Category: Bible

Writer’s Log, May 30, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Baby Boomer Poets, Bible, Blog, Christian Poets, Christian Writers, coffee, Coffeehouse, Faith, Friends, Friendship, Happy, Hope, Inspirational, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Life, Male Poets, Memoir, Men Poets, Military Brat, Peace, Plans, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, Refuge, Rest, Southern Poets, Texas, Texas Poets, US Poets, Walking, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, WritingLeave a comment

Hey there! 😄 It’s May 30, 2023, and the Memorial Day weekend was off the charts! 🎉 Those pool parties were epic, but whoa, I’m seriously wiped out! Hanging with friends was a blast, but now I’m in desperate need of some quality alone time to recharge. 😴 Plus, there’s a mountain of cleaning waiting for me. Ugh, the struggle is real!

Last night, I hit the hay at 10:30 pm, but guess what? 😮 I woke up at 3 am! It was like my sleep took a detour or something. But thanks to my trusty melatonin, I managed to drift back into dreamland around 6 am. #SleepIssues 😴💤 Maybe I was mourning my Dallas Stars losing and their season coming to an end. Just saying. 😔

Anyway, I made my way to Starbucks, and I’m currently sipping on a delightful tall blonde roast coffee. ☕️ Ahh, the perfect pick-me-up! Later today, I’ve got an appointment with the allergist for a reassessment. 🤧 But before that, I’m planning to take a nice walk and dive into J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpiece, “The Fellowship of the Ring.” So much more to discover in the book compared to the epic but long movie! 📚 And you know what? I might even sneak in a quick power nap. Gotta recharge those batteries, ya know? 😉💪

By the way, what’s going on with you? Share your story! 👋😊 #ChillTime #CoffeeLover #Bookworm

Writer’s Log, May 29, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Baby Boomer Poets, Bible, Blog, Christian Living, Christian Love, Christian Poets, Christian Writers, coffee, Coffeehouse, Desires, Devotional, Devotions, Encouragement, Faith, Faithful, Friends, Friendship, Happy, Hope, Inspirational, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Life, Love, Male Poets, Memoir, Men Poets, Military Brat, Monday Moments, Morning Pages, Motivation, My Testimony, North American Poets, Patience, Peace, Plans, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, Praise, Prayer, Prayers, Refuge, Rest, Southern Poets, Strength, Texas, Texas Poets, Trust, Truth, US Poets, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, WritingLeave a comment

Jimmie Kepler at Starbucks.

🌟 Good morning, everyone! It’s Monday, May 29, 2023, and here in the United States 🇺🇸, we’re celebrating 🇺🇸 Memorial Day! 🇺🇸
As I drove down the streets this morning, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful American flags  🇺🇸 🇺🇸  lining the way. It’s a reminder of the incredible sacrifice made by the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving in the military. Today, we honor their memory and express our gratitude. 🙏
I drove to essential stop at Starbucks for my morning dose of caffeine and writing inspiration. ☕ While enjoying my cup of joe, I’ll be delving into my morning devotional time. Today, my prayers will be with the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, currently in session at the Ridge Conference Center in North Carolina. 📚 I hope their conference is filled with inspiration, knowledge, and meaningful connections.
As for me, I’ll be tackling the recommended changes from my editor during my writing session. There’s something magical about sipping a steaming cup of coffee while fingers to keyboard.
Oh, and before I forget, I have a quick errand to run at the store on my way home. I need to pick up a couple of bags of ice and some health and beauty items. Gotta be prepared for any situation that arises! 💪
Yesterday was a blast! We had an amazing pool party 💦 and celebrated the third birthdays for my girlfriend’s grandson. 🎉
Today, it’s all about tidying up and getting ready for another fun-filled day. No, we’re not repeating the birthday party, but we’re hosting another awesome pool party 💦 , this time with some of the talented ladies from my local writers group. It’s always a joy to share laughter, stories, and splashes with such a fantastic group. 💦
Now, let’s talk sports! The NASCAR race scheduled for Sunday was rained out, but don’t worry, it’s rescheduled for this afternoon. 🏎️ Fingers crossed for an exhilarating and action-packed race! I won’t watch it but will listen to it’s replay as I read before going to bed tonight.
And in NHL playoff hockey, tonight the Dallas Stars triumphed over the Vegas Golden Knights. 🏒 Of course, they haven’t played yet. I don’t have the inside scoop, but hey, a little hope and positive vibes can go a long way! I believe the Stars will win.
On this special Memorial Day, I want to wish each and every one of you a magnificent day! Let’s be the bright spot in someone’s life today and every day. Let’s radiate kindness, love, and compassion, showing others the beauty of God’s love through our actions. Together, we can make a difference! 💫
Enjoy the day, my friends, and may it be filled with cherished memories, laughter, and a whole lot of joy. Happy Memorial Day! 🎇

