Greetings.

Taking Flight...
Do you have a chance to? Is it a location?
How often?
If you are normal, it must be a regular event! I know it must be done, I know WHO I must go see, and I know that there is blest refreshing awaiting...

Unto the mountains of seclusion
once more I take flight.
In the Presence of Him only
does my heart delight!
Far from all distractions, nothing
interrupts at all;
oh, for that retreat each time
the Spirit comes to call!

Solitude and solace,
precious and so pure;
here for to obtain that which
enables me endure;
here to give to Him most
valuable of sacrifice:
I trade my time and my attention
for that without price!

Oh, the peaks of solitude
so far beyond my word;
most wonderful of transformation
in this place occurred!
So intimate, this wilderness,
familiar and unknown;
being with my God and Father--
four of us alone!

Each of us have a busy schedule. However, let NOTHING rob you of sweet fellowship with God the Father--all Three of Him!

In HIS Service, Jim

6607

Greetings!

I'm hungry!
But what will satisfy? Am I even aware of what I hunger for?
Of a truth, there is so much out there to desire, but things that satisfy. Some things satisfy momentarily, but very few things keep one satisfied.
I have found the greatest...

And since He's come into my heart
I've yet to lack a thing.
For when He came, such blest provision
did He also bring!
I have not known hunger,
nor since did e'er I thirst;
but why could I not yield to Him
there at the very first?

But wait! A single hunger and
a thirst has since occurred!
One so very deep within,
'tis for His Holy Word!
A single way to feed it:
to devour it each day!
The appetizer and dessert
are both the same: to pray.
And I "be being filled" as on
the Holy Word I dine!
Nourishment unto the marrow
and the joints of mine!
Exactly what I need to make it
'til I dine again;
even extra so to go
and share it with all men!!

Are you hungry? For what? Does it satisfy?
Consume God's Word!!
1192

Blessings on you!

New Year's Eve. But what is time?
It is quite an issue in this life, but what about eternity?

All of time proclaims!
Creation calls His Names!
"God of everything!"
Sing, ye living, sing!

O my Father, You are all!
I respond unto Your call...
I submit unto Your lead...
"Teach me wholly!" this I plead!
You I cannot understand.
You hold me in Your awesome hand,
You feed me with what cannot end,
You speak what no man can rescind!

Time to yet proclaim
the glory of Your Name.
"You are mine Everything"
I shall forever sing!

The year is gone. A new one starts in a little while.
May we not lose sight of that which is more important than time.

In HIS Service, Jim

4409

"Thank you, Jesus! You are so faithful!"

As I read prayer requests from yesterday for the first time, I ask Debby questions and realize that there were no more seizures after prayer was started!
WHAT A MIGHTY GOD WE SERVE!!
Some would say "If HE is so mighty, why does Jim continue to have seizures?" I am asked that so often. I don't know, either. But I stand upon that Scripture in Job 13:15 that declares "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him."
I don't know why I suffer. "Suffer?" How can I be 'suffering' when I cannot recall what I went through?! Is that 'suffering?' As I listen to people describe what my seizures are like, the inability to recall them sounds more like a 'blessing' to me! (However, Debby, Matt & Vicki will affirm that THEY suffer with inability to stop me!)
"Suffering..." hmmm. Watching my wife during a migraine...THAT is 'suffering!' She suffers the wretched pain, I suffer knowing that there is so little I can do for her during them! Again, God is in control--that blessed truth is what causes us to endure! Endure and emerge victorious!
So, does this make me a martyr? I don't think so! I know multitudes that suffer far worse than I, and are much more effective than I! I don't know why EACH OF US endure what we do. I know that there is a plethora of 'cliche's' that well-meaning people would attach to any answer to these questions, but my God needs not one of us to defend Him, His answers to our prayers, or His appearance of a lack of response. Every one of our petitions to Him has an answer. Sometimes, the answer is "No." Sometimes, the answer is "Not yet."
Am I patient enough for HIS answer?

In HIS Service, Jim

Blessing on you!

It is this writer's prayer that you and yours CONTINUE to give...

More than the presents, more than the gifts,
Jesus is constant and constantly lifts!
Gift of God given, given to all--
they are so fortunate heeding the Call!

"Away in a Manger..." away from the same,
absolute power be His for to claim!
His mighty power to claim for our own--
will you, by His awesome power, be known?

O wonderful season, traditions and all,
help me to focus on His greater Call!
So beautiful, wonderful season of days,
o, but eclipsed by The Way and His ways!

"The Christmas spirit--" The same does not have to be seasonal! Why can't I have such a giving spirit all year long? Even dismiss that thought; Why can't I have such a giving spirit day to day, one day at a time?
Jesus Christ is Christmas. The Lord Jesus is constant. I love celebrating His birthday! But He gives to me constantly, not for just a season!

"Lord, please teach me to give, amen."
6606

My season is a Person, not
a personality...
He is alive within, without
in everything I see;

My season is a Present, not
a present I must buy!
He already paid the price
in full for you and I;

My season is far greater than
a period of time--
He will eliminate the same
when, in His Presence, I'm!

My season--yesterday, today
and ever is the same!
He is love, He is life
and JESUS is His Name!

Merry Christmas everyone from the Busby home to yours!

In HIS Service, Jim

6605

Greetings.

There are so many people I know, each of us know, that will spend this Christmas alone for the first time.

What is it like?

Look into their faces. Look into their eyes. There is no way to know the loss or the pain until each of us has felt it.

Only then will we know, feel and be able to minister to them…to us.

The holidays anew

what am I going to do?

Will even I survive?

But memories are alive!

The hope to Whom I cling,

new memories will bring;

and life will surely be--

of hope and victory!

Those deep inside my heart,

they surely are a part.

I don't have to pretend,

because memories attend!

I do not need facade,

I have the cloak of God!

And joy, it is not feigned,

as new strength I have gained

with those inside my heart,

and those who won't depart.

Christmas is alive. Christmas is life! Find those living around you this Christmas and live Jesus with them.

I hope this says that even though they are absent physically, they are always present inside, and we that love will not depart.

ALONE AT CHRISTMAS 6523

WINTER!

Does that word make you shiver?
I realize that today's words get read in four different seasons, but where they are written it is 9 degrees! It is, however, quite beautiful!
What of the weather of the heart, though? Is it cold and unbearable? Is it stormy? Is it warm and inviting?

Frozen out the window...
vision amplified
by the sun of Christmas time
shining vision-wide.

So warm behind the window...
senses amplified
by the Son of Christmas time
shining living-wide!

So is the moving of the Spirit
here upon my my knees
my prayers to go living-wide
beyond festivities:
beyond the decorations,
celebrations, gifts and meals,
the birthday One looks at us each
and once again appeals.
He loves the celebrations, He
appreciates the praise,
but how does He look on the flurry
of the Holidays?
I must determine balance of
the giving and the Gift
as I allow His Majesty,
my very being, sift.

The weather of the holidays-
is it determined by my ways?
In spite of ANY winter storm,
may God find dwelling calm and warm.

In HIS Service, Jim
6605

"WAKE UP!"

Has anyone ever shouted that at you?
There are times that I look at my world and want to do so as I see them scurrying around to do and get things that do not pertain to Christmas! That very crowd is almost oblivious to what Christmas is all about.
If you are one of them...

Awake! Awake, ye living!
A King, a King is born!
The greatest throne to ever be,
He does, He shall adorn!
His majesty unequalled,
spectacular, His grace!
His reign, it is eternal
like those who give Him place!

Awaken, o ye living,
and long before that day,
ye are the very seasoning,
the temper of the clay!
Salt and light unto your world,
even Christ alive!
Allow them see the Light within you,
that they, too, may thrive!

