Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"Keep your life free from

love of money, and be

content with what you have, for he has said, 

'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"

- Hebrews 13:5

Sunday's Thought!

"A Church in the Country"
(C) 2020, Allen Pearson Photography

Sunday's have always been the day to go to church. It started with my family before I was even born. As a matter of fact, since my father was a Minister of Music and my mother the Church Organist while she was pregnant with me, I like to say I was singing the hymns of the church while waiting to be born. My father being into music sang and played a lot of it around the house too, including playing classical music on albums, cassettes or CDs.

We always had to get ready for church on Sunday morning and head over to the church. I do not remember giving my parents a rough time about going to church though anything could be possible since I was an adventurous young boy. So we went. We went to Sunday School, Worship Service, and during the week, we would go to Wednesday night Youth Group. When the church held revival services, with meetings every night of the week, we were at those too.

Every summer my father would take my brother and me to the church camp meeting. There, we would hear great song evangelists and preachers of the church who would come from all over the country for the week. I loved it because the music and preaching were usually among the best in the church's denomination. Also, it was usually the time when I would see friends who attended church within the state.

There was something about attending church, Wednesday nights, revivals, camp meetings, and other church events that I am possibly forgetting, that was very special. I didn't quite understand it as a young child and probably didn't pay attention as a teenager but it was a unique feeling or like a love which you didn't find anywhere else. I can remember many times, maybe even as often as my Dad took me to church or camp meeting, finding wishing I could stay there forever- because it was like a taste of heaven or what we humans would think heaven will be like.

I remember becoming a Christian at a very early age, like around 6. However, after a few people said a few things about it being a Christian at that age, I rededicated my life to Christ in college. I wanted to be sure I met Jesus in Heaven when I died. No ifs, ands, or buts because I knew that's what God would say on that day of me.

Over the 57 years of my life, I can look back often and see how God has taken care of me in many situations. I wish I could say that my life has been perfect with me making no mistakes, experiencing no tragic or sad events or challenging times, and with me being wealthy.  If I said that, it would be far from the truth. However, I find myself happy and content within my heart and soul which is something only God provides. That is the feeling I found and remember experiencing from camp meetings and church events. He gives it when you ask for it!

How do you find peace, contentment, and happiness for yourself? Visit Peace With God to learn more.

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"And this is the confidence

that we have toward him,

that if we ask anything

according to his will

he hears us."

- 1 John 5:14

Sunday's Thought!

"Flower!"Photo by Riku Lu on Unsplash

ALERT: There’s been activity in your account…

by Adrian Rogers, Love Worth Finding Ministries

"Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works." - Romans 4:6

What does “impute” mean? “To put it on your account,” like a banker or bookkeeper. It’s like making a notation: “This much was deposited in this account.”

At the moment you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, God imputes righteousness to you through His Son. God makes you righteous. He deposits Jesus’ righteousness into your account. Romans 4:8 follows up by saying, “Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.”

An old servant woman finally got saved. She was so happy. But she worked for a man who was mean and cruel, and he hated her happiness in Christ. He tried to ridicule and belittle her. Finally he said to her, “You say you’re saved. Tell me, how does it feel to be saved?” She said, “Well, I don’t believe I can explain it where you can understand it. But here’s what it feels like to me. It feels like I’m standing in Jesus’ shoes and He’s standing in mine.” A theologian couldn’t have said it better.

“For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Thank God that though you are a sinner, He doesn’t impute that to you, and though you are not righteous, He does impute—puts into your account—that to you, the righteousness of the Lord Jesus Christ!

For more from Love Worth Finding and Pastor Adrian Rogers and to learn about salvation, please visit Love Worth Finding - Assurance of Salvation.

For more from Love Worth Finding and Pastor Adrian Rogers, please visit www.lwf.org.

Devotion used by written permission of Love Worth Finding.

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"Being a Christian is more than

just an instantaneous

conversion - it is a daily

process whereby you grow to

be more and more like Christ."

- Billy Graham 

Sunday's Thought!

"Franklin Graham!"
(C) 2020, Bill Graham Evangelist Association

God Rules Over All

By Franklin Graham

The only thing that has spread faster than the coronavirus itself is the fear raging around it. However, in the midst of all this growing hysteria, there are some things we can know.

