#520 This Is It! Surfing with Jesus

Surfing with Jesus Ministries
eNewsletter: #52004112008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr. (gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.)

Web Site: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/.

This is It! First Surfing with Jesus

We finally have it. Thank you for your patience and prayers. When I began Surfing with Jesus I never dreamed it would reach so many people and Nations. Thank you for allowing me in your life.

My goal is still the same as day one when I sent an email to four or five family members and friends. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

We did lose a few addresses with the change over so I would appreciate your help in sharing Surfing with Jesus with your friends and maybe we can gain some back.

Psalms 139:23-24 "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

Lord, this is my prayer tonight. May my heart be your heart and as you try me; may my thoughts be your thoughts. Lead me Lord, touch me, and direct me in the way everlasting. I love you Lord. Thank you for your love.

Remember

1John 1:9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Send Prayer Request to:
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

I try to take time to pray for you request each day as I receive them. Join me in prayer for the needs of our email family.

Father, Into Thy Hands I Commend My Spirit #519

Surfing with Jesus Ministries
eNewsletter: #51903262008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr. (gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.)
Web Site: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/.

Father, Into Thy Hands I commend My Spirit

Have you reached this place in God? When we try anything else, we fail.
The writer wrote this song "How Long Has It Been."

How long has it been since you talked with the Lord
And told him your heart's hidden secrets?
How long since you prayed?
How long since you stayed?
On your knees till the light shone through?
How long has it been since your mind felt at ease?
How long since your heart knew no Burden?
Can you call Him you friend?
How long has it been since you knew that He cared for you?

Jesus cried out on the cross ? Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit and having said thus he gave up the ghost.? Luke 23:46. Lord help me today to commend my spirit into your hands and die out to this world and all that comes my way.

Often when we pray we fail to thank God for all he is doing in our lives. Instead we bring before him our wants and desires and not our needs for the day. I wonder if the Lord looks at us and asks if we will ever get to the place where Jesus did of complete surrender to Him?

I wonder if God gets amused at us and even laughs as we pick up things and go about our busy life and work our heart out to get things done and fail to say ?Father I commend this day into your hands?

Do you come home exhausted and wonder why you didn?t get it all done today? Did you take time to share your hearts secrets with the Lord? Did you take it to him in prayer and stay on your knees until the light flashed and you know it was God?s plan for the day?

Perhaps, with all the new technology you have it would lighten your load if you committed the day to Jesus before you began the day instead of after you have gone your way and come home exhausted.

The old kneeolgy of staying on your knees until the light shines through will enhance your wonderful ideas and technology to shine for the entire world to see. Will you join me this moment in commending your spirit into the hands of God? You will be blessed as you learn to cry out to our Heavenly Father, ?not my will but your will be done.?

Remember

1John 1:9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Send Prayer Request to:

gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

I try to take time to pray for you request each day as I receive them. Join me in prayer for the needs of our email family.

Jesus Opens Their Understanding #518

Surfing with Jesus Ministries
eNewsletter: #51803252008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr. (gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.))
Web Site: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/.

Jesus Opens Their Understanding

After the Resurrection there was quite a bit of excitement that took place among Jesus followers and as they begin to reason among themselves on what had taken place and who had seen Jesus as he appears and says "Peace be unto you."
I don't know about you but this would have been exciting and spooky too. Join me as Jesus opens their eyes.

Luke 24:45-53

45Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
46And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
47And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
48And ye are witnesses of these things.
49And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
50And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
51And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.
52And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:
53And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.

Wow! This was quite an experience for those who followed Jesus. One day he is being praised by the people, then he is put to death, and now he is walking with them and behold he blesses them and is carried up into heaven.

Do you think you could have handled all of this in such a short period of time? Just think what a day that will be when we join Jesus in Heaven.

However, don't overlook what he said before the Ascension. He tells them to tarry until they are endued with power from on high. We still need to be endued with this same power today so we can do what he left us to do. He started a good work but he is looking for us to preach repentance and remission of sins to all the world so they too will be ready to be received in heaven when God says it is finished.

Let us join the saints of old and worship him, bless him, and rejoice as we share the love of Jesus with our world. Let us have great joy as souls are won to Christ. Praise the Lord.

Remember

1John 1:9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Send Prayer Request to:

gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

I try to take time to pray for you request each day as I receive them. Join me in prayer for the needs of our email family.

Rise and Pray #517

Surfing with Jesus Ministries
eNewsletter: #51703212008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr. (gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.)
Web Site: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/.

Rise and Pray

Have you given much thought to the events leading up to the crucifixion of Christ this week? Have you wondered what was going on with Mary and Joseph? Have you thought about what Jesus said to the disciples when he said "Pray that ye enter not into temptation? There are so many things that went on but he took time to pray. Read with me.

Luke 22 39-46

39And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.
40And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
41And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,
42Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
43And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.
44And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
45And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
46And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.

Yes, Jesus the son of God knew how important it was for him to rise up and pray as he faced death on the cross. As he knelt he ask our Heavenly Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me.

Have you ever had a cup you wanted God to remove from you? I'm sure we all have but it is special when Jesus set us the supreme example by continuing to pray and say not my will, but thine, be done.

Oh, how important it is to be willing to submit to the will of God. As we celebrate the death burial and Resurection of Jesus this week, may we remember he came not to condem or judge but he came to save the Lost. May we have this same desire as we share the love of Jesus and tell everyone of the need of man to repent and return unto God.

