Wednesday, December 24, 2008

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

any, many thanks to all of you bloggers, especially those of you who post regularly here at BLOGINTHENOW. At this special time of the year, I want to express my love and sincere gratitude to those of you who contribute to this cyber-community on a continual basis. Your words, ideas, thoughts, insights, interpretations, musings, exchanges, humor and revelation are valuable and greatly appreciated by this blogmaster, and I believe the connection that we have all made here in cyber-space this year is real and important. Welcome, Welcome, Fah who rah-moose, Welcome, Welcome, Dah who dah-moose, Christmas day is in our grasp, So long as we have hands to clasp...

very day I look forward to hearing from you on the comments page, and I always find your feedback to be both thoughtful and inspirational. The need for communication is basic to all of us, and it is very gratifying to me to see that this website has become a nexus (I'm not sure that I'm using the word correctly, but I want to use it anyway) for daily authentic and life-affirming interaction. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy, Oh, tidings of comfort and joy!

EAL PEOPLE EXPERIENCING THE REAL GOD IN THE REAL WORLD®...this trademark of Church In The Now has definitely become applicable to BLOGINTHENOW, and, even though the blog reaches way beyond the borders of the local church community, the concept that began in a geographical location (Conyers, GA) is now extended to the expanse of the infinite internet. As CITN has a global pulpit, BLOGINTHENOW has a universal voice. Let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing...and heaven and nature sing...and heaven, and heaven and nature sing!

eading your posts every day is a joy...in no particular order, Avatar, Peacemaker, Erik, Iris, Crownjewel, Son of Zadok, Pastor Dennis, JB, Donald, Elle, Izumi/JOY, Nothing To Lose, Friend4Life, Linda, Tracy, Karl, Sweepea, Nancy, Clark Kent, Disciple, Teezy313, Bro Lar, Laura, The Centurion, G8TRGRL, Mystic, Brenda, Disciple, Kettly, SCRIBE, Lisa, River, dgm2007, Ebony, Speaking Spirit, Doubleback Alley, Pamela T., Typical Blurker, Abraham, Yvonne, Yve, vaughn, Water Walker, Reign!, Sheri, Creme Brulee, Leesa, Mayflower, Mayam, Heart after Him, JR, P. Debbie and sometimes P. Debye, and all of the hundreds and hundreds of Anonymi (plural for Anonymous)...people from all over the map (literally and figuratively), many of whom have never even been ITB@CITN...everyone makes a valid contribution (if I left your name/handle out, forgive me)...even the blurkers...we feel your presence...Oh, come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant...

ou are all unique and special...many of you are actually gifted writers in your own right, and you express yourselves with intelligence and great sensitivity. Some days your revelation just blows me away...and I enjoy the little glimpses into your personal lives when you share anecdotes...and I pray for you when you have a prayer request...and you make me laugh. Always your support is appreciated. For auld lang syne, my dear, For auld lang syne, We'll tak a cup o' kindness yet, For auld lang syne.



onnectivity (kŏn'ĕk-tĭv'ĭ-tē) 1. The quality or condition of being connected or connective.
2. The ability to make and maintain a connection between two or more points in a telecommunications system: a phone company that offers excellent Internet connectivity...these are some of the definitions of the word, but I believe that we are writing a new definition here every day, line upon line, precept upon precept...a definition with a deeper meaning...one that taps into the truth and revelation of the ultimate reality...the reality that is THE CHRIST (What then, brethren, is [the right course]? When you meet together, each one has a hymn, a teaching, a disclosure of special knowledge or information, an utterance in a [strange] tongue, or an interpretation of it. [But] let everything be constructive and edifying and for the good of all. - I Corinthians 14:26 AMP)...Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me, Let There Be Peace on Earth, The peace that was meant to be, With God as our Father, Brothers all are we, Let me walk with my brother, In perfect harmony...

ave yourself a merry little Christmas, bloggers. Regardless of what you went through in 2008, the fact is that you made it, and you have lived to see another holday season, and you need to enjoy it...every bit of it. God is good, and He has been good to you this year in ways that you can't even see right now. I'm sure that I'll say more about this as we approach the new year, but I'll say it here now...whatever is in the past is in the past...if you have a praise report for '08, then share it with us here on the blog...if you have complaints about the last 12 months, then just make the decision to forget those things which are behind. If you have positive/prophetic words for 2009, share them here, as well. As I used to say every day on the CITN blog: LEARN FROM THE PAST, LIVE IN THE PRESENT, CREATE THE FUTURE...but most importantly, get the most out of the Christmas experience in the next few hours. It's the most wonderful time of the year...

evelation (rĕv'ə-lā'shən)
1. a. The act of revealing or disclosing;
b. Something revealed, especially a dramatic disclosure of something not previously known or realized.
2. Theology: A manifestation of divine will or truth.
3. the act of making known a truth which was previously secret
4. a fact newly made known
5. a person or experience that proves to be different from expectations: New York State could prove a revelation to first-time visitors
6. Christianity: God's disclosure of his own nature and his purpose for mankind
7. A daily occurence on BLOGINTHENOW...
That's what it's all about...Christmas, that is...the Word made flesh...and every day, the Word continues to be manifested here through insight, agreement, sometimes the occasional absurdity of a confirmation through a blog word verification (hmmm..."word verification"...that's an interesting phrase to explore) ...Do you hear what I hear?

n a word, we not only have every reason to be thankful for all of our blessings throughout the year...including the blessing that is BLOGINTHENOW (and now AW4W) with all the connectivity and revelation that comes with the cyber-community experience...we also have every reason to enjoy the holidays...to have a Merry Christmas (Jesus is the reason for the season), a Happy New Year...even a Happy Hanukkah (Shalom, y'all)...and an awesome Kwanzaa! Why not celebrate it all?! Why limit Thanksgiving to a single Thursday in November?! You don't have to have a turkey to remind you to celebrate and to be grateful and to rejoice! The holiday season...especially Christmas...is a state of mind...an attitude...a realizaion...a remembrace that God is good and life is good, and life in Him should be appreciated and cherished and valued, regardless of what may or may not be happening in the world around us...Shepherds, why this jubilee? Why your joyous strains prolong? What the gladsome tidings be Which inspire your heavenly song? Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

o I am praying for all of this cyber-community to grasp this (just like the little monk praying over there on the altar that forms the letter "S"), but my prayer is really just a declaration of faith...an affirmation...a blessing that I now pronounce over you and your household and your family and your loved ones...a blessing over all that you are, and over all that you will become in the new year...I bless your dreams...I bless your vision...I bless your spirit and your soul and your body...I bless your memory of Christmas past, and your imagination of Christmas future...most of all, and most importantly, I bless your paradigm of Christmas present...Christmas in the NOW! A thrill of hope, The weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks A new and glorious morn. Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices! O night divine, O night when Christ was born! O night divine, O night, O night divine!

is the season to be jolly...and thankful...and positive...and proactive...and open and optimistic and full of faith for the future! It's time to reflect on the journey, and to look back over all of it with absolutely no regrets. It's the season to expect the unexpected...to re-connect with the wonder of childlike belief. Call it magic or miracle, the truth of it is that this is the time when we open up our hearts to believe that the clunky and clumsy logic of natural laws is done away with...and suddenly we dream a world of possibilities where angelic choirs serenade shepherds, and eastern astrologers are led by celestial lights, and virgins conceive, and birth is given to the impossible! And every mother's child is gonna spy to see if reindeer really know how to fly!

ay your days be merry and bright! I speak joy to your world, and say that all of your nights are silent, so that you may sleep in heavenly peace. No matter what lies ahead for you, let nothing you dismay...remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day...and because He was, the only things that you need to concentrate on are tidings of comfort and joy! The hopes and fear of all your years are met in Him tonight! He deserves all of your praise. He knows our need, Our weakness is no stranger, Behold your King, before Him lowly bend, Behold your King, before Him lowly bend!

nd so, as I come to the end of my BLOGINTHENOW Christmas message and blessing, I await your responses on the comments page (this has taken many hours to complete, and already there are 29 comments posted as I finish this up)...I know we're all busy, but if you have a minute or two, and this blog has meant something to you, take the time (if you haven't already) to express your thoughts and Christmas wishes for the rest of the blog community (yes, even you blurkers). What you write doesn't have to be poetic or profound...it just needs to be real. My BLOGINTHENOW Christmas wish would be that this post would generate this most comments ever! We wish you a Merry Christmas,We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas...and a Happy New Year!

ELAH! GOD BLESS US, EVERY ONE!

102 comments:

Anonymous said...

Bishop,

I feel so blessed to be a part of this community and this blog site and all that is happening at CITN and that's happening in the world because of CITN.

As time draws closer to the day that we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I feel full in my spirit. I know without a shadow of a doubt that the future is bright, our lives will be full and prosperous in 2009, and everything that happened in 2008... as tough as some situations were, is a stepping stone to the higher level we will attain in 2009.

I have grown up a little in 2008 and I want to face the future head on, knowing that whatever I encounter will be God's will for me. It will help me grow up even more. I will do great things for the kingdom as God give me direction and strength!

I know that the same thing will happen for you, CITN, and the body of Christ. We will make an ever greater imapact in 2009!

Praise God!

Mayflower

Anonymous said...

