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

The Bell #495

Surfing with Jesus #495102507
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

THE BELL

I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15)
I am united with the Lord(1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price(1 Cor. 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt.5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ(1 Cor 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation (Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil.3:20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31-34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God(2 Cor.5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God(Rom.8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor.1:21-22)
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8: 28)
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16)
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph. 3: 12)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13)
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John 15: 1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3: 16). I am complete in Christ (Col. 2: 10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3). I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor 6:1). I am God's workmanship(Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected Phil 1:5
I have been redeemed and forgiven (Col. 1:14). I have been adopted as God's child Ephesians 1:5

I belong to God
Do you know who you are!?
Keep this bell ringing

Sorry the bell didn't work out but I hope you got the message

"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26

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

Renew, Mount Up, Run, and Walk #494

Surfing with Jesus #494101307
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

Renew, Mount Up, Run, and Walk

God spoke to Israel to lift them up, help them, and lead them. He speaks to us today to show us our way as we labor in his vineyard. Not desiring to take any of this out of context, I ask you to take a moment as you read these verses and allow God to minister to your need.

Consider these few verses with me and read Isaiah 40:1, 29-31, 41:1, 10, and 13.

40:1Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.
29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.
30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
41:1 Keep silence before me, O islands; and let the people renew their strength: let them come near; then let them speak: let us come near together to judgment.
10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
13 For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

Wow, are you waiting on the Lord to renew your strength? Are you ready to soar on wings like eagles? Are you ready to walk? Are you ready to run? Then, get up and do it, do it and see the Salvation of the Lord as you live life in its fullest before God. Jesus died for our sins that we might have life.

I will close with John 10:10b-11

10…I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

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

There is Joy in the Presencce of the Angels of God #493

Surfing with Jesus #493 100907
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

There is Joy in the Presence of the Angels of God

Luke 15:10
Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

Sunday was a special day in our church. Each first Sunday we have the young people and children join us in morning worship service. They blessed us with their singing before the word of God was delivered. This is always a treat but today conviction began to settle on these young people as the invitation was given four of them came forward and received Jesus as their personal Savior. Wow! Praise the Lord! Rejoice in the presence of the Lord.

Yes, there was joy in the presence of the angels of God and we rejoiced with them as these precious souls repented, confessed their sins, and received Jesus. When I am present when someone receives the Lord its like I just received him all over again myself. It is such a refreshing to know the score is Jesus 4 and the devil minus 4.

You know some days you just feel like throwing up your hands and quitting when you feel you have done all you can do and you feel nothing is happening. Then, something like this happens and you know why the Lord has not released you and taken the desire away to keep on going. Being steadfast is not always easy but when we are God comes thru and lets us see just how small we are and how big he is.

Jesus never fails, help me Lord to wait on you and have joy knowing you will send us more souls to rejoice over as we continue to trust and obey you. As readers I hope you have this same joy as souls are won to the Lord where you are serving our 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

Lifted Up #492

SURFING WITH JESUS #492092907
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.

gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

This morning my heart was heavy as I thought of the loss of the love onessome of you had this week and in recent days. I ask the Lord to help me lift you up. Instead, when I began to read my e-mail I was lifted up with this story from one who lost his wife and another who lost her son. You know it is amazing how God works to give you strength for each day. I was very encouraged to see these friends trusting God for His strength. I want to share their heart with you in hope of lifting you up in Jesus.

THE BRICK

A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street,going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's side door! He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown.

The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car shouting, "What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That's a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?"

The young boy was apologetic. "Please, mister...please, I'm sorry but I didn't know what else to do," He pleaded. "I threw the brick because no one else would stop..." With tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. "It's my brother, "he said" He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can't lift him up."

Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, "Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me."

Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair, then took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the freshscrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay."Thank you and may God bless you," the grateful child told the stranger. Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home.

It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very noticeable,but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door. He kept the dent there to remind him of this message: "Don't go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!" God whispers in our souls and speaks to our hearts. Sometimes when we don't have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at us. It's our choice to listen or not.

Thought for the Day:

If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it.

If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it.

He sends you flowers every spring.

He sends you a sunrise every morning Face it, friend - He is crazy aboutyou!

Send this to every "beautiful person" you wish to bless.

God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.

Read this line very slowly and let it sink in...

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

Folks we are too busy and I pray God will help me and you to not wait for a brick to be thrown at us before we slow down and enjoy the day God has prepared for us.

In closing I hope you took time to read this even if you have seen it many times before. God loves you and he wants your full undivided attention as you look to him for guidance today.

1John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive usour 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 Mansion of Heaven #491

SURFING WITH JESUS #491091807
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

Several of you have shared the loss of a love one recently, and my wife's
loss of Uncle "Jim" is among these precious love ones we will miss. What a
special man and child of God. I am sharing some thoughts from one of you and
hope it will comfort those who read it.

CAST YOUR CARES ON THE LORD AND HE WILL SUSTAIN YOU!

