SMILING SUNDAY

Hey, i finally got into my blog to continue writing. I have been trying for quite some time today, not to mention yesterday, just trying to get into the blog site. I guess the blog site manager is trying to get all of the blog sites to switch into a new format and i am one who hasn't switched over yet. So, i guess i will be switching soon.
Anyhow, i have a little catching up to do with you all. Of course, this past week has been mainly focused on getting healed up from the bladder infection we discovered last weekend. It is always nice to get over a bladder infection. Very nice! On Friday night, i got out again to see a hockey game. It is always so nice to get out to a game and do some visiting. I love that. Plus, our team won again. So, that is always a bonus. In fact, the past two home a games were against Quesnel. In each game, we scored a goal in the first minute. Plus, in both games, we scored at least 5 goals which qualified all in attendance for a free Big Mac and a 2 for 1 meal at Denny's. Wow! What a deal!
THANK YOU CARDS: Just in case you don't know, i have sent out some thank you cards but only a few. I just started to send out cards to people who gave me a card at the Kamloops hospital. I thought it was a good way to start, then i stopped after about 12, so i didn't get very far. So, if you haven't received a card, sorry about that. I want you to know for sure that i am so thankful and totally amazed at the incredible support that has come our way. Thank you Lord for your faithfulness.
Tonight: New Years Eve is always a special evening at our church. Then we open up the youth centre for those who want to come and bring in the new year together. I love it. Some families will come and play games with their kids. Others will come and play board games with other board game people. Then some will come and watch a movie or do some internet surfing. Others just come and hang out and visit. Then, just before midnight, we all get together and do the big count down to 2007. Yes, i love it! If you can, please let me know what you are doing or what you did to welcome in 2007. If you live around here and can join us at the youth centre, we are open anywhere from 8pm until 12:30(2007).
Yesterday, i discovered why i was having a real challenge getting on top of my pain. I was reading my one pill bottle wrong so i was taking the wrong dose. So i'm on track with that now.
Well, love ya and Happy New Year
Tim

friday feelings

So, hello to you all,
I am off to a hockey game right now. I have had a better day,the past week was rather challenging with the bladder infection and all. But, praise the Lord i am blessed! Canada won their game today at the World Juniors. Carey Price played great again in net. All is well.
Esther went to Grande Praire today to have a little break while there is lots of help around the house. She got there safely. I had a nice chat with her justa little while ago.
It was year end for the office today at YFC. We had a very good year overall. God is so good. All needs were met wonderfully!
Well, chat at you tomorrow. Love to hear from more of you.
Later,
TIM

all thumbs thursday

what is up my friend? I am trying to behave but somehow i manage to get in trouble anyhow. So, why bother? I am just going to party hard and when the dust settles, we will find out what the ending will be. Just so you know, i am kidding, but lots of people do live their lives like that. i am so thankful to the Lord for His great love that He has poured into my life. i don't know where i would be now if the Lord wasn't there. We are so blessed as a family! We have everything we need and more. Joel is heading off to Alberta in January. He seems to have a job where he can work during the evening and snow board during the day, so he's quite excited about that. Rachelle graduates this semester with a degree in Intercultural Studies. She just loves languages and basically other people groups. Josiah just got a job at Panago Pizza. He is so pumped about making money. Josiah just got his driver's license as well. Jeremiah has the world by the tail. He finds school a breeze and making money just comes naturally. He thinks in a much deeper realm than the rest of us. It really will be interesting to see where the Lord leads him.

We sure had fun visiting fsmily and friends over Christmas. Plus, watching the junior hockey is exciting as well, but of course, not as exciting. Physically, i keep battling pain of some sort. The bladder infection i have right now is not fun.
Plus, i am sure i had a touch of the flu but i am over that now. I don't know, but i do know that i am very frustrated right now. Oh, on a positive note, someone dropped off some fresh fish and some fresh moose meat yesterday, so praise the Lord for that.

Well, it is nap time for me. Chat later,
Tim

twinkle tuesday

Merry Boxing Day,
Well, i didn't get my blog out on time again. I have been fighting off one of those stupid infections again. It is so frustrating. I hate the pain that goes with these stupid infections. In fact, I'm actually getting frustrated with it all. I am so thankful for the strength that i do have to fight, but it just gets frustrating.

Anyhow, Christmas was great. It was great to have people over and it was a lot of fun watching everyone open gifts and opening gifts was fun too. Today was fun watching Team Canada win their game against Sweden. Well, short of words today.
See ya,
Tim

MERRY CHRISTMAS

HELLO TO YOU ALL,
ISN'T IT GREAT TO BE ALIVE? PRAISE THE LORD! 2006 Christmas is upon us and we are blessed! Hey, thank you so much for all of your prayers, support and kind words over the past 5 months. The house is full of people and that's something to be excited about. Rachelle got home from Florida two nights ago. She is so excited to be home and celebrating. She is helping lots with the preparations and we sure do appreciate that.
Please be praying for my back. Lately, my back has been quite painful and that's been a challenge. I have been sleeping out in the living room in my chair to help keep the pressure off my back. Anyhow, keep those prayers flowing please. I thank the Lord each new day for His blessing on ouor lives.

