In case you have not noticed, the demonic seems to be manifesting around us in ways never seen before. A sure sign that the day of the Lord is near  – for not since the days before the flood has evil of this magnitude been made manifest.  Therefore, it is imperative that believers in Christ have their spiritual armour intact and ready for use.  If you’ve let your sword get a bit rusty, sharpen it up – you’re going to need it. If you’ve let your helmet slip slightly askew, get it straightened on now.  Fasten your breastplate and get ready for action – for there will be no sitting on the sidelines, when this battle gets rolling. 

Many of us are crossing our fingers and hoping to be raptured before ever being called to battle; but, the reality is this -  the battle is already underway and is intensifying daily ….. and, there is not a soul on this planet, who will not be directly affected by this in one way or another in the days to come.

In Revelation 9:1-3, we are told that one day soon the abyss will open up and the demons that have been held there (described as locusts and scorpions), will emerge to torment all those on the earth who do not have the seal of God in their foreheads.  I cannot tell you when that day will happen, but, if what we are seeing now is any indication, it can’t be far away.

How many of you saw this horrific headline this weekend - “South Beach cannibal growled like wild animal … ate the face of homeless man “.

http://www.local10.com/news/News/Witness-describes-face-eating-man-shot-by-police/-/7659550/14236278/-/djbd6z/-/index.html..

Or this recent news story - “Japanese man cooks and serves his own genitals to paying guests.”   http://japandailypress.com/

Isolated incidents?  We’d like to think so. One, a victim of his own inner demon and a culture that seems to have a penchant for the bizarre. The other, the victim of some psychopathic drug crazed individual. Or, so we would like to believe. So much easier to believe than the reality that cannibalism like sodomy are serious indicators of a culture in decay, a culture sliding dangerously close to the edge of the abyss.

Yesterday, my friend Nan and I went to Waikiki as we often do to minister among the homeless and to some of the other general population (local and tourists) that live and play in the area.  And, as we were walking through the park, we noticed a very thin man who appeared to be in his late fifties sitting at a picnic table. He had a back pack with him and was smoking a cigarette and while,  I wasn’t certain that he was homeless, I was certain he had not eaten in a while, or at least not regularly, as all his ribs were showing.  I pointed him out to Nan and said, ”I wonder if he could use some food?”  But, for some reason, she shook her head “no” - “I have a bad vibe about him”, she said.  I was surprised at her remarks and argued – “But, look how thin he is”.  And, she again said, that she had a bad feeling about him.  Stumped, I thought it over briefly and decided to approach the man anyway.  I was carrying a lot of food and I couldn’t see not offering it to someone, who appeared to be in need.  So, I walked over and ask him if he could use some food - to which, he replied –   ”Why, yes, I could”  and, “thank you very much”  And, he seemed genuinely grateful, as I unloaded a number of items from my bag on to the table.

When Nan saw me talking to him and unloading food, she came on over and joined in the conversation. We found out that the man’s name was Ken and that he was here from California.  According to Ken, he had recently purchased a one way ticket to Hawaii on the advice of his doctor, so that he could de-stress and bring his blood pressure down – a less than plausible story, (in my opinion) as Ken obviously had no money for food or lodging, which is not exactly the way to de-stress, but, we listened to him anyway and waited for an opening to interject about the Lord.

He went on to tell us how he had once lived a very privileged lifestyle, was college educated and had even driven a Ferrari at one time. He pulled out his driver’s license and indeed a much healthier and prosperous looking Ken smiled back from the photo, proving that at least at one point in time, he was a very different individual than the one sitting before us on the beach today. He told us he was the son of a very wealthy father, who had acquired vast amounts of money by buying up real estate in California. He also told us that his father was missing three fingers on one hand and that in his opinion, his father had always felt the need to over achieve in order to make up for that deficiency.  He also, told us that he had never been told about Jesus when he was growing up and that he was worried now that his aging father was going to die before ever knowing Jesus himself. Ken also told us that he felt that he has been a disappointment to his father because, he never made money or excelled in business the way his father expected.

Nan and I were quite taken by this story and Ken even pulled a small Bible out of his satchel. When ask if we could pray for him, Ken readily said, “yes” and, when we finished praying, there were visible tears in his eyes. Ken told us that he was hoping to receive some money from home soon so that he could go back home.  At that, Nan gave him a small amount of money and we bid him farewell –  but, just as were turning to walk away, Ken said something unexpected to Nan, which turned the whole conversation up-side down. He looked at her and ask her -

“how is your daughter doing?” 

How is your daughter doing?  It was as if a switch had flipped, and a formerly warm conversation suddenly grew ice-cold.  I could see Nan stiffen up as she replied, “I don’t have a daughter,” – (although, she does).  ”Why, do you ask?”  To which, he replied rather confusedly, ”I don’t know”.

Both of us were taken aback and I could tell that Nan was visibly shaken by his question as neither of us had offered up any personal information about ourselves. Therefore, the question was completely bizarre and out of context to the rest of the conversation, we had been having.

