The Expected Unexpected - Equipped for Battle

The bold businessman exclaimed, “I'm expecting sales to increase four fold in the next year,” and the quaintly dressed woman commented, “I'm expecting that every item in the store will be on sale in the next few days.” “I'm expecting this, and I'm expecting that,” politicians, bankers, mothers and fathers, sisters, brothers and all those who are around are “expecting” certain events and experiences in their lives for the next year. It' a positive outlook, and therefore most of the items expected are positive in nature. But what about the “unexpected?” Is there any way to accommodate when an unexpected event or experience occurs? Is there a way to expect the unexpected?

For instance, who says this? “Well, I was expecting to get a bad report from my doctor,” or “I was expecting to get that terrifying phone call about my teenager,” or “I was expecting to have my home destroyed, foreclosed upon or filled with termites.” Some of these suggestions might be expected, but more than likely they are not part of the hopes for the coming year. Maybe there is a way to “Expect the Unexpected” without becoming so negative.

What if there was a plan for expected and unexpected things to occur next year? What if by some stroke of genius a person could plan for interruptions? In other words, whatever one is expecting for the next year he or she could also expect that there will be unexpected events as well such as: The unexpected accident or the unexpected election; the unexpected doctor visit or the unexpected loss. Maybe the mindset should be like this, “This next year I expect to be prosperous, lose some weight, receive advancement on my job, get a job, have my candidate elected, live healthy, happy and free, but nonetheless, I shall expect that somewhere along my path there will be an interruption or two. I will continue forward no matter what shall transpire, and when the unexpected arrives before me, I shall deal with it accordingly.”

The key to managing the unexpected is to expect that the unexpected shall come, then the unexpected will become the expected so that the expected may become the unexpected which is expected to occur.

Until tomorrow...Happy New Year! (You weren't expecting that, were you?)

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

If I Only Knew - Equipped for Battle

What does the future hold, and how good or bad will it be? Will I gain weight or lose weight? Will I be prosperous, or will I have difficulty? Who will be President, and which stock is the right one to pick?Who will win the series, and will the Super Bowl host my favorite team?Will gas prices go up, or will they plummet? What about taxes, insurance, health care costs, and food? Will they go up as well? Will I be able to afford all the costs for raising these children, grandchildren and other relatives that I will have to support? Will the story end for some I love or will I be the one to end? So many questions, so many wonders, so many possibilities for this coming year, and yet, so many non-answers. If I only knew. If I only knew. If I only...

But then again, what if what I knew wasn't as good as what I think I would want to knew. (Now, before the reader wonders if I have lost my bearings about what is present and future, hang with me just a bit.) I mean, it's okay to know what you knew if what you knew is something that is pleasant, but if what you knew is not so pleasant? It might be better if what you knew is not known until the time that it becomes that which you knew. In other words, sometimes the future is best if it is a quagmire or mystery. If I only knew what I will know, then I might spend my time worrying over what I will know and ruin the time that I have while I am supposed to not know what I will know which will become what I knew.

I think this process of knowing what I knew can be simplified. Perhaps this will help. I don't know what I will know, so why not just take it all in as it comes and enjoy this day, this hour, this minute and this moment to enjoy what I know right now, and I'll watch peace flood my soul and rest comfort my mind about the coming year.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Testimonies from Equipped for Battle

He stood in front of the desk with the devotional “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in his hand. His words were, “I am literally shaking while I am holding this book.” He was a twenty year retired Army infantryman, and his delight with the prospects of this new writing gave him great hope. “While I was sitting in my Bradley for over two weeks during Desert Storm,” he continued, “We would have loved to have had something like this to read. I believe this book is going to spread like wildfire.”

She sat in a chair waiting for the information from those in her presence. She began to speak of her plight and shared how her husband had just passed away from complications from “Agent Orange” complications from Vietnam. After years of a grueling illness, the effects of war had their final result. She was now a widow, and decisions that had always been made by her husband were now hers alone. In compassion to her situation, the book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” was placed in her hands. She began to weep and said, “I knew God sent me in her today for a reason. I will treasure this book for the rest of my life.” In the few moments that she perused the devotionals, she was being encouraged, strengthened, and comforted.

The stories keep rolling in. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, and Coast Guard members of the military are being blessed by such a simple concept as this one word or small phrase per day, a short Bible verse, a short commentary related to the military, and a prayer per day. The devotion for the day can be read in less than one minute, and the word for the day will stick with its readers all day long.

For anyone in a “Battle” in life, this devotional is important, and the timing of each of the entries is impeccable when a person needs it the most. There will be more stories coming such as how the book is now in Afghanistan and Kuwait and beginning to be sent around the world. Pass the word on as the goal is to be in every military person's hands and in every home throughout America.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Living with Venom - Equipped for Battle

The conversation was between two men who were strangers to one another, but one man dominated the communications. His rant was about how this was bad and that was bad, and the anger on his face manifested his displeasure with every topic of which he spoke. Although he was benefited greatly by the institution of which he complained, he continually railed upon them and everyone who was represented by their cause. As he spoke, the more quiet gentleman began to fell the very angst within the other man's soul, and for a moment he understood that the disjointed complainer was living with venom in his soul.

