Just a update with a few thoughts, to see if you have experienced the same as we have recently. We had several studies started during CO visit, Elaine had 1 given to her since I was with Bro. Lee when he started it. While the angels are helping us to find ones that may be sheep, some other forces take notice don't they? We are so used to setting up our calls on a weekly basis, we don't want to "bother" the HH.
However as FDS has stated that it may be advantageous to arrange to call sooner. Why? Many possible factors: the busy schedule most people have, relatives, sickness, work etc. But the most dangerous of all the potential threats is Satan and the demons. They see what response we get and will go to all lengths to thwart the seed from being planted & taking root. Waiting a week may not work anymore, if we can get back sooner. We are seeing very disturbing trends that can only be attributed to the demons being "on the watch" too. They are on a short time line and are determined to undermine, confuse, attack, subvert, and many other methods to stop the interest we find.
An example is on 1 call, at the 1st RV, the woman whose son & wife had encouraged her to start attending church again, split up there marriage and on the surface you'd think that would help the woman to see that what they had was not based on the truth. But it has caused such an upset that she can't focus on study, and the real interest she has. So we need to be like a nursing mother with our calls, especially when we 1st find that interest. We need to return as soon as possible, maybe next day, to keep the oxygen of that interest fanned so as to not have the flame of interest doused by the demons, with their efforts. Peoples lives are at stake, and while we realize that we can only try to be the conduit for them to receive spiritual food, and enlightenment from slave class, it is ultimately up to them, we are not ignorant of Satans designs are we? 2 Cor, 2:5. Even tho referring to ones who erred, and not allowing them to be over-reached by Satan, in principle it surely applies to our knowledge of Satan's efforts. And of course stated by Jesus, Satan certainly has that intent to steal the seed before it has a chance to send down roots.
But of course we can only "plant", but the farmer doesn't stop there does he? Much effort goes to cultivating, fertilizing, weeding, watering etc. Much sweat, time & energy goes into that seed, and the hoped for growth. So while we can't force anyone to study, and follow thru with the interest they initially showed, we have to be like a "smart farmer", observe the "weather conditions" be aware of conditions and respond in time to help protect that little plant/seed.
Just some observations, feel free to add to these thoughts, and examples you have seen. Develop a "anti-enemy action plan" when we find those interested ones. Plant the truth deep and fast, and anticipate scenarios that we see happening. Be pro-active in protecting that seed. What extent did Jesus go to to teach and reach people? When he was tired he still saw them needy and responded, even putting himself out, by missing meals & sleep, & rest to feed them.
Looking forward to getting back in FD FT, this temp work ending so as to be out with friends again.
There certainly is nothing the world has to offer that compares to serving Jehovah FT, and with everything we have.
Love to all,
Tom & Elaine.
Friday, October 19, 2012
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Can you make a difference?????
Have you ever wondered if you, no one else, can make a difference? Have you ever wondered if some feeling you have is so right that you want to see it happen, but then second guess yourself? Have you ever wanted to take a step spiritually, perhaps after a convention talk that moved you to tears, where if you could you would be the one to say "here I am send me"? Or an experience from a talk or convention that demonstrated how by following the Governing Body suggestion to pursue spiritual goals, either simplifying, arranging your affairs to serve as a pioneer, or move to where the need is great
and then watched how Jehovah blessed your decision? Well you never will experience those things without taking the "leap" of faith.
Well today I was privileged to see some amazing things in FS. We have the visit of our new CO, who gave a nice talk last night. Then this morning we met for FS and he gave a very good scriptural discussion to get us in the right frame of mind, then we went out door to door. I was put in his group, and listened to his recap of his working with 1st brother, as he wrote down his calls & not at homes.
Then it was my turn to listen to his presentation. We found 2 people home, 1st call he did the same exact presentation he did in morning at meeting, the woman responded, and accepted a bible study! He set it up for Elaine to go back next wed, to continue it. Now you might say, well was she really a good BS, that agreed to study and meant it? Well after lunch I realized I couldn't go back because of being gone next week, so I dropped by woman's house and introduced Elaine to her, so she would know what Elaine looked like, and Elaine would understand this woman wants a study. Confirmed it, and they set a time.
In our 4 person group this morning we arranged for at least 6 studies.!!! And this is just the 1st day of his visit! I wonder how many more will come from his suggestions on how to go about it?
Then at lunch, he talked to our group about pioneering. He showed us how each of us could do it. Despite most of our initial reluctance, he showed us on paper how it could be done, then promised us more info after service if we wanted to meet back with him. 8 of us did, and since there was 3 pioneers at meeting, 5 others were there, and 4 turned in pioneers applications or are seriously considering it. What a great help and encouragement he is, and how exciting to see publishers respond to his invitation. He told the group that if they apply during his visit, that they could start Sept 1, thus qualify for Pioneer school.
I will have several pioneers to go to pioneer school with next september, Jehovah willing, and 1 will be my wife! We may have at least 2 married couples going from our congregation to pioneer school! Plus several more, and we are only into the 2nd day of his visit. I wonder how many more will respond to his call for Pioneering? Can you? It boils down to 17.5 hours a week. If you can do 6 hrs on a Sat, maybe start at 7am for 2 hrs of early morning, then 4hrs rest of sat. Then 1 hour on Sunday. That leaves 10 hrs to get rest of week. 2- 5 hr days. start at 7 end by 12;15- Viola 5 hrs each day and your at 17 for week. Do you work part-time? Easy schedule. Or maybe you can't go long days, Can you do 1 hour each day per week= 5, then do a long day saturday. Your almost there. If you can get to 50 hrs or so, and are on RBC, if you are reg pion. you can count the time doing RBC, or work at assembly halls toward your pioneer hours. He opened many eyes to see it is doable. He is quite the encourager.
Many have feared not making the hour requirement as a hindrance to taking the step of pioneering.
But he showed us that not to let that stop us, because once we take the step, Jehovah will bless us. Even if we only do it 1 year, How much more praise will we bring to Jehovah. Will we ever regret it? No. way.
Had my study with the school teacher this week, and it was very interesting. We had arranged to look at the appendix in back on God's name. Why did I want to cover that so soon? How does a person develop a personal relationship with Jehovah without using his name? Do we not want an interested person to be able to know WHO they have been missing in there life? It went so well. He had read info, we stuck to the material in BT appendix, and looked up all the scriptures, even if they were quoted
fully. Why. To impress on student that what they are reading from the BT book is from the Bible. About 1/2 way thru, he commented that it must be satan who had removed Gods name. When we read a scripture that read Lord, when the text should have had tetragrameton, or Jehovah name there. He said that he in his mind he always thought that it meant Jesus, now he is seeing that it is Jehovah.
What a lightbulb moment for him. So important to get our students to using Jehovah name, so they can develop that intimacy with the only God. Its so gratifying to see them grow in understanding.
So if you want to, or ever thought about it but worried you couldn't do it, just try it out and see how Jehovah will bless you. And then you too my have a day like today. And hear a person say, "I want to study the Bible".
Much more coming I think before this visit is over.
Love,
Tom & Elaine
and then watched how Jehovah blessed your decision? Well you never will experience those things without taking the "leap" of faith.