I woke up this morning thinking about this incident and the strange headlines that I had read recently and wondered if there was any connection. After praying about it and mulling it over, I called my younger daughter “Pix” to get her take on it.  

Immediately, she pointed out that there is much more going on with Ken than meets the eye, to which I agreed.  No one comes to Hawaii in an emaciated state on a one way ticket without something else going on. It just didn’t make sense.  And, while Ken himself seemed touched by the little bit, we had to share with him – the demon, Nan had sensed inside him was not. And, he wanted her to know it.

“And, how is your daughter doing?  Also, to be interpreted as - “I know you have a daughter, …… maybe, I know her name, ….. maybe, I even know where she lives …….”

 A chilling thought for any mother …. the question itself, a repulsive violation of everything that is pure and good.  The parting shot, I believe by a mocking entity, who wanted the last laugh on Nan, as, it was she who did not want to approach Ken.

Yes, we are living at a point in time, when evil is openly manifesting around us or is swirling just below the surface. It’s important that we are aware of this for the Lord has not called us to sit idly by. Now more than ever, we need to gear up and pray up in order to be ready for the battle at hand for Jesus has given us everything we need to exercise authority against the forces of darkness in the power of his name until he deems the time is right for taking us home.  May we therefore, wisely make use of all of the weapons he has made available to us as we serve him in these last days.

Please keep Nan and I in prayer, as we minister in Waikiki. And, please let me know how I can pray for you. May the Lord’s blessing be upon each and every one of you. And, as always,

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee.”  Psalm 122:6   Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

NETANYAHU HOSTS TWO-HOUR BIBLE STUDY IN THE BOOK OF RUTH: Says “the Bible is the foundation of our existence.”

Exciting news from the blog of Joel Rosenberg. The Prime Minister of Israel has hosted his first Bible study and the timing couldn’t be better!  While it is traditional to read the book of Ruth at Shavuot, for the Prime Minister to hold his first Bible study at this particular time (and, on this particular topic) can be no accident.  A sure sign, in my opinion that God is about to begin a mighty work in the hearts of the Jewish people and, a possible sign that the prophetic clock is about to change.  For more on this exciting news from the blog of Joel Rosenberg, click here: http://flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com/

Shavuot is a wonderfully exciting feast with tremendous prophetic implication for both Israel and the Church. And, with the story of Ruth woven in to the picture, it becomes even more exciting.  While the Prime Minister is reading about the Gentile Ruth, who married Boaz, the Jewish kinsman redeemer and, who left her own people in order to be united to the Jewish people, the church is ready to be separated and called up to heaven for marriage to her own heavenly bridegroom, the Jewish Messiah, Yeshua – our, kinsman redeemer.  An event, when, it happens that is certain as it says in Romans 11:11, “to provoke Israel to envy”.

“Again, I ask: Did they (Israel) stumble so as to fall beyond recovery?  Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious” 

And, an event, I might add, (should it happen soon), which, will be cause for thought by a very thoughtful Prime Minister, whose heart, I believe, God is even now preparing. 

What an exciting time to be living in!  Happy Shavuot everyone!  Our joy is about to be made complete!

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper, who love thee”  Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

 

 

      Sky Tree Tower Tokyo

Why worry about Fukushima, when you can build a tower. Yes, that’s right. The Japanese have erected the world’s tallest tower – not building, (the Burj in Dubai holds that distinction), but tower.  At 2080 feet, Japan’s newest tower handily beats the former record holder in China, which, stands at a mere 1968.5 feet high.

And, while Japan is busy celebrating its newest achievement, their government is involved in a high stakes game with God regarding Israel and Iran. And, this is not their first go around – March 11, 2011, proved that – as, one year to the day that Japan announced that they “deplored” Israel’s decision to build housing units in East Jerusalem, God proved that there are some things that he deplores too, and anti-Israel rhetoric is one of them.  http://www.mofa.go.jp/announce/announce/2010/3/0311_01.html

A harsh lesson, indeed, but, one apparently not learned, as Japan moves against Israel once again, by breaking the oil embargo being held against Iran, as reported by the Debkafile today. http://www.debka.com/   A move, I’m afraid that could render, a second, and more powerful judgment by the release of massive amounts of radiation from the severely damaged Fukushima reactor which, if the reports are to be believed is even now, hanging by a thread. A release of radiation that would have devastating consequences, not only for Japan, but, for the ocean and the world at large should even a minor earthquake further damage the reactor.  A judgment, I believe that God is even now, holding in reserve.  http://theintelhub.com/2012/05/21/fukushima-forever/

Yes, today Japan is basking in the glory of their new tower, and, the “name that they have made for themselves” in building it, but, that glory is about to be short-lived, for Japan is about to find out the hard way; you can only poke God in the eye so many times without evoking a response – and, messing with Israel is poking God in the eye, the Bible is clear on this:

“This is what the Lord Almighty says, ‘whoever touches you, (Israel)    touches the apple of my eye’”  Zechariah 2:8

And, woe to those that do!

