The Sign of the Fish

Its been forever since I posted. Things have gotten unexpectedly busy around here these days and the thought of posting exzuted way to much brain power. But last week I was asked by a family member if I knew where the fish came from when we saw one on a bumper in traffic. I had forgotten but have a bookmarker that explains it all and promised I would share it- so here it is a week later with a bit more than the marker provided. Sorta neat to know the story after being clueless for so many years.



The earliest followers of Jesus were persecuted and forced to worship in secret locations. They adopted a secret symbol as a means of identification between fellow Christians in a pagan world. The earliest followers of Jesus were persecuted and forced to worship in hidden locations. Often these believers would scratch the secret symbol of a fish in the ground to help them identify other Christians.

Not only was fish a common food of the day, often used and referenced by Jesus during His ministry, but the letters which make up the Greek word for "fish" (IXØ U S ) also spell out a secret message about our Lord. I-Jesus, X-Christ, Ø -God’s, U -Son, S -Savior.

Smuggling

Marty and I ran into our sister-in-law while out to breakfast Sunday morning. She is incredibly talented at "twisting" different things out of balloons and made us an angel to take to a friend in the hospital. While she was making it she warned us that the balloons are made of latex and are not allowed in the hospital - so we would have to smuggle the angel up to our friends room. No problem I thought, I'll just hide it under my coat. Well the angel was so big she just about could have worn my coat and there's no doubt the many people we walked by to get to the 3rd floor saw the huge bulge under my coat. I'm not sure why I kept going with it under my coat but I did. I really didn't want it taken away. Looking back now I feel like an idiot for trying to hide it. We made it to the 3rd floor and as I was walking past a hospital employee in a waiting room part of the angels skirt, (or tutu because it was a ballerina with wings) popped with a really loud bang. The hospital staffer just about fell out of his chair. I can with out a doubt say I wasn't the only one trying to swallow my heart back into my chest. The guy looked right at me and asked what was that!? Of course there was no hiding the fact that it came from the huge bulge in my coat. This is where I was asking myself again why I didn't just carry it in to be seen by all, how would they have known it was latex?? I told him it was a surprise balloon and just kept going as fast as I could, thank heavens my friends room was right around the corner. When I arrived my heart was pounding, it was all I could do to stop laughing. I will never try and sneak anything into a hospital again.

Gospels

Why are we given 4 stories of Jesus' life instead of only one? They're told by 4 different perspectives...

Matthew - Seems to be especially for the Jews, often pointing out the fulfillment of prophecy.
Mark - Short and vigorous record appealing to active Romans.
Luke - Literary masterpiece appealing to cultured Greeks.
John - Concentrates on things not already told.

John 20:31 - "But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name"

Books of the Bible

Old Testament.....
The 5 books of Law (Also knows as the Torah)

• Genesis
• Exodus
• Leviticus
• Numbers
• Deuteronomy

12 Books of History

• Joshua
• Judges
• Ruth

• 1 Samuel
• 2 Samuel
• 1 Kings
• 2 Kings
• 1 Chronicles
• 2 Chronicles

• Ezra
• Nehemiah
• Esther

5 Books of Poetry

• Job
• Psalms
• Proverbs
• Ecclesiasties
• Song of Solomon (aka: Song of Songs)
  

17 Books of Prophecy (1st 5 being the major because of length, not importance)

• Isaiah
• Jeremiah
• Lamentations
• Ezekiel
• Daniel

Minor prophets (because they are shorter in length)

• Hosea
• Joel
• Amos
• Obadiah

• Jonah
• Micah
• Nahum
• Habakkuk

• Zephaniah
• Haggai
• Zechariah
• Malachi

New Testament...
4 Gospels

• Matthew
• Mark
• Luke
• John

1 Book of History

• Acts

21 Letters

• Romans
• 1 Corinthians
• 2 Corinthians

• Galatians
• Ephesians
• Philippians
• Colossians

• 1 Thessalonians
• 2 Thessalonians
• 1 Timothy
• 2 Timothy

• Titus
• Philemon
• Hebrews

The remaining 7 letters were written by 4 authors, and each is named for its writer.

