breaks our hearts. Maybe now we can begin to comprehend the great love you have for us. Amen."

Author Unknown but a Special Thanks to Doris E. Howie

A Story that Needs No Further Comments..
Father, thank you for your unspeakable gift.. Your Son. Thank you for paying such a great price that we might be saved. There could be no greater price paid and you did it for us. Our words fail.. But we want you to know our gratitude and our humbleness before the glory of your love and compassion for us.. Thank you, O' Lord, thank you.

This was copied from a church website without permission:
Orange Hills Assembly • 2910 N. Santiago Blvd., Orange, CA 92867 • 714.974.7333

I will remove it, if contacted by the ministry. No harm intented, as I liked the content posted above.

Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival-

2009-04-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

I am looking for Christian Films to feature at a film festival here in Red Bluff, Ca. This is not a film competition, but an opportunity to display your work in an outreach setting.
If you are a film producer, or a film student, and have made film that you would like to have shown here, please reply to jlauriem@att.net Thank you.

"The Cross" film scheduled for Anderson, Ca. Friday April 24th.

2009-04-16T11:13:00.000-07:00

The Cross" movie will open on Friday April 24th at the Prime Cinemas in Anderson, Ca at the Factory Outlet stores complex.
It is important to note that the attendance number at the movie's opening day will determine how long it will be shown. In my recent conversation I had with Arthur Blessitt by phone, he made it clear that "The Cross" is an evangelistic movie. In his words "This is not a ' faith-based, read-between-the-lines' production." "It is a 'Jesus movie' that lifts up the cross".
"The Cross" movie premiere was at the Gauman's/Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood on March 24th, 2008. Back on May 18, 1927 the theater opened its doors for the first time with the premiere of Cecil B. DeMille's film The King of Kings. Before the showing, owner Sid Grauman read passages of scripture from the four Gospels. The poster for the film displayed actor H.B. Warner carrying a cross.
After 82 years, the cross returned to Hollywood this year with a red carpet welcome. The poster picture for the "The Cross" is a snapshot of Arthur Blessitt walking with the cross. The photo was taken by American hunters in the Darien Gap, a thick stretch of jungle between Columbia and Panama in Central America.
The film has the potential of making as greater personal impact than "The Passion of the Christ" by Mel Gibson. According to Matthew Barnett of Angelus Temple/The Dream Center ministry-Los Angeles, Ca. -"The Cross" is the best evangelistic movie that has ever been made."
Please forward this to all you can. This is the perfect opportunity for each Christian to take the unsaved and the luke-warm to this movie. My prayer is that all who see the film will be touched by the Holy Spirit, and will commit their lives to Christ- that they will "glory in the cross".

http://www.thecrossmovie.com/ http://www.8x.com/ -check these sites as more theater dates will be added later
http://www.blessitt.com -The Official site of Arthur Blessitt

I have posted a recent article about the "The Cross" under my God Talk postings on this site.

ARTHUR BLESSITT-ONE MAN, ONE CROSS, ONE MISSION

2009-02-10T14:44:00.000-08:00

Arthur Blessitt is on a continuing mission. His 38 years of carrying a cross are chronicled in his book, “The Cross”. “The Cross”, a feature film will open in theaters on March 27th.
CNN News and Time Magazine have reported Arthur’s travels. The Guinness Book of World Records verified thousands of miles walked, but only heaven has recorded countless names of those who have committed their lives to Jesus Christ along his trek around the world.
In the 1960’s, he was known to the Hell’s Angels, Black Panthers, hippies, and flower children of Hollywood, Ca, as the Minister of Sunset Strip.
At age 68, Arthur Blessitt does not suffer with ailments, soreness, or foot problems. He has never gotten sick from anything he has eaten or drank on his journey. He does however, bare physical marks from his mission. His right forearm has a scar from a guard dog attack at the border of Israel and Egypt. Baring the cross’s weight on his back over many miles has shaped the scapula bone of his right shoulder.
In his journal, Arthur recalls how the Lord Jesus spoke to him in 1969. “I want you to take the cross onto the roadsides and streets to identify My message with the common man. I am sending you to the world to bear witness of My life and My love, proclaiming My peace”.
Dottie Rambo’s gospel song “I will Glory in the Cross” was inspired by Arthur’s message and travels.
Starting Christmas Day 1969, Blessitt has carried a cross on every continent through 315 countries and major island groups-a total of 38,102 miles-including Antarctica. That distance is equal to 1 ½ times around the circumference of the equator, or over 76 million footsteps as of Aug.8, 2008.
Arthur Blessitt has spoken with several world leaders and individuals of every social and economic group. He has survived 52 wars, firing squads, beatings, and deadly jungles. His calling has been confirmed in his ability to gain access to take a cross to the world’s most unreachable of places.
In 1979, he walked through the Darien Gap of Central America. Few experienced outdoorsmen have made it through the stretch of treacherous jungle connecting Panama and Columbia. Arthur Blessitt made it through lugging a 12 ft., 45 lb., wooden cross!
In 1982, he marched alone through five fighting armies in West Beirut, Lebanon in order to pray with Yassir Arafat. This entire walk was captured live by CNN reporter Peter Arnet. One thing I find striking in Arthur’s story is the role his family had in shaping his destiny. When Arthur was age 7 yrs., an evangelist preached during a revival meeting under a brush arbor. The evangelist invited all for a prayer of commitment to Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin and salvation. Arthur wanted to respond, but his mother held him back saying he was too young.
On the drive home, Arthur kept pleading, until his father turned the car around. Standing under a single light, Arthur surrendered his life to Jesus as the evangelist knelt beside him in the dirt.
Arthur’s family nurtured him as he responded to the message of Jesus Christ . At age 15, Arthur publicly declared his calling to preach the gospel. He learned then, that his father and grandfather, each at age 15, had both felt God’s call to preach. But, they did not go.
Arthur’s father prayed that Arthur receive a double blessing making up for what he himself did not do.
Arthur told his grandfather “Grandpa, You've got to pray for me three times as much, because daddy didn't preach either!"
Arthur Blessitt’s journey around the world is truly a fascinating story. The story of his early days, and what put him “out on the road” is equally incredible.
My prayer is: that parents pray with and for their children, encouraging them in beginning steps of faith in Christ-even if children do not seem to comprehend everything taught. I applaud children’s ministry workers in the spiritual battlefield for young hearts. There are crucial pivot points of decision, and tender moments of openness to God that may not come again.
God rewards faith; He builds on knowledge and understanding directed to Him.
It is chilling to think what could have happened on that night Arthur wanted to commit himself to Christ. If his father had not turned the truck around to go back, would Arthur have remained open to the God’s call? Would he have continued to pursue God then, or waited until he was older? Or rejected God because he was “too young”, or felt unworthy to be accepted?
Arthur’s father did turn the truck around! Lives have been forever changed worldwide.
Share Arthur Blessitt’s story from his Media Library link. Go see “The Cross” movie. http://www.blessitt.com/