Awake, possessors of the Light!
You MUST give it away!
Unto a dark and dying world,
throw each of them a ray!
No matter what you give away,
far greater your return-
multiplied far greater than
this life could ever earn!!
6603

Greetings!
As we celebrate, remember...

Again it is that time of year,
so many people drawing near
to see the One it’s all about,
the One most of them are without!
Can any go about these days
without hearing of His praise?
Without a mention of His Name?
Regardless, His is Lord, the same!
If even we are this concerned
about those who have, His love, spurned,
imagine how the Savior feels,
thus He, relentlessly, appeals!
As we rejoice in Jesus’ birth,
Him, Who gives our living worth,
there is a touch of grief inside
for all of those who have denied.
The greatest gift that e’er could be,
freely sent to such as we;
should we not share it with the rest,
so that they, too, can have the best?
As the year draws to a close,
let misconceptions, all, dispose,
and let us look into His face
and fully realize His grace!
For there, behind the flowing tears,
compassion and concern appears;
not apathy for those who don’t,
nor anger unto those who won’t,
but true compassion, love, and care,
ever ready, for to share!
For let us, these things, emulate,
as, unto Him, we celebrate.

In HIS Service, Jim
527

Blessings on you!

'Tis the season?
Perhaps the way the world sees it!
Every day is the life of Jesus anew in those who gave their own life in trade for His. Are you one of them? He offers His life in trade to 'whosoever will!'
I'm a 'whosoever.' What about you?
The benefits of Jesus' life are far more than seasonal...even more than this life!

Glory of the season?
But eternal is the same!
The glory of the One begotten,
Jesus Christ by Name!
Glory far exceeding any
other glory known;
Father God assuring us
such glory be His own!

Glory of the season--more than
seasonal is He!
He is life--none other there
with such sufficiency!
And liberty abounding in
the very Prince of Peace!
Peace abounding in the ones
that would, their selves, release!

Glory of the season, oh,
but let Him be much more!
Far more than only 'seasonal'
but Jesus Christ is for!
Know His intimacy no matter
what the season be!
He is alive because of God's
great love for such as we!
6602

"The voices of rejoicing love!"
Can you hear them?
What are you listening for?
I know too many people who only get up to read the paper or listen to the latest news.
There is far more more than that to see, to hear.
Yes, we must be aware of that which goes on in our world, but if that's all there is to your world, you are missing out on a whole lot of life!
On your way to pick up that newspaper wave at someone you've never seen...
Wish a complete stranger "Merry Christmas!" (Or 'Happy Holy Days!')
Smile more!
When you wake up, before you turn the news on or open the paper, decide to find something good and positive, something to rejoice about and be thankful for.
Yes, it IS a decision, YOUR decision!

There is life! It is alive,
it is, is not a 'thing!'
There is Life--He is alive,
and I address Him "King!"
Even Lord and Savior He,
and Jesus is His Name!
There is Life--Jesus Christ,
He is mine only claim!

There is Life--mine only claim?
Mine every claim at all!
Jesus is alive always,
oh hear His certain call!
Words so very living,
love like not another;
seek the Life of Him, for He
is closer than a brother!

There is Life--do you know Him?
Life--it is a Man!
The Beginning and the End
of One exclusive Plan!
There is no other life at all
when looking at all living;
unto whom, therefore, will you
but your own life be giving?

Jesus Christ IS Christmas.
What is Christmas to you?
6597

Greetings!

Joy...love...hope...celebration...happiness...peace...rest...
Is that what you see as you look around at Christmas?
Perhaps we should pray for new eyes to see with?

O celebrate His majesty,
o celebrate the King!
Worship Him with instruments,
lift the voices! Sing!
Praise Him with the trumpets,
with the string and with the voice!
He is worthy of it all;
rejoice...rejoice...rejoice!

None other is authority,
Jesus--Lord of all!
All of living, then and now,
o heed One only call!
All of life that is to come
has opportune to see
the Power and the Glory all
throughout eternity!!

O celebrate His Lordship now
while life is as we know!
Then celebrate His Lordship in
the graces He'll bestow!
Prepare ye for that Paradise
by bending NOW the knee
unto the glory and the wonder
of His Majesty!
6595

Blessings on you!

Joy! Joy unspeakable? The Bible speaks of such!
Joy unwriteable? Aw, c'mon!! But I will try!
Speak, oh Holy Spirit...

Joy to the World, ye everyman,
o vocalize the voice!
Join angelic Hosts aloft,
REJOICE! REJOICE! REJOICE!
The season of the Savior is not
'seasonal' at all!
Give ye thanks but ceasing not,
according to His call!

"Silent night," yet temporary!
Hear the angels sing
a song of coronation unto
Christ--the newborn King!
The season of His birth, it is not
seasonal at all!
Oh, but all of time, itself,
"Your Majesty" to call!

Silence only possible
in adoration of
the glory and the majesty
of Jesus--King of Love!
Celebration be the balance
of the time remaining,
which is to be eternally
with His Kingship reigning!

Will you be in that Heaven realm?
Will you be in that celebration?
It only takes your decision.
He awaits your decision.
The invitation is still open...

In HIS Service, Jim

6594

Blessings on you!

Joy unspeakable!
Do you know such joy?
Do you HAVE that joy?
What is stopping you? Only what you allow!

Joy to the world! Joy to the heart!
May stress and worry have no part.
May the Goodness of the season
far eclipse all other reason!

Oh, living Light of Christmas,
You shine throughout the year!
Your light, it is eternal,
can such be grasped while here?
You shine so deep within us--
oh, let us each allow:
be Light within us even more
unto the groping now!

Joy unspoken, oh, the poet
seeks each living phrase!
So far beyond a shopping spree
be Your eternal praise!
Jesus, You are Joy alone
right now and evermore!
Jesus Christ--the greatest reason
Christmas time is for!!

Of a truth, every one of us has something in our lives that may hinder or even prevent such joy. Don't let it! God is well aware of every type of pain or loss that we are going through, yet He continues to provide JESUS because He knows the joy we need and the Joy that Jesus is!
GO FOR IT!!
6593

Blessings on you.

How much 'season' do we lose by focusing on gifts?
What would happen if we focused more on THE Gift?

Far superior to 'gift'
is 'relationship...'
more important than 'merchandise'
that emotional grip!
One accord may far surpass
and outlast 'purchased' blessing--
do you know that relationship
come by His Name confessing?

Gift original to Christmas,
giv'n by God Most High;
suitable for every person,
all will qualify!
He saw the state of everyman,
therefore does He bestow
His only Son as that great Gift
that anyone may know!

O the Gift of perfect Love--
Christmas truth most great!
In the Person Jesus Christ,
all heavens celebrate!
Know the fullness of His gift
and join the celebration!
Know His fullness in this life
by making Him relation!

Let nothing rob you of a relationship with Jesus!
HE IS CHRISTMAS!!
6592

Blessings on you.
The Holidays.
Painful? Should they be?
We are here for you if you need us Jan...Lonnie...Becky...Miss Jane...Billy...
It has oft been said "Why do such things happen around the Holidays?"
But do not precious memories remain of all other days of the year as well?
Do not those beautiful, wonderful memories far outweigh the pain and loss of one day...one week...one "season?"
"Always around the Holidays..."
Joy, family, friends, gratitude, gifts...
such will always remain around the holidays, and every other day of the year!

Often, I hear folks say "______ has been gone now for _____ years..."
What if we retrained ourselves to say "For _____ years of our lives, we were blessed with the laughter, joy, strength and the life of our loved one. Now, we look forward to eternity with them."
How much less pain would days contain?
How much less pain would Holidays contain?

In HIS Service,
Jim

"Season's Greetings!"

But only seasonal?
That troubles me at times. Jesus comes to life anew each and every day in my life. What about yours?
And do to the time of year, must the verse necessarily pertain to a baby in a manger? What about the glory and the majesty He possessed even before that "silent night?"

