He is Risen!

He is Risen! Happy Easter!  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gGa1w_bnvM&list=RD4iPIi7sunEU&index=5

Or search YouTube for

David Phelps, Gaither Vocal Band - He's Alive

Take care with love, especially His, your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene

The Cross

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyGcjS8cbyo

Or search YouTube for Ann Murray

The Old Rugged Cross

"For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also receive, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures."  I Corinthians 15:3-4

"For the Word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God.  For it is written, 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the cleverness of the clever I will set aside.' 

“Where is the wise man?  Where is the scribe?  Where is the debater of this age?  Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?  For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 

“For indeed Jews ask for signs, and Greeks search for wisdom' but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness, but those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.  Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men."  I Corinthians 1:18-25 

The Cross

"It rests on the timeline of history like a compelling diamond.

Its tragedy summons all sufferers.

Its absurdity attracts all cynics.

Its hope lures all searchers.

History has idolised and despised it,

gold plated and burned it,

worn and trashed it.

History has done everything but - ignore it.

"How could you?

How could you ignore such a piece of lumber?

Suspended on its beams is the greatest claim in history.

A crucified carpenter claiming to be God on earth.

Divine.  Eternal.

The death-slayer.

Never has timber been regarded so sacred.

"No wonder the apostle Paul called the cross event the core of the Gospel.

Its bottom line is sobering:

if the account is true, it is history's hinge.

Period.

If not, the cross is history's hoax.

"As you ponder Christ on the cross, what are your thoughts?  Perhaps it's been a while since you looked at the cross.  Perhaps you never have.

May I urge you to do so?  Look long and hard and pray that it triggers a turning of your heart until you stand face to feet with the One who claimed to save your soul."  From Max Lucado, The Cross

"And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain - for He says, 'At the acceptable time I listened to you, and on the day of salvation I helped you', behold, now is 'the acceptable time,' behold, now is 'the day of salvation'"  I Corinthians 6:1-2

For those of you on the other side of the world, this will be the quiet Saturday after Christ had been crucified.  It is also the day when my Mom, who loved the song “The Old Rugged Cross”, passed into the loving and forgiving arms of her Saviour.  I offer this song in her memory and thank the Lord in a personal way for reaching her heart.

The Lenten Fast ended on Thursday.  I hope you found the time of growing intimacy with your Saviour precious and that it renewed your resolve in Christ.  Watch for tomorrow’s WeakDay Devotion.  Finally, I hope you have made the time to watch the new Jesus film I sent earlier this week.    

Take care with love, especially His, your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene

PS:  My statement of faith is on the blog:  Especially His Love.  Cut and paste this link in your Web browser:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/  and if you wish to find the WeakDay Devotion online if you missed one of the instalments of this series, just do a Google Search for “WeakDay Devotion”.  (You can even read it on your phone that way or install the Google Blogger App from their app store.)

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

• ·        Russian Mall Fire - 64 people confirmed dead as a fire broke out in a mall.  The exits to escape the fire were blocked.  Pray for the families who lost loved ones and for parents still searching for their children.  Pray this will open the hearts of Russians.
• ·        RN – Please pray for his healing and grace as he deals with the recurrence of cancer.
• ·        Kathleen – a street person, who is so lost.  Pray someone comes to help her.
• ·        Jen – a very special woman who has been battling a debilitating infection.  Please pray for her strengthening health and a return of her energy.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - Please pray for God's will and that a hunger for God’s Word grows relentlessly within the hearts of all those in this neighbourhood and for all who attend.  Pray for strength, wisdom and healing rest, especially at this holiday time, for those who serve there:  Simon Flinders, Pat O'Keeffe, Kathy Notley, Anne Penny and their families.
• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) –continue to serve the Lord with faithful gladness and grace.  Pray his radio outreach program serves the Lord powerfully.  Please pray for a solution for her home care and for now pray for strength as Audley cares for his beloved wife.
• ·        Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas.  Please pray for him (he continues to teach), his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many ways.  Give her strength, thriving health, balance, wisdom, protection and the right handling of God's Word.
• ·        Jo and Steve - for opening their hearts to some lovely visitors from Poland, for their NZ ministries and for reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters.
• ·        Stu and Jo and children, Laura and Jason - the entire family is involved in full-time ministry in NZ and may also help with the visitors from Poland.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute.
• ·        Elaine and Jim -sharing Christ in Hong Kong as difficult changes begin in the politics of the country.  Their wonderful online church has a 24/7 prayer room where a small army of dedicated prayer warriors waits to pray for and with you: https://tlcwhk.com/prayer-room/
• ·        Please pray for JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
• ·        Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
• ·        The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

==== Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines

• ·        ISIS has established a growing beachhead in the Philippines.  Our friends and tireless servants of the Lord, Isaias and Judith, need your prayers.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance for their lives and good health.  This ministry gives so much to so many for so little.  To learn more:  http://www.afciworld.org  (Look for "Nations" then click:  "Philippines").

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• ·        USA President Donald Trump - If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now!  No matter whom you voted for or wanted as President, it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at how much antagonism there is against him – surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan through this man.  Pray someone helps him understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and that he will have someone to regularly disciple him.
• ·        New Guinea – There many strong earthquakes (of 6 to7.5 magnitude) recently in this poorest of the poor countries.  Thousands are affected and 67 have been discovered dead so far.  Please pray for those now recovering and offering aid and shelter.
• ·        North Korea – Sabre rattling and posturing to win favour continues.  Pray for sound thinking and God’s will in this situation and wisdom and patience on all sides.
• ·        The World - Pray for God's will to prevail as unrest around the globe increases and that our Father will bring comfort and calm to His children, wherever they are – and that they will be ready to give an answer for the HOPE within them!
• ·        That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who read these devotions.  That His mighty works will be worked out in each life for His purposes and glory in surprising and wonderful ways!
• ·        For Christ-centred, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.
• ·        Pray for the growing number of homeless and displaced people from greed, wars and famine around the world.  These refugees need compassion.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        Sergio – has found a new career where he is respected for his skill, talents and wisdom with people.
• ·        Jeff Westergren –is home after his heart surgery, regaining strength every day.  Please pray for him and Rachael as she supports him during this time.
• ·        BL –Important decisions were made and wisely.  Thank you for praying.
• ·        Elina – court appearance went well.  Keep her in her prayers.  It is likely this will not go away quietly.  Pray the Lord keeps a guard on the door of her lips and gives her new wisdom to stand and watch the Lord battle for her.
• ·        Ron Torgo – with IBS and an inflamed gallbladder and spleen.  Is beginning to feel stronger although there is still some trouble eating and sleeping.  Please pray for his doctors to find a way to moderate the symptoms and fix this for him.  He was off work for three months and has had to return for practical reasons.  Pray he paces himself.
• ·        Marci – a lifetime friend has come through her eye surgery and is resting and recovering.  Pray she recovers fully and is as chipper as always and that her entire family rallies around her with love.
• ·        Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, USA, Poland, UK, France, Australia, UAE (!), Germany, Portugal, Romania, American Samoa, Brazil, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, India and Alaska who are regularly reading the WeakDay Devotion on-line.  The blog seems to be gathering an audience in unexpected and mysterious geographic locations.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• ·        Chris - That he will set aside time to pray and consider the many choices he has in front of him and that the Lord will guide him in the best use of his days as interest in his music grows.  Keep all the members of the band professional and focused and that you bless it as You see best.
• ·        Carla – for an overwhelming and insatiable desire to read God’s Word.  Pray for travelling mercies and most of all wisdom with her priorities and decision making.
• ·        Paul –Has not had paying work since 2010.  I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers.  Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.  Pray for my wisdom and patience as he continues to stay here.
• ·        Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to pay what they owe him so he can have more time with his young daughter.