Writer’s Log, May 28, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Baby Boomer Poets, Bible, Bible Study, Blog, Christian Living, Christian Love, Christian Poets, Christian Writers, coffee, Coffeehouse, Encouragement, Faith, Friends, Friendship, Giving, Grace, Happy, Hope, Inspirational, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Life, Male Poets, Memoir, Men Poets, Military Brat, Motivation, North American Poets, Patience, Peace, Plans, Poet, Poet's Life, Praise, Prayer, Prayers, Rest, Southern Poets, Texas, Texas Poets, US Poets, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, WritingLeave a comment

🌞 Good morning, everyone! It’s Sunday, May 28, 2023! ☕️📝

Starting off the day with some #poolcleaning. Gotta keep that water sparkling! 💦💪

But first, #coffee! Enjoying a cup of blonde roast while I get my writing groove on. ✍️📚

Later on, I’m heading to #BibleFellowship class and #church. 🙏🏻⛪️ Always a great way to nourish the soul.

Exciting stuff happening today! It’s time for a #poolparty! 🎉🏊‍♀️ Celebrating my lady friend’s oldest grandson’s third birthday. Can’t wait for all the fun and cake!

Sending good vibes to my friends heading to the Ridgecrest Conference Center at Black Mountain, North Carolina. ✨✈️ They’re attending the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. Praying for safe travels, inspiration, and new writing skills for them. Also hoping they find the perfect agent and nail their book pitches with the publishers there.

Attention, motorheads! It’s a big day for racing fans. 🏁🏎️ The #Indy500 (Indy Car) and the #CocaCola600 (NASCAR) races are happening! Let’s cheer on Kyle Busch driving the #8 car for Richard Childress Racing! 🏆🏁

Hope you all have an amazing Sunday filled with joy and excitement! 😄✨💕

The selfie is from this morning. The hat? I’m a 1975 grad of The University of Texas at Arlington with a BA in history and English / military science minors. It’s from my university! #SundayVibes #HappySunday

Writer’s Log, May 26, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Baby Boomer Poets, Bible, Blog, coffee, Coffeehouse, Encouragement, Faith, Friends, Friendship, Happy, Hope, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Life, Love, Male Poets, Memoir, Men Poets, Military Brat, My Testimony, North American Poets, Peace, Plans, Poet, Poet's Life, Rest, Texas, Texas Poets, US Poets, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, WritingLeave a comment

Hey everyone! Happy Friday, May 26, 2023! Sending greetings from beautiful North Texas, USA! 🌟

Last night was a blast at Six Springs Tavern! 🎶 Wondering why this deep water, teetotaler Baptist went? Well, one of the awesome ladies from my Mensa group was rocking the stage with her girl group band. She asked us regular Mensa attendees to come and show our support, so we did! 💪

The last time I experienced live music was at Spillman Hall at Ridgecrest for the Blue Ridge Writers Conference last year. Last night my iWatch’s loud noise alarm kept going off because the music was so loud! 🎵 Some tunes reached a mind-blowing 128 dB!

