PEARL NECKLACE #420

SURFING WITH JESUS #420042806
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
www.SurfingwithJesus.com
gene@SurfingwithJesus.

PEARL NECKLACE

I've seen this several times and thought I would share it with you today.

The cheerful little girl with bouncy golden curls was almost five. Waiting with her mother at the checkout stand, she saw them, a circle of glistening white pearls in a pink foil box.

"Oh mommy please, Mommy. Can I have them? Please, Mommy, please?"

Quickly the mother checked the back of the little foil box and then looked back into the pleading blue eyes of her little girl's upturned face.

"A dollar ninety-five. That's almost $2.00. If you really want them, I'll think of some extra chores for you and in no time you can save enough money to buy them for yourself. Your birthday's only a week away and you might get another crisp dollar bill from Grandma."

As soon as Jenny got home, she emptied her penny bank and counted out 17 pennies. After dinner, she did more than her share of chores and she went to the neighbor and asked Mrs. McJames if she could pick dandelions for ten cents. On her birthday, Grandma did give her another new dollar bill and at last she had enough money to buy the necklace.

Jenny loved her pearls. They made her feel dressed up and grown up. She wore them everywhere, Sunday school, kindergarten, even to bed. The only time she took them off was when she went swimming or had a bubble bath. Mother said if they got wet, they might turn her neck green.

Jenny had a very loving daddy and every night when she was ready for bed, he would stop whatever he was doing and come upstairs to read her a story. One night as he finished the story, he asked Jenny, "Do you love me?"

"Oh yes, daddy. You know that I love you."

Then give me your pearls."

"Oh, daddy, not my pearls. But you can have Princess, the white horse from my collection, the one with the pink tail. Remember, daddy? The one you gave me. She's my very favorite."

"That's okay, Honey, daddy loves you. Good night."

And he brushed her cheek with a kiss.

About a week later, after the story time, Jenny's daddy asked again, "Do you love me?"

"Daddy, you know I love you."

"Then give me your pearls

"Oh Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have my baby doll. The brand new one I got for my birthday. She is beautiful and you can have the yellow blanket that matches her sleeper."

"That's okay. Sleep well. God bless you, little one. Daddy loves you."

And as always, he brushed her cheek with a gentle kiss.

A few nights later when her daddy came in, Jenny was sitting on her bed with her legs crossed Indian style. As he came close, he noticed her chin was trembling and one silent tear rolled down her cheek.

"What is it, Jenny? What's the matter?"Jenny didn't say anything but lifted her little hand up to her daddy. And when she opened it, there was her little pearl necklace. With a little quiver, she finally said, "Here, daddy; this is for you."

With tears gathering in his own eyes, Jenny's daddy reached out with one hand to take the dime store necklace, and with the other hand he reached into his pocket and pulled out a blue velvet case with a strand of genuine pearls and gave them to Jenny.

He had them all the time. He was just waiting for her to give up the dime-store stuff so he could give her the genuine treasure.

So it is, with our Heavenly Father. He is waiting for us to give up the cheap things in our lives so that he can give us beautiful treasures.

Isn't God good? Are you holding onto things that God wants you to let go of? Are you holding on to harmful or unnecessary partners, relationships, habits and activities that you have come so attached to that it seems impossible to let go? Sometimes it is so hard to see what is in the other hand but do believe this one thing. God will never take away something without giving you something better in its place.

I'm reminded of the song right now. "Give it all, give it all to Jesus." What are you willing to place in the hands of Jesus today?

Will you lift up your hands to Jesus this moment and say here Master, this is for you?

I 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."

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

NEW: wwwSurfingwithJesus.com. You will find recent writtings if you missed them in your e-mail.

GOD USES COMMON PEOPLE #419

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com
www.SurfingwithJesus.com
April 22, 2006 #419

GOD USES COMMON PEOPLE

God uses all kinds of people to do his work. He even chose you and me. What a treat to be chosen of God. Reflect with me on men and women God used.

JACOB was known as a liar but his task was to "father" the Israelite nation (Genesis 27).

JOSEPH was a slave. His task was to save his family (Genesis 39).

