Sunday, April 13, 2025
The Shady Four
Saturday, April 12, 2025
We Will Stay
1 Corinthian 16:13
Watch ye, stand fast in the faith,
quit you like men, be strong.
Galician 5:1
Stand fast therefore in
the liberty wherewith
Christ hath made us free, and be not
entangled
again with the yoke of bondage.
Philippines 1:27
Only let your conversa
tion be as it becometh
the gospel of Christ: that whether
I come and see you, or else be absent,
I may hear of your affairs, that
ye stand fast in one spirit,
with one mind striving together for
he faith of the gospel;
Philippines 4:1
Therefore, my brethren
dearly beloved and longed
for, my joy and crown, so stand fast
in the Lord, my dearly beloved.
Monday, March 31, 2025
Don't Fumble Your Fath
Saturday, March 29, 2025
Devotional: Recovering A Fumble - Coming Back to Jesus
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Resting In Jesus Pillow - Finding Peace
a creative and meaningful way to illustrate such an important lesson.
Draw a half-heart onto 8.5X11 cardstock and cut it out.
beautifully symbolizes the contrast between being half-hearted and whole-hearted.
From Half-Hearted to Whole-Hearted
As you see here we are starting with a half heart.
This is a large heart half we can't do much with a half heart as it is.
Being half-hearted in the things of God and in relationships with others often leads to a life that feels shallow and unfulfilled. When we approach our faith or connections with lukewarm commitment, we miss out on the depth and richness that comes from giving our all. In our relationship with God, a lack of passion can hinder spiritual growth, leaving us stagnant and disconnected from His purpose for our lives. Similarly, when we are only partly invested in relationships with others, we fail to build trust, nurture bonds, and experience the genuine joy of meaningful connection. Wholeheartedness requires vulnerability, effort, and intention, but it is through this commitment that we truly find purpose and fulfillment in both our spiritual journey and our human connections.
Verse to think upon:
** *"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and
with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." —Mark 12:30
When we approach our faith, relationships, or endeavors with only half of our hearts, it's as though we're presenting only part of the picture, just like a half-drawn heart. The world sees our intentions, but they remain incomplete—a missing piece that limits our capacity to truly love, serve, and achieve greatness. God wants us wholeheartedly.
Illustration:
Cut out only one side of your cardstock heart. It looks incomplete, doesn’t it?
Similarly, living a life that’s half-hearted in faith or effort lacks the fullness God desires for us. Yet when we embrace being whole-hearted—completely committed—our lives become a beautiful and complete reflection of His purpose and we are prepared to be used by God.
Once you cut out the half-heart use it as a pattern to trace around to cut out another half-heart.
Set the pieces together side by side and tape the seam closed. God's the one that gives us a whole heart towards him as we obey him. Making him more important than anything else.
God holds our hearts and lives together as we follow him as we follow the pattern he gives us to live.
Lesson:
Being whole-hearted means surrendering all that we are to the Lord, not holding back in fear or doubt. It’s trusting Him with every piece of our hearts and letting His love and strength fill the gaps we cannot mend on our own. With a wholehearted approach, our actions radiate authenticity, love, and faith that inspires others.
Challenge:
Reflect on areas where you might be living half-heartedly—whether in your faith, relationships, or personal goals. Ask God for guidance to go all in, trusting Him to help you complete the picture.
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the moments I’ve held back and been half-hearted in my devotion to You and in my love for others. Help me to love and live with all my heart, fully committed to Your plans for me. That I may be a light and an example to those you bring into my life.
In Jesus Name Amen.
---
This devotion could pair beautifully with a hands-on activity. You could guide participants to create their own paper hearts by cutting out the half-heart on cardstock, unfolding it, and marveling at the transformation into a whole heart—a visual reminder to pursue a life fully devoted to God.
---Whole-Hearted Love: A Devotion and Craft
Introduction:
Begin by drawing half a heart on an 8x11 piece of cardstock and talking about what it means to live half-heartedly. Just like a half-heart, our lives feel incomplete when we hold back parts of ourselves from God—whether out of fear, doubt, or distraction. We miss out on the fullness He desires for us when we hesitate to give Him everything.
