Mysterious Ways

We have come to the end of the Week YES! my friends it's FRIDAY! I am so GRATEFUL that we have made it to Friday the hand of God was and still is upon our lives with these words of wisdom Read: Job 40:1-14 Bible in a Year: 2 Chronicles 7-9; John 11:1-29 As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways. —Isaiah 55:9 When my son began attending Chinese language classes, I marveled at the papers he brought home after his first session. As a native English speaker, it was difficult for me to understand how the written characters related to the spoken words. The language seemed incredibly complex to me—almost incomprehensible. Sometimes I feel the same sense of bewilderment when I consider the way God operates. I know He has said, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways” (Isa. 55:8). Still, there’s a part of me that feels like I should be able to understand why God allows certain things to happen. After all, I read His Word regularly and His Holy Spirit lives inside of me. When I feel entitled to understand God’s ways, I try to recommit myself to humility. I remember that Job did not get an explanation for all his heartache (Job 1:5,8). He struggled to understand, but God asked him: “Shall the one who contends with the Almighty correct Him?” (40:2). Job contritely responded, “What shall I answer You? I lay my hand over my mouth” (v.4). Job was speechless before God’s greatness. Although God’s ways may seem to be mysterious and unfathomable at times, we can rest confidently that they are higher than our ways. —Jennifer Benson Schuldt Father, please help me to trust You even when I don’t understand why things happen as they do. Please comfort my heart and remind me of Your goodness and love. If you know that God’s hand is in everything, you can leave everything in God’s hand. INSIGHT: In trying to explain why he was suffering, Job argued that he had not committed any wrong deserving of such punishment. In so justifying himself, Job was in essence questioning God’s fairness and justice (40:8; see also Job 21,24). God confronted Job, asserting that only He is qualified and has the absolute power, wisdom, and ability to rule this world justly (40:15-24).

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

On this Day and Everyday I just want to STOP and take a moment to reflect on ALL the Men and Women who have served I want to say Thank You from the bottom of my Heart. Just want 2 wish U and Yours a HAPPIE MEMORIAL DAY! May this day be filled with JOY & BLESSINGS President Obama Delivers Remarks at Arlington National Cemetery President Obama Lays Wreath at Arlington National Cemetery

Our Strength And Song

Even though the weekend has come to an end and we are starting the new week off on a Holiday let's take a moment to reflect on this Read: Exodus 15:1–2,13–18 Bible in a Year: 1 Chronicles 25-27; John 9:1-23 The Lord shall reign forever and ever. —Exodus 15:18 Often called “The March King,” composer and band director John Philip Sousa created music that has been played by bands around the world for more than a hundred years. As Loras John Schissel, music historian and conductor of the Virginia Grand Military Band, said, “Sousa is to marches what Beethoven is to symphonies.” Sousa understood the power of music to motivate, encourage, and inspire people. In Old Testament times, the people of Israel were often inspired to compose and sing songs to celebrate God’s help during times of need. When the Lord saved His people from certain destruction by Pharaoh’s army, “Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the Lord . . . ‘I will sing to the Lord, for He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea! The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation’ ” (Ex. 15:1-2). Music has the power to lift our spirits by reminding us of God’s faithfulness in the past. When we’re discouraged, we can sing songs and hymns that raise our eyes from the challenging circumstances we face to see the power and presence of the Lord. We are reminded that He is our strength, our song, and our salvation. —David McCasland Trust in Him, ye saints, forever— He is faithful, changing never; Neither force nor guile can sever Those He loves from Him. —Kelly Songs of praise raise our eyes to see God’s faithfulness. INSIGHT: Moses’s song after the Israelites had passed through the Red Sea and were delivered from the pursuing Egyptians has two perspectives—one looking back and one looking forward. In the first verses, Moses reflects on what God has done to deliver His people (vv. 1-2). In the later verses, Moses looks forward to what God will do to establish His people in their new land (vv. 13-18).

