Larry and I have dedicated the past couple of weeks to prayer, study, booking and office work and seeing God's will and direction for the future. As usual, January is a tough month to book rallies as churches are "recovering" from the busyness of all of the December Christmas programs and activities. For churches, January is usually the month for refocus and in house fasting and prayer as they prepare for the 2013 church calendar. We have taken the past three Sundays to attend different churches here in Florida. It has been so refreshing to "sit and take in". One never knows how spiritually hungry they are until the spiritual hunger pangs hit! I was feeling it and the messages have been so inspiring and challenging.

I tell Larry, "I want to attend church but I want to be anonymous"…(hard to do when Larry is so recognizable and "talky" - ha!). Because of our hearts for people and the nature of evangelism, we are often the ones to be ministering to others. We truly feel this is our calling and we genuinely love all the ways God uses us to connect His heart to others. But, there are times I feel the need to be able to be in a service for the sole purpose of soaking in truth and basking in His presence. I just love that connection with Jesus…I just need to feel His touch, hear His voice, drink in and let His Word give strength to move ahead. Again, let me reaffirm something here, I love people and I love to minister and to be with people, but then there are those times that I just need the focus and stillness of Psalms 46:10, "Be still and know that I am God." I know God has a hard time getting me to just being still. I am a go-do-go-do person. I'm sure there are many of you who can relate. There are times I just need to stop…and listen. So, for me, this time of focus, study and stillness has been precious.

Forty-some years ago my mother gave me this poem with the instructions, "Missy, read it, and do what it says." (I still need more practice on this one). Please enjoy and share with others!

Slow Me Down, Lord

Slow me down, Lord.

Ease the pounding of my heart by the quieting of my mind.

Steady my hurried pace with a vision of the eternal reach of time.

Give me, amid the confusion of the day, the calmness of the everlasting hills.

Break the tensions of my nerves and muscles with the soothing music of the singing streams that live in my memory.

Teach me the art of taking minute vacations - of slowing down to look at a flower, to chat with a friend, to pat a dog, to smile at a child, to read a few lines from a good book.

Slow me down, Lord, and inspire me to send my roots deep into the soil of life's enduring values, that I may grow toward my greater destiny.

Remind me each day that the race is not always to the swift, that there is more to life than increasing its speed.

Let me look upward to the towering oak and know that it grew great and strong because it grew slowly and well.

- Orin L. Crain

Well, if you are in the Midwest or in the subzero temperatures, I hope that you're staying warm. If you are in the warm temperatures and have sunshine, palm trees and sand, I hope you are enjoying it and not taking it for granted - ha! Be blessed until we talk again.

1 lb. hamburger

1 onion, chopped

2 T. shortening

1 pt. canned tomatoes or tomato juice

½ c. rice

1 T. salt

2 tsp. chili powder

Pinch of dried red pepper

1 pt. canned kidney beans

1 ½ c. water

Put meat, onion and shortening in pan. Place beans and spices on top of that and stir. Add rice and tomatoes. Mix well. Bake at 300 degrees for 2 hours, covered.

wonderful relief to be out of the bitter Midwest cold.

Our cousins, Gary and Janet Stubenrach offered to pick us up at the airport. Waiting at the curb of the terminal, we looked like eskimos with heavy sweaters, gloves and our big winter coats draped over our arms. They laughed, "You won't need all that hot stuff here, as it is 83 degrees." May I add, it was a welcomed 83 degrees. Seriously, our hearts go out to all of you having to deal with this cold weather. Every time we have a tour going to Florida, my brother Bill says, "Boy aren't you glad that people in warm weather need Jesus and encouragement too - ha!" Yes, we are glad.

Larry loves one-on-one witnessing and yesterday we had the opportunity to visit with a very successful business man for about 2 hours. When he found out that we were in ministry and Larry was a preacher, he shared his story and personal journey with us. He went from a background with no church to Mormonism, in which he became a student of the Bible and memorized most of it and was a missionary for two years. He was so steeped in the Word that he was allowed to read, that after a while the Word began to convict him that there was something wrong. The Word convinced him that Mormonism was not for him. He admitted, "They are good people who work hard and eat right, but use works to make it to heaven." The more he read the Word, it made him dig deeper to find out who God really was and the truth about this man, Jesus.