Devotion:
- Scripture Verse:
*"And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh." —Ezekiel 11:19 (KJV)*
- Reflection:
When we live half-heartedly, our lives are like the incomplete heart shape—disconnected and fragmented. But when we surrender to Christ, He completes us, binding us together with His love and grace. He doesn’t just fill in the gaps; He transforms us into a new creation. With Christ at the center, we find peace, rest, and purpose.
Take the moment to trace the second half of the heart onto cardstock, completing the shape in front of your audience. As you tape the two halves together, explain how the tape represents Christ—the glue that holds us together and makes us whole.
- Application:
Just as this whole heart can now be used as a pattern for creating more hearts, a life centered on Christ becomes a model for others. When our hearts are full of His love, we naturally share that love, helping others find peace, rest, and wholeness in Him.
Craft Instructions:
Pre-teen to Adults:
- Use the heart pattern as a guide to cut two fabric pieces.
- Sew the fabric pieces together, leaving a small opening for stuffing.
- Fill the heart with soft stuffing and sew the opening closed.
- Optional: Add decorative touches like ribbons or embroidery.
A 13X13 Piece of fabric 2X
Our Heart Pattern.
Children:
- Use the heart pattern to trace and cut two half paper hearts. out of 2 8/5X11 - Tape in the center malkeing a pattern.
Glue the edges together with glue stick, leaving an opening to stuff with fill cotton inside or paper napkins or toilet paper.
- Finish gluing the edges and reinforce with tape about two inches apart all the way around, as you go and then again as needed. let the children decorate their paper pillows.
!2X12 Scrapbooking Paper:
Tape
Glue Stick
Scissors
1 Small Paper Heart Cut Out - 3x3 or 4x4
Write" Resting in Jesus" on it.
Our Large Heart Pattern Cattycorner on the 12X12 paper to cut
You could put another small heart cut out paper on top that says "Resting in Jesus"
Closing Thought:
The heart-shaped pillow serves as a reminder of the peace, rest, and comfort we find when our hearts are wholehearted and Christ is at the center. Share these pillows as gifts, accompanied by a message about the love of Jesus, to bless others and spread the gospel.
Finding Peace and Rest in Jesus
When we serve Jesus with our whole hearts and love Him fully, we are invited into a peace and rest that surpass all understanding. The burdens of life feel lighter because we trust in His divine plan, and our souls find solace in His promises. As Jesus Himself said in Matthew 11:28-29 (KJV 1611), *"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."* This rest is not just physical but a spiritual tranquility that sustains us, even in the face of trials.
Let us lay our heads upon our pillows
and read or listen to the audio.
Jesus is our Resting Place
Updated April 6th, 2025
Resting in Jesus
In the shadow of His wings, I hide,
Where storms can rage but not divide.
The Shepherd calls, His voice is calm,
His love provides, a healing balm.
When burdens press and memories cling:
His gentle whispers cause my heart to sing.
"Fear not, My child, I hold you near,
In Me, you'll find no cause for fear."
My weary heart, He bids it cease,
And fills my soul with perfect peace.
His yoke is light, His love profound,
In Him, eternal blest is found.
Throughout this life, I put my trust,
In Jesus' plans, both kind and just.
Oh, the joy, the calm, the sweet release,
Forever dwelling in His peace.
Owner: Susan Barker Nikitenko MarchUpdated April 6th, 2025©
AGBMBPRNAPKB AGB SONG
May you find true rest and deep peace in Jesus as you walk with Him in faith and love. Let His promises be your strength and His presence your refuge!
If you don't want to make a heart just rest your head on a teddy bear
This writing can not be changed in any way if you have requests
Email Me
Saturday, March 22, 2025
Halfheartedly Vrs Wholeheartedly
Halfhearted or Wholehearted
Game
Be creative and use these questions as part of a question-answer relay or card game.
20 examples of
behaviors kids might show, illustrating wholeheartedness or halfheartedness.
