H.B. S! & Out With The Old...

Before I begin today's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I would like to wish my grandson S, a very Happy Birthday!  I'm looking forward to spending time with you, later today!  Enjoy your special day!  xoxo

Knowing this is the last day of 2014, it is definitely a time to look back.  At least, for me.

2014 has been a year filled with a variety of things.  Health concerns.  Family issues.  And, more.

As you are probably aware, I was sick last December, with a lung infection.  ER (emergency room at the hospital) doctors told me this was due to the infected mesh inside me, that still hadn't been removed, at that time.  So, it took until close to the end of January this year, for me to recover.

February 1st, brought me back to the hospital.  This time, my lower abdomen had swelled.  For the fifth (5th) time since September 2012, I was cut open again, in the operating room, and spent time in hospital.  Later, the surgeon told me she didn't think it was an abscess she cleaned out.  She let me know she thought it was an infected hematoma.

A few days after I was released from hospital, I had to have further testing done, because the right side of where I had been operated on, was still swollen.  It turned out this was the abscess they thought they had dealt with.  It had to be drained, so it was done through the open incision from my February 1st surgery/operation incision that had not been sewn up/stitched, etc.

This meant I had to have daily nursing care to have the injury area and the open area to the abscess cleaned and repacked, every day.  At least, until I finally had the most major of surgeries I believe I will ever have.

Near the end of March, that major surgery that many, many doctors had told me and my daughter P that was so dangerous that many people do not live through, I had done.  In London, Ontario.  About a two and a half (2 1/2) hour driving distance each way from where I live, in Windsor, ON.

When waking up in the recovery room, I found myself rather surprised that I actually was waking up here on earth, and not in Heaven.

I had been cut from my ribcage to my pelvis.  An inch of skin was removed from either side of my incision, due to much scar tissue being there, etc.  The abscess was dealt with, plus every piece of mesh (I had a lot, from past surgeries) had to be removed, not just the small amount that had become infected.

No mesh was put inside me, because it couldn't be.  My inner lining (that everyone has that keeps all a person's innards in place) was destroyed.  So, the surgeon had to cut through all my muscles.  He stretched them, and did what he called a double overlay... sewing them up, and then sewing me up.

After about 8 days in hospital, I was released.  However, a few weeks later, my lower abdomen swelled up.  I had testing done, here in Windsor.  Then, had to go to London once again, to have the seroma (pocket of fluid) drained.

The doctor who installed the draining system let me know that it had to be done this way, and not just drained through needles drawing out the fluid.  He let me know that if the drainage system didn't stay in until I was fully healed, then the seroma could once again swell up, requiring me to once again have a drainage system installed.  Or, it could become an abscess, that could kill me at any time.  Or, it could become the basis for cancer.

After about six (6) weeks, the drainage system was removed.  No, I wasn't fully healed.  But, underneath the bandaging that covered the area where the drainage system was installed within my gut, my skin had become blistered, so the system had to be removed.

This means that I am still awaiting medical treatment to get rid of the seroma that my surgeon confirmed is still inside me.  Hopefully, I'll hear soon when I will have this (hopefully) final surgery to provide healing for my body's problem.

Most people think that I would be ready to return to work selling real estate, after a few weeks.  As my surgeon told me, it was not a typical surgery I had done, so I shouldn't expect to be healed, quickly.

To be honest, the pain from my muscles being stretched, is greatly reduced.  But, I still have some.  Although I have been doing what I can to exercise, I am still not yet strong enough to lift my signs/frames.  lol  I can't even lift up and carry a bag of milk (here in Canada = 4 litres/in USA = 1 gallon).

Being greatly weakened after all this physically down time, I also have now managed to climb a set of stairs; sometimes having to help me rise them, by my arm helping me pull myself up.  So, there is no way I can yet climb up/down/down/up (meaning go upstairs/back down to the main level, then down to the basement or lower level, and back up again) for even one (1) house, never mind several like I have done in the past, while showing homes to buyers.

Please do something for me...

I am asking you to pray for some of my family members who need healing.  Especially, for my four and a half (4 1/2) year old granddaughter, A who is sick with a urinary tract infection, and bowel infection.  I thank God for you, who pray.  And, may He bless you, for doing so, my friend...

Thinking of my problems this year, and the problems that some of my family members have experienced, I can only think about how God told us in His Word, the Bible, about how His ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). 

Of course, He alone, knows the plans He has for us, plans to help us and not harm us, to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11)

But, in everything, He is in control.  And, gave us direction in life. 

Just as He told us, in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Rejoice evermore.
¹⁷ Pray without ceasing.
¹⁸ In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

With my granddaughter A, needing healing.  And, with some other family members needing healing, I am praying.  And, again thanking you for praying for my family.  May God bless you...

With family issues clouding relationships, I am praying.  And, trusting Him to provide relational healing there, also.

With health issues, I am rejoicing, always.  Continuing in prayer, won't cease for me.  And, I will always give thanks, for anything that happens is the will of God in Christ Jesus, concerning me.  And, you... if you belong to Him.

Do you belong to Him?  Are you saved?  Trusting in Jesus Christ, for your salvation? 

Hopefully so.  For then, God will always provide for you.  Even in the worst of times.

In some ways, God has opened the door for me to do things I never dreamed I would be able to do.  For this, I thank Him, immensely.  And, always will.

So, I guess I can say that much like we (my now deceased husband, Gordon and I) used to do on New Year's Eve, at midnight, my main focus will be on... out with the old, and in with the new!

Happy New Year!

May God bless you and yours...

throughout

2015

and, always...

See you... next year!

 

Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Katherine...

On December 14th, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I posted a link to a hymn.

It was The Old Rugged Cross.  Here is a link to LwL's entry for that day:  http://www.lifewithlynnie.com/2014/12/the-cross.html.  On it, you'll see the lyrics and be able to listen and/or sing along, by clicking on the link there, for the hymn.

As I wrote about this hymn for the LwL entry on that Lord's Day, I was reminded about how I recalled hearing my dad sing it. 

He sang it fairly often, even if he rarely ever went to worship.  Still, whenever I think of this music, I think of him.

In addition, at a memorial service for my granddaughter Katherine, I sang this hymn.

The memorial service for her, after she was cremated, wasn't held on this date, years ago.  But today, would have been Katherine's 16th birthday.

Just thinking about how our lives have drastically changed since that era when my daughter P was carrying Katherine, sometimes overwhelms me.

Less than a month before Katherine was due to be born, and while my now deceased husband Gordon and I were away on vacation in Florida, was when my daughter P almost died.

P had a final placental abruption happen.  She herself, almost died.

Once stabilized, they let P know that her daughter had died.  She had to be labour induced and had to deliver Katherine, dead.

It wasn't easy for P to go through this.  :'(

To be honest, my heart still breaks for her.  Not just for going through what she went through.  But also, for losing her child.  Her daughter.  Her only daughter.

Even so, I am grateful that God is in control.

He made sure to keep P alive, so she could be a mom to her sons.  For this, I am grateful.

