Sunday's Thought

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Merry Christmas!

"The Nativity"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and spend time with family.  This year is the second year without my parents.  For some reason, it's been a more difficult season.

However, when I look back, I can see many reasons why it would be.  Just not one specific.  My parents, while keeping foremost the birth of Christ at Christmas always had fun with buying presents, decorating the house, surprising us with things we wanted, delicious Christmas dinners, baking chocolate chip cookies and peanut butter cookies, giving gifts to their friends, watching Christmas TV specials like "Charlie Brown" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and plenty of music.  Since my father was a Minister of Music, there was always music around the house.

This season, my wife and I watched "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer" and memories just flooded my mind.  When I was a kid, my brother and I would search the TV Guide when it arrived in Sunday's newspaper for all the Christmas specials for the following week.   When we found something, we'd circle it so it wasn't missed.

On the night of the show, the family gathered in front of the TV to watch the Christmas special with "Charlie Brown Christmas" being the favorite- at least mine.  Before the show, we gathered our snacks, we got our favorite spot in front of the TV and didn't move until the show was over.

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There were plenty of Christmases when my brother and I would wake up at the crack of early darkness and go wake our parents so we could open presents. We weren't allowed to go down until they were ready.  Never understood why until later when they said the excitement of seeing us go downstairs was special to them.

One Christmas, my father stayed up until 3 or 4 a.m. putting together bicycles for my brother and I only to be awakened within an hour to get up for Christmas.  A story he never let us forget!

With all the memories, the Birth of Christ was first and foremost.  My parents lived the Christian life they believed and served Him in a local church for as long as I can remember.

My father and I would spend hours preparing music for Christmas Sunday in celebration of the birth of Christ.  The music was hard and often frustrating so I would start practicing as early as September.  There were many Christmas Cantatas, choir specials and too many solos by my father to remember.

"For to us a child is born, 

to us a son is given; 

and the government shall be upon his shoulder,

and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace."

 - Isaiah 9:6

As you celebrate Christmas, be sure to enjoy the day, enjoy the friends and family, even the ones who drive you nuts, as it will be part of your Christmas memories to come.

Merry Christmas!

"Christmas Red Poinsettias"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Sunday's Thought

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It is Christmas Sunday.  The Sunday before Christmas when churches who do not have Worship Services on Christmas Day celebrate the birth of Christ.  Many times, it will be when the music ministry will present their Christmas cantata or the children will present their musical and the Pastor will present his Christmas message. It is usually one of two very busiest and crowded worship services of the year.

I have many, to say the least, fond memories of Christmas Sunday as a church organist, my father being the Minister of Music and our working together on music and going to hear him sing a solo.  A great time of year.

The importance of Christmas is the birth of Jesus.  He came to live as a man.  To experience what man experiences.  He lived. He loved. I liked to think He got into trouble as a teenager or had an annoying boss or any of the experiences you and I may go through in this life. Then, time came for him to die for our sins.  Die so we might have eternal life.  He did it because He loves us.  We strayed from Him through sin. He wanted to redeem us to His Own.

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During the Christmas season, it is so easy to get wrapped up in the commercialism of buying gifts while spending way more money than we really should. We can't forget anyone though. What about yourself?  Have you thought about yourself?

The gift of Salvation and God's Love is a free gift from God.  You don't have to buy it, you don't have to work for it, you just accept it.  It is one of the simpliest free gifts to accept in this world. And, one that will be a blessing you will never forget.

How about giving yourself a gift this year? A gift of God's Love? The Gift of Salvation?  Following the steps is as easy as A-B-C-

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Admit
Admit that you are a sinner, just like everyone else born into this world, until we  confess to Jesus Christ and ask His forgiveness:

"[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,"
-Romans 3:23-24, [ESV Study Bible]

"[23] For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
                                               -Romans 6:23, [ESV Study Bible]

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Believe
Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ:

[16] “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." -John 3:16 [ESV Study Bible]

Confess
Confess of your sins in a prayer to the Lord Jesus Christ:

[9] "because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
- Romans 10:9 [ESV Study Bible]

[13] For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”   -Romans 10:13 [ESV Study Bible]

So now what?  
If you prayed this prayer with your whole heart and believed what you did, you are now a Christian.  My suggestion is to find a local church and become involved.  Talk to the pastor about this experience and ask him to teach you where to go or what to do next.