Remember:

1John 1:9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Send Prayer Request to:
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

Don't Give Up #516

Surfing with Jesus Ministries
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
eNewsletter: #51603182008

Don't Give Up...
Author Unknown

One day I decided to quit...I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality. .. I wanted to quit my life.I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.

"God", I asked, "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"

His answer surprised me..."Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"

"Yes", I replied.

"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them. I gave them light. I gave them water. The fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor. Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo.

In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo. He said.

"In year three there was still nothing from the bamboo seed. But I would not quit.

In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed. I would not quit." He said.

"Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant. ..But just 6months later the bamboo rose to over 100" I would not quit on the bamboo. I will never quit on you."

"Don't compare yourself to others." It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle.

"He asked me. "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots".

He said. "The bamboo had a different Purpose than the fern. Yet they both make the forest beautiful.""Your time will come", God said to me. "You will rise high"

"How high should I rise?" I asked."How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return."As high as it can?" I questioned."Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."

I left the forest and brought back this story. I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you.Never, Never, Never Give up.For the Christian Prayer is not an option but an opportunity.

1John 1:9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Send Prayer Request
gene@surfingwithjesus.com.
Web Site
http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/.

Thank you Lord for Making....#515

Surfing with Jesus
eNewsletter: #51503112008
Pastor Gene A.Dasher Sr. (gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.)http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/

Thank you Lord for making a potential new way of mailing.

I want to thank you for your patience. I am trying a new mailing source to 50 of you which is the limit I can send on a trial bases. If this does well I can do 5 mailings before March 31, 2008. Let me know if you receive it if you would please and what you think of it. I'm ready to pay or do whatever to get it out to our mailing list.

Join me in your Bible in 1Corinthians 10:13

"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."

God is faithful and worthy of all our praise. Man faces many things today that may tempt him to give up and feel there is no way of making it. Our media paints a terrible picture of our world and it gets worse each day. However, when we trust in Jesus and lean not on our own understanding we know everything will be alright.

In Nelson's Open Bible notes the writer gives a good thought. It says the New Testament contains the rules for believers who would enter the spiritual race to win the incorruptible crown.

1. The believer must deny self of anything that would weigh him down and hold him back
2. The believer must keep his eyes fixed on Christ, and not look to the right or the left.
3. The believer must find his strength in the Lord.
4. The believer must place his all upon the altar of the Lord.
5. The believer must, by faith , refuse anything that would impede spiritual progress

Do not be a spiritual spectator. Enter the race and run to win the crown of life and hear Him say well done thou good and faithful servant.

1John 1:9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.,
2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Read previous writings at:
http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Stand Fast in the Lord #514

Surfing with Jesus #51402172008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

Stand Fast in the Lord

Join me in Philippians Chapter 4 for a moment.

“1…, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.
4Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
5Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
6Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
9Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

Paul was a jail bird at this time in life yet he encourages us to rejoice. When things are going wrong for us we sometimes want to give up but we need to think on WWJD that our young people use today which means “What Would Jesus Do?”

I was encouraged this week with the writing from one of my e-mail friends as he told about Valentine’s Day for his family. On one Valentine Day his dad died but he wanted his family to tell the world he was with the Lord. Then, on another Valentine Day, a wonderful grandchild was born. These events bring both joy and sadness to our mind but what is important is the love of Jesus and where you are with Christ today.

Paul did some of his best writings while limited to what he could do but he always found a way to talk about the peace of God as he brings understand and helps us keep our hearts and minds on Christ Jesus.

I cry out with Paul today for you to rejoice in the Lord and repeat it over and over again in your heart. Rejoice in the Lord! Worry will not bring an answer but thinking on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of a good report will help you do what you have learned, received , heard, and seen of Paul and others in God’s word. When you commit it all to Jesus and let him have his way with you, I believe “the God of peace shall be with you.” Again, I say “Rejoice in the Lord, always.”

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Through My Window #513

Surfing with Jesus #51302092008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.


Through My Window

I received this note on “You are a Keeper” and share it with you as my thoughts for Valentine. Remember to be kind and sweet to your family and friends this week and throughout the year.
Through my window, “You are a Keeper”. I hope you enjoy it.

http://wandascountryhome.com/mywindow/index.html

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.,
2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Our Heavenly Father Watches Over Us #512

Surfing with Jesus #51201302008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

Our Heavenly Father Watches Over Us

This story I found interesting. It is the legend of the Cherokee Indian youth's rite of passage. His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone. He is required to sit on a stump the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the rays of the morning sun shone through it. He cannot cry out for help to anyone. Once he survives the night, he is a MAN. He cannot tell the other boys of this experience, because each lad must come into manhood on his own.

The boy is naturally terrified. He can hear all kinds of noises. Wild beasts must surely be all around him. Maybe even some human might do him harm. The wind blew the grass and earth, and shook his stump, but he sat stoically, never removing the blindfold. It would be the only way he could become a man! Finally, after a horrific night the sun appeared and he removed his blindfold. It was then that he discovered his father sitting on the stump next to him. He had been at watch the entire night, protecting his son from harm.

I don’t know the validity of this story but it has a very good lesson. We, too, are never alone. Even when we don't know it, our Heavenly Father is watching over us, sitting on the stump beside us. When trouble comes, all we have to do is to be still & reach out to Him. What a wonderful God we serve. He alone is worthy of our praise.