We can know that whatever we are facing—including a formidable virus—we have a God who has promised to never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Jesus said that He would be with us always (Matthew 28:20). So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear” (Hebrews 13:6).

He is the Good Shepherd who loves us. In the 23rd Psalm, He promises to lead us into green pastures and beside still waters. He is the One who restores our soul. Even though we may go through the valley of the shadow of death, we do not have to fear any evil. Our Lord is with us and is able.

Not only can we know that God is with us, we also can take comfort and find hope that our God rules overall. He is sovereign over every detail of our lives. Not a single sparrow, a single atom or a single germ lies outside of His control. He rules over nations, over kings, over history, over evil, over pandemics. There is nothing outside of His command, and He will use everything for His glory and our good.

Today’s Prayer

Lord, we cling to You. We know that You see us and You are with us. 

Thank You for Your promise to never leave us, especially in these troubling times. 

In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

To learn more about God's Plan of Salvation and repentance, please visit Peace With God!

Devotion used by written permission of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

Garden Perspectives: Bumblebee on a Cosmos Bloom

"Bumblebee on a Cosmos Bloom"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

Please visit my photography work at Allen Pearson Photography and my CafePress store at CafePress - Allen Pearson Photography.

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

“The Lord bless you and keep you; 

the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; 

the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”

 - Numbers 6:24-26 ESV

Today is my beautiful wife's birthday! I am blessed by God to have such an awesome and incredibly amazing woman to spend my life with!  We have shared many good times together and I am looking forward to many more! Happy Birthday, Meg!

Garden Perspectives: Hosta Spiral

"Garden Perspectives: Hosta Spiral"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

The hosta. It's a simple plant. Yet so beautiful. The plants come in many different species which have a variety of textures and colors too. I'm not sure which variety I photographed in this image.

Looking into the foilage with its deep dark spiral almost seems like it's taking me into a journey to the depths of the garden where a beautiful world of nature unseen by humans can be found. Remember "Alice in Wonderland?" Maybe I'm showing my age again. Either way, it's an interesting perspective. I still would like to go down into the hole to see a unique side of God's Creation!

Please visit my photography work at Allen Pearson Photography and my CafePress-Allen Pearson Photography store.

Sunday's Thought!

"Great Smoky Mountains"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

God's Power Transforms Us

by Jack Graham, PowerPoint Ministries

"But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, 

but with God all things are possible.'"

--Matthew 19:26

The Christian faith is a can-do faith! “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” was the apostle Paul’s declaration in Philippians 4:13, and it should be ours as believers as well.

Jesus not only transforms our spirit when He saves us, but He transforms our way of thinking and looking at life.

Of course, there will be times when we’re blue and discouraged, so many are right now. That’s a normal part of being alive. But through it all, God’s Word promises us that we can defeat discouragement through the power and victory that is ours in Jesus Christ!

When you know Christ, all things are possible. No matter what your past has been, what your current state of mind is, or what your current circumstances are, if you will come to Jesus Christ, you can rebuild your life. Don’t let the devil or anybody else tell you that can’t happen to you!

If you’ve never put your faith in Christ alone for salvation, or if you’re not sure about your relationship with Him, I invite you to believe in the One who died on the cross for you. Put your faith in Christ, and receive Him as your Savior. And if you know Him, thank Him for new life and the can-do faith that He has given you!

THANK GOD TODAY THAT HE HAS THE POWER TO TRANSFORM AND REBUILD ANY LIFE.

To learn more about God's Plan for your life, please visit PowerPoint Ministries with Jack Graham, New Life in Christ.

Devotion used by written permission of PowerPoint Ministries with Jack Graham.

Railroad Photography! Horseshoe Curve with Norfolk Southern

"Horseshoe Curve with Norfolk Southern"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

By this time of the year, usually, I have gone to Altoona, Pennsylvania as well as several places throughout Northern and Northwest Virginia and West Virginia to watch trains. This year, I have only been out a few times. With the COVID-19 restrictions and having concerns about being out with my Service Dog, I decided to stay home and watch trains by streaming. That has been fun because I can watch trains around the country without leaving my studio. However, there is nothing like sitting trackside, waiting for trains, and watching a few finally go by.