If you are not familiar with a local church, a few excellent resources to get you started or who can follow up with you are:

Billy Graham Evangelistic Association or Peace With God, Charlotte, NC

Dr. David Jeremiah, San Diego, CA

Centreville Baptist Church, Centreville, VA

In Touch Ministries with Dr. Charles Stanley, Atlanta, GA

These resources are ones that I believe in and you'll get assistance to grow- you can contact them by visiting, writing, email or phone.

May God bless you!

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Wednesday's Words

"Red Poinsettia"(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night

While Shepherds watch'd their Flocks by Night,

All seated on the Ground,

The Angel of the Lord came down,

And Glory Shone all around.

Fear not, said he, (for mighty Dread

Had seiz'd their troubled Mind)

Glad Tidings of great Joy I bring

To you and all mankind.

To you in David's Town this Day

Is born of David's Line,

A Saviour, which is Christ the Lord;

And this shall be the Sign.

The heav'nly Babe you there shall find

To human View display'd.

All meanly wrapt in swaddling Bands,

And in a Manger laid.

Thus spake the Seraph, and forthwith

Appeared a shining Throng

Of Angels praising God, and thus

Addressed their joyful Song.

All glory be to God on high,

And to the earth be Peace;

Good Will, henceforth, from Heaven to Men

Begin and never cease."

Source: N. Brady and N. Tate, A New Version of the Psalms of David, With A Supplement to the New Version of Psalms, The Whole Being A Compleat Psalmody.” Eighth Edition, Corrected. (London: J. Ilive, 1724, 1733). pp. 58-59.

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Sunday's Thought

I have to admit, I was hoping to be thinking less about my parents and how much I miss them by this Christmas season. Though, really, it is only the second one.  Maybe I am expecting too much.

Now, I'm not depressed or anything like that- I'm a very happy guy but having retired and moved close to where I grew up has brought back many fond memories, especially at Christmas.

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Christmas was always a fun time growing up.  My mother loved to find gifts for everyone on her list.  She would pay attention to what the friend or family member liked or wanted throughout the year.  As it got closer to Christmas, she would get that for them- provided it wasn't that expensive.  Many times, she and Dad would be traveling and she'd find something at a craft show which was the perfect gift for someone.

While Dad would help Mom with the gift buying and decorating, he was more into the music of the season. He prepared the church music for each week as well as the Christmas Cantata.  If he had a solo in the Cantata, you knew it, and so did the neighbors around the world, as he would practice it over and over and over.  And did I say over and over and over?

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Dad would take a few minutes from his singing and take us to the Manassas Christmas Parade.  Every year, it was a time to enjoy community and Christmas and freeze ourselves to almost hypothermia levels, or so it seemed, to watch fire trucks, ambulances, school bands and the rest got through town until finally Santa arrived. He loved taking my brother and I to this.  

To me, these were the blessings of Christmas, the simple joys my family celebrated Christmas.

One thing always stood out though and very strong.  Jesus is the reason for the season.  Jesus is Born.  His Birth.  His coming to earth to become man.  To show us He understands- He loves us- wants us to have eternal life with Him- remember that.

My parents never let all the glitter, glamour, and definitely not the "gimme" of the season be the forefront of Christmas.  We celebrated Christ's Birth.  I'll never forget the first Christmas that fell on a Sunday.  We had to go to church, then, come home and open our presents.  Know how hard that was for two little boys.  As we grew older, we understand a bit better.  Yes, we had fun decorating, surprising each other and friends with special gifts and enjoying the events of season, like the Manassas Christmas Parade.  Yet, we knew and never forgot, it was "The Birthday of a King!"  Jesus is Born.

Following Christ and following Jesus is the most important decision you will ever make.  If you would like to know more about Jesus Christ, His Love for you and Eternal Life, please visit, Peace With God.
 

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Wednesday's Words

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The Birthday of A King!

In the little village of Bethlehem,

There lay a Child one day;

And the sky was bright with a holy light

O’er the place where Jesus lay.

Refrain

Alleluia! O how the angels sang.

Alleluia! How it rang!

And the sky was bright with a holy light

’Twas the birthday of a King.