Remember this one? “I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free, His eyes are on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.” Rest assured he watches over you and is ever present to provide for you.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.,
2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Thank You For My Friends #511

Surfing with Jesus #51101262008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Thank You for My Friends

I sit here this morning thinking of and praying for my dear friends who continue to put their whole heart and life into ministering to others as they serve Jesus throughout the world.

There is Dan and Sharon and their children as they lead the way in Japan where numbers are often small and little support is given because of this. However after serving nearly 40 years, I see them excited about proclaiming Jesus to this nation. God will provide for them because he is an on time God.

I see Paul and others who keep in touch in India against all odds as they see fellow labors homes, churches, and families destroyed. I pray Lord lift them up this morning, protect them and provide for them as they share their love of Jesus at the very expense of losing their lives.

I hear from Pakistan and how unpopular it is to be a Christian yet they continue on for God. Thank you Lord for these faithful friends.

I received a note from Paul who recently gave up a nice church in Tennessee and took his family to Honduras and is so excited about working with Curt and Cheryl with the deaf ministry. Lord bless them this morning. Curt has had another serious bout with cancer this week and needs a touch of God; lift him up in your prayers.

Join me in prayer for ministers like John who continue to pastor while in his 80’s but loves God and people so much he just keeps on going.

Several friends from different parts of Africa labor for the master each day in hopes of reaching one more soul. There are so many giving and giving until it hurts.

Lord, there are so many but you see them all and we ask you to touch them with your loving had of mercy. I know I will forget someone but you Lord will not let them down.

I pray for John who ministers with the laborers in CIS in Ukraine, Russia Siberia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and China, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, Mongolia, Armenia and the Baltic States. While the window is open Lord give us these souls for your harvest.

Lord bless Gary and those laboring in Nigeria, Bulgaria, Pakistan, Russia, Nepal, India, Burma, and China, many of these go literally into the hedges and byways to reach souls for Jesus.

And then, there is Charles, 81, worked over 60 years for the Lord in many areas of the world but still has a heart for a door that has been opened in China to be walked in so China can hear about Jesus. Provide while the door is open Lord so we may reach these souls.

Yes, Lord, is what these and others have said to your will and your way and we want to lift them up in prayer and we want to thank you for allowing them to be our friends in ministry today.

And oh yes, I would never fail to be thankful to those who are at home who continue to labor with love to help sustain all these on the field. Bless our local ministers and ministries as we continue to hear the cry and send forth new workers and monies to see the needs met in all ministries in Jesus name I pray.

Forgive my indulgence this morning but all fellow labors need to be lifted up with love, prayer, and thanksgiving. Thank you Lord, I am blessed with so many friends.
Thank you my friends for your love and prayers and for allowing me in your life today.

Yes, Jesus is the one, yes he’s the only one, let him have his way until the day is done, and when he speaks you know the clouds will have to go, just because he loves you so. Thank you Jesus!

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

From the Abundance of the Heart the Mouth Speaks #510

Surfing with Jesus #51001162008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

From the Abundance of the Heart the Mouth Speaks

What is on your heart tonight? What is your mouth speaking? Good things from the Lord I hope. Join me in the word.

Matthew 12:34-37
34O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
35A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
37For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Luke 6:39-45
39And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?
40The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.
41And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
42Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye.
43For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
44For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes.
45A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.

Sometimes, we are amazed at man’s actions and deeds. As we look at the Bible, we can see these things didn’t just happen but were in the heart of man before they manifested themselves. Both good and bad can come forth depending on what we’ve allowed to be hid away in out heart.

Perhaps, this is a very valid reason to hide the word of God away in our heart knowing that it will help us not sin against God. All of us fight against the vices of the devil. We can learn a very good lesson from Jesus as we see him on top of the mountain and Satan continued to throw one more temptation before him. We like Jesus need to have one more verse of God’s word to remind Satan that the battle is the Lord’s and the victory is won in Jesus. As Jesus shines forth from our heart we will speak peace and victory from our mouth and Satan will flee in defeat.

My daughter sings a song that sums it up. “The battle’s not mine said little David, Lord it’s thine, I’m in your favor, I’ve given it all to you, for I know not what to do. And I’m so glad you let me see, you’re really all that I need, the battle’s not mine, I give it to you, Lord it’s thine.”

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.,
2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Where Is God #509

Surfing with Jesus #50901102008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

I want to thank Pastor Thompson who wrote this article for allowing me to share it. I feel it will be strength to many of you that have shared prayer request. Allow God to bless you with it.

DAILY-E-VOTIONAL(BLESSINGS FROM THE HEART)
Pastor Cecil A. Thompson, January 7, 2008

"WHERE IS GOD?"
John 17:9-11
"I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those You have given Me, for they are Yours. All I have is Yours, and all You have is Mine. And glory has come to Me through them. I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your name—the name You gave Me—so that they may be one as We are one."

"Where is God when I need Him?" "If God is a God of love, why did He take my loved one?" "If there really is a God, why does He allow such terrible things to happen in our world?" "Why does God answer some prayers, yet seemingly ignore others?" "Why do the righteous seem to endure hardships while the wicked seem to prosper?" Have you heard these questions before? Have you asked these questions before?