My wife said she and I are going to head to Altoona, PA, and visit "Horseshoe Curve" to watch trains when it becomes easier and safer to travel... hopefully one day sooner than later.

To make up for lost time and fun, I'm sharing "Railroad Photography! Horseshoe Curve with Norfolk Southern."  As you have time, please visit my photography work at Allen Pearson Photography.

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"In all these things,

we are more than

conquerors through him

who loved us."

- Romans 8:37

Sunday's Thought!

"Stars and Stripes"
Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash

Freedom. We want freedom away from things that hurt us, harm us, or from problems of the day. We seek freedom by buying the latest gadgets or devices, new cars, new houses, the latest clothing designs, obtaining the highest salaries, or attempting to do away with anything and everything which offends us. The list could go on forever. I read this morning of an attempt to do away with the word "Freedom," so certain people will be "free?"

In the U.S., we have freedoms allowed to us by the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and other documents of importance written over the years. If you study history accurately, you'll notice our founding fathers and early leaders did what they thought best to allow all peoples freedom.

Even at that, we aren't truly free. We might think we are but we aren't. The only true freedom is in accepting Jesus Christ as our Saviour and following Him. When you have, you will begin to notice and notice more going forward in life, a profound feeling of freedom for which you have been yearning. Jesus Christ is the only answer to having freedom. You will be free from the haunts of your past, from the sins you have done, and other burdens in your life.  This doesn't mean, as some might claim, that you will have a perfect life without any tragedies, problems, nor will you be wealthy. However, the freedoms in Jesus Christ, as a Christian will help you through whatever comes your way.

If you would like to learn more about Jesus Christ, the Christian life, and God, please visit Peace with God.

Happy Independence Day!

(C) 2020, Allen Pearson Photography

Today as I write this post about Independence Day, a flood of emotions and memories good through my mind.

This year, many places will not be hosting their fireworks celebrations and parties because of fear and hate. Fear that people will get the feared COVID-19 yet protests, riots, and demonstrations against many aspects, including the destruction of statues and public property, of America can continue without concerns. For me, this has been highly offensive because we should be celebrating our freedoms and the independence of our country! Hate doesn't belong in any aspect of this country. Except maybe when it comes to Brussel Sprouts!

I grew up being taught to respect others even if you do not agree with them... respect. A huge word full of great meaning but not taught nearly as much these days. It has been a challenge to maintain those teachings over the years but I have learned quite a bit from others and have been truly missing that these days.

When I was growing up, my mother's family would have a July 4th Family Reunion. Everyone I was related to in "them thar hills of West Virginia" would come down their mountain to go to another mountain for the family picnic. When I was a very young boy, it seemed just like that. Everyone lived on the side of a mountain and some even owned their mountain. That was really cool for me. I was pretty introverted back then, not quite as bad these days but am still not into parties, so I didn't really "enjoy" these reunions that much but I liked the food. Of course, it was always great to see the relatives. What I liked about them was they were who they were and weren't pretentious or fake. My favorite part of the day though was always sitting on the front porch of my grandmother's house waiting for the trains to go by and watching the few fireworks in the distance.

Remember today as you Independence Day, love your and respect your fellow man, don't hate them! Also, remember to thank those people who worked so hard over the years of this country to provide and protect our freedoms and the First Responders who diligently work to care for us when it's needed.

Thank you 

US Armed Forces

and First Responders!

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"He has delivered us from the domain

of darkness and transferred us to the 

kingdom of his beloved Son, 

in whom we have redemption,

the forgiveness of sins."

- Colossians 1:13-14

Sunday's Thought!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"And I will give you a new heart,

and a new spirit I will put within you.

And I will remove the heart of stone

from your flesh and

give you a heart of flesh."

- Ezekiel 36:26

When God saves us and we become a Christian, our hearts are changed. At first, when I heard that from a Christian friend, I remember saying to myself, "easy for you- you're a goody-goody and haven't struggled with what I have so that's nothing for you." While, at the same time thinking, I would love to have a change of heart. 

After I became a Christian, several years down life's road, I began to notice a change within me had taken place. I had changed from a man in the world with a self-centered mindset to the man God wants me to become. To say I was pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. One of the best surprises was my attitude had changed to being more positive and happy.

