Hosea Harvest Newsletter Dec 5 (4 views)
From:  Pastor Phyllis (b4c3h3)   Dec-5 1:42 am  
To:  ALL    
 
  754.1  
 
Welcome to the 2nd. Edition of our Newsletter 
(Dec. 5,2003) 

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Things You Will Find in this Newsletter as You Scroll Down the Page. 

Introduction Ministry Statement Devotional Sermon Prayer Request 

Inspirational Bible Sudy Courses Testimonies Poetry Facts In The Bible 

Hosea Harvest Ministries & Associated Ministries Our Staff Announcements 

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Featured Sites This Week 

We Invite you to visit our online church... 

http://hoseaintercessorswarriors.bravepages.com/hoseaonlinechurchindex.html 

In His Hand 

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/i/inhishand/ 

InnKeeper Ministry 

http://innkeeperministry.com/ 

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Introduction 

Luke 2:7-20 

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 
8  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. {watch: or, the night watches} 
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. {the shepherds: Gr. the men the shepherds} 
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. 
20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. 

As we approach this Christmas season let us remember the reason we are celebrating- the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for that is what Christmas is all about. May God bless you each one as you worship the King of Kings The Lord Jesus who was born in a humble manger, was later crucified, and rose from the dead that we might have eternal life. 

On behalf of the Pastoral Staff of Hosea Harvest Ministries we wish you a blessed and joyous Christmas Season 
. 
Senior Pastor Stephen Thurman 

Associate Pastors 

Phyllis Corbin 
Barbara Flemmming 
Pastor Danny & Erma Sossman 

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Ministry Statement 

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord." Luke 4:18-19 

Hosea Harvest Ministries is a ministry that is driven by God with a vision to reach the lost, evangelize Christians in their walk in equipping them with the Word of God and to equip them with the armor of God in prayer warfare: 

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Devotional 

"Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."-Isaiah 7:14 

Let us to-day go down to Bethlehem, and in company with wondering shepherds and adoring Magi, let us see Him who was born King of the Jews, for we by faith can claim an interest in Him, and can sing, "Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given." Jesus is Jehovah incarnate, our Lord and our God, and yet our brother and friend; let us adore and admire. Let us notice at the very first glance His miraculous conception. It was a thing unheard of before, and unparalleled since, that a virgin should conceive and bear a Son. The first promise ran thus, "The seed of the woman," not the offspring of the man. Since venturous woman led the way in the sin which brought forth Paradise lost, she, and she alone, ushers in the Regainer of Paradise. Our Saviour, although truly man, was as to His human nature the Holy One of God. 

Let us reverently bow before the holy Child whose innocence restores to manhood its ancient glory; and let us pray that He may be formed in us, the hope of glory. Fail not to note His humble parentage. His mother has been described simply as "a virgin," not a princess, or prophetess, nor a matron of large estate. True the blood of kings ran in her veins; nor was her mind a weak and untaught one, for she could sing most sweetly a song of praise; but yet how humble her position, how poor the man to whom she stood affianced, and how miserable the accommodation afforded to the new-born King! 

Immanuel, God with us in our nature, in our sorrow, in our lifework, in our punishment, in our grave, and now with us, or rather we with Him, in resurrection, ascension, triumph, and Second Advent splendour. 

-By Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834-92) was England's best-known preacher for most of the second half of the nineteenth century. Spurgeon frequently preached to audiences numbering more than 10,000. 

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Prayer Requests 

To submit & read prayer requests go to this url 

http://hoseaintercessorswarriors.bravepages.com/prayer.html 

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Weekly Sermon 

-by Senior Pastor Stephen Thurman 

Experiencing the Birth of Christ With The Shepherds 
Luke 2:7-20 

The telling of the Christmas story can be such a familiar and common experience that we miss the significance of it. With the annual repetitions the familiarity of the story of the shepherds can cause us to take it for granted, to overlook just how amazing this incident is. So this year I want to challenge you to see it again for the first time. Who does God announce the birth of his son to? Too whom would you expect the announcement to go? We could see how God might choose to announce the birth of Christ to Herod the king. We could see how he would want to announce the birth in a splendid ceremony in the Temple led by the High Priest. But we have trouble understanding why he would choose a ragtag band of shepherds. 
The only invitation from God to anyone to come and visit Mary and Joseph and the infant Jesus is to a group of shepherds. At best the shepherds were common, ordinary folks. They were not the socially elite. Most likely these shepherds were tending their sheep just outside of Bethlehem and the sheep they were tending were probably sheep being prepared for the temple sacrifices. They were the last people that youd expect God to take notice of. 
In the story of Gods announcement to the shepherds are some very important truths. Begin reading with me in verse seven, And she (Mary) brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. (8) Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. (9) And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 

1. They learned that everyone is important to God 

The invitation of God comes to the most despised of people, outcasts from all respectable society. Their honesty and integrity was so questionable that they were not even allowed to testify in a court of law in those days. Shepherds were so far down on the list of social outcast that the only people lower were lepers. 
I believe that God chose the shepherds because he wanted to show that His love is available to all. He is not a respecter of persons, he does not show more respect to kings than he does to hourly wage earners. 
You may think; If God is even aware that I exist, He probably doesnt have a very favorable opinion of me! 
Deep down a lot people may feel like that. But no matter how insignificant you may think you are God knows you and you are important to Him. 
The Apostle Paul explains this in his first letter to the Corinthians (1:26-28) For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. (27) But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; (28) and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, 

