Word or Encouragement: "Peace"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 27

More of God's Encouragement

Peace I leave with you;
my peace I give you.
I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 NIV

YOUR peace Lord !!! YOUR peace !!!!!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "God Is For Us"

Word or Encouragement: 

Feb 26

More of God's Encouragement

--- If God is for us, who can be against us?
He who did not spare his own Son,
but gave Him up for us all-
how will He not also,
along with Him,
graciously give us all things?
Rom 8:31b-32 (NIV)

Help me to see all You have for me Lord....

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "Not Perfect?"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 25

More of God's Encouragement

Not that I have already obtained all this,
or have already been made perfect,
but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.

Phil 3:12 NIV

Yes Lord, pressing on with YOU till I get Home !!!!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "Does Jesus Rule"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 24

More of God's Encouragement

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,
since as members of one body you were called to peace.
And be thankful.
Col 3:15 NIV

Yes Lord, help me be at peace and take time to be thankful today !!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

What's Behind The Face?

Hello Everyone:

I hope that your Monday went well.

Last night; after coming home from church, lunch and a nice nap.I was sitting in the living room with my wife watching the Hall Mark Channel. I began to think of the many folks I have met over the last 10+ years in the Nursing Homes that we visit, either on a weekly or monthly basis. 

I began to think about how people see those who reside in a nursing home; maybe they think that these folks just sit around all day with blank stares on their faces, or perhaps cannot hear what is being said to them. Truth be known, sometimes, all it takes is a kind word spoken, or to show them that you are interested in what their lives were like in the years past. 

Well; I want to share with you, the lives "Behind the Faces" of two (2) individuals that I had met some years ago. 

I know that ladies are suppose to go before men, but in this case, I will first tell you about Paul. I had seen Paul many times before as we gathered for the Bible Study, but on this particular day, Paul was sitting in his normal seat in the back of the room, and I had arrived about 15 minutes earlier than I normally would. The Activity Staff were still scurrying from room to room bringing folks into the dining room for the study. As they were doing that, I sat down with Paul and began to ask him about what he had done in the working years of his life. Paul had never said much to me before that day, but again, it was asking the first question that opened Paul to hold a conversation. 

I had asked Paul what he did for work and what companies he worked for, and as he began to tell me, I was really taken back by his answers. Paul told me that, at one time, he worked for a large commercial airline as a A&P (no; not the grocery store chain). He had a Aircraft & Power Plant Rating which allowed him to work on any part of an aircraft as a mechanic, which he did for several years. Paul also stated that he (if I remember correctly, as its been about a year since I have seen Paul) also worked for the B&M Railroad,(and possibly worked on trolley cars) as a mechanic as well. One of the biggest surprises that Paul brought up, was that he was instrumental in assisting the building and running of the Seashore Trolley Museum, in Kennebunkport, Maine. As I just stated, I have not seen Paul for a while. Not sure if he passed away, or transferred to another facility. 

Bottom line with Paul; You never know who or what is Behind the Face until you ask. 

On a side note; I wish young people could, or would take the time to sit with some of these folks to hear the knowledge they have, and they are more than willing to share.

My next story is about a woman named Jackie. Jackie was totally different than Paul, as I will explain.

As I arrived at a nursing home one day. I was asked by a woman who was visiting her husband in that nursing home,  if I would mind being introduced to a woman whom she thought that might be interesting for me to speak too. I am always willing to meet someone in their later years of life that I could add to my Peeps list. 

As I entered Jackie's room, the following conversation took place...

ME: Hi Jackie, my name is Pastor Steve:

JACKIE: Are you a Priest?

ME: No; I'm a Minister:

JACKIE: I'm a Catholic, and you will never convert me. I taught Parochial School for 20 years. 

ME: Good for you on your long term as a teacher. I'm Protestant; and I can't convert you; only Jesus can. 

JACKIE: You will never get me to go to your church.

ME: I don't care if you ever show up in our church.

That was the beginning of a relationship that lasted over a period of two years. I would go visit Jackie every week as I was making my rounds in that nursing home, and believe it or not, the conversations became longer, and longer. We would talk about anything and everything that came up, or the events of the day as the world was growing worse and worse. 