’Twas a humble birthplace, but O how much

God gave to us that day,

From the manger bed what a path has led,

What a perfect, holy way.

Refrain

Alleluia! O how the angels sang.

Alleluia! How it rang!

And the sky was bright with a holy light

’Twas the birthday of a King.

W. H. Neidlinger (William Harold), 1863-1924

Sunday's Thought

Used by permission, ChristianQuotes.info

“Since no man is excluded from calling upon God the gate of salvation

 is open to all. There is nothing else to hinder us from entering,

but our own unbelief.”

– John Calvin

Wednesday's Words

Wednesday's Words is a weekly short thought created to give the Christian midweek encouragement. This week, I want to share something different.

The following video was shared with me- I've enjoyed The Piano Guys over the years and found this video to be really great- Hope you enjoy.

Angels We Have Heard on High - The Piano Guys, Peter Hollens and David A...

Garden Product Review: Ahhh ... Pots

"Ahhh ... Pots"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Looking for a Christmas present for the gardener in your family? Read on-

Being an avid flower gardener, I love finding unique items to use as planters or pots for annuals and perennials each season. I am picky and hard to please as the items need to have an artistic touch and not tacky. A lean toward a natural garden design, maybe even a formal touch is good, but not too formal.

When I met with Renee Clinger of Ahhh ... Pots through LinkedIn.com, I thought I'd found a product that would meet my interests and something unique to add to my yard. Not only was I right, these are fun and practical to use!

"Ahhh ... Pots"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Renee Clinger asked which design I thought would work best with where I plan to use them.  I chose the black and white pots, one is slightly smaller than the other. These would create a great touch to the front entrance to my home.

For one planter, I used Mexican Heather and Red Vinca, for the other, I used a colorful variety of Violas. I bought some planting mix too, to do this up right!

My first thought when I prepared to plant in these pots was how great it is to have something unique, NOT available in stores and not something all the neighbors have.

One of my favorite features of "Ahhh ... Pots" are the handles which allow easy carrying from wherever you pot your plants to the location where you will use them for the season. The larger pots, than the ones I use, have two handles so two people can move the pots.

Ahhh ... Pots are made of very high quality UV protected landscape fabric which is porous allowing air to circulate through the pot creating an oxygen rich environment for healthier plants. These fabric pots are much better than the typical plastic or ceramic ones I've used over the years. No worry about dropping and breaking them or the sunshine eventually causing damage. 

Another important feature is the quality creation of "Ahhh ... Pots."  All of the pots have pieces added to the top, handles and the bottom to make them sturdy and strong.   The seams are re-enforced for stability with the contrasting fabric made for outdoor use.  

I have received many compliments on "Ahhh ... Pots" and am very happy having them on my porch.

"Ahhh ... Pots"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

One word of advice when using these pots, and it's not a fault or flaw of "Ahhh ... Pots," it is a goof I made that I want to share with you.  When you fill the pots with dirt to plant your plants, lift up the pots, and shake them to make the dirt settle further before planting. I didn't do this so when I was ready to move the pot to its location, I found that I needed to add more potting soil.  A goof ball error I know, but I am used to the plastic, resin, or clay pots.

A suggestion to the artist, an excellent option to add to the product would be a clients last name or their initials.

Have a gardener on your Christmas list?  "Ahhh ... Pots" would be a perfect present! Something not everyone will get!  Visit Ahhh ... Pots for a great selection!

Disclaimer: 
I was not paid, compensated, given a Hershey Chocolate Bar, or any other way compensated for this product review. I saw the product, on my own, and inquired. 

Sunday's Thought

Hope... peace.... joy.... happiness... contentment... there doesn't seem to be much of that around these days. Why is that and where is it?

It's certainly not found in the barrage of Black Friday Sales or Cyber Monday deals- those are things that will last as long as they do- which usually isn't that long.

I remember as a young guy buying a product from a commercial on TV. It was one of the $ 9.99 deals where I got several CD's of music for a very low price. The price as a steal, even with the postage and handling.  The CD's  had many of my favorite songs by my favorite groups.

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When the CD's finally came, I was elated and went to play them on my CD player.  Well, the quality was no where near what was advertised and the songs were somehow, not as long as I expected.  The ad was misleading yet it wasn't wrong.

Needless to say, I was disappointed.