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee”  Psalm 122:6  Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!   Cindy

-

“Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood”.  Revelation 22:15

On Wednesday May 9, President Obama came out publicly in an ABC news interview in favor of homosexual marriage.  A startling, yet not completely surprising reversal from his previously stated position, where, he reportedly favored civil unions, but, not marriage; a reversal, (like the shot heard round the world) causing many around the world to celebrate, leaving as many or more to weep.  http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/may/10/gay-rights-around-the-world-obama

The President knowingly or not, has embarked upon a dangerous and unpredictable course; for marriage and the family has been the bedrock of civilization since time began. To experiment with the very fabric of society is a reckless proposition, the failure of which, will only be realized long after the damage has been done. 

The arrogance of man and one man in particular has reached its pinnacle.  And, an evil from which the world will stagger at its intensity has been unleashed. For once the genie is out of this bottle, it can never be returned.  That is why, Sodom and Gomorrah are to this day, a heap of burned out ruins.

It’s clear from Daniel 7:25 that the man of sin will seek to change the set times and laws. Marriage is one of those laws –  for God has ordained from the beginning that marriage is between one man and one woman.

“ And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.” Daniel 7:25

Can it be any more clear than this – he will “think to change times and laws”.  God’s law means nothing to him.  And, he in fact, mocks God by using his faux Christianity in support of that which God detests.  In his own words:

“ … [Michelle and I] are both practicing Christians and obviously this position may be considered to put us at odds with the views of others but, you know, when we think about our faith, the thing at root that we think about is not only Christ sacrificing himself on our behalf, but it’s also the Golden Rule, you know, treat others the way you would want to be treated. And I think that’s what we try to impart to our kids and that’s what motivates me as president and I figure the most consistent I can be in being true to those precepts, the better I’ll be as a dad and a husband and hopefully the better I’ll be as president.”   (Emphasis mine) –  http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/under-god/post/obama-christ-and-the-golden-rule-informed-support-of-same-sex-marriage/2012/05/09/gIQAeJshDU_blog.html

The arrogance in this is appalling! And, if you think his influence has diminished with his decline in popularity, think again, as his position of the leader of the “free world” continues to carry enormous impact with other nations, who seek to emulate the United States in its progressive views.

I cannot tell you if the Presidents actions are a fulfillment of Daniel 7:25. But, I can tell you this.  In my opinion, there has been an “unleashing” of a spirit this past week, the likes of which, we have never seen before. Because an attack on marriage is a direct attack against Christ and his church.  For the Bible says regarding marriage:

“ For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.”  Ephesians 5:31,32.

Brothers and sisters, mourn and pray for the darkness just got a whole lot darker!  For an attack on marriage is an attack on God himself! And, the enemy like a rabid dog is ready to attack anyone and anything, who stands in its way. Will we be raptured before this ? It’s my hope, but, I cannot say, therefore, we need to be ready.

Have you noticed how many references regarding dogs have been attached to President Obama since he came in to public view? Interesting, as dogs in the Bible are most often symbolic of evildoers – not that dogs are evil, but, those whom they represent are. Perhaps, because, as the Bible says, ” a dog returns to its vomit”.  A graphic, but, accurate portrayal of the behavior of the canine species and for those who after hearing the gospel, remain unrepentant.  

Most recently, we saw the banter between Romney and Obama over their treatment of dogs. Romney, who was criticized for carrying his pet in a crate strapped atop his car as the family traveled cross-country and Obama for his admission to eating dog as a child in Indonesia.

If you look in to it, you will see that references to dogs have “dogged” Obama since he first came in to public view.  Remember on September 6, 2010, when, Obama complained that his critics talked about him, “like he was a dog”.

And, his reference to himself as a “mutt” – when, the family was choosing a pet:  

“Our preference would be to get a shelter dog, but, obviously, shelter dogs are mutts like me”.

Apparently, not wanting a “mutt” the Obama’s chose a fairly rare breed, a Portuguese Water dog, which, they interestingly, they named, Bo – the President’s initials.

Brothers and sisters, as you know, we live in unprecedented times. We are encompassed by dogs (evil doers) on every side, as Jesus was, when, he hung on the cross. But, Jesus was victorious, over the “power of the dog”, and so, shall we, be too!

“For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid! Deliver my soul from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dog! …”  Psalm 22: 16-21         

Stand steadfast in Jesus, dear friends and grow not weary in waiting, for the finish line is in sight and one day soon, we shall all be home!

“Pray for the peace of Jersualem, they shall prosper who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus! Cindy

      Waikiki at Sunset  

It would be hard to imagine a much more beautiful scene – Waikiki at sunset. But, for the dozens living homeless on the beach of one of the most sought after vacations spots in the world, it is anything but.  When the sun goes down, the beaches empty and people hungry from a day of fun in the sun flock to the nearest restaurant in hopes of finding, some of the best cuisine on the island.  But, for a growing number of others, dinner is a trip to the nearest trash receptacle in the hope of finding, the remnants of an afternoon hotdog or a forgotten slice of pizza, if they are lucky.

