tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59605361964084656482024-03-13T03:36:50.481-07:00Jeff Garza : Worship Minister, 1st Baptist of Worland, WyomingJeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.comBlogger164125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-631298185248614932012-04-03T13:50:00.020-07:002012-04-06T11:47:24.167-07:00He is Risen!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tY-cgs68QumFn9n-AbvRtEdT1qh2ImScJ-RmAQDll7yCQV1Z1thHquuDoShuiRBrVT7AvaWNCb3NoKxN_99htiDDeiouUzRR78RHfv-8-Q8u0WKKy9sziDK-lZChtkSKMOeCXzQbHl4/s1600/He+is+Risen%2521.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 144px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728360857944189714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tY-cgs68QumFn9n-AbvRtEdT1qh2ImScJ-RmAQDll7yCQV1Z1thHquuDoShuiRBrVT7AvaWNCb3NoKxN_99htiDDeiouUzRR78RHfv-8-Q8u0WKKy9sziDK-lZChtkSKMOeCXzQbHl4/s200/He+is+Risen%2521.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">Mar 16:4 NKJV - "vs. 4 - But when they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away--for it was very large. vs. 5- And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed. vs. 6 - But he said to them, "Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him."</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">Our Lord, Jesus Christ is alive and well! This Sunday we celebrate Resurrection Sunday, commonly called Easter Sunday. Traditionally a leader in the church says, "He is risen!" The congregation responds with, "He is risen indeed!" </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">Not only should we celebrate Christ's resurrection this Sunday, but we should celebrate it everyday! Jesus is our salvation! We as Christians believe that He died on the cross, was buried in the tomb, and rose again on the third day! He promised this! It, without a doubt, happened just like He said it would! </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">Matthew 20:19 "And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again."</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">Mark 14:28 "But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee."</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">Luke 18:33 "And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again."</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">John 2:19-22 "Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">The Bible speaks the truth. Jesus' resurrection <u>really</u> happened. Submit your hearts to Christ. He is our only hope! Rom 10:9 NKJV - that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff99;">This Sunday as we sing songs like, "Our Redeemer Lives", "At the Cross", and "He Lives", really listen to the words that we sing as we praise our Lord Jesus Christ. Let's remember the penalty that Christ paid on the cross for our sins. Let's celebrate that He did what he promised. Let's remember this EVERY day. He is risen! He is risen indeed!</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-18688191435197842462012-03-26T14:05:00.011-07:002012-03-26T14:28:37.743-07:00God's Kingdom Cannot Be Shaken!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQll3uq29QkObK-5RG1X52-OB_SvLTw96wa1sja2BOGtZrFc49WZi0dhDVLiqkJDLvNXYbN55lFpoCA8ReTkol_TfhxVzfqp_nmYaS3HrRvbCvZ8aoERbtoLswcli4NWn35S_CGD1VKXk/s1600/Kingdom_of_God.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 112px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724320325501867282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQll3uq29QkObK-5RG1X52-OB_SvLTw96wa1sja2BOGtZrFc49WZi0dhDVLiqkJDLvNXYbN55lFpoCA8ReTkol_TfhxVzfqp_nmYaS3HrRvbCvZ8aoERbtoLswcli4NWn35S_CGD1VKXk/s200/Kingdom_of_God.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe," – Hebrews 12:28</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">As I was sitting at my desk reading today, I could hear the wind storm outside blowing like crazy! I knew trees were shaking. Dirt was flying. Plastic milk crates were flying outside of the kitchen facility. All of a sudden, I heard a loud crash and boom! I looked through the blinds of my window facing the parking lot, and noticed that the wind had picked up and smashed a heavy trash bin into a parked van. I thought, boy, the trash bins need to be a lot more secure, solid, and stable to withstand the Wyoming winds! What an awesome sight!</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">I came across this verse today out of Hebrews 12. Verse 28 states that the kingdom that we are receiving cannot be shaken. Which means that our salvation is built upon the Solid Rock.....a firm foundation! You see, when we are saved, we are a part of God's kingdom. What a wonderful promise that God's kingdom is forever! It cannot be moved! It cannot be blown over like a trash bin! God's kingdom is secure, solid, stable, and withstands ANYTHING! </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">In the words of Hebrews 12:28, let us be thankful! Please worship with me....with reverence and awe! Thank you, Lord, for salvation! Thank you, Lord, for having us as Christians in Your kingdom! Amen.</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-48149264140562358342012-03-12T14:17:00.008-07:002012-03-16T14:25:52.320-07:00I Want to Praise You In the Morning!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPtrcS-GpKubK1RkVVkQ4YmcB10kc1yXVjZVcYlvCvWKalBHq3WfldYsuRFeg6B4qMTg5k7dc8vlXrRNFZzT3xMZlL7ey-MYyfYzHRf8cAQSJGH643GLaywxGu4wyJAQs5RPKryWSsno/s1600/Good+Morning+Lord.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 109px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720608930467723778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPtrcS-GpKubK1RkVVkQ4YmcB10kc1yXVjZVcYlvCvWKalBHq3WfldYsuRFeg6B4qMTg5k7dc8vlXrRNFZzT3xMZlL7ey-MYyfYzHRf8cAQSJGH643GLaywxGu4wyJAQs5RPKryWSsno/s200/Good+Morning+Lord.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc99;">Psalm 5:3 "My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; In the morning I will direct [it] to You, And I will look up."</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc99;">Did I wake up this morning and thank the Lord for a new day? Or, did I complain that the alarm clock woke me up leaving me feeling extra tired especially after getting use to Daylight Saving Time all this week? Well...I guarantee, it was the latter of the two questions. I did complain about having to get up so early, especially fighting a nice head cold. Yes, eventually I did get my morning routine going....shower, shave, dressing,...etc... yes, even doing my morning devotions.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc99;">It was later in the day, that I came across this verse, written by the Psalmist, David. It made it clear to me that instead of complaining and forcing myself to get out of bed, that I should be a lot more thankful. The Lord has given me another day! I need to make sure that I look up to Him each day and start my day off right in worship!</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc99;">Lord, please strengthen me each morning to start my day off right with You. Help me to recognize you each and every morning when I rise. Each day I thank you for life. I praise you, Lord. In Jesus' Name amen.</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-64942946005593230252012-02-27T13:57:00.007-08:002012-02-27T14:15:34.072-08:00We Were Created for God's Glory!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingjQX5G1U9Zebbo3T3EGhyphenhyphenvYUml-jzXH91dsAgTUB6KYO3VyOMQJSRNoAohO9cgYihPojpE10DGt-LO4dAriK8Jfm8c7V75NsYnlSvV_f9l3ACJNlhS8JKxHwhnoJ4Unu4Dg18gySvCc/s1600/InTheBeginningGod_lg.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713941867666772962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingjQX5G1U9Zebbo3T3EGhyphenhyphenvYUml-jzXH91dsAgTUB6KYO3VyOMQJSRNoAohO9cgYihPojpE10DGt-LO4dAriK8Jfm8c7V75NsYnlSvV_f9l3ACJNlhS8JKxHwhnoJ4Unu4Dg18gySvCc/s200/InTheBeginningGod_lg.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">Colossians 1:16 "For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him."