Glory in the highest--
adoration generates!
Glory in the purest as
creation celebrates!
"Hallelujah! Hallelujah
to Emmanuel!
Hallelujah to the King,
eternity to tell!"

In the corridors of time
present is His grace?
Greater, higher, deeper to,
such limitation, face!
Before and after time is He,
and through the very same!
Man--so very fortunate--
relationship to claim!

"Glory in the Highest,
hallelujah, hallelu...
forever and forever
well-acquainted, Lord, with You!"

"Forever and forever..." Yes, but also for always and for always.
RIGHT NOW!! He is present right now and worthy of all praise and adoration RIGHT NOW!
Join me in worshipping Jesus, won't you?
6588

Blessings on you!

Too many times, I see, hear and feel dread about this time of year. I beg you, look again!
Look not at what THIS LIFE considers Christmas, but beyond the lies and facade at the WHO and WHY of CHRIST-MASS.
Look! Here it comes...

Christmas is on the horizon,
Jesus is filling my sight!
Hope, it be finally arisin',
all of creation delight!
Angels in Heaven rejoicing--
there, a most excellent song!
All that may fathom their voicing
have promise eternity-long!

Merchandise be the least pressing--
Jesus is Christmas' heart!
He is THE Gift ever-blessing,
not ever falling apart!
He never shall need an updating,
no parts to repair or replace!
Spend, therefore, life celebrating
Jesus Who saves us by grace!

Christmas is on the horizon
Christmas is already here!
Christmas in each heart arisin'--
the greatest of holiday cheer!!

6587

Greetings.

This is a few days late, but its truth is ALWAYS timely!
God is so good.
Just when you think you might know what is going to happen or how a need will be met, He meets the need is a way that is undeniably HIS way!
We invited to a house after church today. We had lunch and then headed to the meeting. It was a small gathering where a lady was selling a few skin-care products. As we left, she asked us to wait while she went to get something. She returned with two grocery bags containing EVERYTHING needed for a Thanksgiving dinner!
If there is one thing that I am learning, it is to expect Him to meet the needs, (and wants!) but to not limit Him on how the need will be met! You have heard it before: "His ways are not our ways..." The Truth holds. For His ways are better, greater, more complete, more satisfying than anything I might devise!

"Heavenly Father, You are so good to us!
Thank You for providing.
Please forgive me for limiting myself by putting You in a box.
Thank You for being so big that You break out of such boxes and bless us anyway!
Father, there is none like You!
Happy Thanksgiving, Father!
In JESUS' Name,
Amen"

Blessings on you.

So much to be thankful for. Even when it seems like we are giving thanks for "the same old things...," God feels otherwise. He desires to hear from you. He loves to listen to you!
If you were God, would you not rather hear your people thanking you for the things they have, or constantly hear them ask for what they don't have?
It is similar to that lady I knew at the first church I went to. She was ashamed of her testimony because it did not involve anything "dramatic!" She was embarrased because all she could say is that she had been saved for as long as she remembered.
WHAT A TESTIMONY! I would certainly be thankful for such a testimony! It would have spared me much painful memories!
Whatever you have in this life, (or do not have!) one thing each of us have are reasons to be grateful. And Father God is desiring greatly to hear You thank Him for all that you have!

Grateful and over and over...
thankful again and again!
Not just a day or a season,
not just a meal now and then...
But gratitude is a decision,
gratitude, it is a 'thing;'
gratitude must be directed
to God--THE Creator and King!
Jesus, mine only Provider,
sufficing, whatever betide.
He is without my supplying,
He is provision inside!
The scope of his infinite giving,
it is eternity-wide!
Jesus, eternally living,
Jesus, the once-crucified!

Grateful and over and over...
Jesus and ever and ever:
He is my Lord and my Savior
nothing and no one to sever!
6585

Naked, now, the branches reaching out...
vestiges remaining sing and shout!
all of living basking in the rays
harmonizing in the perfect praise!
With autumn tide and winter shaking hands,
living, for the moment, still it stands.
Seasons, oh so long ago ordained,
For a fleeting moment, are contained!

Life, so very alive.
Though many dare argue the dying of such, life is alive to those expecting to see life! It all depends on what are you looking for!
Look for life. Decide to see that life wherever you look. God will never disappoint you!

In HIS Service, Jim
6584

Thanksgiving--

What an ordained "season!"
Is that all that Thanksgiving is to you?
I find reasons and causes each day to be thankful. It is impossible to contain it to a 'seasonal' thing!

Thanksgiving in the sunlight,
and thankful for so much.
Everywhere the vision goes,
so evident, His touch!
The darker of the spectrum...
the brightest of the gold...
all beneath the shades of blue
infinity to hold!

Thanksgiving where do celebrate
the living of the land.
He breathes upon the forest and
He combs it with His hand...
He colors branches one-by-one,
though oh so very brief--
to orchestrate the season, there
be not another chief!

Thanksgiving, and so thankful for
the beauty, seen and not.
A song of gratitude, but all
of living's surely got!
Let everything that has a pulse
sing out "HE IS ALIVE!"
On wings of grateful praises, He
is always to arrive!

SEEN & NOT
6581

Greetings.

Thanksgiving--just a holiday?
No! It must be a state of life!
There is so much to be thankful for!
Thanksgiving is even more than mere 'attitude.'
It must be deeper than 'feeling.'
Thanksgiving is a truth that is present beyond vision or feeling.
It is more than just a time of year. Again, it MUST be a state of life.

Thanksgiving, and thankful once more.
All things He comes to restore!
Not ever shall I know a lack:
whatever life takes, He gives back!

Thanksgiving, and thankful again.
I am most blessed amongst men!
He causes my life to behold
a reason for thanks to unfold!

Thanksgiving, and thankful always.
In all is there cause to give praise
as life, it is far more than "seen,"
Thanksgiving--so much does it mean!

Live Thanksgiving! As you learn to give Him thanks even through the most dire times and events, it will be easier to see beyond them at the 'bigger picture,' and those same times and events will have greater meaning.

In HIS Service, Jim

6581

Greetings!

Do you lack? Are you sure?
How vital are those 'things' that you feel you have lack of?
The Word of God assures us that He shall supply us with all that we need according to the abundance of His Son Jesus.
I need to spend more time noticing the 'things' that He provides without my even asking. Most of the time, those blessings are 'things' which I do not even know how to ask for!

Beautiful creation
vision to rejoice
glorious, all living,
harmonious of voice!
So great, our God, Creator,
to share with even man--
how fortunate the chosen few
to recognize His plan!
So wealthy those confessing Him
as Savior and as Lord;
recognition of His works
is constantly restored!

"Beautiful Creator,
the very heart to sing
a song celebration of
the new life that You bring!
The glory of Your holiness,
another song alive!
We sing with expectation as
You cause us to arrive!

The splendor of Your glory,
seen by those who see.
So very tempting be the glimpses
of Your majesty!
Only causing us to yearn
for that eternity
where the fullness of Your grace
has great sufficiency!"

Can you see it?

"THINGS?" 6580

The joy, the gifts, the wonder of God…too much to be contained or even known fully in this life! When we get to Heaven, does that mean that we will possess ALL knowledge, therefore we will not learn anything else about the wonder of Him?

Not in this life alone, the joy,
the joy of all You are;
Your jubilation rings throughout
the heavens from each star!
Creation even echoes unto
You in life alive!
Oh, Oh, that sweet plateau of praise—
will ever we arrive?

The mountains, in Your vigor, stand,
the hills, they skip about;
the seas resound unto the coastlands
with a constant shout!
Those upon the wing, they carry
joy in each direction!
The adoration of You so
becomes a sweet infection!

The joy of everything You are—
eternal…settled…true…
I celebrate the sacrifices
given me by You!
I utilize obedience,
the better of the two—
better to behold the gifts
endowed of only You!