• James

• 1 Peter
• 2 Peter

• 1 John
• 2 John
• 3 John

• Jude

1 Book of Prophecy

• Revelation
  

Faith

Three things in life that are most valuable

Love, Faith, & Prayer

Look Tasty?

This morning I was so tired I didn't notice much of anything when I left. When I got to curves I parked under the light. When I got out of the truck and turned to lock it with the remote it hit me that something didn't look right. Took me a second to figure out that a moose had been sucking and licking on the side of my truck last night because I've never seen this, nor heard of such a thing. Upon telling my story to a few different people I found out that a moose sucking on the side of your vehicle isn't unheard of. I guess they like the salt. If you click on the picture it will open it up in a new window where you can click on the picture again to see it larger and clearer. When I drove home I saw 5 moose at the next door neighbors house, 2 young ones, 2 moms, and one bull moose with a great big set of racks on his head. I tried to take a picture of him but of course he wanted nothing to do with it and ran, actually they all ran. But that explains why the whole side of my truck was licked and not just a spot or two. It also explains the heard of moose tracks in the driveway.

Matthew 18:20

I dont know how I could have misseed this verse when I wrote up my prayer list.

"For where two or three gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst."

Spoken by Jesus

Prayer Verses

One of my present weaknesses is prayer. I almost always remember to pray before I go to bed but sometimes (more times than I'd like to admit) I fall asleep in the middle of it. I next to never remember when I wake up and occasionally remember to pray sometime in the middle of the day - unless I'm at church or a church function. I really needed some inspiration and reminder; these are the verses that I really liked out of all I could find.  My favorite so far is Matthew 6:5-8

1 Samuel 12:23 (NIV)
As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right.

Matthew 6:5-8 (NIV)
And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you . And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Luke 22:40-43 (NKJ)
When He came to the place, He said to them, "Pray that you may not enter into temptation." And He was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and prayed, saying, Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will but Yours, be done. Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.

Romans 2:26 (NIV)
In the same way, 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.

Ephesians 3:16-19 (NIV)
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Saints: Holy ones - set apart (Romans 1:7; 1 Samuel 2:9). All true Christians are saints in the biblical sense of the word (Ephesians 1:12-14; 1 Peter 2:5;9). Not perfect people but those who have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior (Philippians 1:1; 4:21).

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Colossians 4:2-6 (NIV)
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversations be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
Be Joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Peter 4:7-8 (NIV)
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

As I was looking all this up and typing it out, I have sounded like a broken record singing a favorite church song. I don't remember what comes before or after but I've sang over and over "...I need thee every hour, as I kneel in prayer I hope to meet you there, blessed Jesus hold my hand". - This tune in my head was only picked up because we sang it today, I'm sure its not by coincidence.

Caroling

We spent the evening last night out caroling with the church group. Sorta odd because I used to hide from carolers when I was little. But I really enjoyed it. There was a really large group of singers, and a lot of the folks we went to sing for were not able to leave their home so they all seem to really enjoy it. There were just as many adults and kids caroling but you would have thought it was mostly kids with all the snowballs flying. One of our buddies had a snowball war going with one of the other guys, it seem to end after our friend left a 15 pound snowball from a plow on the other guys front seat.

After the caroling was finished we all went over to one of the church members house for cider, cocoa, & chili which was super good. Before long somebody hollers that the cops were outside, sure enough they were with their lights flashing. Apparently the teens decided the snowball war wasn't over and took it outside to finish it at 11 at night, screaming an hollering. Neighbors didn't appreciate it. Although there was no alcohol it was strange; I haven't been to a party where cops showed since high school.

The stranger

There was a man at Christmas time who looked so out of place, As people rushed about him at a hurried sort of pace. He stared at all the Christmas lights, the tinsel everywhere. The shopping center Santa Claus' with children gathered near.

The music from a stereo was playing loud and clear, Of Santa Claus' and snowmen and a funny-nosed reindeer. He heard the people talk about the good times on the way, Of parties, fun, and food galore and gifts exchanged that day.

"I'd like to know what's going on," the man was heard to say, "There seems to be some sort of celebration on the way. And would you tell me who this is all dressed in red and white? And why are children asking him about a special night?"

