http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=September-20-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

 

 

"And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement:" Hebrews 9:27

 

 

 

We are going to talk about something a little uncomfortable because most don't like what it represents, but the scripture above tells us that each one of us is going to experience death. On top of that, we never know when this will happen in our lives. We may have thoughts of living to a ripe old age (that I am nearing more and more), but we aren't guaranteed that. Those that were sleeping in a Florida condo fully expected to wake up the next morning; they did not expect that the condo would collapse and eternity would be a reality in their lives.

As we talk about death, the scripture says°but after this. After death, there is more. There is after life which is eternal, forever and forever. There is: the judgment.

The judgment is the time when the decisions we made while walking the earth are seen. Ultimately the word judgment is not a good or bad word. The definition in the Merriam Webster dictionary gives this definition: a decision or opinion (as of a court) given after careful consideration. In itself, the judgment isn't bad, it is the act or time taken to consider the actions and make a decision based on what is learned. For us, the judgment is sheep and goat time as Jesus reveals in John 5: 28-29,

"Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life;" The decision/conclusion made is a good outcome. This is the destination of the narrow road, a blood bought road by Jesus. There is an infrastructure bill in our government that is being debated and the cost is projected in the trillions. The roads, bridges and pathways will only provide passage from city to city. Yet, the narrow road that Jesus refers to had an even higher cost, and yes, there are some restrictions, but it has an unbelievable destination! Rev 21:4, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

And just as there is a narrow road, there is a wide road with another destination. The rest of John 5:29 says, "and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation." Revelation 21:8 goes on to say, "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."

There is a distinct difference between the two destinations at the end of each road. What you won't find at the end of the narrow road are things like death, sorrow, and pain. Unlike the physical roadways that criss cross the US, these roads are not measured in miles but rather in who and what you believe. Above in verse 8 of Revelation 21, there is a list of who will be in hell for all eternity. Furthermore, Jesus described the rich man in hell, when he said in Luke 16:23 "And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments." This isn't torment where you know eventually it will end. This is eternal (neverending) torments, and I can only imagine there were more than physical torments. There were torments of regrets knowing his family was living like he was so he wanted a witness to tell his brothers they are headed for a prison of fire and remorse. Torments for all eternity. What will it cost to get off the broad road? What will it take to change directions?

It will take a turn in your heart—a turn to Jesus Christ, recognizing Him as your Lord and Savior. The Bible says in John 1:11-12, "He came unto his own, and his own received him not. (some preferred the broad road where there are no restrictions and all sin is approved and allowed.) But as many as received him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name".

It is simply:

• Admit you are a sinner° The Bible says all have sinned
• Believe° He that believeth not is damned
• Confess to God from your heart° your sins and ask forgiveness.

Lord Jesus I am sorry for my sins, I am lost on a bad crowded road and I recognize by what I feel in my heart and what the Bible says this road will take me to hell. Please forgive my sins and come into my heart as I now make the turn to You. Amen

 

 

Just a reminder, please join us each Wednesday @ 11:00am for Coffee & Connect Live in our Facebook Group, Larry Lundstrom Ministries. If you miss it there, you can see all the videos on our website by clicking here.

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=September-9-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

 

The past few weeks we have been blindsided by a whirlwind of world and life-changing events that has and will affect all of us  forever.  As the twenty year 9/11 commemoration of the Twin Towers approaches, Larry and my memory bank explodes replaying that fateful day---the defining moment--- that changed our lives and the future for us and everyone. The reality of the word "freedom" is under attack.  Unless we, as Christians in America, desperately get on our knees to pray, we will lose our freedom, be controlled and it's not gonna be 'pretty'! 

 

Brothers and sisters in Christ, it's up to us to gird up, pray up, stand up and be bold for righteousness.  So many of our friends and partners are writing us and crying "How can we cope through all of this Covid, nation tragedies and world catastrophes?"  If you are also feeling some of this same anxiety and asking the same question, I would encourage you to check out our COFFEE & CONNECT video below in which I share a message on  "How  to cope when everything is falling apart ."  I pray that it will be an encouragement to you to keep pushing, keep going, and keep praying because God is faithful.  He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Also, below the video is a message from our recent newsletter that I hope will remind you the Lord is near.

 

 

 

 

 

DO YOU NOT REMEMBER I HAVE PROMISED?

 

"How could this be? No God, not another crisis!" The warm tears spilled down my cheeks, softly falling on my now tear-stained Bible. I was crushed. I felt like I could hardly breathe due to the emotional trauma and pain. I cried out, "God, haven't we been through enough? Are you trying to teach me a lesson? Am I that slow to catch on? Whatever happens, God, please don't abandon me!"

 

This event happened years ago in the midst of a road tour. I felt all alone. Even though we have many friends and family, I still felt the agony of being alienated from everyone and God. There is something about "pain," whether it be physical, mental, emotional or spiritual that separates and sucks out the very life from us. After I pulled myself together, I picked up one of my Bibles and I flipped open to the front cover. On the inside page, I had written a quote from author Alan Redpath. I had forgotten that I had written it there years earlier, evidently when I was going through a difficult time. Sometimes I question, "How many crises will we have to face in life? Shouldn't there be a limit--a time when we can exhale in relief—guess not!"  This quote I am sharing with you was my lifeline that night:

 

"There is nothing—no circumstance, no trouble, no testing—that can ever touch me until, first of all, it has gone past God and past Christ right through to me. If it has come that far, it has come with a great purpose, which I may not understand at the moment. But as I refuse to become panicky, as I lift up my eyes to Him, and accept it as coming from the throne of God for some great purpose of blessing to my own heart, no sorrow will ever disturb me, no circumstance will cause me to fret, for I shall rest in the joy of what my Lord is—that is the rest of victory."

