Sunday, September 13, 2026

🌾 Melvin’s Singing Lessons

🌾 Melvin’s Singing Lessons

Melvin the donkey with a BIG voice. When he brayed, the barn doors rattled, the chickens scattered, and the windmill spun a little faster. Melvina, his sweet wife, had a soft, beautiful voice that floated like sunshine across Peacefield Farm.

One bright morning, Melvina said, “Melvin, dear, let’s practice your singing.”

Then Melvin let out a note so LOUD that:

Clara‑Belle the Cow dropped her hay
Percy the Pig dove into the mud
Hattie the Hen laid an egg
Mr. Whiskerford the Cat fainted (dramatically)

Melvina blinked, her bow fluttering. “Well… that was strong, Melvin.”

Clara‑Belle trotted over, ears ringing. “Mercy, Melvin… I thought the tractor exploded.”

Percy snorted. “I thought the barn roof was coming down!”

Hattie clucked nervously. “I thought the sky was falling!”

Melvin’s ears drooped. “I just want to sing like Melvina…”

Melvina nuzzled him gently. “Oh, Melvin… you don’t need a small voice. You just need a guided voice. And remember — you can do all things through Christ.”

Children can color Melvina encouraging Melvin.

Melvin straightened, encouraged. He tried again — this time aiming for less thunder, more melody.

The note that came out was still loud… but warm, steady, and surprisingly pleasant.

Clara‑Belle mooed. Percy tossed corn like confetti. Hattie fainted again. Mr. Whiskerford revived just long enough to faint a second time.

Then Bartholomew the Rooster strutted in proudly. “I heard singing!” He crowed loudly — and terribly off-key.

Just as Melvin finished his latest booming note, a familiar sound drifted from the pond — a chorus of honks, squawks, and fluttering feathers. It was the Goose Choir, led by Gerald the Goose‑Maestro, wearing his usual serious expression and a feather bowtie that never stayed straight.

“Melvin’s taking singing lessons?” Gerald gasped. The other geese honked in disbelief. “From Melvina?” “Does she have earplugs?” “Should we evacuate the pond?”

Melvina smiled politely. “Now, now, geese — Melvin’s learning to sing with joy, not just volume.”

Gerald puffed his chest. “Well, we are professionals. Perhaps we can assist.”

The geese lined up, lifted their wings, and began their warm‑up honks. Melvin joined in — loudly, proudly, and completely off‑key. The result was so thunderous that:

The pond rippled like a storm,
The scarecrow lost his hat,
Percy’s mud puddle formed waves,
and Clara‑Belle’s milk pail vibrated off the fence.

Gerald staggered backward. “Melvin! You’ve invented a new genre — Goose‑Opera!”

Melvina laughed until tears sparkled in her eyes. “See, Melvin? Even the Goose Choir can’t out‑sing your joy.”

Just when the Goose Choir finished honking their dramatic reactions and Melvin threw back his head in hearty laughter, a new sound bubbled up from the barnyard.

Squeeeeee! Squee‑squee‑SQUEAL!

It was Percy the Pig — trotting forward with excitement, mud splashing from his hooves. Behind him waddled Petunia, Pip, and Puddle, each one squealing in their own cheerful pitch.

Percy puffed out his chest. “Melvin! That was the funniest singing lesson I’ve ever heard!”

Petunia squealed a high note. Pip squealed a low note. Puddle squealed a note that wiggled like a worm.

Together they chimed in with a joyful chorus of piggy praise:

“Squeee! Squee‑squee! SQUEAL‑la‑lu‑jah!”

Melvin laughed even harder — his whole belly shaking. Melvina giggled behind her hoof. The Goose Choir honked in rhythm. Clara‑Belle mooed. Hattie clucked. Mr. Whiskerford fainted again.

Even the Scarecrow tipped his hat and called out, “Those pigs have better rhythm than I do — Ha Ha Ha!”

The geese recovered, honked in harmony, and finally joined Melvin for one glorious, funny finale — a barnyard symphony of honks, brays, and laughter that echoed across Peacefield Farm.

When Melvin’s booming voice rolled across Peacefield Farm, even the Goose Choir lost their rhythm. Feathers flew, honks echoed, and the pond rippled like a storm. From his post near the fence, the Scarecrow wobbled on his stick, hat tilted sideways, straw arms flapping.

He steadied himself, chuckled, and called out, “He nearly scared me to death — Ha Ha Ha!”