LIFEJOY! 6553

Blessing on you.
Look out in the yard...what do you see?

For every leaf that I touch with the broom,
seven more the landscape would exhume!
Every time the floor I clearly see,
the breezes come along and laugh at me!

The rituals of autumn,
sentinels aflame;
to many it is labor,
to others, it’s a game!
I must observe the latter
lest labors all increase;
I must observe the whimsical
so I can savor peace!

What a blessing it is to recognize the signs of the season. Each of them, however, come with responsibility.
Something very painful happened here years ago. The man that we bought our property from became ill. In turn, he and his wife sold their property next door. It had six large, beautiful trees on it. One of the first things that the new owner did was take a backhoe and knock those lovely trees down! When I asked him why, his only response was “I hate raking leaves!”
God help us!

LABOR OR LAUGHTER? 6570

Good Morning.
How can I continue to boast, brag and revel in the creativity of God when my brother cannot even see it? Should I feel so guilty that I let the quill of my vision run dry, or shall I continue to hone this gift in such a way that even those without sight can ‘see’ what they hear from this page?

Morning unmistakable—
so beautiful, so new!
Fauna and the flora being
nourished by the dew…
God Himself to whisper softly
to the many trees:
leaves to shiver at His breathing,
cloaked as ‘gentle breeze.’

Morning unmistakable—
life, and so abundant!
With the maker of the morning
nothing is redundant!
Everything is made afresh
when He is recognized;
for only in His fulness is
completeness realized!

Morning unmistakable;
God—the very same!
Everything about creation
glorifies His name!
Behold the evidences of him,
even as you rise—
evidence abounding in
the earth and in the skies!

Make a point to notice Him—it will affect your entire day…even if you only ‘see’ it amongst these lines or ‘hear’ it in these verses!

Blessings!
Jim
6536

Tribute to America's Veterans

Just because the battle is afar,
Just because another rank you are...
regardless if you're active or reserve,
our respect and honor you deserve!

You've done what many of us could not do.
One day, alone, is not enough for you!
You have done what most of us would not--
thus, our admiration you have got!

Every branch of service...
every class or rank...
God Most High protecting,
God Most High we thank!
Your bravery outshining
emotions that are real;
our desire be that our
most heartfelt thanks you feel!
And that you be rewarded on
this day and every day
with words and deeds that,
deep appreciation, would convey!
Great is your reward, beyond
each worldly accolade
for your part assuring that
our liberty is made!

Tribute by ~Jim Busby

Poet in the Ozarks

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Good Morning.
What is the first part of your day?

Too many only rise and dwell on what must take place or what does take place.

What if the first deed of day was to notice the newness of life? The proof of His Presence? The sound of His voice?

All of Him is present, He only awaits your notice and acknowledgement…

His breath produces clouds

and wonderment enshrouds;

comes glory into sight

as He says “LET THERE BE LIGHT!!”

The early sights that are

go past the fathom far!

His reason and His rhyme

well-known—but in HIS time!

But here, none to require,

beholding eastern fire

raging vision-wide,

He calls it “Morningtide!”

In HIS Service, Jim

EASTERN FIRE 6550

Greetings.

The joy, the gifts, the wonder of God…too much to be contained or even known fully in this life! When we get to Heaven, does that mean that we will possess ALL knowledge, therefore we will not learn anything else about the wonder of Him?

Not in this life alone, the joy,
the joy of all You are;
Your jubilation rings throughout
the heavens from each star!
Creation even echoes unto
You in life alive!
Oh, Oh, that sweet plateau of praise—
will ever we arrive?

The mountains, in Your vigor, stand,
the hills, they skip about;
the seas resound unto the coastlands
with a constant shout!
Those upon the wing, they carry
joy in each direction!
The adoration of You so
becomes a sweet infection!

The joy of everything You are—
eternal…settled…true…
I celebrate the sacrifices
given me by You!
I utilize obedience,
the better of the two—
better to behold the gifts
endowed of only You!

LIFEJOY! 6553

Blessings on you this day.
Join me in prayer, won't you?

“Good morning, my Heavenly Father!
Oh, what beautiful life You have created today!
Again, I ask that You would bless me with Your vision as I behold today’s creation. For only if I look with Your eyes will I receive all that You have for me today!

Again to see this living with Your sight...
to look upon another without blight…
to behold Your creation without fetter—
oh, but life would then be so much better!

The sight that is before me—
I will not complain.
If I would look for YOU therein,
its beauty be my gain!
To be thankful for the same
would be Your sovereign will;
therefore, my God and Father, come,
Your everyness instill!
In JESUS’ Name,
Amen”

6537

Greetings.

“Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Old words, powerful words, and still alive today!
What is valuable to you?

Precious metals have no worth
when I look in Your face.
You are more beautiful than any
gemstone in this place.
Your worth only greatens and
due nothing of this life!
The glories of Your majesty
are stellar-most and rife!

‘Precious’ only then applies
to You and Your great love.
All other be destroyed as we
are gathered up above!
So precious, then, eternity
in adoration of
the Father, Son and Holy Spirit—
consummate of love!

Less important, then, the mansion
on the other side…
value then to know expansion,
even human-wide!
No class or caste distracting, only
candid adoration
eternally unto the One
providing our salvation!

VALUABLES
6535

Blessings on you.

"All things work together for good for them that love God."
Such was proven yet again this morning. Vicki's car needed repair. In order to get it to the shop, she drove our truck home so that we could drop it off. To do that, we had to arrange for someone to pick us up at the shop. THAT person is also the one who drives me to Promise Keepers each Tuesday morning. THIS Tuesday morning being Election Day, he also offered to take us so we could vote. So, to save one trip, Debby was going to sit in the foyer for the hour of our MEN'S prayer meeting. Several of the men saw that Debby was there, and they were going to have no part of her waiting for us!
So this morning, our regular MEN'S prayer meeting was not, but God was there in just as much power, wonder and glory as He is at all times! I am so grateful that HIS meetings are not so rigid that they cannot be adjusted to accomodate all.
If you are in the Untied States and reading this, GET OUT AND CAST YOUR VOTE!! God has protected our right to do this for over 200 years. It is not only a duty, it is a privilege that most of the world does not have.

In HIS Service, Jim

Greetings.

The Straight and Narrow? But what if life throws us a curve? What if there is an obstacle ‘straight’ ahead?
So often, there is a hill in front of us. For some, the same appears to be a ‘mountain!’

There is, however, Someone Who can move mountains. The very same is living inside of you if you are Born Again!

The mountain is upon the Way.

Behold the majesty display!

The power that it represents

is greater far than ‘common sense!’

For such declares “It cannot move!”

There is a God, though, to disprove!

He created every peak,

and each and every one unique.

The same God moves the mountain,

the same God makes a way;

The same God faithfully responds

when He hears us pray!

Stop telling God how big the mountain is and start telling the mountain how big God is!

Yes, you can!

OBSTACLE 6530

7/20/08

Greetings!

"The busyness of life."
What about yours? Do you have time?
Is your day so busy that you cannot but converse with God? Yes, it is wonderful to set aside that awesome time to be alone with Him, but there is more! God is right there beside you in everything you do! All you have to do is acknowledge Him!
He provided that work that You are doing. He has created those people that you are doing business with. He made that sight that you are looking at by hand! Yes, even that mountain that you must climb was placed there by Him.
Talk to Him.
Invite Him to ascend that mountain with you.
Ask him to help you communicate with those people.
Give Him every part of your day. Your BUSY day...

All of everything for Him
Who died once and for all!
The Same, He gives His everything
to any who would call.
He is worth all time, all money
everyone possesses
because He comes into the heart,
restores and wholly blesses!

All of everything for Father,
Son and Holy Spirit!
The generation of the heart,
oh, He deserves to hear it!
Honors He the yearning and
the produce of the same;
honor Him returning
accolades unto His Name!