You can read these aloud and ask, *"Wholeheartedness? or Halfheartedness?"*
to encourage kids to reflect on their actions. I’ve also included a verse from
the KJV 1611 Bible to guide the discussion:
(Colossians 3:23). *"And whatsoever ye
do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;"*
1. Helping a friend clean up after an activity without being
asked—Wholeheartedness?
2. Saying "thank you" when reminded, but not
meaning it—Halfheartedness?
3. Offering to share a toy with a classmate who looks
sad—Wholeheartedness?
4. Complaining about chores while doing
them—Halfheartedness?
5. Praying sincerely for a sibling who's
sick—Wholeheartedness?
6. Mumbling prayers quickly to finish
faster—Halfheartedness?
7. Making a handmade card to cheer up a
neighbor—Wholeheartedness?
8. Saying kind words to someone while secretly feeling
jealous—Halfheartedness?
9. Listening attentively to a Sunday school
teacher—Wholeheartedness?
10. Daydreaming during a Bible story—Halfheartedness?
11. Volunteering to set the table without being
told—Wholeheartedness?
12. Only helping with homework when
rewarded—Halfheartedness?
13. Singing worship songs with joy and
enthusiasm—Wholeheartedness?
14. Pretending to sing in worship but thinking about
something else—Halfheartedness?
15. Inviting a new student to join a game at
recess—Wholeheartedness?
16. Refusing to play with others unless it’s your favorite
game—Halfheartedness?
17. Forgiving a friend who hurt your
feelings—Wholeheartedness?
18. Telling on a classmate just to get them in
trouble—Halfheartedness?
19. Cleaning up spilled milk, even when it's not
yours—Wholeheartedness?
20. Only apologizing when pressured to do
so—Halfheartedness?
These examples help children discern how their attitudes and
behaviors align with serving and loving God “heartily.”
Chores: Half Heartedly Wholeheartedly
a list of 20 examples related to doing chores that can help
kids reflect on whether they're showing wholeheartedness or halfheartedness.
You can read these aloud and ask, *"Wholeheartedness? or
Halfheartedness?"* I've also included a verse to guide the conversation:
*"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto
men;"* (Colossians 3:23, KJV 1611).
:
1. Sweeping the floor thoroughly to make it
spotless—Wholeheartedness?
2. Leaving crumbs on the table after being asked to clean
up—Halfheartedness?
3. Folding laundry carefully and organizing it
neatly—Wholeheartedness?
4. Stuffing clothes in a drawer without folding
them—Halfheartedness?
5. Taking out the trash without needing a
reminder—Wholeheartedness?
6. Complaining loudly about being asked to take out the
trash—Halfheartedness?
7. Cleaning the dishes and wiping the counters
afterward—Wholeheartedness?
8. Washing the dishes but leaving some food stuck on
them—Halfheartedness?
9. Helping a sibling tidy up their room without being
asked—Wholeheartedness?
10. Tidying up your own space but leaving a mess
elsewhere—Halfheartedness?
11. Cheerfully singing or humming while doing
chores—Wholeheartedness?
12. Dragging your feet and grumbling while
dusting—Halfheartedness?
13. Remembering to water the plants
daily—Wholeheartedness?
14. Forgetting to water the plants despite being
told—Halfheartedness?
15. Picking up toys promptly after
playtime—Wholeheartedness?
16. Putting toys away in the wrong places to finish
faster—Halfheartedness?
17. Helping clean up after dinner without being
asked—Wholeheartedness?
18. Pretending not to notice when extra help is
needed—Halfheartedness?
19. Volunteering to clean something that isn’t your
mess—Wholeheartedness?
20. Doing only the bare minimum just to say “I’m
done!”—Halfheartedness?