For the past couple of years, my friend Nan and I have going to Waikiki periodically for the express purpose of becoming acquainted with some of these people and for sharing with them both the gospel and a few physical necesssities as we are able. It’s been an interesting couple of years and we have met some people, we will never forget (both homeless and otherwise); for a day at the beach, when God is in control can hold some unexpected surprises!

In the beginning, we set out to take small packages of toiletries for giving out but, soon found that a sandwich far and away beat out a bar of soap as far as most are concerned, so armed with a few small bags of food, we made our way to the beach this past Saturday to see what God had for us.

As we made our way down the beach, we came to a large park area, where we could hear a man talking on a microphone.  A number of people had gathered around and were listening and several men were protecting a picnic table of food from flies and pigeons, who were hovering nearby hoping to score an easy meal.  We stopped to listen and although the man had a heavy Korean accent, it was clear that he was preaching the gospel.

Backing up on the story a little, when Nan and I arrived at Waikiki, we stopped to pray as is our custom, before setting out, but, this time, we prayed a little differently, this time, we asked God to bring to us those people, whose hearts were ready to receive the message. So many of the people, we have been talking to over the past few months seem as far from receiving the gospel today as the day we first met them. Sure, they are happy to see us, and sure they want a sandwich, they’re just not sure that they want to receive Jesus. A million excuses, (which, is fine, we love them anyway) but, this time, instead of us finding them, we ask God for them to find us.

As we were standing on the periphery of the group, a young woman walked over to us and ask us what was going on.  Very pretty with dark hair and eyes, she looked to be in her early twenties and was obviously someone, who was out to enjoy the beach for the day.  We told her, “The man on the microphone is preaching, he’s telling people about Jesus.” “Oh” she, said. Nan then ask her, if she knew Jesus and if he was her Savior. To which, she replied, “No, I’m Muslim”. Suddenly, trying to remember everything I had learned about Islam, my brain came up empty except to say, “Did you know that Jesus is mentioned in the Koran, but, only as a prophet, but, the Bible tells us that he is the son of God.”  “I’m not really observant”, she said, indicating that she probably did not much more about the Koran than I did. We then ask her to tell us a little bit about her self and she said, that she was just getting ready to start college. We told her that Jesus loves her very much and has a plan for her life and in fact, just meeting in the way we had was proof  – in other words, a divine appointment.  Warmly interested, she told us that her name was Farusa and, we ask, if she would mind if we prayed for her, to which, she said, “yes”, so there in the park the three of us held hands and Nan and I prayed for our new friend Farusa. And, while she did not make a decision at that moment, we encouraged her to go home and to ask God to reveal to her the truth about Jesus Christ and we assured her that if she asked in sincerity, God was sure to hear her and answer her prayer.

When we had finished praying with Farusa, Nan and I walked over to talk with the men, who were serving the food.  After introducing ourselves, we learned that they take turns with volunteers from various Churches bringing the gospel and food to the homeless in various parks around the city. But, they told us, donations were down and it was getting harder and harder to get food and volunteers together every week.  We took down their phone number and told them that we would be glad to help them and would pass on the word to others, who might be interested. 

Excited about our new contacts and our new friend Farusa, we were walking away from the park, when I saw a man, who appeared to be in his mid-late thirties standing with a bicycle by a trash can. He was very thin and had a back pack, whether, he was looking for bottles or food, I wasn’t sure, so, I asked him if he could use some food.  He hesitated for a moment and the said, “sure”.  As I was handing him the food, he said, “I saw you guys in the park and wanted to come over and pray with you, but, then didn’t.” I was very surprised as I couldn’t recall seeing this guy, but, then, it’s very large park and a lot of people were milling around – but, apparently, he had seen us and, had wanted to come over to us. I told him, “well, we can pray with you now, are you a Christian?” And, he said, “no, I’m Jewish.”  Nan and I looked at each other and were blown away – first a Muslim woman and now a Jewish man -and, he had wanted to pray with us!  I ask him what he had wanted to pray about and he told us that he was very stressed; having difficulty getting his life on track and, had even once been homeless himself.  He then confessed that he felt very far from God and unable to fulfill the things the law (Jewish) required.  To which, I responded, “that’s exactly, the point, we can’t and that is why God sent the Jewish Messiah, Yeshua”. We talked some more about the commandments and I could see that he was familiar with much of the scripture and had probably grown up in an observant home. I mentioned that we had just observed Passover and that we had held a Seder of our own and he seemed shocked that Christians were interested in Passover and sad that he had not been able to attend a Seder himself. I ask him his name and he told me, it was  ”Moses”.  His name was Moses. 

