merry christmas + thank you

Wild Man: Are You Man Enough?

"But every man longs for a battle to fight, an adventure to live, and a beauty to rescue."

-Wild at Heart, John Eldredge










*click image to read entire comics

Wild Man: Stoked and Twittered

"stay in fight mode..."

2 Tim 4:7
















related:
http://twitter.com/capncrisp





*illustration by frank frazetta

The Lord of the Ring - Episode 2

When God Writes My Love Story

Episode 2 - The Lord of the Ring







Delight yourself in the LORD and
He will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4

This verse, that has echoed in every letter, word and sentence in my last testimony, continuous to echo in every second, minute and hour of my journey. It testifies of His faithfulness in my life. He is faithful not because of who I am nor what I’ve done but because of who He is.

We were talking about proposals and engagement rings then. My cousin has just gotten married and everyone was still on a wedding high as most got involved in the preparations one way or the other.

“If you’re going to propose, a blue box would be nice.” Claire jokingly blurted. Yes, the famous little blue box. It was every girl’s dream of receiving some type of jewelry wrapped in a trademarked blue colored box associated with romance, elegance and exclusivity. Looking into some fashion magazines I realized she wanted a T&Co. I didn't know what it was since I have a shopping and fashion IQ of a Neanderthal.

I wanted to surprise her and I was wondering if the ring was feasible. I found out that there are T&Co. stores in Manila.  I quickly went to the store and checked if they have something within my pocket’s reach. It was not meant to be. They are really exclusive! With my current status, T&Co. is definitely out of my league. Besides, a lead time of 6-8 months is needed when purchasing from them. I checked my options; T&Co. is not one of them. I finally set it aside at the back of my mind.

'My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord.
'For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:8-9

But God had something different in mind. I didn't see it back then. He’s preparing me for something. I just needed to trust Him. And so I did.


I was to be sent to Atlanta, GA for 6 months work. This will be the first time I’ll be away from home for such a long time. Claire and I have been dating for only a few months. Thinking about it, we’ll be distant longer than we’ve been together.

Long before, I never believed that long distance relationships ever work. Ours will now be put to the same test. It was sad. But I had to trust Him and His purposes.

April 15 was when I flew to Atlanta. I soon found out that life is different in the US. I had to cook, wash the dishes, clean the house, do laundry, and iron my clothes – be independent! Friends were saying that I became domesticated. The chores were not that bad, it was the longing of loved ones, family and friends that was difficult. With all the comforts provided, I was not happy. I fully realized that material affluence can never buy happiness. Happiness is found in the contentment of what you have and in the midst of people you love and love you as well.

In spite of the homesickness, I knew that I was here for a purpose. That was to be my source of comfort. In times of difficulties, I had to learn to trust in Him - like silver refined over the flame.

Then I remembered the ring. There was a T&Co. store in Atlanta!

I quickly sent an email inquiring about their rings. I was hopeful. A few more exchanges and found a ring within my budget. I was informed that they will be increasing their prices over the weekend. I had to act fast. Soon enough, I have the ring in my possession. Only later will I appreciate fully the significance of the ring.

And my God will meet all your needs
according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19


I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed,
you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move.
Nothing will be impossible for you.
Matthew 17:20

I could have bought any diamond ring. End of story. But Claire wanted something seemingly over the top. She wanted something that required faith - faith as BIG as a mustard seed; faith that can move mountains. I claimed His promises and from His abundant riches the ring came to be.

The ring is not my own, it is His gift to me. It is the fulfillment of His promise. It is a demonstration that nothing is impossible for Him - laying claim, with a dash of faith, from out His abundant riches. And He did provide… over and above my expectations - without busting a penny from my own paycheck!

I held on to the ring for 5 more months of my stay in Atlanta. It reminded me of His faithfulness at times when my faith wavers. I knew and found comfort that He is sovereign at times when Claire and I would have misunderstandings. The anxiety would often be magnified by the distance and separation. It was a firm foundation in unsteady circumstances.

Time flew quickly. My stay in the US was enriching and my worldview has expanded. I went to places I wouldn't imagine I would be able to visit. I met old and new friends. Old friendships grew stronger. I met amazing people.

I was invited to a retreat by new friends I met a month before returning back home. It was a timely source of spiritual refreshing and renewal. We shared testimonies of God’s faithfulness in our lives. I shared my story - the love story that God is writing for me. They prayed for me. They blessed me and anointed my head with oil. It was my confirmation.  I was ready to go home.


