I Have Come

"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,...I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (Romans 3:23-24; John 10:10b) Good news! Jesus is born! The savior of the world has come and is amongst us! Even better news is that, even though we ALL fall short of deserving it, through God's grace and the gift of this tiny baby, if we have faith, believe, and give our lives totally to God, we will be saved and WE will have eternal life. Every baby that comes into the world is a miracle but the miracle of baby Jesus is the biggest miracle of all...and every time we see a newborn child may we be reminded of this biggest miracle, and gift, of all. Amen. Love, Beau

Beaus Christmas Sermon

"And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Glory in the Highest. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 'Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men' So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, 'Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.' And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them. (Luke 2:1-20 NKJV) "I am a poor boy too, ...I have no gift to bring,...That's fit to give the King,... Shall I play for you,... I played my drum for Him,... I played my best for Him." (Little Drummer Boy, Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone 1958.) Everyone had God given gifts that can be used to celebrate His birth. What gift will you bring to the manger this week and do your best with them this year???

Faith and Prayer

"So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt,...it will be done. And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive...Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God...For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. ” (Matthew 21:21a-22; Phillipians 4:6; Matthew 6:8 NKJV) Christmas is a time of faith...of redemption, trusting in God, new beginnings, and miracles. When we pray, we are to have that not only will our prayers be heard, but they will be answered. When we pray we are to go into it believing that God has already answered our prayers. God knows our needs, wants, and desires of our hearts before we even ask Him, therefore He is already at work on it. But we must remember that things happen in God's time, not ours...and sometimes He answeres our prayers differently that we expect or want. But. have faith just as Mary did when she said yes to God, that not only will our prayers be answered...they already are!! Love, Beau

The Love of God

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16 NKJV) God loves you and you are very important and special to Him. God loves you so much that He sent His son into the world to suffer and ultimately die for us, in our place. If you do not "get" anything else this Christmas, get this: God loves you so much that He gave up His only son for YOU. Christmas, and this time of year, is all about love, God's gift of love, and how much He loves you. You are so important to Him, and He loves you so much that, "the very hairs of your head are all numbered." (Matthew 10:30 NKJV) Love came down at Christmas, and God meant it for each and every one of you. Be blessed!! Love, Beau

(not) Beau's Sunday Sermon -- A Baby's Hug

This was sent to me and is being circulated through the internet right now, but it makes a perfect modern day story of the Christ child, and how we all should be and live...so it is my sermon for today: We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly sitting and talking. Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, 'Hi.' He pounded his fat baby hands on the high chair tray. His eyes were crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment. I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map. We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists. 'Hi there, baby; hi there, big boy. I see ya, buster,' the man said to Erik. My husband and I exchanged looks, 'What do we do?' Erik continued to laugh and answer, 'Hi.' Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby. Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, 'Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo.' Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk. My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skid-row bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments. We finally got through the meal and headed for the door. My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot. The old man sat poised between me and the door. 'Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik,' I prayed. As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's 'pick-me-up' position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man. Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love and kinship. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back. No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time. I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, 'You take care of this baby.' Somehow I managed, 'I will,' from a throat that contained a stone. He pried Erik from his chest, lovingly and longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, 'God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift.' I said nothing more than a muttered thanks. With Erik in my arms, I ran
for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, 'My God, my God, forgive me.' I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother who saw a suit of clothes. I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not. I felt it was God asking, 'Are you willing to share your son for a moment?' when He shared His for all eternity. The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, 'To enter the Kingdom
of God, we must become as little children.' Sometimes, it takes a child to remind us of what is really important. We must always remember who we are, where we came from and, most
importantly, how we feel about others. The clothes on your back or the car that you drive or the house that you live in does not define you at all; it is how you treat your fellow man that identifies who you are. Love, Beau

A Gift to be Thankful For

"And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins. So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us.' ..I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly....Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (Matthew 1:21-23; John 10:10b; 2 Corinthians 9:15) As we go from a time of thanks giving and remembering our blessings to a time of celebrating the birth of Christ, love, and being with friends and family, we need to remember to stop and be thankful for the biggest blessing and Christmast gift of all...the birth of Jesus Christ. He came to take away our sins, so that we "might have life and have it more abundantly." CHRISTmas is a time of incredible love, miracles, and faith. So have faith, believe in miaracles..and be thankful! The gift of Jesus, God's only son, is the greatest gift of love of all! Love, Beau

With Thanksgiving

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;...And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive...for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him..”" (Phillipians 4:6; Matthew 21:22; Mark 11:24; Matthew 6:8) God wants us to not worry about anything because He will provide for all our needs, and whatever we ask of Him, He will give IF it's within His will for us. But more importantly, God wants us to ask for it with THANKSGIVING knowing, and having faith, that whatever we ask of Him it is already ours. He even knows what our needs are before we even ask Him, so He is already at work fulfillinf those needs! So the next time you need something, remember God is already at work taking care of it and be thankful IN ADVANCE!! Praise God!! Love, Beau

