Luciferian Global Religion Of ‘The New World Order’

(This Was Previously Posted At http://dpgatten.com On December 19, 2010.)

I beseech the peruser &/or even the casual skimmer not to imagine this to be a lettered paper. Knowingly, I confess that it is far from it. The motif is only in some small way enlighten, as many inquiring minds with a perspective that I have given careful thought for decades.


Ask any believing Christian, “What did Lucifer fall from”? And I have no doubt that their answer would be, “Pride”! This is the teaching from ‘Mainline Churches’ and the myriads of past and present ‘Ordinary Potatoes’. This is one of the reasons for the dis-claimer above. Regardless of the seriousness and importance of any subject I often interject humor for emphasis &/or because I can’t help it. ‘Ordinary Potatoes’ = i.e. ‘Commentators’.


The answer is based on what they have been taught from “The 5 ‘I Will’(s)” of Isaiah 14:13 & 14, (*a.)

which I contend was the ‘Symptom’ of his sin, not the cause. For the believers reading this, I will bring Scriptural Confirmation to my premise in due time.


Moving along to the last sixty centuries (-/+), we quickly look on commerce, i.e. bartering and trading, that has been a normal aspect of all civilizations. There are others who have studied this system and are better versed to speak on it than I am; nevertheless, what I have found is that ‘The Middle Man’ Always seems to make himself available to make the trades ‘Look’ equitable.

"History records that the money changers have used every form of abuse, intrigue, deceit, and violent means possible to maintain their control over governments by controlling money and its issuance."
--President James Madison

The scheme is to loan the Chief, King, i.e. the Leader, of a tribe, clan or nation some kind of money, in order for them to buy their every whim & fancy. This establishes the ‘money’ as legitimate tender for all debts, Public & Private. Hmmmmmm, where have I seen that before? In most instances, money was based on debt.


The Gold Smiths usually had safes and citizens needed a place to keep their intrinsic valuables, Thus enters the Banker or Money Changers.(*b.)

In the Temple Jesus called these men 'thieves' because they were not honest. Matthew 21:12 & 13; John 2:14 – 17; (*c.)


The Banker would issue his own script redeemable for the original valuable; to be used in lieu of the specie in the vault. The Banker would issue more script, as loans, (Debt, Called Fractional Banking,) on the gamble not all would redeem their valuables at the same time. This today would be called ‘A Run On The Bank’. The Bankers would charge Usury or Interest for the loans, which became very profitable. There are other writings that go into more depth on these details, which every citizen should have a working knowledge of.
More Below:
(*d.)

Step By Step II

Need to throw in another parenthesis B4 getting back to direction.

Spent Yesterday at a 50Yr HiSchool Anniversary with the ‘Wife Of My Youth’ and her sister. Their Alma Mater have a web site and at dinner I was talking to The Chaplin of the site about different things and he shared that one of the Alumni had posted that they was Dying of cancer and when asked if prayer war appropriate the emphatic yes ensued. Salvation was offered with the promises, and accepted.

Days Later my friend says he gets a phone call and is told that the Doctor Mis-Diagnosed the Cancer. When asked about the commitment, the response was, “why, … it was a mis-diagnosis!

Back To The Steps, tho the Parenthesis’ are a part of what we will discuss.

Step By Step I need to go back to last years posts and the Allopathic Myth of Medicine. i.e. The treatment of Hiding the symptoms with poisons that have worst side effects than the un-balance that it tries to hide.

Step By Step we have mutilated the natural condition of our body being in balance, that most have fallen into the accepted norm of taking the Pill Pharms Poison Plastics that allow us the lie that we are taking care of our physical conditions. CLICK HERE

Step By Step Spiritually we see more of “The Whole Picture” that does not change what we have been taught, yet like the ‘Parenthesis’ yesterday takes us from ‘Black & White to Technicolor. See John 14:26

Step By Step, for over a year awareness has been taking quantum leaps to my understanding of ‘What Is!’. As everything else that makes us uncomfortable because of ignorance, this has been an exciting, yet different path.

Step By Step since last January the Awareness (i.e. Blossoming of more colors) has been coming so fast that I have not been able to write (or Post) about it! Still in the process of learning how to discuss it with others. Tho it being ‘Mis-Diagnosed {By The ‘Others’} as something beyond Just ‘Black & White’ and thus not relevant. To ‘What Is!’.

Back A Step to January 30th and ‘Spiritual Battles In The Heavenlies!’ these last eight and half months for some and me especially myself have been continually going on. Tho most are not able to see havoc & turmoil going on as yet, as some of us see it whirling into manifestation.

Just a side note: It was a battle for me to start writing again an I am excited about future Posts that will address the expanding awareness being revealed.

Be Blessed at What HE Is Having you do!

DrDP

Step By Step

Loved Of The LORD,

It has been a long time since I have posted here and I have truly gone through a transformation.

When I am Done! You Will have something to whet your appetite, tickle your pallet if not to really chew on!

HOPEFULLY Not an antidote for insomnia, as a Presidential Press Conference tho far from being innocuous. (I will not be using a ‘TelePrompter!)

I have no desire to proselytize you, nor to change your political persuasion. Only to inform for your evaluation.

I am not an Evangelist per se, Tho I would be remiss not to bring my conviction of THE TRUTH found is Holy Writ that no man comes to the Father, Except thru the SON. The ‘Lake of Fire’ Eternally for those that pass by God’s provision thru Jesus The Anointed.

Preaching The Good News Of my Lord Jesus Christ is my Profession, But my Love and Hobby is Teaching The Truths found in Scripture to those who are interested and at Funerals and occasions like at Toastmasters where I have a Captive Audience.

There are those who say, The Bible is Not The Word Of God! Why would they say that? "Contradictions!", says one! "Name one?", Say I. They Never read in its entirety, if even read it all.

The Bible will confirm itself. 2 Cor. 13:1 "By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established."

Now that that is established again, I will endeavor to explain what has happened to me over the last two years or so. It Kinda, Sorta snuck up on me as I was pretty well established in my perspective of “What Is!”

To parenthesize a current event of a Memorial Service of a long time Friend That I had encouraged to accept God’ s Provision for around thirty years. He had moved back to his home town about 4 years ago and not in contact with him, I was Called on to officiate at this local memorial last night. He passed on last May. I asked his widow who Jesus was to him and she responded with, “El Senor y Salvador!”

