Written Biblical Messages
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
.
This is my latest Book ..... "GodL Spirit, Divine, Energy ... Light!"
..... available at Amazon.com
Think Positive!
The Healing Wisdom is within you!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
If God is a force that is truly a Rock of Gibraltar, a Symbol of Stability and Truth, a Motto for Positivism … then why wouldn’t part of Him, be part of, or ingrained in us?
Many bad things happen to us every day: accidents, sickness, disasters -- we are so lucky to survive day to day. Unfortunately -- some of us don’t. Because of Sin, humans are bound to an imperfect world. Although most of the time, we experience life without too many problems; through experiences, we learn to stay on the right side of badness, preferring to live a life of happiness and good health. Some may call that -- having “freedom” to come and go, to choose right from wrong, to feel the way we 'want' to feel.
It is a God given gift to be able to feel comfortable within ones self. But only in an open or free society -- can this happen! Doesn’t this sound like heaven to you? Well, it certainly would be ‘heaven’ to be able to feel totally comfortable with one’s self -- free of threats and possible annihilation.
Unfortunately, due to disobedience (Sin), we were (symbolically, in the Old Testament) considered castaways, lost, outsiders, wayward souls -- and we basically still are today, at least through this interim of time. And thanks for God’s forgiving nature: His grace, insuring us that we would be welcomed back into the main camp; among the living and redeemed status. Thanks also to Jesus, The Christ, in choosing God’s “Will” … in cementing forever, for those of us who believe, an everlasting life in His New Kingdom.
Believing and knowing that God has provided everything for us and all of nature, on Earth, and throughout the Universe, is crucial in the process of being positive -- no matter what confronts you. It can be an illness, an injury, even a terminally diagnosed sickness.
Aside from all of the treatments that your doctors prescribe for you ... perhaps try going beyond that: by believing in the knowledge that God (our Creator) has provided a place for you; that He is “with you” every second of the time; that His healing power is within you, imbedded in you. All you have to do is acknowledge His presence; that your existence is in His hands (His healing hands).
Being positive; being certain; being upbeat; being elated in the fact that God is the true and supreme healer; the ultimate doctor of all life throughout time and space -- is the most powerful way to express one’s self.
You will be surprised as to how much quicker you will recover -- even from a grave illness. Believing in His healing “touch” is the apex in being “positive.” He is worthy, and He does care for you -- and me -- and all of His creations.
Acknowledge Him, respond to Him.
The Uncompromising God!
by Pastor Jess K Foglesong
I have found that all through the old testament, the one main theme throughout is that God never compromises His character and His authority. God is truly ... firm, undeterred, steadfast and indeed righteous! He stands for all that is good; no matter, here on earth or at the far side of the universe. His realm is of immense, spiritual righteousness. Extreme purity. All-Supreme, incomprehensible goodness. Shunning away all evil and unrighteousness. He is Light .... and He brings His light into the darkness to illuminate the nothingness; the chaos; the abyss. His mind is of wisdom, of keen intelligence, of guaranteed freedom, and of enlightened ... eternal life!
The character of God from the beginning tells us that He is totally good; as it says in Genesis 1 verse 1: "In the beginning God made the heavens and earth; and it was good." Therefore the universe, although seemingly chaotic, was good, developing in a gradual and perfect manor. Galaxies, then stars formed to bring forth life here on earth. And eventually human kind. The word of God went forward from His desire to have companionship with human beings, and angels. All was good -- as He intended it to be.
But out of that impeccable goodness, as well as the free will of His creations, emerged a challenger a usurper for His authority ... from a trusted Arch Angel named Lucifer; of whom was given the task of managing the realm of earth, it's inhabitants and all surrounding animals. Who decided to take it upon himself to break away from the sovereignty of God's authority. To be God himself!
Instantly (as if he didn't know what would happen), he was thrown out of the pure realm of heaven, to the planet earth, along with one third of angels ... And instantly, everything that was under his stewarsship became void and desolate. Mankind, as well as the animals of planet earth ceased to exist ... and was erraced due to this Arch Angel's sinful actions.
Genesis 1 verse 2: "And the earth became void and a wasteland ..." Lucifer was in charge of an empty planet (similar to what we see on the Moon, Mars, or Venus). And earth became a planet of death ...
God instantly saw the darkness in the eyes of a deceiver, and took quick action so as not to breach His realm and authority as Supreme-leader of His Kingdom. There was indeed no compromising with one who took it into his own hands to usurp God's will and control. He created and instigated new life for human kind, but for unforetold reasons -- lost them to evil.
He took action instantly to reestablish the entire universe, the planet earth, and the human race, but exclusively placed them within a special arena, set apart from the chaos of the diabolical. A place called, Eden ... a domain much like heaven itself. And within this secret garden he formed a human being out of the dirt and named him Adam. Then took one rib from his left side to form a companion and named her Eve. And there they lived in perfect harmony with all of the animals.
So in the beginning, God's realm of heaven was a paradiasical domain. All beings coexisted together in harmony. Love was the basis of His government, and all enjoyed the free will to live peacefully. But because of the right of individualism and free will to choose to live in harmony with the Father -- or to go on one's own ... chaos threatened the authority and will of God himself.
And because evil cannot dwell in the presence of the Creator and an All-Righteous Ruler, there had to be a separation, a divorce, a bannishment of the culprits. God does not compromise His domain and government. His Character and Sovereignty was at stake.
Satan was left on planet earth to play out his diabolical deeds until rightousness was restored ... through many generations of earth time, in recreating the human race, with chosen people, and through its leaders ... that eventually culminated with a once and for all permanent Savior, and mediator -- in His one and only Son: The Christ Jesus of Nazareth!