The Proposal


We left our home of 6 months and arrived Oct 6 in Manila. We’re already talking of wedding plans by then. Friends were teasing about a dramatic airport proposal. I knew Claire didn't care much for public displays of affection. She wanted something special and intimate. It will not be at the airport.

It was tempting to be lazy with the proposal having the ring. Fine dining for two, live romantic music, bouquet of roses to be capped with the question of commitment would have sufficed. It was clichéd. It will be too predictable. This happens only once and it was every woman’s dream that their engagement would be special.

We had planned for an out of town trip to Tagaytay once I got back from the States. She only had a day to spend her vacation leave for the year. I thought this is the best opportunity to pop the question. I was thinking of Antonio’s but it turned out her leave fell on a Monday and they close shop on Mondays. I wanted to ask her hand from her mom but she decided not to join us at the last minute. The car wasn't in its tip top condition and I wouldn't want to risk taking it out of town. It seems my plans are not turning out as expected. It was not to be in Tagaytay.

God is love…
1 John 4:16

It takes a lot of effort to think of a memorable proposal. It may take a lot more to execute it. Since God is Love, why not ask for help from the Ultimate Romantic?  He has been faithful from the beginning and I am expecting great and wonderful things yet to come to those who believe. I believed.

Last year, I had thought of getting a condo unit as an investment. It’s a small studio sized unit, small enough to begin a life as a married couple. Late this year, I was informed that the unit is ready to for occupancy. After getting back from Atlanta, I worked on getting my new home. She knew of it as we’re already making wedding plans. That was all she knew of.

I thought of doing the proposal in our new home. It would take a while since I had to pay for some dues and needed to submit some documents. It would have been nice if the proposal would fall on a monthsary – we hadn't had a chance to celebrate it since I’m far away. Too bad she would be on duty as a resident that day. I guess any other day would be ok.

And God intervened.

I got all my requirements ready for submission. Miraculously, Claire told me her scheduled duty would slide a day earlier. I can now propose on our monthsary! I went to the condo’s sales manager, Billy, and submitted all my requirements. I told her of my engagement plan. She was elated! I shared my story only to find in our conversation that she’s a Christian as well. I also discovered that she’s a retired wedding planner! As Claire and I were already talking about the wedding, we have yet to decide on the wedding planner. Billy mentioned she was willing to help me – on the engagement plan and on the wedding itself! At no cost!

Billy is an angel and she’s heaven sent. She suggested that I could use the rooftop for the proposal – for free. It would be an exclusive dinner for 2 with candle lights, flowers, balloons! It was brilliant. It will be amazing.

Foolishly, I started to doubt. I only have a day left. Where will I get the flowers? How about the table? Where do I get the balloons? How about the food? How much? Is it expensive? Thinking about the work that needs to be done made me almost want to give up.

I remembered God’s faithfulness. It knocked some sense back into me and surrendered all my doubts. Why doubt now when He manifested Himself in far more difficult things and situations – I was reminded of the ring again.

The following day I met up with Billy. She volunteered to help me prepare for the proposal. She personally knew of a florist nearby and could pull some strings. Amazingly she did! She got me my fancy table cloth, flower centerpiece, and candles to boot. She knew of a nearby store that sells party favors as well. Next thing I know, I have floor balloons and balloons on a string imprinted with “Will you marry me?” They will be ready the next day. She also volunteered to prepare the meal for me. She agreed to buy the wine and lend her own dinnerware. It was amazing! Everything was falling into place! I was anxious the previous day about the preparations and now everything is set. It was effortless. It was divinely orchestrated.

It’s proposal day and I’m excited. Claire hasn't got a clue of the things that will transpire. We agreed to go out for our monthsary dinner. That’s all she knows. I took my leave from the office that day. I asked my talented and good friend Bernard to help me prepare for the big day. He came over around 3 in the afternoon.

Claire called soon after. She finished her work earlier than usual only to find out that I was still in the bathroom. I still need to prepare for the setup!  Panic time! I’ll definitely be late for our date.

We hurriedly went to the condo. I found Billy setting up the table at the rooftop. The flowers and balloons are all ready. I left Bernard to help Billy. I was told that they’ll be ready by 6:30pm. It was still 5pm. I had to go. I knew Claire was waiting. She’ll probably be furious as she’s been waiting for an hour.