In his deep hunger and desire to know more, the pendulum swung to the extreme, and he came to a conclusion that not everything is convincing about the Bible and believed there is possibly a heaven, but no hell. As he continued to share, he admitted that he is really now confused as to what he believes and why.

Larry joyfullyshared Christ with him, we were serious, we laughed, and we shared. When we got ready to leave, this business man smiled, "You two should be in sales...you could really sell. You're happy, you truly believe what you believe, and you are convincing...in fact...I can tell that what you represent is real. You both show the joy and it's very convincing that you definitely have something that I need to think about."

Well, we didn't get to pray with him...but we planted a seed and were able to be a part of God showing Himself in that man's life. One of his statements was, "What you believe is so simple and convincing." We took that as a compliment.

The Gospel is not brain surgery...it is heart changing. In this new year, may God help each of us to demonstrate and display the love of Jesus. Take the challenge: Each person you meet or come in contact with, sow a seed and water with love...and prayerfully it will grow, creating hunger for God, and change their lives.

Burger Beef Soup

On December 29^th LaShawn took us to the Nashville airport and we arrived at 12:00 for a 2:00 flight. Of course, the lines were extremely long due to holiday travel (oh, did I fail to tell you that when we arrived at the airport in Fargo, ND on December 19^th and Larry went to give the ticket agent his driver's license as his ID that it was missing? At that second my holiday joy and peace turned into complete panic. Thank God and for favor from the security and TSA, they were so kind to work with us and we came up with enough identification to get us through. When they gave us the "go" sign, I felt like I definitely needed a fresh application of deodorant and two aspirin!)

I was reminded again; it's not always about me. Often we are tempted to whine and fuss and complain about things that 100 years, or even one year, from now...won't make a bit of difference. It's not always about me...it's others. I like the verse in Philippians 2:3-4, " When you do things, do not let selfishness or pride be your guide. Instead, be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves. Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others."

As you embark on the new year of 2013, be reassured with one of my favorite verses, Deuteronomy 31:6, "He will never leave you nor forsake you..."

Apple Salad with Feta Cheese

1 large head of lettuce, torn in bite-sized pieces

Softly falling snowflakes, carolers singing, trees brilliantly adorned, lights twinkling, packages brightly decorated , cookies bursting with the aroma of Christmas, families gathered, nativities exhibited, Jesus Christ glorified...all of these together spell Christmas!

This year, we are excited as we will share a Tennessee Christmas with Donovan, LaShawn and her husband, Liam, as well as LaDawn and her children, Danté and Myanna. The few days together will fly by only too quickly but the memories will last a lifetime.

"Thanks so much for your ministry to our 50 Plus group. Everyone enjoyed it so much. I felt we got more than I could imagine in a message and songs thatwere pointed and relevant to our church body. We are the body of Christ and if so, we should be about His mission. 'Not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to eternal life.'"

Your brother in Christ,

Pastor Wayne Fischer

"Their songs always tell an uplifting message of God'spromises."

Larry and I are now settled in to our home and home office, booking, finding rallies and events for 2013. It's good to be settled for a few weeks before we hit the road again. I love my chair in the living room and our stationary bed, with no wheels under it - ha! Larry loves being in his home and enjoying home cooking. I should say he loves to eat, period. I always tease him when I tell people, "Larry is truly a light eater - as soon as it gets light...he starts to eat...and he eats all day." HA!

We know that December is a busy month, and often there is more stress than rest. But it's our prayer for us personally, and for you, that you would take the moments to relax and to be grateful for what the real reason is for Christmas. It's a reminder of the hope, peace and comfort that He can give to us all year long.

Stir chocolate chips with water over low heat until melted (cool). Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth; add chocolate mixture. Fold in 3 ½ cups Cool Whip. Spoon half the mixture into crust; sprinkle with candies, pressing down gently. Spread remaining chocolate mixture on top. Chill 3 hours.

{ November 21, 2012 }

First of all, Larry and I want to wish you a blessed Thanksgiving! We feel so blessed to have you as part of our On the Roadfamily. Many of you will be gathering with friends and family, making a special time of connection and building or rebuilding relationships.

On the Road News: Cumberland, MD

"Larry and Gloria, your love for God and people are very evident. Your service was powerful and encouraging. God bless your ministry!" - Laura

We arrived home last night (Tuesday) from our 6 week east coast tour. Last Sunday we parked out motor home at a friend's place in Lake Wales, Florida which is near Orlando. On Monday we flew from Orlando to Minneapolis and came back to Sisseton last night. It was truly and exciting ministry tour!