Something hit me that day, probably unbeknownst to me at the time, that true fulfillment in life isn't in things or material gain.

Over the years of growing up, compared to today's standards, we didn't really have much.  It was a big deal for a grandparent to give us $5.  A huge deal to get an allowance- especially if you forgot to do a chore that week.  My family taught us that things were things and that's all they were.

Finding true hope... peace.... joy.... happiness... contentment..is found in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Accepting Him as your personal Savior, following Him and Serving Him, finding and following His Will for your life, will lead to true hope... peace... joy.... happiness ... contentment... and so much more than I could ever write about in one post without becoming a really long one.

To know God, please visit, Peace With God.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Thanksgiving begins the time of year when I miss my family.  Not that I don't think of them during the rest of the year, because I do.  Thanksgiving is a time for remembering your blessings, family, food, fun and the memories.

For you who don't know, my family, starting with my mother in 2011, followed by my brother and ending with my father in 2014, after illnesses and an accident, went home to be with Jesus.

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I have to say, how thankful I am that God placed the right people in my life to "fill the void" in many ways.  Though no one can fill my families shoes or replace them or be them, others can become that close to you- that it's like family or very close friends. From a young man with a family, to an older guy and his wife who are now empty nesters- they have made life quite a bit of fun.

I am thankful for my church family which is full of loving people who God sent my way a little more than 3 years ago.  Of course, this family added to the many friends from various churches I added throughout my life that I call "church family."

Most important, I am thankful to God for saving my soul, for loving me, for caring for me, for getting me through the difficult times of life, for giving me life and making it so exciting to live. God has blessed my life over and over with His Presence and Hand on my life.

May God Bless you during this Thanksgiving season.

If you do not know God, and would like to have a personal relationship with Him, please visit Peace With God.

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Wednesday's Words

"Reflections of Fall at Walney Pond"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"Unto thee, O my strength,

will I sing; for God is my 

defense, and the God of

my mercy."

- Psalm 59:17

Sunday's Thought

"Eiffel Tower, Paris France"
(C) Flickr Creative Commons, Rodrigo Paredes

Many prayers for the families of the victims in terrorist attacks which happened in Paris, France a little more than a week ago now. A really sad tragedy, actually sad beyond explanation. I pray the families will find peace through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The Paris terrorist attacks reminded me of the 9/11 attacks in the United States. I was working near Washington D.C. and my wife was working there. I could not go into town to get her, so she had to take a subway out to where I was. In doing so, she had to pass the Pentagon. I was not sure, this more of a reality than ever before, if I would ever see her again.

Many issues and problems came up while she was trying to get to my office. I prayed and prayed and prayed like never before that I would see her again. So, did our family.

After we caught up with each other, got home safely, spent some time together, I realized I missed an important part of what God was doing for me that day- giving me a peace in my being, in my heart. Though I was frantic about whether I saw my wife again, I had peace. A peace that only God can give.

A few weeks after the attacks, I began noticing how strange my co-workers and some friends were acting. Everything was now scary to them. I'm guessing many in Paris, France, are going through this now. One coworker was terrified at the least bit of possibility of something going on.

Not long after 9/11, in 2002, the Washington DC "Beltway Sniper Attacks" which added fear to the community. I noticed once again that people were afraid. Coworkers again were terrified and fearful. So much so, I began to wonder why I didn't have that fear.

I searched, prayed, and thought about this, and discovered these Scriptures-

“Behold, God is my salvation;

I will trust, and will not be afraid;

for the Lord God is my strength and my song,

and he has become my salvation.”

- Isaiah 12:2 [ESV]

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. 

Not as the world gives do I give to you.

Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."

- John 14:27 [ESV]

"The Lord is on my side; I will not fear.

What can man do to me?"

- Psalm 118:6 [ESV]

These Scriptures remind me of God's Peace given to me as a Christian.

Want to learn about God's Peace, Salvation and His Love for You? Please visit, Peace With God.

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Sunday's Thought

This week, I want to do something different.  While I've shared music, videos, poems, and the like from many different sources or artists and musicians, I've not shared someone's blog. After reading several posts, I want to share it with you- encourage you to read through several posts.