He had a nominal Spiritual Understanding, being a baby Baptized Catholic. Eventually after dropping off his wife and daughter at church for several months while he went for coffee he accepted his wife’s invitation to come to Church with them. The preacher was explaining that the only worthwhile thing to accomplish here was to serve God! I am betting on Ecc. 12:1 ff.

The video of his baptism, he explains that is was like going from Black & White to Technicolor. This is a type of the process we (Who are seeking more of HIM) go thru who are “Just Passing Thru!” MORE ON ITS WAY!

I: Moving On To Energy Medicine!

Starting a New Year and maybe a new direction, allow me to publish my "Thoughts", on 'ENERGY MEDICINE'.

I will always Be open and sensitive to direction, by The HOLY SPIRIT, Nevertheless, knowing in my 'Heart of Hearts' for decades and now boldly to proclaim, that the Creative Juices Flowing is a Gift we should never stifle, so 'Here We Go!', knowing I will have "The Philippian Stop Sign" to keep me from going astray. (Yes I know that was a 'Run-on Sentence'!)

Studying 'Alternative Medicine' will always take you into areas that 'Mainstream &/or Traditional Church' will point their crossed index fingers at you and run without allowing God to speak thru it. (Remember Balaam's Ass?) So be forewarned that you may get to be feeling uncomfortable following along this process.

"SO! ... ... ... What about 'Energy Medicine'?" You Sez.
"I am you asked.", I sez.

Energy Balance influences all empirical results, even to what appears, as nothing happening. Regardless of it being toward healing, per se, or any area in one's life.
Believing is also a main factor, though I have found that the healings very seldom manifest in similar manners. Having experienced others being healed thru me, as the vehicle (& others) at times there was a knowing of the impartation before &/or during the contact &/or prayer, always with the evidence at hand to be the 'Proof of the Pudding'.

Healings can be Instantaneous and also thru herbs &/or the hands of a practitioner of one of 'Alternative Medicines', To God Be The Glory! (Whether you believe it to be HIM or not!) I will have more to say about this as we go along.

At this time, my wife & I are experiencing results thru Energy Medicine. I may address the specifics in future posts. Nevertheless, we are experiencing empirical relief in many areas and are expecting more.


We would have never ventured down this path had Allopathy had accomplished anything other than covering up symptoms and in turn inducing worse side effects than the original malady. Just listen to the commercials on TV with disclaimers that just as well say, “If you die using our drug, you have been warned!”

Loved Of The LORD, or any other skeptic, having a problem so far, bring me to task and leave a comment! Be Blessed at what HE is having you do, 1 aka Dr. DP

Back To Things At Hand! ~ Happy New Years!

2009 = Mighty Fine!

'Out The Gate', allow me 2 apologize for my Laxity in keeping current!

Now that done, (Honestly!) want 2 wish You, (Especially You Who Visit And Pray For This Won {1} Preacher) A Very Prosperous, Plentiful and Pleasant New Years!

I believe (To Be Knowing!) that 2009 Will Be Mighty Fine! Just being able to think this to begin with and of course to be able to say this out loud to everyone in my path, makes it even more so. Another Factor is Luke 11:34-36. See Filters.

Since the last post, I have been many different places on line and in 'The Here & Now' and have visited places that I would not have ventured in the near past. No not any 'Houses Of Ill Repute', as yet, though those of the 'First Group' might look upon them the same way. IYKWIM? In fact I have not ruled out those 'HOIR' altogether and would be obedient thus Directed! Another Sermon for another day!

The important thing to elaborate on, is that I see people searching for enlightenment for &/or to their Personal Spiritual Journey.

To offer help in these cases from my established perspective, would initially have them run for cover. So I am on my own ... trek ... quest ... to approach these souls in (At least from my perspective.) the dilemma they have at hand, in order to have the peace and assurance to rest in the promised revelation and peace I have come to know and be assured of.

All of this of course, is to remain true to my 'Given Theme': To be Making A Difference And Helping Other People Reach Their Goals!

Several have reported that they embrace 'The JESUS or Christ Concept', yet only along the several other paths they are traveling on. Many at the same time expressed that 'All Roads' lead to God, not realizing that only one to The Bema Seat and the rest to 'The Great White Throne Of Judgment'.

Now before I move on to the next 'Thought', as you swing by and partake, the 'Creative Juices' you have been given, may hone in on an angle &/or even an empirical experience that may help me on my way. Jump in and get your feet wet, as the water is fine and leave a comment.

I have never been fond of the money changers etc in the Temple that are legitimatized by calling them "The Book Store, The Coffee/Snack Bar, Etc.", though have had to give them more room then I have in the past.

Nor have I come right out and asked God for money, to publish the portion HE has given to me. With that let me invite you to come into my 'Coffee shop / Book store' and peruse some of the other things I enjoy doing.

Again, as I post these links, feel free to comment on your Thoughts about me doing this. Here are some to start with:

http://advitaenergynow.wordpress.com/ Physical and Mental [Please Note! A lot of pertinent Info here, tho Need to to revamp some of the pages. If you are interested, Leave comment & I will open it for your perusal.]
http://www.advitaenergyforyou.com/ Financial [Advita Energy Changed some things, so this link is Gone!]
www.dpgatten.com Internet Business Training for NuBies
http://drdpgatten.veretekk.com/ Free Leads For Life

With a bunch of the 'Theys' saying that that the economy has tanked and the Dollar will bottom, take a look at the Video Here. 2009 = Mighty Fine

Thanks for stopping by. Be Blessed, 1 aka DP

X Final Thoughts: Business & Other Belief Systems

Now we need to get on with the Final Touches. Hang on as this may get Hairy.

Let me preface this again that there are always “Exceptions To The Rules”, Nevertheless, lets take these next … Items at face value only. Mary Matalin & James Carville, which I brought up last time, is a perfect example. Group 1, will hold to ‘Not Being Un-Equally Yoked’ to hold true in Business as well, as the main Item of Marriage. Group 2 more than likely will not want to be tied up either in Business or Marriage with those of Group 1, for no other reason than the possible fanaticism of Group 1. (Though Group 2 can & will be adamant in their positions, too!)

How far does either group cross over the line would be 3 or 4 Tomes of itself. Therefore, I will just head off into the conclusion for this thought with this:

All! i.e. of all groups need to understand what they believe and also to know that should you cross over that line, (Whatever It May Be.) you will be compromised in your endeavors. The negative influence &/or force, will under most normal circumstances defeat the fruition of any direction, based on nothing other than Scriptural Teachings, that co-inside with what the Sages of the other understandings have been saying for centuries.

