One Heart at a Time

But Peniel knew what was coming. Each occasion he witnessed a miracle it was like experiencing his own all over again. Each encounter varied.
Every wound and hurt and longing was unique. And always, always, Yeshua embraced each person. He met every need as if there had never been a life so important as the one that held His gaze that very moment.

Blessed art Thou O, Lord God, King of the Universe, Who performs wondrous deeds.

First Yeshua probed the human heart. Illuminated the darkness of a soul. He found and extracted the arrow of loneliness or shame or longing that pierced the soul. That was the first miracle. Only after healing the heart did He turn His attention to healing the broken body.

One heart at a time, one life at a time.....

Remembering

Thirty two years in Heaven today.
Wonder what he's been doing all these years ?

Toronto Fun

Last weekend we traveled to Toronto to spend time with family. Part of the family is Maggie, a lovely companion and she just loves it when we visit.Zoe and Maggie are very happy together. Zoe is used to Maggie's size and doesn't mind sharing me with her for a bit.



Trying to get a family picture was a challenge but with Zoe on my tummy and Maggie by my side we figured it out, well, kind of anyway. I just love these dogs, I have to say.

Oh yes, I did enjoy the human company as well, but do these dogs know how to cuddle or what ? Makes one feel very loved.

I Love His Voice

Chapter 18.....

Why, why had Yeshua opened the ears of Peniel's soul to the whisperers ? The accusations of the unseen enemy had trampled the newborn truth in the meadow before it drew a single breath !

Peniel fled to the apple orchard, He closed his eyes in misery and leaned back against the trunk of a tree. Clamping palms over his ears, he tried to shut out the memory of the voices he had heard.

But he could not shut out the despair that overwhelmed him.

Why Lord ? Peniel wept quietly as he prayed. 'Why should I hear such things ? I was happy here with you. Thought you were making a difference. Thought maybe I could make a difference too. Teach somebody something like you do. Tell somebody you love them.But no. No! They won't listen ! How can they hear you with that going on in their heads ?

Exhausted, Peniel finally fell asleep.

Peniel knew no one had heard Yeshua. No one in that vast assembly had listened...really listened...to a promise from heaven that could revolutionize their life forever.

How could Yeshua compete against those hideous whispers ?

Yeshua was watching Peniel from a distance. He seemed unperturbed by what had happened earlier that day.'How long have you been there Lord ?'

'Long enough,' Yeshua said kindly.

'You might as well come sit down then Lord. If you heard what I heard today rattling in the air you must be very tired'.
Yeshua joined him , leaning against the tree. 'Peniel, why did you run away ?'

Peniel bit his lip. 'The voices.'

Yes, I hear them all the time. They are always working against us. They are the enemy.

'I'll be honest. It was a dirty trick, you opening my ears and letting my illusions be smashed like that.'
'I thought you should know what you'll be up against if you're going to follow me. Discouragement is the Evil One's best weapon against those who do the work of my Father.'

'Well spoken. Point taken. I'll tell you what I think. I think the people might as well have stayed home. And you might have saved your breath for all the difference it's made. .......I heard the voices plain as anything.
All of them arguing with you . Arguing about you. Calling you a liar.'

'That's the nature of the enemy' Yeshua said. His voice was calm. 'He lies.'

'He's strong. Too strong for me.' Peniel shuddered.

'Did you notice the silence when I spoke the Truth?'

'I was happier before I knew Lord. Every human being in that field today was listening to some other ...thing...talking...talking...talking, while you taught.

'There are some who fight self delusion, Yeshua answered. Some who fight the numbing grip of daily life.
Truth. A handful in a thousand cling to it like a raft on a stormy sea.
But it's beginning. We're gaining a foothold here on earth. Yes, It's beginning.

Today, there was a man near the back. I saw him come late. After everyone was already seated. He needed real hope today. And he drank The Word down like cool water. He chose to believe me.'

'Chose ? Can a person choose to believe ?' 'Of course Peniel. It's the only way your faith can grow. You choose to trust that I cannot lie. You act on the word I have spoken. Then you discover that what I told you really is the Truth.'

............................................................

So, I have discovered another great series by my all time favorite authors Bodie and Brock Thoene. 'A.D. Chronicles.'

Way better for me than zoning out watching my tv at bedtime . I am blessed. There are a total of eleven books in this series. They are biblical fiction, and present a very accurate picture of the world in the days when Jesus walked the earth.

Sometimes the brutality of those days shock me and I wonder at the 'fullness of time' when God sent His son to earth to fulfill all prophecy and die on a Roman cross.
These books are full of scripture, and how all scripture speaks of Jesus. Rich very rich indeed and a timely discovery for me.

Elevator Encounter

Time. Time is ticking by.
I can feel an explosion inside.
People get ready.
(lyrics by Misty Edwards)

Last night. Nine thirty or so. Time to walk Zoe .

