Dr. Graham Jonas

21/11/2023

IN THE LAST QUARTER OF LIFE...

A lot of us are in the last quarter of life, and I share this without politics, religion, or race cards. Just gentle thoughts: You know, time has a way of catching you off-guard about how quickly it travels. It feels like just yesterday that I was young and ready to start adult life. And in a way, it feels like eons ago, and I wonder where the years have gone. I know I lived them all. I remember all my hopes and dreams. I remember the plans I made. And suddenly, here I am in the last quarter. How did I get here so fast? Where have the years gone, and where did my youth go? I can recall looking at older people and thinking about how long it would take for me to get where they are. I am still in my youth, and I have many years ahead of me. At that time, I could not even think of being where I am now. And yet, here I am. My friends are retired; they all have gray hair; they move much slower than they did; and when I look at them, I see older people. Some are in better and some are in worse condition than me. But I see the big difference. They are no longer youthful, carefree, full-of-life friends. Just like me, age shows. And we are now the older people we used to look at, and we thought it was still a long way off. I find that these days, taking a shower takes its toll on my breath and energy levels. And an afternoon nap is not just a treat; it’s become a necessity. And if I don’t, I find myself sleeping in the same chair I started reading or watching television in. Now I have entered this new season of my life, totally unprepared for the discomfort, aches and pains, loss of energy, strength, and ability to do what I could, yet sometimes didn’t. At least I know that even though I am in the last quarter and I have no idea how long this quarter will be, when my time on Earth is over, a new adventure awaits too. Yes, I do have things I wish I had never done. Yet so thankful for those I did. It is all in a lifetime. And if you are not in the last quarter yet, I want to remind you that it comes faster than you could anticipate. Do the things you still want to do as soon as possible. Do not procrastinate. Life runs on fast legs. Do today what you can. There is no promise that we will all see the seasons of life. Live for today. For now. Say the words to the ones you love. Often. Hopefully, some will appreciate the things you did for them. And if they don’t, it is also okay. Life is truly a gift. Just be happy. It is, after all, your choice. And remember that health is a treasure, not wealth, gold and silver, property, or your bank balance. You may think that going out is the best, but believe me, coming home is better. You may forget names, and that is okay because some have already forgotten that they knew you. The things you cared about previously, you may lose interest in. If you fall asleep in your favorite chair, stay there. Growing older is wonderful. It is comfortable. It is loaded with memories that you never grow tired of. It is an absolute treasure. Look after yourself.

18/11/2023

THE SUPERNATURAL IN THE ORDINARY

''WORD"

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”Acts 1:8 (NIV)

CONSIDER THIS

Today's Holy Spirit story comes to us from Joe Berkley. It's another one revealing to us the supernatural in the ordinary. As we come into the holiday season, this story will encourage us to be aware and attuned to people around us whose needs may not be immediately apparent. I've said it before—food pantries are good, but person-to-person and family-to-family giving is better. People need aid, but more than aid, they need relationships. When direct aid can come through personal relationships, the kingdom of God comes near.

Read the story below in Joe's own words, and if you listen, you will hear it in his own voice.I was employed at the United States Post Office in a large city. I worked alongside a Christian friend who had a rather large family. John (not his real name) and his wife, Patty (not her real name), just had a baby, bringing the total number of children in their household to nine.

I relate to this situation since I was raised in a family of ten children, although one brother died at an early age.John and I did Bible study together during our lunch period, and it was an especially fulfilling part of my life. I was active in my church, but I was not yet involved in formal ministry. John and I would invite others to join us for Bible study, and our group grew for a little while, but more often than not, it was just the two of us.

At the end of each study, we shared our concerns and prayed for each other. Without being more specific, John would always ask me to pray for his family's provision and protection.One day, after John asked for his prayer, I felt the urging of the Holy Spirit to call my wife, Stella, and ask her to go to the store and purchase $100 worth of groceries for us to take to John and Patty. Well, the Holy Spirit didn't just speak to me; he also spoke to my wife while she was shopping. She told me later that $100 worth of groceries looked like a meager amount for such a large family. She spent a little more than $200.When I got home, we loaded all the groceries in the trunk of our car and drove to John and Patty's home.