The resulting consequences and/or circumstances were lessons to be learned and the choice remains with the decision maker, and to how each situation will either bless with an opportunity that has been revealed, or the curse that was more than likely thought of to begin with. Job said, “What I feared has come upon me!” And hand in hand, “Happy is he that condemns not what he does!”

Now it is your turn! Call me on any of the premises that I have laid out and we will go to the Scripture and Sages to confirm what I have laid out.

Have a blessed Day! 1 aka, DP

IX More Thoughts: Business & Other Belief Systems

“Other Pressing Matters” seems to be the Reason/ Excuse that is common today when there has been a lapse in fulfilling a commitment. Nevertheless, I will start this post begging forgiveness from my faithful readers for this delay.



Give me a few lines to get this back up and running again. … Thank you!



Now approaching my seventh decade, I do not profess to know all about these Spirituals, nor have what I do know, working perfectly in my life. Now not to be redundant, yet it helps to reiterate some things for those of you who are just coming aboard and have not yet caught the direction we are endeavoring to pursue. This will also help some of you ‘Regulars’ to stay abreast without going back to be refreshed.



Allow me to say that you do not need to embrace these thoughts completely as I present them to you. Nevertheless, be as smart as a cow and eat the hay and spit out the (What you believe are) sticks. Most of you, who find interest here, are more than (likely) old enough, to have been around the John several times and know how to flush it! As this is Labor Day, please rest and do not labor! :-)



OK Regulars! One more and we will get on with this thought for today.



We are talking about people of different belief systems engaging in any kind of Business venture.


See post where ‘Groups’ are discussed. CLICK HERE


(Also see labels down in the left sidebar, “Groups”)


Scripture refers it to an ox and mule being yoked together to pull a load. “2Cor 6:14” Most of the times it is used in reference to Spiritual convictions in marriage. e.g. Can you believe that Mary Matalin & James Carville are married to each other. She is a ‘Rather Die Than Change’ Conservative and advisor to many in the Republican Party and he is an ultra Liberal who works with the Democrats. I do not know their spiritual conviction, but their jobs pit themselves against each other. Both are good at what they do, one can only imagine what goes on behind closed doors.



The reason to bring them up is, again to know that there are ‘Exceptions’ to every rule. So as things we discuss, start to line up and make sense, do not put yourself in a box that you cannot smell the roses, because of the fertilizer.



From last post and talking about going to the mail box and not thinking about bills per se. The $10 off coupon meant little to some of you, Nevertheless, Money is coming this way. I just deposited checks for over $26K the bills are paid before they come in the mail and still getting useful coupons on a regular basis.



There is hesitation to continue in this direction, as many will take a (or their) Situation and locked into their own filters, will choose, subconsciously to write off anything herein revealed. Nevertheless, I will pursue this angle for the few that get it.



A friend of mine brought up that in the J.O.B. work force today it is very fortunate to find a direct supervisor that has the same convictions. Those who do, still have to realize that their supervisor and/or owner may be coming from an opposite perspective. Another reason why so many are looking for an opportunity to be self employed and/or work from home. What does one do, when they find themselves in that kind of situation? Without God’s Favor group one will so often panic or look on the situation with an eye toward darkness and the preverbal half full glass.

Do not get huffed up, as I also know there are those of you that are out of bed with your glass not only half-full, knowing it will soon be running over.


“I am drinking from the saucer, as my cup runneth over!”



Now again failing to upset group 1, let us see how we do with Group 2. Those who do not know or understand the personal favor of God, may or may not see or understand that those positive outlooks, i.e. perspectives, (Eye of light), Nevertheless, act on those divine laws and either watch their thoughts, (to begin with) but more importantly what is coming out of their mouth.


This affords them favor with the Universe, their concept and/or ‘a Doorknob’ that they believe in. It is an actuality as valid and powerful as Gravity.


Let me finish this post today with, how mind boggling it is that there are those in both groups that choose not the full advantage there is knowing God. Like James & Mary above who apparently have found ‘Work Arounds’. Group one passing on by the ‘Joint participation’ with God and HIS laws and Group two who pass on knowing HIM Personally through HIS SON Jesus The Anointed ONE!



In the next post, I will endeavor to give examples what one in either group may do when they find themselves un-equally yoke with another of a different belief system.



Be Blessed, 1 aka, DP

V More Thoughts: Business & Other Belief Systems

OK!

We have established a few things, thus far. 1. My Agenda, (Below); 2. There is more than two realms, (also Below); 3. There are at least ten dimensions, (also Below); 4. We are what we think, (also Below); 5. Most all things that are available need to be appropriated, (also Below); … Things like gravity need not be appropriated, Nevertheless, we are still govern by it! 6. The Sub-Conscientious is creative, and will do what it has to, to keep us safe and comfortable, i.e. in the ‘Loop Mode, In fact read the Post below before starting on this one!

There is a need to mention that influences part of this is blind spots called scotomas that do not allow us to see reality. Differ you may, Nevertheless, here is an example. Read the following sentence and when you are done, count the f’s and write your count down, close by for future reference.

Finished files are the result of years of scientific study combined with the experience of many years.

I need to move on to the next thing that is a part of what the Creative Sub- Conscientious does to keep us in that ‘Loop Mode’ that will keep us from prospering. This is all areas of our lives, though I will hone in on The Business aspect for the benefit of these thoughts. The next thing we will look at is what comes out of our mouth, i.e. what we say. Now I have addressed this way back in the beginning of this Blog.

The next aspect to consider, as we proceed down this path of discovering what hinders our change for the better, in business is what we do with what and how we think. Self-Talk is an important part on how we see and understand the realm in which we walk. This is what each individual calls (His or Her) Reality.

We are always ‘Thinking’ in the first person, as, I am going to do this, (or That) or I should not have done that, or Oh Oh you have messed up now, etc.

By monitoring our Self-Talk we can tell if we are changing our perspective of our self, hopefully for the better. Or in the sameO rut of ‘Loop Mode’.

Now if you do not believe this is true then there is not much use of you taking this any futher. On the other hand should this start to make sense then continue to follow along, as I give more data with what you can work into your understanding.

Before we stop writing this post, do you remember how many f’s you counted in the sentence above? Did you get 3 or even 4? Next time we will tell you how many and why.

I Shall Return! Be Blessed, 1 aka DP

Thoughts! “Other Belief Systems For Business!"