MOSES was a shepherd in exile and murderer. He was to lead Israel out of bondage to the promise land (Exodus 3).

GIDEON was a farmer. He was to deliver Israel from Midian (Judges 6:11).

JEPHTHAN was the son of a prostitute. His task was to lead Israel from the Ammonites (Judges 11:1).

HANNAH was a housewife. She was to be the mother of Samuel (I Samuel 1).

DAVID was a little shepherd boy the least in the family. He would commit adultery and see a man was placed in the right place to be killed. He was to become Israel's greatest King (I Samuel).

EZRA was a scribe. His task was to lead the return to Judah and to write part of the Bible (Ezra, Nehemiah).

ESTHER was a beautiful slave girl. She was to save her people from massacre (Esther).

MARY was just a small peasant girl. She was to be the mother of Jesus (Luke 1:27-38).

MATTHEW was a tax collector. He was to become an Apostle and Gospel writer (Matthew 9:9).

LUKE was a Greek physician. He would be a companion of Paul and a Gospel writer (C0lossians 4:14).

PETER was a proud fisherman. His task was to be an Apostle, a leader of the early church, and a writer of two New Testament epistles (Matthew 4:18-20).

We are called today from all walks of life, background, and discipline to serve God in specific ways. God promises us the tools and strength we need to complete our task. Don't spend time making excuses about your limitations. God knew you before he called you. Instead spend your time, your thoughts, and your energy doing what Jesus wants. Just remember that you should never forget to acknowledge God in all your ways and allow Him to direct your path.

I 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."

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com / (www.SurfingwithJesus.com)

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

HE AROSE AND LIVES IN MY HEART TODAY

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com
www.SurfingwithJesus.com
April15, 2006 #418

HE AROSE AND LIVES IN MY HEART TODAY

Have you ever taken time to ponder what you would do if you knew this was your last week on earth? Most of us haven't thought much about it. We find ourselves making preparation for the week ahead with family and friends to be together in church or maybe to gather and have quality family time.

Jesus knew his time was short on the earth. We find him busy continuing to prepare his disciples for what lay ahead. There is no way they could comprehend it at this time. We would find it hard to understand if when someone was to tell us, "I'm going away, I will be betrayed by one of my friends, and I will die."

Let's take a moment and appreciate the magnitude of what Jesus did for us that day. He willingly laid down his life and arose on the third day conquering death and the grave. It's a great time for us to celebrate his life and thank him for his love as he shed his blood for our sins.

Jesus was the only acceptable sacrifice. He was without blemish. We could not be the sacrifice because we have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Oh, what a Savior! Jesus our Lord did it all for you and me. Now, it's up to us to come to him, ask forgiveness, repent of our sins, receive his forgiveness and walk in him.

Why does man make it so difficult and complicated? Jesus has paid the price. Man simply needs to get on board of that train bound for heaven. If you don't believe in the blood of Jesus, if you're too busy to accept his free gift of Salvation, I really feel sorry for you. Why waste your time in foolishness just to pass the time away? The price you pay will be far more than it's worth.

I pray during all your hustle and bustle this week getting ready for the many events like the Easter Parade, the Easter Play, the Easter Cantata, and perhaps a egg hunt that you take time to commune with our Lord. Remember when you take communion he said "as oft as you do this you do it in remembrance of me."

I want to remember him this week and let him know I love him. How about you?

I 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."

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com / (www.SurfingwithJesus.com)

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

HIDE THOU ME LORD

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com
April 8, 2006 #417

HIDE THOU ME LORD

Like David of ole, I found myself discouraged this week with events of life. I pondered why Lord? Why? Then, I stuck my head in the sand for a day. My wife cried out I don't like you like this and I understood because I don't like it when I waste a day that I should have my eyes and heart lifted up knowing that Jesus loves me and that God never fails.

I am so thankful to God in times like this that he has blessed me with a lovely, God fearing wife that knows I'll come thru it but stays right beside me to lift me up and encourage me. I haven't written this week as you can see but I must write when I can write if that makes sense to you.