THE MANSION OF HEAVEN

This world, however beautiful, was never meant to be
The place that we would call our home for all eternity.
And though we would not choose to leave, a loving God knows best,
And in His time He lifts us to a place of peace and rest.

For He has built a mansion where His children will abide,
Free from pain and sorrow, forever at His side.
He said He'd never leave us to face our trials alone,
And though sometimes we fail Him, He never fails His own.

And even when our choices are less than He would ask,
He knows when human courage is unequal to the task.
We cannot judge what happens, though tears and questions start--
We only see what's visible--God sees into the heart....

And though there may be many things that we cannot explain,
We can be sure it breaks His heart to see His children's pain.
In loving arms He bears us to a quiet place apart
Where he mends the wounded spirit and heals the broken heart.

And though these ones we love so much have left our present sight
And passed into a better world of majesty and light,
Someday we'll be together in our Father's home above,
Where we'll thank Him for His mercy and praise Him for His love.

-- Author unknown

________________________________________________________________




Henry Scott Holland
1847 -1918

Death is nothing at all
Death is nothing at all,
I have only slipped away
into the next room.

I am I,
and you are you;
whatever we were to each other,
that, we still are.

Call me by my old familiar name,
speak to me in the easy way
which you always used,
put no difference in your tone,
wear no forced air
of solemnity or sorrow.

Laugh as we always laughed
at the little jokes we shared together.
Let my name ever be
the household word that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effect,
without the trace of a shadow on it.

Life means all
that it ever meant.
It is the same as it ever was.
There is unbroken continuity.

Why should I be out of mind
because I am out of sight?

I am waiting for you,
for an interval,
somewhere very near,
just around the corner.

All is well.

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.
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I Am A Soldier In The Army Of The Lord #490

SURFING WITH JESUS #490071207
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

I AM A SOLDIER IN THE ARMY OF THE LORD!
I am a Soldier-Ranger in the army of my God.
The Lord Jesus Christ is my commanding officer.
The Holy Bible is my code of conduct.
Faith, prayer, and the Word are my weapons of warfare.
I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, trained by experience,
Tried by adversity, and tested by fire.
I am a volunteer in this army, and I am enlisted for eternity.
I will either retire in this army at the Rapture or die in this army;
but I will not get out, sell out, be talked out, or pushed out.
I am faithful, reliable, capable and dependable.
If my God needs me, I am there.
If He needs me in the Sunday school, to teach the children, work with the youth, help adults or just sit and learn, He can use me because I am there!
I am a Soldier.
I am not a baby.
I do not need to be pampered, petted, primed up, pumped up, picked up or pepped up.
I am a soldier.
No one has to call me, remind me, write me, visit me, entice me, or lure me.
I am a Soldier.
I am not a wimp.
I am in place, saluting my King, obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His kingdom!
No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy or give me handouts.
I do not need to be cuddled, cradled, cared for, or catered to.
I am committed.
I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me around.
I cannot be discouraged enough to turn me aside.
I cannot lose enough to cause me to quit.
When Jesus called me into this army, I had nothing.
If I end up with nothing, I will still come out ahead.
Because I have Him, I will win.
My God has, and will continue to supply all of my needs.
I am more than a conqueror. I will always triumph.
I can do all things through Christ.
Devils cannot defeat me.
People cannot disillusion me.
Weather cannot weary me.
Sickness cannot stop me.
Battles cannot beat me.
Money cannot buy me.
Governments cannot silence me and hell cannot handle me.
I am a Soldier.
Even death cannot destroy me.
For when my commander calls me from this battlefield,
He will promote me to Captain and then allow me to rule with Him.
I am a Soldier in the army, and I'm marching, claiming victory!
I will not give up.
I will not turn around.
I am a Soldier, marching heaven bound.
Here I stand!
Will you stand with me?
Guess what?
If you've accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, you're alreadyenlisted!
The question is, which part of the service are you in:

1. Active Duty: Serving the Lord faithfully, daily, and on duty 24-7?
2. Reserve status: Serving only when called upon or twice a year, Christmasand Easter? 3. Guard status: Backing up the Active Duty group?
4. AWOL: Absent With Out the Lord?(Author unknown)

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us oursins 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.
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Why Do The Righteous Suffer #489

SURFING WITH JESUS #489090707
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

WHY DO THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER?
(Notes from the Life Application Bible, Tyndale)

The book of Job is a good example that demonstrates God’s sovereignty and the meaning of true faith. It addresses the question, “Why do the righteous suffer?”

Job 2:3 And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? And still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause. (KJV)

Through no fault of his own, Job lost his wealth, children, and health. Even his friends were convinced that Job had brought this suffering upon himself. For Job, the greatest trial was not the pain or the loss; it was not being able to understand why God allowed him to suffer.

Suffering can be, but is not always, a penalty for sin. In the same way, prosperity is not always a reward for being good. Those who love God are not exempt from trouble. Although we may not be able to understand fully the pain we experience, it can lead us to rediscover God.