Out Of The Gate, and to preface all that follows, allow me to acknowledge that I do not want you to think the same things and ways, as I do. This pertains to … those who have a personal relationship with The Lord Jesus, Son of The Living God and those who do not.

Do not be offended should you find yourself lumped into the same box, as all the rest, as that is not my intention. There is a need to make this distinction for clarity and brevity and there will more than likely, be more in the first group that will be offended than the second. The Apostle Paul commends the Berians to being noble, they did not just accept what he had said, yet followed up by verifying what he said, with what was in The Word of God. (Acts 17:11) That is the least I can do is to exhort you to do the same.

Now why do I, not want you to think like I do?

1. I am absolutely assured, that All Mighty God made each one of us uniquely different. Even more than finger prints. Probably closer to DNA and I will not go down that path, (As tempting as it is.) again for the sake of brevity.
2. That uniqueness is also the criteria for that relationship that HE has with us, whether in the first group or the second. In other words, should this not be true, then one of us would be a clone and a belief like that would rob one of knowing HIM Personally.

Paul even tells those who are of Group Two on Mars Hill (Areopagus) that they were ignorantly worshiping God and Paul was also, well versed in their poets and Philosophers. (Acts 17:18-33)

He tells the Romans that GOD has given every one, (Man Woman and Child.) the same ‘Measure of Faith’. (Rom. 12:3) Group one builds on it to that ‘Unique Personal Relationship’ with HIM and Group two builds on it, according to The Filters of customs, culture, traditions and influence of family, teachers, friends, co-workers and neighbors. Sometimes they build on nothing more than self-Choice. The emphasis here is on that ‘Measure of Faith’ being as universal, as Gravity, just another one of God’s Laws.

Now should I have not offended group two, allow me to at least give group one, a chance ‘To Be or Not to Be’. You will have to go back to the beginning of this Blog to pick up on some of my direction here. I will try to link you to those Posts and use some of the same tags for you to find what I will reference to.

I believe and walk in the assurance that God has made us co-participators and even co-creators in the path each one of us chooses to walk. To not be, would make us ‘Fatalists’. Allow me to give you one example and then move on to the main topic from this preface. Two different people will see the glass half full or half empty. OK … one more. One person always chooses to get out on the wrong side of the bed every morning and another will wake up with the ‘Attitude of Gratitude’ and always has a prosperous day, even if ‘Hell Brakes Lose’ and 'The Bottom Drops Out'!

Now here comes the Nay Sayers with, “Then how come you are not wealthy &/or perfectly healthy?” And am I glad that they did ask, as it gives me something to continue with. … … …

Yes, continue with next time! Be Blessed, 1 aka DP

Have You Twenty-six Minutes For Jesus?

The Heart of the Matter

A moving compilation of messages that speak to the heart of the matter.

Loved of The Lord,
Even after writing what I did in the previous post and needing to address my morning disciplines, and then look to the mundane activities for today.
I have to confess that I wrestled with, "was I going to take The 26 minutes to watch this?"
I am glad I did! Thanks Keith!


NOW! Are Not You Glad You Did Too?
Click Here to go to GodTube site.
Click Here To go to RU4One

“My Need To Be In HIS Presence More Of The Time!”

More Thoughts!

Loved of the LORD, I have been giving thought to what are some of the more Important things that should be evident on my plate. Not just to have something to write here in this Blog, yet for my attention on a regular basis.

As believers we all want to sanctify the Lord God in our hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks us a reason for the hope that is in us, with meekness and fear; ( 1 Peter 3:15) As well as, to Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. (2 Tim. 4:2) every chance we get.

Nevertheless, while I am all involved with what is going on in front of me, especially to go through a door when it opens, regardless of being spiritual or mundane, I want to be ‘aware’ of being in HIS Presence.

Allow me to address the mundane from my perspective, having no doubt others will differ. Call me an opportunist you may, yet I have not received a morsel of nourishment from a raven, while in my need. (1 Kings 17:6;) Not that I have any doubt, that that may still be the case. So I believe I still need to be scratching while I am able, (Matthew 6:26;) unless directed otherwise.

As far as the spiritual aspects, most of you have a good understanding of those kinds of things, though if you do not; leave a comment below desiring to know the same.

I am not able to think of anything that may be on one’s plate that is not either Spiritual or Mundane, so allow me to move on. Nevertheless, feel free to jump in with comments at any time. Contributions are really appreciated!

SO! Back to the plate and taking care of those thing! Unless you are a hermit, we are always with people somewhere around us. How many times have you been right in the middle of something and you are presented with someone with a need? Several examples come to mind.

So many times, I am busy, as I am right now and my wife or another member of the family wants me to do something or give them something. How about the panhandler on the off ramp of the freeway with that proverbial sign, ‘Will Work For Food’? What about on the job?

I do not know about you, yet I seem to respond (or at times, not respond,) with past experiences and (What I think,) what other people would think that I should do and apply what will take care of the situation at hand. Getting on with dealing with the plate in front of me is primarily the cause my action (Or lack of action), hardly ever seeking what God would prefer me to do in each situation.

Now not that I have attained, (Philip. 3:12;) yet I have tasted the blessing of being aware of being in HIS Presence and doing what ‘I Know’ HE is preferring, regardless of what anyone else would think that "I Should Do” and letting the chips fall were they may.

Now, cutting to the chase; my need is, “To Be There More Of The Time”, hoping for the completion that I will have at HIS coming. I am gaining though it is not as fast as I would like it to be, yet exercises, as writing this Post helps me along the way.

My prayer is that this has been a help to others … … … and to afford others the opportunity to suggest how I may excel even more, by commenting below!

Be Blessed my brethren! I shall return, DP aka 1

Thoughts ~ Philippian Stop Sign

As I continue to write, I periodically Mention “The Philippian Stop Sign” and how importantly it becomes, as I seek direction and Revelation. Many times there is a necessity to recapitulate how I come across some of theses Jewels that are a part of my walk with The Living GOD! Please understand that this is not from “The Gnostic Mindset”, But as The HOLY SPIRIT Reveals.



Times past it is just to give credit to the Individual that the tidbit comes from, though that is not always the case and /or necessary. In fact in my conversations with HIM, I have even repented for going on as if the revelation was given directly to me, and was told, “Where Do You Think That They Got It From, To Begin With?!”



In this case, I want to back up and introduce you to one of my dear friends, who has been at times a subtle Mentor (Humbly, not suggesting that what he had to say had any purpose.) and many times one used to allow me to make quantum leaps in Faith.