First, an introduction to Joey + Rory.  My first time to hear them sing was with the Gaither Homecoming Friends. I don't remember whether it was in concert on on TV.  The duo sings country music and do a beautiful work.  I haven't followed them very much as I'm not into country music but have had great respect for the work they do.

Now, a sadness has come over the family.  I recently learned that Joey has been fighting a battle of cancer and it's a become a huge challenge.

Please follow this link to read about their story- This Life I Live, scenes from one man's extraordinary, ordinary life.

My heart and prayers go out for the family.  I remember loosing my parents due to illness and an accident and my mother-in-law's battle with cancer.  During the time, I often felt God's Presence with me. It was a calming, loving, and comforting Presence.

As I read through Rory's blog, I am constantly amazed and thrilled at his attitude and love for God and his wife.  He has the "peace that passes ALL understanding" that only Christ can give and does in these situations to Believers.

Rory is honoring his wife and taking care of her every need while Joey's sister is there helping.  I admire him for honoring her in that way.  It shows his love for God and her.

Following Christ doesn't mean your life will be without problems, trials, and troubles.  Good grief, how I wish it did so the past 8 years of my life losing my family in a few short years would have been less painful.  But, it doesn't.

Following Christ doesn't mean you will live a beautiful perfect life with everything in order and God to give you what you think you need next in this life.  It doesn't mean you will be materialistically rich, driving a fancy car or living in a nice home- though these things can happen, it just doesn't mean they will.

What does it mean?  It means, when you pass away, leave this earth, you will spent eternity in heaven with God. It means, peace in your heart sometimes way beyond your understanding.  It means, God will be with you through those problems, trials, and troubles- you will never face them a
lone.  It means, a God who loves you more than your understanding. It means a life beyond what you can imagine.

Interested in learning following Christ, please visit, Peace with God.

 

Veterans Day!

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Sunday's Thought

The Newsboys have touched my life over the years, please click the title to view video.

Election Day!

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Don't forget to vote today!  While it may not be a major Presidential election, it is still an important election- an important chance for you to let your choices and opinions known by voting.   Don't let the media or pollsters convince you the election is a done deal - as it's not a done deal until all the votes are counted.

Get out and vote!

Sunday's Thought

Used by Permission, ChristianQuotes

Placing your trust in Him, is a simple as 1 - 2 - 3- 4.  To learn more, please visit Peace with God.

Photographing The Seasons: Light in Walney

"Light in Walney"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Sunday's Thought

My mother was a church organist for many years.  She didn't enjoy it very much as she would get very nervous on Sunday mornings.

My parents had their favorites hymns and Gospel songs over the years.  My mother's was:

Jesus Is All The World To Me

Jesus is all the world to me,

My life, my joy, my all;

He is my strength from day to day

Without Him I would fall.

When I am sad to Him I go;

No other one can cheer me so;

When I am sad He makes me glad:

He’s my Friend.

Jesus is all the world to me,

My Friend in trials sore;

I go to Him for blessings, and He gives them o’er and o’er.

He sends the sunshine and the rain;

He sends the harvest’s golden grain;

Sunshine and rain, harvest of grain,

He’s my Friend.

Jesus is all the world to me,

I want no better Friend;

I trust Him now, I’ll trust Him when

Life’s fleeting days shall end.

Beautiful life with such a Friend,

Beautiful life that has no end;

Eternal life, eternal joy:

He’s my Friend.

Words and Music by Will L. Thompson

Public Domain Hymn

When I got married, this hymn was played in honor of my mother as my bride was brought down the aisle. My mother passed away in 2011, this hymn was one that we sang in her memory at the funeral. 

Though I have played the hymn quite often as a church organist, I didn't pay a whole lot of attention to the words until later in life. As I've been thinking about hymns of the church and topics to write about, this hymn came to mind.  As I went through the words, I quickly learned what a hymn full of truth.  

Jesus is my friend, he brings joy, strength, comfort, peace, friendship, blessings and beauty to my life.  

Having Jesus in your life, as your friend, as your Savior, is as simple as visiting and following the steps at Peace With God!

  

Photographing The Seasons: The Colours of Fall

"The Colours of Fall"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Sunday's Thought

Open your ears. Listen. Is He speaking to you? Is He talking to your heart? Do you hear Him in your mind? Your thinking? No, am not talking about voices or strange voices. Am talking about God.