3 day's and counting till and yes Father I want a White Christmas.
The decorations are up.
The cookies are done.
The shopping is over.
Now it's time for fun.
Some snow will great
Some snow will be fine.
I want to see some snow this winter time.
Let It Snow
Let It Snow
Let It Snooooow

Karl - getting back to the other day
Yes dude you got where I was going with the sand.
I really love what you wrote about it . I get
what the Lord shows me but at times it’s hard for me
to put it into words. The visions & the revelation
are so awesome that words can’t compare.

Donald - That year the Pontiac Catalina came out
I was only 2yrs old. I can only remember as far back as the late 70’s
early 80’s. I also remember when 8 track players went out .
Remember when you had to go to the arcade to play video games ?
Remember when Atari was the home video game and you played Pong.?
I remember when my brother got a go kart and we jump it over dirt mounds.
Now the kids play Go Karts on Wii.
When we rode on go karts we went WEEE.
LOL

Merry Christmas To All
And To All A Good Night

Anonymous said...

Thanks Bishop for all your thought and time that you have put into this blog. I know great things have happened and will happen here.

I've seen confirmations here, people praying for each other, and everyone wanting to go deeper into God. It has brought out the writer in many it seems, the imaginative, the dreamers.

It is like every member strengthening each other by bringing a fresh daily supply of blood and oxygen. It refreshes, it soothes, it lifts and inspires.
You and the Holy Spirit are at the very heart of it, and I thank you both.

b.free.and.see said...

Bishop, you are a man of integrity. You are a man of integrity. You are a man of integrity....integrity....

Just speaking as I feel led.

You ARE a man of integrity.

Integrity like I have rarely witnessed.....

You are so used to being "you" that I doubt that you realize how much healing lies within your integrity. It's not always your witty sermons, your creativity, your good looks, or even your intelligence. It is your integrity, the Light of God in you that is most attractive.

Thank You.

I pray that you "feel" and "get" what I am saying.

Donald said...

Laura you are a yungun'!

I remember all six of us Cofield's rode to California and back in that Pontiac during the summer between second and third grade.

I actually don't remember video games until I was a teenager. Pinball was about the only thing going on in my part of the world back then.

I do remember when PacMan came out. I got so good on that one that I could go through every level and make it start back over. I could run the score up into the millions.

I think I can remember when 8 tracks came IN.

Keep writing Bishop, I'm enjoying it all and thanks to you for having something here for everyone to chew on.

Anonymous said...

Laura,

I definitely understand about not finding the words sometimes...it's
as if we see through wavy glass searching for those face-to-face words to describe what's in our spirit!...really liked what you wrote about the sands by the way, I hadn't heard that before. Thanks for sharing it.

Snow? If it doesn't snow here over winter, I'd love to take Zachary and just drive North sometime until we hit it...he's hoping to see some.

wver: dishall

Anonymous said...

hey don't forget Donkey Kong, and Galaga, Asteroids, and did anybody else have Intellivision?...silly putty, oh and Sizzler tracks-yehhh!

yes and amen to b.free.and.see comment, Bishop.

wordver: cupench

Unknown said...

Pleasant sigh. When I saw the first letter M, I thought...oh goody, letterplums to dance in our heads!

Ditto Mayflower.
Wonderful poem Laura--by faith, it will be true for me! Good thing its not Wed. night or Rudolph would tell Santa to pass us by! Wait...no he wouldn't, he'd see our shiny noses, wink and ask the Snow Fairy to sprinkle our eyes to sleep.

Oh, my...since I started this Karl, B.F.&S. and Donald are awake too! Merry Christmas, everyone!

Bishop, pa rum pah pum pum! oh, oh, oh, oh...oh, oh, oh, oh! How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the Body of Christ!

Donald said...

You better believe I'm still up Avatar.
I'm 50 and I can stay up as long as I rackin' frackin' want to!!!!

I'm a big boy now!

Whew, that took alot out of me, I'll see y'all later.

River said...

Merry Christmas Everyone

Been busy lately so I've read comments.
Bishop This blog has been a great thing. It amazes me how much insight everyone shares.

Laura - looking through the sands to see the real Jesus.
Thinking about He breathe into us life. His breath is in us.

Karl - the sands being burned to be a window into the inner spirit. Awesome

The retro toys how about retro candy.
Bishop look away- Cigarette Bubble Gum (it seems to be two of your pet peeves wrapped up in one) LOL ,Necco Candy Wafers,& The Sky Bar just to name a few

I am so ready for Christmas.
Ready to see what the new year will bring.
The Year 2009 A year to find the inner you.
May You all be Blessed
2009 A year to Shine

Anonymous said...

Donald, isn't it an hour earlier in Mississippi?

Erik said...

What are all these people doing up at this hour ???? Are we all on HST (Holy Spirit Time) ?

Bishop, the post today is wonderfully crafted. Many pieces. I will begin my part in praise reports of 2008 and prophesy for 2009.

This year has been the oft said best of years and worst of years. I focus on the best parts. In the course of the challenges, and the beautiful pur, I enjoyed the peace and impact of my words in my reality. I have experienced more of the depth, breadth, height, and length of God than ever before (and before was pretty amazing).

I am a blessed and favored person, my family is exquisite, my job I love, my work I cherish, my loved ones show me more love than I can comprehend, especially one, my son has struggled through challenges and emerged renewed, I have engaged with God in so many people, who are God among us. Every place I have gone, God has been visible, in the face of each person. My Brother Jesus, and my Friend Holy Spirit have been with me every day. Each person I exchange with is exchanging with them and God. Dreams I had years before manifest this year , and showed glimpses of 2009…..

So, 2009 --- 1st as a kid , this was super futuristic, and yet, my 2008 has spoken to the many me’s before, reaching and pulling that knowledge forward to now, and seeing a different view from that added knowledge. As my future me’s have been talking me through 2008, Praise God they were, ‘cause I seldom had anything to contribute, but they did, so I skated on them this year – God is so cool in that way.

2009 blooms from within each of us, beyond previous experience and standards. Growth for The World is beyond measure naturally and spiritually. We ALL Only Believe. Whatever we thought was at sometime in the future, exists now, currently, in The World’s Hands.

We are assured of peace, and the excitement of anticipating the blessing that is simultaneously already present, the hope and manifestation simultaneous, continuously. It is given already, ‘under the tree’ as we open each gift we will employ in 2009, we are full of joy, while what we crave is exactly in our as we ear away the wrapping, the detailed desire emerges, as the beautiful wrapping gives way, and we employ each desire in the expedient manner. We Praise God, Appreciate, Love, Thank our way thru 2009.

Anonymous said...

everything's great...it's all good,
now let's all go and take a nap and resume in the morning-sweet dreams!

SCRIBE said...

Tuesday Morning
23 December 2003 @ 0805 Hours

Grace, grace, the Amazing Grace of the Lord Almighty stares down the faces of darkness. For it is by the grace of God and Christ- the Son of the Living God that we are covered by mercy and His everlasting love, for we are coheirs to the throne of glory. As the grace of the Lord has brought us thus far, His unmerited grace shall surely lead us on. Hallelujah!

Behold! declares the Lord of Hosts, for I have given unto thee a new day filled with hope restored, promises reaffirmed and confirmed, as magnificent dreams and spectacular visions that shall be unveiled swiftly. Nothing but the power of God makes all things new again to repair and restore those things that were deemed lost and irretrievably broken, says God. Truly, I say unto thee, declares the Lord of Hosts- my burden is light and my yoke is easy, so rest and abide in me all that are heavy laden and I shall give unto you peace and shelter in the midst of every storm and my unfailing word shall not return unto thee void. Amen. Trust and believe that I am the God of miracles and work through impossible, unusual circumstances and situations. This is the season of Grace Awakening and abounding, says the Lord Jehovah, and no necessary thing shall be withheld. Selah… Therefore, my people are to diligently guard their hearts and mind while not allowing themselves to be defiled or devalued by others, for as a person treats or regards himself, others will treat him likewise. Though many may have been rejected by humanity, I am the Lord thy Faithful Father in heaven and I have neither rejected nor forsaken you. Those whom I love, I also take care of, regardless of the ramblings of the adversary. Those that have risen up against my precious people shall not succeed, for I have forged a hedge of protection around my Sons and Daughters whom worship me in spirit and in truth. Though the weapons may form, they surely shall not prosper. They who lack vision and revelation knowledge always come against the chosen ones whom I have imparted vision into and they shall not succeed in the traps that they have set against my people. That which I have decreed, is it also established swiftly. Selah…Amen.

In all things, says God, I advise my people to allow their yes to stand as a firm yes and their no to serve as a definite no. For there is no honor given to the double-minded, says God. At all times, the people whom I have called according to my name are required to tell the truth in order to shame, humiliate, and put flight to the enemy. Although there may be struggles with the truth, even the enemy knows when a vessel of God speaks with boldness, power, and authority because the captives are set free and the Lord Almighty is exalted as the way, the truth, and the light. The truth turns on the light to lead the way into Divine Freedom and understanding, says God. Wherever there is a lack of vision and revelation knowledge, the people cast off restraint and perish. No stone shall be left unturned when the Spirit of the Lord comes forth to set the records straight and the houses in order. It is not by might, nor by power, but by My Holy Spirit, declares the Lord of Hosts, that the light shall infiltrate the darkness and the darkness is demolished! Hallelujah! This is the season of Divine Turnaround, says God, and I have sent forth the angels and the Holy Spirit to establish order where everything shall be shifted into alignment and specified position in me- the Lord of Hosts. Those things that I do, cannot be undone by any force of nature, mankind, or assignment of hell, proclaims God. I am Lord over the great and the small and my way is not only the best way, but also the set way of doing things without alternative plans or destinations. I hereby announce that there is no hiding place, for I created all places and the Holy Spirit that I placed in my people before birth, even before they recognized my calling upon their lives- shall cry out to me and expose their hidden shelters in the darkness. My promises are always yes and amen to they who are obedient and humble before me. Therefore, do not grow drained and exhausted in doing that which is right, for the harvests and manifestations are now being poured out in droves, says God. Amen.

