Zechariah 9, 10, & 11

Zechariah 9 begins what is typically considered the second part of the Book of Zechariah, most likely written later in his life, and thus after the Temple has been rebuilt.  Verse 1 begins with a prophecy or oracle, the first of two in the rest of this book (the other in Chp 12).   So, Chps 9-11 is the first oracle and Chps 12-14 the second.   Both focus on the First and Second Comings of the Messiah.

The first 8 verses prophecy Judgment against the cities of the enemy nations north of Israel; consistent with the prophecies in the earlier visions.   Historically, this was fulfilled through the conquests of Alexander the Great and the Greek Empire.  For the student of history, and especially of conquests and empires, this would be a really exciting passage to study, written before Alexander the Great was even born, accurately detailing what he would do about 200 years later.

Verses 9 is one of the most well-known prophecies from Zechariah, fulfilled with Christ's Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem on what we celebrate as Palm Sunday.  The rest of the chapter describe the rule of the Messiah as King, in universal peace, having delivered His People and given victory over their enemies.  The last two verses close with the promise of blessing through salvation.

Chp 10 continues the oracle started in the previous chapter.   The people are asked to pray to the LORD who provides rain, not only as needed for their plants and fields; but, also as blessings in the spiritual sense.  Because of leadership who led them astray by following after idols and diviners instead, God promises to become their Shepherd and lead them victoriously in battle.  Their Shepherd the Messiah is the cornerstone, tent peg, battle bow, and has all authority.  He will save and restore them, so that they will overcome all troubles, defeat their enemies, and live securely in His Name.

7-Apr:  Chp 11 is the last part of the oracle started in chp 9.   It begins with a picture of judgment as fire burning cedars, cypress, and oak trees from the whole region of Israel as far north as Lebanon to Bashan and south to the area around the Jordan.   In the rest of the chapter, it is clear that judgment comes because the people have rejected the Good Shepherd, the Messiah.  The betrayal by Judas with the thirty pieces of silver, which ended up being used to buy the potter's field were prophesied in vs 12-13.  The staffs of Favor and Union are symbolically broken, to represent God taking away His protection and of the disunity in Israel.  As the Good Shepherd is rejected, a foolish and worthless shepherd will be raised up, representing the Anti-Christ, who will ultimately be judged and defeated.

13-Apr:  It was interesting that while Chp 11 referred to Israel as sheep "marked for slaughter" for judgment was inevitable.  And then, last night in devotions, Psalm 44 also referred to "sheep to be slaughtered" which was quoted in Romans 8 right before the verses on the Love of God, showing how great is Love is.

Full Weekend

This is another one of those full but fulfilling weekends.   It started on Friday night, with the Fish WNO event.  I've always loved Nichole Nordeman's music and story-telling through her songs.  What stood out the most from what she shared was the reminder to evaluate what really affects us and whether what we are investing our time and emotional energies into is what is really important.  Lindsay McCaul opened for Nichole; and what touched me the most was the song she sang about her dad after she shared that her dad had written her and her sisters letters telling them that he had a terminal illness but wanted them to have a letter that they could hold onto and re-read.  Holly Wagner, from Oasis church and author of Godchicks, gave the message.   She talked about having HOPE in the midst of trials; and rising in the darkness to be used by God.

Yesterday, I spent time with a friend from a previous project, along with her family.   Her daughter has grown much from the last time I saw her.   I'm so glad that she liked the puzzle that I brought, though, she seems like she'd be able to handle one much more complex than the 24 piece Disney one that I gave her.  Although, she does seem to like Disney.  Other things she likes is swimming, karate, and coloring.   She was really cute and well-behaved.  My prayer is that she and her parents will come to KNOW CHRIST.  May God show me how to most effectively shine HIS Light into their lives.