And, He has given her the strength to get through not only the physical and emotional time when this happened.  But, also through mourning.

Thinking about this, brought to mind Matthew 5:4, "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."

God has comforted P, even though she is still mourning her loss. 

And, He's comforted me. 

Not just with the loss of Katherine, but also with the loss of my now deceased husband, Gordon.  And, a variety of family and friends I loved and/or cared for, who have now left this world.

Still, grief isn't easy. 

In my mind, I cannot believe that grief ever dies.  It seems to never leave us.  At least, not me.

But, the thing I am truly grateful for, is the fact that He comforts me.  And others, who are looking to Him.

If you are grieving the loss of someone in your life, please rest assured that God will provide, just as we read in today's Bible verse.

He will comfort you. 

Just look to Him.  And, He will help you through.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Drifting? Blessing!

In yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I mentioned I would be going to worship with my church family. 

Knowing two (2) of my teenage grandsons were in Windsor, visiting over the Christmas and New Year holidays, I thought I wouldn't go alone.  You see, I had been told they would like to go with me.

When I had been told this on Saturday evening, I was really happy! 

In fact, I was so excited that I had trouble sleeping.  Okay.  I know I have trouble sleeping fairly often, but this surprised me.

After only about three (3) hours sleep, I got up and ready to go pick up N and J.

Sunday morning, things were different.  Instead of coming with me to worship, they stayed at home with their mom.  And, didn't worship.

So, I didn't have to go pick them up.

That may sound okay to some people, but I felt really badly about it.  Especially, since I was so exhausted having had very little sleep, due to being so happy and excited about their plan to join me in worship.

I must admit, I need to apologize to my pastor.  And, to my Bible study teacher.

You see, I was so tired that even in my Bible study class, I wondered how I was going to continue to stay awake.  But, God helped me, so I did!

I have to wonder if my pastor thought I was dozing off, while seated in the pew listening to him giving his sermon.

He may have thought so, since my eyes kept drooping.  I know they were doing this, because I could hardly keep them open.

Hopefully, he didn't think I was bored, hearing him preach.  I wasn't.

In fact, I never truly dozed off.

The whole time he spoke, I was awake.  Listening.  Even though my eyes were sometimes falling shut.

After thinking about this, I realize that from time to time, I've seen this happen to other people, too.

Anyone wondering why this happens, hopefully will understand that it seemed to happen to me, not because I was bored or not wanting to listen to the sermon.  I would prefer anyone interested, to understand that once I was sitting in our church building, I began to relax.

It was due to being relaxed, while being so extremely over tired, that it was simple to feel and probably look like I was drifting off.

In any case, I praise God for my pastor.  He's a wonderful preacher/teacher. 

I feel truly blessed having him lead our church family.  And, normally do what I can to honour him.

Just as we read, in 1 Timothy 5:17, "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine."

Anyone who knows pastor Tom, knows that he is truly a blessing to each and every one of us.

Knowing his background, and knowing both him and his wife years ago, made me feel comfortable worshipping at Walkerville Evangelical Baptist Church, where he preaches and teaches in a way that honours God.

For this, I am thankful.  And, always will be.

If you would like to join us to worship, feel free to do so.  You'll be surprised to see how welcomed you will be.

Hope to see you, there!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

We Heard!

Today, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I'll let you know that I will once again be heading to meet up with my church family.

Once again, I'll be attending our Bible study class.  Then afterwards, we will have our worship service.

Like normal, I'll be with my brothers and sisters in the Lord, worshipping in spirit and in truth.  And, through music, also.

A Christmas carol came to mind, when I thought about how only a few days ago, we celebrated the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, in Bethlehem.

It is entitled, Angels We Have Heard On High.  Unfortunately, there is no information about who wrote this carol.  Still I am sure God blessed the person, for it is truly a wonderful Christmas carol.

Here is a link so you can listen and/or sing along to this YouTube link, sung by Chris Tomlin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_kw8Aem_8Q.  The lyrics are below.

Angels We Have Heard On High

Angels we have heard on high
sweetly singing o'er the plains
And the mountains in reply
echoing their joyous strain

Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, in excelsis deo

Shepherds why this jubilee
why your joyous strains prolong
What the gladsome tidings be
which inspire your heavenly song

Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, in excelsis deo

Come to Bethlehem and see
Him whose birth the angels sing
Come adore on bended knee
Christ the Lord, the new born King

Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, in excelsis deo

Gloria, in excelsis deo
Gloria, in excelsis deo

Angels approached the wise men.  Then, they followed the star to Bethlehem, where our Lord, Jesus Christ was born.

Hallelujah!

If I had been with them, I would have joined them.  And, adored Him, on bended knee.  Just as they did.

In fact, even today, I adore Jesus.  And, am thankful to God, our Father for sending His only begotten Son to earth, in the form of a person, being born.

After all, we need to glorify God, over Jesus's birth, for He is our Saviour.

Just as we read, in Luke 2:11-14, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
¹² And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Glory to You, Lord! 

I love You.  I adore You.  I honour You.  And, always will.

Hopefully, you do, also.  If so, I'll see you in Heaven, one day!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

My Favourite Time of Year...

Here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), from time to time, I post some music that I have found I adore.  Today, is one of those days!

An Irish relative of mine posted a link to a wonderful song on Facebook (FB), that I had never before heard.  Apparently, it was a new song.

The song is by The Florin Street Band and is entitled, My Favourite Time of Year.  Here is a link, so you can listen and/or sing along:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H10f2w7T5CU&feature=youtu.be.  The lyrics are below.

My Favourite Time of Year

Lanterns lighting up the town,
Peace on earth is all around,
Everything is calm on Christmas Eve.
There’s goodwill in the air tonight,
Angels sing by candle light,
Their voices carried on the wind.
When carol singers gather round,
When I hear that festive sound,
I wanna join with them and sing!

They sing a merry song and we all sing along,
A festive melody that tells us Christmas time is here.
See the stars tonight; they’re shining bright,
‘Cause it’s Christmas time and it’s my favourite time of year.

Deck the halls with boughs of holly,
Give me mistletoe; it’s the season to be jolly,
Wrapping presents, writing cards, helping decorate the tree,
But there’s one thing that makes it all for me.
When carol singers gather round,
Angel voices fill the town,
It’s like the world is joining in!
(Noel, Noel, Noel)

They sing a merry song and we all sing along,
A festive melody that tells us Christmas time is here.
See the stars tonight; they’re shining bright,
‘Cause it’s Christmas time and it’s my favourite time of year.

Christmas Eve,
Still believe,
So excited,
Can’t sleep,
When the morning comes,
Church bells ring,
And he’s been!

They sing a merry song and we all sing along,
A festive melody that tells us Christmas time is here.
See the stars tonight; they’re shining bright,
‘Cause it’s Christmas time and it’s my favourite time of year.
 
And it’s my favourite time of year
(Noel, Noel)

Obviously, you've come to the conclusion that one of my favourite times of the year, is Christmas time!

There are some people who do not like to celebrate Christmas.  Even some fellow Christians, who elect to not accept that Jesus was born on December 25th.