I was glad to see their car in the driveway because that meant they were home. I was a little nervous as I knocked on the door. I didn't want to hurt John's pride by offering an unnecessary gift. When John came to the door, I said, "John, we are not here to embarrass you and Patty; we are just trying to be faithful to the urging of the Holy Spirit in our lives." I asked him and Patty to come to our car, and then I opened the trunk. "These groceries are a gift to you and your family from the Holy Spirit," I said.John and Patty embraced in tears. They asked us to come inside, and they told their children to unload the trunk of our car.

John took me into the kitchen and opened their pantry door. "This single bag of rice is all we have in this house to eat," John said. "We have already exhausted our opportunities with the local food pantries, and it is still five days before payday. Thank you." John and I embraced, and Patty and Stella embraced. Then we sat back to watch as the kids excitedly unloaded the groceries and put them away. Their pantry was full.As we got ready to leave, all of the children came and gave us hugs—real Holy Spirit hugs. When we left, the whole family stood in the front yard to wave until we were out of sight. I had difficulty driving at first because of the tears of joy in my eyes. The same tears I experience each time I tell this story are because the Holy Spirit used even me as his hands of provision for a family in need.

PRAYER

Abba Father! Thank you for this story of friendship, compassion, and supernatural provision. Thank you for the portrait of love we can see through the eyes of our hearts as we behold these families' embrace. Thank you for the way it shows us in the most sublime way that the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit—and yes, eating and drinking too in this case. As we enter the holiday season, open up new wells of generosity in our hearts—extravagant generosity, even unreasonable generosity. Take this story now, as a witness of your kingdom, and let it travel as far as the grace of God will go. I am praying in Jesus's name, amen.

QUESTIONS

How are you challenged and encouraged by today's story?
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 is the highest), where would you rate your sense of generosity?
Are you ready to go to the next level? What might that mean?

07/11/2023

Dear Lord,

I humbly come to you in prayer, filled with heartfelt gratitude for the gift of life and the blessing of growing old. In this moment, I pause to reflect on the journey that has led me here, acknowledging the lessons learned and experiences cherished along the way.

Thank you, dear Lord, for the breath that fills my lungs, for the beating of my heart, and for granting me the opportunity to witness the wonders of this world. I am grateful for each sunrise that paints the sky with vibrant hues, and for each sunset that whispers serenity into my soul.

As the years have gracefully embraced me, I am thankful for the wisdom gained with time. The lessons etched on my heart have taught me resilience, compassion, and patience. I am grateful for the strength to navigate the challenges that have made me who I am today.

I offer my gratitude for the relationships that have enriched my life. For the love of family and friends, whose unwavering support has been a guiding light during moments of darkness. I am thankful for the laughter shared, the tears shed, and the memories embedded deep within my being.

In this prayer, I also express my appreciation for the small moments that often go unnoticed—the gentle touch of a loved one's hand, the warmth of a cup of tea, the embrace of nature's tranquility, and the joy found within simple acts of kindness. These moments remind me of the beauty that surrounds me, even amidst the challenges that come with age.

Finally, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for the gift of purpose and the opportunity to continue growing in wisdom and grace. May I never lose sight of the value I still bring to this world, no matter the number of years I carry. Grant me the strength to leave a positive mark on the lives of others, to spread love and kindness, and to embrace the uniqueness of each day.

With sincerity and humbleness, I offer this prayer of gratitude for life and growing old. May my heart be forever filled with appreciation for the journey I have been blessed to embark upon. In Jesus name.

Amen.

07/11/2023

HAVE YOU THANK THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY TODAY FOR THE GIFT OF LIFE? REMEMBER, MANY HAVE GONE, BUT YOU ARE SAVED BY GRACE...

Certainly! Growing old can be seen as a gift and a blessing in many ways. Here are a few Bible references that highlight the reasons to be grateful for growing old:

1. Wisdom and Understanding: As we grow older, we have the opportunity to gain wisdom and understanding through our life experiences. The book of Job emphasizes the importance of wisdom gained in old age: "Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?" (Job 12:12).

2. Fruitfulness and Purpose: Aging allows us to continue bearing fruit and fulfill God's purpose for our lives. Psalm 92:14 states, "They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green." This verse reminds us that even in old age, we can continue to make a positive impact on those around us.

3. Honoring Parents: Growing old gives us the chance to honor and care for our parents or elderly family members. The Bible encourages respect and care for the elderly. Exodus 20:12 states, "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you."

