Promises...Promises

PROMISE

The word itself is poetic, it holds hope. We have heard of promise rings, pinky promises, or the phrase " they hold such promise".

A declaration or assurance that one will do a particular thing or that guarantees that a particular thing will happen.
Assure someone that one will definitely do, give, or arrange something; undertake or declare that something will happen.

Promises are made, broken, and seldom kept.

THERE IS A PROMISE KEEPER

Like a white canvas awaiting brush stokes, I have begun again, afresh, in the pages of scripture, My eyes freshly see "In the beginning, God". Light becomes my backdrop. Suddenly color starts to form its bow as I behold promises made in the very first book. God said to Noah after the flood “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.” So God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all life on the earth.” As I pondered these words kept and the times my heart has soared as I have seen with my own eyes this wonder cascading beauty bright. I know that I am a part of that future generation promise. What God vows is sure. A few more turned pages and yet another promise to Abraham, The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you;
I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”Genesis12:1-3 In the shadows of these pledges fulfilled there were testing’s, times of waiting. The artisans backdrop not always clear. But...His words spoken are sure. His band of color is like a banner over my life, one end in this world and the other at the promise land. What will the narrative of 2012 disclose?

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God. 2 Cor. 1:20

Family Christmas Letter

Christmas 2011

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3

Dear Family and Friends,

Relationship is the key word that surfaces in our hearts this Christmas. Our relationships with God, family and friends. These are eternal and deeply impact our hearts and lives. Life circumstances can be disabling, unpredictable and even fearful. These precious relationships carry us through.

Blessings Found In Relationship

Jesus is: The True Vine: We find comfort in abiding in Him. Light of the World: He shines light in our darkness. Savior, Our only source of atonement and salvation, Bread of Life, Satisfies our deepest hunger, King of Kings, He sovereignly reigns over our lives, Immanuel, is always with us, Giver of Living Water, Source of true happiness and fulfillment,Good Shepherd, Always protects and cares for us. He is wonderful!

Family is: Present in the good times and bad. They know your weaknesses and love you in spite of them. People that bring you laughter, share precious memories of the past and anticipate what will be. Kin with whom we share our burdens and joys, and also enjoy special game times and adventures. Sweet, endearing, loved ones that we are praying for and praising God with continuously.

Friends are: Faithful to walk beside you through times of joy and tears. They touch your heart with their tender encouragement, hold you up when you feel weak, bring deep laughter to your soul. Faithful allies, ones on whom you can depend. Our hearts are bound together by our love for the Lord.

Our relationships with each of you are deeply treasured and we thank our God upon every remembrance of you!

Lovingly, the Isaak Family

The Homeless at Christmas Time

Our family has had a burden to take notice of the homeless. We can acknowledge their presence with a smile, roll down our car window and ask how they are today. We can also ask their name and let them know that we are praying for them.

One of the things that I felt led to do this 25 days of Christmas was to pray for a specific young man who stands on the street corner of Blackstone and Shaw asking for help for he and his mother. Today I parked my car close to him and walked over and asked if I could talk with him for a few minutes. He said, "Sure", and walked over by my car with me. I shared with Him that God had put him on my heart and that my family and I had been praying for him. I said I know that you see so many people driving past you each day and you must wonder if anyone really cares. He shook his head up and down. I asked him his name and his mother's. He said, "Steven and Shelley". Then I asked if he would share a little of his story with me. He said, that they used to live with their grandmother until she died and that they were waiting for a home through section eight. I let him know that God cared for him and that He was able to deliver him from his present circumstances.

For a young man his teeth were starting to rot and he smelled like alcohol. I asked if I could pray for him and he took my hand and bowed his head. I left him with a gift but I could tell that he had been touched by the ONE who knows how to touch the soul. God led me to Steven. He is planting seeds in this young man's life. I hope you too will pray for he and and his mother.

The Homeless

You see us when you walk on the street.
Sitting on the ground or lying at your feet.
You turn your head with your Nose in the air.
To let us know that you don't care.

You look at us as if it were a Crime.
When we say " Hey, Buddy can you Spare a dime?"
But you could say "no" and just Turn away,
without even as much as a look of dismay.

It's horrible the way we live Each day.
When we have to eat what you throw away.
You live in a house, We live on the street.
In a cardboard box, do you think It has heat?

For we are not animals, we don't Live in a zoo.
Can't you look in our eyes and See we are human beings, too?
You have love, a family, a home.
We have nothing but emptiness; We're alone.

So the next time you're walking Down the street.
Please give some thought to the Homeless you meet.
Can you send some love and Kindness our way,
To brighten perhaps just one day?
For we are people, we had hopes and dreams, too.
But we weren't born as lucky as You.

Is there a homeless person that God desires you to reach out to this Christmas?

