Riverside Baptist Academy

Minutes with Marylou

2007-10-07T14:09:00.000-04:00

What should I write about this month? This was my dilemma. I have already written about our trip to Israel, having our grandchildren this summer and our 41st church anniversary.

So, I decided to write about a man some of you may or may not know. He is a man with strong moral and Christian character and whose goal in this life is to serve and honor the Lord. This man is my Pastor, my best friend and my husband.

When he was a teenager he felt called by the Lord, into full time Christian service, to be a preacher of the Gospel. Answering the call to this occupation means you have to be a person who can take rejection and lots of disappointments. However, he is human and it is always sad when he has to go through these times. He has pastored the Riverside Baptist Church for 41 years. He would tell you there have been many difficult times when people didn't understand what was needed in the church or thought they knew more about God's will than their Pastor. What folks don't understand is that the pastor prays daily, sometimes hourly, for Gods' wisdom and guidance. I think you will agree that most church members don't pray that often for their Pastor or their church. We need to trust our pastors' leadership. He only wants what the Lord wants for our church. He never wants to hurt it in anyway.

Pastor Dean gives 100% of his heart and life to the service of the Lord. I know many preachers and I know how one should live. There is not one that I respect more than I do my husband. You will find him to be living the same Monday through Saturday as he preaches to you on Sunday. He is not a hypocrite.

Come visit our church and you'll be blessed as you hear the Bible taught by a man of God who preaches the whole Word of God. It is not a big church because the emphasis is on the Bible and not "Rock Music" or entertainment. But the folks will love you and so will the Pastor and his wife.

His life verse in the Bible is Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. However as I watch him I see him living Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me.

I am extremely proud to be Pastor Dean's "first" and "only" lady.

Marylou Dean,
Pastor's Wife

Minutes with Marylou

2007-09-15T11:47:00.000-04:00

Looking back over the past 41 years, many things flash through my mind.
Most memories are pleasant ones. But there have been times you wish you
could go back and do things differently or not go through them at all.
Perhaps do a better job at the task that were yours or deal with
someone's situation with a bit more maturity.

And through the years, God was there, and He still is. When and where it
was needed, God showed me His wisdom, guidance and grace. I know what I
am doing is in His will, because this is what God has called me to do.

I love the people of our church and am closer to them than some of my own
relatives. Because of Christ, the hand of love is stronger. God is so
good to us. He has sent numerous blessings over the years and used many
of you precious ones of Riverside to be those blessings.

The most precious blessing is my husband. He is caring, supportive, and
giving. And through the ups and downs of our lives and my illness, one
thing I can say about him that I admire the most, is his consistency. My
husband practices what he preaches.

He always gets back up when Satan has attacked him. When there have been
church problems, when people have hated him, he showed that he truly was
a pastor who loves the Lord and cares for his people. Two of my favorite
Bible versus are Lamentations 3:22-23 and Psalm 27:1.

Here is a poem a former church member wrote about Riverside Baptist
Church.

Happy 41st Anniversary Riverside Baptist Church

Happy Anniversary Riverside to you
41 years serving the Lord
Continuing His work to do.

From the humble heart in a store front
Beginning as a mission,
For over a quarter of the century
Obeying the great commission.

"Yo-Yo Baptist Church"
It has been called upon occasion,
But part of that is simply due
To Riverside's location.

The membership goes up and down
As people come and go
Especially those brought by Uncle Sam
Who when they join, serve, learn and grow.

There've even been a select few
Who've made the decision to stay
And continue to serve the Lord faithfully
Using their talents in various ways.

We thank the Lord for the faithfulness
Of his servants over the years
Through good times and prosperity,
Through trials, even tears.

It hasn't always been easy
But God doesn't promise us that.
He merely ask for faithfulness
And provides the weapons for combat.

We're thankful for the strength God gives
In the trials and tribulation
Your steadfast stand for 41 years
Is cause for celebration!

The people who have grown here
And have through this work believed
As well as those whom they influenced,
Are quantities that can't be perceived.

The numbers have been many who've
Passed through these friendly doors
We'll not know how extensive
Till we meet on Heaven's shores.

The teaching and the preaching
That are grounded in God's Word
Are LIFE to those of us who through
This ministry have heard.

The message that's been heard here
Tells of Jesus sacrifice.
His blood was shed on Calvary
So that sinners might possess NEW LIFE!

Your tender heart for missions
And the generous, joyful giving
Are evidence of your love the Lord
And your purpose for him to be living.

We thank God for a faithful man
And his dedication,
41 years of preaching God's Word
Seeking his will in each situation.

As the shepard of the flock
It's been a joy for him to see
His people make decisions for the Lord
And to Him faithful be.

We thank the Lord for a pastors wife
Who's spirit and strength have been great.
Her cheerfulness and encouragement
Are qualities we appreciate.

She's been a fine example
And a precious testimony
Through all her suffering and pain
Her smile is bright and sunny.

What a better accolade or praise
Could a ministry proclaim?
Standing true to Christ and
Glorifying His Holy Name!

We pray the Lord Will bless you
As for Him you "run the race"
Giving Growth and Wisdom
Until you meet Him face to face.

And may this work continue
To remain true to God's Word
Preaching and teaching salvation
And uplifting the Name of the Lord.

Minutes with Marylou

2007-08-03T20:39:00.000-04:00

I'm going to leave our tour of Israel for now and tell you a little about July and August at our house and our grandchildren.

The Bible tells us in Psalm 127:3 Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. Jesus also said in Matthew 19:14 Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Being a parent or a grandparent brings with it a lot of responsibility. I always wanted to be a mother and a grandmother. I want to be a godly one and a good one. I knew mothers were a strong influence on their children, but I don't think I realized just how much of an influence a grandparent could have on the grandchildren. I know now!

Well, I want to be obedient to the Lord, so I suffered the little children to come for a visit this summer. One of my granddaughters, Abbie, age 12, came from North Carolina for two and a half weeks. Since she was here in Florida, two of our grandsons, who live in Ocala, wanted to see their cousin. So I invited them to come for a week. Now, when I take Abbie home, her sister, Allie, age nine, will return with me for a week. This will be her first time away from home without her mom.

Having two twelve year olds and a fourteen year old around the house, around the clock again, needless to say, was interesting. They are cousins who don't see each other often. Still they have this need to show off to each other, pick at one another, and at times, just be disagreeable with one another.

Oh, another thing Pastor and I had forgotten was just how much pre-teen and teenagers can eat. I have spent most of the time grocery shopping and cooking..........but they just don't seem to "fill up"!!! We notice that they seem to eat SOMETHING about every 30 to 40 minutes. Popcorn is a cheap and great snack! Just in case you need help.

Because of all the company, yes, I am tired. However, I realize the ungodly schools they attend will be starting soon and they will return home. I'll not be able to see them for awhile. I would like to have a spiritual influence on them while they are here.

They love to sit around and look at old photo albums and have you tell them stories about their mom or dad or both. So, we turn off the tv, computer, and other games and spend time talking. They seem to love this, so I take advantage of their attention to also talk about the Lord, the church, their lives in general, what they should be thinking about, and how they should be preparing themselves as they go back to home and school.