Satan attempted to drive a wedge between Job and God by getting Job to believe that God’s governing of the world was not just and good. Satan had to ask God for permission to take Job’s wealth, children, and health away. Satan was limited to what God allowed.

We must learn to recognize and not fear Satan’s attacks because Satan cannot exceed the limits that God sets. Don’t let any experience drive a wedge between you and God. Although you can’t control how Satan may attack, you can always choose how you will respond when it happens.

God is an all wise and all powerful. His will is perfect, yet he doesn’t always act in ways that we understand. Job’s suffering didn’t make sense because everyone believed good people were supposed to prosper. When Job was at the point of despair, God spoke to him, showing him his great power and wisdom.

Although God is present everywhere, at times he may seem far away. This may cause us to feel alone and to doubt his care for us. We should serve God for who he is, not what we feel. He is never insensitive to our suffering. Because God is sufficient, we must hold on to him.

Job’s friends were certain that they were correct in their judgment of him. God rebuked them for their pride and arrogance. Man’s wisdom is always partial and temporary, so undue pride in our own conclusions is sin.

We must be careful not to judge others who are suffering. We may be demonstrating the sin of pride. We must be cautious in maintaining the certainty of our own conclusions about how God treats us. When we congratulate ourselves for being right, we become proud.

God alone knew the purpose behind Job’s suffering, and yet he never explained it to Job. In spite of this, Job never gave up on God even in the midst of suffering. He never placed his hope in his experience, his wisdom, his friends, or his wealth. Job focused on God.

Job showed the kind of trust we are to have. When everything is stripped away, we are to recognize that God is all we ever really had. We should not demand that God explain everything. God gives us himself, but not all the details of his plans. We must remember that this life, with all its pain is not our final destiny.

Some days it makes you want to sing “How far is Heaven, when can I go…” Stay focused on God and he will lead you, guide you, and direct you into all truth. I want to make heaven, how about 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
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Things You Don't Hear Any More #488

SURFING WITH JESUS #488082507
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

On the lighter side this week, if you are under 40 you may be bored and not know any of this but if you are over 60 you will understand. Have a great week in Jesus and remember He loves you and He cares.

THINGS YOU DON'T HEAR ANY MORE!!

Be sure and refill the ice trays, we are going to have company after awhile.

Watch for the postman, I want to get this letter in the mail today.

Quit slamming that screen door!

Be sure to pull the windows down when you leave, it looks like it might shower -- and bring in the clothes on the line, too.

Don't forget to wind the clock before you go to bed.

Why can't you remember to roll up your pants legs?

Getting them caught in the bicycle chain so many times is tearing them up.

You have torn the knees out of that pair of pants so many times there is nothing left to put a patch on.
Don't you go outside with your good school clothes on!

Hang up your Sunday School clothes, you know you need to pass them down to your brother in good condition.

Go comb your hair. It looks like the rats have nested in it all night.

Be sure and pour the cream off the top of the milk when you open the new bottle. I need it for baking and Pa's coffee.

Take that empty bottle to the store with you so you won't have to pay a deposit on another one.

Put a dish towel over the cake so the flies won't get on it.

Quit jumping on the floor! I have a cake in the oven and you are going to make it fall if you don't quit!

Let me know when the Fuller Brush man comes by, I need to get a few things from him.

You boys stay close by, the car may not start and I will need you to help push it off.

There is a dollar in my purse, go by the filling station and get five gallons of gas when you start to town.

Open the back door and see if we can get a breeze through here, it is getting hot.

You can walk to the store; it won't hurt you to get some exercise.

Maybe you will learn to be more careful with your bicycle.

Don't sit too close to the TV it is hard on your eyes.

If you pull that stunt again, I am going to wear you out!

Don't lose that button; I will sew it back on after while.

Wash under your neck before you come to the table, you have beads of dirt and sweat all under there.

Get out from under that sewing machine, pumping it messes up the thread!
Do you want to go get me a switch?

Be sure and fill the lamps this morning so we don't have to do that tonight in the dark.

Here, take this old magazine to the outhouse when you go, we are almost out of paper out there.

Go out to the well and draw a bucket of water for me to wash dishes in.

Don't turn the radio on now; I want the battery to be up when the Grand Ole Opry comes on.

No! I don't have five cents for you to go to the show; do you think money grows on trees?

Eat those vegetables; they will make you big and strong like your daddy.

That dog is NOT coming in this house! I don't care how cold it is out there, dogs just don't come in the house.

Sit still! I am trying to get your hair cut straight and you keep moving and it is getting botched up.

Hush your mouth! I don't want to hear words like that. I will wash your mouth out with soap again!

It is time for your system to be cleaned out; I'm going to give you a dose of Castor Oil in the morning.

If you get a spanking in school and I find out about it, you will get another one when you get home.

Quit crossing your eyes! They will get hung that way!

Soak your foot in this pan of coal oil so that cut won't get infected.

