For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you…to give you hope in your final outcome. Jeremiah 29:11 God desires to see me flourish in the life God has given me to life. God wants to see me come out of setbacks stronger and wiser. God wants to give me hope in my … Continue reading »
The Bible (by Claudette)
When I was a small child, I remember going upstairs to the attic at my Grandmother’s home and looking at a big Bible perched on a stand. I loved that Bible. It had pretty pictures of flowers and angels. Later in years, I realized that it had important records of my family. It had names, birthdays, and marriages. I added … Continue reading »
A Calm and Quiet Soul (by Gary Roberts)
Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself, like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother’s milk. Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me. Psalm 131:2 Psalm 131 conveys an image of what it’s like to have a calm and quiet soul. David learned not to concern himself with matters … Continue reading »
Feel So Small (by Debrah S. Bernier)
Lord, sometimes I Feel so very small, So insignificant In the theme of it all. I wonder why You created me, And what You want My life to be. Then I realize You love me immensely, And You want me to Be Yours intensely!
Add to the Beauty of the World (by Gary Roberts)
And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east; and there he put the man who he had formed. Out of the ground the Lord God made to grow every that that is pleasant to the sight. Genesis 2:8-9 What a wonderful opportunity each of us have to be able to imitate … Continue reading »
I Am a Gift – You Are a Gift (by Gary Roberts)
Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. John 17:24 I like the thought that Jesus is praying for me. He is praying for our unity … Continue reading »
Peek-a-boo I See You (by Gary Roberts)
When I pour my Spirit upon the house of Israel, I won’t hide my face from them again. This is what the LORD God says. Ezekiel 39:29 When my oldest son was born we used to love playing Peek-a-boo together – I think he was the only one of my children that I did that … Continue reading »
You…(by Debrah S. Bernier)
Lord, You fulfill All of my dreams. You send me light In marvelous beams.You daily hold me Safe in Your arms, Keeping me always From the devil’s harms.You are the One Who forgives me my sin, And changes my life, Beginning within! Dear Friends, Debrah has just published her first book of poetry entitled, “Hand … Continue reading »
I Am Forgiven (by Gary Roberts)
LORD, if you kept a record of our sins, who, O Lord, could ever survive? But you offer forgiveness, that we might learn to fear you. Psalm 130:3-4 After my wife abandoned me and did everything she could to destroy me I had a hard time forgiving her. I wanted her punished for her sin … Continue reading »
My Precious Blessings (by Claudette)
When I drank, I thought I hurt no one but myself. That is so far from the truth. Statistics show that on average, alcoholics effect the lives of eleven other people. Children are innocent victims. I affected my most precious blessings, my daughter and son. My daughter is my pretty little girl. That’s what I call her, although she … Continue reading »
Nail it to the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11:30 Our sinful nature wants us to forget what Jesus has done on our behalf. God sent Jesus to die on the cross so we wouldn’t have to but we seem to forget this from time to time. God doesn’t want us going through … Continue reading »
Rejoice Always (by Gary Roberts)
Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines…yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. Habakkuk 3:17–18 Life is full of challenges and obstacles but we don’t have to let them get us down. There are times when our dreams don’t come … Continue reading »
One Of My Favorite Christmases (by Claudette)
Through the years there has been many Christmas days to remember. My children put so much love and laughter into the holidays. I’ve been blessed with two wonderful children that always make Christmas very special. My sobriety date is in December so at Christmas that first year, I was only two weeks sober. I was already in … Continue reading »
The Blessing of Family (by Gary Roberts)
May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. May Israel have peace! Psalm 12:6 Psalm 128 celebrates the blessing of family with the final verse adding this wish – may you live to enjoy your grandchildren or may you see your children’s children. My mom lived long enough to see her first great grand child – … Continue reading »
My Friend (by Debrah S. Bernier)
You are my friend Given to me by God. At first you were a little strange And, I must say, a little odd. As I grew to know you more, I believe you read my mind, You finished all my sentences And treated me, oh, so kind. Now that we have grown, I really love … Continue reading »
Put on Your Workout Clothes (by Gary Roberts)
Knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:3–4 There are many things that keep us from taking action to change the world around us. One is the overwhelming scope. I can’t possibly solve all the world’s … Continue reading »