Not Ordinary

"David fastened his sword to his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. And David said to Saul, “I cannot walk with these, for I have not tested them. So David took them off. Then he took his staff in his hand; and he chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag, in a pouch which he had, and his sling was in his hand. And he drew near to the Philistine...Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand," (1 Samuel 17:39-40, 45-46a) When Goliath was slain God did not make a major, prophetic display of it. Instead, he took a teenage boy with five smooth stones and a slingshot and this teenage boy slew the giant with only his stones, not with sword or other weapons. You see, God takes ordinary, everyday, average people and does extraordinary things through them. So, the next time you think you can't do something, remember you CAN do it if you only allow God to work through you. Who knows what you can do then!! Love, Beau

I Am With You Always

"...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age...I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last” (Matthew 28:20b; Revelation 22:13) God is not going anywhere. He was with you before you were born (He made you even), and He is with you when you go through your entire life, when you die, and through eternity. You are never alone. And, God is in control. Isn't it great that the one who is in control is always with you?! I find it very reassuring. No matter what happens in life God is right there with you controlling things...and you know everything is going to be alright and be for the good." Praise God!! Love, Beau

Centering

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33 NKJV) When you get up in the morning what is the first thing you focus on? Is it fixing breakfast, the office meeting you have, getting the children to school, or is it your blessings? Too many times we're so busy, rushed, anxious, and worried over things in our lives that we fail to see the many blessings we have. Thing is, the thing or things that we focus on the most is what direction we will take in our day, and greatly affect how your day, and future days, goes. If you focus on that meeting you're worried or concerned about, you're going to stay anxious and stressed; but, if you focus on your blessings you are going to feel blessed and therefore probably more content and happier. So, are you willing to center your thoughts on the blessings God has given you...this day and every day from now on?? It is a chance to celebrate God's gifts to you...your friends, family, the world around you, nature, your talents, your opportunities. And, don't forget your own life. You're a miraculous, beautiful, wonderful, unique creation of God. You have tremendous worth and importance. There is a story we read once we read where a woman, off the streets, found God, and even after she was attaced and hospitalized, her words were, "I am a child of God, dearly loved, and beautiful to behold." We should all remember this. Give thanks for ALL your gift and SHARE them. Today is the perfect time to begin!! Love, Beau

Miracles Happen!!

"But He said, 'The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.'” (Luke 18:27 NKJV) We live in a world of miracles. If you don't believe me, look around and take notice. Start by looking in the mirror. YOU are a miracle. And everyone one of us is a different and unique miracle. And, just like us, miracles come in all shapes and sizes. It doesn't have to be a huge event to be a miracle. Every sunrise and sunset is a miracle, each new day is a miracle, the birth of a baby, all of nature, a life changed for the better, a suddenly cured disease or body, a wound that heals...all are miracle. Miracles are everywhere for us to enjoy and experience if we just take notice of them. So, look around, enjoy, and then praise God for His everyday miracles! Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon -- Charity and Family

"And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you...Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels." (Ephesians 4:32; Hebrews 13:2 NKJV) Charity begins at home. It is where we learn how to be in the world and treat one another. But who is our family? Is it just the ones we are related to or is bigger? We are ALL children of God, so we are all one big family. So, it is important that we teach each other how to be kind, loving, and charitable to ourselves, to each other, and to others. It also begins with one. You are one and if each one is more charitable, than the world would become a better place. There is a saying, "Try random acts of kindness," which is a great idea. I encourage everyone reading this to try random acts of kindess every day this week and see what happens. If you don't know where to start read The Holy Bible. It has LOTS of examples of acts of kindness toward friends, family, and even perfect strangers. Who knows..you might be entertaining an angel unaware! Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon -- Who Is Your Master?

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon...choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,..But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”" (Matthew 6:24; Luke 16:13; Joshua 24:15) God makes it perfectly clear. Choose me or choose earthly things. You can't have it both ways. Bad habits that one has: worry and anxiety, smoking; drinking; eating too much; working too much; too much television; doing ANYTHING similar in excess; skipping church to sleep in, go to the football game, or go to the lake, mom calls these vices. That's a good word for them. One definition of a vice is a screw like device that holds something. That's exactly what these vices do. They hold you in their grip, screw you over, and keep you from becoming the best person God knows you can be. Anything that holds you back from following God, doing His will, being truly His, and or being the best you can be is a vice...even your family can be a vice if you choose it over God. Are you willing to drop everything, and leave everything and everyone behind, if He calls you to? "Choose this day whom you will serve.. ." Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon -- Peace

"He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me, For there were many against me." (Psalm 55:18 NKJV) Everyday we go through many trial and tribulations of various kinds and degrees, in additions to joys. God never promised us that life would be easy, only that He would be there with us to help us through both the good and the bad. Not only does God help us through everything, but He also redeems us and gives us victory over the bad times in life if we allow Him. No matter how much we feel, and have, going against us, beating us and weighing us down, God WILL get us through it AND He will make us VICTORIOUS over it!! "The LORD will give strength to His people;...But the meek shall inherit the earth, And shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace." (Psalms 29:11; 37:11 NKJV) What an amazing and gracious gift this is! Praise God!! Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon

"For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me;" (Luke 9:24; Galatians 2:20a NKJV) Have you truly given your life to Christ? It's just not enough to say I believe in God, repent, and be baptized. That is just the first steps in truly giving your life to Christ. Once you turn you truly give your life to Christ, then you totally strip away who you are, or were, as a person, and let God totally take over you and your life. You completely and totally lose yourself and yield yourself to God, so that He may work within and through you. You become His vessel of good works, and at the same time God is reshaping and molding you into all that He knows you can be. Until you completely lose your life and yield it to God, then you have not yet totally given your life to Him. If this is what you truly desire, then take a moment now and pray, "God I believe in You and I completely trust in You. I give my life completely to you to do Your will. It is no longer I that lives, but You that lives and works through me. Use me, mold me. In Christ's name, I pray. Amen." Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon - Prayer

rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; pray without ceasing,” (Romans 12:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:17 NKJV) No matter what your faith, prayer is a central part of it. And, it should be a central part of your daily life as well, not a “whenever I feel like, the mood strikes me, or I can fit it into my schedule,” thing. Prayer is a direct reflection of one’s spiritual life and relationship with God. Not only that, prayer changes things…not just other people and circumstances and things…but the one praying as well. If there’s something you’re thinking about, deciding about, worrying about, or just wondering about, how about praying to God about it instead. Nothing is too small or unimportant. God hears ALL your prayers! And, it doen’t have to be a formal prayer…just having a normal conversation with God can be prayerful! So, the next time you’re deciding where and when prayer fits in your life, think about these things! Love Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon - Rest in God

"The LORD preserves the simple; I was brought low, and He saved me. Return to your rest, O my soul, For the LORD has dealt bountifully with you." (Psalm 116:6.7 NKJV) Everyone runs out of energy and fuel sometimes. Even the strongest, healthiest, most energetic hit empty from time to time. Life's demands, it's ups and downs, and even simple daily chores can drain you. One needs to take time to rest and recharge. Even farmers "rest'' their fields periodically so the earth can rebound again. When God was finished making the universe "on the seventh day HE rested." (Genesis 2:2) And you know, if God rested we ought to too! So whenever you're tired, emotionally or physically drained, discouraged, or just worn out, take note. That is when you need to turn to stop, turn to God, and rest. "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28 NKJV) This is God's promise to us! (So, take a prayer break then take a nap..naps are what cats do best!) Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon

"..Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning...To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, And a time to die...a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up; A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance; " (Psalms 30:5a; Ecclesiates 3:1b-4 NKJV) This week we have lost several of our dear friends. It has been a sad week, but at the same time there is much to be joyful about. We may weep now but God promises to turn it into joy. Another thought I would like to suggest, by a play of words, is that joy comes in the mourning as well. Joy comes in the mourning in that we know that our friends and family have gone to a better place and we will again see them some day. Joy comes in the mourning in that we know they are now with God in the palm of His hand. And, Joy comes in the mourning knowing that those who were suffering are suffering no more, and that we have each other for support. Yes, there IS a time for sorrow and breaking down, but there is joy in the morning and the mourning, and the time is coming to be joyful, laugh, dance, and build up again. Remember this in the coming days. Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon - The Example of Job

"And the LORD restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before." (Job 42:10 NKJV) Prayers of "Lord, I will..if..." is self-centered, and rebellious against God. And, if it is an attempt at getting right with God, it misses the whole point of what God has done for us. You cannot make yourself right with God or make yourself perfect. You cannot save yourself. God has already done that through His grace and through the sacrifice of His son, Jesus. The question becomes am I humble enough to accept this gift and fully believe in it. It is an insult to God, an act of disbelief if we ask Him to do what He has already done for us. The second part of this is if we are not fully getting this and not receiving His gift ten times more, then we need to take time to pray. A good starting point is praying for our friends, family, and those we meet on the street. We are to strive to become like Him. and Jesus was our intercessor. When we pray for others we become an intercessor for them, asking God to grant them the same kind of saving grace He has shown us. Therefore, it may come to be in others like it has in us. It was only after Job prayed for his friends, not himself, that things began to change for him. So, pray for the people in your lives and those you meet. Pray now!! Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon -- Repentance

"So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the LORD your God, For He is gracious and merciful, Slow to anger, and of great kindness; And He relents from doing harm." (Joel 2:13 NKJV) God forgives our sins if we truly repent. God wants our repentance to come from within and come from the heart, and not just be an outward, showy act. If we were to just "rend our garments" it would be a vain, and in vain, act. To be truly repentful one must take that rending to the core of one's being and THEN truly show outward signs of repentance. If we do that God is just and kind and will forgive our sins. And, He will show us grace and mercy! Praise God!! Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon -- Seize Today