</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">As this verse teaches, we were created for God's glory! We are to worship Him with our whole life! This being said, we will soon start to sing a new song to praise our Lord called, "Glory to God Forever", written by Steve Fee. Take a look at my favorite lyrics from the song that reflect the fact that we are created to worship Him:</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">Creator God You gave me breath</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">So I could praise Your great and matchless name</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">All my days, all my days</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">So let my whole life be a blazing offering </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">A life that shouts and sings </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">The greatness of our King</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">It is my prayer that as we sing this song in coming weeks that the Lord would see in our lives the blazing offering of our whole lives in worship to our Great God! He truly does have a great and matchless name! If you would like to see the lyrics and hear the song..and maybe even sing along to the song, pause my "playlist" and scroll down and push play to the YouTube video featuring the song. May God truly bless you! </span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-71773967474864892532012-02-21T13:44:00.000-08:002012-02-21T14:12:55.229-08:00He Renews our Strength!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jjFpC3Caks0x7reoX60DsvOPUSygvurMQvPj7jxTOiJXJMLk-Nr-esN9ugTc1U74bfSwmR2Ki4nzsKcuVnJi-tdlKu1tOct5wd5MkqShJsI9OTcl5nA3NRJnF92qxXgxqQ46jYNcA_0/s1600/Bald-Eagle+Soaring+Over+Mountains.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 138px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711713576692428562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jjFpC3Caks0x7reoX60DsvOPUSygvurMQvPj7jxTOiJXJMLk-Nr-esN9ugTc1U74bfSwmR2Ki4nzsKcuVnJi-tdlKu1tOct5wd5MkqShJsI9OTcl5nA3NRJnF92qxXgxqQ46jYNcA_0/s200/Bald-Eagle+Soaring+Over+Mountains.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."<br />– Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">What an incredible refreshing promise that God gives us in this verse from Isaiah 40:31! God is our hope....He renews our strength! He lifts us up on wings like eagles. We just need to wait upon the Lord in all things, as we walk with Him. As we wait upon the Lord, we should be in prayer. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">At this time I am listening to another song that is popular to sing in our church, Lincoln Brewster's version of "Everlasting God". If you have ever heard this version of the song, at the end, there is a little girl that is quoting scripture from Isaiah 40. Not only is the song a powerful message, the scripture is more-so....of course it's from the Word of God!</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">You may be reading this, struggling with illness, financial difficulty, a loss of a loved one, depression, job loss, etc. Maybe you're exhausted with day-to-day life. Please know from scripture, the TRUTH, if we hope in the Lord...he will renew strength! He can and will lift us up on wings like eagles! Praise the Lord! </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">Place your hope in the Lord Jesus Christ and the hope that He offers. A new life. A new beginning. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-43582292155685097102012-02-10T15:37:00.000-08:002012-02-10T17:13:40.597-08:00Our Great God!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_j4SNp5Fg0AWIrqy1oUriMx7wrW7A-lUbES46liQVfmCRdtoaWuyzCzfnVq2PlkEU05FpISvqUNai6rHJiZbH3I5tj9IokYFtyj4Zi40MN9oXC9hOWYzVxxnIqV2Iqypev-POljV76s/s1600/Awesome+God.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 170px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707679677381647666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_j4SNp5Fg0AWIrqy1oUriMx7wrW7A-lUbES46liQVfmCRdtoaWuyzCzfnVq2PlkEU05FpISvqUNai6rHJiZbH3I5tj9IokYFtyj4Zi40MN9oXC9hOWYzVxxnIqV2Iqypev-POljV76s/s200/Awesome+God.jpg" /></a><br /><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">I am here to say that our God is Greater! What do I mean by this? Recently we started to sing a newer song in our church written by Chris Tomlin called "Our God". In the lines of the chorus, it goes like the following: "Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God you are higher than any other."<br /><br />These words are truly biblical and inspiring to our Christian walk because of the fact that God is greater! He is stronger! He is higher that any gods that we have struggled with! If you have ever struggled with putting anything before God in worship, please know that He is greater! If you may be struggling with any hang-ups, addictions, sin in general that's trying to take over as a god....little "g"....Our God is stronger! Solomon saw the greatness of God when he was preparing to build the temple. Take a look at 2 Chronicles 2:5-6a<br /><br />"And the temple which I build [will be] great, for our God is greater than all gods. But who is able to build Him a temple, since heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Him?" Solomon was EXACTLY right! Who can contain our GREAT God?!!<br /><br />Another example of this is written by the Psalmist in Psalms 135:5... "For I know that the LORD [is] great, And our Lord [is] above all gods." I am SO thankful that we serve the LIVING GOD! My prayer is that you serve Him too!<br /><br />You see, Satan is prowling trying to get us to serve him. He loves to distract, deceive, destroy...the horrible reality... he wants us to serve other gods before our Mighty God....BIG "G". However, we have a promise that is written in 1 John 4:4 - "You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." Aren't you glad that our God is greater than he who is in the world? Again....Our God is greater...stronger...and higher<br /><br />The other powerfully biblical part of the song that we sing in church, "Our God" written by Chris Tomlin, is in the bridge:<br /><br />“And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us? And if our God is with us, then what could stand against? And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us? And if our God is with us, then what could stand against? What could stand against."<br /><br />Wow! This whole section of the song is based on the verse that comes from Romans 8:31...and what a promise it is! Romans 8:31- "What then shall we say to these things? If God [is] for us, who [can be] against us?"<br /><br />I am so thankful that as a child of God through Jesus Christ, He is for me. My prayer is that you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. He wants you to be his child and be for you! He is our Great God!<br /><br />I could go on and on about the biblical message of the song, "Our God", and explain the miracles of Jesus Christ at the beginning of the song, but, I'll leave that to your Bible reading. God bless you. It is great to worship with you.<br /></span>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-63182089681960251182012-02-06T11:17:00.000-08:002012-02-06T13:50:48.273-08:00Let's Rejoice In the Lord in this New Year!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNq-Zl2w6KRwu3jC0hQSgvq1QxL4_-q6YpY9etFcVqxNvzPiuBqPXHFOmlmIXQoQNmK5-am7w1NZ7s08oIsZePrXVYHwSApld3RblbXe22RWDg94nsm7aZTR7ZM4_ZpDytjsdG_GQE3FY/s1600/Rejoice+in+the+Lord+Always.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 155px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706142770594183810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNq-Zl2w6KRwu3jC0hQSgvq1QxL4_-q6YpY9etFcVqxNvzPiuBqPXHFOmlmIXQoQNmK5-am7w1NZ7s08oIsZePrXVYHwSApld3RblbXe22RWDg94nsm7aZTR7ZM4_ZpDytjsdG_GQE3FY/s200/Rejoice+in+the+Lord+Always.