General Mom (by Gary Roberts)
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty … Continue reading »
Jesus Watches Over Us (by Claudette)
I didn’t drink in high school. At the time I didn’t realize what a miracle had unfolded in my life. I was far too distraught to realize how Jesus had stepped in to save me. I was only a teenager. As a teenager I had a great deal of faith in God. I had grown up … Continue reading »
Bring God Glory – By What I Think – What I Do – What I Say (by Gary Roberts)
Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the LORD protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good. Psalm 127:1 I like what the psalmist wrote that unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the LORD protects a city, … Continue reading »
You Are So Good (by Debrah S. Bernier)
God You are so good. You give us Your grace And also Your mercy, You shine upon my face. Hopefully, when people look at me They see You shining through, As I serve Your people And try to be more like You. Your goodness is forever, It will never pass me by Because I belong … Continue reading »
A New Heart (by Gary Roberts)
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. I will remove your stony heart from your body and replace it with a living one. Ezekiel 36:26 Having a new heart is a new way of being on the inside. It means that we think, feel and choose differently based … Continue reading »
When… (by Debrah S. Bernier)
When you’re in trouble With no where to run, Run into Jesus’ arms- The arms of God’s only Son. When you don’t know The answers that you need, Talk it over with Jesus Then what He says, heed. When times are better And the problems are through, Don’t be like the lepers And not tell … Continue reading »
Wants To Get Sober (by Claudette)
I visited my favorite bar on a regular basis. I said I went to that particular bar because it had a dance floor and I only go to dance. I don’t recall ever being on the dance floor. It was a long bar with plenty of stools. Of course you would never know it by … Continue reading »
Got the Blues? (by Gary Roberts)
My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 It’s one of those days in which in would be easy to get the blues – it’s a dark old rainy day. The blues are those times in life when our day to day tasks seem to … Continue reading »
God Will Keep You (by Debrah S. Bernier)
I pray your God will keep you Between His loving hands. Helping you through the wilderness And the other foreign lands. I pray that He will bless you Filling your life with His joy, And you won’t contain the excitement Like that of a child with a new toy. I pray that you’ll be content, … Continue reading »
Let God (by Claudette)
Oh how often we tell people to let God handle it. We say don’t worry just give it to God. Many times we say let go and let God. Isn’t it easy to say? We know it’s what others need to do regarding situations and people in their lives. We know Jesus is waiting to help … Continue reading »
A Good Work (by Gary Roberts)
He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 Paul reminds us that God will do a good work in us and stay with that good work within us until life on planet earth is no more. Sometimes when God is doing … Continue reading »
I Wonder Why (by Debrah S. Bernier)
My Lord, I wonder why I had to suffer in this life, While growing, trying to understand Why I had no peace but strife. I wonder why the people said, The things that hurt so much Why their comments were So mean and cruel and such. I guess that what was, was meant Only for … Continue reading »
A Spiritual Program For All (by Claudette)
We who have been in a twelve step program are so fortunate. When we take the necessary action and work the program, a beautiful life unfolds all around us. Life takes on a new dimension. Nature becomes more wondrous than ever before and we see the world through new eyes. Family and friends become easier to understand. They don’t … Continue reading »
I Know the One I Trust (by Gary Roberts)
I know the One in whom I trust, and I am sure that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until the day of His return. 2 Timothy 1:12 When I have laid all things at the feet Jesus Then the peace that passes all understanding rules in my heart When … Continue reading »
I Am Surrounded by God (by Gary Roberts)
Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, both now and forever. Psalm 125:2 Growing up I loved going to see cowboy movies – I can hear it now – the guys in white hats telling the guys in black hate – You’re surrounded! Every time I hear that phrase it … Continue reading »
Simplify (by Gary Roberts)
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Matthew 6:27 Since my devastating divorce that knocked the life out of me I’ve learned the joy of simplifying my life and I’ve become so much more at peace and filled with joy and hope. When I look over my life I … Continue reading »
Lord God Almighty (by Debrah S. Bernier)
You are Lord God Almighty And Your banner we raise, We celebrate Your goodness On each of all our days. You are ever faithful God Of Your faithfulness we sing. We lift Your name with song, You’re faithful in everything. You are our loving God You loved us while sinners still. This love is unconditional … Continue reading »