2. They Learned That God Has Wonderful News For All Who Will Believe 
(vv. 10-14) 

Then the angel said to them, Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. (11) For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (12) And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. 
Note with me that the message that the angel brought from God spoke to their most immediate need when the angel said, fear not. The Bible says that they were greatly afraid. When the angelic messenger suddenly appeared the shepherds reacted in a normal human would they were terribly afraid. 
You too may have a heart filled with fear this Christmas. Fear about, your health, your family, your job security, the economy, or the world conditions. But we need not fear, we have good tiding of great joy because the savior was born. Because scripture has been fulfilled. Because Christ is LORD over all. 
Notice too that this news will be to all people. This news is not just for a privileged few. Scripture says, Whosoever will let him come. Jesus came for pay for the sins of all sinners. He is available to all. 
After the angel reassurance that they need not be afraid verse thirteen says, And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: (14) Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men! There was a heavenly flash and then the shepherds, who are already bewildered, are surrounded by angels! The words a multitude  not fifty, not 150, not 1,500  but beyond counting. It is amazing to consider that heavenly host stretched from horizon to horizon to witness the most amazing event in the history of the universe. 
Then the heavenly host began to sing praises. Scripture says in Job 38:7 that at creation the angels sang together and all the angels shouted for joy, now they join voices again to welcome the birth of the savior of mankind. 
The sign to them is that they will find the Christ child lying in a manger. No other child was born in a cattle stable that night, no other childs first resting place was a crude feeding trough designed to feed cattle. 

3. They Learned That How You Respond To The Invitation Of God Makes All the Difference (vv. 15-16) 

So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us. (16) And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 
They could have doubted what they had been told. They could have said, It can be like we were told. In fact why should we have been told at all. We better just forget about it. 
They could have ignored it. They could have any number of excuses that would keep them from checking out the story they had just heard. 
They could have debated it. They could have sat down and analyzed what they should do. Could they afford to leave the sheep? What if something happened while they were gone? Talking, talking and more talking. Sometimes we actually talk ourselves out of responding in faith. 
They could have rejected it. They could have said, This is not for me! This sounds king of flaky to me. We often reject what we think demands too much of us. 
But the shepherds chose to believe. The belief of the shepherds in the message of the angel is shown in their words, they did not say, Let us go and see if these things are true but let us now go and see this thing that has come to pass. 
It is not enough to hear about Jesus. It is not enough to look into the manger and say, Oh how nice. This touching scene gives me good feelings. But the truth is that if Jesus were born in Bethlehem a thousand times and not within you, you will still be eternally lost. You can get all sentimental at Christmas, and have a warm fuzzy feeling but if Christ is not born into your heart, it is a mockery of the reason that he came. 

4. They Learned That What You Do With The Good News Is Of Great Importance. (vv. 17-18, 20) 

Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. (18) And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. ..(20) Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them. 
As the first evangelists they did not emphasize what it was like to see an angel, or to hear the angelic choir. Nor did they dwell on how frightened they were. Their main interest was in reporting, which was told them concerning this Child. 
Every individual is important. It is impossible to live, even for a few moments on this earth and not influence somebody in one way or another. We are always influencing someone, either for good or for bad. 
The last verse of our text says that the shepherds who had seen such wondrous sights had to go back to the ordinary. That is true for us each year, for the celebration of Christmas is a special time. But when the fun and excitement is over we have to return to our jobs and our responsibilities. But the shepherds returned so full of what had happened in their lives they could not keep themselves from sharing the good news with everyone they came into contact with. 
Lets remember who these shepherds are, they are real men, which means that they were crude, and tough, and you probably wouldnt want your sister to date one. The celebrating that these shepherds were doing was not the artistic praise spoken by the cultured, nor the quiet reflection of the scholar. When the Bible says that they were glorifying and praising God, (v.20)  it is describing something like the last second of the play off game in seventh overtime when the Razorbacks finally win. That when the whooping and hollering starts. It is likely that is the only kind of praising and glorifying they knew and I think it brought a smile to Gods face. 

Application. 
What the Shepherds learned at the manger. 
1. They learned that they were important to God. 
2. They learned that they could know the Savior personally. 
3. They learned that God has wonderful news for all who will believe. 
4. They learned that when God calls it is up them to respond. 
5. They learned that the good news is not something that you can keep to yourself. 

Conclusion 
Being a shepherd was lonely, weary, usually very boring and tedious, interspersed with moments of extreme danger. You know what kept the shepherds going? It was hope. God had promised his people that one day he would send the Messiah, that when the Messiah came everything would be different. It was that hope that burned in their hearts and kept them going. 
How about us? Sometimes we become weary. There are times when we wonder if it worthwhile to keep on. But the Lord has promised that one day He will come back. He is coming for all of us, shepherds and kings, wisemen and peasants. He is coming for his people. He will dry all the tears and take away all the pain. There will be no more death and no more goodbyes. And then we will say, It was worth it all, it was worth it all! Anointed blessings! 
Pastor Stephen 

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Testimonies 

Dear fellow saints of God 
Praise be to the Lord Jesus 
Please read the wonderful spiritual experience of Specialist Charles Seelaus, a US serviceman in Iraq. 
Pray for the ministry of Salem Voice too. 
Yours in the love of Messiah Jesus 
PAUL CINIRAJ 

Feel free to pass it on 
Specialist Charles Seelaus 

My name is Specialist Charles Seelaus and My Army Reserve unit, the 2/228th Aviation Regiment is currently in Iraq. This was made possible when the 3rd Infantry Division, using lighting speed, overran the airfield located here in Central Iraq. As a direct result of their brave actions, my unit was now able to operate deep out of Iraqi Territory. As we set up our operations in the months of June and July, I began to realize that some of the finest and bravest men and women America had to offer were serving right beside me. 