Surely enough I met Claire. The reception is chilly. Not an ounce of warmth and the usual sunny disposition. I had to stall her as it was still too early. It’s definitely not easy to employ delaying tactics to a livid girlfriend. My only consolation is that all this will change later. I resorted to dragging her to do some window shopping, applying for cell phone subscriptions without bringing the requirements and her waiting on me while having coffee at Starbucks. All this is not helping appease her disposition. My last alibi is that we’re waiting for reservations I made at a nearby dining place we both wanted to try. I can’t hold her off much longer. I have to bring her in.

It’s time.

We drove over to the condo. This will be our new home when we get married. I suggested that she put on her blindfold before she sees the unit. Little did she know that I have balloons placed inside the room.

“No. I don’t want to put on a blind fold.”

Houston, we have a problem. I can’t surprise her if she didn't cover her eyes. I had to think fast! I had to plead with her. Good thing she relented.

I helped her to her seat, blindfolded. I quietly knelt in front of her and carefully brought out the bluebox. I lovingly asked her to take off her blindfold.

“Will you marry me?”

The cold countenance soon melted and was soon replaced with tears. It was a resounding yes!

YES!!!

We talked a bit. We were laughing at ourselves. Now she knows why I was late. I would later learn that she hadn't had a clue of what will transpire. She was resigned to the fact that there will be no proposal since plans were already being made. She wasn't expecting a ring, much more a T&Co. engagement ring!

I suggested we go up the rooftop to show her the view. She didn't know I have another surprise waiting.

Upon reaching the rooftop, we were greeted with a table setup for 2. Balloons announcing the occasion flew beside the table. The entire rooftop landscape was well lit accented by the candles. Romantic music was playing. The table was immaculately arranged with some sparkling wine, food with a beautifully arranged floral centerpiece. I even have a bouquet for her. The weather was perfect – a slight drizzle earlier threatened the original plan. My friend Bernard assumed the role of waiter from being Billy’s help. Everything was perfect.

The evening went well. We laughed and enjoyed each others company. Thanks to Billy and her assistants, Bernard included.

Looking back to the engagement day, I’m still amazed as how God has been faithful to us. Indeed, God is the Ultimate Romantic I always believed He is. I’m privileged I was able to testify of it. I’m now looking forward to more amazing things He will be doing for the wedding and for us as a married couple.

That he who began a good work in you
will carry it on to completion
until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:6

Even then, I ask people close to us to pray for us continually. Our desire is not to boast but that God be glorified further in our lives. By His grace, may He find us faithful and worthy of bearing His name. May our story be a blessing to others and may other people be brought closer to Him as we share our story - our love story that God is writing.

It is my desire that people allow to have their life story be written by the Author and Giver of life. It's worth it!

Episode 3? In His time, He makes all things beautiful. In His time. God is good.


related:
http://capncrisp.multiply.com/journal/item/55
http://capncrisp.multiply.com/journal/item/38

We're Engaged

thanks to ms.billy cleope * friends + nio

and... for all who prayed for us!



Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart

Psalm 37:4












more.pictures.blog.stories.episode.2.to.follow





Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!



related:

http://capncrisp.multiply.com/journal/item/38
update:
http://capncrisp.multiply.com/journal/item/56

Regina Brett's 45 life lessons and 5 to grow on

45 life lessons and 5 to grow on

by Regina Brett

To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolls over to 50 this week, so here's an update:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.
18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Overprepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
45. The best is yet to come.
46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
48. If you don't ask, you don't get.
49. Yield.
50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.


source: link

---

(cum) grano salis  

Musical Extravaganza

Excited ako...

Atlanta's Fox Theater + NY Broadway Minskoff Theatre

Sana matuloy...

Thank you Lord!

Awake in Atlanta: Looking Back, Looking Forward

It’s Day 139, today is special as it marks the time that we only have 1 month left before I can finally go home!

Aside from the regular work we’ve been doing, we kept ourselves busy during the weekends.

A few things come to mind:

•    Being able to see Washington DC and reconnect with my relatives living there.
•    Celebrating the 4th of July with our American friends.
•    Meeting new friends and brethren of the faith
•    Watching a live Major League Baseball game of the Atlanta Braves.
•    Being blessed by Steven Curtis Chapman’s comeback concert coming from the recent family tragedy
•    Hearing the powerful preaching of Pastor Brian starring a live lion and a bear in the main sanctuary
•    Riding the extreme rides of 6 Flags Over Georgia and Whitewater
•    Fulfilling a childhood dream of being able to visit Disneyland
•    Trying out Cold Stone Ice Cream
•    Gaining weight
•    Shopping?!

