My Favorite Post For April...

Here are my five personal favorite post I did for this month... Thanks to all who followed me this month and left kind words here and on Facebook. Really means a lot :-)

Day 93: To Give or To Take

Day 105: Before The King

Day 107: Having it all Can = Heartache 

Day 108: The White Lion Chronicles

Day 111: Loving One Another

What were your favorites this month? (All post can easily be found on the right hand sidebar) See you all tomorrow. Have a blessed May~

My Favorite Blog/Website of April...

Today I would like to share one of my favorite blog/website's. I will be doing this every month on the second to last day. Here were my favorite site(s) for January,  February, and March.

I really want you to visit the sites I share and I'll be doing this at the end of every month...

This months favorite blog/website is...

The Flaming Pen by Scott Appleton 

Mr. Appleton's blog is lovely and he has been writing some great post lately (I really need to leave a comment on them.) He is also a talented writer of a great series called, The Sword of the Dragon. (I really love the way he writes his female characters and his story is beautiful.)  He is the owner and creator of a publishing company called Flaming Pen Press... have you heard of Kestrel's Midnight Song by J. R. Parker? If not, check it out. And he is an editor (I haven't had the pleasure of hiring him, but I'm sure he does a very nice job and his prices are a deal.)


So go check out his blog and other websites... Oh and be sure sure to look into his books. :-)

What are some of your favorites blogs/ websites? Please share, even if it's your blog/website... I always enjoy finding new sites and maybe it will be my next months favorite...

Day 119: Beethoven's Secret...

A new favorite quote of mine and one I hope to live by...

"Don't only practice your art 

But force your way into it's secrets,

for it and knowledge can raise

men to the Divine."

                                                                  ~Ludwig Van Beethoven

Thanks to, The Piano Guys for sharing this. I greatly love their music! Listen and watch this beautiful music video... I really like this song, but need to look into the lyrics better. ~Enjoy

(Remember to pause my purple music box, located on the right sidebar.... below My Blog Archive. The bottom middle button will pause it)

Day118: The Firefighter Challenge...

Okay, I had a crazy busy day (see that I made it in time for my daily post by one minute) So because of this I am going to recommend you to check out this awesome challenge Lisa is doing over at her blog... http://reflections-lisa.blogspot.com/2012/04/firefighter-challenge.html Check it out!

It's a pretty great challenge! I sure do appreciate my firefighters. Living in a big beautiful mountain forest has it's danger of natural fires every year. They work hard on keeping us and our homes safe... in so many different ways.

I'm going to try to take up this challenge and I hope you do to. Writing a thank you isn't hard and doesn't cost anything, but means much.

Let me know if you take the challenge and for sure let Lisa know. :-)

Day117: Water Missions International...Peru Needs Your Help...

I didn't hear about this on the news... did you? Water Missions International, is a great organization! If you feel lead please help (even if is just five dollars, every little bit counts) Pray and/or pass the word.

Water Missions International is Responding to
Peru Flooding Disaster

The Amazon River, which provides 20% of the world’s fresh water, has received unseasonably high levels of precipitation, and flooding has devastated the Loreto area of Peru.  The International Federation of Red Cross has estimated that more than 200,000 people and 43,000 households in Loreto have been affected. The Regional Government of Loreto has declared a state of emergency and a red-alert flood.
Water Missions International has equipment in Peru that is available and ready to be installed now.  Our Peru program is headquartered in Iquitos, Peru, which is the capital of the Loreto area and the center for the relief efforts.  This means we are in a position to respond immediately.

“We are actively working with local Rotarians, relief organizations like ShelterBox, and government officials to assess the damage in Peru and are currently in the planning stages of disaster response,” says Water Missions International Senior Project Engineer and Peru Program Manager Seth Womble.  “We will be utilizing all of our staff members in Peru, as well as staff members from Honduras.” 
After the disaster response has subsided, it is always the goal of Water Missions International to turn safe water systems back over to the community so they can be sustainable long-term fixtures that have lasting, transformational change.
HELP US provide safe water to these flood victims and stop the outbreak of dengue fever and malaria before it starts.  Act NOW and contribute to our Disaster Response Fund.

“I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink...” 

-Matthew 25:35

Day116: How To Get The Right Guy To Like You...

 This movie fits well with yesterdays post. (I'm sorry I'm tired again and crazy busy. I promise to do a better post very soon.)

This is great... and full of good truthful wisdom! To all you girls, please watch. You guys might enjoy it too... if you have anything else to add, feel free,
  Enjoy~

(Remember to pause my purple music box, located on the right sidebar.... below My Blog Archive. The bottom middle button will pause it)

Day 115: What Christian Singles Hear...

I worked hard today and am a bit tired because of it and lack of sleep... I'm a vampire ;-) So today I'll share this funny video with you all. This is sadly true, but very hilarious... I guarantee you'll laugh at it.

I might do a  deeper post on this in the near future... it's kinda been on my heart. Please do know that God does have a plan for you... everyone of us.

For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome. 

~Jeremiah 29:11 AMP

 (Remember to pause my purple music box, located on the right sidebar.... below My Blog Archive. The bottom middle button will pause it)

Day 114: The Sky Is Falling... Yet We Are Prized...

A little piece of the sky fell near me yesterday morning. My fam and I woke up to a BIG BOOM... that rattled the house. First thought was a tree fell (living in a forest you always assume big shaking booms to be trees), second thought was a bomb or sonic boom (The sound was different than a tree hitting the ground.)

Well we found out it was a ... METEOROID!!! They believe it was about the size of a minivan when it entered our atmosphere... that's pretty big. The rattling BOOM we heard and felt was indeed a sonic boom, when it entered our atmosphere, not from hitting the ground, because it burned up... so they say.

Pretty cool huh, but where am I going with all of this? We are so small compared to everything the creator has created. Outer Space is HUGE. We are not even a speck compared to it. Yet the One who created it all, considers us his most prized creation. Think hard about that...

Day113: April Quotes...

“Do not waste time bothering whether you “love” your neighbor; act as if you did. As soon as we do this we find one of the great secrets. When you are behaving as if you loved someone you will presently come to love him.” ~C.S. Lewis  

Beautiful truth spoken there. Love can be hard at times, especially for those that are... so hard to love. Love is always worth it, even for the hardest of people. 

