Dedicated Writer - Tammy L. Hensel

2011-12-04T17:56:00.002-06:00

The Unopened Gift

By Tammy Hensel

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God.”—Ephesians 2:8 (NASB)

It looked so lonely sitting there under the tree—unopened, unwanted. My twelve-year old mind just couldn’t understand it. How could anyone not want a Christmas gift?

A few hours earlier the room teemed with much anticipated activity. Almost every Christmas Eve during my childhood my family gathered at the home of one of my grandmother’s ten siblings. We kids played “Santa’s helpers,” as we read the nametags and distributed the gifts.

“Here, Grandmother, another one for you. It’s so pretty.” I admired the beautifully wrapped package as I offered it to her. To my surprise, she refused to take it.

“Who’s it from? I already have my name gift.” She checked the tag. “Edna, you aren’t supposed to give me anything this year.” Many years before, my grandmother’s family agreed to draw names for giving among the eleven siblings. However, once in a while, not everyone obeyed the rules. Edna told her the gift was for her, but my grandmother was adamant.

“Put it back under the tree.”

I couldn’t believe my ears. Sadly, I obeyed. Once in a while, someone who hadn’t heard the exchange picked up the gift and again tried to give it to Grandmother. Each time she refused and ordered it back under the tree. When the party ended and we walked out the door, I turned back to look once more at the unopened gift, sitting so beautifully under the Christmas tree.

Think of the above story as a parable. God offers a beautiful gift to all mankind—eternal life with Him. Have you opened it? Or is it still sitting under your Christmas tree?

Generation Gap Bridged by Christian Fiction

2011-09-30T16:34:00.000-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel

(This is a tribute to both my grandmother and one of our shared favorite authors, Grace Livingston Hill.)

Bittersweet memories fill my mind today. The sort of memories you have when you realize it's the birthday of a loved one who is no longer on earth to celebrate. The person filling my mind today is my maternal grandmother.

Among other things, my grandmother and I shared a passion for reading. (I was also her cooking and gardening buddy.) She introduced me to many authors without even realizing it as I browsed her overflowing book shelves.I first read Shakespeare from a volume I found there when I was still in grade school.

I remember vividly the day she purposely introduced to an author I enjoyed much more. When I was about 14 years old, she handed me a well-worn paperback—Rose Galbraith by Grace Livingston Hill. It was the perfect book for a young teenage girl. I will always be grateful to my grandmother for giving that book to me as an alternative to the more worldly paperback romances directed at young teens.

Grace Livingston Hill (1865–1947) wrote more than 100 books, mostly contemporary Christian novels. She developed a formula for Christian romance that endures today of characters who faced real-life problems with courage and faith.

It's hard for a girl to imagine her grandmother as a young woman. But reading books set in time periods that were contemporary to her helped to bridge the generation gap. I'm not sure when my grandmother began reading Hill, but I suspect it was as a teenager. I know it was before my mother was born because she told me she named her after the title character in Dawn of the Morning—another one of her favorites.

If you love Christian romance, but have never read Grace Livingston Hill, I highly recommend her. If you have one or more favorites among her books, please share in a comment. It's hard for me to pick a favorite because I love some many. My top 10 (in alphabetical order because I can't rank them) are:
1. All Through the Night (1945)
2. Crimson Roses (1928)
3. Dawn of the Morning (1911)
4. Happiness Hill (1932)
5. Partners (1940)
6. The Patch of Blue (1932)
7. Rainbow Cottage (1934)
8. Rose Galbraith (1940)
9. Time of the Singing of the Birds (1944)
10. White Orchids (1935)

Fruit Orchard

2011-07-10T17:57:00.000-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel

"O taste and see that the LORD is good;"—Psalm 34: 8a

"Do the trees produce fruit?" my husband asked, noticing the small peach orchard on the property that would be our home for the next few years.

"They do, but I wouldn't eat them. Daddy hasn't sprayed or cared for them in years. They'll probably be full of bugs," replied our family friend and now landlady. Her aging father, no longer able to care for himself, had recently moved in with her. Hearing we wanted to move out of our townhouse into a place with a yard, she offered to rent his home to us until they decided to sell it.

The first year we left the peaches totally for the birds and insects to enjoy. Our friend had told us we could try to cultivate the orchard, but my husband decided it was too much trouble. Then one day during the second year, two ladies knocked on our door and asked if they could pick some peaches. I repeated what we'd been told, but they still wanted to try them. A few days later they stopped back by to tell us the peaches were delicious!

The Bible often uses food imagery to describe various aspects of God's character and His Word. Jesus said the Father gives true bread sweeter than the manna the children of Israel ate in the wilderness. (John 6:30-32) Both the prophet Ezekiel and the Apostle John recorded visions in which they ate a scroll or book which tasted "sweet as honey." (Ezekiel 3:1-3, Revelation 10:9)

The sweetness of God is available to us daily in His word and in fellowship through prayer. Yet, just as we ignored the peach trees right in our backyard, many people disregard the delicious bounty of fellowship offered to them. Some believe the assessment of others that God's word is worthless without even sampling His goodness. Others acknowledge that there is potential in a relationship with God, but they don't want to take time out of their busy lives to cultivate His friendship.

What about you? Have you eaten from God's fruit orchard today? If you haven't, get your sweet tooth ready. You're in for a treat!

copyright Tammy L. Hensel 2011 All Rights Reserved

Video: Taste And See

Applying Diligence

2011-06-06T15:11:00.000-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel

Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love.—2 Peter 1:5-7

A few weeks ago I had an arthritis flare-up in my neck and shoulder. Every morning I wake up feeling stiff until I get over to the pool for my morning work-out. After an hour of laps and pool exercises, ending with several minutes in the whirlpool, I feel a lot better. I'm energized and ready for a productive day.

That is until I sit at the computer too long, bend my neck the wrong way, or lift something too heavy. Then pain acts as a barometer letting me know that I need to change my activity. Now, I can either ignore the warning and keep going or I can listen to its voice to avoid further aggravating my condition. It takes daily diligence to not undo the benefits I receive from my morning exercise.

Reading and meditating on God's word is also part of my morning routine. Often I discover a new nugget of truth that I want to apply to my life. Or I'm convicted of something I need to change. I intend to follow through, but sometimes circumstances come up that distract or tempt me from my resolve. In John 14:26, Jesus promised, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you."

Often the Holy Spirit reminds me of something from Scripture in the nick of time to keep me from stumbling, just as the first twinge of pain in my neck reminds not to bend that way. If I don't listen to His gentle warning, I soon regret it, just as I feel the consequences of not taking a break from the computer when my neck starts hurting. Yet, even when I fall, He wraps me in the soothing balm of His love, forgiveness and peace. With His peace that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7),He calms my heart much more than the hot water of the whirlpool that relieves my aching joints.

Diligence in my exercise program helps me to strengthen my body and better manage my chronic pain. Spiritual diligence strengthens my walk with God, building in me a godly character so that I can share the peace, love and joy He gives with others.

copyright Tammy L. Hensel 2011 All Rights Reserved

Video: Let the peace of God reign - Hillsong Updated

Living in the Shade

2011-04-25T18:03:00.001-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel

"And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God has illumined it, and its lamp is the Lamb."
—Revelation 21:23 (NASB)

Friends call me "the hat lady." I've always loved to wear hats. They suit that dramatic streak in my personality. However, today hats are much more to me than just fun fashion accessories.

A little over ten years ago, I developed trigeminal neuralgia (TN), a chronic irritation of the facial nerves. When sunlight and other bright lights hit certain nerves in my face it causes migraine headaches. Hats and sun glasses shade and protect these sensitive nerves.

Most days I enjoy wearing my hats, but other times I long for the time when I will no longer have to wear them—when I can walk out into the sunlight bareheaded to enjoy its beauty. Similarly, I long for the day when I can know and understand the fullness of God.

Moses asked God to show him His glory, but was told it was impossible for any man to see it and live. "Then the LORD said, "Behold, there is a place by Me, and you shall stand there on the rock; and it will come about, while My glory is passing by, that I will put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with My hand until I have passed by."—Exodus 33:21-22

While on earth we live in the protective shade of God's hand as He gives us wonderful glimpses of Him through His creation, His word, and His Holy Spirit. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:12 "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known."

What a beautiful promise that is! One glorious day I will live, not longer in the shade, but in full knowledge of the marvelous glory of God!

copyright 2011 All Rights Reserved

Video: I Can Only Imagine - MercyMe

The Wonder of Redemption

2011-04-01T18:15:00.000-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel

". . . knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ."—1 Peter 1:18-19

As a child I loved collecting trading stamps to take to the redemption store. I recall the wonder of seeing the stamps magically emerge from the cash register at the grocery store. Then I carefully pasted them into the special books, always counting ahead to see how many more I had to fill before I could "redeem" them for something precious.

Trading stamps went out of vogue around 1980, the year I married. At a bridal shower all of my female relatives gave me their saved up stamps to redeem before our local store closed down. Boy, did I feel rich! I traded them for dishes, pots and pans, and many other items to help us set up housekeeping. The best thing I got was a canister vacuum cleaner, which I still use to today, more than 30 years later!

Yet, the wonder I felt as a child about trading stamps pales significantly compared to the awestruck wonder I feel when I consider the eternal redemption accomplished by Jesus Christ.

The Bible tells us that Jesus redeemed us with His own precious blood. Through His sacrifice He paid the penalty for my sin. He liberated me from my bondage to sin and empowered me with His Holy Spirit.

The items I got with my trading stamps were made with purpose. But as long as they sat in the store unredeemed they were unable to fulfill that purpose. It is the same with mankind. God created us to love, worship, and serve Him. The only way we can do that is to embrace the precious gift of redemption.

copyright 2011 All Rights Reserved

Video: Another great Gaither praise video of an awesome hymn.

Love Looks

2010-10-11T16:15:00.001-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel

Don't you just adore the special love looks you get from those closest to you? I know I do. I tuck them away in my heart and pull them out to reflect on in quiet moments — the times my husband winks at me across a crowded room or when one of my children looks at me with bright beaming eyes.

I recall when my kids were in elementary school and Awards Day rolled around every grading period. Whenever one of my sons received a certificate, the first thing he did was search the crowd for my face. When he found me, his face immediately lit up and we exchanged love looks. His communicated, "Mom, I'm so glad you're here. I hope you're proud of me. I love you." And my eyes answered back, "Yes, I'm very proud of you. You are so special to me. I will always love you."

These moments of silent adoration make us feel appreciated, wanted, and special. They nourish a need deep within our souls. Yet they pale in comparison to the love looks we exchange with God Himself.

What is a love look from God? How does one trade glances with the great invisible Maker of the universe?

God created us just so He could love us and we could love Him. He knows us intimately and He wants us to know Him intimately too. Although we cannot look directly into His eyes the way we do with our family members, He still communicates His love to us in many ways.

The first way is in sending His son Jesus to pay the penalty for our sins and cleanse us of unrighteousness so that we can fellowship with Him (John 3:16-18; Rom. 3:23-25; 1 John 1:9). When we open our hearts to receive His special gift of salvation He fills it with the indwelling of His Holy Spirit (Rom. 5:5). It is through this communion with the Holy Spirit, via the conduits of prayer, Bible study and worship, that we exchange our love glances with the Almighty. We express our adoration to Him and feel His pride and pleasure in us.

As a beloved wife and mother I feel inexpressible joy in the love looks from my family. Imagine taking my small moment of pleasure and magnifying it over a trillion times. That is how much joy God finds in just one moment of fellowship — one love look — from you and me.

Video:
Below is a video to help you exchange love looks with your loving Heavenly Father.

Michael W. Smith "Deep In Love With You" From the "A New Hallelujah" Live DVD

Patwork Spirituality

2010-08-23T16:47:00.010-05:00

By Tammy Hensel

Saturday evening my husband and I went for a walk around our neighborhood. For some reason I rejoiced to see that we were not the only ones whose lawn sported a patchwork look of green and brown grass.

Our property has an in-ground sprinkler system, installed by a previous owner, that doesn't water the yard evenly. And our many trees deprive some of the grass by blocking the sprinkler spray from reaching certain areas. I know I need to gives these areas extra water, and do so occasionally, but not consistently.