Wisdom Seekers

We have come to the end of the Week it's FRIDAY! YES! I am so Grateful that we have ALL made it to the end of the week, so let's take a moment to reflect on ALL that GOD has done for us with Read: Proverbs 3:1-18 Bible in a Year: 1 Chronicles 16-18; John 7:28-53 Blessed are those who find wisdom. —Proverbs 3:13 niv Every spring colleges and universities hold commencement ceremonies to celebrate the success of students who have completed their studies and earned their degrees. After the students cross the stage, these graduates will enter a world that will challenge them. Just having academic knowledge won’t be good enough. The key to success in life will be in wisely applying everything they have learned. Throughout Scripture, wisdom is celebrated as a treasure that is worth seeking. It is better than riches (Prov. 3:13-18). Its source is God, who alone is perfectly wise (Rom. 16:27). And it is found in the actions and attitude of Jesus, in whom “all the treasures of wisdom” are found (Col. 2:3). Wisdom comes from reading and applying the Scripture. We have an example of this in the way Jesus applied His knowledge when He was tempted (Luke 4:1-13). In other words, the truly wise person tries to see life from God’s point of view and chooses to live according to His wisdom. What’s the payoff for this kind of life? Proverbs tells us that wisdom is like sweetness of honey on the tongue (Prov. 24:13-14). “Blessed are those who find wisdom” (3:13 niv). So seek wisdom, for it is more profitable than silver or gold! —Joe Stowell Lord, strengthen my resolve to live by the wisdom that comes only from You. Give me the discernment to live all of life from Your point of view that I might know the blessings of a life lived wisely. Blessing comes from seeking wisdom and living by it.

Today is World IBD Day

Here is the May issue of CCFA Newsletter. Providing Hope and Inspiring Action | Latest News from CCFA Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America Letter from our President & CEO In honor of today being World IBD Day, CCFA and more than 40 countries around the world are releasing videos as part of a global video campaign that calls for anyone impacted by inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) to share their story in a short video with the unifying theme of #UnitedWeStand2015. Worldwide, five million people live with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. All videos can also be viewed on the World IBD Day website. We are proud to announce that for the fourth year in a row, we have achieved a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator – America's premier charity evaluator – for sound fiscal management, commitment to accountability and transparency. Charity Navigator highlights the work of efficient, ethical and open charities to give donors confidence in the charitable choices they make. Only 8% of the charities rated have received at least 4 consecutive 4-star evaluations, which indicates that we outperform most other charities in America! We are extremely proud of this rating and hope it reinforces that we are putting your generosity to good work. Richard J. Geswell, CCFA President and CEO Thank you, Richard J. Geswell Richard J. Geswell President & CEO Introducing Game-Changing Research Initiative: IBD Plexus CCFA is excited to announce a game-changer for IBD research – IBD Plexus. Thanks to a $17.5 million grant from The Helmsley Charitable Trust, this multi-dimensional knowledge platform integrates scientific, medical and patient data. IBD Plexus is one of our biggest research initiatives yet, involving every stakeholder – from academic and industry researchers, to clinicians and other healthcare providers, and more than 40,000 patients of all ages. Designed to enable novel research and speed progress toward precision medicine, CCFA hopes IBD Plexus will lead to better diagnostics, treatments and, ultimately, a cure for those with IBD. READ MORE ► Support Crohn's and Colitis Fairness Act Advocacy is an important part of our mission. In our ongoing efforts to support IBD research, we are happy to report that IBD has been listed as condition eligible for study under the Department of Defense (DOD) Peer-Reviewed Medical Research Program. As a result, five IBD research grants were recently announced by the DOD. The more research being conducted, the closer we are to cures. To learn more about CCFA advocacy and to get involved, visit our website. The New York State legislature introduced NY Bill A00277 to address bathroom access issues for IBD patients. Contact Katie Pouga (Greater NYC area including Fairfield county) or Chris Joyce (rest of New York State) to help support this bill! Inform Yourself: Complementary and Alternative Medicine Many patients are interested in using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in addition to their current medical therapy. While less research has been done on the safety and effectiveness of CAM, more information and evaluation is being made available as the number of scientific trials for these therapies increase. Always discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor when considering any kind of new therapy. For more information, please check out our fact sheet, reach out to our IBD Help Center at info@ccfa.org, or watch our new webcast archive on CAM. Help us find cures Your gift funds cutting-edge research and supports programs at CCFA. Please donate today and help us find cures! Donate now Take Steps this Spring It's been a great spring walk season so far and we're not stopping. We will be Taking Steps until the end of June so there is plenty of time to get involved. If you haven't already, we encourage you to find a walk near you by visiting our website. REGISTER ► Facebook Live: Complementary and Alternative Therapies Wednesday, May 20th from 5pm-6pm EST. Join Dr. Joshua Korzenik from Brigham and Women's Hospital as he answers your questions on Complementary and Alternative Therapies. TUNE IN ► Tweetchat on World IBD Day Our next CCFA tweetchat is today, Tuesday, May 19th – World IBD Day! From 4pm-5pm EST, we'll be discussing and answering questions about IBD. Join the conversation on Twitter using #WorldIBDDayQA. Follow us @CCFA and @IBDHelpCenter on Twitter. READ MORE ► Webcast on CCFA Partners Want to join a community of over 14,000 members and participate in groundbreaking research for IBD? Be sure to join us for our webcast on Tuesday, June 2nd , 8pm-9pm EST to learn more about CCFA Partners: a patient powered research network. REGISTER ► Search our resources Find your chapter IBD Clinical Trials and Other Studies CCFA provides a comprehensive database of studies, clinical trials and other research on Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Some of the recently added studies include: A Phase III Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-controlled, Multicenter, Parallel Group Study to Assess the Efficacy and Safety of Fixed-dose Combination RHB-104 in subjects with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease conducted by RedHill Biopharma. Deciding whether to participate in a clinical trial is an important personal decision, best made with a full understanding of the drug development process and a participant's role. Take Steps Team Challenge CCFA Facebook CCFA Twitter CCFA YouTube CCFA Pinterest Forward Donate to CCFA Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America 7​33 Th​ird Av​en​ue, Sui​te 51​0, Ne​w Y​ork,​ N​Y 10​01​7 www.ccfa.org | 8​00-​93​2-​2​423 Talk with an I​BD Info​rmation Specialist at 88​8.M​y.Gu​t.P​ain | 8​88-​69​4-8​87​2 Unsubscribe or update your email preferences CCFA has a 4-star rating on Charity Navigator Click here to Reply or Forward 1.86 GB (12%) of 15 GB used Manage Terms - Privacy Last account activity: 1 day ago Details Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America Show details