“He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiates 3:11 NKJV) Everything and everyone God has made is beautiful. We cannot imporve on what God has already, and is doing. What we must do is allow Him to work through us. He put eternity in our hearts so that we focus on our final destination and stay connected to Him. Yet, we may often feel that the tasks that He gives us do to are small, trivial, unimportant, and nothing compared to the big picture. We feel we “see in a glass darkly.” God wants to keep His works a mystery to us for now. He doesn’t want us to focus on the big picture, but rather concentrate on the present task at hand that He gives us. He doesn’t want us to focus on the past or the future, just today. And, since He doesn’t reveal His plans to us in advance there is nothing left to do but trust in Him and just concentrate on the present. After all, isn’t concentrating on getting the most out of the exact moment you’re in the best way to live anyway?! Yeah, God ways truly ARE the best! Seize the day! Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon - Our Refuge and Strength

"God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah. But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is" (Psalm 46:1-3; Mark 13:32 NKJV) A very horrible and tragic thing happened this week. A bridge collapsed during rush hour hurting many people and killing some. Although some will say this is coincidence, God had His hand in it that it just happened to collapse at a time when there is a drought, and, according to experts, the water depths were much lower and the current was one-third the speed it normally is; cars were at a stand still instead of moving so there was no lunging forward but just dropping straight down; and even that particular bridge structure was life-saving. Even the local fire chief said "it was something of a miracle." Yes, God was there to catch people in the palm of His hand when the bridge gave way, and keep the conditions from being worse. And God was there in the people who voluntarily rushed to the scene and put their own lives at risk without a thought (and still do). God is there in the way people have come together to comfort and support each other, and do whatever the can. We never know when it is our time for God to take us home, it usually comes "in the blink of an eye," but we will trust in God and not be afraid. He is always there and in control. Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon -- Pray Without Ceasing

"Pray without ceasing," (1 Thessalonians 5:17 NKJV) How do you think of Prayer? Is it something you do or is it a part of who you are? It is NOT supposed to be a conscious act we do. Prayer is a life giving force that is much a part of us as the blood flowing through our veins. Prayer is supposed to be like breathing. It is a part of who we are, it is continually and never ending yet we are rarely aware of it, and it is an integral part of our living and being. It is to be a part of our every breath, heartbeat, and thought. And, when you pray, do you truly, genuinely believe with all your heart your prayers will be answered...or is there a little part of you that questions or doubts it? Did you know that in The Holy Bible Jesus never mentioned unanswered prayer? That is because Jesus never doubted God answered prayers. "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." (Mark 11:24; Luke 11:9,10 NKJV) God may not answer your prayers in the way you think He will or should, but He does answer them and in the best way. It make not make sense to us at the time, but God is not one for common and ordinary. He wants something greater! So, pray without ceasing, believe even in the unimaginable, and He will answer your prayers. Love, Beau

Beau's Sunday Sermon - The Beatitudes

There is a reason that the Beatitudes are called that. They are BE-attitudes. We are to have these mindsets. "And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying: 'Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven... ." (Matthew 5:1-11, Luke 6:20-23) Be poor in spirit, be comforted, be meek, be hungry and thirsty for righteousness, be merciful, be pure in heart and be a peacemaker. And, be willing to be persecuted, mocked, and lied about for your beliefs. For if you BE these ATTITUDES, you will BE blessed and receive a great reward...the kingdom of Heaven. Be blessed. Love, Beau

A Great Commandment, A Higher Standard

"This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." (John 13:34, 15:12 NKJV) We are to love others as God loved us. And, there are many verses in the Holy Bible that teach us how we should love. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16 NKJV) Do you love someone, or others, so much you are willing to die for them? Also, 1 Corinthians 13 teaches us that love is patient, kind, not jealous or boastful, not arrogant or rude, it does not insist on having its own way, it is not irritable or resentful, and it does not rejoice in the wrong but rejoices in the right. It believes, bear, and hopes all things...and IT NEVER ENDS! In other words, we are supposed to put others first, be kind and caring, and sometimes we have to be the ones to give in even if we don't believe we should. A human doctor named Phil said, "Do you want to be right or do you want to be happy?" He also said that you have to teach people how to treat you. That means you have to also hold them to a higher behavior standard as well. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!" How do you want to be treated? What this world needs is for people to get out of the "me me me" mode and start thinking in "you you you" mode. We all need to kinder, gentler, more patient and caring with one another...and pay this forward. It begins with us and we CAN make ths world a better place...one kind act at a time! Love, Beau

This is the Day The Lord Has Made!