The geese honked louder, Melvina laughed until tears sparkled, and Melvin threw back his head and laughed too. He always saw the humor in things — even when his notes shook the rafters.

The barnyard rang with laughter and praise, a joyful noise that made every creature smile. And Melvin remembered:

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13 (KJV)

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At "treasurebox18@yahoo.com" All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include Site Name And Link Back To This Blog. Thank-You.Images are not all Christian, but put here for the purposes of doing good works of faith, family and country.

Saturday, September 12, 2026

Fall Faithfulness

When autumn's breath begins to sweep

Across the hills in colors deep,

And golden leaves drift soft and slow,

Like whispered grace from long ago,

The faithful trees release their hold,

Their crimson crowns, their robes of gold.

Yet standing firm through changing days,

They praise their Maker in silent ways.

The summer blooms have come and gone,

The harvest moon still lingers on.

And through the cool and shortening light,

God's promises remain in sight.

For every leaf that meets the ground

Declares His faithfulness profound.

Each fading field and darkened sky

Proclaims His love will never die.

The sparrow finds His hand still near,

The pilgrim finds His voice still clear.

The winds may rise, the seasons turn,

Yet heaven's lamps continue to burn.

When hopes seem bare as autumn trees,

And sorrow rides on restless breeze,

The Lord who guides the falling rain

Will bring the springtime bloom again.

No gathered cloud can hide His face,

No passing trial exhaust His grace.

The God who paints the woodland flame

Is ever faithful, still the same.

So let the amber forests sing,

And every thankful heart take wing.

For through the seasons, great and small,

Christ walks beside us through them all.

And when life's final autumn comes,

And earth grows quiet, still, and hushed,

The faithful Savior will appear,

With words that calm our deepest fear.

Then every tear shall be made bright,

Transformed within His perfect light.

And we shall stand before His throne,

To praise the One through Truth we've known.

Through autumn's beauty, rich and vast,

We glimpse a faithfulness that lasts.

The leaves may fall, the years may flee,

But God remains eternally.

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

Hebrews 13:8

©Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026

Quote That I Heard Today That Cut at My Heart

I can prove that this quote is a lie: I felt that this was directed at me for some reason.

"A liar spends years building a bridge that honesty could have crossed in a single step."

I once called my blog a bridge that was nearly 20 yrs ago. I've been working on this blog for nearly 20 yrs. I closed my blog down once and restarted it. I was being attacked by really bad stuff. I made very little money for ads and decided to stop ads because it was less grief for me and protected those reading. I did not lie to anyone. Though I was accused of it, not to my face. I have had allot of tears and rejection. I feel hurt but i go forward because there is a bigger purpose. Eternity is my purpose. people are my purpose even if it's only one person. I am faithful. I say that out of truth, not pride. Mostly, anything worthwhile takes a lot of work. if it seems you can take a person's blessing. No matter what you've done today or in the past, only what's done with righteous motives for Christ will last for eternity. I never said what color I was because I wanted to reach all people and I treated them all the same. The only money I have is what my loving husband gives me. I wanted to help other people but as soon mentioned it the troubles began. I spent my own money and i was treated poorly as though I owed people something. We fill baskets when we can as a church ministry. No money has come to me from anyone else as far as I know. We have helped people other ways, but I do not owe any man anything other than our own bills. We as a family put baskets together when we can. I do not owe anyone explanations. The ones wanting explanations never gave us a penny.

I've done my very best for Jesus...sometimes I make mistakes when I'm tired ... my eyes are tired.

I know Jesus never took up for himself; I try to follow his example.

©Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026

🤠 “When the Storm Turned Back”

🤠 “When the Storm Turned Back”

The folks of Willow Bend had seen storms before, but nothing like the one rolling in that autumn afternoon. The sky bruised purple, the wind howled through the cottonwoods, and every rancher in town hurried to tie down what they could. The schoolhouse bell rang twice — the warning signal — and fear settled over the valley like a heavy blanket.

Sheriff Tom Branson stood on the church steps, hat pressed to his chest. “This one’s comin’ fast,” he said. “Too fast.” The cattle were still out on the ridge, and the children were still making their way home. It looked hopeless.

Then Miss Clara, the schoolteacher with a quiet faith and a steady voice, stepped forward. “We need to pray,” she said. “Right now.”

The townspeople gathered — boots planted, heads bowed, hearts trembling. Clara lifted her voice above the rising wind. “Lord, You calmed storms before. Do it again. Turn this one back.”