Seeing that most of my neighbors have the same problem, made me feel a little less guilty that I wasn't providing the nourishment my lawn needed to flourish. Then we came to a yard that was completely green! Not one brown patch in sight! Obviously the owners valued their lawn enough to water every area. When I arrived back at my house, I gave the brown patches a little TLC.

Unfortunately, I allow the same inconsistency in my spiritual life as I do in watering my yard. There are I times I soak myself in the word of God and experience amazing new spiritual growth. Other times I let either the busyness or entertainments of the world deny me spiritual refreshment, much like the trees in my yard block the water from reaching the grass. The result is patchwork spirituality, with dry spells that open me up to temptation and discouragement, while robbing me of my joy in the Lord.

Fortunately, our Lord offers us a well-spring of living water that can nourish us back from the driest of spiritual dry spells. King David penned Psalm 63 in just such a period of spiritual dryness. In verses 1-8, he shows us the way to spiritual renewal: confess our need and recognize the awesome lovingkindness of our God.

"O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly;
My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You,
In a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.
Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips will praise You.
So I will bless You as long as I live;
I will lift up my hands in Your name.
My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness,
And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips.
When I remember You on my bed,
I meditate on You in the night watches,
For You have been my help,
And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.
My soul clings to You;
Your right hand upholds me." (NASB)

As I follow King David's advice — seek God earnestly, fill my mouth with praise and my heart with meditation on His word — then my brown patches fade and my spirit begins to thrive again.

Video:

Here is a song based on Psalm 63 by one of my favorite music groups Acapella:

Jesus Paid It All - In Full!

2010-04-03T11:24:00.002-05:00

Jesus Paid It All – In Full!
By Tammy L. Hensel
Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

What would you do if you had a benefactor who paid your bills for you every month so that every statement you received was stamped Paid-In-Full? How amazing that would be!

So much more amazing is the fact that our debt of sin has been Paid-In-Full by Christ’s death on the Cross. That is the truth that inspired Elvina Marble Reynolds Hall (Meyers) to pen the words to Jesus Paid It All.

Jesus Paid It All
Words by Elvina Hall
Music by John T. Grape

I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small;
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”

Refrain
Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim,
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.

And now complete in Him
My robe His righteousness,
Close sheltered ’neath His side,
I am divinely blest.

Lord, now indeed I find
Thy power and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots
And melt the heart of stone.

When from my dying bed
My ransomed soul shall rise,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
Shall rend the vaulted skies.

And when before the throne
I stand in Him complete,
I’ll lay my trophies down
All down at Jesus’ feet.

Elvina Hall was born June 4, 1822 in Alexandria, VA. None of my sources listed her mother’s name, but her father was Capt. David Reynolds. She married Richard Hall and they were active members of Monument Street Methodist Church in Baltimore.

One Sunday in the spring of 1865, she was overwhelmed during the sermon with the enormity of Christ’s sacrifice in her behalf. The words to a poem of thanksgiving formed in her mind, so she wrote them on the flyleaf of her hymnal. Although a little sheepish for writing in the church hymnbook, she presented it to her pastor, Reverend George Schreck’s, following the service. (My sources varied on the spelling of this name. I found it as Schreck, Schnick, Schrick)

We do not know the exact text of Rev. Schreck’s sermon that day, but there are many Bible verses that correlate with the message of this hymn. The verses that first came to my mind reading over these lyrics were:

1 John 1:2
And He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

2 Corinthians 5:21
For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him

Isaiah 1:18
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

Some days later Schreck went to visit the church choir director, John T. Grape, a successful coal merchant and amateur musician/composer. Grape played for him a tune he had written and Schreck thought it went perfectly with Hall’s poem. Grape wrote about the event:

Rev. George W. Schreck called on me to select anything new that I had to offer. On hearing this piece he expressed his plea sure with it and stated that Mrs. Elvina M. Hall had written some words that would just suit the music. I gave him a copy of it and it was soon sung in several churches here in Baltimore [Maryland] and well received. At the suggestion of friends I sent a copy to Professor Theodore Perkins and it was published in Sabbath Carols. Under the providence of God it has been going ever since. I trust that it has not failed to accomplish some good to my fellowmen for the glory of God. http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/j/p/jpaidall.htm

After her husband Richard’s death, Hall married a Methodist minister, Thomas Myers in 1885. She died at Ocean Grove, NJ, on July 18, 1889. Other than the story of her writing of this hymn, I found little else about her life. John T. Grape was born in Baltimore Maryland May 6, 1835 and died there November 2, 1915. Besides being choir director and organist for the church, he was also very involved in the Sunday school.

VIDEO: I was hoping to find a video with all the verses, but couldn’t find one. I chose this video because I think these young people did an excellent job.

"Jesus Paid It All" - MS Baptist All-State Youth Choir & Orchestra 2008

SOURCES:
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/j/p/jpaidall.htm

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/bio/g/r/a/grape_jt.htm

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/bio/h/a/l/hall_em.htm

http://rgbaptist.org/wordpress/2007/09/11/jesus-paid-it-all-hymn-story/

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/hymnstudies/566530/

http://www.songtime.org/hymn/hymn0404.htm

http://www.allaboutjesuschrist.org/jesus-paid-it-all.htm

http://www.gospelpiano.com/articles/jesus-paid-it-all-55.htm

Even Babies Sing "To God Be The Glory"

2010-02-12T17:50:00.004-06:00

By Tammy L. Hensel
Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

It is a snapshot etched in my memory. We were visiting my grandmother for the day and my two young sons went outside to play. My oldest was somewhere between 4 and 5 years old and his brother barely walking. So I was keeping a strict watch on them from the window. Suddenly I discovered they were out of my line of vision. Heart pounding I raced outside to be sure they hadn't found a way out of the enclosed backyard. As I turned the corner of the house my worry changed into great joy.

"Praise Lord . . . praise Lord," I heard my oldest singing at the top of his voice as he stood in front of his brother waving his hand like a choir director. My baby sat on a log and though he couldn't say the words he joined in with enthusiastic "Ah, ah, ah, ah," clearly following the tune to the chorus of "To God Be The Glory." Oh, how their sweet young voices thrilled my heart!

Here are the beautiful words my youngsters were singing in their young hearts, even if they couldn't really master their articulation:

“To God Be The Glory”
Words By Fanny Crosby (1820–1915)
Music: By W. Howard Doane (1832-1915)

To God be the glory, great things He has done;
So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,
Who yielded His life an atonement for sin,
And opened the life gate that all may go in.

Refrain
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the earth hear His voice!
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son,
And give Him the glory, great things He has done.

O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
To every believer the promise of God;
The vilest offender who truly believes,
That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.

Great things He has taught us, great things He has done,
And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son;
But purer, and higher, and greater will be
Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.

Known as one of the most prolific American hymn writers, Frances Jane Crosby (Fanny) was already one of the most famous published American women poets of her time before she ever penned her first hymn at age 41. Hers was an amazing life and one well worth studying. As I will cover more of her hymns in this series, I will share bits and pieces of what I have discovered about her in each one.

Fanny was blinded at age 6 months by the mistreatment of a an eye infection by an incompetent doctor. Her father died when she was only one year old and she was raised by her mother and grandmother. She began writing poetry at age 8 and published her first book at age 24. She was also a teacher at the New York School for the Blind and a popular speaker. Before her death at age 92, she had authored somewhere between 7,000 and 9,000 hymns and more than 1,000 secular poems and songs. The exact number of her hymns is unknown because of the practice of hymnbook editors of assigning pen names. For some reason the editors felt they should not use too many hymns by the same person, so often used pseudonyms to disguise their favorite writers. Fanny was published under more than 200 different names.

To God Be The Glory was one of several hymns on which Fanny collaborated with composer W. Howard Doane. Besides being a prolific composer of more than 2,000 hymns, Doane was also a successful businessman and inventor. He was president of the J. A. Fay woodworking machinery company, and patented more than 70 inventions.

I could not find any information on how or when Fanny and Doane met, but apparently it became common for Doane to bring a composition to play for Fanny. As she listened to the music the lyrics began to form in her heart. While the inspiration behind some of their hymns are preserved through letters and memoirs of Fanny, Doane, and people who knew them the writing of "To God Be The Glory" is a mystery. There is simply no mention of it.

Although we do not know if there was a particular verse or passage of which Fanny was thinking when she penned the hymn, its theme is found throughout scripture. God has done great and wonderful things, the very greatest of which is the gift of His Son as our redeemer.

He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen. Deuteronomy 10:21 (KJV)

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 (KJV)

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6 (KJV)

We do not know exactly what year the hymn was written, but Ira Sankey, songleader for D. L. Moody, used it at a crusade in England in 1873 and included it in his Sacred Songs and Solos, published in 1874 in England, but not in his American version Gospel Hymns. Its first publication in America was in the 1875 collection Brightest and Best compiled by Doane and Robert Lowry It was picked up by a few other American hymnals in the following years, but for the most part remained unknown to American churches.

Then a little over 80 years after Sankey used it in England, it was chosen by songleader, Cliff Barrows for Billy Graham's 1954 London Crusade.

It was suggested that we include "To God Be The Glory" in a song-book we were compiling for the London crusade of 1954. Because of its strong text of praise and its attractive melody, I agreed. We introduced the hymn during the early days of those meetings in Harringay Arena. As a result, Billy Graham asked that we repeat it often because he was impressed with the enthusiastic participation of the audience. In the closing weeks of the crusade it became our theme hymn, repeated almost every night. The words well expressed our praise to God, who was doing wondrous things in Britain. http://www.sermonaudio.com/hymn_details.asp?PID=togodbetheglory

Popular gospel singer George Beverly Shea sang the song the next year at Graham's Toronto Crusade and soon it became one of his standards. His tender rendition propelled it into popularity and it soon became a well-loved hymn sung in churches everywhere.

I looked on YouTube to see if I could find a video of Shea singing the song, but there wasn't one. However, I think the video below does justice to this truly inspirational hymn.

Sources:
http://hymntime.com/tch/bio/c/r/o/crosby_fj.htm

http://hymntime.com/tch/bio/d/o/a/doane_wh.htm

http://www.squidoo.com/To-God-Be-the-Glory

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanny_Crosby

http://www.joyfulministry.com/togodt.htm

http://www.believersweb.org/view.cfm?ID=83

http://www.sermonaudio.com/hymn_details.asp?PID=togodbetheglory

http://www.gaffneyledger.com/news/2008-04-04/Columns/Stories_Behind_The_Hymns.html

http://www.pdmusic.org/biographies/Doane%20William%20Howard%20Doane.pdf

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/hymnstudies/621407/

Cherishing The Old Rugged Cross

2010-01-22T17:24:00.003-06:00

By Tammy L. Hensel
Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

The Old Rugged Cross has been called one of the most beloved hymns written in the 20th century. In fact I am writing this blog by special request from one of my faithful readers who wrote me of his love for it. I am so glad he asked me to review it, as I have been very blessed by my research on the song and its author. Both the lyrics and the music were written by Rev. George Bennard (1873-1958).

Here are the beloved lyrics:

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Refrain
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.

In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross
Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.

Bennard, who was born in Ohio and raised in Iowa, made a confession of faith in Christ at a Salvation Army meeting sometime before the age of sixteen. When he was that age, his father died and he had to help support his mother and sisters. This delayed, but did not derail, his ambition to become an evangelist. After he married, he and his wife became brigade leaders for the Salvation Army in Illinois, until he was ordained as a minister in the Episcopal Methodist Church. Finally, his dream came true, as he joined the revival circuit as a travelling evangelist in Michigan and New York.