"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." ~ Martin Luther King, Jr

Martin Luther King, Jr... what a beautiful soul you are. If only we all could understand this..

Day 112: One Thing I Ask...

One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek, inquire for, and [insistently] require: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord [in His presence] all the days of my life, to behold and gaze upon the beauty [the sweet attractiveness and the delightful loveliness] of the Lord and to meditate, consider, and inquire in His temple. ~Psalm 27:4

This is a very talented singer I found about two years ago. Set back and enjoy her lovely voice and sweat guitar playing. Be sure to check out her youtube account. :-)

 (Remember to pause my purple music box, located on the right sidebar.... below My Blog Archive. The bottom middle button will pause it)

Day 111: Loving One Another...

There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. ~Proverbs 18:24, NLT

Lately I've been struggling with how ugly we can be to each other. How much we seem to enjoy tearing each other down. Envy, jealousy, gossip, and just plain hate is covering the steps of our churches and the hearts of us Christians.

I have not stepped foot in a church in over a year and it is starting to wear on me. Not because I feel like my relationship with God is weak, yet because I'm not able to find a loving place of worship. This greatly saddens me.

We are in desperate need of a Paul to set things better, to set things right, because churches and Christians are becoming more like the world and that is a bad thing. A very bad thing.

A few days ago I ran into a person from my old church. I've known this woman for years, she was even a youth leader of mine, yet has always seemed to dislike me. Every word that comes out of her mouth is a back hand slap, like honey with poison. What hurts even more is seeing the great joy she has doing it... it's written all over her face. I pretend to be dumb, be kind, and ignore her words, yet I can't stand to be around her very long... it's very tiresome. If I call her out on it, she'll use her words and flip it, where it will be all my fault and poor her. I am not the only one she does this to and I don't understand why she enjoys it so much.

Too many churches seem to be a place of hate, jealousy, and lies. Not a place of love, peace, and truth. Please know I'm not talking about every church, just the few I've been in. We seem to set each other at levels... from highest to lowest, not equal. Too many of us pretend... especially us young adults. So many of us judge and gossip behind each others backs... woman especially, please shut up if you can't talk about nice things. Truly how hard is it?

When did we lose the true meaning? When did we become what we teach to not be? Where is the love?

I recently found this and I love it... let's start living more like this! I CHALLENGE you and I am going to live, breath, and eat this loving one-another ministry... Please join me :-)

A local church is not built by one man, or even a few men, but by every believer being actively involved in ministry through evangelizing the lost people in their lives and serving their fellow Christians. A quick glance at the practice of the New Testament church reveals that they thought very little about programs and very much about relationships.
Consider the disciple-making that would naturally take place in the life of a local church if every believer would practice the loving, one-another ministry that the early churches first read about in the instructions they received from the apostles:

1. Be devoted to one another (Rom. 12:10).
2. Give preference to one another (Rom. 12:10).
3. Be of the same mind toward one another (Rom. 12:16).
4. Accept one another by withholding judgment (Rom. 14:1).
5. Accept one another by showing deference (Rom. 14:1–5; 15:7).
6. Esteem [highly regard] one another in love (Rom. 14:5; Phil. 2:3).
7. Build up one another (Rom. 14:19; 1 Thes. 5:11).
8. Counsel one another (Rom. 15:14).
9. Serve one another by showing deference in matters of liberty (Gal. 5:13).
10. Bear one another’s sin burdens (Gal. 6:2).
11. Be gentle with one another (Eph. 4:2).
12. Be kind to one another so as to preserve unity (Eph. 4:32).
13. Speak truth to one another (Eph. 4:25; Col 3:9).
14. Submit to one another (Eph. 5:21).
15. Show compassion to one another (Col. 3:12).
16. Bear with the inherent sinfulness of one another (Col. 3:13).
17. Forgive one another (Col. 3:13).
18. Use Spirit-filled, Word-saturated music to teach and admonish one another (Col. 3:16; Eph. 5:19).
19. Comfort one another with the hope of Christ’s return (1 Thes. 4:18).
20. Encourage one another (1 Thes. 5:11).
21. Live in peace with one another (1 Thes. 5:13).
22. Seek good for one another (1 Thes. 5:15).
23. Encourage one another to forsake unbelief and hardness of heart (Heb. 3:13).
24. Stimulate one another to spiritual growth (Heb. 10:24).
25. Encourage one another by faithful participation in your local church (Heb. 10:25).
26. Confess sins to one another (James 5:16).
27. Pray for one another’s spiritual and physical healing (James 5:16).
28. Be long-suffering and patient toward one another (1 Peter 4:8; Eph. 4:2).
29. Be hospitable to one another without complaint (1 Peter 4:9).
30. Serve one another (1 Peter 4:10; Gal. 5:13).
31. Act in humility toward one another (1 Peter 5:5).
32. Show holy affection to one another (1 Peter 5:14).
33. Participate in the holy walk with one another (1 John 1:7).
34. Refuse to become resentful toward one another (1 John 3:11–12).
35. Give sacrificially to meet one another’s needs (1 John 3:16–17).
36. Fight fear together by growing in love (1 John 4:18).
37. Walk in truth together (1 John 3:18; 2 John 1:5).

The Christian life is all about relationships. It’s God’s design for our personal growth, which then translates into church growth—the real kind. Loving one another is a powerful evangelistic tool, as Jesus says: “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).

 http://counselingoneanother.com/2011/08/17/36-ways-to-love-one-another/

National Donate Your Hair Day

 Donate your hair to cancer...
On Friday, April 27th, Pantene and Seventeen Magazine are hosting the first ever...
~*~National Donate Your Hair Day!~*~ To make real-hair wigs for woman battling cancer.

Today I made my appointment for this. Yes, I'm really doing it :D I'm so excited! This is such an awesome thing to do. Who would like to join me?

About Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths:
Pantene created Beautiful Lengths because healthy hair means a lot to us, and the appearance of healthy hair means so much to women battling cancer. We want to be there for women when looking and feeling healthy is so important to them. As one breast cancer survivor put it, "It was very hard when my hair started falling out. It was coming out in chunks. It really takes away who you are when you look in the mirror."
Many of the women we help say that putting on a wig makes them feel like themselves again. When you donate your hair to the cause, you’re helping make that happen.
Beautiful Lengths is a partnership between Pantene and the American Cancer Society, the largest nonprofit health organization committed to saving lives from every cancer, in every community, and improving the quality of life for people facing the disease . The role of Pantene is to help women grow long, strong, beautiful hair and provide the funds to turn this hair into free, real-hair wigs for women with cancer. So far, Pantene has donated 18, 000 free real-hair wigs to the American Cancer Society’s wig banks which distribute wigs to cancer patients across the country. We’re currently the country’s largest donor of real-hair wigs through the American Cancer Society. Because real-hair wigs are expensive, and many women with cancer can’t afford them, demand for these wigs is high. We can only create as many wigs as donations, so your part is critical to improving the lives of as many women as possible. To see if you are eligible to receive a free wig or if there are wigs available in your area, please call the American Cancer Society’s Wig Bank Line at 1-877-227-1596.
To us, it’s hair, but to women with cancer, it’s hope.
Give your hair care new meaning
Since Pantene started the Beautiful Lengths program back in July 2006, we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support. Every year, we receive page after page with messages of hope and gratitude, of love and of loss. We receive boxes of photos of women, children, and even men holding their ponytails, sporting a new short style, with notes attached in memory of their loved ones. These photos, letters and cards are moving and inspiring in the purest way.
Thanks to the generosity of people like you, Beautiful Lengths has collected 272,113 ponytails, to date—a number that’s growing every week.

I Have A DeviantART Account...

I now have a DeviantART account. I've been wanting to get one for years, but never got around to it. So here it is  http://elohimstrumsmyheart.deviantart.com/
I'll be updating most of my art over there from now on (my art looks better there, than on my blog), so be sure to visit every once in awhile. I'm also available/ open for commissions. Please feel free to spread the word if you know anyone that's looking for custom art

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.~Ecclesiastes 9:10

Day 108: The White Lion Chronicles by Christopher Hopper...

I am a major book fanatic, especially Speculative Fiction. If you ever talk about books with me, you'll be sure to here about this series. The White Lion Chronicles by Christopher Hopper is one of my all time favs, only two other series are right next to it. This series was truly life changing for me in so many different ways... I know it sounds sorta odd, but it's true. This series made me grow closer to God and opened my heart to new beauty of the Almighty. Mr. Hopper has inspired and challenged me to be better... he is a great man of God and his beautiful family and him shine loving lights of God. This series has also inspired me with my book, The Realm of Hearts. Before reading Rise of the Dibor, I was struggling on whether or not to show Christianity in my book or have it more hidden. Mr. Hopper has guided me on the right path. C'symia.

Rise of the Dibor: Book One

About the book:
Author: Christopher Hopper
Genre: /Fiction/Fantasy/Christian
Page Count: 392
Publisher: Spearhead Books


Read the story that turned children into warriors, and warriors into legends. 
The Dairne-Reih haven’t been seen in Dionia for generations—their kind and their king, Morgui, banished long ago from haunting paradise. But when creation shows signs of deterioration, the kings of the seven realms converge in the sacred Gvindollion gathering to arrive at one inexplicable conclusion: Morgui has returned.

 In the hopes of entrusting Dionia’s brave history and perilous future to a generation that has never known war, the kings decide to raise up their young sons as an elite group of warriors, known only as the Dibor.

Gorn, legendary hero of the First Battle, is commissioned to teach the Dibor the art of war, leading them on a four-year adventure on the Isle of Kirstell. It is Luik, son of Lair, who soon emerges as the warband’s spirited front man. But he is not the only one of his peers to grow in power; his dear friend Fane discovers hidden abilities among the Mosfar under the mentorship of Li-Saide of Ot, while Princess Anorra finds that her lifelong tutor knows as much about combat as he does about etiquette.

There is little time for the Dibor to enjoy the satisfaction of graduation, however, as a sinister plot is discovered to dethrone Dionia’s kings and flatten the capital city of Adriel. The Dibor are summoned to war, along with the rest of Dionia’s fighting men. It is before the gates of Adriel Palace that Luik and his army face Morgui's prince, Valdenil, as well as the unending ranks of the Dairne-Reih.
 

My Review:
The new edition is much greater than the first edition, with better editing, all new material such as a great character guild, an Author Page on his journey of writing his book, and a new map. It also has a different page layout, which gives it a neat feel.  

Rise of the Dibor, is a beautiful story and will always be one of my all time favorites. It's very unique, moving, and a tale to not be forgotten. His characters are lovely and detailed, even though he has many, you bond to every one. His story is passionate and very touching... this book is fiction, but you will be greatly moved by the spiritual themes.

If you crave a book full of heart, with lots of adventure, characters that you can feel and love, and a deep message, then I guarantee you will greatly enjoy, Rise of the Dibor.

I must give you a warning though and only one... the first time I read this book it took me a year... I'm sadly not joking on this. Now mind you I am a slow reader (I read a lot, but can't read fast). The beginning of Rise of the Dibor starts a little slow and has a bit of a learning curve with CH's beautiful new language and many different characters to learn. This was really the first detailed fantasy book I read, so it took me some time to get used to. I was working full time at the time and would read it during my breaks and sadly didn't like it, so I stopped around page 50.  I let the book set for six months and then picked it up again (it was calling me... haha) Once you get past the 100 page mark I promise you will be hooked... I finished it in one week( which is fast for me) and right away ordered the sequel.

In 2008 and half way through reading the sequel, I had the great privilege of meeting Christopher Hopper and seven other awesome authors(another favorite of mine Wayne Thomas Batson) on the West Coast Motiv 8 Fantasy Fiction Tour. One of my biggest highlights and has lead to many blessings of great friendships across the country.