The Awesome, Amazing Intelligence that Created our Universe!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
(You can also watch the video on another page)
Imagine if you could step into God’s mind. Before the beginning of time: He “thought“ … why don’t I create a race of people--in my own image--that I can love and provide for; and they in turn will worship and love me. I will create a world, a domain, a planet where they can live in total harmony--with complete freedom to think and do as they choose--with total freewill.
So in an instant! Through His divine Wisdom, He calculated the precise amount of elements and chemical reactions needed to produce an intense nuclear chain reaction: The Big Bang! An explosion that produced the initial beginnings of a starry universe!
Molecules of energy generated at precise timing-- nothing out of sequence--knowing that if just a miniscule infraction, He would have to restart the entire process . So like a fine tuned watch, the process of creating a universal cocoon with the human race in mind, would take shape.
Stars formed, then clusters of stars into galaxies and clusters of galaxies, building and building … until it was time to concentrate on one immense galaxy called The Milky Way, tucked away far from crashing and clashing galaxies, and clusters of galaxies. The human race was to be created within the realm of millions of stars: of one specially designed spherical shaped galaxy.
Earth--a planet that God could place His beloved humans--would have to be at just the right position, where it would have a nearly 100% chance of survival amongst the swirling, dangerous movements of celestial bodies. It had to have a main star (the sun) that was large enough, and young enough to emit life giving light for as long as was needed. The earth had to be positioned at the exact distance from the star to promote the intricate systems that could be generated for the existence of human, plant and animal life. Protection from distant nemeses, such as roving comets or lurking fragments of older planets; the earth needed to be shielded by larger planets on the outer edge of the Solar System. Menacing objects (asteroids, etc) that freely move around would be deflected by these larger planet's (Jupiter, Uranus, and Saturn) strong pull of gravity; in turn, protecting planet earth. God invariably thought of everything!
Earth itself was created, wondrously, for the sake of human beings. God formulated the seasons by tilting the earth on it’s axis at just the correct angle (23 degrees). He formed the moon as our night lamp; also to regulate the ocean’s tidal flow. He created a first line of protection from the intense rays of the sun with an electromagnetic layer shield that surrounds our planet; without this shield, life would simply cease to exist. On earth, life flourished with an abundance of flora, fauna and forest aided by the process of photosynthesis, and the instigation of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Plants and trees consume the carbon dioxide that humans and animals exhale; transforming that into the life-giving rich oxygen that we inhale.
All part of the original plan, even before the beginning of the Big Bang! God’s “wisdom,” His word has always been there …. Dynamically active!
The age of the universe is approximately 14 billion years old. Genesis describes the creation of the universe as well as the earth and all within. His purpose was to have a unique relationship with human beings. Therefore the preparation for the coming of mankind had to be exact.
Adjustments had to be made along the way. Complete extinctions took place: 250,000 million years ago: The Cambrian period where 90% of all life was wiped out, paving the way for reptiles and land animals. Then 65 millions years ago, a giant asteroid struck the earth at the Yucatan Peninsula and created a toxic dust cloud that killed all large animals and reptiles; allowing mammals to flourish, leading to the eventual arrival of pre-humans (Hominids) and later, humans (Neanderthal and Homo- sapiens: Cro-Magnon Man).
The annihilation and extinction of the dinosaurs was important, in the planning stage in building the surface of the earth with plants and animals. But 65 million years ago, it all ended! God steps in, as needed, with great leaps-- programmed by His “wisdom.”
The dinosaurs perished (within just a few days), their carcasses gradually permeating the layers of earth adding to the formation of the resources and nutrients that we need to survive today--gifts provided by His love.
The earth was forming into a magnificent, shining, gleaming blue planet placed third from the sun. Tucked in- between Mars and Venus, each uninhabitable, due to their hostile, extreme climates.
God’s plan was put in place--through His Wisdom! And there was no stopping Him!
Easter: The Most Important Event in Human History!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
Easter! As a man, as a human being, I ask these questions. I think it is ultimately important that we understand how enormous this day is. Easter ... I believe is the most important event in human history!
There is a world out there that is literally unseen. It is a world teeming with celestial beings coming and going. It is a world that operates in perfect ‘harmony.’ It functions with a type of "nature" unattainable to us. As a matter of fact it is a realm inconceivable to our own.
We have been the ultimate castaways: misfits, rebels, contaminated, outcast, lost. In the Old Testament we were (symbolically) the "lepers" who were forced to live outside of the main camp. In the New Testament we are portrayed as the lost prodigal son who was eventually accepted (with open arms) by his father--who yearned for his return.
And that’s the whole point of it. The Creator, as we know as "God" desires that we return to the main camp, into his loving care. He had originally created us as perfect human beings to live in harmony with each other and all of his creations. But something happened that condemned all of us--instantly. And what was this that threw us into a tailspin, beyond the boundaries of the living?
You guessed it–SIN! Brought on by an Angel called Lucifer, an Arch Angel, who God chose as chief steward, and therefore representing our domain and world--Earth and the surrounding universe.
Angels are special beings, no doubt much higher than humans, within the spiritual realm. They are able to communicate with God directly. Some of them are assigned to certain task such as stewards of a the human race (which includes all physical matter within the universe) and are designated "Arch Angels." These higher ranking angels report directly to the great council of heavenly angels, which God is the (so call) "Chair Being" or Chair Person in charge (an illustration here on earth: is a corporate CEO or President). And of course God counts on these meetings to keep track of all His creations and domains throughout all the "worlds" and beyond.
One might say that angels are the life line between the "Life Giver" and all that He has created. Illustrated in the millions of nerve fibers connecting our brain to all other parts of our body--messengers. No message, no function, no life! God is the Life Giver! He projects Himself into the darkness (or Chaos) to bring forth light. He is an active being, constantly interacting and projecting; expiring and inspiring -- breathing life; constantly pushing away the darkness, the chaos.