All of everything for Jesus--
Bishop of the Soul!
He alone is capable
of ransoming in whole!
Doing all that man could not,
He is the Only Way!
Time diminished as approaches,
oh, that Happy Day!
6529

Blessings on you!

Where are you? Can you see? What are you looking at? What are you looking for?
I speak with so many people with different vision.
I have a bad habit(?) of noticing good in just about everything I look at.
Most of the folks around here are currently looking at the remnants of the season that need "cleaning up." This was put into perspective for me several years back when the neighbor next to me was walking through the quilt that autumn had spread across his property. I made a remark about the task ahead of him.
"Leave 'em alone. I'm going to enjoy the leaves as long as I can."
That comment spoke volumes to me then about the simplicity of life. It still does. It doesn't matter what 'opinion' is about a lot of things. What does matter is your perspective about it.
Do you see a yard that needs to be raked and disposed of, or do you see proof of the perfect order that He set long before we were here?

Through the failing branches
boundless is the blue;
is anybody able
to number every hue?
Assigning each a color--
too daunting for the pen!
Too wonderful to be contained
by languages of men!
To only be discussed with the
Creator of the same.
God Most High--for He assigns
to each of them a name.
And, quicker than the poet man
can capture them in verse,
more subtleties arrive--the pen
to once again rehearse!

Through the waning branches,
(and thinner with each breath,)
life, so very evident,
in what most see as "death."
Perspective--it is everything
when seeing without sight;
o, the glory of the season
just beyond its height!

6528

Blessings on you!

May the glory of the season be in your vision as you follow today...

October in full color,
behold, behold the sight
so very living and alive--
let everyone delight!
O be there no discussion,
discouragement be gone!
The autograph of God Himself,
each sight, to rest upon.

October in full color,
abduct the seeking heart!
Captivate the willing with
your evidence, your art!
Sunlight to accentuate
variety so vast;
into your embrace, emotions
easily are cast!

October in full color,
brief your glory stay;
easily recalled when present
subtler of day;
His artistry embracing
and warming with each thought...
oh, the many blessings the
beholder, he has got!

Behold the season! TAKE TIME to see it!
You have reason not to?
Make sure your 'reason' is not merely 'excuse!'
6527

Do you know what it is?

Do you know what it is for your life?
God does have a perfect plan and purpose for EVERY life!
I assure you, HIS plan is quite a bit more than "...just getting by."

"Because of You I do more than 'survive;'
Because of You, I prosper and I thrive!
Blessed and highly favored I've become
Calvary and crimson due the sum!

Why have You placed me so high above?
Why does this man know so great a love?!
There is nothing lovely in this man.
It has to be the Purpose of Your Plan!

Because of You I am alive and live.
With abandon You so freely give.
Nothing could be greater than Your love!
A higher Plan and Purpose I am of."

When you come that that humble place, He will give you everything I have spoken of, as well. Let Him. Trust Him. He can do more with your life than you can, and you will obtain wealth untold along The Way.
GO FOR IT!
6526

Blessings on you!

Evidence of season--life is full of it!
What a blessing to live in a place where the same is beyond photograph--it is real and living:

The shadows of October to extend...
the subtleties of autumn boldly blend!
The splendor of the season amplify
beneath the azure of the even sky.

Shadows of the afternoon, so long,
only to contribute to the song
that is the season unto those aware;
how many are the elements to share?

Elements of autumn,
surely life has got 'em!
Savor every one
before the thrill is done!

Wherever You are, glorify God and enjoy the blessing and privilege of being alive for one more season!

TIMELESS BEAUTY 6525

Blessings on you!

Ah, the wonders of technology...
the blessings of 'civilization...'
The disciples knew it for their day, but what did Jesus do?
So very often, The Word points out that He separated Himself for a season:
He went into the wilderness...
He went up into the mountains...
He walked across the water to escape the crowds...
He even left His laptop and His cell phone behind!!
So many occasions are given to remind us to leave behind everything to be alone with God.
Can you?

In the roar of silence,
the tumult of the 'hush,'
there is a precious healing,
there is a greater rush!
Where there are no distractions,
He has my full attention,
and present there are benefits
too wonderful to mention!
The blessings of 'technology'
absent for a season;
forgotten on one's own volition
for a Greater reason;
the fewer the amenities
the focus be more keen,
until His holy Presence only
felt and heard and seen.

Escaping to that wonder
His direction under;
until I return,
more of His blessings learn.
6522

Disaster. What does it mean?

For another season of life, I live in a place where it happens.
But 'disaster' has different meanings to different people.
It's sort of like "tribulation." Do we understand that word in America?
Go to a country somewhere in the world where you can be murdered for your faith and tell them that the tribulation is coming.
While here in America we are preaching about the coming tribulation, other countries are living it!
But 'disaster.' No one is immune from it.
We had to drive down to Little Rock one day. The beautiful, peaceful 4-hr. drive contained scenes this time of anything but! As we drove through one of our usual rest breaks, a Scripture came to mind: "...there shall not be one stone left upon another..." Just days before, a tornado went through this town and several others on its destructive path!
In the aftermath, the human spirit was very evident...

In an after moment
where life has taken place,
so evident becomes the fact
"Abundant is the grace!"
Life has seen disaster,
but life continues on--
the beauty of resiliency,
it is not ever gone!
While hiding from the elements,
the hiding place escapes...
nature has a weapon which
it wields and mis-shapes!
Even though its force, it is
immune to hands of men,
the human spirit overtakes,
repairing where its been!

In an after moment,
so temporal the sight,
living soon again will show
much healing in the light!
"No good thing is taken unless
better is in store!"
Standing on this truth reveals
what is tomorrow for.

DISASTER 6516

Greetings.

Don’t lose heart!
Whatever that is that is staring you in the face, God is greater!
Whatever news you just received, God loves you so much that He wants you to trust Him for it!
You are part of creation, but God is

So far above creation,
so present in the same;
all life sings coronation
unto His holy Name!
He’s worthy of exalting…
He’s over and above…
He is The Perfect Father,
He has the greatest love!

And being The Perfect Father, He can and will be right there with you through everything that happens in your life.
Let Him!

6515 PERFECT PRESENCE

Greetings.

Oh so constantly, to the open heart, His assurances come. What must we do to receive those? The Word of God tells us to "...be still and know." If we are not able to bask in Jesus' Presence, how will such assurances become a part of our daily lives?

One more time, You prove that You
are present in the gap.
When we are not inside Your palm,
we’re sitting on Your lap!!
Though life would constantly encroach
it will not overtake;
for You are mine and I’m aware
of every move You make!

“Try Me, I will satisfy;
trust Me, I protect;
Depend upon Me, seek My will
to always intersect!
There, behold the moving of
My Being in Your midst;
learn My attributes, for they
will constantly exist!
You are My righteousness, no matter
how you feel inside!
No matter what man thinks, in you
I have abundant pride!
I want to be there, present in
your each and every time,
assuring you, but always, that
next elevation find!"

Once more, Your Presence reaffirmed
no matter landscape be;
a royal purpose to exist
no matter what men see;
far greater are Your purposes
than any of this place;
the same to only come to proof
in life that’s lived by grace!

6512

"THE DEAD ALIVE"

Are you a part? Do you even understand?
Jesus told the crowds that unless we ate of His body and drank of His blood, we could have no part in Him.
That sounds harsh? That sounds cruel, disgusting?
O, but the blessings, beauty and benefits of the same...

Your Body, it is holy
and all that is within;
every member needing You
because of wretched sin!
There is not one exclusive
from a need for You.
Lord Jesus, see Your Body,
oh see each part anew!
Sin has overtaken,
o cursed be the same!
Its affects are rampant,
we cry out in Your Name.
Grace alone atoning,
Your bleeding to suffice;
why do we crucify again?
You've fully paid the price!
Your Body, oh so holy,
but only through the Same.
Due alone what You have done
is life alive to claim!
The Body and the Blood unto
the body, soul and spirit;
oh, every time partaking, may life
feel and see and hear it!

