Finding Laughter In Difficult Times

I was about 15 when for some reason Pauly, one of the sons of the local diner’s owner, was terribly upset with me. He was about 5 inches taller than me and began to chase me. After going around the block the second time, my friends told him he might as well call it quits. When he asked why they told him that I was the fastest on the block and that he wasn’t going to catch me. In his anger, he disregarded them and chased away. He was about ½ a block behind me and never caught me after 5 laps. Endurance: persevering in an event, not giving up.
Many of us enjoy stories of persevering feats such as cycling 205.65 miles daily for 365 days and completing 75,065 in a year (Thomas Godwin of Great Britain) in 1939, and continuing until completing 100,000 miles in 500 days up to May 14, 1940. Or, imagine cycling 1216.8 miles behind pace in only 24 hours (Michael Secrest) April, 1990!
Others, like participating in mountain-climbing, or the scaling of mountain peaks like Mt. Everest. Some people enjoy reading their stories. Me, I enjoy the movies like Everest or Vertical Limit. However endurance may come, it is not only important in our lives, but essential. Look around you at what’s going on. Life has become even more difficult than it was. Don’t quit! Read:
“For many shall come in my name saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many (Matthew 24:6- NIV).
Endurance is for the long haul. It entails giving one’s all. It’s usually painful and long-lasting. Through thick and thin, we have to hang on. Jesus said,
“But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (Matthew 24:14 KJV).
God Bless,
Sam

I wrote this today for a special friend of over thirty years.
My Name is Magda and I’m in my low sixties. For several decades it’s been just my mom and me living and chasing dreams here and there. We’ve split our decades between New York and Puerto Rico. We’ve visited several states and have had fun on our journeys. From flea markets to farmers’ markets, and estate sales to closeout sales, we’ve enjoyed our treasures as well as our travels.
But the real treasures haven’t been the special finds and great deals. No, it’s been the special times and memorable moments my mom and I built together. We’ve been there for each other every step of the way. We’ve laughed along trails and cried at hardships on recovery roads. We’ve managed to triumph over obstacles of every type. We’ve weathered snow storms, hail storms, pouring rains, unbearable cold, and plenty of hurricanes.
We’ve been there for each other when electric power has gone out for days, weeks, and seven months after our last serious hurricane (Maria). In floods or droughts, we’ve stuck together. We’ve eaten plenty, as well as have had to share meals. From Museums to parks, to shows and Bingo groups, we’ve been friends to the end. In the heat of summer, we’ve refreshed ourselves with the coolness of water, drinks, and ice cream or shakes. In the bitter cold, hot chocolate or brewing coffee or tea, warmed our hearts. In the good times and tough ones, we’ve held each other up.
When she became ill and dropped over 80 pounds, I was by her side. The next several years brought unforeseen hardships, but we faced them as always-side by side in the warmth of each other’s presence. Dialysis drained her body, but her spirit continued strong as ever. Changes brought challenges, but her will to persevere, did not wane. Shorter travels and shorter journeys kept us together through thick and thin.
Two weeks ago, we celebrated my mom’s 85th birthday with friends and family as Death hung in the air always lingering nearby. Several days later, she passed away. So, what will I do now that my mom has passed on? What will I do now that my best friend has moved beyond the curtains on the stage of life?
I’m not really sure, but one thing I know: I will walk through the rooms of my mind. I will visit the special moments we held. I will sit in each room and recall memories made. I will laugh at the things we said and at the things we did together. I will treasure her advice, her opinions. I will hold her hand as she did mine in the toughest of times. I will recall how she stood tall and proud of her heritage and character. I will recall her determination to triumph in life-and I will continue in her path. I will continue our dreams and journeys. I will hear our songs in the rain and feel her presence in the wind. My best friend isn’t with me anymore, not in this life; she’s moved on. I will continue holding the hand of God for this next journey. Life will not be the same, but I will find laughter during this difficult time and will treasure it and share it with others. For now, “I miss you mom.”
*Magda voluntarily and unselfishly chose to put her life on hold for decades to care for her mom. She led an admirable life. We’ll continue to lift her up before God’s throne room as she seeks direction from Him for the path ahead.
“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; And saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: But the LORD delivereth him out of them all” (Psalms 34:18-19).
Recommended song: Faithful Friend by Rebecca St. James & Dennis Jernigan
God Bless,
Sam