Today, I was blessed to be with my church family.  My pastor started a new series that answers the question of "Who am I?"   And it was clearly shown that as believers, who we are is identified by who we are IN CHRIST!  I had a chance to talk to Pastor prior to the service, and I feel blessed that he seems to care about what is going on in my life; and he even offered to be on the approval checklist for anyone I would be start a relationship with.   It's neat that I do have a "list" of people who can provide wise views on any person  who becomes part of my life in that way.  And then, talking to my Assistant Pastor after class today, I was encouraged to hear him say that he felt I didn't need the Friendship Evangelism class because I already do it; however, I would be interested in taking it when it comes back around again (maybe in May).

Before service, I also had a chance to talk to the brass player's son.  He was so cute and openly talked all about the planes from the Disney Planes movie and about Frozen.  It's touching to see the brass player interact with his son.

I feel like I have been able to put into practice my area of focus this year - Loving Others.  Last week, a person in my class seemed to be so grateful and blessed when I took her out to lunch for food that she really enjoys but has not had for awhile.   Friday, by my invitation, a person from my small group was able to go to
WNO, and she was glad she did.   I also gave another friend a ride.  Today, I tried to encourage a few other people through talking with them.   May God continue to use me and shine through me.

Remodeling - MB

Remodeling evokes a conglomeration of emotions.  It's exciting to think about updating and fixing things; but, it's also challenging to make the right decisions and still ensure that I'm being a faithful steward. And, below the surface, there is still the reminder of my thorn.   It is hard having to go through all this totally on my own.  Yet, I am keeping my focus on the end perspective, to use this place to bless others when I invite them over.   It should be nice when it is all done, though.

As for the financial considerations, I've been planning and saving for this for almost seven years.  At the start of the year, I thought I had enough to cover the majority of it; but, the costs really add up; and money does not go as far as anticipated.  So, budgets have to be reviewed and timelines may have to be stretched.

I just pray for wisdom and guidance.  And, through all this, my God be glorified; and may this be used for His purposes.

24-Mar:  Sent the signed proposal and deposit; so, decision has been made and actual construction will be starting, after all these years.

8-Apr:  The start of the work has been delayed, but, I'm trusting that God has His perfect timing.  Also, so far, I've been reassured that I've made the right choice of contractor and the process seems to work out.  It's nice that I can just go and pick out the materials, cabinets, etc; and not actually have to worry about delivering them.   However, in the midst of this, my sprinklers seem to be acting up; and I'm again reminded of my thorn.   Yet, I also recall how the Apostle Paul said the thorn helped to keep him humble; so, I will just trust that God's strength is made perfect in my weakness.

13-Apr:  Yesterday, I was able to pick out the main materials for the remodel - shower walls, floor tile, vanity top, cabinet style and color, laminate, glass frost and style, etc.  Hopefully, it will look good when all done - I'm mainly going for a marble with contrasting wood/bronze cabinets & fixtures.

15-Apr:  Demolition started today.  I can see how God has been at work, especially with timing.  Though the demolition and construction will intrude upon the peace and quiet of my life, I am looking forward to getting it done.  However, I have been having doubts about the marble.  There is so much said about how this stone is easily stained; and maintenance will be more than what I'm used to.  However, it is a beautiful natural stone, and it even reminds me of the Greek and Roman ruins.  I do actually like it better than granite; and the white will go well with the porcelein tile.

20-Apr:  So far, this process has actually been helping me to grow.   I've been forced to go through all my "stuff", most of which I have not really touched since moving in.  I'm also re-evaluating my space and re-arranging and re-organizing.  Also, I've thrown a lot out and given a lot away.  It's actually been a good "cleaning" process; and I feel like the little changes I've made actually reflect that my perspective has matured.  May God continue to be at work in my life.

23-Apr:  This remodel has been pretty time and energy-consuming.  I've had to say "no" to going to several things, just so that I could focus on what is needed for this remodel.  I am still continuing to be stretched.

28-Apr:  As I was journaling/letter-writing, I realized that this remodel actually represented a "letting go" and moving towards the path with the expectation that my "thorn" may be with me the rest of my life.  I was sad, but somewhat resigned.  God's Will be done.
Also, I've been faced with some challenges, and will need to grow in wisdom to deal with these challenges in an effective manner.  I trust God to guide me.

