While attending the parade in Mount Shasta this weekend, my family and I were struck with small town America and the pride in our flag. Everyone stood for the National Anthem and gazed admirably at the flag held by the color guard. The symbol of American freedom was also displayed on the float with all the Veterans. There were many young people riding the float who have already invested time fighting for freedom against terrorism. Spiritual freedom from sin will come when we experience God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. Father, may the symbol of your Word, the Bible, be the focus of our gaze. We desire to speak of your kingdom to a needy world through your love gift to us. #thecross. 

Today, this American eagle shared its magnificence with us as we swam at Butterfly Beach. It reminded me of the struggle for survival for rare species and for the rarity of the blessed believer in Yahweh.

Psalm 1 (NLT) states it well: “1 Oh, the joys of those who do not

    follow the advice of the wicked,

or stand around with sinners,

or join in with mockers.

2 But they delight in the law of the Lord,

meditating on it day and night.

3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank,

bearing fruit each season.

Their leaves never wither,

and they prosper in all they do.

4 But not the wicked!

They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.

5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment.

Sinners will have no place among the godly.

6 For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,

but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.”