Sunday, December 31, 2017

Stepping into 2018 ~ Happy New Year:

I'm thankful that the LORD is always with us. I finished out the old year while making ready for the new. Happy New Year! 2017 is history. Some things I use to do had expired. New things have sprung up.

On New Year's Eve, I woke up to my daily dos. And I did something different. Indeed, it was a bit nippy outside. I bundled up for sure. I had on 4 layers. I always wear a hat. I try not to complain about the weather.

Arrival at the gathering:
As I got out of the car, I began to sing all the way to the church coffee shop and book store. I had to wait for the person completed some orders. It was a long wait. So, I made my way to put my belongs down where I sat.  I came back there were 4 people in front of me. I waited...

I was going to treat myself to a strawberry banana smoothie. It was a gift from a friend for Christmas. However, there was another friend who asked me what I wanted. She got it for me. It was worth the wait in getting.

As unusual, I made my way into the Upper Room. I stayed a while. And later returned before the gathering began. I chatted with some friends. I was a wonderful gathering and beautiful day. I was happy.

Prayer for the Week of Dec 31, 2017
Scripture of the Week ~  Luke 2:22 - 35

A baby was dedicated to the Lord after we received the offering.

The MessageChristmas Saves the World by Pastor Brian Zahnd

“Jesus saves the world by drawing us into a new orbit, a new arrangement, not built around lust, greed, pride. Jesus draws humanity into a saving orbit, a new arrangement called the kingdom of God.”  Brian Zahnd

“When we really learn to sing the new song that Christmas brings, we belong to the world saved by Christ.”  Brian Zahnd

“God loves, and we’re to love, God’s good creation and the goodness of human flourishing. We’re not to love the world distorted by lust, greed, and pride.”   Brian Zahnd

We received Holy Communion,
We heard some final words.
We had a blessing spoken over our lives.

After the gathering:
I chatted with some friends. I had another Christmas present. Yes, we're still in the Christmas Season. Merry Christmas!

Once I was home, that was my final place to go. I did some things I had to do. I made myself at home. I finished out the year at home.  I welcome in the New Year.  I stay up for about 15 minutes into the day. Say my prayers and off to dreamland. The New Day has begun. Day 1...

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.

Happy 2018!
S. A. Blakley

Sunday, December 24, 2017

Merry Christmas! Enter Into The Season

In the Season of Christmas...
Happy Birthday, Jesus!

The Christmas Eve gathering was a beautiful snowy day!
I awaken and did my morning dos. I took some photos of the snowy view. There was about an inch or less of snow on the ground.

I asked a friend to take my photo by the Christmas Tree. And another friend took my picture with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Clause in from of the Christmas Tree. I think, I'll make this a tradition. with the Clauses.

The message was "If This Is God..." by Pastor Brian Zahnd.
Here's Pastor Brian's blog

"When we look at Jesus born in a cave in Bethlehem fleeing a maniacal despot into Egypt toiling as a laborer in Nazareth, we have to say-If this is God-thus is God. And that forces us to rethink our assumptions about power, greatness, and the way the world is arranged. " BZ

“Emmanuel, God with us, joined humanity, not by swooping down from the celestial heavens in a golden chariot, but by being born in a stable, wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger.”  BZ

The gathering was short and about an hour long.
We sung some Christmas songs, heard scriptures, Confessed the Lord's Prayer and the Apostle's Creed. We  received communion and had a blessing spoken over us. We went our way. Some got there picture taken by the tree with Mr. and Mrs. Clause.  And others on the other side with family and friends.

May we have something to give Jesus for His birthday.
May we enter into the Christmas Season in awe and wonder of the God's gift to the world.
May we continue on the journey with Jesus. 
Amen!

 Christmas Eve gathering during the evening.
I also attended the evening gatherings. The Christmas Eve Candlelight Gathering. We heard the story of Jesus, His birth. It's always a beautiful sight to see the story.

The Scripture for the Week: Luke 2:1-16
Prayer For The Week:

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
Merry Christmas!

S. A. Blakley

Sunday, December 17, 2017

In the Advent Season.

It's been a wonderful 3rd Sunday in the Advent Season. It's the last Sunday in the Autumn Season. We had some rain.

I waken on time and was wondering what I would wear for the gathering. I normally would know what I would wear the night before.  I need to get with the program. Lol

I did decide what to wear. I did my morn dos and made my way to the gathering. Each Sunday is different. I try to do things that way.