Of course, no one here on earth truly knows when Jesus was born.  But, God does.

Even so, in my heart, I believe we need to celebrate Jesus' birth.  After all, He is our Saviour.  Our Saviour, who was God's only begotten Son, who came to earth, in the body of man.

Just as we read, in John 1:14, "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."

For this, I praise God!

Thank You, Jesus... for coming to earth, to dwell among us.  Meaning, we people.

Thank You, Jesus... for coming to fulfill God the Father's plan of redemption that He arranged to save us gentiles, from spending eternity in Hell, and more.

Thank you, Jesus... for being full of grace and truth, for educating not only those who were alive at the time when you were here on earth, but also for providing for us, living in the age, in the same way.

Hallelujah!  Thank You, Lord!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Gifts?!

Today, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I'll let you know how I celebrated Christmas.  Well, at least, in part.

First, I'd like to say that if I had been visiting in Northern Ireland, chances are I would have attended a Christmas worship service to celebrate our Lord, Jesus Christ's birth, on December 25th... Christmas Day.

However, here in Canada, any church group I've worshipped with in the past, didn't have Christmas Day services.  Instead, we have celebrated and worshipped on the evening of Christmas Eve.

This year, was the same.

What a wonderful time it was!  Singing Christmas carols, together.  Listening to young people singing.

Plus of course, worshipping and thanking God for the ability to celebrate Jesus' birth!  All with my church family.  Hallelujah!

How happy I am that we can celebrate Jesus' birth. 

Yes, I am aware that no one really knows for sure when His birthday actually is.  However, since no one knows, there is no reason why we cannot elect to celebrate Jesus' birth on a day when many people on earth decide to.

Sort of like celebrating our births.  By having celebrations we call birthday gatherings.  Or, parties.

Some people don't like the fact that we give gifts to each other. 

But, I do.  I feel that since we cannot give a physical gift to Jesus on the day we celebrate His birthday, we should do so, with others.

After all, the wise men gave gifts to Jesus, once they found Him.

Just as we read, in Matthew 2:11, "And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh."

Okay.  I realize that we cannot give physical gifts to Jesus, the way the wise men did after they found Him.

However, it does my heart good to know that I am encouraging others and planting those seeds for Christ, that God called us to do.

By giving Christmas cards and gifts, even small in nature, it makes my heart feel wonderful.  I feel like I am then given the opportunity to talk with others about Jesus.

And, what He did for us.

Remember, when He came to earth, as an baby, it was God the Father's plan to have Jesus suffer and die on a wooden cross as a man.  It was God the Father's plan that Jesus pay the price for the sin of the world, of all who will believe upon Him.

To me, to celebrate Jesus doing this, out of obedience to God the Father, shows how much He truly loves us.  For this, I am thankful.  And, always will be.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Happy Birthday, Jesus! Merry Christmas!

Today is the day, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), when I discuss our Lord, Jesus Christ's birth.

What a blessing and honour it is to do so.  After all, He came to earth in the form of a man, as an infant, just like we people do.

But, He was different.  He was the Son of God.  Our Lord, who came to suffer and die for the sin of the world... of all who will believe upon Him.

As discussed in yesterday's LwL entry, Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem.  And it was there, where Jesus was born.

Just as we read, in Luke 2:7-14, "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
⁹ And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
¹⁰ And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
¹² And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Glory be to God... for sending His only begotten Son, to become the Saviour to all who will gain salvation by trusting in/believing upon our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Merry Christmas to you, my friend...

and to all your family and friends!

 

Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Prophecy of Jesus Christ's Birth...

Like normal, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I celebrate special occasions.  Today, is one of those days. 

Knowing that tomorrow is when we celebrate Jesus' birthday, this would be the anniversary of the day that Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem.  And, had to stay overnight in a stable, for there was no room in the inn, for them.

In the Old Testament portion of the Bible, it is prophesied that Jesus would be born. 

Just as we read, in Isaiah 9:6, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

What a blessing it is that we can celebrate the birth of our Saviour, our Lord, Jesus Christ!

How wonderful it is that even though the whole world does not join us in celebrating, that many people do.  Both saved and unsaved people.

What a fabulous opportunity it is, to be able to plant those seeds for Christ, that God called us to do.

For, we need to do this.  He commanded us to do so.

So, in obedience to Him, I do the work that He called me to do.  And, will continue to do so, until the day I die.

In the meantime, I praise God for our Lord's birth!  And, will always love Him, with all my heart.

 

Merry Christmas!

 

Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Operation Christmas Child!

Here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I've mentioned Samaritan's Purse (SP), in the past.  But, not for a very long time.

This ministry has been a true blessing to many people.  Mainly, children.  But, also to adults, too.  Especially, those who help support this ministry.

Normally, we who participate in SP's Shoe Box Ministry (SBM), are not made aware of where the shoe boxes are sent.  However, this year was different.

Here is some info about where many of the SBM gifts were being sent:

Samaritan's Purse International Relief Canada posted online a video regarding Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes entitled, Northern Iraq Airlift of Joy.  This video is part of an article entitled, Thousands of Shoebox Gifts Head to Northern Iraq.  Here is a link for you to check it out:  http://samaritanspurse.ca/rss/disaster-relief/middle-east/operation-christmas-child-airlift-to-northern-iraq.

As it quotes underneath the article title, Samaritan's Purse is airlifting shoebox gifts to children displaced by ISIS militants.

How grateful I am for this.  And, how grateful I am for Samaritan's Purse.  For, because of the work they do, many children will feel encouraged.  Encouraged by the love of fellow Christians.

Thinking about loving each other, reminded me of 1 John 4:7, "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."

How grateful I am that God has made a way where there didn't seem to be a way... of supporting children in areas of the world, where they are suffering in many forms of poverty.  And, for many reasons.

Just as we know is happening for sure, in Iraq.  And, in many other countries, where Christians are being persecuted by Muslims.

Hopefully, you participated in filling one or more shoe boxes, and gave a financial gift to Samaritan's Purse, so that the shoe boxes could be transported to those who were in need. 

Normally, I do not discuss what I do for others.  After all, God doesn't really want us to do this, for He doesn't want us to feel proud and brag about what we do.

This is not what I am doing.  I'm praying that if you don't know about this ministry, you may look for a way to help, next year.

You can check it out, by clicking on the link for Samaritan's Purse, noted above.  There you can check out Operation Christmas Child.  And, their shoe box ministry.

Please... join me in prayer.  Pray for our brothers and sisters in the Lord. 

Not just those we know.  But, also for those living in areas where they've been losing their homes, and lives due to persecution.

After all, a life of this kind, leads to poverty.  And, sometimes even... death.

They need all the prayer they can receive.  Help, and encouragement, too.

Thank you.  May God bless you, my friend.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Thank You...

Just like normal, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I'm letting you know that I enjoyed attending Bible study and worshipping with my church family, yesterday!

However, after worshipping together, I didn't head for home.  Instead, I went to our fellowship room and joined my church family for a pot-luck luncheon!