Over time; Jackie began to ask me about the things of God, as I had been injecting little tid-bits of God's love for her. I cannot take the time or space in this Blog to list all of what happened in that two year (or so) time, but I will highlight the most important events below.

As the months went by, I dropped in to see Jackie on day, and she stated that she was interested in coming to visit our church. My mind raced back to the first day I met her, when she stated...You will never get me to go to your church. At that point, I did not push her to tell my why she was changing her mind, I just let her know that I would arrange transportation for her to attend. I asked a lady in our church to call Jackie and arrange to pick her up on a Sunday morning, and return her to the nursing home, as Jackie was in a wheel chair. 

The Sunday came when Jackie paid our church a visit. After service, I asked her how she liked it. She stated that it was different, but she enjoyed the music. 

The following week when I went to visit Jackie; we spoke more about the church and why everyone needs a personal relationship with Jesus. 

A few more weeks went by and Jackie came to church again. After service I got the same answers. She liked the service and music. Nothing more was said. 

Not sure how many more weeks went by, but one Sunday there was Jackie sitting in her wheel chair in the isle about three pews back. As the Worship Service was going along, I looked down and saw Jackie using one foot to pull herself down the isle and heading to the alter. I came down off the platform and knelt down beside Jackie, as she had tears flowing down her cheeks. I asked her what was wrong. She stated she didn't know,but said that a still small voice was telling her to go down to the alter. That was the day that Jesus converted Jackie, and she became a Born Again Believer, and Child of God. 

That was the last time Jackie ever came to our church. Within just a months, her physical condition deteriorated, she was not, or could not communicate with anyone anymore and she went home to be with the Lord. 

OK, so why did I share these two stories? First and foremost. People in the so called golden years, or later years of their lives, need to hear about Jesus Christ and what He did on the Cross of Calvary. They are as close to eternity as they will ever get without crossing over the line of no return. Secondly; You never know what is you never know what is behind the faces of those you meet until you begin to talk to them. Rest assured, they are waiting to hear from you.

Blessings:     

Word of Encouragement: "Focus Your Mind"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 23

More of God's Encouragement

Set your minds on things above,
not on earthly things.
Col 3:2 (NIV)

Help me to keep my eyes and mind on You Lord !

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Friday, February 20, 2015

Hello to all:

This will be somewhat of a short blog today; as there is not much that has happened since my last posting, last Saturday. The only thing that has taken place, is the fact that we have had snow, snow and more snow. This weekend should be interesting as the Forecasters are predicting more snow this weekend, then changing to rain and freezing rain. That we do not need. As of a few days ago, MEMA (Mass Emergency Management Agency) has stated that they have received reports of 80 plus buildings that have had their roofs collapse, or a partial collapse. We certainly don't  need any heavy wet snow falling and then freezing. 

Come on Spring:

On the Pastoral side of things. I bring good news. This week we have had three Monthly Services to conduct at either a Nursing Home, Assisted Living or an Adult Day Care Community. We really enjoy going to see these folks as they need to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as much, if not more than others, as they are closer to Eternity as they can get without crossing over the line.

I cannot express the joy we feel in seeing folks raise their hand at the end of a short message indicating that they want to call upon the Name of the Lord for forgiveness of their sins. A greater joy is hearing a room with 20 plus people, including some staff members praying the sinners prayer. Thank you Lord for the harvest of Souls this week. 

Have a great weekend; Blessings. 

Word of Encouragement: "Commitment"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 20

More of God's Encouragement

Commit Your way to the LORD;
trust in Him and He will do this:
He will make Your righteousness shine like the dawn,
the justice of Your cause like the noonday sun.
Ps 37:5-6 NIV

Thank You Lord ....You are my vindicator !!!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "He Never Leaves Us"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 19

More of God's Encouragement

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you;
He will never leave you nor forsake you.
Do not be afraid;
do not be discouraged."
Deut 31:8 NIV

What would I do without You Lord ???
No one can take care of me like You do ...