Highway Missionaries-A ministry vision

2009-01-02T22:48:00.000-08:00

In this year of 2009, I would like to step forward in a ministry called "Highway Misssionaries". The purpose would be to share the love of Jesus Christ through word and deed, as we assist motorists who travel the stretch of Interstate 5 -between Anderson, Ca. and Willows, Ca. The goal would be to provide needed resources, ie. fuel, a meal, repair, or lodging to those who are stranded because of difficulty on the freeway.
My prayer is, that in time, we can establish contacts with ministries within the region, and develop relationships with the California Highway Patrol, and towing services for opportunities to minister.

The Star of Bethlehem

2008-12-23T12:22:00.000-08:00

The Bethlehem Star

I pray that you will take a serious look at this link below. View the DVD. Maybe you are a skeptic, and think that the Bible is merely a book made up and written by men. Maybe you are looking for evidence as to the accuracy of what is recorded in scripture. What was the "star"?
Maybe you are looking for something to further enrich your faith in the God of the Bible, who sent his Son Jesus to earth to be born, to die, and rise again so that we might have forgiveness of sin.
I invite you to look up-for the heavens really do "declare the glory of God". Look at the results of the research by Fredrick Larson, of the star that rested over Bethlehem. Larson explores the Bethlehem Star, the prophesies, the signs displayed in the skies, the work of astronomers, and compares them to recorded historical events.
I was really moved as I watched this presentation. The birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ were indeed calculated events in God's plan. It has strengthened my assurance of Christ's return also a calculated event in God's plan. Hallelujah !!
The Magi saw Jesus’ star, followed it, and came to worship Him. My prayer is that you will follow this study of the star-examine it carefully, and that it will lead you to worship the Lord Jesus Christ too.
Oh come, let us adore Him !

http://www.bethlehemstar.net/

Monster Truck Adventure-coloring books order received !!

2008-11-20T13:32:00.001-08:00

Hey, this has been an exciting week. I had a great surprise a few days ago-as a mother in Minnesota ordered copies of my coloring book the “Monster Truck Adventure” after visiting my blog. This order is the first I have received at this site. Hooray !
Sent them out yesterday.
We are also in the middle of collections week for the Operation Christmas Child project of Samaritans Purse. www.samaritanspurse.org Millions of shoe box gifts are being collected this week to be distributed in over 90 countries around the world before the end of January 2009.

GOD TALK-Joy To The World- Creation of a Christmas Song.

2008-11-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

Joy To The World- Creation of a Christmas Song.

Isaac Watts and Lowell Mason were two gifted men of different continents and centuries. Surely, they are listed somewhere among the Who’s Who in church music history. They were movers and shakers in their times. Watts was born 1674 in England, followed by Mason 1788 in New Jersey. Although these outstanding composers’ lives were separated by some 50 years, together they created a lasting Christmas song. Their story illustrates how a person’s applied talent can have a positive impact on future generations.
Isaac Watts was the fearless son of an equally fearless non-conformist pastor. Immediately after the Protestant Reformation, non-Roman Churches in the West were divided on the question of hymns. Many churches developed a rich tradition of composing hymns in the common languages from the Psalms.
In 1662, the Act of Conformity was passed, and Isaac’s father (also named Isaac) was sent to prison, along with some two thousand ministers ejected from the Church of England for refusing to conform to the laws of the land relating to the worship of God.
The younger Watts, dissatisfied with the quality of Psalm singing, felt limited. He longed to compose worship songs celebrating a fuller expression of Christian theology and faith, as opposed to writing music scores to simply accompany English translations of the Psalms. Isaac’s father challenged him to write something better. He suffered ridicule in his day, but that challenge resulted in countless hymns known around the world. His well-known classics include “At the Cross” and “We’re Marching to Zion”.
Isaac Watts studied Old Testament Psalms from a perspective that affirmed the Deity and Lordship of Jesus Christ, and prophecies fulfilled in the New Testament scriptures.
In 1719, he published an English hymnal of psalms translated, interpreted, and paraphrased into verses for singing. “Joy To The World” was a poem based on Isaac Watts’ reading of Psalm 98. When the Watts hymnal was introduced to America in the 19th century, his poem was sung to an American folk melody known as “Nettleton”. A tune attributed to Asahel Nettleton, a well-known 18th century evangelist. The “Nettleton” melody also was used with another popular hymn by 18th century pastor, Robert Robinson. Today, that melody is recognized as “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”.

Lowell Mason had strong musical interests from childhood. He received formal instruction, and started to write his own music, being greatly influenced by composers Mozart, Hadyn, and Handel. In effort to move congregations away from “folk music”, Mason focused on European classical music as a model for what he envisioned Americans believers should be singing and performing. He served the Independent Presbyterian Church as music leader, choir director and organist. Under his initiative, the church created the first Sunday school for black children in America.
Largely responsible for introducing music into American public schools, Lowell Mason is considered to be the first important music educator in United States history. Mason was co-founder of the Boston Academy of Music, and is given credit for popularizing European classical music in the North America. He is credited too, with setting to music the nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb".

Mason, just like Watts strove to be different in hope that people would see scripture and music in a new and different way. He vigorously promoted congregational singing. The bright and spirited new music connected to the poem “Joy to the World” we enjoy today is due to writing talent of Lowell Mason. The composition originally titled “Antioch”, honored the grand city the Apostle Paul visited as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.
. Mason’s inclusion of new music was not intended to create a “Christmas carol”. The poem is a collection of theological themes with no direct reference to Gospel narratives or specific verses. Its sound is triumphant and regal. Its emergance as lasting Christmas song is due to the opening phrases, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth received her King!”

One morning, at 3 o’clock, Kerry Livgren, member of the rock band Kansas, sat alone in an Indianapolis hotel room surrounded by many open books. Kerry had spent 30 years searching for God, exploring many Eastern religions and philosophies.
In his confusion, picked up “Liberation of Planet Earth” by Hal Hindsey, which clearly described the separation between God and man, and the steps God took to remove that barrier through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the God-Man.
Kerry prayed, and committed his life to Christ. Leaving his room, Kerry was stunned. The entire hotel was adorned with Christmas decorations July 24, 1979 for an annual “Christmas in July Celebration”. Speakers overhead played “Joy to the world, the Lord is come…let every heart prepare Him room…let heaven and nature sing”
His long search over, Kerry now understood the meaning of those words.