Well, i have to keep it short. We are going to open gifts now. So, bye, bye>
Love and prayers,
Tim

sizzling sunday

Hi and how are you on this fine Christmas eve day? Yes, i can hardly believe my eyes that it is Christmas tomorrow. I am so excited about it. Usually i am quite calm and relaxed but this time i am right pumped. It seems to me that this illness thing that has come my way has done something for me that i never would have thought of before. I just don't know what it is. Sounds weird, eh? I know it does. Just lately, i have been trying to put my finger on it. I just don't know.
What do i know? I know that God loves me unconditionally, I know that i am so blesssed in every way, i have an awesome family, i have an amazing job(ministry),
great friends, special community, awesome home, ok transportation, too much stuff,
amazing parents. Wow, that's alot of blessing and fulfillment in my life. Just from that little exercise, i can see clearly that i am blessed in a huge way.
Now, i just have to figure out what the difference is for me this go around at Christmas. I think i have it. This go around is a go around that i was thinking might not be there for me. When i was told about the cancer illness back in August,
i remember my mind racing ahead to every event with family and friends that i wouldn't be at again. I remember planning my funeral and not missing out a single detail. I remember how i started to feel scared, even though i knew that God would take care of my family. Yes, i had some lonely nights in the hospital. Esther would come and be with me during the day and stay extra long, but those late night times were just brutal. I remember having to get right upset at the enemy my soul,and do some serious prayer. I would feel so much better after.
Now, i have completed all of the cancer treatments, i have been on this special diet for at least 6 weeks, i have had all kinds of prayer and read all kinds of scripture and shared with so many different people from all over. I have come to the conclusion that God knows exactly how many days i have left of this place called earth and i am going to make the best of them. Of course, i can only do that by totally relying on the Lord for His strength, His peace, His love and joy. I'm sure there is more but i need a break from this blog and so do you. I just know that we are praying for a total healing miracle in my life and there is no reason why that can't take place. So, feel free to join the journey of healing and to God be the glory!!!!! That's what i have to say about that.
Bye for now,
Tim

swinging saturday

Well, what an interesting morning i had. Last night, i started to realize that i was feeling a little uncomfortable in the mid section. I thought about it for a while and then realized that i must have a blockage in my cathidor. If you know what a cathador is, you know i am in trouble. A catador is a thin hose that is placed in the penis and then allows the urine to drain into a bag. So, i guess it's quite obvious that major pain was creaping up on me. I hung on for as long as i could until i had to wake up Esther to drive me to the hospital to get drained. Thank the Lord that she took me there because every moment seemed to get more difficult. Once in the hospital, all i needed is to get drained but, no, there was so much more the nurse wanted to do before getting some help. After all the first stuff, the nurse took me to a room and than told me that the nurses are going on a shift change now so just relax, someone would see me in a while. So, i waited and waited and waited. Well, you know the story. It happens! I have to say that i began to experience some of the worst pain that i've ever experienced. It made me start feeling like i was preganent and just couldn't wait to give birth. I know that sounds crazy but it was one wild and wacky experience. After a little while later, the doctor came and quickly confirmed that i was plugged up and needed to have the dam sprung. Let me tell you, in the midst of the pain and tears, a nurse came and sprung the leak. WOW!
What an amazing feeling! I was so drained after that experience. Literally.
I was so drained physically as well. All i wanted to do was get home and rest in my chair. Anyhow, i thought i should update you as to how things are going.
It was so nice to have Rod and Lori Myers drop by for a quick visit. They spent alot of time with me while in Kelowna. What a blessing they were.
Well, bye for now,
Tim

feeling friday

It's friday dec 22, and i had the most amazing sleep. Yes, that felt great. So, how was your sleep? Esther is just heading off to work and i will be heading off to the kitchen, to get breakfast for the boys.
I am now in the middle of eating my first of two meat meals for the day. I love this stuff! I really do.
I was invited to go ice fishing on Saturday. I was getting quite pumped about it until i realized that we have some extra special friends coming to visit from Kelowna. Oh well, maybe next time. I hope they ask me a "next time".

Disappointment. I hope our fishing friends aren't disappointed that i can't make it now. Do you ever get disappointed? If so, how often? I think i get disappointed in my children too often. It's not that they are just nasty or irresponsible or something like that. I actually believe that I expect too much from them. So, that means that i am setting myself up for disappointment. Now that really doesn't make sense now, does it? Do you think that you do that? Come on, be honest.

I think the Lord is probably the one who is disappointed the most. Just think of all the times that you have messed up and knew better. I just have to think of all the times that i have messed up or just did the opposite of what i was suppose to. It's not so bad when you don't know that you made the mistake until after. But when we know what is right and do the other option that wasn't in the option pile, that's nasty.

I think of the Bible story with the big fish and Jonah. Jonah heard clearly from God what he was suppose to do. But, Jonah decided to take off, run, turn and fly like a wild man in the other way. Jonah allowed fear to enter his mind. We are reading in our daily devotions about the battle of the mind. It is where the challenge to obey always begins. Jonah jumped on the ship that led him away from obedience to the Lord(not a good idea).
Later, we see all of the issues arise because of Jonah choosing to do his own thing.
But, the great thing is that he later made things right and God forgave him and gave him a second chance to follow the will of the Lord.
So, i am feeling kind of bad right now. I think it's because i am seeing that i need to recognize that my kids are going to make mistakes. They aren't perfect and why would i even expect them to be. If i mess up and don't always do what's right, how can i expect my kids to? God forgives me when i mess up and ask Him to forgive me, so i better be ready to do the same.
The Jonah story is quite interesting but i think the Christmas theme is more appropriate at this time so until tomorrow, bye for now.
Tim

Thursday Thoughts

I just can't sneak one by Shirly. She saw that i missed yesterday and made sure i new she knew.(Good morning Shirley) Shirley is one sharp lady! But guess what? I had most of the blog done yesterday and then my computer powered out and i lost my stuff. That's when i totally forgot to do it again and post it.(Totally forgot until about 11:45pm last night) Yes, i am getting busy around the home so i am starting to slack off on other things(which is a good sign)
Anyhow, I am ok, thankyou Shirly. In fact, i got some blood work done last week and results came back on Monday as great in all departments. My white blood count is right up, which is real good especially since chemo.. Everything else tested is functioning well so that makes me very happy. In fact, i am feeling great! Sure i have aches and pains, but i guess i will have aches and pains, especially with trying to get some exercising happening. It seems that any exercise brings me pain. I guess it will due to the serious lack of use of muscle over the past 4 months. That's my fault. I have found it really tough to get motivated to exercise. Just doing any exercise on some kind of regular basis has been almost zip. I need some physio person to come by and get me into routine but then it still comes back to me. Will i keep with it to make it worth their while? I am so lazy that way.
Any ideas on smarting me up? Come on, i know there are some smart phsyically fit people that are just aching to get me working out and in to some good pain.