How is it that people become so angry at everything? How is it that one begins to look at their entire existence with such misery that everywhere they trod there seems to be nothing but venom that pours from their lips? How does one become so bitter within life that no only do they repel friends and associates, but they distance themselves from the entire human race. No one wants to be around them unless they are others just as bitter and venomous. Misery does love company. Perhaps their angry demeanor has an origin. Perhaps there is an explanation. Perhaps it takes time to penetrate their shell, and who will be longsuffering enough to endure their anger?

Maybe the quick solution is to realize that venom has its source. Usually it comes from a spider or snake or some other creature that uses the poison to stop predators, immobilize enemies or ready its food. If one could imagine that a venomous person has been bitten a few times, there might be a way to empathize with them. But then again, there are those individuals who seem to have fallen into a snake pit and are bitten not only by accident and without warning but also because they continually play with poisonous creatures who corrupt their very soul.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

And the Wheels on the Bus - Equipped for Battle

Another year closes in on its end. The hands of time have moved and continually move forward. Tick, tock, tick, tock the clock sounds in the background, and with each tick and each tock, the beginning of a new year draws closer, again. Some sang, “Time keeps on spinnin' into the future”, and another noted, “There's a time to be born, and a time to die”. What will transpire in the next year? What surprises shall it hold? How many old friends will disappear, and how many new friends will be made? So many questions, and so many wonders occur when the “Wheels on the bus go round and round” as the children song says.

If there is ever a desire for an exercise in futility, try to stop the wheels of time. It's useless because time continues. Well, at least that is for the ones who are breathing. There is much to wonder about the absence of time and living outside of the time continuum after a person expires, but that subject might be better shared at another “time”, however, there is inability to retard that which is inevitable. This year, if fate allows, the reader and the writer shall age, and there is a dim likelihood that it shall be any different than that. The wheels of time may grind slowly, but they do indeed grind, and sometimes it seems as though they grind right over the entire existence of living.

So what's to be made of this disappearing commodity called “time”? What is one to do with that which is vanishing and is very much like a vapor? Are there “bucket list” items that must be met this next year? Is there a person or two with which the “score” might be settled? Perhaps there is a bit of weight to be lost, a pledge to be made, a new direction to be taken, or a relationship to be restored. As the ghost of Christmas Present in “A Christmas Carol” reminds those who will listen to him about the wheels on the bus, “Remember, time is short, and suddenly you're not there any more.”

Until tomorrow...Why say more?

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Day After - Equipped for Battle

The tree is bare underneath, and the packages are all gone. The lights seem to glimmer a little less, and the music doesn't seem quite as festive. Bags of colorful wrapping paper line the walls, and even the ornaments on the tree do not look as special. The food is now considered leftovers, and the taste is much more bland now that the morsels have had a little time to age. However, among all this passing shadow of the most wonderful day of the year is the opportunity to brighten everything once again by getting out to the stores that will be filled with the joy and festivities of returns! Everyone say, “Yay!” for returns on the day after Christmas.

Those horrible shoes and that hideous tie, that atrocious blouse and that head swallowing hat, those much too small jeans and ugly colored belt shall all have a place in the refuge of exchange, the mound of returns, and the chambers of swapping. There is no article safe from the day after Christmas. At any time those items deemed unfit, improper, the wrong brand or broken shall be included in the festive parade of people lined within stores to rid themselves of the site of them. It's the day of a different party, and the invitations are abundant and within everyone's hand who received any gift at all during this Christmas season.

So get out there. Push among the masses. Persuade, convince, move and wrangle if you must, and continue the activities of the holidays by joining in the “day after”. But then again, maybe, quiet satisfaction and peace at home would be a better choice.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Ornaments - Equipped for Battle

They hang by small hooks or ribbons upon branches of the Christmas trees. Globes and boxes, strings and shapes, homemade and manufactured, big ones, small ones and all of them with their own importance as they are displayed. Some of them represent teams, and others are simple and bland. Some of them shine, and others of them are very nondescript, but nonetheless, all of them make up an important part of the celebrations for the season. Ornaments add color, festivity, and enjoyment to the most wonderful day of the year.

Who made those ornaments? Who is responsible for their form? Who decided the colors and how big or small they should be? There must have been someone involved in the process or else the product would not be seen, right? And, even if the ornament is homemade, someone made decisions about the breath and length of the decoration, didn't they? Why, of course, there must have been a maker in order for their to be an ornament made, right?

People, in some ways, are very much like ornaments. They come in various shapes and sizes. They come in different colors and have many features about them. Should these people be identical twins there are still differences that appear, and even if there be four, five or six or more that are born at the same time, there still will be noticeable deviations. These people too have a maker, a designer and a creator who made them to be what they are, and the wonderful part of this day above all the days of the year is that this is the day when the creator of the ornaments became an ornament himself for all the world to know and see.

Ornaments are all around, and the creator of them is too. One must only look in the direction of the tree of humanity, and both the marvel of the ornaments and the creator of them will make what is normally a festive season even more merry than it ever was before.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Christmas Repentance - Equipped for Battle

The passionate plea of Ebenezer Scrooge was “I repent. I repent” after he was visited by three ghost in the nightime who showed him the error of his ways. The evidence of that fervent confession was how he lived his life differently after making the statement. He began to be kind, charitable, merciful and benevolent. His forbearance with others demonstrated that something genuinely had changed within his heart. He experienced the Christmas repentance that is often needed and sometimes neglected during this time of year.

The Grinch experienced a Christmas repentance, and he too was different after his understanding was altered. When he observed the Whos of Whoville still singing their annual Christmas carol after losing all their external celebrations, his heart changed, and he repented. This becomes an example that even the most undesirable person in the community can live a different life because of repentance.

