My Journey Toward Healing

January 12, 2012

2012-01-12T09:55:00.003-06:00

First update of 2012!

We had a wonderful Christmas with our family. Two new grandbabies and a three year old really made the Christmas celebration special. How God has blessed us in these past three years. So many gifts of joy and love. Lois and I pray each morning a prayer of thanksgiving for the gift of "one more day" to enjoy and serve.

Visited Mayo on Tuesday. The pet scan revealed multiple nodes with uptake in neck, under arms and in abdomen which were small with slight changes overall. Dr Letendre said that it appears to be a "slow burner" at this time which was good news. He wants to check progression in four months.

Giving thanks and praise for a report that the lymphoma is a "slow burner" at this time. I have ongoing affects of "chemo brain". Sounds weird but it really exists.

Thanks for all the prayers and words of encouragement in this journey.
Blessings in the New Year! Don't miss the joy of each day of 2012

November 5, 2011

2011-11-05T21:26:00.000-05:00

It has been a wonderful fall. We prepare tonight to "Fall Back" on the clock. We have been fooling ourselves that our days were longer but tomorrow reality will set in. Evening will come earlier each day until late December. I find the days between now and December 21st are some of our best days. Thanksgiving will be here soon and then we prepare for the Christmas season. It is a season of anticipation and expectation. Joy, giving thanks and celebration will fill the days ahead. Don't skip over a day or hour during these days. Savor them and hold them close.

Lois is doing well. She had to have a hip replaced about 10 days ago. It was affecting her back surgery of last year but seems to have been a good a decision for the future. What a trooper she has been with the two surgeries in the past year. No doubt...women are tougher then guys :-) Lois, I'm amazed by you.

October 2nd 2011

2011-10-02T11:12:00.000-05:00

My son-in-law, Colin is currently running the Mlps-StP marathon...uff da. He has trained for the run but still the unknown lies ahead in each step of the 26 miles. His comment last night as he was doing the "carbo load" thing was that no matter what he would be ok in the fact that he "ran the race."

Life is a marathon. Will we "run the race" in the assurance that Jesus ran it first for us? The lyric from an old hymn written by a man who had lost his whole family in an ocean crossing says..."it is well with my soul." Experiencing Jesus' hands and arms in the midst of the unknown is promised by Jesus in his words..."Lo I am with you always."

Tomorrow will be the first anniversary of my father's death. It is his birth into life eternal with Jesus too. My family will remember him as one who mastered the "marathon of Life in Jesus' and one who helped us to "run with perseverance" and hope. Life is not fair. It can be cruel. Yet we run in the promise that no matter what Jesus is right there by our side or holding us. We run looking forward not back to finish the race set before us for "it is well with my soul."
Blessings and thank you for all your prayers.

September 17, 2011

2011-09-17T19:30:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow would be my parent's 70th wedding anniversary. Wow! To be so blessed. We are enjoying having Mom at my sister's for the weekend. Lots of fun and sharing. Family is a great blessing as we are bound together in life and faith. Hope abounds today.
    9 Two are better than one,
      Because they have a good reward for their labor.
       10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.
      But woe to him who is alone when he falls,
      For he has no one to help him up.
       11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm;
      But how can one be warm alone?
       12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.
      And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Visited Mayo on Monday. The PET scan reveal multiple nodes with uptake. Small nodes so will watch 4 months then take new PET. Blood work and exam where positive so consider it good. My oncologist felt it was a "slow burner" so was confident to wait. Pray for "fire" to go out. How's that for a metaphor?

August 10th, 2011

2011-08-10T09:57:00.000-05:00

Psalm 118.24
This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.

What a beautiful morning in Minnesota!
Sunshine, low humidity and a slight breeze...God creation is at its finest.
Give thanks. Drink it all in. Life is everywhere you look today.
May the troubles in our lives be overwhelmed by the presence of Jesus, the Master of Creation.
May our hearts be filled with gladness and hope.
May our lives reflect Jesus' presence today.
May we remember..."Joy is the echo of God's life in us."

July 29th 2011

2011-07-29T09:23:00.000-05:00

Choose life so that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and holding fast to him; for that means life to you and length of days...Deuteronomy 30.19b-20a

We have been busy with our family in July. It's summer in Minnesota so lots of family time for most of us cold weather people. Some pictures of family may help. God has provided the gift of life and healing for Lois and me. We are so grateful for these days in our lives.

June 21, 2011 God's gifts and grace shown our family...

2011-06-21T13:03:00.002-05:00

Jaelyn and Easton out shopping with the girls

Jaelyn

Easton Napping while Mom does house work

Easton the "Puppy"

Jaelyn all dressed up

Haakon reading a book to Mom

Haakon helping Dad mow the lawn

Haakon is a big brother

God's gifts and grace shown our family...

June 1st, 2011 Welcome Jaelyn Elizabeth

2011-06-01T20:50:00.000-05:00

The Newest Ostrem

Jaelyn Elizabeth Ostrem

5lbs 4oz, 19 inches

born by C-section

June 1, 2011

12:22pm

Dad's index finger and Jaelyn's tiny little hand

We are so blessed to have two new grandbabies in three weeks.

Praise God

May 30th, 2011

2011-05-30T20:13:00.001-05:00

Memorial Day Weekend Highlights

"Grandbabies!"

We were able to enjoy our kids and grandkids together with my mother. Whitney, Colin and Easton surprised my mother with a quick visit. Surprised would be an understatement. She was ecstatic. We are so blessed to have these precious memories and days.

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118.24

May 16th 2011

2011-05-16T23:15:00.000-05:00

Today Easton Hans Theodore Woelfle was born at 2:13pm . He is 9#; 21". We have been with Mom and Dad since 12:15 today. Mom, Dad and Child are doing very well. Whitney had a C-section due to Easton's size and weight. We have pictures and videos of God's marvelous creation.

Psalm 139 speaks of us being "fearfully and wonderfully made" in our mother's womb. God has provided another great gift for our family. Cousin Haakon visited tonight and wanted to hold Easton. He said he would teach Easton how to play hockey...that's our boy!

Three years ago on October 13th I wondered if I would ever see and hold my grandchildren. God has provided abundantly and faithfully. In June, Haakon will have a little sister and Easton another cousin.
Thank you Jesus for watching over us and blessing us this day.

April 30, 2011

2011-04-30T09:28:00.000-05:00

It has been a wonderful 3 weeks since I last posted. My Mother came to stay with us during the flooding in Fargo-Moorhead area. We have enjoyed visiting, looking at pictures, "shopping" and eating. Mom will be 93 on May 19th so we have been celebrating the big event to come.

Friday morning our daughter, Whitney, invited great-grandma, grandma and grandpa to watch her ultrasound of our future grandchild. What an awesome experience. The baby was sleeping. We saw the heart beating, blood flow and pulse of the baby. Measured the femar bone and head to determine approximate weight and age. The projection was about 8' plus. Looks like Colin and Whitney will have a good size baby to take home. She is scheduled to have the baby on May 16th. Psalm 139 came to life in front of our eyes...
"For it was you who formed my inward parts;
   you knit me together in my mother’s womb. ¹⁴ I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
   Wonderful are your works;
that I know very well. ¹⁵   My frame was not hidden from you,
when I was being made in secret,
   intricately woven in the depths of the earth. ¹⁶ Your eyes beheld my unformed substance.
In your book were written
   all the days that were formed for me,   when none of them as yet existed.
Our prayers continue for Whitney and Amy, who is due around June 8th will be having a little girl. We are excited about the new arrivals. It will be a busy summer with new babies in both of our kid's families.

Friday night we had a 40th Class reunion of my dental school class. It was a fun evening of visiting and trying to catch up on 40 years of life and practice. There was more gray hair and less hair in the room. Lots of laughter and sharing of stories. I was so blessed to be alive and able to enjoy this experience. Thank you Mayo and Jesus for giving me these days of my life. Thank you for continued prayers and encouragement.

April 5th 2011

2011-04-05T21:36:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Lindsay...

It would be Lindsay's 34th Birthday today. We were blessed by having her for twenty six years. Below is the quote shared with us at the time of Lindsay's death that has helped us in the passing days.

“Here, in a nutshell, is what it means to understand something as a gift and to handle it with gratitude, a perspective biblical religion puts around all of life. And I am here to testify that this is the only way down from the Mountain of Loss. I do not mean to say that such a perspective makes things easy, for it does not. But at least it makes things bearable when I remember that Lindsay was a gift, pure and simple, something I neither earned nor deserved nor had a right to. And when I remember that the appropriate response to a gift, even when it is taken away, is gratitude, then I am better able to try and thank God that I was ever given her in the first place.”

Quote from Tracks of a fellow struggler by John Claypool, pg. 82, Word Publisher, 1974. (We have edited the text by using Lindsay’s name to replace his daughter’s name in the original text.)

March 26, 2011

2011-03-26T09:12:00.000-05:00

¹²Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples ventured to question Him, "Who are You?" knowing that it was the Lord.

¹³Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and the fish likewise.

¹⁴This is now the third time that Jesus was manifested to the disciples, after He was raised from the dead.

When we eat breakfast are we reminded of the "beach breakfast" that Jesus had with his closest followers and friends?

Try it. When we pray "Come Lord Jesus..." see the coals and fire with Jesus sitting next to us. Give thanks and dine with Jesus and others who you may be with today. A blessing time for our meal and us.

Lois and I share breakfast each morning. It is an experience we have not been able to share for some years. Our new "normal" is blessing us with shared time we have longed for but limited by our busy lives. It has been good to slow down and enjoy the blessings of each day. May Jesus be with you.