5-May:  This really has been a stretching and growing experience.   I've learned how to better interact with my contractor, and I think we now have a better understanding of each other.  I also feel like I've been able to address the challenges.  I've learned about things I didn't know much about before, like PEX Tubing, drywall textures, etc.  There have been delays and my drywall has just been finished today.  It's interesting; that part of my house will essentially feel brand new.

29-May:  There has not been much progress made in the last three weeks.   And this week, I have not even heard from my contractor.  What should I do?

30-May:  I realize that, by nature, I try to avoid confrontation as much as possible.  But, there is a time and place for it, and after much prayer and thought, I have decided that I will need to address it later today, but, will do it by starting with questions first, not only to get clarity on the situation but also to get the contractor to think through and articulate the situation from his perspective.
The response I got doesn't quite satisfy.  In light of his quick response today, the total lack of communication this week is quite telling.  Also, the excuses are starting to sound similar and not bear as much credibility; and the compliment thrown in at the end no longer seems as sincere.  Additionally, the response seems to confirm that there is no sense of priority or urgency for my project; and I did not feel any more reassured regarding next week's schedule.  This is unfortunate, since I was hoping that this project would not drag on so long; because it is cutting into my timeline, schedule, and plans now.  And, this does not instill confidence in me that he would be able to complete my kitchen remodel in a timely manner if I were to go with him.
I decided not to respond, hopefully to help convey that I will no longer just accept the delays complacently, and that this has reached the limit of my easy-going accommodation.
At the moment, considering the delays and my current dissatisfaction, I'm really leaning towards using another contractor for my kitchen remodel.  In checking online, I found a few that look quite promising.

3-Jun:  I found that merely asking the question and bringing to attention that there has not been any work done last week did not seem to have the hoped-for effect on this week; because this week started out like the last, with no notification and no workers showing up.  I had to actually clearly state that the delays have reached the point of being unreasonable.  We are to have an in-person discussion - so, I'm just praying for the right words to say and leaving the results in God's Hand.
My contractor gave a lot of "excuses/explanations" for the delays and apologized for the lack of communication; but, hopefully, things can just continue to progress now.

11-Jun:  Bathroom and Shower Floor Tiling has been completed, and now I am second-guessing some of my decisions again.   I really wonder if I should have been much more practical, staying away from marble and white tile.  But, it's too late now to be wondering about that.  At least it looks nice and the marble, tile, and shower walls all match with the marble-like theme.  Now, in pondering colors, the "safe" route would be to go with an antique/marble white; but, I'm leaning towards a darker brown/bronze to match the fixtures and cabinets.  A lighter brown in between may look okay; but, the darker provides a better contrast.  I was going to leave the ceiling white, but there are some recommendations that for bathrooms, ceilings can be the same as the walls, since they are such small rooms in general anyways.  Decisions....Decisions....  I've been using paint visualizers online, and they've been somewhat helpful, though the colors on the screen don't seem to totally match the color swatches in person.

13-Jun:  With just a couple of days of work, there have been delays the rest of this week AGAIN.  At this point, I cannot imagine going through this experience again with all the delays, especially since I only have one kitchen.   So, this has solidified my decision, and I'm not even going to ask for an estimate for the kitchen so that it would not even be under consideration at all.  In some ways, it's nice that this has all become quite clear.

18-Jun:  In evaluating colors, I've confirmed that my palette of choice would be Earth Tones.  I always lean towards the deeper browns and greens.  It's interesting that I already have those colors basically throughout my house.