Hold fast, Dearly Beloved, for help has arrived and you shall not lose anything else, but shall retrieve all belongings that were stolen, pilfered, and pillaged by the enemy, while being blessed even more so with greater things. I am the Lord thy God and have already paved the way for my people to receive the blessing that they dared believed me for, along with breakthroughs, miracles, overflow, and Divine Favor. Selah… My people are to treasure my spirit that I have placed within them and stand still for Divine Encounters and Supernatural Interventions, and Holy Ghost Setups / Appointments are closer than their fingers are to each other. Maximize the moments, speak my word, and receive your manna from heaven! I am the Lord Jehovah, and have already ordered love gifts released that shall seek you out wherever you live on this day! Surprise calls are to be expected and today magnificent favor is upon thee, declares God. Rejoice, for the Lord Almighty has decreed these things. Blessed and highly favored are those who worship me in spirit and in truth, for I am the Lord Jehovah- the light in the darkest places.

Hallelujah! Amen.

SCRIBE said...

SHORT STORY !.....

MERRY CHRISTmas & HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009!

Excerpt taken from the book entitled:

“Trees along the Scenic Trail” {Not Yet Published}

Author: C. FORD


“RIPPED, STAINED, FULL of HOLES!”

Have you ever been the unfortunate recipient of “hand-me-downs”? Or, are you one of those people that pass your “hand-me-downs” to others that you feel are in need? Regardless of what side of the fence you stand on, we could all benefit, if things are put in proper perspective.

Almost every since my family and I have lived in the city that we currently reside in- for reasons that both escape and baffle me, people have always made it a practice of passing off their “trash” to us. The ironic thing is they always say that they were moved to “BLESS YOU” with some nice things. After having received these supposed blessings from people all too many times, (although we never asked anyone for anything nor appeared needy, and most times are not in relationship with these “fine CHURCH folks”) it becomes aggravating. As we go through the hefty bags, we find that relatively everything they passed along is better suited for trash dumpsters and should not have been given to anyone at all. More often than not, the articles are ripped, stained, and full of holes. I began getting terrible angry with people who do such things and inquired of GOD Almighty as to exactly why this continued to happen.

On Christmas Day, approximately two years ago, GOD clearly stated: “Cheryl, people who give you raggedy stuff, while they have FAR BETTER and keep the best for themselves, are just as ragged in their spirit!” I pondered this for a moment and began to think in retrospect of the numerous people that had been passing off their garbage to us. GOD began to speak again: “Do not be confused, dismayed, or downhearted about this because I shall use these truths to impart some wisdom and revelation into you. Those very people that have no shame in giving others their trash (otherwise known as “hand-me-downs”) also give ME- the LORD of HOSTS their absolute worst and leftovers instead of giving ME all that I deserve, which is their absolute best! After all, I AM the LORD over all creation and hold their every breath in the palm of mine hands. Now, take a moment to meditate on what I have said.”

While focusing intently on what GOD had spoken to me, I began to understand. GOD spoke to me a few months later in reference to the “hand-me-downs”. The LORD clearly stated: “What others consider to be their “hand-me-downs” is certainly NOT the best that they have. They give others, including ME- the GREAT LORD those things that they have no desire to hold onto for themselves. However, when I- the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY gave unto humanity mine Only Begotten Son, HE was MY “hand-me-down” to all mankind. Need I remind you that HE was the ABSOLUTE BEST of MY best? HE- JESUS the Messiah was ME, GOD ALMIGHTY wrapped up in human form: GOD INCARNATE; for no other sacrifice would have been appropriate or acceptable for the salvation of all that had been and were to come. Certainly nothing less would have done the job because it was less than perfect. Therefore, when I, the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY have given my ABSOLUTE BEST unto the people in the form of a “hand-me-down”, have they become so callous, shallow, arrogant, and self-centered where they feel everyone else that they deem as less than they are deserving of garbage? Yet and still, they claim to give this waste and refuse in MY NAME, calling it “charitable works!”

“Because I am GOD and I change not, mine Son is, was, and always will be far greater than any human for HE is GOD Incarnate but did not show any biases or prejudices when it came to the giving of himself. HE was MY BEST, yet ate, dwelt, and fellow-shipped with those that the world deemed as trash and outcasts. HE himself was mocked, scorned, beaten, spit upon, and ridiculed by the very ones whom he came into the earth to offer salvation unto. In addition, he was too considered as an outcast, for the people themselves stated that nothing good ever came out of Nazareth! I AM the LORD of HOSTS, so I implore my precious people to be extremely careful and mindful of what they are giving to others. For what they give unto their brothers and sisters is a direct representation and correlation as to how they truly feel about them and what they think of them. So, the next time they consider giving someone “hand-me-downs”, perhaps they should ask themselves if what they are giving to someone else would be any less or greater than they would want and be willing to receive for themselves. And, if in doubt, follow MY EXAMPLE. What do the “hand-me-downs” look like? Are they ripped, stained, full of holes, or just simply in poor taste?”

The Only Begotten SON of GOD- JESUS was the only “hand-me-down” that was PERFECT in form, but gave of himself to become Ripped, Stained with BLOOD, and Full of HOLES for the salvation of all, even to be dragged out as trash. Now, the time has arrived for meditation and deep reflection.

AMEN
Written: Monday, 25 December 2006
CHRISTMAS DAY!

Anonymous said...

"Your words, ideas, thoughts, insights, interpretations, musings, exchanges, humor and revelation are valuable and greatly appreciated."

Ditto those sentiments for me.

"...even though the blog reaches way beyond the borders of the local church community, the concept that began in a geographical location (Conyers, GA) is now extended to the expanse of the infinite internet. "

Connectivity

1. The quality or condition of being connected or connective. I've wanted to share this awhile (and have with another CITN'er) but waited for a segue. Bish, you recently mentioned the movie, "The Apostle".

My sisters and I loooooove that movie, but often wondered what happened next. Like, during and after Sonny's incarceration, I mean.

We joked about compiling a list of supernatural events that have occurred to us while walking in the Spirit and writing a sequel to "The Apostle". (Mr. Duvall, if you're reading this, my #'s B-R-549!)

In 2003, I was startled awake by a phone call from my middle daughter, screaming, "YOU'LL NEVER GUESS WHO I MET LAST NIGHT!!! ROBERT (blankety blank!!) DUVALL!

At the time, she was a night auditor for a Marriott Hotel in TX. She and the staff had noticed the name on a reservation, but thought, Nah... couldn't be THE Robert Duvall.

Yep!!

She gasped, "And Nonnie - he's the nicest guy!" He talked awhile with her, asking where she was from & how she liked the area. He recognized the city where she was born & mentioned filming a couple of movies, nearby.

When she asked what he was doing in her area, he shared that he was there to celebrate the anniversary opening of a friend's restaurant. (Perini Ranch in Buffalo Gap) Next morning, he was spotted wowing the kitchen staff by fluently responding to their questions in their language - Spanish.

There are MANY such occurrences of supernaturally-timed events like this with my family. My oldest has met Vanilla Ice, Jane Fonda & Raphael Furcal.

One of the Beach Boys was seen in the snack bar of the Wyndham Hotel, hours prior to her wedding. (If I'd been more audacious, I would have invited him to the soiree!) The following morning, the newlyweds were en route to their honeymoon destination, when they heard a familiar whoop @ Hartsfield Airport. Little Richard was nearby, waving & greeting passersby!

Personally, I've encountered Emmanuel Lewis & have been seated right next to members of the WWE. I never realized it, until my youngest blurted it out after we left the restaurant.

And then... there was a morning a looong time ago, when I was chatting away to Ms. Chandra, not realizing the gift sitting beside me!

To be continued!

PattiL007 said...

Most of my blessings in 2008 involve CITN/BITN...I was diagnosed with something that could have been bad but after praying with Pastor Gayle (THANK YOU!) my tests were redone and they were normal...and that was just one of the things for which I have to be thankful...there are a zillion others and I probably can't even remember them all...but I thank God for each one and thank Him for all of you. A great many of my praise reports are just about people coming up to me and giving me something I needed so much...a word, a hug, even cash! I continue to thank God for the big things...and the not so big things that can make big differences in someone's life.

I praise God from whom all blessings flow! And yes, 2008 was gr8...but we'll leave it behind in 2009! The new year will blow it away...but until it arrives, let's enjoy each of the last days of 2008...gather your blessings and count them and focus on all those wonderful things as we launch into the new year.

Merry Christmas (or Merry Chr for short ;) I speak blessings for the rest of 08 and more blessings for 09!

Blessings Blog Fam!

Lise said...