For comparison, my Mercedes car stereo tops out at a modest 79 dB. Safety first, right? Even back in my folk-rock band days, I rocked hearing protection. Even though my dad hated my music and guitar playing, he gave me earplugs wear while playing to “avoid the family curse” of hearing loss. 😄 My mom, bless her heart, loved every noisy guitar riff I played!

There were six amazing bands performing last night, each with a thrilling thirty-minute set. The music spanned from Led Zeppelin to Hank Williams, showcasing incredible talent. Special shoutout to the Hank Williams Band (aka Hillbilly Shakespeare Band) – their musicianship was out of this world! 🎸 And they covered every Hank Williams hit! Their standup bass player even teaches music at a local university and plays with the symphony. Talk about impressive!

One of the bands had a female lead singer who channeled the spirit of Grace Slick (Jefferson Airplane), Janis Joplin and even Debby Harry of the band Blondie fame. Her covers of “White Rabbit” and “One Way or Another” were mind-blowing! 🎤 And let’s not forget the blues band that closed the night, rocking the stage with some killer guitar skills. Wow! 🎶

By the way, the fountain Dr Pepper at Six Springs Tavern was the best I’ve ever had, and their burger was almost as good as the ones at JG’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers!

Speaking of JG’s, I had a lovely chat with Morris, the former owner, when we unexpectedly bumped into each other shopping at Costco. We caught up for about 20 minutes, chatting about life, health, family, and everything in between. It’s heartwarming to see how proud he is of his wife, daughters 💖and grandchildren. Family love is truly special! ❤️

Guess where I am right now? Starbucks! ☕️ Getting ready to kickstart my day, even though I didn’t get enough sleep. That late night Dr. Pepper’s caffeine must have got to me lol.

Writing mode on! I’m working on some rewrite and corrections, going through the editor’s recommendations for my book on Hope. Let’s make it shine! ✍️💫

Later today, I’ll soak up some fresh air while reading outdoors. But first, I have to conquer the mosquitoes and do a little yard work to prep for an epic Memorial Day Weekend Pool Party! 🏊‍♀️🎉

And hey, I’ll be the designated driver for my friends’ Happy Hour meet-up. Safety first, always! No, I don’t do Happy Hour. But I work to keep friends safe. Between my drop-offs, them getting all happy, and my picking them up, I’ll run errands, enjoy a walk at the mall, and chill at the coffee shop with more JRR Tolkien reading material.

In the evening, I’m beyond excited for the series finale of The Magnificent Mrs. Maisel! 🎉📺 I’ve fallen in love with the show and its incredible characters. It’s going to be an emotional rollercoaster, but I can’t wait!

And guess what’s happening on Saturday? Brace yourselves, Potterheads! ⚡️I’m heading to the Angelika Theater in Plano, Texas for a magical big-screen experience of Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban at 11 AM! 🎬✨ The theater will be buzzing with Potter lovers of all ages, and I’m thrilled to join them for an unforgettable cinematic journey. Some – not me – will even come in their robes.

Weekends like these are what life’s all about! 🌈 So, let’s make the most of this Friday and dive into a fantastic weekend ahead.

Wishing you all a fabulous day and a magical weekend! And don’t forget to include Sunday worship services!

Stay awesome, my friends! Keep smiling and keep on keeping on! 💖😃

Writer’s Log, May 25, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Baby Boomer Poets, Bible, Bible Study, Bible Verse, Blog, Business, Businessperson, Christian Business, Christian Businessman, Christian Businessperson, Christian Businesswoman, Christian Living, Christian Love, Christian Poets, Christian Writers, coffee, Coffeehouse, Devotional, Devotions, Encouragement, Faith, Faithful, Friends, Friendship, Happy, Hope, Inspirational, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Life, Light, Love, Male Poets, Memoir, Men Poets, Military Brat, Morning Pages, Motivation, My Testimony, North American Poets, Peace, Plans, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, Praise, Rest, Southern Poets, Strength, Texas, Texas Poets, Thursday Thoughts, US Poets, Verse, Walking, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, WritingLeave a comment

Jimmie Kepler in a hat and black t-shirt. The t-shirt has the word ABBA on the front in gold letters.