"This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom." (Psalm 118:24, 90:12) When is the last time you noticed all the beauty and miracles around you? There's a saying, "Stop and smell the roses." Good advice. So many of us are in such a rush these days to get our kids to their activities, and get done all WE feel we need to do, that we no longer notice all of God's wonderful gifts around us. So many of us get irritated with life's "little inconveniences" that we forget the beauty in it. The last time you were stuck in traffic, did you get annoyed, irratated, or frustrated? Or did you use that time to notice the spring green grass, the big trees, blooming flowers, or the massive sky? Every day is not only a gift from God, but a day filled with miracles, new life, hope, and wonderment? So take every chance to enjoy it! Love, Beau

Beau's Freedom Sunday Sermon

“The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18) God frees those who are oppressed or in bondage. No strings attached. It is through His grace that He gives us this freedom. All we need to do is ask...and there are many, many forms of oppression and bondage...physical, psychological, spiritual, mental, fiancial..the list goes on. God wants to set us loose from these things so that we may be free to fully experience life and all that it has to give us; and, to be able to fully serve Him. But, also remember that with freedom comes responsibility. God wants us to use our freedom wisely and responsibly. We are to be examples and doers of the word, and share the word of God with others, but then we are to let God work within them and come to Him in their own way and time. Jesus said, "Go and make disciples." He did not say they had to believe exactly as you do. Introduce others to the grace and freedom of God, then let God do the rest...and be thankful for your freedom. It is a gift from God. Love, Beau

Never Too Late

I have very exciting news! It's never too late to do big and amazing things! AND, you're never too old for God to use you in big and major ways! Wait, there's more! It's also never too late to find favor and grace with and through God! Noah was a very old man when he found favor and grace with God. Then, if that wasn't blessing enough, God blessed him with a family (never say never), had him and his sons build this really huge boat, and then his family, and their animals, become the beginning of all future generations. "After Noah was 500 years old, he became the father of Shem, Ham and Japheth...Noah was six hundred years old when the floodwaters were on the earth." (Genesis 5:32, 7:6 The Holy Bible, NIV) It is never too late to start over and become something greater than you could ever imagine. God always dreams bigger dreams for us than we dream for ourselves. The sky is NOT the limit. The limit is if it is within God's will or not. So seek grace, think big, and ask God for help! Love, Beau

Beau's Father's Day Sermon

"For whom the LORD loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights...The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand..For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; " (Proverbs 3:12; John 3:35, 5:20a The Holy Bible, NKJV) Our heavenly father is just like one's father here on earth, only greater. God loves us like our earthly fathers do, and therefore he disciplines us as well. This is done, by both, in love for our own good. Because God loves us, he also teaches us how to follow in His footsteps and be just like Him. He is proud of us and wants us to be a reflection of Him. But, the best part of all is that if we love Him, and follow in His ways, we also, we are inheritors of all that He has. What an amazing gift! Another amazing gift is that He loves us unconditionally and loves us more than we can ever know. This also teaches us a deeply important example on how we should treat and raise our own children. When you honor your earthly fathers today, be sure to thank and honor you Heavenly father as well. He wants your attention, too! Love, Beau

God's Peace

"'For the mountains shall depart And the hills be removed, But My kindness shall not depart from you, Nor shall My covenant of peace be removed,' Says the LORD, who has mercy on you...Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (Isaiah 54:10; John14:27; ) God's peace is deeper than anything or anyone on earth can give you. God says that even if the world falls away, and everything else disappers, His kindness and peace will always be there. God also says that, even though we will have trials and troubles, we are not to be afraid or be sad because HE has overcome the world. The world may give us struggles, but when we turn to Him, we will have a deeper peace than we have ever know...a peace like no other. Peace! Love, Beau

God's Will

"For everything God created is good...You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." (1 Timothy 4:4a; Genesis 50:20) There have been many bad things in the world that have happened, and perhaps in your own life, where you thought, "Why would God let this happen?" God doesn't like bad things happening to people. All of God's ways are good. But, when He gave us free will to choose our path in life, He had to also allow some bad things to happen as well. We are responsible for the consequences of our actions, and sometimes God tests us, and allows things to happen, for our own growth. The good news is that when bad things do happen God can choose to minimize the bad, and also turn it into something positive for His good. There are always two sides to everything. When we see bad things happening in the world we can always pray, asking God to be sure something positive comes from it. The other good news is that God will NEVER leave us or forsake us, and He is always there to help us get through those bad times. For this we can be thankful and give praise. Love, Beau

Leap of Faith

"Now it came to pass after these things that God tested Abraham, and said to him, 'Abraham!' And he said, 'Here I am.'...And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then He said to them, 'Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.' They immediately left their nets and followed Him...Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Genesis 22:1; Matthew 4:18-20; Hebrews 11:1) God wants us to immediately act on faith and trust in Him. When Abraham was tested he did not ask questions first or tell God he needed to think about it first. Insted he said, "Here I am," and immediately did what was asked of him not knowing what it involved. Despite ridicule and harrasment, Noah, with the help of his sons, built a huge ark in beautiful weather simply because God asked him to and he had faith and trust in God. Jesus' disciples did the same when asked to follow Him. This is what God wants US to do. When He asks us to do something, he wants us to trust and have faith in Him, and immediately respond with, "Here I am, Lord, use me." By doing so you in turn will be blessed. Noah was blessed with many descendents, Abraham was blessed with nations, and the disciples were blessed with many gifts. So, next time God calls, 'just do it' and be blessed. Love, Beau