What a blessing it was.

Not just because we enjoyed a delicious meal, together.  But, also because of the time we spent, together.

Afterwards, those of us who brought a gift for an exchange-type game, had a good time.  Yup!  I received a really nice gift card along with a sweet treat!

There's something I feel I need to say, though.

When I was leaving home, I had to take the time to load up my vehicle.  I had food for the pot-luck luncheon, a gift for the exchange-type game, a fairly large box containing a gift for my pastor and his wife, plus a variety of things for our food pantry. 

Our food pantry, is what we call our food bank.  Yes, people come to our church, for help.  And, they receive it.

It was hard enough for me to get all of this into my van.  After all, I am still not very strong, physically.

On my way to church, I wondered how I would get all of these things into my church. 

I prayed.  And, I asked God to provide for me.

Normally, when I arrive at church for our Bible study class, not everyone has arrived at the church.  So, there's not usually anyone outside, when I am.

However, yesterday was different.

A brother in the Lord, had opened the trunk of his car, for some reason.  And, when I parked my van, it right next to him.

I asked if he would help me.  And, he did.

I thanked this brother in the Lord, who helped me in more than just one way!

For this, I praise God.

Not just for the help.  Although I did appreciate it!

I must admit, I was thankful that God had answered my prayer! 

Just as we read, in John 15:7, "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you."

He knew my limitations.  He knew I needed help.

And, He provided it for me.

Why did He do this?

Obviously, He loves me.  He knows I abide in Him.  And, He knows His words abide in me.

Thank You, Lord! 

Thank You, for saving me.  Thank You, for loving me... your child.  And, thank You, for showing me and others, that what you say in Your Word, the Bible, You actually do!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Away...

As you know, if you have read Life with Lynnie (LwL) for any length of time, I'll be going out today. 

Being SONday, our Lord's Day... I'll be heading to worship with my church family, once again.  And, attend a Bible study class, before our worship service.

Of course, music is a great part of worship, with me.

Knowing that Christmas is only a few days away, I thought about using a Christmas carol for today's LwL entry.

The first one that came to mind that I thought about using, was Away In a Manger.  A hymnal that I have says that the source of this song (words/lyrics), is unknown.

One reason I like this hymn/carol is because it has played a strange part in my life. 

You see, as a child living in Detroit, Michigan, USA, I learned to sing it.  Then, after moving back to Montreal, Quebec, Canada, I had to learn to sing it, again.

The music was different.  Even though the words were the same.

One version of music was by William J. Kirkpatrick, while the other version was by James R. Murray.  Here are links to both versions (the lyrics are below), so you can listen to and/or sing along:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuF-D7eaars.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnwO_0DrpCk.

Away In a Manger

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus, laid down his sweet head.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.
I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky
And stay by my cradle til morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven, to live with Thee there.

How wonderful these lyrics are!

How beautiful it is to read about Jesus' birth!

Thinking about Jesus' birth, reminded me about how even in the Old Testament, His birth was talked about, in Isaiah 9:6, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

My Lord Jesus is near me.  I always ask Him to stay close by me forever, and love me.  And, He does.

I also pray that He will bless all the dear children in His tender care... and fit us for Heaven, to live with Thee there.

If you are not yet trusting in/believing upon our Lord, Jesus Christ, please do so, today.  For if you do gain salvation, I will be happy to see you, in Heaven, at some point in the future.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

What a Dream!

Today, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I will discuss something I dreamt about. 

When I awoke last Saturday morning, a couple of things surprised me.  They were on my heart and mind, resonating within me.

I had actually dreamt of a cousin of mine, who I haven't seen for a long time.  And, her mom.  Being my aunt, she is actually my dad's sister.

Something made me wonder if she is okay, or not.  Or, if possibly she passed away.  Hopefully, not.

You see, after I authored the book, Love Never Fails You... I sent copies to my dad's siblings.  Plus, some other relatives.

This aunt was angry that I had written something about her brother, my dad.  At the time, it was obvious to me that she hadn't finished reading the whole book. 

If she had, she would have seen that I wrote that I had not tried to do or say anything that was hurtful about him, or anyone else.  And, she would have read that I was only discussing some hurtful issues of my life, so that readers could understand that I truly did suffer.  Forgive.  And, love.

Unfortunately, I don't have contact with some of my family.  With others, not too much.

Some of this is due to distance between us.

But truthfully, some of my relatives that I have most contact with, live extremely far away from me.

It seems that those who are closer to our Lord, Jesus Christ, who are trusting in Him and in Him alone, have a much better relationship with me.

This truly doesn't surprise me, because we who are closer, are children of the Lord.  Children who look to Him, daily and honour Him.

Just as what we read, in Psalm 127:3, "Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."

Hallelujah!  We who belong to Him, are heritage of the Lord!

We who trust in Him, are the fruit of the womb.  His reward.

After all, He came to earth in the form of man, even though He was God, the Son. 

He suffered, and was crucified. 

He didn't have to go through this.  He could have left this earth, any time He wanted to.

But, He didn't.

He stayed here, to fulfill God the Father's plan of redemption.  The plan that He created so that everyone living on the earth, would have a way of obtaining salvation.  A plan, that would allow them to have eternal life.

Friend, if you are not in a relationship with our Lord, Jesus Christ, please know I pray for you.  I pray that all who have not obtained salvation by trusting in/believing upon our Lord, Jesus Christ, will come to Him, today.

Tomorrow, may be too late.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

H.B. P! & Truth... 141 Killed, Including 132 Children...

Before I begin today's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I would like to wish my daughter P, a very Happy Birthday!  I'm looking forward to getting together, later today.  May God bless you, on this your special day, and always!  xoxo

Don't be surprised when I make a comment here on LwL.  A comment that I am truly fed up with how Islam is attacking people all over the world.

Some people have actually gotten angry with me, for making comments like this. 

What I have said today, and in the past, has nothing to do with being hateful.  For, I am not hateful.

In fact, I pray for each and every person in the world, who is not Christian.  For all who need to come to gain salvation, by trusting in our Lord, Jesus Christ.

I pray that all the seeds I've planted, and the seeds you've planted... if you belong to Him, will continue to be watered by God.  For this is how there will be a massive harvest.

One of the problems we seem to be having in the world today, is the fact that Islam has been attacking what they call infidels (unbelievers in Islam), in countries, almost everywhere.

Yet, some people don't seem to think that Islam is evil.  Even though, it is.

Don't believe me?

Look at this article by theGuardian.com entitled, Pakistan Taliban school attack kills 141, including 132 children - as it happened:  http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2014/dec/16/over-100-people-killed-in-pakistan-taliban-school-siege-says-provincial-chief-minister-live-updates.

To me, this is heartbreaking, that this happened.

Does it matter if it is Taliban?  ISIS?  Or, any other Islamic group? 

No.  Not really.  For it just means that Islam has groups around the world, who prefer to call themselves various names.  But, who are all dedicated to what Islam teaches through their holy books, and more.