Becoming a Christian doesn't mean everything is going to be awesomely perfect all the time. There will be times when you think it is and there will be life's events and challenges, just like for everyone else. The difference will be the matters of the heart. For me, I noticed in life's challenges a peace in my heart which was God helping me through them.

To learn more about the God, Jesus, the Bible, God's Plan of Salvation for man, and the Christian life, please visit Peace With God.

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"The Lord is good,

a stronghold in the

day of trouble;

he knows those who

take refuge in him."

- Nahum 1:7

Sunday's Thought!

"Father's Day!"
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Happy Father's Day! Today is a day to remember our fathers. A day to say "thank you," "I love you," and do something special with them. When I was younger, I remember buying dad gifts and cards to celebrate the day.  Later in life, I took him out to dinner or I would grill him a steak dinner with his favorite "fixin's." He loved it! 

When I look back, I am surprised at my feelings about those gifts not being enough for him. He never said that nor did he ever give me any impression which led to these thoughts. As I reflect over the years, I see my father from a different perspective which I didn't notice before. Though, I have to say, that I knew it was there but just never really contemplated it that much.

While growing up with my father, I often saw him as the nerdy guy who took care of his family, loved God, church and classical music, reading, cars, and trains. He took an interest in his boys too. He was always taking us to car shows or even steam train rides. However, he wasn't cool. Far from it. Typical nerd. There was no way my father would give me a "sports" car or even a remotely sporty car for my birthday or for Christmas. He was not going to be wearing those cool sunglasses or the latest styles of clothing.  So to me, at that young age, he did seem to be a nerd. Yet, he was that way because he wanted to support his family and make sure that they had what they needed in life, not necessarily what they wanted. He was happy, content, and maybe even proud in a good way to be doing what he was! Maybe that's why I am not offended when I am labeled or called a nerd.

When I think back, I wish I'd honored him more with "better" gifts. However, it pleased him that we cared to honor him on Father's Day. He was a happy man.

Often people believe that they cannot be good enough, or give God good enough gifts so they will make it to heaven, or that He will love them enough to save them and allow them to go to heaven. It's never been based on gifts you give to God. It's about God's Gift to you, his Son Jesus who He gave so we might have eternal life with Him. 

A great resource to learn more about God's Gift of Salvation to all of us for the asking can be found at, Peace With God.

Garden Perspectives! Skipper and a Sunflower! Happy Summer Solstice!

"Skipper and a Sunflower"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

Happy Summer! My favorite season of the year is finally here! I am wishing it would last forever! The days are longer, the weather, by now, it what it is, warm and hot!

The longest day of the year cannot be long enough or last long enough for me. I love every minute of the season. 

Happy Summer!

Garden Perspectives! A Fuchsia Dahlia!

"Garden Perspectives! A Fuchsia Dahlia!"   
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

Please visit my photography gallery at Allen Pearson Photography!

Wednesday's Word! Encouragement from God's Word

Sunday's Thought!

"Man Praying"
Photo by Jack Sharp on Unsplash

Are You Too Far Gone to be Saved?

By Adrian Rogers, Love Worth Finding Ministries

"… if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that 

God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

A businessman came to my study and said, “Pastor, I need to be saved.”

“Wonderful. Let’s get on our knees.”

He got on his knees with me and prayed: “God, I’m a sinner; I’m lost and I can’t save myself. Jesus, You died to save me. You promised to save me if I would only trust You. I do trust you, Jesus. Now, with all of my heart, forgive my sins and save me.”

Right there, God saved him. It’s so wonderfully simple because the Lord Jesus Christ does it all.

But don’t think for a minute that because salvation is easy, it’s cheap. Jesus died in agony and blood for you to have it.

On one hand, here’s your self‑righteousness, your legalism, “trying to” be saved. On the other, the righteousness of God, which is yours by faith in the Lord Jesus by grace alone through faith alone. “Not by works, lest anyone should boast.” Now, which do you choose?