Grandparents, God will give you the wisdom you need just when you need it if you will take the time to do the same thing with your grandchildren. Turn off the tv and other electrical toys. Sit around with them and just talk and let them talk. Don't do all the talking yourselves, let them talk and express their feelings. You will find them receptive to you, to the Lord, and the word of God. Remember, you are their grandparents. They love you as no one else. They will have confidence in what you say. Be careful that you don't lecture. Be tactful and have a good attitude, even if they don't respond just as you think they should. Remember they are the child and you are the adult. Oh, what an awesome and wonderful responsibility we have. You may be just the one that changes their outlook on something this summer, so much that when they go back home and to school things will be better and different for them.

Life is different for them and Satan is throwing temptations at them that you and I, from different generations, didn't have to contend with in our lives. Pray daily for your children and grandchildren. Make a difference in their lives through your testimony. Be longsuffering and understanding. Isn't the Lord that way with you and I?

God bless your summer,

Marylou Dean,
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2007-07-06T21:23:00.000-04:00

We left the Kibbutz last month and now go on a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.

The guide and brochures tell us we are going to take a relaxing boat ride today on the Sea of Galilee, where we will be able to look to the shore where so many miracles occurred. OK...........Well, first of all the water was so rough that all of us had to have assistance stepping onto the boat. We had someone on each side of us helping and they were hanging onto the side rails themselves. Then they wanted us to sit in these white plastic chairs that you would buy at Wal-Mart for your back porch........not anchored to the floor!!!

Did I say the boat was rocking back and forth and the water was very rough and wavy? Do you get the picture? Some of us are frail, old, or just don't have real good balance! Well, this was definitely a balancing act. Oh yes, the size of this boat for 25 people was only 40' to 45' long and only about 18' across. We aren't talking about a large ship!

Secondly, It was a rainy, foggy day........we were all wearing rain slickers to keep dry. Once we got out into the sea, you certainly couldn't see the shore at all! I felt like Jonah at Sea! Yesterday when it was beautiful, the sea looked calm and peaceful........but today it was almost a mighty tempest as in the book of Jonah.

This is what life is like. One day things may be going well and then all of a sudden life take a turn.............someone you love gets sick, dies, or you may lose your job. Many things can happen, am I right? Just like the sea. One day calm the next terribly rough.

I have said to my husband so many times, "What do folks do without the Lord to go to when trials come their way?" Read Isa. 43:2, Psalm 121:1, 2, and Psalm 138:7 This will help.

Well, we all survived the boat ride and had a good time in spite of the weather. We sang choruses and Pastor calmed us with reading the Scriptures. We got our minds off ourselves and on the Lord. This is what we should do everyday. There are souls dying without the Saviour. We need to tell them about Him and how they can go to Heaven..........NOW!!

God bless you and I'll talk to you again next month as we continue our tour of Israel.

Marylou Dean,
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2007-06-01T11:33:00.000-04:00

Pastor and I had the privilege of going to the Holy Land in January.

For the last few months I have been telling you about that trip. Now, we continue.

Located 10km from Tiberias (6 miles) on the shores of the Sea of Galilee is the Nof Ginosar 4 star hotel. This hotel is a Kibbutz. Remember I said I would tell you what a Kibbutz was?

A Kibbutz is a commune where people live and work together. They share responsibilities. They share in the ownership of the commune. In the 70's the Jewish people bragged that the men and women could live together, sleep together in the commune and there was no immorality. I didn't ask if it was still the same here in 2007. No one receives a salary. The Bible tells us "The Laborer Is Worthy of His Hire." Most of us enjoy getting a paycheck. So, to me, this is a little unusual. It is similar to a large farm. The people grow their own fruits and vegetables. They raise their own cattle and other animals. This is a country with mostly rock, so it is quite a surprise to come upon this valley by the Sea of Galilee with everything so green with grass and flowers. This was a very rare and beautiful site. What a wonderful place for us to visit. The Kibbutz can be religious or otherwise. This hotel..............Kibbutz was also home for the people that live and work the Kibbutz.

A commune or Kibbutz is a normal place in Israel. It certainly does seem unusual to us but, maybe some of our ways seem unusual to people in other countries also. One thing does not change and that is the Bible. It applies to all----Jews and Gentiles alike. All need to be saved. Romans 3:23. "For All Have Sinned And Come Short Of The Glory Of God." Hebrews 2:3 "How Shall We Escape, If We neglect So Great Salvation......"

The guide told us the people in the Kibbutz come and go often. Naturally, this way of life is not for everyone. We stayed two nights in this area. Their buffet of food each night was very nice and everyone was nice and cordial. There were many tour groups besides ours. The people certainly stay busy cleaning hotel rooms and preparing food for all the guests each morning and evening. And, I am sure there is much more work they do that we don't even see. On the surface everyone seemed to like what they are doing.

We appreciated the opportunity to visit the Kibbutz and see a different way of life.

Pastor and I do now and will continue to pray for the salvation of all those we met. We gave each one a tract praying that they will read it and believe what it says.

God bless all of you. See you next month.

Marylou Dean,
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2007-05-03T21:25:00.000-04:00

I want to keep our trip to Israel in the correct order that we toured. Therefore, I won't talk about the Kibbutz and Sea of Galilee until next month.

To a point, I am a people pleaser or fun person that can be persuaded---sometimes to do the ridiculous. I'll give you an example.

Jericho is in P.L.O. territory---you know? Bad guys? Our Jewish guide couldn't even ride into Jericho with us. We had to pay one of their guides to take us in. So, first of all you say to yourself, "why am I here?" These people hate Americans. They only want our money. But, everyone else is going so my husband says we are going also. Well, naturally, I am an obedient wife---don't laugh, so here I was! The man at the check point at Jericho (plo) welcomes us to Palestine--not Israel---but Palestine. We eat lunch, since it's noon, at a nice restaurant. We have some soup and bread, mainly because we don't know what the other food is. The soup was very good. Well, now we leave the restaurant and are headed back to our tour bus. Well, outside is a man with a camel all decorated and he is selling rides on this camel for $2.00. Most of our group starts lining up and paying for a ride. Pastor and I just stand aside and watch, laughing. Then they all start on us! Well, Pastor had already ridden a camel on one of his past trips to Israel. Now, I don't ride camels, horses or such at home so WHY RIDE ONE HERE? And why in front of lots of people who are going to laugh at you? They say camels are mean! And he didn't look real friendly. I have had four back surgeries! Why? Why? Why do this ridiculous thing? Guess what? I rode that camel and even paid the $2.00. The camel and I had an understanding. If you don't bite me, I won't bite you. If you want to see my picture-----send MONEY marked gift offer #1, camel picture. Isn't the Lord wonderful? He watches over us even when we do dumb things!

Jericho is the World's oldest city. It is also dirty, dusty and dangerous. Men sit around with machine guns watching every move you make. Remember, this is PLO Territory. We went to the "tel" atop the ruins of ancient Jericho. Here you can view the lush green Jordan Valley, Elisha's spring and Quarantal, the Mount of Temptation. Jericho is not a large city. You want to see all the places you can that are in the Bible. We have read about them, listened to our Pastor preach about all these places and events. So, even though the PLO have destroyed so much here in Jericho and have twisted things, we want to visit here and see it for ourselves and even hear what they say about the place. Also, in these areas we had to use "pay toilets." Just thought I would throw that in extra. We were fortunate in that we had my husband, Pastor Dean, to tell us the truth from the Bible about Jericho which, sometimes, differed from the guides because they aren't born again Christians.