The Depth of God's Love

"So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them....For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb... My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed...For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (Genesis 1:27; Psalm 139:13,15-16a; John 3:16) God loves you!! He loves you SO much that He not only made you in His own image, and knew every detail about you before you were even born, but He would also choose to let His own son DIE than to lose you! Think about the awesomeness and power in that! It takes my breath away! Love, Beau

Beau's Mother's Day Sermon

"Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may be well with you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you...He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me...For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” (Deuteronomy 5:16; Matthew 10:37, 12:50) Mom used to be in the hospital a lot as a kid back in the dark ages when there weren't many hospitals just for kids. Her mom used to stay with her a lot then. She sacrificed a lot of her life to be there for mom, take care of her and support her. That is what love is...loving someone so much that you would sacrifice your life for their's. And that is exactly what Jesus did on the cross for us. As much as my mom loves her mom, she loves God even more, and if mom had to, she would sacrifice that because her mom is a living example of that kind of love, and that is what God commands us to do. So, whether or not you have a mom you have that example of love through Christ. Love, Beau

Putting God First

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ ...For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (Matthew 6:31-33) We are not to worry about the everyday matters of life. When Jesus called His twelve disciples to go with them, they dropped everything and went. They didn't worry where there next meal was coming from, about having clean clothes the next day, or even if their families would worry when they didn't return home that night. They just dropped everything and went. That is how God wants us to live. Put Him first and He will take care of the rest. He knows what you need and He will provide it for you. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6) God first, everything else second. Trust Him. Love, Beau

The Gift of Today

"Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. No One Knows the Day or Hour. But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven but My Father only... This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. (Matthew 24:35, 36; Psalm 118:24 NKJV) No one knows how long one's life is going to be. Each day is a gift from God. We should celebrate this gift and use it to the best of our ability. We should also appreciate all that our days give us...good or bad. The good is a joyful thing, and the bad makes us stronger and teaches us life lessons. The Holy Bible teaches us, "for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content." (Phillipans 4:11 NKJV) We should celebrate each day we are given. No one knows what's around the corner. There is a saying that goes something like this, "Yesterday is a memory, tomorrow is but a dream, and today is all we have." So live today to the fullest, celebrate the day before you and all that it gives you. This is good advice no matter what your faith or beliefs! Love, Beau

A Higher Ground

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.." (Matthew 5: 43, 44) Whatever your religious beliefs, this is just sound thinking. It ultimately doesn't matter who is right and who is wrong but how we handle what goes on in our lives. There is so much hatred and anger in the world today we need to take a higher ground. The world needs to stop the "eye for an eye" mentality and respond in love, blessing, and prayer. When one is lashed out at by another, we don't necessarily know what is going on inside of the other person, and even if that person IS responding in pure anger and hatred, it is better to reach out in love and pray for them that the heart and mind might be changed, and receiving a blessing, than to heap more hostility on that person and the world. The tragedy at Virginia Tech was horrible and we CAN be justifiably angry it happened, but it doesn't change what happened. What CAN change thing is to pray for everyone involved. that lessons will be learned, and that it ultimately will lead to positives changes on how we treat each other and reach out to one another. Take the higher ground. Reach out in love. (love, Beau)

Always There

"No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you...Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." (Joshua 1:5b; John 14:27, 16:33) Sometimes when things happen that hurt us or cause us deep pain, even if we understand it, we don't always feel God is there for us. We feel He has abandoned us. We wonder how He could let something happen, why He won't answer our prayers, or why is He not there for us. But He is. It just doesn't always seem like it. Sometimes He's silent so that we can learn a bigger lesson from our experience, sometimes the answers don't always come in the way that we expect or want, and sometimes we're so lost in our pain and hurt we just can't feel Him or reach out to Him. But, be at peace, He is there and He's there for you...no matter what. (And if He can overcome the world, think how much he can do for us!!) Love, Beau
Footprints in the Sand
One night a man had a dream. He dreamedhe was walking along the beach with the LORD.
Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to him, and the other to the LORD.
When the last scene of his life flashed before him,he looked back at the footprints in the sand.
He noticed that many times along the path ofhis life there was only one set of footprints.
He also noticed that it happened at the verylowest and saddest times in his life.
This really bothered him and he questioned the LORD about it:
"LORD, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way.But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life,there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me."The LORD replied:
"My son, my precious child,I love you and I would never leave you.During your times of trial and suffering,when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."
written by Mary Stevenson

Easter Sunday sermon

"But the angel answered and said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you' So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy... For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (Matthew 5-8a; John 3:16) For those of us who are Christians, we believe that Jesus lives and conquered death so that we might be restored to God and live forever with Him. What joy!! As a Christian, this tremendous gift of love pushes me to think about what I can do, and how I can live, to show my gratitude and thankfulness for this gift, and to live up to that gift. It also makes me consider what things I can conquer in my life to live more fully and thankfully. How can you, whatever your faith, conquer and live more fully and thankfully, and live up to the gifts of love you have been given. It's something to ponder! Love, Beau

Do Unto Others..