These months, June, July, August, seemed surreal because like a lot of us here, we are not just soldiers, rather, we are Citizen/Soldiers. One weekend a month we would drill. We have a completely different life apart from Drilling. Just a few short months earlier, I was in my classroom, teaching 31 second grade students at Gideon Elementary School or Chatting with the Principle or fellow teachers. Having supper with my family, grading homework, having tea with my beautiful wife and snuggling our 4 children into their beds for a bedtime story and bedtime prayers was our life. We were raising our family with all the challenges and Joys that brings. Then The War Began. Our Unit was Mobilized for war. Why was I leaving all this behind? I thought about this and was reminded of my son who had just earned his Tenderfoot in Boy Scouts. He has a dream of being an Eagle Scout someday. Something his father is. He and I both know the Ten Commandments by heart but we also know the Boy Scout Oath. The Oath begins with, "On my Honor, I will do my Best, to do my Duty to God and my Country." To God and My Country. Was I here for me, was it for my Family, was it my duty to God and Country? Our Advance team arrived in June, the rest were here in Iraq shortly after. The first night I arrived I was greeted by a brilliant beautiful sunset. The sky was dancing with colors. The night gave me the most beautiful array of stars I have seen in such a long time. That same night our Camp was attacked by mortar fire and soldiers were injured. One of countless mortar attacks to follow. 

I realized the war was not over. We had much work ahead of us. As this small band of men and women in my unit began to build up our camp, so too was the building of relationships among each other, trusting others, a new family began to form. While we built up fortifications around our camp, One of the very first jobs our Chaplain (Major John Hunter) did was get a Chapel Tent established. Once completed, we would have our Bible studies and services there. These Bible studies were lively in their discussions and I marveled that we were actually in God's Holy lands. The lands spoken of in the bible. I never dreamed I would ever be in Iraq, Homeland of Abraham. Abraham and his descendents traveled all through this area. Here is where the Biblical Garden of Eden was. The city of Ur was not far off. The Ancient city of Babylon King Nebuchadnezar. Tower of Babel. The Old Testament was everywhere I turned. It is one thing to be reading about it, Another to see, feel and touch history. Despite being in a war, God was blessing me every day. I could feel those at home who keep me lifted on High with their prayers, and I told them so. Something I stay humbly thankful for. Prayers took on a whole new meaning in War. My commander told me that no one prays more than the soldier who is targeted for death. They are thrust into a situation where their lives may at any moment be extinguished. And he was correct. We do say a lot of prayers. Something happens on the inside when soldiers see and hear of their comrades being sent home in body bags. Life is so precious and so fragile. 

But I soon realized that there was more to prayer then just me praying. I knew at times when My mind was racing, thinking of what I must do at a critical moment, It was often, the prayers of loved ones and my brothers and sisters of Calvary at home that were lifting me up with their prayers. Our Camp continued to developed. We would not see those attacking us each day and night but we were reminded by the explosions all around us. About a mile from our camp was the mighty Tigris river. So named because that is what she would become once the rains fell, a ferocious tiger. Her banks would over flow and flood the lands around us. Our camp was rich in the silt and mud carried by these floods. This was a very fertile land. The Tigris was also one of the two rivers that flowed through the biblical Garden of Eden. Her sister was many miles away. She was the Euphrates. As our camp began to take form, so did my heart. As we continued to work hard, I began to pray hard. I thought about everything that I took for granted and I could still hear my wife saying to me, "War changes people". She was correct, but more importantly, Our God is behind change. As the days and nights ran into each other, I longed for my family, For the Land I Love, For Home. Then one evening as the beautiful sun was setting, I thought about being Baptized here. We were in Holy lands. This was a place I will probably not get a chance to see again. Was It possible? For me it was questionable, for God there was nothing that was not possible. I prayed asking for this blessing but my mind thought How? Inside and Outside our fences soldiers were dying. Outside our fences the enemy was Firing mortars, hiding improvised explosive devices and firing rocket propelled grenades and weapons at us. By day our soldiers would rebuild schools, but by night the explosions could be heard. 

The Tigris was less than a mile away, the river was so close yet so far. While I held these fears I could do very little. But I cast them away. I could never over come them but I could freely give them away. I could give them to Him. And so I did. As the days continued, it was to Him I would humbly lay my fears. I never prayed more than at a time like this. Then I remembered what I had heard at Calvary. God's children get two answers when we humble ask him!!! YES or Better. My heart was glad at this truth. And again I prayed to be baptized in the Birthplace of Abraham. To be Baptized in the Tigris. 

Then one night, while in Bible study and between some mortar explosions, the Chaplain said he needed some one to drive him to the helicopter pad on Saturday. He was taking a trip to Babylon. My Hand could not have reached any higher. I know God was talking. I'd better listen. After the Bible study, I spoke with the chaplain about joining him. I revealed to him what I had secretly been praying for the past few months. He said if there was room on the flight I was more than welcomed and then I asked if I could be Baptized. That stayed in question and would until I arrived, if I arrived. I was so excited that night that I raced back to my tent where my heart was flying. I opened my locker and there saw my military uniforms hanging. They hung, one after another, 4 sets of desert camouflaged uniforms. I looked at all the uniforms and saw the one I held way in the back. It was brand new, never used, and covered in plastic to protect it from the dust. Should I use this for my Baptism in Babylon. This Baptism, should it happen, was a chance in a life time. It certainly warranted a new uniform. Not many folks get the opportunity to be Baptized in Babylon. 

No I could not use that uniform. That was out of the question. I set this uniform aside when I arrived. I was prepared to use this brand new set for two very special occasions. I would wear it when I came home to greet my beautiful wife and our four beautiful children or if that was not meant to be, I was saving it for the time I would be called to Heaven. I would not wear that uniform yet. That story was still waiting for an ending. As the Saturday Morning arrived I awoke early. I had very few details about the trip but I was ready. Dressed in Full Battle Rattle I greeted my Chaplain. We drove to the helicopters in silence. We arrived at the Black-Hawk unit and I dropped him off. He said "Wait here Seelaus and I will check to see if there is room on this flight for you." I prayed. He returned a few minutes later and the answer was yes, there was room. We would be flying to Babylon and flying with many of the base chaplains. This was a tour of the ancient city of Babylon and King Nebuchadnezar's palace. While we waited to board the helicopters that morning, I met our Brigade Commander For the first Time. He would be flying us to Babylon. The Colonel had such a air of confidence about him that I instinctively felt safe with him. It's, the quality every great leader has. Instilling confidence. 