Bish,

What a wonderful, special 'Merry Chr' present!
I echo the sentiments of the other bloggers when I say, "I love this place!"
I disappear sometimes out of necessity... the atmosphere here is addictive. But even then, I'm at least blurking a little.
This has been an amazing year for you and your family (in a kingdom kind of way); it will be interesting to see what 2009 holds!

As for the rest of you...
gosh, I just love ya so much and have never even met most of you! But I wish you Christmas blessings, and JOY OUT THE WAHZOO in 2009!!!

Anonymous said...

Bishop,
I am so blessed to live in Conyers Ga! To be a part of such an awesome place as CITN, for my family to grow up in a place of such unconditional love...I could go on and on!
Your labor of love for this blog has been more than I can ask or think
It really is true that the things that we discuss here in our home are right on time with what you speak and write...such connectivity. Thanks Holy Spirit!
I love opening up the Blog gift everyday and being free to write whatever comes to my mind. Thank you!!

For 2009-All we need we already have!! The fullness of His mercy, grace, and love be to all

Peace on earth
Nancy

Anonymous said...

I am amazed by the fellowship I have grown to look forward to each day here on BITN. I would have never thought that "a blog" would have had such an impact on my life. My whole world has changed this year because of this blog, from my becoming truly acquainted in the Spirit with the Bishop and the family of CITN, to all the Cyber family here, to an out cast of traditional religion being re-ordained by one that saw the continued anointing and calling on my life instead of the heretic that the others saw. I get up each morning and immediately began to think and pray about this cyber community and what may be going on here. Without naming you all (Bishop already has) I would just like to say I am glad you are a part of my life. You are a blessing to me and I have passed that blessing on to others many times.

I have seen this cyber family grow incredibly over the past months. This is to be expected in something that is living - there is growth, It is natural. I expect to see this community grow into an unprecedented number in the coming months and years. Because there is life here there will be growth. But the life that is here is not just ordinary life; it is the life of God through the Holy Spirit working in and through His Children as we gather around the table each day and wait to be served by our Bishop and father in the faith. Who is the Greatest servant of us all. As he takes on the awesome responsibility of nurturing and caring for this family.

Thank you my Bishop and overseer of my soul for what you have done here for me, my family, and us all.

Thank you all for your love, fellowship and prayers you have shared with me this year.

Merry Christ/Mass and have a happy holy/day

Peace,
Dennis

PS
Yes! I just saw what you see Bishop.

word verification - a verification of the word just written. This has happened to us all on various occasions and is quite an interesting Spiritual phenomenon, I believe.

Anonymous said...

Christmas Jam by TSO is playing and I mean they are JAMM-IN!

Friend4Life said...

Wow--Thanks Bishop for everything!! My favorite part of 2008 is....this "BLOG"!! To be able to touch each other with words, pictures, jokes..even sometimes when it's quiet we know someone is reading.

I love this place. Love ya all(Bloggers, anonymous', blurkers)

For 2009 a year of Revelation! I will share later what 2008 year was for me.

~Peace, Love & Dream BIG~

Word ver: blesseri

Anonymous said...

For the last ten years, there has been a war going on in me that I just have got to confess so I can be free. I have, with all humility, asked Santa for a red Corvette every Christmas since 1998. I haven't gotten one yet. I am announcing to the world, that if there isn't one in my driveway on Christmas morning this time around, the me believing in Santa thing is over...

Anonymous said...

Eric & Mystic,

I just now answered your post on yesterdays blog.

Eric, I just say here thanks for the good nights sleep I will get tonight...:)

Mystic,
I have my dictionary out, but dont tell. LOL

Peace,
Dennis

Anonymous said...

anon. 2:00

I did the same thing with Rock-um Sock-um Robots

Son of Zadok said...

I just had such a nicest time reading the Blog and all the posts today. Curled up in my chair, with my head resting against the wall and a stuck smile across my face. I feel like a heartsick teenager fawning over letters from a young love. Silly I know, but that's what love will do to you, and I have grown to love you all this year. Elle, your 09 wishes had me bust out a laugh! That was great, I'm gonna have to use that.
God what a year it's been. I mean really. Sunday, if I just sit in my chair with warm tears running down my nose, nothing will be wrong with me. Just tears of ecstatic joy and love. To have been lifted from where I was to where I am today. Not that I have arrived, but that God heard my cry and He answered me. He showed me who He really was, or at least destroyed the false image of who I thought He was. He revealed to me His love and plan for His creation, and Oh, what a great love and plan it is! What an awesome God! That's been a real miracle in my life, and I say, not my life only but many multitudinous more for 2009!
You all really have been a constant support, lifeline, and beacon of light. This place is God's grace in action! I pray this year we all get an even greater revelation of Jesus and His love revealed in each of our lives, and that His love will be so poured out through us in all manners and ways to humankind. Let's turn this wilderness world into a garden again!

Pa rum pum pum and Amen.

NTL said...

What I love the most about this place, is all of it...

Merry, I hope it's the best one ever, Christmas.

tracy said...

Anon@ 2 my husband and I got to experience a 58 red corvette for about 6 months earlier this year....one of the best 6 months of our lives.......!!Bishop thank you for the gift today and back at you. your presence here ( and for sure the presence of the rest of you) is indeed a present for me and has been all year. I need you all and I love you all, you make me better and I thank you for it.

Lise said...

Hey there, SOZ! Wish I could say hi to you and Donald in person this Sunday, but tomorrow night is gonna have to do for us. Conyers is not quite 3 hours away. Joe has taken tomorrow off work, and doesn't return until Monday. So, since since we're not staying over anywhere and have 6 hours in the car, tomorrow evening just works better. Plus a candlelight service is awfully festive; I'm sure it will be beautiful! Maybe someday down the road all of us distant bloggers can make the trek and meet up!

linda said...

God bless us... every one! Merry Christmas everyone, I never tire of saying that or hearing it, for that matter!
Bishop, you are one of the most gifted, intelligent, Godly men that I have ever had the privilege to meet. I pray that this coming New Year is full of blessings, miracles, and peace for your family (immediate and church).
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night

Love,
Linda

Anonymous said...

Erik,
priecīgus Ziemassvētkus.

Anonymous said...

I really like that second "R" pic & wonder who drew it. Very regal; the fleur de lis - nice detail.

Adding my agreement to Bish's sentiments regarding all the bloggers. Someone likened blogging to an addiction. Turns out, I've got that. Often you've shared something that I've thought, said or encountered.

Bish, reading your topics sharpens me. I appreciate how your teachings (and Pastor Debye's) validate truths the Holy Spirit has shown me. I value many of your insights (even if I haven't shared that).

You once said something like, "I don't know how I know that, I just do." Sometimes, it seems that way with me, too. I always look forward to pics or topics you choose for the blog.

When I study them, it's actually fun to research material that I might ordinarily have overlooked.

You asked us to share about our 2008 blessings. Please forgive me for conking out. Long day being Santa. Plus, our dog has ocd issues; not kidding. Lucy's circadian rhythm's off, besides other health issues. (mercy! We're sleep challenged)

You asked what we hear: Recently, we were out to lunch with our daughter, son-in-law & grandson, Colin. Usually, he's VERY talkative. That day, he curled up in my daughter's lap & got very solemn. We tried everything we could think of, to get him to open up.

About half an hour later, his mood changed. He was back to his usual outgoing self. I asked what happened. His response stunned me.

He explained, "I was betendin' (pretending) it was dark out. So, I got wery (very) still."

Oh, holy night.

MERRY CHRISTMAS beloved Universe! Safe passage to all travelers. Please, please, please God, let there be healing in every gathering. Even in our words: Loving peace.

Amen!

NTL said...

Bish,
You have individualized each letter, as individual as we all are. Yet corporately you have brought us together as a whole.

You are a verbal mastercraftsman, drawing us all together as a masterpiece unto the Master of all.

Your labor avails much.

Anonymous said...

This blog has helped me keep my sanity this year!

Donald said...

Wow Bishop, that's some heavy duty writing for a single day!

But it has been intriguing and I checked it throughout the day to see how it was progressing.

Each addition was encouraging and helped me realize how so many of us have connected through the year. I know a few of the bloggers personally, but of the ones that I have never met physically I feel a strong connection to as if I have known them forever.

The Christmas season has been good this year and I am getting antsy waiting on Christmas morning.

While this has undoubtably been the busiest year that I can remember having, it has also been one of the most blessed years that I can ever remember having.

I have experienced some of the most joyous moments of my life this year and have experienced some that were less than that, but all things considered, it has still been an extraordinarily fantastic year.

I have missed visiting CITN this year. We were only able to make it there once so far and that was a visit that will remain in my memory as long as I live and quite possibly beyond that.

For all of you bloggers that have communicated with me this year that will be ITB this Sunday, please look me up and introduce yourself. I yearn to make your acquaintance.

Thanks for all the encouraging and edifying words you have placed here this year Bishop. You are my spiritual mentor, and I shudder to think about what my spiritual condition would be now if I had not found out about this ministry. That is not to take anything away from God or the Holy Spirit or whatever. In fact I believe that is a compliment to the Holy Spirit for directing me to tune into INSP so many years ago when you were there because anyone that knows me knows that I don't care much for Christian TV and that I was really getting disillusioned with the whole church-going thing.

Your ministry has been used to guide me back to where I should be and I am much more grateful for that than it may show.

Thanks for everything you have said and for everything you have done for me and my family this year.