To purchase the new edition of Rise of the Dibor go to (you support the author more by purchasing direct at)  https://www.createspace.com/3618531

or you can purchase from here  http://www.amazon.com/Rise-Dibor-White-Lion-Chronicles/dp/1463519664/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1320678027&sr=8-2

The kindle version is currently for free for Amazon Prime members or a steal for $2.99 (if you are not a Prime member)  http://www.amazon.com/Rise-Dibor-White-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B007D44TB2/ref=sr_1_1_title_1_kin?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1334722943&sr=1-1


The Lion Vrie: Book Two

About the book:
Author: Christopher Hopper
Genre: /Fiction/Fantasy/Christian
Page Count:487
Publisher: Spearhead Books


The only way to survive is to kill the ones you love.

Having barely escaped the siege of Adriel with his life, Luik is carried north to the realm of Tontha in an effort to weather Morgui’s all-out assault on Dionia. Here he sorts through the trauma of the recent past and attempts to piece together the whereabouts of his scattered Dibor, as well as his friends Fane, Hadrian, and Princess Anorra.

When work begins on fortifying Mt. Dakka, Luik returns to the wreckage of Adriel and uncovers far more than he had anticipated. Events unfold quickly, and his path is plagued by mysterious encounters with the taken, and haunted by the increasing effects of evil upon Creation.

However the growing darkness also gives rise to the forces of good, including rumors of the mythical Knights of the Lion. Summoned by the suffering of his countrymen, Luik risks everything in search of the fabled City of Ot, and his men embark on perilous missions to rescue the far corners of Dionia.

But on the battlefield each faction of Luik’s devout Dibor comes face to face with the greatest opposition of all. Evil, now matured into its most perverted form, pits mankind against itself: father against son, brother against brother. To hesitate means death; to strike means killing those they’ve sworn to protect.

My Review:
The Lion Vrie, is much darker and much longer (biggest out of the trilogy). It continues were book one left off (CH is killer at cliff hangers, especially on book two).
 Mr. Hopper is very talented and wrote it beautifully sad with the separation against the Almighty and the battle against each other. War is so ugly, even uglier against each other... unlike the Dairne-Reih from book one, our beloved characters are fighting family and friends.  
The "Taken" broke my heart, especially in, Chapter 3 Seducing The Lost, it greatly hung with me and greatly touched me later on. I won't forget it.
The Lion Vrie has a bit more romance in it, a lot more war, beautiful writing, and an awful mean cliff hanger. It has taken three (long) years for me to find out what happened to the characters and the world of Dionia, that I greatly cherished. 

To purchase the new edition of The Lion Vrie go to (you support the author more by purchasing direct at)  https://www.createspace.com/3649857
  
or you can purchase from here http://www.amazon.com/The-Lion-Vrie-Chronciles-Chronicles/dp/1463706014/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1334723164&sr=1-1

The kindle version is currently for free for Amazon Prime members or a steal for $2.99 (if you are not a Prime member) http://www.amazon.com/Lion-Vrie-White-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B007D44X0E/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&qid=1334723164&sr=1-1

 
Arthera's Dawn: Book Three

About the book:
Author: Christopher Hopper
Genre: /Fiction/Fantasy/Christian
Page Count: 421
Publisher: Spearhead Books

Those in deepest darkness fight most valiantly for the light.

Hard pressed on every side, the Dibor struggle to overcome insurmountable odds in an effort not just to regain territory, but to survive.

In addition to the growing ranks of the taken, Morgui has summoned the powers of nature to search out and destroy the saviors of Dionia. Tempests hunt those forced to flee by sea, while an otherworldly fire storm chews up the ancient forest of Grandath, destroying anything - or anyone - in its path.

While most of the Dibor manage to survive, the whereabouts of the ill-fated Princess Anorra continues to be unknown. Her faithful friends are unaware of her suffering behind the gates of Haides.

The remaining Dibor soon discover that there is more to Morgui's madness than simple mayhem, as the dwarves reveal startling knowledge about the Two Trees, and worse still, about Morgui's attempt to forever thwart the Most High's plan for victory.

As Creation itself endures death throes caused by mounting evil, one thing is clear: Dionia and her champions will never be as they once were. Nor will those in worlds beyond.

My Review:
Last year I had one of the biggest honors that I have ever been given. Christopher Hopper gave me the opportunity to be a "proof" reader. I was given a fun task of looking over the new editions of Rise of the Dibor and The Lion Vrie, and an advance reading of Athera's Dawn.

I devoured  Athera's Dawn in five days. I didn't sleep much that week, but it was worth it! I was very satisfied with it, no disappointments at all and I think most fans will say the same thing! From the very first chapter, to the final page.

Mr Hopper really, really pulled on the heartstrings in this one... I was so sad to see some of the great characters die. The first  two big known characters who die (I won't spoil it by telling their names) scene was tragic, yet touching... I had to read that page over a few times, because I couldn’t believe it. Another character's death, came as a bigger shock to me. Many Characters die in this final book, but I rejoiced over seeing others return, some were a BIG surprise. 

I loved the spiritual themes with sin, our hearts, the two trees, and redemption. I really liked how Mr Hopper wrote it, without hiding it into the story.  I also liked the great white lion better than Aslan... I think his version is stronger ;-) 

Athera’s Dawn was beautifully written! I don’t think it will leave my mind for some time. I thought about it every day for a month after reading it.
I truly can never thank Christopher Hopper enough for giving me this opportunity. His books have really touched me and it was a huge honor to be a proofie. I never thought I would ever have my name in a book, especially one of my favorites.( How many fans get that opportunity?) This will be something I will always cherish and never forget. What a wonderful blessing!

To purchase Athera's Dawn go to (you support the author more by purchasing direct at) https://www.createspace.com/3723285

or you can purchase from here http://www.amazon.com/Atheras-Dawn-White-Chronciles-Chronicles/dp/1467932671/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_c

The kindle version is currently for free for Amazon Prime members or a steal for $2.99 (if you are not a Prime member)  http://www.amazon.com/Atheras-Dawn-White-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B007D44YE4/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1334723706&sr=1-2

My Praise for the series:
The White Lion Chronicles is a beautiful series, you will forever be changed after reading them. They are so touching you’ll cry tears of sorrow and joy. Christopher Hopper has profoundly written about the separation from God, sin, and the great sacrifice of what Jesus did for us. We all are in need of a Savoir, even in a world that seems perfect. This series is so incredibly moving you can’t help, but be in awe. I highly recommend reading these books!

