The last aloha from Hawaii! It's been a sweet time of ministry here in Oahu, and now it's time to pack again. It seems like I spend most of my life packing, unpacking, packing, unpacking….it's all part of life "on the road". 

We fly out Thursday, February 13th in the evening and will arrive Friday morning the 14th on Valentine's Day in Phoenix, Arizona. I think we will be two exhausted sweethearts! 

We won't be there long and I'll begin to re-pack Larry's suitcase for his missions trip to Romania. This will be his second missions trip joining Pastor John Brady and others from Minot First A/G in Minot, ND. Larry feels so honored to be a part of such a great group of men doing great things for the Kingdom. His last missions trip with them was two years ago when they went to Africa.


It's two Gloria's! Us with Pastor Gloria Manera from Jesus Cares Ministry


With mixed feelings, we held our last service here last Sunday morning at the Jesus Cares Filipino ministry with Pastor Gloria Manera. She is so precious and has such a heart for her Filipino people. She kept thanking us and thanking us for coming again, saying "please come back, our people love your ministry and music."


I feel like a giant next to this petite pastor...she may be little, but she is a mighty woman of God.  We cherish the times we have been blessed to minister with her and the beautiful people of God who attend JCM.





joyous ladies at Jesus Cares Ministry


We had a wonderful service and altar call. Larry and I love seeing what God does in the hearts of those He is calling to Him. Yes, I love to see the tears of repentance and joy at the altar...and ultimately it never fails to bring tears of joy to my eyes. 


altar call at Jesus Cares Ministry


Eric & Debbie

Larry and I are so blessed to have had such wonderful hospitality from those who provided housing and a car to use while we were here. They've fed us and they've spoiled us, and we certainly enjoyed every minute of it.  One couple, Eric and Debbie baked us a delicious salmon meal with a crab dressing on top...mmmmm, yummy!  We are so thankful to all those who showed us hospitality while we ministered on the Hawaiian islands. 



With Valentine's Day upon us, I am reminded of how blessed I am to have such a wonderful husband who is my best friend and ministry mate. He's a wonderful father to our children and our grandchildren. God truly knew that no one could love and endure this Norwegian like Larry does. He is my inspiration, wind beneath my wings, and a crazy joke teller…I love you babe. Here's a message that I pulled from the archives that Larry wrote to encourage relationships...you may recognize some of these "experiences" in your home {chuckle}:


Marriage can be a real hassle at times! Yes, Gloria and I love each other, but at the same time marriage puts pressures and limits on each other that many times cause friction, fraction and uncalled for, "reactions." If you don't believe me, ask my wife!

Too often, I throw my clothes all over, mess up her clean room, dirty the sink, rip my new slacks - or when she's trying to have a conversation with me, my mind is wandering off a thousand miles away! I've earned the name "space cadet" by my daughters, because there are times I'm not present in mind-only in body!

Then there are the times I feel frustrated by my wife because there's a button missing on my good shirt that I've "politely" reminded her of the last 6 times I wore it. So I'm scavenging all over the bus looking for a safety pin to pin it - in hopes it won't snap open while I'm preaching, puncturing my neck! Sometimes I fume, "How can you remember to buy everything you need when you go shopping and forget the shaving cream I've been out of for 3 days, "making do" with a bar of soap, leaving me a dry, cut and irritated face! You get the idea.

Marriage in reality, undoubtedly is more demanding than any relationship!

To be honest - if we wanted to dissolve our marriage, all we would have to do is focus on all the differences, and irritations like a few I've already mentioned - but we have chosen to focus on the good points. Some days, when all goes wrong, it seems essential you need a magnifying glass to find the good in each other because in that moment all you are tempted to do is nag, condemn, accuse (sounds like I've visited your house?)!

Now that I've been honest, you're thinking, "They must not be happily married!" Regardless of those less-than-fairytale times, in all reality, I believe we are still one of the happiest, married couples I know.

Let me explain---Being married isn't hard - it's living together that sometimes becomes strained!! Even though we may disagree, or sometimes nag each other - still, we love being 

together. We relish dating each other, we love ministering together, we enjoy communicating and sharing our hearts. In fact if you could choose anyone to have fun with, work with, vacation with, or have lunch with - she's the first one that comes to my mind. Not only is Gloria my wife, but she's my best friend! I wouldn't trade our relationship for anything in the world! 

Two verses that have given our marriage meaning, happiness and completion are found in Ephesians. Ephesians 5:22 tells us, "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as unto the Lord." He also gave husbands a key. Ephesians 5:25 admonishes, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it."

If Gloria and I, first of all, keep our commitment to Christ fresh -to love and respect Him - then it automatically overflows into our relationship with each other. Then our commitment and respect for each other falls in line - adding up to a happy, blessed, successful (not perfect) working marriage.

If your marriage is feeling the strain and pressure, go back to your first love - Jesus Christ. Recommit your life to Him - then recommit your mate and marriage to Him and you'll begin a new adventure in your marriage relationship. If you will PRAY and PLAY together, you will STAY together!



Have a joyous Valentine's Day this Friday and please remember us in prayer as we travel in the next couple of weeks, and Larry embarks on the missions trip to Romania. We'll chat soon!



Gloria







{Quote}


"My wife says I never listen to her.  At least that's what I think she said." 