Thanks to all you bloggers for being my church family since I do not share one of those in the conventional sense anymore. You have filled a void that I NEED.

If I do not get back on the blog anymore between now and Christmas, everyone have a very Merry Christmas. Although I will probably get back on here sometime between now and Christmas.

JR said...

I would just like to say that blog was awesome and post My Favorite
Christmas movies which are Friday
After Next, Bad Santa, and A Christmas Story.

peacemaker said...

What an amazing post. What beautiful thoughts, memories, intentions, and affirmations you gave to the inhabitants of this blog community.
Thank you...

I remember saying on my very first entry to this blog, "When all the critics have been answered, this will be a venue for idea exchange." Well, they have been answered and not only has great ideas been exchanged, wisdom, revelation, and much connectedness has been realized here.
I'm very thankful to be able to share this, our first Christmas, together with you Bish and all the others here. May we experience many, many more.

Merry Christmas and may the manifestation of the impossible become possible to you in this season of great miracles.

Peace on Earth and Good Will to ALL!
PM

Anonymous said...

It's Christmas Eve!!!

Anonymous said...

Well, it's Christmas Eve Day.

NTL said...

What a Christmas!

Last night we had Christmas at my mom and dads with 29 people. It was wild.

Today, we celebrate with our family. My wife and I, our oldest daughter and her husband, our oldest son and his wife, our youngest son and his date, and our youngest daughter and her date.
First we're going to an Italian restaurant for lunch. Then we are going to our daughter and son-in- laws to open presents. After that we are all going to the Christmas Eve service at CITN.

Christmas Day my wife and I, our youngest son and daughter, and their dates, and a very dear friend of ours will go out to eat and see a movie.

When it's all over, this will have been the fullest Christmas ever.

Anonymous said...

Echoing the sentiments of the many others that have already spoken, I thank you Bishop for this medium of expression where your metel has greatly sharpened mine.

You have given the gift of yourself to the world and made yourself subject to recieve what ever has come in return. All that you have recieved has been made to be good in every way by the power of the God with Whom all things are possible.

I continually add my prophecy to the others who's faith is in agreement for peace, safety and prosperity toward you and your household.

a forever friend and brother,

JB

Anonymous said...

Every day I connect here to what the lord is doing. I love CITN, Bishop, Pastor Debye, but, it is GOD in them of course that we are all drawn to. Thank you for this blog Bishop and your obedience to your calling daily. I know if I show up, the voice of God, speaks to me. I can always count on that.

NTL said...

Bishop and Pastor Debye,
Merry Christmas to you both in all you recieve and all you give.

And Jesus, Happy Birthday. We celebrate You.

Anonymous said...

Merry Christmas Everyone.

WOW it's Christmas Eve Already.
All my husband really wants for Christmas is Pumpkin Pies. What is up with that. I guess since I am trying to cut out sugar & salt they are having withdraws. LOL
I have his pies in the oven. Because it is Christmas (and I didn't add salt)I may have a little piece of pie.
I can't wait till service starts at 6pm.
The music will be Awesome.
Tonight I plan on leaving my outside Christmas lights on all night. Just as the star led those to Jesus . Our lights will shine as a reminder of that blessed night.
If I had one material wish for Christmas I guess I would wish for a box of gummy bears with real fruit juice. Reason when my father was in his last few months of service to the army he was sent back to Germany. It was only for a few months and the family couldn't go. I remember he sent us a care package and in it he sent me some gummy bears. The US didn't sell them at the time and they were awesome to me. I really want the ones that are made in Germany but the ones with real fruit juice taste as close to the ones made in Germany. There is a difference for those who say they are all the same.
The clear bears are my favorite but I love them all.

Whatever this new year brings:
I Pray Peace & Love over each one of you.
Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.

Anonymous said...

A praise report for '08?

Yes! Many!

* My family reunion in June

* Seeing my mom's wish fulfilled - the visit with her brother after 23 years.

* My aunt & uncle's visit, after 30 years.

* The "angel" who arrived when my vehicle conked out. I STILL wonder how he pushed the Jeep alone, until another Good Samaritan assisted.

* My new car

* The AJC angel vendor who INSISTED I take one of his token Christmas gifts, even when I initially declined.

It's a candy cane pen that writes in glittery ink & smells like mint. (think I blogged something like that, several months ago) So, Mr. Duvall... if you're reading this... heh heh

* My hubby's recent medical procedure & the good report

* Hearing how my son-in-law set up a tent in his living room for a "guy's night" - just for my grandson and himself. Rick's a policeman & the work hours have been erratic; he hasn't gotten quality family time.

* A good laugh; a good cry.

* Fresh Kleenex - not the crumpled up ones in last year's winter pockets. Or, the kind that leave oily aloe fibers stuck to your face right before the photographer says, "OK, SMILE!"

* Seemingly absurd family traditions. A few months ago, I secretly mailed one of my daughters a note with a little cash tucked inside. My instructions were simple: Take what you need, pay the rest forward. Add anything you want & don't tell the recipient in advance.

The phone calls have been hysterical (in the best way). "Oh yeah?! What's so & so's number? Who started this, anyway?!"

I'm apprehensive about postage. Last time I got it, it morphed. There were recipes, coupons for paper towels, baby wipes & pizza. A couple of freebies, too. God bless those McDonald's milkshakes - *&^%#. They know I don't drink them. Besides, some of the coupons had a day left before they expired. Too funny!

Oh yeah, love will get us some fries.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from my family to yours & the Universe!

Anonymous said...

Thank you Bishop for all you do and continue to do I, you , we probably do not even know the lengths that you carry us. Be blessed. All bloggers/blurkers; I love to glean from your insights thank you also. And thank you Lord for 2008 so many blessings I cannot begin to list them, but You know.

And for 2009... NEW; new wine. A new taste of the Holy Spirit. Amen. I know that this is the promised blessing and I know that it is for everyone especially those who are in covenant with CITN and all its outreaches. Hallel to Ja for He is great and greatly to be praised. Thank you for increasing my measure of faith and strengthening it. I love you all.

peacemaker said...

May you all on this Christmas Eve experience the wonder, joy, and blissful anticipation of the birth of the Christ in you. This is a re-birth of course, for the Christ has always been there.
On this special night, may you experience the Presence in you, as you, and through your sharing the love that has been brought to you directly from God.
This wonderful gift of Christmas is not a one day or one time experience, but lasts the whole year through--thanks to YOU! You are the gift, and as YOU give of yourself, so shall you recieve.

Blessings, Peace, and Merry Christmas,
PM

Anonymous said...

From hearts to hearts. This is Christmas.

Anonymous said...

BITN has been a lifeline this year. Many times I have logged on to read and found the very thing that I needed at that time. I have looked forward to the words that have been expressed here and have on occasion added my own.
Bishop, thank you for all the hours that you have poured into this extension of your ministry, may you get a thousand fold return.
To you and your family, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We look forward to being with you as we move forward into '09. The best is yet to come.
Pastor Debbie

word ver...turific
self explanatory

Anonymous said...

When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings

River said...

All Right Another Day And It's Christmas Eve

A Symbol Of Him
A Symbol Of Life
A Symbol Of Jesus
Born To Us On A Special Night
A Child Given
A Savior Born
Remember Him
On Christmas Morn.

I'm planning on having a quiet Christmas just watching movies & enjoying the day.

Merry Christmas To All

Anonymous said...

It's Christmas Eve. Tonight dads, turn off those cell phones and computers. Those little faces looking back at you will be all grown up before you know it. Enjoy the moments. They will never forget it.

wv: latermis

Anonymous said...

Blurkers Anonymous
Are you aware that there was a week in November that was deemed "Blurker Amnesty Week", where blurkers were given the chance to finally speak out and let their voice be known without any discouragement? -- This is my week!

'Twas the night before Christmas in my bless-ed house...
there's a keyboard a-clickin' - and even a mouse.
Bishop calls to encourage: "Please get involved!"
The masses replying: "We are now resolved!"Now blogger! Now blurker! Now Avatar and Carl!
On, Erik, On, Larry! on Nancy and Iris. To the top of the issues! to tear down those walls!
Dash away! Crash away! Blog away all!

Do you know what I know?... Do you see what I see?...
Our epiphanies (our story, perceptions, revelations, intuitions) -- are not meant to be kept to ourselves - as we are all necessary to the completeness of the whole.
Revelation is for the edification of all.
What is the spirit saying? -- as YOU see it -- a part of the greater "puzzle" pieced together to form a clearer picture of the greater good. . .

I am an occasional blurker. I am inspired by your insights. Thank you for your gifts of intuition and perception.
I resolve to add my thoughts to yours.
"Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Pastor Jeff

Anonymous said...

Pastor Jeff...priceless...

Unknown said...

I love you all and am so thankful for my beautiful CITN family! May God bless everyone on this wonderful day and days to come!

Ebony said...

Bishop thank you so much for that wonderful Holiday blassing. Like all of us could say, we had our share of challenges in 2008, but we can all also say that the good did outweigh the bad, and the fact that we're almost into 2009 is a reason to celebrate!!! So, to you and yours this Holiday Season, Merry Christmas!~!!

Anonymous said...

To Pastor Jeff,

All the rest of us that you didn't mention are good with it because we see ourselves as Rudolph. ha ha

Merry Christmas Courters and all others.

veriword - hymeri, that is sooo cool!