Before we end this On the Road Update, I want to share this article from our newsletter several years ago that seemed to ring true for today in light of Thanksgiving:

I sense such a grip of worry, fear, and anxiety on God's people. Philippians 4:6 says, "Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." In another version, "be careful" is interpreted as "don't worry" or "don't be fearful" for nothing.

Let me address this verse a bit further. "Be careful for nothing"...When you fear or worry, you sacrifice your faith - like gas and water, faith and worry don't mix. Notice the Scripture continues on, "but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."

If during this Thanksgiving season, you are worried or overtaken by crisis, loss, disappointments, deteriorating health, financial stress...call out to God right now...address the need of Him and then verse 7 of Philippians 4 will kick in, "...and the peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." That's His promise!

This Thanksgiving...despite what trials you are going through, choose to thank Him and praise Him and see what happens next!

 

 

  While we were in the second service on Sunday morning, we learned of that fatal shooting that occurred in an upscale spa in Brookfield, Wisconsin (just a few miles from where we were in Oak Creek). A person's heart breaks to think that lives can get so messed up... to become so miserable and then do some crazy act and lose their soul for all eternity. That tragedy was blamed on deep embedded hatred. It prompts me to pray, "God, help us to be a source of hope and strength to everyone we meet. Give them You, before they would commit such a horrific crime." Our prayers go out to the innocent families who lost their loved ones.

We pray that you will have a great week and please be sure to pray for the upcoming election and take advantage of your duty and privilege to vote. Thank God for the privilege that we still have.

Gloria

A group of students were asked to list what they thought were the present "Seven Wonders of the World." Though there were some disagreements, the following received the most votes:

1. Egypt's Great Pyramids

2. Taj Mahal

3. Grand Canyon

4. Panama Canal

5. Empire State Building

6. St. Peter's Basilica

7. China's Great Wall

While gathering the votes, the teacher noted that one student had not finished her paper yet. So she asked the girl if she was having trouble with her list. The girl replied, "Yes, a little. I couldn't quite make up my mind because there were so many."

The teacher said, "Well, tell us what you have, and maybe we can help."

The girl hesitated, then read, "I think the 'Seven Wonders of the World' are:

1. To See

2. To Hear

3. To Touch

4. To Taste

5. To Feel

6. To Laugh

7. To Love

The room was so quiet you could have heard a pin drop. The things we overlook as simple and ordinary and that we take for granted are truly wondrous! A gentle reminder - that the most precious things in life cannot be built by hand or bought by man.

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{Pic of the Week }

 

 

 

 

Brown Bag Apple Pie

½ cup sugar

2 Tbsp. flour

1 tsp. cinnamon

Mix together and set aside. Peel and slice 6 large apples. Mix with above ingredients and put in an unbaked pie crust. Mix the following topping ingredients and put on top of apples.

Topping:

½ cup sugar

½ cup flour

¼ cup soft butter

Put pie in large brown bag and fasten with paper clips. Put on a cookie sheet, so the bag is not hanging over the edges. Bake for 55 minutes at 450 degrees. Enjoy!

A few weeks ago, millions sat spellbound, including Gloria and I, as we viewed the Republican and Democratic Conventions on television. Nervously and yet with anticipation, we held our breath praying that we would hear the right answers and solutions for a world that has clearly "gone wrong" As the cameras panned over the masses of people, zooming in randomly to different faces amongst the crowds, it exposed fear and anxiety etched on people's faces and yet hope that someone "the right person" can veer this country off its current path and back to its roots.

Question: "Are we still ONE NATION UNDER GOD?" If not, "What are we then?" Please make no mistake, America was founded on the bedrock of biblical principles. Dwight D. Eisenhower said, "The purpose of a devout and united people was set forth in the pages of the Bible...(1) to live in freedom, (2) to work in a prosperous land...and (3) to obey the commandments of God...This biblical story of the Promised Land inspired the Founders of America. It continues to inspire us.

Christian statesman who gave shape to the Republic had great confidence in citizens like you and me when they proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence, "Governments are instituted among men deriving their just power from the consent of the governed." Our brilliant constitution created a government that was severely limited in its power, and was ordained for only one purpose: to serve the people.

Is it just me or does is seem Congress and certain government agencies are continuing to pass laws and bills that are actually working against our freedoms and interests? Look at the billions of dollars spent on unnecessary and intrusive programs that are literally choking our precious freedoms to death.