- Author Unknown






{Chuckle}



Ole and Lena

A government survey crew came to Ole's farm one fall day and asked permission to enter his property.

Ole agreed, and Lena even served them a nice meal at lunch time.

The next spring, the crew returned and told Ole, "Because you were so kind to us, we wanted to give you this bad news in person instead of by letter."

Ole replied, "What's the bad news?"

The surveyors said, "Well, after reviewing our work here, we discovered that your farm is not in Minnesota but is actually in Wisconsin!"

Ole looked at Lena and replied to the surveyors, "That's the best news I have heard in a long time.

I just told Lena this morning that I don't think I can take another winter in Minnesota."





{Pic of the Week}









A delicious treat with the right mix of white chocolate, cake and Heaven!






{Recipe}


Ice Cream Fudge

1 pound chocolate almond bark

12 oz. semi-sweet chips

1 pound white almond bark

12 oz. milk chocolate chips

1 pint vanilla ice cream

1 cup nuts

In large microwavable bowl melt chips and bark until melted, stirring occasionally. Quickly stir in softened ice cream. Mix thoroughly. Add nuts. Pour into a 9x13 inch buttered pan. Keep refrigerated until time to serve.




{Household Hint}



To cut down on odors when cooking cabbage, cauliflower, etc. add a little vinegar to the cooking water.




Greetings from Oahu, Hawaii! Can it be…I almost feel guilty about being in such beautiful weather here in Hawaii - notice, I said, "almost feel guilty." As we've been talking to our office staff and my family, it has been a brutal winter with several weeks to go before spring. Years ago we used to hold services in the Midwest and were continually fighting blizzards, ice and heavy snow. There were so many cancellations that we never knew if we were going to make it to our next 

the lei's we've been given are so beautiful!

destination. So, I'm glad we can be in warm weather and not have to worry about that!


With all this weather craziness - from coast to coast, and even snow in the New Orleans area, and disasters, floods and hurricanes all over the world - could it be the book of Revelation and the signs of the times screaming out? Or is it just me…I don't think so. I guess my question is, what will it take to wake up the sleeping giant of apathy…even among Christians?


In regards to apathy, we have been blessed here to see a great hunger for God in the churches. The altars have been filled with people concerned about making sure that if and when they die they know their sins are forgiven and they are on their way to Heaven. So many Christians have been taken down with Satan's greatest tools of deception, discouragement and depression. Larry and I are trying to do our part and are honored to have a small part in "bringing back" prodigals to the heavenly Father and encouragement to the hurting.

Pastor Chris and Aurora Bartolome



On Sunday, January 26th, we had two wonderful services at Bethel Chapel in Waipahu with Pastor Chris and Aurora Bartolome. It was great seeing friends that we have made through the years, but the most thrilling part is always the hungry souls at the altar.









altar call at Bethel Chapel A/G


The worship team was amazing and so full of joy and energy as they worshiped. It was so refreshing! We were also so impressed with how Bethel Chapel always does a meal after every service so they can fellowship - yummy!

 



  



Mr. & Mrs. Bill Ashpole


Pastor Bill and Mrs. Ashpole came over to our service on Sunday morning and it was so great to see them. We met them back in 1990 at one of our first trips over to Hawaii when I was speaking at a Hawaiian Islands Women's convention. He was an Assistant Superintendent of the Assemblies of God in Hawaii at that time and was instrumental in introducing us to the Filipino community and ministry. To this day we are still so grateful for that.

"It was so great being able to attend your service Sunday morning at Bethel Chapel. I so appreciated your heart for ministry and your compassion for people. We enjoyed your message, it touched our hearts."   

Pastor & Mrs. Bill Ashpole



This coming Sunday, February 2, we will be at the Ewa Beach Assembly of God with our friends Pastor Bob and Kathy Stalcup. If you know friends and family who live in Oahu or are visiting, let them know we will be singing and ministering and would love to have them join us!

Ewa Beach Assembly of God at 9:30 a.m.

91-836 Makule Road

Ewa Beach, HI 96706



Gloria







{Quote}


"Experience shows that success is due less to ability than to zeal." 

- Charles Buxton






{Chuckle}



The Silent Sermon

A member of a certain church, who previously had been attending services regularly, stopped going. After a few weeks, the preacher decided to visit him.

It was a chilly evening. The pastor found the man at home alone, sitting before a blazing fire. Guessing the reason for his preacher's visit, the man welcomed him, led him to a comfortable chair near the fireplace…and waited.

The preacher made himself at home but said nothing. In the grave silence, he contemplated the dance of the flames around the burning logs. After some minutes, the preacher took the fire tongs, carefully picked up a brightly burning ember and placed it to one side of the hearth all alone, then he sat back in his chair, still silent.

The host watched all this in quiet contemplation. As the one lone ember's flame flickered and diminished, there was a momentary glow and then its fire was no more. Soon it was cold and dead.

Not a word had been spoken since the initial greeting. The preacher glanced at his watch and realized it was time to leave. He slowly stood up, picked up the cold, dead ember and placed it back in the middle of the fire. Immediately it began to glow, once more with the light and warmth of the burning coals around it.

As the preacher reached the door to leave, his host said with a tear running down his cheek, "Thank you so much for your visit and especially for the firey sermon. I will be back in church next Sunday."