March 15th 2011

2011-03-15T23:42:00.003-05:00

What do you write as one watches the terrible images and destruction affecting Japan. Our neighbors are from Japan and I can only imagine the horror and anxiety they have been living through these days. I find prayer for them and the many who this day have experienced a living "hell on earth" my only solace. I have been asked if these many events are signs of the "end times". It may well be. If it is it increases the urgency to share the grace and mercy of God in Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Today we can make a difference in another life for eternity. No one has tomorrow. Make each day count.

Revelation 3:14-22

14 “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans^[a^] write,

‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot,^[b^] I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

22 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

March 10, 2011

2011-03-10T09:12:00.000-06:00

It has been some time since I posted. We are healing together each day. Lois' back is a long process of healing so we pray and wait for her recovery. Our daily devotions have been a special time for prayer for our family and friends. Know you are being lifted up in prayer. It is privilege to pray for so many each day. It brings joy and healing into our lives. God hears our prayers and we are humbled to have the privilege to pray. We thank Jesus over and over for all our friends and family that continue to bless us in so many ways.

Today's Scripture from Our Daily Bread devotion says

Psalm 102

¹ Hear my prayer, O LORD,
         And let my cry come to You.
² Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble;
         Incline Your ear to me;
         In the day that I call, answer me speedily.

³ For my days are consumed like smoke,
         And my bones are burned like a hearth.
⁴ My heart is stricken and withered like grass,
         So that I forget to eat my bread.
⁵ Because of the sound of my groaning
         My bones cling to my skin.
⁶ I am like a pelican of the wilderness;
         I am like an owl of the desert.
⁷ I lie awake,
         And am like a sparrow alone on the housetop.

¹² But You, O LORD, shall endure forever,
         And the remembrance of Your name to all generations.
¹³ You will arise and have mercy on Zion;
         For the time to favor her,
         Yes, the set time, has come.
¹⁴ For Your servants take pleasure in her stones,
         And show favor to her dust.
¹⁵ So the nations shall fear the name of the LORD,
         And all the kings of the earth Your glory.
¹⁶ For the LORD shall build up Zion;
         He shall appear in His glory.
¹⁷ He shall regard the prayer of the destitute,
         And shall not despise their prayer.

Happy Valentine's Day 2011

2011-02-14T08:40:00.000-06:00

"Joy is the echo of God’s life in us."

Abbot Coumba Marmion

Love is the echo of God's life in us...

Joy is the echo of God's life in us...

Peace is the echo of God's life in us...

Patience is the echo of God's life in us...

Kindness is the echo of God's life in us...

Generosity is the echo of God's life in us...

Faithfulness is the echo of God's life in us...

Gentleness is the echo of God's life in us...

Self Control is the echo of God's life in us...

May our day "echo" Jesus' life and love through us with the Spirit of Jesus. May Jesus enliven our Valentine's Day even in the midst of sorrow or loss. May Galatians 5:22-23 direct this day and every day.

February 08, 2011

2011-02-08T09:21:00.000-06:00

Morning devotions have become a precious time for Lois and me. We have chosen to listen to Our Daily Bread online to start our devotions. It is a time of quiet and listening to the spoken Word in the devotion for the day.

Then we pray. Prayers for so many in need of healing and help that only the Spirit of Jesus can touch are lifted up. Prayers of thanksgiving and praise for what God has and is doing in us in this new season of our lives.

A quote that continues to come to us is "Joy is the echo of God's Life in you".
Joy fills our lives each day as we pray and listen to God's Word.
We give thanks each day for health and healing being poured over us through the Spirit of Jesus.

January 28, 2011

2011-01-28T10:31:00.000-06:00

Sisters are great!

My Sis, Bonita, has been able to spend the last 10 days with our Mom. Mom was so ready for her to come and stay. Mom had a bunch of things to take care of while Bon was visiting. They had a great time just spending time with each other.

Bonita is always ready to come if needed. Her husband, John has been extremely supportive and encourages her to go when the opportunity arises. I am blessed to have a sister and brother-in-law like Bon and John. They were here for a month while I had my stem cell transplant and continue to be very supportive. Sisters are great!
Love ya Sis!

January 14, 2011

2011-01-14T21:47:00.000-06:00

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh
and refreshment to your bones.
Proverbs 3:5-7

Trust...Lean...Acknowledge...

Faith and following where one is led sometimes takes a surprising course. Since January 1st we have frequented the clinic and emergency room a few times. It seems that Lois' has a predisposition to clotting issues. Pulmonary emboli have given us a few tense moments this week. God's hand of protection has been on Lois through it all. We have seen a hematologist at the U of MN who tested her for possible hereditary factors. She has a "Factor Five Liden" that half of which is functioning improperly. We are not sure what this means long term but will be evaluating and monitoring her INR (clotting time). Medication may be adequate to control her blood clots that tend to form periodically. Now we lean...trust... and acknowledge God's leading in our lives wherever it takes us. It brings healing to (y)our flesh
and refreshment to (y)our bones. Thanks be to God.

December 31, 2010 Happy New Year

2010-12-31T08:41:00.000-06:00

From today's Our Daily Bread...so fitting for "our journeys toward healing". Thank you Lord for the many joys and struggles of 2010.

Rearview Mirror Reflections

December 31, 2010 — by Joe Stowell

Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Read: Psalm 111

For You, Lord, have made me glad . . . ; I will triumph in the works of Your hands. —Psalm 92:4

I’ve always thought that you can see the hand of God best in the rearview mirror. Looking back, it’s easier to understand why He placed us in the home that He did; why He brought certain people and circumstances into and out of our lives; why He permitted difficulties and pain; why He took us to different places and put us in various jobs and careers.

In my own life, I get a lot of clarity (though not perfect clarity—that’s heaven’s joy!) about the wise and loving ways of God as I reflect on the ways He has managed my journey by “the works of [His] hands” (Ps. 92:4). With the psalmist, it makes me glad and strikes a note of joy in my heart to see how often God has assisted, directed, and managed the outcomes so faithfully (Ps. 111).

Looking ahead, though, is not always so clear. Have you ever had that lost feeling when the road ahead seems twisted, foggy, and scary? Before you move into next year, stop and look in the rearview mirror of the year gone by, and joyfully realize that God meant it when He said, “‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear’ ” (Heb. 13:5-6).

With the promise of God’s presence and help in mind, you can move ahead into 2011 with utmost confidence.

Shall not He who led me safely Through the footsteps of this day Lead with equal understanding All along my future way? —Adams

God’s guidance in the past gives courage for the future.

December 23, 2010

2010-12-23T16:44:00.000-06:00

We had our family Christmas last night. What a joy to have all our kids together. Our grandson Haakon was an little angel last night. Helping give out presents and opening anyone's gift if he asked. He helped clean up all the gift wrap...one of his specialties! As everyone was leaving I was helping him get his coat on and said to him, "Merry Christmas Haakon." He looked at me and said, "Merry Christmas to you too, Grandpa." I will never forget those sweet genuine words of love from his heart.

We celebrated by reading the Christmas Story from Luke 2:1-20...my Father used to read it every Christmas Eve before we ate our Christmas Dinner. This is the first Christmas Dad is not with us but his memory lives on.

Our Christmas dinner menu was different due to Lois' surgery and complications following surgery. Yet we had a full meal thanks to the "Costco Cooks!" We had a delicious meal that we put together from Costco. I know that may sound strange but what a gift to have such a place for such a time as this. Next year we will return to our traditional fondue feast...the kids were a little disappointed but will recover.

Our stockings numbered 11 this year. Next year there will 13! Two new grand babies on the way in 2011. Whitney and Colin are due in May. Justin and Amy are due in June.
We celebrated our "New Life in Christ" as we remembered Dad while celebrating "new life" as we anticipate the arrival of our new grand babies.

What a wonderful Christmas!
Remember Luke's words as you celebrate too..."But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is the Messiah, the Lord." Luke 2.10-11

December 17th, 2010

2010-12-17T23:04:00.000-06:00

Well it has been a interesting nine days...

Lois was hospitalized with a blood clot in her leg and multiple pulmonary emboli in both lungs. She came home on the 13th and continues to recover from her surgery and recent hospitalization. God has blessed us with great family and friends. It is humbling to be in need; overwhelming when others share and care so much. We have been encouraged and built up in these days. Thank you Lord.

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5.11

December 8th, 2010

2010-12-08T20:14:00.000-06:00

Our morning started with a trip to the ER. Lois has a DVT or blood clot in her leg. With medication she should be fine but still it's a little unsettling. I think our pharmacy thinks we are trying to start "our own pharmacy"! They know us by our first names which is not something to be overly joyful about...

Lois' back is mending slowly. She has more mobility each day. We took a walk at Target yesterday only to realize that you have to be able to get back to the car so don't go too far. She over did it a bit but there are benches in Target so a short rest and we were on our way. Feeling rather "old" :-\

Our morning devotions are a blessing as we remember all our prayer partners and those who have asked for prayer. The list grows but it is a joy to pray for others. This morning from Our Daily Bread we were reminded by Dwight L. Moody,

“When a man thinks he has got a good deal of strength, and is self-confident, you may look for his downfall. It may be years before it comes to light, but it is already commenced.”

...When God gives us success in any area of our lives, let’s not forget the Source of our success. May we choose humility, for God gives grace to the humble.

We are humbled by God's love and grace poured out on us by friends and family in these days.

December 1, 2010

2010-12-01T10:16:00.001-06:00

Junior in Nemo, SD 2007

Had to keep a picture of Junior on the blog.

Lois is doing well. More progress each day. Hoping by Christmas she will be more mobil and pain free.

Thanks for all the prayers and kindness shown us during this season of healing.
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24

November 25, 2010 Thanksgiving Day

2010-11-24T21:26:00.003-06:00

My family and I give thanks for the blessings of friends, family and faith. God has carried us forward once again in the midst of things we do not fully understand. David's Psalm of Thanksgiving lifts us up to join in Thanksgiving...