Another Of God’s Miracles (by Claudette)
Many miracles happen every day. We all have heard people talk of the miracles Jesus performed in the Bible. How many times have we heard people say, “Miracles were in the Bible days, not in these days.” When was the last time we heard of people talking of Jesus’ miracles of today? How often do we hear people say he or she is lucky? Another thing we … Continue reading »
Be the One God Called You to Be (by Gary Roberts)
The Lord delights in the way of the man whose steps He has made firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand. Psalm 37:23-24 A friend passed on to me a story about animals that started a school. The school had classes in swimming, flying and running. … Continue reading »
Love Is A Choice (by Debrah S. Bernier)
Love is a choice Not always a feeling. It doesn’t always make Your heart hit the ceiling. It will warm your heart When you give it away, But if you just keep it Well, that’s not God’s way. He wants us to share With all that we can. His kindness and love Is for each … Continue reading »
Lord God Almighty (by Debrah S. Bernier)
You are Lord God Almighty And Your banner we raise, We celebrate Your goodness On each of all our days. You are ever faithful God Of Your faithfulness we sing. We lift Your name with song, You’re faithful in everything. You are our loving God You loved us while sinners still. This love is unconditional … Continue reading »
A Season of Difficulty (by Gary Roberts)
When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in. Psalm 112:4I don’t know anyone who enjoys going through a difficult season but most everyone I know enjoys it when it’s gone through. I have a friend I’ve known since before we were in Boy Scouts together who’s going through some amazing cancer treatments but … Continue reading »
Life Brand New (by Debrah S. Bernier)
Lord, You have given me A life brand new. I received it when I Put my trust in You. My new life is wonderful It gives me peace, That I didn’t know Would never, ever cease. So Lord, I thank You For changing my life, Giving me joy and compassion Instead of burdens and strife!
God Is Good – Good Is Great (by Gary Roberts)
Our help is from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 124:8 I remember these stirring words whenever I am in need of encouragement. This psalm begins with the question: What if the LORD had not been on our side? And of course our answer would be: We’d be a complete mess, utterly without … Continue reading »
Show It (by Claudette)
How often have we said we are grateful? I hear that all the time from people. It’s a wonderful thing to hear, but are we? I honestly feel grateful for my many blessings, but where does it go from there? We look at our many gifts. We see our beautiful children and grand children and we know how … Continue reading »
Keep On Looking to the Lord (by Gary Roberts)
We keep looking to the LORD our God for his mercy, just as servants keep their eyes on their master, as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal. Psalm 123:2 I met a friend for lunch and discovered I was surrounded by mother’s with babies – there were two couples at tables … Continue reading »
God Is On My Side (by Gary Roberts)
And David said to his son Solomon, ‘Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God — my God — will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house … Continue reading »
Your Ways (by Debrah S. Bernier)
Show me Your ways, Lord, Help me to become more like You. For going my way alone Just simply will not do. I want to serve You, Lord, Please come and take my hand. For without You, there’s nothing, But a life so very bland. I owe all I am to You Let me never … Continue reading »
Priorities (by Claudette)
What are your priorities? Do they often change? Mine change from day to day. I consider that normal. Unfortunately we alcoholics must be very careful. We must have God first. We must put our sobriety second only to God in order to stay sober. If we change the priority of sobriety, then we could lose everything including … Continue reading »
Be Transformed (by Gary Roberts)
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2 My greatest desire is to live a life that will bring glory to God and joy to others – living a … Continue reading »
All (by Debrah S. Bernier)
All of my hope is in You, Lord, Without You I have none. For You are God in heaven, The Holy Spirit and the Son. All of my love is due You, Lord For You alone are love. You wrap it gently ’round us Poured out from heaven above. All of my peace is in … Continue reading »
Do Not Be Afraid (by Gary Roberts)
But when Jesus heard it, He answered him, saying, ‘Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well’. Luke 8:50 A man came to Jesus and told him that his little daughter is very sick. That she is close to death. Jesus will You come to my home and pray for her? … Continue reading »
Where Are You? (by Debrah S. Bernier)
Lord, where are You? In times when I cry And I hurt so much inside, Have You ever said good bye? Lord, where are You? When someone’s done me wrong And spoken falsely about me, Are You right where You belong? Lord, I know You are here Even when I don’t feel You You are … Continue reading »