Day 107: Having it all Can = Heartache...

Last year I wrote a post called, Having it all = Heartache? My Thankful Post. It's one of my post that didn't get a lot of traffic, so I decided to share it today along with a few new notes.

Recently a very famous Christian painter named Thomas Kinkade died at the age of 54. Honestly that's not old and sadly I have learned some very sad things about this man, that I would of never of thought of. Mr Kinkade A.K.A The Painter of Light, was a very troubled and sad soul the last few years of his life. He lost his family through an ugly divorce and struggled with being addicted to alcohol. For someone to have seemed to have had so much, he really ended his life in such a dark place... The Painter of Light, was lost in his own creation of darkness. Still though he has left behind a legacy of beauty in his paintings, and I hope we can remember the goodness of his gift...

Last year a famous singer named Amy Winehouse, died. This 27 year old lady died from a drug overdose. Now I was not a fan of Amy Winehouse, but I did know who she was. Her sad song "Rehab" played like crazy on the radio and even TV. This lady had a known problem with heavy alcohol and drugs. Okay, so where am I going in all of this? Will this lady had fame, talent, money, and a whole lot of life in front of her, yet she was abounding in misery. How can you seem to have it all yet, be so... unhappy? The truth is she didn't really have anything at all. She had everything this world could offer, but she didn't have, nor want what truly mattered. Loved ones, loving friends, and most of all a Savior. I don't know if any of you that are reading this post doesn't know who the loving Savior is? I must tell you He and He alone is the only one that will ever make you feel whole and be happy. Fame and money might make you pretty happy for a time, but in the end you will want more. Think... Do most of the famous people you see seem happy to you? They are human just like you and I, with the same feelings and in need of the same things.

Times are hard right now. With a bad economy and a world sort of falling apart, yet there is still so much to be thankful for!  Look around you and think hard about it. BIG things and little things. Mine is my Savior who has made me whole and opened my heart to what truly matters. My beautiful family, loving friends, and the air I breath.

What is it that greatly matters in your life? 

What truly makes you happy? 

What are you thankful for?

Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. ~Psalm 37:4
You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ~Jeremiah 29:13
For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.~ Matthew 7:8

Day 106: A Little Post... A New Heart...

And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. ~ Ezekiel 36:26

My heart sure isn't perfect, but for sure has someone perfect in it. I started reading a devotional that I had stopped reading two years ago... not because I didn't like it, quite the opposite. It's called, The 5 powers of God by Paul Goulet. I'll be sure to share more about it very soon.  Also a much longer post tomorrow. :-) What devotional(s) are you currently reading?

Day 105: Before The King...

I recently watched the movie, One Night with the King. This movie is based off the Bible story of Esther. I love the story of Esther, I think most Christian woman do.

The movie added a lot of things into the beautiful Bible story, which is understandable, because the story is a little short. Yet, ultimately they stayed very true to the story.

Here is a quick bio on  the story in case you have never read it before( I highly recommend reading it and seeing the movie).
Esther managed to save the Jewish people of the kingdom from a massacre, a life - risking accomplishment that made her famous. Shortly after Esther became the queen, Haman the Agagite, the prime minister of Persia and a favorite of the king, obtained a royal decree that authorized the slaughter of all of the Jewish people living within the borders of the Persian Empire. In addition, the decree called for the confiscation of all of their property.

What touched me the most in the movie and the story, was when Esther had to enter into her husband's (who was king) Throne Room, in order to save her people and ultimately herself. She did this without being called, which was punished by death, no matter who you were. I couldn't imagine the fear that filled her body, and the faith she had to trust in.

This made me think how truly magnificent it is for us believers. We are able to enter into the courts of the King of Kings at anytime we please. We do not have to wait to be called. We do not have to fear. Jesus made a way for us to sit at His feet, call out His name, ask what our heart cries for, and talk to the Greatest King of All. What a beautiful and amazing thing this is! What an extraordinary honor...

Come Join In Some Epicness... Seek The Stars...

Do you like entering contest? How about a contest that has some CRAZY huge prizes? How about one that is a ton of fun?

The great Wayne Thomas Batson, is having an EPIC contest in celebration of the release of The Errant King book two of his Dark Sea Annals. The prizes are grand and earning points is a ton of fun. It started in November, but doesn't end until June 26, 2012.  There is still time to join in.

For more information and complete rules visit, Wayne Thomas Batson post on it here Contest Info and Rules

Or check out the Forum to see how it's played Starseekers Enclave

Some of the rules have changed, but nothing too big :-) The team constellation that I am in is "Starfire" and we could use a few more players. If this sounds fun to you and if you have some spare time for it... I know life is crazy, come join us.

This contest is not only a fun thing for it's players, but also a big thing for the author. Please remember that, if you are thinking about joining.

For more information on the great Wayne Thomas Batson, visit his blog

And if you haven't already check out his books... there is many more, but today I'm only going to share with you the contest books/series. Type up his name and you'll see the others :-)

Sword in the Stars: Book One of The Dark Sea Annals

The Errant King: Book Two of The Dark Sea Annals

I Am Opened To Commissions...

Hey everyone I’m starting up a dream I had a few years ago, but never accomplished it very well. Some of you might not know that I’m an artist. What kind of artist? There is so many different types of art. Drawing and painting is one of my greatest passions and I feel like God blessed me with some talent to share with others.

So this is it... I am truly open for commissions. Mind you I am not the best artist in the world, nor have I done anything big with my art. But my prices are sort of inexpensive and I will truly give you my very best.

Currently I can only do Traditional Art. I’m still learning how to do Digital Art and I don’t feel very comfortable being commissioned for that yet.

So check out my Art Page located above. Please click on all the photos to see clearer. My scanner stinks and they came out a little darker than I would like. I'll be getting a Deviant Art Profile very soon.

