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Growing up we told other kids, particularly, pain-y ones, to shake a leg; meaning, move it, get lost, beat it, or skedaddle. We were very nice about it. We didn’t threaten anyone, but were serious.

 However, the term, shake a leg, recently took on a different meaning for me. Lately, I’ve been doing something I’ve never done in the past 28 years.  When we moved here (PR) in ’95, a neighbor told us, “This here is the countryside; the mountains.  It’s where you pick up your slippers/shoes and shake them before putting them on.  It’s where you shake your pants before wearing them because things get in them.” By things, she meant large roaches, or water bugs (flying type), spiders, lizards, snakes, etc.                             

It’s a good thing I generally put on my socks before my pants.  Last week after power washing and afterwards showering, when I pushed my right leg into my pants, out zipped a large black spider!  I now shake my pants and meticulously look inside the legs before using them!  Shake a leg, is now a good thing!

By the way, spiders are everywhere!

“The spider takes hold with her hands, and is in kings’ palaces” (Proverbs 30:28).

As you may have noticed around the world, God is shaking things up too. Muslims, Hindus, Asians, Communists, murderers, and even politicians are being drawn into God’s Kingdom! He’s shaking people groups and nations!

Were it up to us, only certain people of certain backgrounds would make it into heaven.  But God has made a way for everyone to enter in.  Unlike a club that announced something like, “We’re the most exclusive club in town-everyone’s welcome” (great contradiction!), God’s mandates prevail over all others. He does welcome everyone.

To enter His kingdom, one must undergo His guidelines: Repent of your sinful ways and lifestyle, acknowledge God’s existence, invite Him (Jesus) into your heart.

He will, through the Holy Spirit indwell you, and transform you from the inside out, thus making you a new creation.

To all the countless hundreds of millions of people who refuse His ways, He’ll accept it because He doesn’t force anyone to follow Him.  But, on judgement day, know without a doubt, that He will tell them, “Shake a leg;” “I never knew you.”

By the way, we’ve seen about 7 more huge spiders since that day!  One was in the kitchen! Another day, one was in the bathroom. I sprayed it & it hid behind a cabinet. Later, my wife and I tip-toed through the bathroom looking for it. As a safety measure, I went to get the roach spray, & saw it had traveled & was now right on it!

Better to shake a leg than to be shaking in my pants!

God Bless,

Sam

Years come and years go. A few things have gotten better, while many have gotten worse.  Children grow and the elderly move on.  Sometimes our lives feel stagnant; other times, it moves rapidly.

When we’re waiting on God to come through, it usually requires lots of patience on our part.  On rare occasions, He answers swiftly.  In my case, slowly.  Nevertheless, He’s aware a new year will shortly be upon us.  Does He have a word for us? Can we trust Him for direction?  Can we embrace the new year confident He knows what lies ahead?  The answer to all these questions is YES!

“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert” (Isaiah 43:19).

He knows where we stand.  He knows what keeps us from approaching Him in confidence.  He’s taken care of that too.

“I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more” (Isaiah 43:25).

He’s removed our sin, taking it upon Himself.  He’s removed our shame and given us dignity-if we accept Him into our hearts.  Today’s the day to take the first step towards Him! Do it!  Then mark it down on your calendar/in your journal/diary, and see the difference in your life a year from now!

A new year is a great time to begin a new life!

Happy New Year!

Sam

When Roman law meant a soldier could compel/persuade a Jew to carry his armor or load one mile, Jesus said, “Walk two” (Matthew 5:41).  “When someone sues you for your coat, give him also your cloak” (Matthew 5:40).  That was known as going the distance; going above, and beyond what was required by law.

Today, everyone tends to go the distance when needs arise. It’s something usually expected from good-natured people.

During Christmas time, it’s not uncommon to hear stories of officers or others in authority, as well as common people to come to the rescue to those in need.  Such events restore faith in humanity because kindness seems to be falling short lately.

In the eons of time, way-before mankind rebelled, God, already had a plan to restore him to full fellowship.  From God’s throne room in the third heaven, going past the starry heavens, and beyond the atmospheric heavens, God went beyond all barriers to fellowship with His creation. It wasn’t enough to simply hang around animals and created beings. He was able to speak face-to-face with His highest creation-man.  But He really went the distance when He placed Himself upon the cross for the sins of all humanity.  It wasn’t man’s hatred that placed Him there, and it wasn’t an accident, or, “Yikes, what have I done?” No, it was pure love that drove Him across time and space to pave the way to the Father so that all who want to live eternally, will receive His sacrifice.  That’s incomparable love.  There’s only one question: Will you go the distance to meet Him?  Don’t know where? Meet Him at the cross.  He waits for you there and will welcome you with head bowed and outstretched arms.

Merry Christmas!