Only Believe (by Gary Roberts)
And what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe. Ephesians 1:19 Paul prayed that the followers of Jesus would understand the exceeding greatness of God’s power for those who believe. Paul tells us that this power is only activated when we believe. That means right now the Creator of the universe … Continue reading »
Looking For An Exit (by Claudette)
So often when we are new in AA, we are looking for an open door or window to escape. The horror of change or not drinking is overwhelming. We are too impatient to give sobriety a chance. What do we have to lose? We didn’t get to AA overnight, and we don’t get sober overnight. … Continue reading »
Changed (by Debrah S. Bernier)
Lord, how I love To hear Your name. Since I’ve accepted You I have never been the same. For You changed my heart- Turned it from stone to flesh, Took away my old attitudes And made them new and fresh. You made me something precious Out of nothing very good, And helped me to become … Continue reading »
Surrendering Completely to the Spirit of God (by Gary Roberts)
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. Psalm 42:1-2 God’s splendor beckons us to be in God’s presence as we seek God’s glory. As we seek God’s glory our heart’s desire … Continue reading »
My Help Comes (by Gary Roberts)
I look up to the mountains – does my help come from there? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth! Psalm 121:1-2 Growing up in the church I always thought that looking up to the hills would be a pleasant experience – I longed to see the mountains. I thought of … Continue reading »
Reach Out To God (by Debrah S. Bernier)
Grab ahold of Jesus Whenever you are in a storm. He will give you His peace During problems in any form. Just reach out And touch His garment’s hem, Then your hurt will be healed- Never will He condemn. Now, if you believe That these things, He will do, Let not your heart be troubled, … Continue reading »
God Made (by Debrah S. Bernier)
God made the beauty of the oceans, And the fragrance of the sea. When He made them He spoke That is how they came to be. He made the lovely flowers bloom, And made the birds to fly. He made the baby chick yellow And made children to ask “Why?”. God knew what He was … Continue reading »
Going To Any Lengths (by Claudette)
One of the first questions my sponsor asked me, when I asked her to be my sponsor was,”Are you willing to go to any lengths for your sobriety?” I quickly answered, “Yes.” Little did I know what that question really meant. If I had only known, I would have said,”No!” Going to any lengths can mean many things. Usually going … Continue reading »
Old Hatreds (by Gary Roberts)
The LORD God proclaims: When the Philistines set out to right the wrongs done to them, they enacted revenge with utter contempt and old hatreds. Ezekiel 25:15 The Lord reveals to Israel’s neighbors that God will judge them for their bad attitudes toward and mistreatment of God’s people. After speaking of the Ammonites, the Moabites … Continue reading »
Helping Hand (by Debrah S. Bernier)
The Lord won’t give you More than you can stand. Just call upon His name, He offers you a helping hand. He will bring you Through the mighty flood. He paid our way out With His oh, so precious, blood. So when you feel overwhelmed, Thinking you can’t go on- Just trust in Him- Your … Continue reading »
Envy Keeps the Joy Away (by Gary Roberts)
Love does not envy, is not boastful, is not conceited. 1 Corinthians 13:4 I remember as a kid playing King of the Hill in a field near my home that had mounds of dirt piled up from a construction site. The game goes like this – there’s only room for one guy at the top … Continue reading »
Encourage A New Thing (by Gary Roberts)
See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19  Change is one of the most difficult things for me and I’m sure for most people to face – but the fact is … Continue reading »
He Is There (by Debrah S. Bernier)
When the day is lonely And, oh, so very long I’ll gladly praise Your name And join the angels in their song. Your praise shall be In the depths of my heart, And, therefore spill forth Then, from my mouth, depart. Yes, when the day’s lonely Always remember He’s there, To love and to guide … Continue reading »
All of Creation Proclaims the Hope of God (by Gary Roberts)
If God cares so wonderfully for flowers – won’t He more surely care for you? Matthew 6:30 Lovely flowering trees and plants show us God’s faithfulness Look at the birds – Your heavenly father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to Him than they are. Matthew 6:26 The birds that sing tell of … Continue reading »
Your Spirit Is…(by Debrah S. Bernier)
Your Spirit’s alive within me Due to Your glorious grace, And also because of Your mercy Which shines on my humble face. Your Spirit’s working within me For I have changed due to You, I pray that the changes continue ‘Til, with Your plans, I am through. Your Spirit is comforting me And helping me … Continue reading »
Life Enriched by the Word of God (by Gary Roberts)