One Step Closer

As we prepare to start this New Week with Read: Romans 13:10-14 Bible in a Year: 1 Chronicles 4-6; John 6:1-21 Now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. —Romans 13:11 Some years ago a friend and I set out to climb Mount Whitney. At 14,505 feet, it is the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States. We arrived at Whitney Portal late one evening, rolled out our sleeping bags at base camp, and tried to get some sleep before we began our ascent at first light. Whitney is not a technical climb but rather a long, exhausting walk—11 miles of relentless ascent. The climb, though hard-going, was exhilarating, with stunning vistas, beautiful blue lakes, and lush meadows along the way. But the trail grew long and exhausting, a test for legs and lungs. I thought of turning back as the day wore on and the trail seemed to stretch endlessly before us. Occasionally, however, I caught a glimpse of the summit and realized that each step was bringing me one step closer. If I just kept walking, I would get there. That was the thought that kept me going. Paul assures us, “Our salvation is nearer than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11). Every day brings us one day closer to that great day when we shall “summit” and see our Savior’s face. That’s the thought that can keep us going. —David Roper Dear Lord, may I, for the joy set before me, endure with patience the hardship of the trail. When my journey is over, I will see You face to face and live with You forever. Now we see Jesus in the Bible, but someday we’ll see Him face to face. INSIGHT: Paul often discusses the need to walk (live) properly. He writes to the church in Ephesus to remind them to walk in the light of good deeds because they have been saved by God’s grace (Eph. 2:1-10). To the church in Rome, he prescribes a different motivation for living according to the Lord Jesus Christ—because “salvation is nearer” (Rom. 13:11). Because the time of the Lord’s return is approaching, we are to leave behind the deeds of darkness.

A Survivor’s Thoughts

YES! We have made it to the end of the week it's FRIDAY! so let's take a moment to reflect on this. Read: Romans 9:1-5 Bible in a Year: 2 Kings 22-23; John 4:31-54 I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren. —Romans 9:3 After a 71-year-old South Korean woman was rescued during the tragic sinking of a ferry boat, she struggled with survivor’s guilt. From her hospital bed she said she couldn’t understand how it could be right for her to have lived through an accident that had taken the lives of many who were so much younger. She also regretted not knowing the name of the young man who had pulled her out of the water after she had given up hope. Then she added, “I want to buy him a meal at least, or hold his hand, or give him a hug.” This woman’s heart for others reminds me of the apostle Paul. He was so concerned about his neighbors and countrymen that he said he wished he could trade his own relationship with Christ for their rescue: “I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren” (Rom. 9:2-3). Paul also expressed a deep sense of personal gratitude. He knew he didn’t understand the ways and judgments of God (see vv.14-24). So while doing everything he could to proclaim the gospel to all, he found peace and joy in trusting the heart of a God who loves the whole world so much more than we ever could. —Mart DeHaan Lord God, Your ways are so far beyond our comprehension, yet we know without doubt that You love us. Help us trust Your loving heart with the things we don’t understand. Gratitude to God leads to growth in godliness. INSIGHT: Even though Paul was “an apostle to the Gentiles” (Rom. 11:13; Gal. 2:8), his heart’s desire was to see his own people—the Jews—come to faith in Jesus (Rom. 9:2-3). In Romans 9–11 Paul discussed the continuing unbelief of the Jews, but he assured them that they had not been rejected. He reminded them of their privileged status (v. 4), and the climax of these privileges is that the Messiah—the Savior—is Himself a Jew (v. 5).