Sam

Love some of the gifts you received?  Hate them?  Already broken? Received a gift that keeps on giving…you a headache?  Sometimes gifts are like a seltzer-they fizz a bit and then quickly dissipate. Their novelty wears out right away. The new car’s shine fades, and its tires wear out.  The house needs constant repairs, and new appliances are scheduled to fail a few days after the warranty expires. 

Our thirst is quenched for a few hours each day, but soon, even water won’t satisfy…unless, you drink from the fountain, not of youth, but of Living Waters.  Jesus said:     “But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.  Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:14).

That’s water that will never run out!  Meaning, Jesus will quench your spiritual thirst and meet all your needs eternally!  Now, that’s a gift that keeps on giving!

When Adam & Eve were created by God, fashioned by His hand, not spoken into existence like the fish and creeping crawlers; but made in His image, He gave them the opportunity to eat from the Tree of Life to live forever.  Although they didn’t eat from it, you can!  Jesus said:                                                                          “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

Accept His gift of Salvation now and you’ll receive eternal life too! Everyday you’ll enjoy walking with Him just as Adam & Eve did during their period of innocence before the fall (Genesis 3:8).  And, the best part of God’s gifts?  You’ll never have to return them (no long lines either)! They’ll always fit; customized just for you.  They won’t break.  They won’t give you a headache…and you’ll love them!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Sam

Ever been to one of those? You wanted to save a few bucks and you got elbowed, stepped on, cursed at-followed by a “Merry Christmas to you, too!”?   Perhaps, you were the one doing these things?!? Overall, you can get great bargains!

You don’t get too many deals in Puerto Rico on the day after Christmas.  One reason is, the workers get first dibs on everything before doors even open.  Additionally, our large box-store giant, just like other lesser-known hardware stores, are notorious for announcements like these:

Get yours today! Availability, 6 per store!  Oftentimes, the “available” items are the same old ones in the stores every day.  In other words, they’re not new, and some are repackaged returns that may not work, or have missing or broken parts.  Not to mention S-L-O-W service & S-U-P-E-R-L-O-N-G- L-I-N-E-S.

About 18 years ago my wife and I were at a now shut down chain store that has a 4’ tall old-timey Santa, which I liked at either $49. or at $99. It was probably December 24 and would go on sale Dec. 26 at 50% off.  We got there early that day to find it already gone. Reluctantly, we chose the next best thing: a 4’ tall Snowman.  When we went to pay, we saw it displayed at a cashier’s register.  So unfair! But you can’t complain, because managers backup their workers.  The customer is rarely ever right in PR.  It’s usually better to stay home unless you only want to look around.

God says, “Is anyone thirsty, come and drink-even if you have no money!  Come, take your choice of wine or milk-it’s all free” (Isaiah 55:1 NIV)!

There’s plenty at God’s table! Available in abundance to all! It’s limitless! No rations! It’s worth waiting for His rewards!

Merry Christmas!
Sam

Mr. Snowman

I had searched far and near

To find a gift for someone dear.

It needed a special touch,

Something unique, though not too much.

A lamp, a light, to lead the way

A lantern, a candle, a beam, a ray.

I found it, I found it! Something to treasure!

True friendship, trust, and love without measure!

Merry Christmas!!

Sam

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; (Isaiah 9:2).  And for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned” (Matthew 4:16).

God sent The Light, Jesus, during our greatest need!

As the snow silently made its way down and covered the ground, a little boy and girl leaned their heads against the storefront window cupping both hands by their faces peeking in. To them, time stood still as they watched wind-up toys and stuffed animals in a snow-themed stage displaying the magic of Christmas.  Flurries swirl helplessly in the air landing on the window pane and on the kids’ coats.  What a treasured moment.

Let’s go inside! Let’s be young-at-heart again and step closer to our memories and thoughts.

Are you on the outside looking in? Are you trapped in the moment mesmerized watching the toy train on its endless loop through miniature trees, forests, underneath mountains of gifts heading back to the front?  Are you viewing daintily-dressed dolls, American/Radio Flyer red wagons pulling teddy-bears, and glancing at jars of candies in the distance? Do twinkling lights and flickering candles pull at your heart?  Do they engulf you in the sentiment of a small-town world of yesteryear?

Walking with Jesus is just like that. One feels like you’re within snow-covered window panes amongst the toys, the trains, the stuffed animals, enjoying the nostalgic moments.  Sure, trials are ever-present; but you’re within the shelter of God cocooned with His love.  

Those not in His service are as those on the outside looking in; not part of the moment.  As they walk away from the magical displays on the storefront windows, the snow covers their footprints, and erases the unforgettable experience.