Anyhow, I just started thinking about Jesus being born and having such an amazing, bizarre start in the world. All the attention, all the unique surroundings, the awesome gifts, wise men, shepherds, and what about that huge star. Yes, that was some special event to say the least. But then, i started thinking about the destruction of lives that took place because of the wise men not listening to Herod and going back home without telling Herod where Jesus was born and being raised at the time. Then, we read about Herod giving orders to kill all the boys in the area who were 2 years old and younger(Matt.2:16). That must have been such a sorrowful, tragic, heartbreaking, pain staking time in history. All the blood shed, all the emotional outburst from the families, friends and community over all. We can't even begin to sense what it must have been like at that time of slaughter.
The big thing that i started thinking about to help me not to get too overwhelmed with trying to comprehend how this could have happened is that we will all have an earthly death sometime. The most important point to make is that we need to make sure that we are ready to move into eternity with our lives. My Bible only talks about 2 options. The option that involves heaven is the one that i am holding onto.
How about you? Each one of us have to make that choice and i thank the Lord for the opportunity that He gives each one of us. So, yes, it was a very tragic event in history but, in comparison to eternity(TIME)we are all here on this Earth for the same short, short length of time. The Bible mentions that our lives are but a "vapor"
only here for a glimpse of time, then eternity with or without Jesus begins.

Well, have a good day on this side of eternity and make good choices as to how you spend your time and cash. The Lord will lead and guide you and that is what i have found so valuable. Without the Lord directing me, it would be one crazy life.

Well, hey, see ya,
Tim

Twig tuesday

Hi to you all,
I have had a great day but somewhat stretchy. I woke up with a sore back, but it was ok after awhile. I think it was from the biking i was doing on my exercise bike. I got this great deal on a bike at a yard sale a few weeks back. I told Esther about it and she said, oh great, that is what you needed. Then i realized she was right; I was thinking about the store. It would be a good item for the store. But, i really do need it. I haven't been really moving the muscles for months now, so i have to get serious about it. So, please be praying for me as i try to get into some regular schedule for working out.
I guess it is the same for our relationship with the Lord. If we don't exercise our faith,(pray and read the Word)we get out of shape spiritually. (not good) We open ourselves up to all kinds of negative things by not keeping our protection around us.
So, let's keep exercising physically and spiritually to get and keep the positive flow happening and impacting those around us.
Amen, and see ya tomorrow.
Tim

Shepherd Monday

Good day to you all,
Our daughter called from Florida and said that she is having a great time visiting friends. You might have read that another friend invited and paid for her to go down and have a nice little break before coming home for the holidays. Rachelle only has one semester left before she graduates from college. Wow! Time sure flys. She is so pumped about graduating. Grad will be around the end of April. I am so excited for her! It will be so exciting to celebrate with her!

Anyhow, how was your weekend? Remember i love hearing from you all. I really do. Sometimes i get so curious as to who clicks in and reads this stuff. So i ask you, but you don't have to, who is it and how did you come across this blog? Now that i have asked that question, i am somewhat nervous and feeling funny that i even asked but i just had to. You can answer on my email(slimtimmy12@yahoo.ca) or the blog if you don't mind. I would really love to know. If you have any questions about me or stuff written, please ask and i will try to be as open and honest as i can be. Thanks so much! Now i am really getting excited about what kind of response i will get.

Anyhow, i had a great weekend. I even had friends come by and take me to a hockey game yesterday. That was special! We won and i did have a great time. I noticed that it was quite cold outside. I guess it is close to Christmas. Speaking of Christmas, i was suppose to be writing about the shepherds. Oh well, i guess the shepherds will have to wait because that is one thing i have picked up on the response from the blog.(don't write too long, keep it somewhat short) No,i think i will chat a tad about my shepherd pals.
So, the shepherds were busy with their flocks and it amazed me how they had this heavenly visit to let them in on the secret. Another angelic visit. That would definitely get your attention! It was quite a secret, but it had to get out. They took off to see what all the comotion was about and what did they find, but Jesus. The shepherds found Jesus. That is the most powerful message of the Bible. They found Jesus! That is the most powerful and most important message today still. Finding Jesus! That was the message the followers of Jesus were given before the Lord went to heaven. "Tell the gospel message" Tell them about Jesus, tell others about His love, about what He has done for all. Help others find Jesus. So, in a nutshell, that is the message all Christians(followers of Jesus) are suppose to be communicating to others. I guess that gives us purpose. There is nothing like sharing about the love of the Lord and what He has done. Those shepherds found Jesus and so did i. I have never regretted the life change that happened in me as a result of that encounter and i know there is still lots that has to change in my life as well. Thank the Lord that He is so patient and understanding with us all. As Christians, we are suppose to be "like Christ". As He changes us from the inside out, that will happen and does happen. As we read the Bible and pray more, that change does happen. The change can be slow at times, because of getting off track with our purpose, etc... but Christ-likeness does occur. So, if someone ever asks why we are the way we are, we have to point them to the One(Jesus) who is doing the changing in us. We have to point them to Jesus, the one who brings the joy, peace and love into our lives. Right? Right! It is not our responsibility as to what kind of response the person has who is asking the question, we just have to be honest with them and let the Lord do the rest.
Do i hear an Amen to that? Come on, you can do it. i won't tell that you are getting out of control and all excited. I mean really, if you want to shout it out, go for it. I can't hear you. Just one more time and i will try real hard to hear you this time. You Swiss people have good sets of lungs. I actually think i heard your accent as you shouted out. Congratulations!
Well, see ya tomorrow cause i have to keep it short(somewhat), and have a great day.
Tim Merry Christmas
PS I have been working on some Thank you cards, but if i miss someone, please forgive me. So, thank you for all of your support at this time. Love and prayers.