GOD TALK- Operation Christmas Child-Honduras Remembered

2008-10-15T16:45:00.001-07:00

I couldn’t believe it when I got the call in Dec. 2000 from the Samaritan’s Purse office in Santa Ana-an invitation to help distribute shoe box gifts for Operation Christmas Child in Honduras. My initial thought was to decline. After all, I had less than a month to gather money for my ticket, schedule two weeks of vacation time from work, and obtain a passport.
With financial help and encouragement from friends and family, I made plans to go. Through the money-wise efforts of Samaritan’s Purse, the original estimated cost for my part of the missions venture was nearly cut in half.
When I first volunteered to collect shoe boxes for Samaritan’s Purse in 1998, having dinner in Tegucigalpa, Honduras at the US Ambassador’s home along with 40 other OCC volunteers was the furthest thing from my mind.
I had a traveling companion-“Bluffy, the Geography Bear”- a small stuffed toy from Mrs. Virginia Crockett’s first grade class at Community Christian School. Together, we logged the daily itinerary in a journal for the students back in Red Bluff. Ambassador Frank Almaquer and his wife Antoinette posed for a picture with Bluffy.
January 2001, Honduras was recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Mitch in 1998. While riding through the streets of Tegucigalpa, someone asked about the flooding during the storm. Our guide pointed to a tall hospital in the center of the city, informing us that the flood waters had reached the fifth story of the building. I could only imagine the reality of the disaster- water rising in the city, as if filling a giant bowl. Brown water marks on each building told the story.
We distributed shoe boxes at a prison during a family visitation day. A Christian band from the prison church played in the courtyard, as long lines of children filed in to surround huge stacks of colorful shoe box gifts. A children’s booklet called “The Greatest Gift of All” depicting stories from the New Testament was placed on top of each shoe box as the boys and girls received them. I noticed one mother reading the booklet while her children opened their brightly wrapped gifts at her feet.
I am grateful I was able to witness the Operation Christmas Child project first-hand at the receiving end. I wish everyone could see the tremendous effort made by a dedicated chain of volunteers, along with Samaritan’s Purse personnel to ensure the safety and integrity of each gift. Many logistical challenges are faced annually. In destination countries, volunteer teams coordinate and fund the transportation and delivery of gifts to churches and mission organizations for distribution by local pastors and missionaries in their sphere of influence.
I remember meeting Elizabeth, a woman in her mid-forties from Sweden, who had arrived in Honduras at age eighteen, with a desire to care for orphans of the streets. With the support of partners in Sweden, an orphanage complex had been constructed outside of Tegucigalpa. Several red brick bunkhouses bearing the names of Biblical characters surrounded a central dining hall. Months before our visit, a school campus was completed within a mile of the compound, also made possible through donations from Elizabeth’s sponsors in Sweden.
The children of each house had prepared a special song or dance routine to show their appreciation for the gifts they received. As I watched the children enjoying their gifts in this beautiful setting, I knew there was a story behind each gift being opened in front of me. Each year, families, youth groups, school classes, and churches prepare shoe box gifts for children in over 100 countries worldwide. Added to these, are many grandmas, many who do so sacrificially.
Each of 80 orphaned children I saw that day were blessed to live in a safe place because Elizabeth, one woman, saw a desperate need, then devoted her life to meeting it. Others back home in Sweden had embraced her vision and taken practical steps to make it a reality. The children in Elizabeth’s care were excited to receive special shoe box gifts because of generosity a world away.
I am grateful for many individuals, churches, and groups of Tehama County who have participated in Operation Christmas Child. Last year, over 6,000 shoe boxes were collected at Community Baptist Church. The California total was 300,188 with 7.6 million collected internationally. 61 million shoe boxes have been distributed since 1993.
Pam Price is the new Relay Center Coordinator. Collections Week is Nov. 17-24 at Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. 527-4303
The OCC project can continue to grow as information is shared with relatives and friends; creating new collection points in other communities and states. Search drop-off locations by zip code at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/Drop_Off_Locations/
For official OCC news releases regarding OCC visit http://www.demossnewspond/
Please pray and fill a shoe box. Thanks!

GOD TALK-ADD S.O.A.P To Your Bible Study

2008-06-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

“I’m leaving this church,” he said. “I enjoy being here, but I’m not being spiritually fed. I need to go to a church where I can really grow in my Christian faith”.
In truth, each Christian believer is responsible for nurturing their own Christian growth. Everything that is needed to cultivate one’s Christian faith, and develop spiritual maturity is available through daily Bible reading.
Taking copious notes, while listening to a captivating expositor, who has skillfully applied all the rules of hermeneutics for a proper exegesis of Biblical text, can be very beneficial. But there is no sufficient substitute that will replace personal time reading the Bible. There is a limit to what anyone can glean from any study by merely hitchhiking on someone else’s notes. For maximum benefit, personal work is needed.
There is no substitute for involvement in a church family either. Don’t be a Bible student in seclusion. Do your homework, you will be a greater asset to the ministry of the church.
A weekly church gathering should not be the only exposure to the Bible. No pastor should be held solely responsible for spiritual maturity of a parishioner.
One author put it this way, “The Bread of Life is not ready –cook in the Bible; only the recipe and ingredients are there. Man must bake the Bread of life himself. Just as diamonds must be cut, oil refined, granite quarried, and waterfalls harnessed; so the Bible must be studied if its worth is to be fully known”.
Commentaries, books about the Bible, devotional studies, and sermons are great, but must be used along with personal reading of scripture text. There is nothing intrinsically special about the paper and ink used to print a copy of the Bible. The Bible contains some 773,692 words. The words are common everyday words like the words in any other book. As one observer said, “you have to look beneath the words, between the words, and through the words of the Bible to the message to gain the good that it can do. The intent and method in which the Bible is read, as well as what is read in the Bible makes it rich and meaningful”.
The old saying “Experience is the best teacher” is not totally accurate. Experience alone will not guarantee learning. What you learn from your experiences is what will transform your future.
It is helpful to have a planned schedule for daily Bible reading. In his book, “Divine Mentors”, Pastor Wayne Cordiero describes the Bible as God’s choice for a “life-dictionary”. He states that each of life’s experiences, both positive and negative, should to be defined biblically. Personal knowledge and faith can grow by examining the experiences of people recorded in the Bible. God’s solutions can be discovered and greater meaning can be seen in the events of our own lives
Pastor Cordiero recommends S.O.A.P. a “self-feeding” method for personal daily Bible study. A journal is used to record a personal response to each day’s reading.