As we wait for the elevator, the door opens and a Lady who was my neighbor downstairs steps off. She is pale and rather shaky.

I had missed her presence around the building, since she is on the housekeeping staff and loves Zoe. I had heard she was not well...speculations abounded.

This lady invited us to come and visit a while. She is now staying with her eighty eight year old mother who lives on our floor.

'I have five brain tumors. Cancer.'

Shock registers on my face. So we talk.
She has known for three weeks and has begun radiation therapy.
She has also had to 'get her house in order' and has been driving herself to accomplish this in the midst of her symptoms.

She says she is fine. Ready to die. She must be finished what she was put here to do....right god ?

During our conversation, mostly listening on my part, my friend is chain smoking, cursing a little, but she is fine...not afraid, at peace actually.
Was I familiar with a certain psychic ? No, I wasn't.

So you have some kind of faith I ask ? Oh yes ! I'm fine, really, it's ok.

'I will pray for you my Lady .'

Thanks Nancy, but I'm ready, actually looking forward to it. I'm at peace. Haven't even cried. She is 57.

Meanwhile I am already standing with Jesus asking Him. Ok, now how are You going to do this, and once the shock wears off of me please Holy Spirit kick me into high gear prayer.

We know she is not 'ready' to stand before her Creator. The spirit of the age has spread it's veil over her .

So where else to go but to the Mercy Seat where we all stand on level ground . Please pray for this Lady, that Jesus will come to her in the midst of the symptoms of her illness and show her He is absolutely Real. Absolutely Alive, and Absolutely her loving Savior.

That when she takes her final breath she is Safely Home. That when she really 'wakes up' for real, she is smiling at her welcome into the Arms of Eternity.

Please Jesus, teach me how to pray. 'For the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us, with groans that words cannot express.' Romans 8/26

Long Ago

Once upon a time, a very long time ago, an old southern gentleman came to our town to promote his 'down home recipe' of some fried chicken.
There was a chap in town, name of Dave Foster, who opened a restaurant that served this old gentleman's chicken exclusively.

My father was in radio at CHEX and was involved in promoting new sponsors.

In this picture is my father and Colonel Harlen Sanders , of the 'original recipe'fame. I seem to remember being present in the restaurant and feasting on the product.

From that time on our family always had free KFC and we all still love it to this day, though I think it somehow tasted better way back then. Check out the jacket my father is wearing...no lapels...I will have to check on the year this was taken and the fashion styles....oh my !

He Really Is !

Behold !

I looked ....
There before me ...... A Door
I heard ....The Voice

Photo courtesy of my friend Dennis.

My Portion

Oh Lord, You are my Portion
My inheritance and my Cup;
You have made my lot secure.
Boundary lines fall to me in pleasant places;
Yes, I have a good inheritance.

Paint Your Picture

Honoring My Mom

A happy young lady, born into a family that would eventually number ten children. Mom had to get to work early to help support the family. That was the way it went back in the days. One of the stories she told us, was that she started smoking when she was nine.



During the Second World War, mom was one of the many who enlisted. There were six of her siblings that also signed up. They were literally called the 'Fighting O'Toole's' a name that they lived out frequently even after the war.

My mom was a dancer in Army Shows , the company that entertained the troops.
It was among this group of young people where she met and eventually married my father in Italy.



Later, in 1945 mom had to return home because she was expecting me. That was a very hard thing for her to leave my dad overseas . She returned to her family here and dad came back in 1946 after I was born.

They had five children together and our mom was such a trooper. She was made our clothes, which was the way of life in those days. I loved my First Communion Dress. It really made me feel like a Bride and so pretty for Jesus.





This was taken during a visit to Winnipeg back in the eighties. I can still feel the emotion of the moment, and knew she loved me.



My favorite picture of the two of us. Ahhhh...how young I was then....and brunette, my own color...well almost anyway. Maybe I should try that again.

Today is the day my mom graduated to heaven into the arms of Jesus. About three days before she died, I had a dream . In this dream mom came rushing into my kitchen. She was wearing her p.j.'s as usual, a Flight Jacket and big ol' wellington boots. She ran in and said to me....''hurry up and get moving, I have to go .''
Where are you going mom ? Then I followed her outside into the night. I took notice of the weather, no snow, wet streets...Mom jumped into the back seat of a taxi . In the vehicle were other members of her family who had gone before her.

Next day, the phone call comes and I was soon on my way here to Peterborough. When I arrived at the hospital it was night, no snow , wet streets. Same as in my dream.
Mom by this time was in a coma, but when I walked into her room she sat up in response to my presence, though she didn't regain consciousness.

As for me, I was privileged to remain alone with her the whole night, holding her hand, praying, singing to her and just being with her. Such a wonderful gift from the Lord, to be with her at her leaving. That was eighteen years ago today. I know she is enjoying her eternity with Jesus, and so just want to say thanks mom for all your hard work on our behalf . I love you and will see you soon.