I was sitting beside the hospital bed of our oldest daughter, Brenda. The doctors had made the prognosis that she had a very short time to live---possibly a matter of days. Brenda commented, "You know dad, I think I have been cheated." I acted innocent although I was sure that I knew what she was referring to. She continued, "Grandpa lived to be 74. I am only 33. I feel that I have been cheated out of half of my life!"

That night I went into the garage and swept some sand onto a sheet of paper. I sat at the kitchen table and carefully counted out 74 grains of sand. I placed these in a small sample perfume bottle. The next day when I went to the hospital, I placed the small vial on Brenda's bed. She asked; "What is that? I told her it was grandpa, or at least the number of grains of sand that represented the years of his life.

I asked her to imagine that each of these small grains of sand represented one year. Next imagine that the entire world to its very core was entirely made up of sand. That would be only a small iota of the length of eternity. "Now," I asked, "What are these 74 small grains in comparison to our world of sand?" Brenda replied; "Nothing." I then asked; "What is one half of nothing?" We began to laugh together.

The reality is that it is eternity that matters, not the length of our life or even the quality of our life. It is being washed in the blood of Jesus and becoming a new creation in Him that prepares us for eternity. Not the things we do for Him, but by accepting what He has done for us.

Jesus told a wonderful parable of the rich man and Lazarus. Here was a man who seemingly had all that the world could offer, yet he had made no provision for eternity. By not receiving eternal life in Christ, he was damned to a terrible eternity of suffering. Lazarus was just the opposite. He had experienced poverty and pain in his life, but he had also received the Lord as his Savior. His eternity was filled with peace and blessedness.

You may have recognized today's Scripture as being part of the prayer which Jesus prayed for His disciples. The prayer was not restricted to the disciples of His day, but for us as well. He wants His disciples of all ages to focus our attention on Him, not the temporal things which will pass away.

Let me share a little more of the prayer Jesus prayed in our behalf. John 17:14-19; "I have given them Your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; Your Word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify Myself, that they too may be truly sanctified."

The Lord Jesus has prayed for our sanctification. That means that we are to turn from sin and walk in a new sense of commitment and dedication. Let's quit trying to play God by blaming Him or questioning the things that occur in our life.

One last verse. Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Blessings dear hearts. Walk with God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing. ---Pastor Cecil (You may SUBSCRIBE or UNSUBSCRIBE by visiting: https://listserv.reachone.com/e-cast/mail.cgi/list/cecil)

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

No Excuse Sunday #508

Surfing with Jesus #50801052008
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Ok, after reading this writing you should be able to start the New Year out in church with no excuse. So, let’s get up and be on time for the next service.

NO EXCUSE SUNDAY

To make it possible for everyone to attend church next Sunday, we are going
to have a special "No Excuse Sunday".

Cots will be placed in the foyer for those who say, "Sunday is my only
day to sleep in."

There will be a special section with lounge chairs who feel that our pews
are too hard.

Eye drops will be available for those with tired eyes from watching T.V.
late Saturday night.

We will have steel helmets for those who say “The roof would cave in if I
ever came to church."

Blankets will be furnished for those who think the church is too cold and
fans for those who say it is too hot.

Score cards will be available for those who wish to list the hypocrites
present.

Relatives and friends will be in attendance for those who can't go to church
and cook dinner, too.

We will distribute "Stamp Out Stewardship" buttons for those who feel that
church is always asking for money.

One section will be devoted to trees and grass for those who like to seek
God in nature.

Doctors and nurses will be in attendance for those who plan to be sick on
Sunday.

The sanctuary will be decorated with both Christmas poinsettias and Easter
lilies for those who never have seen the church without them.

We will provide hearing aids for those who can't hear the preacher and
cotton for those who say he is too loud.

-- Author Unknown

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

What You Do For Christ Will Last #507

Surfing with Jesus #50712292007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

What You Do For Christ Will Last

Matthew 6:1-4, 6

1Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
2Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
3But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
4That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly…
6But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

As we end 2007 and start a new year 2008 I ponder on these verses. I wonder what I can do for Christ in the year ahead. There are so many hurting people today both those that know Christ and those that do not know Christ that need our help and our love that I wonder where I begin.

I think we can come to the Lord in secret in our prayer closet and he will guide us to do his will for these that are hurting. Matthew 6:8 tells us

8Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

Since this verse tells me God knows our needs before we ask I am crying unto him today to provide my needs and thereby I will have direction to help those in need who come my way.

I pray, Lord open my eyes that I will see and behold your will for this day and in the days you give me in the year ahead. There is such joy doing what you know is God’s will in your life.

I ask you to join me in prayer for the year ahead that we will reach out to the lost and to those with other needs and realize that we are blessed and what we do for Christ will last for eternity.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

”Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.,
2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

The Old Paths #506

Surfing with Jesus #50612242007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Personally, I don’t want to go back to the good “old paths” as some would given ideas below. As we celebrate Christmas and start a New Year by putting God, family, church, and country in their proper order we would turn our world upside down and see the good God has blessed us with. Consider putting the good of the old paths before us and accept the good of the paths we walk today and go forth with Jesus love for the entire world to behold and receive.