He seemed a bit distracted and kept saying, should he or should he not go in swimming as it was getting late and the sun was soon going to be going down. Finally, he decided, yes, he would swim, but, he wanted to pray first. So the three of us sat down on the edge of the sidewalk facing the ocean and with Moses between us, I began to pray. Using every Hebrew word and phrase, I had ever learned, I prayed for Moses.  And, as I prayed, I felt his arms go up as he placed a hand on each of our shoulders, as is the custom of Jewish men, when they meet for prayer. What a touching moment it was!   When, we had finished praying, we said, goodbye, and God-speed and Moses thanked us for sharing our “wisdom” with him and for praying for him and, we in turn, encouraged him to seek Yeshua for himself, knowing that God has promised that if we wholeheartedly seek him, we will find him. (Jeremiah 29:13).

What an amazing day it was. A day of double blessing! For God more than met our expectations by bringing these two very different people our way – both representative of two people groups very much at enmity against one another.  One Muslim and one Jewish, one male and one female; both in need of a Savior. 

Please pray this week for Farusa and for Moses that they might sincerely seek the truth about Jesus Christ and that they might soon come to salvation.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee”  Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

It’s been one of those days!  You know the kind, when nothing seems to go right? Actually, its been more than a day, more like a week of two. First of all, computer problems and, then problems renewing my driver’s license, neither problem completely solved yet. I thought this afternoon, I might have a meltdown after having been to the DMV twice in the past few weeks, only to come away empty-handed both times.

As of March 5, in order to renew a driver’s license in Hawaii, you will need a social security card, birth certificate and/or unexpired passport and marriage certificate.  None of which is explained clearly, in my opinion, on the information card that was mailed out.  So on my first visit, I was under the impression that I had only to produce one form of identification, in addition to my present drivers license. So, with SS card in hand, I waited in the never-ending line at the DMV only to find out that two forms of identification are required, not just one.  Not having a passport or a copy of my birth certificate, I  was at a loss as to what to do until someone suggested ordering one on-line, which I did, and a little over a week later, I had a copy of my birth certificate.

So, with a fair amount of time remaining until my birthday, at which, time my license will officially expire, I waited until my next day off, (which, was today) to go to the DMV again. Happy to think that I would soon be able to cross this off my “to do” list, I once again waited in line, my impatience at the long wait, tempered by the thought that I would soon be finished and walking out the door with my new license in hand.

When it came my turn, I walked up to the clerks desk and handed him my documents.  Looking them over briefly, he said, ”do you have a copy of your marriage certificate?” ”My marriage certificate?” I said – not grasping, what he was getting at.  ”Yes,” he said, “Your marriage certificate; you’ll need it in order to prove how your name was changed.”   I was stunned!  I couldn’t believe it!  The card in the mail had not said anything about needing a marriage certificate.  “Come back”, he said, “when, you have a copy of your marriage license”.  Knowing it would be futile to argue with the DMV, I once again, left empty-handed.

All the way home, I brooded over this. When I got home, I called the DMV to complain that the information on the cards they send out, is incomplete.  Their response –  ”did you see the part on the card, where it says, ‘for more information, go to the website? -that’s where you’ll find it!’”  Oy!

Now short on time, before my license expires, I came home and tore my house apart looking for my marriage license. After an hour, of fruitless searching. I decided, the next best thing to do would be to go “on-line” and order it, and, hope that it would arrive in time.  So, I went on-line, (same web site as before) and found that copies of marriage certificates only went back to 1978.  1978!!!!  You’ve got to be kidding!  And, I need 1975!  For records prior to 1978, it would be necessary to call the state office.  Easier, said than done, when you work a full-time job and are calling from Hawaii.

About to have a melt-down, hot flashes included, I called my youngest daughter on the mainland to unload.  Listening patiently as I carried on for about 15 minutes without coming up for air, she finally said, “don’t worry mom, I’ll help you,” then, she asked, if I had prayed about it.  Well, “yes”, I said, “sort-of,” -  if you count, “Oh God, please, help me find this“ while tearing apart boxes and shelves. So, after we had talked for a little while longer, I then hung up and this time stopped to pray properly as I should have in the first place. And immediately, I started to feel better. Thank you God for the blessing of wise and godly children!

Feeling much less frazzled after talking to her and then praying, I began to realize that my marriage certificate most likely was not even in Hawaii and was most probably in storage with some stuff I had left at my Mom’s on house on the mainland.  So calling my mom, she went out to her garage and looked through some stuff, I had left, and, Praise God! - there it was!  Thank you, Mom, you’re my hero!  Mom will mail it tomorrow and I should receive it, God willing, with time to spare before my license expires early next month.

It seems a little silly now, (getting so worked up about it) but, in retrospect, I can see how the day is coming and is in-fact, very near, when, without proper documentation, aka, ”the mark” people will not be able to buy, sell, drive or anything else. It’s almost that way now.  This is my third time getting a license in Hawaii, and it has never been this difficult before – changes, I’m sure, thanks to the Dept. of Homeland Security.  I don’t know if these changes are nationwide or not, but, if you will be renewing a driver’s license anytime soon, I suggest you check your local DMV for any changes in  regulations well in advance.  I also noticed as I was waiting  in line that people getting their licenses were being finger printed. I don’t recall that being part of the process before.