Scripture-Write the reference of scripture text read for the day.
Observation –Chronicle your observation, i.e., what it is happening in the text, who’s is effected, what is taking place, or the instructions given, and why.
Application- Write out how you plan to put into practice the lesson God has brought to your attention. Ask yourself “How will I be different today as a result of what I have just read from the Bible?”
Prayer-Write out a prayer asking God to help you apply what you have learned.
http://www.divinementors.com/

Application is critical to the process of studying the Bible. It answers the question “How does this verse or thought apply to me?” Knowledge of the Bible without a commitment to applying it is worthless information. Doing what the Bible says is what seals the Word of God in the heart.
The greatest malady in Christendom today is the phenomenon of living a life that is inconsistent with what is believed. Something powerful happens in the Christian when “what we believe” and “how we live” come closer together.

With sermons available through television, CD, and MP3 downloads, somewhere along the path allotting time for personal reading of scripture is neglected.
Many start out with good intentions to reading the Bible regularly, but stop for various reasons. If you miss days, keep going! It is important to stay with it. Keeping a journal is beneficial for maintaining the daily discipline of Bible reading, a quick review, and an account of spiritual growth.
God reveals Himself through His Word. George Washington Carver, a great American scientist was once asked about the source all of his discoveries and inventions. Carver’s response was that his inspiration came from reading his Bible. “It is there that I‘ve come to know the Author of the Book.”

GOD TALK-Christian Peace Officer's Assoc.Of Tehama County -Thank You!

2008-03-06T12:45:00.000-08:00

A huge “thank you” to the Christian Peace Officer’s Association Tehama County for making Red Bluff a “stop” on the “Finally Awake Tour” Feb. 16th. Groups on tour, regularly travel on Interstate 5. The initiative of these officers brought three bands to play here. Thanks to each volunteer at Bethel Assembly of God for hosting a great evening of music for area youth featuring Seventh Day Slumber, Since October, and Maniac Drive. Special thanks to Dan Massie at Sky River Music for promoting this ministry venue.
The evening concert was well attended. A “human video” presented by Red Bluff Calvary Chapel set the tone for the evening. Its core message, “Pleasures of sin are temporary, as Satan seeks victims to enslave and destroy. Jesus Christ offers hope, forgiveness from sin, purity, and freedom from the bondage of addictions. Jesus welcomes everyone to a life of peace.”
How refreshing to see teenagers enjoying good music; having a good time together in a safe place. My daughter and nephew, both teenagers, shared in the excitement as well. I also noticed other “forty-some-things” (closer to fifty) there, taking it all in. The scene reminded me of earlier days, before the K-LOVE Radio, EFFECT Radio, Renegade Radio, or AIR-1 Radio Networks.
It was 1976, the tail end of the famed “Jesus Movement”. I was a sophomore in high school. Dad started taking us to monthly concerts at Bethel Church in Redding. The SALT HOUSE ministry of Bethel Church, presented concerts with new Christian rock bands on tour from Marantha! Music, affiliated with Pastor Chuck Smith’s Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa.
“Jesus Music” or “Jesus Rock”, as it was called then, was not Dad’s musical preference to be sure, but he saw value in it, and that it benefited his children. Our “gospel music collection”- a stack of 33 1/3 rpm., vinyl records, consisted of music from choirs, Southern Gospel quartets, and gospel bluegrass groups. Soon after our first “contemporary” Christian music concert, Dad joined the WORD Record Club, buying several albums for us each month.
Through the years, I have gained an appreciation of many types of music. But honestly, at age 16, when Dad first suggested going to hear “Christian singers” at the church in Redding, I was less than interested. Expecting to sit through a choir concert, I was thrilled to discover the group of four guys playing was a “rock band” singing about Jesus! The music of the “Sweet Comfort Band” instantly appealed to us five kids. Lead singer Bryan Duncan, is a well known solo artist in Christian music these days. Taking us to the monthly concerts was one way Dad encouraged us to live for Jesus Christ.
Music has been the subject of much debate in the “Christian community”. What particular style of music is acceptable to God, and can to be used for His glory? Frankly, God does not “use” music per se. He uses people. Even those who refuse to acknowledge Him. God does enlist and rejoice in individuals who willingly pursue to Him.
God shows His character through His Word – the Bible. His goal is to produce the character of Jesus Christ, His Son in all who love Him. God empowers believers, changing what they think, and how they think, as His Word is applied to choices in circumstances, and through personal relationships. Almighty God desires us to know Him, as we daily confess our dependence, and surrender our will, talents and possessions to Him.
Obviously, not every music style appeals to everyone. Musical styles have blended, changed, and developed over time.
Two things should be questioned with any influence- a personality, publication, movie, artwork; musical or literary work, etc. The same query could be made of any influence in life; those labeled “Christian" and otherwise.
First, what is the message, if any, being communicated? What does the message promote and where will obedience lead? Second, what is the essence and purpose of the communicator’s life? Who do they serve? What is valued as priceless?
Music is a gift; a wonderful vehicle of communication. The Bible provides encouragement and instruction for singers and musicians, who endeavor to dedicate their gift in worship to God. In the Psalms, David, a musician, said it best. “Sing to the Lord a new song. Play skillfully with a loud noise. For the Word of the Lord is right. All of His works are done in truth.” Ps. 33:3, 4
Truth is a beautiful thing. It is honesty, without pretense or deception. Jesus describes Himself as “The Truth”. Live in Truth; desire to be real; live to please God.
Please pray for and encourage all our peace officers, fire fighters, and other public servants as they impact our communities for good.
God protect and bless each one and their family. Amen.

Welcome to 2008 !!

2008-01-03T01:14:00.000-08:00

Many changes are anticipated this year. It has been a successful year already, as I have learned more about blogging. For those who have been here before, you have probably noticed I now have a picture added. Hooray!