I had to deliver some Christmas cards to some friends. I did more walking this Sunday. It wasn't my time to greet the people. But, I did. I was there. And  I received a Christmas card myself.

I spent some time in the Upper Room.  I love it in there. I go there just about every time we gather as the church on Sunday.

The Gathering began at 10PM ~
We make our confession why we gather as the church for worship.

The following is via WOLC
"On Sunday mornings we make the following Confession
of Worship as a way to remind ourselves why we gather.

We have gathered in the name of Jesus Christ.
We have come to this house to worship God.
We have come to confess that Jesus is Lord.
We are not here to be entertained,
We are here to encounter the sacred.
We are not consumers,
We are worshipers.
We praise and adore the living God,
Who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Amen."
Then we enter into our gathering singing, worshiping, hearing scriptures,

From the Church bulletin.
Prayer for the week: 3rd Sunday of Advent
Psalm for the Day Psalms 51
Scripture for the Week Luke 1:26 -38

The Message by Pastor Brian Zahnd  Enfleshing the Holy

"Mary is known as the Theotokos, the God-bearer. But we are all to enflesh the holy. You too are supposed to give birth to something holy (authentically other/ not typical) which will come no other way but through you." BZ

"The Incarnation is the sacred mystery of how through a cooperation of the Spirit and humankind the holy becomes enfleshed.” BZ

"The Holy Spirit is the attitude of God." BZ

We receive communion.
Final remarks and received a blessing spoken over us.
We were dismissed and went our way.
Some wanted their photo taken by the tree.

May we not be afraid.
May we believe God as we journey on.
May we give birth to what God has in us to come forth.
Amen!

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Sunday, December 10, 2017

Be Prepared to Move On From The Old Into What's New

 It was a beautiful Lord's day! Yes, the 2nd Sunday of Advent was a good day.  It got up in the 50's.  We has some snow flakes last week.

O God, we have heard with our ears, our fathers have told us, what deeds you performed in their days, in the days of old: ~ Psalm 44:1

Scripture for the Week Luke 1: 5- 17  And the  Prayer for the Week of December 10 - 16, 2017

It was a wonderful gathering. I had the honor to greet some of the people. I had a fun time.  I asked a friend to take my picture by the Christmas tree. It was my last time to greet for this year.  I gathered with the church late. I entered in about 10:15 am.

It was a good message  "A Burning and Shining Lamp" by led Pastor Brian Zahnd.

"There are seasons in life when the old order—which wasn’t bad, it was necessary—must give way to the arrival of the new thing that God is doing." Brian Zahnd

John was the burning and shining lamp, the supernova of an old galaxy. But the coming of Jesus is the birth of a new galaxy, a galaxy of grace.” Brian Zahnd

At the end of the message, we received communion. We heard more announcements. We departed with a blessing that was spoken over us. We may over way to the doors.

After the gathering we had an opportunity to get my photo taken by the Christmas tree by one of the members of the church. I went for it. It's an tradition. Santa and Mrs. Claus  came to church on Christmas Day last year. I heard they are coming on Christmas Eve this year.

May we be continue to shine before others so that they can see the light of God in us.
May we be prepared to move on from the old into what's new in our lives.
Amen!

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Sunday, December 3, 2017

Sacred Time: Enter Into This Holy Time.

Happy New Year Day, Church! It's the First Day of Advent and the start of the Christian New Year. We're in sacred time! Enter into this Holy Time.

It's a new day. The first day on the journey of the Advent Season. We're awaiting  the Christmas season. We have the honor to hear the Christmas story of God becoming flesh. His name is Jesus.

My Sunday:
I began this day with a new hope.  The old Christian year was from Nov 27, 2016 to Dec 2, 2017. Now, we're heading into this New Year: Dec 3, 2017 - Dec 1, 2018. May we believe for the good of what's to come.

I went about my morning routine.
I enjoyed the Christmas decorations the came on my way.
The Spirit of God is surrounding us.
It was so beautiful to see.

The Prayer for the Week:
The First Sunday of Advent
via Word Of Life Church

The Scripture for the Week. Malachi 4:1-6

The Message by Pastor Brian Zahnd
Advent sermon Anticipating the Day (When God Will Act)

We received communion. And was dismissed with a blessing.
Some After Thoughts:
It was unusual day. I didn't have the opportunity to gather with the Church on the First Sunday of Advent in 2016. Today, it was different. I'm thankful that  I was at the gathering.