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" -Philippians 4:4 (NIV)</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">Wow! It has been a long time since I have entered my last blog post! Time really has flown by! Anyway...as I have been watching the news in our world, I know it can easily depress a lot of people. I'm not saying that keeping up to date with current events is a bad thing, it's just, we as Christians need to remember that nothing compares to the promises that we have in Jesus Christ, the Good News! </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">We read, watch, and listen to stories like our failing economy, death, destruction, starvation, greed, etc., but the Bible tells us that no matter what we may be going through, we are to look to the Lord Jesus Christ and rejoice! When we look around us in this world, as Christians, we need to remember that everything is temporary. Just like a lot of bumper stickers that I have seen, NOTW, we are "Not Of This World".</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">In the book of Philippians, Paul wrote to encourage the Philippians to rejoice even though they were facing hardships. They faced hardships, and so do we. Thank the Lord that living in this fallen world is as mentioned above, temporary. You see, we have a hope in our salvation, in the Good News that God is faithful and that He never changes! </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">My prayer is this....that as we live and grow further into 2012, that we may be filled by his joy that will strengthen our hearts! Let's strive by the Holy Spirit to rejoice in the Lord always! I guess I will say it again....REJOICE!</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-48118250811119056762011-07-15T09:36:00.000-07:002011-07-15T09:55:14.602-07:00Pandamania - Vacation Bible School!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt3g5lVlg7jgscwd8DsFRLtKjXcc0ibc5MzPKwMKtYmJu2PFWrSiRBm6KIBPE5ne9jOZ06s4T-AcRYhN0KtxdAIRLTL_WIqfsUkhiOJYIun6bWDfwMdnLgGR84ohpKkqyqnrTv0St37c/s1600/pandamanialogolowres-s.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629619150705962146" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 135px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt3g5lVlg7jgscwd8DsFRLtKjXcc0ibc5MzPKwMKtYmJu2PFWrSiRBm6KIBPE5ne9jOZ06s4T-AcRYhN0KtxdAIRLTL_WIqfsUkhiOJYIun6bWDfwMdnLgGR84ohpKkqyqnrTv0St37c/s200/pandamanialogolowres-s.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#33cc00;">Wow! What an exciting event occurred in our church! Several of our church members have been involved with putting on a Vacation Bible School for the children in our home town of Worland. Over 70 kids were taking part in worship, bible stories, crafts, snacks, games...all in the name of Jesus Christ! The wonderful thing about it, several kids accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior! And, on the last night, several parents of the kids came to see for themselves what was being taught about Jesus Christ!</span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">I was amazed how our church was decorated with bamboo, leaves, etc. There was even a large whale in one of the classroom that was used in the telling of the story of Jonah. A lot of time and effort was put into VBS, and it showed! </span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">A big thanks to Gail Carver and Wendy Compton for their leadership in this huge effort. They truly did an amazing job with this project. There were about 35 people in all that were involved, and the Lord truly blessed it! I know my wife, Sandra, really enjoyed being in charge of snacks. My son, Caleb, enjoyed working with his group of kids. I could tell all the other workers were just as excited about serving the Lord. </span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">Super job everyone! I'm sure that the Lord is super pleased with your efforts of spreading the gospel message. With the involvement of the parents, I am praying that the families that were invited will return to First Baptist and will be fed by the Holy Spirit. We truly want to see lives changed in Jesus Christ.</span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">I just loved the theme of VBS this year....God is WILD about you! Isn't that truly incredible? There is a special place in my heart for Vacation Bible School. I was saved at one! Amen!</span>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-20526649662860574362011-06-06T14:21:00.000-07:002011-06-09T09:56:43.311-07:00Summer is here?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCs_wlm7f4-vjIJHmFiuYICvrkuDL3mL46cvy7y0l2TCt-0hduM9KhBmzlxVL7-po8QWNJCQSsAP3IGum6Mqmsr2qhxCIvW7yKFRunJyxGjUt1xAfeOGx_wUpKkQp_dwFcwptrhM_kAME/s1600/summer71.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616264340488876514" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 160px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCs_wlm7f4-vjIJHmFiuYICvrkuDL3mL46cvy7y0l2TCt-0hduM9KhBmzlxVL7-po8QWNJCQSsAP3IGum6Mqmsr2qhxCIvW7yKFRunJyxGjUt1xAfeOGx_wUpKkQp_dwFcwptrhM_kAME/s200/summer71.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">I know that it's not quite summer according to the calendar, which actually starts June, 21, 2011. It is beginning to look and feel like summer here in Worland, Wyoming. It never ceases to amaze me how weather changes so rapidly here. Over Memorial Day weekend, it was raining like crazy and even started to snow. Today, the temperature is in the 90's. Amazing! </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">School is out, and it's good to see some changes around the community of Worland. I'm seeing kids from First Baptist Church working summer jobs around town. Projects and contruction are being done to our church. Baseball and softball lights have been turned on allowing the games to be played in the evenings. Lot's of people are out and about walking and biking the trails. I love the changes in the seasons.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">Here's what the Garza's are doing this summer (Lord willing). Sandra is helping the summer school program here in Worland in the office, classroom, and giving the swimming lessons to the kids. Caleb is working for the Washakie County School District #1 with grounds and maintenance. He is also wrapping up Shrine Bowl week for football and taking a college summer class. Jacob is working for his uncle Marc at the gym this summer, taking driver's ed. classes, and umpiring baseball games. Josh is playing baseball and being a kid. Me? I'm teaching summer school and leading worship at First Baptist. Busy summer.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">Yes, I see that it may be a busy summer, but we hope to get some breaks from time to time. I hope to get some fishing in and of course, some camping done. Maybe I can catch up on some summer projects too? </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">Anyway, from the Garza's to you. We pray that you will have a safe and wonderful summer, enjoy family and friends. Don't forget to worship with us! We will see you this summer at Worland First Baptist Church!</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;"></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-54847330608275242162011-05-31T08:41:00.000-07:002011-05-31T11:35:18.068-07:00Jesus Was and Is, and Is to Come!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-Ixr4kf2XwpRy0yh_XSK7v0U_hu6nyU3sHFzzNmqc9zw8oF3nQgmY3HAOTMpojey4IGpY0iHniaP0UJMEAPSWR6G9OXAvLdy0uBeadU0TvoiIVztgAPXfXmLFevk2DX7lL_Y-vy80Io/s1600/open-bible-on-american-flag-thumb50592471.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612948218576897618" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 134px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-Ixr4kf2XwpRy0yh_XSK7v0U_hu6nyU3sHFzzNmqc9zw8oF3nQgmY3HAOTMpojey4IGpY0iHniaP0UJMEAPSWR6G9OXAvLdy0uBeadU0TvoiIVztgAPXfXmLFevk2DX7lL_Y-vy80Io/s200/open-bible-on-american-flag-thumb50592471.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>Many of us, as Americans, remember the fallen soldiers that have served our country on Memorial Day, and we are so thankful and blessed. Many of us remember loved ones that we cherished while they were with us in our lifetime, many that we hope to see in heaven some day. Still others get together for fun social gatherings on this occasion, even marking the beginning of summer vacation.