We live in a world today, which tries to say too much with too little. Consequently, few listen. Sometimes the best sermons are the ones left unspoken.





{Pic of the Week}










Hawaiian delight...good to the last "oink."





{Recipe}


Coconut Whip Cake

1 yellow cake mix

1 ½ cups milk

½ cup sugar

2 cups coconut flakes, divided

4 cups Cool Whip, thawed


Prepare and back cake mix as directed on pkg. 9x13 pan. Cool 14 minutes, then prick holes all over cake with fork. Combine milk, sugar and ½ cup coconut in saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 1 minute. Carefully spoon mixture over warm cake. Let cool completely. Fold ½ cup coconut into Cool Whip and spread over cake. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup coconut on top. Refrigerate overnight.




{Household Hint}



A sheet of Bounce can dissolve soap scum from a shower door, eliminate odors when placed in the bottom of a wastebasket and deodorize shoes or sneakers when placed in them overnight.








Aloha! Greetings from beautiful Oahu, Hawaii!


How beautiful to exchange the arctic blizzard winds of South Dakota for the south trade winds of Hawaii - stop to think about it, maybe that's why they are called "trade" winds - there are countless thousands of tourists that pour in here to shed the nightmare of arctic blasts for the island breezes.




We had our first service last Sunday morning at Waimanalo Assembly of God church with Pastor Janet Cordeiro. We've been ministering with her every two years for at least 10-12 years. It's almost like going home when we are here as these precious people have watched our children grow up through ministry in Hawaii and newsletters. As soon as we walked in, I was asked, "How is LaShawn, LaDawn and Donovan and how your grandchildren, Dante and Myanna?" It gives you a sense of being with family and a nice way to be welcomed at the start of our Hawaiian tour.

Most of the people in Pastor Janet's congregation have little…as the cost of living is so high over here. Going to the grocery store here is an expensive experience, a gallon of milk is close to $8, a small container of Larry's grape jelly was $5.97 and almost $2 for a tomato - wow! Thank God they have a Costco not too far from where we are staying. (On that note, we could never afford to come here to minister if it wasn't for our dear Filipino friends who provide a place for us to stay and often times a car for transportation. Thank you!)

I was so blessed at the Sunday morning service at Waimanalo Assembly of God. Most of the congregation are facing heartbreaking challenges and huge financial hardships, but when they lean into God during worship, you could almost literally see the chains of their pain fall off and the love and the joy expressed on their faces as they worshiped. 

altar call at Waimanalo, HI


I just know that God was pleased by their love and desperation for Him. Truly, for many of them, that's all they have. The "glow" and glory on their faces as they sang brought me to grateful tears. Most people in America have so much that we 

Pastor Janet with Gloria and precious children

often feel we can make it on our own. But these people know that God is their hope, source, provision and joy. The scripture says in James 4:8, "Draw neigh unto Me and I will draw neigh unto you." This congregation has truly found the key through intimacy with God.


Pastor Janet has such a love for people, especially young people and children. They just flock around her as they know they are loved…and can she preach! We have heard her and she is powerful.







We are already ending our second week of 2014. I have heard and read a lot of predictions, but this email from a friend really expresses it well and brings much comfort for the future:

TOP TEN PREDICTIONS FOR 2014:

With all the problems the World is facing, it can be unsettling to the mind. Today, we share with you ten predictions that are true!

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.

2. Prayer will still be the most powerful thing on Earth.

3. The Holy Spirit will still move.

4. God will still honor the praises of His people.

5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.

6. There will still be singing of praise to God.

7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.

8. There will still be room at the Cross.

9. Jesus will still love you.

10.Jesus will still save the lost when they Come to Him.

Isn't it great To Remember Who Is Really In Control, and that; "the Word of the Lord endures forever." ( 1 Peter 1:25 ) Sometimes, we just need to remember"WHO" is really in control. 'Til the nets are full, keep on fishing!

Be blessed and stay warm until our next chat!

Gloria



{Quote}


"I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future." - Author Unknown





{Chuckle}



Mary was taking an afternoon nap on New Year's Eve before the festivities. After she woke up, she confided to Max, her husband, 'I just dreamed that you gave me a diamond ring for a New Year's present. What do you think it all means?'

'Aha, you'll know tonight,' answered Max smiling broadly. 

At midnight, as the New Year was chiming, Max approached Mary and handed her small package. Delighted and excited she opened it quickly. There in her hand rested a book entitled: 'The meaning of dreams'.






{Pic of the Week}










Cute!! While we were out for a stroll we met a young couple with darling triplets. 
Daddy is in the military and their daughters are 4 months old. 
When we complimented the mother and father on their beautiful family and asked, 
"How do you manage?", they glanced at each other with a sigh and
wisely answered, "One day at a time."  

Such wisdom that we can all apply to our lives...
"...for who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?" (Luke 12:25)




{Recipe}

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

1 bottle Russian dressing with honey

1 (4 oz.) jar apricot preserves

1 envelope dry onion soup mix

1 cut up chicken

Mix together dressing, preservatives and onion soup mix; pour over chicken. Bake at 350 degrees for 2 hours.




{Household Hint}



Toothpaste removes scratches on glass-topped tables.









As I look outside my window, it looks like a winter wonderland.  The sun is shining, the sky is blue and a blanket of snow shimmers like millions of tiny diamonds, BUT this is not a wonderland I want to be out in as it is currently 25 degrees below zero real temperature (without wind chill) BRRR!  