I'm doing some things in a new way.
It's different this New Year.

PBZ:
What should we do... during this Advent Season?
This is about 25:15 minutes into the message.


Four weeks before the Christmas Season begins:
Use Advent
as to rule out any arrogant in our own hearts. Go down in our own hearts.... as we say....is there any arrogant? Am I carrying around in me a sense of superiority to those area me, some how I desire more? Some how the world is arranged for my benefit that seems right ...Go down and find that and dig it out. Get rid of it.

We should settle deeply and humbly into the lame brokenness areas of our lives. Broken areas in our lives, Some area in our life where we are Lame and weak, we stumble and it's hard. Blind and can't see it, we don't get it. Identify that area in your life and sit there... until God comes.

Pray the Song of  Mary's Song of Praise: The Magnificat. (Luke 1:46-55 )
Pray this song everyday for the next four weeks, believing something will happen.
(I hope to memorize this song.) May this prayer form us.

May we enter into the Holy Days.
May the LORD come and help us.
May we be humble before God.
May we long for the coming of Jesus.
Amen!

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Sunday, November 26, 2017

Living In The Kingdom Prepared

Oh! What a day this has been! The Last Sunday in ordinary time for 2007. It was Christ the King Sunday. I have enjoy this beautiful day. I moved in the flow of it.

I'm thankful for the Kingdom of God. Jesus is King of all the world. I'm thankful that the Kingdom is prepared for us. And its here and now and is coming in its fullest.

My Reflections: November 26, 2017 Gathering.
I was singing as I made my way into the main doors of the church. I've been in the habit of looking around as I'm singing and or praying. Today, I must I've been an early bird. I saw a few people before heading into the sanctuary.

I continue to do what I do when I enter the sanctuary doors. This has become a habit too. I can't recall how long I've been doing it. I was on my routine before the gathering at 10 AM. cst.

It was the celebration of my 24th Anniversary receiving communion with the church.  Also the 4th Sunday of November was my Water Baptism Anniversary. The actual day was on Sunday, November 28, 1993. It fell on the 1st Sunday in Advent that year.

I made my way to the  Upper Room, the thin place. The Spirit of the LORD was there. I enjoyed my stay there as I always do. I made my way back to the main sanctuary. I chatted with some friends along the way.

As I walk out of the Upper Room, I've made it a habit of speaking with people. I'm thankful that people are coming to the gathering early. I don't like to be late for the gathering. I'm only time I'm late is the time when I greet.

Church News:It was announced that the Wednesday Midweek has replaced the Friday MYC gathering.
MIDWEEK Time: Every Wednesday, 5:30 PM - 8:00 PMThe Message: about 30 Minutes
 The Kingdom Prepared for You by Pastor Brian Zahnd

Notes: From the parable Matthew 25:31- 46
What human life is to be like.
The people in this scripture are taking part of the kingdom already.

Be Ready
Use what you have been given: Be Faithful
Take care of the least: Stay on the right side of the kingdom.
We are our brother's keeper
Care for one another
And love one another
Help others.
Taking care of the poor, the sick and the strangers.

The End of the Message
We confession our Christian Faith

Received: Communion: Song: "Come to the Table".
Thank You, Jesus for inviting us to Your Table.

Had a blessing spoken over us.
Dismissed: From the gathering: with God in Peace.
I chatted with some friends as I always do.
I departed the church feeling wonderful.

I read this online:

Advent Prayer & Communion Service in the Upper Room Prayer Chapel
Time: Every Wednesday from  November 29, 2017 to December 20, 2017  6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A.Blakley

Sunday, November 19, 2017

I Can Feel. ~ Lord, Teach Us How To Love Well

What A Beautiful Lord's Day! I woke up feeling great! This is the day that the Lord has made, I been rejoicing and been glad in it. Thank You, Jesus!

I did my morning dos and went about my way. On Sundays, I have made it a habit to take selfies by the door. I started to do this last year. I think I'm telling some stories along the way.

November 19th is an anniversary day. Its the day I arrived in Jerusalem, Israel in 1998. I make note of this day everyday since that day. It was a dream that came true.  I had long to be there. 