Well today I was privileged to see some amazing things in FS. We have the visit of our new CO, who gave a nice talk last night. Then this morning we met for FS and he gave a very good scriptural discussion to get us in the right frame of mind, then we went out door to door. I was put in his group, and listened to his recap of his working with 1st brother, as he wrote down his calls & not at homes.
Then it was my turn to listen to his presentation. We found 2 people home, 1st call he did the same exact presentation he did in morning at meeting, the woman responded, and accepted a bible study! He set it up for Elaine to go back next wed, to continue it. Now you might say, well was she really a good BS, that agreed to study and meant it? Well after lunch I realized I couldn't go back because of being gone next week, so I dropped by woman's house and introduced Elaine to her, so she would know what Elaine looked like, and Elaine would understand this woman wants a study. Confirmed it, and they set a time.
In our 4 person group this morning we arranged for at least 6 studies.!!! And this is just the 1st day of his visit! I wonder how many more will come from his suggestions on how to go about it?
Then at lunch, he talked to our group about pioneering. He showed us how each of us could do it. Despite most of our initial reluctance, he showed us on paper how it could be done, then promised us more info after service if we wanted to meet back with him. 8 of us did, and since there was 3 pioneers at meeting, 5 others were there, and 4 turned in pioneers applications or are seriously considering it. What a great help and encouragement he is, and how exciting to see publishers respond to his invitation. He told the group that if they apply during his visit, that they could start Sept 1, thus qualify for Pioneer school.
I will have several pioneers to go to pioneer school with next september, Jehovah willing, and 1 will be my wife! We may have at least 2 married couples going from our congregation to pioneer school! Plus several more, and we are only into the 2nd day of his visit. I wonder how many more will respond to his call for Pioneering? Can you? It boils down to 17.5 hours a week. If you can do 6 hrs on a Sat, maybe start at 7am for 2 hrs of early morning, then 4hrs rest of sat. Then 1 hour on Sunday. That leaves 10 hrs to get rest of week. 2- 5 hr days. start at 7 end by 12;15- Viola 5 hrs each day and your at 17 for week. Do you work part-time? Easy schedule. Or maybe you can't go long days, Can you do 1 hour each day per week= 5, then do a long day saturday. Your almost there. If you can get to 50 hrs or so, and are on RBC, if you are reg pion. you can count the time doing RBC, or work at assembly halls toward your pioneer hours. He opened many eyes to see it is doable. He is quite the encourager.
Many have feared not making the hour requirement as a hindrance to taking the step of pioneering.
But he showed us that not to let that stop us, because once we take the step, Jehovah will bless us. Even if we only do it 1 year, How much more praise will we bring to Jehovah. Will we ever regret it? No. way.
Had my study with the school teacher this week, and it was very interesting. We had arranged to look at the appendix in back on God's name. Why did I want to cover that so soon? How does a person develop a personal relationship with Jehovah without using his name? Do we not want an interested person to be able to know WHO they have been missing in there life? It went so well. He had read info, we stuck to the material in BT appendix, and looked up all the scriptures, even if they were quoted
fully. Why. To impress on student that what they are reading from the BT book is from the Bible. About 1/2 way thru, he commented that it must be satan who had removed Gods name. When we read a scripture that read Lord, when the text should have had tetragrameton, or Jehovah name there. He said that he in his mind he always thought that it meant Jesus, now he is seeing that it is Jehovah.
What a lightbulb moment for him. So important to get our students to using Jehovah name, so they can develop that intimacy with the only God. Its so gratifying to see them grow in understanding.
So if you want to, or ever thought about it but worried you couldn't do it, just try it out and see how Jehovah will bless you. And then you too my have a day like today. And hear a person say, "I want to study the Bible".
Much more coming I think before this visit is over.
Love,
Tom & Elaine
Monday, September 3, 2012
Spanish...English...spanish....
it's Been awhile, but lots going on, and while things here are somewhat not as exciting as Mexico on the surface, there is still activity to report on.
we had a nice vacation down to Myrtle beach, about 10 days, and tho the weather
was a factor And a balky back, we enjoyed the beach and some fresh seafood, etc.
we visited with an old friend of mine Tom Bowen, and met his wife Lorraine who allowed us to stay with them on the way to SC. so Tom & I got a chance to catch up with 41 years of history and experiences, and raising families etc. Wonderful time & maybe looking forward to staying in touch more in future. Tom & Lorraine live in NC near Raleigh. we left the Bowen's Sunday AM and headed to Myrtle Beach. had a rom on the beachfront, and spent 5 days there before heading back to St. Louis vis Tenn. Stoped to visit with the Whipps and really enjoyed our time with them. Angela has 2 great kids who we love, and get a kick out of visiting with.
when we got home it was full speed ahead on FS til the end of month. then heard from our friends in Dolores Hidalgo, that helped arrange for my study, Miguel & family to attend their 1st district convention. there was a assist from some friends in Spanish cong. And the english, to house them , transport them, and take care of them during the convention. Jehovah' s people extend themselves and will help whenever and with whatever resources they have to help people hear and respond to the good news. I'm hoping to hear a report on how it went, and how they enjoyed the convention.
I've had some good experiences here with finding Spanish speaking in our territory. Today we were in FS, and we piled into a driveway to the rear of a home, where a man and his wife were throwing a frisbee in the back yard, 3 little girls about maybe 4, 6 and 9, a Mexican man who spoke a little English and I had a nice conversation, as I had a Spanish BT bk, and used the Listen to God brochure, and went over pictures. sked him if he had "La Biblia" in Spanish, and he said no, so I asked if he would like 1, he said yes, so I arranged to bring him back 1, on a Sunday since that is his only day off. So had a nice day, in spanish & English.
Here in Missouri there are lots of deer, everywhere......
Its kind of like FS, you are looking where you think the best odds are of finding Jehovah's "DEER", but as long as your out sometimes He brings them to us, right in front of us. Like these deer along the highway across from our territory. Right out in the open. So whether we are 'looking" here or there, in Mexico, or Pacific, Mo. the angels will see to it we find his sheep, we just have to keep looking, right?
Even tho we didn't get to spend as much time as we planned, I learned from some really good servants of Jehovah there, to "look" for his sheep everywhere. On the way to the market, the Dr's office, paying water bill. getting auto repaired, and isn't it interesting how when we use every occasion to PGN, in a relaxed circumstance, we just may reach 1 of those sheep.
Love to all,
Tom & Elaine
we had a nice vacation down to Myrtle beach, about 10 days, and tho the weather
was a factor And a balky back, we enjoyed the beach and some fresh seafood, etc.
we visited with an old friend of mine Tom Bowen, and met his wife Lorraine who allowed us to stay with them on the way to SC. so Tom & I got a chance to catch up with 41 years of history and experiences, and raising families etc. Wonderful time & maybe looking forward to staying in touch more in future. Tom & Lorraine live in NC near Raleigh. we left the Bowen's Sunday AM and headed to Myrtle Beach. had a rom on the beachfront, and spent 5 days there before heading back to St. Louis vis Tenn. Stoped to visit with the Whipps and really enjoyed our time with them. Angela has 2 great kids who we love, and get a kick out of visiting with.
when we got home it was full speed ahead on FS til the end of month. then heard from our friends in Dolores Hidalgo, that helped arrange for my study, Miguel & family to attend their 1st district convention. there was a assist from some friends in Spanish cong. And the english, to house them , transport them, and take care of them during the convention. Jehovah' s people extend themselves and will help whenever and with whatever resources they have to help people hear and respond to the good news. I'm hoping to hear a report on how it went, and how they enjoyed the convention.