Of course we share many trips where we have been (You might say,) hand in hand, as GOD has spoke to both of us through both of us. Oh, before I pass it by, his name is Doug.




I will start this writing with a perspective he gave me over thirty years ago, that though it was beyond my understanding at the time has allowed me to interact with so many of my brethren over the years.



Picture if you can a Dumbbell with two round hollow balls at each end of a hollow tube. You are in one ball (Your World) looking through the hollow tube at any other person in (Their World) the other ball. The only thing one may see of the other ball (Through The Tube.) is very limited and visa versa. Somewhat resembling 'The Shadows' of Plato’s “Cave Allegory”, Another Subject For Another Time!”



In other words, one cannot really understand the uniqueness of another’s Perspective of the physical Realm to begin with, let alone Spiritual Understanding. Oh yes, from what we can see, we can agree on many aspects of the worlds (Balls) of others, especially if we want to.



My Question at the time was how can I be sure that what I am doing at any time, is the perfect Will of God? This was a quandary for many years for me, as another perspective Doug used was that he chose not to believe anything that was not revealed by The Spirit of God! This included many verses of Scripture that I had wrapped up with a bow and made my own. (Emphasis Mine!)



Nevertheless, several years ago, as I was questioning him again, out of the Blue he referred to ‘The Philippian Stop Sign” and the assurance it afforded.



So if you are ready let us take that Mystical Trip that Paul explains in the third Chapter of Philippians. I will use the New King James Version for this explanation.



Paul’s exhortation is to not to have any confidence in the flesh and you have to admit that this has been … the norm for The Traditional Church to have us major in. Nevertheless, Paul goes on to explain one of the main reasons is so that we may Fellowship in our LORD’s Sufferings.



Keep in mind that these words we have mouthed over the centuries. The Goal is to attain to the resurrection from the dead. This is something that is ongoing in the here and now! Phil. 3: 10 & 11. Paul has tasted something that is sweet … maybe flavorful would be a better word. In that morsel is the promise of even more of the same. Now at the same time, as Socrates’ philosophers are blinded by the sun when coming out of the cave and their former cave neighbors now think they are crazy, they can now see and describe what are no longer shadows. Paul is doing his best to encourage The Philippians, as well as us today to partake of what has been placed before us.



No way is Paul bragging or elevating himself, more than likely savoring the pain of Christ’s Suffering, he continues in the 12th verse with:

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.

He is continuing in what he now knows he has been called to and he, also has a need/desire to grasp even more.

[13] Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, [14] I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Allow me to leave the significance of partaking of “The Suffering” and address the Philippian Stop Sign. As we learn to “PRESS In” to that goal, we KNOW that we are on that ‘Path’ and we have what is called, “The Mind Of Christ”:

1 Cor. 2:16 For "who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?" But we have the mind of Christ.

This Maturity, Perfection is on going process that still brings us to the place of absolute assurance of our walk and we know:

[Phil. 3:15] Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you.

(This Is The Stop Sign, should it be used.) It now becomes GOD’s right, … job, … and even pleasure to straighten us out! The rest of the Chapter Paul’s Exhortation is again to imitate him, as he imitates Christ. (1 Cor. 4:16; 1 Cor. 11:1;)

Take the time to allow the last six verses to speak to you in that very special way and I will stop here so I can post this to the Blog.

Now no doubt there will be some of you who will not see it this way and all I can do is to encourage you to continue to look down that “Hollow Tube” and wonder until you become a Partaker of HIS Kingdom Now!
Be Blessed, 1 aka DP © 2008

Faith Under Pressure Part 3 (Trip To Moldovia)

Pat Took Picture of Gena, Andre and Me

Loved Of The LORD, We paid the porter for our Chi (Tea) then and for the next morning and got comfortable. Pat and I got the bottom bunks and the two young men, Gena and Andre were happy in the top two. There was a fold down table under the window. We left it up all the way, as it was stacked with our provisions for the trip.

We sang to The LORD and laughed about many of the crazy situations and issue involvements that it took to get this far. I have no doubt that they would have made Pat & I hang it up had it happened back home.

We had all just fallen asleep when we made the first border crossing into the Ukraine. The stopping of the train had us almost awake when Immigration banged on our compartment door. Pat understood most of the conversation between the Officer and the … let me just refer to them as ‘The Boys’ for now on. I was catching the gist, by the inflection of their voices and the body language. I knew there was a conflict developing and informed later that the Officer wanted to go thru our bags. This is where Pat put his foot down, because of the effort to exploit a share of anything found as payola to let us pass. Here was a reminder of my several adventures crossing into Mexico again.

After finding out that, we were not to be intimidated and his time to check all the passengers for pass ports and visas running out the Officer move on to the next compartment. It was an hour later after the boys explained everything before we got back to sleep.

Waking up early and taking turns with all the passengers on our car to toilet privileges, the porter had brought our hot Chi and we partook of some of the provisions we had brought. BTW! The bath had a sink with cold water and the toilet itself was a straight hole to the railroad ties below. I took note not to be walking along side of the tracks outside of town when a passenger train was passing.

Later that day we crossed in to Moldova and stopped again for Immigration. Remember that Pat and I did not have a visa for Moldova. The citizens of the former USSR only needed their passports and had access to all the Confederacy of Independent States. i.e. Called the CIS for short.

We opened the door in response to the rap and were in anticipation of anything that could possibly happen. When the, older this time, Officer asked for our passports, he glanced at the other three and when he got to mine he did a double take on mine as he looked back at me a couple times with a smile on his face. My passport picture was of me clean-shaven and now I had a full rap around beard. He wished us all the equivalent of, ‘Have a pleasant trip’, as he handed us all back our passports and then said, Das ve danya, as we closed the door.

The boys were incredulous at Pat and I having skated through that issue so smoothly! Pat & I, aware of the boys un-belief played it for what it was worth and gave everybody the look that we expected it to happen that way. To GOD be The Glory! Later when we were alone, Pat & I discussed how surprised we were too! Nevertheless, we BOLDLY ENTERED Moldova and were inspired to believe GOD for anything. We will talk about some of those things next time. … … © 2008

Faith Under Pressure Part 1

Loved Of The LORD, need to give you a little more of this “Won Preacher’s” Domestic Ministry to lead into the next Story. To preface even this portion, I have to go back three decades to re-commitment to The LORD, as my Savior and making HIM LORD of my life. Remembering seeing seasoned believers watching me (And Helping me grow.) with a big smile on their face. Myself being blessed and basking in the deliverance from Alcohol, Tobacco and a Filthy Mouth partaking of that Real Live Zeal for GOD and HIS Ways, that never shadowed by the neophyte finesse that was always present. I always came forth with a “Praise The LORD!” at Every opportunity, never intimidated by who may be present. Laying hands on and praying at the drop of a dime.

