The current war situation in the US even affects us over here. One of our best friends, besides having been with the IMB for long time, is in the Army reserves. Well, he was called up for a special assignment. We are all praying that it only lasts as long as they said – thru the summer. Dr. Col. West or is that Col. Dr. West . . . . we will miss you and you lovely wife. Hurry back!
We found out Saturday that our oldest child and favorite daughter is going to be married! 
Details are still sketchy but you know that we will share them as they are available. Here is the happy couple –
Paige and Chris – CONGRATULATIONS ! ! !
Last summer while we were in the US one of the items on my “Things to buy while in the USA” list was a new, small, Bible. One of those that you can put into a jacket pocket or a backpack without adding too much weight or bulk. I had decided to also make it a new (to me) translation, the ESV – English Version Bible. I have really enjoyed it.
Today I was sent to a website where a pastor explains why he switched. In the article he presents a pretty good checklist for anyone who gives serious thought about which translation(s) they are using. Check it out!
Mars Hill Church and the ESV Bible
what you might see in this city. It’s pretty hard to surprise me anymore.
Today while I was riding my scooter and was stopped at a red light, I looked over and saw this guy with his best friend out for a ride.
There he was, the family pet with his head poking out of a shoulder bag.
As I was adding The Christmas Train
A couple of books before The Christmas Train were the first and second in the long Kinsey Millhone series by Sue Grafton. The first was A Is For Alibi
I haven’t had a lot of time for reading lately but did manage to finish off one I started during the Christmas holidays. It was another by one of my favorite authors, David Baldacci. Although its title is The Christmas Train
For the pic-a-day post (sorry I’ve been a slacker lately) I wanted to show at least a couple of things. First, the guy getting on the bicycle is the postman. Many deliver on motorcycles (not scooters) and bicycles in the downtown area. Second, this shot shows the newly completed sidewalk. I felt I owed ya this one since I had posted a few in progress shots.
As I read through Mark 6:7-13 this morning, I wondered why Jesus told his disciples to take only a staff along on their journey. I used my trusted bible program and looked up the word “staff.” In both the OT and NT the word “staff” and “rod” are closely related. It is used in a variety of ways: to aid the lame to walk; to assist climbing rough terrain; as a weapon for protection; it was a symbol of discipline for a shepherd; used as a measuring rod to count the sheep in a fold; and often used as a symbol of authority – it was often used as proof of ownership: the owner’s name would be engraved on it, or their signature seal was attached for proof of rank of office, etc.
I love these word pictures! In Mark 6:7, Jesus sent his disciples out in pairs to do a “specific” task. As he sent them out he gave them His authority. I am reminded that God doesn’t send us out without “His authority” – he gives each of us His power of authority to fulfill specific tasks. He doesn’t send us out without “His Protection” – he goes before us and is our rear-guard wherever we go. He doesn’t send us out without “His Helper” – He has give us his Holy Spirit to prop us up and to enable us to face even the toughest of assignments. He doesn’t send us out without “His measuring rod” of discernment as we ask, “Is Jesus Christ your Lord and Saviour?” Only those that respond to the gospel can be counted among God’s kingdom as they pass under the measuring rod of His sheep-fold.