 

I read that over and over. God spoke to my heart, "Do you not remember I have promised I would never leave you nor forsake you? Do you not remember I am walking beside you? If you stay close to me, not ahead of me, not behind me, but right by my side, you will make it!"

 

I love the verse in Isaiah 41:10 that speaks truth when my circumstances have clouded my vision, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

 

Please let me encourage you—don't give up, don't fall, but hold tight to the Savior for He will never leave you nor forsake you. That is His promise and "All the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." (2 Cor. 1:20)

 

Gloria

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America to your knees! Your only hope is prayer;

The world is filled with strife, confusion and despair,

But God is still in Heaven, His power is over all;

America to your knees in supplication call.

 

America to your knees! Night shadows lengthen fast,

Soon judgment will descend, the day of mercy passed;

Our only hope is God—on Him we must rely;

America to your knees! He will hear our cry.

 

America to your knees! Your forefathers of old, loved God

And served Him faithfully—for righteousness were bold;

They read and lived God's Word, honored the Sabbath day;

America to your knees! Confess your sins and pray.

 

America to Your knees! Now is no time for pride;

In humble pleading call on God that He be on our side.

We've sinned and disobeyed, we've wandered far astray;

America to your knees! Return to Christ today.

 

– Esther Kerr Rusthoi

 

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RECIPE

 

As the gardens are producing their harvest, there is an abundance of vegetables and this is such a yummy and easy way to prepare them! You can mix and match to your delight!

 

Roasted Vegetables

 

Step 1   Chop vegetables into approximately the same size. Place on rimmed baking pan (a dark pan often works a little better for roasting). Spread evenly, not overcrowding.

Step 2   Toss with olive oil and your choice of seasoning. Some seasoning options are: salt and pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic, curry powder, fresh/dried herbs, citrus, sesame oil, taco seasoning and whatever else you think you might like!

Step 3   Spread across baking sheet and roast in oven at 400-425 degrees. Spread evenly so vegetables cook evenly and roast 20-25 minutes. About halfway through, toss/mix vegetables. If adding tomatoes, add them the last 10 minutes. Vegetables are done when tender.

 

You can roast just about any vegetable. Just use the same simple method – chop (things such as green beans and asparagus just leave whole), drizzle with oil, season, toss and roast. Toss once or twice through baking. Just keep in mind different vegetables take various amounts of time so roast vegetables with the same cook time together (or give more firm root vegetables a head start then add others later on)

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=July-28-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Greetings from Tennessee!  As I sit here writing, the temperature is close to 100 degrees plus humidity.  The beautiful Smoky Mountains here are truly a bit smoky today and somewhat hidden from view due to all the fires happening in the U.S.  It is hard for me to grasp the concept that the smoke can reach this far into middle Tennessee, but somehow it makes its way.  We really need to pray for rain for those areas in need and for all the homes that are currently in jeopardy or those who have lost their homes.  How devastating!  I can't imagine the feeling of losing everything.  As you read or listen to the news, the signs of the last days seem to be on display with the erractic weather, earthquakes, fires, floods, and destruction.  However, even with the heaviness and sadness of that, let us choose to be thankful and grateful for what we have.  May we indeed use what we have to be a blessing to help others during these times!

 

 

On the brighter side, we hope that many of you are able to watch Larry and I sharing and ministering each week on our COFFEE & CONNECT LIVE video outreach.  It's exciting each week to have people join us from all over the continental U.S. and even Alaska and Hawaii.  Last month we even had some join us from England and a few other countries.  We are thankful for this opportunity to share the good news in any way that we can.  All of our CCLIVE video's are available on our CCLIVE page.  You can view them here>>  /CC-LIVE.  

 

If you want to check out the most recent video, I will make it easy for you.  I have included it at the end of my article.  Just scroll down, click and watch.

 

Speaking of my article, as we are heading out of July and launching into August, families are trying to get their last minute vacations squeezed in before school starts.  I thought you might enjoy some vacation remembrances:

 

Summer always reminds me of vacation time, and it always reminds me of FAMILY!  Last year the pandemic wiped
out family vacations for many but as of now, vacation mode is full speed ahead. Here in Nashville, it has taken on the
nickname—Crashville—due to exploding growth, population and crazy drivers. Nonetheless, vacation mode and excitement is flying high.

We love when our children were small and we would plan a week summer vacation of fun somewhere. Of course, being from South Dakota, we proudly claimed Mount Rushmore as one of our "seven wonders of the world."  We would go there often, park our big rig in the parking lot and rush up the avenue of flags where we could snap that special "Kodak moment" in front of the four faces. I get a little bit weepy wishing we could all go together like we used to but having/keeping jobs must be the priority.

 

 

 

It seems the years have only sped by too quickly since Lashawn, LaDawn and Donovan were little. Numerous times we would stop by Mount Rushmore for television taping and vacation. Many times, they were more excited about getting an ice cream cone, t-shirt, whistle or glow in the dark wand rather than seeing the Presidents' faces. We wanted them to grasp the history of Mount Rushmore; they just wanted fun!