It may be under PLO control now But it was Holy ground to me because of the Lord and His Word. Someday it won't matter whether the PLO, Israel, Tony Blair, or President Bush are in leadership of Countries. Soon and very soon the King of Kings and Lord of Lords is going to reign forever and ever. If you know the Lord as your Saviour you won't need to fear terrorists, plagues, disease, or death. We will live with Him forever in the new Heaven and new Jerusalem. Someday I'll return to Jerusalem but this time the Lord will be there also. Oh what a wonderful time we have to look forward to with the Lord. I pray today, as you read this, that you can also rejoice with me. God Bless you, is my prayer.

Marylou Dean,
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2007-04-01T20:48:00.000-04:00

Dear friends,

Did you do your homework? Did you look up the verses in the Bible with the word "rock"? There are a number of them which should help encourage you and I as to how much Jesus really is our "Rock Of Ages"!

As we continue our tour of Israel, we continue up the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. We proceed to Caesarea, capital of the Roman Procurators of Judea. Here we also visit the Roman Port where ships continually brought goods and supplies into the country. This was a difficult port as I told you last month. The Mediterranean Sea was extremely turbulent for the ships. Many ships were destroyed and many people lost their lives. Here was also the Roman Theater and aqueduct. What a place! This was a mammoth place with steep seating in front of the platform area or stage area. I guess I should say around the stage area as it was a semi-circle. It is amazing to me how well the sound carried from the stage as the people performed and spoke. The sound could be heard clear up to the top of the theater. All of this was heard without all the electronic sound equipment we use now days. They didn't have all this kind of equipment. Amazing huh? The Roman Theater seated hundreds of people. I didn't really like the concrete seats--- kinda hard after awhile.... and all that height. Wow. It would be ok if you had a low front row seat though. I am spoiled and like the padded pews and being able to sit at ground level. I don't especially like heights! So, this theater was very interesting. We could be at the top of the theater and hear Pastor speak on the stage. The acoustics were tremendous.

Now, we turn away from the sea coast and go across country to the plain of Jezreel, where we visited Nazareth, the boyhood home of Jesus. Just a simple little town with poor surroundings. Most all of these towns also have Arabs living among the Jewish people. So, naturally the minarets are everywhere. A mineret is tower from which the priest calls the people to prayer five times a day. All the muslims have to stop whatever they are doing, fall on their faces and pray. I knew when it was 5:00 a.m. every morning because we could hear the call to prayer from our hotel room. These people are sincere with their beliefs, prayer schedules, dress etc. But, my heart is saddened for them because it is just a "form of worship." They don't know the Lord as their personal Saviour or Heavenly Father. They dress out of fear. They pray out of fear. They go to the temple or wall out of fear. But they DO IT! I want to say, however, I was convicted to pray and read my Bible more after the trip. Everywhere we went in Jerusalem, the stores, the buses, and the streets, they were reading their religious materials or praying. They take their religion serious.

We spent two nights in Tiberias at a Kibbutz. The dinners were buffet style with lots of vegetables that are all grown in Tiberias. I'll describe a Kibbutz more next month. They are unusual. This area is very different than other parts of Israel. It is green and truly an agricultural area. Very beautiful.

God is so good. He used all these things to teach me so much. I appreciate that I was born in America. I'm so thankful I am saved and can serve the Lord with freedom. I love the Lord and I just want to be found faithful. Friend, if you are reading this article, I pray you know the Lord as your Saviour and are serving Him faithfully in your local church. I invite you to the Riverside Baptist Church.

God Bless You!

Marylou

Minutes with Marylou

2007-03-01T22:16:00.000-05:00

There are many songs in our hymn books that have the word "rock" in them with reference to the Lord being our "rock". I have to admit, I have sung them for years not really paying attention or dwelling on that particular word.

Pastor and I just returned from our trip to the Holy Land, Israel. I doubt there is another place in the world with more rocks. Walls of rock, apartments of rock, businesses of rock, and roads of rock. Rock all around you. Not much greenery, although a few shrubs here and there. There are no lawn mowers, no one working in their yards, because no one has a yard, as we think of a yard. There are excavations going on in many many places and you can see the layers and layers of rock!

Most of the people live in apartments. So many people want to live here because of the history or because they are studying the Bible. There are many different groups of Jewish sects. They all dress just a little different than the others. You see few private homes. The apartment buildings are staggered on the hillsides and in the cities. The country is so full of people and yet it is such a small country in comparison to other places.

We flew into the largest city in Israel which is Tel Aviv. This is right on the Mediterranean Sea only miles from the Gaza area which is a "hot spot" and constantly in the news. The Mediterranean Sea is a beautiful multi- blue colored sea. They say the water is very rough.

We went to Jericho, which is in the PLO area ( Palestine Liberation Organization). The man in the restaurant, where we ate, welcomed us to Palestine, even though we knew we were in Israel. Our Hebrew guide could not accompany us to some of the PLO areas. She was not allowed in those areas at all!! So she would get us an Arab guide, wait for us to tour that area, and meet us again later on the outside. Isn't that something? This is her country, but she, as a Jew, cannot even go into the areas the PLO has taken over or been given. That was an eerie feeling to be in these places. You are aware that the Arabs dislike you, but also very aware they want your money! They live off the tourism. That is their livelihood. So this makes you feel a little safer. However, while we were there, a bus full of Canadians were "rocked" by the Arabs. It was not my favorite thing to be walking amidst men with machine guns watching our every move and not ever smiling. But remember, the Jewish people have been forced to live this way because of the hatred others have for them. No one has ever been hated as the Jews and as Jesus was and still is by some. They hated Jesus and they may hate you and I for our stand as a born again Christian. But don't have a pity party and say "woe is me". Are we better than the Lord was? I count it an honor to be disliked or hated because I am a Christian and serve the Lord. Let's be bold for Him and in no way apologize for or run from those who may criticize or ask questions.

We were first taken on a tour of Jaffa (Joppa), the city of Jonah, where Peter had his housetop experience at the home of Simon the Tanner. Everywhere we toured, I was just in awe that I was really walking where even our Lord walked. It was an awesome time for us. Read Psalm 92:15 What a "Rock" He is!!

It will take a few months to tell you of our trip. But I want to share it with you. We'll continue next month as we go to Caesarea, also on the Mediterranean Sea.

I appreciate those of you who read these articles each month. We had a lady in church last Sunday who had read my article. Thank you very much. I'll try to keep it light hearted and interesting. Your homework is to look up all the verses in your concordance under the word "rock". Just see how many times God makes reference to The Rock.

Marylou
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2007-02-02T18:36:00.000-05:00

Dear friends,

This month I want to tell you about our 37th annual missions conference which we had last week. The theme this year was "Gone Fishin". We decorate for that theme and our choir director even wrote a song, as he does each year, to go with the theme.

The attendances were some of the best for the last several conferences.

Our offerings have remained steady. Our people blessed our missionaries with a $5,772.00 love offering divided among four missionaries means that each missionary received a check for $1,443.00. All of this love came from a congregation of less than 100 people. I don't know of a church our size that gives that much of a love offering to a missionary. Also, when a missionary visits throughout the year he also receives possibly half that amount. My husband says "you can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving."

We receive reports from two missionaries in Mexico, one to Brazilian people and were introduced to a couple going to serve the Lord in Asia.

Mrs. Saundra Henderson and her husband joined our church well over 20 years ago. Two years ago Bro. Cecil went home to be with the Lord. His wife Saundra (still a member) continues to assist other missionaries in their ministries in Brazil.