Thank you every one for your patience, prayers and advice as I have endured computer problems the past couple of weeks. I have not officially solved the problem, but, have at least found a way to circumvent it. And, so far it seems to be working just fine!

Yes, it’s been a frustrating day and in some ways, a frustrating couple of weeks, but, the blessings have also been many.  I had a wonderful time teaching on Passover just a couple of weeks ago and an out-standing encounter with two non-believers (one Jewish and one Muslim) on Waikiki this past week – both of which, I hope to write about soon on a future post.

Forgive me Lord, when I get so wrapped up in the experiences of the day that I forget to just quiet my heart and come before you. Thank you for a daughter, who had the wisdom to know and remind me of just exactly what was needed. Yes, God, you are good, you are good all the time!  And, I thank you for your many blessings, big and small.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee.”  Psalm 122:6  Waiting and watching with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

 

Hi everyone!  I’ve been  experiencing some problems with my computer recently that have prevented me from up-dating my blog.  Right now, I am using a friend’s computer but, hope to have mine up and running soon.  I can access e-mail but,  when I try to log on to WordPress, my computer immediately freezes up. I suspect I may have a virus, but, not sure. Please bear with me and if you have any ideas on what how this problem can be solved, I would be more that happy to hear from you.

Grace and blessings in Jesus!  Cindy

     Thomas Kinkade, 1958-2012

If there is one thing that sets apart the work of Thomas Kinkade from any other, it would be his usage of light and his ability to draw the viewer in to his work. Creating idyllic scenes in soft pastels, Kinkade captured with the stroke of a brush, the simple beauty of American life as expressed through faith and hope; a theme that still resonates with millions of Americans today, as evidenced, by the tremendous popularity of his work and the millions of dollars in sales his work has generated over the past several years.

But, not everyone understands and appreciates his work and, in fact, the professional art world has been his harshest critic; one referring to his work, as, a ”hallmark card” in a frame. And, another inferring his work to be something akin to sinister, even creepy -

“A Kinkade painting was typically rendered in slightly surreal pastels. It typically featured a cottage or a house of such insistent coziness as to seem actually sinister, suggestive of a trap designed to attract Hansel and Gretel. Every window was lit, to lurid effect, as if the interior of the structure might be on fire.”  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Kinkade

Can you imagine?  Kinkade’s work, sinister?  I guess for some people, unless art work makes one want to gag or gasp in shock, it really isn’t “art”.  Apparently, anything too hopeful, sweet, kind or inspiring is more frightening than even the raunchiest of art work.  A reaction, I believe, in this case, not to the quality of the work, but, rather of whom, and, what, the work represents.

Kinkade, though not perfect, (as, none of us are) was a self-proclaimed Christian, who called himself a “painter of light” and a “warrior of light.”  In a style reminiscent of Norman Rockwell, whom, he very much admired, Kinkade painted an America that is for the most part, a fading memory. An effort on his part, I believe, to draw America back to her roots and to the things that were once good and true in her. His work a beautiful example, I believe, of Philippians 4:8 -

“Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think on these things.”

Yes, think on these things.  When, America, is the last time you have thought on these things?  For virtue is more than just an expensive painting hanging on a wall. Virtue is something, we practice each and every day of our lives. We admire, what Kinkade art work represents, but, are we willing to live the kind of lives that make it a reality?  If not, then all, we have done is invested in a very pricey and comforting illusion.

I find it interesting that Mr. Kinkade went home to be with the Lord on Friday, April 6, which, was Good Friday.  The day, we observe the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross; the day, the light of the world was extinguished.  And, I wondered on hearing the news of Mr. Kinkade’s death today, if, the light of God’s blessing over America (so prominently displayed in his artwork) was similarly dimmed, if not, extinguished yesterday, as well.  Hmmmm ……. I wonder ……

Thank you, Mr. Kinkade, “warrior of light” for the joy that you brought to so many through your work – may the beauty of heaven and the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ, inspire you anew.

* http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/07/thomas-kinkade-dead_n_1409501.html?ncid=wsc-huffpost-cards-headline

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper, who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Waiting and watching with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

       Zebra Dove 

“Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young — a place, near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God.”  Psalm 84:3

I was surprised the other day on coming home from work to find a number of loose twigs strewn about on the sidewalk in front of my door. Wondering, if perhaps, the wind had blown them in, I was just about to get a broom, when, I looked up and saw the sweet, bright eyes of one of our common local birds, a Zebra Dove, peering down at me from the overhang; sitting on her newly erected nest.

I say, “she”, although, it could have been a “he”, as both parents, I have since learned, take turns sitting on the nest. For now, I will assume, it was “Mom” and, as I was looking up at her, she, was looking down at me; by all appearances, unconcerned, at my intrusion in to her new little home.