20-Jun:  I've been increasingly feeling troubled, and after evaluation, I think the source is this whole remodel.  There have continued to be delays, some of the work isn't done as well as I would like, there are still decisions to be made, etc.  It appears that the contractor, for whatever reason, considers my project a lower priority.  I've come to accept that it is his decision and choice; and the only thing I can really do is to make my decisions and choices based on that.   I most likely will not be using his company again for future work and will not be referring friends to him.  However, on a positive note, I will say that my favorite part of the remodel so far is the shower.   The walls, seat, and shampoo box look really nice and seem like they would be practical.  The masonry does seem to be their area of expertise, whereas most of the other areas are more secondary.

26-Jun:  With the sink marble countertop and backsplash installed, I must admit that it is all coming together quite beautifully.   No longer do I have to envision it all in my mind, I can actually just look at it; and it really does look great.   I'm no longer second-guessing the floor tile, since I can visually see how well it ties in with the countertop and shower panels.   And the contrast with the dark cabinets really does look good.   Now, hopefully, the paint colors will go well with it all as well.

27-Jun:  The contractor said he would include the painting of the master bedroom walls as a "gift" for my "patience" through all the delays.  I guess that's validation that these delays are beyond normal.   I've learned that I'm only able to voice my disappointment in the delays, and there's really nothing more that I can do.  So, I'm not letting it frustrate and bother me as much.

3-Jul:  With just the initial coat of the paint done on the walls, I now have a better idea of what it looks like.   The rooms are definitely darker; but, I do think that it goes better with the dark wood cabinets and floors.   Also, it was interesting that the bathroom (CENTER RIDGE - DE6230) and bedroom (DRIED CHIVE - DE6272) wall colors were more similar than I expected - when just walking in, they almost look like the same color, which actually ties it in together better.  And the dark color definitely provides a nice contrast to the (LIGHTHOUSE - DEW385) white trim, doors, and ceilings.  I also decided to have the closet painted the same white color, which I think is a good decision since it will make the closet brighter and will make it easier to see clothes colors.

7-Jul:  It is actually all coming together nicely-I know that it is by God's guidance, for there were so many decisions that I was unsure about.  The paint looks really nice, although the room green doesn't go very well with my billiards green.  But, the contrast between the darker walls and the white ceilings and trim look really good.   Also, the color in the bathroom really bring out the veins in the marble and tile.  And the bathroom fixtures look great, which is good, since these and the shower tile are what initially determined most of the color choices.  I have gotten compliments on the room colors, and to me, they invoke feelings of deep warmth.  And when my friend saw the shower, she decided that's what she wanted for her remodel as well; which is positive affirmation of my remodel.
The other major decision I just made was on shower door glass.   I chose glue chip and hope it will turn out nice; without obscuring the shower design too much.   With all the feedback I've gotten, the hard water in my area, and privacy considerations, I really did not want to go with the clear glass; and I did not want it totally frosted either; so, the glue chip design seemed to be a good medium although it seems to be quite a bit more expensive (~33% more).  I did learn that I need to be more alert and discerning whenever talking with sales people - I may have been a little too trusting when dealing with the shower glass person which may have resulted in the much higher price.  I'll take this as a lesson learned.

11-Jul:  The shower door and glass was installed today by Vintage Shower Doors; and I have to say that the glue chip really looks nice.   I'm glad I decided to go with this instead of the clear.    And, I think the extra cost came because of the Enduro Shield (EnduroShieldUSA.com), since  I supposedly have the highest protection grade on the glass. With everything getting close to being finished, I'm pleased to be able to say that my bathroom now ranks up there as one of the most beautiful and classic; and more than that, it does look uniquely custom-made.

25-Jul:  The closet was finished yesterday, and it actually looks great and seems like it would be really good for storage space.   The dark wood matches well with the flooring, and it's nice to have a lot of shelving.  However, my contractor really seems to be dragging his feet to the end.   With only one day of work this week, it frustrates me; and I don't know what I could've done about it.  I just hope that all will be finished soon - all that is left are the handles on my bathroom cabinet, and my acoustic ceilings in the rest of the house.  May God's Will be done.