ONGOING PRAYER

• ·        C&A – That God’s love binds them and their family together to face whatever difficulties that occur.  That understanding and compassion will prevail.  Thank you, Lord, for letting them be part of my life and Your love to me.  Keep them safe and healthy during this time and reliant on You.
• ·        SS – needs continual wisdom to care for her ageing parents that there is a balance and continued good health for all concerned.
• ·        Marvin - eighteen and finding himself.  Pray he will stay close to the Lord and not turn aside from the truth of the Truth.  Please give his parents strength and wisdom.
• ·        Hans -returned to therapy for another 12 months.  Please pray for him as he seeks wisdom to make a decision between shortening therapy and taking a job apprenticeship he’s been offered.  Pray he is always surrounded by faithful Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
• ·        Me – My present project ends 30 April.  I am considering a rather big decision that holds lots of challenge and complications.  It would be wonderful if you would prayer for the Lord’s will in this decision. 
• ·        Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, RB, JD, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families.  Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over the years.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• ·        My brother, Tim – has been diagnosed with osteo-arthritis.  Not sure what they will prescribe for him, but pray for his peace, patience, wisdom and acceptance of this disease.  Pray the weather stabilises as it affects his COPD (chronic-obstructive pulmonary disease).  Pray for Barb, his wife, for her strength and patience and thank you, Father, for growing stronger daily in their lives so they can share You with others.
• ·        Thirteen children (ages 2-29) kept captive, chained and near starving by their parents -- that they may fully recover.
• ·        Doris (my "second mom") – just celebrated her 99th birthday, yet she is growing weaker.  Yet, her focus on sharing Christ with others grows stronger!  Pray and thank the Lord for Patti, her daughter, who faithfully and selflessly visits Doris twice a week (it was just Patti’s birthday, too!).
• ·        David R - Pray for his wisdom and patience.  Surely the hand of the Lord is not short in any of our lives and still works in ways we cannot understand.
• ·        Two of Tim’s Friends – One man is in hospital now awaiting a life-saving liver transplant.  A second man, also in hospital, may lose his leg after two or three knee-replacement surgeries have become infected after an accident several years ago.
• ·        Claudio - battling liver cancer and the meds they are using to save him have weakened his heart.  Pray for him, his health carers to be compassionate and wise and for Elea, his wife, that she has the extra strength and hope to hold his hand through this.
• ·        Liriel - chronically ill and often in pain, but feeling a bit better lately.  Pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
• ·        John (stroke survivor) needs wisdom to continue the management of his big farm.  Pray God will continue to provide patience and help with reading since the stroke.  He is enjoying cooking for others and is blessing many with this gift.
• ·        Uncle Dwight (92 and Doris only brother).  Pray for the Lord's will in his life.  He is an ordained pastor and knows the Lord. He is also the Grandpa of Sarah who we have been praying for.
• ·        Julia - battling depression and lack of rest.  She teaches full time and cares for five children, including six-year old, Adrian with serious behaviour problems.  She needs to learn to rely on the Lord rather than being self-sufficient.
• ·        Aunt Donna - with dementia. Please pray for her daughters so they can care for her best.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• ·        CB – a friend for the last eleven years, with inoperable lung cancer and an estimated 12-13 months of life left.  He has begun an aggressive regime of treatment.  He needs the Saviour before it is too late for him to think about it, but he is VERY resistant and fiercely self-sufficient.
• ·        Scott (in the USA) a single father now caring for his children alone after his wife left.  Pray that all this sadness and difficulty will melt his heart to reach out for the Lord.
• ·        Robin Hopcroft - her brother asks we pray for her safety, that she learns of and understands the saving grace of Jesus and that her life becomes filled with the life-changing love of the Lord.
• ·        Careena’s brother - to finally realise the deep affection Jesus has for him and that as he struggles with life that he will come to understand and accept Jesus’ loving and gracious sacrifice for him.
• ·        Christine – that she will be strong, yet graceful; and that her husband will turn to the Lord, so they will have a Christ-honouring relationship and family.
• ·        Denny Scheffler (sp) -- an old friend of my brother who was in a serious auto accident a few years ago.  His life is more than difficult and empty.  Pray Tim has opportunity to share the Gospel with him and wisdom to know how to help him.
• ·        DB's father - (84 years) pray his heart opens to Christ.  He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist.
• ·        Sarah -Will soon be moving into a family friend's trailer near her parents. But still no reconciliation with family or God at this point.
• ·        RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with.  Please pray for her that she keeps considering what we discussed.
• ·        Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
• ·        Karen - that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
• ·        Jenny - Recently lost her husband and needs comfort, strength and true answers in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ.
• ·        Adam R - his life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord loves him.
• ·        Bible study in Jo's home.  Pray for wisdom of Jo and openness in the women who meet together, especially Angie and Liz.
• ·        Toron - (19-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord.
• ·        Lennie - Needs to wake to the cross of Christ and how much He loves him.
• ·        Sarah - that God continues to work in His mysterious ways in her life and captures her heart.  No contact with parents or brother, yet.

