We landed at LAX, jammed home, changed clothes and headed for the Journey service. It was a wonderful trip on the Alaskan cruise, and even though I was really sick most of the time, I didn't allow that to stop me from taking in the beautiful sights, eating tons of food and sitting under the teaching of an amazing man--Chuck Swindol.
We saw Glaciers, walked through rain forests, toured 4 cities and viewed all kinds of wildlife. One of my favorite moments happened when I finally was able to spot an American Bald Eagle that was less than 100 yards away. I slowly approached as it sat 30 feet above me on a tree branch. For the next hour, with camera in hand (big lens...of course), I watched that eagle's every move. I was reminded of the passage in Isaiah 40:31
...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
The eagle just has strength oozing out of its appearance alone. What a special treat that was for me. Thank you God.
I want to thank Jim Bell and Greg Green for taking on the difficult topics of Angels and Demons. I hope it was good to hear about these topics, how to apply them to your life today in 2009, and perhaps even struggle with them as you figure out what God's thoughts may be on these issues.
I have the task of sharing with you the awesome tools God has left with us, to take on the fiery arrows the demons may send our way. We will be looking at Ephesians 6 over the next 3 weeks, so I would encourage you to read this in preparation for this week’s message--here's a little preview:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Invite a friend, it should be a real encouraging time.
P.S. No, I did not see any fireworks, as I was in Victoria, Canada on the night of the 4th of July. I couldn't understand why they wouldn't shoot off fireworks for me and Chuck. Oh well! Guess I'll have to go to Disneyland and let Mickey take care of that for me.