I've spoken up, to help educate people.  To help them understand that Islam is dangerous.  That in my opinion, they need to be stopped from doing what they do in terrorist activities.

Unfortunately, over and over again, people have told me that I shouldn't do this.  That I need to love those people.

Well, I actually do.  I pray for them.  I pray that God will bless them, and save them.

Just like we read, in Matthew 5:43-44, "Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
⁴⁴ But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"

My concern about speaking up, is to help people.  To help them understand that they need to obtain salvation.

If they don't obtain salvation, and when suffering in life comes here to Canada, where their lives may come to an end, they won't spend eternity in Heaven, with God.

Instead, they would spend eternity in Hell, separated from God, with no chance of escape.

Agree with me or not, doesn't really matter to me.  For, I know what God would have us do.

He commanded us to preach the gospel to all the creatures of the earth.  He wants us to do work for Him.

So, friend... if you don't understand my reasoning, please pray about it.

And, I will pray for you.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

If...

In yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, the topic discussed was about Pastor Saeed still being imprisoned by Muslims, in Iran.

The e-mail I had received from the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), I copied/pasted so you could read it.  Hopefully, at some point in time, you have signed ACLJ's petition, being used in an effort to have him released.

In case you weren't able to click on the link, and read the letter that Pastor Saeed actually wrote, I thought I would copy/paste it today, for you.  Here is what his letter says:

Rajai Shahr Prison 2014

Merry Christmas!

These days are very cold here. My small space beside the window is without glass making most nights unbearable to sleep. The treatment by fellow prisoners is also quite cold and at times hostile.
Some of my fellow prisoners don’t like me because I am a convert and a pastor. They look at me with shame as someone who has betrayed his former religion. The guards can’t even stand the paper cross that I have made and hung next to me as a sign of my faith and in anticipation of celebrating my Savior’s birth. They have threatened me and forced me to remove it. This is the first Christmas that I am completely without my family; all of my family is presently outside of the country. These conditions have made this upcoming Christmas season very hard, cold and shattering for me. It appears that I am alone with no one left beside me.

These cold and brittle conditions have made me wonder why God chose the hardest time of the year to become flesh and why He came to the earth in the weakest human condition (as a baby). Why did God choose the hardest place to be born in the cold weather? Why did God choose to be born in a manger in a stable, which is very cold, filthy and unsanitary with an unpleasant smell? Why did the birth have to be in such a way that it was not only hard physically, but also socially? It must have brought such shame for Mary and her fiancé that she was pregnant before marriage in the religious society of that time.

Dear sisters and brothers, the fact of the Gospel is that it is not only the story of Jesus, but it is the key of how we are to live and serve like Jesus. Today we like Him should come out of our safe comfort zone in order to proclaim the Word of Life and Salvation though faith in Jesus Christ and the penalty of sin that He paid on the cross and to proclaim His resurrection. We should be able to tolerate the cold, the difficulties and the shame in order to serve God. We should be able to enter into the pain of the cold dark world. Then we are able to give the fiery love of Christ to the cold wintery manger of those who are spiritually dead. It might be necessary to come out of the comfort of our lives and leave the loving embrace of our family to enter the manger of the lives of others, such as it has been for me for the third consecutive Christmas. It may be that we will be called fools and traitors and face many difficulties, but we should crucify our will and wishes even more until the world hears and tastes the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas means that God came so that He would enter your hearts today and transform your lives and to replace your pain with indescribable joy.

Christmas is the manifestation of the radiant brightness of the Glory of God in the birth of a child named Emmanuel, which means God is with us.

Christmas is the day that the heat of the life-giving fire of God’s love shone in the dark cold wintry frozen hearts and burst forth in this deadly wicked world.

The same way that the heat from the earth’s core melts the hard stones in itself and produces lava, the fiery love of God, Jesus Christ, through the virgin Mary’s womb came to earth on Christmas to melt the hard heart of sin and wickedness of the world and removes them from our life. In the same process, the work of the Holy Spirit is a fiery rain of God’s Holiness and Mercy that flows into our body, soul and spirit and brings the light of Christ into us and through us making this dark, cold, wintry world into radiant burning brightness. He is turning our world into a world full of peace, joy, and love that is so different than the dark, cold, and wintry world that we used to live in. Hallelujah!

So this Christmas let the lava-like love of Christ enter into the depth of your heart and make you fiery, ready to pay any cost in order to bring the same lava love to the cold world around you, transforming them with the true message of Christmas.

Pastor Saeed Abedini

Soaking in the lava love of Christ

Knowing that pastor Saeed is suffering isn't something to bring joy to my heart.  It makes me feel badly.  For he is suffering and so is his family suffering, for not doing anything hateful to those who are persecuting him.

However, after reading the letter he sent, I am truly encouraged about how he is surviving, through this persecution trial in life.

I am truly grateful that pastor Saeed has not lost his love for our Lord.  I am truly grateful that he is able to focus on Christ.  Even though he is suffering... in many ways.

Thinking about how he is happy thinking about Christmas and his love of Jesus, and reading about how he wants others to realize that they too will suffer in their lives, made me realize that he is a solid, true believer.

A believer who realizes that true believers will suffer for righteousness' sake. 

Just as we read, in 1 Peter 3:17, "But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;"

God's Word, tells us that those suffering for righteousness' sake, need to be happy, and not be afraid.  Or, troubled.

While he is sorrowful of not being able to be with his family, he realizes that he needs to focus on Jesus Christ.

I must admit, I praise God for this.  For his focus on Jesus Christ is what is helping him to get through this terroristic trial in life.  And, is making him overcome this horrible ordeal.

For this, I am grateful.  And, I will continue praying for him... and his family.

Hopefully, you will do all you can and pray, also.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

3rd Christmas...

Every so often, I share something I received by e-mail, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL).  Just like I'm doing, today.

Yesterday, I received an e-mail from American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ).  It was in regard to Pastor Saeed, who is still imprisoned.  Why?  For being Christian.

Here is the message on the e-mail I received:

Lynn,

We just received a message that American Pastor Saeed wrote from prison, a letter full of both pain and hope.

He writes about how this Christmas without his family is "hard, cold and shattering."

But he also writes how his faith in Christ is helping him endure his turmoil:

"Christmas means that God came so that He would enter your hearts today and transform your lives and to replace your pain with indescribable joy."

Read Pastor Saeed's Christmas Letter of Pain and Hope.

This is his third Christmas in prison for his Christian faith.

We also learned that his pain from prison beatings is increasing.

Pastor Saeed - a U.S. citizen - needs our prayers. But he also needs our voices.

We're stepping up our global efforts for his release.

Don't let Pastor Saeed be forgotten this Christmas.

Sign Our Petition for Pastor Saeed's Freedom Today.
 
Jordan Sekulow
ACLJ Executive Director

When I think of pastor Saeed being held in prison, by Muslims, it makes my heart break. 

Not just because he and his family are not able to be together.  Not just because he is being held in prison for not doing anything to hate people.  And, not just because our world governments don't seem to be doing anything to have him released, so he can return home to the USA, to live the rest of his life, with his family.