I've had some good experiences here with finding Spanish speaking in our territory. Today we were in FS, and we piled into a driveway to the rear of a home, where a man and his wife were throwing a frisbee in the back yard, 3 little girls about maybe 4, 6 and 9, a Mexican man who spoke a little English and I had a nice conversation, as I had a Spanish BT bk, and used the Listen to God brochure, and went over pictures. sked him if he had "La Biblia" in Spanish, and he said no, so I asked if he would like 1, he said yes, so I arranged to bring him back 1, on a Sunday since that is his only day off. So had a nice day, in spanish & English.
Here in Missouri there are lots of deer, everywhere......
Even tho we didn't get to spend as much time as we planned, I learned from some really good servants of Jehovah there, to "look" for his sheep everywhere. On the way to the market, the Dr's office, paying water bill. getting auto repaired, and isn't it interesting how when we use every occasion to PGN, in a relaxed circumstance, we just may reach 1 of those sheep.
Love to all,
Tom & Elaine
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
News from the past....& present.
11 Points of Consideration by Guy Pierce of the Governing BodySafeguard Your Spirituality by Training Your Perceptive Powers
1. Listen to Jehovah - Many think they know the answers, but they don't even know the questions.
2. Study regularly, study deeply – We can be desensitized by what we see and hear, thinking it isn’t bad. For instance, Xmas songs. We hear them; the next thing we know, the tune is running around in our head. In a short period of time we are humming them just as Satan wants.
3. Do we spend ‘pioneer’ time in front of the TV or computer, and ‘token’ time in service -- Psalms 119:37, 'Make my eyes pass on from seeing what is worthless."4. Jesus is countless billions of years old ... And one day we will be as old as Jesus is now, and he'll only be twice our age.
5. The Bible is inspired of the Sovereign of the Universe. It's a Masterpiece, give it careful attention.
6. The reasons some give for not being at the meetings is the very reason why they need to be there.
7. Too busy because of the high cost of living, or living high? -- You can't put enough money in the bank to get through Armageddon.
8. A couple of young brothers are going to a movie. When asked if it has bad language, they reply, 'yes, but we hear it all the time in school."Do we want to pay to hear more? It should hurt our ears.
9. Every meeting is a holy, sacred occasion. Never be absent by choice.
10. Some are slowly losing the sense of urgency. We are in the heart and heat of a universal emergency. All in heaven have their attention focused on the earth and what we are doing.
11.If we had the cure for cancer we would tell everyone? But we DO have the Cure for cancer! And AIDS, and high blood pressure, and diabetes, and even death.People desperately need to hear what we have to say. Our ministry is an extension of God's love. When you talk with someone, they are face to face with a representative of Jehovah God!
Some nice points to keep in mind. Never can get enough of these points, and being able to absorb the counsel & reminders.
1 of our friends sent me some news about my Bible study, Miquel and his family. She was told that at a WT study in the spanish cong where Miguel has been attending with his family, That Miguel made a comment, Marlene did , then Maria, and also Miguelito! After the last comment from the family, the congregation applauded the family! Outstanding. That made me feel so good, to see the family's progress, and assuring me that as we know if someone is a sheep, that Jehovah draws them and whether we contact them, or study with them, or assist in bringing them the good news, its Jehovah who makes it grow. Ron & Carolyn Mudge took over study from us, and they are in Pioneer school, so Tom & Debbie are doing study next 2 weeks.
Also, the woman that Elaine & sister Ver Beek (CO wife) that they started right before we left is continuing on and making nice progress. I was thinking this morning that I needed to hear from Ron, on how things were going. But I will wait until he gets out of pioneer school. I know he's enjoying it, as well as Carolyn. Ron was pioneering last year, but didn't get invited in time for school, so Carolyn asked if she could wait until they could go together. So this is great to go as a pioneer couple.
Can't wait to see how Miguels family enjoys the Dist convention next month. When they see all the friends that are learning about Jehovah, as they are, I think they will see, feel, hear, and "taste" the love, harmony, and unity of our brotherhood.
We had our RV on the teacher this week. Had a good visit & exchange on Chapter 11 in BT. He had read the chapter, made notes and looked up the scriptures. When we got to 2nd subheading, he commented that he had never thought about the way God dealt with Satan, and Adam & Eve, as if you were a "teacher". Since he taught school for 30 some years, that hit the mark for him. He wrote himself notes in margin, and that helped him understand why, God did what he did. Arranged to resume with chap 12 in 2 weeks when we come back from a little trip to Carolinas.
So with his taking the Bible as the authority, we can have a basis to continue.
As I said our trip is starting tomorrow, and we will head to N. Carolina and visit an old Bethel buddy I haven't seen since 1970, or 71. We had lost touch until recently, and have enjoyed getting back in touch over internet. Tom taught me the ropes on "old Cottrell#7" Tom Bowen, worked on the press I worked on for 4 yrs. We will visit with Him & his wife, enjoy their hospitality, then head to Myrtle Beach SC, for 5 days on the beach. After that we will head back, stop along the way, maybe see some "Smokey Mt" sights, and see Elaines Niece, Angela & husband Vince, & Lorelei & Sterling on way back in Tenn.
Getting back on pioneer schedule more & more, health is good, Had Dr appt as a follow-up to the cardio shock, and Dr said heart was in Rhythm. Was able to get off 2 meds, and keep up better diet.
We had 9 out yesterday for FS, and 16 today. Weather has cooled and so we can do more, longer than the last 4 weeks.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Sometimes no answer is the right answer!
Had a good week, 4 days out, and some results, that were hopeful. Pacific is not Dolores, but doing what we can with the circumstances we have. Different place but the same effort is needed.
So made the Rv on the retired school teacher. Tried Sat, but he was gone. But his wife told me "was looking forward to coming back" to talk. So I was very hopeful of being able to get into a good discussion with him. We called back and found him home about 11:30. He invited us in, and we sat down in Living room. I asked if he had a chance to read any in BT bk. He said he did, that he read 151 pages in it! Was happy he did, but then he said it was the very depressing. He didn't agree with our view, that the people who have died were unable to communicate with family. He had 2 family members that related experiences of seeing a loved one who dies, appear to them separately. And he said he had been a member of his church for over 55 yrs. and we would never get him into a KH. So I went from being very hopeful of getting him in a good discussion then in to Bible, and book, to trying to extend the call and not walk away with out being able to come back. So what would I do?
Since he had made a point that he believes what the Bible says, I just listened to his objections, and didn't try to change his mind, at this time. He also said he didn't think 1914 was the correct time for Jesus rule beginning. So I went back to 2 Tim. had him read it from his Bible, and referred him to Jeremiah, from the reference that 2 Tim when Paul was talking about last days the scriptural reference refers to Jerusalem's last days. So in quoting or referring to that Paul knew that Jerusalem was destroyed and it was her last days. So it makes sense that God inspired paul to write that, so the conditions that paul was talking about would also mean that he was talking about the last days too. Then reasoned that yes there had been earthquakes wars thru history, but those things were not coupled with conditions of attitude that 2 Tim talks about. He did agree with that. So then we went back to Rev 12: 7-10 about when attitudes and why. heavens cleansed, and Woe for the earth. He seemed to accept that. Then instead of going into chap 8, as I planned, went to chap 11, read the 3 questions and told him to read the chapter and look up every scripture in it to be sure it of what paragraph is presenting is accurate. I had asked him if he looked up every scripture in his reading the week before, and he said he hadn't. We left about 12:30, and he asked us to come back at 3pm next tuesday. So we arranged for that. I was grateful that at least he was amendable to the scriptures we presented, and didn't shut the door to further discussions.