GOD TALK-St. Nicholas-A Servant Of Christ

2007-11-26T10:06:00.000-08:00

What about Santa Claus? With our young children, it is fun to pretend there is this guy with eight tiny reindeer who lives at the North Pole. He delivers presents to every single household in the world all in one night! Just as other things, this will fade with age.
There is concern that the celebration of Christ’s birth during this season will be overshadowed by the anticipation of gifts, and the prominence of a make-believe “gift-bringer”. It is imperative that we discuss the historic figure of St. Nicholas with our children. Not so much Clement Moore’s depiction of “a right jolly old elf”, with rosy cheeks and twinkling eyes, but of the real man who lived a life devoted to God.
Between the blend of fact and legend, one thing is clear. He was a man of action, living out his Christian faith in word and deed. In all accounts, Bishop Nicholas would have readily agreed, the greatest gift ever given to mankind is salvation through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
History records, Nicholas was born in Patara, a city of southern Turkey, about 280 A.D. The only son of wealthy parents, Nicholas received instruction from the Holy Scriptures. From his youth, he disciplined himself through fasting and prayer. When his parents died, he began to give away all the money and property he had inherited to those who begged him for help. Nicholas earned a reputation for his kindness, generosity, and wisdom.
One account tells of a father who had lost all his money due to hard times. He had nothing to provide in dowries for his daughters. At midnight, Nicholas went to the man's home and threw a large bag of gold through a window, then fled into the darkness. Some say the bag landed in a stocking hung by the fire to dry. The father discovered the gold, and gave thanks to God, but did not know who had given him the money. Nicholas did many generous deeds; still others were attributed to him after his death.
Nicholas became the Archbishop of Myra. Stories written about him attest to his generosity and devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ. After 303 AD, Nicholas was imprisoned for five years because he defied a command to worship Diocletian, the Roman Emperor, as a god. Even in prison, he instructed people in the Christian faith while confined to a small cell. Nicholas refused to recant from his beliefs, suffering cold, hunger, and thirst, but never wavering in his commitment. He was released during the reign of Constantine, and resumed his duties as Archbishop of Myra. Nicholas died on December 6, 343. By the year 450, churches in Asia Minor and Greece were named in honor of the bishop. By 800, he was recognized as a saint throughout the whole Church. Annual celebrations were held on the day of death, December 6.
Over the centuries, Saint Nicholas' popularity grew, as many people in Europe retold stories that illustrated his concern for children. Due to his secret generosity, and because his day is close to Christmas, legends developed about Saint Nicholas bringing gifts to children at Christmas time. He has many of names—Père Noël in France, and Father Christmas in England. Sailors called him their patron saint. The Dutch called him Sanct Herr Nicholaas, or Sinter Klaas. Early Dutch settlers in New Amsterdam (New York), brought their traditions of Saint Nicholas to North America. The pronunciation “Sinter Klaas”, gradually transformed into “Santa Claus.”
After the Protestant Reformation, many days celebrating saints were not observed as before. Several traditions surrounding Saint Nicholas survived though, but changed over time. Today’s image of a chubby, rosy Santa Claus who somehow keeps track of all naughty and nice children at his North Pole toy factory seems a far cry from the humble, austere fourth-century bishop. Essential qualities that endeared Saint Nicholas to many have remained through generations: his love for children, his generosity of spirit, and his ceaseless giving to others—always in the name and for the sake of his beloved Lord Jesus Christ.
Let us honor the Lord Jesus Christ in all we do and say, not only in our Christmas celebration, but with our lives every day of the year. In what is known of St. Nicholas’ character, there are aspects of a Christian faith “lived out”. It doesn’t really matter if Nicholas actually did everything that has been written about him. His active faith in Christ is what impacted people of his time, and has influenced others in each century that has followed him. Let us serve the Lord Jesus daily with our words and deeds, just as Bishop Nicholas served Him.
Yes, Virginia. There really was a St. Nicholas!

GOD TALK-Lesson 8

2007-11-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

He just had to finish Lesson 8

Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2004-the fateful day started off like any other day in Beslan, Russia. Young children getting out of bed, to dress and eat; moms trying to get them to school on time.
There was Arthur, a young Russian boy. His mom, tried to get him out to door too. But Arthur insisted he had to finish Lesson 8, an assignment he was completing in his room.
Later on that day, once everyone was inside his school, terrorists sealed off the perimeter and held hostage some 1200 children, teachers and staff. Children were denied drinks and not even allowed to visit a bathroom. Three days later the shooting started, leaving 338 innocent people dead, including many children. Arthur was one of the young students killed that day.
Just prior to the tragedy, Samaritan’s Purse volunteers had been to the school in Beslan and had passed out gift-filled shoeboxes as part of the Operation Christmas Child project. As part of a follow-up to the gift distribution, forty children from the school had enrolled in The Mailbox Club-a series of Bible lessons prepared by Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF). Twenty-six of those enrolled were held hostage, and Arthur was one of the four who were killed.
Arthur had signed up for The Mailbox Club. He started taking the lessons, writing to the CEF center in Moscow. This type of correspondence is a BIG DEAL for a child living in rural Russia! Arthur had completed the first seven Bible lessons, in which he received a clear, simple presentation of how to receive Jesus Christ has his Savior.
Arthur insisted on completing final portion of Lesson 8 before leaving for school. No one knew that morning, he would not return home. After Arthur’s death, his mother found his Mailbox Club correspondence in his room.
At the bottom of the last page, Arthur had recorded his response to two questions.
“Have you taken the Lord Jesus as your Savior?”
“YES.”
“If so, when?”
“September 1, 2004”
Let the Lord use you in a big way to bring a message of hope to a child 2-14 yrs old. First pray! Wrap a standard sized shoe box and lid separately, and fill it with small toys, school supplies and hygiene items. You can include a note, card or picture. These shoe box gifts are delivered to children in desperate situations around the world. Only Eternity will tell the impact of your gift. Thank you to all in Red Bluff, who prayed and prepared 1,022 shoe boxes last year, for a total of 7.6 million distributed in over 90 countries in 2006. Thanks to all who will join in this year.
Samaritan’s Purse links with local churches and ministries in destination countries who deliver the gifts as part of their local outreach. Shoe box gifts are transported in a variety of ways including ships, helicopters, camels, mules, airplanes and canoes.
To receive a PDF copy of the CEF report of Arthur’s story, please send me an email to jlauriemy@redbluff.com
Listen to a special OCC edition of Pray North State Radio, Saturday, Nov. 17, at 8 AM on 1490 KBLF, 9 AM on KNTK102.3 FM, and Sunday 7AM on KLXR 1230 AM.
The Operation Christmas Child shoe box collection week is Nov. 12-19, at Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff. 527-4203
Collection hrs. Mon.–Sat.10am to 2pm, Sun. 10 am to 4 pm, final Monday, 10am to 6 pm.
Information and materials are available at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/ or 1-800-353-5949.