As we prepared to lift off, I had many questions on my mind. What was it like to fly in a Black-Hawk? How soon would we arrive? What were we going to see? Would I be Baptized? 

Soon we were in the air and flying at a low altitude! We were flying to the ancient city of Babylon. I was seeing Iraq now from A view that made it beautiful. Homes and villages were in clear sight. Irrigation canals and crops were everywhere. As we flew over head we would startle the herds of cattle and sheep and goats that roamed the country side. I would watch as great flocks of white birds would take to flight. I took as many pictures as I dared knowing that I must save some for Babylon and possibly my Baptism. Time did fly so quickly and the City of Babylon appeared to us. To one side I saw a mound of earth and bricks. Was that the tower of Babel. Then the Palaces of Babylon appeared. It was breath taking. There before me where two palaces, one old and ancient another new and modern. We had arrived in Babylon. Ancient city of the Bible. Before us were King Nebuchadnezar's palace and Sadaam Hussien's former Palace which was overlooking the ancient city. 

All our helicopters came in for a safe landing. We safely touched ground and the pilots began their power down. While we waited I saw smoke coming from our helicopter. I looked at the faces of the crews in the other helicopters as they watched us and I again watched the smoke. I wondered. Smoke and aircrafts are usually not a good mix. I stayed hopeful. Soon though the smoke stopped and we stepped out. 

As we unloaded, we all gathered for a quick brief on what we would be doing. As that was happening there was a little commotion coming from the front of our helicopter. I soon discovered that our Helicopter was hit. The Helicopter pilot had blood splattered all over him but he was not hurt. Thank God no one was hurt. In flight we had been hit by a bird. As the briefing continued, I learned that Chaplain Robert A. Miller was speaking and that he had made this trip before. While I listened closely, my unit chaplain whispered in my ear. "Captain Miller was Baptizing another soldier and we could ask him to include me." I was thrilled. My heart was filled with Joy. As we walked to the entrance of King Nebuchadnezar's palace, I watched the man that soon would be Baptizing me. Robert A. Miller. Miller, a common name. But this was no common man. He would be granting me one of the greatest blessing I could think of. This man would be Baptizing me in Babylon, in the Holy Euphrates river, as it would turned out to be. He would hand me over to God in the sacred rite of Baptism. A few months earlier I did not think this was possible. As the tour guide began to take us around the walls of Babylon. The chaplain and I approached Him. "Chaplain Miller" I asked, "Will you please include me in your Baptism today?" It seemed my life was hanging on what he would say. But for a moment he did not speak a word. His eyes and smile told me what no words could ever say, It felt as if God was saying, welcome home my lost son. Then his words came" Of course!" "Of course!", I repeated. "Of course!" 

I was baptized in Babylon. In the waters of the Holy Euphrates River. The date was August 23, 2003. 

A trip, or time or event is so much better when your heart is filled with Joy and happiness. Here I was, one of the first Americans in decades to tour the ancient city of Babylon and now to be Baptized here. A prayer made real. The next few hours went quickly, I was enthralled by the history our guide gave us as we toured the Palace of King Nebuchadnezar. Everything here was new to me. The words from the Old Testament often spoke of this town and place and of her peoples, I had read it many times. But for the first time I was placing the words with the place. Here is where so much history happened I was touching seeing and experiencing where once before I was only reading. As we walked down ancient roads, along fortress walls and through courtyards and kingly rooms I listen intently to our guide speak. Here is where Joseph was thrown in the lions den she would say and here is where King Nebuchadnezar defended his palace and here is where Alexander the Great was. As we walked my camera constantly clicked. I kept a careful count though. I must save some for the moment of My Baptism. 

As a tour came to an end we came to a carved statue of a mighty lion and it was standing upon a man. I ran my hands across to fully take it in. I had seen this on a postcard once. A postcard. We thanked our tour guide and walked to an open market. There were merchants selling their wears and as we walked through, there was variety everywhere. I filled my pockets with gifts for my family but the greatest gift was from God, a gift He gave to me. A new heart. I was ushered out as the group had finished and now was waiting for the group to all get together. It was time. ALL of us walked from the Bazaar to a dirt path that the Chaplain had seen from the air. This led to the water. We started walking. I felt a tremendous feeling as we walked because I was not alone. Though I had only just meet most of these people, it was as if we were family. 

We arrived at a road that went to the water and Captain Miller noticed there was one person missing. The other soldier who came here to be baptized. We must have left him back at the Bazaar. He went back to get him at the Market. At last Capt Miller returned with him and we walked to the waters. I would be Baptized in my DCU's and my new friend in his flight suit. As we approached the holy waters of the Euphrates, Capt Miller asked the Soldiers living there if he could have permission to perform a Baptism. Those waters are not clean they said, but permission was granted. About 13 of us walked down to the edge of the water. I emptied my pockets of all my belongings and I took my shirt off. I then gave my weapon and camera to my unit chaplain. Please take a picture I asked. He smiled and agreed. 

That is when Chaplain Miller asked everyone else to walk along the edge of the water about 70 feet away from the point we were standing. Something struck me at that time but I could not understand it. But God's grace would. I would realize later why this moment was important. I could only fully comprehend the significance from a view on High. Chaplain Robert A. Miller began to walk in the waters and we watched. He instructed us to watch him and when he had gone out far enough and was ready, he would call us out to him. He was ready and he waved us on. We began to walk and I was first to reach the Chaplain. As I walked a fear of mine was destroyed. Baby fish were swimming all around. Every step I took, I would watch them scatter. I was happy to see life in these waters. The echoes of unclean water faded from my mind. 