Well, The Arch Angel Lucifer one day decided that he wanted to play God (or -- be God) and had convinced many of his fellow angels to follow him. He surely did not dare show his face at the Council Table. He simply ignored God. And God had ask the members of the Heavenly Council, what’s going on with Lucifer? They related that they had heard from the grapevine that he was ‘setting up shop’ of his own--to challenge the authority of God Himself.
Now due to the fact that these colonies of humans were under the stewardship of Lucifer, and actually represented them at the Council Table, it follows that every condemnation imparted to him, was also bestowed upon them. Lucifer’s "SIN" (disobedience) became "SIN" for all humans.
God can only create "good" … therefore in Genesis 1:1, In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth … (including mankind) it is a declaration that of His work; of His creation: The universe, mankind! But there was trouble in heaven … and therefore, all was lost. Genesis 1:2, Life simply ceased on earth. "The earth was without form and void, with darkness over the face of the abyss, and a mighty wind swept over the surface of the water." Humans disappeared from the surface of the earth. Darkness had set in. Lucifer really had done it this time. He was a steward of an empty world void of all life.
But God did not give up on us. He could have. He gave us a second chance. He said, "Let there be light, and there was light, and it was good"--Genesis 1:3 & 4. God entered into the darkness (chaos) and the darkness was pushed aside and there was "light." God understood that it was the mistake (the disobedience) of another that caused the separation of life ... to death. He devised a plan that would bring us, His beloved, created human beings back to the living, and into the "main camp"--back into God’s sphere. It was a long process (in earth time), re-creating and re- fashioning a world where imperfect humans could survive until such a day a new steward and a new representative could finally immerge to take His seat at the Heavenly Council Table.
The process of producing a human being through millions of years (earth time) was to say the least quite a fete. But finally humans did begin to rule the earth approximately 40,000 years ago (Homo Sapiens--one that is wise). Soon modern man emerged and the first attempt as steward of the earth was Adam (placed in the Garden of Eden). But because he became "tainted" (through lies and deception by Lucifer, who became Satan), he himself could not represent humanity in the presence of God -- he failed. The only way, and God knew it, was to interject or extend part of Him, at the proper time, into the human stream.
God chose a small group of people in the Middle East (led by Abraham) and said, "I will make you into a great nation." Through which God promised a place of peace for all. And many generations passed until one day God sent another Arch Angel named "Gabriel" to announce to Mary and Joseph of a Son to be born and to name Him "Jesus" (meaning Savior).
Jesus grew up as a young Jewish boy studying books of the Old Testament (the Jewish Torah). He became well versed in the duties and laws of his people. By the time he had reached his thirtieth year God had announced to him what needed to be done. Jesus became an extension of God Himself, performing many miracles and announcing that the new Kingdom was at hand, and was within their midst.
Finally after 3 1/2 years of teaching and of redefining the purpose of humanity as The Christ, Jesus was rejected by His own people and sentenced to die on a cross. Gods plan of redemption was finally (after millions of earth time years) coming to a culmination. On Friday morning, He was made to carry his own cross to Golgotha where He was crucified.
At noon the skies darkened, the sun and light had disappeared and Jesus’ body hung on the cross, abandoned. Darkness had re-entered the world. The light had receded for 3 hours. It was a recapitulation of the primal chaos: "In the beginning," … "as the land became formless and empty, and darkness was over the surface" And from this chaos and darkness the Spirit of God hovered over the land, and projected His light. And after 3 hours the light had re- appeared. God’s re-creating power had re-entered in preparation for Jesus’ resurrection.
All along of course Lucifer had anticipated a ‘Savior’ and was very hard at work deceiving the people. His domain would certainly come to an end if Jesus succeeded. No more would he be ruler of the earth and its surrounding
universe. A change of ownership would certainly take place. So, when he saw that Jesus was on the verge of death, he was pleased and wanted to celebrate.
Then the moment came when he heard Jesus cry out, "Oh my God, why hast Thou forsaken me." He knew that he had beaten God! Time to really celebrate!
Jesus was hastily taken down and placed in a tomb (a cave). And on the third day (Sunday) the tomb was found opened--Jesus had disappeared and then reappeared later to the disciples.
Lucifer--now Satan--was in shock! He knew what had taken place. He couldn’t believe it. Jesus had risen from death. It was a stunning blow! He had lost his domain.
Human kind was now under the ownership and care of GOD. Through the expiation by His Son, The Christ. Who now is the total fulfillment of the Promise of Salvation. He is the new Steward and Representative--paying the ransom, for all of (lost) humanity. We had been bought and paid for (an Illustration of Old Testament Israel … freed by the actions of Moses--an earlier type of the true Savior).
God has allowed Satan to stay on during this interim of time until the return of The Christ to instigate the full transformation of believers and to establish the full Kingdom of God. During this interim period Satan will have a opportunity to sway us one way or another: to accept God’s gift of continuous relationship with Him--the source of life; OR, to disbelieve everything about God; to trust only in the self
And so, why is Easter the most important event in history? Well think about! Do you think a benevolent God would leave us to fend for ourselves? No, He cares for all of His creations. His government is based on "Love." Jesus (The Christ) is the full disclosure of God’s undying devotion to life and love--emphasizing to all, the importance of respect for one another.
God is Spirit, Divine, Energy, ..... Light!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
He is a spirit. He is divine. He is energy. He is light! His presence fills the universe; every object, every animal, plant; every being. His information is embedded within every molecule, within every atom in the universe. He is the ultimate common denominator. He is the “Light” that beams from within all matter, and non-matter. We cannot get away from His illumination, His presence. We are here because He is here. If He leaves, we cease to exist. He is the divine; the ultimate Super Being!