When you take your driving test don't forget your hand signals each turn. Left arm straight out the window for a left turn and left arm bent up to the sky at the elbow for a right turn and straight down to the side of the door when you are going to stop.

It is "Yes, sir!" and "No, sir" to me and your elders young man, and don't you forget it!

While we are at Aunt Mary's and Uncle John's you kids eat when the adults get though and I don't want to hear "I don't like this stuff".

You better keep your mouth shut and eat everything on your plate.

Well, that ought to keep us remembering some of the finer things of the past, some good and some not so good, and young man if I hear you repeat one word of this I will beat the daylights out of you, do you understand that?

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.
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Do You Realize How Great God Is? #487

SURFING WITH JESUS #487081807
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

Do You Realize How Great God Is?

Wow! As I arose this morning I was thinking of God and how great he is? I felt like sharing this with my pastor (My State Bishop), and then I thought this is a good time for each of you to take a moment and ponder this thought. So, stop what you are doing. Now, allow God’s presence to flow through your veins and give you a transfusion that will invigorate you. Oh! It is so good to feel the presence of God in our life right now.

Don’t leave me; continue to ponder on the goodness of God. Take time for you and God this moment and I promise you you’re day will be enriched with his love.

Have you ever said, “This has been a week!” A lot has gone on and I feel it’s just time to say goodbye world, its time for me and God to be alone. Take time to talk to God, take time to listen and receive food from him.

This morning I arose, took mail to the mail box (a bill to pay you know), let the dog out, watered my tomato plants and thought of all that’s happened this week.

School is back in full session, a dear friend I use to pastor went home with Jesus, a friend’s son died, everyone’s busy, etc. You know the story because you have one to tell too. Too heavy a load for many of you and this is why I just want you to take time for you and God and let his peace speak to you.

Do you remember the song “Jesus is the one, yes he’s the only one, let him have his way until the day is done, when he speaks you know the clouds will have to go, just because he loves you so.” This came to my mind as I wrote my friend that lost his wife this week and I pondered my friend’s loss of their son. None of us know about tomorrow so take time for today. I hope you did it as you read this today.

In closing, I would like to share an old writing that someone sent me this morning that I hope will help you. It is called “Love Ya!”

LOVE YA!

One day a woman's husband died, and on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of their bedroom, the wife was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't anymore. No more hugs, no more special moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to chat, no more "just one minute."

Sometimes, what we care about the most gets all used up and goes away, never to return before we can say good-bye, say "I love you."So while we have it, its best we love it, care for it, fix it when it's broken and heal it when it's sick. This is true for marriage ... and old cars… and children with bad report cards, and dogs with bad hips, and aging parents and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.

Some things we keep -- like a best friend who moved away or a classmate we grew up with. There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what. Life is important, like people we know who are special, and so, we keep them close!

I received this from someone who thought I was a 'keeper'! Then I sent it to the people I think of in the same way.

Now it's your turn to send this to all those people who are "keepers" in your life, including the person who sent it if you feel that way.

Suppose one morning you never wake up, do all your friends know you love them?I was thinking, I could die today, tomorrow or next week, and I wondered if I had any wounds needing to be healed, friendships that needed rekindling, or three words needing to be said.

Let every one of your friends know you love them. Even if you think they don't love you back, you would be amazed at what those three little words and a smile can do.

And just in case
GOD calls me home.
I LOVE YA!!!

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.
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A Thorny Situation #486

SURFING WITH JESUS #486080707
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

This is a bit long but I feel the need to share it with some of you today. God loves you and his arm is extended to you whether you are experiencing joy or suffering pain. Allow God to speak to you and receive what you need from him today in the name of Jesus I pray.

A Thorny Situation

Sandra felt as low as the heels of her shoes as she pushed against a November gust at the florist shop door. Her life had been easy, like a spring breeze. Then in the fourth month of her second pregnancy, a minor automobile accident stole her ease. During this Thanksgiving week she would have delivered a son. She grieved over her loss.

As if that weren't enough, her husband's company threatened a transfer. Then her sister, whose annual holiday visit she 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 careless driver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended her and for an airbag 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 day with a customer favorite I call the Thanksgiving Special?" asked the shop clerk. "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 her outburst, and was surprised when the shop clerk said, "I have the perfect arrangement for you."

Then the door's small bell rang, and the shop clerk said, "Hi Barbara...let me get your order." She politely excused herself and walked toward 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? Who would want rose stems with no flowers?! She waited for laughter, but neither 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 left with no flowers!"

"Right, I cut off the flowers. That's the Special... I call it the Thanksgiving 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 you feel today," explained the clerk. "She thought she had very little to be thankful for. She had lost her father to cancer, the family business was failing, her son was into drugs, and she was facing major surgery."

"Then that same year I lost my husband, "continued the clerk," and for the first time in my life, I had to spend the holidays alone. I had no children no husband, no family nearby, and too great a debt to allow any travel."

"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're afflicted, and from His consolation we learn to comfort others."