These examples encourage kids to reflect on their actions
and attitudes when doing chores, fostering a deeper understanding of how to
serve "as unto the Lord." Let me know if you’d like me to expand on
this or tailor it for different age groups! 😊
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Puppet Show or Skit: The Adventure of Emma and the Golden Scroll
**Title: The Adventure of Emma and the Golden Scroll**
**Characters**:
- *Emma*: The curious adventurer (main puppet)
- *Narrator*: The storyteller (can be offstage or a puppet)
- *Villagers*: Various puppets (representing different lessons for the commandments)
- *Grandmother*: Who introduces Emma to the scroll
**Props**:
- A golden scroll
- Puppets representing people or objects (e.g., villagers bowing to an idol, a marketplace scene, etc.)
- Backdrops (attic, forest, marketplace, etc.)
**Scene 1: The Attic**
*(Backdrop: An attic filled with boxes and old treasures)*
Narrator: "One day, Emma was exploring her grandmother’s attic. Suddenly, she found a glowing golden scroll!"
**Grandmother Puppet (appearing briefly)**: "Emma, this scroll contains special rules from long ago. They are the Ten Commandments, and they teach us how to live a life full of love for God and others."
Emma: "Wow, Grandma! I want to learn them all!"
Narrator: "And so, Emma embarked on a exciting journey to discover these commandments."
---
**Scene 2: The First Villager (No other gods)**
*(Backdrop: A village scene with a puppet worshiping multiple objects)*
Emma: "Why are you worshiping all these things?"
Villager 1: "They make me happy, so I worship them!"
Emma: "But the scroll says, ‘You shall have no other gods before Me.’ Only God is worthy of our worship."
Villager 1: "Thank you, Emma! I’ll remember that."
Narrator: "Emma reminded the villager to trust in the one true God."
---
**Scene 3: The Idol Worshippers (No idols)**
*(Backdrop: People bowing to a statue)*
Emma: "Why are you bowing to a statue? It’s just a thing!"
Villager 2: "It helps me feel close to God."
Emma: "But the scroll says, ‘Do not make idols or worship them.’ God wants our hearts, not statues."
Villager 2: "You’re right, Emma! I’ll stop."
Narrator: "Emma shared the truth with kindness."
---
**[Include similar scenes for each commandment: a villager taking God’s name in vain, someone working on the Sabbath, a child disrespecting their parents, etc.]**
---
**Final Scene: Emma’s Reflection**
*(Backdrop: Emma’s home)*
Narrator: "After her journey, Emma sat down with the golden scroll."
Emma: "Now I understand! These Ten Commandments help us love God and love others. They teach us to make good choices. Grandma was right—the scroll’s wisdom brings peace and joy!"
Narrator: "And remember, as Jesus said, the commandments can be summed up in two: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself."
---
**Closing**
*(Grandmother appears again to hug Emma as they both smile)*
Narrator: "And so, Emma learned the greatest lesson of all: to live a life of love and obedience to God."
---
This simple format lets kids engage with the story visually and interactively while learning the lessons of the Ten Commandments. Feel free to adapt
Susan Y Nikitenko 2025©MBPCP
PUZZLE - Fill In The Blank
Story Form Puzzle: "The Adventure of Emma and
the Golden Scroll"
Emma was a curious and kind-hearted girl who loved going on adventures. One
day, while exploring her grandmother’s attic, she found an old (1)
that talked about ten special rules that could lead to a happy and good life.
These were called the Ten Commandments!
Excited, Emma decided to follow the scroll’s advice and started on a quest
to learn these rules and make the best choices.
She had the scroll with her where ever she went. Each person was told of
the wonderful scroll she found in her grandmothers’ attic
Deuteronomy 5:7
1. Emma
first met a man who worshipped the sun, the moon, and many other things. Emma
remembered the First Commandment: "You shall have no other (2)
before Me." She was reminded never
to worship any idols.
2. Later,
Emma saw a group of people bowing to a statue. She recalled: "Do not
make (3) or worship them." Emma kept that in
her heart and knew not to bow down to idols..
3. On
her next stop, Emma overheard someone using God’s name disrespectfully. She looked
at the scroll and it said: "Do not take God’s (4)
in vain."
4. As
she continued on, Emma came across a family working hard on that chosen day.
She shared the command to rest and to be in God’s House keeping it holy: "Remember
the (5) day to keep it holy."