So, why repentance? Why should someone who is going in one direction do a “180” and go in the completely opposite direction? Why should there be a person who recognizes the “error of his or her ways” and change completely? If there is no other penalty than those imposed by the regulators in this life, then the penalty perhaps is nothing less than restrictive engagement with people, inability to function as free individuals, or incapacity for some of the finer pleasures in life. Right?

However, should there be, could there be one to whom each person will answer after this life is over and Christmas seasons and observances are no longer available, the chains that bound Ebenezer and the isolation and loneliness that encompassed the Grinch may well be the only reminder that in life one should have repented while his or her life was still to be had.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Intangible Gift - Equipped for Battle

Most of the gifts received at Christmas time are tangible, material and able to be physically enjoyed, however, some of the most lasting gifts are the ones that no one can touch, taste or feel. Here is an example:

A man stopped to refuel his car one evening and was walking inside the store to prepay for his gasoline. On the way inside, he looked at the ground only to discover a visa card, a gift card from Walmart and a man's driver's license lying on the ground directly in front of another car that was refueling. Without really looking at the cards fully, the man picked them up and asked the people refueling their vehicle whether the cards were theirs to which they shook their heads and said a very kind “no”. The man walked inside the store and decided to give the cards to the store attendant just in case the person who lost them might return to the store looking for the lost items.

There was a long line in the store, and the card discoverer began to look more closely at the cards, especially the driver's license, as he waited in line. The address revealed where the man lived who lost the cards, and his dwelling place was nearby. Since it was at nighttime the man who had discovered the cards thought about giving the cards to a Sheriff officer who was also waiting in line. He thought again about just giving them to the store attendant, but he finally decided to take a risk and get involved.

After a few more moments of waiting in line, the man decided to drive to the man's house and deliver the lost items himself. He turned down one street and wound down another until the address was spotted. Although the house was barely lit, the moment of truth was now at hand, and the man decided to go to the door and ring the doorbell. A woman in her housecoat looked out the side door window and wondered who was ringing her bell so late in the evening, but she was quick to respond when she was notified by the kind stranger of his purpose for being at her front door. She quickly ran to get the key for her front door lock, open the door, retrieved the cards and driver's license, and spoke a few words about how difficult she and her husband's day had been. She said, “God bless you”, closed the door, and the deed was over.

The cards were returned. The man walked back to his car, and he was on his merry way when he understood that he had just given a gift that had no expectation of return, and he thought this is an example of what Christmas is all about in the first place: God's incredible intangible gift to those who were strangers without any expectation of return.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Expert - Equipped for Battle

The expert produced his product alone. No one was around, and no one was there to watch. With precision and care piece by piece was put in place, and every part was installed perfectly. There were no flaws, and the presentation of this beautiful masterpiece would be the benefit of everyone to enjoy. He added a few large things, then he added a few very tiny things, and the combination of all of them is a delight to behold. Oh, there is nothing quite like what the master craftsman has made, and the duplication of it is impossible. He is, of course, the expert.

Now, what if it were possible to meet this expert? What if there was a way to actually be so close to him that a person could talk with him, ask him questions, and get advice from him about one's own endeavors? What if there was a way to be his friend, and what if there was a way that he would be one's friend as well? What if he were to visit everyone personally and so identify with what they were going through at the time that he could provide the answer for every dilemma, every problem and every situation? What if this “expert” actually was responsible for every person in the world, and the product he produced was actually human beings themselves?

Could it be? Could it possibly be that the experts project was actually the human race, and those who will may have a close relationship, a friendship relationship, with this awesome individual? Has there really been an attempt to allow every person to know this expert personally, individually, and that this relationship can be so close that he will provide advice, give strength and ability to function no matter what the circumstances?

It's true. If one truly looks into Christmas and the meaning of it, they will find the expert came to so identify with his masterpiece that he became one of his masterpieces himself, and now the expert indeed is an expert on being the masterpiece which he has made.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Mankind was My Business - Equipped for Battle

The reporter states, “Sales are up this many percentage points, and oh doesn't the amount of traffic in the malls look wonderful this year. People are spending more this season than last and that is an indicator that the economy is getting better. Although the amount spent on the gifts seems to be diminishing, people are using credit cards to pay for them more than they have in previous years.” And the cheerful and upbeat words roll on and on. However, in the words of the Charles Dickens character “Jacob Marley” how does this relate to “Mankind was my business”?

Markets go up and markets go down, and the way it appears, markets seem to go down at a rate of about three to five times as many times as they go up. This money is worth this much, and this gold is worth that. This jewelry is this valuable and that present has that much worth, and all the while “mankind” often is overlooked. ”Charity, mercy, forbearance and benevolence; the common welfare” were the traits associated with worth according to Jacob Marley, and yet, so often they are overshadowed by the reports of whether sales are going up or down.

Perhaps this year there will be those who will look beyond the boundaries of the shopping on line or buying in the malls and consider once again those intangible and yet everlasting gifts of benefiting someone who is in need. May this wonderful Christmas season be filled with the joy demonstrated by the ever so grateful Ebeneezer Scrooge once he learned of the business matter that counted the most among the living...and the dead.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

All I Want for Christmas - Equipped for Battle

The Christmas song for children goes:

All I want for Christmas
is my two front teeth,
my two front teeth,
see my two front teeth!