29-Jul:  A friend prayed with me about the remodel on Sunday evening, that I would be able to talk to the contractor and try to get the final part finished in a timely manner.   An hour later, it seemed like answer to our prayers, since the contractor said he would send someone to finish everything in the bathroom on Monday; and when I asked about the Acoustic ceilings and mentioned that I wanted it done ASAP, he said he would schedule it for Tues/Wed.    Well, on Monday, the person only came to apply sealant; the cabinet pulls are still not installed, and the outlet covers are still needed.  Today, no word from my contractor.   Hopefully, tomorrow... but, we'll see....  What can I do?
The contractor also hasn't been around for over three weeks now; and he has not been good with communication at all.   He hasn't even told me how the acoustic ceiling removal will be done, nor whether I need to put things away.   I took the initiative to move as much as possible into the newly finished room; but, it would be nice if he didn't ignore and neglect my project so much.

6-Aug:  Everything continues to take longer than indicated, even to the very end!  But, at least it seems like my contractor is making some effort to get things done.   He even stopped by for a short while, but, interaction seemed strained and awkward - not absolutely sure why; but, at least scheduling is continuing and text communications seem ok.  So far, all the ceilings have been scraped.  The drywall guys are now "mudding"/"texturing" the ceilings  (I've decided to go with the splatter texture throughout - it was more interesting than just flat).  Painting is scheduled for next week.  So, the "light at the end of the tunnel" is still there, but, it's further away than I thought.

8-Aug:  All the ceilings have finally been mudded/textured.  The drywall guys do really good work; and they clean up well.  And one of the guys even worked way overtime one day, going way above and beyond.  So, the only thing left is to paint the ceilings; which is scheduled for next week.   I am so looking forward to finally having this project done!

11-Aug:  The painting is expected to be all done today!   It is quite exciting, and I am ready to be able to move forward with the next phases of the overall plan.   I continue to place all things into His Hands.

12-Aug:  With the way the remodeling project has gone all along, I suppose it is fitting that the ending was sort of strange and anti-climatic.  The painter co. owner asked for the remaining paint from my bathroom, and also, when they started the ceilings, they asked for the remaining paint from my other ceilings.   When they finished, they left and took all the paint with them, not leaving me any touch-up paint and even taking the ones I had.   Strange!  Then, I get an invoice in email, showing the additional costs of about $1500, asking for payment of the balance.   So, I suppose that means the project is all done.  It is so strange that I didn't even get any other notification from my contractor, and no final visit.
But, for the next project, I have definitely learned that I should request that any additional costs be discussed with me beforehand during the project.
So, as an overall summary, I would say that the work looks good and I'm really happy with the shower.  Their area of specialty in masonry does show through.  The bathroom is beautiful and I do like the MB floor and closet as well.   The marble vanity does require extra care and maintenance, but it does set the tone for my bathroom and it looks really nice.  I'm glad I insisted on the non-transparent glass, the frame for the mirror, and the dual-flush toilet.  The color scheme is really warm and comforting.  The negatives would be that they did not do a great job with cleaning, communication was not the greatest, there were way too many delays, and my project seemed like it was low on their priority list.   But, I am so glad that it is all done; and the resulting outcome is very nice.

13-Aug:  Just when I thought everything was all done, I realized that the light switch cover plate in the bathroom has still not been installed.  So, I will have to follow-up on that.   Nice.....
Oh, but, I did find that the painters left the two cans of touch-up paint for me by my garage door.  So, not as strange as I originally thought.  So, good :-)
Well, it's delays to the very end.  Supposedly the painters were to touch up the bathroom today, and the contractor to bring over the light switch cover plate today or tomorrow.  So, still waiting........

14-Aug:  I feel like my patience is being tested to the very end.  The painters did not come yesterday, supposedly they'll be here today.  And we'll see whether the light switch cover plate gets installed.....
I've been praying for the Holy Spirit's guidance to know what to say and do.   I don't know if it is worth voicing my frustration at this time; but, I also don't want to give the impression that all the delays are totally fine.  I was considering asking what I could've done differently to reduce the delays... but, I really think that it is what it is....  At this point, I just want to have it all done with.