🌟🌞 Happy Thursday, May 25, 2023! 🌞🌟

It’s a terrific Thursday, and I’m feeling energized and ready to conquer the day! 💪😄 I decided to treat myself to some extra rest and slept in until 9:30 AM. 😴⏰ Starting the day with a good night’s sleep sets the tone for success!

After waking up, I took my morning RXs to keep my health in check. 💊🌿 Health is wealth, and I’m all about taking care of myself. No one can love or care about you more than you!😇

To nourish my spirit, I indulged in my morning devotion and Bible reading. The text was an old favorite Psalm 56:3, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. 📖🙏 It’s important to find moments of peace and reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of life.

I got some wonderful news from my high school age granddaughter! 🎉👩‍🎓 She passed all her finals! 🎓💯 Proud grandpa moment right here! 😍💕

Fueling my creative juices, I made my way to Starbucks for some delicious coffee and writing time. ☕✍️ There’s something magical about sipping a warm cup of joe while letting the words flow onto the page.

Yesterday, my friend Les Hall lent a helping hand and together we installed a brand new single post hand rail by the front door. Safety first, folks! 🚪✋ I’m taking every precaution to prevent any falls and keep myself safe and sound.

Later, I enjoyed a delightful evening meal of spaghetti with Les and my beautiful and mysterious girlfriend “she who can’t be named on the Internet.” 😉🍝 Good food and great company make for a perfect combination!

This afternoon, I’ll be diving into some writing admin stuff, reading – immersing myself in captivating writing of JRR Tolkien, walking, and allowing myself some well-deserved rest. 📚😌 It’s all about finding the balance between productivity and relaxation.

Speaking of organization, today it’s time to refill my pill organizer. With nineteen daily RXs, it’s no small task! But I’m determined to stay on top of it to ensure my well-being. 💪💊

Tonight, at 6 PM Dallas time, I’m super excited for my one-line writer’s group on Zoom! 📝✨ Sharing ideas and connecting with fellow writers is always inspiring and uplifting. These writers are like extended family to me. No lonely old man here when I have all these friends.

After the writer’s group, I’ll be heading to a local club to support a talented lady from my Mensa group. 🎶🎹 She’s part of a fantastic 1960s/1970s girls singer cover band, and I can’t wait to cheer her on! Go, Anne! 🎤🎵I’m wearing my ABBA t-shirt today to support her. 🎵🎵🎵

As the night winds down, I’ll return home for my usual late-night reading session and more time with the master wordsmith, JRR Tolkien. 🌙📚 Losing myself in the pages of a captivating book helps me unwind, relax, and drift off into dreamland. 😴💤

Wishing you all a fabulous Thursday filled with joy, achievements, and memorable moments! Let’s make the most of this terrific day! 💖And live a wonderful life. ✨

#TerrificThursday #PositiveVibes #SafetyFirst #ProudParent #StarbucksTime #WritingCommunity #SupportLocalMusic #bookwormlife

Writer’s Log, May 23, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Baby Boomer Poets, Bible, Blog, Christ Jesus, Christian Business, Christian Businessman, Christian Businessperson, Christian Businesswoman, Christian Living, Christian Love, Christian Poets, Christian Writers, coffee, Coffeehouse, Devotional, Devotions, Encouragement, Faith, Friends, Friendship, God, God the Father, God the Holy Spirit, God the Son, Grace, Happy, Hope, Inspirational, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Love, Male Poets, Memoir, Men Poets, Military Brat, Motivation, My Testimony, North American Poets, Patience, Peace, Plans, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, Praise, Refuge, Rest, Southern Poets, Texas, Texas Poets, Trust, Truth, US Poets, Verse, Walking, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, WritingLeave a comment

Jimmie sitting at the coffee shop

🌟 Good morning, fabulous peeps! Peeps means people. Who needs “people” when we’ve got a whole new lingo? 😄✨ Just had a blast chatting with this awesome college student who schooled me on the meaning of “peeps.” She looked at the confusion on my face when she greeted her friends.

