The Ramifications of Our Salvation

When I first received author John Rataczak's book in the mail, I thought, "Oh boy, what have I gotten myself into?"  I geared myself up for some deep reading and deciphering of theology way beyond what my pea brain could comprehend.  However, what I discovered was a book written and backed by scripture, followed by questions and logical answers. 

John writes on the second page of his book, "Biblical knowledge is important, but it must be accompanied by the desire to become more Christ-like in our attitudes and actions."

  

1.  What is the one thing, you would like people to know about you?

Really, the most important thing is what God thinks. I do

hope people come to the conclusion that my two daily prayers

are of the utmost importance: a. that God would bring about a

revival of evangelism worldwide, and b. that God would bring

a revival of Biblical thinking among His people.

2.  How would you describe your book to readers? 

I have written 4 books thus far:

a. The Ramifications of Our Salvation explains what happens

Biblically when a believer is saved by God's grace.  In 35 short,

readable chapters; suitable for small group or personal study,

it has 4 quizzes and a final exam at the end.

b. Bible Translations: A Closer Look defends the inspiration of

the Bible, discusses the history and difficulties involved in

translation, explains the various theories of translation, and offers 

practical suggestions for effective Bible studies.

c. Spiritual Gifts Verse by Verse: A Commentary on I Corinthians

12-14 is a phrase-by-phrase look at the three chapters of the New

Testament that most thoroughly deal with the subject of spiritual

gifts.

d. A Portrait of Jesus is in five sections: Jesus before time existed,

Jesus in Old Testament times, Jesus on this earth, Jesus in the

present, Jesus in the last days and final state. It's 37 short chapters

on our amazing Savior!

3.  What is your greatest desire in life?

It is my sincere desire that these books (and others that by God's

grace will come in the future) will be used to glorify our Savior in

many lands throughout the world. I don't want any credit, but I do

believe these books are needed and helpful to many who are lost or

Christians who need encouragement and instruction.

4.  What are you currently reading?

Currently, I am reading biographies about Christian leaders from

the 19th century in preparation for my fifth book: 19th Century

Influences on 21st. Century Christianity.

5.  How can readers contact you or purchase your book?

http://www.eleutherosbooks.com/

Poet/singer/songwriter  Aaron Lair is no stranger to adversity.  After contracting transverse myelitis in 2004, which causes swelling in the spine, and suffering a stroke from a blood clot, Laird was paralyzed. Through ironclad determination and arduous work, he regained the use of his arm and started writing poetry, which eventually led to music.  Laird has rapidly become a dramatic force in the poetry recitation and alternative rock scenes.

After reading Laird’s compilation of poetry, I felt that he had been tossed to and fro in a dark sea.  Always wanting to surface only to be pulled back into the abyss.  On a brighter note, his most recent annotations have somewhat of Dr. Seuss’ flair to them!  If you enjoy reading poetry, you will want to peruse this five star read!  And now for the interview...

 1.  What is the one thing, you would like people to know about you?

I have lupus, which caused me to become paralyzed. In turn, my writing poetry began after having surgery for a skin pressure ulcer. The resulting one month of ordered bed rest served as my muse. This expanse of time inspired me to let whatever came to mind simply flow out, so to speak. At the time, I was typing on my laptop in bed, which proved to be considerably more convenient than a pencil and paper.

2.  How would you describe your book to readers? 

In his ethereal book of poetry, Blue Lightning, Aaron Laird transcends space and time to bring this collection of poems to the world. With historical, contemporary, and philosophical poems, there's something for everyone. His vivid imagery, sharp use of language, and existential ideas will make you stop and think about the world around you. Don't miss out on this powerful compilation: Blue Lightning.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thNxhx7fdAI

3.  What is your greatest desire in life?

I wish to ultimately walk again someday. As of yet, I have recently been able to get some small amount of leg movement when my Physiatrist (physical therapy doctor) most recently tested my amount of recovery this past July 31. I aim to build on that through rigorous physical therapy on a regular basis to increase my return of movement, over time.