Gee, if I could only
have my two front teeth,
then I could wish you
"Merry Christmas."

However, isn't it interesting how the “All I wants” have changed? Nowadays there seems to be an endless list of “wants” for Christmas. After opening fifteen or twenty presents many children have one question, “Do I have any more?” I wonder what would happen if there was a one present limit? Perhaps there is in some places, and one supposes that there are places where there are actually none.

So, what does a person get another who still has desires but has nothing to purchase an item with this Christmas? Maybe there are items that cannot be bought per se' that would be appropriate gifts like: time with one another, a walk in a park or field, a conversation over a phone, a homemade Christmas card, a cup of coffee on a cool morning, a visit to an extended care facility, and on and on the list could go.

Maybe if a person thinks about it long enough, one of the most given gifts this Christmas will be the person themselves, and that will be a gift that will never go out of style that says “Merry Christmas” over and over again.

However, if the words to the song are the desire, here are the rest:

It seems so long since I could say,
"Sister Susie sitting on a thistle!"
Gosh oh gee, how happy I'd be,
if I could only whistle (thhhh, thhhh)

All I want for Christmas
is my two front teeth,
my two front teeth,
see my two front teeth.

Gee, if I could only
have my two front teeth,
then I could wish you
"Merry Christmas!"

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

A Few of My Favorite Things - Equipped for Battle

The famous song from “Sound of Music” goes,

“Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favorite things”

and at this time of year, many think about their favorite things, but perhaps with all the hustle and bustle of the season one or two haven't taken the time to sit down and think about things that are most enjoyable to them.

Often the favorite things are related to tangibles rather than intangibles. Take a look at the second verse of the song.

“Cream colored ponies and crisp apple streudels
Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles
Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings

These are a few of my favorite things”

These are touchable things, but still there is no mention of relationships such as wives, husbands, children or grandparents. Maybe the third verse will help.

“Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes
Silver white winters that melt into springs
These are a few of my favorite things”

No, there are still only tangibles mentioned, and all of these are indeed fleeting and temporary. Maybe the chorus will give revelation:

“When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I'm feeling sad
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad”

Still nothing intangible other than feeling sad, remembering and feeling bad. So hmmm, I wonder, maybe there should be another verse added, and perhaps the reader would add a few items that are lasting, intangible, valuable, and need to be taken advantage of before they disappear. Here is a couple to start:

Granddaughter’s laughter and Grandmother's kisses

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Paper Chains, Popcorn Strings and Tinsel

The tree is in place and the lights are strung. With careful tenderness and perfect placement ornaments are spread over the branches, and memories are shared as each one is place. Then, for those in olden times, it's the greatest time of decorating the tree: adding paper chains, popcorn strings and tinsel.

In the festiveness of the season, children are given construction paper of various colors, usually green and red – the Christmas colors, and strips are carefully cut to size with the ends glued together as they are wrapped one by one through the adjoining piece of paper. The chain is beautiful, and now it must be placed on the tree. Sometimes long chains are made, and other times very short ones fill the tree, but these chains call out for the next memory maker – the popcorn string.

Although it is not a usual task, children watch as their mother pops the popcorn on the stove, (no microwaves then) and then are handed a needle with a long thread. After careful instruction is given, the children push the needle through piece after piece of popcorn until a string of popcorn becomes a decoration for the tree. After a few broken pieces along the way, and maybe a few to eat, the popcorn string is ready, and the children laugh as they place it on the grand display. Of course warnings are given about not eating the popcorn a few days from then because it will be stale, but nonetheless the Christmas tree is now almost complete. It only needs tinsel.

The children watch as the tinsel is taken out of the boxes and given to them with instruction. “Now string the tinsel on a strand at a time. Be careful not to just throw it on the tree in globs or the tree will not look as good” their mother instructs as the children surround the tree. Piece by piece the tinsel drapes over branches and limbs, and the sparkle from the lights is reflected by the silver strands. The children back away, and the tree is complete.

Some might ask, “What about the star or bear or angel that goes on top of the tree?” Oh yes, that is part of the festivities as well, and should be included, but the most important and most memorable decoration of all is the memory of having dressed the tree with those beloved people that shared this time together. Make decoration memories.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Ring Those Bells - Equipped for Battle

A frail little grandmother stands upon the back porch, takes the clanging device in her hands, and swings it rapidly while she says “Come to dinner!” in her sweet southern country voice. Children run from the fields in back of her home because they know that a meal grand enough for a king awaits inside. The bell has been rung, and there is only one meaning for this bell: it's time to enjoy.

At this time of year, bells and the mention of them are everywhere. The decorations on mailboxes and trees, the mention in songs such as “Silver Bells”, “Come on Ring those Bells”, “Bells will be Ringing”, and of course, “Jingle Bells” are just a few of the examples. Salvation Army volunteers ring bells at the front of shopping centers, and even animals wear bells in Jingle Bell runs and the like. It's just a time when bells are part of the season. It's just another reminder that this is indeed a time to enjoy.

But what is the cause? Why should there bells be rung, and why this time of year? Most know. Most can easily answer. It's the time when the celebration for the greatest gift ever given to man was born. It's the time when people take knowledge of the fact that “unto us is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord!”

In “It's a Wonderful Life” the small child “Zuzu” says, “teacher says that every time a bell rings an angel gets its wings”, and that may or may not be true, but one thing is for sure, the more the bells ring at this time of year, the more there is notice that the King of Kings and Lord of Lords has been born, and there is so much to enjoy for those who will come into the house of safety that He alone can provide. Ring! Ring! Ring! those bells! Ring them that all may hear!