On Saturday night of the conference, we have an international banquet. We have food in three different rooms of our academy building representing three corners of the world. This year we had a room with Mexican food, one with American food, and one with Asian food. Then our missions secretary had a wonderful chocolate fondue fountain for us to dip strawberries and many other items. It all was simply wonderful and everyone left with a full, full stomach.

We want our missionaries to know that they are very special people and we have prepared for their coming. We are certainly looking forward to hearing from them and learning more about their works.

If you are ever in our area in January, please come by and join with us as we celebrate another missions conference. It is probably the "highlight" of our church year.

Now, Pastor and I are preparing to leave tomorrow for a tour of Israel. Our church surprised us with this gift as a Christmas present. So pray for our trip. I will write you again next month and tell you all about our trip.

May God richly bless all of you.
Marylou
Pastor's wife.

Minutes with Marylou

2007-01-07T13:48:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends. Happy New Year to all of you. Pastor and I pray you had a wonderful and blessed Christmas. We certainly had a wonderful one with friends and loved one near us.
Now let's work at being a happier Christian this coming year.

Are you a happy person? Happiness depends upon our circumstances and what happens day to day. Are you a person of Joy? Joy comes from inside because of our faith and trust in the Lord. You say, "Well, I'll be happy when.......I feel better, I get married, I get a job, my kids leave home, my husband treats me nicer, my wife quits nagging." On and on it goes. We choose to be happy only when.......one of the above happens.

Being strong in the Lord is a choice we make everyday. Yes, it might be a difficult one because Satan would love to take away our joy. You CHOOSE to be happy or you CHOOSE to be miserable, just as you choose if you will have cereal or eggs & grits for breakfast.

When I think of happiness or discouragement, my mind goes immediately to Job. God said in Job 1 that Job, was a perfect and upright man who feared God and avoided evil. He repeats this to Satan again in verse 8. Satan was sure that if God touched Job and took away all that he had, he would surely curse God. He was sure Job's happiness depended on his material goods. However, as God knows us, he knew Job would not curse Him. He knew how the story would end.

I look at Job, and in the flesh if anyone had a right, it seems, to curse God, gripe and whine, it was certainly him. He lost ten children, 7000 sheep, 3000 camels, 500 oxen, 500 she asses, and a great household. He lost EVERYTHING! Yet, the Bible tells us Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly. He lived to be 140 years old and got back twice as much as he had when Satan attacked. I'd say "That's incredible!" Some people start griping and whining from the time they get up in the morning until they go to bed at night.

There are days, I admit, I would like to indulge myself, feel sorry for myself and whine a little. But, with the Lord's help and my husband's, I fight these feelings and moods and choose to live! I choose to be happy, thank the Lord for another day, and I expect Him to give me the strength to do that day whatever comes my way. Most people expect me to be there for them, rejoice and/or cry with them, encourage them, pray for them. And as the Pastor's wife or just being a Christian, I really love people and sincerely want to be there when they need me.

I know Job was a man, and men are suppose to be the strong ones. But, God has some strong women in the Bible, and I choose to be one of those women. CHOOSE everyday to serve the Lord! CHOOSE every morning to rejoice that God has allowed you to live another day. It's your CHOICE! Oh, if you will read the book of Job and also read about Jeremiah in Lamentations 3:21-23, you will go away rejoicing for all God has and is doing for you. Let's stop whining and do more rejoicing.

God bless you. I'll talk to you next month.
Marylou
The Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2006-12-02T13:10:00.000-05:00

Greetings, my friends,

I hope you all had a wonderful time with friends and family as we did this Thanksgiving. We went to our daughter's home in North Carolina. Two of my sisters and one of my sister's grandchildren came from Washington State. We had a house full for a week. It was noisy and busy, but so much fun as we visited together. It seemed like we were cooking all the time getting ready for the big day, and naturally, we all ate too much.

Now, one of my favorite times of the year is here - December, the time of giving and receiving.

I seem to be giving so much time I don't have and receiving so many tasks. For almost 30 years we have joyfully hosted an adults only Christmas fellowship at our house. This year, however, we are going to make a change. I know. Don't tell me. You don't like change. It reminds me of the question; how many Baptist does it take to change a light bulb? Answer; change? Why would you want to change?

Well, we're going to change to a Church Family Christmas Fellowship to be held at the church at 6:30 on the evening of the 16th in the Academy Building. Why not join us? There'll be food, food, and food. Oh, yes, there will also be games and lots of fun with appropriate decorations (Pastor even assembled a train for children of all ages to enjoy).

Christmas is all about giving and receiving - and in that order. We have received from our Lord the most precious Gift of all - His Son! We give gifts to one another in memory of His "unspeakable gift." We all enjoy receiving, but we must remember "that it is more blessed to give than to receive."

Did you ever receive a gift that you passed on as a gift to someone else? The new word in our culture for this is "regifting." A church member once gave me a pea-green colored, 15" duck dish (a dish shaped like a duck). Now, ducks have never been high on my list of adored animals. Come to think of it, I don't even like ducks. So, I regifted my duck to an elderly lady in North Carolina that loved it. Well, at least she said she loved it. Maybe she regifted! I'll have to ask her when I see her in heaven.

Our Heavenly Father has given us "all things that pertain unto life and godliness." All of His gifts are of such infinite value that we want to keep them and yet share them with others - especially His gift of pardon, peace, and eternal life.

Pastor and I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I'll talk to you again in January 2007

Marylou Dean,
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2006-10-29T16:01:00.000-05:00

FINAL JOURNEY

Do you like to travel? If I had the time and money I'd probably be going somewhere every month. Don't misunderstand me. I love my home and church, but do enjoy traveling.

Last month we enjoyed the privilege of being with Pastor's former associate, Brother Scott Tucker, in Newport, Rhode Island. We were there for their annual missions conference for the Calvary Baptist Church of which Brother Tucker is the pastor. It was our first trip to the New England area. The leaves were changing into their brilliant colors, something we don't see in Florida because it is always green. The weather was just a little cold for Pastor and me, but we liked the change as long as we knew we were returning to warm Florida. We definitely wore our winter clothing. The people were real friendly and treated us like old friends. It is wonderful to know that no matter where you go you will find Christian folks.

We enjoy cruises, and the one we would like to take next is the cruise to Alaska that several of our church members have enjoyed. Again, it all depends on time and money. Do you remember the old song; "If you've got the money, honey, I've got the time"?

Over the forty years that we have labored for the Lord in the Riverside Baptist Church, several of our dear members have taken the ultimate and final journey. They are now experiencing what we only read about in God's Word. I suppose Paul said it best: "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." (First Corinthians 2:9).

All of our earthly journeys are costly, require time, and eventually bring us home. Our Final Journey was costly (paid by the blood of our Saviour), will require only "a moment" as in "the twinkling of an eye", and we shall at last be home (heaven).