Matthew 25:34-40 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Special Time at Christmas

Who found time for Christ on that first Christmas? The angels looked on and declared the glory of God and the shepherds went to see the child who came to save His people. There was nothing more important on that first Christmas .

Anyone who loves the sea has a romance with it as well as a respect for it. The romance is difficult to describe except by poets-for it defies analysis. The mind moves into another gear as the primeval rhythms of the seashores erode tidy resolutions and hectic deadliness. Time tables, appointments, and schedules are blurred by the salt mist. The thundering waves pull us with a powerful magnetism we cannot resist as we toss our cares and responsibilities to the prevailing winds...
What is hidden in the sea is also hidden in God's wisdom...

Those fathomless truths about him and those profound insights from him produce within us a wisdom that enables us to think with him. Such wisdom comes from the Spirit who, alone, can plumb the depths and reveal his mind.

The hurried, the greedy, the impatient cannot enter into such mysteries. God grants such understanding only to those who wait in silence...who respect " the depths of God." It takes time. It calls for solitude.
Charles Swindoll: The Finishing Touch

Time with God is always special. He is a wonderful listener, counselor, and friend. He is always available and delights in being called on. He keeps things confidential and faithfully intercedes for us. James 4:8a says draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Jeremiah 33:3, says, “Call to me, and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things which you do not know.”

There is nothing more important this Christmas!

Dog Christmas Party

Our daughter Rayshelle is hooked on Guide Dogs for the Blind. Last night there were 14 of these dogs that are being raised with the hopes of them being official guide dogs. It was fun to participate in the doggie gift exchange.

Guide Dog's

Gentle
Understanding
Intelligent
Devoted
Eye's-Ears

Dynamic Dogs
Others Oriented
Gifted Guides
'
Super Special

Precious Little Church

In the quaint little town of Selma there lies a little Church. Many of the people who live outside its doors are low income, migrant, families. My son and his wife have ministered faithfully, joyfully, to the children who live in the neighborhood.

The past few weeks the children ranging in ages from thirteen to five have been preparing for their Christmas Program that they performed this evening.
Their faces were beaming as they sang Hark the Herald Angel Sings; they were adorable with their elf hats. A few of the outstanding highlights were when one of the youngest girls did Silent Night in sign language and another one of the older girls recited a passage from Luke about the Angels proclaiming the good news to the shepherds out in the fields.

These children may not have a lot monetarily but this Christmas they invested themselves in sharing the Good News with others. They now have memories that they will treasure for the rest of their lives. What an honor it was to be present within this little church family.

Kids Christmas Party

During the Christmas season as were traveling from place to place, through our city, we see trees beautifully trimmed in the windows, pine wreaths on the doors, and cheerful lights shining bright on people’s houses. Homes that are decorated for Christmas are appreciated and enjoyed most when you invite others in.

Our family enjoyed slipping the table cloths on, placing a variety of chairs, lighting many candles and playing Christmas music as we awaited our guests.

At our party we enjoyed fun crafts, the older kids had fun painting the windows outside, we played games such a Catch Phrase, Mafia, and the all-time favorite tag. Before lunch we sat all together and read a heartwarming Christmas story.

Our home was jammed packed but there was sweet laughter and precious memories made. The lunch items prepared by all were delicious and everyone left with a gift that they had received from the white elephant exchange.

Christmas time is much more enjoyable when you open up your home and warmly welcome others in.

Heart Warming Presence

There is a gift that reaches deep down within our souls. It is priceless and leaves us longing for more. The gift is that of being desired, never a bother, but warmly, enthusiastically being welcomed in and embraced.

As I ponder and think tenderly and lovingly about those that I have enjoyed such sweet encounters with, it fills my heart with sentimental joy.

I invite you to peer in and see these beautiful gems. Their eyes twinkle, their laughter is musical, and the warmth of their embrace physically as well as emotionally builds strength into your soul.

Some of us have had grandparents that resembled this description and others have received these elderly friends as gifts from above.

Christmas is heavenly when we secure time to visit our aged friends. They were once the one's who went a calling. Letting them know that they are what brightens up our year also enables them to know they are not forgotten but longed for. Enjoying their presence is one of our families greatest Christmas presents.

There's more, much more, to Christmas.
Than candlelight and cheer;
It's the spirit of sweet friendship,
That brightens all the year;
It's thoughtfulness and kindness,
It's hope reborn again,
For peace, for understanding
And for goodwill to men!
Author Unknown

Keeping Christmas Real

We all have our ideals about what "Christmas" should look like. Those that awaited the Savior of the world had their own understanding about what was going to take place when He came. The King of Kings came as a newborn baby, not to a palace but a stable, dependent and lowly. No friends and family were present. His parents were poor. The king of the land had heard about His birth and had ordered all baby boys two years and younger to be killed. Some would consider His appearing lame.