</div><br /><br /><div>One that we should always remember is Jesus Christ and what He did on the cross for us. He paid the penalty for our sins on that old rugged cross. Even more, He died and rose again! Remember, according to Acts 5:42, "the good news that Jesus is the Christ." </div><br /><br /><div>In my devotions today, the stress is on the word IS. Jesus IS the Christ! Of course we want to remember that Christ saved us, but we also need to remember that He IS working today in us, through us, and around us! He is alive and well! </div><br /><br /><div>In the Bible, in the New Testament, in the Book of Acts 5:42, the apostles were not holding back their faith, knowing that Jesus Christ was working! They risked their lives, "Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ." </div><br /><br /><div>We may not be risking our lives, but are we doing enough for Him? Let's continue to serve Him and see what He continues to do in our lives and the lives of others. </div><br /><br /><div>Another thing to remember is Jesus was and is, and is to come! Jesus is coming soon! He's the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last! Jesus is not through with us yet!</div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-6669915945608817772011-05-18T09:48:00.000-07:002011-05-18T14:27:23.768-07:00End of the School Year!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHMsKvQJszQcnOnOXpl4-Otg9_gl745bGsfYnUoGKlnxNAfFoNXJ7qYT8Z5UhuwnPDvgQYCaRruZQx_Z_U8EX5awzfMYg-0_jDvo41pytkFfB8iR4UBgFadYAmVPA5NEnvyqRU7Oc9PSg/s1600/1905780-an-orange-business-man-reading-from-a-stack-of-books-wearing-a-graduation-cap-perhaps-he-is-learning.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608170080398015442" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 168px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 168px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHMsKvQJszQcnOnOXpl4-Otg9_gl745bGsfYnUoGKlnxNAfFoNXJ7qYT8Z5UhuwnPDvgQYCaRruZQx_Z_U8EX5awzfMYg-0_jDvo41pytkFfB8iR4UBgFadYAmVPA5NEnvyqRU7Oc9PSg/s200/1905780-an-orange-business-man-reading-from-a-stack-of-books-wearing-a-graduation-cap-perhaps-he-is-learning.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">Wow! I am amazed on how quickly this year went by! It just seems like the school year just got started. For you parents out there, you may be thinking the same thing.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">In my family there are lots of "firsts" that are about to happen. My oldest son will be graduating this week in the Class of 2011. Congratulations graduating seniors! My middle son will be completing his freshman year, looking forward to being a sophomore and driving!!!! My youngest son will no longer be in elementary school, becoming a middle-schooler, leaving that chapter in his life behind!</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">I've got a lot to pray about with my own family. How about you? Let's pray for our kids as they wrap up their school year. Let's pray for those that are working summer jobs or playing sports. Overall, let's continue to pray for their safety as they start their summer out of school. I know that it's always a big adjustment for families too. Pray for our families.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">Before you know it, it will be time to send them off to school again!</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-62034360551285519822011-05-02T14:02:00.000-07:002012-02-10T18:36:56.864-08:00The Lord's Direction<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ojsBjC4YQsnJirhxPiFY3N97bukwGWtR6Oi3TTgQzdl9GpUgET5s3eMdrcx828ZQz2sXPaMqwPKGSOJXl9fyLtW2GXk0yPWi2yLVDQI_Ff0FGG0ibNV53LgUpPO5P4sKVAHdk9pKtak/s1600/core-footprints.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 132px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602602246720517346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ojsBjC4YQsnJirhxPiFY3N97bukwGWtR6Oi3TTgQzdl9GpUgET5s3eMdrcx828ZQz2sXPaMqwPKGSOJXl9fyLtW2GXk0yPWi2yLVDQI_Ff0FGG0ibNV53LgUpPO5P4sKVAHdk9pKtak/s200/core-footprints.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">Proverbs 16:9 – "A man's heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps."<br /><br />Have you ever looked back on your life and think about the choices that you have made in your life? Were they good choices? Were they bad choices? Think about it....we should be praying for God's will in the choices that we make, because God is ultimately in control. Life can be a mystery of what God wants for us, at the same time, it is amazing when He does reveal to you what He wants you to do. </span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">I often look at what the Lord is having me do right now, and I also look in my past of how God has taken my past experiences to use for Him today. For example...I used to be a music major...He is having me lead praise and worship at church and at the Wyoming Boys' School. I taught for 12 years in the public school.....now God is allowing me to teach the boys at the Wyoming Boys' School and also allowing us to minister to them by the Holy Spirit. </span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">The point is...I'm not boasting on what God is doing with me, but what I'm trying to say is, just like the verse above, we may plan on what we want to do.....we make decisions, but GOD directs our steps. It is amazing how God can use our past experiences for His glory! We just need to pray and watch what the Lord does.</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">I also think of the story of Joseph, after he had been thrown into a pit by his brothers, after being sold into slavery, God finally put him into a position of great power in Egypt. Joseph had gone through all kinds of tough experiences, some that he had no choice in at all....but again, ultimately God is and was in control. The Lord directed His steps, and ultimately his people were blessed. Furthermore, look at the attitude that Joseph took, when his brothers that sold him into slavery were afraid for their lives when they found out that Joseph was still alive and an authority in the Pharaoh's courts...Quoting Joseph, Genesis 5:20 says, "But as for you, you meant evil against me; [but] God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as [it is] this day, to save many people alive." You see, God can make any situation into one that is good and glorifies Himself.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">So what do we need to do? We need to continue to pray for God's will in our choices and decision making, and know that the Lord directs our steps. Here is an example of what I'm praying for right now:</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">My oldest son, Caleb, has just finished up registering for his fall college classes. He has made some decisions on what direction that he would like to take, planning his way. I pray that with all of the experiences that God has given him, including the ones that he has planned for college, that the Lord will direct his steps. I pray that God's will be done in his life for the Lord's glory. I am sure that God has plans for Caleb.</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">Let's continue to pray that the Lord would direct our steps, seeking Him each day, relying on His sovereignty. Let's continue to pray that the Lord will direct the steps of our children in the way that will be pleasing to Him. One thing that we don't have to worry about is the fact that God's will, will be done regardless. I don't know about you, but I want God in control of my life and the steps that I take. </span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-2651435597574274202011-04-08T09:47:00.000-07:002011-04-08T14:18:52.817-07:00God's Word is Truth!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkBejIyat032FC2p6AzP_eOkqbjvQFVZa3ujol_cWyqjlqZjpGhiP9wln3zI6KhjuHZQ9bo9Ra_Tae_YEvpvgvwk3IX91B6leXDqZLGc9fM52pTWr2fgjS0XaAdHY8ScHV_Cp0cvWHWI/s1600/bible.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593324936276135874" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkBejIyat032FC2p6AzP_eOkqbjvQFVZa3ujol_cWyqjlqZjpGhiP9wln3zI6KhjuHZQ9bo9Ra_Tae_YEvpvgvwk3IX91B6leXDqZLGc9fM52pTWr2fgjS0XaAdHY8ScHV_Cp0cvWHWI/s200/bible.jpg" border="0" /></a> <br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">1 Thessalonians 2:12-13- "that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe."</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">I'm sure you have read different accounts of newspaper articles. Each one seems to have it's own twist of the story, even embellishment. Why? Most likely, to make sure that the newspaper sells to it's readers. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">Even today, I taught in my U.S. History class about the Great American Newspaper War that was happening during the 1898 Spanish- American War. The type of newspaper war that was raging was between Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst over the selling of newspapers, REALLY embellishing and stretching the truth about the Spanish-American War. This type of journalism was called "Yellow Journalism". Of course, the American people ate it up, many fanned on with smoldering anger favoring U.S. Military intervention in against Spain in Cuba. Why? because "truth" was not being completely kept. A lot of people didn't know what to believe. As a matter of fact, many historians believe that the newspapers actually caused the war to be worse then it would have been without the articles.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">I thank God that His word is truth! It is not embellished. It is not twisted with lies. The word of God comes directly from Him and is of Him. As the verse in 1 Thessalonians above says, the word of God was "not welcomed as word of men.." The verse goes on to say that "it is in truth, the word of God".</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">I am also thankful for the last portion of the verse, knowing that the word of God works in us who believe! This is why it is so important that we read God's word each day. It is important that we learn more and more about His truths. His truth surely does set us free! The more that we learn about the truth of God, our faith will grow deeper and deeper in Him. The Holy Spirit will truly bless our lives. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">Just think...when we accept Him, obey Him, and follow the truth of Him, we walk worthy of God who calls us into His own kingdom and glory!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">Wow! How awesome that is!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-77716545386450352562011-03-29T13:53:00.000-07:002011-03-29T16:52:41.678-07:00Pray for Our College Bound Kids!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJZDsc2qADhePlttaLVpbJOEdSYfEmpV8-mtmERQOgoBGeXeuqtF9RnQ90sN-5TlwyPnzYKfCL18RAlTW4VVIwCBiAS0FyB35sLMxQFcZgCOS1Eln9Ac6N3KIEdB4_C1ErYDBlbzXWDw/s1600/college-head_2.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 176px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589611934330698978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJZDsc2qADhePlttaLVpbJOEdSYfEmpV8-mtmERQOgoBGeXeuqtF9RnQ90sN-5TlwyPnzYKfCL18RAlTW4VVIwCBiAS0FyB35sLMxQFcZgCOS1Eln9Ac6N3KIEdB4_C1ErYDBlbzXWDw/s200/college-head_2.jpg" /></a> <br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;">Over the many years, I have watched many of our friends and family sending their kids off to college. In Wyoming, the reality is.....when you send your kids off to college....you send them OFF to college. Even a community college can be several miles away! </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;">Well...I guess it is our turn. Sandra and I are preparing to send our oldest son off to college in the fall, and it's not an easy ordeal. The writing for scholarships is crazy...The waiting for acceptance letters can be stressful....all of the roadtrips to visit different colleges. Whew! And....is their enough money to cover ALL of the expenses???</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;">All of the stress has one good thing about it....it drives us as parents to our knees to pray and cling to the Lord. I have to remember that it is now Caleb's turn to be really tested in his faith. I pray that he will remember what we have taught him and what he has learned in his Christian walk. The verse, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." - Proverbs 22:6, keeps running through my head. The main thing that we are praying about is that Caleb will stick to his faith no matter what.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;">Let's all join together in prayer for our students that are getting ready to head off to college. Lord, please remind our students that they are to be in the world but not of the world. Strengthen them even in these early preparations before high school graduation to prepare them for their future. We pray that You will provide all their financial needs on and off campus. We pray that You will keep them safe. Most of all, Lord, we pray that you will bless them by the Holy Spirit to rely totally on you in everything that they do. In Jesus' Name- Amen. </span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-30398000001934488972011-03-16T11:22:00.000-07:002011-03-16T11:51:34.624-07:00Blessed are the Peacemakers....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwBCw-u1VGH0vJfE5yXO4wsGgXDipzFpUdm_gWt9vT_N8W2qPnIoQrTa3OM5CJudMBEz9HCAVMKuHUua1QJeIDe-B_gVXIiD0Sv_o-CGFpYok5ryfp-7S8qnxFIXyTU_C0O7SmQJni1g/s1600/blessed_are_the_peacemakers_t_nv.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584752303228519202" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwBCw-u1VGH0vJfE5yXO4wsGgXDipzFpUdm_gWt9vT_N8W2qPnIoQrTa3OM5CJudMBEz9HCAVMKuHUua1QJeIDe-B_gVXIiD0Sv_o-CGFpYok5ryfp-7S8qnxFIXyTU_C0O7SmQJni1g/s200/blessed_are_the_peacemakers_t_nv.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjqKLhZEQqKlxvz5r6fhamlDdZfjfjwu3bK9R9fQSDqaY4bk1sGxNgDdxiG2FPIi2lgb6G6g8TxbkL-bF41bwvFKS6MRJMS6Jkd1AAkEC1Bi0PcDbVKNUh2ZnieVWUnx5VrjfPiCG-QA/s1600/blessed_are_the_peacemakers_t_nv.jpg"></a><span style="color:#33ccff;">"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." - Matthew 5:9<br /><br /></span><div><div><span style="color:#33ccff;">We live in a dying and decaying world full of sin. Often times in society, people argue, fight, and even go to war. Sometimes we have differences with our peers and neighbors, even arguing that can cause pain, stress, and strife. You know, God loves a cheerful heart, and He doesn't like to see us hindering our worship of Him by having bitterness towards our brothers and sisters. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33ccff;">First of all....we can thank God that He brings peace and hope to our lives through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. Second of all, God also sent His Son to live a sinless life as a model to us all. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33ccff;">Before we, "fly off the handle" at someone, allowing sin to reign free, let's seek godly wisdom, and seek how the Lord would handle the situation. God tells us in Matthew 5:9, that we are to be peacemakers, and that we will be blessed if we are. If we are peacemakers, we will be called His sons.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33ccff;">You may be thinking, well..."Nobody is perfect"....humanly speaking...you are right, but God is perfect, and He draws us as Christians to Him, wanting us to be more like Him.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33ccff;">Dear Lord, when friction arises between ourselves and others, help us not to sin against You. Help us to pray. Help us to listen attentively to all parties in a heated situation. Lord, help us to always seek to be peacemakers as you would have us do. In Jesus' name, Amen.</span></div></div></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-53691479904354609502011-03-14T11:39:00.000-07:002011-03-14T13:55:26.940-07:00Congratulations Worland Warriors!<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmebvLoPT9Ma_SmAKd2ptr_BWE9ui7MdOhMTulWmMC1uINew9kN1te-UP-8c8sECY02-Zvp2kuV_yLK-lw51svXCGmWfqQK42uiZ0TKAejm636nlFxl1r9hCo5olxK5iXfD1z1M8tEflM/s1600/Worland+Warrior.