 

     

 

Looking back to the photos that we have taken over the past years, I realize the four faces have not changed, but my children have. Wow! How?! Larry and I purposed years ago when our children were little to make memories. I must
admit (and I confess) my house is filled with photo albums. (My son-in-law would agree---HA!) Often people will comment, "You have more photos in one book than we take in ten years." That may be true, but these photos are my family treasures. When we get together, we often turn the pages of the books: laughing, jesting and teasing one another the whole time. Hardly do I ever hear them say, "Wasn't the Grand Canyon or Tetons beautiful?" No! What they remember most are the mosquito infested campgrounds, the burned hot dogs and charred marshmallows.  They love to relive the time Dad lost his balance and slid down the muddy embankment totally out of control, or the rain storm that drenched the tent and bedding. I have come to realize the memories are not necessarily the places we have traveled or the scenery as much as the fun of just being together. As adults, they sit for hours telling stories of previous vacations and daring to "tattle" on one another now that time has gone by.

 

Larry and I love the fact that most of our family is in Nashville, except Myanna who is in Minneapolis, so we can enjoy spending the holidays together. We all call our home "the Gathering Place"—a place of refuge, peace, encouragement, stories, food, teasing and laughter. The greatest investment (I am sure you would agree) is the investment spiritually and otherwise in our families.  Great memories bring back great dividends that last a lifetime!

 

Gloria

 

P.S. Here is the most recent CCLIVE video:

 

 

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RECIPE

 

As all the fresh vegetables and produce is coming in from the garden.  Here is a yummy dip to enjoy them with!

 

DUMP & STIR VEGETABLE DIP

 

1 pt Hellmann's mayonnaise

8 oz bottle French dressing

3 oz Parmesan cheese

1/4 tsp celery salt

1/4 tsp onion salt

1/4 tsp garlic salt

 

Mix together.  Refigerate.  Serve alongside raw vegetables.

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=June-7-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

It's a beautiful day here in Tennessee; it truly is breathtaking. We love the scenery, the people, the weather, the smoky mountains; we love it all!  We especially love being within 20 miles of each of our children.

 

 

I came into my bedroom  a few minutes ago where I have my easy chair to complete the simple task of sewing on a couple clips onto something.  Did I ever tell you that I am not a seamstress?   Did I ever tell you the most frustrating job in the world is for me to sew on a button?   Did I ever tell you I'm a mess when I try to thread a needle without getting six knots in it?  Did I ever tell you that my grandmother was a professional seamstress and she tried to teach me when I was in grade school and high school to sew, mend and embroider? Well,  I think she finally realized (but never told me) that I would never win a purple ribbon in 4-H at the county fair!  And she was right!

 

My mom did a lot of sewing for the family including sewing car seat covers for my dad.  ME?  I work more confidently with a staple gun, superglue or duct tape!  Anyway, what should take anyone only about 10 minutes to complete at the most---sewing on a button or clip,  I struggled for an hour and a half finally finding myself on the brink of tears.  The end result looked like whoever did it (which was me) was blindfolded underwater with their  hands tied behind their back!  I thought to myself, "How can anything so simple be so difficult?"   And then I gave myself a pep talk, "Self, God must've known that my calling was not to be a seamstress.  So He allowed me to mess it up to ensure I would go on to what He's really called me to do and to be:  an evangelist's wife with a passion for the lost, compassionate heart with a burden for the hurting, and a friend to the lonely.

 

 

 

When I started thinking that way, I pulled myself together and realized that God gives everyone different  talents.  I have always admired my different sister-in-laws with all of their various talents.  They are all creative, great cooks, great hosts,  great parents and grandparents. On days when I felt like I didn't measure up, God reminded me that my calling was different--- my gifting was to be on the road with my family, ministering to  reach the lost.   Years ago I came to peace with knowing that I can't seem to sew on a button, but I can encourage someone and pray with those who are hurting and have needs.  I now choose to thank God for the gifts He's given to each of us, and He just asks us to use them for His glory.  "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning."  James 1:17, NKJV

 

Well, there, I vented!   And now I feel better!  I guess I will go and try to finish sewing on one more clip! LOL!  Have a great summer!

 

Gloria

 

P.S.  Again, we are so thankful for the avenue of ministry that began about a year ago through COFFEE & CONNECT LIVE.  Feel free to join us this Wednesday at 11 AM in our Facebook group by clicking here and joining>>  https://www.facebook.com/groups/590560935145210  or go to our CCLIVE page on this website to view all of our prior CCLIVE'S by clicking HERE.

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RECIPE

 

Taco Salad

1 head of lettuce

1 tomatoe, diced

1 lb ground beef, browned and seasoned with seasoning salt, chili powder

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 sm pkg Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed

1 pkg Good Seasons Italian Dressing, prepare as directed

Onion

Avocados

Kidney beans

 

Mix together the lettuce, tomato, cooked ground beef and cheddar cheese.  Toss with the prepared dressing and mix.  Add the Doritos just before serving.  Serve the onions, avocados and kidney beans on the side.

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=May-5-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

Greetings from Nashville!  What a beautiful May Day it is today!  As May has arrived, so has a busy month filled with celebrations—Mother's Day, graduations, Memorial Day---just to name a few!  It is fun to see more people coming out and being together.   We are so thrilled to now be located close to our family and enjoy the privilege of being with our family for holidays that while on the road, we often were not together.