Ideals Vs Reality

The tree is trimmed in festive beauty it is a wonder to behold. The next thing you know, the cat tried attacking an ornament and the tree goes down in a heap.

Decorative holiday windows are fun to create with manger scene and the name of Jesus written boldly. Someone else didn't appreciate it for they shot a bullet into our window on the J.

Oh, we all love the Christmas photo cards and proudly post them for all to see. But...all parents know that the smiles we see are not always the reality of what transpired when the family portrait took place.

We were dreaming of a white Christmas, it finally came and we all got bundled up and went outside to the winter wonderland. Cries were heard from our children. They declared they hated the snow, were freezing and wanted to go inside.

We need to surrender our ideals and embrace what happens. We can choose joy and contentment. Peace can be found in the unexpected.

God's plan was, and is, glorious.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:8-20

Enjoy your Christmas, don't make comparisons with Christmas past or with what you see others doing. God has some glorious happening in store for your family if you will just trust Him.

Family Time

The Hallmark picture of a warm crackling fire, with family gathered round, enjoying one another, is unfortunately the exception rather than the norm.

Time for family, a request of desire, purposely scheduled, during this Christmas season. Our lives can be jam-packed with responsibilities, it is possible to live in the same home and all be on different frequencies. Days can go by with little or no contact or communication..

Family Christmas goings-on include daily Advent stories by candle light followed by prayer times, favorite Christmas books packed with heartwarming stories shared, Special outreach opportunites are participated in together. Preparing as one to share the Christmas Story through our handmade puppet show. Showing hospitality to friends that we seldom see.

We have so many things that clamor for our attention, computers, television, school projects, daily chores, other relationships, Bible studies, just to name a few.

The wonder of sharing a meal together,listening attentively to each person share their recent happenings is treasured. Watching a movie with popcorn, playing a video or board game with everyone can be a challenge to coordinate but the dividends far exceed the obstacles.

Time spent with family is one of the greatest treasures given or received. Luke 12:34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Ears to Hear

Trees twinkling, music softly plays, knocks on the door, our daughter has invited some friends over for a Christmas game time. Voices lifted, laughter soars, as they sit on the floor munching on a variety of delicious snacks contributed by all. The gathering is simple and yet sweet. .

Football is on and dad wants to sit and watch the game. Instead he puts on some gloves and ventures out in the cold with strands of lights towed. Oh, how beautiful our house looks as night draws near. Rebecca our 10 year old makes a cup of hot cocoa and warmly offers her daddy her treat. He thinks she is very sweet.

A precious friend ventures in and one can see the heaviness she bears. We pull up a chair and listen with care. We speak of God's promises and the truth of how difficult life circumstances can be. Were reminded that pearls are produced by the rough sand over a long period of time. Did you know that "diamond stability zones" are delivered to Earth's surface during deep-source volcanic eruptions. This should speak to our hearts that some of most difficult trials of this life have the potential to produce some of the most beautiful lasting treasures.

The party is ending and it's time for friends to depart but before my friend goes we bow and pray. The anxieties of the day we lay at the throne of Him who is thee only way.

Thank you Heavenly Father for hearing our prayers and for giving us ears to hear. We know you are present. Your word says in 1 Corinthians 2:9 "no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him" You are soverignly in control.

Isaiah 64:4 Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.

Christmas Miracle

It's Christmas time. Long ago God's people lifted up their voices in one accord crying out for God to hear and to save them. God had promised a redeemer and they believed.

Our family gathers round, kneeling down, lifting up our voices, reaching out to our Savior. Tears flow down knowing that He cares. Day after day we worship Him knowing that He is worthy of all glory honor and praise. The storms of life have come and our life circumstances are uncertain. But we believe.

We are reminded of truths from scripture. Jesus is our Great High Priest who faithfully intercedes for us. We are comforted by passages that show us and let us know that He is with us and will never leave nor forsake us. He is our Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God. We believe.

Sometimes the weight of the burdens we bear is tiresome and we lose heart. He is faithful when we lose hope. Hebrews ll:1 says "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen". We believe

God speaks to the hearts of men, He sends forth His ministering messengers. We are humbled by His answers to our prayers. He proclaims His goodness and tenderly, extravagantly, provides, exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we could think or ask. Our hearts overflow in gratitude; voices raised high, tears of joy flow down, wishing all to believe.

Every good gift every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down form the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James 1:17

Follow the Leader

Follow the leader is a phrase that we are taught from the time we are little. When children are asked who wants to be the leader, hands fly up.
Power and control are strong motivators within human beings in the cause of leadership. The responsibility of those who have others looking to them for guidance is a high calling.
Today in our Bible Study Fellowship lesson we were looking at verses from Hebrews. We were reminded of our need to pray for those in authority over us. They will one day give an account to God for their actions. It was a joy to go around the room and to talk about what type of things we could pray for and also what we praised God for about each one and their uniqueness. Our Prayer time was sweet. Oh that we could be a joy and not a grief.