Sandra sucked in her breath as she thought about the very thing her friend 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 else walked in the shop. "Hey, Phil!" shouted the clerk to the balding, rotund man.

"My wife sent me in to get our usual Thanksgiving arrangement... twelve thorny, long-stemmed stems!" laughed Phil as the clerk handed him a tissue-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 I nearly divorced. After forty years, we were in a real mess, but with the Lord'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 said to the clerk. "It's all too... fresh."

"Well," the clerk replied carefully, "my experience has shown me that thorns 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 the accident, she loosened her grip on resentment. "I'll take those twelve long-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 maybe 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." -- Author Unknown

Praise Him for your roses; thank him for your thorns.

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.
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Let Me Tell You About Jesus #485

SURFING WITH JESUS #485073007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

LET ME TELL YOU ABOUT JESUS

I just finished attending a “camp meeting” some would call it and the message that rings in my heart today is I need to tell you about Jesus. One song says “more, more about Jesus.” Another old song my brother and I use to sing, “Have I done enough for Jesus.”

Lord help this thought be on my heart and help me put into practice your word to tell precious souls about you. With each door that is open help me be sensitive to your spirit and walk in love telling each precious soul how sweet it is to know Jesus.

I have been blessed to be taught about God and I hunger and thirst to share just what Jesus means to me. I want to take the song to heart and practice it more and more as it raises another question when it says “I wonder if I have cared enough for other or have I let them die all alone.” Lord help me not just attend church, preach and teach and fail souls you entrust to me each day.

Finally, this song picks me up in the third verse when it says “No longer will I stay in this valley, I’ll climb to the mountain tops above, this world is dying for the want of someone, just to tell them of my Savior’s matchless love.”

So, I close by saying let me tell you about Jesus. If you are reading Surfing with Jesus for the first time or you have read it many times before take time to read the verse below and ask yourself if you were to die tonight, do you know for sure you would go to heaven? If your answer is yes, wonderful, if the answer is no, confess your sins and receive Jesus and allow him to cleanse you. Now get up and go share Jesus with someone else so they too can know they would rest in heaven should Jesus call them tonight?

Remember people don’t care how much you know, they just want to know how much you care.

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.

If I Should Die #484

SURFING WITH JESUS #484072407
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

IF I SHOULD DIE

If I should die my body would decay and return to dust from whence it came. My soul would rest in peace with God and live on for eternity because I received forgiveness of my sins when I repented and accepted Jesus in my heart.

Did you ever pray this prayer as a child “Now, I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep, if I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take?” I did and I’m so thankful I was taught about the love of Jesus by mom and dad. Truly, I am blessed to know Jesus as my Lord and Savior and soon coming King.

However, it is sad to know that millions of people are still waiting to hear about Jesus. Did you know that all souls will live on but without Jesus they will be lost and never experience peace with God? It is so sad also that millions of souls know about God and his forgiving power thru Jesus but continue to forsake this wonderful opportunity to be at peace with God. Oh, how I wish these would wake up and return unto Jesus the love he has given them.

Why does one wait? As I stated all souls will live on for eternity, only the body will decay and return to dust. I would like to shake you, awake you and make you aware or remind you that there is a heaven to gain and hell to shun. With Jesus there is life and peace. Without Him there is eternally punishment prepared for all who fail to receive Him as their Lord and Master.

You have a choice to make that will determine where you spend eternity. Accept Jesus or reject him. With Jesus you have hope of eternal live in heaven rejoicing around the throne of God. Without Jesus you will join Satan and his angels in hell for eternity where there is no hope.

Heaven will be worth it all when you see Jesus and all those that have made the choice to be with him. I pray your choice is Jesus and that you rest in peace with God 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/
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What Is On My Heart #483

SURFING WITH JESUS #483071007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

What Is On My Heart

Jesus is the sweetest name I know. Having completed another year on life’s journey and celebrated another birthday this week and been called an “old man” by my lovely wife, Jesus is still the sweetest name I know.

What a treat as I arrived at church Sunday and a young man met me and said pastor there is something on the pulpit for you. After getting settle and going to the podium I found a real nice hand made birthday card. It said “Happy Birthday Gene, You’re a Super Hero.” From your side kick Jon. Inside it had a drawing of a Super Hero.

How special, I was so thrilled to have someone look at me as a Super Hero. We continued with Sunday School and as I went to start Morning worship a young lady said pastor, you can sit back down, this is your day, we have prepared singing, preaching, and a meal in honor of you.

Wow! What a surprise, I put my bible down, sit down, and enjoy the day. I cried as our youth choir sang because this time last year we had no one to be in this precious choir.

Yes, Jesus is the sweetest name I know, it is special when our church family takes time to lift you up. The guest speaker was my brother who moved to our area a year ago whom I haven’t heard preach in years.

My birthday was actually Monday and I had another annual treat for my family to get together and take me out to eat. We also had a good time.
I do appreciate the Lord, my family, and friends. Last Friday I spoke to my precious mom and told her I received a surprise in the mail. I received a birthday card from her early. This is a family funny, my mom always gets us a card but sometimes she will tell me later she forgot to put it in the mail.