 

With Mother's Day approaching, our daughters, Lashawn and Ladawn, requested to host a Coffee and Connect LIVE to honor me.  What a great time we had on today's program.  In fact, we decided to continue on and we will have Part 2 next week.  I had no idea what questions they were going to ask so it made me sweat a little, but it was truly a great time.  If you want to hear part 1 "the INSIDE EDITION".you can view it here:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recently, we have received so many phone calls from hurting parents who have tried to raise their children for the Lord, but they are not walking in His ways which is heart breaking for the parents.  Here is a message that will prayerfully encourage.  We have been there...we understand...we care!

 

THE PAINS OF MOTHERHOOD....HOW TO THRIVE & SURVIVE!

 

I will never forget the pregnancy with our first child, Lashawn.  Late October 1967, the first birth pain hit causing me to double over gasping for a deep breath of reprieve.   I remember as the waves of contractions would peak wanting anything to help relieve the intensity of the pain.  It was during those long hours of labor and giving birth that I then believed what someone once told me, "You are the closest to death when giving birth."  When Lashawn finally arrived, I wondered if I was dead or alive!

 

I now comically remember that when I experienced the first birth pain, I thought to myself, "I've changed my mind! I don't want to go through this!" However, if you are a mother, you know there is no changing your mind!  That baby is boss in that moment and makes it known, "Ready, willing, or not---I'm coming!"  Right after Lashawn was born, I commented, "Oh the pain! I don't think I will ever forget it."  A friend of mine whose children were now in their teen years replied, "Just wait, you don't know what pain is yet!" Honestly in that moment, I didn't quite catch on to what she really meant until years later.

Genesis 3:16 explains the curse brought about after Eve gave way to temptation, "I will greatly increase your pains in childbearing." I don't believe this refers just to the nine months of discomfort and the culminating agony of contractions. No, in fact, as I have gone through the various parenting stages, I have come to the conclusion that there is pain in every growth stage and with every age.  There is pain in the delivery, sleep deprivation with a newborn, frustration with energetic toddlers, mood swings during the school years, broken hearts, chipped teeth and quick trips to the emergency room to get stitches on their once flawlessly skinned face or body. I have learned that pain is a part of childbearing and child rearing. However, these pains that I have mentioned above cannot compare to the deep stabbing pain of watching your child, whether young or grown, struggle with sin and its repercussions.

 

 

This Mother's Day, I want to encourage broken-hearted moms who have done all they could do to raise their children for the Lord, yet somehow, their children have taken the long heart-wrenching road of the prodigal.  PRODIGALS WILL NEVER KNOW THE PAIN THEIR PARENTS BEAR AT THE "THOUGHT' OF BEING SEPARATED FROM THEM FOR ALL ETERNITY! It is an agonizing pain! I do not know a worse pain than that.

Years ago, we experienced that very pain when we were praying for our prodigal (who is now back serving the Lord!  Praise the Lord!)  The very thought of separation for all eternity birthed a 911 prayer life within me.  Moms, if you have a prodigal, let me share some important lifelines that I learned through the process.  Keep them with you. Commit to activating them in your life.

° Thank God daily for giving that child to you.  When you are in the grips of pain, sometimes that is hard to do; however, the Lord instructs us to "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Phil 4:6-7   This is essential to your spiritual and mental health.

° Declare daily that the enemy cannot have them. They were dedicated to God as children and they belong to God. "And so I am sure confident that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus." Phil. 1:6

° Pray, pray, pray the Word over them. The verse that I had written on cards and placed all over the coach and house was Jeremiah 31:16-17, "'Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded,' declares the Lord. 'They will return from the land of the enemy. So there is hope for your future, declares the Lord.  Your children will return to their own land.'" (NIV)

° Begin to see them spiritually where they should be. Don't get discouraged, depressed and hopeless at what you see now, but anticipate their day of return°happy and serving God. "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." 3 John 1:4

° Until then°love, love, love them unconditionally°and when you can't love them anymore, love them some more! "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35

° Pray that God will cross their paths with a godly person they can trust and believe in to help them find their way back home. "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." 1 Cor. 10:13

° Finally—Praise God every day that the answer is on its way! It may not be instant. Most often, it isn't, but keep believing in the Lord's promises maintaining hope and faith! "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

Those seven actions helped me keep faith in God and His Word.  On the darkest days devoid of any hopeful sign, I continued to be faithful to do what I could and then trust God knowing He loves my children more than I possibly could. Be encouraged, Mom, your prayers and tears are not in vain!  2 Timothy 1:12 says, "°He is able to keep that (him or her) which  have committed unto him against that day." (KJV)

 

 

GLORIA

 

P.S.  We want to congratulate Marne, our office administrator, and her husband on their 22nd anniversary this week.  Marne is definitely the wind beneath our wings that keeps our ministry going all these 23 years. She is definitely God's gift to us caring for many things behind the scenes so we can continue ministry on the road. When you pray for us,  please pray for them as they are very special to us.

 

 

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RECIPE

 

Pistachio Salad

 

1 20 oz can of crushed pineapple, include the juice

1 3 oz pkg of Jello Instant Pistachio Pudding Mix

1/2 cup maraschino cherries

1/2 cup chopped pecans

1 1/2 cup miniature marshmallows

1 large carton whipped topping

 

Put pineapplie and juice in a bowl.  Sprinkle all of the pudding mix on top.  Stir until mixed well.  Add all the other ingredients.  Mix well.  Chill and then serve.

