Monthly Archives: June 2017

When in China a few years back I bought this lovely cloisonne flower holder or whatever it should be called.   Elizabeth cut the marigolds that are blooming in our garden and arranged them beautifully in this flat vase.

In him we were also chosen. Ephesians 1:11 In him (Christ) we were also chosen.  If I am not mistaken, Paul is including himself in the “we” here.  This is the great leveler, Jew and Gentile alike are chosen; as … Continue reading →

Here is one of our first monarch larva of the year on our milkweed plant. It is hard to imagine that a few months ago the parent of this fellow was hanging in a rain forest in Mexico.

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his will … Continue reading →

Elizabeth just got her first ballet dancing shoes, note the square toes for her stylish tip-toe stance.  The first time anything like this was on our oak kitchen table.  Elizabeth will have a several hour practice today.

In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. Ephesians 1:5 – … Continue reading →

Our rose season, early June, was prolific.  Now a few remain to bid good-bye until the second round of blooms, a bit later.

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. Ephesians 1:4 The Ephesians must have certainly asked, “Who are God’s chosen people?”  There were Jews among them, but most … Continue reading →

This is our upper pond, bordered by geraniums.  This morning I noticed many wee, wee fish-lings swimming about.  So life goes on. The large green plant to the left is getting ready to attract butterflies that the frogs love!  The … Continue reading →

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. Ephesians 1:4 I note three things that Paul is emphasizing at this point.  First, we believers, Jews and Gentiles alike, … Continue reading →