THE OLD PATHS

I liked the old paths, when Moms were at home.
Dads were at work.
Brothers went into the army.
And sisters got married BEFORE having children!
Crime did not pay;
Hard work did;
And people knew the difference.
Moms could cook;
Dads would work;
Children would behave.
Husbands were loving;
Wives were supportive;
And children were polite.
Women wore the jewelry;
And Men wore the pants.
Women looked like ladies;
Men looked like gentlemen;
And children looked decent.
People loved the truth,
And hated a lie;
They came to church to get IN,
Not to get OUT!
Hymns sounded Godly;
Sermons sounded helpful;
Rejoicing sounded normal;
And crying sounded sincere.
Cursing was wicked;
Drugs were for illness;
And divorce was unthinkable.
The flag was honored;
America was beautiful;
And God was welcome!
We read the Bible in public;
Prayed in school;
And preached from house to house
To be called an American was worth dying for;
To be called a Christian was worth living for;
To be called a traitor was a shame!
Preachers preached because they had a message;
And Christians rejoiced because they had the VICTORY!
Preachers preached from the Bible;
Singers sang from the heart;
And sinners turned to the Lord to be SAVED!
A new birth meant a new life;
Salvation meant a changed life;
Following Christ led to eternal life.
Being a preacher meant you proclaimed the word of God;
Being a deacon meant you would serve the Lord;
Being a Christian meant you would live for Jesus;
And being a sinner meant someone was praying for you!
Laws were based on the Bible;
Homes read the Bible;
And churches taught the Bible.
God was worshiped;
Christ was exalted;
And the Holy Spirit was respected..
Church was where you found Christians On the Lord's day,
rather than in the garden,
On the creek bank, on the golf course,
Or being entertained somewhere else.
I still like the old paths the best!'
The Old Paths' was written by a retired minister who lives in Tennessee.

Have a wonderful in Jesus and worship God with your family today.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.,
2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Christmas Time Is Here #504

Surfing with Jesus #50412152007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Christmas Time Is Here

Christmas time is here again, what a lovely time of year. It is so good to see people smiling and carrying on joyful conversations. I wish we would act like it is Christmas every month of the year. My writings have been different for Christmas but the last two stories just spoke to me when I shared them. You know in the one the little boy just wanted time with his dad’s and in the other one people were doing good things for people to help them and I saw Jesus.

Now, I know Christmas is a man made date and holiday and some of you don’t celebrate it but I find it a cheerful time to remember our Lord did come to this earth on a given month and a given day to begin his journey to bring Salvation to a dying word. It isn’t important what the date was but the event is important and I choose to celebrate His birth and just what it means to mankind.

Join me in Matthew 2:7 “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”

Tyndale’s comments in The Life Application Bible share that swaddling clothes were strips of cloth used to keep a baby warm and give it a sense of security. They were believed to protect its internal organs. The custom of swaddling infants is still practiced by many Easter countries.

This mention of the manger is the basis for the traditional belief that Jesus was born in a stable. Stables were often caves with feeding troughs (mangers) carved into the rock walls. Despite popular Christmas card pictures, the surroundings were dark and dirty. This was not the atmosphere the Jews expected as the birthplace of the Messiah King. They thought their promised Messiah would be born in royal surroundings. We should not limit God by our expectations. He is at work wherever he is needed in our sin darkened and dirty world.

Although our first picture of Jesus is as a baby in a manger, it must not be our last. The Christ child in the manger makes a beautiful Christmas scene, but we cannot leave him there. This tiny, helpless baby lived an amazing life, died for us, ascended to heaven, and will come back to this earth as King of kings. He will rule the world and judge all people according to their decisions about him.

Do you still picture Jesus as a baby in a manger or is he your Lord? Make sure you don’t underestimate Jesus. Let him grow up in your life. The best Christmas gift anyone could receive is Christ Jesus as Lord and Master. If you know Jesus, share him with others and celebrate Jesus with them as they repent of their sins, asking him for forgiveness and their receiving him in their life today.

A Merry Christmas is to know Jesus. Let him live in your heart and help you each step of the way in your journey in this life. Heaven will surely be worth it all when we Jesus face to face. What a day that will be!

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Could this be what Christmas is all about #503

Surfing with Jesus #50312062007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

As we continue our rushing around this December from one event to another, I wonder

“Could this be what Christmas is all about?”

I saw Jesus Today...

He was wearing blue jeans and an old shirt. He was up at the church building; He was alone and working hard. For just a minute he looked a little like one of our church members. But it was Jesus, I could tell by his smile.

I saw Jesus last Sunday. He was teaching a Bible class. He didn't talk real loud or use long words, But you could tell he believed what he said. For just a minute, he looked like my Sunday School teacher. But it was Jesus, I could tell by his loving voice.

I saw Jesus yesterday. He was at the hospital visiting a friend who was sick. They prayed together quietly. For just a minute he looked like our Pastor. But it was Jesus, I could tell by the tears in his eyes.

I saw Jesus this morning. He was in my kitchen making my breakfast. He then fixed me a special lunch to take with me. For just a minute he looked like my Mom. But it was Jesus; I could feel the love from his heart.

I saw Jesus today. He was praying on his knees all alone. He then began to cry for those he prayed for. For just a minute he looked like a lady from our church. But it was Jesus; I could see the compassion that poured out of his prayer.

I saw Jesus the other day. He was at the grocery store talking to a friend. He then put his arms around them to comfort them. For just a minute he looked like a young mother in our ladies class. But it was Jesus; I could see the concern for others who hurt.