Psalm of Thanksgiving

8 Oh give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name;

Make known His deeds among the peoples.

9 Sing to Him, sing praises to Him;

Speak of all His wonders.

10 Glory in His holy name;

Let the heart of those who seek the Lord be glad.

11 Seek the Lord and His strength;

Seek His face continually.

12 Remember His wonderful deeds which He has done,

His marvels and the judgments from His mouth...

23 Sing to the Lord, all the earth;

Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day.

24 Tell of His glory among the nations,

His wonderful deeds among all the peoples.

25 For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised;

He also is to be feared above all gods.

26 For all the gods of the peoples are idols,

But the Lord made the heavens.

27 Splendor and majesty are before Him,

Strength and joy are in His place.

28 Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples,

Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.

29 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name;

Bring an offering, and come before Him;

Worship the Lord in holy array.

30 Tremble before Him, all the earth;

Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved.

31 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;

And let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns.”

32 Let the sea roar, and all it contains;

Let the field exult, and all that is in it.

33 Then the trees of the forest will sing for joy before the Lord;

For He is coming to judge the earth.

34 O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;

For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

35 Then say, “Save us, O God of our salvation,

And gather us and deliver us from the nations,

To give thanks to Your holy name,

And glory in Your praise.”

36 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,

From everlasting even to everlasting.

Then all the people said, “Amen,” and praised the Lord.

1 Chronicles 16:8-12, 26-36

I would like to share this Thanksgiving devotion from Guiding Light Ministries...

DAILY INSPIRATION
Thursday, November 25th, 2010

*****************************************
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
*****************************************
Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
~Melody Beattie~
******************************************
Take time this day to reflect on all the many things that you have to be thankful for. We truly are a blessed people...the mere fact that you are able to read this right now is a testimony to that!
******************************************
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
~Psalms 100:1,2,4,5~

And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
~Ephesians 5:18-20~

For everything God has created is good, and nothing is to be thrown away or refused if it is received with thanksgiving. For it is hallowed and consecrated by the Word of God and by prayer.
~1 Timothy 4:4,5 (amp)~
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© Copyright 2000-2010 by Guiding Light Ministries International. <mailto:byhislight@aol.com> All rights reserved.

Guiding Light Ministries International
1680 Hendersonville Rd. - #B-6
Asheville, NC 28803

November 22, 2010

2010-11-22T09:28:00.001-06:00

For it was you who formed my inward parts;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Psalm 139:13-14

Healing is sometimes a sprint but most times a marathon. We heal physically at different levels. Our scars start to morph into lines of red, yellow and whatever. Beneath the surface God is knitting together the layers of tissue, muscle and bone which we can not readily see. We are fearfully and wonderfully made. That being said...it still takes a long time to mend after surgery or injury. Rest and exercise along with medications needed promote the healing of our bodies and minds. For the one who is experiencing the healing process it can be frustratingly slow. Learning to look back two weeks, then two months and then two years to see what God had done in the healing process helps. It is amazing what God does in miraculously hidden ways.

Lois is on this journey of healing. We have a schedule of sleep and waking which may be different these days but necessary. We pray for healing and relief from the persistent pain which radiates from the lower back surgery. Medications ease the pain for a while to give her the ability to rest and sleep as needed. Her spirit is strong. She is a woman of faith who relies on prayer when the medications tend to be wearing off.
Gathering peace and strength as she waits for the appropriate time for medications is sometimes hard to bear. It saps her physical and emotional strength, yet her resolve to endure the healing process remains strong. We have a post op follow up on Friday the 26th. Pray for strength and reduction of the chronic pain she will endure during these days. Thanks for all your cards, calls, emails and expressions of love for Lois.

November 18th, 2010 Lois' Healing Journey

2010-11-18T08:54:00.000-06:00

It has been a week and 2 days since Lois' surgery and all is well. Strength is returning with some more mobility. She walks as often as possible for exercise around the house. Good thing we have a circle of door ways to make it easier to turn around.

We have had the gift of food and suppers prepared by friends of Lois. It has been wonderful. You don't realize how important this act of kindness is until you are on the receiving end. Bless you all. My mother (92) came on Tuesday and is a welcome helper with the daily chores she is able to do. Lucy the dog doesn't know who to follow some times as we are all moving around doing different things. It is tough to sleep as she is used too.

Yesterday marked the seventh anniversary of Lindsay's death. We had notes, emails, facebook messages, flowers and visitors who remembered Lindsay on this day. Lindsay continues to touch our lives and others even in death. We heard they still have "Aloha Friday" at Roseville Area High School which was started by Lindsay and some of the teachers she taught with for 4 years. A student was asked how it got started and she said, "Some old teacher started it..." I bet Lindsay would love to know she is now "some old teacher"! She would laugh and smile that big smile of hers.

Life is a gift. On Tuesday night our grandson, Haakon, told us that he was going to be a "brother"!
Yes, Amy and Justin are expecting in June 2011. We will be grandparents again by 2. Whitney and Colin are expecting in May. It will be wonderful summer at the Ostrem house. We pray that all will go well with the pregnancies and healthy little ones for our kids.

November 14th, 2010 Home again...

2010-11-14T09:13:00.011-06:00

The first day back home from a week of surgery and recovery. A morning of waking, walking, coffee, peanut butter toast and Robert H. Schuller's Hour of Power. Not our average Sunday morning but we are grateful to be in our home and "bed".

Lois is resting "napping" on our couch. We have been showered with love by friends and family the past week. The snow was a nice touch God!

The week will be filled with rest and recovery. Healing of the anterior and posterior incisions will be slow but already improving. We covet your prayers and give thanks for all offered in this new journey toward healing for Lois.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.

It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.

Proverbs 3:5-8

November 12th, 2010

2010-11-12T17:29:00.000-06:00

Song of Solomon 4:15

...a garden fountain, a well of living water,
and flowing streams from Lebanon.

As I write this Lois is having a blood transfusion related to her major back surgery on Tuesday, Her hemoglobin is down to 8.6 from 12 due to blood loss at the time of surgery. She's fatigued and this should give her new energy and restore her counts.

Watching the blood drip and flow into Lois' arm it reminds me of the streams of living water referred to in the Scriptures culminated in the flow of living water and streams blood from Jesus of Nazareth over our brokenness and sin from the Cross. His Life Blood flowing over us to give new life...changed life.

Lois is learning how to live a changed lifestyle after her surgery. The familiar is unfamiliar and the same old way of doing things will change as she heals and gets stronger. So too our lives are changed or transformed by the healing blood of Jesus. Wash us clean O Lord with your precious life giving blood so we may be servants of You as we serve others.

November 10th, 2010

2010-11-10T14:56:00.000-06:00

It's shortsleave shirt weather today in MN!
Lois' surgery on her back went well yesterday. Today she has sat up twice bedside and stood up in a walker. No steps forward but a few side steps before returning to her bed. Tired Lady!
She will be here for a couple days depending on therapy.
Thanks for your prayers

Heart beats! November 4th, 2010

2010-11-04T13:55:00.000-05:00

Genesis 3:20
The man called his wife's name Eve, because she was the mother of all living.[1]
[1]Eve sounds like the Hebrew for life-giver and resembles the word for living

Whitney (Mom-to-be in May 2011) texted us a recording of their baby's heartbeat. What a miracle and mystery. Fearfully and wonderfully made in the hiddenness of the womb by the hand of God we are able to catch a glimpse of God's miraculous work through ultrasound. I am excited for our new grand-baby to arrive. We pray for a healthy pregnancy and the preparations for the new arrival to Colin and Whitney's family. What joy it brings to be able to enjoy these days with our family. It is life-giving to share these days.

All Saints Day November 1, 2010

2010-11-01T15:57:00.004-05:00

All Saints Day 2010

Remembering Dad, Lindsay and many other faithful ones who have gone on before us and how their lives testified to the grace and love that God has pour out on us. My prayers are for those who grieve yet hope in Christ. (Romans 5:1-5)

We received a special gift yesterday:
Lois and Tedd are going to be grandparents again!!!!!! Wow...Whitney and Colin are expecting sometime in May 2011. God is good and continues to give hope and life to us.

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Romans 5:1-5

October 27th, 2010

2010-10-27T23:14:00.000-05:00

I have sought to find words to describe the journey since October 3rd. I have discovered a sense of serenity in the midst of loss. Loss is not a thing to be quantified. It has depth and texture that is unique to each of us who experience loss. We have been touched by grace and blessing in my father's death. In the same period of time I have been touched by the loss of a co-worker and partner in ministry. The mystery of what happens in desperate darkness of life is absorbed in the words of Paul in Romans 8...

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written,

“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
(Romans 8:31-39 ESV)

In Memory of Dad 1911-2010

2010-10-11T14:02:00.009-05:00

My father didn't tell me how to live;
he lived, and let me watch him do it.

~Clarence Kelland~

Merwyn H. Ostrem

Merwyn Harlin Ostrem, 99, of Moorhead, MN, died October 3, 2010, at Golden Living Center, Moorhead. He was born August 22, 1911, in Tunbridge, ND, to Jens Anton and Gemina (Drege) Ostrem.

Merwyn was a native of Rugby, ND. After completing his high school education he went to Minot and Fargo to attend commercial college. He took classes in higher accounting and appraisal courses at Northwestern University in Chicago. He completed a series of rural appraisal courses and was a member of the Society of Residential Appraisers.

Merwyn was united in marriage to Olga B. Anderson of Bisbee, ND, on September 18, 1941. They resided in Moorhead from 1951 to the present.

Merwyn began his working career at the Rugby Insurance Company, moving to Minot, ND, to work for Northern States Power. He became the Manager of the Bank of Rolette and moved from there to Western States Life Insurance Company of Fargo as the head of the Mortgage Loan Department for 25 five years. He retired in 1976 as Senior Vice President of Mortgage Loans. He served on the Moorhead Public Service Commission and was a Life-time Member of Rotary International. He was an active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, serving on several boards and singing in the choir. He enjoyed family, traveling and relaxing at the lake.