We just went for new glasses. As my wife checked out ones against the wall, an assistant offered some help. I told her my wife, a retired librarian who can quote authors, their works, and where to find their books on her shelves, example: fiction- numbers…top row, next to…before…, reads 18 hours a day! “Eighteen hours a day?” she asked, “we’ll take care of that!” she added. And they did! Turns out, my wife who has been reading without glasses all her life, was actually seeing words on the blurry side. “Well, now everything will be clearer and she’ll be able to read 24 hours straight” said the assistant! “Glad y’all could help,” I said, plucking out some of my hair!
Sight is so important. Scripture tells us Moses died at the age of 120 and still had great vision (Deuteronomy34:7)! Imagine how many books he could’ve read! My wife’s going for the record!
We might have 20/20, or as in one Bugs Bunny cartoon, while getting an eye exam by Elmer J. Fudd, he was able to see letters below the lines shown! Elmer had to get several magnifying glasses to see them!
But, as long as we don’t have Jesus in our hearts, our spiritual eyes will remain shut. Take this case: Two of Jesus’ disciples (Cleopas & Simon) were walking on a road to a village known as Emmaus. As they walked and talked replaying the events that had recently occurred, Jesus, after His resurrection, joined them. Asking what important things, they were discussing, they told Him about the crucifixion; but their eyes were closed to seeing/understanding who He was. Then He shared with them all the scriptures starting with Moses concerning Himself. As they neared their destination, they invited Him to stay with them which He did. As He shared bread with them and blessed them, their eyes were opened and they recognized Him (Luke 24:13-53). Now, although they had spent years with Him, at this particular time, their eyes were closed from knowing and understanding Him.
As it goes, Israel’s spiritual eyes have been closed for over two thousand years. God ordained it that way. They’ll remain as such until this period, known as the Times of the Gentiles, ends. Then their eyes shall be opened and they shall understand that two-thousand years ago, Jesus walked and lived in their midst, yet they rejected their True Messiah. Then shall they mourn (Zechariah 13:5, 12:19). Spiritual discernment comes from God.
Closed eyes is why there are so many people today arguing against God, against religious rights, and against supposed hatred from Christian; without an understanding of the larger picture; they can’t see it or understand what is really happening. Check it out:
“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1Corinthians 2:14).
Whether we’re light readers, marathon readers, wear glasses or contact lenses, not until we serve God, will our spiritual eyes be opened. No number of filters, transitions, anti-glare protection, etc. will help. Gotta get those (spiritual) eyes examined on a regular basis! Read the Scriptures daily, and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance constantly!
“Now we see through a glass darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known” (1Corinthians 13:12). See You later!
God Bless,
Sam

In early ’95, my wife and our three kids went to a large department store to scout inline skates for our kids. We eyed them and took notes because the next day, Sunday, they’d go on sale. However, the selection was small. The next morning, my son and I headed there while the rest of the family went to church, where we’d catch up later.
We took the escalator down to the main entrance where a crowd of seniors were anxiously waiting for the gate to open. Our son told me to chill-not to rush in as I usually did, to allow the elderly to go first. He then motioned that we should step back and allow them to stay up front. After all, we didn’t want to hurt them by rushing in to grab our items. As the gate began to rise, and even before it went all the way up, those seniors CHARGED! Some in wheelchairs, others with crutches, walkers, on two feet, whether limping, hopping, or however they could, they bent down underneath the gate and pushed each other elbowing whoever was next to them! My son looked at me, his eyebrows raised, shook his head as if saying, “Dag, look at them go, they would have trampled us down!”
Regardless of age or condition, we’re all in a race. Some, going somewhere, others, going nowhere. But racing, we are. We all have a goal or goals. Billions of Christians are in a race; a race against time. People confuse our goals and objectives. When Noah entered the ark, he didn’t close the ark; God did (Genesis 7:16). So, what’s our race about? God has promised to soon shut the door on all things by a series of events known as the End Times. We’re extremely near it! Look around! Read the news! Since no one knows exactly when it’ll be, we want to warn everybody so as to be ready (saved) when He calls His believers home.
Long ago, Noah announced a flood was coming. Over a hundred years went by, and still not even a drop of rain. Remember, no one knew what rain was; since it had never rained before. But once the rains began to fall as drops, then puddles, like buckets, tubs, etc. people began banging on the ark and probably repenting of their sinful ways, and for mocking Noah and his family. But it was too late. Millions climbed to higher ground, to no avail.
Likewise, now, people believe it’s mockery and nonsense that fire will fall from heaven, or that stars will fall to the earth, or that the sun will get 7 times hotter; but when it comes…
What did Jesus say about that? He said, “Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21:31). We need not trample one another for the kingdom’s sake; don’t need to elbow anyone; we shall all get there, if we’re saved. But we do need to run the race God has set before us not doubting or behaving foolishly, but always expecting God’s imminent return. But if we’re not ready yet, it’ll be too late! You’ll have missed the boat, as the saying goes.
However, once there, we’ll be able to skate down the streets of gold! No wheelchairs, no walkers, no canes, no pushing, and without any injuries!
I won’t say my son and I had to wrangle some skates off some old men and women, or that they took ours, but we did manage to get what we had set out to buy- peacefully!
Sweet skating!
God Bless,
Sam