So if God dwells within all of us, what and where is heaven? Most of us think that heaven is up there! Somewhere over the clouds; somewhere beyond, or “over the rainbow.”
Well, yes … heaven is somewhere beyond the rainbow. It is beyond our comprehension; it is a place outside our realm; in a higher plateau or sphere. And God does frequent this magical place -- inhabited by angels. It is a glorious realm: pure, majestic, righteous. It is a place reserved for the sinless and righteous. It is God’s dwelling; and He operates His government with justice and love. Heaven is just on the other side of the unseen -- Invisible. And it has a one way door. We (the tainted) are forbidden to enter this door, due to original sin. The sin committed by the one who wanted to be God; the usurper of God’s will. His name is Lucifer!
Lucifer was an Arch-Angel of the government of God. His duties included steward of planet earth -- including all life forms. He was in charge of all lower echelon angels in the care and support of earth. But Lucifer decided that he wanted to take things into his own hands; to be like God. Because of his disobedience, sin entered, and God banished him, and one third of his followers (fallen angels or demons) to earth and at the same time condemning all life forms on earth--as part of the same sin. Therefore, due to Lucifer’s disobedience, humans fell into sin as well. Lucifer was our heavenly representative: he reported to God and His governmental council of angels. Lucifer became known as the ’Red Dragon.’ And he became the devil: manipulating and influencing human kind throughout the ages.
So even though God strives for perfection, He allows His creations to have the freewill to choose. Freewill is universal, given to all of His creations--including angels. And so, the reason why there is evil and strife in the world. Evil was present at the Garden of Eden; influencing Adam and Eve.
Adam: The first Redeemer--failed!
God then decided to experiment in redeeming mankind by creating a human being that was sinless, placing him in a special, heavenly domain known as the Garden of Eden. He was named Adam, and knew only good; he was sinless. And his purpose was to be the forbearer, the leader of a lost race; he was the redeemer. God created a wife for Adam, and they both became the first family--sinless and righteous in God’s eyes, because they dwelled within the sacred garden.
But lurking in the darkness was Lucifer--evil. He knew that in order to redeem a lost race, there had to be perfection in the first born. So the devil--in the form of a serpent or snake--came into the presence of Eve (knowing that she had enormous influence on Adam) and tricked her into eating a fruit from the ‘Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil’ … and offering the same to Adam. And by disobeying God’s instruction of not consuming the fruits; instantly, the experiment failed, as Adam became just a man--he had disobeyed God’s command, and at that moment the garden gates opened exposing the chaotic realm of a sinful world. It would take many more generations before another ’redeemer’ would be anointed. Lucifer (Satan) kept up the pressure through the ages in God’s attempt in bringing forth a new redeemer.
God began His creation of humans by using a known method called adaptation and (in a sense) evolving. He knew that the end product had to be unique and special. So, from the onset of animal and human life He put forth a code system called DNA. It is an extremely intricate set of codes that determine who and what each specie became. Every form of life was coded; from plant life to animals, to human beings. These codes are very similar for many species, varying just a little. God experimented by creating tree animals such as Lemurs, monkeys, than Apes, before moving on to pre-humans, called hominids--Ape-man like creatures that through time adapted and evolved by coming out of the trees, into walking upright. From this stage emerged the Neanderthal man (200,000 to 30,000 years ago) that exclusively occupied the region of what is Europe today. They were short, tough, stocky and strong pre-humans that were very adaptable to the extreme climate of northern latitudes.
Through time, another specie emerged known as Homo-sapiens or Cro-Magnon man (50,000 years ago). They were very similar to what we are today: tall and slender, very agile, and standing very erect, as well as intelligent. They migrated, out of Africa and settled in all parts of the earth. They actually came into contact with Neanderthals; so far, it is unknown whether the two species commingled.
God’s fine tuning was in the process, in finalizing an exquisite specimen from homo-sapiens. These pre-historic humans freely populated the earth from Africa, to Europe, into Asia, Southeast Asia, south through Australia, and the many tropical islands of Polynesia. They eventually migrated north from China, through southern Alaska, down into the Americas, into Central and South America.
The earth--the world--10,000 years ago, was basically populated, from end to end, top to bottom. Life flourished everywhere: in all continents, and many of the islands. But most of the earth’s inhabitants were not organized. It was survival of the fittest; some groups made it, some did not. Gradually groups became tribes, then into villages, then into a multitude of pagan societies. Their intelligence developed slowly; gradually learning techniques for survival.
Planet Earth was Shaping up
The earth was shaping up. Primitive societies in all the continents: Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, North and South America. Ancient pagan tribal societies developed into more complicated idol worshipping, sacrificial, ceremonial types of communities; in general though, still haphazard and chaotic. Then, approximately 10,000 years ago something amazing happened: God was ready to infuse the neshama (Hebrew: human soul) into human kind; giving them the moral choice of what to choose within their surroundings. The freewill, to live a life as one chooses. To choose one God, or false gods. God also gave them the ability to realize that they were created by someone or something greater then themselves. Animals did not have this unique ability, they acquired the nefesh (Hebrew: animal instinct) instead.
After the neshama was instilled in all humans, life on earth developed exponentially, until it really got out of hand. So much that God decided to step in and start over through a man of faith named Noah. He instructed him to build an Ark large enough to house his family (clan) and two of every animal in the “known” world. Noah was obedient and the Ark was constructed, and God made it rain 40 days and nights; water covered every part of the world, every living thing perished. And when Noah, his family and all the animals finally stepped out, onto the dry land, God said to go into the land and multiply. God’s plan was back on track -- a redeemer was in the works.