The answer came in disbelief, "I can't believe my ears! I can't believe you do not know that Christmas time is here! The time when Santa comes around with gifts for girls and boys. When they're asleep on Christmas eve, he brings them books and toys!"

"The man you see in red and white is Santa Claus so sly. The children love his joyful laugh and the twinkle in his eye. They learn to love this jolly man while they are still quite small. When Christmas comes, he is the most important one of all!"

The stranger hung His head in shame, he looked at nail-pierced hands. His body shook in disbelief, 'twas not as He had planned. A shadow crossed His stricken face, His voice was low but clear. "After all these years they still don't know." And Jesus shed a tear.

Author Unknown

Happy Holidays

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Wonder if everyone else out there is as slightly panicked as I am. Still have a pile of cards to write and presents to buy and presents to wrap. Gulp. I feel so unorganized, I hate that feeling. I can't wait till this part is done so I can just enjoy.

Cartoons

Its super funny when the dog watches TV with you and gets all excited about seeing other animals. Its really odd when he does the same thing for a cartoon. Since I've been watching kids lately I found Boss Loves the animals in Cinderella and is fascinated with Bambi. Cartoons are not real, apparently children aren't the only ones who can't understand this.

Munching

Each day is a struggle. Even now in the busiest month for me all year long I can't get away from it. I can go 12 hours and forget to pee (all the time!) but can't go 2 hours with out craving food. I crave and think, sweet food, buttery food, rich food, even now I think oh yum. I've never had this struggle before. It has been since march since I quit smoking and this food craving has been like a storm brewing inside me only getting stronger ever since. My clothes are bigger then they've ever been and want for exercise in the cold of this winter is non existent. If someone could have shown me this when I started smoking way back when, I would have never started. I have stocked my fridge with fruits and veggies and emptied it of most of the bad stuff, next I need some exercise routines that don't drag. I'm thinking of ordering pilates, M thinks a treadmill would be good. At least this time of year they have those yummy mini oranges that peel easy. Those are my most favorite fruit ever, a few years ago they were called tangelo's, last year they were called clemetines, this year they have yet a new name I can't think of. Yum, I'm gonna go eat one right now.

Snowday

It dumped on us again here today. The children I babysit and I went out and played in it. I tried to shovel the driveway but they begged and begged me to come play with them, so made a snow cave with them instead. Now they have something to retreat to when outside playing. Just looking at it makes me feel little again.

Bible study was canceled for the night because of the snow, I need a hot cup of cocoa and a fire to go with this winter night.

Fall Back

Its time for fall back, don't forget to change your clocks tonight.

Anything but "slumber" party

I haven't felt this kind of hangover in years. I went to a ladies retreat last night and had a ball. I just had no idea I would have so much fun. We listened to a handful of speakers, sang songs, did crafts, and I got a facial. The theme was about transformation; changing your life to be as Christ like as you can. Really the ladies had many great points that I'll try my best to keep with me. I retired to my bunk at around 1:30 just dying to go to sleep only to be kept up by chit chat and giggling for a few more hours. Then when the chit chat finally subsided I found how truly uncomfortable my bed was. There was a mattress under me but I could have swore it was concrete by the next morning. Ha ha, oh well, I had a great time and learned that the church ladies can really git down. It's hard to believe anyone (including myself at one time) thinks partying is better. And now, I'm off to fall over dead from exhaustion.

Un-Answered Prayers?