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=March-24-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

 

Wow!  Let me take a big deep breath!  I have always said over and over through the years "I always plan my day, but many times it does not go as planned!"  What I am about to share with you is case and point to that!  However, I have also learned that my plans, even when turned upside down, give way to God-plans where He provides moments of ministry that would have otherwise been missed.  He is able to turn total crisis into holy and sacred moments with eternal results. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Saturday I had looked forward to for several weeks, I had big plans to go with my daughters, Lashawn and Ladawn, for the day, LaShawn had been gone for a few weeks, so we planned a GIRLS DAYS OUT.  Friday night when I went to bed, I was so excited just knowing after so many weekends of cold rainy wet weather that this was a perfect sunshiney sky blue day that was to be---OUR DAY.  I was snuggled into my blankets, laying on Larry's arm as we were talking, and I fell asleep.   About 4:30 AM I felt like someone had put a pillow over my face, and I began to struggle to breathe. I thought to myself, "Oh this is crazy!"  I waited a moment to see if it would pass but I continued to have an even harder time breathing.   Not being new to some heart issues, I knew I had better take my blood pressure and check my heart rate.   I was just somewhat surprised because it all has been going so good since I had the heart ablation last September.

 

 

With the pain in my chest and down my left arm, my nonchalant relaxed peaceful evening began to turn into hysteria. I got up and took my blood pressure and it blinked 191.  Then I looked down at my heart rate and it was 151!  I measured in that moment what action to take.  I decided to not bother Larry as I had been instructed to take an extra heart pill if I would run into this issue and that would take care of it.  So I did.   But, it wasn't getting better.

 

 

 

 

I woke Larry up and thank God for a loving husband who was there to console me and say we better go to the hospital. Thank God I have a friend who works at Vanderbilt under a cardiologist.  I sent her a message and immediately she went to work regarding my current situation.  After consulting the surgeon, they told me to take another extra pill.  Finally the episode began to subside with my blood pressure falling to 150 and my heart rate down to 131.  While I was thankful that was better than 151....it decided to stick there like a second hand on a clock.  Again I contacted my friend and she said, "Gloria, you better get in."  I called LaDawn, and she quickly made her way over to our house (about 20 minutes away) and graciously took me down to the Vanderbilt ER in downtown  Nashville.   For the next eight hours the doctors were giving me what should've been a "blast" medication to blast the heart out of Afib and bring it back into normal rhythm,  but it just wasn't happening.

 

 

 

 

 

Ladawn had been with me in the ER; LaShawn was with Larry so LaDawn decided to leave in order for Donovan to spend time with me in ER.  (Can I just say right now how much I am grateful for loving kids who have and continue to be there for us time and time again!)  LaDawn had been gone about an hour when Donovan's phone buzzed.  He looked at it and his face went white.  Obviously that concerned me so I inquired, "What's wrong??"  "Mom,  it's okay.... but Ladawn and Dante' were  just in a head on accident!"  I am sure that didn't help my heart racing issue, but he quickly assured me that they were okay and the police were on their way.   Lashawn and Larry rushed to be with them about 30 miles away while Donovan stayed with me.  They were taken to a different hospital ER.  God's angels were on extra duty that night!!!!  They treated Ladawn for possible concussion and possible whiplash. It was pretty crazy to think that we were both in ER's at the same time:  she and Dante' in Williamson while I was at Vanderbilt Hospital ER downtown Nashville.

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

 

Finally about 11 o'clock, they admitted me and took me upstairs into the cardiac unit and hooked me up.  They told me they were to start me on this TIKOSYM that for sure will get my heart back into rhythm, but it may take three days of meds.  Then the prayer chain came together as people were praying from all over as they started that the medication the next morning. About an hour and a half into the new medicine, Larry was sitting with me looking at the monitor watching the heart rate that was 138 and "boom" Larry said it was like a pinball machine he saw it jump back into rhythm.  Praise the Lord!  Praise the Lord!   My surgeon said this was really fantastic, but now we have to figure out what to do to keep it where it is supposed to be--- whether we do an ablation or try to do a powerful heart drug.    We will see what is next.   They did keep me at the hospital for a little bit to make sure that the medication would work well and no additional "hiccups" with the heart.

 

And this is where opportunity comes.  In the midst of the chaos with my heart and the car accident with my family, there was a God-appointed time.  Truly the crowning jewel of this whole escapade was that I had the honor and privilege of witnessing to and praying with a young mother---wife---nurse  who was simply desperate.  It was a quiet time and she was faithfully doing her job.  Her job was to come into my room to take my physical vitals.  Little did she know that God had brought her into my room to "take her spiritual vitals".   She left REVITALIZED by the Holy Spirit with a thankful heart and joyful tears....a new person!

 

I can thankfully write today that  LaDawn and Dante' are bruised and extremely sore, but I am so grateful to God for protecting them from something that could have been so tragic.  I can write that you can't keep a Norwegian down for long and I am home and on my way to recovery!  God is GOOD & FAITHFUL!   Great is thy faithfulness ...His mercies are new every morning!

 

 

"Bless the Lord, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
² Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
³ Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
⁴ Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
⁵ Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."  Psalm 103:1-5

 

This Sunday as we celebrate Palm Sunday/Passover, may our lips have ready praise!   I know mine will have some extra umph!