"...You shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor] and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:43-44 ) It seems that everywhere we look there is bickering, arguing, hate and meanness throughout the whole world. What we all need to do is take a step back and be kinder and more caring, patient, and compassionate with each other. If we did that and then paid it forward what a better world this would be. This is what God wants, expects, us to be. He wants us to treat others how we want to be treated. And, it's all about loving..both ourselves and others. It's also not just about loving, but going one step further and loving the unloveable and loving even when we don't feel like loving. This is the will of God. Therefore, I challenge you this week to hug 3 people..without speaking first and without warning..just hug them! Love, Beau

The Heart of Easter

Easter is coming soon! Easter is about the resurrection of Christ and about Christ dying for our sins. But, Easter is also about faith and hope. Christ's followers believed and hoped that they again would see Christ, but they didn't know that for sure. They just believed...and had hope and faith. Christ dying for our sins gives us hope that we can be made anew and start fresh...tomorrow is a new day. I think we all need more faith and hope, and belief in these things. It's what keeps us going. No one knows what's going to happen beyond today, but we believe it will be okay, and the sun will rise again. We have faith and hope in that. The Holy Bible says, "..for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Matthew 17:20; Hebrews 11:3) Have you ever seen the SIZE of a mustard seed??? It's very tiny. It doesn't take much faith. You just got to believe in it and have hope. So keep the faith, have hope, and believe, even if you can't see around the corner. It will be okay!! Love, Beau

Celebrate YOU!!

"So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them;...Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good...For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb...for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;" (Genesis 1:27-28a, 31a; Psalm 139:13-14 NKJV) You were made by God. Not only were you made by God you were made in His own image, fearfully and wonderfully made. Since you were made in His own image, you also have amazing abilities and powers...you just have to tap into them and use them! And, since God's powers are limitless all you have to do is ask Him to achieve your fullest abilities and He will help you! How truly special you are to have been fearfully and wonderfully made in God's own image! Ever wonder what God looks like? Look in the mirror! Celebrate your life. God does! You are blessed!! Love, Beau

Ask Jesus!

What would Jesus do (WWJD)? That is what we are supposed to ask ourselves before we do ANYTHING, if we are to truly follow His example. I know that mom and I don't always think to do that. I suspect that is true for most of us. It is something that we need to strive to do more. By always asking first "What would Jesus do," not only would we most likely improve our lives, but we would be better Christian examples to those around us. We are to be examples of Christ's love and compassion, so that others may see our example and come to know, love, and follow Christ. This makes it even more important to always first ask ourselves, "what would Jesus do." And I can guarantee you one thing, if you ask Him, He will guide you and lead you in His way. Love, Beau

Take Comfort!

In the past few days someone told us, "Remember God is always there to help you feel better." Those were very comforting and healing words. They helped us to start feeling some better. It has been a rough week for many of us for varying reasons. Some are still looking for jobs, other lost their fur kids or a human, and some have ailing furrs or humans. We all go through ups, downs, trials, frustrations. joys, sorrows and losses. We need to remember those words, "God is always there to help you feel better." The Holy Bible says, "Comfort, yes, comfort My people!' Says your God." (Isaiah 40:1) And, "Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4) So, when you're going through trials, frustrations, and pain, remember those word, "God is always there to help you feel better," and take heart and be comforted. Love, Beau

Witnessing

One of the purposes of our lives is to bring other people to Christ. We are to share our faith and our testimony, of what God has done for us, with others so that they may see His good works. We are to share the love of God with others. God wants us to be "fishers of men" and share His love for them. He loves us all and wants us all home with Him. God wants us to share the good news with those who have lost their way or have never known Him: I forgive your past, your mistakes, I LOVE YOU, and all you have to do is, genuinely ask forgiveness BELIEVE in Me and then RECEIVE what I have to offer you and follow in my footsteps. Bringing others to Christ gives glory to God...and it brings joy to us to see that person's life changed forever. If you are reading this, and want to bring Christ into your life, pray this prayer created by Rick Warren of The Purpose Driven life, "Jesus I believe in You and I receive You. Thank You for dying on the cross for all my sins. As much as I know how, I ask you to come into my life and help me learn to know you, trust you, and love you." If you already have Christ in your heart, don't you want to share with that joy with as many people as possible so they can feel it too? I do!! Love, Beau

Jesus is Coming!