Prior to this, I have been focused on wanting to go home. I was homesick. I felt miserable at times.

Looking back at this list made me realize how I almost failed to recognize the tremendous blessings I have been receiving for the past months. This has been a journey towards growth and independence. Personal desires were being granted. Prayers are being answered. Jeremiah 29:11 comes to mind.

Feeling down and out? Count your blessings! And I am indeed blessed. I’m excited as to what the Lord has in store for the coming days.

30 more days, I can’t wait to be home again. God is good.

Face Your Manga | Shake Yourself!

Heres how i think i would look like if i were to migrate to Japan.

クリスチャン 1











クリスチャン 2

クリスチャン 3





click images to Face Your Manga!. And don't forget to share your Manga self

related: http://capncrisp.multiply.com/journal/item/32

Nostalgia: Sesame Street - That's about the size of it

One of my most vivid memories I had of my childhood, classic Sesame Street skits! Even then, wisdom is imparted about seeing the big picture, perspective, growth, insignificance of humanity and our purpose. Share this trip with me down memory lane

Oh everything comes
In its own special size
I guess it can be measured
By where you put your eyes
It so big when you're close
And it looks smaller back a bit
That's about the size of it.

That's about the size
Where you put your eyes
That's about the size of it.

Oh the big becomes the little
When you see it back a bit
The huge becomes the dinky
Which is just the opposite
Of the larger that gets smaller
It never seems to quit
That's about the size of it.

That the big become the little
That's the way it seems to go
They makeup a larger thing
Its something good to know
It's nice to know that though were small
There always room to grow
And that's about the size of it

---

Thanks to Tito Chippy for the link

Geotag Powered!

Geotagging, is the process of adding geographical identification metadata to various media such as websites, RSS feeds, or images and is a form of geospatial metadata. This data usually consists of latitude and longitude coordinates, though it can also include altitude, bearing, and place names.

-wikipedia


Ever wondered where in the world you took your favorite photo of a deserted island or beach in one of your travels? Ever wished you could see that secret lagoon you just visited on google earth?

Thanks to the Nokia LD-3W, my photos are now geotagged!

my current office as seen on google earth

photo of my office taken from my camphone





...so, where have you been today?

The Father's Blessing

Genesis 12:1-3

 1 The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you.

 2 "I will make you into a great nation
       and I will bless you;
       I will make your name great,
       and you will be a blessing.

 3 I will bless those who bless you,
       and whoever curses you I will curse;
       and all peoples on earth
       will be blessed through you."



It's Father's day today and we just witnessed  a touching service in Calvary. Ptr. Brian preached as a part of his series on the well of blessing about - The Father's blessing.

The preaching was based from Bill Glass' book and emphasizes the importance of the Father's blessing in each and everyone's life. For those lacking the presence of physical fathers, God is gracious to even provide substitutes on our behalf.

I felt the awesome presence of God during this time and it reaffirmed how vital the role of the church is on a person's spiritual growth and maturity.

It is surprising to note that a lot of people, even those who grew up with biological fathers, have yet to receive the approval, much more the blessings of their fathers in their lives. Our speaker noted that he first heard his father say "i love you" to him by the time was was 40!

At the end of the service, people who felt they missed out on their father's blessing were asked to go in front of the altar and were prayed for by fathers in the church. At lot of people came out. No eye was left dry. Not even mine.

What came in my mind during this time was I was blessed to have a dad who gave his blessing and approval to me. I will not be who I am today if not for my dad.

Dad, i love you. Thank you. Happy Fathers day.

---

related:
The Power of a Father's Blessing

Awake in Atlanta: Home Again

It's day 32 and a lot has happened since I first arrived here in Georgia. Aside from missing people whom I love and friends, I miss the feeling of home.

What is home? according to wikipedia:

A home is a place of residence or refuge. It is usually a place where an individual or a family can rest in and be able to store personal property. Modern households contain sanitary facilities and a means of preparing food.