God’s people multiplied through the years, until a time arrived when He decided to elect out of the millions of human beings, one man (and his tribe or family) named Abraham. And they lived in the Middle East, in a land called Ur (in the country of today’s Iraq). And because God instilled in him the neshama--the ability to understand a spiritual entity--he came to know of a spiritual, invisible Creator; a supreme Father in heaven; . And because of Abraham’s allegiance, God chose him to begin His program of salvation and redemption for all of humanity.
But in-order to bring a redeemer to light, there must be trials and tribulations; illustrations of trust and obedience by the people of Abraham and his clan. There would be “types” of redeemers and a system of rituals and sacrificial offerings symbolizing the coming of a redeemer; a representative of all humanity.
“God's Wisdom is Everywhere!”
By Pastor Jess Foglesong
We find our God wherever you look! You may be hiking along a mountain ridge; or perhaps driving along a very busy freeway -- anywhere … He is there -- like a movie camera following your every step. And this camera is on automatic setting … God does not rest; He does not put the camera down … no, He constantly has His eyes on you … as a matter of fact: He has His eyes on you; at the same time He has His eyes on every human being on this planet. He sees all of us! He is Omnipresent! He is an active , dynamic Being; very involved and concerned as to our well-being; our situation; our problems, as well as our security and fate.
Our Creator is on top of it all … at every moment of the time. He was there at the beginning (at the Bang: at the Point of Expansion of our Universe). He was there ensuring that the proper course of events (through the millennia) occur; that life eventually emerge to what it is today.
Wisdom: The Lord created me the beginning of his works, before all else that he made, long ago. Alone I was fashioned in times long past, at the beginning, long before earth itself. When there was yet no ocean I was born, no springs brimming with water. Before the mountains were settled in their place, long before t.........he hills I was born, when as yet he had made neither land nor lake nor the first clod of earth. When he set the heavens in place I was there, when he girdled the ocean with the horizon, whe he fixed the canopy of clouds overhead and set the springs of ocean firm in their place, when he prescribed its limits for the sea and knit together earth's foundations. Then I was at his side each day, his darling and delight, playing in his presence continually, playing on the earth, when he had finished it, while my delight was in mankind. Proverbs 8: 22--31
His "Wisdom" is in every molecule and atom; within every animate and inanimate object in the universe. His intructions are imbeded in the smallest particles of life -- His face is hidden within the ever-so-present quantum world around us ... assuring that all life is stable; constantly warding off chaos.
We are not seeing the events of today as something that just “happened” … not at all. God was there at every step of the way: guiding, leading, instigating, directing, re-directing, instructing every aspect of our environment; our lives; our experiences; our ups and downs; our relationships; our outcomes. He is here “with us” today ……. He is here with us, just as He was “with” Noah, Abraham, Isaac Jacob, Moses, Joseph, King David, King Soloman -- and of course (His Son) Jesus: who became The Christ.
He was with them -- to ensure that one day in the future His one and only begotten son would lead the world of believers to His New Kingdom.
And He is ’With You’ … today … no matter what the circumstance. He will stand by you! He will stand by all of us. It is His promise: that He will stand by all of humanity -- no questions asked. He is “with us” … and not because we are a special bunch, but because we have been redeemed by one who is special … so special that he is now seated at His right side … the right side of an All-Sufficient God. A God who is loving, who is caring, who is benevolent, who is honorable, who is trust-worthy, who is righteous and divine, yet gracious and forgiving.
This ministry is all about revealing and disclosing our Creator, our God -- our one and only God! There is no other!
Justice and Righteousness!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
No doubt we live on a remarkable Earth. Pristine, gleaming, shining in marvelous shades of blue, teeming with life through and through (see video: The Blue Earth, here on this church site). It is a work of Art: The swirling clouds spinning and circulating freely in the atmosphere. No other planet or domain seem to come close to it‘s glory. It is exclusive; seemingly made just for us by the creative hands of God. And it is sometimes very hard to appreciate the fact that we are special to The Father.
But we are! … He had us in mind (so to speak …) from the beginning. From the beginning of time. We were part of His plan … on His blueprint. I would imagine God -- who is not confined by time or space -- conjured up a plan of creating a universe full of heavenly bodies, and a place where He could establish a colony of humans, made and created in His image, and character. A being, such as God, who is not shackled by time and space can invariably think of something, and presto ... it is created - in an instant! But if one is within the limitations of time and space -- Millions and Billions of years go by in an orderly manner; stage by stage, little by little, generations of existence pass by. Until finally the emergence of Mankind. What God has wanted all along. A group of beings that He can share and relate with; a colony of righteous beings that live on the same level, on the same plane as the Father. A group of people that He can identify and communicate with. And these special - perfect - righteous human beings in time were created and existed (for a while) until unrighteousness entered. Until evil enveloped their domain; and all was lost, life and the will of mankind was tarnished.
Genesis 1: 2 ... “And the earth was formless and void, and the darkness was over the surface of the deep; and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters.” God Created the universe -- the wondrous and beautiful universe -- and He created a righteous, bountiful and fruitful, exuberant people: human beings, evolving gracefully through a process of millennial time. Only to be curtailed by the breaking of the will of Man, by the celestial steward of the planet earth: Archangel Lucifer. His outright disobedience and arrogance -- causing all to be lost within His domain … which included newly created, righteous and pure: Mankind. Genesis 1:1 is God’s full creative power at work culminating in the arrival and existence of human beings; and in Genesis 1:2, as well as Revelation 12: 7 through 9 (... there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon ... and they were not strong enough, and there was no longer a place for them in heaven ... And the great dragon was thrown down to earth ... and his angels were thrown down with him), the “Fall” of the great dragon (Lucifer), as well as the “fall” of mankind … happenning simultaneously, sealing our demise. We lived in righteousness with the Father -- all of His created beings within One sphere (or one plane). And it only takes one to upset the status quo. In turn, we were banished and left out of God’s Kingdom and His Main Camp.