"For the day is near, Even the day of the LORD is near;" "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” (Ezekiel 30:3a; Mark 13:32-36 NKJV) Are you ready? Jesus is coming! (Maybe sooner than you think!) No one knows at what point and time Jesus will return to take us home, but He IS coming and Jesus teaches us that we are to be ready. We are to stay alert for that time, and we are to live our lives as if each day is our last. We are to live according to His word EVERY SECOND so that when the time comes we will be ready and prepared. Today is all we have. Yesterday is over and we can't change the past. We have to move on. Tomorrow isn't here yet and we don't know what will happen tomorrow. So, all we have is today to make the most of it and live it in God's way to the fullest and best we can. Get ready! Stay alert! Be prepared! Jesus IS coming! (love, Beau)

Time for God

Ecclessiates 3:1 (KJV) states, "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." This week we've had a time to rejoice in both the appreciation of Robyn and her return home, and in the many loves of our lives. It's also been a time of sorrow as we've lost one of our woofie friends. But, what also of time? We make appointments to see doctors, dentists, even friends and family...but when is the last time you actually made an appointment and set aside time to specifically spend talking with God? And if you did make that appointment, did you keep it or get to busy and let it slide or forget? We need to make an appointment EVERY DAY to spend time with God, AND keep that appointment. After all, our relationship with God is supposed to be the most important thing in our lives. If we can keep lesser appointments, then we certainly should be able to keep an appointment with Him. We need to have our priorities in the right order. I can guarantee you HE won't let it slide or forget, and He WILL be there even if you're not. So, this week set an appointment with God and keep that appointment. He's looking forward to it! Love, Beau

Barbaro: A Great Example to ALL

What I learned from Barbaro: dream big; go for your dream,; strive to be the best you can be (like the Colts and Bears) ; stay on course; run the race to the finish line; have staff, when you fall down get back up and keep on trying; never give up; have hope and faith; have strength, courage and guts; be likeable; fall in love with the girl (or boy) next door (stable); make new friends; and stand tall. So, what does all this have to do with God? LOTS! God wants us to dream big. There is NOTHING He can't do. All you have to do is ask, and if it's His will for you He can make it happen. Once you ask then go for it! God wants us to be all that He made us to be. He gave each one of us talents and gifts to use for His purpose, and He wants us to develop those to the best of our ability. Don't lose focus of your goals and dreams. If you get sidetracked it will take you longer to reach them. The ultimate goal is to be with God someday, and life is the race. All that we go through is the course. In order to get to the finish line you have to keep getting up when you fall down and keep on going. This sometimes takes all of hope, faith, strength, courage, and guts. It also comes with making new friends, risking to love (no matter what kind of love), and allowing others to help you when needed or helping them. But, no matter what road of life God takes you on, and how much you stumble, He is always proud of you so stand tall. Love, Beau

Let Go and Let God

Jesus knows what it's like to be tired. He got so tired travelling and preaching that He took his disciples and went across to the other side of a lake just to get some rest. And His disciples were so tired, EVERY ONE went to sleep when Jesus went off to pray. I also suspect Jesus was tired when He flared His temper and overturned the moneychangers tables in the temple. Because Jesus knows what it's like to be totally spent and tired, He wants to help us feel better. Jesus said, "Come to me who are heavy laden and I will give you rest." He wants you to rest in Him, turn things over to God, and let HIM do all the work. That's all He ask. We always try to make things harder on ourselves by trying to do everything all on our own. Remember the last time you tried moving a big piece of furniture by yourself and how hard it was? Wasn't it easier when you asked/got help? Life is the same way. And Jesus is the ultimate helper. So, next time life seems just to hard, stop and ask yourself, "Am I letting God help me, or am I trying to it all by myself?" Again I say, "Let go and let God." Love, Beau

"Don't Worry - Be Happy!"

Do you ever worry? I know mom does. She worries all the time. Mom worries about friends, family, finances, our health, EVERYTHING. But God tells us NOT to worry. He says, "Trust in Him with all your heart, soul, and mind." Jesus also says, "Let not your heart be worried. Believe in me. Believe also in God." Although it seems really hard, especially at times, is to put our total faith and trust in God and let Him handle everything. "Let go and let God." What do you think it would feel like if you were to turn EVERYTHING over to God and let Him handle things?" I think it would feel pretty amazing to let go of all the burdens and worry, and just feel free! I think what is needed is to take a "leap of faith," jump totally in, and give it a try. All you have to lose is stress, anxiety, worry, ulcers, depression, and other stress related health problems. So, "Don't worry...be happy!!" Love, Beau

Cheetahs in the Church

According to a television documentary, the Cheetah survives by outrunning its prey. It can sprint up to 70 mph, but only in short bursts. While it has a very lithe body that is built for speed, it has a tiny heart which gives it no staying power. Unless it catches its prey in the first burst of energy, it has to give up the chase. When it comes to serving God and doing His work, there are many "Cheetahs." They start well with great enthusiasm and great vigor but finish poorly. As soon as the way gets rough and life tough, they tire and abandon the cause and drop out of the race. What is needed is not more speed, but more staying power. We all need bigger hearts for the greater abilities of stick-ability and dependability. (The Daily Encounter online publication http://www.actsweb.org ) (Sermon suggested by Kat) Love, Beau

Thoughts for the Week

Mom's program from church this past Sunday has some good thoughts that I thought would make a good sermon so I thought I would share them with you today. (Thanks to whoever did them at mom's church, and I give that person the credit.) So, here they are:
"Go out into the world in peace; have courage; hold onto what is good; return no evil for evil; strengthen the fainthearted; support the weak; help the suffering; honor all; love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in His power. Love, Beau