Until next month,

Marylou Dean,
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2006-10-08T16:02:00.000-04:00

     In 1893, Katharine Lee Bates traveled by wagon train and mules to the top of Pikes Peak in Colorado. She saw the view from the 14,000-foot pinnacle and was inspired to write "America the Beautiful." Her words are rich with meaning:
                       O beautiful for spacious skies,
                       For amber waves of grain,
                       For purple mountains' majesty,
                       Above the fruited plain.
     While I, too, love the thrill of the mountaintop views, Katharine also reminds me in her song that the fruit grows in the valley.
     Pastor and I have had the privilege, because of sky miles, to visit the West. Especially Colorado. We have gone jeeping and hiking in the mountains and, at times, have literally lived "on the edge." The roads or trails, as we call them, are extremely narrow. You pray you won't need to pass anyone. We have had to do this and have actually had two of our wheels on the edge of the cliff. If you slip or ease too far over....well....that's it....your next of kin will be getting a call and you will be singing "Nearer My God To Thee."   But it is tremendously exciting while you are up on that mountain.
     There are several things you notice while you are on the mountain. There isn't much water, not much growth and lots of wild animals. If you go even higher, as we have, you will come to the "tundra." This is the area above the tree line where there is nothing! No trees, bushes, just nothing....except a muskrat now and then. While this is nice for a vacation, you wouldn't want to make this your home.
     In Scripture, the valley signifies hardship, heartaches, fear, discouragement and even death; while the mountain tops imply conquering, achievement, and victory. But remember, to experience those mountain tops we must first be in the valley.
     Life is mostly lived in the valley. None of us like the things I mentioned above. We want the joyful times. We want the Preacher, at church, to tell us more about how to love and please ourselves rather than teaching us how to grow and have a closer walk with the Lord. We want the "rock church" music and that lively exciting beat so we can get a "high" on church. Whatever happened to hearing and singing the words to the old hymns like "To God Be The Glory", "Victory In Jesus", "When We All Get To Heaven"? These are songs that will move your hearts and souls to worship the Lord and think on Him, instead of being excited by the beat of the over powering drums and other instruments. I love most instruments, even drums, in orchestras and bands. They have their place. I have accompaniment tapes with beautiful background music. But it is just that....background music. When I sing the music isn't so loud that you can't hear the words which are the message of the song being sung. Oh well....(back to our topic.
     Yes, life is spent mostly in the valley. But it is not a box canyon with no way out!!! Maybe you are depressed or troubled and can think of no way out! God is with us in the valley. He brings comfort in the valley. Read the 23rd Psalm. God says "yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me: thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." We want to run through the valley, but He says "walk." Then verse five talks about the table He preparest in the presence of our enemies. If He prepares a table, then we know all will be well. He is right there with us.
     In Psalm 23 this is a particular valley. Not all valleys are like this one. This valley is surrounded by shadows even shadows of death. Remember the valley of Elah where there was a great battle? The battle of David and Goliath was fought and won in the valley. As I read these scriptures my heart is blessed and my cup runneth over. Pastor and I have felt so many times that we are in that valley with the shadows of death all around us. Satan wants to kill the preacher's testimony, his family, and the church. We have to be on guard and be watching for these things. We have to keep ourselves in the Word of God. We must spend time each day with Him in prayer. We must assemble ourselves at church to worship Him and to grow spiritually.
     I love those wonderful orchards in the valley where we can taste the apples, pears etc. I grew up in Washington State (apples, apples). It's in the valley where we experience the refreshing lakes and rivers. We can sit in the cool shade and listen to the wind sing through the tree branches. No, I don't like some of the valley life, but all the things above I have talked about make the jolts of valley life more bearable and, at times, downright joyful! Remember the valley is not a box canyon with no way out. We WILL walk through it and the Lord will be right there with us.

     God bless you,
     Marylou, Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2006-09-02T21:05:00.000-04:00

I LOVE SHOES!

I love shoes! What's more painful than breaking in a new pair of shoes?

I love shoes...........usually. Not right this minute, but once Ive broken in these size 9 flats to feel like 9 1/2s, Ill be back into bragging about their design.

My last pair of 10s kept tripping me up. It's embarrassing to be walking along and stumble over wads of air. I can't tell you how many times I've tripped and then looked back on my path, only to see nothing was there to trip on. I decided my shoes must be too long, causing me to trip on the shoe tips, so I bought a smaller size. Ok, so it wasn't a good idea. Now it takes a can opener and a chisel to jam my foot inside my shoes. But, I no longer trip; in fact, I can hardly walk. Is there such a thing as a size 9 3/4?

Shoes have come a long way from being simple coverings for our weary feet to being collectibles for a woman's wardrobe. Generally, men aren't as smitten with shoes. My husband owns two pair of Sunday shoes and one casual. He will keep having them half soled over and over and over and over again. That's no joke! Even retailers are aware of ladies' obsession---I mean, keen interest-----in their foot dressings.

If you check ebay, I am told they list 36,900 pairs of shoes for sale. I'm told if you type in your size, they offer about four pages of choices. From mules, to boots, to heels, to wedges, to loafers, to tennis shoes, to sandals, we girls sure like to walk in style. As a matter of fact, North Americans spend almost $18 billion a year on footwear----and

The Bible speaks of footwear, but even more of our walk. Especially our walk. Genesis mentions Adam and Eve's walk with the lord in the cool of the evening. Scripture reminds us of the importance of where we walk, how we walk, and with whom we walk.

Life can be so textured, full of those nubs like you see on a bolt of tweed fabric, interesting and unpredictable. We can be walking down a delightful path when, without warning, we find ourselves on a path we never would have chosen. Then we have to choose whether we will trudge or high-step our way to the finish line.

Recently, two people who are exceptional high-steppers were in the news. One was a young man who cut off his own arm to save his life after being pinned down by a rock on a remote mountainside. The other was a young girl who lost her arm in a shark attack while surfing. Both strong athletes were walking out their passions, but both now walk unknown paths. They never could have expected such a radical change. Yet, during television interviews, each of them has spoken of gratitude---not for their loss, but for their lives.

I was impressed by them. I can't imagine the ups and downs of emotions these people will experience as they attempt to live out their lives. They will have physical limitations and social implications.

Loss can open a walkway though to what really matters in life. If forces us to see and feel in ways we hadn't previously considered. And while problems don't seem like friends, it often brings refining touches to our character. It can deepen our dependence on God.

My tendency would be to put on track shoes and run in the opposite direction of loss, because it can shatter dreams. But I am learning to lift my heels and run to god who can and will sustain us on a daily basis. Read some of my favorite scripture. Lamentations 3:22-24.

Lord, shod our feet with sandals of devotion toward you. It's easy in this life to lose our way. Give us courage to run in your direction. We look forward to the day when we shall sit at your holy feet.

See you next month, I remain
MARYLOU

Minutes with Marylou

2006-08-06T15:07:00.000-04:00

Are you a happy person? Happiness depends upon our circumstances and what happens day to day. Are you a person of Joy? Joy comes from inside because of our faith and trust in the Lord. You say, "Well, I'll be happy when......I feel better, I get a job, I get married, my kids leave home, my husband treats me nicer, my wife quits nagging," and on and on it goes. We choose to be happy only when.......one of the above happens.

When I think of happiness or discouragement my mind goes immediately to Job. God said in Job 1 that Job, was a perfect and upright man who feared God and avoided evil. He repeats this to Satan again in verse 8. Satan was sure that if God touched Job and took away all that he had, he would surely curse God. He was sure Job's happiness depended on his material goods. However, as God knows us He knew Job would not curse Him. He knew how the story would end.