15-Aug:  It's all done!   Four months later, and the last check is paid off.   It actually ended fairly well.  I did not voice my frustrations; and our final completion was amicable.  I'm just glad that it's done.  Now I can focus on what's next......

Zechariah 7 & 8

The message in this chapter addresses one of the most common areas I've personally experienced where I've needed motivation and encouragement.  Those are times when I've felt like I was just "going through the motions"; and this message tells us that at times like that, we need to just "Live for the Lord!"

The message from God in this passage came in response to the question from the people on whether or not they should continue the fasting that they have been doing for the past seventy years commemorating the destruction of the Temple and another for the death of the governor Gedalia.  God answered by pointing out that they were living for themselves and not for HIM.  God instead desired obedience, which can be demonstrated through administering justice, showing mercy and compassion, not oppressing the needy and less fortunate, and not plotting evil against one another.   This somewhat mirrors Micah 6:8 "He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?"  The reminder that their forefathers refused to listen and hear which resulted in desolation was intended to encourage the people to live as His covenant people, in true obedience to HIM.

While fasting is an admirable discipline, yet, it is not so useful if not done for God.   In the same way, if we are just "going through the motions", even for things like going to church, singing, etc; if our hearts are not right and we are not doing it for God, it is not useful.   Everything we do and say should be done for God's Glory!

In Chp 8, God continued His responses to the question raised on Fasting.  He pointed them to a series of 10 PROMISES they could look towards  (all starting w/"This is what the LORD says...."):

1. He will zealously guard their covenant relationship -> Protection for them; Punishment for Enemies
2. He will make Jerusalem His Dwelling Place, and the city will be Faithful/True and Holy -> Presence
3. The City will be safe for old and young alike -> Peace
4. He can accomplish what may seem amazingly impossible to them -> Power
5. He will bring back and also save His covenant people -> Populating (and for His Kingdom)
6. They will be fruitful and blessed -> Prosperity
7. They will experience the goodness of God if they live in obedience to Him -> Preference
8. Their Fasts will become joyful Feasts -> Pleasure
9. Many from other nations (e.g. Gentiles) will come seek the LORD -> Prayer
10. The Jews will fulfill the promise that they will be a light to the world -> Prominence

The view of the Promises intended to motivate and encourage Israel, are the same Promises that we, as the people of God today, can also look towards.  Also, in the middle of all these Promises, Zechariah once again encourages them to "Let your hands be strong so that the temple may be built."     "Let your hands be strong" is similar to what God said to Joshua to "Be Strong and Courageous".  So, He was literally encouraging the Israelites, for to "ENCOURAGE" is to be "In Courage" or "Fill with Courage".  This indicates that discouragement comes from fear of something, and to encourage is to help give the courage to overcome that fear.

In the end of the chapter, the verse says, "In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, 'Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you."  Ten, representing the number of fullness, indicates that MANY will be so "attracted" to God that will grab hold of the edge of those walking by to ask to join in.   This is a reminder to live our lives in such a way that others may see God and be attracted to HIM.

23-Mar:  From today's sermon, it brought to mind that how we see ourselves can affect how other see us.  So, it's important that we should reflect the beauty of our new life in Christ; rather than the darkness of our old sinful selves.
I am encouraged that there were many people who expressed thanks for the lesson, demonstrating that they benefitted from it.   And just listening to what some were saying and even the words used during the prayer time indicated that they had learned from the lesson as well.  Praise God!

What's Next?

As I was praying about what to study next in my class, God clearly pointed me towards Haggai and then to Esther.  Haggai because he was a contemporary of Zechariah and so that we would be able to see the contrast in prophetic styles, giving the message to the same people in the same circumstances for the same purpose.

