Showing posts with label hope. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

THE NIGHT THE SNOW CAME DOWN

❄️ THE NIGHT THE SNOW CAME DOWN

A Story for Children, Parents, and Every Heart That Needs Hope

The storm arrived without warning. One moment the town of Maple Ridge was quiet, wrapped in the soft hush of winter; the next, the sky turned a deep, swirling gray. Snow began to fall in thick, heavy sheets—so fast that the streets disappeared beneath it. In the little yellow house at the end of Pine Street, the Carter family gathered at the window, watching the storm swallow the world outside.
“This is worse than the forecast said,” Dad murmured, pulling the curtains closed. Mom nodded, already lighting candles and checking the emergency kit. Twelve‑year‑old Baily and her little brother Caleb exchanged wide‑eyed looks. They had practiced storm drills before, but this felt different—bigger, louder, and strangely alive. The wind howled like a warning.
When the lights flickered and finally went out, Caleb grabbed Baily's hand. “Are we gonna be okay?” he whispered. Baily squeezed back. “We will. Mom and Dad know what to do.” And they did. Because they had prepared. Flashlights were ready. Blankets were stacked. A battery radio crackled to life. Dad gathered everyone in the living room and said, “We stick together. We listen. We help each other. That’s how we get through storms.”
Hours passed, and the storm only grew stronger. Snow piled against the doors. The house creaked under the weight of the wind. Then came a knock—faint, but unmistakable. Dad opened the door to find their elderly neighbor, Mr. Thompson, shivering and half‑buried in snow. His heat had gone out, and he couldn’t stay alone. Without hesitation, the Carters brought him inside, wrapped him in blankets, and sat him by the fire. “Thank you,” he whispered. “I didn’t know where else to go.”
As the night deepened, the storm knocked down trees, blocked roads, and cut off phone lines. Fear tried to creep into the house like a cold draft. But Mom gathered everyone in a circle. “We’re going to pray,” she said gently. “Not because we’re afraid, but because God is with us, and we trust Him.” Baily prayed for peace. Caleb prayed for warmth. Dad prayed for wisdom. Mr. Thompson prayed for strength. And somehow, the room felt warmer.
Later, a loud crack echoed outside. A tree had fallen across the Carters’ driveway, crushing their shed. Caleb jumped, but Dad placed a steady hand on his shoulder. “This is why we stay calm. This is why we listen. Storms test us—but they also teach us.” Together, they checked the house for damage, each person doing their part. Baily held the flashlight. Caleb carried tools. Mom kept the fire going. Even Mr. Thompson helped by giving advice from years of experience.
By morning, the storm had slowed, but the world outside was buried. Snowdrifts rose taller than the mailbox. The Carters bundled up and stepped outside to assess the damage. That’s when they heard shouting down the street. The Johnson family was stuck—snow had trapped their front door shut. Without hesitation, Dad called out, “Let’s go help!” And the whole Carter family... Father first, then, soon after Mother and kids. They bundled up tightly—scarves wrapped, hats pulled low, coats zipped to their chins—ready to face the deep snow together. It took teamwork. It took patience. It took listening to instructions and trusting each other. Baily learned how to shovel in a rhythm. Caleb learned to follow Dad’s voice even when the wind drowned everything else out. Mom encouraged the Johnson kids, who were scared and crying. And when the door finally opened, everyone cheered. The Johnsons hugged the Carters tightly. “We couldn’t have done this alone,” Mrs. Johnson said with tears in her eyes.—grabbed shovels and trudged through the deep snow.
It took teamwork. It took patience. It took listening to instructions and trusting each other. Baily learned how to shovel in a rhythm. Caleb learned to follow Dad’s voice even when the wind drowned everything else out. Mom encouraged the Johnson kids, who were scared and crying. And when the door finally opened, everyone cheered. The Johnsons hugged the Carters tightly. “We couldn’t have done this alone,” Mrs. Johnson said with tears in her eyes.
As the neighborhood slowly came back to life, something beautiful happened. People shared food. Kids helped shovel walkways. Parents checked on elderly neighbors. The storm that had threatened to tear the town apart had instead pulled it together. Baily looked around and whispered, “It’s like God used the snow to teach us how to love.”
That night, as the Carters sat by the fire again, Dad said, “Storms come in many forms—snowstorms, problems, fears, disappointments. But God never meant for us to face them alone. When we obey, when we pray, when we help each other, we discover His strength in ways we never would have otherwise.” Baily leaned her head on Mom’s shoulder. Caleb curled up with Mr. Thompson’s old wool blanket. And for the first time since the storm began, they all felt safe—not because the storm was gone, but because God had carried them through it.

KJV Bible. Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©

MSCANNABENNARIPAKRPMAMPASTORG#21213434

❄️ Devotion: Help Comes from the Lord

Psalm 121:1–2 — “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord…”

When the Carter family faced the snowstorm, they didn’t panic. They prepared, they prayed, and they helped each other. But most of all, they trusted that God was with them. That’s what Psalm 121 teaches us: when trouble comes, we don’t look down in fear — we look up in faith.

This verse reminds us that our help doesn’t come from ourselves, or from luck, or from the weather changing. Our help comes from the Lord — the One who made heaven and earth. If He made the mountains, the snow, the stars, and the wind… then He can handle anything we face.

Moses knew this truth deeply. When the Israelites were trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army, the people panicked. But Moses lifted his eyes to God. He didn’t have a boat. He didn’t have weapons. He had something better: faith in the One who rescues.

Moses said, “Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord…” (Exodus 14:13). And God did the impossible — He parted the sea. The people walked through on dry ground. Their help came from the Lord.

Just like Moses, just like the Carter family, we are called to trust God in the storm. Whether it’s snow, sickness, sadness, or fear — we lift our eyes to the hills. We remember who made them. And we remember who walks with us.

✝️ Reflection for Families

When have you felt afraid or stuck?
What does it mean to “lift your eyes” to God?
How can your family help others like the Carters did?

🙏 Prayer

Lord, thank You for being our help in every storm.
Teach us to lift our eyes to You, just like Moses did.
Help us trust You, obey You, and love each other.
When we feel scared, remind us that You are near.
You are our help. You are our God.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

❄️ Central Scene: Children Walking Through the Storm

Theme: Trusting God in difficulty

Isaiah 41:10 — “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God…”
Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

🕯️ Top Left Panel: Family Preparing Together

Theme: Wisdom, preparation, unity

Proverbs 22:3 — “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself…”
Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 — “Two are better than one… For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow…”

🚪 Top Right Panel: Welcoming the Old Man

Theme: Compassion, rescue, love

Matthew 25:35 — “I was a stranger, and ye took me in…”
Galatians 6:2 — “Bear ye one another’s burdens…”

❄️ Bottom Left Panel: Shoveling Together

Theme: Teamwork, helping others

Philippians 2:4 — “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”
Hebrews 13:16 — “But to do good and to communicate forget not…”

🔥 Bottom Right Panel: Praying by the Fire

Theme: Prayer, peace, family faith

Philippians 4:6–7 — “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication… the peace of God…”
Psalm 34:17 — “The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth…”

✝️ Gospel Invitation (Rescue from Sin)

Theme: Salvation, God’s love, eternal safety

John 3:16 — “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…”
Romans 5:8 — “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
2 Peter 3:9 — “The Lord… is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©

MSCANNABENNARIPAKRPMAMPASTORG#21213434

✝️ Invitation

Just like the Carter family prepared for the storm, God has prepared a way for us.
A way to be safe.
A way to be forgiven.
A way to be His forever.

The Bible says that God loved us so much that He gave His only Son. Jesus came, lived a perfect life, and died on the cross to save us from our sin. He rose again so we could have eternal life. He went all out—nothing held back—to make a way for us to be rescued.

Storms will come. Life will shake us. But when we are prepared in Christ, we are safe in His salvation.
Not because we are strong…
but because He is.

If you have never trusted Him, today is the perfect day.
Call on Him.
Believe in Him.
Receive the gift He already paid for.

Because when the greatest storm of all—sin—threatened to destroy us,
Jesus stepped in, opened the door, and carried us to safety.

And He is still doing that today.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©

MSCANNABENNARIPAKRPMAMPASTORG#21213434

✝️ A Loving Invitation

Just like Mr. Thompson could have died alone in the cold, every person in this world faces a danger far greater than any snowstorm. The Bible teaches that because of sin, we are separated from God — and the end of that path is Hell. It’s real, it’s serious, and it’s something God never wanted for a single soul.

But love stepped in.
Love sent Jesus.

God saw that we could not rescue ourselves. No amount of good works, no amount of trying harder, no amount of “being better” could save us. So God made the only way that would ever work… Himself.

Jesus came down into our world the way a rescuer steps into a blizzard.
He faced the storm of sin, the coldness of rejection, and the darkness of the cross — all so we wouldn’t have to face the punishment we deserved.