As I write this morning the old song "Hide Thou Me" (Copyright 1926, renewed 1954 by Thoro Harris/Assigned to John Benson) comes to my heart and mind which says :

Sometimes, I feel discouraged and think my work in vain,
I'm tempted oft to murmur, to grumble and complain;
But when I think of Jesus and what He bore for me,
Then I cry to the Rock of Ages, hide Thou me.

O Rock of Ages, hide thou me,
There is no other refuge, Can save but Thee;
Thru this old world I wandered, So far, far from thee,
Then I cry to the Rock of Ages, hide Thou me.

I know everyone wants to sing the new songs and dance, dance, dance as you worship. If this works for you to draw near to God that's fine with me but please don't take away the precious thoughts, words, and sounds that have sustained many a soul to bring the gospel to you and me over the years. Every generation comes up with new songs and this is good but what is important is for them to bring us together in Jesus.

This week I found myself down over my church, my weight loss, my truck breaking down on the way to an annual clinic appointment, and AOL continuing to block all my AOL addresses for 12-24 hours at a time, etc. So, I found myself at home just waiting and thinking. Then, out of the clear blue sky a subscriber to Surfing with Jesus writes thanking me for the writing and how he is able to use it in South Africa. Thank you brother for your kind words at the right time. He even honored me by inviting me to minister in South Africa. Wow! This blew my mind.

Now, back to our song:

I have a friend in Jesus blest anchor of the soul, I feel His presence ever when stormy billows roll; And when I think of Jesus and what He bore for me, Then I cry to the Rock of Ages, hide Thou me.

Sometimes I feel I cannot go one step farther on, My body waxing older and falt'ring steps begun; But when I think of Jesus and what He bore for me, Then I cry to the Rock of Ages, hide Thou me.

Yes, pastor needs prayer too, remember when God places someone on your heart to always take time to allow the Spirit of God to speak to you. You will make a difference in their life and you will be blessed as God ministers thru you.

Oh, yes, for those of you that may miss a week of Surfing with Jesus, I'm doing it as a blog now also. Go to Blogger.com, type in SurfingwithJesus and you will find it. Thank all of you for allowing me in your home and your life. I look forward to sharing each week. God bless you.

I 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."

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com. Go to Blogger.com type in SurfingwithJesus for our blog.

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

MY CUP RUNNETH OVER

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr
gene@SurfingwithJesus
April 1, 2006 #416

MY CUP RUNNETH OVER

How many times have we been at our wits end and we thought everyone had failed us and let us down? This week I was listening to comments from other ministers and picked up on some bits and pieces I would like to share.

We have all heard the illustration of the optimist that says the cup is half full. And, we know about the pessimist who say the cup is half empty. Well, here is the best one I've ever heard because it is scriptually based. Are you ready? The child of God says, "My cup runneth over."

Wow, now top that one. Take a look at Psalms 23:4-6

4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

This ought to solve any discussion for you as a Christian. Keep this in your heart each day and you will overcome any dart the devil may throw your way. Child of God the battle is not ours. Lord, it's thine! We desire to stay in your favor where there is victory in God's word.

Tidbit: "Everyday that you stay in Christ, you are making progress."

Tidbit: "Lord, what do I lack? No matter what it is the word of God has an answer for it."

Tidbit: "The Bible is not a book of rules but a bag of seeds."

Tidbit: "Wisdom is gained every time one opens the Bible."

When we stay in Christ and God's word we gain wisdom and knowledge to lead and guide us. As we plant our seed in fertile soil it will flourish and multiply. As you continue with God's plan, I believe you will see how much God will bless you and you will sing praises to him as your cup overflows.

I 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.

"To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

DEPRESSED

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus
March 25, 2006 #415

DEPRESSED

Depressed, yes, I have a right to be depressed. I've earned it, I deserve it, and let me be, I am depressed. Have you ever had these thoughts? Have you ever been down and out over your weight? Have you ever been down and out over the lack of attendance at your church? Have you ever just wanted to say, yes, I'm depressed because the sun isn't shining on your Spring Break? Well, you are not alone, everyone wants to have a pity party and have a gloom and doom moment. It's our right and we just take time to do it. It even feels good and we take time to enjoy it.