5. In
the next village, Emma helped a boy appreciate his parents' care. She taught
him the rule: "Honor your father and your (6)."
6. Later,
Emma witnessed two brothers fighting, she was reminded in her heart of Cain and
Able. She read from the scroll "You shall not (7)."
They made peace and became friends again.
7. In
a nearby town, Emma met a woman who wasn’t loyal to her husband. Emma gently prayed
for her in her heart: "Do not commit (8)."
8. When
Emma entered the market, she noticed someone stealing food. She read: "You
shall not (9)."
9. In
another place, Emma saw a girl spreading false stories about her neighbor. Emma
reminded her: "You shall not bear false (10)."
10. At her
final stop, Emma met a boy jealous of his friend’s new toy. She shared: "Do
not (11) what others have."
By the end of her adventure, Emma learned to make good choices by following
these commandments. The golden scroll’s wisdom brought peace and joy to
everyone she met!
This is a fictional story to help you lean the 10 Commandments
Susan Barker Nikitenko MBPCO2025
Answer Key:
Answer Key:
Scroll
Gods
Idols
Name
Sabbath
Mother
Kill
Adultery
Steal
Witness
Covet
Saturday, March 15, 2025
Seeking God In All We Do - Coloring Pages
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Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Key To The Treasure #2 Word Search
Micah 6:8
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Some words are missing from this word search. The children will catch the mistake, and then they will not forget it.
Use the missing words to teach why we should not leave these things out of our lives.
Use the missing ones to pay close attention to the word and what it teaches.
Saturday, March 1, 2025
Key to The Treasure #2 The Old Love Note
Key to the Treasure 2
The Old
Love Note
As the historian publicized the treasure, Emma and Liam's hearts raced with excitement. In part one of “Key to the Treasure,” the two of them set course for an exciting expedition that began with the discovery of a mysterious treasure. Months later, while playing at a local park, they stumbled upon a rusty key buried beneath the sand. Their curiosity led them to the Historical Museum, where the historian opened the door to a room filled with countless treasures one of which was a beautiful porcelain box that had not been opened In centuries.
Among the artifacts, they learned about Edwin Barker, a brave soul who perished at the Battle of Bunker Hill, leaving behind his beloved Gracelin and their 11 children. While examining the relics, a newspaper reporter arrived, eager to interview them about their remarkable find and share their story with the world.
Little did they know, the key they found was just the beginning of an adventure that would test their courage and persistence. Now, in part two, the adventure continues as Emma and Liam investigate deeper into the mystery of a treasure that holds value beyond pure gold. This experience will shape their lives and the lives of many others who are touched by the life changing stories of the Barker family.
While
observing the treasures inside the old treasure box, they were in awe of some
of the jewelry pieces that had people painted on them, curious to know who they
were and who had carefully painted them. Emma held the beautiful piece of Jewelry in
her hand.
Mr. Whitmore, the enthusiastic museum historian, began to explain the fascinating items. “This is beautiful”, said Enma, they all agreed.
"Ah, I see you've found Gracelin
Barker," he said, pointing to the delicate brooch in her hand which was adorned
with a painted portrait. "Isn't she lovely? Painted by a renowned artist
of the 18th century. Just think of it as the old-fashioned version of a
selfie!" They all laughed.
Mr. Whitmore gestured toward a delicate
piece of parchment. "Here we have a diary entry written by Edwin Barker
before he went to battle. It gives us a glimpse into his thoughts and feelings
during that tumultuous time. Reading it is like stepping into a time
machine."
Mr. Whitmore opened the diary and began
to read aloud:
"Dearest Gracelin,
The
days here are long and filled with uncertainty, yet my thoughts constantly
drift back to you and our family. The preparations for the Battle of Bunker
Hill are underway, and I can't help but feel a mix of fear and determination.
We are fighting for a cause we believe in, for the freedom and future of our
nation.
Though
the nights are cold and the future uncertain, I hold on to the hope that one
day, we shall be reunited, and our struggles will not be in vain. I carry your
love and the memory of our time together as my shield, and it gives me the
strength to face each new challenge.