4.  What are you currently reading?

The Bhagavad-Gita Hindu religious book edited by Barbara Stoler Miller and a Buddhist Scriptures religious book edited by Betty Radice for the Comparative Religion college course that I am currently taking.

5.  How can readers contact you or purchase your book?

Besides being for sale at my publisher's website, it may also be found at a number of major bookstores.

https://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-

61346-720-6

The most prominent site is Amazon.  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1613467206/ref=kinw_rke_tl_1

BLUE LIGHTNING

I hear a sound so frightening.

Hark, I see blue lightning.

I see a turquoise mist;

it's itching at my wrist.

I hear a distant thunder

as my mind starts to wander.

Blue lightning strikes without a sound, 

soft yet dangerous on the ground.

THE JAMES WOMACK STORY

What an absolute blessing to have read, Black Dad - White Dad, written by author James Womack and co-authored by Anna Allen.  James tells his story like you were sitting across from your best friend in a quaint cafe, eating pie, and sipping on cups of coffee.  He weaves a story of racism, American history, extreme poverty, alcoholism, fortitude, illiteracy, tension, paternal rejection, sexual exploitation, domestic violence, and extreme risk taking all sustained by the redemptive love of Christ.

James doesn't hold back on expressing his feelings and beliefs in his writing.  As a proofreader, I did find a few grammatical and punctuation errors but his story triumphs over any writing his final editor failed to notice.  This read definitely deserves a five star review!

And now for the interview...

BLACK DAD - WHITE DAD

1.  What is the one thing, you would like people to know about you?

     I am a walking history book that provides the reader with a snapshot of an unfiltered life in another era, filled with emotions, challenges, accomplishments, courage and an insatiable desire to expand my universe and enjoy the best of what life has to offer.  I am happily married for fifty-two years to my first love.  God blessed us with four children and five grandchildren.  My life is one of dedicated service to God, family and country.  I pray daily for an increase in faith, hope, patience and charity with an infusion of wisdom and compassion.

2.  How would you describe your book to readers?

     You revealed it rather eloquently in your review:  "James tells his story as if you were sitting across from your best friend in a quaint cafe, eating pie, and sipping on cups of coffee."  My story provides an insight into the maturing life and experiences of a boy born into abject poverty, to illiterate parents, with an insatiable appetite to experience the fullness of creation with the audacity to venture into unchartered waters.  I take you on a personal tour through six decades of historical evolvement and cultural changes in America, Europe and Asia that shaped the world and gave us the freedom in which we live today.  You see the naked uncompromising truth of the world through my eyes, the good, the bad and the ugly, as I faced life with courage on a daily basis. 

3.  What is your greatest desire in life?

     I believe that God created humans in the image and likeness of Himself with a multitude of talents, dreams, and goals with a unique purpose.  I pray daily that I am able to fulfill the purpose for which I am created.  Since I do not fully know what that is, I pray daily that the Holy Spirit lead and guide me in my daily walk.  I strive to personify the adage of Saint Francis:  "Preach the gospel every day.  Use words if necessary."  I struggle to live a life filled with hope, humor, forgiveness and service to others by treating everyone the way I wish to be treated.  I have learned that holding on to hurts, unfulfilled dreams, disappointments and mistreatment is self-inflicted mutilation that drains the brain of creative energy and destroys the soul.  Forgiveness is cathartic and invigorating.

4.  What are you currently reading?

     Daily I read the "Living Faith" a Catholic publication that has a daily reflection with a structured bible reading from the Old and New Testament and a Psalm.  This structured format insures me that I will read the total bible every three years.  I also read books, materials and articles on homeopathic healing:  "Beating Alzheimer's" by Tom Warren, "Miracle Food Cures from the Bible" by Reese Dubin and "Dead Doctor's Don't Lie" by Dr. Joel Wallach.  On my bucket list are the fables and childhood stories banned from my juvenile education curriculum by the Jim Crow crafted "Separate-but-equal" education system and the classical English novels that are a part of the high school English reading curriculum.