On this 24th Anniversary, I had a special time in the Upper Room Prayer Chapel at Word of Life Church. The prayer chapel was designed like the Upper Room in Jerusalem.  I walked on Jerusalem stone every time I go there. Today, I prayed thanking God for all that He had done for me to journey to Israel.

The Sunday Gathering
It was wonderful. I chatted with some of my friends. There was one who was celebrating his 75th birthday.

The Spirit of the LORD was there. I'm thankful that we can flow with the Spirit. We heard a new song. (I try to google the new songs. It's hard to remember the lyrics. )

The Message
Pastor Brian Zahnd preached on "Feel The Falseness"  God is love. ~ Life is a gift and not a game. The goal in life is to learn have to love well. Power isn't the goal in life. ~ Love is. ~ God is love.

"Can you feel the falseness?
If so you have a heart for the truth
Keep feeding  that Holy desire. How?
Keep listening to the truth that  Jesus speaks
Keep believing in the truth that Jesus is
Seek to live the truth that Jesus calls us to live."
Pastor Brian Zahnd

We received Communion: I love the song: I Believe... God The Father, The Son and Holy Spirit...
The Spirit of the LORD is always there with us. ~ Communion is very important to any Church gatherings.

The After Flow...
I chatted with some friends as I made my way out the main doors. It was beautiful outside. I arrived at home early. I feeling great.

I was on my daily afternoon doings. It's a good feeling to gathering with the church on Sundays. Now, the coming home after church there us set another week before us. As I go...Christ Be All Around Me.

Journaling:
I have adjusted and trying to do this blog on Sunday afternoon or evening. It's fresh in my thinking.  I started to listen to the Sunday sermon, again as I'm typing this blog.  

May the LORD teach us how to love well.
May we have a heart to care for others.
May we seek after the good of what Jesus is teaching us.
Amen.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Repost From My Old Blog My First Blog And Year

Reflections: Tuesday, 13 November 2007

  • My First Blog & First Year Blogging

    My Very First Blog November 13, 2006 Blogring :
    Word of Life Church members
    [I added some updates]

     Hi There! My nickname is "Susie".  It took me a while to get connected to this blog(ring). I did not know what name to use.  So I ended up with susie91793. Sept 17, 1993 was the day I met JESUS at WOLC.
    [Word of Life Church]       I don't know much about how blogging works.  But, I believe this is a good start. I first came across this blog(ring) through Pastor Brian Zahnd's blog on Nov 10, 2006.  This led me to perizahnd's blog and than to others.  I have been reading some of your blogs.  Some of you I know. Some of you know me as well.  I greet at church.
         I have not done my profile yet. [It was not done at that time but here is an update . It was new introduction for my blog site: A Little More About Me.] I am still learning how to do this blogging deal. I will get better as the days go a long.  I may even reply to some of your blogs.
    Have A Great Day!          

Sunday, November 12, 2017

On The Journey Way Into Discipleship

The 2nd Sunday of November was a great day! I awaken early as normal. This has been becoming a habit. I'm over the daylight-saving time change.

The weather has been changing. Brrr! The beautiful leaves are falling like crazy. Yes, there's something about Sunday morning. And I shall rejoice and be glad in it.

I made the most of this Lord's day as I gathered with the church.
I look for the beauty that surrounds me as I went about my way. I notice that I don't sing or pray as much as I'm coming into the place of worship. Nor as I was walking to place my Bible down where I sat.  I'm running into people along the way.

I noticed that I've started an habit of looking around to see what I can see. There are more people at the gathering earlier. I noticed as I was greeting, there were people coming in groups. I was lost in the crowd.

We continue to celebrate 36th years as a church.  There were people who weren't there last week to fill our information for the church. And so There were still donuts in the foyer. 

I filled out my info last week. And yes, them donuts are a a great temptation. People greeted me with a donut in their hand. That more than enough. LoL ( I did get a donut as I was passing by on the way out the door. )

As a Greeter:
When it's time for me to greet for the month, I gather in the sanctuary late. Today, I didn't make it the gathering until about 10 after. I was able to join in at the tail end of a song. And hear the scripture reading for the week. Matthew 25: 1- 13. At least, I had about 15 minutes before we heard the announcements and into the message and communion. It's all worship too.

The Message:
The Crux  of Discipleship. by Pastor Brian Zahnd.
We came to the Table of the LORD.
And we were dismissed with a blessing spoken over us.