It appears our government believes that "We, the people” will continue to accept weak explanations for their deplorable behavior and that we are too fearful and ignorant to speak out. Don't forget, our government was created "by the people, and for the people” and WE, THE PEOPLE intend to take it back! If you share this frustration and don't fully identify with the political parties and what they are saying, you can still be heard. Make those calls to your senators and state representatives. Bow your knee..."If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land, 2 Chronicles 7:14. Help take control of this trolley that is running out of control. You ask, "Isn't it too late?" It is never too late if we pray, seek God and His wisdom and make a stand for our constitutional rights. James 5:16 says, "The prayers of a righteous man availeth much." We may not receive all the answers we pray for in the way we want them and in the timing we want them,

but we will get more results and see more changes than if we just sit, give up and do nothing.

It is in our hands. Please vote! It is your privilege and responsibility. Your vote makes a difference. Do it!

We join in prayer with you and citizens all across this great Nation - that we would turn to God, the only True Source for our hope and change, and let Him move us forward.

Gloria

 

America To Your Knees

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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{Pic of the Week }

Need a pumpkin, anyone?

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{Recipe}

 

Marshmallow Squares

½ cup peanut butter

2 (6 oz.) pkg. or 1 (12 oz.) pkg. chocolate chips

½ cup butter

1 pkg. miniature marshmallows

Melt peanut butter, chocolate chips and butter together. Mix well and cool slightly. Add marshmallows. Pour into 9x13 inch pan. Let set then cut into squares.

 

 

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{Household Hint}

 

 

 

To remove the "wild game taste" from deer, elk and bear, pioneers had several methods: soak the meat overnight in salt and water; for toughest cuts, soak in a mixture of vinegar, water and spices for several days; soak in milk.

 

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Wow...this wind is crazy! South Dakota right now reminds me of Cheyenne, Wyoming where the wind always blows. I woke up a couple mornings ago to a light sprinkling of snow on the deck and I whined, "Ugh, this is too early for winter." Well, it melted. And I hope the snow stays away for a while yet.

 

Larry and I have been busy in our home office preparing for our upcoming tour to Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. We are leaving next week so Larry is busy working on the motorhome and I'm working on getting the ministry stock, office items, and supplies for "on the road living" gathered and packed, as the motorhome won't be back here in South Dakota until next May! At my age, that kind of packing messes up my mind...but at this stage it doesn't take much - ha!

 

 

We had an awesome rally at Paynesville, Minnesota on September 23^rd, at the Paynesville High School. We had many people attendance and enjoyed a memorable time in God's presence. In the midst of the ministry time, we didn't get the pictures taken like we usually do (sorry!). Gene and his wife, Bev (Trosen) Beaver, were instrumental in bringing us in. We really felt there were a lot of hurting people and families that needed encouragement so we zeroed in on that. The comments and testimonies after the rally confirmed the direction that God had wanted us to go.

 

 

 

On October 1^st, we were invited by Pastor Randy and Chris Tabor to minister at the Olivet United Methodist Church in Robinsdale, MN (suburb of Minneapolis). When Pastor Randy called us months ago he pleaded, "Larry, we need a bump in salvation here."

 

Well, God heard his prayer request. Looking at this altar call, God did what He set out to doâ€Â¦"to draw all men unto Himself." It was so touching to see tears of joy on the many faces of those who invited Jesus to be Lord of their life for the first time. There were several young families among them. That was so precious.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"The service at the Olivet United Methodist Church was great. I invited my mom, I have been praying for her for so long. She loved the music, the singing and all the joy. She made the comment, 'If church was as happy as this all the time, I'd never miss it.' When Larry gave the altar call, my mother invited Jesus into her life. I am so happy!"

- Mary Brooks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gloria's cousins' daughter, Mary, invited Christ into her life a few years ago and what a testimony she is to whoever she meets and wherever she goes - even on her Harley!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last week, I encouraged Larry to take three days off of work to go fishing with five of his brother-in-laws to Walker, MN. Larry hadn't been fishing for three years and he and his brother-in-laws had a great time of fishing and laughing and eating.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Those six big guys caught all those little perch and had a fresh perch dinner that night. Yummy...sounds good!