I was now in the water of the Euphrates river. The Holy waters. As we reached the the minister, I was never more confident in my life. Then in a way I had not heard before, the minister spoke to all the witnesses on shore. The Lord was using this man and I watched and listened to him. God indeed was great. I was asked to kneel and it began. The minister was at once speaking to me, speaking to the witnesses, speaking to himself and speaking to God. There was no speech writer in history that could have spoken more eloquently or more courageously. God had given me the best, no doubt in my mind. I will never forget. This was God at work and as the words rained upon me like flakes of gold, it came time for me to speak. In all the confidence that a soldier could muster I proclaimed "Before God, I DO!" 

I was Baptized. Baptized in Babylon, Baptized in the Holy Euphrates river. I stood up a different man, it was my prayer to be a humble and faithful servant. I watched the next Baptism. Upon his Baptism we all shook hands and proceeded to the shore. We were Greeted by friendly faces, smiles and handshakes. Soldiers who were serving their country, who served God. As we arrived on shore, I thought, God did it!! I wondered about Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Had they too been Baptized in the Holy Euphrates River. As we walked backed to the helicopter, Chaplain Miller gave me a set of Dog tags. One he said to wear, the other to give to another. It read " I will be strong and courageous, I will not be terrified, or discouraged, for the Lord my God is with me wherever I go. Joshua 1:9 (I carry it around my neck). Indeed, I gave the other away. 

As we walked back to the Black Hawk, Chaplain Miller told me that within 10 minutes in the helicopter, my clothes would be completely dry. He was right. We boarded the Black-Hawks and lifted up. As Colonel Palumbo left he gave a fly over, of where we were baptized giving us all a birds eye view. That's when I saw the waters. Where we were baptized there was a perfect triangle in the water. From the point where we walked from shore to the chaplain, and then, with the chaplain back to shore. I saw what the chaplain had done when he asked our group to walk a little further up from where we entered these waters. His directions created a perfect triangle in the water. One that now could be viewed on High!!! Where we had walked was clearly seen from above. It could be seen from the heavens too. 

I write this as testimony to our great God. Even as I write this, I can hear mortars close by us. But I also hear this voice, "With God as my helper, I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" Whether at home or thousands of miles away, whether in peace or in war. Our Lord God is One, our Lord God is Sovereign, Our God is with us. I turn to him my redeemer. 

This story has only begun, I still have a new uniform waiting for me to wear. I will wear it in celebration 

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Bible Studies 

Go to this url 

http://hoseaintercessorswarriors.bravepages.com/sitemap.html 

to do Pastor Stephens bible study lesson # 2. Just scroll down the page and you will find it. Click on Hosea Harvest Study Course 1. IT will take you to the course page Then click on lesson # 2 Jesus Teaches Us to Pray Matthew 6:5-15 or which ever lesson you are at. or you can go directly to the course page itselt at this url if that is easier for you http://hoseaintercessorswarriors.bravepages.com/hoseastudyindex.html 

Just go at your own pace This study is to get us all into the Word of God so we are fed and nourished in His word so we can better minister to others. I personally am doing these studies myself and find them to be so helpful to me. 

Sent your answeres to Pastor Stephens at prayerwarrior@caableone.net 

_____________________________________________________________________ 

Second Bible Study by Pastor Danny & Sister Erma Sossman is below 

Lesson # 2 in this Series of 5 Lessons 

The Dark, Dreary Cloud That Lurks About 

(Copy & Paste the questions and fill in your answers & send to) 

pastor_danny_sossman@hotmail.com 
or 
by Snail Mail to: 
P.O.BOX 1987 
Pittsburg, Kansas 66762 

Your studies will be returned to you. 

Lesson begins here 

Introduction 

The Dark, Dreary Cloud That Lurks About 

The dark, dreary cloud seems to follow me where ever I go. Its as if an invisible force calls me by my name, as it teaches me how to live in this world. 

The dark, dreary cloud that lurks about fills me with anxiety, panic attacks, depression and oppresses me wherever I go and it never stops there; as it tempts with a single drink to calm my nerves, telling, Now you can handle these things that are coming against you wherever you go, allowing you to have another little shot or another draft beer. 

The dark, dreary cloud knows in time he will have me doing the things that pleases him, as he silently takes my will, giving me a chance to be in his mighty care as I am engulfed by his weariness, and all the temptations he places in front of me gives me a chance to know everything will soon pass by and Im stuck on living a merry ole life. 

The dark, dreary cloud who lurks about whispers, You are to skinny or fat, making you believe you need a new pill or diet plan as his devious little workers are now making plans to give you a major thrill as you are now tempted with drugs of all kinds; as your quilt of being skinny or too fat takes over your mind. 

The dark, dreary cloud whispers, Go to the store and find a new diet plan, then soon that doesnt work as you realize your skinner then ever or have doubled in size. Soon you hear, Dont give up, hit the streets and find just the right kind of thing that will make you what you desire to be, and soon your stuck in a rut believing his every lie. 

The dark, dreary cloud works on your self-esteem and soon you feel you no longer belong to those who seemed to care, leaving you wondering all about in a dark, dark dreary world. 

The dark, dreary cloud chuckles in your ear and you never seem to care, as you stumble from pillar to post searching for a new way of life. 

The dark, dreary cloud places fear in your heart, and deep in your mind, laughing all the while as you slip into depression or more serious evil thoughts, for you know there is no way out. 

The dark, dreary cloud lurking about says, See, Ive given you false hopes and dreams, Im now in control of your life. I will control your mind and desires unless you call upon the name of the Lord. 