Here are my prices:

$25.00 For a Pencil Drawing (This counts for shading in the background (if you like) only and up to two characters, animals, etc. Backgrounds such as trees will cost an additional $15.00)

$30.00 For a Color Pencil or Gel Pen Drawing

$40.00 For a Watercolor Drawing (This counts for image in background like trees etc or just solid)

I will be willing to work with you on prices if you would like more than one drawing.

Size of art will be done on a 9"x 12" sheet of paper. (I can do larger, but it will cost more). It will then will be mailed to you, after approval by you and payment received. Depending on the detail of the work, time will vary on how fast it will get done.

What I can do...

Animals:
I love horses of any kind. Lions/cats. Just about any animal I do alright, but horses and cats are my specialty.

Pets:
I can try to draw your beloved furry friend. Here is a drawing I did on my moms horse a few years ago... I really need to find the real photograph of her horse. I must admit birds I’m not too great at, but I can give it a try.

Certain fantasy and Sci-Fi creatures:
Like dragons, Pegasus, and unicorns. I must approve of it first and you must give me really good details on what it is, especially if it is something you made up.

 
Characters from your book. 
I can try to make your character come alive. MUST not have anything of my can’t do rules below.

What I absolutely, No if ands or buts WILL NOT do...

Sexual, nudity, and suggestive poses:
Certain sweet romance pictures I can do, but in a very modest way and I can only do it with a guy and a girl.
Here is an example... click to view larger and see clearer. This is a really old piece, please take that to heart. :-)

Cityscapes:
Not real great at that :-)

Any religious themes except Christian:
Sorry I am follow of Jesus and nothing else. Nor will I create something that dishonors my King.

Goth and Urban Fantasy:
I will not do vampires, witches, and any other dark depressing thing. Certain fantasy and Sci-Fi creatures I can do, like dragons, Pegasus, and unicorns. I must approve of it first and you must give me really good details on what it is, especially if it is something you made up.

WHAT YOU GET
You will receive the original drawing by mail after approval by you and payment received. The drawing will be at least a 9×12 sheet of paper. (I can do larger or smaller, but it will cost different). You will be allowed to post the image for your own personal and non-profit use online, including the right to crop or alter it for signatures, headers, backgrounds, etc.

PAYMENT and SHIPPING
All work must be prepaid
You can contact me through e-mail – ryanheart89@comcast.net

If I accept your commission, I will give you my address/additional information and we can take it from there. Shipping charges are NOT included in the original price.


Please Note: 
I retain the rights to all drawings unless prior arrangement is made for otherwise. Exclusive or joint copyrights can be purchased for an additional fee. Once payment is received it is final; no refunds unless I become physically unable to complete your request. I have the right to refuse any commission based on religious morals, subject, lack of time, or any other reason. Please respect my artwork policies.

Feel free to leave a comment and tell me what you think. If you would like something custom drawn feel free to email me or leave a comment. Looking forward to hearing from you.

God’s care,
~Ryan

Day 102: Touching Others...

I never quite know what each day will bring, but regardless of the situation, the care for someone who needs it is at stake, and I take that very seriously. At the office, I’m known as “the one with the smile” or “the one with the laugh” when clients call to request me for an assignment. It makes me happy that what they most remember me is my laugh or my smile. That is the only recognition I need to know that I have touched someone in a positive way.

My recipe for success has been to go to every home with a smile and the intention to lift the spirits of those who live there. Even in the most dire situations, something as simple as a smile can make a huge difference.
— Excerpted from Strength for the Moment by Lori Hogan

A smile and a happy attitude, truly is a beautiful thing. You never know who you might just touch, by a simple smile and a kind laugh. Please also check out my Day Six post: Smile, it's good for you :-)

Day 101:The Healing Of Music...

 This is such an incredibly touching video. Music truly awakens our souls. Thank you God for giving us a little bit of heaven.

(Remember to pause my purple music box, located on the right sidebar.... below My Blog Archive. The bottom middle button will pause it)

My 100th Post...

Today marks my 100th post for a post every day this year... 265 more to go. This is the longest lasting New Years Resolution I have stayed true to. I must say it feels pretty good. This year is flying by too fast. Sometimes I wish I could slow down time... I bet I’m not the only one that says that. Yet I have some BIG plans for this year. Will I succeed... We’ll find out ;-)
So I have a question for you all. I have been having a little bit of trouble coming up with new good ideas to blog about... sort of bloggers block ;-) I’m currently going through a heavy re-write in my book, The Realm of Hearts (will post more on that soon!) and I kinda have a hard time balancing them both...

So any ideas that I should write about? Anything you would like me to write about? Feel free to share :-)

Thank you for supporting me on this fun adventure. See you tomorrow~

Day 99: He is Risen...

He is risen indeed! I had a BEAUTIFUL Resurrection Day. I hope you all had a grand one too...

NOW AFTER the Sabbath, near dawn of the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala and the other Mary went to take a look at the tomb.
And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled the boulder back and sat upon it.
His appearance was like lightning, and his garments as white as snow.
And those keeping guard were so frightened at the sight of him that they were agitated and they trembled and became like dead men.
But the angel said to the women, Do not be alarmed and frightened, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, Who was crucified.
He is not here; He has risen, as He said [He would do]. Come, see the
place where He lay.  ~Matthew 28:1-6 AMP

Day 98: Father Forgive Them...

I learned a little something new today about the gospels. I did not connect that Luke was the only one to record these powerful and loving words from Jesus. Enjoy and may you be blessed by it...

As if the physical wounds Christ suffered were not enough, they were not the killers in crucifixion. Death crept in slowly through exhaustion and asphyxiation from an increasing inability to hold oneself up to draw breath. If you've ever experienced anything close to "excruciating" pain, can you imagine how difficult talking would be?

Regardless of how many times you've heard sermons preached on Christ's next words, don't hear them casually. The moment words formed on His tongue and His voice found volume, He said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."(Luke 23:34).

Not "Father, consume them," but "Father, forgive them." This may be the most perfect statement spoken at the most perfect time since God gave the gift of language. As unimaginable as His request was, it was so fitting! If the cross is about anything at all, it is about forgiveness. Forgiveness of the most incorrigible and least deserving.