When we leave someone we just never know how, or what or who may step in to put a stumbling block before them. But we do know that satan observes all this and is trying his best to stop any growth. We can be sure tho that Jehovah will give us the right things to say, if the person is a sheep.
If they really love the Bible, they will listen & obey. It is comforting to realize that isn't it. All we have to do is search out deserving ones and Jehovah does the rest.
Well all for now,
Love to all,
Tom
So made the Rv on the retired school teacher. Tried Sat, but he was gone. But his wife told me "was looking forward to coming back" to talk. So I was very hopeful of being able to get into a good discussion with him. We called back and found him home about 11:30. He invited us in, and we sat down in Living room. I asked if he had a chance to read any in BT bk. He said he did, that he read 151 pages in it! Was happy he did, but then he said it was the very depressing. He didn't agree with our view, that the people who have died were unable to communicate with family. He had 2 family members that related experiences of seeing a loved one who dies, appear to them separately. And he said he had been a member of his church for over 55 yrs. and we would never get him into a KH. So I went from being very hopeful of getting him in a good discussion then in to Bible, and book, to trying to extend the call and not walk away with out being able to come back. So what would I do?
Since he had made a point that he believes what the Bible says, I just listened to his objections, and didn't try to change his mind, at this time. He also said he didn't think 1914 was the correct time for Jesus rule beginning. So I went back to 2 Tim. had him read it from his Bible, and referred him to Jeremiah, from the reference that 2 Tim when Paul was talking about last days the scriptural reference refers to Jerusalem's last days. So in quoting or referring to that Paul knew that Jerusalem was destroyed and it was her last days. So it makes sense that God inspired paul to write that, so the conditions that paul was talking about would also mean that he was talking about the last days too. Then reasoned that yes there had been earthquakes wars thru history, but those things were not coupled with conditions of attitude that 2 Tim talks about. He did agree with that. So then we went back to Rev 12: 7-10 about when attitudes and why. heavens cleansed, and Woe for the earth. He seemed to accept that. Then instead of going into chap 8, as I planned, went to chap 11, read the 3 questions and told him to read the chapter and look up every scripture in it to be sure it of what paragraph is presenting is accurate. I had asked him if he looked up every scripture in his reading the week before, and he said he hadn't. We left about 12:30, and he asked us to come back at 3pm next tuesday. So we arranged for that. I was grateful that at least he was amendable to the scriptures we presented, and didn't shut the door to further discussions.
When we leave someone we just never know how, or what or who may step in to put a stumbling block before them. But we do know that satan observes all this and is trying his best to stop any growth. We can be sure tho that Jehovah will give us the right things to say, if the person is a sheep.
If they really love the Bible, they will listen & obey. It is comforting to realize that isn't it. All we have to do is search out deserving ones and Jehovah does the rest.
Well all for now,
Love to all,
Tom
Saturday, August 4, 2012
strange happenings!
At 3:30am today I was awaken with the sound of thunder. Then about a 1/2 hour later, I heard rain splattering against the pane. Surprise, water coming from the skies. We actually had a nice heavy soaking rain that lasted off & on for 4 hours. I actually had to find my rain coat & wore it out to the car.
The smell of the rain was fresh as the morning dew.
Well had a decent week, got out 3 days in FS, did a couple of early mornings starting at 7. Missed the group 1 morning, so went by myself, and did gas stations, we have plenty. The 1st 1, I was waiting for a man to hit the pumps, then saw a landscape crew come in, all Mexicans, looked in my bag and had 4 spanish WTs left, so said Hello(Hola), in spanish presented mgs and the man took them. Repeated that 3 more times 2 in AM, then 1 on way after service and all my 4 spanish mags were gone! My spanglish was ok. So 4 landscape crews 4 mgs. Those men working up in states, support at least 1 family back in Mexico, maybe more. They will live together, divide the expenses, and conserve there $ so as to take care of ones counting on them in Mexico. Even tho there only making minimum wage they are making good money in Pesos.
Here is a riddle dor you: How can you be happy making a RV the 1st one after initial call, w/o reaching your Rv to talk to? ....................................................His wife tells you he isn't there but, he "was looking forward to you coming back". YEA. It was a slow day in FS but that was our last call and that made my week.
Today we went to find a RAW food restaurant we heard about thru friends, new down in U City. After a couple wrong turns we found it, with some tech support from our friends. It was called Fridas. Now mind you we had walked about 30 minutes where we thought it was, it was almost 3pm, and hadn't eaten since our smoothie in morning. As we were looking we passed some great places to eat, PIs, my favorite pizza place, several other sushi bars etc. When we finally found it, drove by, and said "no way". It was a hole in the wall, with about 4 table and 2 bar stool tables. But we were starving, so I parked told Elaine to wait in car, while I dubiously went inside. Looked at menu, and decided we were hungry enough to try the meager sitting area. Got a table and looked over what to order.
Looks good doesn't it? I had a walnut/mushroom burger, with avocado, sprouts, and cucumbers. tomatoes. Elaine had a "FRIDA special" slaw on top of a vegan burger, with cucumbers, on a whole wheat bun. Both were good.
Earlier in our endeavor to find Fridas, saw this for the 1st time.
I guess it is used for what it says on it, but just reminded me of what is going on in other lands, and how with the stroke of a pen/keyboard, it could be used against and is us, brothers.
Nuisance abatement Vehicle. Who defines Nuisance?
We know persecution is coming if we live here in states or Mexico, but how long before the forces of satan are unleashed on us, as they have and are against our sisters & brothers?
As we know it will require us to have prepared our hearts for those days. What better way than to do the Lords work now, witness and ahead of time consider our response to such persecution? Seems like I heard that somewhere.
With the long drought we have had, here in midwest, that is the spiritual drought the world has had. But we have the spiritual "waters of life" coming unending to us.
Jehovahs our water source and He always supplies what we need, in abundance, it is up to us to "drink" from those waters, get hydrated when we can, take advantage of the waters of life.
Just like this stream that even in the worst drought in at least 75 years, we want to be planted alongside the stream that Jehovah gives us.
All for now,
Love,
Tom & Elaine
The smell of the rain was fresh as the morning dew.
Well had a decent week, got out 3 days in FS, did a couple of early mornings starting at 7. Missed the group 1 morning, so went by myself, and did gas stations, we have plenty. The 1st 1, I was waiting for a man to hit the pumps, then saw a landscape crew come in, all Mexicans, looked in my bag and had 4 spanish WTs left, so said Hello(Hola), in spanish presented mgs and the man took them. Repeated that 3 more times 2 in AM, then 1 on way after service and all my 4 spanish mags were gone! My spanglish was ok. So 4 landscape crews 4 mgs. Those men working up in states, support at least 1 family back in Mexico, maybe more. They will live together, divide the expenses, and conserve there $ so as to take care of ones counting on them in Mexico. Even tho there only making minimum wage they are making good money in Pesos.