sunday song

Good morning to you. I am awake and singing a song. Yes, it is chilly out there but there can still be a song in our hearts. Can you say amen, brother and sister? I sure hope so.
So, i had some fun with the Mary passage in Luke yesterday. I think i better cut back today on the writing and get ready to chat about the shepherds tomorrow. I am so thankful for the way that God has met my personl need. The Bible is so full of the blessing of the Lord for each one of us. We are blessed, we are blessed, we are blessed!!

What are you going to do today? Are you going to focus your time on what God wants to do in and through your life or are you going to just do whatever you feel like?
I would like to suggest that you check out what the Lord wants to communicate to you. He loves us so much. He wants us to know that. He wants us to be happy, blessed and full of His love. So often, we just don't seem to be wired to receive that word. But, if you ask the Lord, He will show you just what He wants to. Why? Because He does care about exactly what you are going through and especially what you are challenged with in your life at this time. That's the Lord! That's the Lord!
He wants to touch our lives and bring us out of whatever is holding us back from being full of joy. His peace should be flowing through each one of us as well. The Lord cares so much about us. It really is amazing how He cares so much for us, yet we tend to find it difficult to spend time with Him in building that friendship. I know He will help us with that as we put our trust more fully in Him and enjoy what comes our way through His blessing in our lives.
Well, enjoy the day and see ya,
Tim

Christmas is a comin'

Well, hello Nick, and PJ, I think i'll make up for yesterday by going all out today and share on the Birth of Christ passage in Luke. So, let's get at it!
Hope you don't mind.

Anyhow, let's turn to Luke 1:26-28 to start out. Hey, this makes me feel like i am still pastoring. You know, doing that pastor thing. Anyhow, did you look it up?

Verse 26 starts out with God sending an "angel" to tell Mary that she is one extremely special girl and that the Lord is with her. Just try to imagine Mary sitting there. Who knows what she was just doing or what she was busy at when the angel arrived. All of a sudden, there was an angel in front of her(it would be rude to talk behind her back), so in front works better. Just imagine, Mary's eyes must have bugged right out and a look of shock poured out from her.

In verse 29, we find that Mary was confused to say the least. Now what was she thinking? Something like, "Ok, i must have stayed up too late last night, or i never should have drank that green tea before bed". Who knows, but she had to be thinking somethng wild and crazy because what was happening to her was something quite bizarre.

In verse 30-33, we find the angel addressing Mary again. He starts by reassuring her that everything was ok and that she is one very special person. If i had an angel show up and chat with me, i would really appreciate those words. Of course, i would still be in shock as the angel spoke but the words would touch me in a very special way. In fact, i believe those words are being spoken to all who come into relationship with the Lord all the time. I honestly believe that there are a bunch of people right now who are reading this who need to know clearly that God loves them and has a special plan their lives. Most people, i find, need to be encouraged, in some way, to believe that they are special and that God accepts them, just as they are. Hey, we all make mistakes and have negative feelings about ourselves alot, right? That's normal. But, God keeps saying to us "I love you and have a special plan for your life." That's what He was saying to Mary and that is what He is saying to each one of us right now. God has a plan! Just think, He used Mary in one very unique way and He wants to use each one of us in very unique ways as we trust Him. I think that is so powerful! God used Mary in a way that changed history. The cool thing is that every time you step out and love someone with God's love, you are being used to change history in that persons life. Now that's awesome! God's power, His Spirit, was in action with Mary and His Spirit is still in action throughout the earth and especially in your life as you let Him. That is so exciting to me! God, the Creator of the universe is vitally interested in us.(The Bible says that God measures the universe with the span of His hand. God is BIG! Huge! Actually, humanly, we can't picture that kind of size. I like to measure God by how much love He has for each one of us. His love for us is as Big as He is because God can't be measured. There is no end to God, and His love has no limits or end either. His love is all over us and He won't stop pouring it in to us. That's who God is, LOVE. You can't get away from it, even if you try and know matter where you go, God's love is there. You can't separate God from His love so let's just let it flow. Powerful healing comes from accepting God's love into our lives, and that's just the beginning. His blessings in our lives are endless. Then finally we have an endless, everlasting eternity with God. So, it can't get better than that)