I don't believe the timing of the statement was meaningless. It was the first thing He said after they nailed Him to the cross and hoisted it into view. His immediate request for the Father's forgiveness sanctified the cross for its enduring work through all of time. His request baptized the crude wood for its divine purpose.

Please understand, the cross itself had no power. Neither was it ever meant to be an idol, but it represents something so divine and powerful that the apostle Paul said, "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." (Gal. 6:14).

Dr. Luke was the only on God inspired to record the forgiveness statement. How appropriate that a physician would be the one to pen such healing words. Surely, in the days to come, many involved were haunted by their consciences. No doubt many in the crowd at the crucifixion were saved on the Day of Pentecost, since both events occurred in Jerusalem only weeks apart and on major feast days. The main reason to believe these were the same people, however, is because God doesn't ordinarily refuse the request of His Son.

Copyrighted to Beth Moore

Day 97: Every Pound Of The Hammer...

I read this today from a very talented writer called Beth Moore. Today was a good day... in so many ways. I hope this lovely devotional touches you, as much as it touched me.

According to ancient custom, the cross, of at least the crossbeam, was placed upon the ground, then Christ was stretched out upon it. I cannot imagine being the one who actually targeted the nail to the proper place in the skin and struck the blow. Do you think he at all cost avoided Christ's eyes?

The probably secured His hands before His feet so that His arms would not flail when His feet were nailed. We often picture that the nail wounds were in the palms, but the delicate bones in the hands could not hold a victim to the cross. The nails were usually driven through the wrists. In Hebrew, the wrist was considered part of the hand rather than the arm.

Without becoming more graphic than necessary, crucifixion, almost always preceded by a near-to-dear flogging, was unimaginable painful and inhumane. This kind of capital punishment was targeted as a deterrent for rebellious slaves and was forbidden to any Roman citizen, no matter how serious his crime. Crucifixion was a totally inhumane way for even the two criminals to die. But this was the King of glory! They took a hammer and nails to the "Word made flesh."

I want you to sit and "listen" to the sound of the hammer striking. I'm not trying to be melodramatic. I just want us to come as close as possible to being eyewitnesses. You don't have to open your eyes and "look," but I want you to open your spiritual ears and listen. Move close enough to hear the conversation of the marksman as he positions the nail at the wrist of Christ. You'll have to fight the crowd to get close enough. Then listen to the hammer his the nail... several times at each hand and foot to make sure the nails are securely in place. I'm not trying to make you wince. I only want you to hear the sound as the nails are driven securely into the wood.

If you study the Old Testament prophecies of Jesus, you will find that they come in a dazzling variety of forms. In some places the predictions were clear. They obviously pointed to the coming Messiah. In other instances they were veiled. Join me now as we look at an absolutely fascinating passage... these words that apply so beautifully to Christ at this moment. In their immediate sense, they were written about Eliakim, the palace superintendent during the Assyrian invasion of Israel, but you can see their ultimate significance in terms of the cross of our Christ. In the passage God said,

"I will clothe him with your robe and fasten your sash around him and hand your authority over him. He will be a father to those who live in Jerusalem and to the house of Judah. I will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David; what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I will drive him like a peg into a firm place; he will be a seat of honor for the house of his father." (Isaiah 22:21-23)

Note how God said He would give His servant the key to the house of David, opening a door no one can shut. He said He would "drive him like a peg into a firm place." As unfathomable as the process is to you and me, the cross was the means by which God chose to position Christ in the seat of honor for the house of His Father. The cross is the open door no man can shut.

Isaiah 22:23 says, "I will fasten him as a nail in a sure place" (KJV). The original word for "firm" in the NIV and "sure" in the KJV is aman: "in a transitive sense to make firm, to confirm... to stand firm; to be enduring; to trust."

Nothing was accidental about the cross of Christ. The son of God was not suddenly overcome by the wickedness of man and nailed to a cross. Quite the contrary, the cross was the means by which the Son of God over came the wickedness of man. To secure the keys to the house of David and open the door of salvation to all who would enter, God drove His Son like a nail in a sure place. A firm place. An enduring place.

As painful and horrendous as the pounding hammer sounds to our spiritual ears, Colossians 2:13-14 says that while we were dead in our sins, God made us alive with Christ. He "canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross."

I will never fully grasp how such human atrocities occurred at the free will of humanity, while God used them to unfold His perfect, divine, redemptive plan. Christ was nailed to the cross as the one perfect human. He was the fulfillment of the law in every way. When God drove His Son like a nail in a firm place, He took the written code, finally fulfilled in His Son, and canceled our debt to it. With every pound of the hammer, God was nailing down redemption.

Day 96: Luke Chapter 22...

<sup>Thank you Jesus for giving me the greatest gift of all... I am alive because of you.