Merwyn is survived by his wife of 69 years, Olga; daughter Bonita (John) Brennan of Corolla, NC; and son, Tedd (Lois) Ostrem of Roseville, MN. Five grandchildren, Barbra Brennan, Bradley (Jennifer) Brennan, Justin (Amy) Ostrem, Daniel Brennan, and Whitney (Colin) Woelfle; and two great-grandchildren, Anna Brennan and Haakon Ostrem. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, two brothers, and a granddaughter, Lindsay Ostrem Roach.

The funeral was Friday, October 8, 2010 in Our Savior’s Lutheran Church of Moorhead.

Merwyn H. Ostrem August 22, 1911-October 3, 2010

2010-10-05T08:41:00.000-05:00

Sunday afternoon my father passed away. My mother had come to visit him after his nap. She went to wake him and he had just slept away quietly. He was a quiet man all his life so it was in keeping that he would die quietly. He was faithful in all his dealings in life. God has been good to bless my sister and me with a Godly father and mother for so many years.

Some one has written that life is a "dash"...1911 "-" 2010. His "dash" was full of a lot of living and giving. I wish he would have been more of a talker so we could have known more fully about his "dash" that now is silent.

His service will be on Friday 11am on October 8th at Our Saviors Lutheran of Moorhead, MN.
A huge thank you to all the folks at Golden Living Center of Moorhead. They were wonderful to our father.

September 27th, 2010

2010-09-27T08:50:00.000-05:00

Living with cancer?
It can make its mark on you physically, emotionally and spiritually. It need not however it does have its impact in some way. Discouragement is one. I find that there are good days and not so good days. Choosing to live life to its fullest no matter what the day brings is crucial. I admit that I struggle with the dailyness of life and the uncertainty it brings. Being one who has planned and executed daily activities for the now, the future, for myself and others makes receiving the unplanned or unexpected a challenge. My head says one thing and my heart another. Where one chooses to rest and rely each day brings life and healing. Choose this day "life".

By His Light Devotion for today helped remind me of where "life" is...

DAILY INSPIRATION
Monday, September 27th 2010

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Where To Turn...
************************************
I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere to go. My own wisdom, and that of all about me, seemed insufficient for the day.
~Abraham Lincoln~
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It's comforting to know, that when we have reached the end of all that is in our own power to do, there is yet somewhere that we can go for help. By far, one of the most powerful weapons in our arsenal, lies in the power of praise/thanksgiving, worship, prayer and supplication. This being the case, why then, do we so often wait until we have exhausted all other alternatives, and have nowhere else to turn? Do it now...do it often...in times of trouble, AND in times of triumph!
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For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers...
~1 Peter 3:12~

...The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].
~James 5:16 (Amp)~

Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
~Philippians 4:6,7 (Amp)~
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© Copyright 2000-2010 by Guiding Light Ministries International. All rights reserved.

Guiding Light Ministries International
1680 Hendersonville Rd. - #B-6
Asheville, NC 28803

September 23rd, 2010 Lindsay Beach by Julie Foreman

2010-09-23T08:12:00.000-05:00

The blog picture of Lindsay Beach at Camp Wapogasset is from a series of pictures captured this summer by Julie Foreman. Lindsay served as lifeguard and counselor at Wapo. She loved to lead campfires on this beach and so the picture is a fitting testimony to her legacy of ministry in her short 26 years of life. God grabbed her heart in a powerful fashion on this beach. Thanks be to Jesus.

September 22nd, 2010

2010-09-22T08:06:00.000-05:00

TWINS WIN!

The Twins did it last night with the help of the White Soxs. What a game. First to win a division championship.

Haakon and Grandpa watched together for a while as we tried to see Mommy and Daddy on TV...what a joy to hold and hug our little guy. He carries on conversations with whoever will listen.

Thank you God that we have the pleasure to share these days together.
Thank you for the gift of life and Your Grace.

September 19th, 2010

2010-09-19T20:54:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my parents celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. Dad was pretty sleepy but able to be up. I forget how remarkable an event this was. Sixty nine years of meals, conversations, trials and triumphs. The ups and downs of daily life shared faithfully with one another. One of the corner stones of their 69 years was their faith journey. Jesus was the center piece of their marriage. Faithfully they would worship and serve as able. Age may have reduced their involvement but not their "living for Jesus". Those words are from a hymn that my parents taught my sister and me as we grew up. It has continued to echo in my mind this week of their 69th anniversary. The words remind me of their faithful journey as a couple.

Living for Jesus, a life that is true,

Striving to please Him in all that I do;

Yielding allegiance, glad hearted and free,

This is the pathway of blessing for me.

Refrain

O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee,

For Thou, in Thy atonement, didst give Thyself for me.

I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne.

My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.

Living for Jesus Who died in my place,

Bearing on Calvary my sin and disgrace;

Such love constrains me to answer His call,

Follow His leading and give Him my all.

Refrain

Living for Jesus, wherever I am,

Doing each duty in His holy Name;

Willing to suffer affliction and loss,

Deeming each trial a part of my cross.

Refrain

Living for Jesus through earth’s little while,

My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;

Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,

Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.

Refrain

September 14th, 2010

2010-09-14T11:31:00.002-05:00

Took Haakon to the barn recently to ride on the "Famous Woody" school horse of the year. Woody is 32 yrs old but still used in teaching riding lessons for kids and adults. Haakon enjoyed Woody.

Learning to enjoy these times with loved ones is a special gift. All Creation shouts of God's presence and glory.

September 7, 2010 "First Day of School"

2010-09-07T08:31:00.000-05:00

Sent my Lois of to school this morning with book bag, paper bags, purse and tea-to-go..."first day of school" for teachers too. Lois has been at school on-and-off for two weeks getting ready for this day and now it's here. Prayers go out for all the teachers, students, aides and staff as they help teach our children. It is a great calling to serve in the education of our children.

An Old Testament verse comes to mind as we are all called to teach and raise up our children in Christ. Renew our covenant today as parents, grand parents or great-grand parents to teach our children "the Way" of the LORD.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9

⁴"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. ⁵You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. ⁶And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. ⁷ You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. ⁸ You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. ⁹ You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

September 3rd, 2010

2010-09-03T09:10:00.000-05:00

This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for people to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. Ecclesiastes 5:18

Labor Day is just around the corner. Many are out of work and struggling with great challenges in their lives today. Some have just heard that they are no longer needed in their workplace. Difficult days are ahead. How one reacts to the changes unwanted in our lives reflects our focus.
We can choose to be grateful for the time or what we had or resentful for what we do not have.

My new calling is to serve Lois in this new season of our life. I am to be her helpmate as God designed.
I could be resentful that I do tasks around our home or thankful that I am able to do some of these for Lois.
Our lives as we knew them have changed but our calling has not. We are to serve God and others as we are able. Today I give thanks for the "...few days of life God has given..." to serve as I am able. I give thanks for the labor I have been given to be a helpmate.

August 29, 2010

2010-08-29T07:53:00.000-05:00

From Our Daily Bread Devotional
August 29, 2010

Robert Lowry felt that preaching would be his greatest contribution in life. However, this 19th-century pastor is best remembered for his gospel music and hymns. Lowry composed words or music for more than 500 songs, including “Christ Arose,” “I Need Thee Every Hour,” and “Shall We Gather at the River?”
In 1860, as the United States teetered on the brink of civil war, Lowry wrote these enduring words that focus not on threatening circumstances but on the unchanging Christ:
What though my joys and comforts die?
The Lord my Savior liveth;
What though the darkness gather round!
Songs in the night He giveth:
No storm can shake my inmost calm
While to that refuge clinging;
Since Christ is Lord of Heav’n and earth,
How can I keep from singing?
Lowry’s confidence in God during difficult times echoes the psalmist’s words: “Do not put your trust in princes, nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help. . . . Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God” (Ps. 146:3-5).
Whether we react to life with faith or fear depends on our focus. Knowing that “the Lord shall reign forever” (v.10), how can we keep from singing?

If you keep in tune with Christ, you can sing even in the dark.

"99" and Doing Fine!! 8/23/10

2010-08-23T22:47:00.003-05:00

We celebrated Dad's 99th birthday today with cake, ice cream, coffee and pictures. Dad was having a "C-Type" day but gave us as good a smile as he was able today. It was a sleepy day for Dad but he hung in there with all the friends and family. Mom was the provider of the cake and ice cream...really good stuff.

Again Lois and I are grateful for the many years God has given us to share with my folks. God's faithfulness over the generations is truly a gift one does not deserve but can only rejoice in.

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.

Deuteronomy 7:9

"99" plus one day!

August 18th, 2010

2010-08-18T21:12:00.001-05:00

The Hands of Time...

Three sets of hands representing three generations.

On Sunday the hands of my father holding the watch will be 99. We asked him if he would be shooting for 100 and he shook his head saying, "That's a long time." We have added a fourth set of hands two years ago with Haakon being born on Amy and Justin's wedding anniversary. We are blessed and give thanks for the many days we have shared as a family. Mom and Dad have been there for the joys and sorrows we've had. Time does not wait for anyone. We are to be fruitful in our time and a blessing to others. My folks have been just that in our lives.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-7

Happy Birthday Dad!

August 15th, 2010

2010-08-15T23:39:00.000-05:00

I received and email in the past few days wondering if everything was ok with my health. Thanks for the concern and willingness to ask. I have been to Mayo at the end of July. The nodes in my neck have not changed and if they have they are not detectable upon physical examination. The CT scan indicated a very slight change but not remarkable. This is very, very good news!