May we continue to press onward on the journey.
May we see the beauty that surrounds us as we go wherever we go.
Amen!

Thanks for reading.
God Bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Thursday, November 9, 2017

Celebrating Life

It was Word of Life Church's 36th Anniversary November 1. But, the church celebrated it on the 1st Sunday of November. It was a special Sunday.


The message 36th Anniversary "Love is Credible". by Pastor Brian Zahnd.
It was a good message.

We had donuts before our gathering.  And we had tacos, nachos and cake after our gathering. I had a wonderful time. I didn't get to attend the church's anniversary last year.

The first Sunday of November is always daylight saving time. I'm always throw off track on this day. I woke up about 3:45 or 4 AM. I had  a time getting back to sleep. I can't remember.

I was ready for church by 7 AM. The gathering started at 10 AM. I made the most of the time. I had fun. I took photos. It was a beautiful day. Great memories.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you
S.A. Blakley

Tuesday, October 31, 2017

Doing Life And Celebrating Life

October has been the month when I celebrate my church life with church community.  

 I've been celebrating my connection with the church community. It's been wonderful. Thanking God for 24 years of Church Life.

Before I joined Church, I heard about the Baptists, the Catholics. I didn't know about the Christians. Being spiritual / a religious person.
 
The Message on the 29th of Oct was " Beyond the Wittenberg Door" by Pastor Brian Zahnd
Here's Pastor Brian's blog: Beyond The Wittenberg Door.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you
S.A. Blakley

Friday, October 27, 2017

Who Are You? Beloved of God

There was a storm overnight. I heard the thundering as the lighting lite up the room. Oh, what a night and morning we endured!

Praise God! I awaken on Sunday, October 22, 2017 on time.  I took my time. It was dark outside at 7:20 am. I went to the door and took my selfies, then I was off to do the rest of my morning dos.

The Sunday Morning  Gathering: I made my way into the building, singing as I'm accustom to.   I spoke to a few people, the workers in the church. I made my way into the sanctuary.  I prayed as I entered in. There were a few church workers there too.

I place my Bible on the pew and made my way back into the foyer praying. I spoke to more people as I was making my way to the place where I pray. I continued to look around as I went about.

Before the 10 am gathering:
I spoke with more friends. I enjoyed seeing them. As the service started we made our confessions. We began to sing, hear scripture reading and so forth in worshipping God.

The Message by Pastor Derek Vreeland was entitled Who Are You?   It was a good message. Christian are followers of Jesus Christ. We are hidden away in Christ in God.  I can say that I'm a Christian. I'm the beloved of God.

We received Communion after the message: A blessing was spoken over us. What an honor this is. We can come to Jesus just as we are.

After the gathering. I spoke with some friends on the way out of the gathering.
I'm thankful for my friends. 

Midweek gathering: I  took part in the Prayer School with Brian Zahnd. There were many there. The gathering is for 4 Wednesday Nights sessions. I attended on in January of 2013.  This  is my second time. The first time appeared hard to keep up the practice of staying on a track for prayer.

On the Journey: I'm coming along on the journey. I've been slowing down on what I'm doing. I can over work myself in doing things that I don't really need to do. I have been letting some things be.

May we continue to do as we are lead to do.
May we see the good in practicing good habits.
Amen.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Friday, October 20, 2017

Church Membership Anniversary

The 3rd Sunday of October is my Church Membership Anniversary. The actual day was on October 17, 1993.  ~ Doing Life On the Journey with Jesus, Family, Friends, The Community and The Body of Christ

 Sunday, October 15, 2017
I awaken  by hearing some sounds. I had a hard time sleeping. I had less than  6 hours of sleep. I prepared myself for the gathering.

Before the gathering:
I continue to sing as I make my way into the building and praying by the time that I've entered into the sanctuary.  I'm saying hello to those who are in my pathway and looking around as I go.

The Sunday message  was "Blowin' In the Wind" by The Family Pastor, Jacob Taylor. It was a good message. We received communion. It was a special gathering for me. I'm thankful that I was there. 

I received some well wishes on my Church Membership Anniversary on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 on facebook.   I see the importance in staying connected with the church community. Thankful  for  the people who do too. ~ Thanks for the anniversary greetings.