I see Jesus everywhere, Taking food to the sick, welcoming others to his home, being friendly to a new-comer, And for just a minute I think he's someone I know. But it's always Jesus; I can tell by the way he serves.

May someone see Jesus in you today. But mostly let those without Jesus see Him living in you, for He desires to serve them, no matter what condition, what they wear, own, or look like! "You are My witnesses," says the Lord. (Isaiah 43:5)

Thank you Eloise for sharing this writing.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Could this be all your child wants for Christmas #502

Surfing with Jesus #50212012007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Could this be all your child wants for Christmas?

$100 an Hour

A man came home from work late, tired and irritated, to find his 5-year old son waiting for him at the door.
SON : "Daddy, may I ask you a question?" DAD: "Yeah sure, what is it?" SON : "Daddy, how much do you make an hour?" DAD: "That's none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?" SON : "I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?" DAD: "If you must know, I make $100 an hour." SON : "Oh! (with his head down). SON : "Daddy, may I please borrow $50?"
The father was furious.
DAD: "If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then! You march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about why you are being so selfish. I work hard everyday for such this childish behavior."
The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door. The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little boy's questions. How dare he ask such questions only to get some money? After about an hour or so, the man had calmed down, and started to think: Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $ 50 and he really didn't ask for money very often. The man went to the door of the little boy's room and opened the door. DAD: "Are you asleep, son?" SON : "No daddy, I'm awake". DAD: "I've been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier. It's been a long day and I took out my aggravation on you. Here's the $50 you asked for."



The little boy sat straight up, smiling. SON : "Oh, thank you daddy! " Then, reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills. The man saw that the boy already had money, started to get angry again. The little boy slowly counted out his money, and then looked up at his father. DAD: "Why do you want more money if you already have some?"
SON : "Because I didn't have enough, but now I do. "Daddy, I have $100 now. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. I would like to have dinner with you." The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little son, and he begged for his forgiveness. It's just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. We should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some time with those who really matter to us, those close to our hearts. Do remember to share that $100 worth of your time with someone you love? If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family and friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than to our family.

Your time is precious; give it for Christmas and it will bring happiness to you and your family. Thanks for sharing Jones and daughter.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

I Love the Word of God #501

Surfing with Jesus #50111282007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

I Love the Word of God

God’s word is so exciting. I love to receive food from the Lord as I read his word. This time of year with everyone’s mind on family and Christmas it is a good time to take a moment and remember that Jesus came into this world for us.

In Psalms 113 we can see that God’s mercies are plenteous. Read with me.

Psalm 113
1Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.
2Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.
3From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD's name is to be praised.
4The LORD is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens.
5Who is like unto the LORD our God, who dwelleth on high,
6Who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth!
7He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill;
8That he may set him with princes, even with the princes of his people.
9He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD.

As you look at the mercies of God in these verses remember our Lord loves you and desires to be lifted up before man from the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same. Lift Jesus higher as you share with each other in the days ahead.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Happy Thanksgiving #500

Surfing with Jesus #50011232007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Happy Thanksgiving, you will find your Thanksgiving card at the following
site. Thank you for allowing me in your home each week.
http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=HY27482779

The Blessing of Thorns

Sandra felt as low as the heels of her shoes as she pushed against aNovember gust and the florist shop door. Her life had been easy, like aspring breeze. Then in the fourth month of her second pregnancy, a minorautomobile accident stole her ease.

During this Thanksgiving week she would have delivered a son. Shegrieved over her loss. As if that weren't enough, her husband'scompany threatened a transfer. Then her sister, whose annual holiday visitshe coveted, called saying she could not come. What's worse, Sandra's
friend infuriated her by suggesting her grief was a God-given path to
maturity that would allow her to empathize with others who suffer. "She
has no idea what I'm feeling," thought Sandra with a shudder.
"Thanksgiving? Thankful for what?" she wondered aloud. For a carelessdriver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended her? For anairbag that saved her life but took that of her child?
"Good afternoon, can I help you?" The shop clerk's approach startled her."I... I need an arrangement," stammered Sandra. "For Thanksgiving?Do you want beautiful but ordinary, or would you like to challenge the daywith a customer favorite I call the Thanksgiving Special?" asked the shopclerk. "I'm convinced that flowers tell stories," she continued."Are you looking for something that conveys 'gratitude' this Thanksgiving?
"Not exactly!" Sandra blurted out. "In the last five months,everything that could go wrong has gone wrong. " Sandra regretted heroutburst, and was surprised when the shop clerk said, "I have theperfect arrangement for you."
Then the door's small bell rang, and the shop clerk said, "HiBarbara... let me get your order." She politely excused herself and walkedtoward a small workroom, then quickly reappeared, carrying an
arrangement of greenery, bows, and long-stemmed thorny roses. Except
the ends of the rose stems were neatly snipped...there were no flowers.
"Want this in a box?" asked the clerk.
Sandra watched for the customer's response. Was this a joke? Whowould want rose stems with no flowers? She waited for laughter, butneither woman laughed.