I will never forget your commandments, for by them you give me life. Psalm 119:93 When I was an associate pastor in Indianapolis I started a Wednesday morning men’s breakfast study group – the senior pastor doubted that it would go – meeting so early in the middle of the week but we had about … Continue reading »
Like a Tree (by Gary Roberts)
He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper. Psalm 1:3 I have always loved trees – I could live in a forest so I plant trees – I guess I always … Continue reading »
Inspiration (by Debrah S. Bernier)
I know You’ve covered Me and my sins. I know against the devil You’re the One who wins. You are the only wise King Who knows right from wrong, And You’re the inspiration For many a poem and song. You are my inspiration To do the things I do. The good things, the kind things … Continue reading »
Jesus Speaks (by Claudette)
Jesus has always taken care of me. All my life I have been blessed. Sobriety is a beautiful blessing. I turned away from God but he never turned away from me. I have often wished I had a magic wand to give all alcoholics and addicts in the world the miracle of sobriety. When we find sobriety, a new world opens … Continue reading »
Who Do You Choose? (by Gary Roberts)
Mark 15:6-15 Barabbas or Jesus who would you choose? This choice by the crowd is a central choice in the gospel story. One man wanted change to happen politically while the other wanted change to happen spiritually. One man called the people to outer change while the other man called people to inner change. Barabbas … Continue reading »
As I Walk (by Debrah S. Bernier)
As I walk slowly Along Your path, There are times of pain And joy that makes me laugh. There are times of love And times of sorrow, It’s then You give me strength To get me to tomorrow. But walking Your way, The way that You lead, Is much better still When Your words I … Continue reading »
Which One? (by Claudette)
Through the years I’ve been a party to the starting of many new meetings. My late husband was a contract engineer, which meant a year here then six months somewhere else. We moved many times. Each time we were starting meetings. We were like God’s gardeners planting seeds of AA everywhere. It was a wonderful life, exciting … Continue reading »
Three Things (by Gary Roberts)
Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10 Have you noticed that most times it’s not the big events in life or the big breaks that get us where we need to be but it’s the little things. I’ve found that it‘s … Continue reading »
If It’s Going to Be It Is Up to Me (by Gary Roberts)
And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ 2 Corinthians 12:9 We have had a mild winter and a record setting warm spring – we go through seasons that are unexpected just as we find that in life there are times of difficulty and … Continue reading »
The Disease (by Claudette)
Through the years I have realized how blessed I am. Although I was told I was under arrest more than once, I was never actually arrested. The police were always kind to me. Once there was a bench warrant out on me and I still didn’t get arrested. I would have been so terrorized I … Continue reading »
Without the Resurrection (by Gary Roberts)
But the angel said, “Don’t be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid his body.” Mark 16:6 Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed! So as a follower of Jesus proclaim as Christians have proclaimed for … Continue reading »
Resurrection Power (by Gary Roberts)
He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Each morning I awaken I have a reason to celebrate because I serve a God who is alive and filled with resurrection power. Not only did God resurrect Jesus from the dead but God wants to extend that same resurrection power to every … Continue reading »
The Fourteenth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council, had not agreed to their plan and action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea, and he was waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. … Continue reading »
Easter (by D.A. Cobb)
Her name is Easter. I knew of her by reading the book Scars and Stripes[1], a family biography written by her son, a gifted writer and pastor. It is the story of a family’s struggle in the rugged coal mining sections of Kentucky and West Virginia and their survival from the hands of an alcoholic … Continue reading »
The Thirteenth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun’s light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last. … Continue reading »
The Twelfth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
Meanwhile, standing near the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, “Woman, here is your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Here is your … Continue reading »
The Eleventh Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we … Continue reading »
The Tenth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots to divide his clothing. When the centurion saw what … Continue reading »
The Ninth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. B ut Jesus turned to them and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will … Continue reading »