In verse 34, we find Mary somewhat calm now and able to talk. She asks a valid question that i think we all ask in reference to God working in us. You see, Mary is thinking humanly when asking the question. But God functions on the spiritual level.
That is why , i think we get so confused at times when trying to imagine God working in and through us. So, God is spiritual, we are human, but God chooses to be relational with His creation. He created us in a way that would allow His Spirit to function in our lives. That is how Mary was able to get pregnant. It was a spiritual thing in a human body. So, basically, it was a God thing. We find that answer to her question in verse 35. The Holy Spirit. That is always the answer to how God can be working in us. The Holy Spirit. I like verse 37. Nothing is impossible with God. The word nothing means "anything", whatever He wants, it doesn't matter what the situation is, it can happen if, God is in it. You see, God is all powerful, all knowing and everywhere. So, we can calm down and allow Him to have His way. We can rest assured knowing that God has a plan and He is able to accomplish whatever the plan is. That's how Mary was able to accept the information delivered to her. She realized, so clearly, that it was a God thing. The sooner we realize that God loves us and wants to work in us and use us to do the impossible, the quicker everything will make perfect sense. "With God, all things are possible". All things, all things,
all things. Did you get that? I mean really, did you get that? The sooner you get it, the more exciting everything will be. So, let's all get it together and enjoy the Lord's plan for our lives. There really is no life like it!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR YEAR!

Be good and have a great day!

Love and prayers,
Tim
Thanks for letting me share.

friday feast

I cannot believe that i forgot to do my blog today. i am so sorry about neglecting this. I actually cannot believe it. I will start again tomorrow. Once again, i apologize for not doing my chatting with you all today.
See you tomorrow.
Love and prayers,
Tim

Juice time

Good morning,
Today, first thing, right now, we are going to make a fresh batch of juice. This is part of the raw food diet that we are on. Esther chose to do the diet with me. This past week, i talked to the doctor who put me on this diet. I had a few questions to ask him so it was interesting to chat. He told me had i could eat the fish out of the lakes and streams around here. That was good news! It is quite expensive to buy fish that is fresh and not already frozen. I ate shark and halibut raw from the store but like i said, it's expensive. It was hard to find fish that hadn't already been frozen in the store. So last night, i had my first round of trout that was given to us from friends who hit it big at Dugun Lake the other day. It was great! So, if you happen to live around here and catch some extra fish this winter, feel free to see if we have that part of the diet for the next few days. The main raw meat each day is beef, moose, buffalo or deer. The meat has been the most expensive part. I am up to 11-12 oz. of raw meat a day. The other day, a friend brought by a big round of deer meat. It is awesome! IT IS SO TENDER. With a little raw honey and cream, it tastes amazing to me.
Anyhow, i was planning to continue my chatting about the Christmas theme, so while Esther is washing the veggies, I'll chat.
One of the things that has been hitting me as i read the Matthew 2 text, is how the wise men(Magi) were so sensitive to their dreams. I mean, wow, when they had dreams, they seemed to know, which ones were real or not. The ones that gave them direct information regarding Jesus, they seemed to followed. They had angels in their dreams giving them very clear information. Plus, they followed that information rather than follow the kings directions to come back and report to him regarding the where abouts of this child they called Jesus. I wonder what would have happened to Jesus if the wise men had gone back and reported to the king? Somehow, i don't think anything would have happened to Jesus. Do you think some of your dreams have been real? I think i have had some real ones. Some i have understood and others not.But they sure have been interesting. I guess what i start thinking about is how focused am i to hear and understand anything that the Lord wants to tell me? Through a dream, a vision, audibly or any sign as such. I guess my prayer today will be, Lord please help me to be listening and focused on what you are trying to tell me throughout the day and not be so caught up on my own plans. Wouldn't that be nice?!
Well, enjoy the day.
Until tomorrow,
Tim

The Star on Wed.

OK, what about the star? Matt.2:10 says, "When they saw the star, they were overjoyed." I know what full of joy is, but just imagine, overjoyed. Wow! I am trying to put myself in the place of these wise men who travelled for so long(not by plane, train or automobile) by express camel. You see, these wise men had been anticipating the arrival of "Jesus" for quite some time. These wise men studied and understood, somehow, about the amazing occurrence that was going to take place outside of their country. They were from the East and seemed to be into studying the stars. In verse 10, when it says, they saw the star and were overjoyed, it just feels powerful. They travelled for so long and finally came upon their "TREASURE".
The cool thing is once they worshipped Jesus, they gave their treasures, which really wasn't much compared to Jesus, but really they gave all they had that they felt was of value. Sometimes i wonder about the gifts they brought. I know there is special significance to each one, but then i think, real practical, like Joseph and Mary were able to sell those gifts to live off of for quite some time. They would have been able to setup their own place once they got back into the area after they lived off it for awhile in Egypt. So, the timing of the wise men and the gifts was so perfect, yet it took them a very long time to get there. But, God knew.
That is the key. God knew. He knew what was needed at the time and God provided. When we can look around us and see that God not only sees our situation but He is vitally interested in being a part of it, that can and should bring "great joy" into our lives. But, we have to let Him into our lives first. If you haven't already, i suggest you do and you will find that this Christms season will be the most meaningful ever.
Until tomorrow,
Tim
PS I wonder if "great joy" is the same as "overjoyed"?

tuesday today

Hi Y'all,
How are you all today? Are you being blessed each new day? I hope so. Our daughter, Rachelle, left today for Florida to visit for 9 days. She was invited to get away with Art and Nancy Saari's niece, Katrina. Katrina called her up and sent the cash.
Isn't that awesome? Rachelle was so excited! Rachelle just finished her exams yesterday at the Bible college. She now only has one semester left before she graduates on 4 year degree with a major in Intercultural Studies. Rachelle is so pumped about graduating. She even told me that she might be staying in Williams Lake for a time after graduating to assist with outreach to the children around here that we are connecting with through our ministry with Youth For Christ. Do you think that i am just a little excited? Ya, i sure am! So,it will be exciting to see how that all unfolds.
Rachelle has been on some amazing journeys already and she is only 22 years old. She assisted in an orphanage in Colima, Mexico for 6 months when she was 17. Plus, this past summer, she was in Caracas, Venezuala for 2 1/2 months again working in an orphanage. She knows Spanish fluently and just loves that language. Of course, Rachelle has been on 2 mission house building trips with us as well. What a girl!
How about the summer she worked at Hat Creek Ranch near Cache Creek? That girl has had such amazing adventures already. Yes, i am jealous but excited for her future as well. Where will she go next? After Williams Lake? Please be praying for her!