I wish He would say, "Hey- this is God! I want......" Or, "Hello Allen, this is God, I need your Help....." I've thought it'd be cool if God would use a megaphone to get my attention as it seems that I sometimes miss what He wants me to do. But, then again, not sure my nerves or heart would be able to stand that method of getting my attention- God knows that as He is wise.

Sometimes, He speaks through ideas. I've learned this recently and the hard way. Of course, there were some lessons to learn along the way and His timing is perfect.

I had an idea to pop in my head this past spring concerning some property I own and want to sell. I thought it was a bit crazy. The idea concerned using the property for church work but I couldn't see how the idea would come to fruition- therefore, my human thinking thought I was crazy and went on t sell the property.  And, not to mention the enormous stress I was under at the time.

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The house went on the market in the spring and had an offer within 24 hours.  I though, "alright, my idea was crazy.  The house would not sell if the idea was to come true.

Unfortunately, several things happened and the house went on the market.  It sold before I had time to think much about the idea, though it popped in my head for a few minutes before another buyer came along.

However, that wasn't to work out either.

Being that it is appearing that I've missed the point.  God might be trying to get my attention, maybe He does want the house.  So I made a few phone calls and found some interest.

Very excited about the possibility of God wanting to use the house for His Work, I questioned my real estate agent about taking it off the market as I wanted to fulfill any contractual obligations.

Not too long after, I learned that God needed the house for His Workers.  Apparently someone was praying for a home and someone else was praying with them.  My situation with the property, was God's answer to their prayers.   My heart jumped for joy.  I love being used by God for His Purpose.

A contentment, pure joy, happiness comes with following Christ.  When you get the point He's trying to make to you, it's a blessing beyond words.

Learning more about God and following His plan is the most important decision you will make in your entire life. To learn about God's Gift of eternal life and Salvation, please visit Peace With God.

Wednesday's Words

"Red Blaze!"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"Thanking God today for the peace

which comes from knowing Him."

allen

Sunday's Thought

Used by Permission, "ChristianQuotes"

Spoken by one of my favorite authors, Dr. Charles Stanley, this is a comforting quote.  As a Christian it is a blessing knowing God is right there with you- come what may!

To meet Christ, and learn to follow him through Salvation, by visiting How to Become a Christian.

Wednesday's Words

"Fall's Beginnings"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"If you think God is amazing, incredible, fabulous, awesome, 
and whatever other word you can think of to describe Him, 
you've only touched the surface. 

Hold onto Him, keeping learning about Him, seek His Face, 
a journey you will never regret."

 Allen

Photographing The Seasons: "Backwoods Walney"

"Backwoods Walney"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Sundays Thought

I grew up in a musical household.  My father having studied music in college and received a Music Education degree and my mother was a church organist during the early years of my life, it was a strong part of our family.  My father liked to say that I came into this world while Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture was playing!

As I grew up, I got into music more and more.  I took piano and organ lessons but I played mostly by ear.  At some early young age in my teen years, I became a church organist.

Unfortunately, I didn't study music like I should have, mostly because I had such a strong talent for playing by ear and because I liked to be outside more than anything.  However, I practiced and practiced and practiced for the Worship Services for which I played.  I never went to a Worship Service without doing that and arriving around 30-45 minutes early to practice/prepare.

For some reason, lately, one particular hymn keeps going through my mind. It was necessarily one of my favorites to play on the organ or piano nor was it one that we sang frequently.

Maybe, it's because the news headlines are so dark, full of violence and hate, so much negative that I began thinking, "what's next?" As a Christian, my heart is comforted knowing God is in control, He will take care of me.  Though this doesn't mean I'll be perfect or live a perfectly happy life in a huge house with a white picket fence and a really nice car and all the things that I want in life, it does mean eternal life and peace beyond any understanding man could ever believe he could have.  While the world is falling apart and going crazy, I can know that He is my Savior and rest in His Care.

The hymn which keeps going through my mind is "When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder."  I'll be there!   Here's the lyrics:

Verse:

When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more,

And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;

When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore,

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Refrain:

When the roll is called up yonder,

When the roll is called up yonder,

When the roll is called up yonder,

When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Verse:

On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise, 

And the glory of His resurrection share;

When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies,

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

Verse:

Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun,

Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care;

Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done,

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

When the roll is called up yonder, I will be there.  Will you be?  Here's how you can be sure, Peace With God.