But God remembered us and in Genesis 1:3 “Then God said, Let there be Light, and there was light. Genesis 1:4: “And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness.” And this is the new beginning; the re-creation, the re-fashioning of the universe and of mankind. In an instant God’s love and grace found a way to recast humankind -- through time and generations -- salvaged us; promising a redeemer -- a sacrificial lamb -- to justify our fall from righteousness, from grace. God Himself chose to enter into the human stream, to become one of us. He sent His one and only Son to show us the way to everlasting life. He became The Christ, the Redeemer, The Saviour of all the universe and of humankind.
God’s venture into human life was an astounding event in history. He thought so much of us as to come to earth as an infant; be raised by parents of a special group of people who fought Him at every step of the way. He grew into a boy of un-canning wisdom; then took His place as a man, as a God-Man, to be: The Christ: The full disclosure of His Father: God: YAHWEH: The All-Sufficient Creator of Everything. And so -- in God’s eye’s we are Justified and fully Righteous -- just as we were in the beginning, before the Fall -- but only through the one who fought and sacrificed His life for us. God sees Us through the Redeemer, the Lamb: Jesus, The Christ. We are truly grateful to our Father, and His Son!
God’s grace is always for you -- Today!
Life is Precious! But No Guarantees … except through Christ!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
Recently a young man passed away of inoperable cancer. He would have been 33 years old this year. He was a young man full of life and enthusiasm. He had a zeal that I had not seen in most people. His distinctive smile stood out amongst all he came in contact … radiating outwardly, as if he wanted it to be the norm, as far as he could see.
He loved his wife more than anything else in the world. They became and lived as one–cemented together from the day they met. They were a team, enjoying the mechanics of daily living, through and through, with grace and love, in perfect harmony. Like most couples in love, nothing seemingly could break up such cohesiveness and devotion.
But yet, something did step in … spiritually, we view this anomaly as the dark side, or evil; that has plague human beings since the "Fall." It can take something as beautiful as their love and devotion, and rip it to shreds. It is the antithesis of everlasting life; of goodness; of heaven; of being in relationship with the life giver.
We view this tragedy daily, throughout the world. Strife, disparity, grief, and death are all part of what we are, of who we are. And even though many seek total peace and tranquility, it is only temporary and short lived. There is no guarantee that our lives will be illness free, never threatened by death.. We can only try to stay as healthy as possible, and, frankly--hope and wish for the best.
That’s why when people say: live life to the fullest, experience everyday as your last, has a certain truth. Life here on earth is not a given. It is as unpredictable as lightening. We live in a temporary setting; a standby world; a preliminary abode; a rented home.
This previously, vivacious boy left this world at a very young age–too young. He and his wife had so much more to accomplish; so much more to do. His loved ones and friends think it is just not fair that he had to acquire such a terrible–rare–disease. We ask: Why him?
And I’m sure he, himself wondered: why me … as well. Out of the millions of human beings in this "God forsaken" world–why me!
Well, that is the mystery, and the problem! We don’t know when and who is going to be next. It is like taking a flight to nowhere. According to statistics, flying is the safest way to travel; certainly safer than driving. But there is always that one tiniest percentage of "bad luck." We occasionally hear about violent, terrible plane crashes where many are killed. No doubt--tragic, horrible!
We take that same risk daily. Evil--death, the darkness, chaos--lurk at every corner. But only the shear presence of the Father, our Creator, keeps this world from spinning completely out of control. He holds our lives together, nearly in complete harmony, every second, every minute, and every hour of the day. He is something–The One--we can always be sure of. He gives us a guarantee of life, free of disparity, strife--and certainly–death: spiritual death.
Why go through life not knowing if our lives can end in the next moment. Why not go through life knowing that no matter what … life is assured and guaranteed--A promise given to us by God. A covenant given to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and Moses that those who accept His gift of life will live forever–through a deliverer, a representative, a guarantor: The Christ, Jesus: Son of God.
What a relief if we all knew this true fact; the true "Gospel" … To put all of our faith and trust in a worthy loving God of the universe. Put your hands in his palms; let His strong shoulders carry you all the way home. Do not be afraid of the impending darkness and evil that impedes this temporary world. God’s presence is an immense deterrent to their vile intentions and actions. Let God’s angels hover close and near to you, and those you love. Ward off the darkness by understanding that you are a child–an offspring–of God (Yahweh, Jehovah). That you have attired yourself with a breastplate of armor; that–no matter what–will shield you with the presence of His righteousness and power; that you have overcome dreads of gloom, doom, and disparity; that you have adopted a spiritual purpose; a spiritual outlook; a spiritual connection.
Why be shackled by this temporary life’s constraints and restraints. Look at life on a much broader scale. View life as being connected to God’s promise and plan. Life as being precious, meaningful, fulfilling … and eternal; that we are pilgrims (like the Israelites, in the wilderness) moving, progressively toward a higher level of existence– with our Creator, our loving Father. Open your eyes; take the blinders off; accept His free gift of everlasting life!
The Resurrection of the Dead and the Living (you and me)!
(by Pastor Jess K. Foglesong, with exerpts from 1 Corinthians 15, Apostle Paul)
Jesus was the Good News; and Paul and all of the Apostles preached the Good News ... that is: That Christ died for our sins; He was buried, and was raised from the dead on the third day. He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time. Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. Last of all, he was seen by Saul, who became the apostle--Paul.