6510

Greetings!

"THE GLORY OF THE SEASON"
Do you have it where you are?
I grew up in a place that had 1 month of winter, 2 months of Spring, 7 months of summer, and 2 months of Autumn. Yes, there was color, but nothing like the colors here! No, I am NOT complaining. I am simply stating my amazement at the wonder of HIS creation here...

How quick, the flight of summer,
As autumn comes to call;
The changing of the guard would linger
Precious in the fall.
Not this year, however, it
Is all so cut and dried,
And, by the gentle norther sigh,
All is beautified!

The beauty of the season
In the wooded hills….
The wardrobe of the timber gently
Floating in the rills….
A symphony accompanies
The trickle of the same
To only add unto the glory
Of the yearly flame.

“Fly on, fly on, oh summer,
I’ll see you in awhile!
Thanks again for everything,
The memories to file.
I’ll savor, oh, the moments and
The seasons in between,
And see you after everything
Has donned, again, the green!”

If you can relate to these words, ENJOY IT! There are too many people who read this that have no idea what four seasons are like!
2701

Greetings.

What is inspiration?
Just because it may not be 'tangible,' is it present?

Where is inspiration when
it is too hard to feel?
Must a thing be seen or felt
to be considered 'real?'

But when is absent 'feeling'
inspiration DOES exist!
If only 'moved' when feeling 'is'
how much of life be missed!

Inspiration always!
Acknowledge it and know
the gamut of emotion from
the very same to flow!

Blessings on you, Jim

6509

Blessings on you!

"God will provide!"
That is a proven truth. But how often do I trust in that solely?
I know that He will provide, and I see ways that He will do so.
But what if 'those ways' are invisible? What if 'those ways' fail? Am I then trusting God?
I have to trust God, because 'those ways' that other folks see God providing are often impossible for me.
His ways are not my ways. More often than not, 'His ways' with my brother are NOT His ways for me.

"Heavenly Father,
I know that You will meet all of my needs today. Please forgive me for trying to help, and for 'assuming' how You will do so.
I know that if I assume the way that bill is going to be paid, it puts You in a box. Your ways are so much greater than my ways. Therefore, I will say "not my will but Thine be done," so that I can see the wonder and the awe that is far beyond my 'assumption!'
Thank You for already meeting that need that I will find out about later today.
Thank You for holding firmly all those needs I already have.
Thank You for even knowing my life's desires, not just my needs.
Thank You for wanting to hear about those desires as we walk through the day.
O Father, You are so good to me!
Thank You for Jesus.
Thank You for saving my soul.
Thank You for healing my body.
Thank You for being so great that You can do all this for ANYONE that calls out to You!
Father, You are God and there is not another!
In JESUS' Name,
Amen

"Heavenly Father,

I know that You will meet all of my needs today. Please forgive me for trying to help, and for 'assuming' how You will do so.
I know that if I assume the way that bill is going to be paid, it puts You in a box. Your ways are so much greater than my ways. Therefore, I will say "not my will but Thine be done," so that I can see the wonder and the awe that is far beyond my 'assumption!'
Thank You for already meeting that need that I will find out about later today.
Thank You for holding firmly all those needs I already have.
Thank You for even knowing my life's desires, not just my needs.
Thank You for wanting to hear about those desires as we walk through the day.
O Father, You are so good to me!
Thank You for Jesus.
Thank You for saving my soul.
Thank You for healing my body.
Thank You for being so great that You can do all this for ANYONE that calls out to You!
Father, You are God and there is not another!
In JESUS' Name,
Amen

Greetings.

The limbs of the trees are anxious so early.
They murmur amongst themselves.
Their intercourse has a familiar sound and tone.
Silhouetted against the east, they appear to be nervous.
One by one, they begin to sway in anticipation of His arrival.
With the presence of His breath, they begin to clap their hands.
The glow of His arrival turns the eastern sky purple...blue...orange...red...yellow...white...
Father is here!
Let the day begin!
What?!
When did the day end?
Did life 'end' with the arrival of 'today?'
But what if it is one continuous 'time' that keeps getting better and better until THAT day?
So, when He inspires us forward with a promise of THAT Day ahead, are we not merely going to be translated to another place to but continue THIS day?
NO WAY! ABSOLUTELY NOT!!
THAT day ahead is so wonderful and so ______ that my pen is not even allowed to record it!
"I can do all things through Him Who strengthens me..."
All things? Then why is my pen so 'disabled' when it comes to capturing the glory--THE glory that is merely sampled in the east as I look out my window?
Disabled? Handicapped?
Yes...until His return shall break the fetters of all expression and we shall see Him as He is, no longer '...darkly, through a glass!'
The rays now extend all the way across the morning.
The arms of the trees are fully extended in the surrender of adoration!
"Even so, Lord Jesus, come..."
6504

Greetings.

I have this with a note that says "Send."
At times, I get frustrated when I find a page like this, because i often cannot remember whether it was already sent.
Yes, I see the date it was written, but that doesn't make it any clearer.
What is clear, however, is the truth contained within!
Make this truth YOURS! ---Jim

The Holy Place. Have you been there? Do you go there?
It is a very intimate place. I often hear people say they want to keep God at a distance for whatever reasons.

I spoke recently of how, as a child, I was told that God knew everything about us, and that if we asked Him to forgive us for something, He would. My childish reasoning found the secret: He knew about it because I confessed it! Therefore, if I did something wrong, I would talk to Him like nothing ever happened. No, it didn’t last long and, yes, I was miserable!

God is so intimate. However, He will only be as intimate with you as you will allow. Let go!

In the chamber once again

where is not another;

present in the Holy Place

with my Friend and Brother;

doing what is heavenly,

hearing life alive,

seeing Him Who causes me

to certainly arrive!

The chamber of my Father,

reserved for all of men;

He calls me into His Presence

knowing where I’ve been!

He dances with me as I sing,

embracing me so oft…

His touch, His voice, His living breath,

they take this man aloft!

The chamber, it is refuge,

conviction there resides;

there be no moment for ‘façade,’

no thing impure resides!

I am naked in the chamber,

there be not another way;

He sees, He knows, He feels all things

about me anyway.

Blessed be the chamber,

so very real and not.

Closer to my Father God—

there be no other spot!

CHAMBER 6450

Good morning.

I see and hear that the winds have picked up overnight.
I am taken back a few years to where we had certain winds that were native to southern California, and to the words He gave me one afternoon...

The Santa Ana winds arose
the latter part of day
to take all of the smog and haze
so very far away.
So crisp and very beautiful
it was this afternoon,
and I was minded of a day
that's soon and very soon:
I thought of that Uncloudy Day
so many sing about,
when all of us, His saints redeemed,
with joy shall sing and shout
a song about the victory
o'er what the world has wrought,
and shouts from all the many souls
that God, with His Son, bought!
Reaching, at long last, the sands
on that celestial shore,
caught up, at last, to be with Him
to reign forevermore!!

Twas then He spoke so silently
unto my very heart
about a very pressing need,
and then my tears did start.
What about my neighbor there
that lives across the street,
the one that I see everyday
and talk to when we meet?
What about his dying soul
I never ask about?
Does he partake of my sweet Lord,
or does he do without?
What has he to look forward to
after this, his life?
Has he a knowledge of the peace
that waits beyond all strife?
I ask "How are you?" casually
whene'er he comes my way,
and when he starts to tell the truth,
I try to get away!