My Soul Sings

Just a little while longer
and I'll see You
Just a little while longer
and I'll know You
Just a little while longer
and we'll be together.

All I want is just
to know Your heart
Would You keep me here
until we're one.

My soul sings !
How I love You Jesus.

Wrestle and Encounter

The good news is....we win !

Is.45:1-3 This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, Whose right hand I take hold of to subdue nations before him and to strip kings of their armor, To open doors before him so that gates will not be shut:

I will go before you and make the crooked places straight.


I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron.


I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord the God of Israel, who calls you by name.



Recently I watched a service taught by Bill Johnson over at iBethel.T.V.from the date Dec.27,2009 titled 'The Power of a Promise.' It's free...and so very worth watching . Be encouraged.

For instance I didn't know that Cyrus wasn't even born yet when the Lord spoke this word through the prophet Isaiah.
And ...we too were called by name...known by God...way before we were born as well...yep...knew this.
Treasures of darkness...also includes people .

So seems like we or me.....can rest in the fact that His promises concerning us will also be brought to fulfillment .

It's in the Genes

This is just what I feel like some days.

Pearl of Great Price

The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought the field.

Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. Matt.13:44,45

He did it for me, can I do any less ? Whatever the price Lord, you have my Yes.

Happy Birthday Jonathan

Wonderful memories....a few old pictures....so much love.
















Have a wonderful Birthday my son. You are loved beyond measure and a blessing to my life always.

'Arms Wide Open'

This is a powerful songs from one of Misty's Newest releases.

The Year of Suddenly

January 1, 2010

I have been listening,praying, waiting to hear the Word of the Lord .

I have felt on the brink of something, like when I was on the edge of the plane seconds before my skydive. I took a deep breath ....and we were in the air.

Today while tuned into the Prayer Room during a Julie Meyer set at noon, there came the sound I had been waiting expectantly for.

I will just make note of the general direction of the declarations.

This is the year of suddenly, suddenly, suddenly...
You just wait and see what I'm gonna do

The year of suddenly , suddenly, suddenly....
Say yes ! I'm comin' to you, heaven is comin' down...open door..no ceiling.

You just watch and see... a year of suddenly, suddenly, suddenly.

Releasing the New Wine for the New Year... you will be a spectacle of My Glory.
Say yes ! The wine is on the house...it's FREE....drink up , drink deep.

It's a brand new day !

Behold the Whirlwind has gone forth.

The Light Has Come

Isa 9:2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great Light; they who dwell in the land of the shadow of death, on them the Light has shined.

Isa 9:6 For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be on His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Derek Loux

Please pray for the family of Derek Loux.



Here are Randy's thoughts as we process this tragedy.

This n' That

This is the tree that graces the lobby of our apartment building. It has remained in place for over two weeks now...an amazing fact since last year someone stole the tree within a day. Those folks must have moved out.

Kind of nice to see , since these last several years I do not bother with any Christmas festivities or decorations since there is just myself and my dog and so I am not interested any longer.

Moving right along.....

Due to the fact that the cold is bitter these days, much to Zoey's chagrin it becomes necessary to bundle her up for outings, even brief ones.



She does look disgusted with the whole deal I have to admit.



But it does keep that cute little butt moving and warm and protected from the ice and sidewalk salt.

Jon Thurlow

Just in the nick of time, you can get this lovely album of Christmas hymns and carols in mp3 format at ihop

Advent Images Of Hope

These lovely images are courtesy of Richard Lyall.
Pilgrims Progress and Engage Worship.

God Came Near

It all happened in a moment, a most remarkable moment. God became a man.

While the creatures of earth walked unaware, Divinity arrived.
Heaven opened herself and placed her most precious one in a human womb.

The omnipotent, in one instant, made himself breakable.
He who had been spirit became pierceable.

He who was larger than the universe became an embryo. And he who sustains the world with a word chose to be dependent upon the nourishment of a young girl.

God as a fetus. Holiness sleeping in a womb. The creator of life being created.
God was given eyebrows, elbows, two kidneys, and a spleen. He stretched against the walls and floated in the amniotic fluids of his mother.

God had come near.

It all happened in a moment. In one moment … a most remarkable moment.

The Word became flesh. Oh what a Savior !

(Max Lucado)

How Did We Do That?

In a small apartment with three computers, each doing something different...this is how we did that!

One child chose this place.



Anneka loves to chat and play games with her cousin Sammie who lives in South Carolina.
There is a camera in her mom's computer and Anneka even let Sammie visit with Zoe through the web cam.

As well the girls were able to watch movies together, and seriously this is where they wanted to sit.


I set Aila up here in the chair.

In the meantime, Gramma and Zoe had the best place .


Just having fun.



As for Miss Zoe, she has taken to sweetly trying to distract me and obstruct my view of the prayer room web stream. Pretty much works I must admit.