Self-righteous, good people, do you understand you’re a lost sinner and you, too, must be born again? Sinful people, you may be a murderer or committed some heinous sin, and think God cannot save you. Listen: “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

I promise you on the authority of God’s Word, every stain that ever came across a human soul, Jesus’ blood can cleanse. If you think you’re too sinful to come, you’re wrong. Jesus will save you if you ask Him. “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me; and the one who comes to Me, I will by no means cast out” (John 6:37).

For more from Love Worth Finding and Pastor Adrian Rogers and to learn about salvation, please visit Assurance of Salvation.

For more from Love Worth Finding and Pastor Adrian Rogers, please visit www.lwf.org.

Devotion used by written permission of Love Worth Finding.

Thursday's Throwback! Garden Perspectives! "Summer's Praise!"

"Summer's Praise!"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

A few summers ago, I planted the usual Red Gerber Daisy in a favorite pot and placed it on my deck. A few days, maybe longer, I was greeted with this bright cheery bloom. I think it was thanking and praising God for the rays of sunlight which finally shown through after several days of rain and overcast skies.

Please visit my photography work at Allen Pearson Photography!

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"So whoever knows the

right thing to do and 

fails to do it, 

for him it is sin."

- James 4:17

Garden Perspectives! Dahlia's Swirl of Colors

Garden Perspectives! Dahlia's Swirl of Colors
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

I am sharing this image of a Dahlia in memory of my mother. She was instrumental in my interest in nature, gardening, and photography! She always encouraged me to do my best and helped me to learn the way to accomplish it myself.

Please visit my photography work at Allen Pearson Photography!

Sunday's Thought!

"Protesting!"
(C) Storyblocks, Used by Permission

As the world begins to re-open businesses, churches, and other public places, people are really wanting to get out and do more than sitting around the house and playing in their backyard for way too many hours. Many of us are so excited we can hardly contain it.

However, we are being greeted by protests and rioting in the streets where we live, work, and shop which is causing fear for many people who have to be in the area. It's concerning because people need to go about their business without fear.

While I am not here to take sides or to write my opinion about the protests or riots as it's not my area of writing. However, I will share with those who are afraid, have a sense of fear, and to anyone else curious about having a better life, that Jesus will help you through all this if you ask Him.

First, I need to point out, that asking Jesus into your life and helping through fears doesn't mean you can go into these situations without being concerned or paying attention to what is happening. You should always use common sense for your safety because God gave us a brain to use and does expect us to do so.

However, the fear you may be experiencing during these days doesn't have to grip you and take away your joy of life. It doesn't have to cause you to hide in your closet or wherever and never leave. Fear is not from God and He will help you through it but you have to ask Him to do so.

Living near a few places where the protests happened, I was quite surprised since the area is usually pretty quiet. However, it being the first time I was that close, I found myself, being afraid. It caught me off-guard. Then, I realized it was just Satan trying to destroy my faith and create fear within me. I immediately turned my thoughts to "God is in Control" so I will not be afraid. Before long, within seconds, I began to feel the fear leave and I relaxed.

The media, the world, other people, will tell you that Christians are crazy, don't know what they are talking about, and are behind the times. It's a shame because it's the furthest from the truth. At a time when people need God, they need to be turning to Him and not away.  I have always needed God. I would never want to be without Him or away from Him.

To learn more about God, Jesus, the Bible, and Christian life, please visit Peace With God!

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"You can never learn that

Christ is all you need,

until Christ is all you have."

- Corrie Ten Boom

Sunday's Thought!

"Worn Bible With Notations"
Photo by Madeleine Ragsdale on Unsplash

A few weeks ago, while looking through Facebook reading comments from friends catching up on what everyone is doing these days. While doing so, I came across a post from a friend of mine. His words hit home as something I've been thinking over the past several weeks and sharing on posts as I write. I'd like to share it with you:

"The world is experiencing a very trying time right now with all that is going on with the coronavirus and the resulting collateral damage from the effort to keep it reigned in. People are stressed like they have never been before. If you are one of these people, maybe God is trying to get your attention to turn to Him, for He, through Jesus, is the only true pathway to peace in whatever circumstances we may encounter in this life. This morning as I was re-attaching a chapter marker tab that had fallen off of my Bible, and observing all the worn and discolored pages and ones that are held together with scotch tape I was reminded of a quote from the great evangelical preacher, Charles Spurgeon. "A Bible that is falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn’t." I've lived a lot of years now and I've had my fair share of troubles, but through it all, and because of my relationship with Jesus, I am able to have peace in my life that could come no other way, even in the worst of trials. I hope you can find that too. Run to Jesus. He's always ready and waiting for you. - Bryan Short

Bryan is right. A relationship with Jesus brings a peace that you can find in no other way. No other means.