As her prayer rose, the storm roared louder… then paused. A strange stillness swept across the valley. The clouds shuddered, twisted, and — as if pushed by an unseen hand — began to roll backward, retreating toward the distant hills.

Children ran safely into their mothers’ arms. Ranchers watched in awe as the cattle trotted home unharmed. Sheriff Branson wiped the rain from his face and whispered, “I’ve never seen anything like that.”

That night, Clara wrote in her journal:

“The God who commands the wind still hears His people. When the storm came for us, He turned it back.”

From that day on, Willow Bend never doubted that prayer could change the sky itself — and that God still works miracles in the West.

Friday, July 10, 2026

(USA) When the Fireworks Went Silent

Image For This Post Only

(USA) When the Fireworks Went Silent

A July Story of Healing, Hope, and the Gentle Voice of God

The Fourth of July had always been loud for Michael — not because of celebration, but because of memory. He was a veteran who carried the kind of wounds no doctor could see. Every crack of a firework felt like a flashback. Every boom rattled his heart. Every spark in the sky reminded him of nights he wished he could forget.

His family tried to understand, but trauma is a quiet companion. It follows a man into the grocery store, into the church pew, into the stillness of night. And on July 4th, it followed Michael onto his back porch as the neighborhood prepared for its annual fireworks display.

He sat alone, hands trembling, praying silently, “Lord… I don’t want to be afraid anymore.”

The sky lit up with color. Children laughed. Families cheered. But Michael felt the familiar tightening in his chest. He closed his eyes, bracing himself for the next explosion.

Then — suddenly — everything stopped.

The fireworks went silent.

The neighborhood had blown a fuse. The entire display shut down mid‑show. No booms. No cracks. No flashes. Just quiet.

Michael opened his eyes. The sky was still. The air was calm. And in that unexpected silence, he felt something he hadn’t felt in years — peace.

A verse rose in his heart, one he had memorized long ago:

“Be still, and know that I am God…” Psalm 46:10

He whispered, “Lord… You heard me.”

His wife stepped onto the porch, surprised by the sudden quiet. She found Michael with tears streaming down his face — not from fear, but from relief.

“The fireworks stopped,” she said softly.

Michael nodded. “Yes… and so did the fear.”

Later that night, the neighborhood fixed the fuse and the fireworks resumed. But something had changed. Michael didn’t flinch. He didn’t tremble. He didn’t hide. He watched the sky with a calm heart, knowing God had met him in the silence.

He said afterward, “God didn’t take away the fireworks — He took away the fear.”

From that July forward, Michael celebrated Independence Day not just as a holiday, but as a personal victory. A reminder that God hears whispered prayers. A reminder that healing can come in unexpected ways. A reminder that even in the loudest seasons of life, God can create a moment of silence just for you.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©MBANNABENPAPAGEOPASTORNMRMPMPBKB #1003 e

Sunday, July 5, 2026

Prayer of Thanksgiving for America’s 250 Years

Heavenly Father, We come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the blessings You have poured upon this land. For two hundred and fifty years, You have guided our nation through trials and triumphs, through seasons of testing and renewal. You have raised up men and women who sought liberty, justice, and truth — gifts that flow only from Your hand.

Lord, we thank You for the freedom to worship, to speak, to serve, and to dream. We thank You for the beauty of our fields and mountains, our rivers and shores, and for the courage of those who have defended them. May this anniversary remind us that every good thing comes from You, and that righteousness exalts a nation.

Teach us to walk humbly, love mercy, and seek peace. Let Your Word be the lamp that guides our steps, and Your Spirit the wind that renews our hearts. Bless our leaders with wisdom, our families with unity, and our people with compassion. May America ever be a light that honors You — a nation under God, indivisible, steadfast in faith and hope.

We give You all glory for these 250 years of grace, and we trust You for the days to come.

In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©

🎵 A Song of Appreciation for a Nation Under God

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©MBAnnaBen

Verse 1

Lord, You raised this land in mercy,

By Your hand we stand today.

Through the storms and through the triumphs,

You have led us all the way.

From the mountains to the prairies,

Freedom’s banner has been unfurled;

You have blessed this shining nation,

A light of hope unto the world.

Chorus

We thank You, Lord, for a nation under God,

For the grace that holds us steady as we trod.

Let our hearts lift high Your praise,

Let our voices sing always—

God bless America, forever under God.

Verse 2

You have kept our fathers faithful,

You have guided every soul;

In our homes and in our churches,

You have made our spirits whole.

