Friday, July 10, 2009

CROWN OF THORNS

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While trimming the suckers on the orange tree in the back yard I couldn’t help notice the enormous thorns on the branches. Having been a hunter, hiker and out-doors enthusiast all my life I have encountered some serious thorns on many occasions but none that rivaled these on the orange. They had all the elements of a great thorn, long, sharp, strong and very painful, as I quickly learned at the first trimming. It made me wonder about Christ’s crucifixion and the crown of thorns he wore to the cross, his suffering for our sins, and the torture and death he endured on our behalf.

The other day after again trimming the suckers at the bottom of the tree I decided to remove the leaves and create my own replica of that crown. It was a long and tedious process and not without a great deal of pain. I twisted the thorny branches into the object you see here, fastening them with strips from palm leaves. As I carefully twisted, tied, and formed the crown I couldn’t help think of Jesus Christ’s suffering and pain he endured for the sake of mankind and the great gift of salvation that is absolutely free to those who trust in him. Our new life in Christ (Salvation) cost us nothing but cost him everything. On the other hand to become a disciple of Christ costs us everything.

Jesus said: “If anyone wishes to come after Me he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me” Mark 8:34

Rev. D

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Computer Training & Internet Cafe NOW OPEN!

Posted by PicasaThe Crossroads Youth Development Center is now open in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Pray with us that young people will be drawn to Christ through the computer training, internet cafe and christian fellowship at the center; and that they will be trained in the faith through the daily ministry & chapel services there. God bless Sierra Leone.....in Jesus name!

Betsy ministers with a Human Video in Freetown

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Betsy & Steven Cleaning and painting the center

Amber & Jack getting ready for the big opening

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