Here is a riddle dor you: How can you be happy making a RV the 1st one after initial call, w/o reaching your Rv to talk to? ....................................................His wife tells you he isn't there but, he "was looking forward to you coming back". YEA. It was a slow day in FS but that was our last call and that made my week.
Today we went to find a RAW food restaurant we heard about thru friends, new down in U City. After a couple wrong turns we found it, with some tech support from our friends. It was called Fridas. Now mind you we had walked about 30 minutes where we thought it was, it was almost 3pm, and hadn't eaten since our smoothie in morning. As we were looking we passed some great places to eat, PIs, my favorite pizza place, several other sushi bars etc. When we finally found it, drove by, and said "no way". It was a hole in the wall, with about 4 table and 2 bar stool tables. But we were starving, so I parked told Elaine to wait in car, while I dubiously went inside. Looked at menu, and decided we were hungry enough to try the meager sitting area. Got a table and looked over what to order.
Looks good doesn't it? I had a walnut/mushroom burger, with avocado, sprouts, and cucumbers. tomatoes. Elaine had a "FRIDA special" slaw on top of a vegan burger, with cucumbers, on a whole wheat bun. Both were good.
Earlier in our endeavor to find Fridas, saw this for the 1st time.
I guess it is used for what it says on it, but just reminded me of what is going on in other lands, and how with the stroke of a pen/keyboard, it could be used against and is us, brothers.
Nuisance abatement Vehicle. Who defines Nuisance?
We know persecution is coming if we live here in states or Mexico, but how long before the forces of satan are unleashed on us, as they have and are against our sisters & brothers?
As we know it will require us to have prepared our hearts for those days. What better way than to do the Lords work now, witness and ahead of time consider our response to such persecution? Seems like I heard that somewhere.
With the long drought we have had, here in midwest, that is the spiritual drought the world has had. But we have the spiritual "waters of life" coming unending to us.
Jehovahs our water source and He always supplies what we need, in abundance, it is up to us to "drink" from those waters, get hydrated when we can, take advantage of the waters of life.
Just like this stream that even in the worst drought in at least 75 years, we want to be planted alongside the stream that Jehovah gives us.
All for now,
Love,
Tom & Elaine
Thursday, July 26, 2012
keep on Keepin On.
Keep on Keepin On
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| What a gorgeous setting, pastoral, and a preview of what we may inherit as we endure. |
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| What is wrong here, nothing at all, except maybe the corral/fencing. |
I was talking to 1 brother who recently started the process of relocating to a new cong., and he was looking forward to it, but also it has some unknown factors. Most of that is due to our imperfections, others imperfections, and being in a different, situation, where you are not sure of how you fit in. But in Jehovah's Org. really all we have to do is keep doing the Lord's work, follow directions we receive and allow time & things to develop naturally, and not force things, too soon, or before they happen when the right time arrives.
That applies also in the ministry with our calls. Heb. 6:12 makes that point, of how demonstrating the quality of patience is so important & how we can do it. "in order that you may not become sluggish, but become imitators of those who thru faith & patience inherit the promises." As we talk to people in the ministry it is so important to have patience with them. If we allow thoughts of we need to rush them to studying, before they are ready we force them into a decision before their heart has made it. Why do we do that occasionally, maybe because on the surface we desire them to get in before it is too late, right?
But what may it really show? Our lack of faith in Jehovah & his son in their ability to deliver any who are "sighing and groaning over the detestable things" going on. The angels part of directing us too sheep-like individuals, when the time is right, to say the right thing to theses ones. believing that holy spirit is involved in this work. That is where faith comes in, does it not? We talked about that in FS the other day. It reminded me of a FS talk that a brother in Dolores stressed. having patience, shows the degree of faith we have in Jehovahs ability to deliver. That same faith will not allow us to become "sluggish" in our activity, but all we have to do is keep on keeping on isn't it? Sure we follow the direction and instruction from "slave" as to the offer, feature what the current suggestions are, etc. But we don't have to act fearful of not having the time to reach all who will respond.
An example of that is our record in the ministry. 1 of my "spiritual dads" who helped shape my life is up there in years. And I have the privilege of working with him in our new congregation. I marvel at his stamina, and desire to "keep on keepin on." he has served Jehovah over 80 years, and has had much responsibility over the years. He has slowed down physically but not spiritually. When the temp this week was hitting a 100, he was out,
and doing the ministry still, he uses a cane now, and we make sure he gets the doors that are level, as much as possible. But what an example of faith, patience he has shown and is still showing.
When I was a young teenager, in his cong. Many a time he or 1 of the other bro.s on the "Committee" as we called it back then, would tap me on the shoulder and ask if I would follow him to the "the room".
In this case it was the bas't of the Kh. where you went to get counsel, and privately. And there they would be, 3 spiritual men who were interested in my welfare, and heard, saw, or observed some fault, or a danger that they would see that was in front of me, and counsel me on how to avoid it, how not to repeat it, and what the consequences would be if I didn't. I never regretted any of those many occasions of counsel, sometimes strong, but always in love, because I knew they were trying to help me. They were doing the job assigned to them from the FDS, to warn me before I took a false step, or after I took a wrong step, admonition on how not to repeat it.
So in being reunited with him is a great joy and source of encouragement, and an example to follow.
here is Ted at door, doing what he can, just like us, except he's been doing it longer. This is a funny pic, because I didn't think the sprinkler was shooting water everywhere, thought it was just hitting part of the area. Ted didn't complain, and the sister with him when they came back to car, squeezed the hose so Ted didn't get soaked.
Here is Ted heading back to car. Now he isn't perfect, I know, but in my eyes he will always be the man who most influenced my life, and kept me on the road to fulltime service, where I enjoyed Bethel, pioneering, met my wife, and went to serve where the need was great. He wasn't alone in helping me, I needed a lot of help. But he was always there, and his wife & family that made room for me, at a crossroads, that helped guide me
to a destination that I couldn't see, but hoped for.
We had a nice time in service. Then the next day we had a good time too, here are some of the pics we saw.
I just heard from the brother & sister who took over Miguel's study, that they are going to their 1st DC in Sept!!!!!!!!!!! Ecstatic would be too mild my feelings. Several friends in spanish cong, and our friends in Eng Dolores have offered to assist them, is this a great org or what?
Never ignore Jehovah's ability to deliver us from any situation we find ourselves in, or in his desire & ability to direct affairs so as to find & deliver those in our ministry we come across. Its not us, it is Jehovah, Jesus, and the angels, FDS, directing us in his work. We can have joy, as we just "keep on Keepin On".
Just heard from a friend in Dolores, that is studying with Miguel that the way has been made for his family to attend the DC in Leon, in Sept.!!!!!!!I'm ecstatic. Some spanish brothers, and some of the friends from the eng. Dolores cong. have got together to assist them to get to convention. Ron laid it out for them, and they accepted. So he & Marlene and family will be able to go to their 1st convention!
Outstanding love shown by those to help ones to find Jehovah.
Love to all,
Tom & Elaine
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Winds of change
With only a few days left in month, and our DC this weekend needed to start early today, with a 108 degree day in store, started at gas pumps, with a little circuit near our condo, the down to Eureka to do a loop from north side of hwy, then back to south side of hwy. 1st 3 gas pumps men took the invitation, next 4 didn't.