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

Find “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, find locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Joy of Friendship - Equipped for Battle

He has an infectious laugh, and her giggle is worth making a foolish statement. He has the punctuality of a star, and she is as concerned as a mother for her fallen child. They are all different but have one spirit. They all have different shapes, sizes, looks, and intellects, and yet they have a united mind. The festivities bring them together, and the joy shared among them is the envy of many in the world. It's friends and family gathered together to share in one of the greatest times of the year – Christmas time.

However, there are those who are alone. Distance and time have separated them from festive activities. No one invites them to the party, and no one really acknowledges they exist. Their actions have led them to isolation, and what used to be a joyous season is now a time that is only wished to be over. They dread the season, and the real meaning of the Christmas season has been forgotten long ago.

Who is it in this manner? Who has these feelings deep within? Are they among those who wander through stores pretending to shop just hoping that someone will say hello? Are they walking the side of the street wishing that someone would give them a ride? Is it the neighbor who lost someone very dear to her this year, or is it the man across the street who seems to have no one?

Perhaps the greatest joy and present that could be given this year is the friendship that is offered to someone who presently has no one upon which to call. An invite here, a phone call there, a Christmas card here or a small gift there would extend the joy of friendship outside of the normal bounds and allow another human being to share in the festivities about a Savior that was to bring joy to the world.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See the military and country-wide devotional “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” by Lamar Creel and Ray Hanselman at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; and other major bookstore sites. See the book locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Last Minute Treasure - Equipped for Battle

It's only a few more days before Christmas morning, and many haven't even begun to shop. Those who have had their Christmas gifts purchased before June of this year are now the rested ones, but for the rest, anxiousness is the venue. What shall he get this one, and what shall she buy that one? Will there be any of those left, or shall the shelves have emptied of those things long ago? Will joy and laughter be the mood, or will worry and rush take over the emotional high spot? Running here, running there, oh the task of hurrying to buy lest the title of scrooge or grinch be attached. The quest must be fulfilled and the last minute treasure must be found!

And then, rest. Oh yes, the time of joy and happiness is here. The time where treasure and gifts only play a part in the scene. This is the time of year when the Christ child is remembered once again, and the reason to look for the “peace on Earth, goodwill toward men” is in season. The last minute treasure should be a part of the celebration, and the quest should be part of the joy. Perhaps an exchange of the anxiousness for enjoyment, and worry for laughter would be in order. Perhaps rather than hustle and bustle, one should slow the pace, enjoy the time, think on the lasting relationships, and find him or herself at rest even among the unrest.

Yes, the last minute treasure just might be for oneself as the seconds tick away and the time for the seasonal celebrations come to a close once again. For the last minute treasures, enjoy the songs, enjoy the lights, enjoy the festivities, and enjoy the people who make this time like no other time of the year.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See the new devotional “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; and all other major bookstore sites. See www.mrzlc.com/bookstore for local purchasing.

The Unwasted Gift - Equipped for Battle

There is lies, dirty, broken in pieces, and now it smells like it has been through a sewer. That toy, that beautiful toy that was the toy of toys for that season is now laying beside garbage and refuse that has flies and vultures swarming all around it. At one time it was so fun, and now it is useless. At one time it brought such joy, and now it is clearly forgotten.. What happened to that treasured box of happiness? Why did it seem to come and go so fast? Was this indeed overall a temporary ecstasy or was it simply a wasted gift? Are there gifts that are experienced at Christmas time that are truly unwasted?

Most who have received gifts in the past have experienced the lackluster feeling that the same gift brings to them now. At one time there was such a desire for that special thing, and now it has been broken, ignored or discarded for some time. What is that special gift desired this year that will only be the object of rejection in just a few more? Is it a sweater in style? A tie? Perhaps a certain toy or technical device? By the way, who wants an Atari or game of pong now? One supposes that there is some value at least in the short-term for the gifts that will be on the garbage heap in a few years, but maybe there are gifts that will continue forever and ever that should be considered along with those that seem to disappear in desire so quickly. Think of these:

A wet kiss from grandma who greets and welcomes into her home with a sweet “Hello Darlin'”; a father who walks out of the back room with the final and greatest gift and says, “Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas” ; Christmas pies made from scratch and all the trimmings along with turkey cooked by grandmother hands for her family; children laughing as they ride their new bicycles down the streets on Christmas morning; the quiet homage that is given to the Maker during the Christmas Eve or Christmas service; the lights, smells, sounds and songs of the season; the joy of friends that celebrate together with parties and gatherings just to share time with one another; The list could go on and on.

Yes, it does seem that there are gifts that are given during this season that are not wasted in the least, and the value of them is well beyond the price of any item that can be purchased. They usually cannot be held, and many cannot be seen, but the effects of these gifts will last for years and years and years. Perhaps these are the gifts that should be longed for and given more than any others this year, and as one observes the true reason for this season he or she will find the greatest unwasted gift of all.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See the military devotional “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” by Lamar Creel and Ray Hanselman at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; and all other major bookstore sites. See it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Life - Equipped for Battle

She sat in a lounge chair in the warm summer sun with a fresh glass of ice tea in her hand. The beams of sunlight seemed to radiate through her soul like the warmth of blanket on a cool winter's night. The scene was surreal, and her state of rest caused her to say with a drawn out country voice, “So relaxing. This is the life.” Until, suddenly a summer storm rolled in and covered the sunlight. Within two minutes a downpour was occurring, and it soaked the woman's relaxed state. What was just “so relaxing and the life” was now a complete and utter disaster.