Wednesday, Midweek is different.
I did not attend Midweek. I took a break. It takes time to get use to it. I've gotten use to not having Friday night gathering. I think it's a thing of the past. And I'm  back "home" to where I started on Fridays.

I made some decisions and adjustments this week.  I've become accustom to some things. I see that have come into a new season. I'm pressing on. The best is yet to come.

Indeed, Church life continues to change as the years come along. That's apart of the journey. We have adjust and keep changing. I'm thankful that the LORD is with us on the journey.

May we continue to be lead by the Spirit of God.
May we adjust to the changes that come and go.
Amen.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Friday, October 13, 2017

Continue On The Journey With Jesus and His Church

The Second Sunday in October: Pastor Appreciation Day. Thank God for Pastors!

I  was up off and on through out on the morning on Sunday, October 8, 2017. I didn't do everything I normally would do. I did the best that I could.  It was cool morning. I wore my wrap around.

I had a joyful spirit as I come to the main church doors. Yes, I was singing and looking around as I went about. I ended up praying as I went into the sanctuary.

I made my way as I normally do. I went to the Upper Room for a little while. I prayed and walked and prayed. I took some selfies.

It was my turn to greet at 9:30 am. I was there early. I had to keep on my wrap around and put on my gloves. There was one person wondering why I was all wrapped up. Lol

It got down to 50 degrees. But, I saw one temperature gage. It read 47 degree. And the high was about 81. I was living in the present time. I didn't want to freeze. Yes, the Autumn season has come.

I had a wonderful time greeting. I have met a lot of beautiful people on my church life journey. I try to remember people's names. I have two names to faces, Rhonda and Shannon.  I hope to say their names next time.

The message by Pastor Brian was on What About The Book Of Revelation? 
The  Q&A Session for the message : What About the Book of Revelation? was on Midweek:

It's been a long week. I'm learning new things as I come about life. Church is an important part of our lives. We should be connected to a community on a regular basis. Amen.

May we continue on the journey with Jesus and His Church.
Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Friday, October 6, 2017

Crossed Over Into The 4th Quarter

My Church Life Journey:

I didn't sleep good on the morning of Sunday, October 1, 2017. When I awaken, I wasn't as tired as I thought I would be. I did my morning doings before I gathered with the church. I felt okay.

While I was coming to the place where I worship, I began to sing. There was light rain and heavy clouds.  I began to sing "This Little Light of Mine" and onward I made my way in the door.

I looked around as I normally do. I'm thankful to see what I can see. I continued to sing songs and look around. I spoke to some people as I was going about. As I entered the door of the sanctuary, I prayed the Lord's Prayer.

I made my way as I normally do. I came across some friends on the way out of the sanctuary. There was joy in the place. I continued to speak to people as I made my way to the Upper Room to pray.

I entered the Upper Room in reverence to where I was.  The whole earth is God's  We walk on sacred ground. I have adapted to this thinking. The sanctuary is sacred too.

We had a beautiful gathering. There was a good message. by Brian Zahnd  What About Hell?  Pastor's Q&A session What About Hell

It have been a good week. The church had an Upper Room Prayer gathering. It was streamed live. I had a chance to be apart of it on October 4, 2017. Also, I attended the church supper and Q&A session.

As I'm writing this blog, I have heard the news of my Aunt's passing on October 5, 2017. She was my the last Aunt that I have. I'm thankful for my Aunt Josie. She will be missed. R.I.P. Auntie.

Life is to be lived.
We don't know how long we will be on this earth. 
May we live life to the fullest.
May we see the beauty that God has for us.
Amen.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Friday, September 29, 2017

What A September! Pressing On The Journey With Jesus!

On Sunday, September 24, 2017, I awaken to a new day. I was well rested. And I'm glad that I was.  I did my routine morning doings before going to the gathering.

As I got to the church door, I begin to sing.  Yes,  I did so all the way to where I was going to sat while I was singing. Also, I read the announcement  and look around as I go in.

I notice some things. I made my way to the Upper Room. I continued to pray. It's a refreshing experience to have the practice each time I gather with the church.

I love it when I'm in the Upper Room on Sundays.  The presence of God is there. It's a wonderful place to be before the gathering.

The time came for us to gather as the church. We made our confession and do what we do every Sunday.  Indeed, the Lord is with us. Thank You, Jesus.