May we walk in truth and kindness,

May we stand for what is right;

Let Your Word be our foundation,

Let Your love be our guiding light.

Chorus

We thank You, Lord, for a nation under God,

For the grace that holds us steady as we trod.

Let our hearts lift high Your praise,

Let our voices sing always—

God bless America, forever under God.

Bridge

From sea to shining sea,

Let Your truth keep us free;

May Your peace ever be

Our song.

Final Chorus

We thank You, Lord, for a nation under God,

For the grace that holds us steady as we trod.

Let our hearts lift high Your praise,

Let our voices sing always—

God bless America, forever under God.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©MBAnnaBen

Thursday, July 2, 2026

🎶 When Jesus Calls 🎶

A Gospel-Inspired Song of Faith and Surrender

Verse 1

I was walking through the shadows,

Lost and weary, filled with doubt.

Then I heard a voice so gentle,

Calling softly, calling out.

Through the silence, through the storm,

Came a whisper, strong and true:

"Come to Me, I'll lead you home,"

And I knew His promise too.

Chorus

When Jesus calls, the darkness flees,

Chains are broken, hearts find peace.

Grace like rivers overflows,

Love within my spirit grows.

I'll rise and follow, give Him all,

I find new life when Jesus calls.

Verse 2

He doesn't call the perfect ones,

But those who stumble, those who fall.

He lifts the humble, heals the broken,

And freely offers grace to all.

I was blind, but now I see;

I was bound, but now I'm free.

Jesus spoke my name in love,

And gave His life on Calvary.

Bridge

Every mountain, every sea,

My Savior walks each step with me.

No power can steal the hope I've found,

His faithful love will still abound.

No night is dark, no road too long;

In Christ alone my heart is strong.

Final Chorus

When Jesus calls, the heavens sing,

Hope awakens everything.

Morning light fills all the skies,

Joy eternal never dies.

I'll rise and follow, give Him all,

I find my life when Jesus calls.

Ending

When Jesus calls... I'll answer, "Here am I."

Trusting Him until the day

I see Him face to face on high.

Forever His—through grace I stand;

Forever safe within His hand.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©

MBANNAadBENPMRMNMPBKBPASTGEOR #3000

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Amazing Grace Baptist Church Bulletin July 28th

“One Nation Under God”

(Reverent • Inspirational • Faith and Freedom)

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.”

— Psalm 33:12 (KJV)

Let banners wave in morning light, Let hearts lift high in prayer; For freedom’s flame was born of faith, And God’s own hand was there.

He led our fathers through the storm, He crowned their hopes with grace; He gave this land its noble dream— To seek His holy face.

When truth is loved and mercy reigns, The nation stands secure; When righteousness exalts the land, Its blessings shall endure.

So may our homes be altars bright, Our churches lamps of peace; Our children learn the Word of God, And love that will not cease.

Let every flag remind our hearts, Of Heaven’s guiding rod; For we are strong, we are free, When we are one — under God.

© 2026 Susan Barker Nikitenko — All Rights Reserved

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

“We must be the watchmen on the walls of freedom.” — Ronald Reagan

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

“Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.” — Ronald Reagan

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” — Edmund Burke

🌿 Prayer for Our Church Family — July 28th

Gracious Lord, Thank You for the precious family You’ve gathered in this place. Fill our hearts with Your love, our minds with Your wisdom, and our steps with Your purpose.

Help us to walk in unity and peace, to speak kindness, and to serve with joy. Let our worship rise like morning light, and our fellowship shine with the beauty of Christ.

Strengthen the weary, comfort the lonely, and heal those who are hurting. Make our church a beacon of truth and grace in a world that needs Your light.

Teach us to trust You more each day, to love one another deeply, and to live as faithful witnesses of Your mercy.

🇺🇸 A Small Prayer for Our Country

Dear Lord, Bless our country with Your guiding light. Give wisdom to our leaders, strength to those who protect us, and peace to every home and heart. Help us to walk in righteousness, love one another, and seek Your truth in all things. Shine Your grace across our land, and keep us faithful to You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

🕯️🎵 Devotional Lesson: “Lead the Way”

Theme: Following God’s Light Wherever He Leads Scripture: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” — Psalm 119:105 (KJV) \

⭐ Opening Thought

Long ago, travelers carried lanterns to find their way through the dark. Today, we carry something brighter — God’s Word — a light that never fades. When we sing “Lead the Way,” we’re reminding our hearts that Jesus is our Guide, even when the path feels uncertain.