When one speaks about “the life” he or she often refers to the enjoyable state they are in. Examples such as: parties versus funerals, amusement parks (in most cases) versus a court room, in the mountains vacationing versus in the city having to go to work. Oh, there are thousands of examples that might be used, and if a survey were to be taken, the variety of answers to the question “What is the life to you?” would be innumerable. The difficult part of most of the times considered “the life” is the short time allotted for them. It seems that as soon as one obtains what is known as “the life” it disappears as quickly as it came.

There was one who claimed that he was “the life” and rather than being a state in which one lives, it was a relationship with him that would be real life. Most do not consider him as “the life” and therefore forfeit what the true meaning of life, thus they venture from one forum to the next, one relationship to the next, one “relaxing” state to the next and find that they are all short-lived and unsatisfying.

Maybe this is the perfect time of year to consider just what “the life” is all about. Maybe if a person looks deeply enough he or she will find the way, and when they do so, they will find the truth about life that they have always desired but never found before.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See the military devotional “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; and all other major bookstore sites. See it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Truth - Equipped for Battle

“He said she said this, but what they said was actually that.” “She did this, but what she said she did was totally different.” What is it about telling the truth? Why does it seem so difficult? When someone is asked, “Will you tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?” and that asked individual says, “yes”, how is one supposed to know whether that “yes” means “yes” or whether even that affirmation is a lie? The truth – it seems so important, and yet avoiding it is so pervasive in our society.

Perhaps :”the truth” is relevant to many. When one person sees a particular incident or issue from one vantage point to him or her that is the truth, however another person may see things from a totally different perspective, and to that one their view is truth. Who hasn't heard of the five blind men who touch an elephant and describe what the elephant looks like – a wall, a flag, a hose, a tree trunk or a rope. To each of these, they describe truth according to their position and understanding.

So, just what is truth, and is the truth really worth the effort to find? If truth is found does it make one different, more well adjusted, at an advantage? Are the implications of the truth such that if one seeks for it, he or she will not only discover it, but shall enjoy the benefits of it? Perhaps many are as Pilate of old who asked, “What is truth?” when he should have replaced the “what” with a “who”, and that may just be where the quest should begin or begin again.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation – A Military Devotional” at www.amazon.com; www.barnesandnobles.com ; or locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Way - Equipped for Battle

While lost in the woods a little boy was overheard asking his dad, “Daddy, which way do we go? Is it this way or that way?” The dad who was also unsure about the right path said, “Son, I'm not really sure, but hold my hand and we will try to find the way.” Step by step the father turned this way and then that. He went up hills and down hills. He bent over for low branches, and crawled through small opening, and although the young lad wasn't really sure where his father was taking him, he knew he only had to do one thing, hold his daddy's hand. Finally, daylight shined through what appeared to be the edge of the woods, and the little boy could see the relief upon his father's face. “Now I know the way” the appreciative father said to his son. “I knew I could trust you dad,” the boy said with a smile as he ran for the clearing with his father fast beside him.

So, what happens when a person is lost? What if a group of people are lost? What if a country is lost, and what if there seems to be no way out of the forest? More than likely most would desire to have a person or leader who could lead them out. From the appearance of today, there are many who are reaching out, but there seems to be no “Father-like” hand stretched back toward them. Perhaps that is part of the difficulty. The hands that have been extended with great promise to lead them out in the past have done nothing more than put them deeper and deeper into the woods. Maybe there is another “father” out there who will willingly take the hands of all who will trust him and lead them to the clearing once again.

But then again, who will be trusted? Most would rather see examples of others being led out before they take that risk again. “Let's have a little proof,” is their mantra, and “We've heard this story before” is their rebuttal. Is it any wonder that a great historical book records one saying, “I am the way?” People need a way, and the proof is demonstrated every day, week, month and year in this country. “The Way” would be a very nice present during this season, and one supposes it is only one outstretched hand away.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; and other bookstore sites. Find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Controversial Peace - Equipped for Battle

He believes this, and she believes that. His political views are conservative, and her views are liberal. They see it this way, and those people see it just the opposite. Is it any wonder how there may be so many opposing ideas can exist within the same country? Has anyone else noticed that there is a solidarity beneath contention and unity below the differences? Just what is that factor that reign supreme above all disputes, arguments and fights for what is deemed “right”? Just what is all the controversy over “Peace on earth, goodwill toward men”?

To hear some speak it, the idea of having “peace on earth” is either a bad idea or may only be managed by having them get their own way on every issue and in every situation. Should they desire “others to be taxed, that would bring peace”. “If only these folk would be made to work, then there would be peace”. The difficulties arise when those who are to be taxed do not wish to be so and those who do not desire to work will not. Now, in just these two examples, peace is gone, and controversy prevails. It matters very little which side one finds him or herself on, each simply desires to have it their own way. In other words, if everything goes exactly how they want it, every time they want it, then there is peace. However, should anyone, any group, or any differing view rule, then complaints, arguments, and war are employed, and controversy wins again.