Lois and I have had a "full summer" so to speak. Whitney and Colin's wedding consumed our time up to the middle of July. However we have now had time to recover and enjoy the "after glow" of the wedding and the beauty of this "wet" summer. I have found rest and reduced stress to have improved my general well being. Lois and I enjoy our daily devotion time more and more. It is so interesting and amazing how the short little devotions we share tend to be so "right on" for our lives that day. The Spirit is alive and working in our lives.

July 29, 2010 Tall Ships in Duluth

2010-07-30T22:55:00.000-05:00

We had the privilege and honor to join Scott and Cathie on their boat to escort the "tall ships" into Duluth harbor on July 29. It was a perfect day and the ships are amazing. Pictures don't do justice to the majestic presence they are on the open water. So many ships in one place was exciting to see. The Bounty was in the movies Mutiny on the Bounty and Pirates of the Caribbean. We give thanks for God's wonderful creation and friends who shared their day with us.

Our Gracious Hosts Scott and Cathie

July 18, 2010

2010-07-18T20:49:00.005-05:00

It has been a long time since my last post. Thanks to those who have reminded me that I have been silent for awhile. We have been busy with the preparations and wedding of our daughter, Whitney to Colin Woelfle. It was wonderful. The preparations were intense but worth every moment invested in the great event. Whitney Woelfle is now a married women!

July 10th was a bit hot like the day Lois and I were married 40 years earlier on July 10th. The Woelfle's and Ostrem's gathered to join our children in marriage. I had the privilege of officiating. Who would of thought this would be my role 40 years earlier. Lois married a dentist who would sixteen years later become a minister.

My life with Lois has been a joy and gift. The vows taken have been lived out in very tangible ways over the past forty years...to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part, according to God's holy ordinance; and to you I pledge my faithfulness.

Vows are sacred covenants of the heart. Jesus has held us up in all of these times. When it seemed the most difficult or dark, Jesus was always there. We have been strengthened to continue the journey by the experiences shared as husband and wife. Our vows have been reminders of God's faithfulness to us in Christ. We have been blessed by our family and faith for over forty years. We give thanks for all that we have shared together as we celebrate the marriage of Colin and Whitney.

June 28, 2010

2010-06-28T08:17:00.005-05:00

Job 5:26

You shall come to your grave in ripe old age,

like a sheaf gathered up in its season.

Lois' god-father, Rudy died this week at the age of 97. His service will be Tuesday.

Rudy was full of life and humor. He always had a new and fresh joke to share with us when we visited. Even though he was impaired by a stroke a few years ago his spirit and life were not.

A gentle carpenter and man of God from Moorhead who was well respected for his trade was still building in his late 80's-early 90's. More of a "strawboss" at the end he still would share his knowledge and skills with others who would implement his wisdom.

Blanche and Rudy were close to Lois and her parents. To be blessed by loved ones of such an age in this season of our lives has been one of God's gifts to us. We give thanks for Rudy and the joy he brought to our lives and relationship.

June 23, 2010

2010-06-23T08:57:00.001-05:00

On Monday we paid our last respects to brother-in-law, Le. The visitation and service was a blessing. Our family and friends gathered before the service to visit and share some time together. The comment was made..."we should do this more often under better circumstances."

We take the days we get and make the effort to share those days together no matter what the situation may be. Funerals or weddings, baptisms or graduations, whatever the occasion we choose to do life together "that" day.

I am learning to appreciate the "now" more and more. "Now" we can make a difference. "Now" we can hold or help each other. "Now" is the "time"... for us.

June 19th, 2010

2010-06-19T22:51:00.002-05:00

Wes Michaels died on Thursday as a tornado destroyed his C-store in Mentor MN. It was Wes' 58th birthday. I had met Wes a couple of times with friends of ours who live only a couple miles from the store on Maple Lake. Wes was off on Thursday but as he watched the weather approach he went to the store in time to have his daughter and another woman huddle in the freezer as Wes covered his daughter's body with his own. His daughter, Heidi survived but Wes died saving his daughter's life.

As Father's Day arrives tomorrow I am moved by the loving heroic act of this father for his child. Laying his life down for hers.

God the Father covered us all with His Son's Body to save us from certain death from our sin. His Body took the debris of sin into Himself to save us. It is this Act of Grace that saves us. We place our faith and trust in Jesus the Christ, the Son of the Living God, Savior and Lord who covered us with His body in death. At the center of our faith is this Act of Grace available for all.

John's Gospel centered on this Act of Grace...
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. John 15: 12-13

June 17th, 2010

2010-06-17T06:56:00.002-05:00

Last night at 10:18pm my brother-in-law, Le passed away. He had fought a valiant fight with cancer. Loss of a loved one leaves a "hole" in our lives that will not be replaced with someone else. Jesus heals the "scar" of the loss of our loved one. Many times it happens over a longer period of time.

Le was my friend and family. We laughed and enjoyed many wonderful days together. I will miss him. "He made me laugh." He did and many others. His request is to have that saying be on his head stone. It will be true and will make others remember the times he made us laugh.

Please hold Kathie (Lois' sister), their two sons, Le Michael and Chad (wife Amanda and granddaughter Lyla) in your prayers.

He was a proud grandpa and father.

June 16th, 2010

2010-06-16T08:13:00.001-05:00

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven...
~Ecclesiastes 3:1~

On Sunday afternoon Haakon and I took a nap. When I woke up Haakon was huddled in the corner of the crib. He was looking for something...I picked him up and we hunted for his "Nuk" with no Nuk to be found in the crib.

So we both got down of the floor to look under the crib. There it was way back in the corner. I pointed it out to Haakon and he said, "Want me to get it?" Surprised I said, "Think you can?" Off like "GI Joe" he bellied his way to the corner and back only to return not with one but with "2-Nuks" and smile on his face.

This season of our lives is rich with new discoveries and reclaiming the joy of the daily journey.

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven...
~Ecclesiastes 3:1~

June 10, 2020

2010-06-10T10:06:00.000-05:00

One month to the wedding! Details are getting covered one-by-one... The couple is excited and anticipating a wonderful day.

We have 12 yards of rock in the driveway to be spread Friday if the rain holds off. Preparations go further than one expects but it is timely. Friends have come forward to help in many ways which is a blessing.

I visited my Dad and Mom yesterday. Surprised them. They were sitting in the dinning area looking out at the beautiful day. Dad was so pleased to see me. We spent the afternoon together as family. Then I took Mother shopping. We had a great time. No pressure; just time together. It was "smell the roses" time for us.

I was reminded of Deuteronomy 6:4b-9...My parents taught me this scripture...Thanks Mom and Dad!

The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

June 3rd, 2010 A picture from Grandpa Jerry

2010-06-03T15:21:00.002-05:00

Grandpa Jerry caught this moment on Easter 2010...
Grandpa Jerry notes that "Grandpa's keys" were more captivating than the "plastic eggs"...
What grasped your "attention" on Easter 2010?
Empty Cross or Empty Tomb?

June 1st, 2010

2010-06-01T21:07:00.001-05:00

A bridal shower for Whitney and Colin was this weekend. With our family gathered we enjoyed the anticipation of the wedding to come. Our Haakon met my aunt Edna who was married to my uncle Haakon who died suddenly an number of years ago at the age of 53. Our little Haakon won the hearts of all those gathered for the shower.

We all headed to the nursing home to see Dad who was very lucid again. It was fun to watch Dad watch Haakon. As we left Haakon repeated several times "Bye Bye Great Grandpa!" It amused my father who smiled and said "Good bye". Life happens in moments. Precious moments never to be recaptured but remembered for a life-time.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven...

May 25, 2010 Stormy night

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Psalm 57:1
Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by.

Sitting here watching the rain and lightening. The thunder rolls in the background. I remember as a little boy of about 5 years of age sitting (hiding) in the closet with my sister as the thunder and lightening surrounded our house. Everything seemed to light up as the flash of lightening and then the clap of thunder echoed through our little house. I was afraid but not sure of what. When the calm would come it was such a relief. The storm had past and we were ok.

Life has its storms. What we do in the storm is as important as the storm. Fear or faith? Where will I go?

Pray the prayer of Psalm 57:1...

"Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me,
for in you my soul takes refuge;

in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge,
till the storms of destruction pass by."

May 19, 2010 Mom's 92 today!

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My mother is celebrating 92 years today and going strong. She is headed for the nursing home to visit my father who will be 99 in August. What a blessing to have good health and be able to get around as she does. We visited this morning for some time and it was upbeat and positive. Age is more about attitude than chronology. You can be "old" before your time if you choose too be. My folks have always been "young at heart" and ready to go with the slightest invitation. That's my kind of "old". Bring it on!

"Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live..." Deuteronomy 30:19b

My Mom in her wedding dress this past November...still fits!
A "kid at heart"...

Monday May 17, 2010 Lindsay Ostrem Roach Scholarship

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This is the Hyacinth that Lindsay planted the summer of 2003. It keeps coming up each spring as a reminder of the hope of "new life" we have in Jesus.

Tonight we had the privilege once again to award two scholarships to Roseville Area High School Seniors who are a part of the Connections program at RAHS. Mary Hanula and Jan Johnson are their instructors. They were mentors and partners on the Connections Team that Lindsay was a teacher for several years before her death.

Ironically tonight at 7pm as we were preparing to present the scholarships it was six and a half years to the hour of her death. Hard to believe yet true. In the giving of the scholarship Lindsay's legacy continues to bear fruit. She loved to teach and believed strongly in the Connections program that help 9-12th grade students overcome educational hardship and personal challenges to become successful graduating seniors of RAHS. One of the mother's of one of the students award the scholarship said that they have four children and this was the first one to receive an award. We are very proud of the students who have received the scholarships. They will be graduating with strong 3.+ GPA's. Some of the highest in the time we have been awarding the scholarship. To us that means the Connections program works and we are proud to be able to help some of the Connection students pursue further education in their areas of interest. Both of the young women recipients are setting their educational goals on teaching. Lindsay could not ask for more. We are blessed this night by the memory and life of our daughter, Lindsay.