While in preparation for a series of revivals in 1913, Bennard was overwhelmed by the incredible sacrifice of Christ on the cross. It helped him to see his own trials in a new perspective. "'I saw the Christ of the Cross as if I were seeing John 3:16 leave the printed page, take form and act out the meaning of redemption,' he said later." (http://www.christianhistorytimeline.com/DAILYF/2002/06/daily-06-07-2002.shtml)

John 3:16 says: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. KJV

Another related verse mentioned in a couple of my sources as inspiration for the hymn is 1 Peter 2:24: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. KJV

Bennard wrote the music on that day, but the only lyric that came out of his anguished soul was "I'll cherish the old rugged cross." He said later that he struggled for weeks for just the right words to express his deep spiritual experience. He wrote: "I composed the melody first The words that I first wrote were imperfect. The words of the finished hymn were put into my heart in answer to my own need." (101 Hymn Stories, p.255)

He sang his finished work for the first time at a revival meeting in the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Pokagon. Mich., with the church choir joining him from his penciled notes.
The old church is now on the National Historic Register known as The Original Old Rugged Cross Church. It was restored and is maintained by The Old Rugged Cross Foundation. It had served as a barn by a farmer who bought it from the church when they moved to a new location.

Below is a YouTube video from the Gaither Israel Homecoming DVD filmed on Golgotha hill. I only wish they had included more verses of this truly great hymn that will be cherished for many years to come.

Sources:
101 Hymn Stories by Kenneth W. Osbeck (1982 Kregal Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan, p. 254-256)

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/bio/b/e/n/bennard_g.htm

http://www.christianhistorytimeline.com/DAILYF/2002/06/daily-06-07-2002.shtml

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Old_Rugged_Cross

http://www.albionmich.com/history/histor_notebook/930405.shtml

http://www.the-oldruggedcross.org/history.htm

Goals for 2010 and Beyond

2009-12-29T22:32:00.024-06:00

By Tammy L. Hensel
Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

Happy New Year everyone!

Last night I watched the movie Julie & Julia and found it very inspiring. For those of you who haven't seen it, the movie it is based on the true story of how writer Julie Powell gave herself the challenge of preparing every recipe in Julia Child's famous cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking in one year and blogging her progress. As she studied not only Julia's recipes, but her life story as well, she became more and more inspired to pursue the two things she really loved to do - cooking and writing.

The movie inspired me in many ways, but especially in my writing. A few weeks after I started this blog in January 2008, I was challenged by fellow writer and editor Lillie Amman to write out my goals for the blog and for my writing. In reading back over that post "Tagged by Lillie" (see link in my blog archives), I see that I was very ambitious in my goals and of course fell very much short of them. But some of that is because God simply took me in a different direction that I envisioned for myself at the time. And as usual, He does know better.

In 2008, I was still very new to the Internet and the whole idea of blogging. I began in 2007 on myspace, very timidly posting my reflections on some favorite Bible verses and then progressing to full blown devotions and Bible studies. I found that I thoroughly enjoy that type of writing. I put this blog up because some of my friends wanted to read those blogs, but were uncomfortable with joining Myspace. I also planned to use the blog as a showcase for my versatility as a writer in the hopes of finding more writing and editing opportunities. That is one goal that I have achieved through it, as some of my devotions and one interview were picked up by inspirational webzines.

In setting my goals for 2010, I am again being ambitious. That's why I'm calling them goals for 2010 and beyond. However, posting my goals here does give me some accountability and hopefully encouragement and prayers from you, my readers.

Goal #1 - Stay on my exercise program.

You may say - that's not a writing goal - but as I discovered this past year, good health provides the energy I need to write. So I have to put my post-therapy exercise program as a top priority, even when it takes me away from the computer. I also have to take breaks to garden and do other things that relax and get the creative juices flowing.

Goal #2 - Work some every week on a book project.

My first book project is a Bible study book on the principles of marriage that my hubby and I are co-writing. He was also inspired by the movie and said as the ending credits began, "We have to get busy on our book!"

While I am still doing some research it has moved into the writing stage and chapter 1 is just about finished. So I hope to begin chapter 2 in the next couple of weeks. I have ideas for a couple of other Bible studies after that one, and am also thinking about turning novelist. I have an idea for a historical novel series that I am already beginning to research. I haven't decided yet if I want to self-publish or look for an agent, but if any agents read this and are interested, please contact me.

Goal #3 - Continue to explore and take advantage of writing and editing opportunities God sends my way.

I really love interviewing and want to always do that even if I turn book author. I also love editing and encouraging other writers in their projects.

Goal #4 - Post blogs on a more regular basis.

Last year I was not able to post as often as I wanted due to health issues. I posted beginning blogs for two series, one on church hymns and another on authors, music artists, and others who inspire me. I want to try to follow-through with those ideas this year and be more consistent with my posts. With my other work, I may not be able to post a blog every week, but am trying for every other week, though perhaps it is best to commit to once a month. Hmm. Sounds like I am already backing out of goals doesn't it. (LOL) But I do want to be practical.

Again, my goals are very ambitious, and a lot will depend on my health. I appreciate all your prayers and especially all the kind comments I get from my readers. God bless you all. :D

Here's one of my favorite songs that always inspires me:

JOY TO THE WORLD - HE CAME AND HE IS COMING AGAIN!

2009-12-04T15:30:00.017-06:00

JOY TO THE WORLD - HE CAME AND HE IS COMING AGAIN!

By Tammy L. Hensel
Copyright 2009, All Rights Reserved

In a sermon during the Christmas season last year, our pastor mentioned that the Christmas carol Joy To the World, penned by Isaac Watts, was actually written about the SECOND coming of Christ, not the first. I was intrigued by that claim so I researched Isaac Watts and the song.

Watts was one of the most prolific hymn lyricists of all times, having written more than 750 hymns. He was also a theologian and logician, writing many articles and books on these subjects, including a logic textbook.

Joy to the World was part of a book The Psalms of David published in 1719, in which he paraphrased several Psalms in his own lyrical style. It was given its present tune by Lowell Mason, who used an adaptation of portions of Handel’s Messiah. Mason’s original name for his music composition was Antioch, but in 1839, it appeared in a collection he edited as Joy to the World with the Watts poem as lyrics.

JOY TO THE WORLD

Words by Isaac Watts (1674 - 1748)

Music by Lowell Mason (1792 – 1872)

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!

Let men their songs employ;

While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,

Nor thorns infest the ground;

He comes to make His blessings flow

Far as the curse is found,

Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove

The glories of His righteousness,

And wonders of His love,

And wonders, wonders, of His love.

Watts’ inspiration for this particular poem was Psalm 98, which prophesizes the coming of Messiah as victorious king and judge.

Psalm 98 (KJV)

O sing unto the LORD a new song;

For he hath done marvellous things:

His right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.

The LORD hath made known His salvation:

His righteousness hath He openly shewed in the sight of the heathen.

He hath remembered His mercy and His truth toward the house of Israel:

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth:

Make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.

Sing unto the LORD with the harp;

With the harp, and the voice of a psalm.

With trumpets and sound of cornet

Make a joyful noise before the LORD, the King.

Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof;

Tthe world, and they that dwell therein.

Let the floods clap their hands:

Let the hills be joyful together

Before the LORD; for He cometh to judge the earth:

With righteousness shall He judge the world, and the people with equity.

When you think of the lyrics as relating to Psalm 98 and the second coming, it makes the message even clearer. In the time between His first advent and His second, the hearts of men are being prepared to welcome Him with joyful praise. In fact all the earth will praise and welcome Him.

Phil. 2:9-11 “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

The curse on the earth will be broken. Sin and sorrow will no longer reign throughout the earth or in the heart of man. It is a beautiful message filled with the "wonders of His love."

Revelation 19:7-9 7 "Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God."

What a wonderful day that will be! The joy in the Lord we have today is but a foreshadowing of the joy we will have that day. This is the wonderful truth Isaac Watts so brilliantly wrote about in his lyric. I encourage you to sing this song not just at Christmas, but all year long to proclaim - JOY TO THE WORLD - HE CAME AND HE IS COMING AGAIN!

References.

http://www.answers.com/topic/isaac-watts

http://www.statemaster.com/encyclopedia/Isaac-Watts

http://www.statemaster.com/encyclopedia/Joy-to-the-world

http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/joy_to_the_world-1.htm

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/bio/w/a/t/watts_i.htm

http://www.surfinthespirit.com/music/joy.html

http://www.jesuswalk.com/psalms/psalms-worship.htm

Spotlight on Corrie Ten Boom

2009-06-11T08:03:00.034-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel
Copyright 2009, All Rights Reserved

Corrie Ten Boom (1892-1983) is in my opinion one of the greatest OVERCOMERS of the 20th century. Her writings, especially her book The Hiding Place, based on her experiences as a member of the Dutch underground and a prisoner in German concentration camps during World War II, have blessed my own life in so many ways. I was about 14 years old when I first read this book and it made a lasting impression on me. I read it so much that I had portions of it memorized.

I had the honor of meeting Corrie Ten Boom once in the late 1970s when as a student at Baylor University (Waco, TX) I attended a luncheon at which she spoke. Since that time I have shaken hands with several high profile people the world calls celebrities, but the brief encounter I had with this awesome lady of faith is one of my most treasured memories.

(photo from photobucket.com)

When in 1837 Corrie's grandfather opened a watch shop in his home at Barteljorisstraat 19 in Haarlem, near Amsterdam, The Netherlands, he didn't know the plans God had for the building a century later. Even before the Nazis invaded Holland in 1940, the ten Boom home, fondly called "the Beje" was well-known as a place of hospitality where Christ's love was abundant.

Cornelia Johanna Arnolda ten Boom was born on 15 April, 1892, the youngest of four children. Her mother died of a stroke at the age of 63. Her father Casper ten Boom was a well-liked watchmaker, and often referred to in his later years as "Haarlem's Grand Old Man." Her sister, Elisabeth (Betsie), was born with pernicious anemia. Neither Betsie or Corrie ever married. Her sister Nollie, a school teacher, married, and had six children. Willem, her only brother, graduated from a theology school, married and had four children. Also living in her household were three of her mother's sisters known as Tante (Aunt) Jans (pronounced 'yunss'), Tante Anna, and Tante Bep.

Corrie began training as a watchmaker in 1920 and in 1922 became the first female watchmaker licensed in the Netherlands. In 1923, she helped organize girls' clubs, and in the 1930s these clubs grew to become the very large Triangle club. Corrie had a heart for the mentally handicapped and spent a lot of her time sharing the love of Christ with them. She wrote about her experiences bringing the gospel to the mentally handicapped in her book Common Sense Not Needed. When the Nazis occupied Holland they banned all youth clubs, except the Hitler youth. The also prohibited special care for mentally handicapped people and executed many of them.

When Jewish neighbors began arriving on their doorstep seeking sanctuary soon after the Nazi occupation began, the ten Booms took them in, knowing full well the risk they were taking. When word spread to the Dutch underground about the ten Booms house guests, Corrie was approached about doing more to help the effort to oust the Nazis. The underground organization helped the ten Booms build a special room to hide their guests should the Nazi's search the house. The room was the size of a medium wardrobe, 30" deep, with an air vent on the outside wall. The only entrance was a small hatch which slid open to let the occupants in and out.

(photo from photobucket)

The Nazis arrested the entire Ten Boom family on February 28, 1944 after they were betrayed by a former employee. On the night of their arrest a Gestapo officer offered to release Casper ten Boom if he would promise to behave himself. His answer underscored the whole family's courage and commitment to their helping their fellowman.

"Willem led Father up to the desk. The Gestapo chief leaned forward. 'I'd like to send you home old fellow,' he said.'I'll take your word that you won't cause any more trouble.'
I could not see Father's face, only the erect carriage of his shoulders and the halo of white hair above them. But I heard his answer.
'If I go home today,' he said evenly and clearly, 'tomorrow I will open my door again to any man who knocks.'
The amiability drained from the other man's face, 'Get back in line' he shouted." (p. 137-138)

I often wonder if I would have the same courage all of the ten Booms had in the same circumstances. Sometimes when I face something that seems difficult to bear I remind myself that my own trial is very small to what Corrie ten Boom suffered and survived. Corrie's sister Betsie said to her while they were at Ravensbruck, one of the most notorious concentration camps in Germany,

"[We] must tell people what we have learned here. We must tell them that there is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still. They will listen to us Corrie, because we have been here." (Copyright 1971, p. 217)

After the war, Corrie set up rehabilitation centers for concentration camp survivors and wounded soldiers in both the Netherlands and Germany. Slowly she began sharing her story at churches and other gatherings, eventually becoming a world traveler or Tramp For the Lord as she called herself in her book about her travels. She authored many other autobiographical and inspirational books including: Each New Day; Father ten Boom - God's Man; In My Father's House; He Cares, He Comforts; He Sets the Captive Free; Don't Wrestle, Just Nestle; Corrie's Christmas Memories; Amazing Love; I Stand at the Door and Knock; A Prisoner and Yet; Plenty for Everyone; Not I, But Christ; Not Good if Detached; Marching Orders for the End Battle; Messages of God's Abundance; Reflections of God's Glory; Common Sense Not Needed; Defeated Enemies and more. I haven't read all these books, but the ones I have read really inspired me. Her writing style is very informal and friendly, as if she is sitting across the table, tea cup in hand, chatting with you.