4. Spiritual Development: With age, we have more time to focus on our spiritual development and draw closer to God. Psalm 71:18 says, "Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come." This verse suggests that our aging process can be an opportunity to share God's faithfulness with others.

5. God's Faithfulness: Throughout the Bible, we see the faithfulness of God towards those who trust in Him, regardless of their age. The psalmist reflects on God's faithfulness in old age, saying, "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you" (Isaiah 46:4).

In conclusion, the Bible reminds us that growing old should be seen as a reason to be grateful and embrace every stage of life as a gift from God. It provides opportunities for wisdom, purpose, and spiritual growth while allowing us to honor and care for our loved ones.

05/11/2023

WHY ARE YOU STILL HOLDING THAT GRUDGE? PLEASE FORGIVE!!!

During Easter, we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Throughout his life, he has exemplified forgiveness. It is my sincere hope that you can take the time to think about who you may need to forgive. How about releasing yourself from a grudge you may be harboring? I cannot think of a more fitting way to honor the Lord Jesus Christ this Easter. In as much as you forgive, the Saviour will relieve you of anger, resentment, and pain. Jesus Christ, the prince of peace, will bring you peace! His love for you is unconditional! And because of him, you can experience the joy and miracle of forgiveness. Interestingly, that was my goodwill message for Easter and now it is Christmas

Christmas is a festive season that brings joy and happiness to people all around the world. It is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and show love and kindness towards one another. Forgiveness and kindness are essential components of this celebration, and we should all strive to embrace them during this period.

Forgiveness is an act of letting go of resentment or bitterness towards someone who has wronged us. It is an act of love and compassion that requires us to let go of our anger and embrace peace. The Christmas season is an excellent time to forgive because it is a time to love, and forgiveness is an act of love. We need to forgive those who have wronged us, whether intentionally or unintentionally, to embrace peace and happiness.

Moreover, kindness is another crucial ingredient of Christmas. Showing kindness to others means that we are creating a positive impact on their lives and spreading love and joy. The act of giving during Christmas is an excellent way to show kindness to others. Giving gifts, volunteering in community service, or donating to charity organizations are all acts of kindness that help spread joy and happiness to those around us.

Opening our hearts towards forgiveness and kindness during Christmas creates a ripple effect of good deeds that can impact many lives positively. This season should be a time to celebrate the joys of life, show love and compassion to our fellow humans, and extend a hand of kindness to those in need.

In conclusion, forgiveness and kindness are virtues that we all need to embrace during the Christmas season. It is a period of love and joy, and these virtues help spread happiness and positivity. Therefore, let us all forgive those who have wronged us and show kindness to all around us, creating a better world filled with love and compassion.

Lord, help us to extend mercy to others and forget the past so that we can move forward toward our futures. Forgiving Father, please forgive us for not being forgiving. Forgive us for holding grudges, thinking evil thoughts, and seeking revenge. Forgive us for hatred and malice. Lord thank you that your love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things, thank you that your love never fails. Help us to love as you love. Fill us with your Spirit so that we can choose what is best. In Jesus name. Amen.

Make sure you reflect on this message in preparation for Christmas and watch how your life will transform. Type Amen to claim his blessings today.

05/11/2023

HAVE YOU PRAYED FOR YOUR CHILDREN TODAY?

Dear God, I come to you today with a humble heart to pray for my beloved children. I ask that you bless them with your love, protection, and guidance. Lord, I pray that you help them to grow in wisdom, grace, and truth as they navigate this world.

Please watch over them, keep them healthy, and guide them through any challenges that may come their way. Help them to resist any temptation that may lead them away from you. May they always find comfort and peace in your loving arms.

Lord, I ask that you surround them with positive influences and allow them to make good friends who will support and encourage them on their journey. Give them the strength to pursue their dreams and to fulfill the purpose that you have for their lives.

Help them to love and serve others as you have commanded us to do. May they be a blessing to everyone they encounter and bring joy to those around them.

Thank you, gracious God, for the gift of my children. I trust that you will continue to watch over them and guide them on their journey. In your name, I pray, Amen. Type Amen if you believe

04/11/2023

04/11/2023

04/11/2023

04/11/2023

04/11/2023

THE EASTERN GREY KANGAROO

Certainly! Here are some lovely, funny, and interesting facts about the Eastern Grey Kangaroo:

1. The Eastern Grey Kangaroo is the second tallest and heaviest living marsupial in the world, after the Red Kangaroo. Adult males can reach heights of up to 6.6 feet (2 meters)!