She looked at me and asked, “what’s a peep?” I answered, “those little yellow marshmallow candy things they stores sell at Easter.” She and her peeps bust out laughing. Then she explained. Born in the early 2000s, she’s got the inside scoop! And shared it with me … 💫 So rise and shine, folks, because it’s TUESDAY! Time to seize the day with boundless enthusiasm and a mega-watt smile! 😄✨

Who’s feeling those Tuesday vibes today? 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️ Let’s kick off this day right by spreading some serious positivity and joy all around.

Remember, a little dose of positivity can work wonders! I’m a total believer in Jesus Christ, and I know that my attitude and good vibes can influence everyone I interact with today. It’s like a ripple effect of love and happiness! 🌈✨ So let’s dial down the moodiness and share the love and peace. Be the radiant light that others need in their lives!

Alright, spill the beans, peeps! What’s on your agenda for today? Are you diving headfirst into a new project, smashing your goals, or simply enjoying the journey? Let’s dish out our daily motivations and inspire each other like there’s no tomorrow! 🚀💪

My agenda? You guessed it, I’m currently stationed at my favorite coffee house for my morning writing session. As soon as I walked in, I received five big hello Jimmies and waves from all the regulars around here.

Three of the super cool baristas were genuinely thrilled to see me. They even mentioned how I bring some sparkle to their morning! 😊 One of them even asked, “Why aren’t you grumpy like most older guys?” I flashed my brightest smile and replied, “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart!” 🌈

And guess what? Two regulars said hey when I entered. They always ask if I’m back to write some more today. I even got asked why I write about Jesus and the Bible. I simply share my testimony and the latest Bible verse that spoke to me during my regular devotional time. I keep it short and sweet, telling my own story. The rest is up to the Big Guy upstairs!

Oh, and don’t forget to pamper yourself today with some self-care. Sip on your favorite cuppa ☕️, take a leisurely stroll in nature 🌳, or crank up the volume on your go-to tunes or playlist 🎶—find those little moments of bliss throughout the day! 😊 As part of my self-care routine, I’m heading for two allergy shots. 💖 Yep, I’ll be taking my stroll too, but in the comfort of an air-conditioned mall. Gotta get those daily steps in to keep both mind and body in top shape!

Hey, let’s spread some serious love and kindness today! Take a moment to reach out to someone, send a sweet message their way, or maybe even give them a virtual hug.

It’s the small acts of kindness that can turn someone’s day around. Hey, how about treating that person behind you in the coffee house line to a cup of joe? You know, the one who could use a little pick-me-up? 🤗💕

Remember, you’ve got the power to make today absolutely fantastic, for yourself and others! Let’s make this Tuesday one for the books, filled with positivity, laughter, and all-around good vibes! And hey, it’s not just Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys who deserve to feel those good vibrations (yeah, that’s a throwback reference to fifty-six years ago, folks!) 🎉✨

Sending virtual hugs and high-fives to all my fabulous friends! Have an absolutely amazing Tuesday, and let’s make it a day to remember! Let’s make it a day for the books, the record books, the books we’re devouring, and the books we’re dreaming of writing! 🌟💙 #TuesdayVibes #SpreadPositivity #GoodVibesOnly #Jesus #ImaBeliever

Writer’s Log, May 21, 2023

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Baby Boomer Poets, Bible, Bible Study, Blog, Business, Businessperson, Christian Business, Christian Businessman, Christian Businessperson, Christian Businesswoman, Christian Living, Christian Love, Christian Poets, Christian Writers, coffee, Coffeehouse, Devotional, Devotions, Faith, Friends, Friendship, Happy, Hope, Inspirational, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Life, Love, Male Poets, Memoir, Men Poets, Military Brat, Motivation, My Testimony, North American Poets, Peace, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, Refuge, Rest, Southern Poets, Texas, Texas Poets, US Poets, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, WritingLeave a comment

Jimmie Kepler sitting in Starbucks coffee house.

