Celebrating Easter Every Day

Luke 24:1-9 (NASB)

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared.

And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.

While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men suddenly stood near them in dazzling clothing; and as the women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, "Why do you seek the living One among the dead?

"He is not here, but He has risen Remember how He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee, saying that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again."

And they remembered His words, and returned from the tomb and reported all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.


The Easter story is a message of hope. Yet many people celebrate this holiday with only chocolate bunnies and egg hunts because they do not know its real purpose. The gospel is precious information that Jesus asked His followers to spread widely (Matt. 28:19). He expects that each of us will be prepared to answer those who are curious about the hope we have (1 Peter 3:15).

Christianity is unique. Other religions and belief systems have a “doer” philosophy. In other words, to achieve eternal life, a follower must follow leaders’ instructions, adhere to rules, and/or give as much as he is told. The Christian life also includes good works, obeying commandments, and tithing. However, these activities are the result of serving Christ rather than a supposed method for reaching heaven. Instead of placing our hope in human ambition and diligence, we recognize Jesus as the only path to God.

Jesus Christ’s primary purpose in coming to earth was to die for mankind’s transgressions. Had He stayed in His tomb, everyone would be responsible for his or her own sin-debt. But Jesus conquered the grave, which means that His followers can too. Those who believe in Him are released from their death penalty and invited to spend eternity with God.

What are you doing with the amazing message of God’s love? The commission to “go and make disciples” is meant to be an integral part of every believer’s life. We should share about Jesus while at home, at work, among friends, or pursuing hobbies. In other words, we are to celebrate Easter every day.

- Source In Touch Ministries -

Discipleship Class

Eric and I are participating in a Discipleship class at our church. The class started in October and is a 18-month long course, with a separate class for the men and women. I'm not sure how many resources we will use, but we completed our first book "Lessons on Assurance" before Christmas, and are now on our second book entitles "Growing Strong in God's Family". Right now we have five Bible verses to commit to memory, they are:

Assurance of Salvation: 1 John 5:11-12

And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:11-12 (NIV)

Assurance of Salvation: John 16:24

Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. John 16:24 (NIV)

Assurance of Victory: 1 Corinthians 10:13

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)

Assurance of Forgiveness: 1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 (NKJV)

Assurance of Guidance: Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)

When we first started the course, I was having a hard time with the verses, I kept mixing in the King James version in when I was saying the verse in the New International Version. I think the hardest part for me getting the references, but finally the light came on and I've got it. We had a Sword Drill at the church of all the Scriptures - the men against the women and I'm delighted to say that the women won the contest!!

As I was doing my lesson this morning, the book had a powerful statement:

Christ is present in all Christians;

Christ is prominent in some Christians;

But in only a few Christians is Christ preeminent.

Something to ponder...

Baby Got Book

Eric found this last night on GodTube - it is silly, we were cracking up on this play of Sir Mixalot's song. If you would like a good laugh, then watch the video. Enjoy!

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword,

and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow,

and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12 (New American Standard Bible)

Lifehouse Everything Drama

The Youth Minister at our church played this video during Vacation Bible School for the teens, they were so moved by the video that they wanted the rest of the congregation to watch the video as well. We had one teenage boy give his heart to the Lord!

Here is the video, be sure to have a tissue handy for this one.

“ Return, you backsliding children,

And I will heal your backslidings.”

“ Indeed we do come to You,

For You are the LORD our God.

Jeremiah 3:22

(New King James Version)

Proverbs 31 Woman

I saw this posted on another blog, clicked on it and sat up a littler straighter as I read the familiar verses, but they have added some character attributes. Take a look by clicking on the link Proverbs31Woman.com .

"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."

Proverbs 31:10

Summer Bible Study

I've been invited and accepted to participate in a 8-week Bible study called No Other Gods by Kelly Minter with two other ladies.

One of the things that stood out for me in the explanation of the difference between a professed god versus a functional god, it stated, "a professed god is who or what we say our god is; a functional god is who or what actually operates as our god". This is going to be a great Bible study!

We have been challenged with a memory verse:

Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.

Jude 1:24-25 (NASB)

Bible Devotional

The kids and I have taken a break from our normal daily Bible study and have been using Keys for Kids, which is a devotional for kids ages 5-12. This devotional is free, you just call to request a printed copy. They also have the web site set up so that you can listen to "Uncle Charley", which is what is heard on radio stations, you can download a PDF version or just read it on-line.

We read the daily Bible verse from our Bible, usually rotate who does the reading, then listen to "Uncle Charley". The devotional has been wonderful and timely, they are short but have a huge impact.

The web site has more programs to offer, as of yet I have not explored them all, give them a try and let me know what you think.

10 Rules For A Blessed Day

This was in the bulletin at church on Sunday. I hope you will have a blessed day!


10 Rules For A Blessed Day
-- Author Unknown


1. TODAY I WILL NOT STRIKE BACK . . .
If someone is rude, if someone is impatient, if someone is unkind, I will not respond in a like manner.


2. TODAY I WILL ASK GOD TO BLESS MY 'ENEMY'
If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask God to bless that individual. I understand "enemy" could be a family member, neighbor, co-worker or stranger.


3. TODAY I WILL BE CAREFUL ABOUT WHAT I SAY . . .
I will carefully choose and guard my words being certain that I do not spread gossip.


4. TODAY I WILL GO THE EXTRA MILE . . .
I will find ways to help share the burden of another person.


5. TODAY I WILL FORGIVE . . .
I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.


6. TODAY I WILL DO SOMETHING KIND FOR SOMEONE, (BUT I WILL DO IT IN SECRET . . . )
I will reach out anonymously and bless the life of another.


7. TODAY I WILL TREAT OTHERS THE WAY I WISH TO BE TREATED . . .
I will practice the golden rule. "Do unto others as I would have them do unto me"- with EVERYONE I encounter.


8. TODAY I WILL RAISE THE SPIRITS OF SOMEONE WHO IS DISCOURAGED . . .
My smile, my words, my expression of support, can make the difference to Someone who is wrestling with life.


9. TODAY I WILL NURTURE MY BODY . . .
I will eat less . . . I will eat only healthy foods. I will thank God for my body.


10. TODAY I WILL GROW SPIRITUALLY . . .
I will spend a little more time in prayer today. I will begin reading something spiritual or inspirational; I will find a quiet place (at some point during this day) and listen to God's voice.

Bible Memory Verse

My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble;
Proverbs 3:21-23 (NIV)

This is our memory verse for this week. Both kids are doing an outstanding job in this area; Gene as usual was the first one to be ready for testing. Here is what their certificates look like.