5.  How can readers contact you or purchase your book?

     "Black Dad - White Dad" is available at:

http://bookstore.authorhouse.com/AdvancedSearch/Default.aspx?SearchTerm=black+dad+white+dad

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/black-dad-white-dad-james-womack/1114926113?ean=9781481716055

http://www.amazon.com/Black-Dad-White-Dad-James-Womack/dp/1481716050/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1391891507&sr=1-1&keywords=black+dad+white+dad

If you prefer an autographed copy, send a check or money order for a total of $24.48 to:

Alle-Mack LLC

PO Box 36844

Indianapolis, IN  46236-0844

MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING TABLE 

BE FILLED WITH BOUNTY 

AND YOUR HEART FILLED WITH PEACE AND CONTENTMENT DURING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON... 

 MERRY CHRISTMAS 

AND 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

a time for every Purpose under 

heaven

Have you ever thought about going on a mission trip?  I have always had this thought in the back of my mind that if I were single, I would travel to third world countries and work as a missionary.  After reading, Chris Kincaid's book, "a time for every Purpose under heaven", I no longer have that desire.  God truly chooses those who will serve in the mission field.

I could never imagine eating body parts from animals, which should not be consumed, or squatting over a dirt hole in the ground to... well, you get the picture.

Chris Kincaid, felt that she had received several messages from God and that she was destined to travel to Kenya, Africa on a mission trip.  Much of the time she felt lost and alone.  One question that kept resonating through her head was
 "Why am I here?"

1.  What is the one thing, you would like people to know about you?

I never thought, I was anyone special.  I'm shy and insecure, with a very low 

self-esteem. I never pictured myself doing anything with my life.  But, through God's eyes, I am very special and with His help and guidance I can do anything.  And so can anyone else.

2.  How would you describe your book to readers?

First, it is a book about Africa, the people, the places, and the poverty.  I hope that readers feel as if they are in Africa, feeling the wind as it blows across the Savannah, they can smell the waste piling up in the slums, and they can hear the laughter of children who should have nothing to laugh at.

3.  What is your greatest desire in life?

Every night at the dinner table, when I was a kid, we watched the evening news unfold stories of sorrow and poverty on the other end of the world.  Then a commercial for the Peace Corps would invariably play.  "The toughest job you'll ever love."  That was the job I wanted, to travel to a third world country and make a difference.

On my first trip to Kenya, I had such high hopes to accomplish this goal.  I thought that I could change the entire world in the two short weeks I was there.  God had other ideas for me, but I know now, I can fulfill that dream in His way, in His time.

4.  What are you currently reading?

I am usually reading three or four books at one time, several nonfiction and one fiction.  Right now I am reading "Sell Your Book Like Wildfire," "Confessions of a Prayer Wimp," and "The Holocaust Diaries".  "The Holocaust Diaries" is the amazing true story of a woman who survived the Nazi occupation of Eastern Europe.  In the chapter I just finished, she wrote that her hope is that other survivors share their stories as well so that others may learn from these events so that history doesn't repeat itself.  I look at the world we are living in today and I am fearful that we haven't learned anything from the Holocaust.

I am also reading "Decoding Daniel" in my weekly bible study.  When I am driving any distance, I pop in an audio book, so at this moment "Odd Hours" is playing in the car.

5.  How can readers contact you or purchase your book?

Website:  http://chrisloehmerkincaid.com/home.html

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ChrisLoehmerKincaid

Blog:  http://chrisloehmer.blogspot.com/

You can also purchase it through Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobel and through 

Life Sentence Publishing:  http://www.lifesentencepublishing.com/

T H E FATHER'S L O V E

Today, I would like to introduce to you, author Dave Moore.  Dave and I met on Goodreads, a social site for authors and people who love to read.  Once I started reading his book, I couldn't put it down...