⭐ Story‑Lesson

One evening, a young girl named Anna was walking home from church with her family. The stars were hidden behind clouds, and the road seemed darker than usual. Anna held her little lantern tightly, watching its glow dance across the path.

Suddenly, she stumbled on a stone and almost dropped the lantern. “Daddy,” she whispered, “I can’t see very far.”

Her father smiled. “That’s all right, sweetheart. The lantern shows just enough for the next step. That’s how God’s Word works too — it doesn’t always show the whole road, but it always shows the next right thing.”

Anna looked down at the small circle of light and felt peace. She realized that following Jesus was like walking with a lantern — trusting the light to lead her safely home.

⭐ Lesson Truth

God’s Word is our lamp — it helps us see what’s right and what’s wrong.
Jesus is our Guide — He leads us through every season of life.
Faith means trusting His light, even when we can’t see the whole path.

When we sing “Lead the Way,” we’re saying, “Lord, I’ll follow You — step by step, day by day.”

© 2026 Susan Barker Nikitenko — All Rights Reserved

God Bless America

Thursday, June 25, 2026

💙 A Father’s Heart - Reading

💙 A Father’s Heart

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026 ©
MBNMPMRMPBKBANNABENGEORPASTOR

“Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.”

— 1 Chronicles 16:11 (KJV)

A father’s heart is one of God’s quiet masterpieces —

a blend of strength and tenderness,

courage and compassion,

leadership and love.

He may not always see himself as extraordinary,

but Heaven sees the truth:

every faithful father carries a piece of God’s own heart.

Some days he stands tall like a cedar,

shielding his family from the winds of life.

Other days he bends low like a shepherd,

guiding gently, listening deeply,

loving quietly in ways that never make headlines

but always make a difference.

A father’s prayers are often whispered,

but they rise like incense before the throne of God.

He prays for wisdom he doesn’t feel he has,

for strength he isn’t sure he carries,

for protection he knows only God can give.

And the Lord — rich in mercy —

meets him in every humble request.

A father’s love is not measured in perfection,

but in presence.

Not in flawless decisions,

but in faithful devotion.

Not in how loudly he leads,

but in how deeply he cares.

He teaches by example —

in the way he works,

the way he forgives,

the way he keeps going

even when the road is steep

and the load is heavy.

He may not realize it,

but his children watch.

They watch how he treats their mother.

They watch how he handles disappointment.

They watch how he bows his head at the table

and how he lifts his eyes toward Heaven.

And in those moments,

a legacy is being written —

line by line,

choice by choice,

day by day.

Scripture tells us of a holy turning:

“And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children…”

(Malachi 4:6)

This is not just a prophecy —

it is a picture of God’s desire for families:

hearts connected,

love restored,

generations strengthened.

So today, we honor the fathers

who have stood in the gap,

who have carried the weight,

who have loved with a love

that reflects the Father above.

May God renew their strength.

May He refresh their spirits.

May He surround them with grace

for every step ahead.

And may every father feel the deep truth

that his life matters —

his love matters —

his presence matters —

more than he will ever know.

Happy Father’s Day.

Saturday, June 20, 2026

“Dad Has Been My Hero” A Reading

A Reading

“Dad Has Been My Hero”

(slow, steady, warm)

There are people in our lives who shape us quietly… not with grand speeches, not with loud announcements, but with the steady rhythm of everyday love.

For some of us, that person has been Dad.

A man who didn’t need a cape or a spotlight or applause to make a difference.

He simply showed up. Every day. Every season. Every moment that mattered.

And somewhere along the way… we realized something: Dad has been my hero.

(soft pause)

— Reflection

(gentle, storytelling tone)

Think back for a moment… to the early mornings when he was already awake, coffee in hand, preparing for another long day so we could have what we needed.

Think of the times he fixed things— not just broken toys, but broken hearts.

The times he stood in the crowd, cheering louder than anyone else, even when the world felt too big and we felt too small.

Think of the way he taught us without ever saying he was teaching— through patience, through kindness, through the way he lived his life when no one else was watching.

(pause)

Heroes don’t always wear armor. Sometimes they wear work boots. Sometimes they carry lunch pails. Sometimes they drive old trucks with the radio humming softly and the windows rolled down.

Sometimes… a hero is simply a father who loves his family with everything he has.

— Deeper Reflection

(emotional, steady)

Dad has been my hero in the quiet ways— in the way he listened, in the way he prayed, in the way he believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.