2. Despite their size, these kangaroos are known for their elegant and graceful movements. Their leaping ability is truly impressive, as they can cover distances of up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) in a single bound.

3. Eastern Grey Kangaroos have a unique way of getting around. When they move at slow speeds, they use a four-legged walk, but when they want to pick up the pace, they switch to hopping.

4. Their strong hind legs are not only for hopping, but they are also equipped with powerful claws that allow them to defend themselves from predators if needed.

5. These kangaroos have a friendly and gentle nature. They are known to exhibit a calm demeanor and are even considered one of the least aggressive kangaroo species.

6. One funny fact about Eastern Grey Kangaroos is that they are known to enjoy sunbathing! They often stretch out on the ground or lean against trees to soak up the warm sun rays.

7. Eastern Grey Kangaroos have a unique way of communicating with each other. They produce soft, croaking sounds, similar to a frog, to indicate their presence or to communicate with their young.

8. Baby Eastern Grey Kangaroos, called joeys, are born extremely underdeveloped. They are about an inch long and have to crawl their way into their mother's pouch to continue growing and developing.

9. When it comes to their diet, Eastern Grey Kangaroos are herbivores. They graze on grasses, herbs, and shrubs, and sometimes even eat leaves from trees.

10. Eastern Grey Kangaroos are native to Australia and are found in various habitats, including woodlands, forests, and grasslands. They are often considered an iconic symbol of the Australian wilderness.

I hope you leave a comment if you found these facts about Eastern Grey Kangaroos lovely, funny, and interesting!

Thanks for the friendly PSA, little one! IG/adventurewithashlxy captured this sweet joey on a recent trip to Camp Blackman in Visit NSW's Warrumbungle National Park. This NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is the perfect destination for a camping trip with the fam and boasts some pretty epic walking and cycling tracks - so don't forget to pack your bikes and walking shoes!

04/11/2023

HAPPINESS DWELLS IN THE SUN...

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled between rolling hills, there lived a curious and imaginative young girl named Lily. Lily was always seeking joy and happiness in everything she did, and she often pondered where happiness truly dwelled.

One sunny day, as Lily was enjoying the warmth of the sun on her face, she decided to embark on a journey to find the source of happiness. With a smile on her face and a skip in her step, Lily set off towards the mountains, believing that happiness might dwell amongst the majestic peaks.

As she hiked up the steep trails, she marveled at the breathtaking views and encountered cheerful hikers along the way. But as she reached the summit, she realized that happiness was not only found in reaching the highest point but rather in the process of climbing and the connection she felt with nature.

Undeterred, Lily continued her quest and ventured into the deep forests, thinking that maybe happiness could be discovered among the ancient trees and enchanting sounds of nature. She listened to the chirping birds, watched squirrels playfully chase each other, and relished the serenity of the woods. Although she felt a sense of tranquility, she understood that happiness wasn't simply confined to one place, but rather scattered everywhere like hidden treasures waiting to be found.

In her travels, Lily came across a bubbling brook, its crystal-clear water reflecting the golden rays of the sun. Mesmerized by the sparkling spectacle, she found herself wondering if happiness resided within the flowing currents. She dipped her hand into the cool water, feeling its refreshing touch, and realized that happiness was like a stream, ever-changing and fluid. It couldn't be confined or held captive but instead flowed freely, embracing every moment.

As Lily continued her exploration, she soon found herself standing alone on a sandy shoreline, gazing at the vastness of the ocean. The crashing waves seemed to possess an undeniable energy, washing away her worries and filling her heart with a sense of joy. It was then that she realized that happiness could be found in the expansiveness of life's experiences, in embracing the ebbs and flows just like the tides.

Finally, after her long adventure, Lily returned to her village, feeling wiser and more content than ever before. She came to understand that happiness, much like the sun itself, dwelled within her own heart. It radiated through her interactions with others, her appreciation for nature's beauty, and her ability to find wonder and joy in the simplest of moments.

From that day forward, Lily carried the lessons she learned on her quest with her, reminding others that happiness is not confined to one place or one thing, but rather it resides in the warmth of the sun, the depths of the forest, the gentle flow of a stream, and most importantly, within every one of us.