The Chamber

Please take time to watch this for your Easter Celebration

I promise it will be special.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XO98zSSKYy8&t=18s

Or search YouTube for “The New Jesus Film”

"'I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.  The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy; I came that you might have life, and have it abundantly.  I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.'"  John 10-9-11

It's so dark in here.  I'm cold and My knees hurt from hitting bottom so hard as they teased Me so slowly until they knew I was close to the bottom and let go of the rope. 

What a strange time.  I seemed to watch as if I was not the one all this was happening to.  This chamber must be three levels beneath Caiaphas' palace and can't be much larger than twice My height square.  It was such a small hole in the floor leading to this cavity.  Who would have imagined.

The rope was new rope, so much rougher than well-used rope.  It cut deep into the soft skin under My arms.  I wish I could just slip it off Me, but there would be no way to ever get out. 

I can barely move from the pain. 

My mouth is still full of the taste of My own blood.  My back is bleeding a little and My head is throbbing from all the fists and shouting.

But now -- here -- it's completely silent except for a flicker of a sound of water seeping in somewhere and occasional soft scurrying of little feet.  I think I can feel every grain of sand in the rough sandstone floor of this chamber; it's so uneven.  It must have been difficult to carve it out so carefully. 

I wonder about all the others who may have been held here.  Did they have hope?  Was there someone to miss them and to attempt a rescue? Were they waiting in the courtyard for a glimpse of their loved one as Peter had done?  How sad for Peter.

The shallow pools of water in the hollows of the rock fill the chamber with the slight smells of rich soil, water, wet grain and, what is it?  Yes, simply coolness.  As I lay here trying not to move, I can feel the water beginning to warm just a little under Me.  Something soothing in this atrocious situation. 

At least I'm not totally alone; there are rats in this chamber and insects.  I still have enough feeling to know when they're sniffing or licking My back or exploring the cut on My cheek from that last blow.  I'm so weak and tired I can't bother with fending them off.

I'll meet many powerful people in the next ten to twelve hours.  Every one of them will work hard to avoid the responsibility of the decision they will make.  Somehow, they sense how wrong this is.  Judas, Annas, Caiaphas, Herod -- all so insistent they are right, but so careful to pass Me on to the next person to decide.  Perhaps after pride and greed, the "washing of the hands" is one of the most compelling of sins.

Now, as I doze for My last time I weep for all those I will not be able to save. 

Take care and keep shining your light in this dark world.  Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene

PS:  My statement of faith is on the blog:  Especially His Love.  Cut and paste this link in your Web browser:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/  and if you wish to find the WeakDay Devotion online if you missed one of the instalments of this series, just do a Google Search for “WeakDay Devotion”.  (You can even read it on your phone that way or install the Google Blogger App from their app store.)

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

• ·        Russian Mall Fire - 64 people confirmed dead as a fire broke out in a mall.  The exits to escape the fire were blocked.  Pray for the families who lost loved ones and for parents still searching for their children.  Pray this will open the hearts of Russians.
• ·        RN – Please pray for his healing and grace as he deals with the recurrence of cancer.
• ·        Kathleen – a street person, who is so lost.  Pray someone comes to help her.
• ·        Jen – a very special woman who has been battling a debilitating infection.  Please pray for her strengthening health and a return of her energy.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - Please pray for God's will and that a hunger for God’s Word grows relentlessly within the hearts of all those in this neighbourhood and for all who attend.  Pray for strength, wisdom and healing rest, especially at this holiday time, for those who serve there:  Simon Flinders, Pat O'Keeffe, Kathy Notley, Anne Penny and their families.
• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) –continue to serve the Lord with faithful gladness and grace.  Pray his radio outreach program serves the Lord powerfully.  Please pray for a solution for her home care and for now pray for strength as Audley cares for his beloved wife.
• ·        Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas.  Please pray for him (he continues to teach), his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many ways.  Give her strength, thriving health, balance, wisdom, protection and the right handling of God's Word.
• ·        Jo and Steve - for opening their hearts to some lovely visitors from Poland, for their NZ ministries and for reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters.
• ·        Stu and Jo and children, Laura and Jason - the entire family is involved in full-time ministry in NZ and may also help with the visitors from Poland.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute.
• ·        Elaine and Jim -sharing Christ in Hong Kong as difficult changes begin in the politics of the country.  Their wonderful online church has a 24/7 prayer room where a small army of dedicated prayer warriors waits to pray for and with you: https://tlcwhk.com/prayer-room/
• ·        Please pray for JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
• ·        Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
• ·        The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

==== Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines

• ·        ISIS has established a growing beachhead in the Philippines.  Our friends and tireless servants of the Lord, Isaias and Judith, need your prayers.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance for their lives and good health.  This ministry gives so much to so many for so little.  To learn more:  http://www.afciworld.org  (Look for "Nations" then click:  "Philippines").