The title of the message was What About the Violence of the Cross?  It's the series "Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God"  by Brian Zahnd. The Q & A What About the Violence of the Cross?  I had an opportunity to be there. I eat a little at the church supper. It was my first time being there.

Some Other Thoughts:
I went to another church for a picnic. I had a wonderful time there. I played a game called Bible Jingo or something. Each time when we got a line filled we got a smiley sticker. I got up to six. The first one to get 7 is the winner.

It's been a great week! I've cross some more grounds. I'm thankful that the Holy Spirit is guiding me into the truth. I'm pressing on with Jesus.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley


P.S.
There are some changes in the works. I heard the two church signs are going to be moved.  I always remembered them being there. It's time for changes.

Saturday, September 23, 2017

What I Can Recall About Kindergarten...

Monday, 23 February 2009

  • What I Can Recall About Kindergarten...

    I had this idea come to me as I was reflecting back over my senior year in high school. I've been thinking of what I can remember about kindergarten. I went to Mark Twain Elementary School during the late 1960's to mid 1970's

    Here is my famous photo.  If you look close enough you can see that mark between my eyes brawls. One of my brother was throwing rocks at me. On landed right between my eyes brawls. One hit on my left brawl.

    scan0001  I recall my mother speaking to someone on the phone about me. She wanted to enroll me into kindergarten. I went in the afternoon. I recall one of my siblings walked me to school.

    My teacher's name was Miss (Barbara) Wise. What I can recall in class....We took naps on the mats on the floor. I remember the area where we played with blocks. There small tables that we sat at.

    I recall our reading books. Sally Dick and Jane with dog, Spot. I can recall being call to answer a question. That question was something like this...What would Jane do when she found out Dick took her ribbon?

    I said "She would beat him up." Some of the children laughed at my answer. Miss Wise said Jane would not do that. Jane would ask for her ribbon back. I feel sad that I said the wrong answer.

    I can recall looking out the class window. The play ground was just outside. There was an exit door to get to the playground. We had our own bathroom. There were two double doors in our room. Our class room was big.

    I remember one day parents came to see the our class room. I think it was parents teacher conferences. My parents couldn't make it. I remember looking on with some other classmate's parents.

    I remember handing out candy on my birthday. I remember missing school. A kid told me that I missed Santa Claus. I already knew about Santa. That kid didn't.

    I found my Kindergarten Class photo. I recall some of my class mates. There were 41 of us in all. I had a cousin in my class.
    I read my grade card so time ago. I need to find it again. I think I had trouble tieing my shoes. I was a quiet little girl. Miss Wise was worried about my shyness.

    Kindergarten was some time ago. It is nice that I can recall some things of those days. I thank God that I could recall some things.

    On My Journey Of Transformation:
    What I Recall About Kindergarten...

    Grace to you,
    ~Susan~

    Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is with those who uphold my life. Psalm 54:4
    Apply your heart to instruction, And your ears to words of knowledge. Proverbs 23:12

Friday, September 22, 2017

Into My 24th "Church Life" New Year: Glory Be To God!

 On Sunday, September 17, 2017, I awaken to this new day. It was my 24th year gathering with the church community at Word Of Life Church. I did some things not in my routine habits. I was off to some things different as I gathered with the church.

I entered the church singing, "This House Is Holy," then sung songs as I was walking...."This Little Light Of Mine, I'm going to let it shine..." by the time I made it to the door way of the sanctuary,
Prayed the LORD's Prayer as I went to where I was going to sat.

There were a few people in the sanctuary. They were noisy. I wanted to go up to the altar to pray. At first, I wasn't going to do it. But, something inside me went for it. I took turned off my hearing aids and went up to the altar to pray. I didn't hear any noise.

I was there for less than 5 minutes. I got up and made my way to the Upper Room praying in tongues. I continued to pray while I got there and went to the altar. I had to take some selfies. And prayed some more. I had to leave because a group of people were coming in. I was planning on going to the main entrance. of the church.

Facebook post
In 1993, I wasn't greeted by a greeter...arrived late. So, I decided that I wanted to be greeted at the door today. I made my way back to the main door at 9:30 am. I was waiting to be greeted. The greeter wasn't aware that I was at the door. LoL So, I knocked on the door. And I was welcomed and was greeted.  True story.

Other happenings.
After I was welcomed at the main, door, I went and greeted more friends.  I made my way back to my seat.  I chatted with other people.