The kids and young people have a program called WWJD. When we get to this please perhaps, just maybe, we should take time to do as our youngsters do when they simply ask "What Would Jesus Do?" One writer said in IIThessalonians 3:13 "...be not weary in well doing." Another writer put it this way, "Never tire of doing what is right."

When we decide we will give into depression we overlook the great strength we can find in the word of God. I will always believe that reading God's word and getting lost in His love is better than any remedy this world may offer us. With God's word you will find an answer when you allow His Spirit to touch your life, your heart, and direct your thoughts and actions today.

You want to sow seed? Sow it in the word of God, sow it in prayer and sow in your giving tithes on your time and finances in your local church and your local community. This week I shared a story with a childhood friend about a guest minister at our church. This man preached the most compelling story I have ever heard on tithes on our time.

There are 168 hours in a week. Tithes on your time would be 16.8 hours each week. Just think, how much time do you give to the Lord each week. Let's see, we go to church on Sunday maybe for 1-4 hours. We come to midweek service for 1-2 hours. We do a few things to help others for perhaps 2-4 hours. So, this leaves 6 hours plus to give to service to God.

What do you think would take place if we took the tithes on time and placed it into action for God? I believe we would have less time to engage in depression. I believe we would be fresh and do things anew for Jesus. I know the writer in Malachi 3:10 is referring to financial directions and blessings but just think if we took time to give tithes on our time and follow this verse when he said "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

Wow! WWJD? What Would Jesus Do? There is no limit to what he will do. Depressed? Why? There is so much excitement in God's word; there is joy in serving Jesus. Take time to learn His word and see what the Lord has in store for you as you learn to lean on Him.

I 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."

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

Preserve Me, O God

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher,Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com
March 18, 2006 #413

First of all I want to thank those of you that sent a personal note regarding my writing last week on my mom "What a Lady, My Mom." I called and shared many of your comments and her response was "you mean people have heard about my story in China, South Africa and all over the world." Yes, mom, "Well, I just did it for you boys and the grandkids, I wanted you to know my story." I know mom but you have inspired others to want to learn regardless of their age or circumstances. Now, for today.

PRESERVE ME, O GOD

As I think on mom and all she has done in her life, I can see her crying out "Preserve me, O God." Perhaps another way of looking at this would be to say cover me O God. As we face life what better thought could we have than to want the Lord to cover our lips, our thoughts, and our actions each moment of the day. It is human nature to make our plans and then ask God to bless them. However, it would be best to seek His will first and then allow Him to bless us as we take action with our plans.

By communication with God and constantly thinking about the way he would have us go we will gain insight that will help us as we make decisions and we will know His desire for us in everything we do.

I have seen some think that when you ask God to save you and come into your life that everything will be perfect and all life's challenges will be over. Not so, my friend, if you bought that house, that car, those new shoes, you are still responsible to pay for them. God does not exempt believers from the day-to-day things that come our way in life. But, there is one good thing about being a child of God, we can have that sense of security that God will be there and He will preserve us each day.

Tyndale's commentators state that "David found the secret to joy...True joy is far deeper than happiness; we can feel joy even in spite of our deepest troubles...Joy is lasting because it is based on God's presence within us."

Take a moment and join me in reading this Psalm. Allow God to touch you this moment and meditate on his preservation as you place your all in his hands.

Psalm 16
1Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.

2O my soul, thou hast said unto the LORD, Thou art my Lord: my goodness extendeth not to thee;

3But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.

4Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips.

5The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.

6The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage.

7I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.

8I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

9Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.

10For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

11Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Now, wasn't it nice to take just a moment for you and God alone? Have a great week.

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.”

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com. We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

GETTING CLOSE TO MY BIRTHDAY

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com
December 3, 2005 #395

As you well know, we are getting closer to my birthday. Every year there is a celebration in my honor and I think that this year the celebration will be repeated. During this time there are many people shopping for gifts, there are many radio announcements, TV commercials, and in every part of the world everyone is talking that my birthday is getting closer and closer.