Mom always says God has been so good to us. I’m thankful I have been taught to love God, fear God, and desire to do his will in my life. Yes, there is something about that name Jesus. It is the sweetest name I know and he’s just the same as his lovely name, that’s the reason, why I love him so for Jesus is the sweetest name I know

And that’s my heart 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.
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Esplanation of God #482

SURFING WITH JESUS #482070507
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

It was written by an 8-year-old named Danny Dutton, who lives in Chula Vista, CA. He wrote it for his third grade homework assignment, to "explain God." I wonder if any of us could have done as well.

EXPLANATION OF GOD

"One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the ones that die, so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth. He doesn't make grownups, just babies. I think because they are smaller and easier to make. That way he doesn't have to take up his valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and fathers."

"God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times beside bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because of this. Because he hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of noise in his ears, unless he has thought of a way to turn it off."

"God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting his time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have."

"Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I don't think there are any in Chula Vista. At least there aren't any who come to our church."

"Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard work, like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of him preaching to them and they crucified him but he was good and kind, like his father, and he told his father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and God said O.K."

"His dad (God) appreciated everything that he had done and all his hard work on earth so he told him he didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So he did. And now he helps his dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important for God to take care of and which ones he can take care of himself without having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important."

"You can pray anytime you want and they are sure to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all the time."

"You should always go to church on Sunday because it makes God happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God!

Don't skip church to do something you think will be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong and besides the sun doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway."

"If you don't believe in God, besides being an atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere with you, like to camp, but God can. It is good to know He's around you when you're scared, in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown into real deep water by big kids."

"But you shouldn't just always think of what God can do for you. I figure God put me here and he can take me back anytime he pleases.

And...that's why I believe in God."

(If you believe in God, please pass this on, and may God bless you too.)

Have an awesome day, and know that someone has thought about 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.
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A Nation Blessed By God #481

SURFING WITH JESUS #481062807
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.


A NATION BLESSED BY GOD

Throughout the history of man Nation’s have risen and fell. I am thankful I am blessed to arise today in a country that is blessed by God that has been allowed to still stand.

As we celebrate another year of freedom on this July 4th may we remember what we have stood for and how God allowed us to still stand as a Nation with the freedoms we enjoy each day.

Our founding father’s knew and practiced the key that is necessary yet today for any nation to stand; “Remember the Lord thy God thy creator.”

Can you still quote the purpose of our nation as we sought God for direction for a new nation over 200 years ago?

Preamble
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Our father’s had a longing to have these freedoms and many gave their life for it. We still have men and women serving our nation today that put everything on the line to ensure you and I sustain this freedom. As you arise this morning would you join me in thanksgiving, praise, and prayer for those who are serving us throughout the world? Many are in harms way and some will give their life for the blessings you enjoy this day.

I pray our nation will take time to remember the Lord God our creator. It doesn’t matter how great a nation becomes a nation that forgets God will fall. Psalms 33:12a “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…” There are many examples in the Bible of the rise and fall of nations. No nation is exempt from the laws of God. When a nation forgets God they will lose God’s favor and blessings. When a nation returns to God they will find favor from a merciful God. I pray as a nation we remember these accounts and seek the Lord our God while we may find him. The Psalmist says in Psalm 100:3 “… it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves.”

I will close with a call to praise the Lord with Psalm 100 which is a psalm of praise.

“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.”

All nations and all people are precious in the sight of God, regardless of the birth date of your nation remember the Lord thy God thy creator and be blessed of Him as you worship him each day.

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/
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I Want A Divorce #479

SURFING WITH JESUS #479062007
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

I WANT A DIVORCE

When I got home that night as my wife served dinner, I held her hand and said I've got something to tell you.

She sat down and ate quietly. Again I observed the hurt in her eyes. Suddenly I didn't know how to open my mouth. But I had to let her know what I was thinking.

"I want a divorce!" I raised the topic calmly.

She didn't seem to be annoyed by my words, instead she asked me softly, "Why"? I avoided her question.

This made her angry. She threw away the chopsticks and shouted at me, you are not a man!

That night, we didn't talk to each other. She was weeping. I knew she wanted to find out what had happened to our marriage. But I could hardly give her a satisfactory answer; she had lost my heart to a lovely girl called Dew. I didn't love her anymore. I just pitied her!

With a deep sense of guilt, I drafted a divorce agreement which stated that she could own our house, our car, and 30% stake of my company. She glanced at it and then tore it into pieces. The woman who had spent ten years of her life with me had become a stranger. I felt sorry for her wasted time, resources and energy but I could not take back what I had said for I loved Dew so dearly.

Finally she cried loudly in front of me, which was what I had expected to see. To me her cry was actually a kind of release. The idea of divorce which had obsessed me for several weeks seemed to be firmer and clearer now.