Struggle here. Struggle there. He likes this, and she likes that. Vanilla, chocolate, Democrat, Republican, Protestant, Catholic, etc., etc., etc., and once again, the world needs to hear the cry of the season, “Peace on Earth, Good will toward Men.”

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; and locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore and all other major bookstore sites.

Controversial Peace - Equipped for Battle

Christ Mass - Equipped for Battle

Don't think about pink elephants. How did that statement work? Let's try again, don't think about the Grinch Did that work any better? Perhaps maybe a third try will be better. Don't think about the Empire State Building. Was that any better? Most who read these words will say, “No”. In fact, if they are honest, the minute that the pink elephant, the Grinch and the Empire State Building were mentioned, they each popped into the reader's head. There is just something about the obvious unless someone is totally oblivious to what these examples are in the first place. Now, one last example, “Christmas”. What thoughts prevail at that word? No matter who or where if a person is not totally oblivious the word “Christmas” makes every hearer think about “Christ” “Mass”.

Whether a person believes a certain thing or not doesn't invalidate that thing if it is true. When it comes to Christmas, there is world wide acknowledgment of that day. Some may choose not to celebrate or believe in it, but nonetheless every twenty fifth day of December heralds a commemoration to one of the greatest events known to mankind. Whether a person chooses to argue that this was a pagan holiday adopted into the modern day Christian church, and the real birth of Christ was some other time really doesn't matter either. The thoughts of Christ still prevail, and there is no way to get those thoughts out of one's mind once he or she is aware of it.

Probably the most useful response to pink elephants, the Grinch, the Empire State Building and Christmas is to just go with the thoughts and smile about them. Although the first three may only be passing thoughts, there is a decision to be made about Christmas, and that decision will determine life not only on earth but for all of eternity.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; or locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

No! One Step Closer - Equipped for Battle

“They” said he would never be able to make it as an actor. “He couldn't even speak good English” was their rant, and “No one will ever remember a name like Schwarzenegger”. But then, not only did he make movie after movie, he became the Governor of California. She was ridiculed by four female fellow student in her high school, and they told her she would amount to nothing, until Kirstie Alley held up the academy award and named every one of them as to show them. Over and over again it seems that “rejection” is just part of the course for success. It seems that along the pathway to making it large, a person must endure the nay-Sayers and ne'er-do-wells that chime in their rants and impediments as one walks, but remember this, “every no is one step closer to a yes”.

“You can't do that. You'll never do this. You are dreaming or having pipe dreams” are just a few of the catcalls one might endure. “You'll never amount to anything. You're just a loser. You, you you...” fills the mouths of the negative beings who line the way to being successful. The tenacious person continues through the rejection and rants, and he or she doesn't allow the false cheers to alter their steps. When the “no's” are verbalized, dogged determination prevails, and nothing shall hinder. They must be about their business, and regardless of acceptance or not, they will continue.

Look for the “Nos”. They are out there looming, and many of them come from the closest of sources. When they appear or become known, keep in mind the goal that must be achieved, and never allow those external hindrances to become voices that prevail on the inside.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at www.amazon.com , www.barnesandnobles.com, all other major bookstore sites as well as www.mrzlc.com/bookstore for our local opportunity.

Most Important - Equipped for Battle

What is the most important thing in a person's life? Is it a job, a car, a house or toy? Is it some food, a drink, a television show or work out? What exactly is given the most time, the most effort or the most money? What gets the largest part of attention, passion or emotion? In most cases, that which gets the priority is really what is most important in a person's life, and over and over again during this season, one has opportunity to reevaluate what is most important to them.

“It's a Wonderful Life”; “A Christmas Carol”; “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas”; “Miracle on 34^th Street”; All of these have a certain common theme. That which is most valued becomes a beacon for change, and sometimes the oblivion of living day to day shields what is most valuable in life.

Maybe as a person engages themselves in this most valuable season, those things and activities that are temporary will be seen for their little value compared to relationships, caring for others and genuine generosity. Perhaps the greatest part of this time of year is that it gives mankind a reminder to examine themselves and find out if what is most important has the greatest attention in their lives.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandmobles.com ; and www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Unity - Equipped for Battle

He likes that team, and she likes that. They voted for him, and those people voted for her. This brand is preferred by that group, and the other brand is favored by the other group. Isn't it a marvel that so many people with so many different likes and dislikes can live together in unity? Just what is it that prevails over the accepted and the unaccepted that continues to hold a group of such diversity together? How in the world do those who so vehemently oppose one another on one front so tightly bond on another? How does it remain that these people can be called the “United” States of America?

There must be something deeper, something far beyond the differences, and a bond that supersedes all personal preferences. When collegiate rivalries stand side by side, political party adversaries join ranks together, and members of different religions connect to protect some ideal together, there must be a prevailing thought. Though in direct conflict with one another in day to day arenas, these who are particularly partial become impartial when the cause is great enough.

That unity, that togetherness, and that brotherhood goes well beyond the rhetoric, and the innermost bond is stronger than the most heated of differing views. Perhaps rather than always emphasizing the major differences between groups and rivals, every once in a while there could be a mention of the driving force that keeps people in the United States together: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

Again, thank you to those who protect and preserve those unifying words.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” at amazon.com., barnesandnobles.com, www.mrzlc.com/bookstore , and other major bookstore sites. May now be downloaded in e-book formats

A Widow's Tears - Equipped for Battle

Her eyes are downcast and trepidation is revealed through her quivering voice. For the first time in her life she will be making decisions on her own. She married rather young, and being the youngest in her family, her parents spoiled her. Her husband of over thirty years took over where they left off. Now he was gone. The reason? Complications from agent orange in Vietnam was the cause. He fought for his country, and now the result was that one of the weapons of choice for the Vietnam war was the very weapon that took his life. He was now gone, and his widow was left behind.