Isn’t it time to move inside, to enjoy the fellowship, even if only with teddy bears and toys? As thrilling as peering through frosted glass and antique stores might be, there’s no major thrill than walking with God.  In fact, look in again and you can almost see Jesus sitting there holding out a teddy bear for you inviting you in.  Contrary to some, He cares about what matters to you.

Step inside

Merry Christmas!!
Sam

Sometimes Christmas meant no hot water.  Sometimes it meant no heat.  Other times, it meant freezing weather.  It meant being colder inside than outside.  And sometimes, Christmas meant a blizzard on top of “all the above.” 

One time, Christmas meant being all alone as I was abandoned by my mate.  While Christmas meant joy, happiness, and lively music to others, it meant sadness, hurtful words, hurt feelings, and confusion to me.  The twinkling lights faded.  During those times, there seemed nothing to be thankful for, but there was always something worth it all.

I had friends and family to help me through it. Slowly, my heart healed. Hot water returned, as did warmer weather.  Blizzards continued over the years, and snowball fights added to the excitement of feeling young again.  Twinkling lights were replaced by the Light of the world (Jesus) coming to my heart.  God’s comfort replaced restlessness and brought the peace Christmas gives. That was 46 years ago, and I’ve been walking with Him the last 44 years.  Healing does come; “I am the LORD that heals you” (Exodus 5:26).

No matter what your life is like, no matter whether you celebrate Christmas or not; and no matter what you believe or don’t, God is REAL.  His love is real because “God is love” (1John 4:7). Jesus is the real Christmas.  He is the “reason for the season.”

And heat or no heat, His love and presence can warm your heart. So, is there room in the inn of your heart for Him to reside in tonight? Allow Him to move in for good!

Merry Christmas!
Sam

Fading Twinkling Lights

Blizzard

It was Christmas 1978 when, along with my roommate, Ray, we decided to put up his silver tree. A few days later, cousin June came by and stared at it for awhile, shook his head, and said something was wrong. Next day he again looked at it after getting down on his knees, and then exclaimed, “I knew it!” “I knew it!” “That tree is upside down!!” I checked it out, and he was right! All the branches pointed downward! I plucked them out, straightened out the tree, and reinserted the branches. I made sure the tip with the star pointed upwards.

This Christmas season, how’s your life? Is it upside-down and you haven’t noticed? It’s easy to overlook things. “There’s a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12). You may have to get on your knees for a closer view, do some introspection and proclaim, “He’s right!” Do some plucking: remove things branching out in the wrong direction. Get rid of unwanted/unneeded issues in your life. Point it upward towards Jesus. He’ll turn your life around. “

The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath” (Proverbs 15:24). When our lives are right, lined up with God’s Word, we’re “like a tree firmly planted…[that] shall not cease from bearing fruit” (Jeremiah 17:8). Your life will not be a” little off” but right on track pointing others beyond the stars-upwards.
Merry Christmas!
Sam

People, the world-over are considered unworthy to be visited, to be reached, or deemed unacceptable in society. They’re rejected, untouched, unfit for many things. India, alone has some 200 million unfit citizens; incapable of ever advancing within their society.

Had Jesus come in His glory exuding riches, jewels, gold, diamonds, rubies, etc., He’d been approached by the rulers of the day; the hypocrites. They would have whisked Him away into their luxurious abodes. They would have set before Him their finest China, clothed Him with expensive clothing, served Him in golden cups, etc.

Having done that, how could He have reached the unreachable, the unloved, the untouchables? How could He love you and me? Hey, you might be rich, or well-off, but you still wouldn’t qualify to stand before Him. Why? Because it’s not in what we possess, but in what possesses us: sin. We’re under its control. Since man has always looked at the exterior of others, and makes his judgements based on what’s seen, he believes he judges correctly. The Religious people, were unaware that God sent His Son to cleanse mankind from sin within.

Jesus was birthed into poverty to reach the lowest in ranks and the well-off. His life-goal was to show us the way to the Father. Lepers were required to stay away from common people. In public, they needed to announce their presence so others could steer clear of them. When a leprous man stood before Jesus and dared ask for healing, Jesus did the unbelievable. Read it:
“When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.”

This man didn’t announce his presence! He felt confident before the King of the universe! He had faith in His power and authority. “Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy” (Matthew 8:1-3).
Today, like thousands of years ago, Jesus reaches and touches the put-downs, the rejects, the unwanted, the unnoticed, the unimportant, and all the nobody’s of this world. And??? He makes all of us SOMEBODIES! “He has made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever. Amen” (Revelation 1:6).

This Christmas be a somebody in Christ’s kingdom. Let your love and ways touch an unapproachable person.
This is yet another reason why true Christmas is so radical! Heaven will be replete with all the unrighteous people to have ever lived! We’ll be together with everyone else in His glorious kingdom!
“For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).
Merry Christmas!
Sam