God as man pierced the membrane of the Holy Virgin coming into this world and from that time forward She has been the maturing Wife. As difficult as it is for me to see myself in the feminine (I have a beard and hairy legs) it is certainly an envy of mine to relate to the threshold crossed the Holy Son of God.

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much Bishop, for your acknowledgement. Truly I did not expect that. Once again thank you.

The book of John Chapter 10b: Jesus says- I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (More Abundantly)! Bishop, when I read your Blog and make my own comments about the topic of that day, I’ve felt you give me(us) a voice, an open door to have a now revelation and a more Abundantly life in the Spirit.

On that note I would like to wish you and your family a very, very Merry Christmas 2008.

Luke 2:10 says: the angel said unto them, fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

Fritz and I say to you in this Christmas season Bishop:

• Fear not
• Good tidings are coming your way
• You will have great joy this Christmas and the up coming New Year (s).
We speak Abundant life unto you and your family. In Jesus Name!

Thank you for been a good shepherd to us.

God Bless you and Merry Christmas to you! And also to all the Bloggers!
Love Kettly

Anonymous said...

To Jeff-

I LOVE YOU!!
MERRY 31st CHRISTMAS together....

Nancy

JR said...

Just like to say love the Merry Christmas blog and all the Christmas songs on the sites playlist, very cheerful and uplifting, which I really needed
because I've been really depressed
on and off for the last couple of
days, so thank you. My dad and I went to the Wal-Mart up here in Mason City, Iowa to get my Christmas gift (its just easier that way) and it was crazy busy.
Any other December 23 shoppers on here? That's all I had to say.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas!

Anonymous said...

An Ornament for Christ

Julia Bettencourt

When we think of Christmas ornaments, something beautiful usually comes to mind. Shiny, bright, glistening, sparkling, and pretty are just a few words we use to describe them. The dictionary meaning from Webster says that an ornament is "anything serving to adorn; decoration; embellishment."
How well do we embellish the body of Christ?

"But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. " I Peter 3:4
Everything we say and do comes from our heart. Just like a Christmas ornament, hanging on a tree, our lives are dangling out there for others to see. How well do we embellish, adorn, and serve the body of Christ?

What type of ornament are you?
A Tarnished Ornament.

Have you seen those Christmas ornaments that are beautiful, you pick them up and all the paint, and glitter comes off in your hand? Are you that way? Have you been rubbed the wrong way a few times? Maybe you've been slighted by another Christian or had a disagreement with a friend and never made up with them. That paint and glitter has come rolling off you and your heart life shows signs of wear.

An Ugly Ornament.

There are just some ornaments that are just that, plain ugly! You may not be ugly on the outside but inside there's some sad ugliness. Got an ugly attitude? Do you speak ugly words? Do you wear ugly expressions? Do you just reflect ugliness? These types of ornaments hang on the tree all by themselves because nobody wants to be around them.

A Broken Ornament.

Are you broken and falling apart? Some people just radiate the fact that their life has problems. In reality we all have problems but we all don't wear those problems as our wardrobe like some. We get our lives all broken and falling apart because we don't have our priorities in the right place or we don't depend on Christ as we should. In turn we get cracked and broken because we're trying to hold ourselves together on our own.

A Packed Away Ornament.

These ornaments no longer are useful and are packed away in a box, put up in the attic or a shelf in the closet and are never used again. Got some dust on you? Can you feel the cobwebs just crisscrossing your spiritual life? Stopped reading your Bible? Stopped praying? Stopped witnessing? This type of ornament scares me the most. Never doing anything for Christ. Not only would it be a boring life but it would also be such an unhappy and lonely one as well.

A Perfect Ornament.

This is the type of ornament we all would like to strive to be. The kind that builds up the body of Christ and reflects all that is lovely. An ornament that beautifies and adorns.
"An ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price"
We can choose how we embellish and adorn the body of Christ by how we act as a reflection of what's in our hearts.
As Christians, we are some kind of ornament, whether it is good or bad, dangling for all to see.

Today, ask yourself: How am I hanging?

Merry Chritmas
Love Kettly

Teezy313 said...

Oh magnify the Lord with me, let us exalt his name together!

Merry Christmas to all and hopefully I'll see all tonight!!

Teezy

Linda Luke said...

Merry Christmas everyone~

I had to jump on to say how thankful I am for your hard work in having this blog for us Bishop as well as the new one for additional inspiration on the Winners blog!!!

I am so highly grateful for this place and each persons input! It has truly been a lifeline propelling me positively forward and keeping me focused in some extremely challenging times this year! Alot of good is coming out of those times and I am grateful for those to. It is giving birth to something new!

I believe NEW & Greater things are in store for each of us in the New Year 2009!!! We will reach higher dimensions in living the Kingdom and manifesting His glory! God Speed to each of you! You truly have become family to me! I love you all!

Merry, Merry Christmas to Bishop & fam, and each of you and your families!!! I hope that you each have a special time with your families and something new is sparked in your hearts reflecting Him more than ever!

~JOY to the World!!!

Linda Luke said...

....this was sent to me & thougt yall might like~


Every time I love, every time I give, it's Christmas........ Dale Evans

The Legacy Of Christmas Love
One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is 1 Corinthians 13. A friend sent me the Christmas version of 1 Corinthians 13. I need this reminder every year... sit back, relax and take in a moment of Christmas Love!~
If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.
If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook.
If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.
If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir's cantata, but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.
Love stops the cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
Love doesn't envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful they are there to be in the way.l
Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who can't.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails!
Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust, but giving the gift of love will endure.
(And yes when I do blow it Christmas Love will give forgiveness and receive forgiveness !) How freeing is that!!

Christmas is not a time or a Season, but a state of mind to cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy. This is having the real spirit of Christmas.
Calvin Coolidge

Anonymous said...

Sooo, wish I could have been in the service tonight, but, thank you so much for streaming Bishop. It was top notch of coarse! The sanctuary was beautiful and I loved every minute of it. I even got your song and the carols afterwards. Streaming was still going. Great service. God bless you.

Lots of love,
Debra
(steaming from Ellijay)

Anonymous said...

Bish, I just noticed the tree ornament with the m on it and that gave me a joyful flashback to about thirty years ago when a little boy in our house made tree ornaments in kindergarten. We delighted in dressing our tree with them in the most conspicuous places.

Thanks, and yes we are blessed by God, everyone.

JB

Anonymous said...

Merry Christmas Bishop, Pastor Debye and Swilley family!!!

You have all made the year at CITN blessed and memorable.

May the angels sing over your homes tonight and may your dreams declare, "glory to God in the highest!"

Let there be peace on earth and the Lord enthroned in your sanctuary.

As Pastor Jeff has spoken and others have said, "Merry Christmas to ALL, and to ALL a good night!"

Teezy313 said...

Hey Karl,
After service tonight...in the back...can you say WOW!!! I think Ms. Roz put it best when she said "Forget the presents, nothing compares to the prescence and a touch from God"!

Teezy

Larry Usher said...

Merry Christmas everyone!
Posting from St. Lawrence River, NY, howling & blowing outside tonight. Snow on ground but thawing fast.

Looking ahead to great year and remembering who we are and the covenant we have. God wants to "show off" through is kids and if not now, when? If not here, where? If not us, then who?

Gotta do whatever it takes to get to the goal...pay the price, follow the call, see the end...

Y'all have a great holiday and I'll post as I am able.

Best to all,

Larry

Lise said...

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL SERVICE!!!

Donald & SOZ, sorry guys but you missed it! Don't know if you were streaming tonight, but streaming can't possibly do justice... just beautiful!

Got back to Simpsonville safe and sound at about 10:15. Thank you, Barbara Johnson, you stunning woman, for your safe travel wishes. Truly a pleasure meeting you. Someone please relay that message for me if she's not a blogger. The trip back was a breeze. The girls had their nightly game of fetch in the house, I made an awesome batch of mocha chocolate chunk cookie dough to bake in the morning (can't go to the 'rents' w/out some goodies), and now need to exit this blog and transfer some family photos to the digital frame that we got them for Christmas. Nothing like doing things at the last minute, huh ;}

But everyone who participated tonight... WOW!

Bish, I also want to add that out of all of your posts from the last 11 months (?), this one is my very favorite! Thank you for the beautiful blessing, and your willingness to spend the time to compose it. Almost feel the need to place a bow on the computer; it's like a precious gift.

Anyway,
MERRY, MERRY CHRISTMAS!
JOY OUT THE WAHZOO IN 2009! (that one's for you SOZ)
And, BTW... Erik, it was great to see you again. You never seem far because of the blog, but I don't think I've seen ya in person since SOTB2. Happy Holidays to you!

OK, it's 12:15... think I'll catch a glimpse of Santa???

Anonymous said...

WOW is right teezy...Holy Ghost joy in the choir room!

In regards to Santa...I think there's a rain delay.

Zachary just came in and said to me, "does anybody care about Santa Claus, raise their hand!", "ok, then, let's go to bed!"...so that's where I'm off to now.

I hope I can get up early enough to put the presents under the tree.

wver (really): poler

Erik said...

Well, its 3 AM, just about the time to write.

Pastor Dennis, thanks, glad I can add to your restful slumber.

Anon 1223 1011PM, - Thank You for the Christmas wishes. I appreciate you expressed that in Latvian. FYI for all, Latvian is the only living Sanskrit language. The literal translation is different from what we say as ‘Merry Christmas’ , for trivial pursuit people, if ever the question comes up, now you know the only living Sanskrit language.