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• ·        USA President Donald Trump - If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now!  No matter whom you voted for or wanted as President, it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at how much antagonism there is against him – surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan through this man.  Pray someone helps him understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and that he will have someone to regularly disciple him.
• ·        New Guinea – There many strong earthquakes (of 6 to7.5 magnitude) recently in this poorest of the poor countries.  Thousands are affected and 67 have been discovered dead so far.  Please pray for those now recovering and offering aid and shelter.
• ·        North Korea – Sabre rattling and posturing to win favour continues.  Pray for sound thinking and God’s will in this situation and wisdom and patience on all sides.
• ·        The World - Pray for God's will to prevail as unrest around the globe increases and that our Father will bring comfort and calm to His children, wherever they are – and that they will be ready to give an answer for the HOPE within them!
• ·        That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who read these devotions.  That His mighty works will be worked out in each life for His purposes and glory in surprising and wonderful ways!
• ·        For Christ-centred, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.
• ·        Pray for the growing number of homeless and displaced people from greed, wars and famine around the world.  These refugees need compassion.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        Sergio – has found a new career where he is respected for his skill, talents and wisdom with people.
• ·        Jeff Westergren –is home after his heart surgery, regaining strength every day.  Please pray for him and Rachael as she supports him during this time.
• ·        BL –Important decisions were made and wisely.  Thank you for praying.
• ·        Elina – court appearance went well.  Keep her in her prayers.  It is likely this will not go away quietly.  Pray the Lord keeps a guard on the door of her lips and gives her new wisdom to stand and watch the Lord battle for her.
• ·        Ron Torgo – with IBS and an inflamed gallbladder and spleen.  Is beginning to feel stronger although there is still some trouble eating and sleeping.  Please pray for his doctors to find a way to moderate the symptoms and fix this for him.  He was off work for three months and has had to return for practical reasons.  Pray he paces himself.
• ·        Marci – a lifetime friend has come through her eye surgery and is resting and recovering.  Pray she recovers fully and is as chipper as always and that her entire family rallies around her with love.
• ·        Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, USA, Poland, UK, France, Australia, UAE (!), Germany, Portugal, Romania, American Samoa, Brazil, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, India and Alaska who are regularly reading the WeakDay Devotion on-line.  The blog seems to be gathering an audience in unexpected and mysterious geographic locations.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• ·        Chris - That he will set aside time to pray and consider the many choices he has in front of him and that the Lord will guide him in the best use of his days as interest in his music grows.  Keep all the members of the band professional and focused and that you bless it as You see best.
• ·        Carla – for an overwhelming and insatiable desire to read God’s Word.  Pray for travelling mercies and most of all wisdom with her priorities and decision making.
• ·        Paul –Has not had paying work since 2010.  I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers.  Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.  Pray for my wisdom and patience as he continues to stay here.
• ·        Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to pay what they owe him so he can have more time with his young daughter.