Today I still enjoy being around a Fired Up Baby Christian and love to love them and encourage them, as they Splash all over me, while having that same grin on my face as those present thirty years ago watching me.

No Doubt most of you know about ‘Brother Andrews’ “GOD’s Smuggler”. That phenomenal work “Open Doors” accomplished getting Bibles into the USSR and China since the fifties is a ministry classic. Still going strong and are continuing that ongoing ministry even today, getting ready for the 2008 Olympics. What a blessing for us to have a part in sponsoring a brother who was smuggling bibles into China back in the Eighties.

Said all of that to say this: In that first fifteen years or so being a part with the FGBMFI, when Demas was still alive, (A men’s Global Parachurch Organization) we found ourselves somewhat smuggling food & clothes into Mexico. The reason was that Mexican Customs &/or Immigration wanted ‘Payola$’ or at least a cut of what we were taking in. Enabling us to minister to fledgling churches, orphanages and even just setting up on the street, feeding, and clothing poor people while one of the brothers published The Gospel in Spanish.

On one of our trips, we were taking a Van in to a little Church for their use in the ministry. Something was wrong with it and it was barely making it up the hills on the way to San Diego. We stopped at several Gas Station Garages and trying to fix the problem, put on a new coil, a new fuel pump, filter and several other things to no avail. We were always in a caravan, when the van started to fail the driver and his partner would raise their arms out the windows signaling for prayer, and in turn, the rest of us in the different vehicles would do the same thing as we let them know we were in agreement with them. That must have been a sight to others on the road. They have no idea of who we were or what we were doing.

The van did not have current tags on it and going up one hill a CHP was passing all of us up on this two lane road and got stuck behind the van. No arms out this time, nevertheless, we were all praying and after what seemed like 10 minutes, the CHP passed the van up with out stopping it. Talk about the Praising The LORD!!! As if The Lord put Blinders on him, to never see the expired tags!

This is longer than I thought, so let me finish with this. In San Diego and with all these new parts the van finally quit. I pulled up behind the van and we joined our hearts and minds. With the hood of the van up, I started to jiggle different things on the motor while making the comment, “The only thing I know what I was doing is just laying hands on it and believing GOD would intervene.”

While doing this an experience came to mind about me having a an old Studebaker doing just about the same thing. What I finally figured out after several days of it trying to quit going up a hill was that the fuel line had a tiny pebble it front of the fuel filter. Keep in mind that we had replaced all of those things. I started to trace out the fuel line and when I reached the gas tank I found a kink in the line that only let a nominal amount of fuel get to the pump, but when there was a demand from the pump still only a metered amount would get thru.

That was the day that another verse of Holy Writ became my own personal promise. Let me paraphrase.

John 14:26. But the Helper Himself, the Precious Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you ALL things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I Taught you! said to you.

How many times HE has brought to my remembrance things HE has taught me in the mechanics of construction, using the same words again, ministering not in the traditional way and too many more to mention.

Next week our trip to Moldova and how I tie this above to it.

©2008

Cowboy Missionary Activities

Loved Of The LORD, as I go along I will drop in different activities that a Cowboy Missionary find themselves doing, this post being one. You might find this bizarre, yet it makes a general point to what follows.

While ministering in our own ‘Hood’ (Neighborhood back Home) some of the homeboys would tell me that they were going to a different town to get away from the influence of their peers and the supply of their addiction that was always stumbling them. Nevertheless, when I would see them months or years later, I would hear the same stories repeatedly. Finding themselves in a different place it was only hours, if not minutes that they would hook up with the same type of crowd.

This must be typical with almost any kind or type of crowd. Missionaries are not any different, especially when the turf is open, thirsty, and hungry. The former USSR having been closed to any Spiritual happening for, … (what was it, … 80 years?) was really open to any Preacher, Mystic or Charlatan that had a god type message. One could spot the SLC Boys, even without their bicycles. They were there on ‘Humanitarian Aid’ Visas.

The Saws being there less than a year had already made connections with several evangelical groups. When I arrived on the scene, they were in the process of setting up a conglomerate organization to pool information, mostly on how to thread the needle of Belarusian Bureaucracies and use the different resources that were available.

It was amazing to see how Baptists, Pentecostals, Word Of Faith, Salvation Army and several others including the “NonDenom-Denomination” that I wrote about earlier were coming together to Publish The Good News, of course in their own flavors. Hadley being somewhat affiliated with them, back home and Pat had hooked up with their Minsk Church and were all a part of it. It was working Great and The Ministries were contributing, mostly on how to go about registering with the (Government Agency) ‘Ministry Of Religious Affairs’. The SLC crowd had it figured out at the get go, as to skipping the Missions Registration and starting out with the Humanitarian Aid premise, and almost (If Not Outright) covertly introducing their Doctrine with their dispersing of aid. While discussing this during a meeting, it appeared as a possible way of skirting around the Biggest Hurdles and propagating The Gospel!

Soon there were containers coming in on a regular bases, and Pat somehow had us plugged in to the un-loading and stocking of clothes, foodstuffs and Medicine and in turn we partook of some of it to help in our Ministries. Everyone was generous and blessed to share!

Keep in mind that this was working great for the four months I was there. Yet for a closing note on this post; when my wife and I returned the following year, we found out that the ND-Denom had pulled out of the “Ministry Organization”, because Word Of Faith were a part of it! Talk about cutting off your nose to spite your face, I was incredulous! The prejudice that was in The States finally made it self known in Belarus! How Sad!

OK Next week, some stories about the different ministries in action. i. e. Some Good News!

©2008

Missions: Hands On Training!

It must have been early evening when our train left Moscow, because I believe, it was early morning when we got to Minsk. Hadley and his crew were there to escort Ulia and to meet me, and Patrick and his family along with the gang that they had assembled to whisk me off to the Belarusian Daily happenings after I thanked Ulia for all the help..