The dark, dreary cloud releases you for awhile, but then he continues playing games with your life and mind, and soon your back in his grasp, loosing everything that has mattered to you, including going to jails, prisons, hospitals, loosing your families and many times your precious life. 

The dark, dreary cloud, beams with pride as he tells you, Ive won the battle, just look at you, for Ive killed young and old alike, Ive taken homes, jobs, and everything that could of ever mattered to you as my cloud of despair settled down and over you, and I do this with sheer delight because Ive never wanted you. 

As the dark, dreary cloud lurking about laughs at you, and your miserable life, he opens up hells gates and leads you to the front of the line, telling you, You are hopeless, youve gone to far and now you are mine. For the God who created you doesnt care for you, for you have sinned and claimed to be mine. 

As the man begins to cry, the dark, dreary cloud mocks him and gives a big laugh as he shouts with pride, You see, you still believe me no matter what I say, and this is why God has gave me the name, Father of all Lies. For it is my goal to steal, kill and destroy as many lives as I can before I am sent to my very own home; and you didnt even know you had a choice of what master you served until someone you know sent up a prayer asking this man called Jesus, to save your soul, and here you stand at my beautiful gates, and cry out to the God who will forgive you of your sins and deliver you. 

Bible Study Questions 

1. Would a dark, dreary cloud deceive you? 

A. Can you name this dark, dreary cloud? 

2. Could a dark, dreary cloud tempt, depress or scare you? 

3. What does John 14:30 say about the Prince of this world? 

4. According to Ephesians 2:2 what spirit worketh in the children of disobedience? 

5. Give the scripture of where the serpent can be found here and explain what he did. 

A. Genesis 8:1-20 

B. Genesis 3: 21-24 

C. Genesis 3: 1-7 

D. Genesis 2: 1-7 

6. Explain 1 Timothy 3:7 

7. Is the devil subtle? Give Scripture and explain how the devil is subtle. 

A. Hebrews 13:8 

B. 2 Corinthians 11:3 

C. Genesis 3:1 

D. John 15:7 

E. Philippians 4:13 

8. According to 1 Samuel 16:14 the devil blinds us? 

Who did the devil blind here? 

Explain this scripture. 

9. According to the above scriptures do you believe the devil is capable of causing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, addictions or worse? 

10. According to Job 2:7 God restored everything to him right? 

Explain the conversation that took place, and reading on a bit further, what was the request and explain the answer. 

11. Explain what God allowed to be put in Satans power and for what reason. 

Then give the scripture backing up your answer. 

12. According to Matthew 12:24 the demons have who over them? 

13. Is the devil a Coward? Give Scripture. 

Ephesians 2:2 

Colossians 2: 4-5 

1 John 4:1-3 

James 4:7 

John 3:16 

14. Who all would the devil deceive according to Matthew 24:24? 

15. Where would you find the scripture telling who the Father of all lies are? 

16. Who will be punished with Satan in the end? Give scripture from Matthew Chapter 25. 

17. Explain Romans 10:8-13 

18. Does God give us an opportunity to fight Satan and his evil doers? Give Scriptures) and explain your answer. 

Revelation Chapter 18 

Proverbs Chapter 6 

Ephesians Chapter 6 

Luke Chapter 10 

Acts Chapter 2 

19. According to Hebrews 13:8 is Jesus wishy washy from day to day? Explain 

20. According to Philippians 2:10-11 every man shall do what? 

But it is your choice to either follow the Father of all lies, or you have the chance to get out from underneath this dark, dreary cloud by calling upon the name of the Redeemer, Jesus Christ, the living God who in the end you are going to bow to anyway and its easy, all you have to do is ask and believe your sins are forgiven and then allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you into all truths as you read and study Gods words. 

If you have made this choice of calling out to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, please let us know that we can encourage you in your daily walk. God bless you dear friend. 

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

Praise Reports 

Praise and thanksgiving to the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit! I have been hired for a full time job! 

I had a second interview today for a three to six month temporary position. (From a different employment agency). 
The company decided to hire me! I will start working there tomorrow. 

I want to thank you so much for your prayers! Please pray for me for the grace and ability to do a very good job, and to be able to get to work before or by 7:45 every day. 

Thanks again! 

Love in Jesus our Savior, 

Jane 
JRose44900@aol.com 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Poetry 

" CHRISTMAS " 

What does Christmas realy mean to us.why do 
We realy make such a fuss.with all it's 
Glitter and it's gleem.what does Christmas 
Realy mean?why it's a time to decorate by all 
Means to celebrate.with glad cheer,the end 
And the begining,of a brand new year.with a 
Tree full of decorations,all a glow.oh yes 
Now,lets not forget the snow.and by all means 
The mistletoe.what a great time of the year, 
To bring good tidings and cheer.as children 
Are thinking of santa,and eight tiny rein 
Deer.is there something wrong with Christmas 
Here?let's not forget the true meaning this 
Year.it's a true time of love.when God sent 
Down,his Son from above.and started the true 
Story of Christmas love.as all of our friends 
And love one's gather near.and were getting 
Full of the Christmas cheer.let us glorify 
God.and give thank's to the King.for it's all 
About giving.thats what Christmas realy means 

Emory Brit Teel 
Copyright 2003 Emory Brit Teel 
emorybteel@sbcglobalJ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

JESUS GREAT LOVE ! 

Jesus Great love,Is always there for you. 
Are You lonely in despair or depressed. 
Has the World let you down.like it has all the rest. 
Do you long to be happy.Do the thing's you 
Love keep letting you down. 

Does your heart keep's Breaking. 
And there is no one around. 
Do you keep Looking for answers, 
But none can be found. 

Are all the thing's that you loved and held dear. 
Now seem to vanish , or there no longer here. 
Just open your heart,and let Jesus come in. 
He will never leave you, or forsake you my friend. 
Jesus will go with you,even till the end. 