 

Gloria

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RECIPE

 

EASTER TEA RING

 

1/2 cup water

2 pkgs yeast

2 cups milk

1/2 cup sugar

2 tsp salt

1/2 cup shortening

2 eggs

6 1/2-7 cups flour

3/4 cups sugar

3/4 tsp cinnamon

1/2 cup nuts

1/ cup raisins

 

Dissolve the yeast in a 1/2 cup water.  Scald the milk and add the 1/2 cup sugar, salt and shortening.  Cool and add the eggs and yeast mixture.  Mix together.  Beat in 3 1/2 cups flour.  Gradually add the remaining flour while you need the dough.  Put in bowl and cover.  Let raise 1 1/2 hours--keep dough soft, punch down.  Spread out like you would for cinnamon rolls.  Spread with soft butter, the 3/4 cup sugar, cinnamon, nuts and raisins.  Roll up like a jelly roll.  Cut gashes in top and turn into a circle.  Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.  Drizzle with powdered sugar frosting and decorate with chopped nut or cherries or whatever you would like.

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=February-9-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

Hello from Tennessee!  It has been a surprising winter with more snow arriving this year than normal.  There for a minute, I thought I was back in South Dakota for a bit.   It doesn't last long here and we know a warm up is coming.  That is definitely different than South Dakota!  HA!  I do feel for my office staff who informed me on the way into work the actual temperature (without wind chill) was -17 degrees.  I don't miss that!  I remember the days of suiting up the kiddos in snowsuits in order to sleep during the night because of how frigid the bus would get when traversing the northern states for rallies.  Brrrr!

 

Between that and COVID, we are staying put.  It is sure a good thing that Larry and I are best friends and we practiced close quarters all those years on the bus because we spend all of our days together....and we are thankful.  He spoils me!

 

Super quick, I wanted to encourage you.  If you have ever felt the cry of desperation, "God where are you when I hurt?  How am I going to make it through this?  God, help me!", in our February 3rd COFFEE & CONNECT LIVE, I share from my heart about a series of moments when I was at this point and how God miraculously met me in the midst of the deep valleys.  It is my prayer that it would bring hope and faith to the situation you are facing in this moment.  The video is below:

 

 

 

Just a reminder as we head towards Valentine's Day and all things "heart" are celebrated, I wanted to share my recent newsletter article with you----DID THEY SEE JESUS?

 

Years ago, a partner from North Dakota wrote us a letter giving us an update on her young daughter (5 years old at the time) who had just come through a very serious open heart surgery. In her letter, she wrote, "After the surgery, my daughter looked up at the surgeon and very seriously asked, 'Tell me, when they opened my heart°did they see Jesus?'"

That little girl's question has nestled in me and has burst out of my memory bank throughout the years, especially in trying moments of my life. Just last week, I experienced a couple of "raw moments" where a couple of my children were treated unfairly and unjust. In the flesh, like a rattlesnake, I wanted to strike back with a venom of revenge.  In the midst of those feelings however, that little girl's question to the doctor resurfaced.  If I struck back with a venom of revenge, would they see Jesus in my heart? Convicted, I immediately had to CHOOSE TO FORGIVE (this went against my natural desire) for their ungodly and unfair actions taken against my kids.

You might think, "Gloria, you always seem so together, nonchalant and spiritually under control." To be honest, I feel I am 99% of the time, but it is that 1% that emerges when someone is hurting my cub that can unhinge things. This Mama Bear protective instinct flares! It doesn't happen very often, but it is then that I have to urgently and quickly address: What would Jesus do and how would He respond? How would my precious mother who is now in heaven respond? I have to take a deep breath, chill, and ask God to calm me and help me to respond in a godly manner. That godly manner assures and encourages me to keep my mouth shut and pray for the perpetrator and for my children. I pray that they, too, will have a God-given sense to choose to forgive those that hurt them and choose integrity and Godly character over deep seated revenge and unforgiveness.

The Bible talks much about the heart. Proverbs 4:23 states, "Above all guard your heart for everything you do flows from it." I desire a clean heart. As I struggle with a heart condition, atrial fibrillation, I realize how important it is to care for my heart if I want to avert a massive stroke or heart attack. I often pray Psalm 51:10 as I love David's sincere prayer and request to God; he was so human. "Create in me a pure heart oh God and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

 

     

 

In the past year of 2020, we have firsthand experienced so many divisions in really every facet of life. We have known lack of jobs, finances, health issues, untimely deaths, and much uncertainty. All of this sadly to say has hardened so many hearts as Matthew 24:12 says, "And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold." That is what is called a stony heart.

We have a choice what kind of heart we want to have! We can choose to become bitter or hateful and destroy our own marriages, family and relationships.  Also, tragically, you can lose your desire for God and ultimately°your soul. I love Psalm 73:26, "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever!"  OR we can choose to have Gods heart, Philippians 4:7 says, "And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your heart (and my heart) and mind (and my mind) in Christ Jesus."

 

This is my valentine's heart message to you! CHOOSE to let Jesus be in your heart!

 

GLORIA

 

P.S.  Just a quick reminder, we are excited for the upcoming Coffee & Connect LIVE  in our Facebook group at 11 AM on Wednesdays.

Here's how you can join us! To join the Facebook group, click here >> https://www.facebook.com/groups/590560935145210 or you can wait until Wednesday afternoon to view the most recent episode right here on our website by going to the CCLIVE page. All of the videos we have done until now are available for viewing!