It is really very nice to know, that at least once a year, some people think of me. As you know, the celebration of my birthday began many years ago. At first people seemed to understand and be thankful of all that I did for them, but in these times, no one seems to know the reason for the celebration. Family and friends get together and have a lot of fun, but they don't know the meaning of the celebration.

I remember that last year there was a great feast in my honor. The dinner table was full of delicious foods, pastries, fruits, assorted nuts and chocolates. The decorations were exquisite and there were many, many beautifully wrapped gifts. But, do you want to know something? I wasn't invited. I was the guest of honor and they didn't remember to send me an invitation.

The party was for me, but when that great day came, I was left outside, they closed the door in my face......... and I wanted to be with them and share their table. In truth, that didn't surprise me because in the last few years all close their doors to me.

Since I was not invited, I decided to enter the party without making any noise. I went in and stood in a corner. They were all drinking; there were some who were drunk and telling jokes and laughing at everything. They were having a great time. To top it all, this big fat man all dressed in red wearing a long white beard entered the room yelling Ho-Ho-Ho! He seemed drunk. He sat on the sofa and all the children ran to him, saying : "Santa Claus, Santa Claus"... as if the party were in his honor !

At 12 midnight all the people began to hug each other; I extended my arms waiting for someone to hug me and do you know .... no one hugged me. Suddenly they all began to share gifts. They opened them one by one with great expectation. When all had been opened, I looked to see if, maybe, there was one for me. What would you feel if on your birthday everybody shared gifts and you did not get one? I then understood that I was unwanted at that party and quietly left. Every year it gets worse. People only remember to eat and drink, the gifts, the parties and nobody remembers me. I would like this Christmas that you allow me to enter into your life. I would like that you recognize the fact that almost two thousand years ago I came to this world to give my life for you, on the cross, to save you. Today, I only want that you believe this with all you heart.

I want to share something with you. As many didn't invite me to their party, I will have my own celebration, a grandiose party that no one has ever imagined, a spectacular party. I'm still making the final arrangements. Today I am sending out many invitations and there is an invitation for you. I want to know if you wish to attend and I will make a reservation for you and write your name with golden letters in my great guest book. Only those on the guest list will be invited to the party. Those who don't answer the invitation, will be left outside.

Do you know how you can answer this invitation? it is by extending it to others whom you care for... I'll be waiting for all of you to attend my party this year...

See you soon .... I love 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.”

Each week I send out writings as an e-mail Ministry. I welcome you to join us as we share. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests.

NEW BLOG at Blogger.com: SURFINGWITHJESUS

I am new at this but thought I would give it a try. My son did the nice ones so this is my first try. Maybe this ole man can learn new tricks???

395 GETTING CLOSE TO MY BIRTHDAY

SURFING WITH JESUS
Pastor Gene A. Dasher, Sr.
gene@SurfingwithJesus.com
December 3, 2005 #395

As you well know, we are getting closer to my birthday. Every year there is a celebration in my honor and I think that this year the celebration will be repeated. During this time there are many people shopping for gifts, there are many radio announcements, TV commercials, and in every part of the world everyone is talking that my birthday is getting closer and closer.

It is really very nice to know, that at least once a year, some people think of me. As you know, the celebration of my birthday began many years ago. At first people seemed to understand and be thankful of all that I did for them, but in these times, no one seems to know the reason for the celebration. Family and friends get together and have a lot of fun, but they don't know the meaning of the celebration.

I remember that last year there was a great feast in my honor. The dinner table was full of delicious foods, pastries, fruits, assorted nuts and chocolates. The decorations were exquisite and there were many, many beautifully wrapped gifts. But, do you want to know something? I wasn't invited. I was the guest of honor and they didn't remember to send me an invitation.

The party was for me, but when that great day came, I was left outside, they closed the door in my face......... and I wanted to be with them and share their table. In truth, that didn't surprise me because in the last few years all close their doors to me.