GOD TALK-KVIP IS ON THE AIR !

2007-10-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

“…give the wind a mighty voice .Jesus saves! Jesus saves!” These are the words of an Christian anthem. This is the continuing message of Christian radio KVIP AM/FM. Pacific Cascade Communications (PCC), is a non-profit ministry with a small beginning; one that now touches the lives of thousands of individuals across five states.
Driving down Hartnell Ave, east of Churn Creek Road in Redding, one would pass right by the studio, tucked behind buildings, out of view from the street; its high tower hidden in among the trees. The only visible indicator at roadside, 1139 Hartnell Ave, is a small square sign among a cluster of signs-“Christian Radio KVIP.”
What the radio ministry lacks in “high visibility” is more than made up for in a large “broadcast presence”. There are very few areas in the remote mountain regions above Redding, where the KVIP-FM signal cannot be received. The FM signal is carried by some 30 radio translators to five states-California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon and Washington.
In the 1960’s, KVIP was a commercial radio station in Redding. The program manager at the time, spewed out daily rants against Judeo-Christian theology and values, rejected the Bible’s account of creation, and regularly poked fun at religion - Christianity in particular.
Royal Blue, pastor of the Redding’s North Valley Baptist Church at the time, said the station manager’s constant verbal barrage so infuriated the ladies of the Wednesday night prayer meetings, they began to pray that KVIP radio would go off the air.
Some years earlier, while a youth pastor in Van Nuys, Ca., Royal Blue had written a paper titled, “Evolution vs. The Biblical Account of Creation”. In 1968, Pastor Blue was invited by KVIP management to debate the topic on the air with a Shasta College professor. Instead of coming to the live debate, the professor sent a tape recording. The manager and Pastor Blue discussed the theory of evolution as presented on the recording, and compared it to the Biblical record.
Within a year after the debate, KVIP-AM radio was for sale at a price of $45,000. The $3,000 down payment to purchase KVIP radio was pledged at a Wednesday night prayer meeting at North Valley Baptist Church.
On January 4, 1970, at 12:00 a.m., Christian Radio KVIP-540 AM first aired as an affiliate of the Family Radio Network. The KVIP staff was greatly encouraged when correspondence was received from a listener in Germany, and from someone else on a ship out at sea. Both individuals had heard the debut broadcast from Redding. “We knew then, that God had a special plan for KVIP radio”, said Pastor Blue. “We have experienced nothing but blessings over the years.”
The ministry has been listener-supported since day one. KVIP has a constant base of financial supporters each month. Special Fall and Spring Share-A-Thons are conducted each year to raise funds for equipment upgrades, and special needs related to the PCC ministry. A Share-A-Thon, gives listeners an opportunity to make a 6-month financial pledge, but also to share testimonies of how the station’s programming has touched their lives.
In October 1975, KVIP-98.1 FM was added. It was Redding’s first FM frequency granted by the Federal Communication Commission. In the early 80’s, KVIP began producing its own programs and joined Moody Broadcasting Network of Chicago, Ill. In 1985, Pacific Cascade Communications purchased KGRV-700 AM, Roseburg, Oregon, a commercial Christian radio station. Today, KGRV still features Christian programming along with commercials. Although owned by PCC, it is responsible for its own funding.
In 2002, PCC purchased a second FM base station, KMWR in Brookings, Oregon, which now simulcasts the daily programming of KVIP-FM, Redding.

From the beginning, KVIP has never intended to be “entertainment”, although much of its programming is entertaining. Rather than promoting a play list of the “Top 40 Christian Hits”, the non-profit ministry views itself as an “arm of the Church”, presenting news and information features such as James Dobson’s “Focus On The Family”. There are also preaching and teaching programs from a variety of sources around the nation.
A unique feature of the KVIP weekday schedule is the “Card Ministry” hosted by Carolyn McBride at 8:05 am, where listeners have opportunity to send cards of encouragement to shut-ins, the elderly, and others in need. There is also “Prayer Time” with Ted Hering at 11:45 am. The Saturday schedule includes children’s programs such as Adventure’s In Odyssey at 8 am. In the afternoon, there is the music of the “KVIP Country Barbeque” at 2 pm, followed at 5 pm by Bill Gaither’s “Gaither Homecoming Radio”.

Each Spring, KVIP presents a Listener Appreciation Banquet, that is free to anyone who wants to attend. KVIP has created the “World’s Largest Baby Shower”, an annual event to assist the efforts of local CareNet Crisis Pregnancy Centers. The “baby shower” promotes the donation of practical gift items-diapers, bags, clothing, strollers, etc. for expectant parents.
KVIP has many Very Inspiring Programs at 98.1 FM and 540 AM aired 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To the south the FM signal reaches the Williams area, while the AM signal can be heard in the Fairfield.
KVIP radio assists ministries and churches who submit information for public service announcements. Broadcast schedules and information can be found a http://www.kvip.org/, or by calling 530-222-4455.

2007-10-11T11:19:00.000-07:00

http://www.redbluffdailynews.com/portlet/article/html/render_gallery.jsp?articleId=7061826&siteId=134&startImage=1

NEWS ITEM -MLMT Coloring BOOK !

2007-10-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

RED BLUFF After getting the idea for a unique kids' coloring book six years ago, a Red Bluff man is finally seeing his idea take flight, as the activity book, "Monster Truck Adventure" is now complete.
Jay Nelson, owner and founder of Big Ideas, Inc., said after searching for people to help with the coloring book, he was lucky with the perfect skills to get his book idea where he wanted it to be.
Through the help of computer graphic specialist Donna Setterlund and artist Jim Hill, both of Red Bluff, the book project has reached completion just in time for the 10th annual Major League of Monster Trucks West Coast Championships.
The book will debut this weekend at the popular event.
Nelson said when he attended the event each year, he noticed hundreds of children taking home with them checkered flags, posters, toys and event T-shirts.
"I want them to be able to take something home that they can interact with and learn from," Nelson said. "With the coloring book, kids can re-live the fun memories from the monster truck event."
The coloring book contains drawings that Hill has hand-drawn from the ground up.
The activity book also contains dot-to-dot puzzles and word searches, that Nelson said kids can learn while they color the books the way they see the event in their own imaginations.
Nelson said the characters in the book depict the fact that girls and boys alike, love monster trucks. Nelson's daughter Emyleigh and her cousin Wyatt Froome were the original inspiration for the story in the book.
Nelson is the brother-in-law of Joe and Kellie Froome, who are owners of the Major League of Monster Trucks.
Because Red Bluff is where the event started 10 years ago, Nelson said he is happy that the book will make its first appearance to the hometown fans.
With the combination of his creative children's story in the book, Hill's realistic artistry and Setterlund's bright and innovative layout ideas, Nelson said he thinks the book will be a hit with children.
The books will come with a pack of crayons and will be sold at the Monster Truck Parade on Thursday at 6 p.m. and at the Major League of Monster Trucks event at the Tehama District Fairground throughout the weekend.
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Staff writer Stevie Ipsen can be reached at 527-2153, extension 114 or sipsen@redbluffdailynews.com