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RECIPE

 

Snickers Cheesecake

CRUST:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup melted butter

FILLING:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese

1  1/2 cup sugar

4 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

3 Snickers bars

TOPPING:

1 jar Smucker's Milky Way ice cream topping (or use something similar)

 

For crust:  Mix together crust ingredients.  Pat on bottom of 9: spring form pan.  Set aside.

For filling:  Soften cream cheese.  Beat with sugar, add eggs (one at a time beating well after each one).  Beat in vanilla.  Cut up candy bars and stir in batter.

Pour into pan and bake at 325 degrees for 60-80 minutes making sure the middle portion of cheesecake is fully baked.  Run knife around edge of cake to prevent shrinking and cracking.  Cool on counter.  Spread the topping on the cheesecake and cool in refigerator. 

When serving, garnish each piece with whipped topping if desired.

 

 

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=January-4-2021&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

Here we are...2021...a clean slate to start over!   I have to admit that I didn't get all my "should do's" and "want to's" done last year, but as my dear mother would often say while she was still alive, "Missy, don't fret over what you didn't get done, it will still be there waiting for you!"  To which I would respond, "That's the problem!  I don't want it waiting for me;  I want it done!" 

 

We had a wonderful Christmas with our small family (just the 8 of us as our granddaughter, Myanna, moved back to Minneapolis so we greatly missed her being with us).  We officially met the COVID code in case someone wanted to peak through the window to check up on us. (HA!)  We were at our home for Christmas Eve where we played games, exchanged gifts as we had drawn names, and had a brown bag gift exchange for fun.  Christmas Day we went to our daughter, LaShawn and Liam's, for a Christmas dinner and lots of continued stories, laughter, snacks and goodies.  It was a great time, and we are truly thankful for all the moments we were able to spend together. 

 

 

 

Those special times were over before we knew it , and then we sped  toward the New Year, and alas, here it is!  A few days ago, our daughter LaDawn asked me what God was speaking to my heart regarding 2021.  Without hesitancy I answered, "Two words---endurance and perseverance."  To that reply, LaDawn groaned and I continued with assurance, "We will make it.  I know that!  But we will have to work hard at enduring and persevering through whatever is ahead.  God is with us!" 

 

Truly that is what is important.  As we look into 2021, Larry and I rest in knowing that God is walking ahead of us.  He desires us to draw near to Him.  Yes---we will all have a choice this year to REJOICE and GROW or MOAN and GROAN.  We are choosing to REJOICE!

 

As we begin this new year, I want to leave a couple of verses with you that I pray will be an encouragement to you! 

 

 

 

GLORIA

 

P.S.  Just a quick reminder, we are excited for the upcoming Coffee & Connect LIVE  in our Facebook group at 11 AM on Wednesdays.  

Here's how you can join us! To join the Facebook group, click here >> https://www.facebook.com/groups/590560935145210 or you can wait until Wednesday afternoon to view the most recent episode right here on our website by going to the CCLIVE page. All of the videos we have done until now are available for viewing!

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RECIPE

 

Potato-Knepfla Soup

 

6 medium potatoes, cubed

1 large onion, chopped

3 Tbsp bacon or ham drippings

salt & pepper

1 Tbsp chicken soup base

1/2 cup sweet or cultured sour cream

 

Brown onion in drppings.  Add water, soup base, seasonings and potatoes.  Boil slowly for 20 minutes.  When potatoes are tender, put in knepfla and boil for 10 minutes.  Add cream, bring to a boil and serve.

 

Knepfla dough:

4 cups flour

2 small eggs

1/2 tsp salt

water (enough to make soft dough)

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=December-23-2020&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

 

 

 

CHRISTMAS WILL NOT BE AS USUAL.....

 

Here we are.  It's December and the calendar days are quickly counting down approaching Christmas.  There is always anticipation at Christmas. We anticipate and have expectations of parties, Christmas caroling, church activities, families gathering together, and scrumptious eating which all spell fun in my book! For me, this is an "ideal" Christmas.

However, we are facing a different reality this year; Christmas won't be as usual. COVID-19 has upended and changed everything. Peoples' schedules, finances, plans, dreams, vacations and get-togethers are different in one way or another.  For many there will be empty chairs and trickling tears thinking of those who have been stolen out of their lives due to untimely deaths. The absence will be painful. As will the feeling of loss with less family gatherings, church concerts/programs, and special
holiday events.  Now to be frank, we did not do anything to cause this, and there's really little we can do to change it, so that leaves us with the question, "What is Christmas going to be like this year? How can it be better than expected?"

 

I want to challenge you that it can be better than you think, IF we can choose to create a better mindset and be intentional about focusing on the true REASON for the SEASON.  There once was a family that celebrated Christmas every year with a birthday party for Jesus. An extra chair of honor was brought to the table and it became the family's visual reminder of Jesus' presence with them. There was a cake brought to life with flickering candles and the family burst out in the singing of "Happy Birthday" to express their joy and celebration of Jesus' presence. One year a Christmas afternoon visitor asked the five-year-old, Katie, "Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?" After a moment's hesitation she answered, "No, but then, it's
not my birthday." 