Grrr

Last night I drove into town to check the mail and get groceries. The blazer started right up before I left home and leaving the post office but failed miserably after I had purchased a ton of groceries. I prayed and prayed and prayed for God to make it start but it just wouldn't. Since it was so late (and I was completely fed up with vehicles problems), I just called a cab to take Boss, the groceries, and I home. I spoke with M and he was almost positive the fuel pump went out and the best thing to do would be to tow it home. Today after church I was to meet the tow truck driver at the Blazer; while I was sitting there waiting my rescue man from the other night shows up. He asked me to pop the hood and starts fidgeting with stuff; he took the aircleaner off, messed with the injectors and tells me to try and start it. And of course with the tow truck pulling in it starts right up. He says that the fuel pump is working great and the injectors were stuck, but all is fine now. Testing his theory I turn it off and start it over and over with out him doing anything, but on the third start while he and the tow truck drive are sitting there watching a big flame shot out. Yikes! I turned the truck right off; nothing caught but the attention of the three of us and some passerby's. My buddy said it probably just shot a flame because the aircleaner was off and it "should" be fine to drive now. haha I don't think so. M will have a project when he gets home. I'm thinking though, a moral to this story ? Maybe a few un-answered prayers. If I had drove home would something have happened or was this all just so I could meet the cab driver who may have some cheap old retro metal cabinets for sale soon? Whatever the reason..

Thursday Night Ride

Last night I went into town to hang with dad. We had dinner and then went to the Thursday night fights. I've never been into boxing but I must say it was super fun aside from the chick they pay to carry the round number and shake her thing wearing nothing but a bikini. We sat "ringside", right at one of the corners where the boxers climb in and out. Despite my fears we weren't sprayed with blood although at one point we almost had one boxer fall into our laps while he was getting the snot beat out of him against the ropes. I ran into one of my real-estate agents and an old friend I used to work with in Anchorage. My dad sat to my right and the Great Alaska Shootout's announcer just happened to be sitting on my left, between those two I was completely filled in on just about everything you need to know about boxing. What a show. I would still never watch it on TV but I found it kinda fun watching it in person. I had so much fun and look forward to the next time we go.

So the fight was finished at 10:30pm. I drove dad home and checked my gas gauge on the way, it said I had just under 3/4's tank. It was a little strange because an earlier check had said I had a little less gas but I just figured maybe I checked it after a hill and the reader was probably still "floating". Since I burn a quarter tank when I'm racing between Anchorage and the Valley, I knew I was fine and didn't need to get gas. I drove back home and didn't speed because its pitch black and I can't see cops ahead at night - so I should have burned even less than a quarter tank. I was a little over 6 miles from home when I ran out of gas. It was midnight when I stopped rolling. I was alone on a dark night, on a back road with my scared little non-protecting dog. I called a friend who had to work at 5am because I had nobody else to call out here, he came and rescued me. I'm so thankful to him and so glad he actually answered the phone. When the truck rolled to a stop it said the tank was just about empty, but I was on a hill so that probably played into it reading higher than it should. The whole way home to get a gas jug, the whole way to the gas station and the whole way back I was in disbelief that I actually ran out of gas also feeling awful for getting this guy out of bed in the middle of the night over my carelessness. I am the kind of person who always keeps at least a half tank in case something ever happens, I don't know how I could have ran out of gas. I just couldn't stop thinking "WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME!" My brain was on instant replay I was bugging so much. When we got back to the truck we put the 4 gallons into the truck and she fired right up. Since it was 1am at this point I was way to tired to go back into town to fill up so I headed home. On the way home I looked down at my gas gauge and low and behold it says I have 3/4 of a tank with only 4 gallons in its belly! It read this level the whole 5 miles home. I'm so relieved that the gauge reader is broken and not my stinkin brain. M is calling the dealer today and it shall be fixed soon. Things could have gone a lot worse, I'm so thankful God helped me through it.

Psalm 62: 5-8

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

"I will not be shaken" - I like that part. This whole part jumped out at me last night, it just sounded so awesome.

Wasilla's Winter has Begun

Boy fall was short lived, it seems to have lasted 1 week. This is what we all woke up to this morning. I guess I can't ignore the coming of winter anylonger. So now the fun starts, back to fish tailing in the trucks, sliding to a hault at intersections, and hoping the other drivers out there will be extra cautious. When we moved out here last year we found that snowmachining is a way of transportation in this town. There is a freeway next to the highway and all the roads here are accompanied by a trail just for snowmachines. This is also the first place I've seen a row of ski-doo's, polaris's, and yamaha's parked at all the grocery stores; don't aske me where you would fit groceries on a snowmachine, but they do it somehow. I'm looking forward to seeing it all again. We are stocked with hotcocoa, studded tires, and warm clothes so I guess we're ready for it.