We're each to be a missionary
of our perfect Lord.
We're each to make a sacrifice
we think we can't afford.
That sacrifice is time itself:
time to get to know...
time to listen to his need
and time to, His love, show!
I'm called to do what HE would do
if He were in my place;
I'm called to listen to his heart
and see his hurting face;
and I am called to minister
unto his every need;
to bring his soul unto the Lord
and make sure he is freed!
Not to vainly say to him
"How are you today?"
but, from him, genuinely seek
as to how I should pray.
For that is what my Lord would do
if He were in my place,
"So grant it unto me, Lord, as
my neighbors I do face."

Amen

193, 2/5/87

Greetings!

Life happens. Unplanned...by us! And just as absurd...ridiculous...boring or exciting as that life may be, there are several things that are very planned and very dependable.
One of those wonderful things is

Peace that is ridiculous,
peace that is absurd...
so is the peace provided those
who stand upon His Word!
Peace amidst the 'everyday,'
peace amidst the 'rare,'
that sweet provision knows one 'base--'
God's abundant care!

Challenges abounding--
will the same 'excite?'
setbacks and surprises--
will I take 'delight?'
That 'peace that is ridiculous'
will last the path entire
to steer me and to stable me
as I transport the Fire!

Peace that is ridiculous
and more than even verse!
All along the Narrow Way
are places to immerse!
He plans the route of everyday
with restoration rife!
Oh, so blessed, the fortunate,
to live in Second-Life!*

Are you living that second-life? In John 3:3, Jesus reminds us that we cannot see it or enter into it without knowing Him as our Savior. He then goes on explaining to Nicodemus even more wonders of that life--only one aspect being that incredible Peace!

Invite Him into your heart, won't you?

*John 3:3

6500

Greetings!

In the early hours He arrives?
At which point, however, did He leave?
With Him, man does more than "just survive;"
with victory, though, does that man "achieve!"
His subtle and spectacular arrival...
but when He left, I never can recall!
Yet again, to stump the groping poet
with the greatest poetry of all!

"Since You are with me always and forever,
why, then, do I so oft invite You "Come"?
The simplest You cause to hold such wonder,
therefore, with pride. do I proclaim "I'm dumb!!"?
The most complex do You reveal unto me,
Who am I that You would gift me so?
I am only what You Are within me--
Your everyness, therefore, within me, show!"

In the early hours,
and all throughout the day,
the Persons of His Presence
are in my life to stay!

INSIDE 6454

There are plenty of 'signs of the times' bidding us "Be Ready." The message of the day is replete with rumors alluding to such. Some are far greater than mere 'rumors,' they are proofs in our very own lives.
Will you pay attention?

Morning, and again the heart receiving
words no other sense to recognize.
Those privy to the Spirit now perceiving
the Presence of the One above the skies.
He comes into the day that He created,
only to confound the wisest men,
HE IS the very Day that's celebrated,
while men say "It' just morning once again."

Day--it is once more?
But what is timing for?!
He is far greater than
the limits known to man!
But how can one perceive
that time will someday leave?
The same will know its end
with That Morning to descend!

Oh, be ready for that Day! It is far too deep...far...wide and high for the poet to grasp. I know it is impossible for the learned! Perhaps that is why it is so easy for the simple to understand and BE READY!

In HIS Service, Jim Busby

READY 6497

Good morning.

"GOOD morning!"
I pray that YOU can echo that this morning.
I pray, as well, that you have time to ponder such points as below, and are not so stressed or busy that you must miss the moment...

In the early hours He arrives?
At which point, however, did He leave?
With Him, man does more than "just survive;"
with victory, though, does that man "achieve!"
His subtle and spectacular arrival...
but when He left, I never can recall!
Yet again, to stump the groping poet
with the greatest poetry of all!

"Since You are with me always and forever,
why, then, do I so oft invite You "Come"?
The simplest You cause to hold such wonder,
therefore, with pride. do I proclaim "I'm dumb!!"?
The most complex do You reveal unto me,
Who am I that You would gift me so?
I am only what You Are within me--
Your everyness, therefore, within me, show!"

In the early hours,
and all throughout the day,
the Persons of His Presence
are in my life to stay!

INSIDE 6454

Greetings!

Join me in my ponderings, won't you?

"Oh my Father, YOU ARE!
Father, being a man of words, I am compelled to record you in ways that others can hear or read. I must refer to a book of words because You are far greater and more than the words I possess!! And even when something is composed, You become far greater than what is written or said!
If I were an artist like my wife, I could take a single strand of crocheted artwork and realize construction...ha, only to become a tangled mess because You have no beginning!!
If I were a doctor like my daughter, I could look into a microscope, into the ultimate combining basis of dust and behold Your composition...only to see my workings into obsolescence as You become newer every morning!
If I were a teacher like my son, I could have the ability to see and know what people can learn and when they are ready to learn it...then to have You instruct me in things that are known, not learned!
If I were a machinist like my dad, I could seek you and describe you to an exacting degree, but even then You would smile and break out of whatever I devise!
If I were a mechanic like my brother, I could know the very basis and simplicity of You and explain to others how to trace You...only to have You grin and redesign Yourself!
If I were a broker like my mother, I could recognize the signs of You and know Your next move and the affects...only to have You confound MY formulas!
O, but God, I am none of these! I am a man of words. I am a very limited man, because too often I find that there are no words to capture who, what or why You are!
And even if THAT be, I might as well surrender, because You cannot be captured or contained! The dictionary of the Holy Spirit is revised DAILY! I am undone! "Handicapped?" Yes!! In the most wonderful and incredible kind of way!!
I love You, My Father. Have an awesome day? But what is 'time' to You?
I'll write You later,
Jim"

Greetings!

Who ministers to you?
Is there anyone in your life--a pastor, minister, priest, teacher--that you always look forward to hearing or being with because you know the Holy Spirit will be there?
Have you told them so?
I meet too many folk, church folk, with the attitude "The pastor knows I appreciate him because I put money in the offering." Have we not learned that there are far more important things than money?
Your tithes AND offerings are very important, but I am positive that your pastor would like to hear that you appreciate him, that you are praying for him, that you are grateful for him. Tell him!
You are putting in your tithe in obedience to God's command, you are putting in your offering as an act of worship. Neither of these should be based on your approval or appreciation of the Leader, not as compensation for his services, and surely not as compensation for a 'job well done.' Most of the pastors I know, and ALL of the pastors who have signed up for this ministry, appreciate an honest "Thank you for ministering to us." Of a truth, your wallet should say something about that, but the heart has even more to say!
When my first book was published, people from all over the world contacted Barnes & Noble with a comment or 'review' of it. I don't remember the amounts of the royalty checks, but I still have no trouble recalling the heart sounds of those who appreciated the book!
On occasion, someone from around the world will send a gift to this ministry. Again, I cannot recall the amount they sent, but I can recall the emotion of the card!
The Bible says "The laborer is worthy of his wages," but if all you get out of your labors is a paycheck, how rewarding is that? I am positive that each of us likes to hear "job well done" once in a while.
Who ministers to you?
Tell them.

In HIS Service,   Jim

Greetings.

“From a distance…”
Is that how you commune with God?

Do you even desire such?

Is God the Father only Sunday for you?

Maybe a Sunday evening on occasion?

Wednesday night service?! THAT’S FOR FANATICS!!

What if “time for God” was a constancy? Can you handle the fact that even if you attempt to keep him in whatever size box you define, it won’t work?

God is ALWAYS and EVERYWHERE! He sees, knows, hears and feels everything about you…even before you sense it!

LET GO! God so dearly desires you. He wants to be a part of everything about you. He already is…He only waits for you to acknowledge Him! Once you do, every facet of your life will become so much greater!!

"The shelter of Your wings…

my very fabric sings,

my being dearly clings

to only You!

The measure of Your span

cannot be known to man!

The fulness of Your plan

defies my view!

The passion in Your eyes

all reasoning defies;

and I am made unwise

because of You!

You’re more than anyone;

and I become undone!