He didn’t need to be perfect. He just needed to be present.

And he was. Through storms. Through seasons. Through every chapter of growing up.

His strength wasn’t loud. It was steady. His love wasn’t flashy. It was faithful.

And that kind of love… that kind of strength… leaves a mark that lasts a lifetime.

(soft pause)

Heart Moment

(warm, reverent)

Maybe your dad was the one who taught you how to pray. Maybe he showed you how to work hard, how to stand tall, how to walk in truth.

Maybe he wasn’t perfect— no father is— but he tried. And trying, in the hands of a loving dad, is a powerful thing.

Maybe he was the one who showed you what God’s love looks like in everyday life— in patience, in sacrifice, in the quiet courage of doing what’s right even when no one sees.

And maybe today, as you look back, you can say with a full heart: Dad has been my hero.

— Closing Words

(gentle, emotional)

Heroes come in many forms… but some of the greatest sit at our kitchen tables, walk through our front doors, and pray for us when we don’t even know it.

Some heroes answer to the name “Dad.”

(long pause)

Scripture Ending

(reverent, honoring)

“The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.” — Proverbs 20:7 (KJV)

“Today, we honor the fathers who shaped us, the heroes who stood beside us, and the love that still guides our steps now.”

Thank You Dad.

MBANNABENRMNAABPBPMPASTOGEO #2066

Sunday, June 14, 2026

🫏 Melvin & Melvina: The Picnic Predicament

Theme: Gratitude even when plans go wrong

Narrator:
It was a perfect sunny day for a church picnic. Melvin and Melvina had packed everything — sandwiches, lemonade, and a blanket that smelled faintly of hay and hope.

Melvina:
“Hee‑haw means: Don’t forget the napkins!”

Melvin:
“Got ’em! I even brought extra mustard. I’m prepared for greatness.”

Narrator:
They trotted to the meadow, spread the blanket, and sat down.
Well… Melvin sat down a little too enthusiastically.

Melvina:
(gasping)
“Melvin! You sat on the sandwiches!”

Melvin:
(blinking)
“I thought that was the cushion!”

Melvina:
“Hee‑haw means: It was the lunch!”

Narrator:
Melvin lifted himself up slowly. The sandwiches were now… artistic.
One looked like modern art. Another resembled a pancake.

Melvin:
“Maybe we can call it ‘Pressed Blessings.’”

Melvina:
(sighing, then smiling)
“Hee‑haw means: I’m praying for patience.”

Narrator:
They bowed their heads right there on the blanket.

Melvina:
“Lord, thank You for sunshine, for laughter, and for sandwiches that still taste good — even when they’re flat.”

Melvin:
“And thank You that Melvina didn’t sit on the lemonade.”

Narrator:
They laughed, shared their squished feast, and remembered that joy doesn’t depend on perfection — only on gratitude.

📖 Scripture Thought (KJV)

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18

The Pictures are for this Lesson Only

🫏 Melvin & Melvina: The Picnic Predicament — The Bee Attack (According to Melvin)

Theme: Gratitude even when plans go wrong

Narrator: Just when Melvin and Melvina had accepted their squished sandwiches as “Pressed Blessings,” a new sound drifted across the meadow…

BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ—

Melvin: (freezing like a statue) “Melvina… don’t move. Don’t breathe. Don’t blink. The air is angry.”

Melvina: “It’s just a bee.”

Melvin: “JUST a bee? JUST?! That’s like saying ‘JUST a tornado’ or ‘JUST a stampede.’”

Narrator: The bee hovered closer. Melvin’s ears stood straight up like two terrified antennas.

Melvin: (whisper‑screaming) “It’s coming for me. It knows I’m sweet. I TOLD you I shouldn’t have worn the honey‑scented shampoo!”

Melvina: “You don’t wear shampoo.”

Melvin: “WELL MAYBE I SHOULD START!”

Narrator: The bee circled Melvin’s head. Melvin ducked, dodged, and performed a dramatic slow‑motion roll across the picnic blanket.

Melvin: “IT’S CHOOSING A TARGET! I AM THE TARGET!”

Melvina: “Hee‑haw means: Melvin, calm down.”

Melvin: “I am calm! This is my calm voice! AHHHHHH—”

Narrator: Melvina bowed her head, serene as a summer breeze.

Melvina: “Lord… please give Melvin peace… and please give this bee a flower. A big one. Far away.”

Narrator: The bee buzzed once more, circled Melvin’s twitching ear, and drifted off toward a patch of clover.