Photographing The Seasons: Walney's Colours

"Walney's Colours"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

Walney Nature Center in Centreville, VA is one of my favorite parks to go for a walk and find beautiful fall colors. 

The nature center has two or three trails which begin near the building and take you through the woods around it.  If you drive south from Walney Nature Center and turn left at the Cabells Mill stone house, there is a trail known as Big Rocky Run which will provide some great opportunities to capture fall color.

The "Big Rocky Run" trail is well used so prepare to photograph above the heads of people who will come around the bend at any moment.  Yes, from experience.

Wednesday's Words

"Red Leaf"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

"The things which are impossible 

with men are possible with God."

- Luke 18:27

Sunday's Thought

The Gospel - God's Plan of Salvation - The Savior Is Waiting - The Whisnants

Sunday's Thought

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A discussion this week about Christianity got me to thinking.  Having grown up in the church and gone to a Christian college, I am familiar with many of the theological terms and questions that people tend to ask.

Many of these questions are truly not answerable as there are many thoughts to the correct answer and, when you get down to it, only Christ would know the correct answer.  Some of the questions can lead to heavy theological debates among the highly educated and I have to wonder if even they would continue to have questions.

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I am not going to mention these questions because I don't want to embarrass the people involved nor cause unwanted attention to them.  I will mention that last night I had the opportunity to discuss these questions with friends that I believe I can ask anything so I did.  Also, he has a talent of being able to explain things so everyone can understand.

Though their answers made sense and I followed what he and my wife said, still I didn't quite get it.  And, I could sit down and talk with my Pastor who would know the answers and be able to discuss it with me until I did get it.

However, I got to thinking. I know, "Uh Oh!"  These questions really don't make any difference whether I know the answer or not, whether I understand it or not.  What matters most is that I have to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Years ago, I asked Jesus to forgive me of my sins and come into my heart- I accepted Him as my personal Savior.  That's what matters.  And, matters most.

Interested in learning more about God's Gift of Salvation?  Please visit, Peace With God.

A hymn comes to mind which says so many things related to my thoughts that I want to share it with you-

For I Know Whom I Have Believeth

 know not why God’s wondrous grace

  To me He hath made known,

Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love

  Redeemed me for His own.

But “I know Whom I have believed

And am persuaded that He is able

To keep that which I’ve committed

  Unto Him against that day.”

I know not how this saving faith

  To me He did impart,

Nor how believing in His word

  Wrought peace within my heart.

I know not how the Spirit moves,

  Convincing men of sin,

Revealing Jesus through the Word,

  Creating faith in Him.

I know not what of good or ill

  May be reserved for me,

Of weary ways or golden days,

  Before His face I see.

I know not when my Lord may come,

  At night or noon-day fair,

Nor if I’ll walk the vale with Him,

  Or “meet Him in the air.”

Lyrics: Daniel Webster Whittle (1840-1901)

Music: James McGranahan (1840-1907)

Public Domain.

I hope and pray that you know Jesus Christ and will accept Him today before it is too late.  A great source for learning more about Salvation is Peace With God.

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Happy Labor Day!

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"Come to Me all you who labor and I will give you rest."

Matthew 11:28  

Find your rest in the Lord

It's been a long hard day and you are tired, 

call upon the Lord and in His arms you will find rest.

When you have done all you can, 

rest in the knowledge that the Lord is still working on your behalf.

You feel unworthy, unloved and lost, 

turn to the Lord and rest in His love.

I've finished the race, my time here is done, 

call me home Lord and let me rest before your throne.

(C) 2015 Kim Kirby, Used by permission

Garden Perspectives - Splashes of Red

"Splashes of Red"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

The fascination of this perennial is the splashes of red in the center of the flower.  Called "Tickseed," it is considered a native plant to the eastern United States.


A few years ago, I added it to my container garden where it grew beautifully. My container garden was a 10 foot by 10 foot area which featured a mix of containers and plants in the ground.  I planted this flower in a large pot to let it spread- a beautiful setting.

Garden Perspectives: Gloriosa Daisy

"Gloriosa Daisy"
(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

The beauty of this flower has always intrigued me.  Something about the yellow and black that keeps my attention.