Jennifer Lopez Takes Up Residency in Las Vegas

YES! I am a HUGH Supporter of Jennifer Lopez and have been following her career since she was a Fly Girl on the 90's sitcom In Living Color so YES! I am EXCITED to hear the AWESOME News that Jennifer Lopez will be taking up residency in Las Vegas Planet Hollywood On January 2016 Tickets go on Sale this Saturday. About this exciting Las Vegas show With the landing of a new superstar, Planet Hollywood is about to shine even brighter. International icon Jennifer Lopez will light up the AXIS Theater with her first ever headlining residency, beginning Jan. 20, 2016. Fans can expect a mix of pop, R&B and fan favorites tinged with the singer's glamorous Latin flair. The live concert experience featuring Jennifer Lopez in Las Vegas will show off her fierce talents and megawatt star power. From explosive dance numbers to raw, personal moments, Lopez keeps fans on the edge of their seats in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Her combination of Hollywood glamour, rock star persona and Latin American heritage come to life on stage each night. The high-energy production features Lopez’s iconic hit performances, as well as a combination of ballads, Latin music, funk and more. A live band, dancers, extravagant costumes and state-of-the-art technology in sets, lighting and effects intertwine for an unforgettable night. About Jennifer Lopez Lopez toured the world, starred in hit films, won numerous entertainment awards and earned No. 1 albums. Now, she achieves another milestone: seeing her name up in Las Vegas lights. This over-the-top show inside the intimate The AXIS Theater is the only opportunity to see her perform live in North America. Tickets Ticket sales for Total Reward members begin Friday, May 15 at 10 a.m. Sign up for Total Rewards An exclusive pre-sale for American Express cardholders starts Wednesday, May 13 at 10 a.m. PT. Tickets for the first 20 performances will go on sale to the public on Saturday, May 16 at 10 a.m. PT. Orders of 10 or more tickets please call 1-866-574-3851 or email our team BUY TICKETS BY PHONE: Call 855-234-7469 or 702-777-2782. Reach our VIP Concierge at 866-693-2425 Jennifer Lopez Opens Up About Her New Las Vegas Show Jennifer Lopez Live at Planet Hollywood's AXIS Theater

Prince Dance Rally 4 Peace Paisley Park

On May 2, 2015 Prince held a Dance Rally 4 Peace at his Paisley Park Complex in honor of Freddie Gray and the civil unrest in Baltimore. Well here is some AWESOME News Prince has just release that Concert at Paisley Park through Audio Soundcloud. Well here it is I just want 2 say Thanks 2 Prince and 3RDEYEGIRL for releasing this 4 ALL of us who could NOT make it 2 Paisley Park to see and hear it live. I can only imagine the MAGIC that must have flown through Paisley Park, can't wait 4 the day that I can visit Paisley Park. Hope ALL enjoyed the Dance Rally 4 Peace at Paisley Park. PRINCE & 3RDEYEGIRL- DANCE RALLY 4 PEACE (Live from Paisley Park - May 2, 2015)