If I am
to fall in battle, know that I did so with your love in my heart and the belief
that our sacrifices will lead to a brighter future. Remember to keep faith and
stay strong, for our love will endure, even in the darkest of times.
Yours
always, Love, Edwin Barker"
As Mr. Whitmore vividly described and
continued to talk the imagination of the children wandered upon the scene on
bunker hill.
They could hear the deafening sounds of musket fire and the clash of bayonets filled the air as the Battle of Bunker Hill raged on. Amidst the chaos, Edwin Barker and his close friend, Thomas, fought valiantly side by side. They had faced many battles together, but this one felt different—more desperate, more intense.
Edwin, covered in dirt and sweat, glanced
at Thomas, who was equally battle-worn. "Stay close, Thomas. We've got to
hold the line," Edwin shouted over the noise.
Thomas nodded, determination etched on his face. "We've come this far, Edwin. We'll see it through."
As the battle reached its peak, a sudden
blast echoed nearby, and Edwin felt a searing pain in his chest. He stumbled,
clutching his wound, and fell to the ground. Thomas quickly knelt beside him,
his eyes filled with concern.
"Edwin! Stay with me!" Thomas
urged, trying to stop the bleeding with his trembling hands.
Edwin's breath came in ragged gasps as he
looked up at his friend. "Thomas... tell Gracelin... I fought bravely...
for our future," he whispered with a faint voice.
Tears welled up in Thomas's eyes as he
nodded. "I promise, Edwin. I'll tell her."
Edwin's vision began to fade, and his grip
on Thomas's hand weakened. "Thank you... for standing by me... until the
end," he whispered, his voice barely audible. God be with you.
With
tears streaming down his face, Thomas said, "You are a hero, my
friend."
With
those final words, Edwin took his last breath, his hand slipping from Thomas's
grasp. Thomas bowed his head, a mix of sorrow and prayers filling his
heart.
The
battle continued to rage around them, but in that moment, Thomas felt the
weight of his friend's sacrifice. He knew that Edwin's legacy would live on,
and the story of his bravery would be remembered for generations to come.
As
Thomas later penned down his memories of that day, he hoped future generations
would understand the depth of their sacrifice.
Gracelin read the letter in his diary a month after he died, her tears mingled with the ink and left stains upon the page, feeling Edwin’s love and bravery in every word. “I miss you”, she said, in a whisper.
Once again Emma and Lucy’s attention was again focused upon the treasure and Mr. Whitmore’s presentation of the wonderful artifacts found within the old beautiful treasure box.
Here we find Gracelin Barker’s Bible the pages are yellowing and the Bible is warn from use.
Mr. Whitmore carefully opened the old Bible that belonged to Gracelin Barker. As he turned the fragile pages, he found a passage that had been underlined.
"Here we are," Mr. Whitmore said, his voice gentle. "This passage, Proverbs 22:28, reads: 'Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.' It’s a reminder to honor and respect the heritage and values passed down through generations."
As they continued to examine the Bible, Emma noticed something unusual tucked between the pages. "Look! There's a note here," she exclaimed, carefully unfolding the yellowed paper.
Mr.
Whitmore's eyes widened in surprise. "This appears to be a note written by
Gracelin Barker herself," he said, reading aloud
They imagined themselves there as He continued to speak. Like a dream in their heart.
Gracelin Barker gathered her children around her in the dimly lit parlor. The atmosphere was heavy with grief, yet her voice carried a note of gentle reassurance. She held the old Bible close, her hands trembling slightly as she prepared to read the note she had written.
"Come closer, my dear ones," she said softly, her eyes filled with love. "I have something important to share with you."
Her children huddled together, their faces reflecting a mix of sorrow and curiosity. Gracelin unfolded the note, her voice steady but filled with emotion. I wrote this for you so that I would not forget to give to you the message your Father wanted to give to you.
My Dearest Children,
As you read these words, know that I have written them with a heart full of love and sorrow. Your father, Edward, is now in heaven, watching over us. He was a man of great honor and bravery, and his spirit will always be with us.