Had lots of traffic to choose from, but as is the case we try to just do 1 or do at each station, then move on.
1 thing with doing pumps, you definitely don't have any not at homes.
So that kept me going from 7-9, then headed to KH to see what other crazy people would join me on this hot day.
We had 6 all together, 2 bro & 4 sisters.
Ted had 3 sisters go together, and he, an Ted & I joined a sister to do a driving territory to help us deal with heat.
While driving in the territory, I received a email from one of my friends in Dolores, on a call I turned over to him. A young man who has a wife and a newborn child. Before leaving Dolores I had taken the Bro. with me on the call/ study. We had not got into BT book, but I had placed a Bible & BT, and had been only able to read a scripyure or 2, after going thru the Tract. But the brother related how yesterday he had a "great" study with the young man, and he asked about going to KH! He had to tell himself afterward not to get ahead of himself, so as to not be too excited. In Mexico, many initial calls look promising, only to fall thru later on. Either you can't find them again, or on next call they won't show same interest. So you let yourself enjoy the moment but not project to far ahead. After reading his email while driving, I had extreme emotions for a bit. It was bittersweet feelings, 1st off I was so sad, because of not being able to be in Mexico, to continue our ministry there. It was such a "high" to be able to find so many people(men) who you could at least start a study with. So felt sad that was no longer the case. I really feel like there will be an english cong. eventually in La Paz. The CO last visit thought as much. To the point that he said that we could start planning forming a group, and hold a talk & Wt there and see how it is supported. I had hoped to be part of that exciting prospect. But that wasn't the case with the medical situation. I was very happy for my friend to get the study actually going and into the BT book.
Thus bittersweet.
Then almost at the next door, it was my turn and I took it, a beautiful home with a waterfall that we have always dreamed of having one just like it that fed into a small pond with some coi. So after knocking a man came to door, and before I could invite him to the DC, he invited me in to get out of heat. Gave invite, he said he was Baptist. So I asked him about the rapture, if he believed in it? Kind of like Paul did, as Acts book has highlighted last week. He told me his beliefs, and I was able to agree with some of them. Then asked him of course, what was the future for the earth? Were all good people only going to heaven? Read Ps 37 to show him what some good people were looking forward to. So the discussion went along those lines. He has some strong opinions on how neither political party seemed capable of solving the issues. He was a retired school teacher, and I had him read 2 tim 3. In his lifetime has he seen conditions change? All the normal things we bring out. Then asked him why things had changed. He had asked what political party we favored. When I told him we were neutral. He made the comment that Islam was the devils religion. So I let him know that my family was Lutherans at 1 time, and that the ministers of both sides claimed God was on their side, even as they attempted to kill each other. So it just wasn't non christian religions that were responsible, Read Rev 12 then to show why in our lifetime things were so much worse than when we were children. Decided to end it there, and asked him if he would read some material from a book that used the Bible to answer some of the things we talked about in more detail? So I asked him to walk out to car, and gave him BT bo, and arranged to call back. He said if it was in the Bible, he believed it. Thats a good sign.
So Jehovah gave me a nice call, to offset my sadness in not being in mexico anymore. Sheep are still to be found. Witness is still needed to be given. Opportunity still needs to be extended. even here in Missouri. So it was a nice pick me up. The house before Ted had a good call on a lady he gave to our sister to return to. We stayed out til 12:30 or so, so was a good day. Try for a replay tomorrow.
Love to all,
Tom & elaine
1 thing with doing pumps, you definitely don't have any not at homes.
So that kept me going from 7-9, then headed to KH to see what other crazy people would join me on this hot day.
We had 6 all together, 2 bro & 4 sisters.
Ted had 3 sisters go together, and he, an Ted & I joined a sister to do a driving territory to help us deal with heat.
While driving in the territory, I received a email from one of my friends in Dolores, on a call I turned over to him. A young man who has a wife and a newborn child. Before leaving Dolores I had taken the Bro. with me on the call/ study. We had not got into BT book, but I had placed a Bible & BT, and had been only able to read a scripyure or 2, after going thru the Tract. But the brother related how yesterday he had a "great" study with the young man, and he asked about going to KH! He had to tell himself afterward not to get ahead of himself, so as to not be too excited. In Mexico, many initial calls look promising, only to fall thru later on. Either you can't find them again, or on next call they won't show same interest. So you let yourself enjoy the moment but not project to far ahead. After reading his email while driving, I had extreme emotions for a bit. It was bittersweet feelings, 1st off I was so sad, because of not being able to be in Mexico, to continue our ministry there. It was such a "high" to be able to find so many people(men) who you could at least start a study with. So felt sad that was no longer the case. I really feel like there will be an english cong. eventually in La Paz. The CO last visit thought as much. To the point that he said that we could start planning forming a group, and hold a talk & Wt there and see how it is supported. I had hoped to be part of that exciting prospect. But that wasn't the case with the medical situation. I was very happy for my friend to get the study actually going and into the BT book.
Thus bittersweet.
Then almost at the next door, it was my turn and I took it, a beautiful home with a waterfall that we have always dreamed of having one just like it that fed into a small pond with some coi. So after knocking a man came to door, and before I could invite him to the DC, he invited me in to get out of heat. Gave invite, he said he was Baptist. So I asked him about the rapture, if he believed in it? Kind of like Paul did, as Acts book has highlighted last week. He told me his beliefs, and I was able to agree with some of them. Then asked him of course, what was the future for the earth? Were all good people only going to heaven? Read Ps 37 to show him what some good people were looking forward to. So the discussion went along those lines. He has some strong opinions on how neither political party seemed capable of solving the issues. He was a retired school teacher, and I had him read 2 tim 3. In his lifetime has he seen conditions change? All the normal things we bring out. Then asked him why things had changed. He had asked what political party we favored. When I told him we were neutral. He made the comment that Islam was the devils religion. So I let him know that my family was Lutherans at 1 time, and that the ministers of both sides claimed God was on their side, even as they attempted to kill each other. So it just wasn't non christian religions that were responsible, Read Rev 12 then to show why in our lifetime things were so much worse than when we were children. Decided to end it there, and asked him if he would read some material from a book that used the Bible to answer some of the things we talked about in more detail? So I asked him to walk out to car, and gave him BT bo, and arranged to call back. He said if it was in the Bible, he believed it. Thats a good sign.
So Jehovah gave me a nice call, to offset my sadness in not being in mexico anymore. Sheep are still to be found. Witness is still needed to be given. Opportunity still needs to be extended. even here in Missouri. So it was a nice pick me up. The house before Ted had a good call on a lady he gave to our sister to return to. We stayed out til 12:30 or so, so was a good day. Try for a replay tomorrow.
Love to all,
Tom & elaine
Monday, July 23, 2012
District convention & more
Took our oldest grandson with us on a day trip, just always looking for some land, with a creek, pasture & woods, if we ever want to buy some land. We almost bought some, found a beautiful peice of property 45 acres or so, down below Lebanon, MO. that had 5 natural springs on it, formed its on creek, and that is the 1st time Elaine ever approved a piece of land I showed her. But house didn't sell, before land sold, so we missed it.
But in our checking out a place in the county next to ours, we saw this smoke going up in the sky, and i had my grandson take some pics, and as we got closer, it turned out to be right on the road we were on!
this house was huge, I called realtor friend and it had a contract on it. was 260,000 sold for 164,000.