Tell Your Story

The weekend has come to an end getting ready to start a new week with Read: 1 Timothy 1:12-20 Bible in a Year: 2 Kings 13-14; John 2 Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue; I will proclaim Your greatness. —Psalm 145:6 nlt Michael Dinsmore, a former prisoner and relatively new Christian, was asked to give his testimony in a prison. After he spoke, some inmates came to him and said, “This is the most exciting meeting we’ve ever been to!” Michael was amazed that God could use his simple story. In 1 Timothy, after Paul had charged Timothy to stay the course preaching the gospel (1:1-11), he shared his personal testimony to encourage the young man (vv.12-16). He told about God’s mercy in his own life. Paul said that he had mocked the Lord, but He changed him. In His mercy, God not only counted him faithful and gave him a job to do, but He also enabled him to do His work (v.12). Paul considered himself the worst of sinners, but God saved him (v.15). The Lord is able! That is what Paul wanted Timothy to see, and what we need to see too. Through Paul’s testimony, we see God’s mercy. If God could use someone like Paul, He can use us. If God could save the worst of sinners, then no one is beyond His reach. Our story of God’s work in our lives can encourage others. Let those around you know that the God of the Bible is still at work today! —Poh Fang Chia Father, thank You for the salvation You offer and that no one, including me, is beyond the reach of Your mercy, grace, and transforming power. Help me share my story with others so that people can see Your love. No one is beyond the reach of God’s love. INSIGHT: Before Paul’s conversion he put Christian believers in prison and was present for at least one murder—that of Stephen, who was stoned for preaching about Christ (Acts 7:59–8:1). Yet after his conversion Paul sums up his former life in just three words, telling Timothy that he was “a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man” (1 Tim. 1:13). He then tells what God has done for him (vv. 13-17), reminding us that it is not who we were that is important; it is what God has done for us.

PRINCE New Song BALTIMORE

Woke up this morning to find out that Prince has release the new song Baltimore.

BALTIMORE recorded at Paisley Park Studios, Chanhassen, Minnesota on www.myfoxtwincities.com/story/2895594…9kEJc.twitter. The original recording subsequently became a demo when Prince, that very same night - all alone in Studio A, played all the instruments on an entire new version of the song. The next morning Joshua Welton and Kirk Johnson transferred Prince's tracks in2 Studio B. and mixing began. As the song neared completion at Prince's behest Eryn Allen Kane graciously flew in on a moment's notice and graced the track with her angelic presence. Speaking of presence, Prince was not during Eryn's vocal sessions. After being given the green light by Prince, via the studio intercom, Ms. Kane basically listened down 2 the track a few times and instinctively knew what was needed. A powerhouse vocal arranger and producer in her own right - check this out: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uImvs9X9duY the song grew wings instantly once Her had been laid down. The only thing left 2 do now was 2 find an ace mixing engineer who has a love 4 the smooth wave of analog but would still pack the punch the performances deserve. Dylan Dresdow was the 1st and only choice. He instantly understood the importance of the song and did an excellent job in the delivery of this "baby." Please know that all involved in this project never take for granted the privileges we have in this country. Let's all continue to fight the good fight and confront inhumanity on every level until the day it is no longer.

Prince Rally 4 Peace in Baltimore On Mother's Day

WOW! So EXCITED to be hearing this GREAT NEWS about the Rally 4 Peace in Baltimore on this Mother's Day. Prince as also written a song for Baltimore entitle Baltimore which has NOT been release as of yet. With all the civil unrest going on in Baltimore Prince is putting on a Rally 4 Peace Concert at the Royal Farm Arena in Baltimore this is to show an act of solidarity and to honor Freddy Greys Mother and Family. PRINCE hopes the Mother's Day CONCERT will b a "catalyst 4 PAUSE and REFLECTION". On request for those going to the Concert Prince would like for every one to wear Grey for Freddy Grey. Going to be a lot of Special Super Star Guest joining Prince and 3RDEYEGIRL for this Rally 4 Peace Concert. This concert will also be streaming Live on Tidal for FREE. Hope every one's got there tickets and I hope every one has a BLAST! Enjoy REAL MUSIC BY REAL MUSICIANS.

Dance Rally 4 Peace at Paisley Park

On May 2, 2015 Prince held a Dance Rally for Peace at his Complex in Minneapolis Paisley Park in response to the tragic death of Freddy Grey who was gun down in Baltimore in response to that he wanted every one to wear Grey in solidarity for Freddy Grey and his family. I just want to take a moment to share with you a review of what happen that night at Paisley Park with some friends of mine that were able to attend the Dance Rally 4 Peace. Just want 2 say THANK U PRINCE & 3RDEYEGIRL for doing this Dance Rally for Peace. PRINCE - A PAISLEY PEACE 4 BALTIMORE