The Saws had continued their domestic ministry of inviting people back in the States , mostly young men and women, around fifteen to twenty+ year olds, to their home even here in Minsk. After every Bible study there was always refreshments that ranged from different kinds of fruits to some times even big sausages that they would boil then serve hot later in the evening. You could watch them put on weight, especially the young men, as the economy was in hyper state of inflation and the Saws were partakers in ‘Seedtime and Harvest’ (Gen. 8:22) or sowing & reaping (2Cor. 9:6 & Gal. 6:7) depending on what Scripture you would explain their prosperity.

Their Children were impressed that they were living from the Giving that was generated from the limited deputation they generated. It was coming in regular intervals from diversified sources. Baptist Churches, Assembly Of God Congregations and different Friends, Relatives and Spiritual Associations involved in their support! Talk about The Body Of Christ being in one accord, and it was phenomenal in their situations.

So many times in The States, you would find the different factions warring with one another, because of Doctrine, Perspectives and Petty Dogmatic Beliefs.

Patrick was in charge of the design for the ministries per se. Buying Russian new testaments, tracts and what ever was needed. Jamie has told me that she kept track of monies, that were coming in and I know she was influential in the specifics of how it was being spent and getting done. She told me that they were functioning fully on about $500 USD a month, including, housing, food, Ministry and social travel and entertainment, that always included those who were being ministered to. All of that along with Visas and what ever it took to function in the bureaucracies of the strange laws and double standards of the former USSR. It does not take you long to learn to partake of the national economy and prices for the Locals when you are working on a limited income. There always seem to be enough!

Speaking about their economy, Inflation was so bad that they had added invisible Zeros to the only currency that was printed. It changed at least 3 times during those four months I was there. The 100-ruble bill was 1,000 rubles and before I left, I think it was a hundred thousand rubles, even tho it had only two zeros printed on it. The locals changed what money, oh yea some of my Russian is coming back. They exchanged their not needed ‘Dingy’ into $USD so it hung onto is value. I was still able to go to the Opera, Ballet, Circus and other forms of entertainment for the equivalent of an American dime. Jamie always seem to have some project lined up for the “Youth Ministry” and since I was a part of the Ministry, I also got an adequate education in ‘Culture” that I would not ever had at home. The following year my wife and I had to pay $1USD for the same thing, they had printed bigger denomination bills, and the invisible Zeros had disappeared. She was so pleased to having seen so many Operas and Ballets by the best professionals of those countries. Jamie was still at work educating the poor and providing some interesting outings!

BTW! Their bills look like Monopoly money and when I commented about it, I was told that a toy manufacturer had printed it for them. The following year it did look a little more sophisticated though.

Another step of Faith, the Saws were walking in, was they believed GOD to be their ‘Great Physician’, as not having any kind of medical plan, even if you had it, trusting their medical facilities in the former USSR, would have been a quantum Leap of Faith in itself. I was told that years ago their youngest daughter fell out of a hi-Chair and her shoulder was thrown out of joint. It was terribly painful and it took a hospital visit to get it back in shape. While playing in one of the many parks and thru a little horse play, her shoulder jumped out of place again. They knew what it was from their previous experience. Even with the grotesque look of the situation, she did not seem to be in much pain and this former Baptist, Now Bapticostal man laid hands on his daughter with the rest of the family in agreement and watched GOD restore it to its proper place.

Having a part in his Mentoring, the only thing better for me than hearing about it, would have been watching them do it!

A quick note on their Medical field: Their hospitals were like walking into the 1940’s in The States. One of the head Pediatricians who was also a Professor at one of the medical universities became a very good and dear friend of ours. She was a part of those who we were ministering to. My wife & I loved her and her dedication to the children of need in her country very much. A year or two after we came back home she was chosen to visit some of our hospitals here in the US and we were told that she cried when she seen what was available & used to help our disabled children here!

By the time I arrived in Belarus the Saws had close to a year under their belt and I will have to come back later to fill in how Jamie came across a job opening teaching young children of bureaucrats that were from many different countries. They were assigned to their Country’s Embassies &/or working for companies that were under contract to the Belarusian Government to help them get their post Soviet Bureaucracies and Banking Systems up to speed. Now they were ministering, as Tentmakers in the true sense of the term. (Now even with the Title &/or Office!) With this background … track record … other doors were constantly being opened that has taken them to many places that HE has brought them to. This also allowed Jamie to continue in her called ministry to Women in general and Children specifically. She was doing a phenomenal job at this during the day, now generating a steadier stream of Ministry Revenue. She was also a major player to “The Youth Ministry” in the evening!

My assignment was to go with the Saw kids, as they did some of the shopping & delivering messages and ministries that made each one an important part of what was going on. I was told I had two weeks to learn my way around and where different people lived, as the 3 girls needed to be back in their own room, that they had given up for me, instead of camping out in the main room of their 3 room flat. The youngest, being a boy had his cot in the entry hall with the shoes, wraps and umbrellas. Them chillens, sure impressed me, jumping on a motorboose, Tramvia or disappearing below the snow on a meetro (Underground Train) like gophers and having us pop up somewhere else on the other side of town. Keep in mind this was a city of about 2 million people and a great accomplishment for kids from about 14 to even the boy of eight who also had directions dialed in.

I had a need to learn as fast as I could and they all turned out to be great teachers, as they would show me milestones and monuments to tie it all together. I do not think I ever really got lost, tho they might differ with me.

The City had certain street crossings under the street and they would have shops &/or temporary Kiosks where you would be able to buy some of the things that only came available at different times. Since you had to walk about 20 feet down and then back up that 20 feet on the other side of the street. When I had enough Toilet Paper or some other necessities, I gave thought to watch for the cars and when clear jot across the street without all the Up & Down. The first time I did it, I did not pay attention to a Guyee (Police on foot) that had a car pulled over and was doing his thing. I just stepped on the opposite curb, when I heard this loud and persistent whistle being blown. I had a hunch that it was being blown at me and I tried to ignore it and picked up the pace when I then heard this angry yelling still coming in my direction. I incredulously look back over my shoulder and saw him yank his arm motioning me to come to him. He was yelling at me and pointing to the street corner that I had just crossed and I shrugged my shoulders and used two of the Russian words I had learned. Nyet Parooskie, I said over & over again. (No Russian) and he finally slapped his left wrist with his right hand cupped like a bracelet, yanking his left arm like he was going to drag it down the sidewalk and I said, “OH!” He responded with a Sarcastic Ponimyish? (Understand? That I learned later!) & a final “Nyet Parooskie” almost spitting and waved me on down the sidewalk knowing he had adequately warned me. Nevertheless, to say, I very seldom jay walked above ground unless in a “BIG” hurry after looking way up & down both streets.