Melvin: (peeking one eye open) “Is it gone? Am I alive? Do I still have all my parts?”

Melvina: (smiling) “Hee‑haw means: Yes, Melvin. All your parts are present.”

Melvin: “Thank You, Lord… and thank You, Melvina… for praying before I ran screaming into the woods.”

Narrator: And so, with sandwiches squished and nerves rattled, they remembered that gratitude doesn’t depend on perfect picnics — only on trusting God through the buzzing moments.

The Pictures are for this Lesson Only

🫏 Devotion: “Buzzing Lessons in Patience and Gratitude”

Paragraph 1
Sometimes life feels like a perfect picnic — sunshine, laughter, and everything neatly packed. Then, without warning, something buzzes into our peace. For Melvin, it was a bee; for us, it might be a worry, a disappointment, or a sudden change of plans. Yet even in those moments, God invites us to pause and remember that His presence doesn’t vanish when things go wrong.

Paragraph 2
Melvin’s panic reminds us how quickly fear can take over. We jump, we shout, we imagine the worst. But Melvina’s calm prayer shows the better way — turning fear into faith. When we pray first, we give God room to quiet our hearts and guide our reactions. Gratitude begins where panic ends.

Paragraph 3
The bee didn’t stay forever, and neither do our troubles. They buzz around for a while, testing our patience, but they eventually drift away. What remains is the lesson: God’s peace is stronger than any buzzing fear. He teaches us to laugh, to breathe, and to trust Him even when the picnic doesn’t go as planned.

Paragraph 4
Melvina’s prayer under the tree is a picture of grace. She didn’t scold Melvin; she prayed for him. That’s love in action — gentle, steady, and thankful. When we respond to life’s interruptions with prayer instead of frustration, we become instruments of peace. Gratitude turns every mishap into a moment of worship.

Paragraph 5
So, whether your picnic is perfect or your sandwiches are squished, remember this truth: God is near. He smiles at our laughter, comforts our fears, and teaches us to give thanks in all things. Even the buzzing moments can become blessings when we trust Him completely.

🗣️ Talk

Sometimes life feels like Melvin’s picnic — we sit right on the sandwiches. We make a mess, we laugh, we sigh, and we realize we still need grace. Church days, family days, farm days — they all have their “What’s going on?” moments. But God doesn’t leave us in the confusion; He teaches us through it. He reminds us that peace doesn’t come from perfect plans, but from His presence. When we talk to Him honestly, He listens tenderly. And when we pray, He restores calm to our hearts.

🙏 Prayer

Lord, Thank You for loving us even when life feels mixed‑up and messy. When confusion swirls around us, remind us that You are not the author of it — You are the giver of peace. Help our pastor, our church, and each of us to walk in patience and understanding. Teach us to laugh kindly, forgive quickly, and pray continually. Bring order to our hearts and unity to our fellowship. And when we whisper, “What’s going on?” Let Your Spirit answer, “I am here.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

🙏 Prayer

“Dear Lord,
Thank You for being with me in every buzzing moment.
When fear rises, help me to pray instead of panic.
Teach me to find joy in small things and patience in interruptions.
Let gratitude fill my heart, even when plans go wrong.
May Your peace rest upon me today and always.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©MB
AnnaBenPbKbPmRmNmPastGeo #7066

Wednesday, June 10, 2026

🌿 When I Was Young, Till Now I’m Old - New

Keep This Picture with This Writing

🌿 When I Was Young, Till Now I'm Old

When I was young, the world was wide,

A field of dreams on every side;
I chased the winds with lifted eyes,
And prayed my prayers beneath the skies.
I asked with wonder, bold and free—
Believing God remembered me.

When I grew strong, and life grew fast,

The days flew by, the years rushed past;
I learned that joy and sorrow blend,
That mountains rise, and storms descend.
Yet through it all, His mercy stayed—
I asked, and found Him when I prayed.

When burdens pressed and shadows fell,

When hopes were fragile, hard to tell;
When tears were prayers I could not speak,
And faith felt feeble, small, and weak—
He held me close, His love untold…
The same dear God of young and old.

Now seasons change, and wisdom grows,

And time moves gently as it flows;
I look behind, I look above,
I see the working of His love.
From youthful dawn to silvered years,
He’s heard my prayers, He’s calmed my fears.

For every age, His promise stands—

He guides our steps with tender hands;
He answers hearts that seek His face,
And fills the years with quiet grace.
I asked Him then… I ask Him still—
And stand in awe of His good will.