Monster Truck Coloring Book Debut

2007-10-11T11:01:00.000-07:00

Well, my long awaited monster truck coloring book is now a reality. Thanks to Joe and Kellie Froome of the Major League Of Monster Trucks, the 32-page project is now in print. It made its debut at the West Coast Monster Truck Nationals Oct. 5-7, in Red Bluff, Ca. MLMT is heading to Sparta, Kentucky, Memphis and Nashville, TN, and later to Redmond and Klamath Falls, Oregon. Look for "MONSTER TRUCK ADVENTURE" coloring book there! Be sure to buy yours. There are really cool ! www.mlmt.com

The Major League Of Monster Trucks !

2007-08-01T12:10:00.000-07:00

Check out the Infrerno Tour '07 at www.majorleagueofmonstertrucks.com Monster Truck racing at its wildest in several NASCAR venues nationwide.

GOD TALK-Lose My Luggage! Please

2007-08-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

I recently finished reading a book by Betty Maltz called “My Glimpse of Eternity” published by Chosen Books in 1977. It is Betty’s story of how in 1959 her appendix burst, and because an error in prognosis, she went untreated for eleven days. She died after gangrene permeated through all of her organs. Life support systems were removed, the sheet was pulled over her head. After her look into eternity she came back to life again in a dark empty hospital room.
As a Christian, she tells of the beauty she was allowed to see. Since reading her book, I have been thinking a great deal about heaven. About what awaits the person who has put his or her trust in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin. Nobody need miss this joy!
The few times I have sat in airports in Sacramento, Topeka, LA, Cleveland, San Francisco and Las Vegas, I have observed the arrival of hundreds weary passengers as they have made their way off the planes to be greeted by those waiting to welcome them. These experiences have caused me to think of heaven.

In expectation of a flight to the Atlantic Coast soon, the idea of travel has been on my mind lately. I have yet to experience the loss of my luggage on a flight. In life, we acquire “baggage”. It might be the baggage of wounds from hurts, misunderstanding, uses, and abuses. Or the baggage might be the scars of broken relationships, unmet goals and expectations. The baggage might be a disability or long term illness. In death, all of this “luggage” will drop off. It will not be carried beyond death. This is good news, especially for those who have suffered greatly. I have a bit of “luggage”I am ready to lose.

In our world of day to day work, debts, ipods, email, appointments, successes and failures, cell phones and deadlines, we have a tendency to ignore the reality of eternity. There is an existence after we draw our last breath -a destiny beyond this life. The Bible speaks of two destinations of souls after death- a place of everlasting joy, and also a place of everlasting torment.
Gospel singer, Dottie Rambo once wrote a song which says“We shall behold Him (Jesus) face to face in all of His glory.” This is the expectation of those who have repented and trusted Jesus Christ to forgive their sin. These will then “see Him just as He is”.
What will make heaven a joyful experience is that Jesus is there. It will be the continuation of a relationship with Him that has its beginning here on earth.
There are scoffers and cynics, but Jesus said “I am the way, the truth and the life”.
In the words of Billy Graham, these are not my own words, this is what Jesus said about Himself.
If you are curious with questions about the eternity, but want to remain anonymous, I recommend dialing 1-888-NEED-HIM. Pray. You have an excellent opportunity to find answers. In time, contact and attend a congregation listed each Saturday in the newspaper. Don’t expect anyone there to be perfect ! Seek out a Bible teacher who welcomes discussion, encourages your questions, and invites you to do your own careful study of the material presented.

Check out "The Major League Of Monster Trucks"!

2007-06-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Hey, all you monster truck fans! Be sure to keep an eye on a NASCAR arena near you. There is a good possibility that you could have an opportunity to see side by side monster truck racing in a city near you in the coming months.
More later on this.

Coloring Book Project Almost Finished....

2007-05-27T23:43:00.000-07:00

Very soon I hope to have a product ready to market. I am looking for possible sponsors for this motorsports item. Hoorah!