 


Rather, I am enjoying the warmth of my home sipping a hot cup of coffee savoring the last bite of a leftover Christmas cookie while pondering the next step into the unknown world of 2014.  For me, unknowns can be unsettling, but I am comforted by Psalm 23 which says, "He leadeth me..."  WOW!  What peace that brings!  If I just slow down, step aside (this is hard for me to do as I am a person who has a tendency to run ahead of God---it must be the racing Norwegian instinct in me!) and let God take the lead, He is faithful.

As the curtain of 2014 begins to draw open revealing one day at a time, I have the impression that if the Lord should tarry another year, we will look back and be amazed at the goodness of God that has brought us through the valleys, triumphs and tests we may face.  I also believe our testimony and lives may very well come under fire; we will need to hold on tightly to God's Word and be faithful in prayer to carry us through.

The world is changing so quickly with the evil and godlessness that runs so rampant not to mention the fragile economy, the increasing threats of terrorism and the unprecedented disastrous weather patterns.  It begs the question, "What can we really count on?"  It is very clear to me that the answer is definitely nothing here on earth, but this I do know, God will remain faithful!  I am sure of that!  No matter what happens in 2014, if I allow God to lead me and I walk in His footsteps, I can say like the words in the old song, "I don't need to understand; I just need to hold His hand."
 
Just a bit of family news:  We had an awesome time with our family in Nashville for Christmas.  We don't see them very often so we really try and make every minute together count creating multitudes of memories...which we did!
 
 

 
Here is our family holding this special box of See's chocolates from our friends, Bill and Jean, in California.  They have sent us a box of these chocolates every year for 35 years; it is a favorite family tradition!
 
 

 
Now, Larry and I are hastily trying to finish up our 2013 paperwork and tasks.  We are packing to fly to Glendale, AZ, where our motorhome is parked.  On January 8th, we will fly to Honolulu, HI, where we will begin six weeks of ministry as well as ministry preparation.  With the 34 below zero wind chill here in Sisseton, we are happy that people in Hawaii and Arizona need encouragement!  I can hardly fathom as I sit here in my house today that it feels 115 degrees colder here than in Honolulu...ouch!
 
 
 We are grateful to our friends who house us each time we come to minister in Hawaii otherwise we could not financially afford to come as it is so expensive.  We are blessed!  We love the openness of the people of the Islands and they love Larry's humor and jokes (whew)!  We ask that you will continue to pray for us for protection, good health and many decisions for Christ.
 
May you lean into God this year more than ever before---you will need Him and He is faithful to be there!
 
Gloria
 
 
{Reflection}
 
He's Everything You Need
 
When you are the neediest, He is the most sufficient.  ~2 Corinthians 12:9
 
When you are completely helpless, He is the most helpful.  ~Isaiah 50:7
 
When you feel total dependent, He is absolutely dependable.  ~Psalm 46:1
 
When you are the weakest, He is the most able. ~Job 5:15-16
 
When you are the most alone, He is intimately present.  ~Psalm 32:7
 
When you feel you are the least, He is the greatest.  ~ Proverbs 3:25-26 
 
When you feel the most useless, He is preparing you.  ~1 Peter 4:12-13
 
When it is the darkest, He is the only Light you need.  ~Psalm 27:1
 
When you feel the least secure, He is your Rock and Fortress.  ~Psalm 31:3
 
When you are the most humble, He is most gracious.  ~James 4:6
 
When you can't, He can!  ~Jude 24 
 
 
 {Pic of the Week}
 
 
 

 One of those moments of making memories!
 
 
{Recipe}
 
Salsa Chicken Soup
 
1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 14 oz. can chicken broth
1 3/4 cup water
2 tsp. chili powder 
1 cup frozen or canned corn
1 cup of favorite salsa
Shredded Monterey jack or Pepper-jack cheese
 
In a large saucepan, combine chicken, broth, water and chili powder.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and simmer for five minutes.  Add corn; return to a boil.  Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered for five minutes or until chicken is no longer pink. Add salsa and heat through.  Garnish with cheese if desired.
 
 
{Household Hint}
 
The beginning of the year is a great time to re-organize and what better place to organize than the infamous junk drawer.  Did you get some beautiful jewelry for Christmas and hate to throw out the box because it is so sturdy and beautiful?  Re-use it in your junk drawer.  Clip several together to create little sections to hold all those little items that get thrown into the drawer making it mass chaos and see how tidy it becomes!





Another year is almost history! We rejoice when looking back on 2013 where we were honored to share HIS story-the simple plan of salvation with thousands across the United States. We are so blessed to have seen God change lives, family relationships and hopeless situations into victories for a brighter future and for all eternity.  Thank you for following us on the journey! 


Our children purchased tickets for us to fly to Nashville and spend time with them so we are eagerly anticipating those moments spent together.  I want to leave you with a touching story and many blessings for comfort, peace and joy this Christmas!


Gloria



Reflection


What Marvelous Love!

On a cold Christmas Eve in 1952, when Korea was in the throes of civil war, one young woman struggled along a village street, obviously soon to deliver a child. She pleaded with a passersby, "Help me! Please. My baby."

No one paid any attention to her.