His love for you! is more precious than gold. 
God's story is the Greatest one ever told! 
Jesus showed his love for both you and me. 
Three day's he hung on the cross to set us free. 

He said he would go and prepare us a place. 
That we may all go there, through his loving grace. 
He showed us his love in such a great display! 
Just open your heart,and let him show you the way. 

Just mention his name,and soon thing's will change. 
Just ask him to help you, and He will be there. 
What a great love, God gave Us all to share. 
God really love's you! and he really does care. 

I know now,that God is right there by your side. 
And he will dry away ever tear you have cried. 
What a great joy,to come to our lord my friend. 
And all your hurt I know, Now soon will end. 

If you find another one, that is hurting today. 
Would you pass this poem on there way. 
Tell them of Jesus!The great thing's he's done. 
And through his Love! We all have won ! 

Emory Brit Teel 
Copyright 2003 Emory Brit Teel 
emorybteel@sbcglobal.net 
____________________________________________________________________________________________________ 
Inspirational 

(Graphic by Pastor Barbara Flemming) 

A heartfelt and true story 

The Tablecloth 

The brand new pastor and his wife, newly assigned to their first ministry to reopen a church in suburban Brooklyn, arrived in early October excited about their opportunities. When they saw their church, it was very run down and needed much work. They set a goal to have everything done in time to have their first service on Christmas Eve. 

They worked hard, repairing pews, plastering walls, painting, etc., and, on Dec. 18, were ahead of schedule and just about finished. On December 19, a terrible tempest -- a driving rainstorm -- hit the area and lasted for two days. 

On the 21st, the pastor went over to the church. His heart sunk when he saw that the roof had leaked, causing a large area of plaster about 6 feet by 8 feet to fall off the front wall of the sanctuary just behind the pulpit, beginning about head high. The pastor cleaned up the mess on the floor and, not knowing what else to do but postpone the Christmas Eve service, headed home. 

On the way, he noticed that a local business was having a flea market type sale for charity so he stopped in. 

One of the items was a beautiful, handmade, ivory colored, crocheted tablecloth with exquisite work, fine colors and a cross embroidered right in the center. It was just the right size to cover up the hole in the front wall. He bought it and headed back to the church. 

By this time it had started to snow. An older woman running from the opposite direction was trying to catch the bus. She missed it. The pastor invited her to wait in the warm church for the next bus 45 minutes later. She sat in a pew and paid no attention to the pastor while he got a ladder, hangers, etc., to put up the tablecloth as a wall tapestry. The pastor could hardly believe how beautiful it looked, and it covered up the entire problem area. 

Then he noticed the woman walking down the center aisle. Her face was like a sheet. 
"Pastor," she asked, "where did you get that tablecloth?" 
The pastor explained. 
The woman asked him to check the lower right corner to see if the initials EBG were crocheted into it there. 
They were. 
These were the initials of the woman, and she had made this tablecloth 35 years before, in Austria. 

The woman could hardly believe it as the pastor told how he had just gotten the tablecloth. The woman explained that, before the war, she and her husband were well-to-do people in Austria. When the Nazis came, she was forced to leave. Her husband was going to follow her the next week. She was captured, sent to prison, and never saw her husband or her home again. 

The pastor wanted to give her the tablecloth; but she made the pastor keep it for the church. The pastor insisted on driving her home -- that was the least he could do. She lived on the other side of Staten Island and was only in Brooklyn for the day for a house cleaning job. 

What a wonderful service they had on Christmas Eve. The church was almost full. The music and the spirit were great. At the end of the service, the pastor and his wife greeted everyone at the door and many said that they would return. One older man, whom the pastor recognized from the neighborhood, continued to sit in one of the pews and stare, and the pastor wondered why he wasn't leaving. The man asked him where he got the tablecloth on the front wall because it was identical to one that his wife had made years ago when they lived in Austria before the war, and how could there be two tablecloths so much alike? 

He told the pastor how the Nazis came, how he forced his wife to flee for her safety, and he was supposed to follow her, but he was arrested and put in a concentration camp. He never saw his wife or his home again for all the 35 years in between. 

The pastor asked him if he would allow him to take him for a little ride. They drove to Staten Island and to the same house where the pastor had taken the woman three days earlier. He helped the man climb the three flights of stairs to the woman's apartment, knocked on the door, and he saw the greatest Christmas reunion he could ever imagine. 

Who says God does not work in mysterious ways? 

-A true story submitted 

Sent in by PastorCiniraj 
Email: ciniraj@sancharnet.in 
web: www.salem-voice.com 
_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