I realize he is suffering persecution.

Why?  Because he is hated.  Hated by Muslims, for being Christian.

Thinking of this brings to mind John 15:18, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you."

Obviously, the world hates pastor Saeed. 

He's not alone, though.  There are many people suffering persecution, for simply being Christian.

Just as today's Bible verse tells us, if the world hates you... you must realize that it hated Jesus, first.  For this is what He told us.

Unfortunately, the world does hate us Christians.  Some people don't agree with this, but I believe it is true. 

After all, the world spoken about in the Bible, is not just referring to the world we live in.  It's referring to those who are unbelievers. 

Unbelievers in Christ.  The unsaved. 

Those who will spend eternity separated from God, in Hell, for eternity... with no chance of escape.

I pray for all who fit into that category.  And, do what I can every day of my life, to plant seeds for Christ.

Do you?

Hopefully, so.  For by doing this, you will be blessed in Heaven.

Hopefully, you have signed the petition working to help pastor Saeed released.  And, pray for him, his family... and for all others, who are suffering persecution.



Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

That's All...

Every now and then, I let you know here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), that a song is on my heart and mind.

Usually, the music resonates throughout me, over and over.  Normally, it is playing inside me, when I wake up.

Recently, I found it seemed to work differently, within me.

One evening, I was so exhausted I could hardly stay awake.  In fact, I was so tired, that I drifted off to sleep over and over.  And, never got up and out of my recliner chair in my living room, to go to bed.

It was about midnight, when I managed to do so.

While laying in bed, I prayed.  Afterwards, I relaxed and thought I would drift off to sleep.  But, didn't.

Instead, music began inside me.

It was a song recorded by Frank Sinatra entitled, That's All.  Here is a link to the song, so you can listen and/or sing along:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SINfqtCq0lY.  The lyrics are below.

That's All

I can only give you love that lasts forever
And the promise to be near each time you call
And the only heart I own, for you and you alone,
That's all, that's all.

 I can only give you country walks in Springtime
And a hand to hold when leaves begin to fall
And a love whose burning light will warm the winter night,
That's all, that's all.

There are those I am sure who have told you
They would give you the world for a toy.
All I have are these arms to enfold you and a love time can never destroy.
 
If you're wond'ring what I'm asking in return, dear,
You'll be glad to know that my demands are small.
Say it's me that you'll adore for now and ever more,
That's all, that's all.

Why this song was resonating inside me, I have no idea.  But, it was.

In fact, I could not get to sleep, because it seemed to play over and over, inside me.

Eventually, I got up.  I came to the computer, and began writing this LwL entry.

Looking at the lyrics, and thinking about them, made me think of God, once again.

I thought about the love He has for me.  And, for you.

God is not a genie in a bottle.

He will not give to us everything we desire.  But, He promised to supply all our needs.

Like what the lyrics say near the end of this song, He doesn't ask much from us, in return for the love He shows us.

He wants us to adore Him, much like the lyrics say.  Of course, adoration is important.  Our love for Him, is of greatest importance in our lives.

Much like we read, in Luke 10:27, "And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself."

Our greatest love in our lives, needs to be of God.  For He has provided everything, for us.

For this, I will always praise Him... and adore/love Him.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Last One...

As I mentioned I would do, in yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I went to Bible study.  And, I worshipped with my church family, after.

I must admit, it is absolutely wonderful to worship God, in spirit and in truth.  And, through music!

Previously, I mentioned at our Christian Singles' Café (CSC) friend, Brian... died.  I realized that I hadn't mentioned much about what happened.

As I mentioned before, he called me on Friday, November 28th, to let me know he couldn't help me lift some things, as I had asked him several days earlier to do on Saturday, November 29th.  At this time, he told me he wasn't feeling well.

Like I said previously, I let him know that it was okay.  And, I let him know I would pray for him, since he wasn't feeling well.

The next day, Saturday, November 29th, I did what I had to do, just a half-block from where Brian lived.  In fact, as I was doing what I needed to do, I looked up, saw the building where he lived, and wondered if he was okay.  I even wondered if he was alive, or dead.

Being busy, I wasn't able to call him, at that time. 

Even if I had been able to phone him, he would probably not have answered the phone.  You see, it was later determined that he died, either that Friday evening, or on that Saturday.

Sigh...

When I attended his funeral on Monday, November 8th, I spoke with his brother D.  And, his daughter H.

I was told that even though the card printed for him stated he died December 1st, that wasn't the case.  Apparently, he was found... that day.  So, that was the date quoted on the card.

After some discussion about our telephone call, Brian's family members decided I may have been the last person to speak with him.

Sigh...

It truly made me feel badly.  Especially, since I was the last person to have spoken with my brother, Glenn... before he died.

Sigh...

Much like my brother, Brian didn't always go to church to worship.  Still, he always spoke with me about trusting in/believing upon our Lord, Jesus Christ. 

This happened, even during our last telephone conversation.  Meaning, my last conversation with both my brother Glenn, and the same with Brian.

Thinking about how even though they didn't always get to worship, due to physical and other circumstances, made me think about how they still loved Jesus. 

How happy I am they did, because it is only those who trust in/believe upon Jesus, who go to heaven, after they die here on this earth.  They go to heaven, because they are His saints.

Just as we read, in Psalm 116:15, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."

Some people don't believe that we born-again Christians, are saints.  But, we are.  Just as the Bible teaches.

And, just as we read in today's verse, we are precious in the sight of the Lord.  Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Are you precious in the sight of the Lord?  Are you trusting in/believing upon Jesus Christ? 

If not, you'll spend eternity in Hell, separated from God.  And, you'll have no chance of escape.  You'll be there, forever.

Hopefully, you are.  For if so, I'll see you in heaven, one day.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

The Cross...

Today, being SONday, I will once again be letting you know here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), that I will be doing what I truly enjoy doing on our Lord's Day. 

I'll be attending our Bible study class.  Then later, I will worship with my church family.  And, enjoy praising Him, through music.

There is a hymn that was resonating within me yesterday morning, when I awoke. 

It was written by George Bennard, and is entitled, The Old Rugged Cross.  Here is a link, so you can listen to and/or sing along:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CltrLsjsQl0.  The lyrics are below.

The Old Rugged Cross

On a hill far away, stood an old rugged Cross
The emblem of suffering and shame
How I love that old Cross, where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged Cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

O that old rugged Cross, so despised by the world
Has a wondrous attraction for me
For the dear Lamb of God, left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.

So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged Cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

(This part has not been recorded:
In that old rugged Cross, stained with blood so divine
A wondrous beauty I see
For twas on that old Cross, Jesus suffered and died
To pardon and sanctify me.

So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged Cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

To the old rugged Cross, I will ever be true
It's shame and reproach gladly bear)

Then He'll call me some day, to my home far away
Where His glory for ever I'll share.

So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged Cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

I will cling to the old rugged Cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

Just as the lyrics of this hymn says, I'll cherish the old rugged Cross and what happened upon it.  Referring to when Jesus was crucified.