Next week we will look at some of the Ministry that was going on, including Bible Studies and also praying for the sick and disabled. Oh Yes my newly made friend and roomy for my first move.

©2008

Getting Out of Dodge! I mean Moscow!

Loved of The LORD, Happy New Year! I will preface this next section with looking back that I was walking in The Faith that I knew about for 17 years and in turn had taught it to others for many of those years as grew in it myself. It seemed like I was in a dream and having my own working capital and Several Thousand for the Saws on me I was very uncomfortable. I was always coming to that place of deciding to Trust HIM again! And Again! AND AGAIN!

If there was ever one … This Is ... “The Secret!”

I am glad that I am writing all this down now, as trying to remember what happened, names and places are not jumping out at me yet! Thank you Becky for encouraging me to do this. Yes and Jamie too, for so many of the particulars!

After we got all my gear up the 3 flights of stairs, Ulia introduced me to her parents and I walked in & over to them to shake hands. I am not sure how I became aware that I was doing something wrong, nevertheless, all three seemed to be looking at my brand new Sorel Snow Boots and then I noticed that they were not wearing any shoes of any kind. I looked back at the entry passage & saw all their shoes there. Thus, my first lesson in Russian Culture. It is easier to stay up with “Outside Dirt” kept in that one spot!

I need to place a side note here about my Sorel Snow Boots. Knowing that I was to be in weather that I was not used to, I researched the weather in the north and knew if I kept my feet warm & dry, that I would be able to make it. Where was Google when I needed it. Well I used what was a search engine back then as Google did not come on the scene for about four years later. I found several weather boot manufacturers and read the specs and knew I wanted a pair of Sorel Caribous and was really proud that I had found them. Yes, my brothers & sisters, I was thanking GOD to have found them and the peace that these were the ones! I remember several Belarusian women laughing at me because I held comfort, i.e. keeping warm & dry, ahead of being fashionable.

Ulia's, Parents were Jewish, tho I did not find out if they were practicing or not. Ulia became what was called a ‘Completed Jew’ and was going with an American who headed up a fellowship made up of mostly Jewish people who knew Yeshuah, as their Savior. The Saws were hooked up with him and of course the scenario to send Ulia back to Moscow and help me get to Minsk developed from there. More about him later.

A hot meal of borch, which is a kind of Russian soup with water, meat, potatoes, cabbage, carrot, tomatoes and beetroot, was served with sour cream. The Saws had fixed a dinner before they left, so it was the second time I ate it. With 3 foot of snow outside and the end of February, it hit the spot!

Ulia’s Father & I conversed with hand signs and grunts and by the time Ulia and I left for Minsk, he had me counting to five in Russian. Ulia explained that she was sleeping in her parent’s bed with her mom and her dad would sleep on the couch. Her room (The 2^nd room of the 2 room flat.) had a single bed and on top of the closet was stacks to the ceiling wrapped with cloth to keep their identity unknown. It was plain what was off limits for me and I soon was nestled in.

The next morning was Sunday and after a hot cereal of some kind of grain and my counting lessons, Ulia and I headed to one of the 3 local assemblies of the “Non-Denominational” Denomination that I mentioned that we were a part of years before.

See: Sunday, October 14, 2007 Where Do I Fit In The Body Of Christ? VI

Even in 1994 there were already three of them in Moscow! The Pastor was an American and he taught in English with a Russian Interpreter. I was welcomed with open arms and know I could have functioned there if there were not all ready plans in motion to keep me busy for what wound up to be 4 months away from home.

A side Note: The Pastor was going with a national and they were planning on getting married later on that year. A couple months later, I found out that the… Let me just all him “The Overseer” of the Eastern European Assemblies of the Local churches of that “Non-Denominational” Denomination told the Pastor that he could not marry this woman, because of the complications that it would cause.

Nevertheless, they got married and the Pastor was removed from that Church by the N-D Denom. When they tried to place another Pastor in that spot, the congregation refused, because they wanted their original Pastor and the Church was pulled from the rolls. Several years later, being privy to the N-D’s Pastor’s Conference from friends who were still involved, I found out that the original Pastor had been restored into their ranks and was even addressing the conference about what was happening in Russia.

After Church we all headed to a restaurant and fellowshipped a couple hours. Ulia took me around to some of the sites and we made a quick pass of “Red Square” and headed back to visit with her parents.

After dinner, I excused myself and read Scripture for a while. I started to read 3 Chapters every day and 5 chapters on Sunday in the late 70’s that put me thru the Bible in a year. I doubled up 2 or 3 years so it would tally up to thru it once for every year of commitment. As I write this now I am in the last few chapters of Revelation, now for the 30^th time. Every time it has open up even more to my understanding and enhanced my relationship with HIM.

The night before I spotted a chart on the door that had the Russian alphabet with Hebrew comparison and started giving it my attention. I had taken 1 year Hebrew several years ago, yet never took it any further. What happen was for those few evenings I had the groundwork of learning the Russian sounds, tho some had to come from Hades, as I never learned to pronounce them really right. Nevertheless, things looked like they were dropping into place.

The next morning, Monday we left after breakfast and my Russian lessons … well numbers anyhow and headed back up town to purchased our train tickets to Minsk. After several inquires, Ulia found out that the train ticket for me was going to cost about $150+ USD being a foreigner and after talking it over for awhile we decided to take a step of Faith and buy two national tickets for around $8 USD each and believe that we would not be checked crossing the border into Belarus.

As that took several hours standing in lines, (i.e. Ulia did) she showed me some other sites on the way back to her folk’s place. We also shopped for our meals for the 12 hours trip to Minsk.

Tuesday morning up early … Hot gruel … what ever it was, thanking her folks for the accommodations, saying our goodbyes, (They hated to see Ulia leave as she had only been there for 4 days.) we made our way to the train station.

I was not aware of the train situation & was surprised that the 2^nd class compartments had 4 bunks in them. My next surprise was when two young Belarusian ladies were our compartment mates. My 1^st thought was, What would my wife think? Just a short round of Q &A’s we settled in for our half a day trip. We bought hot chai (Tea) from the porter to go with our meal now enhanced with the other girl’s contributions and settled into conversation with Ulia translating as fast as she could.

Twelve Hours later … MINSK The Capitol of the Republic Of Belarus! And The Cowboy Missionary in Action!

©2007