A middle-aged couple walked by. The wife pushed away the young mother and sneered, "Where's the father? Where's your American man now?"

The couple laughed and went on.

The young woman almost doubled up from a contraction as she watched them go. "Please…" she begged.

She had heard of a missionary living nearby who might help her. Hurriedly, she began walking to that village. If only he would help her baby. Shivering and in pain, she struggled over the frozen countryside. But the night was so cold. Snow began to fall. Realizing that the time was near to deliver her baby, she took shelter under a bridge. There, alone, her baby was born on Christmas Eve.

Worried about her newborn son, she took off her own clothes, wrapped them around the baby and held him close in the warm circle of her arms.

The next day, the missionary braved the new snow to deliver Christmas packages. As he walked along, he heard the cry of a baby. He followed the sound to a bridge. Under it, he found a young mother frozen to death, still clutching her crying newborn son. The missionary tenderly lifted the baby out of her arms.

When the baby was 10 years old, his now adoptive father told him the story of his mother's death on Christmas Eve. The young boy cried, realizing the sacrifice his mother had made for him.

The next morning, the missionary rose early to find the boy's bed empty. Seeing a fresh set of small footprints in the snow outside, he bundled up warmly in a winter coat and followed the trail. It led back to the bridge where the young mother had died.

As the missionary approached the bridge, he stopped, stunned. Kneeling in the snow was his son, naked and shivering uncontrollably. His clothes lay beside him in a small pile. Moving closer, he heard the boy say through chattering teeth: "Mother, were you this cold for me?"


I will be honest with you, as I read this I was completely undone by this story of sacrifice and unconditional love. The depth of emotion I felt is the same as when I ponder what Emmanuel, God with us, really means. The mother's sacrifice and love in this story parallels the love of God for each one of His children. I think of the God of Heaven, Majestic in all His wonder…one night…leaving His home, His glory, His Father only to be born into a cold, dark stable in an unwelcoming world. The very One who created the universe, the animals that accompanied Him in the stable and Mary who would deliver Him into the world, was willing to endure this humble beginning for you and me, to truly be God with us!


What LOVE! But the story doesn't end there, as the child has a response to the sacrifice of his mother…a response of awe, wonder and love. Our response to the Savior of the World is the same as we reflect on His marvelous love for us. It is my prayer that this true story reminds all of us of God's unconditional love and to share this Good News of what we have been freely given with those that need His love, those who need hope and those who need forgiveness.








Greetings from the road! We pray you are doing well. We know various parts of the United States are being impacted by winter weather. We scooted out of Sisseton as we are hosting the Fun & Fellowship tour, Christmas in Branson,just in time but it sounds like we might "enjoy" some cold weather in Branson while we are there.
 
One of the tour participantsis keeping a blog ofour adventures and we thought you may enjoy peaking in on it. You can click onthe link belowto enjoy some updates and photos. Keep checking back because it willbe updated throughout the tour.
 
 
Many blessings on you and stay warm and safe!!!

 
Gloria

Happy Thanksgiving!



"Giving thanks always, for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ."


As I think about Thanksgiving, the above verse in Ephesians 5:20 is my constant reminder to give thanks always. You and I know that is not easy when it seems that all hell is breaking loose against you and you've fallen into a spiritual sinkhole. It is in those moments that I stand firm on God's Word that He promises to never leave us nor forsake us. I always stand firm in my belief, also, "If you're always grateful and thankful for something, you will always have something to be grateful and thankful for." Through my many life experiences as well as the thousands of people we have met and ministered to these past 48 years, we have discovered this…those who are ungrateful and unthankful always have a problem…will always have a problem…and live under God's blessing rather than in God's blessing.


For years I've made it a precedence to start out my daily prayer thanking God for: 

1) Coming into my life as my Savior, Lord and Friend when I was 8 years old.

2) Sending His Holy Spirit to lead, guide, protect, and comfort us.

3) Bringing Larry and I together and for giving us three wonderful children, a son-in-law and two grandchildren.

4) Calling Larry and I into ministry and thanking Him for the thousands of lives that have been changed by the power of Jesus because we obeyed His will and calling on our lives.

5) Blessing us with our immediate families, friends and ministry partners and praying for them.


When I get through thanking God for all of the above, I am literally overflowing with gratefulness and joy for God's goodness and faithfulness. May you examine your life and in finding the many blessings, purpose to live in gratefulness and delight in the joy that follows! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends. We are so thankful for you!

 

Gloria




{ Chuckle/Reflection }


According to a nationwide survey of 5-8 year olds, there are better things than plain old bread, cornbread or sausage fillings.

- Wendy, age 5: "I'd put strawberries in the stuffing and grapes and oranges and hot dogs and no more. Then I'd tape the turkey to close it."

- John, age 5: "I will put meat, lemon juice, flour, sugar and cholesterol in my stuffing."

- Tiffany, age 6: "I'd cut the turkey in half and put a chicken in there."

- Dan, age 7: "Bread, spices like peppers, onions and radishes, meat, cheese and crackers."







{ Recipe }


Yummy Cheesecake

Crust:
1 1/2 c. Of crushed mint Oreos
1/4 c. Sugar
6 T. Butter, melted

Filling:
5 (8 oz.) pkgs. Cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 c. Sugar
3 T. Vanilla extract
5 eggs
2 egg yolks
1/2 sour cream

Ganache:
1/2 pound chocolate
1/2 c. Heavy whipping cream
1 T butter
Couple drops of peppermint extract
1 T. Glucose

Direction:


Preheat oven to 325 F. Spray 10 in. Springform pan.