I will cling to it, and exchange it some day for a crown.

After all, Jesus didn't have to die, from a human perspective.  He chose to die, humanly. 

By doing so, He paid the price for the sin of the world... of all who will believe. 

Like me... a believer.  And, yes.  One day, I'll exchange it for a crown. 

Just as we read in 2 Timothy 4:8, "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

The crown of righteousness, is given to all who endureth and/or overcome the temptations and trials they experience, here on earth... by trusting in/believing upon our Lord, Jesus Christ.  By doing so, gaining salvation.

My friend, if you have not yet come to Christ, please do so, today.  Tomorrow, may be too late.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Alone? Not!

Just over a week ago, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I mentioned that a Christian friend, died. 

So, last Saturday, he wasn't able to attend our Christian Singles' Café (CSC). 
 
Brian was a rather unique person.  Some adored him, with his unique sense of humour.  Others did not feel comfortable with him.  But then, who is perfect?  No one.

In the past, our group met on the first Friday of the month, at Tim Horton's.  In fact, this group had met at various locations of Timmy's, from the beginning of when the group began, in September 2009.  Just before my now deceased husband Gordon, died.

At that time, a friend of mine was the leader of the group.  Even though Gordon had only died less than a month before the November 2009 meeting, she insisted she was going to take me to the gathering of the group, because she felt I needed to be able to get out and have support from other single Christian friends.  Some of whom, suffered the way I was.

However, things changed over time.

My friend who lead the group, left the group.  Another Christian sister in the Lord, took over.

Before I had my emergency surgery in Sept. 2012, we had up to 30 people attend our group.

Over this time of being cut open so often that I couldn't attend our group gatherings.  However, when I did a few months ago, we had only seven (7) or less people, show up.

Then, our leader let us know she had to move out of town, to work at a church, in the Collingwood area, where she would be serving our Lord.  As a pastor.

Knowing that she often gave Brian and a couple of other people a ride to our group gatherings, we discussed changing the location. 

After all, I am still awaiting another surgery.  And, won't be able to drive anyone needing a ride.

So, last Saturday, December 6th, our group for CSC, were to meet at a different location.

It was arranged that we would meet at Wendy's, on Ouellette Ave., near the corner of Ellis.  Within only a few yards of where our group members L, and Brian lived (in different apartment buildings).

We set this up, so that they would be able to walk to meet with the group.  And, another member D, who takes a bus to visit both L and Brian, would be able to easily attend the gathering.  After all, he is legally blind.

It was agreed that this would be best for those few people who had not stopped attending CSC.  Plus, with plenty of parking, it would be easy for those in any area of Windsor, to travel to this location and park their vehicle.

When I arrived at Wendy's last Saturday, I thought that possibly people were running late.  Well, at least some.

C had let me know she wouldn't be in Windsor, that evening.  L, was sick, so I knew she couldn't attend, even though she lives at that intersection where Wendy's is located.  D hadn't confirmed if he would attend or not.  Y, had moved to Collingwood area.  And, of course, Brian couldn't, because he was no longer alive.

I heard from no one else, as to whether or not they would attend.  Not from friends in real life.  Not from FB friends who saw my postings.  And, not from anyone on the list of about 26 people I e-mailed.

Please don't misunderstand.  It is not necessary for anyone to respond and confirm whether or not they are going.  No response is needed.  People just show up.

To my surprise, I found myself seated by myself.

Right from the beginning, when I took a seat waiting for others to show up, I believed it may not happen.  And, it didn't.

After sitting there alone for a while, I suspected that no one else was joining me, there.  And, this became the truth.

Even though I wasn't happy about being there alone, I reminded myself that I am truly never alone.  For, our Lord, is with me, always.

Just as we read, in Matthew 28: 18-20 (NKJV), "And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. ¹⁹ Go therefore^[c] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen."

How I praise God that I am truly never alone.  Not that evening at Wendy's.  Not on my recent birthday.  Not ever.

He's with me, always.  And, always will be.

While driving home, I thought about these verses, and thought about how we are commanded to go and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that He has commanded us to do... just as we read, there.

Once again, thoughts of leaving Canada to go teach English as a Second Language (ESL) somewhere in the world, crossed my mind.

Whether or not this will ever happen, I do not know.  Only God knows.

However, I know it can't happen any time, soon.  For I am still awaiting that surgery/operation, that I am praying will be the last I will ever experience.

For this, I am praying.  And, will continue to pray. 

Please, join me in prayer.  Thank you.  May God bless you.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

So Shall We Ever Be...

From time to time, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), I'll discuss music.  Like I will, today!

My Facebook (FB) friend A, posted a link to a YouTube (YT) music video written by Carl. L Trivette and recorded by Alan Jackson entitled, I Want To Stroll Over Heaven With You.  Here is a link to listen and/or sing along:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEmyiOM9Sa4.  The lyrics are below.

I Want To Stroll Over Heaven With You

If I survey all the good things that come to me from above
If I count all the blessings from the storehouse of love
I'd simply ask for the favor of him beyond mortal kin
And I'm sure he would grant it again
I want to stroll over Heaven with you some glad day
When all our troubles and heartaches are vanished away
Then we'll enjoy the beauty where all things are new
I want to stroll over Heaven with you

So many places of beauty we long to see here below
But time and treasures have kept us from making plans as you know
But come the morning of the rapture together we'll stand a new
While I stroll over Heaven with you
I want to stroll over Heaven with you some glad day
When all our troubles and heartaches are vanished away
Then we'll enjoy the beauty where all things are new
I want to stroll over Heaven with you

I want to stroll over Heaven with you

It would truly be a beautiful thing to do, to be able to stroll over heaven.  Especially, with those we know and care for.

When I first found the link to this video with the lyrics shown on-screen, I scrolled down a bit, and read the information, just below the YT. 

If you read it for yourself, you'll see that the fellow who wrote this song, wrote it for his wife.  She requested that it be sung at her funeral.  When she died, he recited the song, as a eulogy to her.

Sigh...

How wonderful this was to read.  And, to think about the love that he had for his wife.

The lyrics are lovely.  Full of love.  And, speak truth.  For, at some point in time, the rapture will happen. 

Yes, one day, this will happen.

Just as we read in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
¹⁴ For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
¹⁵ For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
¹⁶ For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
¹⁷ Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
¹⁸ Wherefore comfort one another with these words."

Yes, those words are comforting.  Each and every one of us will only live on this earth, for a short time, compared to eternity.  But, just as we just read, the rapture will happen.

Please realize that not everyone will be raptured.  Not everyone here on earth, will be caught up together with the Lord, in the air.

And, it won't matter if you've died here on earth, and are considered to be asleep in Jesus... or, if you are still alive and breathing, here on earth. 

Only those who have gained salvation, by trusting in/believing upon our Lord, Jesus Christ, will be raptured.  Hopefully, you are one.  For, I am another.  And, will be grateful to see you, and spend time with you, and... with our Lord.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Exposed...