The next day, I came back home very late and found her writing something at the table. I didn't have supper but went straight to sleep and fell asleep very fast because I was tired after an eventful day with Dew.

When I woke up, she was still there at the table writing. I just did not care so I turned over and was asleep again.

In the morning she presented her divorce conditions: she didn't want anything from me, but needed a month's notice before the divorce. She requested that in that one month we both struggle to live as normal a life as possible. Her reasons were simple: our son had his exams in a months time and she didn't want to disrupt him with our broken marriage.

This was agreeable to me. But she had something more, she asked me to recall how I had carried her into out bridal room on our wedding day. She requested that everyday for the month's duration I carry her out of our bedroom to the front door every morning. I thought she was going crazy. Just to make our last days together bearable I accepted her odd request.

I told Dew about my wife's divorce conditions. She laughed loudly and thought it was absurd. No matter what tricks she applies, she has to face the divorce, she said scornfully.

My wife and I hadn't had any body contact since my divorce intention was explicitly expressed. So when I carried her out on the first day, we both appeared clumsy. Our son clapped behind us, daddy is holding mummy in his arms. His words brought me a sense of pain. From the bedroom to the sitting room, then to the door, I walked over ten meters with her in my arms. She closed her eyes and said softly; don't tell our son about the divorce. I nodded, feeling somewhat upset. I put her down outside the door. She went to wait for the bus to go to work. I drove alone to the office.

On the second day, both of us acted much more easily. She leaned on my chest.. I could smell the fragrance of her blouse. I realized that I hadn't looked at this woman carefully for a long time. I realized she was not young any more. There were fine wrinkles on her face, her hair was graying! Our marriage had taken its toll on her. For a minute I wondered what I had done to her.

On the fourth day, when I lifted her up, I felt a sense of intimacy returning. This was the woman who had given ten years of her life to me. On the fifth and sixth day, I realized that our sense of intimacy was growing again. I didn't tell Dew about this. It became easier to carry her as the month slipped by. Perhaps the everyday work-out made me stronger.

She was choosing what to wear one morning. She tried on quite a few dresses but could not find a suitable one. Then she sighed, all my dresses have grown bigger. I suddenly realized that she had grown so thin, that was the reason why I could carry her more easily. Suddenly it hit me. She had buried so much pain and bitterness in her heart. Subconsciously I reached out and touched her head.

Our son came in at the moment and said, Dad, it's time to carry mum out. To him, seeing his father carrying his mother out had become an essential part of his life. My wife gestured to our son to come closer and hugged him tightly. I turned my face away because I was afraid I might change my mind at this last minute. I then held her in my arms, walking from the bedroom, through the sitting room, to the hallway. Her hand surrounded my neck softly and naturally. I held her body tightly; it was just like our wedding day. But her much lighter weight made me sad. On the last day, when I held her in my arms I could hardly move a step. Our son had gone to school. I held her tightly and said, I hadn't noticed that our life lacked intimacy.

I drove to office... jumped out of the car swiftly without locking the door. I was afraid any delay would make me change my mind... I walked upstairs. Dew opened the door and I said to her, Sorry, Dew, I do not want the divorce anymore.

She looked at me, astonished, and then touched my forehead. Do you have a fever? She said. I moved her hand off my head. Sorry, Dew, I said, I won't a divorce. My marriage life was boring probably because she and I didn't value the details of our lives, not because we didn't love each other any more. Now I realize that since I carried her into my home on our wedding day I am supposed to hold her until death do us apart. Dew seemed to suddenly wake up. She gave me a loud slap and then slammed the door and burst into tears. I walked downstairs and drove away.

At the floral shop on the way, I ordered a bouquet of flowers for my wife. The salesgirl asked me what to write on the card. I smiled and wrote, I'll carry you out every morning until death do us apart.

The small details of your lives are what really matter in a relationship. It is not the mansion, the car, property, the money in the bank, blah...blah...blah. These create an environment conducive for happiness but cannot give happiness in themselves. So find time to be your spouse's friend and do those little things for each other that build intimacy. Do have a real happy marriage!

If you don't share this, nothing will happen to you, but if you do, you just might save a marriage. Thanks for sharing Elizabeth

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.

Best Gifts For Father's Day #478

SURFING WITH JESUS #478061707
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

BEST GIFTS FOR FATHER'S DAY

As I was pondering what to write for Father's Day I began to think of gifts for this special day. I'm always asked "What do you want for Father's Day?"

Well, I have decided that the best gift I could give my dad for Father's Day is to be in church and worship the Lord Jesus Christ. Although my dad has been gone 22 years I know this is what would please him the most.

Now as I think on it this is exactly the best gift my son and daughter could give me, get up, get ready, go to church and worship our Heavenly Father in spirit and truth. Wow! This is exciting, I think I will do this and receive food for my soul from the Lord.

I guess I'm a little crazy today but without Jesus there is no real Father's Day to me. I'm so thankful my Heavenly Father gave us His son who willing died on the cross for our Salvation. If my Heavenly Father loved me enough to give his only son for me to have hope of eternal life with him my time spent in worshipping Him is a small thing to give on this day.