The Hiding Place" was made into a movie in 1975. Although it is very moving, I really recommend reading the book before viewing the movie. You get such a better understanding of Corrie deepest thoughts and feelings and sustaining faith reading her own words.

Others have also written about her in books such as: Corrie Ten Boom: The Watchmaker's Daughter by Jean Watson, Corrie Ten Boom: Heroine of Haarlem by Sam Wellman, Are All The Watches Safe by Catherine MacKenzie, Corrie Ten Boom: Shining in Darkness by Renee Taft Maloche, Life Lessons From The Hiding Place by Pamela Rosewell Moore, and The Five Silent Years of Corrie Ten Boom by Pamela Rosewell Moore. I have not read these biographies, but just noticed that they are available. Some of them are specifically targeted for young readers. If you know of any others, please leave the title and author in a comment.

In 1977, Corrie, then 85 years old, moved to Orange, California. Successive strokes in 1978 took away her powers of speech and communication and left her an invalid for the last five years of her life. She died on her birthday, April 15, 1983, at the age of 91. Her legacy of faith in the most devastating of human circumstances will never be forgotten.

The Lord led me recently to put up a tribute site to her on Myspace to honor her legacy of faith and to keep her story alive as an inspiration for another generation. Besides my well-warn copy of The Hiding Place, I also discovered while unpacking some old copies of The Hiding Place Magazine published in the 1970s and early 1980s by Corrie's ministry organization Christians Incorporated. I am trying to track down the copyright holder, since Christians Incorporated is no longer active so that I can reprint articles from it on the Myspace blog attached to the site. If you are a member of Myspace and want to add it as a "friend" the url is: www.myspace.com/corrietenboom.

Sources: The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom, Copyright 1971; The Hiding Place Magazine, copyright Christians, Incorporated; Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corrie_ten_Boom; The Corrie Ten Boom Musuem site http://www.corrietenboom.com/history.htm

Update on my many projects, including website for Cross Reference Writers

2009-05-26T17:14:00.006-05:00

Just wanted to post an update to all my readers to let you know I haven't forgotten you. Here is an overview of my recent projects.

Cross Reference Writers
In February we formed a new Christian Writers group here in the Brazos Valley Texas called Cross Reference Writers. We meet the first Thursday of the month on the campus of Blinn College in Bryan. I just finished putting up a simple website for us using Google sites just to give us a web presence. http://sites.google.com/site/crossreferencewriters/ I am also working on post cards to send out to local churches asking them to put a notice about us in their bulletins and newsletters.

Writing projects:
I am now a contributing writer to Brazos Insite Magazine, a regional magazine for the Brazos Valley. My first article came out in May and is about The Holistic Garden complex on the Texas A&M Campus. My next article will appear in July. This is a print magazine, so don't have a link to post.

I am working on more pieces to submit to Churchmouse Publications as they are about to launch their website. They are a Christian syndication group.

My husband and I recorded many of our ideas for our marriage book and I am beginning to transcribe the tape. I have made a book outline and written a preface.

Home and Family:
My younger son, and a niece and nephew graduated from college this month and we gave them a big party, so much of my time early in the month was spent organizing that event. It was fun and we are so proud of all of them!

We are still working on moving into this house we purchased last summer. We are finally emptying out our storage units, which means we are surrounded by boxes again. I am especially anxious to unpack books related to marriage to use as references in our book. I know I have several I want to look at again. I also need to organize the room we have remodeled into an office.

And I am working on my yard, trying to bring some order to the gardens that went untended for a year or more. Need to do that before it gets too hot for me to work out there.

You can see why blogging has not been a top priority with me. Lots to do this summer. However, I will try to post another in my hymn series soon.

Blessings to all!

BLOG PRAYER RALLY FOR NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

2009-05-07T11:02:00.006-05:00

This is something that I have done on my Myspace blog for the last two years and decided today to try it on this blog also. Here is how a "blog prayer rally" works: When you visit my blog take some time to pray for the requests here and then if you have a request for a family member or friend who works for any level of government - local school district, city, county, state or federal government - please leave a prayer request for them. You can be general and do not have to even leave their name. Just enough so that we can bring them before the Lord. We especially want to pray for those serving in the military. If you request pray for a member of the armed forces, please DO NOT give identifying information, such as unit designation or the specific town where they are located.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Please join me in praying for our nation and all our public servants and government employees.

PRAY FOR OUR NATIONAL LEADERS: Our president and all those who work in the executive branch. Our legislators, specifically your state's senators and Congressmen. Pray for the Federal judges from the Supreme Court to the Federal District Courts.
PRAY FOR STATE LEADERS: Pray for your governor, legislators, and judges.

PRAY FOR COUNTY AND CITY OFFICIALS: Pray for your county and city officials and all who work with them.

PRAY FOR OUR SCHOOL DISTRICTS: Pray for all employees of your local school districts, especially for teachers and administrators.

PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS: Say special prayers for our young men and women serving in the military, both at home and abroad!

As always, I ask you to keep my son Danny in your prayers. He is currently serving overseas.

PRAYER: Here is the prayer from the 2009 National Day of Prayer website:

2009 Prayer for Our Nation

by Beth Moore, Honorary Chairman

Father in Heaven,

We lift our eyes toward Your Throne, where You reign in righteousness.

Your Word assures us that when Your people cry out in sincerity and humility, You will never turn a deaf ear to us.

We call upon You now, seeking Your forgiveness and favor.

Look over this fevered landscape and heal us, Lord.

Drop knees to the floor and raise eyes to the sky, for we know where our help comes from.

Unite these States again in devotion to You, and blur every dividing line.

Do not give us over to our sins. Give us, instead, over to passionate prayer that moves Your heart.

“May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You.”

In the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ

Amen

Please leave a prayer request.

The Story That Was Finally Told

2009-04-18T12:17:00.005-05:00

This is a short story I wrote over 30 years ago for my high school literary magazine. It won the prize for the best entry. I am thinking of revising it for submission to a literary magazine, so I would love some constructive suggestions from my writer/editor friends.

The Story That Was Finally Told
By Tammy Reynolds (aka Tammy L. Hensel)

The children crowded around the old man like birds waiting to be fed.

"Tell us a story, Papa, please!"

Papa, can tell you a story later, it's time for your nap," said their mother as she herded the children out of the room.

Nathan McHannon lay back in the comfortable armchair which was as ancient as the old man himself. Born in the Smokey Mountains of Tennessee, he had inherited from his Scotch-Irish ancestors his bullheadedness, his authoritative manner, his compassion, and his love and loyalty to his country and family. All these qualities, plus a deep faith in God had sustained him through the storms of a changing world. His five brothers had died, making him the head of a family of three generations of nieces and nephews. Each had listened and loved his tales of his boyhood antics and struggles of a lifetime.

The old man's wrinkled, weary face was comfortably resting on the pillows; but his mind was not succumbing to the power of sleep. Instead, it had transferred to a different place and time. From the comfortable chair in his grand-niece's Texas farm to a bright mountainside - to a snowy day when he was a young man -- to Clarissa. . . .

The snow was up to Nat's knees as he made his way to Clara's house. He was filled with the foolish, unexplainable joy of a young man in love. She stood waiting for him, a pink glow on her cheeks, chestnut hair circling her face and crowning her shoulders, and her warm beautiful eyes sparkling at him from beneath coy eyelashes. That was the day he had proposed. They had a wondrous time in the snow, full of secret moments and childish games. Snowball fights, snowmen, angels in the snow, skating on the pond --

The ancient mind returned to the farmhouse. The children were there, lively from their nap and clamoring for a story. Nathan looked at them, he knew this would be the last story he ever told. Opening the wrinkled old lips, he spoke in a trembling, cracked voice. When I was a young man, I knew a very beautiful girl. She was full of kindness and love for everyone. In springtime, we collected flowers and took baskets to all the sick and poor."

The old man's voice broke off here. The children were silent. They sensed something was wrong and all they could do was keep quiet.

"One day we were walking in the mountain snow. It was my idea to go skating. I thought the ice was thick enough."

The old man's eyes closed and his voice rose with great intensity.

"Don't go too far until I check the ice. Clara, come back. The ice may be too thin. Clara! Clarissa!

Ninety-eight year-old Nathan McHannon opened his eyes for the last time. He looked at his family. Then he closed his eyes again. A bright light surrounded him and he could see a figure motioning to him. He walked slowly toward it. The figure became clearer now, a flowing white gown, chestnut hair, sparkling eyes, white arms outstretched. With a leap of joy, the man went to meet his bride.

Copyright 1976 Tammy L. Reynolds All Rights Reserved

Easter Blog Carnival

2009-04-11T12:52:00.009-05:00

Mary Moss of the blog Divinely Designed/ sent me an invitation to participate in "an Easter blog carnival" by Angela at Becoming Me Thru Him.blogspot.com linking several Easter blogs. I linked onto Angela's blog, but since I didn't get a chance to write a new Easter themed blog this year, I want to direct you to several I posted last year. The links are in my blog archives to the right side of my blog. The first is one posted in January 2008 that includes my original dramatic presentation on the testimony of Mary Magdalene. Then if you click on March, you will find two blogs entitled "Consider The Cross" and "Jesus The Ultimate Fall Guy." Feel free to comment on those blogs.

If you have a post about the true meaning of Easter or want to read some really inspirational blogs, please visit Becoming Me Thru Him.blogspot.com to share in the fun.

Happy Easter everyone. HE IS RISEN!!!

Things You Need To Know If You Have A Blog Or Profile Site

2009-04-01T14:24:00.007-05:00

By Tammy L. Hensel

As a journalism student at Baylor I took a basic course in media law which covered much on the “cans” and “cannots” of publishing. I have tried to keep up with changes to these laws through years, but I didn't think about how they applied to the Internet until a couple of years ago when I joined Myspace. (Of course the Internet wasn’t around when I was in college, so it wasn’t covered in my course.) As I viewed profiles, read blog comments and bulletins, I was amazed at how much potential for privacy and libel lawsuits I saw there. Here are a few things everyone who has an Internet site needs to know.

Your profile is your newspaper.

Publishing something on an internet site or forum is like publishing it in a newspaper or book. You are in a sense writing your autobiography on your profile or blog. You own the copyright to all original material you post. No one may copy it or forward it to anyone else without your express permission. But the content does become public information because you are making yourself a public figure. That means that others may gain information about you from your sites and use it as long as they don’t copy it word for word, without attributing it to you. More and more employers, journalists, and law enforcement officers are using Internet social sites as sources for information in their investigations. That is legal because it is public information, regardless of your “privacy settings.”

Keep from crossing the line between free speech and privacy laws.

Invasion of privacy and libel laws that pertain to all media also apply to profile sites and blogs. I have noticed much on the social sites that could qualify as violations of these laws. For the most part this happens because people are just uninformed and not used to thinking like a journalist. They think anything and everything is covered by the right to “free speech.” Or they think of it as private chatter. But privacy and libel laws draw a line as to what may be published about a another person. Sometimes it takes the courts to decide when the line is crossed. I foresee that in the future we will see more and more lawsuits brought against people for things they post on Internet social sites and blogs. So be careful!

The only private Internet communications are emails. In my research I discovered that it violates privacy law to forward emails without permission. Don’t forward or post on your blog anything that doesn’t have express permission in it, such as the words “please forward.” Never forward or even quote from a private letter without permission from the other person.

Privacy and copyright laws apply to your pics too.