For the past two days, I have observed with a great deal of curiosity, this little bird and her patience in caring for and protecting her nest. Hour after hour, she sits there – no TV, no I-pod, no one to talk to and, I marveled at how even the smallest of God’s creatures do instinctively, what, we, as humans, often do not.  And, on watching her, the words to Psalm 84:3 came to mind -and, I was reminded of the place of safety and contentment that can only be found, in dwelling next to the altar of God.

What a joy, it has been to observe this little bird. And, I was thinking about this as I pulled  in to my drive way after work this afternoon. It was starting to get late, and I wondered as I got out of my car, if there would be enough light in my doorway for taking a photo of the bird. But, as soon, as I reached my door, I knew something was wrong, for I noticed immediately, that the nest was gone.

 I couldn’t believe my eyes!  The nest was completely gone, not even a twig on the ground, the only evidence that a nest had just hours earlier been above my doorway; tiny, scattered fragments of white egg-shell and golden egg yolk drying on the sidewalk below.

At first I thought, perhaps, another bird or animal had disturbed the nest, but, then, I realized in the absence of the nest or any part of it, - that most likely it had been deliberate; whoever, was responsible had swept the broken nest swept away, without, bothering to clean up the gooey yolk and shell.

As I looked at the dried remains of what would have been new little birds in just a few weeks, I was horrified and devastated - the bright trusting eyes of the bird and her steady, but watchful eye over me, as I came and went all weekend long still vivid in my mind.  And, I was especially saddened to think that the place she had selected for having her young; a place, which she had considered to be safe, unfortunately, for her and her un-born chicks, was not.

On another, but, similar note – today, seven innocent people were killed at a small Christian University in California. Something that for me, somehow, was underscored by the broken eggs and dried yolk splattered in front of the doorway to my house this afternoon.

Senseless ……. senseless …..    and, how, utterly hopeless, we are, without Jesus.  

Next to your altar, O Lord, that’s where I want to dwell.  No other place, Lord, but, with you!

Even the sparrow and the swallow know the best place to be, is next to Jesus!

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper, who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Kawaiaha’o Church

Kawaiaha’o Church is one of the oldest standing churches in Hawaii and is the oldest church on the island of Oahu. Commissioned by Queen Ka’ahumanu in 1836, it took six years to complete and was constructed in the New England style of the missionaries from 14,000 pounds of hand chiseled slabs of coral rock quarried from beneath the sea.  Considered to be the national church of the Hawaiian kingdom and chapel of the royal family, it remains to this day, one of the important symbols of the Hawaiian monarchy.  It was an experience at this very old and beautiful church in October 2006 that may have led to my 2008 dream and my interest in sharing this information with you now.   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawaiaha%CA%BBo_Church

A Stranger in a Strange Land

I was not born and raised here in the islands, but, came to the island of Oahu from Colorado in 1999 with my husband in the hope of saving a faltering twenty-five year marriage. With both daughters grown and away from home serving in the military, it seemed (to my husband) the perfect chance to change the routine of our lives for something broader, bigger and much more exciting.  But, as is often the case, with this kind of flawed reasoning, seldom, does it produce, the kind of fruit you expect, and most likely, will produce the exact opposite, which it did.  And, sure enough, thousands of miles away from home, I found myself alone, isolated and in the midst of a divorce, I did not want.

The first couple of years were the hardest, and set the pattern for the next five.  A previously strong and committed Christian, (as was my husband, which, made things that much more difficult to understand and accept), I became angry, bitter, disillusioned and very, very sad. I could not understand, why God had not intervened to change the situation, when, I had been praying so hard against it.  I was also, in mourning for the loss of the man, I considered to be my best friend, and, for the dreams, I had for our future, for the day, we would become grandparents together and for the next phase of our lives.

I tried going to church, but, cringed at sitting alone – not knowing anyone well enough to confide in; the sight of other couples and families increasing the loneliness and isolation, I was already feeling.  It seemed like every time I tried going to Church, I would come away dissolved into tears and feeling worse for the going, instead of better - my solution to the problem; stop going. 

So, for the next seven years, I put my faith on the back-burner, concentrating instead, on just getting from one day to the next, by developing a circle of secular, single friends and staying very, very busy – essentially, leaving little time or energy for facing issues, I would much rather avoid.

I share this here, for no other reason, except to provide background to a chain of events that I believe God used in bringing me forward and restoring my lost relationship with him. And, although, coming here (to Hawaii) was certainly out of the will of God (something, I unsuccessfully tried to get my husband to see, at the time), I feel certain that once here, it was God’s providence for me to stay until his purpose in me was complete. 