🌸 Good morning, everyone! ☀️ It’s May 21, 2023, and I’m feeling perky and ready to embrace the day! 🎉 The weather outside is a delightful 66°F, providing the perfect backdrop for my morning adventures.
Last night was an absolute blast! 💃🏼🌙 I had the pleasure of dining with some amazing friends at Seasons 52 in the lovely Shops at Legacy in Plano. Let me tell you, those three ladies looked absolutely stunning! 😍👗 Finding parking in that area can be quite a challenge at that venue, but I made the smart choice of valet parking, and it turned out to be marvelous!
The evening was filled with delectable food, engaging conversations, and the company of fabulous people. Dining with those who are special to you is always a fantastic decision, don’t you agree? ❤️
This morning, as I hit the road, I was greeted by light traffic, making my commute a breeze. I made my way to my favorite coffee spot, settled in, and got ready to stream the Sunday morning worship services at my church. 🙏🏼✨ There’s something magical about starting the day with spiritual nourishment. After that, at 11 AM, it’s time to connect with my Bible fellowship class through Zoom. It’s amazing how technology keeps us all connected, no matter the distance!
In other news, have you heard about the recent announcement from Amazon? 📚🔔 They’ve decided to raise the price of Kindle Unlimited starting in June. Currently, it costs $9.99 per month, allowing you to read as many books as your heart desires from their extensive library. However, with the new price increase and considering my current reading habits, I’ve decided to cancel my subscription. Sorry, Amazon! 😔
Instead, I’ve started buying ebooks or print copies directly from the authors themselves. It feels great to support them while enjoying their wonderful creations. Plus, I’ve cancelled Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube TV when they raised prices. See a pattern here? Canceling subscriptions when the prices go up! 💸😉
So, what are my plans for the rest of the day? It’s all about rest, relaxation, and indulging in some good old-fashioned reading! 📚✨ There’s nothing quite like immersing yourself in a captivating story and letting the outside world fade away. I hope you all have a marvelous day filled with joy, laughter, and all the things that bring you happiness. Take care, my dear friends! ❤️

Why I Write

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My book “Caregiving: Biblical Insights From a Caregiver’s Journey” has been as high as #2 in paid sales in it’s category on Amazon. I write to share Jesus.

Morning Writing

My tall blonde roast coffee is sitting on the table. I’m at my usual table at my regular coffee house ready to begin my morning session. I know that in the age of mystics, life coaches, spiritual coaches, etc. that Jesus Christ and the Christian God isn’t that cool to many people and God is the brunt of disdain to some. But it’s God (God the Father, God the Son i.e .Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit) that I unapologetically write about.  

Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship

I’m 85% finished with the first draft of “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship” It’s book three in my series, “The Bible Speaks to Life Issues.” Book one in the series is “Prayers for the Chronically Ill.” Book two is “Caregiving: Biblical Insights From a Caregivers Journey.” 

Bible Teaches About God

I remember what the Bible teaches about God. When Moses asked who shall I tell the Egyptians that send me, in Exodus 3:14 God spoke to Moses and said, “And God said unto Moses, I Am That I Am: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.” In a time when other cultures and peoples had gods of their creation and naming, God  replies to Moses without a name but a statement. The answer given here is crucial for understanding the identity and nature of God. This response becomes foundational in both Jewish and Christian theology. 