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584040178265545682" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 186px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmebvLoPT9Ma_SmAKd2ptr_BWE9ui7MdOhMTulWmMC1uINew9kN1te-UP-8c8sECY02-Zvp2kuV_yLK-lw51svXCGmWfqQK42uiZ0TKAejm636nlFxl1r9hCo5olxK5iXfD1z1M8tEflM/s200/Worland+Warrior.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">I just wanted to write and say congratulations to the Worland Warrior basketball players! It was a fun season to watch this year. Both the boys and the girls team were able to qualify for the state tournament this year, with the boys only having one loss in the games, but allowing them to take 5th place over all in the state for 3A. The state tournament took place last Thursday through Saturday at Casper College. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">Two of my sons played basketball this year. Jacob played on the freshman team, and Caleb played varsity for his senior year. Both tell me that they had a lot of fun this year. I'm excited that Jacob wants to play all four years of high school for the Warriors.</span></div><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">My youngest son, Josh, is still in elementary school, but loves to play basketball and can't wait until he is able to play for the Warriors! </span><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6600;">Keep up the great work Worland basketball players and coaches. You have made our community proud of you! We hope that there will be many more exciting years to come for the sport! </span></div></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-66102693820542235332011-03-07T11:35:00.000-08:002011-03-07T13:57:49.786-08:00Blessed are the pure in heart!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGB1asOuXho84bScRJmx7pEBxF72Omt-r2tVxoo5xDcslTpRoMgfxVZnymEAdQ12dEhWP7rgN6j7bCu6rLLFNPqZcxyd9arnUdU8Q531nmU65mK5tRxk6HXuetxV-lFZ4p9yfkIAUGno/s1600/Blessed+are+the+pure+in+heart.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581460028279088898" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 172px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGB1asOuXho84bScRJmx7pEBxF72Omt-r2tVxoo5xDcslTpRoMgfxVZnymEAdQ12dEhWP7rgN6j7bCu6rLLFNPqZcxyd9arnUdU8Q531nmU65mK5tRxk6HXuetxV-lFZ4p9yfkIAUGno/s200/Blessed+are+the+pure+in+heart.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#ccccff;">"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." - Matthew 5:8</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ccccff;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ccccff;">We are not called just to seek knowledge of what the Bible says. We are to seek to live a life of worship in which the Bible describes to us. The Lord is searching for our heart of worship, a pure heart that is seeking the ways of God. If we are worshiping the Lord with our heart, soul, mind, and strength we will be gaining more knowledge of Him, as we read His Word. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ccccff;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ccccff;">Knowledge is important but it doesn't take the place of a pure heart that worships our Lord Jesus Christ. I want to have knowledge of our God, but first, I want to have a pure worshipful heart for God, being humble before Him. Another verse that applies here is James 4:10- "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up." If we live a life that is pure in heart, we truly will see God. </span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-19735065119753103682011-02-17T11:32:00.000-08:002011-02-18T09:46:06.637-08:00Blessed are the merciful!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzTd6XPBvHPoR7qzBqSLnTH5MrwkXngS1gSF6Vgq1I_54kWu-US_Krl2ItvCGqpxqflhmugddKhIkYzZiRa-6fODyvOeZv0mCHHqVGMz2j7cE3UryUZBcWpwcB1eE4I7S8qpAtrjCsNE/s1600/Blessed+are+the+merciful.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574744207606453826" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzTd6XPBvHPoR7qzBqSLnTH5MrwkXngS1gSF6Vgq1I_54kWu-US_Krl2ItvCGqpxqflhmugddKhIkYzZiRa-6fODyvOeZv0mCHHqVGMz2j7cE3UryUZBcWpwcB1eE4I7S8qpAtrjCsNE/s200/Blessed+are+the+merciful.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#ffff66;">"Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." – Matthew 5:7</span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;">When I see this verse I immediately think of the story of the Good Samaritan who nursed and cared for the down-trodden traveler that was left for dead by the side of the road, while others even crossed to the other side of the road to avoid the man that was so desperately in need. </span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;">We are all guilty of being busy...so busy that we tend to forget others that are in need. My prayer is that we....I...can be a lot more merciful toward others in need. I'm not just talking about writing a check to give to those in need, even though that can be good in and of itself. </span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;">I know there have been times where I should have given my neighbor food..or clothing. I should have written that card to encourage. I should have given that phone call, or made that visit to one in need. </span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;">Jesus calls us to be merciful to our fellow man. As Christians, he tells us that we too will be rewarded with mercy! After all....we all deserve death and separation from God, but because of His mercy, we have eternal life for those who believe in Him!</span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffff66;">A lot of people talk about how our American culture has gotten so insensitive and self-centered. Can you imagine what a change we could make if we were a lot more merciful toward each other? Let's pray that we can be more loving and merciful with a pay-it-forward mentality. God bless you! Blessed are the merciful!</span></div><div></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-14891594915522499292011-02-08T06:44:00.000-08:002011-02-08T09:27:40.527-08:00Wow! What a quick football season!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s0cUZHmkHm4MC1kKTemDTLSbeZppM7-a3EEwKGZXMx4e4gbJrOnFmgXsS7Q7BPbVBx6OULUqPfFKi8a8CoJb6TU7N6lJY0wtw95Bzx4CyovOb5bmC7Q9QAXpwkVB8SJg9qyBreMH13E/s1600/Green+Bay+Packers.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571360741885078642" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 161px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s0cUZHmkHm4MC1kKTemDTLSbeZppM7-a3EEwKGZXMx4e4gbJrOnFmgXsS7Q7BPbVBx6OULUqPfFKi8a8CoJb6TU7N6lJY0wtw95Bzx4CyovOb5bmC7Q9QAXpwkVB8SJg9qyBreMH13E/s200/Green+Bay+Packers.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">What a fun football season it was this year! It always is for me. </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I enjoy watching my youngest boy, Josh play "rec" league. The "Scouts" recreation league is well organized and will really improve <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Worland's</span> football program in years to come. It's always fun to see these little guys knocking <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">each other</span> around on the gridiron!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">I really enjoyed watching my middle boy, Jacob, play on his freshman football team this year. No longer in the middle school green this year, it was fun watching him play in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Worland</span> orange and black. He really wants to lift weights early to get ready for next year's season. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Caleb finished off his senior regular season playing in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Worland</span> orange and black. He is now looking forward to playing the Wyoming State Shrine Bowl coming up this year. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">As for college football, I was able to catch a few great games. I love watching it too, but not nearly as much as I do watching my kids and NFL.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Speaking of the NFL, it was a disappointing season for my Dallas Cowboys. Every time they are picked to go to, or win the Super Bowl....they choke. I know....I know....a lot of you are thinking... that's okay... because you don't like the Dallas Cowboys...but when a majority of your family is from Texas and you are raised with the Dallas Cowboys....you get the picture.