The expression now known as ‘Merry Christmas’ in Latvian really is the concept, not the literal. Religious Latvians (if there are any ) would dispute this, (tracing my roots to the Indus River valley in Northern India) the expression acknowledges The Saviour without the knowledge of Jesus, that God (The Creator) absolved all perceived lack and infused ALL with His breath for life – Jesus. See, those who don’t ‘know’ do KNOW. I know, I know, I do not look Indian, but that’s where my combination of culture and DNA comes from. God is so cool !!! BTW, if you ever see a Latvian with dark complexion, dark hair and blue eyes, it will take your breath away. Seriously. I am only a copy of a copy, but hey, you work with what you got!

Pastor Jeff, Thank you for including me in the Reindeer. I always hope I am pulling the sleigh to the best of my ability, and when it is, following the nose of Rudolph – BTW – I was not one of those keeping Rudolph from the games – God forbid.

Elle, wonderful as always in the few instances to see you and your husband. You are an exquisite artist. My cats and dog perked up when I told them I saw you both, they always seem to know one they can work too. Isn’t it so the case. They have us wrapped around their paws. Merry Christmas to you, your husband Joe, and your little furry ones.

Bishop, that rendition of ‘Holy Night’ was the best I have ever experienced. Thank You for that, I love the song and its history.

Now, something that has been clarified in my recent travels. – No one we can ever know has ever been born into sin. To the extent that ever existed (which is far different than we commonly perceive) was transformed, retroactively back to the foundation. Even if any belief of that existed prior to The Resurrection, it evaporated then.

Know this -- YOU are only born Joyfully Triumphant . Anything Adam or Eve did has no relevance to YOUR birth or life regarding sin. What we celebrate as Christmas is the initiation of that dissolution. What we celebrate as Easter is the finalization, although it is even without the recognition.

WE live without such things, reframed from the foundation. ‘Born into sin’ is make believe, a fairy tale. The Saviour has wiped all of that away , retro to day one, that is the power of God. Not that silly, fictional god that people have created, but the God that created us, all people. Anything that who we call Adam did, has been fundamentally altered from the Foundation by God for the benefit of us ALL.

Merry Christmas!!! – See, That is what Merry Christmas means. Adam’s actions have no relevance, so be merry ALL, salvation has been true since the foundation for ALL. So, Merry Christmas to ALL, and to ALL a God night !!!!

Anonymous said...

okay, so I went ahead and stayed up late wrapping presents.

I did find what my son was wanting...an electric train...that he's been telling his teacher about for weeks. Bought it last night, 30% off at Hobby Lobby with 10 minutes to spare before the doors closed...just wrapped it and put it by the fireplace.

There's a sister here on the blog who gave me $20 towards it...God bless you and multiply back to you greatly!

All is quiet here and my cat Tommy is sleeping in the chair next to me.

I just looked on NORAD tracks Santa and he's in San Francisco right now...he's FAST!...changes places about every 3 minutes!
You can track him at
noradsanta.org...oh, now he's in Running Springs, California!

RIVER, don't forget the popcorn while you watch movies tomorrow.

JR-I speak Joy to your world and an angel to wrap you in a garment of praise-in Jesus' name! May you magnify the Lord for the wonderful things that will be birthed in your world this coming year!

My friend Herbert might be released tomorrow from Kennestone.
He had at least two stents put in his heart just yesterday...thank you to those who have prayed.

Tonight, we've got a guest in the house...his name is Everardo...his whole family went to Mexico...so he'll be having Christmas brunch here with us, he's spending the night, or in my son's words, "a pajama party!"

It's 3:01am and Santa is now in San Diego!

Okay, I'm going to have a cookie now and a glass of milk, and God willing, some deep sleep.

It's 3:11 and Santa is all the way up in Anchorage, Alaska now, so I don't know what happened, I guess he saw my light on. I'm still eating my cookie, though.

Bishop, thanks for pouring out through your song tonight. Also, thanks for pouring out into the blog. The water here refreshes, revives and brings dead waters to life!
I pray the Holy Spirit bless all of us here.

Feliz Navidad! y buenas noches!

ps.-Erik, just now saw your blog, thanks for making me company at this late hour, and yes, and amen, and to you a God night, too!

Anonymous said...

Hark! THE HERALD ANGELS SING

Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King:
Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!”
Joyful, all ye nations, rise join the triumph of the skies;
With th’angelic host proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem!”

Christ, by highest heaven adore, Christ the everlasting Lord,
Late in time behold him come, offspring of the Virgin’s womb:
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; Hail, th’incarnate Deity,
Pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel.

Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings, risen, with healing in His wings.
Mild he lays His glory by, born that man no more may die,
Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them (us) second birth.

Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King.”
CHARLES WESLEY
Psalm 103:20-21

Praise the Lord, you angels of His,
You mighty creatures, who carry out His plan,
Listen for each of His commands.

Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angel
Who serve Him and His will!!!!

Merry Christmas 2008
Enjoy your blessings Present!
LOVE ALWAYS
KETTLY

Anonymous said...

Here is a link to some very cool Christmas videos, pictures and information. Enjoy!

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/12/25/it-s-a-wonderful-life.aspx

Anonymous said...

Let me try this again to get the entire link to show up.

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive
/2008/12/25/it-s-a-wonderful-life.aspx

Anonymous said...

Merry Christmas to ALL!
BE the Gift today and every day!


What Am I?
(from ACIM's daily lesson)

I am God’s Son, complete and healed and whole,
shining in the reflection of His Love.
In me is His creation sanctified and guaranteed eternal life.
In me is love perfected, fear impossible,
and joy established without opposite.
I am the holy home of God Himself.
I am the Heaven where His Love resides.
I am His holy Sinlessness Itself, for in my purity abides His own.

Our use for words is almost over now.
Yet in the final days of this one year we gave to God together,
you and I, we found a single purpose that we shared.
And thus you joined with me.
So what I am are you as well.
The truth of what we are is not for words to speak of or describe.
Yet we can realize our function here,
and words can speak of this and teach it,
too, if we exemplify the words in us.

We are the bringers of salvation.
We accept our part as Saviors of the world,
which through our joint forgiveness is redeemed.
And this, our gift, is therefore given us.
We look on everyone as brothers,
and perceive all things as kindly and as good.
We do not seek a function that is past the gates of Heaven.
Knowledge will return when we have done our part.
We are concerned only with giving welcome to the truth.

Ours are the eyes through which Christ’s vision
sees a world redeemed from every thought of sin.
Ours are the ears that hear the Voice of God
proclaim the world as sinless.
Ours the minds which join together as we bless the world.
And from the oneness that we have attained we call to all our brothers,
asking them to share our peace and consummate our joy.

We are the holy messengers of God who speak for Him,
and carrying His Word to everyone whom He has sent to us,
we learn that It is written on our hearts.
And thus our minds are changed
about the aim for which we came and which we seek to serve.
We bring glad tidings to the Son of God,
who thought he suffered.
Now is he redeemed.
And as he sees the gate of Heaven stand open before him,
he will enter in and disappear into the Heart of God.

Anonymous said...

First, I woke up this morning with some people on my mind and they have remained there so this is my chance, and thanks for that Bish, to acknowledge them.

All those who are serving the citizens of the world, who desire peace and safety, by subjecting themselves to a committment that has them displaced from their own place of comfort are due our thankfulness and thoughtfulness.

Thank you to all who are in that position right now. Our own enjoyment of what ever level prosperity is being enjoyed would have no meaning at all without the sense of peace and safety we are privileged with at your sacrifice.

We wish you and yours a well deserved return on your investment and that you will experience, to the fullest, what the concept of Christ's gift has brought to all.

Secondly, thank you to Erik for the post at 3:19 AM. My friend you have articulated what is deep in the heart of humanity.

We all desire the full knowledge of our prayers, according to asking for God's Kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven, being answered in our own lifetimes. To some degree they are answered, at least on an individual and internal level, when we recognize what you have described as what was framed from the foundation.

The Good News is dynamic and on a forward advance. It has already overcome the gates of hell and is now transitioning to let everything that has breath know that their praise is not in vain.

The proclamation of the fall being fallen and the resurection from dead works being made real is emancipating all who were once slaves to tradition. The wave of excitement caused by the release of the captive from the bodage of the created into the freedom of the Creator is the energy that will feed the machine of peace on earth for the next millenium.

One more time, let me say thank you Bishop for this wonderful gift.

JB

Anonymous said...

Thank you Bishop for giving us a place to come so that we can learn of you as you pour into us the word of God. As I read your blog I get to see into the heart of you and it's all good I love you and Pastor Debye with the heart of God. I know I have not been there long but its like I've always been here. I pondered why I felt so at home and your teachings were not strange to me and I finally realized that I had heard some of what you teach before. I take online courses at Sure Foundation Theology school and there the teachings are right down the line with your teachings, how cool is that. Only God knows how to make such devine connections.

Last year at christmas I was facing the biggest challenge of my life but this Christmas I am reaping the benefits of that challenge and coming through the fire without the smell of smoke on my clothes.

I have been so blessed beyond measure that now my cup runneth over and I can now sow into kingdom from the overflow.

My greatest blessing has been the inspiration of your and Pastor Debye words each Sunday as both of you allow the Holy Spirit to flow. God's word through you have not gone out void in me and it is accomplishing great things in my life.