CRUST- combine all ingredients and firmly press the mixture down with a spoon in the pan (try and get it up the edges of the pan). Cook for 10-20 min. Turn oven down to 300.

FILLING- in a large bowl beat cream cheese, sugar flour and vanilla until smooth. Beat one egg one at a time into the mixture. Blend in sour cream. Pour in the springform pan. Bake for 75-90 min. Cool for 15 min then take a knife and scrape the sides of the pan from the cake. Cool for another
30 min then unlatch the sides of the pan. Cool for another 1 1/2 hours.

GANACHE- boil cream melt the chocolate in the cream, stir until smooth, add butter and flavor and glucose. Pour onto cake. Be careful it's runny so it will drip off onto your counters if you don't put something under it.

* Glucose - you can find it at Michael's craft store. It's a type of clear sticky substance, in the cake decorating isle.










Greetings from Las Vegas, Nevada! We've been in the area for nearly two weeks and we've had awesome services!


Actually, as we drove here from Billings, Montana where we had services, we got caught in that first winter storm. The weather and scenery has definitely changed from blowing snow, temps in the teens, and pine trees - to the near 80 temps in Nevada, with desert and cactus. Needless to say, I was more

fall meets winter!

 than happy to pack away the snow boots, heavy winter coats, scarves and gloves and go joyfully back to no coats and sandals! 


I intend to enjoy every moment of this nice weather that I can, while I can - as we will fly out of Phoenix on November 21st to Minneapolis, MN and onto South Dakota. Yes, then I will have to bring out the coats, boots and hats once again, but that's normal Midwest wardrobe - ha!



Rev. Joe Rockstad




In Billings we were blessed to be back with Pastor Joe and Juanita Rockstad. We've been having services with him somewhere, someplace, since the 1980s. They've just finished building a new building and God continues to bless their ministry and outreach. Pastor Joe is battling cancer so our hearts and prayers are with him. 




altar call in Billings, MT




Pastor Joe says, "It's always fun and a blessing to have you back with us. Our people love your music and ministry and there are always good altar calls."





Vivian Swihart with her daughter Charlene Galle




Traveling from Montana to Nevada we stopped in for coffee with our long-time partner and friend, Vivian Swihart and her daughter Charlene. Thank you for being such wonderful partners!







From Billings, we journeyed to Boulder City and Las Vegas, Nevada. As we scaled the mountains and began to descend into Las Vegas, it was literally a sea of sparkling lights. Las Vegas has been well noted as and called "Sin City". Stressfully, we weaved through all the Las Vegas traffic and got our motorhome parked safely - a relief! Our friends Jim and Karen Vlieger greeted us, took us out for a Jim & Karen Vliegerlovely dinner and brought us on a drive down the strip. Thousands of tourists were milling and crowding the streets. As we drove slowly through the traffic I grabbed Larry's arm, "Larry look, these are all 'pleasure seekers', and literally for blocks I have only seen three or four people with a smile on their face. So sad." The words of that old song resonated in my spirit, "Only Jesus can satisfy the longing of my soul." How true.



Never the less, Larry and I didn't come to Vegas to see the lights, we came to be a light and to bring hope to those who are lost. The following Saturday night Larry spoke on evangelism to a small group and encouraged them to be soul winners. The next morning, we had two Sunday services at Peace Way Christian Church in Las Vegas with Pastor Dave Childers. They are another great pastor, wife and family to meet. Again, the altar calls were so precious. Pastor commented, "We need your ministry of evangelism. We've kind of gotten away from witnessing. Thank you for bringing us back to the basics of soul winning. We enjoyed your "creative ministry" of working together as a couple. We want you back."


altar call in Las Vegas, NV


Yesterday, we were privileged to spend the day encouraging our friends Jim and Karen at the Desert at the hospital with Jim & KarenSprings hospital in Las Vegas as Jim underwent a four-bypass heart surgery. Praise God he came through it - God answered the prayers of many people! Of course…before Jim went into surgery, Larry was joking with him and the doctors and staff and they were all laughing. Then after the surgery…the doctors and staff said, "Larry, you cannot make Jim laugh because it will cause him extreme pain in his chest…promise?" We all looked at Larry, he chuckled and I added, "Larry, take an oath of no jokes and no making faces." Can you imagine? Larry, being sober and serious? I couldn't, but thank the Lord, he did. Thanks Larry!


This coming Friday we leave for Prescott Valley, Arizona where we will be back with Rev. Dan Crouch for next Sunday morning.  The service starts at 10:30 am at Fountain of Life Community Church, 3160 N. Lynx Lake Drive, Prescott Valley, AZ. If you need more information, please call the church at: 928-775-5148.  We'd love to have you join us if you're in the area!

From there we go to Phoenix, Arizona where we will park the motorhome for a few weeks until we return to Arizona.

Our Christmas in Branson tour begins Dec 3-9th and we are excited for the time to be with our friends and partners. God bless you and have a wonderful week!



Gloria



{ Quote }



"Evangelism is an important task and a vital role for the believer to fill. As has been said, evangelism is not just the task of the church, it is its very nature."