The Touch of a Queen

It was October 2006, my mother and sister were visiting and I was giving them the grand tour of the island. My mother wanted to see the Mission Houses Museum and Kawaiaha’o Church and since, I had not yet seen them myself, it became, one of our points of destination.  The church is open to the public during daytime hours  and when, we arrived, the doors were open, but, no one seemed to be around. My mother and sister (both smokers) wanted to finish a cigarette before going in to the church, so I went in ahead of them. It was cool and dark and I could see the beautiful Koa wood furnishings glistening in the dim light that filtered through the windows. It was peaceful and still, and, not a soul was around.  Waiting for my mom and sister to come in, I noticed an inscription on the wall of the foyer dedicated to the memory of the great Queen, who had founded the church. And, this is what it said:

In memory of Elisabeth Kaahumanu. Daughter of Keeaumoku and Namanana. She was born about 1773 at the foot of the hill Kauiki, on East Maui, became a wife of Kamehameha I at 13,  and was his favorite until his death in 1819.  After the death of Kamehameha II in 1823,  she wisely ruled the Hawaiian people as Queen regent until her death in 1832. Although naturally proud and haughty, she early in her regency accepted Jesus as her Savior, was baptized at Kawaiaha’o in June 1825 and labored earnestly to lead  her people to Christ. She was spoken of by the American mission as a distinguished reformer of her nation, a kind friend and benefactress of the missionaries. And, a faithful comforter of the infant churches in these isles. As she was falling asleep in Jesus, at the age of about 59, in the beautiful valley of Manoa, just before the dawn of June 5, 1832, still trusting her Savior, she repeated the following lines of a Hawaiian hymn:  “I’m going now, where the mansions are ready”.

As I began reading these words, I was overcome with the great love the Queen had for her people and her desire for their salvation, and my eyes filled with tears. I was suddenly and unexpectedly overcome by an emotion that I could not explain – except to say that my hardened heart was wrought in that instant by what I knew at the core of my being was the most important thing in life, and, from which, I had strayed. Suddenly, I felt a hand come to rest on my right shoulder, not a tap, but, the gentle placement of a hand, as though, a friend, seeing the sudden rush of tears to my eyes felt a need to reach out to me in comfort.  Thinking, perhaps, my sister had entered the church and walked up behind me without my hearing her, I whirled around ready to scold her for startling me. But, when, I turned around – no one was there. The church was still completely empty; no one was around. Dazed, I walked out of the church in to the bright sunlight, where my mother and sister were still standing on the steps, I must have had a strange look on my face, because, I remember them asking me “what’s wrong with you?”  “You’re not going to believe this I said, but,  ……” and, I explained to them what had just happened.

It would be another year and a half or so, before I would fully re-commit my life to Christ, but, I had begun the journey back.  It was during the latter part of this time, that I had the dream.  Looking back it seems, that the event that took place that day at Kawaiaha’o Church was a pivotal moment in that process – linking me, to both the comfort and forgiveness of God, and, bringing me to a real and sustaining love for the people of these islands. Somehow, the hand that came to rest on my shoulder that day, reassured me that God had indeed, seen my tears and that in spite of the circumstances, which, had brought me here, still had a purpose for my life, which, included being here in Hawaii.

In conclusion to what began with part I of this series, I would like to say that God has a great love for Hawaii (as he does all people) and, of course, for each of us as individuals. I can’t say exactly why God gave me the dream that I have related here except to say, that I believe it may have been a warning  – a warning, for all of us (who live in these islands) to return to the God of the Bible and the precepts upon which, the Hawaiian Monarchy was founded.  And, a warning for the people of the United States to repent, while there is still time, for the many sins, for which, we are guilty – one of which, is – the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian kingdom, and, to return as well, to the foundation of our fathers.

Thankfully, God in his mercy always allows more than enough time for response to his patient love and grace, and, judgment, when, it becomes necessary; the last resort for hearts so hardened, they might never repent.  Borrowing from Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, from his excellent book, “The Harbinger” -

“God’s will is that none should perish. Judgment is not His desire, …. but His necessity. The good must bring evil to an end, or else it would cease to be good. And, yet his mercy is still greater than judgment. His heart always wills for redemption. and, therein, lies the hope. The hope for America …”

And, the hope for each one of us, I might add.

If you are reading this today and you have never trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior, if you have never fully committed your life to him, now is the time to do so, don’t put it off another minute.  For every individual, like every nation will one day stand before Him, to whom, we must give an account. And, unless, we have received God’s free gift in Christ, who has paid the penalty for all our sin, we stand guilt as charged – for no sin (or sinner) big or small will ever inherit the kingdom of heaven.  Our sins must be paid for and, permanently washed away and Jesus, by virtue of his sinless life, is the only one that can do it. President, King or pauper, God is no respecter of persons, there is one way and one way only, and, that is through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

*For those of you wondering, to whom, I attribute the hand that reached out to touch my shoulder, it would be God’s Holy Spirit manifesting in a very physical way, as I was moved by the very touching tribute to the Queen inscribed on the wall of the Church. Why, was I able to find comfort there, when, I had not previously been able to find it, anywhere else? I can’t exactly say, except to say, that the time was right. And, God’s timing is always right, isn’t it?

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee”  Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy