B.I.B.L.E.- FAITH...Again!

FRIENDS! READERS !

After almost 80 posts, I'm starting to feel a bit closer to you!

Hope you don't mind, I call you friend. (I'm smiling)

So Friends,

This is a followup to the previous B.I.B.L.E. on faith.

I feel the need to expound on the verses of Matthew chapter 17:14-20 where Jesus is healing the crowd and sees those precious moments as a great time to further teach his disciples more about Faith. Though, I have my own thoughts about what I read in scripture as it is revealed to me, I also really like many of the footnotes in the bible.

I always tell you what version of the bible that I write out of, for your own knowledge, so you can follow along. There are many different versions of the King James Holy Bible. I have a version of that as well and I use it also. But I really like the breakdown of the N.I.V. Still, it's up to you what you use, what you can comprehend, follow and feel comfortable using!

I use a Life Application Study Bible. N.I.V. (New International Version). Remember, whatever version you use, if it written in red, then that supposedly is what was recorded as Jesus' own words.

Jesus talks about them being an "unbelieving, and perverse generation,". Technically, you could still apply that term to man kind right now, in our day and age! This world is full of NON-BELIEVING persons AND DOUBTFUL followers of Christ. He gets really frustrated with his disciple, those brethren whom HE CHOSE to follow him!

Let's get into the follow up, shall we?

Moving on.

First, I"ll write out the scripture verse for you: Matthew 17:17:

"O unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me."

MY N.I.V. Footnotes on verse 17:

'The disciples had been given the authority to do the healing, but they had not yet learned how to appropriate the power of God. Jesus' frustration is with the unbelieving and unresponsive generation. (I told you Reader, that this could easily refer to us in our time!) His disciples were merely a reflection of that attitude in this instance. Jesus' purpose was not to criticize the disciples, but to encourage them to greater faith.

More N.I.V. Footnotes on verse 17, including verses 18, 19 & 20:

The disciples had been unable to drive out this demon, and they asked Jesus why. He pointed to their lack of faith. It is the power of God, NOT OUR FAITH, that moves mountains, but faith MUST BE PRESENT to do so. The mustard seed was the smallest particle imaginable.

Even small or undeveloped faith would have been sufficient. Perhaps the disciples had tried to drive out the demon in their own ability rather than Gods'. There is great potential in even a little faith when God is with us.

If we feel weak or powerless as Christians, we should examine our faith, making sure we are trusting not in our own abilities to produce results, BUT IN GOD'S!

Lastly, N.I.V. Footnotes on verse 20:

Jesus wasn't condemning the disciples for substandard faith; He was trying to show how important faith would be in their future ministry. If you are facing a problem that seems as big and immovable as a mountain, turn your eyes from the mountain and look to Christ for more faith (Faith in God). Only then will your work for him become useful and vibrant!

Well reader, I hope I've given you sufficient data to stimulate or increase your desire, thirst and hunger for the knowledge of God.

Bye Now, Meetta

B.I.B.L.E.-FAITH

Good Morning, Yall!

Yep. I'm up early again! I Tend to do that alot.You know something, When I woke up, the first thing I saw was my Bible, laying open on the table just as I had left it, the night before...Just as I had been starting to leave it to REMIND MYSELF to READ IT! It's also to remind me how much I NEED IT! I got up grabbed that bible and got right to the computer, With some delay though (got a snack, typing a comment to another article). Gotta stop letting things come between me and my goal. Hmm. That is a thought worth pondering!

So when I woke up this morning, I did kneel. I didn't pray or say much, couldn't

get my thoughts or sincerity together, so I just got up off my knees and sat down. Just getting my mind prepared to do what was coming into me to do. Sometimes,

it is not good to always get up and start talking. Sometimes, it's just good to sit and collect ones' thoughts. You can't hear the "voice" of God, if you're always talking ANYWAY! I know that has happened to me! I've been "in prayer" just talking up

a storm and all of sudden, I'd 'hear' "Shh." "Be quiet now!" and sometimes it would be so bold in saying "STOP TALKING!", "Stop talking so much!" "Listen."

OK! See, this is only for believers, because to the world, this sounds crazy. But you know...It shouldn't! How many times have you or someone around you said, "Something told me...to do this or do that! " Something told me." Ok! So, What is THE SOMETHING? Depending on what you believe, it matters. Yeah sure! Sometimes it's our own voice we hear, our conscience. Other times, it is not!

You 'll know the difference! Depending on what you're being told. If it is something that will destroy you, through actions you take against yourself or someone else, then you need to question whatever is speaking to you! Perhaps, decide against following that thought! make sure you understand the consequences of whatever you choose!

Don't let your mind write a check, your butt can't cash!

Back to the thing that my bible was opened to, because of course, I read it! FAITH, was the subject. Well, my bible was still on the passage that I wrote about yesterday in my 'True Believer' column, about the size of ones faith. It is found in Matthew Chapter 17 verse 20. When Jesus was talking (Lovingly scolding and teaching ) to his disciples about why they could not heal a desperately ill child. Anyway, when

I re-read that verse this morning, then more verses surrounding it and even the footnotes, revelation was given and illumination was added to what I read! Therefore, I found myself being lead to write further on this topic for you ...AND for myself. So, in obedience to the unctioning I felt, I write this:

*By the way, I revealed to you in other articles that often times, when I'm writing,

I listen to inspirational and praise worthy gospel music.

Trin-i-tee 5 7, featuring Pastor Rudy" is playing.

The words pause me!

Verse 1

"Though the storms keep on raging in my life,

And sometimes it's hard to tell the night from day.

Still that hope that lies within... is reassured.

As I keep my eyes upon the distance shore,

I know it will lead me safely to, that blessed place he has prepared.

But if that storm don't cease, and if the winds keep on blowing in my life,

My soul has been...Anchored In, In The LORD!"

Chorus:

verse 2

I realize that sometimes in this life , we are going to be tossed....

By the waves and the current that seem so fierce, BUT in the word of God I got

an anchor and it keeps me steadfast...unmovable despite the tide,

But if the storm don't cease...And just in case the winds,

they keep blowing in my life!...

My soul, my soul, my soul..MY SOUL had been is anchored in ....

In the Lord, In the Lord. In the lord. IN THE LORD!

My soul, my soul, my soul, MY SOUL.... has been anchored in, the Lord!

My soul, My soul , My soul,

I've been through so many tough times, but God stepped in, on time.

Yes, he did! That so why we (I, Meetta) sing everyday!

Don't look at me, It's all in the skies, I know it s alright. Jesus is tied to my soul!

I know it's going to be alright.

My soul, My soul!

Lord, What a wonderful, POWERFUL, relatable SONG OF faith!

Reader, I didn't plan this. You gotta believe me!

Still, Back to the article

Matthew 17:14-20

When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before him. "Lord have mercy on my son," he said. "He has seizures and is suffering greatly.

He often falls into the fire or into the water. "I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him."

"Oh unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied,

"how long shall I stay with you?

How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me," Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment. Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, "Why couldn't we drive it out?"

He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith

as small as a mustard seed, you can say this to the mountain, 'Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

Whew! Amazing stuff reader.

Faith is not complicated. It is TO YOU, because YOU MAKE IT SO!

ThesE people had the BEST TEACHER in the ENTIRE WORLD and they STILL DOUBTED! My gosh. We don't have Jesus in the flesh anymore...At least not yet!

For the bible says he will return to earth...

Question:

What side of Faith will you be on, Reader?

My job is done....for now!

Bye, Reader, Meetta -Be "good" today.

MEETTA'S READERS

READERS,

HERE ARE MORE OF YOUR COMMENTS.

Remember Readers, you can "EASILY" apply your comments by clicking on the pencil at the end of the article of interest.

This one is from BJ of Detroit

Column 'Meetta Talks!'

Article, December 29th is a GREAT Day!

BJ Said:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!

"May God Bless you richly and may HIS Favor continue to be on you!"

Meetta Said:

"Well, Well. What a mighty Birthday Blessing that is!

WHAT A GIFT!...

Hoping for me the great things of the almighty God...The GREAT, " I Am."

WOW!

THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO....

...VERY MUCH! BJ"

TRUE BELIEVER-"Just A Little Faith"

"INSPIRATION STATION"

JUST A LITTLE FAITH

A poem By Ms. Meetta J. Martin- 2001

She said, "I have seen you lots of days.

I have passed you by and there is a song on your lips and a smile on your face.

I have heard of your troubles,

Can you count the tears you've cried?

Tell me your secret...

... for holding your head up high."

"Just a little faith", I said.

Have just a little faith."

Just a little faith and HE will see you through!

Everybody has their own burdens to carry.

It does not matter who you are!

You need to know, to whom you belong.

When problems arise and the world is not on your side,along with direction, joy and peace, in him is what you will find.

If you let Jesus be your guide.

Just a little faith.

Have just a little faith.

Do you know what it's like to have your life going through changes and you have to fight?

You know you are standing for what is right but,you feel so all alone.

Family and friends fall by the wayside and nobody rings your phone.

Well, I believe, and pray for the strength to go on!

Just a little faith.

Have just a little faith.

Just a little faith and HE will see you through!

Matthew: Chapter 17 verse 20

I use the;

Life Application Bible, N.I.V.

He (Jesus) replied,..."Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

Have faith Dear reader, have faith.

See ya!, Meetta

COMMUNITY CORNER

HEALTH ALERT!

HEALTH ALERT!

HEALTH ALERT!

HEY READERS!

We are always trying to keep at the head of the game on health topics, right?

Have you ever thought about the food that you eat? I'm going a little bit further than how you prepare it or the fat calories that are in your favorite food.

I'm going a bit deeper than that. Have you thought about what condition your food is in BEFORE you get it from the grocers? Well, if you haven't then you need to! You also need to consider WHO handles your food BEFORE YOU take it home from the grocers! There are some troubling things going on even in your FAVORITE GROCERS! The store looks clean and smells clean, but is your food REALLY safe and clean?

I was watching Dr. Oz's talk show...

(my friend D's most fa-vo-rite show beside the "Traveling Antiques Road Show"!) and he showed facts on the safety of prepared deli food, pre-packaged fresh food, such as meats AND the handling of the food BY THE CUSTOMERS! The latter was the thing that really got me! One lady was up on a pile of plantain (like bananas, only tougher and larger) with her knees and feet on the fruit as she put her hands on many pieces in order to choose what she wanted. Wow! I have never seen anyone do that! What was wrong with the fruits closer to her where they were easily reachable? What was going on through her head! The point is, she contaminated the food in several ways. Not only with her hands but with her body and especially with her feet! No telling what she had stepped in before she went into that grocers place, not to mention just in her everyday walking! Wow!

While many people were found to do the right thing by using tongs to gather up fresh bread or muffins from the open food bins, others were not! Here are some other examples that were caught by hidden video: Some people actually reached in the fresh bread bins with their BARE HANDS! We watched as these people, one by one, systematically reached in with their bare hands and touched not only the bread that they chose, but other pieces as well BEFORE they actually made their choices! The thing that startled me most is when I started thinking about where their hands may have been! OK!...I need a moment. My gosh!

Before you defend these people, the video caught these people red handed. They were not seen washing hands or using some sort of disinfectant gel or spray! This is really such a serious problem, that in fact, a food inspector on the show said many times, the grocers have reported r disgusting things at the bottom of those bins at the end of the day! He said, they almost always find FAKE FINGERNAILS that have fallen off while the people were digging for their bread! EWWWWW!

Think about that reader! All of that nasty under nail dirt and bacteria on those nails getting on YOUR bread!

Another example is when they showed people licking their fingers to get those plastic bags open, you know the ones that are used in the fresh produce sections. The problems with that is when the people licked their fingers to get the bags open, they most often used the same hand to reach in and get their fresh produce, beans, grapes and other things like that! You may say huh? The thing is, after they've done that, then someone else, YOU, come along and touch the same, now contaminated fruits and veggies that you end up taking home with your purchases! Disgusting!

I KNOW, THIS HELPED ME TO RE-THINK MY GROCERY TRIPS! YOU TOO?

OK! Though I didn't get to watch the whole show, which I am sad about, because it was great info. The thing is, I did catch Dr. Oz's 5 recommended ways that you can ensure SOME cleanliness of your food choices. By applying more safe methods in choosing and HANDLING THE food while your still at the grocers!

So, here goes!

#1. CHECK THE DATES:-Did you ever wonder why your breads and things did not last as long as you though they should?

Check the dates, Both the Sell by date and the Use by date.

They are often very different. That is OK, but be very careful!

While the SELL By date is put on by the grocers at Their discretion! The USE BY date is put on by the food companies!

#2. CHECK TEMPERATURES:

KEEP COLD food cold and hot food hot!

Look at the thermometers in these sections.

Cold food should read 41 degrees Celsius or less. At 42 degrees and up, COLD FOOD starts to develop bacterium for food poisoning (which people die from every year!)

HOT FOOD should be at least, 135 degrees Fahrenheit and above!

If these foods at your grocers do not have this temperature, DO NOT purchase them AND bring this to the attention of THE MANAGEMENT OF YOUR GROCERS immediately! If you see this re-occurring, report the store to proper authorities.

#3. PACK MEAT PROPERLY: Especially when purchasing fresh packaged meat, put the meat in a plastic produce bag, BEFORE putting it in your cart with your other foods. Again, after purchasing, put fresh meats in entirely separate bags also. This will help keep the meat "juice" from dripping on and contaminating your other foods! REMEMBER, where that meat juice is escaping from in the package is the same place that bacteria can get in, also!

OH YEAH! ALWAYS! ALWAYS, PICK YOUR FRESH MEATS, AND DAIRY LAST, just before you head up to the cashier. This is to ensure that they stay cold longer!

#4. KEEP RE-USABLE SHOPPING BAGS CLEAN: The cloth bags need not be washed every use, but make sure that they get wash thoroughly every 5 to ten uses and especially when you see them get visibly dirty. If you are using plastic re-usable bags, make sure to wipe them down on a much regular basis. Use a bacteria killing agent or you can even use white vinegar.

The grocery store plastic bags, throw them away!

#5. AVOID THOSE FRESH FOOD BINS:

Get the pre-packaged foods similar to what you are looking for in those bins. IE. fresh baked breads, donuts, muffins etc.

Those bins are not safe as described earlier in this article.

Stay safe people! And STAY HEALTHY!

Peace, Meetta

MEETTA TALKS!-December 29th

December 29th, 2009....

May be just another day to YOU, but to me...

It is a very special day indeed. You see Reader, today commemorates when God blessed my mother to give birth to this very talented, creative, friendly, lovable, person that I happen to know very well.

You know this person too, because ...IT'S ME!

HA, HA, HA!

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY! GO, OH YEAH! IT'S MY BIRTHDAY, OH YEAH!

Aw man! Reader, I woke up this morning and decided that I was going to have a good attitude about today. I'm not going to concentrate on what I DIDN'T accomplish, the mistakes I've made, nor the bad celebrations of birthdays past. I decided instead to focus on the good of my life, the fact that I've made it through so many harsh times. I may have come out bruised, but stronger and wiser also.

I know and publicly declare that I was BLESSED (GRACED BY GOD), to have made it this far! So that is worth celebrating and recognizing on this day. That is worth choosing a right attitude about! It is good that I give recognition to God and my parents, because your birthday is not just about YOU! Birthdays are also about THE WHO, you, came from! If it wasn't for them, YOU wouldn't be here! As I believe, God the Father is the creator of Heaven and earth and also all that is in it! Parents only have the power to PRO-create. They are actually reproducing something that has already been established. The CREATOR made something out of something that never was! Not only that! I chose to recognize and believe in God as my spiritual Father and guidance, as a "saved" Christian. So, without God, my Mom and Dad, I wouldn't be!

My attitude could have been much worse! My mind could have been clouded over with all kinds of miserable regrets. There is many! See, I turn 42 today, although I'm not sure at the time I was born, but hey, that's OK,! I'll just celebrate THE WHOLE DAY! Still, in 42 years, I've experienced a lot! Just like many of you! But,

I choose not to think on those things, especially today!

Let me see! On my special day, I don't have any special plans. The people I'm close to is a very small group and practically all of them are hurting financially, so I am not pressuring anyone to do anything special. No! I don't feel like throwing myself a party. Being the strong woman that I am, I have done that in the past a few times and It still is much more special when someone ELSE arranges things! Something special did happen already though... I woke up this morning, in my right mind and in good health! So did my son! My household is "blessed". As my dear friend told me this morning on the phone, that is something that she prays regularly, for my household. Also, I did got serenaded by my son this morning! That makes me smile even now.

My son came down early this morning and checked on me to see if I was awake.

He went to get ready for work, then he came back later, as I was talking on the phone to one of my dearest friends (who was also wanting me to have...

a Happy B-Day) and my son started singing "I Love my mom! She's a nice lady.

It's her birthday"...added to Stevie Wonders version of 'Happy Birthday'. My son was all smiles, as he busted some really slick dance moves across the kitchen floor! He sang all the way back up the stairs and practically out of the door.

It WAS GREAT!!!

So far I'm having a pretty special birthday, indeed!

Reader, I told you December 29th is a very, SPECIAL DAY!

Bye, Meetta

MEETTA'S READERS

HERE YOU GO BLOGGERS, READERS OF MY POST!...

...YOUR COMMENTS

Column, commented on:

'B.I.B.L.E.= Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth!'

Article, "It's the Day AFTER Christmas. Still, what are you thinking about?"

Dated Saturday December 26, 2009.

BJ of Detroit said...

Great!!! article, hope all you bloggers out there read this.

B.I.B.L.E. WOW!!!!

December 27, 2009

B.I.B.L.E- Day after Christmas

...BASIC-INSTRUCTION-BEFORE-LEAVING-EARTH

It's the DAY AFTER Christmas...

...Still, WHAT ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT?

Does the spirit of Christmas...

only show up in your life on one day of the year?

What is Christmas to you anyway? Better yet...

what does it mean to you that THE CHRIST WAS BORN?

Do you believe in impossibilities?

Because Christmas means different things to many people, your answers may vary. While it was the catholic Church many thousands of years ago, that adopted December 25Th as the day the church would celebrate Jesus' birth, many people often celebrate "THE SEASON"

more so than they specifically are celebrating the holy birth! And No! Many people do not choose this time of year to celebrate The Christ's birth, considering certain history!

In early America, farmers would celebrate the bounty of the harvest.

For many, the colder season brought such special treats as fresh meat. It was because the colder season was better for butchering, giving the meat more time to remain fresh, other wise, meat was smoked or salted! The farmers also took advantage of the leisure time that the colder season provided. There was time to relax! Plenty of visitation was being done as the ground, being cold and hard, was better for traveling by horse and buggy and wagons.

The winter season was also a time they could catch up on textiles and handcrafts. So you see, back in the day, for many, many years, this season for so many was more about the fruits of the season rather than anything spiritual. So, that tradition continues now for many people still! You don't have to be a farmer to take advantage of the bounty of the season! Schools and businesses close, more people tend to travel as well. More food, snacks, and drinks are sold around this season than any other holiday, including Halloween!

Although Man (human kind) does NOT know the exact date of the birth of the Christ (It is not even found in the holy bible, though the season he was born in Bethlehem, is best described speaks more on either late Spring or the fall time there. Try searching under the Gospel of Luke.) The actual date of the 'Holy birth' was placed somewhere, during the time of Quirinius as Governor. It was also during the reign of Caesar Augustus when he gave a decree for the FIRST census of the entire Roman World, as opposed to the second census years later! Well, that's a good place for you to star, Dear Reader!

Although man does NOT KNOW THE EXACT DATE...many Christians

and Followers of God, use this season to recognize God in a mighty, outwardly way! Though, historians and other knowledgeable people know that December 25Th is ACTUALLY a pagan celebration time, involving the Solstice and worshiping SATURN or Saturnalia (The god of Agriculture). Here is a question! Knowing what you are starting to know now, about the

"TRUE" spirit or meaning behind the day and season,...

Should Christians acknowledge December 25Th as a "HOLY DAY"?

WHY or Why NOT?

Especially considering that God, creator of Heaven and earth, gave the command that "Thou shall have no other gods before me!"

Still, celebrations for the Christ at this time of year include, candle vigils, and songs of worship. These celebrations take place all over the world, all at the same time! This is maybe the only time of year that even in countries where other religions are highly exalted, when 'Christmas' and 'Christians' are tolerated! Now, THAT'S A MIRACLE!

But the Bible says about Jesus that, "Every Knee shall bow at the mention of his name."

Let me tell you a story, that will perhaps help you find your focus, even after 'Christmas'!

LUKE: Chapter 2 verses 26-38

I use the Life Application Study Bible, N.I.V.

(New International Version)

'AN ANGEL Promises The Birth OF JESUS TO MARY'

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town of Galilee to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said,

"Greetings, you who are highly favored! The LORD IS WITH YOU."

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him

the name of Jesus. He will be great and will be called the son of the Most High.

The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, his kingdom will never end."

"How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?"

The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month.

For nothing is impossible with God."

I am the Lord's servant." Mary answered. " May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her.

Comment:

Let me leave you with this: You need to understand the importance of Mary accepting the task presented to her by the Angel, Gabriel. Back then, great limitations and harshness would be put upon a young woman who ended up pregnant without being married! In our day though, unmarried moms have more opportunities! Unwed mothers, still are unfortunately, much more tolerated and accepted causing serious problems in the breakdown of family and in society. But such tolerance is the same for dead-beat Dads in our day, taking no responsibility for those children! THAT is also more acceptable and is MUCH MORE rampant!

Still, BACK THEN, it was a really huge deal! And...

(Latter Commentary):

..."A young unmarried girl who became pregnant risked disaster. Unless the father of the child agreed to marry he, she would probably remain unmarried for life. If her own father rejected her, she would be forced into begging or prostitution in order to earn her living.

And Mary, with her story about being made pregnant by the Holy Spirit, risked being considered crazy as well. Still Mary said, "despite the possible risks, "May it be to me as you have said. "When Mary said that, she didn't know about the tremendous opportunity she would have! She only knew that God was asking her to serve him, and she willingly obeyed. Don't wait to see the bottom line before offering your life to God! Offer yourself willingly, even when the outcome seems disastrous.

Comment:

Trust God that he knows what he's asking of you.

Comments: by Meetta, as her own opinion.

Latter commentary is from the Life Application Study Bible, N.I.V. footnotes on;

Luke: Chapter 1 verse 38

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

Wheaton , Illinois

See you next time!

MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN-Christmas

Good Morning.

It's CHRISTMAS!

WHAT ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT?

Yeah! I'm up early. It's close to 5 am and my apartment is quiet because my son is asleep and the neighbors still seem to be too! No little kids screaming and running around excited about the presents they got... Yet!

I'm up with this huge thought on my mind. What thoughts do I have on this special day, at this special time. For Catholics, Christians, etc. the focus is on Christs birth and the gift that he IS!

For others, it is about the season. There is vacation time to relax, visit family and friends, get involved in other leisurely activities and eat well! Still for others, the focus is loneliness, sadness, loss, what they can't afford, how the coming new year will find them! Yada, Yada!

I got up this morning with Christmas on my mind, but how this Christmas was going to be! Yes! My focus was also on the Christ. That is what got me up out of the bed early this morning. I am thankful for so many things, that I cannot tell you. (Some things you've got to keep private!) I will tell you this though, unlike many others, my son and I are in a nice, warm furnished apartment that is beautifully decorated for the holidays. We have plenty to eat, clothes to wear and ...we have each other! THAT IS MUCH to be thankful for!

As I did have thoughts about today, past Christmases, and Christ...the need for focus came up.

I got right to the computer and decided to face my thoughts and write them out! Putting them in their proper place if you will. figure that If I got them out, these thoughts wont' hinder the rest of my day. It is even quite possible that they won't continue to hinder the rest of my life! So, here goes! See, Reader, the holiday seasons have proven to be very hard for ME to deal with for several vital reasons. One of which, I have already disclosed in other articles...I don't have that big close family to take comfort in. My son's Dad's family is not reachable even to my son! So, my son does not have that either, which has lead to other problems that have created NOT-SO-MERRY holidays for the both of us!

Without much support, my son and I struggled in different ways for years! Because of this, when he was small and the Dad and I were at odds, there was not much that I could give my son. I could not even give him his Dad! There were arguments between the Dad and I about whether he should come and pick him up or I should take him over there! See, I learned my lesson about going over to the Dads years before! Between our problems, calling myself trying to keep my son connected to his dad's side of the family, I often took my son to the Dads family's home (his mother's house) and even to his house off and on for years, up until my son was almost 5.

I got my feelings hurt A LOT!

The Dad would often be on the phone with other women, in front of me. When he was on the phone, sometimes his family, (I can remember his mother, God rest her soul) and friends would be yelling at him to get off the telephone and to at least respect me while I was there!Sometimes he was on his way to meet them or already had left! Some other times, I would just be ignore. A few times he would be talking to his family and saying mean things and I was made to feel like crap. He proved to be a very, very hurtful person. Those visits were for my son and his family, but no one should have to hurt like that! I honestly thought I was doing the right thing by taking him over there! Anyway, after plenty of that... I finally and quietly promised myself and vowed NEVER TO ALLOW MYSELF TO BE DISGRACED LIKE THAT AGAIN BY HIM OR ANY MAN!

I just stopped taking my son to any of their houses! That was that! If the Dad wanted to see him, he had to come to us! He hated that, but he never understood what all of that did to me! I honestly don't even think he thought about it! This, is the stuff that started to creep into our lives over the years, even for the holidays! But those early experiences with the Dad was my education. I have never had to endure that kind of treatment from any man I've ever been with in all my life! Though it made me tougher, that kind of living...It was not for me!

I love my son and have worked tirelessly as a single Mom to raise him properly, in Christ with morals, integrity, and with manners and instilling the importance goals and going after them.

I have poured into him, a great deal of time and of my life, postponed hopes and dreams of my own! But, there is a limit! What good am I to my son, myself or anyone for that matter, broken and disgraced by any man, ESPECIALLY the man who was supposed to have loved me and is his Dad! This is the same man who who was supposed to teach our my son how to be

A MAN, "A REAL man"! What is that teaching my son in the treatment of women and what a woman should tolerate and accept for herself? So, even after the Dad and I permanently were broken up, I still kept that vow to myself! I wouldn't break it, NOT EVEN FOR MY SON!

Not even for my son, would I put myself in a situation like that again!

As I was not welcomed or respected by the Dad, obviously, I certainly could not expect to be respected by his mate! Just like those other women in his life, back in the day. For the Dad, it was about control. "Do this my way or it won't get done!" He used to say to me, "YOU should, be bringing him to me." "I DON'T HAVE TO RESPECT YOU because we are not together!""SHE SAID...THAT YOU...!" (Read my article in my "FOR WOMEN ONLY!" column, "The SHE SAID'S AMONG US", posted on November 28, 2009.) Needless to say that, I am also a strong willed person, and I deserved and still deserve better treatment, so I made up in my mind that I wasn't walking into that line of fire AGAIN!... NOT EVEN FOR MY SON! So, I never took my son over there anymore, while he was growing up ...not even for the holidays and the Dad NEVER came and picked him up! My son and his Dad, only spent two or three Christmas's together in all of my sons 19 years!

I remember Christmas's when my son and I both hoped so strongly that the Dad would call or come by. It usually never happened! Several years in a row, as our son was growing up, he would sit by the phone and wait. Sometimes, he'd even have his coat on and when I would ask him, " What are you doing? Where are you going? All of ten years old, my son would say "I want to be ready when my dad comes for me." OHHHHH Boy!!! It got so bad that I would have to either threaten my son with punishment to get him away from the phone. This happened even his birthdays! Of course, he'd wait for the Dad to call, hoping he'd say that he's coming to pick our son up to take him over there to be with his brothers, his little sister, Aunts, Uncles and cousins. He thought SURELY, the Dad would come to hug him and bring him presents! The Dad never came. Christmas after Christmas, my son or myself would have to do all of the calling to him! More often than not, the arguments would start or some mean thing said. Sometimes, my son and I, would hear the Dads mate in the background telling the Dad how it should be done, with Brad coming to visit. Then, there you go! Usually, the call ended with someone hanging up on the other.

I tried to tell The Dad in detail what was happening, but he would say, "I have my family. That's (Brad, and whatever he's going through) your business, you have to deal with that!" The Dad wouldn't call, time after time! He still doesn't call our son on Birthdays either, let alone Christmas, even after all of this time! No. My son doesn't wait for any such phone calls. It doesn't help that my son is a giver and his Dad's birthday is just before Christmas on December 23 rd. My son got very sad about his Dad on that day, even on this year!

Where this should cause me to pray, it in fact, (as I am confessing) makes me want to curse! It will do no good to curse, but you know...hmm.

NOPE! Not cursing, peace just entered in AND came over me instead!

Still, it is a good thing to get this all out though. And I promise reader, before I'm through with this article, my thoughts will be where they should be THIS Christmas!

Just trying to explain why the holidays were so hard for me to deal with and why it is SO VITALLY IMPORTANT THAT WE GET OUR FOCUS BACK! GOD is good! The love of Christ has allowed for new mercies, and forgiveness to be possible, every single day! You may say, then "Meetta, stop dwelling on the past", but it's hard when the past is staring you in your face. I look at my son, the phone doesn't ring, specific guests don't come for him on the holidays or special days from the side of the family he desperately wants to be a part of...and it starts all over again! But you know, the pangs of it are not so strong anymore. So, progress is being made! Some things just take longer than others. A gun shot wound will heal faster than a broken heart! Doesn't matter whose heart it is! It's hard for a boy to not have a Dad! Especially when the Dad is nearby and has always been. The Dad has lived in this city all of our son's life, NEVER LIVING more than 20 minutes away, driving, but you wouldn't know it! (Deep breath and a sigh)...Along with my son's angst about the holidays, was my own! You might be interested in knowing Reader, that the peace I previously spoke of...still remains AND ...I'm learning right at this moment, that when I see the past staring intently at me.... to look the other way. At least until I feel COMPLETELY comfortable staring right back at it, unaffected!

So as you can see now, Dear Reader, why Christmas in the past was such a struggle! As a Christian, especially with all of that going on, I struggled to maintain my focus and put it where it should be...On Christ...fully and completely! Because without him, nothing is possible. ...Survival, growth, forgiveness, maturity, peace of mind and of heart, healing! Nothing would be possible! Without Christ, God would not have granted human kind, the many second chances that he has! Jesus, The Christ is the world's Saviour, as I believe it! Without him, and "the word of God", (Scripture of the Holy Bible), I couldn't have made it out of the darkness of my sadness, frustration, loneliness, confusion and pain. Could not have made it through any crisis of ANY KIND WITHOUT THE LOVE and intercession of Christ! Would not have the victories that I have been blessed to have. Without him, The Christ, my life and my sons life would have fallen into peril a loooong, long time ago! BUT GOD....

THOUGH WE KNOW NOT THE EXACT DATE....Will you all join me in saying ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!

AND THANK YOU !

LOVE, FROM US ALL

TRUE BELIEVER-There is a price to pay!

This column...

...is where I discuss my thoughts and personal experiences, from being a believer in Christ. I also share experiences of other Christ followers. Of those Christ followers that are "really rooted and grounded " in the teachings of Jesus and "the word of God." I call these kind of people, "TRUE BELIEVERS".

True believers live what they learn and then their lives, reflect those lessons. So, this brings me to the topic of discussion for today. I ask you this first... (*Warning, this post contains a story of great pain and sadness, with words that describe a horrible image. Be mindful Dear, Reader. Now then, as I said, I ask you this first!...

Are YOU a Christ follower?

Are you proclaiming to believe in God or are just pretending?

Do you acknowledge, and accept and The Christ Jesus...

to be MORE than just a teacher, prophet, Evangelist?

Do you acknowledge, accept and believe....

.... that Jesus is the Son of God and only hope of man kind?

Do you REALLY work to apply the lessons of God to your life.

Take a moment to consider the questions before you answer because...

Their will come a day when YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE TO PROVE what you proclaim!

ARE YOU READY?

Could it be that you are just starting your journey in him, seeking and searching?

If that is true, that you are a 'newbie' in Christ, then this particular post may not be for you. This post is directed more towards the "SEASONED" or "MATURE" Believer! Someone who has committed their lives to Christ and been striving to live their lives in him, against what the general population of the world thinks!.

Though, many believers in Christ, have not and will not have be tested to prove their alliance with God by paying with their mortality, many more have and will continue to be. Jesus was! He was persecuted constantly and ultimately he was murdered. So was many of those that followed after him, including most of his chosen of the main 12 disciples, almost all of them! But ALL OF them, in some shape or form , were persecuted for speaking and teaching, "truth."

So, as I ponder this question for myself, I ask you , Dear Reader, TRUE BELIEVER...

AT WHAT PRICE will you follow Christ?

Christ followers are interesting people!

Especially if they are a 'TRUE BELIEVERS", holding fast to and living out the things of God as instructed through "his Word". God's word being scripture and scrolls. True believers are also guided by the "voice" or "touch of God".

The True Believer, is a remarkable person, learning things like "JOY' is what you really need to make it though this life, above circumstantial "happiness." JOY is one of the things helps to sustain you through both the good and the bad. JOY is why many people can still smile even during the roughest of times! Having faith, displaying faith in God, and his son can prove to be a difficult thing to do in this world! Especially when it is not a welcomed thing amongst many different groups and cultures. Heck, there are family members that will turn their back or seek your destruction when you start proclaiming Christ! Still, there you are, a believer in The Christ, a light in a dark place amongst them.

The world wants to stay in darkness and when light comes in revealing truth of that which was hidden, it is often a time when darkness is diligently trying to stamp out the light. Rather than just deal with its iniquities and change for the better!

Remember, CHRIST WAS PERSECUTED! So what makes you think that you will escape it? Seriously!

Yes! There are people talking negatively about you! Yes, they are spreading your business, at home, on the job, at school, YES! Even in the CHURCH HOUSE!!! Yes! There are people who seemingly are trying to destroy you through their actions as well as their words. Yes! Satan has a plan for your destruction, just as God has a plan for your victory!

There are people all over the world breaking out of Islam, Buddhism and whatever, that have been persecuted in one way or another. Some have been killed because they converted out of some really controlling religions. All because the converters would not publicly denounce Christ! So, you don't think that you have a price to pay?

Are you kidding me?

Years ago, I heard this story about a young African Boy who was faced with HIS PRICE TO PAY!

Many people in his village were gathered up and heinously tortured and killed because they had openly accepted Christ and promised to live their lives following him, spreading his word and joy. This went against their native beliefs! One day, the time had come when the converters were no longer being tolerated. The Christian converters were undoubtedly growing in number and lives were changing. The Gospel, the "Good News" of the Lord, was spreading like wildfire through the nearby villages! Their eyes and hearts were being opened to the "truth".

The little boys family was amongst those that were caught. They were believed to have been killed as well, but not before they all were grilled for and threatened for hours! Their captors were trying to make them DENOUNCE THE CHRIST'S EXISTENCE and PUT DOWN THE "Good News" of God as misguided rhetoric.

Even amidst the blood, the horror and pain no one did as that evil commanded. NO ONE DID!

They thought that would soon change though, when they got to the children.

When the persecutors of these Christ followers got to this particular little boy, they thought they had won. Surely, this child is weak!, they must have thought. When the remaining people would hear this child screaming in agony and fear, surely they would then bow and do as they were being ordered. But the captors knew not!

But they tied the boy down, making him look upon the horror surrounding him and said... "Denounce Christ".

"Say you don't love him. Say he's a myth. Say he is not real. He does not exist!"

The little boy with tears in his eyes, dripping with innocence, in his native tongue, said, "no!

Don't make me say that!...

I cannot say that!....

I will not say that!...

His persecutors, with hatred in their hearts, exploding in their eyes and voices, proceeded to cut off the boys body parts. One at a time until he had no arms or legs. All the while, trying to get him to publicly denounce Christ...

HE WOULD NOT! On the contrary...

The little boy, SCREAMING AND CRYING and BLEEDING profusely, just got louder as he had long begun PRAISING GOD OUT LOUD! In his native tongue, he was calling on the name of JESUS AND he was thanking him! The boy, still refusing to denounce Jesus, while in the presence of his enemies, "BLESSED HIM" instead for being "THE SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD".

The little boy, found to be all of ten (10) years old, knowing he was most assuredly going to die, NEVER HALTED OR TURNED AWAY FROM GOD! The accounts of this story say it was amazing, simply amazing! That village had never sen such faith! That little boy...that blessed, anointed child of God...He never, ever stopped praising and CONTINUED PRAISING GOD And THE HOLY SON even in the face of death and his captors.

His persecutors were so baffled, frustrated and tired of this display of faith, that they wanted to end it. The endless praise of the Almighty God, "The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob", of the Great "I Am", singing out of the mouth of that "weak Child", that they JUST CUT THE BOYS THROAT and ended it quickly!

*An account of this story was told to me by a former Pastor of mine. He told it to me and the entire congregation while discussing the seriousness of being a Christ Follower, one who is also ...A TRUE BELIEVER!

Matt. - 16:24-28

For the 'newbie' Christian, that is the book of Matthew

chapter 16 verses 24, 2, 26, 27, & 28

Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me, For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done. I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."

So, as I ponder this question for myself, I leave you it to ponder as well...

At what price, will you follow Christ?