May 16, 2010

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We had grandson Haakon for the weekend. I stayed over Thursday night and was there to get him up and spent Friday with him until Grandma Lois could join us. Haakon and Grandpa went out to see Junior at the stable...Haakon was thrilled over "all the neigh-neighs". It was a blast. He is at the age where he carries on simple conversations of innocence. They are precious and not to be missed. Lois and I are so blessed to be able to enjoy these days with our family. We are a little weary too :-) but worth every minute!

May 13, 2010

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Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Hebrews 11:1-3 ESV

Dark and dank days are upon us. For some of us these are long days. I remind myself that God's incredible creative hand continues to give us days to serve and love others. My eyes are to be on those around me that I may serve, care for or pray for. God lifts the heaviness of the day with the joy of touching others lives with hope. Our faith in Jesus Christ births hope. Hope that will not fail us.

We cling to Romans 5:1-5 ESV...
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

May 11, 2010

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One of the best reasons to be happy today!

Haakon has my red cheeks.

He has "my heart" too!!

Love you Haakon...

May 10, 2010

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I was invited to share my journey with a group tonight. Sometimes your story seems insignificant but never underestimate the power of your story to connect with others. As I looked at the folks gathered I wondered what they would glean from my story. Again the Holy Spirit worked a work that only the Spirit can do. I continue to be amazed at the Spirit's ongoing "Acts 2" work in this world and His Church. Thank you Jesus for your calling and leading.

We spent the weekend with our family and had a blast. I had a lot of Haakon time and loved every minute of it. He's my buddy!

May 6, 2010

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Lois thinks I am a little "OCD"...could be :-)

I have accepted my "current calling" in serving my wife in needs around house and help her as I am able.
One of the roles that I have assumed is that of "laundry"...I can "spot" with the best of them!
This morning "my dryer" died...a piece of the siding blew off the front of the house...the two ceiling lights in the hallway went on the fritz...and the garage door cables flew off. Not a bad day :-)

Sometimes one wonders if there is a "cloud" hanging overhead but it is just the way it goes.
Random junk happens in our lives and how we handle them is important. It happens; how will we react?

I will fix what I can and call on my wonderful son-in-law, Brian to help me figure out the rest. Brian has a gift of restoration and creativity. He thinks in creative ways to make things work. I am blessed to have Brian.

I may stay up until 1am worrying (thinking) about what needs to be done but it won't get it done. Last night I finally prayed..."Jesus, quiet my mind and spirit so I may rest." Rest came and we bought a new dryer tonight! One down!!!

May 2, 2010

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I had a call from my Mother and Sister today from the nursing home where my Father stays. He was having a "5 star day" according to my Mother. We visited for a few minutes and then she gave the phone to my Father. He said, "Hello"...and after telling him we would see him next week he said, "That would be nice." It was so good to hear my Father convey a thought so clearly. It is becoming more infrequent still always a gift.

I've thought of questions I wish I had asked of him but never did. He has always been a man of very few words yet great kindness. How is it we miss the opportunities before us for whatever reason? No regrets; yet questions of his life remain a mystery.

Our Father in Heaven left no questions of who He is...revealing himself in the form of Jesus, the Christ.
If we have questions of God's love or justice we need only look to Jesus, the Word of God's love and justice for all.

April 29, 2010

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Being a parent is a life-long endeavor. It is a great joy and hard work. Children don't choose their parents. We choose to be parents and are forever parenting. Sometimes well and sometimes not so well. I have found myself sitting on the bedside of our children more than once asking them to have patience with their father...I told them I was trying to be the best parent I knew how to be but from time-to-time I would come up short.
I believe forgiveness and grace are acquired in life by showing forgiveness and grace. I believe trust is earned by showing one can be trusted and by being honest and faithful. I have great kids and they have become precious adults. God has given them Godly partners to share life together. We have been given a extra gift of love in the person of a grandson. We look forward to more grandbabies! Being a parent or grandparent is a life long endeavor that God has given us the privilege of experiencing. Now I understand Grandma Elsie's and Grandma Olga's joy in life as they shared time with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. God is good. Thank you for the many "gifts' we have in our lives.

April 26, 2010

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A few sentences caught my attention today from one of the devotionals we have for daily use.

"The book of Acts concludes with Paul confined in Rome, living under guard in a rented house, where he “received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 28:30-31).

Instead of focusing on his restrictions, Paul saw opportunities. That’s the key for us as well. There is a universe of humanity within our reach today." by David C. McCasland

"Instead of focusing on his restrictions, Paul saw opportunities." I need to remind myself daily of this insight. Obstacles or Opportunities. Interruptions or Opportunities. Restrictions or Opportunities. It really is a choice. It is a conscious choice to be made daily...encounter by encounter. Living under God's leading...choose life.

Deuteronomy 30:19-20a

"I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, 20 loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days..."

April 25, 2010

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Attended a "Cowboy Church Service" this morning. Lots of music and some preaching. The text was Matthew's Gospel chapter 6 reminding us "not to worry about what we will wear or what we will eat but seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added on to you." The pastor used the illustration of a "horse"...surprise; surprise! A horse lives in the present and not in the future or past. We, on the other hand, worry about the past or future and miss out on the present moment. He asked a good question, "If you think worrying about the future helps...try to remember what you were worrying about last year at this time." Great question. Most of the things we tend to worry about never come to past. Learning to live in the present with a "sure and certain hope" for the future in Christ is a rich gift. It was a good service inviting us to live in the Light of Christ each day...sound familiar?
Blessings to you all.

Speaking of "presents"!

Oh how we love him!

April 23, 2010

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The end of the week...the beginning of a weekend. Daily happenings become daily blessings if we look for them. A smile, a word of encouragement, a hug, a tear or whatever you may encounter become touches of God's love for us through others. Tonight I am grateful for Anne and Jack. They have come alongside and walked with us many times through joys and sorrow. Tonight we shared a meal and laughter which enriched our day at the end of the week. Who touched your life this week? Whose life did you touch?
Give thanks!

April 21, 2010

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Twins Win Again! Go Twins!

The Flowering Crab Trees are ready to burst forth in full bloom. It will be beautiful!
Not as beautiful as the Empty Tomb of Jesus but beautiful. We are blessed by such beauty and wonder.
May Jesus burst into our lives afresh today. Thanks for all the prayers and kind words.

For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. Romans 1:20a

If you have time today, read Our Daily Bread for today:
http://odb.org/2010/04/21/false-hope/

April 20, 2010 Good Report...

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We spent a good portion of Monday at Mayo. There is always a senses of anticipation and anxiety before I meet with the physicians. The "unknown" is lurking.

However the news was good! There has been no change. We may have a slight med change in the next couple weeks but all-in-all it was a good report. I return in July for another follow up. There is a sense of relief and release in knowing.

Thank you Father, in the Name of Jesus. Pour out your healing Spirit on all who seek your presence.

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen." 2 Peter 3.18

April 18, 2010

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On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood

and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to

Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has

said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."

But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those

believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was

not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

John 7:37-39

Tomorrow I return to Mayo for follow up on the Mantle Cell Lymphoma and the cardiovascular issues that have resulted from the Stem Cell Transplant. I am confident that the "Living Water", Jesus will be in all things pouring out wisdom, healing and hope. God's hand is upon all things at all times no matter what the season of ones life.

April 17, 2010

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We had the joy of going to the local park and playing with Haakon on the "big toy" then off to supper. His words and phrases are becoming clear and longer. Our grandson is growing up too fast. I wonder if Mary, the mother of Jesus had such thoughts as Jesus grew "in wisdom and stature". Surely she sensed the precious gift she held would grow up. The words of St Luke echo with life and love..."but Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart."

Not one my best quality of pictures but the "subjects are precious". Easter 2010

April 15th, 2010 "Our Daily Bread" reading for Today

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April 16, 2010

The Treasure And The Pots

Listen Now | Play MP3 (Mobile)READ: 2 Corinthians 4:1-11

We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. —2 Corinthians 4:7

It has been said that the Roman Empire ran on olive oil. It was used in cooking, bathing, medicine, ceremonies, lamps, and cosmetics. For decades, olive oil from southern Spain was shipped to Rome in large clay jugs called amphorae. Those jugs, not worth sending back, were discarded in a growing heap of broken shards known as Monte Testaccio. The fragments of an estimated 25 million amphorae created that man-made hill, which stands today on the bank of the Tiber River in Rome. In the ancient world, the value of those pots was not their beauty but their contents.

Because of this, the first-century followers of Christ would have clearly understood Paul’s illustration of the life of Jesus in every believer. “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us” (2 Cor. 4:7).

Our bodies, like amphorae, are temporary, fragile, and expendable. In our modern world that highly values outward beauty, we would be wise to remember that our greatest treasure is the life of Jesus within us. By God’s grace and power, may we live so that others can see Christ in us.

We are just the clay pots. Jesus is the true treasure within us. — David C. McCasland

Although my outward shell decays,
I’m inwardly renewed each day,
Because the life and power of Christ
Indwells this fragile jar of clay. —Sper

Christ is seen most clearly when we remain in the background.

April 13, 2010 "18 Months Old"

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Hard to believe but 18 months ago today I received my stem cell transplant. They wished me a Happy Birthday early in the morning as we prepared to do the transplant. It has been quite a ride. I have been blessed by generous prayer by many. Thank you!