Dave is a chaplain serving through Victorious Church of God in Ypsilanti, Michigan.  Dave volunteers to pray with the sick and the lost in hospitals, nursing homes, prisons, and jails.  He is married to the love of his life, Dorinda, and has three sons, Shane, Adam, and David.





Synopsis:  Confronting depression, fatigue, and evil, Dave Moore goes on a cross-country search for his missing son.  Becoming increasingly desperate and having done all that is humanly possible without results, what will he do?  Who will he turn to?  In this amazing true story, you will experience Dave Moore's anguish in going through a father's worst nightmare - a missing child.  Through his fear, Dave confronts his soul's emptiness and learns the heavenly Father's Love.

1.  What is the one thing, you would like people to know about you?

The complete transformation in my life that happened when I surrendered my life and my will for Jesus Christ's life and His will.  It is like night and day.  I was delivered from alcohol, cigarettes, anger, lust, hatred, pride, selfishness, and on and on.  I am now a Chaplain and I visit the lost and hurting in hospitals, nursing homes, jails, and prisons, wherever I am called.

2.  How would you describe your book to readers?

It is the true story of my son David's disappearance, my frantic cross-country search for him, and how I found my faith in God.  It is a story of love, hope, the power of prayer, and the miracle working power of God that transformed my family.

3.  What is your greatest desire in life?

To see my son David, who is now a Pastor, prosper as a leader in God's Kingdom.

4.  What are you currently reading?

I am reading the Bible through in a year, along with my church.  It is very special to know that my church family is experiencing the same bible stories with me at the same time.  I am also excited about just starting to read, "A Beggars Purse" by my new friend and Sister Toni Nelson!

5.  How can readers contact you or purchase your book?

My website is located at: http://www.thefatherslovebook.com/ .  My site includes:  author info, book excerpts, a video trailer, reader comments via the Facebook fan page https://www.facebook.com/THEFATHERSLOVE, my blog http://thefatherslovebook.blogspot.com/  and other social sites.  There is also a link to purchase my book.  

My book is also available on Amazon.com, BarnesAndNoble.com, and in numerous bookstores.

CHOOSE LIFE...

Mother's Day or Father's Day... Do you know which holiday actually came first?

The modern holiday of Mother's Day was first celebrated in 1908, when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother in Grafton, West Virginia.  She then began a campaign to make "Mother's Day" a recognized holiday in the United States.  Although she was successful in 1914, she was already disappointed with its commercialization by the 1920s.  Other countries adopted Jarvis' holiday and it is now celebrated all over the world.  In this tradition, each person offers a gift, card, or remembrance toward their mothers, grandmothers, and/or maternal figure on

 mother's day.

Sonora Smart Dodd, who was born in Arkansas, founded Father's Day in Spokane, Washington at the YMCA in 1910.  Its first celebration was held on June 19.  Her father, the Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, was a single parent who raised his six children there.  After hearing a sermon about Jarvis' Mother's Day in 1909, she told her pastor that fathers should have a similar holiday honoring them.  Although she initially suggested June 5, her father's birthday, the pastors did not have enough time to prepare their sermons, and the celebration was deferred to the third Sunday of June.

I set out to write a post to honor my mother and father and to thank them for choosing life.  As far back as I can remember as a small child, people would ask me, "Why do you live with your grandparents?"  After writing my book, people have asked me, "Why were you raised by your grandparents?"  I was given many explanations from numerous family members but my grandmother explained it to me like this...

Your mom and dad were going through a divorce when you were conceived and they decided to put you up for adoption.  The doctor who delivered you was going through all the necessary arrangements to adopt you.  However, when you were six days old your grandfather visited the hospital, took one look at you and said, "I'm taking her home."

I was a senior in high school when my grandmother died and twenty-four years old when my grandpa passed away.  I wish they were here to wish them a Happy Mothers and Father's day.  My biological parents are gone as well but I choose to honor them for giving me life.  Is there someone you want to wish a Happy Mothers or Fathers Day, someone you want to say, "thank you to?" Someone you honor?  I encourage you to do it today.  

Go on...