- Lewis A. Drummond





{ Chuckle/Reflection }



Don't let your worries get the best of you;

remember, Moses started out as a basket case.







{ Pic of the Week }








Wow - now that's an overflow of blessings!



{ Recipe }


Unbaked Caramel Cookies

In a large saucepan combine:

2 cups sugar

¾ cup butter

6 T. brown sugar

2/3 cup evaporated milk


Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and add 1 (4 oz.) package of instant butterscotch pudding mix and 3 ½ cups quick cooking oatmeal. Drop by rounded teaspoonful onto waxed paper.






{ Household Hint }



Make your own furniture polish: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar and ½ cup olive or vegetable oil. Apply with a soft cloth and polish away!









Have you ever had a blood transfusion - I have and as you know it's a life giving experience!

Well Larry and I feel like we've had a fresh "blood transfusion" from the excitement of this South Dakota, North Dakota, and Montana tour. The decisions for Christ have been awesome - and beyond that I can't even express that exhilaration and joy we have experienced meeting countless numbers of friends who have come to Christ in our rallies through the years.

 

Literally every rally we've had, someone or several people would come up and say, "Thank you Larry and Gloria for staying on the road! We gave our hearts to Christ at such-and-such a place and our lives, relationships and marriages were changed and we still have the joy of the moment when we gave our hearts to Christ."



Last Sunday we ministered at Dry Creek Bible Church in Belgrade, Montana, which is about 20 miles out of Bozeman. After the altar call a beautiful family, Curtis and Chelsea Butts and two of Bailey, Carson, Curtis, Katie and Chelsea - Emily not picturedtheir beautiful daughters, Katie (11), Bailey (15) and son Carson (13) met me in the foyer of the church. My first impression was, "What a beautiful looking family"! They all just bubbled with joy as we began to visit. And then…the story. Chelsea the mother (far right on photo) announced, "We were here when you ministered here 2 years ago. We loved the music and service. When Larry gave the alter call, my three teenage daughters and our son and I stepped forward to receive Christ." She continued, "My husband, Curtis, gave his heart to Christ at a Lundstrom crusade in Bozeman when you all were together when he was 13 years old in the early 80s." Tears welled up in her eyes as she shared, "And today Curtis's father, Melvin, responded to the altar call to receive Christ as his Lord and Savior." Then I was teary eyed with joy. I must admit after this long year I was running a bit low in physical energy that morning - but after Chelsea shared that I felt like I could run a marathon!


Rev. Arlen Tofslie


Pastor Arlen said what a joy it's been to see this family plugged into the church and the two teenage girls even sang a song in church a few weeks ago - it was a great blessing. We had a wonderful time of fellowship with Pastor Arlen Tofslie and Bill Skinner.  

             Pastor Arlen with his mother


Bill Skinner


Bill Skinner was actually at the first service we had at Dry Creek Bible Church in 1983. How fun it was to catch up!


                     Bill Skinner and Larry


Also, before church that morning a heavy-hearted mother stopped Larry in the foyer and shared that she had invited her daughter, who is in her late 20s to come to church. She asked Larry if he would pray that she would receive Christ. When the altar call was given, the daughter was one who raised her hand and went forward to pray. There was definitely a joyful mother stepping high with joy when she left the church.


altar call at Dry Creek Bible Church in Belgrade, MT


Last Wednesday night, October 16, we had a roundup at the Roundup, Montana Community Center. What a great time we had in that ranching community. When the altar call was given people from all walks of life responded. One cooperating Pastor commented, "When I saw all those people respond to the altar call I was shocked"…he apologized, "I'm sorry for that word, what I really mean was, I was amazed as to how many and who responded. Praise God!"


Altar call at Roundup, MT


This coming Sunday, we will be ministering at Chapel of Hope with Pastor Jo Rockstad in Lockwood, Montana, which is a suburb of Billings. We would love to have you join us for a 10:30 service at the church which is located at 2425 Hwy 87 East. (hint: the church is at the top of a high hill with a big white cross). If you have any questions, you may call the church at: 406-256-2328.

our daughter LaShawn



We pray that you will have a wonderful week and want to end with a special Happy Birthday to our oldest daughter, LaShawn, on October 27th. 


We love you and are so proud that you are our daughter!!




Gloria



{ Quote }




"It's not what you do, but how much love you put into it that matters."

- Rick Warren





{ Chuckle/Reflection }


The Window

A young couple moves into a new neighborhood. The next morning while they are eating breakfast, the young woman sees her neighbor hanging the wash outside.

"That laundry is not very clean," she said. "She doesn't know how to wash correctly. Perhaps she needs better laundry soap."

Her husband looked on, but remained silent. Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry, the young woman would make the same comments. About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice clean wash on the line and said to her husband:

"Look, she has learned how to wash correctly. I wonder who taught her this."

The husband said, "I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows."

And so it is with life. What we see when watching others depends on the purity of the window through which we look.







{ Pic of the Week }









A great time of year for a big apple harvest - our office 
manager's children are enjoying the "fruit of their labor"!