Just like the old man found warmth, safety, and help when he knocked on the Carters’ door, every person needs a place of rescue.
And God opened that door wide through His Son.

Jesus died for our sins.
He rose again to give us life.
He offers salvation freely to anyone who will come to Him.

God does not want anyone to go to Hell — not you, not your children, not your family, not your neighbors.
That’s why He went all out.
That’s why He gave His Son.
That’s why the invitation is still open today.

Being prepared means being saved.
Being saved means trusting Jesus alone.
And trusting Jesus means you are safe forever in His care.

If you have never called on Him, do it now.
He is the Rescuer.
He is the Way.
He is the warmth in the storm.
And He is waiting for you.

.Invitation

✝️ A Shorter Children’s Version

Just like Mr. Thompson needed help in the snowstorm, every person needs help from God. The old man could have died in the cold, but he found a warm house and people who cared.

The Bible says we all need to be rescued too — not from snow, but from sin. Sin separates us from God, and without Jesus we would be lost forever.

But God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to save us. Jesus came because God does not want anyone to be far from Him or to face punishment.

Jesus died for our sins, He rose again, and He made the only way for us to be saved.

When we trust Jesus, we are safe — just like someone safe inside a warm house during a storm. He forgives us, He loves us, and He promises to stay with us forever.

Jesus is God’s rescue plan. And He made it just for you.

✝️ Closing Prayer

(For Both Invitations — Children & Adults)

Dear Lord,
Thank You for loving us so much.
Thank You for sending Jesus to rescue us,
just like the old man in the snowstorm found help
when he needed it most.

Help us remember that we all need Your help too.
We cannot save ourselves,
but You made a way through Your Son.
You don’t want anyone to be lost,
and we thank You for giving us the only way to be saved.

Teach us to trust You,
to obey You,
and to come to You in prayer
when life feels cold, scary, or difficult.
Help us work together, love each other,
and be ready to help those around us.

If anyone here has never trusted Jesus,
please touch their heart today.
Show them Your love,
draw them close,
and help them say “yes” to the rescue You offer.

Thank You for being our warmth in the storm,
our safety,
our Savior,
and our forever home.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2nd Option

✝️ Responsive Prayer

Leader / Group

Leader: Lord, You are our help in every storm.
Group: We trust You, Lord.

Leader: When life feels cold, scary, or confusing…
Group: We trust You, Lord.

Leader: When we face trouble we cannot fix…
Group: We trust You, Lord.

Leader: Thank You for sending Jesus to rescue us.
Group: You love us, Lord.

Leader: Thank You for making a way for us to be saved.
Group: You love us, Lord.

Leader: Teach us to obey You and listen to Your voice.
Group: Help us follow You.

Leader: Teach us to work together and help one another.
Group: Help us love each other.

Leader: When storms come — big or small — remind us You are near.
Group: You are with us, Lord.

Leader: If anyone here has never trusted Jesus…
Group: Touch their hearts, Lord.

Leader: Thank You for being our warmth, our safety, and our Savior.
Group: We praise You, Lord.

Leader: In Jesus’ name.
Group: Amen.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©

MSCANNABENNARIPAKRPMAMPASTORG#21213434

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Saturday, September 27, 2025

🍂 A Painting of Hunger and Hope — Inspired by Matthew 5:6

Only Use Picture For This Writing

🍂 A Painting of Hunger and Hope — Inspired by Matthew 5:6

The leaves on the trees are beautifully greenish blue. They are slowly changing to a bright new hue—amber, gold, and crimson—like hearts awakening to truth. Each leaf seems to whisper a longing, a quiet ache for something more. The branches stretch upward, not in surrender, but in yearning.

A winding path cuts through the forest floor, dappled with light and shadow. It leads toward a distant hill where the sun is rising, casting warm rays across the sky. The sunrise is not just light—it’s promise. The word Righteousness is etched into the path itself, glowing faintly as if lit from within.

To the left of the path, a child kneels beside a stream, cupping water in their hands. Their face is turned upward, eyes closed, lips parted—not in speech, but in thirst. The water sparkles as it pours through their fingers, yet somehow, they are not disappointed. They are being filled.

On the right, an older figure holds a bowl—empty, but expectant. Above them, a gentle hand reaches down from the clouds, pouring golden light into the bowl. It’s not food, not drink, but something deeper. Truth. Presence. Peace. The bowl glows as it receives what the world cannot give.