When Your eyes say 'My son…'

I melt anew!"

Don’t be afraid! Get rid of your pride! God, the Creator of all that you know and even more of what you cannot even fathom, desires you! Accept that fact! Acknowledge Him in the intimate ways that He desires, (those ways that you fear,) and He will not only cause those fears to disappear, He will enable you to soar with Him!!

6456 MELTAWAY

Again, to try to get a grip
upon reality,
with a prayer that such remains
a thing one cannot see?
Every name repeated--just
a word upon a page?
Yes, but that page be the heart
somewhere upon life's stage!
One more reality: "that heart
somewhere" is only one!
Each of us a brother, sister,
daughter or a son,
a mother or a father, such
includes the lives of all--
each and every one of us
affected by this fall.
Fallen by the hearts of few,
however, we yet rise!
Rising over hate and pain
that seeks to jeopardize.
Rising with the knowledge that
the heart will conquer all,
extinguishes the smoldering,
defying hatred's call.

Reality far greater than
this world can ever know--
remaining yet within reach, though
there be a ways to go.

9/11. Always remember.
6489

Praise the Lord!

Praise Him for WHO HE IS.
Praise Him for His certainties in an uncertain world.
Praise Him that He remains God in spite of emotions...

Though part of me feels lost out in the world,
I KNOW His arms around me are unfurled!
Though I feel confused here in this place,
I’m absolutely certain of His grace!
Though not too many things here are secure,
ALL THINGS ABOUT MY JESUS WILL ENDURE!
And since He looks at me and says “My son…”
I can cry “Not mine but Thine be done!”
"Lord, You are my security alone!
In nothing else, stability is known!
Regardless of emotion that might rage,
You settle me and help me turn the page!
Beyond all feeling, sight and even sound,
I cling to You alone and I abound!
'O make me more like You!' cries out my heart;
Lord, from Your ways I never shall depart!"

Amen

NEVER LOST 6471

"Awesome God,

Thank You for this soft bed I lay in right now. I know that there are too many people who only dream of such a nice place to sleep.
Father, as I lay my head down, my stomach is not growling, and I am not thinking of food. But I know, by name, some that are wondering if there will be anything to eat when they wake up in the morning.
O my God, I throw away so much. And much that I discard are things that people are praying for You to provide!
HEAL ME, LORD! MAKE ME MORE LIKE YOU!
O my God, am I crying out to You in guilt, or am I genuinely concerned?
Am I crying out in guilt, or am I desiring You to multiply the loaves and fishes that I have?
You told me the poor would always be with me. Does that excuse me from doing all I can to help them?
Father, forgive me. Please make me more like You.
In JESUS’ Name,
Amen"

Blessings on you!

The Holy Place. Have you been there? Do you go there?
It is a very intimate place. I often hear people say they want to keep God at a distance for whatever reasons. I spoke recently of how, as a child, I was told that God knew everything about us, and that if we asked Him to forgive us for something, He would. My childish reasoning found the secret: He knew about it because I confessed it! Therefore, if I did something wrong, I would talk to Him like nothing ever happened. No, it didn’t last long and, yes, I was miserable!

God is so intimate. However, He will only be as intimate with you as you will allow. Let go!

In the chamber once again

where is not another;

present in the Holy Place

with my Friend and Brother;

doing what is heavenly,

hearing life alive,

seeing Him Who causes me

to certainly arrive!

The chamber of my Father,

reserved for all of men;

He calls me into His Presence

knowing where I’ve been!

He dances with me as I sing,

embracing me so oft…

His touch, His voice, His living breath,

they take this man aloft!

The chamber, it is refuge,

conviction there resides;

there be no moment for ‘façade,’

no thing impure resides!

I am naked in the chamber,

there be not another way;

He sees, He knows, He feels all things

about me anyway.

Blessed be the chamber,

so very real and not.

Closer to my Father God—

there be no other spot!

CHAMBER 6450

Greetings!

The Big City. We must go there often. Do we pay attention to what is going on, or do we get done what we must and get home as quickly as we can?
What does it take to slow YOU down?

Walking slow behind two men
on a crowded street;
noticing how they react
to things that they both meet.
Two very different attitudes
reacting different ways;
two very real examples of
the people of these days.

They walk across the street and then
they pass the local bar.
One shakes his head, disgusted, as
he cares not who they are.
He walks a little faster now,
so as to not be seen;
he counts his blessings that he made it
safely through "that scene."
The other slows His pace a bit
as He goes by that place,
concern so very clearly etched
in muscles in His face.
Compassion wells inside Him as,
unto them, He does call;
and, as they ignore His plea,
a tear begins to fall.

Safely now inside his car,
the first man heads for home.
Through that "other part of town"
he briefly has to roam.
He looks at "those girls" in disgust
as he sits in his car,
grateful in his human heart
he knows not who they are!
The other Man, still shaken by
what happened at the bar,
can barely go a block or more
before He stops His car.
As He looks at those very girls
His heart, again, is wrenched.
The tears of His compassion, they
no longer may be quenched.
The first man offered them a hand,
one finger at a time!
The second gives them His whole life
so they can, upward, climb.

And now, the first man is at home,
so safe, he looks the door!
He looks upon his wife and says
"I wish it were no more!"
"Soon, we will retire and,
this world, we will not touch!"
"We will move far from this old world
that bothers us so much!"
The second goes unto His house,
He never shuts the door.
He goes unto His Father's throne
and pleads "Just one day more!"
There are so many others down there
I would like to touch.
So many of them dying lost,
they need Us oh so much!"

Will you see with your eyes or with His heart?
220

Greetings!

“From a distance…”

Is that how you commune with God?

Do you even desire such?

Is God the Father only Sunday for you?

Maybe a Sunday evening on occasion?

Wednesday night service?! THAT’S FOR FANATICS!!

What if “time for God” was a constancy? Can you handle the fact that even if you attempt to keep him in whatever size box you define, it won’t work?

God is ALWAYS and EVERYWHERE! He sees, knows, hears and feels everything about you…even before you sense it!

LET GO! God so dearly desires you. He wants to be a part of everything about you. He already is…He only waits for you to acknowledge Him! Once you do, every facet of your life will become so much greater!!

The shelter of Your wings…
my very fabric sings,
my being dearly clings
to only You!
The measure of Your span
cannot be known to man!
The fulness of Your plan
defies my view!
The passion in Your eyes
all reasoning defies;
and I am made unwise
because of You!
You’re more than anyone;
and I become undone!
When Your eyes say “My son…”
I melt anew!

Don’t be afraid! Get rid of your pride! God, the Creator of all that you know and even more of what you cannot even fathom, desires you! Accept that fact! Acknowledge Him in the intimate ways that He desires, (those ways that you fear,) and He will not only cause those fears to disappear, He will enable you to soar with Him!!

6456

Greetings!

“A changed man.”
I’m supposed to be!
Why, then, do I insist on hurting the most beautiful gift He’s given me?!

Am I alone? That does not matter! Sure, some might relate to this, but that does not explain it.

Please pray for me.

Once again, damage done
by venom of the tongue.
Desiring, once more that, to
the roof, it would have clung!
And, of course, the same done to
the one that’s loved the most;
once again, the enemy
to celebrate and boast?

But, once again, the heart to surely
know the deepest rue!
To rectify this gross offense,
all efforts to renew!
“Love conceals a multitude…”
‘tis written and assured;
so much, already, has this love
withstood and has endured,
but no assurance to excuse
a tongue without restraint!
“The ‘abundance of the heart,”
the same would surely paint!
Therefore, to purify the heart
that injury may cease,
and train the same to edify
that plenty may be peace!

“Father God, I am without excuse. I stand, not accused, I stand convicted! Please change my heart so that such damage would cease.

In JESUS’ Name, Amen”

UNRULY MEMBER 6446