I feel like I'm behind in telling you, here on Life with Lynnie (LwL), about what I've been doing, lately.  Especially, since I'll be discussing last Friday, December 5th!

On the first Friday in December, every year my real estate board holds an event that they used to call a Christmas dinner.  For a while now, it's been called a Gala... not using the word Christmas, at all.

This event is also used as a fund-raiser. 

People and local businesses donate items that are used in a silent auction.  Plus, there are usually draws that people purchase tickets to participate in, if they want to win the item being offered.

When I arrived at the Ciociaro Club, here in Windsor, I found I was the first person scheduled to be seated at table 51.

After choosing my seat, I made sure to leave some personal things on the next two (2) seats to my right, for my realtor friend, L and her boyfriend, D.

Then, I went to look around at the items being silently auctioned.  When I returned to my seat, I brought with me some appetizers. 

As I approached my seat at the table, I noticed someone's business card and their personal glass, etc.  It was a person who I've known for several years, now.

And, it's a fellow who actually lives in my apartment building.  On the same floor as I live on.  But, on the other side of the building, and on the other end of the hallway.  The elevators sort of make us kitty-corner from each other.

At first, I thought his wife was going to be with us, but it turned out that she wasn't feeling well.  So, he had come, alone.

Eventually, my friend L and her boyfriend D, arrived.  Two other couples joined us.  Plus, another realtor who was dating the woman he brought to the dinner event.

At first, I thought everyone realized that the fellow next to me and I were not a couple.  Especially, since most at our table know us.

However, since people had asked us about our apartment building and whether or not we enjoyed living there, it seemed that the woman dating the realtor sitting next to the fellow beside me, thought we were married.

When I realized this, I had to laugh.  Well, at least, I had to join in with others, who thought this was a funny situation.  :(  :)

Still, inside me, I was grateful that the truth had been revealed.  I certainly wouldn't have wanted to have any of our co-workers to even think that possibly the fellow seated next to me and I, were in some sort of romantic relationship!

It would be upsetting to think that some people might think this way.

Thinking of this, brought to mind Ephesians 5:12-13 (NIV), " It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. ¹³ But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light."

Please understand, I realize that there are people disobedient to God.  People who will have an affair with someone who is married to someone else. 

But, knowing how much I love my Lord, Jesus Christ, and knowing how obedient I try to be on a daily basis, I would hate to have anyone even think this would be something I would do.  For, being committed to God, I would not.

How thankful I was and still am, that the truth was revealed.  Revealed, basically... by God's light.

Hallelujah!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Heartbroken...

There was something else I didn't discuss in recent Life with Lynnie (LwL) entries.

It is the fact that while listening to the speaker on our Missions Sunday, tears began to flow.  My tears.

I'm not sure if anyone else felt the way I did.  But, I know that while I truly enjoyed their presentations, I also felt heartbroken.

Please don't misunderstand.  The presentations were wonderful.  Both, in our Bible study class, and during our worship service.

But, when it was mentioned that we need to pray and ask God if we will be led to do missions work, it made me cry.

Why?

When my now deceased husband Gordon was alive, we had planned to do missions work, together.  Meaning, after he and I were both retired.

Even when we travelled, we took New Testament Bibles with us, and/or tracts.  Any tracts taken, were in languages for the places we travelled to.

In addition, we both obtained our certificates to teach English as a Second Language (ESL), in order to help us obtain places to travel to and work for our Lord.  And, we both worked at teaching ESL as volunteers at our church.

Most of our students, were masters degree students at the University of Windsor (U of W), who were hoping to improve their English language and ability to verbalize.

Knowing that Gordon had worked wiring diesel locomotive train engines at the GM plant in London, ON, in addition to previous electrical work, meant he would probably be able to help by doing electrical work, in some places.  This, plus being able to do plumbing work, as well.

Together, we felt we could manage to secure some sort of position elsewhere in the world, to be able to do work for our Lord.  Just as you can imagine, we wanted to be doers of God's Word, and not just hearers, only.

Like we are told to be, in James 1:22, "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."

We wanted to be obedient to what we thought God was calling us to do.  This didn't happen.

Gordon died. 

With my health issues not being great, I haven't been able to do what we had planned to do for God.  And, probably won't be able to, unless He makes a way where there doesn't seem to be one, at this time.

Especially, since it seems that most full-time missionary positions (not temporary or vacation type missions trips), are filled by married couples.  Of which, I am not longer a part of.

Of course, nothing is impossible for God.  If He wills something of this sort of work for me, it will happen.

In the meantime, I find it heartbreaking that I haven't been able to do it, thus far.  Other than use my writing skills, in an effort to help others, give encouragement and show people how God works in our lives.

Even so, I am thankful for being used for work, honouring to Him.  And, always will be.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Perfect...

In yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I discussed being with my church family, on SONday.  And, mentioned having communion!  :)

Something I didn't mention, was the fact that we considered that day our Mission Sunday.

Normally, we would have a missionary join us.  However, last Sunday, this was a little different.

The couple who joined us, are considered missionaries of a sort.  They are considered Member Care Coordinators with Fellowship International.

It was so nice to have seen information on what they do.  And, learn about how they work for God.

They actually live here in Windsor, ON, Canada.  And, in their past, the husband pastored a church family.

Unlike missionaries, they do not go and live somewhere else in the world.  Instead, they go visit missionaries, in various places in the world. 

By doing so, they offer encouragement to those, who are doing work for God.

To me, this is wonderful. 

After all, most missionaries from Canada, are no longer living in Canada.  And, need support and encouragement. 

Not just financially, but also to give peace to all who have changed their lives, to assist others around the world, in coming to Christ.

Thinking of the peace God offers, made me think about Hebrews 13:20-21, "Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
²¹ Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen."

That peace that comes from God, is the peace that helps people through situations and trials in life.  And, makes those of us trusting in Him, perfect to do His will.

At least, for me.  Hopefully, for you, also.

Thank You, Lord!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

I Say...

If you read yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, you'll know that I went to spend time with my church family.  First, at our Bible study class.  Then later, our worship service.

How wonderful it is to be able to attend both Bible study classes and worship services!  Especially, after being unable to do so for quite a while, when I was not well, and had to recover from being cut open so many times.

Since it was the first SONday in December, we had communion.  Or, the Lord's Supper, as some people call it.

If you know me personally, or if you've read LwL for a while, you'll know how grateful I am at being able to celebrate our Lord, in this manner.

It also gives me a chance to reflect upon my life.  And, whether or not I need to request forgiveness.

Of course, He always forgives His children.  Meaning those of us who belong to Him.  Those, who are trusting in/believing upon our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Even so, God expects us to pray.  He expects us to request what we desire, when we pray.  And, He expects us to forgive. 

Just as we read, in Mark 11:24-26, "Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
²⁵ And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
²⁶ But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses."

I must admit, I had a lot to pray about, before we physically shared our communion bread and wine.

There was much that I prayed for.  And, forgave. 

Why?

This past week, had been a truly stressful time.  And, much prayer and forgiveness, was needed.

Even so, I am truly grateful that because I forgave, I am forgiven.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com