All Aboard

We have made it to the end of the week YES! It's FRIDAY! so lets take a moment to reflect on this Read: 2 Peter 3:1-13 Bible in a Year: 2 Kings 4-6; Luke 24:36-53 The Lord is . . . longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish. —2 Peter 3:9 One day when I dropped my husband off at our local train station, I watched as the conductor scanned the area for stragglers. A woman with wet hair bounded from the parking lot and up into the train. Then, a man in a dark suit strode to the platform and climbed aboard. The conductor waited patiently while several more late-comers sprinted to the tracks and boarded at the last moment. Just as the conductor was patient with people boarding the train, God patiently waits for people to come to know Him. However, someday Jesus will return and “the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat” (2 Peter 3:10). When this happens, or when our physical bodies die, it will be too late to establish a relationship with God. “The Lord is . . . longsuffering toward us,” Peter says, “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (v.9). If you have delayed deciding to follow Christ, there is good news—you can still commit yourself to Him. “If you declare with your mouth ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Rom. 10:9 niv). He is calling. Will you run in His direction? —Jennifer Benson Schuldt Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, Calling for you and for me; See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching, Watching for you and for me. —Thompson Now is the time to choose the Lord. INSIGHT: Peter wrote to a persecuted and suffering group of Christians, which is why he highlighted the faithfulness of God. Peter wanted them to remember that the Lord would fulfill the promise of His second coming (v. 13).

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!

Well it's about that time WOW! It came so Fast so here we are getting ready to Celebrate CINCO DE MAYO! You guys already know the story about the Mexican Independence day weather you learned it in school or someone personal shared with you stories about this Festive Celebration, let's take a moment to honor ALL nationalities and culture because they ALL bring something to the table. So I just want to wish everyone a HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO May this day be filled with JOY and BLESSINGS. Cinco De Mayo: A Brief History

The Best Wedding Ever

The weekend has come to an end and we are jump starting a New Week with Read: Revelation 21:1-8 Bible in a Year: 1 Kings 16-18; Luke 22:47-71 The marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready. —Revelation 19:7 Within the last 800 or so years, a new custom has been added to the Jewish wedding ceremony. At the very end, the groom crushes a wine glass under his foot. One explanation of this is that the shattering of the glass symbolizes the destruction of the temple in ad 70. Young couples are encouraged to remember, as they establish their own homes, that God’s home had been destroyed. God is not homeless, however. He has just chosen a new place to live—in us, His followers. In the metaphors of Scripture, believers are both the bride of Christ and the temple in which God lives. God is fitting His people together to build a new home that will be His permanent dwelling place. At the same time, He is preparing the bride and planning a wedding that will include all of God’s family from the beginning of time. Our part is easy though sometimes painful. We cooperate with God as He is at work in us to make us more like His Son Jesus. Then some day, at the best wedding ever, our Lord will present us to Himself without spot or wrinkle. We will be holy and without blemish (Eph. 5:27). This wedding will bring an end to all sorrow and suffering. —Julie Ackerman Link Finish then Thy new creation; Pure and spotless let us be; Let us see Thy great salvation Perfectly restored in Thee. —Wesley The return of Jesus is sure. INSIGHT: Our eternal home is so different from our current earthly home that it is described by what is missing rather than by what is present—no tears, sorrow, death, crying, or pain. “The former things” (v. 4) of this earth will be no more.

Correct Gently

We have made it to the end of the week and started a new month we are in the 5th month of the New Year BOY! time is moving as we take a moment to reflect on ALL that has happen this week let's be mindful of this Read: Colossians 3:12-17 Bible in a Year: 1 Kings 10-11; Luke 21:20-38 Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another. —Colossians 3:12-13 At the end of a conference in Nairobi, Kenya, our group traveled from the conference center to a guesthouse to prepare to fly back home the next morning. When we arrived, one person in our group reported that she had forgotten her luggage back at the conference center. After she left to retrieve it, our group leader (always meticulous on detail) criticized her sharply to us in her absence. The next morning when we arrived at the airport, the leader discovered to his dismay that he too had left his luggage behind. It and his passport were back at the guesthouse. It was now going to cost us even more to go for his baggage. Later, he apologized and said to all of us, “I’ll never criticize so harshly again!” Because we all have faults and weaknesses, we should bear with one another and forgive each other when things go wrong (Col. 3:13). We need to be constructive in our criticism and “clothe [our]selves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (v.12 niv). When correction is necessary, it should be done with kindness and love. In that way we become imitators of our Lord Jesus Christ. —Lawrence Darmani Dear God, You know that there are times when I just don’t feel patient and humble and gentle. Those days in my life, the fruit of Your Spirit seems in short supply. Please enable me to love others today. The keys to effective relationships are gentleness and humility. INSIGHT: Paul’s admonition in verse 16—that we are to allow “the word of Christ [to] dwell in [us] richly in all wisdom”—parallels Ephesians 5:18-19, where we are challenged to be under the control of the Holy Spirit. This results in worship, thanksgiving, and maintaining appropriate relationships with others.