There are days, I admit, I would like to indulge myself, feel sorry for myself and whine a little. Sometimes my leukemia scares me, I don't feel real good because it weakens and tires me. But, if I allow myself to do this Satan will get me down, keep me down, and physically I will be in worse condition. With the Lord's help and my husband's, I fight these feelings and moods and choose to live! I CHOOSE to be happy, thank the Lord for another day, and I expect Him to give me the strength to do that day whatever comes my way. Most people expect me to be there for them, rejoice and/or cry with them, encourage them, pray for them. And as the Pastor's wife or a Christian I really love people and sincerely want to be there when they need me.

I can be strong, I can be brave, I can be free or be a slave.
I can forgive, as He forgave, The choice is mine.
I can go through in storm or gale, I can be true or I can fail,
I can desert or set my sail, The choice is mine.
If I would live, then I must die And bid this fleeting world good bye,
Its treasures dear I must deny, The choice is mine.
I'll walk by faith where I am led, it matters not what lies ahead,
And if the path be crimson red, The choice is mine.

I can have faith, I can have fear, I can believe that God is near,
Or I can doubt the things I hear, The choice is mine.
I can draw close or I can stray, I can submit or go my way
Within my heart I hear Him say, The choice is mine.
If I the King of heaven choose, If I the things of earth refuse,
The best I gain, the worst I lose, The choice is mine.
Because He gave His life for me, Because of love at Calvary,
I take Him for eternity, The choice is mine.

Minutes with Marylou

2006-07-03T21:56:00.000-04:00

GRANDMOTHERS

I used to get so tired of hearing grandmothers talk about their grandchildren and showing me all the pictures. But, I was polite and listened to all the greatness of these children. I thought, it can't be that great can it? Yes, it can.

Now that I am a grandmother or Nana to my grandchildren it is all they said it would be. I have six grandchildren and I love them dearly. Mine live out of state and I don't get to see them as much as I would love to.... that saddens me. However, I am grateful when they come to visit. Some of the happiest times were when I had the privilege to be there just as they were born. Oh, what a thrill to see this miracle from God. When you see that you realize, for sure, just how wrong it is to have an abortion. Only God can create this miracle.

Now days many grandmothers are raising their grandchildren. What an influence they can be for God, if they take the opportunity. Maybe if you think you failed your children you can make up for it with the grandchildren.

Here is a cute little article, by a child, written in the Miami Herald. I liked it and wanted to share it with you today. Children are usually honest and speak their hearts.

What A Grandmother Is

A grandmother is a lady who has no children of her own. She likes other people's little girls and boys. A grandfather is a man grandmother. He goes for walks with the boys and they talk about fishing and tractors and like that.

Grandmothers don't have to do anything but be there. They're old, so they shouldn't play hard or run. It is enough if they drive us to the store where the Pretend-Horse is, and have lots of quarters ready. Or if they take us for walks, they should slow down passing things, like pretty leaves or caterpillars. They should never say, "Hurry up."

Usually they are fat, but not too fat to tie your shoes. They wear glasses and funny underwear. They can take their teeth and gums off. They don't have to be smart, only answer questions like "Why dogs hate cats," and "How come God isn't married?"

They don't talk baby talk like visitors do, because it is hard to understand. When they read to us, they don't skip words or mind if it is the same story again.

Everybody should try to have one, especially if you don't have a computer or TV because grandmas are the only grownups who have got time!

Wasn't that a great article? May God help you and I who are grandmothers to use our position to mold and shape their little lives or teen lives. They will listen to us and pay more attention, many times, than they do to their parents. We have an awesome responsibility. Ask the Lord to help you be a spiritual influence to your grandchildren. Lead them to the Lord. Teach them the Bible. Teach them to honor and serve the Lord. God will help us.

Until next time, keep showing those pictures!

Marylou
Your Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2006-06-03T13:17:00.000-04:00

WHAT IS A FATHER?

Since most husbands are also fathers I may use either word in referring to them, lest you get confused. Fathers come in all sizes. Fathers are handy. Fathers collect things and fathers are who God wants to lead our homes. I really pray that God will give us more men who will lead their families. However, ladies, we have to let them be the leader!

At one time all fathers, believe it or not, were little boys. When that boy laid aside his tops, his marbles (Pastor loved marbles and still has some) and his bike in favor of a little girl, another girl, and still another girl, he became a young man or a youth. When the youth discarded his first girl and his second girl for THE girl, he became a bachelor. Then when he, as the bachelor, couldn't stand it any longer, he turned into a "husband". Now wasn't that brilliant? Just a little humor.

A father does not collect tops, marbles or bikes. Not that he wouldn't like to; it's just that he is so busy collecting money, shoes, groceries, rent or mortgage receipts, automobile parts, faucet handles, and fillings in his teeth, that he simply hasn't time for the luxuries of life. He is also busy trying to keep his wife from cleaning up his workshop or his study or computer room. He knows exactly where everything is in that mess! And ladies if you will admit it, we also have places we don't want cleaned up like our "junk drawers." Am I right? Leave his things alone. It really isn't bothering anything is it? Be more tolerant, both of you. Pastor has a part of our kitchen counter that he lets pile up higher and higher with junk mail and/or papers, bills, etc. I have to almost plan a party or something to get him to straighten up his mess. But, I try to leave it alone. I don't bother with the garage counters because that is him domain also.

Immediately after we are married our husbands are all dreamy eyed, and convinced he has married a girl. Poor guy! Don't disturb him....for too soon will he discover he has married a master of tactical warfare, a financial wizard, a mind reader, a judge, jury, and on and on it goes. We aren't only wives, we are kittens, cons, lovely illogical, single-purposed females.

Fathers come in all sizes...small, medium, large and the giant economy package with the 42-inch waist. Some of them are rich and others are poor, but mostly a father is somewhere in the middle. But then hey...we come in all sizes too. I sure wish my wedding dress of a size 10 would fit me now!! Oh well, onto something else.

A father is the handiest thing God created. How else would we get the furniture moved, the dresser drawer unstuck, the bank book balanced, my zipper zipped, my back rubbed, my supper praised, or the tip of my nose kissed? And, oh, how I love these little things and how I would miss them if he were not around.

Who but a father can settle our nerves, calm our crying, take the dog to the vet, stand on the top of the ladder, do the yard work, get the lid off the pickle jar or tolerate his mother-in-laws 2 week visit, be a handsome escort, and keep my feet warm in the winter? These are just a FEW of the jobs for our fathers.

Fathers love ball games....camping out....sports cars....man size dogs, machinery that can be taken apart....very old clothes...boats...golf clubs....computers....but most of all coming home every night to THE girl. Some husbands are happiest when at the computer, resting in front of the TV and the slowest when you have supper on the table getting cold; fastest when the light turns green; maddest when somebody has used his razor again (boy am I guilty of that one) most tired when the girl is the liveliest.

Fathers can change a tire or lift a sofa into another room but boy do they become weak as putty when we cry whether we are 20 or 70. Maybe he is not as handsome or trim as he was on your wedding day, maybe he is a little bald on top, a bit more tired at night going to bed early; but he is still the ONLY person in the world who can make things right when he holds you in his arms and says those three precious words....I love you! He is the one that with a touch of his hand can give you chill bumps and bring back the glow of years long ago. At least he hopes he can.....don't disappoint him. After 45 years of marriage to Pastor, I still get excited when I hear the garage door open. Because I know he is parking the car and will be coming through the door any minute. He is the first person I want to see in the morning and the last one I want to see when I go to sleep.

Until the next time, have a great Father's Day!