How about you? Are you living an adventure? I sure hope so. I love adventure and find so much fulfillment in living life to the fullest. What that means to me is making sure that my life is in the hands of the Lord, following whatever His will is for my life. That's what makes it all!

So, adventure. That's right. Adventure. Pray and follow.
Bye for now,
Tim

mega monday

Goodday to you all,
I read a devotion today on negativity. Wow! It is so true that so often we roam in the negative state. It is so challenging for good things to be happening when you surround yourselves with negative thinking. I mean really, why focus on the negative? It is so obvious how depressing the negative zone is on a person and those around negative people. I truly believe that much can and will change in lives that change from negative to positive. Happiness flows from positive people.
I desire happiness over misery. How about you? Love flows from people who are positive. We all need to allow God's love to flow through us to impact the negative wave that so often can wipe out good things that are happening. Time keeps onticking, ticking, intohe future. So, why waste it on negative thinking? Let's encourage the positive around us and enjoy what takes place as we do that. You know the old saying, "prayer changes things". Well, it is true. So let's be praying for each other that we will get away from the negative thinking and focus on the positive. Let's encourage one another and see what takes place when we get away from negative thinking and especially negative actions.
Well, have fun,
Tim

singin sunday

I LOVE SINGING. I LOVE SINGING SO MUCH THAT I FIND MYSELF SINGING WHEN I SHOULD BE JUST TALKING QUIETLY OR NOT TALKING AT ALL. I KNOW IT SOUNDS WIERD BUT THAT'S THE TRUTH. I WILL BURST INTO SINGING SOME SONG WITHOUT ANY NOTICE. I WON'T EVEN TELL MYSELF BEFORE I START, I JUST START. I AM SURE YOU CAN JUST IMAGINE THE CRAZY TIMES I FIND MYSELF SINGING WHEN I SHOULDN'T BE. IT MAKES FOR AN INTERESTING DAY AT TIMES. I CAN STILL SEE PEOPLES FUNNY LOOKS ON THEIR FACES WHEN I START SINGING AND THEY START WONDERING WHAT ON EARTH I AM DOING SINGING AT THAT TIME AND/or AROUND THEM. I MIGHT NOT EVEN KNOW THE PERSON OR PEOPLE. IT COULD BE ON AN ELEVATOR OR IN A DOCTORS OFFICE OR IN LINE TO BUY GROCERIES. I COULD START SINGING IN A STORE AT THE TILL WHEN I AM PAYING FOR SOMETHING. I MIGHT START SINGING IN A BATHROOM NEXT TO SOME OTHER GUY. I DON'T KNOW, IT DOES KEEP ME ON MY FEET THOUGH.
I THINK IT ALL STARTED BACK WHEN I WAS A KID IN SUNDAY SCHOOL,THEN MY PARENTS 8 TRACKS, THEN MY BROTHERS INTRODUCED ME TO THEIR 45'S AND ALL. THEN MY BROTHERS CASSETTEES. OF COURSE, WHEN GETTING RIDES FROM MY BROTHERS, I WOULD HAVE TO HEAR THEIR MUSIC IN THEIR CARS. SO, I GUESS I GOT HOOKED THAT WAY. THEN I STARTED BUYING AND PUMPING OUT THE TUNES IN THE CAR WHEN I STARTED DRIVING. OF COURSE, MY KIND OF MUSIC WAS THE BEST. SO, I KEPT BUYING IT AND SINGING OUT LOUD AS MUCH AS I COULD. YOUTH GROUP, CHURCH, IN THE CAR, IN THE MALL, WHEREVER THE MUSIC IS BEING PLAYED, I FIND MYSELF JOINING IN ON A REGULAR BASIS. ONE OF MY FAVORITE TIMES I WOULD GET "CAUGHT" SINGING WAS WHEN I WAS WORKING IN THE MEAT DEPARTMENT AT SUPERSTORE IN BRANDON WHEN I WAS TAKING A BREAK FROM PASTORING ETC...THE RADIO WAS ALWAYS ON. SO OFTEN WHEN THE BOSS CAME IN THE BACK ROOM, THERE I WAS SINGING AWAY TO SOME OLD TUNE. THE LOOK ON HIS FACE WAS USUALLY PRICELESS. OF COURSE, I WOULD ALWAYS STOP QUICK AND PRETEND TO BE QUITE EMBARRESSED. THAT ALWAYS HELPS TO MAKE FOR A FUN TIME. THE STAFF AROUND ME GOT A KICK OUT OF IT TOO SO WHY NOT HAVE SOME FUN. I GUESS YOU CAN MAKE SOME OF THE MOST BORING TIMES IN YOUR LIFE APPEAR AT LEAST SOMEWHAT FUN, BY GOOFING AROUND SOMEHOW. I CHOSE SINGING. THAT DOESN'T MEAN THAT I AM BORED WHEN I AM SINGING OR GOOFING AROUND AS SUCH, IT JUST MEANS WHATEVER YOU WANT AT THE TIME, I GUESS. SO, YOU BE THE JUDGE.
WELL, JUST THINKING ABOUT THIS WHOLE TOPIC MAKES ME SMILE, SO I THINK I WILL CONTINUE IT AGAIN SOME TIME. I AM SURE YOU ARE SOMEWHAT CONFUSED AS TO WHERE I AM GOING WITH THIS, SO I GUESS I HAVE COMPLETED MY TASK FOR THE DAY.
SO, STAYED TUNED AND HAVE FUN,
TIM