Sunday's Thought

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This week's " Sunday's Thought" is really written to me. Maybe I will remember this lesson better if I write it out and share.

The Scripture is:

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

and do not lean on your own understanding.

6 In all your ways acknowledge him,

and he will make straight your paths.

- Proverbs 3:5-6

I have just returned from a trip to Alaska, a trip my wife has wanted to do for many years finally came together. Though I was not keen on the idea of going someplace cold for a vacation, she wanted to go and anytime I can spend time with her, cold or hot weather, is wonderful!

During our trip, I learned of a problem I must deal with when I returned. It was a matter of inconvenience more than anything. I've got a bazillion other things to take care of, without having to do this and it will put me further behind in my work.

The first thing I did was pray, "Lord, you know I need this problem to be worked out and taken care of before I get home, so I can focus on other things.  Please take care of this for me." Amen.  Or, something similar. Further, I thought of ways to accomplish what I needed to do.  I should have left it in God's Hands and gone on.

Now, for those who don't know me.  I believe God can do anything He wants, if it's His Will, He does it.  I have no doubt in that, I've learned to believe and have faith.  He will, and has and will forever, take care of all my needs according to His riches.  This does not mean I am perfect or don't make mistakes or anything of that nature because I do- just like anyone else.

I am embarrassed to say, that I didn't want to get up this morning to take care of the issue because I didn't want to start back from vacation frustrated.  I slept in and got up later.  My dog Noah came in several times to wake me too. 

When I did get up, I discovered the problem was taken care of without me having to do anything. God had taken care of what needed to be done so I can do what I need to do.

What I should have done was have faith, trusted God to take care of the problem and gotten up out of bed instead of being lazy!

Faith and trusting in God is a blessing that is indescribable.  I would not want to think about my life without God.  Whether it's todays problem or something much more difficult, I am glad He is in my life and I can "Trust in Him with All my Heart!"   Interested in learning more, please visit, Peace With God.

Sunday's Thought

(C) Allen Pearson, All Rights Reserved

When I was younger, like in my teen years, I was scared to death by the concept or idea that I was supposed to witness my faith in Jesus Christ to the entire world.

NOT because I was ashamed of being a Christian or of the Gospel, but an extreme introvert, pretty much a nerd, a geek. The idea of speaking or chatting with someone about anything on my own initiative just wasn't going to happen.  Starting a conversation and sometimes carrying a conversation just was not something I could do easily about any subject. 

Over the years, as I am no longer young or a teenager, I got into the practice of quietly sharing.

Knowing this, I began trying to determine what I can do about it.  I learned there were and are other ways to witness and to share the Gospel message.  All I can do, is share.

One habit that I have developed over the years is whenever I rent a vehicle is to tune the radio to a local Christian music station. When I turn the vehicle back in, I would make sure to turn the radio on and leave the volume up.  Not loud, just on and up.  Sometimes, I'll program the radio to the station so it doesn't get lost.

Back in February I rented a U-Haul truck to do some moving stuff at my father's house. As my usual practice, I tuned the radio to WGTS 91.9 FM the Christian music station in our area.  Also, it features  humorous personalities which often makes my day brighter. There is the Christian witness aspect to it as well. Often, you'll hear stories about how someone became a Christian or was encouraged or avoided tragedies because of the music and what they heard through the station. It is an amazing force!

Prior to listening to WGTS, I worked at a Christian music station, and before that I studied Mass Communications with an emphasis on broadcast journalism and worked at a Christian station.  My exposure to the power of Christian music is no surprise but is always exciting.

Back to my thought, several weeks after I turned in the U-Haul, I heard a story on the radio of a man who was furious at his wife- enough to leave her.  He got into the van, turned it on and the music of WGTS 91.9 FM came on.  The song playing convicted him of his wrong doing.  He returned the van and went home to reconcile with his wife.  The music from the station, lyrics of the song, were used by God's to keep this man from making a horrible mistake.

I have no idea if this U-Haul van was the one I drove or not.  But, the thought of being an avenue to share the Gospel with someone, is exciting.

Making a decision to follow Christ is the most important decision you will ever make.  He is there for you, for the inviting, the asking- if you'd like to learn more, please visit Peace With God.