ONGOING PRAYER

• ·        C&A – That God’s love binds them and their family together to face whatever difficulties that occur.  That understanding and compassion will prevail.  Thank you, Lord, for letting them be part of my life and Your love to me.  Keep them safe and healthy during this time and reliant on You.
• ·        SS – needs continual wisdom to care for her ageing parents that there is a balance and continued good health for all concerned.
• ·        Marvin - eighteen and finding himself.  Pray he will stay close to the Lord and not turn aside from the truth of the Truth.  Please give his parents strength and wisdom.
• ·        Hans -returned to therapy for another 12 months.  Please pray for him as he seeks wisdom to make a decision between shortening therapy and taking a job apprenticeship he’s been offered.  Pray he is always surrounded by faithful Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
• ·        Me – My present project ends 30 April.  I am considering a rather big decision that holds lots of challenge and complications.  It would be wonderful if you would prayer for the Lord’s will in this decision. 
• ·        Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, RB, JD, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families.  Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over the years.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• ·        My brother, Tim – has been diagnosed with osteo-arthritis.  Not sure what they will prescribe for him, but pray for his peace, patience, wisdom and acceptance of this disease.  Pray the weather stabilises as it affects his COPD (chronic-obstructive pulmonary disease).  Pray for Barb, his wife, for her strength and patience and thank you, Father, for growing stronger daily in their lives so they can share You with others.
• ·        Thirteen children (ages 2-29) kept captive, chained and near starving by their parents -- that they may fully recover.
• ·        Doris (my "second mom") – just celebrated her 99th birthday, yet she is growing weaker.  Yet, her focus on sharing Christ with others grows stronger!  Pray and thank the Lord for Patti, her daughter, who faithfully and selflessly visits Doris twice a week (it was just Patti’s birthday, too!).
• ·        David R - Pray for his wisdom and patience.  Surely the hand of the Lord is not short in any of our lives and still works in ways we cannot understand.
• ·        Two of Tim’s Friends – One man is in hospital now awaiting a life-saving liver transplant.  A second man, also in hospital, may lose his leg after two or three knee-replacement surgeries have become infected after an accident several years ago.
• ·        Claudio - battling liver cancer and the meds they are using to save him have weakened his heart.  Pray for him, his health carers to be compassionate and wise and for Elea, his wife, that she has the extra strength and hope to hold his hand through this.
• ·        Liriel - chronically ill and often in pain, but feeling a bit better lately.  Pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
• ·        John (stroke survivor) needs wisdom to continue the management of his big farm.  Pray God will continue to provide patience and help with reading since the stroke.  He is enjoying cooking for others and is blessing many with this gift.
• ·        Uncle Dwight (92 and Doris only brother).  Pray for the Lord's will in his life.  He is an ordained pastor and knows the Lord. He is also the Grandpa of Sarah who we have been praying for.
• ·        Julia - battling depression and lack of rest.  She teaches full time and cares for five children, including six-year old, Adrian with serious behaviour problems.  She needs to learn to rely on the Lord rather than being self-sufficient.
• ·        Aunt Donna - with dementia. Please pray for her daughters so they can care for her best.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• ·        CB – a friend for the last eleven years, with inoperable lung cancer and an estimated 12-13 months of life left.  He has begun an aggressive regime of treatment.  He needs the Saviour before it is too late for him to think about it, but he is VERY resistant and fiercely self-sufficient.
• ·        Scott (in the USA) a single father now caring for his children alone after his wife left.  Pray that all this sadness and difficulty will melt his heart to reach out for the Lord.
• ·        Robin Hopcroft - her brother asks we pray for her safety, that she learns of and understands the saving grace of Jesus and that her life becomes filled with the life-changing love of the Lord.
• ·        Careena’s brother - to finally realise the deep affection Jesus has for him and that as he struggles with life that he will come to understand and accept Jesus’ loving and gracious sacrifice for him.
• ·        Christine – that she will be strong, yet graceful; and that her husband will turn to the Lord, so they will have a Christ-honouring relationship and family.
• ·        Denny Scheffler (sp) -- an old friend of my brother who was in a serious auto accident a few years ago.  His life is more than difficult and empty.  Pray Tim has opportunity to share the Gospel with him and wisdom to know how to help him.
• ·        DB's father - (84 years) pray his heart opens to Christ.  He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist.
• ·        Sarah -Will soon be moving into a family friend's trailer near her parents. But still no reconciliation with family or God at this point.
• ·        RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with.  Please pray for her that she keeps considering what we discussed.
• ·        Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
• ·        Karen - that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
• ·        Jenny - Recently lost her husband and needs comfort, strength and true answers in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ.
• ·        Adam R - his life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord loves him.
• ·        Bible study in Jo's home.  Pray for wisdom of Jo and openness in the women who meet together, especially Angie and Liz.
• ·        Toron - (19-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord.
• ·        Lennie - Needs to wake to the cross of Christ and how much He loves him.
• ·        Sarah - that God continues to work in His mysterious ways in her life and captures her heart.  No contact with parents or brother, yet.