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Congratulations to the Green Bay Packers! You played a great Super Bowl game. It was great to see Aaron Rodgers get the win as the new franchise quarterback! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Favre</span>...I believe is now in the past for Green Bay. What a good young team the Packers are. As for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Pittsburg</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Steelers</span>...good season. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Well....it's tough to see football go for another season....can't wait for next fall! </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><div></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-41755573152260400902011-02-04T11:09:00.000-08:002011-02-04T13:12:29.383-08:00Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness..<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HG9w0POluai0ooMro75JolLcpdjqPkIR1QU2Sxnq2VljeRN9gXxGboNYgSMauFdhbtl94Y6XpD3AGyGMHsNjarKKcqXV0uu5Fv5tLNq3T9o3BCFHt-BPjQ_uURhkNLvtDZek7strIp0/s1600/Blessed+are+those+who+hunger+and+thirst.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569920787635122786" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 181px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HG9w0POluai0ooMro75JolLcpdjqPkIR1QU2Sxnq2VljeRN9gXxGboNYgSMauFdhbtl94Y6XpD3AGyGMHsNjarKKcqXV0uu5Fv5tLNq3T9o3BCFHt-BPjQ_uURhkNLvtDZek7strIp0/s200/Blessed+are+those+who+hunger+and+thirst.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;">"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." – Matthew 5:6</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;">Have you ever felt so hungry that you thought you could eat a horse? Maybe you have craved a huge cheeseburger? Have you ever been so thirsty after working hard out on a ranch, or after a long mountain or desert hike in the wilderness that you want to drink a huge big gulp of water? These may be physical needs for food or water, but that is not what Jesus is talking about in this verse.</span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;">Jesus is talking about the spiritual hunger and thirst that we have inside. Only God can satisfy that hunger. First to overcome the spiritual hunger and thirst that every man lacks, we must come to Christ and believe in Him, being baptized by the Holy Spirit. As God allows us to grow in Him by praying each day, and by reading His word, He has the desire for us to seek His righteousness! We should have the hunger...the thirst..and desire for His righteousness too! He wants us to be more like Him as His children. As we hunger and thirst for His righteousness, we will be filled and satisfied. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;">In the world's eye view, people are hustling and bustling, hungering and thirsting for THINGS: money, power, prestige, fame, glory, success....passions, that ultimately won't satisfy. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;">How many of the world's most famous and wealthiest people have you come across, that are truly happy? It seems like they are always searching, searching for something or someone. There is a missing piece...a void in their lives. The missing piece that they are looking for is Jesus Christ and His righteousness. Christians, we will eventually receive all of His riches in glory when we are with Him. I know that He is building me a mansion in heaven!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;">I'm thinking of the old hymn, "I'd Rather Have Jesus". Here is just one verse that sums it up for me, "I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold;I’d rather be His than have riches untold;I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands;I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hand </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;">Refrain: Than to be the king of a vast domain, And be held in sin’s dread sway; I’d rather have Jesus than anything This world affords today.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;">Great words, huh? I don't know about you, but I don't want to be in sin's dread sway. I'd rather be filled by his righteousness.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#663366;">Thank you Lord. Amen.</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-10670484932280348922011-01-31T09:33:00.000-08:002011-01-31T11:19:18.262-08:00Blessed are the meek.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGjoDng3g3a_VGkgngX-xwEPJLEjLFLhI5o6wH532kcTpNtNWDo3_47SrHM5XDArpUBpnAVcnXAZ_8cvLusywI7D_AQ62bASbmbVjjF_CfflgqeuimOq5Vb_PZ-rFY7C4v21yWYT2410/s1600/Blessed+are+the+meek.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568408382836460962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGjoDng3g3a_VGkgngX-xwEPJLEjLFLhI5o6wH532kcTpNtNWDo3_47SrHM5XDArpUBpnAVcnXAZ_8cvLusywI7D_AQ62bASbmbVjjF_CfflgqeuimOq5Vb_PZ-rFY7C4v21yWYT2410/s200/Blessed+are+the+meek.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#33cc00;">"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." – Matthew 5:5</span></div><div><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#33cc00;">A lot of people would probably define meekness as weakness. This is not what the Bible is trying to say here in the beginnings of the Sermon on the Mount, in Matthew 5:5. I learned from my devotions that meekness in this particular scripture means gentleness. I for one know that being gentle takes a lot of discipline!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#33cc00;">Jesus tells us that His rule on His earth is to be a gentle one. Jesus teaches us that we are to show restraint over our own passions, stubbornness, anger, and all of the other ungodly actions that are in our sinful nature. If we can have this restraint and be gentle, showing the love of Jesus Christ, we can be rulers over much! </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#33cc00;">Lord, I pray that I can be faithful, and be more gentle towards others. It's not easy. I know that we, as Christians, are not of this world. Help us, oh God, to be gentle and show that Biblical meekness that you are talking about in Matthew 5:5.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#33cc00;">Amen.</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-66427157615178455052011-01-25T09:46:00.000-08:002011-01-25T11:23:12.419-08:00Blessed are those who mourn.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_vFZ3WMtzljhVkTP4qTY82jn1JWoz2OzIQuanZRBHPTwnAwqlHZH7SdIX2hMbEgdfeEW4upRcX1sn6qBp2SLdY09RiDoDUT4NeTsH3pIc91nfpd8NvhaJXH64-BstJ99Zahk4Ee7lx0/s1600/Blessed+are+those+who+mourn.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566182121260770018" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_vFZ3WMtzljhVkTP4qTY82jn1JWoz2OzIQuanZRBHPTwnAwqlHZH7SdIX2hMbEgdfeEW4upRcX1sn6qBp2SLdY09RiDoDUT4NeTsH3pIc91nfpd8NvhaJXH64-BstJ99Zahk4Ee7lx0/s200/Blessed+are+those+who+mourn.bmp" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#3366ff;">"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." – Matthew 5:4</span><br /><p><span style="color:#3366ff;">After reading my devotions this morning, which dealt with the "Beatitudes" from the Sermon on the Mount, I learned and realized that mourning is not talked about much or even shown as much in our culture as it was in Jesus' time on earth.</span></p><p><span style="color:#3366ff;">Often times, in our culture, people think you need to be happy all of the time which is not always the case. Instead of avoiding pain or trying to cover it up, we need to cling to the Lord Jesus in our times of trials, which includes mourning loved ones. Death is a reality of life. Death is all around us...but we as Christians know that one day in heaven, there will be no tears, there will be no sorrow, there will be no sting of death. That is our hope in Christ. Those who may be facing these realities that we all face, please remember that Jesus is waiting to comfort us and strengthen us. </span></p><p><span style="color:#3366ff;">Just recently a friend of mine lost a little granddaughter, and she is handling her situation as well as she can, but as a follower of Christ. She is mourning her loss with her family. The one thing that I truly see in her is the fact that she is leaning on the everlasting arms of Christ to comfort and strengthen her. Even in mourning, what a powerful witness for Christ that can be. Please keep this lady and her family in prayer.