In these pages of my diary, torn out,
I have written a devotion to remind you of his love and the faith that
sustained him.
Proverbs 20:7 says,
'The just man walketh in his
integrity: his children are blessed after him.'
Your father walked in integrity, and his life was a testament to his faith and love for our family.
As we grieve his loss, let us find comfort in the promises of God.
John 15:13 tells us,
'Greater love hath no man than this,
that a man lay down his life for his friends.'
Your father's sacrifice was a reflection of Christ's love for us.
Though we may worry for our lives without him, let us hold on to our faith.
Ephesians 5:25 reminds us,
'Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ
also loved the church, and gave himself for it.'
Your father's love for us was deep and unwavering, and we must carry
that love forward.
It was your father's deepest wish that each of you know Christ as your Savior. He feared that in these troubled times, without him to guide you, you might face the perils of war without the spiritual safety of salvation. He did not want you to be lost, to face eternity without the grace of God. Which many this hour suffer in the fiery torments of hell for not accepting the gift God has given.
To be saved, my dear children, you must believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who died for our sins and rose again. Romans 10:9 says, 'If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.' This faith is your shield and comfort in these uncertain times.
Pray to Him, confess your sins, and accept His forgiveness. Let His love and sacrifice be your guiding light. Know that through Christ, we have the promise of eternal life, and that one day, we shall all be reunited in heaven.
Remember, my dear children, that we
are never alone. God's love and your father's spirit will guide us through the
darkest of times. Let us honor his memory by living with hope God desires us to
have, loving Him and each other, and faith that endures.
With all my love, Mother
As Gracelin finished reading, tears streamed down her cheeks. Her children huddled around her as they wept together, their hearts aching with grief but also filled with a sense of comfort and hope. They clung to their mother, finding solace in her words and in the faith that bound them together.
. "Let this memory remind you of your father's love and the promises of God."
The children looked up at her with tear-filled eyes, their spirits lifted by the devotion and the love that had been shared. The room seemed to glow with a sense of peace and unity, as the family embraced the legacy of faith and love left by Edward Barker.
Gracelin gently wiped her children's tears away, her heart aching with both grief and hope. "Remember, my dear ones, Jesus will comfort you as a father does his children. Let us not grieve as those who have no hope." The children nodded, their spirits uplifted by their mother's words. As night began to fall, Gracelin tucked the letter into her Bible for them to read again someday.
Later in the Present Day:
Emma and Liam, having spent an enriching day at the museum, found themselves deeply moved by their ancestors' legacy. As they prepared to leave, Liam said, "It's time for us to go now."
Emma,
filled with curiosity, replied, "I want to learn more about the Barker
family."
"I do too," Liam agreed, "but
we promised Mom we'd be back by 4:00 PM."
The newspaper man, who had been meticulously taking notes, approached them. "Be sure to read Sunday's paper," he said with a knowing smile.
"We will," Emma and Liam chorused, waving goodbye as they left the museum.
Sunday Morning:
The community buzzed with excitement as
the Sunday paper hit the stands. The headline read: "The Discovered Love
Note: A Family's Legacy of Faith and Love".
The article detailed the touching story of
Gracelin's devotion, Edward's heroism, and the family's unwavering faith.
Readers were captivated by the amazing
story. Many were moved to tears, and the story spread through the town like
wildfire. People discussed the legacy of love and faith, and many were inspired
to learn more about Christ and salvation.
The
impact of the discovered love note extended far beyond the museum, touching
hearts and minds throughout the community. It served as a powerful reminder of
the importance of salvation, continuing In faith, and the hope that gives us
enduring strength. The hope we have in Christ and the promises He has given us.
Emma and Liam, having read the article,
felt a deep sense of blessedness and connection to their heritage. They knew
that their ancestors' legacy would continue to inspire and guide their family
for generations to come.
What other discoveries are yet to be
discovered with this great historical find?
Susan Barker Nikitenko March 1, 2025©
"Hope itself is like a star—not to be seen in the sunshine of prosperity, and only to be discovered in the night of adversity." Spurgeon
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