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "A Clean Heart"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 18

More of God's Encouragement

Create in me a pure heart,
O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Ps 51:10 NIV

Yes Lord, help me to keep a clean slate with You !!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "Obey God's Law"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 17

More of God's Encouragement

Do not let this Book of the Law depart from Your mouth;
meditate on it day and night,
so that You may be careful to do everything written in it.
Then You will be prosperous and successful.
Josh 1:8 NIV

Soo true Lord...
when I am in Your word I get the guidance and wisdom I need for today

As always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love in Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "Love the Lord"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 16

More of God's Encouragement

Love the LORD your God
with all your heart
and with all your soul
and with all your strength.
Deut 6:5 NIV

In this world we live in
I DO need the reminder to love YOU first and most !!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Hello to everyone:

OK, so lets look at the Pastoral side of things first. Today was the day (second Sat. of the month) where we do two monthly Nursing Home Services. All went well, as the snow held off (more on that later). Attendance was good in both, and there were a total of six hands that were raised for Salvation between the Nursing Home and the Assisted Living Community. Thank you Lord for the harvest of Souls. 

I believe that I have mentioned this before, but the souls that reside in these facilities are as close to Eternity as they will ever be, without crossing over the line, and they need to hear about the love that the Lord has form them and the hope that they can have is Christ. Each and every one of us need to share the Gospel, as we have been commissioned to do.

Now; on the human side of things. I was very glad the the snow held off while we conducted the monthly services. We arrived home about 3:30 PM and hunkered down for the next major snow storm which is now upon us. This storm is, and will turn into a blizzard, dumping about 8-12+" of snow which we definitely do not need, as we really don't have any place to put the addition snow. The way that this winter is going, that we will still have snow for our 4th of July cookouts. LOL. 

As a result of the predicted snow fall, all Classes and Services are cancelled for tomorrow. This will be the second Sunday in a row where we have no Sunday Services. We hope that everyone spends some time alone with the Lord as we stay at home, and wait for the storm to pass.

With that; I will say have a great night, and have a great Valentines Day.

Blessings.  

Word of Encouragement: "He Hears Us"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 13

More of God's Encouragement

You hear, O LORD,
the desire of the afflicted;
You encourage them,
and You listen to their cry,
Ps 10:17 NIV

It's soooo comforting to KNOW
You hear and encourage Lord !!!!!!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

SNOW, SNOW AND MORE SNOW:

Hello Everyone:

I hope that all of you are enjoying your winter. To be honest; I think that if I created a poll, I would find out that all of us are fed up with all the snow that we have had. Especially when most of the snow that we have had has come in the last 19 days or so. 

The major airports have had to cancel hundreds, if not thousands of flights, the major transportation system failed, and shut down, stranding thousands of commuters for at least two days. As of this posting, the transit system has not come back up to full operation. 

Boston has borrowed snow removal equipment from New Jersey and New York City. The Massachusetts National Guard has activated several hundred members and also sent equipment into Boston to assist in the removal of snow. 

As of tonight, Thursday, February 12th, the local weather forecasters have put out a Blizzard Watch for the viewing area for Saturday afternoon into Sunday evening, predicting 10-18 inches of additional snow. Question is; where do we put it??????

Well this is New England, and we should not expect anything different. We have had tough winters in the past, and we will get through this one as well. Although, there are some that think that come July 4th holiday, we will have to shovel out the grill to be able to use it. LOL. 

On the Pastoral side of things; we conducted a monthly service at an Assisted Living Community today, and the end result was five (5) hands that were raised indicating that they wanted to begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Thank you Lord for the Souls. 

Well; that's it for now; we will post again after the weekend to let you know how the blizzard turns out. 

Blessings: 

Word of Encouragement: "Give Thanks"

Word or Encouragement: 

Feb 12

More of God's Encouragement

But thanks be to God,
Who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ
and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.
2 Cor 2:14 NIV

Thank You Lord !!!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "Have You Heard?"

Word of Encouragement:

Feb 11

More of God's Encouragement

Do You not know?
Have You not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth
He will not grow tired or weary,
and His understanding no one can fathom.
Isa 40:28 NIV

Thank You Lord that I can count on Your strength when I'm weary...

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement; "Waiting Patiently"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 10

More of God's Encouragement

Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him;

do not fret when men succeed in their ways,

when they carry out their wicked schemes.

Ps 37:7 NIV

Yes Lord, help me to refocus and rest in YOU today !!!!!