Kids in general believe in tomorrow.  “Tomorrow we’ll get ice-cream.” “Tomorrow I’ll be with dad…” “Tomorrow we’re going on vacation.” We all need the hope of tomorrow.  Sadly, many live without tomorrow in sight.  From those whose lives have been turned upside-down due to unforeseen events, to those who steal, splurge, and live recklessly; to those that think tomorrow will never catch up with them, tomorrow comes too soon, and slips away just as well.                                                 

Some people spend all they have as if there’ll be no tomorrow.  When it rolls around and they’re broke and busted, they’ll have an awful today-everyday.  I’ve read of those “Riches-to-rags” characters that lived to the hilt and then fell flat on their faces.  It’s important to know that tomorrows are on the horizon.  And for those who don’t anticipate them, might as well get your lives on track should you drop dead tonight-cause tomorrow won’t come for you-but only perpetual todays. Meaning, if you die in your sins, nightmares, tortures in hell, and eternal separation from God shall be your ‘today’ eternally.  Jesus said,

“I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night comes when no man can work” (John 9:4).

In other words, while it’s still day (today), we need to do God’s will. The night (or tomorrow) is coming when it’ll be too late. Tomorrow’s riches from God’s hand are better than today’s life without Him. Awaiting to be in His presence tomorrow is way-better than living recklessly for the moment.

Happy New Year!
Sam

How are those resolutions coming? More like a revolution?  Somewhat of a confusion? Battling midsection protrusion? Here’s a better solution:

 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).  Instead of seeking our own will, or attempting to perfect our ways, let’s trust God to lead us down His paths.  The LORD says,

 “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you” (Psalm 32:8 NLT).

For this new year which will feature more uncertainties than in past years, we need to cling to Jesus more than ever.  He will help us with our circumstances, since He knows our struggles and petitions.  Yes, we do need to put in some effort! However, let’s attempt His will first, then tackle sensible things.  Finally,

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.  For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13,14).

We shall give an account to God for all our ways-good or bad.  Might as well start on those things that really matter.

God Bless!