Since I was not invited, I decided to enter the party without making any noise. I went in and stood in a corner. They were all drinking; there were some who were drunk and telling jokes and laughing at everything. They were having a great time. To top it all, this big fat man all dressed in red wearing a long white beard entered the room yelling Ho-Ho-Ho! He seemed drunk. He sat on the sofa and all the children ran to him, saying : "Santa Claus, Santa Claus"... as if the party were in his honor !

At 12 midnight all the people began to hug each other; I extended my arms waiting for someone to hug me and do you know .... no one hugged me. Suddenly they all began to share gifts. They opened them one by one with great expectation. When all had been opened, I looked to see if, maybe, there was one for me. What would you feel if on your birthday everybody shared gifts and you did not get one? I then understood that I was unwanted at that party and quietly left. Every year it gets worse. People only remember to eat and drink, the gifts, the parties and nobody remembers me. I would like this Christmas that you allow me to enter into your life. I would like that you recognize the fact that almost two thousand years ago I came to this world to give my life for you, on the cross, to save you. Today, I only want that you believe this with all you heart.

I want to share something with you. As many didn't invite me to their party, I will have my own celebration, a grandiose party that no one has ever imagined, a spectacular party. I'm still making the final arrangements. Today I am sending out many invitations and there is an invitation for you. I want to know if you wish to attend and I will make a reservation for you and write your name with golden letters in my great guest book. Only those on the guest list will be invited to the party. Those who don't answer the invitation, will be left outside.

Do you know how you can answer this invitation? it is by extending it to others whom you care for... I'll be waiting for all of you to attend my party this year...

See you soon .... I love 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.”

Each week I send out writings as an e-mail Ministry. I welcome you to join us as we share. My sole desire is to uplift Christ, fellow Christians, and share the love of Jesus with others.

To join us weekly or stop receiving Surfing with Jesus please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com.

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests.

NEW BLOG at Blogger.com: SURFINGWITHJESUS

I am new at this but thought I would give it a try. My son did the nice ones so this is my first try. Maybe this ole man can learn new tricks???

#378 - PSALMS 39

Psalm 39

Apart From God, Life Is Fleeting and Empty

Today, I would like to share some thoughts from the commentary on this chapter from the Tyndale Life Application Bible that blessed me. In this chapter we see an appeal for God’s mercy because life is so brief. Let us read this chapter first.

Psalm 39 (King James Version)
1 I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.
2 I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred.
3 My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue,
4 LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am.
5 Behold, thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah.
6 Surely every man walketh in a vain shew: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them.
7 And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.
8 Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish.
9 I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst it.
10 Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thine hand.
11 When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man is vanity. Selah.
12 Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.
13 O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more.

“David resolved not to sin with his tongue; that is, he decided not to complain to other people about God’s treatment of him. David certainly had reason to complain. He was the anointed king of Israel, but had to wait many years before taking the throne. Then one of his sons tried to kill him and become king instead. But when David could not keep still any longer, he took his complaints directly to God. We all have complaints about job, money, or situation, but complaining before others may make them think that God cannot take care of us. It may also look as if we blame God for our troubles. Instead, like David, we should take our complaints directly to God.”

“Life is short no matter how long we live. If there is something important we want to do, we must not put it off for a better day. Ask yourself, if I had only six months to live, what would I do? Tell someone that you love him or her? Deal with an undisciplined area in your life? Tell someone about Jesus? Since life is short, don’t neglect what is truly important.”

“How temporary our lives are! It is as if we were God’s guests, visiting with him for a short while before passing on. But while our time her is short, the effects of what we can be eternal. One well-worn saying states: ‘Only one life will soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.’”

May we take time to talk to our Heavenly Father and recover our strength as we go forward in the strength of His mercy. Our hope is not in things and stuff but in God whom we trust and obey.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.”

To join our weekly email list please send your request to gene@SurfingwithJesus.com. We welcome prayer requests anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests.

#377 - GOOD MORNING!

GOOD MORNING!

It is with great pleasure I write to you today and share the love of Jesus with you. As I arose today I looked out and saw the wonderful beauty God has given us on this earth. At this time of year in my part of the world, the trees are green, the grass needs to be mowed every two or three days, the birds are singing and it is very warm each day.