So, how many of you think there will not be a resurrection of the dead? Well ... For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then all efforts and preaching is useless, and your and mine's faith is useless. And we as teachers would be lying about God--for we preach that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can't be true if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised, then, again, your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost!
But in fact, Christ indeed, has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.
So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. But, there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.
After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power--on earth. For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. And the lsast enemy to be destroyed is death! For the Scriptures say,"God has put all things under his authority." (Which does not include God himself). Then when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God's authority ... therefore giving Him full authority over everything--everywhere!
If the dead will not be raised, what point is there in people being baptized for those who are dead? Why do it, unless the dead will some day rise again?
You may ask this: How will the dead be raised? What kind of bodies will they have? Well, let's see ... When you put a seed into the ground, it doesn't grow into a plant unless it dies first. And what you put in the ground is not a plant that will grow, but only a bare seed of wheat or whatever you are planting. Then God gives it the new body he wants it to have. A different plant grows from each kind of seed. Similarly there are different kinds of flesh--one kind for humans, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish.
There are also bodies in heaven and bodies on the earth. The glory of the heavenly bodies is different from the glory of the earthly bodies.
It is the same way with the resurrection of the dead. Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever. Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raise as spiritual bodies.
What comes first is the natural body, then the spiritual body comes later. Adam, the first man, was made from the dust of the eath, while Christ, the second man, came from heaven. Earthly people are like earthly man, and heavenly people are like the heavenly man. Just as we are now like the eathly man, we will someday be like the heavenly man.
What it comes down to is: that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever.
But this is the wonderful secret (as stated by the apostle Paul): We will not all die, but we will all be transformed!
It will happen in a moment, in a blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be trasformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies.
Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled:
"Death is swallowed up in victory? O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?"
For sin is the sting is that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our redeemer and lord, the Christ Jesus!
God’s Plan, shaping up-- Exponentially!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
Genesis describes that the universe was created in 6 days and on the 7th day He rested. How did this happen? I suggest to you that from God’s point of view it is 6 days. He is not limited by Time. But we are … and so we look at 6 days and would say, “Well that’s impossible!” But actually, I think most of us know (from high school science classes) the postulation that the further you are from earth the slower time travels. That is the key!
From God’s point of view (or from the point of view of the Big Bang) 14 billion years is 6 days. Stop looking at everything from your perspective. Pretend you are the ‘Maker’ looking in (or down at us). Yes, to our mortal perspective the development of the entire universe is unimaginable. To God it’s an “instant” ….. a blink of an eye!
Life itself here on earth began nearly 4 billion years ago with the onset of ‘water.’ How did water appear? The earth was bombarded with ice-filled comets entering the solar system from great distances. Eventually permeating the earth’s crust with pockets of water, then slowly emerging to the surface; instantly, triggering information (placed there by God‘s wisdom) within molecules to initialize cellular life: first, cells without a nucleus, and later, cells with a central nucleus. Life flourished freely for millions of years. The earth was on its way toward intelligent forms of life.
God’s plan was in full force, although He sees it instantly, as one sequential action--all happening at once. God is ubiquitous … His is everywhere at the same time.
The Gift of Christmas: Is God advertising The Christ?
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
I love Christmas, and the entire Christmas Seasonal event. It is a wonderful time of the year. It is a time for all to come together and share goodwill, warmth and love in celebration of the birth of the Christ-child. In a way, it is God advertising His one and only Son: the Christ, Jesus!
At least that is what it used to be. Sadly, times have changed. It seems though that through the years, the meaning of Christmas has been altered. Today you hear more: “Happy Holidays” instead of Merry Christmas. It is a "Holiday Tree" rather than a Christmas Tree. The emphasis is more toward commercialism than spiritualism. We have literally taken God and Jesus out of the equation. Making it more a time for who receives the highest sales, or who receives this or that; and, what am I going to get out of it.
When was the last time you experienced strolling carolers singing Christmas songs outside your front door? How often do you see a nativity scene on display at your town square? It is simply not done anymore, for fear of vandalism or reprisals. Has Christmas lost its true meaning? So what does God, the Father, think about all of this?
Has He gone south? Or is He still with us. Does He tolerate the fact that in many ways, we have turned our backs on Him? Does all of this surprise Him?
Actually, our Father does understand and tolerate our indignant attitude toward the celebration of His Son’s birthday. He understands that Satan is quietly and very subtly working to influencing the people of this planet toward his ways; transforming “Christmas” (and all that it stands for) into something negative. He has certainly succeeded in twisting Jesus Christ into a negative–swear word; as well as God’s name: It is the colloquial phrases: “God Damn” or “for Christ Sakes!”
Very subtly and quietly we seem to be moving away from God. And it really shows during Christmas, although this isn’t the first time. Humanity has turned away from God many times in history. And for some crazy reason, He keeps giving us a second chance.
And so, are we moving away from Him? Well, doesn’t it seem like it to you? We are not allowed to pray in public. Certainly not in school – any school! Our government has declared that we ‘separate’ church and State; that we must not offend those who do not believe in a God. In fact, most politicians shy away from using God in their campaigns; implying that if they did, it would be their downfall.
In fact, just recently, in the 2012 Democratic Convention: God was “booed” … loud and clear! Heard by millions who watched … and I am sure heard by God (in heaven) Himself!
The only place one can hear the name God is in Church or in your own home. It is a sad commentary! Knowing that we were all formed on the virtues of a Moral Law; a belief in a Creator; A belief that mankind is endowed by someone greater then themselves.
God has a plan and has implemented it through His son, Jesus the Christ. No matter what direction we choose, God is there to re-direct you to Him. He knows your weaknesses; your frailties. He understands the human plight; the human need to always be first and in charge of the self … “why do I have to bow down to some all- supreme being!!?” That is their attitude. Unwilling to accept the fact that he himself is a created being; that all that he is, and all that is around him was created by a Father in heaven.