Happy New Year!
Sam

Go to Haven.online Click Watch Live

Back in the early 70s I would occasionally visit some Oriental stores on Fulton Street or at malls and buy some incense. I usually picked out some cherry or sandalwood-20 sticks/$1. At home, I had a black light in my room and one wall I had painted black. Using fluorescent paint, I then painted designs and pictures on it. The black light caused the glow-type paint to pop. Of course, there had to be music, so anywhere from Barry White, The Sal-soul Orchestra, to the fusion sounds of Santana, Osibisa, or Tribe, songs were present. The rising smoke from incense, added to the ambience bringing about a sweet smell, pleasant to take in.
I have learned over the years as the hair shortened, the black walls gave way to brighter colors, and black lights got replaced by daylight bulbs, that incense has played a different role in my life. No longer out of a packet, the incense I’ve been using for the past forty-three years, is of a very different nature.
In scripture, prayers are referred to as incense. They rise to the LORD as sweet-smelling incense to Him. That’s now my type of incense. Everyone needs prayers and everyone wants them-even those opposed to God. Some, don’t know it yet! Bring your prayers to God! He delights in hearing them-more importantly, He delights in hearing from you! Whether long, short, or no hair at all; music, or silence, lift your prayers as incense to Him today! This week is prayer night at (Winter) Haven Church in Florida. Pray for others and have others pray for you. Just in tuning in, God is pleased! Prayer not only changes things, it changes people. It changes how we see things around us. It changes how we view others. Prayer is the only weapon in any arsenal that transcends every barrier; it goes through walls, through racial divides, it disrupts and disarms Satan, our enemy. Prayer, combined with praise confuses the enemy. Tonight, show up through your TV set, laptop, your phone or other means. God will be waiting!
“And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand” (Revelation 8:3,4).
Go to: Week of Prayer/Haven Worship Center Live on YouTube at 7-8 pm, EST. Sing, rejoice, and see the prayers upon the screen and pray for them-quickly!
God Bless!
Sam

Back in the early 80s, we would see new housing developments going up pretty fast. In no time, they were occupied. We once saw entire blocks boarded up while work underwent within. Through hole cutouts, one could look down and see foundational work progressing. We went on our two-month vacation trip, and upon arriving, noticed the panels were gone, the houses were not only completed, but windows had curtains as well! Each apartment was occupied! We wondered how people could be selected and move in so quickly. Then we learned the secret!
People applied months and years in advance. They were contacted months in advance. They were selected and notified about where they would live, etc. Once the apartments were ready, they were given the keys to occupy.
In the near future, something very similar will happen. Millions upon millions will perhaps catch a glimpse of the New Jerusalem-God’s place for redeemed believers. Those millions and billions will desire and even wish to get in. They’ll want to live there. They’ll see gates made of single pearls. They’ll see a quintillion angelic hosts, they’ll maybe hear ever-so-pleasant heavenly music, and they’ll wonder what the criteria to get in is. Unfortunately, they’ll learn the requirements were fulfilled ages before. At that point, it might be much too late to get in. Depending on when all this takes place, millions will have to pay a costly price to reserve a seat. Any time beyond that, and it’ll be impossible to even peek inside. Would you like to reserve a seat now? Would you like to hang curtains on your very own windows? Wouldn’t you like to sit near Jesus? Plan on checking out the neighbors? Get your ticket NOW! Already paid for by the Son of God, Jesus. Reserved two thousand years ago! Don’t wait another day!
This announcement was paid for by the blood of Christ!
Get There!
Sam

The crowd was yelling, shouting, standing, most were sitting, many were banging on the front covered panels of their seats. We were situated on bleachers all around the track of this indoor track. It was winter, probably 1973. We were at the 168th Street New York Armory for a track meet. Hundreds of runners were present as well as coaches, and some parents. The race taking place was the two-mile event.
A well-known runner from a competing school had the lead in this 16-plus lap event. He was kicking, he was giving every ounce left to finish the race. As the pounding continued, he pumped his arms and crossed the finish line on a straightaway to the right of the course. As he raised his head, probably in wonder why no one came right behind him, he saw runners, number 2,3,4, etc. nearing the next curve. He couldn’t believe it! He finished the race with one lap to go!
It wasn’t cheering he had heard; we were yelling for him to keep going. So-called ‘compliments’ from other teenagers were being hurled at him such as: “Keep going, bonehead!” and “You moron, look to the side!” and, “One more, you nut!” Needless to say, we were ego-boosters! Not the type he needed, but the type teenagers were accustomed to shelling out.
How about you? Have you thought the race was over because you’re seeing last-day events taking place? Have you crossed the finish line because of the ‘cheering’ crowds? You still have one last lap to go! It might seem like the longest lap yet, but it isn’t over. Keep your eyes on the track! Sometimes, we can’t be at the front where we can’t tell there’s more on the horizon.
We need to look around, need to stay close to others to spot errors, danger, and to not get side-tracked, or worse, go off course. The finish line is up ahead; just, not yet in full sight.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed his appearing” (2Timothy 4:7,8).
Keep Running!
Sam