I AM WHO I AM

God identifies Himself using a phrase which is actually a description, or a statement: “I AM WHO I AM” or simply “I AM.” The first phrase, in Hebrew, is e’heyeh aser’ e’heyeh. This is most simply translated as “I am who I am.” Other translations of this important phrase include, “I am what I am,” or, “I will be what I will be,” and it could be taken to mean “that which will be, I am, that which will be” or similar ideas. Even in Hebrew, this is a statement which is not merely expressed as a name, or a word, or a description. This is a poetic expression of God’s very nature. 

God identifies Himself as the self-existent One

The statement carries a sense of necessity, simplicity, and absolute-ness. In using this particular phrasing, God identifies Himself as the self-existent One—the eternal, unique, uncreated God. God just is. He is the ultimate truth, the only necessary being, the beginning and end, the first cause. The question of who speaks from the burning bush is given an answer which is both simple and profound: “I AM.” This is how Moses would have interpreted the response, given the Hebrew words used.

No man cometh unto the Father, but by me

I’m reminded of the I AM statement in John 14:6 where Jesus is speaking and says, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” 

The only answer is Jesus

Good teachings, great philosophies, and the coolest life coaches are great but no the answer. The only answer is Jesus Christ. The timeless, unchanging, uncompromising teachings of the Bible about God and Jesus Christ are the ultimate answer. When you explore other teachings, philosophies, gurus etc.you are actually being a seeker of truth. Seek God and you’ll find the answer. You’ll find fulfillment, direction, purpose and even book a place in heaven for eternity.

Why I write

And that’s why I get up and come write almost every morning. I do it to share Jesus and share how the Bible speaks to us on life issues.

My story of accepting Jesus

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.

Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways by J.F. Penn

Posted in @jimmiekepler, Authors, Bible, Blog, Book Marketing, Book Reviews, Christian Living, coffee, Coffeehouse, Encouragement, Faith, Faithful, Freezing rain, Friends, Hope, Inspirational, Inspire, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Memoir, Motivation, Plans, Refuge, Rest, Strength, tea, The Way, Travel, Travel Tuesdays, WalkingLeave a comment
Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways

So, have you heard of “Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways” by J.F. Penn? It’s an amazing book that follows the author’s solo walks along three ancient pilgrim routes: the Pilgrim’s Way, the St. Cuthbert’s Way (both in the UK), and the Camino de Santiago in Portugal and Spain.

Personal experiences, challenges, and insights

Penn shares her personal experiences, challenges, and insights as she walks these routes and reflects on the lessons she learned along the way. The book is divided into three sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the journey. The introduction gives you a glimpse into her personal faith journey pilgrimage, which helps set the tone for the rest of the book.

Part 1: Preparation

In the first section, “Part 1: Preparation,” she takes you through her preparation for the journey, including practical information on gear, accommodation, and navigation. She also shares her reflections on the inner journey and her fears, which makes her relatable and vulnerable.

Part 2: The Journey

In the second section, “Part 2: The Journey,” Penn describes her experiences along the way, and the lessons she learned about herself, the world, and the pilgrim tradition. She also includes helpful information for anyone who might want to walk these routes, like hardships, lodging, and eating options.

Part 3: Arriving and the Return

In the third section, “Part 3: Arriving and the Return,” she talks about the letdown of the journey, the unique personal experience, and returning to the real world.

What I love about “Pilgrimage”

What I love about “Pilgrimage” is how Penn weaves together personal anecdotes, historical and cultural information, and philosophical reflections. Her writing is clear and sincere, and she shares both her joys and challenges with honesty and humility. The descriptions of the landscapes, people, and cultures she encounters are vivid and evocative, and she brings a sense of wonder and curiosity to her journey that is contagious.

“Pilgrimage” is a beautifully written and deeply insightful book that will appeal to anyone interested in pilgrimage, travel, or personal growth. Penn’s reflections on the spiritual and psychological benefits of pilgrimage are especially moving and will resonate with readers seeking to deepen their own understanding of themselves and the world around them. 

I highly recommend this book! Five stars.

 

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