 

This Christmas, even with all the COVID–chaos, will we forget, the real REASON for Christmas?  It could be very well be that there will be less extravagant gift-giving (which is financially better causing less stress). Sadly, there may be fewer family gathering, (but one can use the gift of technology: cell phones, FaceTime, Zoom and numerous other ways to connect). There may be a decrease in the amount of Christmas goodies and favorite dishes (which just might be a lot healthier for all of us).  There may be an abundance of family games (which might create more interaction with the family and the opportunity to know more about each other).  As we cherish the times together, in person or online.  Maybe have a question and answer time where we take the time to ask grandma and grandpa or mom and dad questions about something you'd like to know and didn't know as we are never guaranteed more moments; (you would gain a wealth of information and history).  This new creativity, along with the altering or adjusting of old traditions, you have the opportunity of instilling stress free, fat free, finance free traditions that can be whole new customs that will bring joy, laughter, richness and fulfillment to the family.  Then frost the Christmas gathering with the Luke account of the Christmas story!

 

This may be the  most unusual Christmas we've ever had, but prayerfully it is a memorable and meaningful one.  It sounds good to me!

 

HAVE A BLESSED & MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 

Gloria

 

P.S.  If you want to hear some of our favorite Christmas memories as a family---whether that is coming in off the road in the knick of time to celebrate or creating a Christmas TV special---you can tune into our last two COFFEE & CONNECT LIVE's where as a family, we share some of those memories.  You can view them by clicking HERE and then scrolling down to the videos.  Just click on the video to watch!

 

 

 

 

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DID YOU KNOW???

• DID YOU KNOW that the chopping down of the Christmas tree represents the death of Christ and putting it back up represents the ressurection of Christ?
• DID YOU KNOW that the wreaths we hang are never ending circles that represent eternity?
• DID YOU KNOW candy canes were made to look like shepherd hooks and the colors-red to represent Jesus' blood and white to represent purity
• DID YOU KNOW the gifts that we share with each other represent the three gifts the wise men brought for Baby Jesus

So....when you are running around trying to find the "perfect gift", stop yourself, take a deep breath and remember---

WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE PERFECT GIFT----JESUS CHRIST was given to us to remove all our sins!

HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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SANDBAKKELS

*A favorite Norwegian treat my mom made!  If you like butter, you will like these!

 

1 cup sugar

1 cup butter

3 cups flour (about)

1 egg, well beaten

1 tsp vanilla or almond flavoring

 

Cream sugar and butter.  Add egg and flavoring.  Work in about 3 cups flour.  Press into tins and bake at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes.  Watch carefully.

http://larrylundstromministries.org/Blog?blogid=1624&view=post&articleid=November-23-2020&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I love that verse.  If you ever wonder what God's will is, you do not have to wonder any longer!  It is very clear that He instructs us to GIVE THANKS in EVERYTHING. 

 

This Thanksgiving, this command may be a little more difficult to follow.  Most people's worlds are different right now.  Some are experiencing illness, grief, loneliness, job loss, uncertainty or discouragement.  In these times, it doesn't feel natural or automatic to give thanks or feel the joy of the season.  The more natural cry of the heart is, "How can I give thanks for this?"

 

I read this explanation recently,

"In some places sweet water is known to well up amid the brine of the salt sea.  So it is true that many of the sweetest joys in life are the fruit of sorrow.

A teacher, trying to impress this truth to a class, drew some black dots which appeared as nothing other than an irregular assemblage of black dots.  Then he drew a few lines, put in a few rests, then a clef and soon the dots were musical notes which when sounded formed: 'Praise God from whom all blessings flow.' 

So in our lives, the black dots and dark days may be difficult to understand.  But with God arranging the dots, a glorious harmony will result in our lives."

 

We may have to be a little more intentional this Thanksgiving and choose to give thanks even amidst what appears like a mess of chaos and unsettledness, but we can trust that as we follow the Lord's will of giving thanks in everything, the Lord is making something beautiful.

 

May you have a very blessed and intentional time of thanksgiving!

 

Gloria

 

P.S.  Just a quick reminder, we are excited for the upcoming Coffee & Connect LIVE's with special guests for the next two weeks.  We go LIVE in our Facebook group at 11 AM on Wednesdays.

 

 

November 25th with Greg Long---Greg is the son of our dear friend and fellow evangelist, Linda Long, and travelled with Lowell Lundstrom Ministries for a time.  You may know him from the Christian group, Avalon, where he joins his wife, Janna, in bringing hope.  This dynamic couple also serves at Woodlands Church near Houston, Texas.

 

December 2 with Jeff Nordin---Jeff is going to return once again and we can't wait to hear from him and be blessed by the amazing talent God has gifted him with.  He travelled with us as a keyboardist and is currently the Creative Art Director and Worship Leader of Christ Chapel in Woodbridge, VA.

 

Here's how you can join us!  To join the Facebook group,

click here>>https://www.facebook.com/groups/590560935145210 or you can wait until Wednesday afternoon to view the  most recent episode right here on our website by going to the CCLIVE page.  All of the videos we have done until now are available for viewing!

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RECIPE

 

Baked Corn

1 can whole kernel corn, drained

1 can cream style corn

1 egg lightly beaten

1/2 stick margarine, melted

1 cup sour cream

1 8 1/2 oz box Jiffy corn muffin mix

Lightly grease a 2 quart casserole dish.  Combine corn, egg, margarine, sour cream and muffin mix.  Mix well.  Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes.  it usually seems to take just a little longer until done.