Mankind was lost (due to original sin) and could have been lost forever. But God chose to salvage each and every one of us, through a representative, a redeemer. It was the only way to bring us home. An illustration would be found in the New Testament story of the prodigal son (Luke 15: 11- 32) who had been lost, but found his way home, and was warmly greeted (with opened arms) by his father. A type of who we are – humanity lost. But through the Father’s grace and love was welcomed home again.
Another illustration is written in the Old Testament: The nation of Israel, lost and enslaved by the Pharaoh was freed by the Father, through a type of Savior in the name of Moses. Who led his people into the wilderness for 40 years, then finally crossing the Jordan River into the Land of Milk and Honey (which symbolically is a type of heaven, or kingdom of God).
God’s plan has always been to free us from Satan’s grip; his power (which He did at the cross); and now we are in the wilderness, making our way home to His open arms; to the true heaven; to mankind’s true home.
Yes, it may seem like we are distancing ourselves from our Father–God. But in reality, we are moving, everyday, closer and closer to His loving arms and care. Our castaway status will be no more. We will be back in His main camp – safe and secure. So no matter what the atheists, agnostics, or anyone else may want us to believe, they are fighting a losing battle. God is tenacious. He is relentless. He is determined to bring us home–as many of us as He can persuade.
He does see Christmas as a special event, and if you will: an advertisement of His Son … for all of us to enjoy-- and reflect, on the immaculate birth of the Prince of Peace, Redeemer, New Born King, Emanuel … over 2000 years ago.
Gifts and Giving Thanks, instilled by God!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
It is the time of the year that people here in the United States gather together and 'Give thanks' to our founding fathers; to the Pilgrims and the local Indians who befriended them; to God--who created the earth and the universe; and to our friends and families. And it is a pleasant time of the year: the colors of fall drape the countryside with gold, yellows, browns and reds -- it is a warm, mellow time of the season.
As we look back to the year 1621 we know that the Pilgrims arrived from England after a harsh journey by sea. Many did not survive. About half of the men and women died at sea. But the rest did make it to the shores at Plymouth Rock and slowly establish and organized a settlement. But they never-the-less found themselves struggling to gather food and ways to keep warm.
The local people: primitive tribes, later called 'Indians" saw their plight and felt empathy for them and decided to show them how to gather food; and how to hunt and fish. And the Pilgrims were grateful ... and as time passed decided to celebrate, and invited the friendly Indians to a feast -- to give thanks for their generosity and kindness.
And when the day came for the feast, the Chief of the tribe came with his 90 plus braves, bringing a variety of food including sweet potatoes, venison, and of course wild turkey.
And as they all sat around a large fire they chatted, laughed and enjoyed the friendship. But later the Chief stood up and waved to his brother, instructing him to fetch something. His brother went into the woods. This caused the Pilgrims to worry and be concerned. Until finally the Chief's brother returned with a large bowl filled with something very interesting. Something that the Pilgrims had never seen before: Popcorn!
Yes the Indians had discovered that certain types of corn seed after dried and heated actually popped into a fantastic snack. The Indians not only gave the Pilgrims a way to survive, but also something extra, that came from nature.
There was no animosity between the Pilgrims and the Indians--only respect and dignity.
God instills respect and dignity in all human beings. He is the Life Giver! He decided to create human beings simply because He desired the close relationship. Life is the ultimate "Gift." And so at Thanksgiving we gather; people from Main to Hawaii, from Alaska to Florida come together to celebrate that first Thanksgiving. Remembering the camaraderie between human beings, no matter how different their cultures. They instinctively knew that they needed each other--a God given trait.
And we celebrate Thanksgiving in their honor.... and in God's honor in "giving" Life--as well as Freedom, Love and Respect. Giving is from God!
God is Our Mother and of course - Father in Heaven!
by Pastor Jess Foglesong
The Woman, the Mother, the bride, the feminine side of theology is a very large part of who we are as human beings. We were created by God -- our Father. But does God have a “wife?” Does God have a female counter part? The answer to both questions is -- no.
The fact is: God himself is both masculine and feminine. He is our Father and -- yes -- our Mother! Therefore we could say: Happy Mother’s Day -- God!
And I express this, not because I am a minister and bias to everything about God, but because it is a fact that our God is so intertwined with all of His creations, that His character demands that He plays both parents, in the larger universal scheme of things. He is our ultimate Mother who -- like our earthly mom -- loves us, cares for us, guides us … He does so much for us; just like mothers all over the world. In fact -- He is the perfect Mother! Heaven forbid … I hope God understands what I am trying to expound. And of course He does …
In the grand view of things, we are children, dependent on our celestial parents -- that is -- God. He is our true duo parent. He has promised to provide us with everything needed to exist. Just like our own mom has through all of our lives as children and adults. God’s presence is constant: watching over us, feeding us, teaching us, guiding us, healing us … His "mothering" is encompassing and complete. Illustrated by the way all animals treat and care for their off-spring: birds, bears, cats, horses, dogs, sheep, cows … all have the instinctual knowledge (the nefesh) instilled by the Creator to be the best mother and care-giver. We as human parents are no different. We also have been instilled with the same desire to nourish and care, and comfort (the nashama). All coming from our All-Supreme care-giver in the sky; in heaven.
Our God … Our Father … Our Mother … is truly -- worth honoring !
Happy Mother’s Day to all you Moms … and of course to the highest of Moms: our Creator -- God, Our Mother And Father!
Thanks for your attention .... God's blessings to you and yours! Pastor Jess Foglesong