Marylou
Your Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2006-05-05T20:32:00.000-04:00

"Her Husband............Praiseth Her"
from Proverbs 31

When Pastor and I were in college at Bob Jones University many moons ago, every night he would write me the most romantic notes you could ever imagine. At Bob Jones you were not allowed to speak to boys after 6:00 in the evening. So, every night at 10:00 p.m. there were notes delivered to the rooms of guys and gals who had someone writing to them. This went on night after night for some of us fortunate to have a "sweetheart".

Pastor could write notes and letters that were so moving and romantic that you were sure he was going to be a writer someday not a preacher. Boy, did he have a way with words and does even to this day.

Most of you reading this article only know my husband as your "Pastor" the dignified, mostly serious person who preaches each Sunday and counsels you and your families with various circumstances.

The side of the Pastor you are not familiar with is his very sentimental romantic side. While he has chosen to be a Preacher and Pastor as his life's ambition, he also loves being a father and a husband. I can honestly say I have never heard him complain about either.

So, for this Mother's Day article I am going to share with you something very personal. It is a note he wrote to me on a Mother's Day over twenty years ago. I have kept many of his notes over the 45 years we have been married come June 3rd. Here it is.

May 1981

My Dearest Darling:

I know not how to adequately express my love to you. For me to say I love you seems so small; yet, nothing but God's love could be greater!

I don't ask you to understand it---------only accept it! I don't ask you to fathom it----only receive it! But this one thing I DO ask-----never question it! It is best if I let one far wiser than I express my love.
              "who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of
              her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She
              will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. Strength and honor are her
              clothing; Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he
              praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
              (Proverbs 31:10-31)

But thou, my love, excellest them all!

Howard

This note surely shows love and says what every woman would like to hear on Mother's Day. I am superbly blessed with a loving husband and I thank the Lord daily for him!
Ladies, don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what. Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.

Have a wonderful Mother's Day! I love you.

Your Pastor's wife,
Marylou

Minutes with Marylou

2006-04-07T11:18:00.000-04:00

Three of the greatest tools the devil has are discouragement, worry, and depression. These can cause us to become defeated in our Christian life. We ladies think with our heart instead of our head many times, but not always. This is sometimes to our benefit and sometimes not.

One day in my devotion I was reading Zechariah 2:8 (please follow up by reading II Timothy 1:6-12 and oh, what a thrill it will give you). The Lord says in Zechariah "he that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of His eye." I realized that all that concerned me concerned Christ also. The safety of my life laid in His hands and no matter how much you worry, are you helping the situation? If not, then why waste your time? Don't worry or wonder why things happen. Remember God never makes a mistake or commits a useless or ill-timed deed. God is where He can get a clear view of everything and He always does things as He knows they ought to be done. Isaiah 55:8-9 will help to explain why we don't understand a lot of things and why we aren't supposed to understand.

It seems in every home there is someone who is a worrier or depressed or just fearful of things to come. If I can help by sharing my victories and lessons that have only come because of complete dependence on the Lord, then this is my prayer to help you. Not for any personal reason.

In the last several months, even though I have been on chemo treatments, I haven't missed too many Sunday church services, I sing when asked, I try to be cheerful and encouraging to people on Sunday, when many times didn't feel like it. If I did what I felt like, I would stay in bed and feel sorry for myself. But you know folks, after each service, that I had to push myself to attend, it was I who came away with the blessings of the Lord and victory over the devil. The devil wants us to give in to our feelings of despondency. And if that's what he wants then I don't want to do it!! The devil will work the hardest on those who are trying to serve the Lord. So, if he's bothering you, you're doing just fine! Keep serving the King of Kings who died for us and loves us and will bless us just when we need the blessing.

I don't believe in "luck". Things just don't "happen" for the Christian. Every circumstance has a purpose. God is never surprised. Things never slip up on Him. He is always in control. So quit worrying about yourself, your job, or financial needs. Put God first in your life and work yourself "tired" for Him for a change, instead of working yourself "tired" for the world, such as home, job, etc. These things are only temporary, but what we do for God will last for eternity. Our Father is looking out for His children and He will allow only those things to happen that will bring blessings in the end. As a wise man has said, "we may not know what the future holds but we know who holds the future".

God bless all of you.
Marylou Dean,
Pastor's wife

Minutes with Marylou

2006-03-04T23:15:00.000-05:00

Opposites attract, but, well you knew that.

Let me tell you what you don't know. I know someone who put a red sock in a load of white laundry and dyed her husbands underwear pink. And oh, by the way did your husband tell you about the dent in the car? Or did he tell you that he is the one who broke your favorite piece of china? We don't necessarily want to confess to these things do we........ and that's because opposites attract!

Men and women do not think the same nor do they behave or react the same to all situations. When a lady is going to confess putting a dent in the car she will start the story from the beginning when she left the house. She wants him to know what caused the problem. After all, it may not have been her fault. If the department store in the mall would have had the right size hose she wouldn't have had to go five miles across town to another store resulting in the fender bender. But, of course, you realize this takes time to tell. Five minutes later he hears the news, that he has already anticipated. Now, you do understand ladies, there is a purpose behind this; the purpose is to soften up the husband and spare you the lecture on your driving habits.

Now, the husband in the same situation will just simply say he had an accident putting a dent in the car. However, it wasn't his fault or it just couldn't be avoided. He usually gets right to the point, keeping it brief.

Yes, God certainly made men and women different. It would be rather dull if we were both alike. There would be no surprises. We are to compliment each other. One picks up the "slack" where the other is lacking and visa versa.

For instance, Pastor and I have very different personalities. I tend to talk, talk, talk and become very excited with some situations. He, on the other hand, is the calm one thinking things through without becoming hyper. He is strong where I am weak. Yet, he is sensitive and respectful to my ideas and viewpoints. I can be submissive to him as the leader of our home because of that respect and love he gives to me.

We can watch a sad film on TV or I can hear the national anthem, or we are attending a wedding and there I sit.......crying! There he sits wondering "why is she crying?" On the other hand, we can be reminiscing over past church blessings or things our children did while growing up and now he is the one sitting there with tears in his eyes. These things don't make either of us weak, they just confirm how God has made us different.

The longer you are married the more you learn about each other and the more you trust instead of fearing the others responses. The Bible tells us in I John 4:18 that perfect love casteth out fear.

The Lord wants us to appreciate and maybe even laugh once in awhile at each others differences. Instead of spending years trying to change our mate. Wasn't it those differences that drew you to one another when you were dating? Think about it. Give your spouse a little "slack" and benefit of the doubt when it is needed. Learn to put more "I love you's" and more "I'm sorry's" into your marriage. God loves us unconditionally so we should love our mates unconditionally.....overlooking their faults. You'll have a happier marriage.

Laugh at the spaghetti mess your toddler just made in the highchair. Laugh at the pink underwear and go for the clorox!

All these things are part of the life God has given us. Learn not to be so serious about every little circumstance. Let's make our homes a "haven" for our family, also making it a place for fun and relaxation.

Marylou

Minutes with Marylou

2006-02-09T06:16:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

I'm writing you this month about "attitudes." As we are out and about everyday, do you find, as I do, just how much your attitude and other peoples' affects our day? Maybe this will help. I've entitled this article "SPORTIN A 'TUDE" (what your attitude says when you're not looking).