I went back into the Upper Room about 9:50 am ish. Thanking God... I made my way back to the main sanctuary. Yes, I greeted more friends. And made my way to my seat.

Church began at 10:00 am. We made our "Confession of Worship" and we went a bout our traditional Sunday service. It was a beautiful gathering. There were 3 babies who were dedicated. One was 8 days old.  We hear the message. We received communion and blessing at the end of the gathering.

It was such a beautiful gathering. I glad that I did some things not on my routine habit. I've been 24 years on the journey. Glory be to God. And He's still with me on the journey.

The Sunday message the question: What about Old Testament Violence?  by Pastor Brian Zahnd  Series "Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God" Here's the Q/A session. I was able to attend this one.

I'm into my first week of my New Year. I'm looking forward to the Sunday gatherings. It's the only chance I can receive communion with the Church. Beside, What's Church without the Eucharist?

Special NOTE:
I bow down in my private times at home and in the Upper Room at WOLC. What I do while I'm in a public gathering with the church: I'm usually standing and lifting of my hands while singing as an act of worship... 

May we join in with the Church weekly.
May we worship God in spirit and in truth.
Amen.
Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Friday, September 15, 2017

My Church Life Journey: New Beginnings

I thought to start journaling about my Church, Life Journey. I have a Book of Remembrance to look back over. And I thought to start online version of my Church Life. And what a way to start new beginnings.

 My Church Life Journey began on the 2nd week of Sunday, September 1993. I attended a Baptist Church. What I recall of that Sunday was the sign at the front of the church sanctuary; JESUS IS ALIVE. Indeed He is.

And five days later, I visited another church community which became my current place where I gather with the church. I celebrate the 3rd Friday of September too.  In 2017, I'll celebrate at home. There's no Friday night gathering.

I always celebrated on the 2nd Sunday every year. This year it was Sunday, September 10, 2017. I gathered with the people of Word Of Life Church in MO.  The Sunday message: What About The Wrath Of God?  Here's Q/A on  What About The Wrath Of God?

The 2nd Sunday of September gathering was beautiful.  Oh, what a blessing. I'm learning more about Jesus. I'm thankful for those who greeted me as well.  I greet once a month.

Through the years, things have been changing. That comes with life. I use to take part in a lot of activities in the church. Now, the church has a focus on the Sunday gathering at 10 am and on the Mid Week gatherings on Wednesday from 5:30 - 8PM.

As the church changes, time comes for some make overs. I like that new look in WOLC's Life Center. It where people can come and watch the Sunday service with there small children. It's used for other purposes. The room looks homey.

 Reflections:
Since I've been at WOLC, the founders of the church Pastors Brian and Peri , the music minster Eric and his wife, Cami are still there.  There have been a lot of new crew members over the years. There are less people on staff than in the past. In the past 3 years there are the same crew with a few new ones.

It's the 3rd Friday of September. I remember and celebrate this 3rd Friday every year.  The third Friday in September is special. The actual day was September 17th and the year 1993.  Jesus made Himself known to me.

I was in a church gathering at Word Of Life. It was my first time being there.  We were nearing the ending of message. And the Spirit of the LORD come upon me. This happened back in the days of salvation alter calls at the end of the messages

The LORD draw nearer to me and I draw nearer to Him. 
Something made my left hand feel a small pain, there was no reason for it to hurt.
And as I cried out to Jesus...
I felt a warm liquid flowing in my heart. It felt good.
I heard a voice speak to me to raised my hand. I heard that voice before.
It was this day, I make my public announcement that Jesus was LORD of my life.
Jesus had been with me back on March 25, 1983.
I confessed to Him that I needed Him.
The LORD had been guiding me on the journey.

I'm thankful for the church.
I'm thankful that I can gather with the church on Sundays.
I'm thankful that we can come to the Table of the LORD.

May we remember the special days in our lives.
May we learn to celebrate life.

Thanks for reading.
God bless you.
S.A. Blakley

Thursday, August 10, 2017

Oh How Time Has Come.

I haven't post here in awhile. I have was looking at my last post. There are a lot of sites that I had have been deleted. I didn't do it. Perhaps they considered that I had abandon the site or they disconnection their server. I don't want to lose this site.

Personality Traits

  Be Thankful for God Given Personality Traits Posted on   March 25, 2017   by   S usan Ann Blakley Our God- given personality traits can be...