Silly Saturday

I was just thinking that it would be fun to have a crazy day. You know, a day where you did whatever you wanted and it didn't need to make sense as to why you did it. Come on, you know it would be a lot of fun. Just think, you wouldn't have to first decide if you had enough time. Or you are not having to justify the effort or energy spent on the activity, you just do it. When you get that event completed, you do the next thing that you decide would be fun and then so on throughout the day. I am gettingexcited just thinking about it. In fact, with the kind of time i have on my hands right now, i could probably write a book about things to do without a big plan.
Then the person or people involved in the event wouldn't even have to think about what to do, they would just have to call out a number, then flip to that page. Then they would read about the event and go,go,go. Now, remember,that is my idea so don't go and write the book before me or i will at least ask for 20%.(that's fair) Anyhow, i like my idea. If fact, i always like my ideas. I guess i like to cheer for me. It helps, especially if i happen to feel that no one else is cheering at the time. The wild thing is that i have felt so many people cheering for me at this time that i couldn't even imagine what being lonely or alone would even feel like. I am extremely blessed and i know it. I guess it would be quite frustrating if you were extremely blessed and didn't know it. It would probably be more frustrating for every one else who was supporting you at the time. Oh well, i'm blessed and that is fantastic!
I wonder if God gets frustrated with us sometimes? No really, does God look at the things we are doing, or the things we are thinking about and just shake His head. Or does He sometimes just get so frustrated that He turns and does something else for awhile. You know what i mean, like does He take a break from getting us out of trouble. I know this sounds crazy, but it gives you a glimpse into what my poor family has to put up with on regular basis. I try to keep things flowing in a fun direction but i guess i do come out with some wild stuff and no, it's not the drugs.
I don't have that as an excuse.
Well, from me to you, have a great day and don't forget to have some fun. It's ok, really.
In His Grip,
Tim

Friendly Friday

It is all about being a friend. Good morning everyone. I almost thought that i was in a school class setting and i was about to welcome you to the class. Now, i don't know about you,but school was not something that got me all excited. Anyhow, i'll start again.
Hi, how are you this morning? I am feeling fine except that i have some swelling in my feet again. I guess i was out doing too much yesterday. But, it was fun. I went to the bank yesterday, plus i went to Rona and bought some shovels, and did a couple of other things. Then last night, Esther and i went out to the YFC Christmas
party. Special thanks to Cecile for putting the annual party together. Plus, i know that Donna helped with the preparation too, so thanks Donna. These two ladies have been such a huge blessing to the ministry of YFC in Williams Lake. Wow! I honestly don't know what i would have done if these two awesome ladies weren't involved in YFC.
I started out with the topic of FRIENDSHIP. I believe so strongly that if we focus on the "friendship" topic everything will come together regarding all of our thoughts and feelings. First off, our friendship with God should be most important to each one of us. Then, friendships with others comes next in importance. I remember so clearly when i came out of the surgery in Kamloops, the Lord began to show me the huge importance on the verses that say "LOVE the Lord with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength. Then, love others". Friendship with God, friendship with others.PERIOD Just think of those around you who are really struggling. I'm sure that if their friendship with God was first in their lives, things would be so much better. Then, if that same person started reaching out and loving others, things would be so much more positive in their lives. Amen
So, if you apply this to your life, that's awesome. If not, i encourage you to plug into a real friendship with the Lord and others. Let His love flow from you to others. What a huge excitement and joy that flows from friendship with God and others.
Your day will be so full of love,peace and joy as you live life inthis order. Enjoy!
In His Grip,
Tim

thumbing thursday

Just as soon as i typed "thumbing thursday", I recalled the two times that i hitchhiked places when i was young.(that's sounds funny to me, you know, saying that i was young) Anyhow, the first time was when i was invited to spend some time with a friend at his cabin at Oak Lake. My parents dropped me off at the corner and i had to hike in 6 miles. Anyhow, no cars came along for awhile, so of course, i walked. Then suddenly, out of no where, this car pulled up beside me and the person asked me if i wanted a ride. I said "sure, thanks." Anyhow, i quickly realized why the car seemed to come out of no where,and that it suddenly appeared. The car was an old collector car, Looked nice, but i could have walked faster than the guy drove it. I actually remember being embassassed by being in the car. So, at first opportunity, i was out of the vehicle. Goofy story, and now that i think about it, i would love to have that old car. Oh well, whatever.
How about you? Can you recall times when you got totally embarrassed and later realized that it was actually one very special opportunity?
Life is full of surprizes and so often, i think we miss out on the excitement or opportunity just because we are so caught up in who we are, that we don't recognize who He wants us to become. Yes, I am refering to God again when i say He. God has so much in store for us yet we so often just turn and do our own thing. I am so thankful to those, over the years, who have been there to help me know the Lord was and is there for me. Life has been so full and meaningful with the Lord in charge.
What a ride! No really, what a ride! Ok, don't believe me, but, what a ride! Ok, can you feel that now, what a ride! No more bluffing or thinking that your way is the right way, because the Bible says, what a ride!(i don't have scripture to back that up yet, but i do still believe, that life is one amazing ride when God is in control and driving. What a ride! It might seem slow sometimes, like my first hitchhiking experience, but it for sure is one wild ride, full of all kinds of adventure, the kind of adventure that i could not imagine doing without. Whataride!!(scripture please)Withatightgripongod, Tim