Facts About The Bible 

MESSIAH IN THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE 

Genesis: The Seed of the Woman 
Exodus: The Passover Lamb 
Leviticus: The Sanctifier 
Numbers: The Guide & The Rock 
Deuteronomy: The Prophet 
Joshua: The Commander of the Army of the Lord 
Judges: The Righteous Ruler 
Ruth: The Kinsman-Redeemer 
1 Samuel: The Anointed King 
2 Samuel: The Son of David 
1 Kings: The Wisdom 
2 Kings: The Covenant of God 
1 Chronicles: The Coming Messiah 
2 Chronicles: The Temple 
Ezra: The Remnant 
Nehemiah: The Mighty Wall 
Esther: The Advocate 
Job: The Mediator 
Psalms: The Lord of David & the Praiseworthy 
Proverbs: The Treasury of Wisdom and Knowledge 
Ecclesiastes: The provider of Ultimate Satisfaction 
Song of Solomon: The Bridegroom 
Isaiah: The Arm of the Lord that wounded and Bruised for our Sins 
Jeremiah: The Lord our Righteousness and the Balm of Gilead 
Lamentations: The Man of Sorrow Who Was Acquainted With Grief 
Ezekiel: The True Shepherd 
Daniel: The Great Stone 
Hosea: The Faithful Lover 
Joel: The Judge of the Gentiles 
Amos: The One who has all Authority to Judge 
Obadiah: The Judge, the Saviour and the Possessor 
Jonah: The Sign (for the death, burial and the resurrection) 
Micah: The Ruler in Israel 
Nahum: The Way of Yahweh 
Habakkuk: The Salvation 
Zephaniah: The King of Israel 
Haggai: The Glory of God 
Zechariah: The Pierced One 
Malachi: The Sun of Righteousness 
-------------------------------------- 
Matthew: The Promised Messianic King of Israel 
Mark: The Obedient Servant 
Luke: The Son of Man 
John: The Son of the Living God 
Acts of the Aopostles: The Resurrected Saviour 
Romans: Second Adam, whose substitutionary death justified all who place their faith in HIM. 
1 Corinthians: The Righteousness, the Sanctification and the Redemption 
2 Corinthians: The Believer's Comfort and the Triumphant Lord 
Galatians: The Liberty 
Ephesians: The Head of the Church 
Philippians: The Model of True Humility 
Colossians: The Head of all Principality and Power 
1Thessalonians: Joyful Hope of Salvation 
2 Thessalonians: The Faithful 
1 Timothy: The Mediator Between God and men 
2 Timothy: The One who abolished death and brought life 
Titus: The Blessed Hope 
Philemon: The Benefactor 
Hebrews: The High Priest according the order of Melchizedek 
James: Lord Jesus Christ 
1 Peter: The Believer's Example 
2 Peter: The Source of Full Knowledge 
1 John: The Righteous Advocate Before the Father 
2 John: The Pattern 
3 John: The Motivation 
Jude: One who is able to keep us from stumbling 
Revelation: The First and the Last; the Amen. 
---------------------------------------- 
PAUL CINIRAJ, 
Salem Voice, Devalokam (P.O), 
Kottayam, Kerala - 686038, INDIA. 
____________________________________________________________________________ 
Hosea Harvest Ministries Links & Associated Ministries 

We Invite you to visit our online church... 

http://hoseaintercessorswarriors.bravepages.com/hoseaonlinechurchindex.html 

Want to join prayer team visit.. 

http://hoseaintercessorswarriors.bravepages.com/prayer.html 

Hosea Shelter Intercessors Prayer Network 

http://hoseaintercessorswarriors.bravepages.com 

Hosea Harvest Ministries is in ministry partnership with dokimos 
http://www.dokimos.org and: 

Hearts For Christ Ministries 
http://www.hearts-for-christ-ministries.org 

Bethesda House of Grace 
http://iam.homewithgod.com/bethog 

City of Faith Hope Love 
http://www.cityoffaithhopelove.com 

The Shepherd's Voice 
http://dokimos.org/shepherdsvoice 

Lights For Christ 
http://lightsforchrist.us 

Jennifer's Sanctuary 
http://heavenmist.net 

The Inbox 
http://geocities.com/inbox_prayer 

The Prayer Hub 
http://dokimos.org/intercessor 
____________________________________________________________________________________________ 
Our Staff and Ministry Partners 

Pastor Stephen Thurman & Mrs Thurman 

Executive Director, Senior Pastor,Senior Prayer Co-ordinator 

Pastor Phyllis Corbin 

Executive Co-founder, Associate Pastor, Newsletter Editor,Assistant Prayer Co-ordinator 

Pastor Barbara Flemming 

Associate Pastor/Assistant Prayer Leader 

Pastor Danny & Erma Sossman 

Associate Pastors/Assistant Prayer Leaders 

Outreach Director - Sister Kathy McGregory 

Outreach Assistants - Sister Sherri, Sister Theresa, Sister Debra, Sister Susan James 

Prayer Assistants - Associate Pastor Barbara Flemming ; Sister Shirley, Sister Kathy Schroeder, Pastor Danny and Erma Sossma., Sister Barbara Mclain, All prayer Intercessors; 

Ministry Partners -- Pastor Ronnie and Lorraine Meek, Rev.Joe Diaz; Pastor Crickett Steele; Rev. Donna Kazenske; Pastor Barbara Flemming, Sister Kathy Gregory, Sister Kathy Schroeder, Sister Susan James, Sister Barbara Mclain, Sister Mandy Hinson .Adrian Stallman ;The Stull Family; Sister Becky Fresina; Sister Sandy Miller; George and Marita Noel; Kurt and Carol Snyder; Sister Lily; Sister Mary; 

Also Other Behind The Scenes Support Staff 

________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Anouncements: 

If any of you would like to contribute a short devotional , bible study, or testimony please forward it to Sister Phyllis at pcorbin@supercity.ns.ca or to Pastor Thurman at prayerwarrior@cableone.net All we ask is that you keep it in line with the Word of God We do reserve the right to edit it for length and content if needed. We are particularly looking for testimonies and praise reports of what God is doing in the lives of individuals that will bring glory and praise to Him. Be part of this newsletter and share with all of us . 

We thank you each one for allowing us to bring this to you We will do our best to bring this newsletter to you weekly. May God richly bless you and remember we are here for you & praying for you. 

(All material in this newsletter has been printed with prior permission of the authors and we thank each one for your wonderful contribution If something is here that is author unknown and any one knows the author please let us know and we will give credit to that person or persons) 

If you do not wish to receive email from Hosea Shelter Intercessory Prayer Network any longer, hit "Reply" and put "Please Remove" in the subject line.It is never our intention to send email to anyone who does not wish to receive it. This mail cannot be considered spam as long as contact and removal information is included. 

God bless 

The Pastoral Staff 

Senior Pastor Stephen Thurman 

Associate Pastor Phyllis Corbin 

Associate Pastor Barbara Flemming 

Associate Pastors Danny and Erma Sossman 
 