You find a box of old school photos and you want to post them on your Facebook page to share with your old friends. However, you are in contact with some of the people, so you can't get permission. My advice is DON’T POST IT! You do own the copyright to that photo because you took it. But privacy law prohibits the publishing in a public forum photos without the permission of the subject. You never know what may embarrass another person.

You do not own the copyright to photos you did not take or inherit, even if you purchased them. So when you get that family portrait made, be sure and ask the photographer for permission to upload the photo to your website. There are photo and graphics sharing sites, such as photobucket, for people to post photos they want to share with others. Remember when you share your photos there you are granting others royalty-free permission to use your photo. I think most of these sites have certain usage restrictions to which members agree. Most stipulate that you cannot use the photos for commercial purposes. Usually the site will have their name attached to the pictures, so people will know where you got them. If there is not you should protect yourself by saying where you got the photo. Never copy a photo or a logo from a site that does not specifically give permission for it.

Be an informed participant!

The Internet is a fun and useful tool for social interaction, networking, and exchanging information. Just remember that the key to avoiding problems is to be informed.

Resources

A good resource I recently purchased is The Law (in plain English) for Writers by Leonard D. DeBoff and Bert P. Krages, II.

Here are some Internet articles I found:

Common Questions & Answers About Copyrights: A Simple Guide for Photographers, Artists, Illustrators, Writers, Musicians and Other Creative Individuals By Andrew "Drew" Epstein

Copyright and the Internet By Virginia Montecino

The Law for Photographers: Do I Need Permission? By Dianne Brinson, a copyright attorney, for PhotoSecrets

Copying Old Photographs: Infringement of Copyright Laws?

If you know of any other good resources, please share them in comments.

The Saint Patrick Challenge

2009-03-15T19:33:00.005-05:00

I know I am a couple of days early in posting this, but Tuesday promises to be a busy day for me and I was in the mood to write this afternoon. I just couldn't get my ideas for this blog out of my head. So here it is.

The Saint Patrick Challenge

By Tammy L. Hensel

As a child St. Patrick’s Day meant very little to me except that if I didn’t wear green someone would pinch me. I had no clue who Saint Patrick was or why someone one named a day after him. Most inquires along those lines usually ended with a story of him being sort of a pied-piper who drove all the snakes out of Ireland.

Even today I find there are many Christians who know very little about Patrick or what he really did to deserve the honor of a special day. So I want to share with you an astounding quote I read in The Story of the Irish Race by Seumas MacManus (Copyright 1921 Fourth edition published by Konecky & Konecky. I found this book on the bargain book table at a local book store and being a history buff just couldn’t resist it.)

“The coming of Patrick to Ireland marks the greatest of Irish epochs. Of all most momentous happenings in Irish history, this seemingly simple one had the most extraordinary, most far-reaching effect. It changed the face of the nation, and utterly changed the nation’s destiny. The coming of Patrick may be said to have had sublime effect not on Ireland alone, but upon the world. It was a world event.” (p. 109)

It is impossible in the scope of a blog to write a complete biography of Patrick and all that he did, but I want to hit a few highlights. Scholars differ on where Patrick was born, but it is thought the year was 385. His family lived both in the Dumbarton region in the Northern Roman colony of Briton (Scotland) and in Brittany in Gaul (France). His father was a Roman official in the region and there are records of him at both places during the time period, although most sources I read lean toward the Scottish location as Patrick’s birthplace. Patrick was christened in the Christian church with the name Succat. When he was about 16 years old, he and his two sisters were captured in an Irish raid. He was sold to a farmer and assigned shepherding duties.

Succat (Patrick) later wrote that at the time of his capture he was not living the life of a devout Christian. According to MacManus, “He confesses in his biography that in his wayward youth at home he had forgotten God, and from Him wandered into the ways of sin. Alone with his herd upon Sliab Mis during the day and the night, the months and the seasons, his spirituality was reawakened.” (p. 110)

Like Joseph and David, God used the circumstances of Succat’s life to prepare him for a great destiny. During those years, he learned the language, the customs, and the heart of his captors. He learned to listen for the voice of God and follow His lead. After about six years in captivity, he escaped from Ireland and returned to his homeland with a desire to learn all he could about the great God he now served with all his heart. He traveled through much of the Christian west at that time and spent some time studying under his mother’s uncle, St. Martin of Tours. At some point he had a vision of a man from Ireland calling to him with the words, “come to us, O holy youth, and walk among us.” (p111)

With a commission from Pope Celestine, who consecrated him as Patricious, Bishop of Ireland. Patrick returned to the land of his captivity knowing the perils he would face. He traveled the island, preaching the gospel, establishing schools and monasteries, and tearing down pagan shrines. Despite often life-threatening opposition, Patrick so demonstrated Christ’s love to the people, that soon they opened their hearts to both he and his God.

MacManus wrote “. . . when we contrast the two widely differing natures of the Irish people who before Patrick were carrying the ruthless law of the sword far over sea and land, and that very different Irish people who, after Patrick left the conquering sword to be eaten by rust, while they went far and wide again over sea and land, bearing now to the nations – both neighbouring and far off – the healing balm of Christ’s gentle words. All histories of all countries probably could not disclose to the most conscientious searcher another instance of such radical change in a whole nation’s character being wrought within the lifespan of one man.” (p. 126)

To me this statement is an awesome testimony, not just to the man Patrick, but to his witness for Christ and the power of God in his life. It is clear from Patrick’s own writings that he gave all glory to God for his accomplishments. How many of us can say that we practice God’s love so completely that the whole character of a nation could be influenced by our witness? MacManus adds, “An unquenchable burning desire for bringing souls to Christ was the passion of Patrick’s life. And he pursued his passion with an unremitting perseverance, with a greatness of mind and grandeur of soul that has infrequently been paralleled in missionary annals, and seldom surpassed.” (p. 126)

What a legacy to leave! To me this is the challenge Patrick’s life inspires – to have that same unquenchable desire, passion and devotion to Christ so that I share His love and message to all I meet. Will you also accept that challenge today?

Video: BE THOU MY VISION

This one of the greatest and most loved of all traditional Irish hymns. The music is an Irish folk tune that predates Saint Patrick. While some say the words were penned during Patrick’s lifetime, others attribute it to a 6th century Irish poet names Dallan Forgaill. Either way it is definitely part of Patrick’s legacy to us today. It was translated from ancient Irish into English in 1905 by Mary E. Byrne.

Premio Dardos Award - Thank you Lillie

2009-02-18T13:23:00.016-06:00

Lillie Amman of A Writer's Word,An Editor's Eye has honored me with the Premio Dardos Award. I am so honored! I humbly accept.

Premio Dardos means “prize darts” in Italian. It is given for recognition of cultural, ethical, literary, and personal values transmitted in the form of creative and original writing.

The rules are as follows.

First, accept the award by posting it on your blog along with the name of the person that has granted the award and link to his/her blog.

Second pass the award to another 15 blogs that are worthy of this acknowledgment, remembering to contact each of them to let them know they have been selected for this award.

It's been a while since I had time to read blogs, so I am taking this opportunity to revisit some of my favorites and peruse some on my "read when I have time list." Some of the writers I am tagging are publishing veterans and some are novices testing their writing skills by blogging. Either way, they are worth noting with applause for being willing to share with all of us.

If you have previously received this award, it shows how much your blog deserves to be recognized. If some of the bloggers I’m honoring do not participate in memes and similar activities or if you aren’t comfortable acknowledging or passing it on, just ignore the award. However, please accept my appreciation for your great blog!

These are listed in alphabetical order by the blog's name

777 Peppermint Place by Linda Yezak

A musing Mom Speaks by Lara

Carla's Pathways - Journaling the Journy by Carla Gade

Chrissy Siggee by Chrissy Siggee (of course)

Heading Home by Lynn Mosher

Iona's blog by Iona Hoeppner

Janey's News by Janey Demeo

Joyful Scribe by Karlene Jacobson

My Walk of Faith by Diana DePriest

Not mine, but God's story by Tammy Rude

On The Write Track book reviews by Linda Schab

The Surrendered Scribe by Julie Arduini

Wordsculptures by Keith Wallis

Write By Faith by Thomas Smith

Writing with God's hope by Janet K. Brown

Hymn Series - It Is Well With My Soul

2009-02-06T10:41:00.011-06:00

INTRO

Last year a friend sent me a link to a wonderful site called the Cyber Hymnal, which is now called Hymn Time www.hymntime.com. It has thousands of wonderful church hymns, many which I have loved for years, and hundreds of which I have never heard.

As much as I love contemporary praise music, I think it is sad that we are losing these great hymns in our worship. They are so rich in doctrine and speak of great struggles and victories. So I hope especially my younger readers, will take some time to listen and appreciate these classic worship songs.

A few months ago I began copying the words of a hymn and posting it on my Myspace Dedicated To Christ profile. I tried to change it every couple of weeks or so. Now I feel led to post these hymns as a blog series instead on both my Myspace blog and here. I will include brief histories of the hymns and the writers and composers. I will also add a Scripture reference and a little about how each hymn encourages me. When I can find a video on YouTube I will add it also.

(I know I promised that my next blog series would be on the subject of prayer, and I will still pursue that as I have time. It will take more preparation than this hymn series, and I want to be at a point where I can do justice to it. My schedule right now is so hectic. When I do I will intersperse it with this series.)

I am going to begin the series with one of my favorite hymns: It Is Well With My Soul.

It Is Well With My Soul
Words by Horatio Gates Spafford 1828-1888
Music by Philip Paul Bliss1838-1876

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

But, Lord, ‘tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord!
Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul!

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Spafford was born in New York, but was living in Chicago just before this song was written. He died in Jerusalem, Israel in 1888 at the age of 60. Spafford wrote this encouraging hymn during a time of great suffering. Actually, I chose this as my first hymn of my series, because rather than writing the story of this hymn, I am posting a video which tells all about it below. That will shorten this first post since it includes my introduction.

ABOUT THE COMPOSER
Philip Bliss was born in Pennsylvania in 1828. Bliss was a prolific writer of hymns. According to Wholesome Words Christian Biorgraphy Resources (http://www.wholesomewords.org/biography/biobliss.html) he was "the second most famous Christian song writer in history." He was so moved by Spafford's poem that he decided to put it to music. He first introduced it at a ministers meeting held by D.L. Moody in Chicago in 1876. Over 1000, preachers were present. It was published in his Gospel Hymns No. Two compiled in collaboration with Ira Sankey later that same year. Unfortunately, 1876 was also the year of his tragic death in a train crash December 29.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:
I am not sure if Spafford actually based the hymn on these passages, but one site I found about the history of the hymn listed them as relevant passages and they certainly are in my opinion.

Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well:" 2 Kings 4:26

“Praise the Lord, O my soul.” Psalm 146:1

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. Psalm 46:1-3

Bless the LORD, O my soul:
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities;
who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction;
who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things;
so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.
The LORD executeth righteousness
and judgment for all that are oppressed.
Psalm 103: 1-6

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and
minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
John 14:27

VIDEO:
"It Is Well With My Soul" narrated by Bill Gaither, sung by the Gaither Homcoming gang with solos by Guy Penrod And David Phelps,

MY THOUGHTS:

I cannot sing this song without tears filling my eyes, especially thinking of Spafford's circumstances when he wrote it. To be encouraged in the midst of so much tragedy has to be a God thing. These verses speak so poignantly of the hope we have in Jesus. No matter what our trials or the storms that assail us, He gives us that peace. The Philippians reference above is the first verse that always comes to my mind when I sing or hear this song. How blessed is that peace that surpasses all understanding. And then the glorious thought this song expresses that our trials here are merely temporary. The One who took our sins upon Himself will return in all His splendor and glory for us!

Please leave some of your own thoughts in my comments.

REFERENCES:
www.hymntime.com
101 Hymns Stories by Kenneth w. Osbeck (Copyright 1982 by Kregel Publications, p. 126-128)
http://www.wholesomewords.org
http://biblestudycharts.com/A_Daily_Hymn
..lmn("n/e/New%20Britain")..