Since we had already studied Ezra and Nehemiah, and after finishing Zechariah and Haggai; we would've covered most of the books written during the reign of the Persian empire.   So, that naturally leads to Esther; and I was actually just reminded today that Malachi should also be included.   I'm actually excited about the study in Esther - one of only two books bearing the names of women.   Those of us who have grown up in Sunday School would naturally be familiar with the story; and there have been movies made, since it makes a great story.  Yet, I've never really done a verse-by-verse study of it; so, it should be interesting.

And Malachi would be a good book to transition back to the NT, since it is the last book of the OT before the inter-testament period of silence before the time of Christ.   So, it would be a good lead-in into the study of John.  One person in my class loves the Gospel of John and has been wanting us to study it in class.  I was hesitant, firstly because it is such a familiar book, but also because it is so theologically packed.   But, after all the blessings gleaned from studying Luke, I'm sure that we would benefit so much from the study of John.  And, after having led a study of Romans, I should be able to "handle" the theology in John; through the Holy Spirit's guidance of course.

5-May:  Having been able to outline the next to series, I'm really excited about them.   While the series in Zechariah was called "Motivation & Encouragement", the series in Haggai will be called "Motivation & Correction".   Using alliteration, the lessons will cover 3 "P"s - Priorities, Perspectives, and Promises.

For the series in Esther, I was able to apply a lesson I've been learning through finding the "joy in living"; which is to recognize the presence of God's Hand at work in my life, thus resulting in a more grateful spirit.  So, even though the name of God is never mentioned in Esther, we know that He is at work; so, each lesson will be "Looking for God's Hand at Work" in that particular circumstance, whether it be in the background, in making Esther queen, in "such a time as this", etc.  Through the study, I hope that my class will be able to daily intentionally recognize God's Hand at Work in their lives.

Frozen

What I liked most about Disney's animated picture "Frozen" was the music.  Several songs are ones that would continuously replay in my head.   I'm not surprised that "Let It Go" won an Oscar.   But, I actually liked the two songs sung by Kristen Bell more, "For the First Time in Forever" and "Do You Want to Build a Snowman".   I was pleasantly surprised at how well she sings - she has a really beautiful voice.  Those songs really capture a lot of emotion.

Another thing I really liked about the movie, was that it showed a really special relationship and love between the sisters Elsa and Anna.  And it was great to see how they overcame all the obstacles in their way to restore their relationship.  They are two interesting new Disney Princesses.   One, Elsa, doesn't even have a Prince; and the other, Anna, sort of had two in the movie.  They are also very different personalities.   One is very serious and quiet; while the other is loud and energetic.

Overall, it was an enjoyable film.

Cooking

I had some Barbunya Pilaki - red bean in tomato sauce, and cooked it with parsley.  I have learned that it is a Turkish dish, but it reminds me a little of pork & beans, just "lighter" since it's vegetarian.  I liked it.  It's typically eaten cold; but, I actually liked it better warm.

I also stewed some Lamb Ribs with a masala seasoning along with ginger, onion, garlic, carrots, and kale stems.  The lamb meat tasted good; but, there was not much of it and the ribs actually had a lot of fat.   Also, the seasoning was a little to salty and the carrots and kale stems were not so good after having cooked for so long.

The broiled Teriyaki Salmon did not turn out as good as when grilled in a cast-iron pan.   However, once the juices soaked in and it was served over rice with kale on the side, it turned out to be a satisfying meal.

I made almost a Eggplant Ratatouille, with tomatoes, garbanzo beans, olives, and dried cranberries.  I did soak the cubed eggplant in salt, but, it still retained some of the bitter flavor; and I didn't really like the consistency when cooked.  The dish itself actually works okay in a "soup", somewhat Mediterranean.

9-Mar:  I made a garlic spinach hummus.  Because I blended the garbanzo beans with the cooked garlic spinach (along with some tahini, olive oil, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice), the hummus came out green.   It may look unusual; but, it actually tastes quite good, and should be healthy.