Jesus is waiting for you to turn to him and become a Christian. It is not a complicated thing to do and it is the best thing you can do for yourself. To learn more, visit Peace With God. 

Throwback Thursdays! Purple Pom Pom!

"Purple Pom Pom!"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

The image "Purple Pom Pom" is a favorite from the very early days of my interest in photography.  I used a FujiFilm point and shoot camera. I wish I could remember the model number as I remember really loving its simplicity and ability to create beautiful images.

I created quite a few beautiful images with the point and shoot. The only reason I decided to upgrade my camera was that I became interested in photographing birds and other wildlife in nature which moves!

This image is a reminder that a good photographer can, and does, create some beautiful work with even the simplest camera.

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"Be self-controlled

and alert.

Your enemy the devil

prowls around like a

roaring lion looking for

someone to devour. 

Resist him, 

standing firm in the faith."

- 1 Peter 5:8-9

Saluting Our Fallen Heroes!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

Today, as you celebrate Memorial Day remember to salute and pay tribute to the fallen heroes who have fallen to provide you the freedoms you enjoy!

Memorial Day is designated to remember the fallen heroes who lost their lives while serving our country, often called "the ultimate sacrifice," when you see an active or retired service member, say "Thank You!" to them.

Sunday's Thought!

"Empty Shelves in Putney"
Photo by John Cameron on Unsplash

A thought which has been going through my mind quite a few times during COVID-19 is "WOW! How quickly people's lives changed in a matter of minutes or hours." People went from having great jobs with an income to having no income, from having plenty of food to having to repeatedly search several stores to find it, from being able to find the simplest item such as toilet paper to having to ask neighbors or friends for a roll or go shopping at odd hours to find it or even order it online, from having a crazy hectic ridiculous schedule to being home all the time not having anything to do because you didn't invest in your family or home time, from confidently being about their business to being scared or frightened about their every move and this list could go on and on.

I can't help but think about the last days of this earth, our world, the universe. Throughout my life, I've been taught in church about the Lord returning for His People, the Christians. Fortunately for me, I had a few great Sunday School teachers, one in particular who did a study on Bible Prophecy where I learned quite about the Lord's Return. While Christians, and definitely not this writer, do not know the day or hour of His Return, we can watch the events of this world and understand that His Coming is getting close.

A key point of importance about the Lord's Return is He will return without warning and quick-

"It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown.

 For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. 

And we who are living will also be transformed." - 1 Corinthians 15:52

The Scripture tells us, it will happen quicker than an instant. We will go from this life to the next. For me, I am excited to be reminded of that and to hold fast onto the Promise. However, if you're not a Christian, it will not be an exciting time. 

As we saw with the pandemic of COVID-19, it caused a panic and shutdown of countries, including the USA, really quickly. I was surprised at how quick it happened. If you think that was quick, the Lord's Return will be much quicker and will not be like COVID-19 where countries and states did what they determined best for their locations. It will be all at once. The time on earth after this will not be fun and it will make the pandemic of COVID-19 look like a "dress rehearsal" at best.

I have never been one to run around saying "The END is near! REPENT!" nor gloom and doom kinda guy. However, I am one to share the Gospel, the Good News of Jesus Christ, and that His Return for Christian may be sooner than we think. 

To learn more about the Gospel and the Good News of Jesus Christ, please visit Peace With God. 

Garden Perspectives! An African Daisy

"An African Daisy" 
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

Please visit my creative photography work at Allen Pearson Photography!

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word!

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"If only we knew what was

happening when we pray,

we would never cease to pray."

- Louie Giglio

Railroad Photography! Freight Cars Rolling, Art of the Freight Car Series!

"Freight Cars Rolling, Art of the Freight Car Series"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been at home watching trains on Railstream and the free YouTube feed locations of Virtual Railfan. While it hasn't completely replaced being by the railroad tracks themselves photographing and videotaping the trains as they roll through town, it has created a great way to watch the trains whenever and wherever I want.