When people were asked what type of acts encouraged them the most. One of the most popular answers was knowing that others were praying for them. This brings great comfort.

Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you. Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things. Hebrews 13:17-18

Loving Words

The kids have chosen to write some special letters to loved ones. They are offering these words as gifts. Words are powerful. They can encourage, express gratitude, and highlight memories of treasured times. Children know the joy of notes received and value highly these acts when they are the recipient’s.


Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a word spoken in right circumstances. Proverbs 25:11

Christmas Fellowship

The crisp, cold air, led us to our warm, fun lite, destination. Dressed beautifully with bright faces,all shed their coats and were embraced with a welcoming exclamation.

Women’s voices were all abuzz as they shared their most recent tales. Sounds of yum... this is so good were poured forth and invited others to the table to try the delicious appetizers prepared, amidst favorite Christmas chorales.

Gathered together for prayer, lifting up our praises of our Gods amazing attributes adored. Dinner and dessert prepared, eyes widen at the scrumptious galore.

Tables filled with memories shared, oh the sounds and sights of sweet companionship. The time passes quickly; full, satisfied, for we had tasted true, Christmas fellowship.

"Devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to prayer "Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved." Acts 2:43-4

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Special Acts

Special acts that minister to the heart come in all shapes and sizes and can be given by all sorts of people. Children eagerly and sacrificially give their treasured gifts. An endeared friend arrived with cake and gift. We enjoy a special heart to heart chat. A knock on the door and a mother stood on the porch with 3 lovely children. She was bearing a gift and the 2 preschool children, one on the piano, sang happy birthday. What a delightful blessing. Friends and family members called with sweet loving greetings. Special cards arrived in the mail. Children decorated Bible study room leaving sweet notes. Birthday wishes are posted. Enjoyable dinner date with a precious friend. Surprise card from ladies in group tonight. There are many times that one thinks of doing loving, encouraging acts, but it is deeply appreciated when those thoughts become deeds. Today I was the humble recipient of so many loving gestures. "But I have all, and abound: I am full, But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen." Philippians 4:18a-20

It's A Wonderful Life

You matter! Sometimes life circumstances can be overwhelming. When we focus in on the trials that surround our own lives it can be depressing for sure. A favorite Christmas movie, It's a Wonderful Life, depicts this reality. George Bailey's testing’s of life kept him from his dreams and yet he was used mightily in helping others realize their dreams. He did not know the impact of his life. This could be said of your life too. God created all of us for a purpose and He wants to make Himself your very present help. Jesus came to bring hope to the hopeless. We can hope in God for He is greater than all. May our perspective be more of a world vision for when we see the life challenges that others are facing it helps us to reach out. John 15:13 says Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Shining Liight In Dark Places

Saturday morning, we are drawn to those in mourning. Ninety people, young and old, were gathered together to bring Christmas cheer to those who had lost someone dear. Many suffer at this time of year and they need someone who will lend a listening ear.
Our family went to four places. The first door opens and we see grief of their faces. Invited in, how long has it been since you lost your kin. Memories of their mother, wife, wondering now how to go on with their life. The holidays cut like a knife.
Each person we met was facing various trials; financial, physical, emotional, one thing we could offer was a prayer to the one whom they could cast all their cares. Humbly we went before His throne and in that moment they knew they were not alone.
Tears flowed from our eyes as we said goodbye.
http://youtu.be/11RDZRcTkDk

Day Two Just Flew

Today is the day for transformation in the Isaak home. Snow flakes of all shapes and sizes are crafted by our many hands, and have turned our living room into a winter wonderland.
Life happens in the midst of fun times, and even our plumber had a great time viewing the kids mastery. He sat down to teach the kids how to create a spiraling paper Christmas tree. The kids enjoyed this new experiment.
Evening quickly approaches and all the family has come together to decorate. We have a nativity room and a snow room. There is a tree for each room. The kids named our ratty old tree Gimpy. It is one of those old fashioned kind where you poke the branches into the stick trunk. He is dearly beloved by all our family, and each branch holds a precious ornament that symbolizes a memory.
Our day closes with hot coco, candy canes, laughter, sentiment, and one of our favorite movies of an elf in New York city.

Blustery December Joy

Blustery winds blow through on this first December day. Warm hot bisquits shared with a few people who were sitting, waiting for their bus rides.Warm greeting,smiles and departures. Watching children while mommas and dear sisters take a few hours to do their

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Christmas shopping before all the hustle bustle.Childrens eyes awed by the swarm of leaves passen them by.Reindeers made,snowman painted on the window by little hands. Hearts soars full of joy, when we give a little, a whole lot comes pouring back.It is truly better to give than receive.