Streetlight, Burn Bright (by Yoli Worth)
When you are too cold, standing naked Take my clothes And never feel exposed to judgmental eyes They don’t understand Yet When you are too weak to eat Come closer dear In my hand is a bowl and spoon Let me feed you Love When you are too afraid to cry I draw next to … Continue reading »
The Eighth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. Luke 23:26 What a shock this must have been for Simon. After traveling almost a thousand miles from Cyrene in northern Africa to … Continue reading »
The Seventh Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
After mocking him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him. Mark 15:20 Jesus had said this would happen. For some time He had predicted His suffering and death. The first time came right after Peter confessed Him to be the … Continue reading »
The Sixth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
Now the men who were holding Jesus began to mock him and beat him; they also blindfolded him and kept asking him, “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” They kept heaping many other insults on him. Luke 22:63-65 And the soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they … Continue reading »
The Fifth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for … Continue reading »
The Fourth Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest’s house. But Peter was following at a distance. W hen they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. Then a servant-girl, seeing him in the firelight, stared at him and … Continue reading »
Beyond Your Wildest Expectations (by Claudette)
When I first started my amazing journey in Alcoholic’s Anonymous, I was told if I stayed in the program, things would happen that were beyond my wildest expectations. This statement is so true. It’s impossible to know the unique and wonderful things that will happen if you stay sober and work the twelve steps. I’ve had … Continue reading »
The Third Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, gathered together, and they brought him to their council. They said, “If you are the Messiah, tell us.” He replied, “If I tell you, you will not believe; and if I question you, you will not answer. But from … Continue reading »
The Second Station of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; but Jesus said to him, “Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?” Luke 22:47-48 In Jesus‘ day a kiss was a … Continue reading »
God’s Helpers (by Claudette)
When we are drinking we tend to dislike police. They always seemed to show up at inconvenient times. After all these years of sobriety, I still feel a twinge of fear when I see a police officer or car. When I look back I realize there were times I was blessed that the police did their job. Although they were not welcome at the time, they probably saved … Continue reading »
The First Station of the Cross (Gary Roberts)
He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. When he reached the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not come into the time of trial.” Then he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed, “Father, if you … Continue reading »
The Stations of the Cross (by Gary Roberts)
He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. Mark 8:34 I love the Stations of the Cross – it makes the last days of Jesus life so real. I love looking at and … Continue reading »
Recycled Press
Dear friends, A friend of mine, Ricky Maye, has started a publishing company called Recycled Press. If you have been working on a book or if you would like to contribute to a community book that we are working on called Ordinary Weaklings check out www.recycledpress.com. May the Lord bless you all richly today, Len … Continue reading »
Extreme Measures (by Claudette)
Twelve-step work is simply carrying the message of the program to another alcoholic. You can do it many ways. We try to be nice but some times our feelings over take our brain. We do or say things and shock ourselves as well as the person we are trying to help. I believe when I use extreme measures those actions are … Continue reading »
Why I Worship (by Gary Roberts)
For he loves us with unfailing love; the LORD’s faithfulness endures forever. Psalm 117:2 Every now and then I need a basic reminder of why I worship God. Psalm 117 brings me back to the center of worship. Why should I praise the Lord? Because God’s love for me is unfailing and God’s faithfulness never … Continue reading »
God Gives Us Everything We Need (by Claudette)
When you work the 12 steps of AA, you learn that God will take care of all your needs. It doesn’t matter what it is, you just know God will take care of you. I had about seven years of sobriety when this mini-miracle happened. I was in severe pain. After seeing several doctors I was … Continue reading »
Seize My Heart Lord (by Gary Roberts)
So I’ll seize the hearts of the house of Israel, whose idols have made them all strangers to me. Ezekiel 14:5 Ezekiel 14 begins with a revelation to the prophet concerning the elders of Israel. They have chosen to set up idols rather than to worship God and God alone. Their hearts wandered away from … Continue reading »