"Yes, please," Barbara replied with an appreciative smile. "You'd think after
three years of getting the special, I wouldn't be so moved by its
significance, but I can feel it right here, all over again," she said as she
gently tapped her chest.
"Uhh," stammered Sandra, "that lady just left with, uhh... she just leftwith no flowers!"
"Right... I cut off the flowers. That's the Special... I call it theThanksgiving Thorns Bouquet.
"Oh, come on, you can't tell me someone is willing to pay for that?"exclaimed Sandra.
"Barbara came into the shop three years ago feeling very much like youfeel today," explained the clerk. "She thought she had very little to bethankful for. She had lost her father to cancer, the family business was
failing, her son was into drugs, and she was facing major surgery."
"That same year I had lost my husband, "continued the clerk," and for thefirst time in my life, I had to spend the holidays alone. I had nochildren, no husband, no family nearby, and too great a debt to allow anytravel.
"So what did you do?" asked Sandra.

"I learned to be thankful for thorns," answered the clerk quietly. "I've
always thanked God for good things in life and never thought to ask Him
why those good things happened to me, but when bad stuff hit, did I ever
ask! It took time for me to learn that dark times are important. I always
enjoyed the 'flowers' of life, but it took thorns to show me the beauty of
God's comfort. You know, the Bible says that God comforts us when we'reafflicted, and from His consolation we learn to comfort others.
"Sandra sucked in her breath as she thought about the very thing herfriend had tried to tell her.”I guess the truth is I don't want comfort. I've lost
a baby and I'm angry with God." Just then someone elsewalked in the shop.
"Hey, Phil!" shouted the clerk to the balding, rotund man. "My wife sentme in to get our usual Thanksgiving arrangement... twelve thorny,long-stemmed stems!" laughed Phil as the clerk handed him atissue-wrapped arrangement from the refrigerator.
"Those are for your wife?" asked Sandra incredulously. "Do you mind me
asking why she wants something that looks like that?

"No... I'm glad you asked," Phil replied. "Four years ago my wife and Inearly divorced. After forty years, we were in a real mess, but with theLord's grace and guidance, we slogged through problem after problem. He
rescued our marriage. Jenny here (the clerk) told me she kept a vase of
rose stems to remind her of what she learned from "thorny" times, and that
was good enough for me. I took home some of those stems. My wife and I
decided to label each one for a specific "problem" and give thanks to Him
for what that problem taught us."
As Phil paid the clerk, he said to Sandra, "I highly recommend the Special!"
"I don't know if I can be thankful for the thorns in my life." Sandra saidto the clerk. "It's all too... fresh."
"Well," the clerk replied carefully, "my experience has shown me thatthorns make roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care
more during trouble than at any other time. Remember, it was a crown of
thorns that Jesus wore so we might know His love. Don't resent the thorns."
Tears rolled down Sandra's cheeks. For the first time since theaccident, she loosened her grip on resentment. "I'll take those twelvelong-stemmed thorns, please," she managed to choke out. "I hoped you
would," said the clerk gently. "I'll have them ready in a minute."
"Thank you. What do I owe you?" asked Sandra. "Nothing." said the clerk."Nothing but a promise to allow God to heal your heart.

The first year's arrangement is always on me. "The clerk smiled and
handed a card to Sandra.” I’ll attach this card to your arrangement, but
you'd like to read it first."
It read: "Dear God, I have never thanked you for my thorns. I have thanked
you a thousand times for my roses, but never once for my thorns. Teach
me the glory of the cross I bear; teach me the value of my thorns. Show me
that I have climbed closer to you along the path of pain. Show me that,
through my tears, the colors of your rainbow look much more brilliant."


1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our
sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

Revival in Our Land #499

Surfing with Jesus #49911172007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

Revival in Our Land

It is so sweet to be involved in revival at our church. It’s refreshing to share in song, testimony, and God’s word. Our evangelist really got us excited as he shared from Daniel where Nebuchadnezzar was unhappy that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego failed to fall down and worship his gods. They took care to answer because they knew they would be put into the fiery furnace for not obeying the king. (Daniel 3:17-30.)

These boys had enough trust in God that they said that the God they served would deliver them from the fiery furnace and the king. They even had enough trust that even if they were not delivered they would not serve the kings gods.

Wow! How much trust do we have in God today? When we are placed in the fiery furnace do we believe the God we serve will deliver us? Can those around us see the Son of God in the furnace with us? Can our enemies see our clothes are not burned and that there is no smell of fire upon us? It is exciting to know that our God is here with us and as we trust him all things will work out according to his will in our life.

After seeing the deliverance power of these boys God, the king changed his actions. He now wanted to follow their God with them. I think it is a privilege for others to see Jesus in us and desire to know our Lord as their King. I’m so happy Jesus saved me from a devil’s hell one day and put me on the path to heaven. It is so wonderful when to see someone receive Christ in their life. It’s like I said in a previous writing “plus one for Jesus, minus one for the devil.” Victory in Jesus!

I know this is short this week but if you’re in the area come join us in revival this weekend. I’m looking forward to receiving what God has in store for us as we worship him in song, praise, and the word. I pray God will bless our evangelist as he continues to feed us and follows the leading of the spirit of God.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

A Chaplain in Iraq #498

Surfing with Jesus #49811112007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

As a veteran I want to give a special thank you to all veterans who gave and continue to give that we might be free and share with others today. I find this article special and typical of those who continue to serve us. Please remember all veterans in prayer. Many continue to battle wounds received many years ago and need your love.