Abbie, who is ten, and Allie, who is seven, went to visit their grandma. After a few days, as can sometimes happen, the girls grew restless. Big sister began to notice that bored little sister was following her everywhere. In an attempt to lose her sibling shadow, Abbie slipped into the bathroom and began to brush her hair vigorously. Much to her aggravation, Allie appeared at the bathroom door and gawked at Abbie's every move.

"What are you looking at?" spewed Abbie. Insulted by her sister's lack of hospitality, Allie crossed her arms and asked, "What's wrong with your attitude?" Abbie shook her head in disgust and with hand on hip replied, "you don't even know what an attitude is." Insulted, lip-quivering Allie stamped her foot and retorted, "I do, too. It's...it's....it's something that stinks!"

How true. Stinky attitudes are airborne. But we don't have to take a deep breath to detect attitudes; they're as obvious as a new pair of hot pink sneakers. Just as surely as we wear our Liz Claibornes and Ralph Laurens, we can be seen strutting, sneaking, and slumping around in our negative 'tudes. A raised eyebrow, a leer, a sigh, a tilted hear, folded arms, and pursed lips are just some of the outward adornments that give away our inner attitudes. They speak louder than if we are talking.

Yes, "sportin' a 'tude" pretty much describes my wardrobe more often than I'd like to admit. At times I've even worn the layered look, simultaneously sporting several 'tudes of questionable taste.

The dictionary defines an attitude as "a position of the body or manner of carrying oneself, indicative of a mood or condition; a state of mind or feeling with regard to some manner; disposition."

Hmm, sounds like all we have to do to stop sportin' a 'tude is reposition our position, recondition our condition, and dispose of our disposition. Wow! This could take time! But we must do it if we are to be a good testimony for the Lord.

The good news is that not all 'tudes have to be eliminated. Some of them benefit us, motivate us, deepen us, and inspire others. Embracing life-giving attitudes more fully will add to our well being, enhance our relationships, and clothe us in honorable attire.

Consider Daniel: he was a prayer warrior, a lion tamer, a visionary, and a connoisseur of carrots. Huh? Carrots?

No kidding. As a teenager, Daniel was dragged from his home and exposed to a heathen culture, much like our teens today. He was then offered tantalizing morsels from the king's menu but chose veggies instead. That's like a group of teens ordering ten super-duper pizza supremes, to be washed down with Pepsi's, quickly followed by hot fudge sundaes. But one fellow in the group says, "No thank you. But if you have any eggplant, spinach, and beets, I'd sure be happy. Oh, yes, and if it's not too much trouble, would you mind bringing me a big, icy tumbler of H20?" Then he orders the same for his three closest buddies. His food fetish sure would make me think twice before I palled around with him. Not that I couldn't benefit from such nutritional nuggets, but for me to choose peas over pepperonis---p-l-e-a-s-e--would be highly unlikely.

What enabled Daniel to show such courage as well as dietary discipline? Daniel 1:8 provides the clue: Daniel purposed in his heart or made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king's choice food or with the wine which he drank. Daniel adjusted his attitude when he purposed in his heart. He was determined not to use his misfortune as an excuse to sin. Daniel didn't allow his position to determine his condition or his disposition. The result was that he found favor, as did his buddies, in the king's eyes.

Friends, that's what it is all about, finding favor in the eyes of the King. For it's in the Lord's presence that we find the presence of mind to dress up in godliness and not to spend our lives sportin' stinky 'tudes.

Join me as we playfully--and purposefully--consider our attitudes and more importantly consider the only One who can change our hearts.

   Change my heart, O God,
   Make it ever true,
   Change my heart, O God,
   May I be like you.

Minutes with Marylou

2006-01-17T18:15:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone! May God bless you with good health this coming year.

Forgive me for being late this month with my article. I am on chemotherapy and have an
unusual schedule. My mind was on my leukemia instead of writing.

Maybe an incurable disease has invaded your life, as it has mine. Please refuse to let it touch your spirit. If it gets your spirit it will lick you. Your body can be severely afflicted and you may have a great struggle. But, if you keep trusting God's love, your spirit will remain strong.

Cancer is not the "death sentence" it once was for people. You can conquer this disease with a strong desire for life, an uplifting attitude (not whining all the time) and faith in the Lord, who is the Great Physician anyway! He's in charge of life, not doctors! He will say when we die.

I have a list of a few things cancer cannot do...........Cancer is so limited..............

It cannot cripple Love
It cannot shatter Hope
It cannot corrode Faith
It cannot destroy Peace
It cannot kill Friendship
It cannot suppress Memories
It cannot silence Courage
It cannot invade the Soul
It cannot steal eternal Life
It cannot conquer your Spirit!!!!!!!!!!

I speak all of the above from experience. I have had leukemia for many years. If I may be of help to you by talking or writing to you, please email me. I would be honored to help you. My email address is maryloudean@netzero.net.
God bless. I'll talk to again in a few weeks. Be strong in the Lord!!

Marylou

Minutes with Marylou

2005-12-09T23:36:00.000-05:00

Oh, how I love this time of the year. The weather is cooler allowing us to open our windows, sliding glass doors and sit on our porches: Not discounting the fact that our power bills are lower because here in Florida we don't need heat or air....at this time.

It's wonderful as we turn on the "Messiah" and listen while decorating our homes with the nativity scene, hang the stockings, trimming the tree, wrapping presents or baking cookies to GIVE to our family and neighbors.

Please remember whose birthday we are really celebrating. God the Father loved us so much that He sent His Son to die for our sins. He wants you and I to GIVE our hearts to Him. GIVE Him our talents, our time, our treasures and put Him first in our lives.

Don't be afraid to wish people a Merry Christmas, not just happy holidays. When you write your cards or notes write out the word "Christmas" don't put an "x" where Christ should be. He is not an "x". He is "Christ"! I pray He is your Christ and Saviour. Luke 2:11 says "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord".

Pastor Dean and I send you a message of Love, Joy and Peace for this Holy season of Christ's birth. May God bless you and your families and give you a blessed New Year. I'll write you again January first, meanwhile......Merry Christmas!

Marylou

Minutes With Marylou

2005-08-09T13:39:00.000-04:00

I don't like real hot weather. Especially the 90 degree heat with that high humidity we have in Florida during July and August. Pastor and I all summer play "tag" with the thermostat. He turns it up and I turn it down. He turns it up and I turn it down. On and on it goes. So the temperature of our house has its "ups and downs". But, I do praise the Lord that we have air conditioning!

So is the life of a Christian. We have our ups and downs. We can be on a "high" spiritually one day and be "down" the next day because of our circumstances. Life is not spent on the mountain top. Most of the time we are in the valley. We spend so much of our time making ends meet financially, taking care of the children, getting meals ready for the family, and pleasing others. But God is so good! He sees to it that we get all of our tasks done and still have time for some of the pleasures of life.

I know I need to rejoice and be grateful we can afford air conditioning instead of complaining about the heat. We need to rejoice more about our lives and what God does for us, even rejoice when the "down" times come. The Bible tells us to "Rejoice Always". Maybe if we rejoice when the "down" times are here we would appreciate the blessings when they come, even more. If we really think about it, we probably have more blessed times in our lives than we do problems. The problem is we are concentrating on the 5% of bad things happening rather than rejoicing about the 95% of good things in our lives. Let us rejoice in the Lord Always! God bless you.

Thank you for sharing some minutes with me. I'll write you again in a couple of weeks. We will grow in the Lord together.

Marylou Dean, Administrator
tel: 321-773-2522