{ Recipe }



Pumpkin Mallow Dessert

32 marshmallows

1 cup pumpkin

½ tsp. cinnamon

½ tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 cup whipping cream, whipped


Melt marshmallows, pumpkin and spices in double boiler and let cool. Add the whipped cream. Crush 14 graham crackers and add a little melted butter. Sprinkle in bottom of a 9x9 inch pan. Pour pumpkin mixture in and sprinkle crumbs on top. Chill several hours. Dot whipped cream on top to serve.






{ Household Hint }


A few sticks of chalk strung together and hung in a cupboard will absorb moisture. Try this if you have cupboard that seems damp.











October 16th…1965, Larry and I were married. We began our life journey as a couple and ministry and praise God…we are still going!



A dear friend sent me a text the other day, "Gloria, did you and Larry ever quit ministry? Or rather, how many times have you quit?" I've never been asked that question so bluntly. I quickly responded, "Yes, a thousand times through the years, but the following morning we have put our helmets back on, girded up, looked at each other and announced, 'Let's go - God has called us to go!'" Oh yes, there have been many rough times, but for each of those there have been thousands of precious memories and moments of sharing in ministry together as best friends and what we refer to as "trench mates". God has called us to win the lost and tens of thousands have responded to the invitation to accept Christ through the years through our partnership with Him and each other. On October 17th we embark on our 49th year together, what a gift!


Ministry Recap & Update:

Billings, Montana: Big Sky Country! We have our motorhome parked up on a high hill (a small mountain?) overlooking Billings and the Rimrock. What a breathtaking sight! There have been several times in a day where we see antelope running just a few feet from us on the side hill.

We've been coming through Montana for over 40 years…yikes…I am getting older - ha!


Jay & Joanne Cummins


The past week has been full and fulfilling. The services have been absolutely awesome. 


Sunday, October 6th we ministered in Poplar, MT with Pastor Jay & Joanne Cummins. What a delightful couple and an exciting church. Jay ministers at conferences for Native Americans and youth events, writes great music and loves pastoring. 


Jay told us, "Larry and Gloria, you and all the Lundstroms have been a big part of my life. I came to Christ when you and Larry were with Lowell and Connie in Glendive, MT when I was 12 years old. I strayed a bit after that, but at 17 I recommitted my life and have joyfully served Him ever since." We love hearing those stories of God's faithfulness through the years!


Altar call in Poplar, MT



Pastor Tony & Martha Sifuentes




On the following Tuesday we ministered in Wolf Point, MT with Pastor Tony Sifuentes and his wife, Martha. 


What tender hearts they have. Again, we had a precious altar call with wonderful decisions. 





Altar call in Wolf Point, MT



Pastor Dave and Tina Skjoldal, Mott, ND


Also, looking back, we were in Mott, ND on October 2nd with Pastor Dave & Tina Skjoldal. 



We were blessed when a group of our Hutterite friends, who have followed the ministry for years, joined us for the evening and at lunch time afterwards, they sang several songs. How beautiful it was.





Gloria with Hutterites


Altar call at Mott, ND


The altar call was precious and we also got to enjoy some time visiting with friends, Russ & Sharon Schauer and twin brother, Ron Schauer.  They helped with the event and blessed us with fuel to get down the road.


Russ & Sharon with twin brother Ron Schauer



Pastor Warren & Bev Maxted




Beach, ND:

It was a great delight to be back with Warren and Bev Maxted. I've known Bev since way back when we were both single! Even though it was a rainy and windy, stormy night, we had a great altar call.







Altar call at Beach, ND



Larry with Tom Obrigewitch






We were also delighted to see our friend and partner, Tom Obrigewitch come out for the service at Beach, ND. 







Pastor John & Sheila Farnes


Laurel, MT:


Last Sunday we returned to be with Pastor John and Sheila Farnes at Family Christian Center. We had a lot of friends drive in from around the area to join us for the service.

Esther Gilbertson



Esther, our precious friend and partner came out to the service. She has prayed and supported this ministry since the early 70s!






Words cannot express how thrilling it has been at the last several rallies to see dozens of men, women, teens and children respond to the invitation for the first time or as recommitments.





Altar call at Laurel, MT


We will be in Roundup, MT tonight at the Assembly of God church and will be heading to Belgrade, MT for a Sunday morning service at 10 AM at Dry Creek Bible Church. Then on Sunday, October 27th, we'll be in Lockwood, MT (suburb of Billings) at the Lockwood Chapel of Hope for an 11 AM service. We hope that you can join us for an exciting rally while we're in Montana - we'd love to see you!


Gloria



{ Quote }

"Begin each day as if it were on purpose."

 - Author Unknown




{ Chuckle/Reflection }


Happy Anniversary Larry!


"Our wedding was many years ago. The celebration continues to this day." - Gene Perret

"A happy marriage is a long conversation that always seems too short." - Andre Maurois

"Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

"A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person." - Mignon McLaughlin





{ Pic of the Week }








The enchanted highway by Regent, ND on our way to Montana - wow! 




{ Recipe }


Date Pudding

1 cup dates

1 tsp. soda

1 cup hot water

1 cup sugar

1 egg

1 T. butter

1 ½ cups flour

½ cup chopped nuts


Mix dates, soda and hot water. Mix sugar, egg and butter and add to date mixture. Then add flour and nuts. Bake in loaf cake pan 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve with whipped cream.





{ Household Hint }


Sprinkle a cake with a little flour when it first comes from the oven, this will keep the icing from running off.










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