Written by Chaplain Jim Higgins on 5/14/07: LSA Anaconda is at the Balad Airport in Iraq, north of Baghdad

A Chaplain in Iraq:

"I recently attended a showing of "Superman 3" here at LSA Anaconda. We have a large auditorium we use for movies as well as memorial services and other large gatherings. As is the custom back in the States, we stood and snapped to attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. All was going as planned until about three-quarters of the way through the National Anthem the music stopped.

Now, what would happen if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds back in the States? I imagine there would be hoots, catcalls, laughter, a few rude comments, and everyone would sit down and call for a movie. Of course, that is, if they had stood for the National Anthem in the first place.

Here, the 1,000 Soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again. The Soldiers continued to quietly stand at attention. And again, at the same point, the music stopped. What would you expect to happen? Even here I would imagine laughter as everyone sat down and expected the movie to start.


Here, you could have heard a pin drop. Every Soldier stood at attention. Suddenly there was a lone voice, then a dozen, and quickly the room was filled with the voices of a thousand Soldiers.


And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?'

It was the most inspiring moment I have had here in Iraq. I wanted you to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you here.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com

How Old Is Old #497

Surfing with Jesus #49711072007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

HOW OLD IS OLD

When I was a lad I thought my dad became an old man when he turned 36. In our church the youth age was 35 and under. Then, I became 36 and I didn’t think my dad was old at all and wondered how one could judge this youthful age as old.

Today, I work with young people in their teens and they look at some of their parents and teachers as old. I look at these same adults and call them “young whipper snappers.”

I have asked my mother, mom, how old is old. She says I don’t know I don’t feel old and she is 85.

Now, the proof of the pudding, as my aches and pains grow stronger and as some of you ask for prayer for your bodies and I think maybe my body is getting old but I’m not convinced that we are old.

Several of you know what I mean and those that don’t will know in a day or two. But what does this all mean? Nothing I guess but I wanted to take a moment to encourage you that God will be with you at any age and he will lead and guide you at all times.

As we continue our journey, our minds can began to work on us and cause us to have fears about how we are going to live, how our health is going to hold up, how we are going to die and when we are going to die.

A hundred years ago we put less thought on these things because our life expectancy was less than 50. Today, more and more are living beyond 100 and blessing those younger with your golden nuggets you share each day.

Be encouraged today that God’s word is true and he told us not to take any thought about what we would eat or drink because he would provide our needs. So, “Don’t worry about tomorrow, just live from day to day, the Lord is right beside you and he will lead the way. Let’s have faith hope and charity that’s the way to live successfully. How do I know the Bible tells me so?”

Now, to my 80 and 90 year old friends and to my youthful teens and all those in between, get up and rejoice when you behold what the Lord has done for you. Now, take time to slow down and see what he is about to do in your life as you continue your journey in him.

Wow! It is exciting to know Jesus and to realize he is preparing a mansion for us in heaven. Those of you that are 100 must really have a big one because Jesus is still working out all the details on your new home. I don’t know the name of your street yet but I know its streets are paved with pure gold.

Have a glorious day in Jesus.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.

Great Dog Story #496

Surfing with Jesus #496110207
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

GREAT DOG STORY

Mary and her husband Jim had a dog named 'Lucky.' Lucky was a real character. Whenever Mary and Jim had company come for a weekend visit they would warn their friends to not leave their luggage open because Lucky would help himself to whatever struck his fancy. Inevitably, someone would forget and something would come up missing.

Mary or Jim would go to Lucky's toy box in the basement and there the treasure would be, amid all of his other favorite toys. Lucky always stashed his finds in his toy box and he was very particular that his toys stay in the box.

It happened that Mary found out she had breast cancer. Something told her she was going to die of this disease....in fact; she was just sure it was fatal. She scheduled the double mastectomy.
The night before she was to go to the hospital she cuddled with Lucky. A thought struck her...what would happen to Lucky? Although the three-year-old dog liked Jim, he was Mary's dog through and through. If I die, Lucky will be abandoned, Mary thought. He won't understand that I didn't want to leave him. The thought made her sadder than thinking of her own death.

The double mastectomy was harder on Mary than her doctors had anticipated and Mary was hospitalized for over two weeks. Jim took Lucky for his evening walk faithfully, but the little dog just drooped, whining and miserable.

Finally the day came for Mary to leave the hospital. When she arrived home, Mary was so exhausted she couldn't even make it up the steps to her bedroom. Jim made his wife comfortable on the couch and left her to nap. Lucky stood watching Mary but he didn't come to her when she called. It made Mary sad but sleep soon overcame her and she dozed.

When Mary woke for a second she couldn't understand what was wrong.She couldn't move her head and her body felt heavy and hot. But panic soon gave way to laughter when Mary realized the problem. She was covered, literally blanketed, with every treasure Lucky owned! While she had slept, the sorrowing dog had made trip after trip to the basement bringing his beloved mistress all his favorite things in life. He had covered her with his love.

Mary forgot about dying. Instead she and Lucky began living again, walking farther and farther together every day. It's been 12 years now and Mary is still cancer-free. Lucky continues to steal treasures and stashes them in his toy box but Mary remains his greatest treasure.

Remember....live every day to the fullest. Each minute is a blessing from God. And never forget....the people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care for us.

If you see someone without a smile today give them one of yours! Live simply. Love seriously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr., 2355 Parkway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Join us in prayer for all request received each week.
Read previous writings at: http://surfingwithjesus.blogspot.com/
Send prayer request/Subscribe/Unsubscribe: gene@SurfingwithJesus.com