How long has it been since you stopped and thanked God for all this beauty? One may complain about it being too hot in the heat of the day but it sure beats the cold that comes our way in the winter. God is so good to us, we are blessed with the only true God that loves and cares for each of us with an unending love each moment of the day.

So, it is a good morning. Let us rise and be thankful for life, health,strength, and Salvation that comes only thru Jesus. You may mumble and complain and say what life, what health, and what strength? I challenge youto go to your local shopping area, find you a seat, do a little people-watching and it won't be long before you will see someone that has less health and strength than you do. If that doesn't wake you up to how blessed you are simply drop by your nearest hospital and visit and you will find many who would love to just have your aches and pains today.

What is life? Life is knowing Jesus to me. Life is having friends and family that we can share our heart with. Life is not always fair one may think when things don't go our way. We may find out we have a bad heart, cancer, some other bad health situation or we may lose our best friend or our job but even in the midst of these storms you see the beauty that comes only in knowing God.

One writer wrote, "Joy comes in the morning." So, you see, it is a good morning. I often think of David Ring when he is speaking and tells of people complaining and he looks at them and says, I have cerebral palsy, what's your problem. He gets so excited about life and how God has blessed him with 4 beautiful children. David's love for the day radiates as he tells his story and says and my kids are normal.

As you start your day, ask yourself "What is normal?" Lord help me today to be thankful for the normal in my life. Lord, may I be thankful that I have you. Lord, refresh my thoughts as I lift my voice in adoration and praise for what you have placed on my plate today knowing that I am able to do all things thru you and that you will be with me this morning as I rise and go my way. Thank you Lord, thank you for your tender mercies that are extended to me today.

Yes, it is a good morning and I know God will be with me in all my endeavors. Thank you Lord for planting your word in my heart and I'm excited about this morning because I know you will not leave me, you will not forsake me, and that you will be with me all day. Thank you Jesus, thank you for this day. This is the day that the Lord hath made, rejoice and be glad in it.

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

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests.

#376 - LIFE IS SO FRAGILE

LIFE IS SO FRAGILE

All of us are affected by death from time to time. It is at these times we pause and realize how quickly time passes us by.

Today, a precious friend at age 41 has gone to be with the Lord too quickly and too soon for all of us. This young man has always been such a blessing to everyone he comes into contact with. He sang about the love of God and brought us to a new height of worship many times in our community.

Life is so fragile and precious. Times like these make me stop and think about all the goodness of the Lord but it also opens my eyes to the shortness of our time on earth. We are never ready to allow one to leave us but I know my friend is not only singing like an angel today; he is singing with them around the throne of God.

This reminds me so much of the song "Our life is but a vapor it vanishes away, our days are very few upon this earth, Why spend your life in foolishness just to pass the time away, the price you pay will be more than Its worth, Don't overlook Salvation while searching for great joy, he's knocking at your heart's door let him in, step out for the Savior and join his mighty band, for he will give you peace and happiness."

Lord help us this day to do our best for you, help us to live our life pleasing to you and share your love in song and word to those you entrust us with. Help us live everyday as though you will come for us to join you with our many friends who have finished their course in this life. I pray we will be the witness you will be pleased with so we too can sing before you with the angels in heaven?

When I have trouble comprehending things in life I love to go to God's word for comfort. Today I will leave you with one of my favorite Psalms that has helped me many times in my Christian walk.

Psalm 121
1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
2 My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.
3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.
4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand.
6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.
8 The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Thank you Lord for the comfort of your word, thank you for life, you are so precious to me and I praise you for the touch of your hand 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."

We welcome prayer request anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests.

#375 - INDEPENDENCE DAY

INDEPENDENCE DAY

I know I have people from many other nations on my Surfing with Jesus mailing list. However, I must take a moment to Celebrate July 4, 2005 as this is our Independence Day in the United States of America. May peace abound in all nations and war cease for evermore.

HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY AMERICA!

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.”

To join our weekly mailing list please send your request to

gene@SurfingwithJesus.com. We welcome prayer requests anytime. Join us in prayer for these requests.