This morning one of my best friends and brother in Christ stopped by to share words of encouragement and challenge into my life. What a gift to have friends like Tim. I have had another ask me if it (the transplant experience and cancer) had changed me. The answer would be yes. I am changed. I have a "new normal".
My life is filled with joy at each new day. I am at peace where I am right now. I am waiting on Jesus to direct my path in a new season of life. My hope is full and my family is precious. I am able to spend time...valuable time with those who are the most important in my life. Change is difficult but necessary.
In the midst of transition comes faith challenging and strengthening moments. Seeking to be faithful and "Living for Jesus" in these moments have changed me. Being "born anew daily" is so "Lutheran". The Holy Spirit calls, gathers and enlightens in these moments to be changed; to be transformed in the "heart song of Jesus' Way". The Cross before us; the world behind us...choose to follow Jesus.

Today one of my favorite passages in God' Word came to mind...and a favorite prayer of many was shared with me by Tim...

Psalm 103

Bless the Lord, O my soul,
   and all that is within me,
   bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
   and do not forget all his benefits-
who forgives all your iniquity,
   who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the Pit,
   who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good as long as you live
   so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

The Serenity Prayer

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

--Reinhold Niebuhr

April 8, 2010

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God's ways of communicating with us are awesome. I (by chance today) opened the devotional Streams in the Desert. God's ministering and leading hand stretched out and touched me through the words of the writer. I will share this with you and any who might be struggling with direction or darkness...

Streams in the Desert - Apr. 8

April 8

Don't Rush

"Who is among you that feareth Jehovah, that obeyeth the voice of his servant? He that walketh in darkness and hath no light, let him trust in the name of Jehovah and rely upon his God" (Isa. 50:10, RV).

What shall the believer do in times of darkness -- the darkness of perplexity and confusion, not of heart but of mind? Times of darkness come to the faithful and believing disciple who is walking obediently in the will of God; seasons when he does not know what to do, nor which way to turn. The sky is overcast with clouds. The clear light of Heaven does not shine upon his pathway. One feels as if he were groping his way in darkness.

Beloved, is this you? What shall the believer do in times of darkness? Listen! "Let him trust in the name of the Lord, and rely upon his God."
The first thing to do is do nothing. This is hard for poor human nature to do. In the West there is a saying that runs thus, "When you're rattled, don't rush"; in other words, "When you don't know what to do, don't do it."

When you run into a spiritual fog bank, don't tear ahead; slow down the machinery of your life. If necessary, anchor your bark or let it swing at its moorings. We are to simply trust God. While we trust, God can work. Worry prevents Him from doing anything for us. If our minds are distracted and our hearts distressed; if the darkness that overshadows us strikes terror to us; if we run hither and yon in a vain effort to find some way of escape out of a dark place of trial, where Divine providence has put us, the Lord can do nothing for us.

The peace of God must quiet our minds and rest our hearts. We must put our hand in the hand of God like a little child, and let Him lead us out into the bright sunshine of His love. He knows the way out of the woods. Let us climb up into His arms, and trust Him to take us out by the shortest and surest road. --Dr. Pardington

Remember we are never without a pilot when we know not how to steer.

"Hold on, my heart, in thy believing--
The steadfast only wins the crown;
He who, when stormy winds are heaving,
Parts with its anchor, shall go down;
But he who Jesus holds through all,
Shall stand, though Heaven and earth should fall.

"Hold out! There comes an end to sorrow;
Hope from the dust shall conquering rise;
The storm foretells a summer's morrow;
The Cross points on to Paradise;
The Father reigneth! cease all doubt;
Hold on, my heart, hold on, hold out."

April 7, 2010

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Life in the Spirit

Romans 8:1-6 ESV There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.

Living life together is a daily joy and challenge. "Fixing our eyes on Jesus" is the mindset for the Christ follower. Seeking to see Jesus in others is a source of peace and life. When we meet Jesus in another we are graced with His peace and life. "Be Jesus" to someone today. Extend mercy, comfort or a helping hand in the name of Jesus to bring life and peace to someone you know.

April 6, 2010

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Family...takes on many aspects as our "family" has grown in wonderful ways over the years. One of our extended family needs prayer. Marilyn, Marc's mother has been hospitalized after surgery and stroke. She is recovering but needs prayer in these tough days. Roger, her husband, is by her side and needs our prayers too. We are thankful for the healing that has been taking place in the past few days. Thank you for your prayers, again.

Easter Sunday April 4, 2010

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While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” Luke 24:4-7 ESV

As we worshiped as a family this Easter Morning I heard in a new way the question of why do we seek Jesus among the "dead things" in our lives. Why do we dwell in the past of death and loss when the Word Lives. The Word of Life has been spoken in the face of death...He is risen...Jesus is not dead; He is alive.

Tomorrow Lindsay, our daughter, would have been 33 years old. She had so much to live for and give yet her life was lived in a shorter time than others. Her living testimony to God's love and mercy will forever be before us. She faithfully and courageously lived out her trust in Jesus, the Risen One. Her hope was in the Word of Life of God, Jesus the Christ. With her death we are not to look for her among the dead but with the Living Christ Jesus. We see our Living Hope in the Cross and empty Tomb of Jesus. He lives; so shall those who have died trusting in Christ live.

April 1, 2010 Happy Birthday John and Colin!

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Birthdays are great times. We are celebrating brother-in-law John and soon to be son-in-law Colin's birthdays today. God has blessed us with John and Colin. May we be a blessing to them too.
Spring is here!!!

A Psalm for giving thanks.

100:1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!

3 Know that the Lord, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!

5 For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.

March 30, 2010 Pray for Holly

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Wind! I think I'm back in North Dakota...uff da.

I have a prayer request for a young woman, Holly who has LAM. She has received a double lung transplant and like our Lindsay has retroperitoniel cysts that are causing bleeding and clots which can be fatal if not controlled. Holly has had ups and downs since her transplant but showing improvement.
Pray for healing and strength for her in these days of recovery. Pray for her parents Roxy and Bruce. As parents we sit, pray and wait beside our loved one with sometimes a heavy heart. Pray for hope and joy in this Easter season as they celebrate the Hope of the World, Jesus the Christ, the Son of the Living God.

March 28, 2010

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Fifty years of ministry were celebrated today at Prince of Peace. Many memories and really funny stories were shared. It is good to laugh. I was again amazed at the number of young families and children filling the worship center this morning. Signs of "new life" amid the recollection of the past were permeating the church today. We were challenged to "fix our eyes on Jesus" each day as we follow in the Way. With a grateful heart to all who call Prince of Peace their home, Lois and I drove away knowing that Jesus is "the Way, the Truth and the Life" as we look forward to the next fifty years of ministry as a church family.

March 27, 2010

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It's my sister's birthday today...Happy Birthday Bonita!!
I sat with my Father and Mother this morning and we talked to Bonita on the speaker phone of my cell phone. My Dad said "hello" to my sister which is very special these days. It was such a joy to watch Dad's face with a glimmer of a smile on it. He was so pleased with this moment with his family. God is good.

I had a special experience yesterday that I will never forget. As I pulled up to my son's home in my truck I could see my grandson, Haakon in the doorway window. I stepped out to hear a gleeful cry, "Grandpa! Grandpa!" Haakon's hands and arms were waving and his face was a glow with a huge smile. It was one of those moments I will never forget.

We have been given the privilege of crying, "Abba, Abba... Father" because of what Jesus did on the Cross for us to become children of God. When we cry out, "Jesus...Father God...Spirit of the Living God" it is sweet music to the ear of God. In joy or sorrow we come as children to be welcomed by the Father in the name of the Son, Jesus.

Romans 8: 14-17
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Abba Father hear our prayer and receive our praise, Amen

March 24, 2010

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Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord,
exulting in his salvation. Psalm 35:9

Friendship is one of those gifts one needs to continue to give thanks for and rejoice. My wife best friend from childhood has a birthday today. We give thanks for the love shared and the tough times lived through together. We have dear friends from California who we celebrated 39 years of friendship with recently.
Oh how God has blessed us. Friends in Christ and life!

March 17, 2010 Happy St Patrick's Day/Dancing Haakon

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Check out my dancing Grandbaby at the MN State Hockey Tournament! He is such a joy and gift.
You can find him on You Tube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uM2qSrU0U4Y
Love him to pieces!
Blessings my friends
Tedd

2010-03-10T17:30:00.004-06:00

Lucy, Lindsay's dog, has been my constant companion the past two months. Whereever I go Lucy follows me. She sleeps close to me so if I move she will be ready to go. We have become "close" as they say.

During this time I have sought the Holy Spirit to guide and comfort.
Like Lucy, the Spirit of Jesus is always close. The presence of the Spirit of the Living God continues to seek us out.

Opening up to the Spirit of Jesus is simply saying "Come Lord Jesus, abide in me more each day."
Jesus desires to give us life and peace.
Ask. Seek. Knock. Find.

Tori and Lucy keeping an eye on the front door!

March 6, 2010

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Adorable, precious, inquisitive and simply lovable...words to describe our grandson, Haakon. We had the joy of watching him this afternoon and evening. He is sleeping now and is a picture of pure joy. We are so fortunate and blessed to be able to care for him. He entertains us with his repetition of words and actions. He is like a little sponge. He is soaking up everything...the good and the questionable stuff too. He is so good it makes one wish time would stand still for awhile so we might be able to enjoy him longer at this age.

He is a gift from God!

Thank you, Father!

March 5, 2010

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For anyone of us who might be struggling with life's challenges...words of hope and life
A Psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah.
63:1 O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you;
my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
2 So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,
beholding your power and glory.
3 Because your steadfast love is better than life,
my lips will praise you.
4 So I will bless you as long as I live;
in your name I will lift up my hands.

2010-03-04T06:19:00.002-06:00

Take time to read Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
This was a part of my devotions this morning from Robert H. Schuller's writings...
it challenged me "to grow where I am planted."

Risky Business? Or A Dream of Possibility?