Forming a new Christian Writers Group

2009-02-03T20:25:00.003-06:00

Several friends and I are trying to form a Christian writers group our area. We had an organizational meeting last week and are going to have our first monthly meeting this week. We are planning to meet the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. If you know anyone in the Brazos Valley area of Texas who may be interested, please refer them to my contact info posted on my blog. Right now we have about 12 to 15 people interested. We appreciate the prayers of our fellow writers. Thanks, Tammy

A Nativity Reading

2008-12-16T13:17:00.012-06:00

In 1982 I directed a Christmas program at church which we called "A Christmas Collage." In was a collection of poetry, music, scripture reading, monolouges and skits we put together. There was not a lot of Christian drama pieces available at that, although we did use some poetry and adapted a dramatic reading from Marjorie Holmes novel "Two From Galilee." I also wrote and co-wrote a couple of pieces and compiled the Scripture readings.

Below is something I put together as a Choral Reading, but it can also be used as a responsive reading in a church service. I have changed it a little over the years as I have used it at various churches. Feel free to use it if you like it.

If you do it as a reading of course you can divide up the readers parts for more than two people. To adapt it as a responsive reading, the LEADER would take the parts of both readers and the CONGREGATION the part of the chorus.

THE NATIVITY
A Choral Reading from Scripture
compiled by Tammy Hensel

READER 1 (Luke 2:1-3):

Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.

CHORUS (Numbers 23:10a):

Who can count the dust of Jacob,
Or number the fourth part of Israel?

READER 2 (Luke 2:4):

Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

CHORUS (Micah 5:2):

But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
Too little to be among the clans of Judah,
From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel
His goings forth are from long ago,
From the days of eternity.

READER 2 (Luke 2: 5):

in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.

CHORUS (Isaiah 9:6):

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us;
And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

READER 1(Luke 2:6 ):

While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.

CHORUS (Isaiah 7:14):

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.

READER 1 (Luke 2:7a):

And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths,

CHORUS (Colossians 1:15):

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

READER 1 (Luke 2:7b):

and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

CHORUS (Revelation 3:20):

'Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.

READER 2 (Luke 2: 8):

In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.

CHORUS (Isaiah 40:11):

Like a shepherd He will tend His flock,
In His arm He will gather the lambs
And carry them in His bosom;
He will gently lead the nursing ewes.

READER 1(Luke 2:9):

And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.

CHORUS (Psalm 33:18):

Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him,
On those who hope for His lovingkindness,

READER 2(Luke 2:10-11):

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people, for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

CHORUS (Psalm 32:11):

Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones;
And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.

READER 2 (Luke 2:12):

"This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

CHORUS (Philippians 2:6-7):

who,although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.

READER 1(Luke 2:13-14):

And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."

CHORUS (John 3:16 ):

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

READER 2(Luke 2:15-16):

When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us." So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.

CHORUS (John 3:12):

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name,

READER 2(Luke 2:17):

When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.

CHORUS (Philippians 2:10-11):

so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Update on writing projects

2008-11-24T13:31:00.006-06:00

Several of my submissions to Churchmouse Publications, a web-based syndication publisher, have been accepted. http://www.churchmousepublications.com/ So I am now a syndicated writer. Two of the accepted pieces are poems I had previously posted here on my blog, Early Morning Fling and A Daughter of the King. I will post links if any of my pieces are picked up by online publications.

Also, another one of my blog articles, Boxes, boxes, boxes . . . was accepted by Comfort Cafe for their December newsletter. I will put up the link when it comes out.

My husband and I have started working on our book about marriage, but it is still mostly in the planning stages right now. Don't know when I will have time to write another devotional blog series, but it will definitely be after the first of the year.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Link to recent article in The Breakthrough Intercessor

2008-11-08T13:36:00.004-06:00

It seems I was mistaken about The Breakthrough Intercessor not being available on-line. I just found a link to a pdf version. http://www.intercessors.org/magazine/vol29.3_Fall2008.pdf
My article begins on page 24 and is entitled "Internet Intercessor." Let me know what you think.

Morning Devotional

2008-11-04T09:14:00.003-06:00

I began my devotions earlier than usual this morning - before I even woke up! When I awoke I found there was a scripture verse and a song of assurance and praise pouring through my mind and my heart. I could not recall all of my dream, but I knew that in it I was worshiping my Lord, who gave His all for me. I am continuing my worship by asking all who read to join with me.

The verse is:

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

The song is a great church hymn, "The Church's One Foundation." I think I will be singing it all day, because it is stuck in my head. I could only recall the first verse clearly, although I remembered some lines from other verses. So I looked it up on www.cyberhymnal.com Here are all the words from the Cyber Hymnal (I found that there are YouTube videos of this hymn, but I am having a problem with the speakers on my computer, so I can't listen to them to find a good one to post. I may add it in later after I get that fixed) I hope it blesses everyone who reads it.

THE CHURCH'S ONE FOUNDATION

words by Samuel J. Stone 1866 music by Samuel S. Wesley 1864

The Church's one foundation
Is Jesus Christ her Lord,
She is His new creation
By water and the Word.
From heaven He came and sought her
To be His holy bride;
With His own blood He bought her
And for her life He died.

She is from every nation,
Yet one o'er all the earth;
Her charter of salvation,
One Lord, one faith, one birth;
One holy Name she blesses,
Partakes one holy food,
And to one hope she presses,
With every grace endued.

The Church shall never perish!
Her dear Lord to defend,
To guide, sustain, and cherish,
Is with her to the end:
Though there be those who hate her,
And false sons in her pale,
Against both foe or traitor
She ever shall prevail.

Though with a scornful wonder
Men see her sore oppressed,
By schisms rent asunder,
By heresies distressed:
Yet saints their watch are keeping,
Their cry goes up, "How long?"
And soon the night of weeping
Shall be the morn of song!

'Mid toil and tribulation,
And tumult of her war,
She waits the consummation
Of peace forevermore;
Till, with the vision glorious,
Her longing eyes are blest,
And the great Church victorious
Shall be the Church at rest.

Yet she on earth hath union
With God the Three in One,
And mystic sweet communion
With those whose rest is won,
With all her sons and daughters
Who, by the Master's hand
Led through the deathly waters,
Repose in Eden land.

O happy ones and holy!
Lord, give us grace that we
Like them, the meek and lowly,
On high may dwell with Thee:
There, past the border mountains,
Where in sweet vales the Bride
With Thee by living fountains
Forever shall abide!

Recent published article and general update

2008-10-17T19:05:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone! Sorry it has been so long since I posted a blog. Life has been quite hectic the past few months with moving into our new home. I have also had a flurry of writing and editing projects and have actually had to turn some down.

In September I had an article published in the fall 2008 edition of The Breakthrough Intercessor Magazine. The article is a first person account of how God led me to my own Internet prayer ministry on Myspace. They titled it Internet Intercessor. It is a print magazine, so you have to subscribe to read the article. Here is the website from which you can order it. http://www.intercessors.org/publications.php

I am still working with author Janice Bloom editing her children's book series. I am working on a couple of other book projects too, including my own book which I am writing with my husband on the subject of marriage. We haven't had much time to work on it since last spring, but I am trying to squeeze in a few hours each week.

I decided to delay writing my blog series on principles for effective prayer until January. I will try to get back to bringing over some pieces I posted last year on my two Myspace blogs. And I may even write some short new pieces if I have time. In the meantime, if you are new to my blog, hope you will review my previous postings.

Blessings to all,
Tammy

Busy Summer Days

2008-06-10T15:23:00.009-05:00

It seems like I have lived the last few weeks in hyperspeed. Early Monday May 12 we received a phone call that my husband's father had died. He had been in a nursing home since March with terminal cancer so we knew it would not be much longer, but still we were not quite prepared to say good-bye. Doesn't it always seem that way? We have been very busy taking care of business related to probate, sorting through his stuff, etc., which is why I haven't had time to post a blog here for several weeks.

We are also in the process of looking for a house to buy. We have to be out of the rental we are in now by the middle of August. Looking at houses for sale has been quite an adventure! We have been in some gorgeous homes, and in some dumps. We have been in homes that were immaculate, and homes where we have had to pick our way through dirty laundry, pet poop (yes really!), and miscellaneous junk strewn from one end of a room to another. We have still not found the right house for us, but we know it is out there. So we are looking again tonight.

I will not have much time for writing during the next couple of months with moving. However, after much prayer, I have decided to post the devotional series I have been writing for my Dedicated to Christ myspace blog here. I started this series last January and have had a good response on myspace. It is on the attributes of God. entitled "Seeking to Know God." I will post the first one later this week or early next week.

I am also not taking on any new editing projects or P.R. clients this summer. In fact, after I get settled in my new house, I am going to focus on writing a book, so I may not take any more new clients for a while. I will post more about that later.

Now you know what I am doing this summer, so what are you doing? If you have time leave me a comment to share your summer adventures with me and my readers.
Wishing everyone a wonderful, fun, safe summer!

Article Published in Comfort Cafe

2008-05-02T08:29:00.006-05:00

My article "Life Lessons From Pain" was published yesterday in the May 2008 issue of Comfort Cafe. This is one of the most difficult articles I have ever written because it is so personal. Some of you know that I had a hard time finding the right venue for it and that it has undergone extensive revision. I am very honored that Comfort Cafe accepted it for publication. This webzine, edited by Ruth Wood, is very inspirational and ministers to women who are experiencing physical and emotional pain. It is a magazine that touches people's lives and makes a difference!

Here is the link to my article if you are interested in reading it.Life Lessons From Pain by Tammy Hensel

One of my dear friends suggested that I write a book based on this article with my main points as chapter headings. I am open to the idea if any publishers are interested. :)

New Editing Project for Children's Author Janice Bloom

2008-04-22T13:13:00.004-05:00

Author Janice Bloom has just asked me to edit the 4th book in her self-published Under the Bed Children's series. I am so thrilled to be a part of this book project. Janice's books target ages kindergarten through third grade and are getting a lot of praise from teachers, librarians and parents.

The book series is built around an imaginary village called Clohverville inhabited by the "Ohmadillapicklearoos, Those Villager Dust Bunnies Under My Bed." Chief among the dust bunnies is "Mr. Oh" with his tools of wisdom and experience. Other charming characters include Mrs. Oh, Bo Oh, the Widow Buttons, and a special little bunny named LooLoo Palloo.

Author Janice Bloom and
Illustrator Marcy Woodcock
of the Under My Bed
book series for children
ages kindergarten to 3rd grade.

In the first book Wonderfully Made Under My Bed, three children - Kristy, her brother Bryan and their friend Jesse - learn that each person has a unique gift to share with others. Book 2 Not Afraid Under My Bed is about overcoming the fear of rejection. Book 3, A Grateful Heart Under My Bed shares the secret to true contentment - being grateful for what one has and not yearning for what one does not have. Each book is fabulously illustrated by talented artist Marcy Woodcock. I am so impressed by her work. There is also an excellent companion teaching guide for each book written by educator Linda Rinn.

The fourth book is entitled "Caring Actions Under My Bed" and I just can't wait to read it as soon as Janice gets the manuscript to me. I will keep you all updated on the project. If you are a teacher or a parent of children in the target age group, I really encourage you to visit her website http://www.villagerbookpublishing.com. Janice also has a myspace site under construction. I hope all my myspace friends will welcome her. The url is http://www.myspace.com/characterinbloom

Consider The Cross

2008-03-20T09:59:00.002-05:00

Below is another blog from my Dedicated to Christ Myspace site. I wrote this on November 1, 2007 and it is among my most popular blog posts. It was on the 200 "Most Popular Blogs on Myspace" list in the category of "Religion & Philosophy" for about a week. I thought it would be a good one to post here during this Easter season.

In it I mention my bulletin board. For those of you who aren't familiar with Myspace, that is a feature of the Myspace sites that allows one to send a notice to everyone on his/her "friends" list at the same time, like an email forward. The "friends" list is really just a link list to other Myspace sites.

This will be my last blog post for a couple of weeks, as I will be out of town and offline. I encourage my readers to comment, but since I have comments set for approval, so they may not be posted until my return.