Being tired of some of the restrictions these days, really wanting to go on one of my railfanning day trips with Noah my dog, and wanting to find the time to get out, I went through my images and found a favorite to share with you. 

"Freight Cars Rolling, Art of the Freight Car Series" shares an example of my favorite aspect of railroading and that's watching the freight trains go by.  The image was created while watching Norfolk Southern trains rolling through the town of Nokesville, VA.

Please visit my photography work at Allen Pearson Photography.

Sunday's Thought!

"Splashes of Black-Eyed Susans"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

How should you come to Christ?

by Jack Graham, PowerPoint Ministries

"Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?”

--Acts 8:35-36

As a pastor, I perform wedding ceremonies for couples in all kinds of emotional conditions. I’ve seen couples who cry all the way through the ceremony. There have been times between the wedding party and the couple, we went through an entire box of tissue because they just cried and cried.

I’ve also seen others where there’s no emotion; it’s like a business deal. I’ll ask, “Do you take–“ And with a straight face they look right at each other and give a very simple, “I do.”

But in each of the examples above, who’s more married? The ones with all the emotion, or the ones with none of the emotion? The answer is obvious – they’re all married! What matters is whether or not they made a commitment in their hearts to one another.

Christians love good “come to Jesus” stories that are filled with emotion and drama. But that’s not how it always goes as we see in today’s passage. This man simply knew he had a need, and looked to have it met. So when it comes to placing your faith in Christ, don’t worry if you didn’t have a huge, mountaintop emotive experience. What matters is that you trusted in Him with your heart and now you’re His forever!

DON’T WORRY ABOUT A BIG EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE WHEN YOU COME TO CHRIST. WHAT MATTERS IS THAT YOU’VE GIVEN HIM YOUR HEART.

To learn more about God's Plan for your life, please visit PowerPoint Ministries with Jack Graham, New Life in Christ.

Devotion used by written permission of PowerPoint Ministries with Jack Graham.

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"whoever says he

abides in him ought

to walk in the same

way in which he walked."

- 1 John 2:6

Garden Perspectives! A Strawflower Blooming!

"A Strawflower Blooming!"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

When the spring comes and it's time to plant my annuals, one of the first trips I take is to the garden center which sells the "Strawflower." My favorite, as shown in this image, is the Yellow Strawflower. The variety of flowers bloom in a shade of red and white too.

Please visit Allen Pearson Photography - Garden Perspectives to view my creative work. Also, I have a Cafepress shop at Cafepress - Allen Pearson Photography

Sunday's Thought!

"Mother's Day!"
Photo by Edward Cisneros on Unsplash

Happy Mother's Day to all the mom's in this awesome universe of ours! The role you have in raising your children, to become honest, hard-working, and respectable members of society is the most important job you can have. Though I am not a mother, nor a father for that matter, I have seen or observed the roles of mother's over the years.

Of course, I have one like all of us do. My mother passed away several years ago. As I reflect over the years and thinking of her, I'm very thankful for the mother God gave me. Though I have to admit, there were times over the years of growing up that I got mad at her for this and that. Usually, it was because I was getting into something she knew wasn't a good thing for me to do or I simply had disobeyed her.

My mother taught me manners and respect which would help me be a good citizen in life. She taught me the beauty of nature and gardening as well as started my interest in photography. My enjoyment of watching birds and wildlife is an interest she shared with me too. She knew education was important so she encouraged me to finish school and go to college. I felt like a "mama's boy" when I went to college because I missed her. But, it was because she had become my friend in my adult years.

My mother had a funny sense of humor too. She would laugh at the silliest or most nonsensical thing happening and couldn't stop. It was often contagious to those around her. Or, like my father often did, they would look and wonder what was so funny. I remember one night, not too long after I moved into my first apartment, she called and said she just wanted to say "hi!" So, I replied, "hi!" We laughed for the longest time.

However, though my mother was awesome and did quite a bit for me and I have quite a few great memories of her, there is something she could never give me. She taught me about it. She set quite an awesome example throughout my life, and she was always making sure everything was good and right with me. What I am talking about? Salvation through Jesus Christ.