1</sup>NOW THE Festival of Unleavened Bread was drawing near, which is called the Passover.
    ²And the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how to do away with [Jesus], for they feared the people.
    ³But [then] Satan entered into Judas, called Iscariot, who was one of the Twelve [apostles].
    ⁴And he went away and discussed with the chief priests and captains how he might betray Him and deliver Him up to them.
    ⁵And they were delighted and pledged [themselves] to give him money.
    ⁶So he agreed [to this], and sought an opportunity to betray Him to them [without an uprising] in the absence of the throng.
    ⁷Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover [lamb] had to be slain.^{(A)
    8}So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare for us the Passover meal, that we may eat it.
    ⁹They said to Him, Where do You want us to prepare [it]?
    ¹⁰He said to them, Behold, when you have gone into the city, a man carrying an earthen jug or pitcher of water will meet you; follow him into the house which he enters,
    ¹¹And say to the master of the house, The Teacher asks you, Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover [meal] with My disciples?
    ¹²And he will show you a large room upstairs, furnished [with carpets and with couches properly spread]; there make [your] preparations.
    ¹³And they went and found it [just] as He had said to them; and they made ready the Passover [supper].
    ¹⁴And when the hour came, [Jesus] reclined at table, and the apostles with Him.
    ¹⁵And He said to them, I have earnestly and intensely desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer;
    ¹⁶For I say to you, I shall eat it no more until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
    ¹⁷And He took a cup, and when He had given thanks, He said, Take this and divide and distribute it among yourselves;
    ¹⁸For I say to you that from now on I shall not drink of the fruit of the vine at all until the kingdom of God comes.
    ¹⁹Then He took a loaf [of bread], and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and gave it to them saying, This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.
    ²⁰And in like manner, He took the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament or covenant [ratified] in My blood, which is shed (poured out) for you.
    ²¹But, behold, the hand of him who ^[a]is now engaged in betraying Me is with Me on the table.^{(B)
    22}For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined and appointed, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed and delivered up!
    ²³And they began to inquire among themselves which of them it was who was about to do this.^{(C)
    24}Now ^[b]an eager contention arose among them [as to] which of them was considered and reputed to be the greatest.
    ²⁵But Jesus said to them, The kings of the Gentiles ^[c]are deified by them and exercise lordship [^[d]ruling as emperor-gods] over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors and well-doers.
    ²⁶But this is not to be so with you; on the contrary, let him who is the greatest among you become like the youngest, and him who is the chief and leader like one who serves.
    ²⁷For who is the greater, the one who reclines at table (the master), or the one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am in your midst as One Who serves.
    ²⁸And you are those who have remained [throughout] and persevered with Me in My trials;
    ²⁹And as My Father has appointed a kingdom and conferred it on Me, so do I confer on you [the privilege and decree],
    ³⁰That you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
    ³¹Simon, Simon (Peter), listen! Satan ^[e]has asked excessively that [all of] you be given up to him [out of the power and keeping of God], that he might sift [all of] you like grain,^{(D)
    32}But I have prayed especially for you [Peter], that your [own] faith may not fail; and when you yourself have turned again, strengthen and establish your brethren.
    ³³And [Simon Peter] said to Him, Lord, I am ready to go with You both to prison and to death.
    ³⁴But Jesus said, I tell you, Peter, before a [single] cock shall crow this day, you will three times [utterly] deny that you know Me.
    ³⁵And He said to them, When I sent you out with no purse or [provision] bag or sandals, did you lack anything? They answered, Nothing!
    ³⁶Then He said to them, But now let him who has a purse take it, and also [his provision] bag; and let him who has no sword sell his mantle and buy a sword.
    ³⁷For I tell you that this Scripture must yet be fulfilled in Me: And He was counted and classed among the wicked (the outlaws, the criminals); for what is written about Me has its fulfillment [has reached its end and is finally settled].^{(E)
    38}And they said, Look, Lord! Here are two swords. And He said to them, It is enough.
    ³⁹And He came out and went, as was His habit, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples also followed Him.
    ⁴⁰And when He came to the place, He said to them, Pray that you may not [at all] enter into temptation.
    ⁴¹And He withdrew from them about a stone's throw and knelt down and prayed,

    ⁴²Saying, Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but [^[f]always] Yours be done.
    ⁴³And there appeared to Him an angel from heaven, strengthening Him in spirit.
    ⁴⁴And being in an agony [of mind], He prayed [all the] more earnestly and intently, and His sweat became like great ^[g]clots of blood dropping down upon the ground.
    ⁴⁵And when He got up from prayer, He came to the disciples and found them sleeping from grief,
    ⁴⁶And He said to them, Why do you sleep? Get up and pray that you may not enter [at all] into temptation.
    ⁴⁷And while He was still speaking, behold, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the Twelve [apostles], was going before [leading] them. He drew near to Jesus to kiss Him,
    ⁴⁸But Jesus said to him, Judas! Would you betray and deliver up the Son of Man with a kiss?
    ⁴⁹And when those who were around Him saw what was about to happen, they said, Lord, shall we strike with the sword?
    ⁵⁰And one of them struck the bond servant of the high priest and cut off his ear, the right one.
    ⁵¹But Jesus said, Permit ^[h]them to go so far [as to seize Me]. And He touched the ^[i]little (insignificant) ear and healed him.
    ⁵²Then Jesus said to those who had come out against Him--the chief priests and captains of the temple and elders [of the Sanhedrin]--Have you come out with swords and clubs as [you would] against a robber?
    ⁵³When I was with you day after day in the temple [^[j]enclosure], you did not stretch forth [your] hands against Me. But this is your hour--and the power [which] darkness [gives you has its way].
    ⁵⁴Then they seized Him and led Him away, bringing Him into the house of the high priest. Peter was following at a distance.
    ⁵⁵And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and were seated together, Peter sat among them.
    ⁵⁶Then a servant girl, seeing him as he sat in the firelight and gazing [intently] at him, said, This man too was with ^[k]Him.
    ⁵⁷But he denied it and said, Woman, I do not know Him!
    ⁵⁸And a little later someone else saw him and said, You are one of them also. But Peter said, Man, I am not!
    ⁵⁹And when about an hour more had elapsed, still another emphatically insisted, It is the truth that this man also was with Him, for he too is a Galilean!
    ⁶⁰But Peter said, Man, I do not know what you are talking about. And instantly, while he was still speaking, the cock crowed.

    ⁶¹And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter recalled the Lord's words, how He had told him, Before the cock crows today, you will deny Me thrice.
    ⁶²And he went out and wept bitterly [that is, with painfully moving grief].
    ⁶³Now the men who had Jesus in custody treated Him with contempt and scoffed at and ridiculed Him and beat Him;
    ⁶⁴They blindfolded Him also and asked Him, Prophesy! Who is it that struck ^[l]You?
    ⁶⁵And they said many other evil and slanderous and insulting words against Him, reviling Him.
    ⁶⁶As soon as it was day, the assembly of the elders of the people gathered together, both chief priests and scribes; and they led Him into their council (the Sanhedrin), and they said,
    ⁶⁷If You are the Christ (the Messiah), tell us. But He said to them, If I tell you, you will not believe (trust in, cleave to, and rely on what I say),
    ⁶⁸And if I question you, you will not answer.
    ⁶⁹But hereafter (from this time on), the Son of Man shall be seated at the right hand of the power of God.^{(F)
    70}And they all said, You are the Son of God, then? And He said to them, ^[m]It is just as you say; I AM.
    ⁷¹And they said, What further evidence do we need? For we have heard [it] ourselves from His own mouth! ~Luke 22 AMP