March 04, 2010

Robert H. Schuller

"The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." ˆ Exodus 15:2a

I will never fully know to what extent being born an Iowa farm boy made me the possibility thinker I am today. I don't think anything is more exciting than springtime on a farm.

I remember many years when Dad needed all the grain of last year's crop to feed the cattle and livestock. But there was one little corner of our corn bin where there was grain, and Dad would never touch it. I would say to him, "But, Dad, you still have some grain in there." And he would tell me, "No, Bob, that is next year's seed corn, and I cannot use it for feed." So he saved it. Then the spring came. How desperately he needed every kernel to feed the livestock. But what did he do? He buried it in the ground.

Now suppose my father had studied the odds. Suppose he had said, "Let's see, I've got a kernel of corn. If I feed it to the cattle, I know it will be productive. I can be sure of it. There is no risk. On the other hand, I can plant that kernel of corn in the ground. That's infinitely more risky. Weeds could choke it, birds could eat it, it could rot, or the hail and winds could destroy it just as it starts to grow. It could be worthless. It's risky to put the kernel of corn in the ground. But if I do, it just might multiply a hundredfold!"

Don't wait because something is risky. Break loose and begin before it's possible. Only then will your dream really become a possibility!

Prayer:
O Lord, you are my strength, my song, my salvation. Therefore, I will risk doing what I've never dared doing before.

* * *

Where in your life do you need to risk more? In a relationship? In a work venture? In tithing? In giving your life more fully to God? Now think about this: "Great people are common people who dare to make uncommon commitments to God."

March 1, 2010

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On Sunday little Sophia was baptized. I have had the privilege to baptized hundreds of babies and adults. This time I simply watched. Yet the words "Sophia, child of God you have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the sign of the Cross forever..." are some of the most beautiful words spoken and written. They tell me "Whose I am and who I am."

I watched her Mom and Dad as they looked into Sophia's face as the water touched her head. Such love in those eyes of the parents. Sophia came to the "waters" with her pacifier in her mouth...Love it! She didn't have to do anything but receive the "Gift of New Life" that she will be raised in and called upon to affirm and embrace in the years ahead.

Someday Sophia will look into the eyes of her parents and say, "I believe; I know that Jesus is the Forgiver of my sins and the Leader of my life." The gift of faith is passed on by the Holy Spirit in such a profound yet simple and natural way. Thanks Jesus for caring so much for all that you would die and rise again for the forgiveness of sin...so too we go with you through the "waters of dying and rising" each day of our lives in You; sealed and marked.

February 24, 2010 LAM Foundation

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Lindsay Ostrem Roach 1977-2003

Missing her today...Oh what blessings we have!

Praying for all the Lammies out there.

http://www.firstgiving.com/Tedd_LoisOstrem

February 22, 2010

2010-02-22T10:34:00.000-06:00

Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel. Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise.
~Philippians 4:6-8 (CEV)~

Ever wonder or worry about "tomorrow"?

Most of our worries never become real. I find myself struggling with some piece of life and it keeps me awake at night most frequently. I turn to what I know; meditation on the Name of Jesus. I shut out the noises of the day or the dark of the night with the Name of Jesus. As I pray and focus on Jesus it helps me to be still. Seeing Jesus in my "boat asleep during the raging storm" gives me confidence I too may sleep and not fear or struggle. I see the calming of the storm as Jesus comes to sit with me. He calms whatever fear or anxiety I might have and sleep comes.

What a great way to go to sleep...try it.

February 18, 2010

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Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
       my hope comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation;
       he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God;
       he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, O people;
       pour out your hearts to him,
       for God is our refuge.
       Selah

Psalm 62

My blessings!

2010-02-15T21:06:00.008-06:00

My beautiful wife and grandson. God is so good.

An excellent wife who can find?
She is far more precious than jewels.
The heart of her husband trusts in her,
and he will have no lack of gain.
She does him good, and not harm,
all the days of her life.
Proverbs 31:10-12

Happy Valentines!

2010-02-14T21:19:00.000-06:00

Hope you had a special Valentines Day. Lois and I were able to spend two great days with my father and mother. We had our grandson, Haakon and his Mom and Dad with us. We took a four generation picture with my father. Dad was very lucid and enjoyed his great grandson, grandson and grand daughter-in-law. They sat by each other as Haakon checked out his great grandfather's shirt and hands. It was the best Valentine celebration in years for our family. I hope this picture speaks for itself.

February 9, 2010

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Jesus taught his followers on a hillside to "let their light shine"...

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16 ESV

This past week Lois and I were able to pick up Grandson Haakon from pre-school. When he got home he was so glad to see his Daddy. He went over to his pile of books and grabbed his favorite...his Daddy read to him and sang the song in the book..."This Little Light of Mine, I'm Going To Let It Shine". He held his little index finger up as his Daddy sang, "Let it shine, Let it shine, Let it shine!

Passing the light on is done everyday in so many ways. Jesus' Light shined all over us in that precious moment with Haakon and Justin.

May Jesus, The Light of the world, shine on all of us. "Shine Jesus Shine!"

Oh When the Saints came marching in...2010!

2010-02-07T23:04:00.000-06:00

What a year for the New Orleans Saints! They were the "Cinderella" team that seemed to be destined to be victorious. A bunch of cast-offs and hard luck stories came together to become the champions. I've not been a great follower of pro football for a number of years but with Favre fever in MN and "The Saints"...Who Dat! it was a year to watch.

Dear Friends and "Saints"...
Sometimes we might feel like a bunch of cast-offs and misfits full of hard luck stories. It is probably true more often than I wish to admit that I tell myself those defeating messages in life. Isn't it interesting that we would tell ourselves things about ourselves that we would never think of telling others to their faces. It is at times like these that I need to remind myself...I'm a saint. By the righteousness of Jesus Christ I have been made a saint. By Christ's Cross I am redeemed and restored daily. Not a misfit or a mistake but a "made new creation" in the image of God in Christ. Imagine your Image in Christ. Oh when the saints come marching in...your in the ranks!

February 3, 2010

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Living and growing...
One of the ever present calls on our lives is to grow and live as Jesus would desire for us. It is not an easy journey. The scriptures are full of illustrations and exhortations. Paul's is one of the most compelling.

"Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:3-11

Humbling oneself or allowing oneself to be humbled is a growing experience. It is counter intuitive. We are taught to strive to be number one by our culture and our nature. This is a season of learning new things about myself. Growing in different ways than anticipated. Praying and listening. Being lead; not leading. Learning to "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus...".

January 30, 2010

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Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart.
For consider what great things he has done for you. 1 Samuel 12:24

The gentle reminders of Scripture ripple through time...serve and give thanks to the Lord.

Finding our place and purpose in the seasons of life is challenging. Keeping our eyes and hearts on Jesus helps one sift through the distractions of life as we seek to serve. Considering the wonders of God's love shown for us in Christ is the root of all thankfulness in a redeemed and regenerated life.

Child of God you have been sealed with Holy Spirit and marked with the Cross of Christ forever!

January 29, 2010

2010-01-29T12:35:00.000-06:00

I have had "light" shined into my life this week by numerous friends and family. My prayers for "light and life" continue to be raised up for all of us in our lives. Relationships are the fabric of life and mine has been rich this week as Jesus' Light was "shined" on me through others.

In my devotions the following quote stuck with me because I have been the recipient of such "Light".

Why not be a light (Eph. 5:8)—through your smiles, kind words and deeds, and diligent work. Ask God to bring opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ. You may be the only light a co-worker sees today. — Dave Branon

My Journey Toward Healing

January 12, 2012

November 5, 2011

October 2nd 2011

September 17, 2011

August 10th, 2011

July 29th 2011

June 21, 2011 God's gifts and grace shown our family...

June 1st, 2011 Welcome Jaelyn Elizabeth

May 30th, 2011

May 16th 2011

April 30, 2011

April 5th 2011

March 26, 2011

March 15th 2011

March 10, 2011

Psalm 102

Happy Valentine's Day 2011

February 08, 2011

January 28, 2011

January 14, 2011

December 31, 2010 Happy New Year

December 23, 2010

December 17th, 2010

December 8th, 2010

December 1, 2010

November 25, 2010 Thanksgiving Day

November 22, 2010

November 18th, 2010 Lois' Healing Journey

November 14th, 2010 Home again...

November 12th, 2010

Song of Solomon 4:15

Song of Solomon 4:15

...a garden fountain, a well of living water, and flowing streams from Lebanon.

November 10th, 2010

Heart beats! November 4th, 2010

All Saints Day November 1, 2010

October 27th, 2010

In Memory of Dad 1911-2010

Merwyn H. Ostrem August 22, 1911-October 3, 2010

September 27th, 2010

September 23rd, 2010 Lindsay Beach by Julie Foreman

September 22nd, 2010

September 19th, 2010

September 14th, 2010

September 7, 2010 "First Day of School"

September 3rd, 2010

August 29, 2010

"99" and Doing Fine!! 8/23/10

August 18th, 2010

August 15th, 2010

July 29, 2010 Tall Ships in Duluth

July 18, 2010

June 28, 2010

June 23, 2010

June 19th, 2010

June 17th, 2010

June 16th, 2010

June 10, 2020

June 3rd, 2010 A picture from Grandpa Jerry

June 1st, 2010

Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven...

May 25, 2010 Stormy night

May 19, 2010 Mom's 92 today!

Monday May 17, 2010 Lindsay Ostrem Roach Scholarship

May 16, 2010

May 13, 2010

May 11, 2010

May 10, 2010

May 6, 2010

May 2, 2010

April 29, 2010

April 26, 2010

April 25, 2010

April 23, 2010

April 21, 2010

April 20, 2010 Good Report...

April 18, 2010

April 17, 2010

April 15th, 2010 "Our Daily Bread" reading for Today

...a garden fountain, a well of living water,
and flowing streams from Lebanon.