And when that final twilight fades,

He heard my final prayers prayed

When earthly shadows slip away,

My heart looks up to endless day

With joy my soul shall fly away—

A glory‑bound, triumphant day.

With hand outstretched—O joyful soul—

To hold His hand, no longer old;

Transformed, renewed, forever whole,

From old to young… on streets of gold.

To hold His hand, no longer old;

Transformed, renewed, forever whole,

AnnaBenpbkbnmrmpmpastorgeo #7771

Read this fresh Sunday Morning In Our Church Service

Saturday, June 6, 2026

DL Moody Quotes On The Return Of Christ

For This Blog Only

🌟 Quotes from D. L. Moody on the Return of Christ

“I look upon this world as a wrecked vessel. God has given me a lifeboat and said to me, ‘Moody, save all you can.’” — spoken in the context of Christ’s soon coming.
“The best way to prepare for the coming of the Lord is to get others ready.”
“I never preach a sermon without thinking that possibly the Lord may come before I finish.”
“The Lord has left us here to work until He comes. Let us be found faithful.”
“I believe the next thing on God’s program is the coming of Christ.”
“If we are looking for Christ’s return, it will keep us from looking for the world’s rewards.”
“The thought of His coming should make us watchful, prayerful, and full of love.”

A TRUE STORY OF AWAKENING TO THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

For This Blog Post Only

A TRUE STORY OF AWAKENING TO THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

The Night John Newton Saw the Light John Newton was not always the man who wrote “Amazing Grace.” Before Christ found him, he was a hardened sailor, a man who mocked God, cursed His name, and lived with a heart as stormy as the sea he sailed. He had heard the gospel as a child—his mother whispered Scripture into his ears before she died—but he buried those memories deep beneath years of rebellion. Then came the night of the storm. Newton’s ship was caught in a violent tempest in the North Atlantic. Waves towered like mountains. The hull groaned. Men screamed. Death felt inches away. Newton worked the pumps for hours, soaked, exhausted, terrified. At one point, he was certain the ship would split in two. And in that moment— when fear stripped away every excuse, every argument, every layer of pride— a cry rose from his soul: “Lord, have mercy on us.” He didn’t plan to pray. He didn’t think he deserved to pray. But the cry came anyway— from a place deeper than fear, from a memory planted long ago, from a God who had never stopped pursuing him. And something happened. Not outside— the storm still raged. But inside— light broke in. Newton later said it was as if a candle had been lit in a room he didn’t know was dark. He felt conviction. He felt mercy. He felt the presence of Christ pressing into his soul. The storm eventually calmed. The ship survived. But Newton was not the same man who had entered that night. He wrote later: “I once was blind, but now I see.” It wasn’t poetry. It was testimony. The Light of Christ had risen in his heart— not in a church, not in a quiet moment, but in the middle of terror, in the middle of sin, in the middle of a storm he could not control. That night became the beginning of his transformation— from slave trader to preacher, from mocker of God to worshiper, from darkness to light. 🌟 The Truth of His Awakening Christ did not wait for Newton to clean up. Christ did not wait for him to be worthy. Christ did not wait for him to be ready. The Light came into the darkness— and the darkness could not overcome it. And the same Jesus who rose in Newton’s heart still rises in hearts today.

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🫏 Melvin & Melvina: The Picnic Predicament

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026© MBAnnaBenPbKbPmRmNmPastGeo #7065

🫏 Melvin & Melvina: The Picnic Predicament — The Bee Attack (According to Melvin)

🙏 Prayer

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©MBAnnaBenPbKbPmRmNmPastGeo #7066

Wednesday, June 10, 2026

Saturday, June 6, 2026

🌟 Quotes from D. L. Moody on the Return of Christ

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Prayer of Thanksgiving for America’s 250 Years

“One Nation Under God”

🕯️🎵 Devotional Lesson: “Lead the Way”

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026 ©
MBNMPMRMPBKBANNABENGEORPASTOR

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026 ©
MBNMPMRMPBKBANNABENGEORPASTOR

🫏 Melvin & Melvina: The Picnic Predicament

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©
MBAnnaBenPbKbPmRmNmPastGeo #7065

🫏 Melvin & Melvina: The Picnic Predicament — The Bee Attack (According to Melvin)

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©MB
AnnaBenPbKbPmRmNmPastGeo #7066

🌟 Quotes from D. L. Moody on the Return of Christ