As she received the devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” tears began to flow down her face. She kept saying, “This is exactly what I needed.” For a moment, the experience was awing, and now more of the full revelation of the effect of this devotional was being realized. As she read through a few of the excerpts, tears continue to flow from her face because someone cared enough to write something that would help her to make it through such a tough time.

She was gracious, thankful, and so happy to have some connecting piece that would be used every day as she was now fighting her own battles alone. As she left the area where she received the book, she grasped it tightly as if to say, now I have my tool, now I have my weapon, and now I have the resolve to make it on my own. Her tears were turned into joy, and her smile made every word written in the devotional worth telling everyone who knows the time of tears about such a valid resource.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

See the devotional at amazon.com, barnesandnobles.com, www.mrzlc.com/bookstore, and all the other major bookstore sites. Now available for e-book and other electronic downloads.

The Miracle of Joy - Equipped for Battle

Today is the in-law's fifty second anniversary. Congratulations to them indeed. Is it not rare to find those who make it that many years nowadays? So many quit so quickly, and there really isn't any real joy in some of the ones that linger. So how do they make it? What's the secret, and is there a factor that is within the soul of people that help them to endure? Is it really possible to be married at eighteen years old and make it fifty-two years together and still have joy inside? Perhaps a look at the difference between joy and happiness will be appropriate, and what better time is there during the year than when “Joy to the World” is proclaimed day after day on the radio?

Happiness is temporary and fleeting. For example, suppose that someone gave a person a check for two million dollars. That would make most people very happy. In fact, their happiness would be abounding, and they would share it with everyone they knew. But, what if when they went to cash the check they found out that the check was no good, and it bounced. Suddenly, happiness is replaced with sadness, disappointment and letdown. Or, suppose that a person gets married. Everything is perfect on the wedding day. All the decoration is beautiful. The bride is stunning, and the groom is debonair. The service goes on without a hitch, and everyone has a wonderful time at the reception. Happiness is in the air, and for a few moments, it seems that nothing can go wrong. But then, it happens. On the honeymoon, the real person married comes to the forefront. He's selfish, mean, and leaves the bride in her room alone. He pushes his way to every line first, and really doesn't care what the bride wants at any time. It's as if the groom is a totally different person, and once again, happiness flees away because happiness depends upon the circumstances.

Joy, however, is deep within a person's soul. Joy does not depend upon circumstances. Joy continues even when everything goes wrong. Joy is not contingent upon someone winning, getting everything their way or having everyone do just as they desire. Joy lives above the situations, and deep within, it never disappears. Happiness has a constant need to be replenished, and it empties depending upon what happens. Joy is constant, never ending, and continually fulfilling.

So, which shall it be, “Happiness” or “Joy”? Perhaps both, but as the song so rightfully words it, “Joy to the World”, and those who seek the words after this phrase will find the secret to having Joy versus happiness.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

www.mrzlc.com/bookstore , amazon.com, barnesandnobles.com, and other major bookstore sites

The Miracle of Joy - Equipped for Battle

Today is the in-law's fifty second anniversary. Congratulations to them indeed. Is it not rare to find those who make it that many years nowadays? So many quit so quickly, and there really isn't any real joy in some of the ones that linger. So how do they make it? What's the secret, and is there a factor that is within the soul of people that help them to endure? Is it really possible to be married at eighteen years old and make it fifty-two years together and still have joy inside? Perhaps a look at the difference between joy and happiness will be appropriate, and what better time is there during the year than when “Joy to the World” is proclaimed day after day on the radio?

Happiness is temporary and fleeting. For example, suppose that someone gave a person a check for two million dollars. That would make most people very happy. In fact, their happiness would be abounding, and they would share it with everyone they knew. But, what if when they went to cash the check they found out that the check was no good, and it bounced. Suddenly, happiness is replaced with sadness, disappointment and letdown. Or, suppose that a person gets married. Everything is perfect on the wedding day. All the decoration is beautiful. The bride is stunning, and the groom is debonair. The service goes on without a hitch, and everyone has a wonderful time at the reception. Happiness is in the air, and for a few moments, it seems that nothing can go wrong. But then, it happens. On the honeymoon, the real person married comes to the forefront. He's selfish, mean, and leaves the bride in her room alone. He pushes his way to every line first, and really doesn't care what the bride wants at any time. It's as if the groom is a totally different person, and once again, happiness flees away because happiness depends upon the circumstances.

Joy, however, is deep within a person's soul. Joy does not depend upon circumstances. Joy continues even when everything goes wrong. Joy is not contingent upon someone winning, getting everything their way or having everyone do just as they desire. Joy lives above the situations, and deep within, it never disappears. Happiness has a constant need to be replenished, and it empties depending upon what happens. Joy is constant, never ending, and continually fulfilling.

So, which shall it be, “Happiness” or “Joy”? Perhaps both, but as the song so rightfully words it, “Joy to the World”, and those who seek the words after this phrase will find the secret to having Joy versus happiness.

Until tomorrow...Why Say More?

www.mrzlc.com/bookstore , amazon.com, barnesandnobles.com, and other major bookstore sites