There are three great things that have happened under your inspiration: (1) I know that God loves me and I have learned to love me. I know longer have to beg anyone to love me (men) but know God has a plan for me and its not dependant on who want or don't want me. (2) I was able to finish my test and send it off after struggling with it for two years thinking I would not pass because the questions were so intense but I sent it off and the email came last week and I passed and I'm going to graduate with a B.S. in Bibilical Studies. (3) I finally finished my book and its at the publisher with a release date of early Spring. Those are the best Christmas Presents I could have ever received.

I saw someone from my former church and she said that's a big church what are you doing there. The look on her face said to me there was a hidden agenda in that question so I drew up a little taller and said once a month I go and answer the phones for a few hours. She looked so shock and said you are answering the phones and I said to her yes and its the most rewarding thing I have done in my life and I'm honored that they allow me to do it and I stared her straight in the eye as her eyes dropped and she left with the departing words that I can see you are happy it is written all over you, Praise God she can run and tell that.

Merry Christmas Bishop and Pastor Debye, I know that the New Year is going to be off the chain. I'm just going to enjoy the ride and I look forward to the Life Skill messages.

Anonymous said...

MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL BLOGGERS AND BLURKERS! Bish, your song last night was amazing!

Anonymous said...

Repeat the sounding joy in January
Repeat the sounding joy in February
Repeat the sounding joy in March
Repeat the sounding joy in April
Repeat the sounding joy in May
Repeat the sounding joy in June
Repeat the sounding joy in July
Repeat the sounding joy in August
Repeat the sounding joy in September
Repeat the sounding joy in October
Repeat the sounding joy in November
Repeat the sounding joy in December

Pamela said...

Bishop and Pastor Debye, Thank you so much for a wonderful and blessed 2008. You are a gift and blessing that I thank God for everyday. I thank God I have a church home that I always feel at home and welcomed and accepted where I am in my walk with the Lord. I thank God for a Bishop that loves and cares deeply for his flock. I thank God for this year that I have come along way since it's beginning and I am no where near where I will be by the end of the next. I thank God that he loves me unconditionally and that he believes in me even when I have doubts. I thank God for my wonderful son Spencer and the love and light he brings everyday. I thank God for all my friends and all the great blessings that they have touched me with this year through words of hope, encouragement, love, laughter and even words to slap me back on track. I look forward to the New Year with you friends and the new friends that God will put in my path in 2009, and everything that God has in store for us all, it will be so great. Merry Christmas and a Blessed and Favor Filled New Year!!!! I love you all, Pamela

Unknown said...

Wild and scrambled day in our neck of the world. More later but I want to say Merry Christmas to my blog family before it gets late.
Y'all are never far from my thoughts--especially today and I want to make sure that you know it.

tracy said...

Our "secret Santa" gave us the Wii as a family...and that has been a trip. Santa here gave the kids Rock Band and seeing as how none of us is musically inclined, that has been hilarious!!! We just spent 3 hours playing the new monopoly with the bank card.... David and I beat the kids, he had the property, I had the cash and we merged and decided to join forces and run off to Vegas. What a PERFECT day and a perfect ending to 2008. I have a job and we are all healthy and smiling!!

Erik said...

Hi all the bloggers coming in from out of the area on Sunday.

If there is nothing else planned, I welcome you (and others, bloggers or not who would like ) to come over to my house on Sun after service. It is not far from CITN. I can lay out a pretty good spread, we can also fire up the BBQ, and have some fun fellowship, revelation, and good eating.

If that sounds good, let me know. Either way, we need to meet before service, say ‘hey’. In the café Just outside of it , 930 AM?

peacemaker said...

Tracy,
You have a beautiful way of expressing your thoughts. You shared the joy and fun you had with the family today and the feeling of happiness and contentment was tangible. Thanks for allowing us in.
I am very excited about this whole new journey you and David are on. I know it's been different and very difficult but it's a path you had to walk in order to evolve. Thank you for not giving up or giving in. Enlightenment, wisdom, and abundance is your reward for allowing the transformative process to proceed. Don't strive for a destination because I don't believe we ever "arrive". That's not a hopeless thing, though. Life is constantly moving forward and because of that, so are you.
Enjoy the journey...it only gets better and better.

Peace and Love,
PM

tracy said...

Love you PM and Merry CHRISTmas from our family to yours...you had a hand in bringing us this far....Oh and Erik like we told Donald we will be in west Welcome Center working arond 9 :30isha....

tracy said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Remember your covenant with your people Lord.
We remember your covenant with us. You are all we want, all we need. All good things are contained in you, so we seek you first.
You are the Healer, let us see your healing spring forth in your people.
You are our Provider, let us see your provision rise upon your people.
You are our Peace, we call upon and receive your peace.

Your Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. We look earnestly for the steps which you are illuminating in front of us.

Thank you Father, for the goodness and kindness you have shown to us.
Help us to reflect your light upon those around us and spark flames of love and peace and unity.

Blessings to all

Window Washer

PattiL007 said...

I know it's late but I still wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and that I hope all your days were merry and bright even if it wasn't white!

Thank you to everyone for the marvelous Christmas Eve service. I enjoyed every moment of it...thanks, Pastor Jimmie, and NOW Choir and Band for all your hard work...it paid off BIG TIME! It was enjoyed by one and all!

Thank you, Curtis, Robyn, and all the tech crew for bringing us the wonderful sights, lights, and sounds of Christmas...Great job!

Bishop...your song...one of my faves...brought the house to its feet...literally. Thank you for your gift of song and the numerous gifts you give us all year long in word, in deed, and in love. You and Pastor Debye are never far from my thoughts and prayers...for all you do...thank you and Merry Christmas.

To all my Blog Fam...I love you all, Merry Christmas, and here's to an AMAZING 2009!

Blessings Blog Fam!

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

Thanks, everyone, for your great comments...

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

And thanks for all the Merry Christmas texts today...forgive me for not returning them individually...I've had my phone off all day...but Merry Christmas to you, too!

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

Hope your day was great...ours was just absolutely perfect in every way...

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

Hey, if any of you who live in Newton Country have a copy of the Newton Citizen from last week with our house on the front page, will you please let me see it (or, better yet, have it?!) We missed it, and can't find it online...

Donald said...

Happy day after my best Christmas ever to everyone!

Erik, thank you for the invitation to join you at your home after service Sunday. My wife and I would be honored to attend.

G8TRGRL said...

Merry Day After Christmas, blog family! Purposely stayed away from the computer yesterday..... this elf was pulling an allnighter on Christmas Eve to help Santa out. He was so cool and left us a scavenger hunt of rhyming clues for us to discover we now have a Wii!!( I have to agree with you Tracy--too fun!)

So, if you know "A Christmas Story", my 11 year old was just like Randy with his zeppelin... fell asleep with his HUGE new Nerf gun in the bed with him...

What a beautiful day it was, being together with my family, all of us getting to stay in our pj's all day, with nothing to focus on but each other.

Thank you, Jesus for the gift of you. We love and appreciate your blessings, grace, peace, and joy that you give us so unconditionally.

ttfn

Sweepea said...

I loved your Christmas blog Bishop; sorry I've been a blurker of late.

We have so much to be thankful for in 2008, and so much to look forward to in 2009. What an adventure this life is!

Blessings on you and your family and CITN!

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

I will forgive you for blurking, Sweepea, if you'll forgive me for omitting you from the list of regular bloggers in my post (see what happens when you blurk?!...out of sight/out of mind!) Anyway, your moniker has been added...)

Anonymous said...

Happy Boxing Day or St. Stephen's Day or Proclamation Day, depending on what country you're from.

Anonymous said...

I'm 100!

Unknown said...

A Christmas praise report:
you know how on Christmas eve, late, when you're wrapping gifts that you told yourself you'd wrap as soon as you bought them [Santa wraps everything in the stockings in our house!]and you're thinking "When I put that paper back last week, saying I have enough this year...hmmm...maybe not a good decision..."
This year there weren't a lot of wrapped gifts...so the BJ's store stuff that Santa was bringing was going to be the FUN! stuff to open--from spray cheese and gummy bears to 16roll packs of tp, toothpaste and new toothbrushes!

So that's where Santa found himself this year--not worried, it's certainly not a big thing in the great and grand issues of failing banks and real hunger, just thinking "rats! This was gonna be the FUN part."
Well...there WAS enough, in the end. The last piece of paper used [some were just too small] had snowmen on it and as Santa joyfully pulled the small piece that was left around the last gift he saw "It's exactly ENOUGH! Yayyyy". And here's the cool part bloggers...the small overlap brought the body of the snowman smack dab up against the head--perfectly!
Is that cool or what?
It was a "small" gift--if there is such a thing--but it felt prophetic, too...so I had to share.
[Oh! I just bolded "saying" 'cos I realized just now--I HAD what I "said"!

Bishop, last minute shopping, wrapping and family stuff [including more today] turned this blogger into a short term blurker. If this post stays open just a little while longer I'd like to add some thoughts--but if not, as others have said, it has been a huge gift to me personally--while paring down it kept me focused on the thought "I just want everyone in my life to know they are loved." and I believe they do.
Many blessings to ALL as we countdown to 2009!

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

Thanks, bloggers, for helping to make this Christmas the best ever!

Peace on earth, good will to men!