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next week, on October 16^th, Larry and I will celebrate out 47^th wedding anniversary. I can hardly believe it's been that long. God has been so good to us to allow us the privilege of ministering on the road for 47 years. We left in ministry together three days after we were married. A million miles later, it's been worth every mile.

 

Speaking of ministry, October is Pastor Appreciation Month. I encourage you to remember your pastor, wife and staff. Send them a card, or phone call, or a small gift to show that you appreciate them and let them know you are praying for them.

 

 

 

We pray that you'll have a blessed week and that you'll feel the presence of God and pray for the upcoming election. We desperately need God's favor and leading in this.

Gloria

 

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 and sprinkle crumbs on top. Chill several hours. Dot whipped cream on top to serve.

Whew...let me catch my breath! We've just returned from our action-packed Fun & Fellowship tour to the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. Thirty-four friends joined us on this exciting journey in a beautiful motorcoach - what fun! Some say seniors are quiet and boring...not this group...they were amped and energized from the moment we boarded the motorcoach.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was a "family affair" for this group! Here is Ellen (mother), and Eileen Berg (daughter) with Jim & Janet (son and daughter-in-law) who joined us on the tour.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We left last Monday, the 10^th and on Tuesday we stopped in Kalona, Iowa for a quick tour through the Amish community and also a tour of the cheese factory. Yum, yum, the samples were delicious.

We scurried on to Arcola, Illinois to our Amish friends' home for an unbelievable home cooked meal consisting of: Southern fried chicken, unforgettable meatballs, mashed potatoes and gravy, garden fresh green beans, two salads, homemade chicken and noodles, fresh out of the oven baked bread with their fresh strawberry jam and a choice of dessert from their delicious peanut butter pie, fresh strawberry pie or lemon pie. Everything came from their garden and farm.

Needless to say, we left over-filled and over-joyed. Before leaving, our group gathered up at their house and sang Amazing Grace until we meet again to our hosts. That precious Amish family stood there on the porch with tears of joy. (a sidenote: they said they have many, many groups come there, but we are their favorite group because we talk and laugh and they commented how much they enjoyed Larry's crazy jokes.) We would've loved to have a photo of their family, but as you know, photos are taboo for the Amish.

On Wednesday we arrived in Louisville, Kentucky at the Derby Diner dinner theatre and enjoyed another huge delicious Southern buffet. That was followed by a hilarious theatre production by the Church Basement Ladies. We laughed until our sides hurt. What great medicine to the head, body and soul.

Wednesday evening began the big event of the Quartet Convention with groups such as Bill Gaither and friends, Gaither vocal band, Booth Brothers, The Isaacs, and dozens of other solos, duets, quartets, choirs, and instrumentals. Doctor Jeremiah was one of the special speakers, along with many others. We arrived at the Expo Center every morning at 10 am and were there until midnight! I was intimidated by the energy of these seniors. We were all spellbound for 10-12 hours. I felt like a wimp trying to keep up with them.

On Friday, Larry took the group over to the world-known Churchill Downs in Louisville, for breakfast in the Spires so they could watch the horses and their jockeys working out on the track. What a great experience.

Saturday was packed with every event and music group possible; from 8 am until after midnight.

It was a joy for me and Larry to sit, take in and be ministered to through such wonderful music, testimonies and inspiration.

Oh...it wasn't over yet...on Sunday we journeyed to St. Louis, Missouri, ate dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory, followed by a carriage ride taking us through the Riverfront to view the Gateway Arch and historical sites. The weather was perfect and it truly was an experience we will treasure.

We spent that night in Liberty, Missouri and Monday was a marvelous day in the motorcoach as we sang, shared our testimonies and shared the treasured memories of our unforgettable Fun & Fellowship Tour.

 

Two years from now, the Quartet Convention will be held in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee - plan now to join us!

We just got home, but we're packing up to go to Paynesville, MN for a service this coming weekend. We'd love to have you join us for the morning celebration at 10 am:

Paynesville High School Auditorium: 795 West Hywy 23, Paynesville, MN 56362.

For more information, please call Rev. Jack Trosen at: 218-639-9065.

We'll I can see since we've gotten home that the season is changing, the leaves are turning and temps are beginning to drop. So savor every Fall day that you can...as you know what follows this - brrr!

Gloria

 

Our Amish friends gave us a package of egg noodles and as soon as I got home I made Chicken and Noodle soup - yummy! Here's one of their Amish recipes.

 

 Country Chicken Casserole