</span></p><p><span style="color:#3366ff;">God bless you.</p></span>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-3923710118288195202011-01-19T11:46:00.000-08:002011-01-19T13:18:35.723-08:00We ALL need Jesus!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNp0ActqIXdChZ8MwrwKnxE2P_XL-GQTJy0fXCMMEVMeRmBk8ZDDMfJ9HI-C5dXIpABC_GZSo6bn7uxEBqw3x24IIWTR5gbgccMi4ASCBmNbPyzufOYV63qjgdd72c6bD5LUAvExbAG-Q/s1600/Poor+in+Spirit.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564009066802427154" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 165px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 160px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNp0ActqIXdChZ8MwrwKnxE2P_XL-GQTJy0fXCMMEVMeRmBk8ZDDMfJ9HI-C5dXIpABC_GZSo6bn7uxEBqw3x24IIWTR5gbgccMi4ASCBmNbPyzufOYV63qjgdd72c6bD5LUAvExbAG-Q/s200/Poor+in+Spirit.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">"And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." – Matthew 5:1-3</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">I recently learned more in a devotion, the truth about this passage. Especially in American culture...and even in children's programming, we are constantly being told, "You just need to believe in yourself! Pick yourself up by your own bootstraps....and get'r done!"</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">The truth is, we don't have what it takes, and Jesus reminds us that we need to be humble, poor in spirit, relying on Him if we are seeking the Kingdom of Heaven.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">Being poor in spirit means that we need to be humble and go to Jesus in all things. Just like the old children's song says, "They are weak, but He is strong..." "They" meaning us, are His children....and we are weak vessels.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">Yes, God has given us many different talents and abilities, but we are to rely on Him, to be used by Him, to give of ourselves to the best of our abilities for Him. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">We must rely on Him for our every need. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#cc9933;">Lord, in our weakness, you are strong. Help us to rely on you and seek you for everything. Lord, may we be your humble servants, allowing you to guide and direct our paths. May we truly seek and desire Your kingdom. - Amen.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc9933;"></span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-5190601054534406192011-01-14T08:28:00.000-08:002011-01-14T12:10:05.576-08:00Random Thoughts! Again?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8hzOnMFfVINgQlVpkBnWpbbJf1q9T6nx_7vlRku1cfNb8Dz_E1lXVyLjwNQLOUqCkSzDEaObCxRrutt2Outw3XSAYypMhh8hI783jw19uti6mvo_jqhJ49Z4Wfg_ayFGZyNDCwRNVYA/s1600/Random.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562135733446467730" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 179px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8hzOnMFfVINgQlVpkBnWpbbJf1q9T6nx_7vlRku1cfNb8Dz_E1lXVyLjwNQLOUqCkSzDEaObCxRrutt2Outw3XSAYypMhh8hI783jw19uti6mvo_jqhJ49Z4Wfg_ayFGZyNDCwRNVYA/s200/Random.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Every once in a while I get in the mood to just make a list of the things that are going through my head.....through the whirlwind of my life!</div><br /><div></div><div>1) I am so thankful for the salvation of Jesus Christ...my Savior....my Lord...and my God!</div><br /><div></div><div>2) I am extremely thankful for my wife...she has to put up with a lot with a house full of boys!</div><br /><div></div><div>3) I am thankful for my boys...they're growing up quicker than I can handle! Lord please let me be patient and do a good job as a parent. I want my boys to grow up to be Christ like and have Christian homes as well.</div><br /><div></div><div>4) Wow! What a fun rehearsal last night with the worship team. I am praying that God has many super things in store for the ministry this new year. Who knows what He has in store...but we are looking forward to it. </div><br /><div></div><div>5) Wow! It is sure fun watching all the basketball games. Caleb is playing varsity his senior year. Jacob is on the freshman team, and Joshua is playing rec and traveling basketball! Fun..Fun...Fun......</div><br /><div></div><div>6) Uhhh...gasoline is expensive.</div><br /><div></div><div>7) I'm sure enjoying the sunny / winter days....with highs above 0 degrees! Thanks Lord!</div><br /><div></div><div>8) Got to get a lot of work done in the barn. Lots of old alfalfa to get picked up...not to mention manure to get out of there. </div><br /><div></div><div>9) Gotta get my tools back in order after working with my friend Rick on the Volkswagen bugs.</div><br /><div></div><div>10) It's nice to be able to drive my baja bug around for the last couple of days without having to scrape the ice off the INSIDE of the windshield!!!</div><br /><div></div><div>11) Dreaming about fishing without ice....coming sooner....rather than later?</div><br /><div></div><div>12) Hoping that the Worland Basketball Warriors get wins against Evanston and Rock Springs this weekend! Go Warriors! </div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5960536196408465648.post-51098608865145344872011-01-11T09:37:00.000-08:002011-01-11T14:08:04.917-08:00Thanks!....and Happy New Year! We pray God has great things in store!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsWQwhwQrvICRtmJkAZRvDqQfmrTtaRXQUaEr5jTV4ktF3mIHVtsZcpUoFefp6hX_zGNBCiMboT89NliUblkWHeWfjj8QSByKeqyf15eUEZzsuGtDx9QCeoBQedd1tk3TtQd5Jkle3Xk/s1600/2011.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561051596775431826" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsWQwhwQrvICRtmJkAZRvDqQfmrTtaRXQUaEr5jTV4ktF3mIHVtsZcpUoFefp6hX_zGNBCiMboT89NliUblkWHeWfjj8QSByKeqyf15eUEZzsuGtDx9QCeoBQedd1tk3TtQd5Jkle3Xk/s200/2011.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">Wow! What a whirlwind of activity! Christmas is over and the New Year 2011 has begun. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">First of all, I would like to thank all of those that were involved in the Christmas Eve service. You did a beautiful job! The kids did a super job singing under the direction of Vicki Ley. The costumes were perfect for the occasion of celebrating Christ's birth! The Christmas choir presentation with narration was beautifully done, sharing the clear gospel message, portraying why Jesus came to this earth. Hannah Compton did a fantastic job singing her solo. Tim McGee did a super job with the narration. Thanks to Jess Rollema and Rod Woodbury for covering sound. Thanks Wendy Compton, for helping with the risers...along with the rest of your family!Thanks Becci Kalfell for gluing it all together with media. Also, thanks to Pastor Jess Rollema for the Christmas message.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">So, what do we have in store for FBC Worship Ministries now? We are praying that the Lord has wonderful things in store for First Baptist. Pray for us as we continue to learn new songs to praise Him, as we look for new venues to spread the gospel, but also, continue to pray for those ministries that are already in place. Please continue to pray for the team going into the Wyoming Boys' School. Also pray for the opportunities that we have had in community outreach like Praise in the Park and Celebrate Recovery this year.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#339999;">Pray that the Lord will be pleased with our service. God bless you First Baptist, Worland.</span></div>Jeff Garzahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15598689982726207979noreply@blogger.com0