Easter blessings to all my readers.
Tammy

CONSIDER THE CROSS

By Tammy L. Hensel
(includes music video "By His Wounds" by artists Glory Revealed)

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart." Heb. 12:1-3 (NASB)

This is one of my favorite passages of Scripture. I have left it on some of your sites and blogs as comments, and sent it to many of you as notes by way of encouragement. I may even have blogged on it before, I am not sure. I just watched a video that was posted last night on my bulletin board that brought it to mind again. It is footage from the movie The Passion of Christ put to a song called By His Wounds. When The Passion of Christ came out a few years ago it was criticized for being too bloody. My friends, the cross was a painful and bloody ordeal. We must never forget that! And above all we must never forget that Christ suffered it WILLINGLY for the JOY of saving us. WHAT AMAZING LOVE THIS IS!!!

Often when I send Heb. 12:1-3 to a person it is because they are undergoing suffering and I want to remind them that there is no pain, no shame, no betrayal, no trial, no suffering that we can experience on this earth that God does not understand! Each time I remind someone else, I remind myself. And this video reminded me of that again this morning.

As God the Father, He he sacrificed His own Son and watched Him suffer and die. (John 3:16) If you have ever lost a loved one - HE UNDERSTANDS YOUR PAIN!

As God the Son, He was betrayed by one he loved as a brother. He was ridiculed, mocked and scorned. As this video portrays, He was physically beaten beyond all human endurance. If you have been betrayed, if you have been persecuted, if you have ever felt physical pain be assured - HE UNDERSTANDS YOUR PAIN!

Because of the pain Christ suffered we can have POWER to overcome sin and suffering in our lives. That does not mean we will never experience suffering or disease. It only means that HE will see us through it. The healing that takes place is healing of our hearts - of our spirits - because we are freed from our bondage to sin. But by fixing our eyes on Him, we can endure whatever suffering comes our way as OVERCOMERS!

When you watch this video remember that even this movie cannot depict the horror of what Christ suffered willingly on the cross as payment for our sins. Because of HIS PAIN, SUFFERING, and SACRIFICE we have eternal life! One day we will be pain-free with Him forever! Can we ever thank Him enough? I cannot watch this footage without grateful tears in my eyes for all He endured for my sake.
By His Wounds - Glory Revealed

Jesus The Ultimate Fall Guy

2008-03-04T10:53:00.002-06:00

It has been several weeks since I have posted on this blog and I would like to apologize to those of you who have been kind enough to subscribe. I have been tremendously busy, as you will see over the next few months when I add to my "published works" links here. I have several items that have been accepted by webzines and a few more pending. One of them is my "Boxes, boxes, boxes . . . devotional which I had posted here, but have taken down since it will be published.
This morning I decided I really needed to return to this blog. While praying about what to post, I was reminded of a short devotional I wrote in February 2007 for my myspace ministry blog. It includes a YouTube video of the song "Above All."
I hope you enjoy it. Please feel free to leave a comment if it blesses you.

Jesus – The Ultimate Fall Guy
by Tammy L. Hensel

During my private worship time this morning I was really blessed by a praise song we often sing at church "Above All" by Paul Baloche and Lenny LeBlanc. I found the words on the Internet and printed them out to use as part of my morning devotional. It is the last part of the song that really caught my attention this morning. These words "You took the fall, and thought of me above all," have circulated through my brain all day encouraging me. As I pondered these lyrics it occurred to me that Jesus really is the ultimate "fall guy."

I did a quick google search to see if I could find the origin of the term "fall guy". I came up with a variety of opinions. In fact the only thing that really was common to all the theories was that it emerged in American slang in the early part of the 20th century to refer to someone taking the blame for someone else.

And that, my friends, is just what Jesus did for us. 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NASB) "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."

THANK YOU LORD JESUS!

Here is a music video of the song.

Home School Teleseminar with Diana LaRue

2008-02-08T15:26:00.000-06:00

This Tuesday evening, Feb. 12 from 7 to 8 p.m., I will be participating in a very a very special event. Although I did not home school my kids, my dear friend Diana LaRue has asked me to facilitate her teleseminar on "Homeschooling Over the Long Haul." This will be an on-line conference call where participants will have active participation through the telephone line. There is no charge for the seminar, except personal long distance fees where applicable, but registration is requested. You can register at Diana's blog: http://organichomelearning.blogspot.com

After you register you will receive instructions for the call-in procedure. With registration, you will also be able to submit your biggest question about home schooling for me to ask Diana during the teleseminar. If something happens and you are unable to participate in the live session, those who registered will also receive further information about where they can later listen to the recorded session online.

Diana calls her homeschooling method "Organic Home Learning – How to Home School the Natural, Organic Way." Its focus is on how to translate everyday experiences, hobbies or interests into legitimate high school credits. To help home schoolers "find the learning in life," she said.

Here is a quote from Diana:

"Yikes! Realization hit me just before my eldest daughter was to begin high school—I was going to be responsible for what she studied, for keeping records, and for determining when she met all the requirements for graduation.

The questions came. How was I going to teach it all? What counted as a credit? What about science lab? How would I know what grade to give her? What records did I need to keep? Would colleges accept her transcript? What about scholarships?

And the biggest question… Was I going to ruin her future?

If I'd only known then what I know now. There was no need to fear the high school years. Even a naturally unorganized person like me was able to take on high school and take it on successfully."

Diana LaRue and I have been friends for more than 20 years. She has been married to her husband, David for more than 27 years and is a veteran homeschooling mom with more than 18 years of experience.

Diana is a founding member of H.E.R.O. (Home Educators Resource Organization) homeschool support group and is in her 16th year as newsletter editor for the organization. She is an area contact person for THSC (Texas Home School Coalition) and SETHSA (SouthEast Texas Home School Association) and she is becoming a popular speaker at homeschool events in Texas. She was interviewed about her homeschooling method in 1998 on a program called "Beaumont PTL" on KITU-TV 34. In 2007, she presented a seminar "Homeschooling Through High School" in Jasper and Lufkin. She is listed in Who's Who in American Teachers 2005-2006 10th Edition.

Along with the teleseminar, Diana is also launching a website www.organichomelearning.com which will be up soon. I am so excited that she invited me to participate in her teleseminar event. I hope you will join us and invite all your friends who home school.

Tagged by Lillie - Goals for the year

2008-01-28T17:05:00.001-06:00

It has only been a few weeks since I put up this new blog, although I have been blogging on myspace for about 13 months: www.myspace.com/dedicatedpublications
and www.myspace.com/dedicated_to_christ . I was initially very shy about blogging, but it has been an exciting adventure. I am very excited about the possibilities with this new blog.

One of the first friends I made after putting up this blog is a fellow writer and editor Lillie Ammann A Writer's Word's, An Editor's Eye. She tagged me a couple of weeks ago to answer the following questions. I am very honored to be tagged. I am sorry it has taken me so long to respond, but I wanted to give these questions some deep thought. So thank you, Lillie, not just for tagging me, but for making me stop to think and evaluate where I am and what I want to do this year.

1. The most important thing I have learned over the last year.
I guess one of the most important things I have learned from blogging has been not to take myself too seriously. There are always going to be people who don't care for what I write, but there are others who do. The most important thing is to just enjoy it and be myself.

2. What I would like to achieve within the next year.
I would like to put up a regular website and lay the ground work for perhaps publishing my own Christian webzine. I would also like to write more articles for magazines and newspapers.

3. What I wish to learn more about.
Website design and Internet publishing are at the top of my list so that I can fulfill no. 2. I have been involved in print publications for most of my career. I am finding the Internet fascinating and am amazed at the potential.

4. How could I be more productive?
I need to get more sleep, more exercise, and eat better! I am finding these are the key things to having the energy to be more productive. I also need to manage my time a little better to help me stay focused.

5. One new thing I plan to try.
Well, I already tried something new this year! Earlier this month I was inspired by a friend I met on myspace D.E. Navarro and his NavWorks Poetry Forum to try my hand at poetry. I never considered myself a poet, but I am having a blast. I will post some of my poetry here soon. Perhaps in my next post.

6. The blogging tip(s) I have found the most useful.
The number one tip is to have fun. Next is to be yourself and be real. And number three would be to have someone proofread when you can. It is very frustrating to me to keep finding mistakes every time I read back over my posts.

7. The 4 (or more) people I am passing this on to. (please include someone quite new to blogging if you can - to help them along by introducing them to your own readers and giving them some backlinks).
I am at a little at loss as to who to tag here, because most of the writers I have met are on myspace. I would love to meet more writers and increase my networking circle. I guess I will just leave it as an open tag to all who happen across my blog. Please leave me a comment with your link if you accept the challenge!

Press Release Essential Elements and Sample Release For Bruce Chadwick's Illusion Ministry

2008-01-22T19:10:00.001-06:00

The purpose of a press release is to interest the news media in covering a client's business or event. It is a key component for any publicity campaign since news coverage is free publicity. Over the past 25 years, I have written many press releases for business, churches, ministries, political candidates, and community events. I have also been both reporter and news editor for newspapers, so I know what editors look for in press releases.

Below is a press release I sent to a newspaper in El Paso, Texas last fall for my client illusionist Bruce Chadwick. It resulted in an interview and feature story in the newspaper. This release is a little longer than what I usually write for press releases, but Chadwick is a client with a unique ministry, so the release needed to be thorough. Most editors prefer short to the point releases with just enough information to let them know if there is a story worth assigning to a reporter. Many times they will not even look at releases that are more than one page. However, some newspapers do print the press releases without further follow-up, so I always try to include all key information and a couple quotes.

Sample press release from Dedicated Publication Services

*************************************************************

Tammy Hensel, publicist (phone)
Bruce Chadwick's Illusion Ministry
Magic by Bruce Chadwick
Attachment: photo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Illusionist Takes Sleight-Of-Hand Into Churches

The glass is suspended in mid-air . . . a lady is made to disappear and reappear . . . he performs feats that seem to defy the laws of physics. People are intrigued and mystified. "How does he do that?" they wonder.

People of all ages love illusion and Christian Illusionist Bruce Chadwick is an expert at weaving the fun, mystery, and excitement of illusion effects with hilarious comedy, whimsical volunteer situations, and a clear-cut presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Chadwick will be performing his "Theatre of Illusion" October 31 beginning at 7:45 p. m. at Word of Life, 11675 Pratt Ave. There will be a Hallelujah Party for kids before the show at 6:30. Both events are free and open to the public.

Chadwick's "Theatre of the Illusion" is a full-scale theatrical production filled with incredible stage illusions. This spectacular program features a lively combination of fast-paced legerdemain, comedy talk routines, volunteer participation, and elegant illusion effects!

"Illusions generate within people a sense of mystery, excitement, and anticipation," Chadwick explained. "I have been an intense student of the art of illusion since I was a child. Most of my training has come from reading books, challenging myself to think and create, innovate, design, and build most of the illusion apparatus we use in our programs."

Other programs offered by Chadwick's Illusion Ministry are his one-man comedy show and his Illusion Ministry Sunday Outreach. The Sunday outreach provides three events in one day including Chadwick's lecture "Christianity and the New Age Movement," which presents powerful information on the differences between illusions, mentalism and so-called psychic phenomenon. That is followed by his sermon "The Illusions of Life" during the church worship service. The third event is an evening presentation of Chadwick's one-man comedy show.

Chadwick is owner of the Illusion Warehouse magic shop, which along with his family -friendly performing company Magic by Bruce Chadwick, is located in Fort Worth. He has performed illusions and sleight-of-hand worldwide for more than thirty years at such venues as conventions, trade shows, fundraisers, galas and other special events.

Chadwick is known among his peers not just as a master illusionist, but also as a master craftsman of illusion. He does a substantial amount of work in the area of special effects and has designed and fabricated illusions for the television and movie industries, theme parks, the Broadway stage, and for many magicians worldwide. He has published several works on the psychology of illusion and is highly regarded among his peers as a creative consultant and expert in the field of illusion mechanics.

Chadwick's formal education includes a Bachelor of Arts in religion and a Master of Arts in theatre arts from Baylor University in Waco, as well as a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth.

"I am one of the most educated illusionists around," Chadwick quipped. "As my relatives say, all that schooling and you make a living doing sleight-of-hand? Kidding aside, the call to integrate illusions and ministry came early in my life and has never wavered."