Was brand new never lived in, and needed some finishing, but oh my what a place.
Denis Becker has back to us, and Mary Becker is at his side, next to another sister. Pioneered with Denis in late 60s, then he joined us at Bethel in 72.
Light was not good for pic, But you can make out Mike Byers on left, and Charlie Stone in middle. first met them in 64, when we moved back from california to St. Louis. In the old Riverview cong, and Jennings cong. Went with Charlie family in 65 or 66 to Minneapolis, Mn, for a DC. Mike's and Barbs 2 sons are doing great in Des Peres cong, where Jeremy & Miranda attend. We raised our kids at same time and spent many a saturday or sunday afternoon hitting the baseball to them. All for now, can't give away too much from convention. Going to try some FS early morning this week, to make up some FS time, month is slipping away.
All for now,
Love Tom & Elaine
But in our checking out a place in the county next to ours, we saw this smoke going up in the sky, and i had my grandson take some pics, and as we got closer, it turned out to be right on the road we were on!
So Noah took some pictures, traffic was all stopped so I gave Noah camera, and he walked up as close as was safe, to document the fire. Elaine of course was telling me this is a bad idea, but Noah did good. Then I honked at him to come back when the traffic started moving. It was just outside New Melle on D. So that was some excitement.
Then we reached Lake Sherwood, where there are some lots for sale that allow you to use lake, and fishing, and swimming beach. We looked that over, and saw this house in foreclosure, It was massive!
this house was huge, I called realtor friend and it had a contract on it. was 260,000 sold for 164,000.
Was brand new never lived in, and needed some finishing, but oh my what a place.
I have to remind myself of this is what we walked away from when we started our planning for going to where we could afford to retire. It sure wouldn't be simplifying would it? But the dream of having a place with some land is hard to give up.
Then we attended the district convention and had a spiritual shot in the arm. My what a well thought out program. Hitting all the right areas, and supplying us with new tools, and helping the family.
I particularly liked the demo's that were very real like, and showed how even spiritual persons can get caught up in dangerous thinking, that left unchecked, could bring spiritual ruin.
I won't go over any particulars for those who haven't seen the program, but the FDS sure followed Jehovah's spirit in realizing what the brothers are facing. Whether your an elder, pioneer, or publisher, teen young child, infant, or grown adult, there was much for all of us. We actually have our assigned DC next week but got a preview this weekend.
Saw some old friends we hadn't seen in a long time.
Denis Becker has back to us, and Mary Becker is at his side, next to another sister. Pioneered with Denis in late 60s, then he joined us at Bethel in 72.
All for now,
Love Tom & Elaine
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
7-17- Heat & Horses
Wow what a hot day! hit 100-101 today, We planned on early FS to get
time in, before it heated up too much. Had 5 out at FS mtg- We stepped
out of condo at 6:45AM to get started doing gas station pumps.
But we didn't make it, Walked out to see this.
So I went back in, changed clothes, got out my stop leak, never leave home w/o it. Went and aired it up, then had to go and get a 4-way tire tool, couldn't find mine, 1 of the hazards of moving too many times I guess. Came back on with tire at Firestone, and spare on, washed up, changed back into FS clothes and left for FS, 1 1/2 hrs later than we wanted, but at least we stayed with it.
Elaine & I worked together, the other group headed out west. We wanted to stick a little closer to civilization with spare on. It is original spare, I have 294,000 miles on car, but wasn't sure if spare had rotted or would hold up. So we headed back to finish up a street we started with group 2 saturdays ago. Driving territory with gorgeous homes & more beautiful scenery. Didn't have a lot of hope in finding sheeplike people, I know a little judgmental, But the scenery made up for the not-at-homes, and lack of interest, and the "no trespassing" signs.
Horses everywhere.
Didn't find much interest here, but sure saw a foregleam of what Jehovah may provide us with in the future.
This small lake is spring fed, and shallow, but the ducks & swans didn't seem to mind.
This horse was huge! kind of a grey with blue gray spots, and was a good 18-24 inches bigger than other horse it was with, Did get a good close up or Tom Lipperd or 1 of you horse people may be able to tell me what it was,.
And here is, I think, a true Missouri mule. I don't think these folks would settle for just any ass.....
After we finished this street, called my group overseer, and asked if he had anymore territory we could work, So he gave us another section, It was about 10:30 then. Couldn't work several of the homes in this section because of No trespassing signs.
So we headed to a less prominent area, with smaller homes. WE met 1 man, who was working on his boat, with granddaughter, getting ready to go to a lake. Had a nice talk, and found out he was related to Jean Gettemeir. Used to live in north county, so I left the invite and a set of mags with him.
Then saw a sign at 1 driveway, "fresh eggs". so was hoping to get some to give to kids, but no one was home but a lady was leaving her $$ for eggs in a cooler. gave her invite.
Then on last street, met an older woman, who let me know she was Lutheran. I told her I was baptized lutheran, I think, And asked if she was German, Yes. So we had a little conversation, and I mentioned how I heard Lutherans were "educated Methodists" from a "River runs thru It". (or was it the other way around?) She laughed at that. Was able to read 1 scripture to her.
Then
a few homes down the street, Invited a man to convention, but he said
he worked 2 jobs, and worked 7 days a week. Asked what he did, and he
was a machinist, who lost his job in the downturn in 2008. So shared my
work hostory welding and now doing welding inspection, He said that he
thought about getting his license. So shared a bit on that, and will
write him down a a possible RV if I can catch him. That finished us up,
It was 12:30 and we were cooked. Went & got some salads at STL
Bread, and then took Elaine shopping for knick nacks. Picked up tire
that was repaired, and that was our day.
So we didn't get all the time in we planned, but didn't let our set back stop us from doing something.
Thats kind of like life. Heard a good illustration from a friend, that applies to all of us.
Love,
Tom & Elaine
But we didn't make it, Walked out to see this.
So I went back in, changed clothes, got out my stop leak, never leave home w/o it. Went and aired it up, then had to go and get a 4-way tire tool, couldn't find mine, 1 of the hazards of moving too many times I guess. Came back on with tire at Firestone, and spare on, washed up, changed back into FS clothes and left for FS, 1 1/2 hrs later than we wanted, but at least we stayed with it.
Elaine & I worked together, the other group headed out west. We wanted to stick a little closer to civilization with spare on. It is original spare, I have 294,000 miles on car, but wasn't sure if spare had rotted or would hold up. So we headed back to finish up a street we started with group 2 saturdays ago. Driving territory with gorgeous homes & more beautiful scenery. Didn't have a lot of hope in finding sheeplike people, I know a little judgmental, But the scenery made up for the not-at-homes, and lack of interest, and the "no trespassing" signs.
Horses everywhere.
This small lake is spring fed, and shallow, but the ducks & swans didn't seem to mind.
This horse was huge! kind of a grey with blue gray spots, and was a good 18-24 inches bigger than other horse it was with, Did get a good close up or Tom Lipperd or 1 of you horse people may be able to tell me what it was,.
And here is, I think, a true Missouri mule. I don't think these folks would settle for just any ass.....
After we finished this street, called my group overseer, and asked if he had anymore territory we could work, So he gave us another section, It was about 10:30 then. Couldn't work several of the homes in this section because of No trespassing signs.