As Always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love In Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement; "Hold Your Tongue"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 09

More of God's Encouragement

Then keep your tongues from speaking evil.
keep your lips from telling lies
Psalm 34:13

Yes Lord, keep a guard in front of my mouth today

As always, Remember to have a God day !!

 Love in Christ.

www.lowellag.org

TGIF; Not Really:

Happy Friday to all of you as I believe that you will be saying "TGIF" but for me, its only the 3rd day of my work week, seeing that I am off on Monday and Tuesday's. 

I took a picture yesterday from the main doors of our church entitled, "Is It Spring Yet." 

As you can see, even the driveway where folks are dropped off is snow covered again. The latest forecast says that another foot of snow is likely between tomorrow (Saturday-Tuesday). Just about a week ago, there were those saying that we were having a mild winter. But; this is New England and the weather can change in a very, very short time. 

We will just have to hunker down and deal with it; 

We have a home visitation planned for tomorrow, (Saturday) and of course, Sunday Service, so I hope that the weather will cooperate, without too many issues. 

Heading out this morning to do a weekly visit to a nursing home in the local area, then off to have prayer with a woman's sister who is on Hospice. Praying that the Lord will give her a healing touch. 

So many people have been sidelined with sickness this winter, but we believe that the Lord is still the "Great Physician," and will touch each and everyone of them. 

I will try to send out a blog update over the weekend, but if that does not happen; stay safe and keep off the roads, if you can, this weekend and into early next week. 

Blessings to all: 

Word of Encouragement: "Wait!"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 06

More of God's Encouragement

Wait for the LORD;

be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.

Ps 27:14 NIV

Waiting is hard Lord but I know Your timing is always right on !!

As always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love in Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word of Encouragement: "Strong & Courageous"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 05

More of God's Encouragement

Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,

for the LORD Your God goes with You;

He will never leave You nor forsake You."

Deut 31:6 NIV

Thank You Lord...

There is no one to fear with YOU on my side !!!

As always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love in Christ.

www.lowellag.org

Word or Encouragement: "God's Love"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 04

More of God's Encouragement

I will declare that Your love stands firm forever,

that You established your faithfulness in heaven itself.

Ps 89:2 NIV

Open the doors for me to share Your Love today Lord !!

As always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love in Christ.

www.lowellag.org.

Word of Encouragement: "My Stronghold"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 03

More of God's Encouragement

The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed,

a stronghold in times of trouble.

Ps 9:9 NIV

MY Refuge .. MY Stronghold !!!!!!!!

THANK YOU LORD !!!!!!!!!!!

As always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love in Christ.

www.lowellag.org

The Day After

"The Day After"

Well; its Monday morning, and it's the day after two events that cover both sides of my blog. You may ask, what do you mean by both sides of your blog. Well; this blog of mine covers me first as a Pastor; and secondly, as a family man. 

I will start with the Pastor side of things: I am on the schedule to preach on the first Sunday of the month; it has been that way for quite a few month, so we rotate with the other two pastors, and we basically know when we are scheduled to preach. Works out pretty good that way. 

My message yesterday was titled "The Cross; The Grave; The Victory." I thought that it went well, and a couple of folks stated that they enjoyed it. It may have even challenged some folks. I will leave that up to the Holy Spirit to speak to their hearts.  

On the family man side of things; I will admit that I do not follow sports at all; don't get me wrong, I love to see or hear about the home (Boston Teams) teams winning, but usually don't watch the games on TV. However; last night I confess, I watch the entire Patriots/Seahawks game, but I will tell you; my nerves could not take that kind of nail biting game watching all the time. 

Bottom line.....Congratulations to the New England Patriots:

On another note: Friday night my daughter and youngest granddaughter stopped by the apartment, and I could not let the opportunity go by without having some cuddle time with my granddaughter. These are precious times. Selfies are not as clear.

And last, but not least; here in New England we are getting another 8-12" of snow, just about a week after receiving 2.5' of snow. At this rate, it should be gone by April. LOL. 

Well; that's it for today, barring the unexpected. Catch up with all of you later. 

Word of Encouragement: "God's Commands"

Word of Encouragement: 

Feb 02

More of God's Encouragement

This is my command:

Love each other.

John 15:17 NIV

Thank You Lord that it's an act of the will and not emotions !!

As always, Remember to have a God day !!

Love in Christ.

www.lowellag.org