In Fort Worth the Bruce Chadwick Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.) Assembly 138 is named to honor Chadwick and he has been recognized by the national organization with a Presidential Citation for his service. Along with the S.A.M., Chadwick is active in the Fellowship of Christian Magicians and the Texas Association Of Magicians. He is also a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians and England's prestigious The Magic Circle.

He has performed illusions and sleight-of-hand worldwide for almost thirty years and is listed in "WHO'S WHO IN MAGIC."

For more information about Bruce Chadwick and his programs go to these websites: http://www.illusionministry.com/. http://www.magicbybrucechadwick and http://www.illusionwarehouse.com.

For more information about the October 31 performance www.tbm.org/upcoming_events.htm or call (915) 855-9655.
-30-

Photo caption: Christian Illusionist Bruce Chadwick

*************************************************************

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS FOR A GOOD PRESS RELEASE

The most important element in a good press release is the lead paragraph. In any article you want to grab the readers attention right away, but this is especially true with busy editors who receive hundreds of press releases. Who, what when, why, and how should be touched on in the first three paragraphs. Everything after that is just extra information.

Complete contact information is also key. The name and contact information of the person sending the release should appear in the upper left hand corner so that it is the first thing the editor sees. Under that should be a subject line and a listing of any attachments or additional enclosures, such as photos. The release date or the words "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE" should divide the contact info from the body of the release.

Quotes pep up any article, so include one to three, but don't overdo it if you are hoping for an interview. If your release does extend to more than one page put -more- or -15- at the end of the page. Put a subject line and "page 2" or "add 1" in the top left hand corner of the next page. Follow this format for each subsequent page. At the end of the article use the -end- or -30-. These are newspaper codes for helping the editor keep the pages in order and know where the article ends. Photo captions may be added after the end note.

Write a short cover letter if mailing the release by post or a brief note to the editor if emailing it. When sending it electronically, put it in the body of the email, not as an attachment.

Feel free to leave questions you may have about writing press releases in a comment. And if you need a press release for your business, organization or event please contact me at the email address given under my bio portion of this blog site.

CLUTTER

2008-01-16T12:24:00.001-06:00

Here is a prosaic piece from a journal I call my "heart musings."
Clutter
By Tammy Hensel

Company is coming and I am trying to straighten up my house. There is so much clutter! How could I let all of this pile up? I am aghast at myself. Hurriedly I stuff it into drawers, closets, under the bed, and every unobtrusive nook and cranny I can find. I will just have to deal with it later, I promise myself.

As I work furiously, a question comes to me. Is this what I am doing with sin in my life? Am I stuffing it into nooks and crannies in my heart? Telling myself I can deal with it later - promising God that the time will come.

On the surface, my house looks clean and comfortable. I appear to my friends to have it all together. They say I am so spiritual. But the clutter is still there – in my house and in my heart. Eventually it will have to be dealt with or it will creep out and take over

One day soon we are planning to move out of this house. The day of reckoning with my junk is not far off. I will be forced to take the time to sort through it all and either take it with me or get rid of it.

But the day of reckoning with my sin could come any moment. Can I delay sorting through the junk in my heart any longer? I sure don't want to take it with me!
I drop down on my knees and open my heart once more to the sweet forgiveness that follows confession. What a blessed Savior indeed!

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. -1 John 1:9

Copyright Tammy L. Hensel November 10, 2006. All Rights Reserved.

Mary Magdalene Video and article

2008-01-08T22:51:00.002-06:00

MARY MAGDALENE VIDEO AND ARTICLE

In the late 1980s I wrote and performed a dramatic monologue for our church Easter service which I entitled Mary Magdalene's Testimony. I never published the piece, but have continued to perform it for churches throughout the years. Last year my son uploaded a video of one of my performances onto YouTube and I posted it on my myspace blog. It just so happened that the movie the Da Vinci Code had been recently released and there was also at that time a documentary on television that claimed to have discovered the tomb of Christ. I did not watch the program, but there was a lot of buzz about it and it created a lot of interest in Mary Magdalene. Apparently my timing for posting my video couldn't have been better. I had so many people write to me asking me questions about Mary that I decided to write a little article based on my research of her and posted it as another blog.

Below is the video of me performing my monologue at Fellowship of Huntsville Church, Huntsville, TX on Easter 2006 and the follow-up article I wrote in April of 2007.

Who was Mary Magdalene?

By Tammy L. Hensel

I received an email this morning from a friend who saw my bulletin posting about my monologue on the testimony of Mary Magdalene She asked if I could give her more information about Mary herself. I have decided to write my response to her as a blog in case there are others among you who would also like this information.

Before writing my monologue in 1988, I spent several weeks researching Mary. I was surprised to find her such a controversial figure. I did not have the Internet then, of course, but did utilize my church and public libraries, Bible commentaries, etc. in my research, as well as discuss her with my pastor.

As my intent in my dramatic narrative was to focus mostly on her witness to the Resurrection of Christ, I tried to apply just what the Bible says about her. And that is the Mary I will present to you now.

Who Mary was:

* She was native of the town of Magdala, a town in Galilee, and a woman out of whom Jesus cast 7 demons (Luke 8:1-2)

* She was one of several women who donated both time and money to help support Jesus' earthly ministry and she was a devoted disciple of His teachings (Luke 8:3).

* She was an eyewitness to the crucifixion, burial and the resurrection of Christ (Matt. 27:55, Matt 28:1, Mark 15:40, John 20:1-13, Acts 1:14)

Who Mary was not:

* She was not the woman Jesus saved from being stoned for adultery in John 8:3-11. This woman is unnamed but since this happened in the Mount of Olives region she was most likely a woman local to that region.

*She was probably not the woman who anointed Jesus' feet with perfume and kissed his feet.

There were actually two separate occurrences of this. In one the woman is identified as Mary of Bethany the sister of Martha and Lazarus. It happened in Bethany at their home (John 12:1-4) Although some tradition would combine the two Marys as one, it is very unlikely given the separate Biblical accounts of these two women.

The other occurred at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Luke 7:33) The woman is identified merely as a "sinner" and her name is not given. There is no Biblical evidence to connect her with Mary Magdalene or any of the other women who are mentioned by name as being followers of Jesus. It is purely supposition that has done so.

Was Mary a prostitute before becoming a follower of Jesus?

The teaching that Mary was a prostitute has no real biblical basis and has come down from oral tradition. All we know from the Bible about her past is that she was possessed by 7 demons. However, it does not take much supposition to believe that anyone possessed by demons led an unholy life. One cannot deny the possibility that this oral tradition did have some basis in fact, but it cannot be proven through the Biblical record.

Was Mary more intimate with Jesus than any other woman mentioned in connection with Him?

This also is a supposition that has no Biblical basis. In fact, the women mentioned as being on the most intimate terms with Him are his mother, of course, and Mary and Martha of Bethany. It is clear that Jesus was close with that family. Perhaps it is the fact that Mary Magdalene was one of the first people to whom He appeared after the Resurrection that has raised so much speculation about an intimate relationship between them. I would submit, however, that He appeared to Mary because she was seeking Him.

And He still is there waiting to touch the lives of all who seek Him with all their heart.

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opends the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him and he with Me." Revelations 3:20

Copyright April 17, 2007 Tammy L. Hensel All Rights Reserved

Resume'

2008-01-08T17:15:00.001-06:00

TAMMY L. HENSEL

P.O. Box 382 College Station, TX 77841-0382

CAREER OBJECTIVE:
Freelance writing for newspapers and magazines, editing, research and public relations projects.

SKILLS:
I have strong writing, editing and researching skills, and specialize in feature and inspirational writing. I have experience in page design and desk-top publishing preparation of print newsletters, press releases, proposals, publicity fliers, manuscripts, advertising and photography. I have strong one-to-one communications skills.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

Present
Freelance writing for newspapers and magazines. Desk-top publishing and public relations consulting including copyediting, manuscript preparation, development of website copy, making promotion calls, writing promotion materials and press releases for small businesses and ministries.

Aug. 2002- Jan. 2003
Feature writer and photographer for the White Hall Journal, Forest Communications, 7400 Dollarway Rd., White Hall, AR 71602; Publisher/Editor - Frank Lightfoot, 870-247-4700.

Jan. 1982 - July 2002
Part-time freelance writing, editing, publication preparation, and public relations consulting out of my home. Projects during this time included articles for community newspapers, preparing two manuscripts for publication, press releases, brochures, newsletters, and PR consulting to pastors and political candidates.

June 1980- Aug. 1981
Texas A & M Research Foundation; Position -Production Specialist. Duties: Assist faculty in preparation of research grant proposals. Work included word processing, editing and administrative duties..

March—June 1980
The Press of Bryan-College Station; Position - News Editor Duties included writing and editing majority of material for publication, taking and printing photographs, and page lay-out.

EDUCATION:

Baylor University, Waco Texas. May 1980 Received B.A. Degree in Journalism and History, (specializations: Christian Communications and Ancient History);
Honors: magna cum laude; Dean’s Honor Roll; Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society.
Career related course work: Semester Internship at Word Publishing, Waco, TX in Public Relations and Writing Services Departments.

Honors - Magna Cum Laude, Baylor University;
OUTSTANDING YOUNG WOMEN IN AMERICA, 1987;
Hobbies & Interests: Bible study & church activities, cooking, gardening, crafts, reading, genealogy, historical research, and drama.

References and portfolio of published articles and related projects available upon request.

Dedicated Publication Services Tammy L. Hensel

2008-01-07T11:06:00.001-06:00

The name "Dedicated Publications Services" for my new desk-top publishing business, came out of my profile name for my myspace page www.dedicated_to_christ which is about my faith. I have become known to many of my myspace friends as "Dedicated" that I thought I would use it for my business.

Although the name of my business is new to me, writing and desk-top publishing are something I have pursued for years. While on myspace, I discovered the remarkable networking that is going on among writers and publishers, so I put up my myspace site www.dedicated publications to promote my desk-top publishing services. It has also given me many opportunities to grow and stretch as a writer and a person.

Interviews and personality features are a specialty of mine. I uploaded a few clippings to my myspace site and will post the links in a separate blog. I have strong interviewing, writing, editing, researching and organizational skills. I believe everyone has a story and that it is up to the interviewer to FIND that story. I am definitely a PEOPLE PERSON and I love to meet people from all walks of life. I have interviewed high profile people and people who didn't know they had a story until I wrote it. I really enjoy interviewing community volunteers, missionaries, military veterans and people who are working to make a difference in the world. I like to interview over comers, who face trials with fortitude, grace, and faith.

I am particularly interested in pursuing more inspirational writing. I had two items published in a faith-based webzine this month and will post the links to those in another blog, as well as the pieces I have written for my Dedicated To Christ blog. I am also doing more literary writing these days and may share a few of my unpublished pieces with you.

I have experience in page design and desk-top publishing preparation of print newsletters, press releases, proposals, publicity fliers, manuscript preparation, advertising and photography. I have gained much experience, not only through my professional projects, but through the volunteer work I have done in my church and community. In 1987 I was listed in Outstanding Young Women In America due to my pastor recommending me in gratitude for the donation of my professional skills to church projects. I have also been a Bible study teacher, drama ministry director, and of course been involved in newsletter production, event planning/promotions, and many other areas of service. At one time I was heavily involved in politics. Although it is not something I am interested in pursuing now, I gained much experience which has served me well in my public relations projects.

While I am interested in submitting articles, columns, literary pieces, etc., to magazines and newspapers on speculation, I work on a fee basis for all desk-top publishing and promotions projects. I am not interested in any projects for which I would have to invest capital, work on commission, or share in royalties only after publication. A book that I have found invaluable is The Writer's Market Companion by Joe Feiertag, Mary Carmen Cuito and the Editors of Writer's Market. It includes a list of sample fees that represent the range of prices charged by freelance writers across America. I usually refer to this as a guideline when setting my fees. However, I always take the scope of the project into consideration when setting a fee.

There was some confusion when I first put up my desk-top publishing myspace site from those who thought I was a book publisher. Most of my manuscript projects have been for people who were self-publishing. However, as I learn more and more about Internet publishing I may venture into it. Only time will tell. I am forever seeking to learn new things.

Tammy L. Hensel