While a house (or other residential dwelling) is often referred to as a "home", the concept of "home" is a much broader idea which exceeds the denotation of a physical dwelling. A home is often a place of refuge and safety, where worldly cares fade and the things and people that one loves becomes the focus. Many people think of home in terms of where they grew up, and home can even be a time rather than a place.The word "home" is also used for various residential institutions which aspire to create a home-like atmosphere, such as a retirement home, a nursing home, a group home (an orphanage for children, a retirement home for adults, a treatment facility, etc.), a foster home, etc.


Being in a strange place among strangers with strange food and culture, home may be the last thing you can find. We're staying in our fully furnished apartments but the feeling of home is absent. That may explain why most of us yearn to go back home - yes, we're homesick.

May 11, 2008 was the set date to go to church. I've discovered there is a church near our place similar to where I used to attend back home - Calvary Assembly of God. I was a bit apprehensive as I'm not used to driving alone to some unfamiliar place. After putting it aside more than once, I finally attended church.

I was a bit nervous. I don't know anyone. I'm all alone. I'm afraid people wouldn't be as friendly as I hope them to be. But I believed God wants me to be here. In faith, I believed He will meet me there. I had to make my first step.

I was nervous as I navigated and drove my way to church. It was a good 7 miles and had to drive along a major highway. I was nervous when I was about to enter the place of worship. I had fears that I'm not supposed to be there, that I didnt belong there. As I got in, I was met by a few people who greeted me. I really appreciate what the greeters and ushers were doing. They're doing an excellent job in making people like me feel less "strange". I realized that a simple hello is one vital church ministry that may make a difference for first time church attendees and regular attendees as well.

The praise and worship music started. The worship was beautiful. I feel home again.

PS:

As of this writing, I have attended their service twice, and heard some incredible preaching about Pentecost Sunday and brought my 2 colleagues along with me! They're planning to join me again next Sunday! God is good  :) 

Awake in Atlanta: Symptoms of Missing Home

It has been 3 weeks since I transferred, although temporarily, to the US. It’s difficult but I’m surviving. I’m learning stuff I took for granted when I was home.

I’m used to having food on the table coming from work. Now I'm learning to cook! Ive successfully prepared sinigang na hipon and gambas. I know how to make a good omelet. I have sucessfully dodged the searing and painful projectiles of hot oil while frying chicken. Everything turned out well except for the tripped smoke alarm!

Back home, my clothes become magically clean every weekend – thanks to our labandera. Now, I do my laundry and iron my clothes. A hurdle I have yet to do though - cleaning the toilet!

I miss home. I miss my family. I miss our morning chit chat while having breakfast. It’s customary that we spend quality time talking about everyday stuff - work, love life, career, aspirations etc. I miss mom’s cooking. I miss her adobong chicken, menudo, picadillo, nilaga, sinigang, halabos etc etc… I miss waking up to breakfast already served. I miss my friends. I miss my church. I miss my church friends. I miss late nights hanging out with them at the coffee shop. And of course, I miss Cleng, my best friend and girlfriend. I miss our dinner outs. I miss our “asaran”. I miss our serious talks. I miss our fun times. I miss her tantrums and her frown.

But It’s not that bad as it may seem. I’m grateful that I have colleagues who were sent here with me as well. The company I work for paid for all our needs – rent, food, transportation, cable and internet. I’m grateful for the Internet, where I can keep in touch with people back home. In fact, I believe I’m much more updated with what’s happening in ICS than the majority – thanks to Multiply! I thank God for chikka, skype, yahoo messenger – family and friends are just a buzz! away… literally. I can listen to Pastor Kuya Jerry’s preachings in ICS via ics.org.ph. It’s like I’m there! I pray that I can eventually find a good church and be able to meet new friends as well.

The Bible says everything has its season. Now is the time to venture beyond my comfort zone. This is the time for growth. For out of trials and difficulties come forth wisdom and experience. I believe God sent me here for this very reason. For me to grow, I must die to myself. Die to my own comforts. This is my cocoon. From the cocoon will come out a better individual. This is an opportunity to reach out beyond my own capability and rely more on Him.

It’s now day 20, I have less than 150 days before I return. I can’t wait to be home. But until then, I have to fulfill my purpose for being here. By God’s grace I can.

---

take it away yang!  ;)

Refiner of Silver

from a forwarded mail...

---

*image taken from http://blog.thefoundationstone.org/2012/03/30/the-silversmith-haftarah-shabbat-hagadol/


Malachi 3:3 says; 'He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.'

This verse puzzled some women in a bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study. That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.' She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, 'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?'

He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.' 

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

author unknown