15-Mar:  Made two types of fish and two types of beef today:

• Mahi Mahi - Pan fried Mahi Mahi, seasoned with Hawaiian salt and pepper and seafood seasoning. Made a pineapple salsa (pineapple, cilantro, and onion) to serve with it.   The salsa definitely helps; because without it, there was a fishy taste, and the fish was dry and tough
• Salsa Catfish - Marinated with Mexican seasoning, and pan fried with salsa and cilantro.   This tasted really good.  Would definitely make it again; and it would probably go well in a fish taco.
• "Teriyaki" Beef - Pan fried beef that was marinated with cornstarch, salt, and honey.   Cooked it with green onions, sesame oil, red wine, and soy sauce on really high heat.   This was very tasty.
• "Thai" Beef - Pan fried beef that was marinated with a hot & sweet chili sauce and cornstarch.  Cooked it with fish sauce, cilantro, parsley, onions, and garlic. Also added some red wine and a little rice wine vinegar. This also turned out well.

30-Mar:  Made a dish today that I've been wanting to cook for quite awhile - Jap Chae.   Cooked and drained the noodles and mixed with sesame oil.  Then, sliced green onion, carrots, bell peppers and stir fried with some spinach and just salt.  Added the noodles and seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame seeds.  It looked right and tasted okay; but, didn't quite measure up.  I would definitely try making it again.  I will likely add the mushrooms and maybe garlic.  Many recipes leave out the bell pepper and use yellow onion in addition to the green onion.

10-Jun:  Have been wanting to make some Indian dishes; so, tried Chole or Chana Masala  (Chickpea Curry).  Simmered onion, garlic, cilantro, tomatoes, and chickpeas with ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and garam masala.   It turned out okay; but, not exactly right.   There are some things I may change for next time, like puree the tomatoes and spices together first, so that it becomes like a paste instead of the chunks (maybe); add paprika; and cook it longer and on lower heat (possibly in a slow cooker); and may not need the pepper.

30-Jun:  Over the weekend, I cooked some sauteed mushrooms that turned out to be one of the best I have made.   I used a cast iron skillet, after grilling some sausages.   So, there may have still be some flavors left from the sausage; then added sesame oil, green onion, the mushrooms, and soy sauce.   It smelled and tasted really good.   Also, for my church annual meeting, I made sausages with brocolli, pureed onions, and bar-b-que sauce.   The whole corningware "pot" was empty by the end of the meal; so, that's a good indication that people liked it.  It's a nice feeling to have a potluck dish finished.

Sticker Shock

I had a bit of a "sticker shock" type moment after I did my taxes and found out how much I had to pay this year.  Not only did I have to give up what I normally get in returns; but, had to pay twice that on top of it, all because of capital gains on securities sold in order to do remodeling.  As a result, my remodeling budget has to be reevaluated.  It was disheartening; but, aren't we told to render to Caesar what is Caesar's?  And, of course, it follows that we are to render to God what is God's - ourselves, for we are created in His Image.

Wisdom in faithful stewardship has been a challenge lately; with having to "clean out" in preparation for remodeling.  I will keep praying for wisdom for all the decisions I am making; and that I truly will be faithful with all that He has placed in my care.

I guess the "good" out of all this, is that shock can lead to lessons learned.

Zechariah 6

In the final vision of the series of eight visions, Zechariah saw 4 chariots with red, black, white, and dappled horses.  Unlike the first vision, where the spirits or angels were for going to and fro to report back; these were more like those in Revelation 6, carrying out judgments.   The Spirit is at rest when wickedness has been judged.

The message of a crown for Joshua serves almost as a summary conclusion for the visions.   It points to the glorious hope when the Messiah, the Branch, is crowned as Priest-King.

There are many threads woven through all the visions; and essentially they show that wickedness will be judged and destroyed, the Holy City will be cleansed and restored, and the Messiah will reign as Priest and King.

The encouragement for the Israelites is to remind them that the temple they are building is a representation of the future temple from which the Messiah will reign.   That glorious hope is the same one that we as God's People have today, as mentioned in the passage "Those who are far away will come and help to build the temple of the Lord" (vs 6:15a)