I don't look at this as a sad day as some who have lost their dad. I look at it as a glorious time as I ponder my precious father and father-in-law rejoicing around the throne of God. What a legacy these two left me to hunger and thirst after the righteousness of God and seek him with all my heart. One of these days, my journey will be completed here on earth and I too will have a Happy Father's Day with Jesus and those gone on before me.

I love my earthly father more and more today because of the values and faith in God he passed on to me. And, it goes without saying I know I love my Heavenly Father more each day as I grow in him. It does get sweeter as the days go by.

If you still have an earthly father, take time to honor him today, if your dad is gone pick out someone else and honor them on this special day. Every time you take time to love and honor your dad or an adopted dad for the day you will receive more from them than you give.

Have a wonderful time of fellowship this day, remember the Lord, your Heavenly Father, and creator and be blessed today

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
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.

Who I Am Makes A Difference #477

SURFING WITH JESUS #477061207
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

WHO I AM MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Author Unknown

A teacher in New York decided to honor each of her seniors in High School by telling them the difference each of them had made. She called each student to the front of the class, one at a time.

First, she told each of them how they had made a difference to her, and the class. Then she presented each of them with a blue ribbon, imprinted with gold letters, which read, "Who I Am Makes a Difference."

Afterwards, the teacher decided to do a class project, to see what kind of impact recognition would have on a Community. She gave each of the students three more blue ribbons, and instructed them to go out and spread this acknowledgment ceremony.

Then they were to follow up on the results, see who honored whom, and report to the class in about a week.

One of the boys in the class went to a junior executive in a nearby Company, and honored him for helping him with his career planning. He gave him a blue ribbon, and put it on his shirt.

Then he gave him two extra ribbons and said, "We're doing a class project on recognition, and we'd like for you to go out, find somebody to honor, give them a blue ribbon, then give them the extra blue ribbon so they can acknowledge a third person, to keep this acknowledgment ceremony going. Then please report back to me and tell me what happened."

Later that day, the junior executive went in to see his boss, who had been noted, by the way, as being kind of a grouchy fellow. He sat his boss down, and he told him that he deeply admired him for being a creative genius. The boss seemed very surprised. The junior executive asked him if he would accept the gift of the blue ribbon, and would he give him permission to put it on him. His surprised boss said, "Well, sure." The junior executive took the blue ribbon and placed it right on his boss's jacket, above his heart. As he gave him the last extra ribbon, he said, "Would you take this extra ribbon, and pass it on by honoring somebody else. The young boy who first gave me the ribbons is doing a project in school, and we want to keep this recognition ceremony going and find out how it affects people."

That night, the boss came home to his 14-year-old son, and sat him down. He said, "The most incredible thing happened to me today. I was in my office, and one of the junior executives came in and told me he admired me, and gave me a blue ribbon for being a creative genius. Imagine! He thinks I am a creative genius! Then he put a blue ribbon that says, "Who I Am Makes a Difference", on my jacket above my heart. He gave me an extra rib bon and asked me to find somebody else to honor. As I was driving home tonight, I started thinking about whom I would honor with this ribbon, and I thought about you. I want to honor you. My days are hectic and when I come home, I do not pay a lot of attention to you. Sometimes I scream at you for not getting good enough grades in school, and for your bedroom being a mess. Somehow, tonight, I just wanted to sit here and, well, just let you know that you do make a difference to me. Besides your mother, you are the most important person in my life. You're a great kid, and I love you!"

The startled boy started to sob and sob, and he could not stop crying His whole body shook. He looked up at his father and said through his tears,

" Dad , earlier tonight I sat in my room and wrote a letter to you and Mom , explaining why I had taken my own life, and I asked you to forgive me. I was going to commit suicide tonight after you were asleep.

I just did not think that you cared at all. The letter is upstairs. I don't think I need it after all."

His father walked upstairs and found a heartfelt letter full of anguish and pain.

The boss went back to work a changed man. He was no longer a grouch, but made sure to let all of his employees know that they made a difference.

The junior executive helped other young people with career planning, and never forgot to let them know that they made a difference in his life...one being the boss' son. In addition, the young boy and his classmates learned a valuable lesson, "Who you are DOES make a difference".

You are under no obligation to pass this on to anyone.... not to two people, or to two hundred. As far as I am concerned, you can forget it and move on. On the other hand, if you want, you could send it to all of the people who mean something to you, or send it to the one, two, or three people who mean the most.

On the other hand, just smile and know that I think that you are important, or you would not have received this in the first place. Who you are does make a difference, and I wanted you to know that.

Isn't this a wonderful story? I'm passing the blue ribbon to you, for who YOU are does make a difference, too.

May GOD BLESS YOU. Have an awesome day, and know that someone has thought about you today! Because you are special and you have made a difference in my life.

1John 1: 9 “If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sinsins 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.