Scattered throughout the scene are symbols of hunger and thirst: a loaf resting on a stone, a cup nestled in fallen leaves, a vine curling around a tree trunk. Each one untouched, yet radiant—waiting for the soul that seeks.

In the sky, soft clouds drift like prayers. One cloud forms the shape of a heart, pierced by light. Another resembles a dove in flight. The heavens are not distant—they are leaning in, ready to respond.

At the bottom of the painting, in elegant script, the verse is written: “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” The words shimmer slightly, as if alive—inviting the viewer to step into the scene, to walk the path, to lift their bowl.

This is not just a painting. It is a parable in color. A visual prayer. A reminder that the deepest hunger is holy, and the truest thirst leads to God. In every leaf, every shadow, every sunrise, the promise remains: You will be filled.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© CopANNABENPBKBNMRMPMGEORGMBMMP#8b

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

When Morning First Began

When Morning First Began

Verse 1

When morning first began, no echo touched the air,

No river ran with laughter, no sky knew how to share.

But Love stood still in silence, a spark behind the veil—

A whisper not yet spoken, a story to unveil.

Chorus

Then light came dancing over hills,

The oceans clapped, the stars stood still.

From breath and dust, a soul was made,

And heaven sang in bright cascade.

Oh, the glory—oh, the plan,

It all began… when morning first began

Verse 2

No meadow knew the dew, no tree had touched the sun,

No foot had met the garden, no race had yet begun.

But mercy dreamed of rainbows, and grace composed the breeze,

The Maker wrote the rhythm beneath unfathomed seas.

Chorus (repeat)

Then light came dancing over hills,

The oceans clapped, the stars stood still.

From breath and dust, a soul was made,

And heaven sang in bright cascade.

Oh, the glory—oh, the plan,

It all began… when morning first began.

Bridge

So if you find your night too long,

Remember where the world found song.

Before the sun, shined out it’s rays.

We were called to bring Him praise.

Final Chorus (soft and slow)

Then hope came rising with the day,

Creation bowed, and skies gave way.

Love reached down and gently ran,

To greet your heart… when morning first began.

Susan Barker Nikitenko July 2^nd, 2025©

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Key to The Treasure #2 The Old Love Note

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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?

"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

Fighting for Independence

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Look and See

In the book of St John 1:11-12, it says.

He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God,

even to them that believe on his name:

When we believe in Christ as our Saviour, God gives us power to become his child.

We are not his child until we believe and trust upon Christ for salvation.

If Jesus was not born we would not of had power to become God's Child.

God chose adoption and we are adopted as sons and daughters.

Joseph is an example of God. He accepted Jesus as his earthly son. Joseph loved him as his own and watched over him also as his Saviour. Go so loved and Joseph so loved.

Look and See

Look and see, this joyous day, the Infant Christ is here.

The angel’s voices could be heard from the gates of pearly white.

Look and see, in Mother’s arms, the promised child from God.

Glory Halleluiah Christ was born upon this bless-ed night.

Oh, Glory Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.

The promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.

The Messiah is here! The Messiah is here

and our hearts are filled with joy!

Hello, nice to meet you, we are shepherds from the field.

With gladness, we are here this night to see God’s promise fulfilled.

Thank you, God, for sending us this perfect baby boy.

A gift of love, A gift of peace, a gift of hope, and great joy.

Oh, Glory Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.

The promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.

The Messiah is here! The Messiah is here

and our hearts are filled with joy!

I am Joseph the protector of our newborn King.

God has chosen me for this family, for this miracle

This is Jesus, light of my life, Saviour of my soul.

I am his earthly father and I know; that I love him so.

Oh, Glory Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.

The promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.

The Messiah is here! The Messiah is here

and our hearts are filled with joy!

Look and see, the infant child that God has given me.

I am most favored to cradle my Savior and to worship him.

Look and know, that God loves us so, for Jesus is here.

Glory Halleluiah Christ is born, born to save us from our sin.

Oh, Glory Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.

The promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.

The Messiah is here! The Messiah is here

and our hearts are filled with joy!

Susan Y Nikitenko

Christmas Song or Dramatic Reading

I read this as a dramatic reading this morning in church.

Read with a lot of feeling and emotion.

Luke 2:7-11

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Sunday, July 10, 2022

Jesus Help Me

Lamentations 3:21-26

This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed because his compassions fail not.

They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.

The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.

It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.

Children's Gems In My Treasure Box

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Tuesday, January 13, 2026