willy wednesday

Hey, i was so encouraged today with our devotion time. God's Word is always so encouragiing. Rom.8:28 is one of the most encouraging verses of all. Just keep believing and the Bible says that all things will work out to the positive. WoW! Only God can do that! I trust in Him and that's all that counts. The main point i guess, is never give up. Never! So, how many times is that? None. So, never give up really means, none give up, right? Of course, that is what it means. So, i am none going to give up and God will work it all out and we will all be so happy and blessed!
What about you? Are you in a good place at this time? I sure hope so. But, if you are struggling with something, just pray. Everyone can pray. Everyone. And, what does that mean, all. Isn't that interesting? Once again, of course it is. So, what have we learned today? OK, all things mean everything and everyone means all. So, everything and everyone must be related to ALL.
Anyhow, this was one awesome blog time. So, have a great day and be blessed.
In His Grip,
Tim
PS if you followed is ok today, that's amazing.

Twisting Tuesday

So, good morning and welcome to twisting Tuesday. This morning, i really feel like i need a good twist or stretch. I think i was sleeping in the wrong position, so now i feel a little like a pretzel. Oh well, a lot of people like pretzels so i guess i'll be ok. How about you? Are you feeling a tad twisted? Do you feel like you just can't find the right direction for the day, or week, or month etc...? I have so often felt like everything is so cool, so smooth, so RIGHT. That kind of sums up my life. If i have ever felt like things are out of order or things don't add up, I just take some time to pray, to listen, to share with others even. Then, with some patience and faith mixed together, things become clear and life continues with the Lord in control. If i am calling the shots, it can get real scary, but with the Lord in control, great things happen.
So, today is a brand new day. Let's make good choices throughout the day and allow the Lord to have His way in and through our lives. Come on, you can do it!
In His Grip,
Tim

Man, it's Monday

Wow! It's snowy all over again. Esther starts back to work and it's back to making breakfast for the boys and seeing them off to school.(feels like i'm home. Oh ya, i am.) Thank the Lord that i am home. It really feels great! All the swelling is gone on my legs and i am looking good.
I have been hearing back from some of you lately, but i must admit, i would love to hear back from some of you who are far away. I know that sounds kind of selfish but that's just being honest. I would love to hear how YFC is going in different parts of the country. I would love to hear about whatever your family is up to over the Christmas season. The christmas outreach here on Friday went really well. Andy spoke and did a greaet job of challenging our youth. My boys told me that Andy did a great job. Thanks so much Andy for your willingness to come to the North.
Anyhow, got to go make some food. Maybe see ya later,
Tim

Cloudy Sunday

Good morning,
How are you all today? I had another good sleep last night. The swelling in my left leg continues to go down.(both almost perfect now) It seems to be chilly out with overcast skies. i am bundled up in the living room infront of the gas fire place.
It feels very cozy. It felt quite cozy sleeping in bed last night too.
It sure was nice to hear from my Labrador Katimavik pal yesterday. I hope he comes west again to visit and hang out at the youth centre. We did have a blast together. In fact, if you live around Williams Lake,and would be interested in helping out in the youth centre, we could really use the help. The other big need right now is getting the rest of the thrift store in order so that we can open up and start selling. It really is exciting that we have this new space.
Oh, that white stuff is coming down again. I'm sure that we have had more snow this past week than all month last year. My buddy Al, is picking up some snow mobiles that we have use of during the winter, so that should be fun to play around with. I haven't played around on snow mobiles much, but when i have, it sure was fun. What are you looking forward to doing this winter?(come on, you can tell me)
Well, it is Sunday,so i should try to get ready for church. Hey, you all, be good, have a good day and have fun!
Love and prayers,
Tim

SnowySaturday

Hi to you all,
Yes, it is snowing out there and it's getting whiter all the time. So, at this time i am still resting and getting strengthened. The energy lost while recouperating has been slow to come back but it is coming back. I still am amazed that the old body is slower but i guess that's what happens when you get old. Did i say that? I am not old, just a little wrinkled i guess.
Speaking of wrinkles, have you been noticing any wrinkles these days? Really, when you think about it, a wrinkle is only a bit of skin that has come together in a bumpy looking faction. I say, so what? What is the big deal? I still cannot figure out why people get so worked up over it. It doesn't change who they are. You can still be who you are and have fun, etc... So, i ask you, why would someone let depression, anxiety, etc...overtake them because of a few extra skin cells that have congregated in an area that is noticable to others. If it wasn't noticable to others, it really wouldn't be such a big deal, would it? Come on, be honest. Relax and enjoy the day. Life is full of adventure, excitement, fun, etc... so go for it, enjoy the day and love others into the kingdom of our Lord. You can do it, I know you can.
Well, until we bug each other again,
See ya,
Tim

Friday blessings!

Hey, what a great day!I am feeling so much better today so i am so blessed to be feeling so much better. Isn't that cool? Of course it is! Praise the Lord!
i AM BLESSED! Hey, are you all being good? I hope you are going to have a great weekend. I am so thankful for my friends and family who bless me every day with their love. Yes, I am so excited today! I just know when lots of people are praying for me too! Just so you know, there are tons of people praying for me right now. What an amazing feeling! So, you see,i am very blessed and thankful for the blessing!
My parents were over yesterday to visit. Plus, i had some friends come over for a little visit. It was a great time! Most of all, God is with me, all day and all night and wow that is the coolest! SO, I WILL GO NOW,(ACTUALLY I DO HAVE TO REALLY GO NOW) so love you and bless you!
Love and prayers,
Tim