GOD TALK-Faith Comes By Hearing

2007-02-14T09:59:00.000-08:00

An organization, called “Faith Comes by Hearing” has made it their mission to get the audio Bible translated into as many languages as there are people without Bibles.They translate the whole New Testament into an audio version, into languages that have no access to Scriptures (because nothing has been translated into that language). It is similar to what Wycliffe Bible translators do, but this is an audio version. And, they have this amazingly cool thing called “The Proclaimer” that they give to people. Some stats about the Proclaimer:
The Scriptures are programmed on a microchip already installed and will not erase or wear out from frequent playing.The battery will play 15 hours and can be recharged enough times to play the entire New Testament over 600 times.The Proclaimer has a built in generator and solar charger to charge the battery.The solar charger, in addition to charging the battery, will run the Proclaimer even without battery power as long as there is sunlight. In other words, as long as there is a sun in the sky the Proclaimer will play the Son’s Words.The sound is digital quality and loud enough to be heard clearly by groups of 300.
Apparently, there are approximately 6,600 unreached people groups—no one knows for sure how many people that is, but this particular organization figures it at 1.7 billion people. An unreached people group can be defined as: “a group of people among which there is no viable indigenous church movement with sufficient strength, resources, and commitment to sustain and ensure the continuous multiplication of churches”. Most of these groups have no Bible in their own language. Imagine that! I can drive 10 minutes to the local Christian bookstore and choose from hundreds of different Bibles: in a multitude of translations, colors, with various maps, devotionals, and other helpful resources. Imagine not having any copy of the Bible in your language…how awful would that be?!
Faith comes by Hearing (http://www.fcbh.org/) allows churches the opportunity to sponsor a whole audio NT in a particular language…or you can sponsor one book of the Bible (which is roughly $950…but that includes all the translation, the technology, and getting it to the people). I think the whole thing is pretty amazing…especially considering that just because a Bible is translated into a certain language does not guarantee that people are literate and will actually be able to read it. “Faith Comes by Hearing” has statistics on their site about Americans and their literacy levels. I can imagine, in contrast to a nation which considers itself highly educated, that things might be a lot worse (in terms of literacy) in other parts of the world. These statistics are part of the organizations rationale for the need of AUDIO, rather than print, New Testaments.
DID YOU KNOW?• Only 40% of Americans know that Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.• Fewer than half of American adults can name all four Gospels.• Adults under the age of 30 and people who attend small churches express greater difficulties with Bible knowledge than older adults.• People who attend small churches express greater difficulties with Bible knowledge than members of large churches.• 43% of American adults function at or below basic literacy levels – making them incapable of meaningful Bible reading.• People who are functionally illiterate process information differently than people who are literate – they require story telling and dialog, not exposition, to understand and retain information.• Only 54% of Protestant adults read the Bible each week.• 65% of adults who identified themselves as Bible readers have never read the entire New Testament.• In a survey of more than 500 pastors, 47% cited “lack of time” as the main reason more Christians don’t read the Bible.• Americans spend, on average, 2 ½ hours in the car each day.• There are now 75 million unchurched Americans.• More than half of unchurched people consider themselves Christian.• By the year 2010, an estimated 10% to 20% of Americans will obtain religious information exclusively or primarily through the Internet.• 85% of American adults own at least one type of personal computer.• Apple Computer Inc. has sold over 42.2 million iPods since introducing the product in October 2001.• By 2009, total iPods sales in the U.S. are expected to top 65 million.• 40% of people born between 1984 and 2002 own mobile music players such as iPods.It is interesting food for thought. It makes me grateful for the privileges I have had in my life. I am a Christian today because of the Scriptures. It is the Gospels that led me into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. My heart breaks for people who do not have access to the only Message that will give LIFE.“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”~Hebrews 4:12

GOD TALK-William Wilberforce-The Power of Encouragement

2007-02-13T11:41:00.000-08:00

February 23, 2007 marks the 200th anniversary of Britain’s abolition of slavery. William Wilberforce fought an almost single-handed battle in Parliament in tenacious pursuit of changing the hearts and minds of his colleagues to bring an end to slavery. Many of these leaders had invested money in America's plantations and the slave trade was necessary to their prosperity.
Who was this man who led this charge? What motivated him to be a champion for cause of abolition?
The year was 1785, and William Wilberforce at age 24, as a Member of Parliament was a rising star in Britain’s political circles. He enjoyed wealth, power, and prestige and had the reputation of a playboy, who frequented all the best clubs of England. He met Isaac Milner, an “evangelical” Christian and renowned Cambridge tutor. William was intrigued that Milner was both a Christian and intellectual. William, though successful, felt empty within himself. After numerous conversations with Milner, he confessed his sins to God and placed his trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness. He matured to be a man of strong conviction and faith in God the Creator.
Wilberforce was greatly influenced by fellow Christian, John Newton, a former slave trader. Newton had experienced the grace of God in his own dramatic conversion. He is best known as the author of the popular hymn “Amazing Grace”.
After his conversion, William considered withdrawing from involvement in Parliament because he could imagine how anyone could be both a true Christian and a politician. He had his doubts that Biblical teachings could be lived out in practice among the temptations and trappings of “high society” that surrounded the British politics of his day.
John Newton encouraged Wilberforce to take the lead in changing his country through political action in British Parliament.
Newton boldly suggested to William, it was quite possible that God had lifted him to his position in Parliament for the good of His Church and the good of the nation.
Wilberforce would later declare publicly that God Almighty had given to him the suppression of the Slave Trade as his life’s mission.
He persevered for twenty years trying to persuade Parliament, until the goal of his life’s work was realized. His persistence was rewarded. Three days before he died, news was delivered to William Wilberforce from London that Britain’s Parliament had finally passed the Bill for the Abolition of Slavery on February 23, 1807. It forever outlawed the transportation, ownership, buying and selling of slaves in England. It would take another 62 years and a civil war, for the Congress of the United States to reach the same resolve to abolish slavery. The13th Amendment to the Constitution was passed December 6, 1865.

Many things can bring discouragement- a difficult task, unrealistic expectations, or circumstances that bring disappointment. All these can seem like battering rams trying to “pound holes in our walls”. There is always the temptation to give up, or not try at all.
When someone provides encouragement, it can make a difference. Think of the positive impact each person can have on the life of another- your husband, your wife, a teenager, child, single parent, employee, customer, student, pastor, co-worker, or group. Take inventory of those who have spoken into your life for the good. Take steps to inspire others.
In our community, several entities would also appreciate your encouragement as well; either volunteering or financial contributions. Looking around, you would find the CareNet Crisis Pregnancy Center, the Salvation Army, the PATH Shelter, the State Theatre for the Arts, the “Back to School” program of Zion Ministries, the Northern California Burn Foundation, Corning Christian Assistance, the Boy Scouts, the Campfire Girls, the Guardian Angels, and your church- to name just a few.
Within our federal, state, county, and city governments, many elected and unelected individuals have a sincere desire to make the best decisions in matters that affect our lives and future. As we offer public suggestions, commentary and creative criticism, as to policy, and as to how these individuals should lead, let us also remember to send them words of encouragement and pray for them. This may seem a very odd notion to some. Just do it. What’s the best that can happen? Mixed with faith, the power of encouragement can do wonders.

A film “Amazing Grace-The William Wilberforce Story” was released nation-wide on Feb. 23. James Dobson’s Focus on the Family ministry is also releasing a radio -theatre drama by the same title. Check out www.family.org and info@kvip.org for regional broadcast schedules.

More Fun Than Winning The Lottery !

2006-11-05T16:52:00.000-08:00

Thursday night we went out to eat at a restaurant. I paid using my ATM card. The little machine made ticking noises as the transaction was being processed. As it finished printing the tag, I jokingly said "Hey, I won!" The cashier said "Yeh, it would be great to win the lottery!"
I replied that I would rather produce an incredible product that would continually sell. For me, that would better than winning the lottery.
We have started a business and have a coloring book project in development. I plan to self-publish the book. This is an experiment. I want to learn more about the process.
Hope to complete at least five other projects in the future. Maybe some children's story books.

HERE I AM !!

2006-11-03T17:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I thought I would start this blog to communicate with all those who would care to read. Hopefully along the way I can share a few thoughts that will be of interest. I hope readers will send me a message now and then. Thanks.