My mother knew Jesus and her Bible. She played the church organ for many years, sang in the choir and a few duets with my father, taught Sunday School and Youth Group, and prayed for me every day! Although doing those doesn't get you into heaven, they were an example of her faith in Jesus.  She knew that no matter what I did in life if I didn't personally accept Jesus Christ as my Savior, I would not make it to heaven. I remember when I decided to change denominations. I was in my 30's when I decided to do it. Of course, I made sure the teachings were Biblical, she was worried about me and the decision. To be honest, I was very thankful that my mother loved me enough to make sure I was still going to be in heaven when my life was over.

Today with the craziness of COVID-19, it's might be hard to get together with your mother. If it is, please take the time to call her. Not text. But, call. And talk for awhile not just rush through it like it's a chore to be done. You will be glad you did. Most of all, she will love it.

To learn more about Jesus Christ and the Christian life, please visit Peace With God!

Wednesday's Words! Encouragement from God's Word

(C) Allen Pearson Photography

"For we are his

workmanship,

created in Christ Jesus

for good works,

which God prepared

beforehand,

that we should 

walk in them."

- Ephesians 2:10

Sunday's Thought!

"Happy Birthday!"
Photo by Hedi Alija on Unsplash

I celebrate my 57th birthday today. I would say that because of the COVID-19 stuff, I will not get to celebrate but that's would not be accurate. I'm not much on celebrating the day with others, I tend to like to be more private. So my wife and I will not go out to dinner or go anywhere, I like to go railfanning, but we will make up for it later. She watches trains with me and gets to choose her favorite places for dinner.

Over the years, since I do not enjoy birthday parties when I'm the center of attention or part of the month's birthday groups, I've had people say "what aren't you glad you were born?" Or, "what is wrong with you? You don't like parties or cake?" Well, there is nothing wrong with me, I am an introvert who happens to really like it this way. I've tried pushing myself to enjoy those things but in the long run of life, I do not like it and I need to be happiest with who I am.

One of my friends from what seems like a bazillion years ago now, who lived near where I bought my first home, didn't celebrate her birthday but she celebrated the day she became a Christian. To her, and she's definitely right, that was the day that she came alive! She was re-born. She accepted Christ as her Savior and began walking in a new life. I would do that too, except I do not remember the exact date as I was a very young boy and I re-affirmed my beliefs and faith in God in college.

I like to use my birthday, or a day near it, to reflect on my life. Though not always on the exact day, I think about the things I have accomplished, the places I have been, and the people I have met. Are there things that I wish I had done and haven't? And, what could I have done or be doing better? Of course, life isn't perfect and it doesn't always turn out the way you want or intended. However, while I will reflect on those to better myself, I try not to allow myself to focus on those negative things in my life.  Yes, there situations I would like to forget or erase from my life and forget they ever happened. I just learn from them, talk to God about them, and move on.

However, that is one of the awesome aspects of being a Christian. I don't have to hold onto the negative things in life that have happened to me or I have done to someone else. I can repent to God, ask His Forgiveness, and go forward. He takes those things and throws them away. This doesn't mean we aren't responsible for our actions because we are. We still might have to pay for those actions or make good on whatever. However, your life in Christ takes on a whole new meaning and those things disappear.

As I reflect today on my 57 years of this life, I am very thankful that I became a Christian at an early age. God has been part of my life and when I look back over the years, I can see so many times when He guided my steps in a better direction or placed me in places He wanted me to be for many reasons. God has blessed me over the years to have supplied my needs according to His riches. That doesn't mean that I am rich according to world standards as I am not. It does me that He loves me and takes care of me.

To learn more about the Christian life, Jesus. God's Good News, and the Bible, please visit Peace With God!

Garden Perspectives! Yellow Swallowtail at Bloom!

"Yellow Swallowtail at Bloom!"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

Please visit my photography gallery, Garden Perspectives at Allen Pearson Photography! To order products, please visit the Products, Prices, and Services page.

To find products that I offer my images on at your request, please visit CafePress/Allen Pearson Photography.

Garden Perspectives! Bumblebee

"Bumblebee!"
(C) Allen Pearson Photography

Please visit my photography work at Allen Pearson Photography.