So we headed to a less prominent area, with smaller homes. WE met 1 man, who was working on his boat, with granddaughter, getting ready to go to a lake. Had a nice talk, and found out he was related to Jean Gettemeir. Used to live in north county, so I left the invite and a set of mags with him.
Then saw a sign at 1 driveway, "fresh eggs". so was hoping to get some to give to kids, but no one was home but a lady was leaving her $$ for eggs in a cooler. gave her invite.
Then on last street, met an older woman, who let me know she was Lutheran. I told her I was baptized lutheran, I think, And asked if she was German, Yes. So we had a little conversation, and I mentioned how I heard Lutherans were "educated Methodists" from a "River runs thru It". (or was it the other way around?) She laughed at that. Was able to read 1 scripture to her.
So we didn't get all the time in we planned, but didn't let our set back stop us from doing something.
Thats kind of like life. Heard a good illustration from a friend, that applies to all of us.
Love,
Tom & Elaine
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Sights in FS today
So we headed out thIs to try the invite work for dc. Joined the Lees & went out to Labadie area. I knew a little of area, driving territory, do here was some of the sights.
Before this we ran into indian country we were sure.
Saw this big old brute and wondered if I had dozed off and was dreaming of a previous life as an Indian! My grandmother told us we had indians in our background, great grandma Pace was full blood, sioux or cherokee.
Then saw the rest of his clan.
There was 2 young ones born this year. talked to an 83 yr old farmer that owns 1 of the 3 farms that we saw Buffalo on. He just butchers a few each yr for his use. There is a wild game meat store not too far away I thought he maybe sold to. But according to him,"if I did that I'd have to let the gov't get involved" and he didn't like that idea.
WE worked with Maggie(12 yrs old) and her Mom, Heidi Lee, and enjoyed the morning and getting to know some of our new friends at KH. Wherever we go, you or us, isn't it marvelous to have a brotherhood, that the 1st time you meet them, or go in FS with, you have met a new member of your spiritual family? What a privilege to be a part of, an earthwide brotherhood, that is happy to meet you as you are to meet them. Even tho you just met them 5 minutes ago. Now you are going to doors together.
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| Elaine Plank & Heidi Lee at door together. We had 3 of our grandkids coming over to spend the afternoon, so we ended up at noon. But here was the best pic of the day. The Bull of the family, No not me! |
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| Upon closer scrutiny, he is missing a horn, and has some age on him, but he has protected his family, and sired a new generation of his family. Kind of like some of us. We were Bulls in our day ( some would say full of Bull........) we shouldered a heavy load, raised families, protected them as best we could, maybe lost some to poachers, disease, rustlers, or the ruthless enemy satan. But we are still here, doing whatever we can to protect our spiritual family, and trying to see to there welfare, by teaching them, and going in FS with them, and learning from them too. What a great privilege we have had, and continue to have serving with such a flock under Christ's leadership. Love to all. Tom & Elaine |
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Old country- New beginnings
Well as you all know we made it back to Missouri, and got straightened out medically with heart. So far so good.
Went in FS with our new congregation Saturday, and joined them in doing the invite work, DC in 3 weeks. Had an excellent time, went in FS with some friends that we have known for 45 years, and 3 of the 6 are regular pioneers! And the rest are fully invested in PGN.
How strange it was to see GREEN thigs. Trees, grass, weeds, and the variety & beauty of Missouri. That is 1 thing we missed in mexico, was how green this state is. We worked down a lane that had a minimum of 3 acres with each home, with many that had anywhere from 3 to 20 acres I'd guess.
While we loved almost (won't miss the sidewalks) everything in Mexico, we are enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the territory that makes up a part of the territory in Pacific, Mo where we are attending. We did 4 hrs Saturday, this was before my cardio conversion on Monday, so I was still out of breath and tired feeling, but it was a driving territory and that was perfect for me.
Then today was a Big day. went to early morning service to meet small group which ended up being 5 of us, and did car lots, parks, gas stations etc. I left 4 mags with those we talked to as well as invited to DC. Was nice to be out again. When we were in Dolores it was FS if not every day, then every other day. And between having to work in April and May, the when we got back to the high desert, I had the arrthymia start, then the last 3 week dealing with that, I finally had some energy to get back out in the service. So we got 5 hrs in today, then Ted took us out to lunch. I was pretty good, got a salad, Elaine had a beautiful fruit plate.
Doesn't that look great. I wished I had ordered that instead of my salad, She took 1/2 home with her. That was a lot of fruit.
Then we came home about 3, took a nap, because thus cong has WED mtgs. No fun after a long day already. But the parts were good, and got to meet & greet the friends after mtg. But you all know Elaine, she is an early bird to bed person, so we may have to adjust ministry to different days with mtg that night.
Ted made some of his returns, and they were in spot close to Meremac river, saw a deer, several bluebirds, cardinals, a red fox, wildlife everywhere.
Well that is all for our 1st post in new congregation. Jehovahs people no matter where your at are loving and appreciative. The talks were good, after being in Dolores with such a high level of spiritual people, there wasn't a drop off in parts or talks, so that was nice.
We'll see if we can fins some sheep here and encourage & be encouraged by the friends.
Love Tom & Elaine
Went in FS with our new congregation Saturday, and joined them in doing the invite work, DC in 3 weeks. Had an excellent time, went in FS with some friends that we have known for 45 years, and 3 of the 6 are regular pioneers! And the rest are fully invested in PGN.
How strange it was to see GREEN thigs. Trees, grass, weeds, and the variety & beauty of Missouri. That is 1 thing we missed in mexico, was how green this state is. We worked down a lane that had a minimum of 3 acres with each home, with many that had anywhere from 3 to 20 acres I'd guess.
While we loved almost (won't miss the sidewalks) everything in Mexico, we are enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the territory that makes up a part of the territory in Pacific, Mo where we are attending. We did 4 hrs Saturday, this was before my cardio conversion on Monday, so I was still out of breath and tired feeling, but it was a driving territory and that was perfect for me.
Then today was a Big day. went to early morning service to meet small group which ended up being 5 of us, and did car lots, parks, gas stations etc. I left 4 mags with those we talked to as well as invited to DC. Was nice to be out again. When we were in Dolores it was FS if not every day, then every other day. And between having to work in April and May, the when we got back to the high desert, I had the arrthymia start, then the last 3 week dealing with that, I finally had some energy to get back out in the service. So we got 5 hrs in today, then Ted took us out to lunch. I was pretty good, got a salad, Elaine had a beautiful fruit plate.
Doesn't that look great. I wished I had ordered that instead of my salad, She took 1/2 home with her. That was a lot of fruit.
Then we came home about 3, took a nap, because thus cong has WED mtgs. No fun after a long day already. But the parts were good, and got to meet & greet the friends after mtg. But you all know Elaine, she is an early bird to bed person, so we may have to adjust ministry to different days with mtg that night.
Ted made some of his returns, and they were in spot close to Meremac river, saw a deer, several bluebirds, cardinals, a red fox, wildlife everywhere.
Well that is all for our 1st post in new congregation. Jehovahs people no matter where your at are loving and appreciative. The talks were good, after being in Dolores with such a high level of spiritual people, there wasn't a drop off in parts or talks, so that was nice.
We'll see if we can fins some sheep here and encourage & be encouraged by the friends.
Love Tom & Elaine
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