REJOICE, THE LIGHT HAS COME!

By Curtis Dean (based on Gen. 32:24-30; Num. 22:35; 24:17; Matt. 2:1-12; etc.)
The Angel of the Lord to Jacob, Gen. 32:28
"And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel, for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed..." KJV
Pagan prophet Balaam speaking as ordered by the Lord.
Num. 24:17 "I shall see him, but now now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel..." KJV

Rejoice, rejoice, the Light has come, has come from Jacob's seed,
For Jacob wrestled with the Lord and he did intercede;
Once a schemer and cheater, too, he now was turned around,
Jacob became a "prince" with God, for Israel persistence found!

Centuries passed, there seemed no hope midst gloom and great despair.
They thought Messiah would surely come in power and with great flair.
Instead, the light of that natal star reached men in distant lands.
They came to see the Holy Child, the "Son of God" and "Son of Man".

"The Savior," He was born to be, to take our sins away,
He lived, and died, and rose again that sin should not hold sway.
And now in Heaven, He's waiting soon to call His Bride away.
The dead in Christ and we who live will certainly obey!

The Marriage Supper awaits us, "Come and dine!" we'll hear Him say.
But there's so much more to happen as we await a glorious day:
A day when Christ returns in power to rule and reign on earth;
For the "Scepter shall rise from Israel", He's the One of lowly birth!

What a day of jubilation, when Christ will sit upon His throne,
And we'll be with Him, yes, forever! And we'll never from Him roam!
Kings of earth will come and worship; all of earth will then adore.
"Peace on earth, good will to men," the angels need no more implore!

God used a pagan prophet this message to proclaim,
It's strange, but true, for Balaam held all Israel in disdain.
But speak he did, the Lord had told him, "Speak only what I tell!"
And when the Spirit came upon him, he spoke words that we love well!

'Twas the Christ Pre-Incarnate who met Balaam long ago;
And now, it's Christ Incarnate whom the Magi came to know!
So at this Christmas, ignore the glitz and glamour all around,
For He, "The Purpose of the Season", must in your heart now be found!

(C) Curtis Dean, 11/30/2010

THANKFUL?

(A poem for Thanksgiving)
by Curtis Dean

Thankful? Even though our nation’s at war
With men who hate and whose ways we abhor?
But our God can remove or set up a king;*
And someday true peace to this world He will bring!

Thankful? When times are tough and going is rough;
When to meet one’s needs there’s not nearly enough?
But God has promised those needs to supply,
Our job is to follow and on Him rely!

Thankful? When loved ones are pulled twixt and twain;
And others have lives that are oft filled with pain?
And there may be some who have too little sage,
But we love them all regardless of age!

Thankful? Yes, Lord, but give us peace in our hearts,
Help us to follow and never depart.
And thanks, once again, for Your help from the start,
And for the blessings Your grace does impart!
(*Dan 2:21)
(C) Curtis Dean 11/09

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?- A Christmas Play

A short Christmas play for small churches and groups. Requires 3 actors. This can be the song service with tthe congregation singing the songs as they come in the play; or they may be sung by the choir. A Christmas Drama by Curtis Dean

Song: (by the congregation) JOY TO THE WORLD, HGP 80 D
Other songs may be by the choir, music group, or the congregation.
Actors: Michael, Joanne, and Curtis; (Names may be changed.)
Scriptures are from the King James Version
Length: Approximately 30 minutes including songs.

SCENE I
Michael is seated in his front room when Joanne comes in carrying packages.
Actors: M= Michael: J= Joanne; C= Curtis

J: Hi! I’m home!

M: Well, it’s about time, and I see you’ve been spending our money again!

J Just trying to get some of the last-minute shopping done.
(Gives M a hug & kiss) Merry Christmas, dear!

M Well, Merry Christmas to you, too, but I just fail to see why all this excitement about some man born centuries ago!

J : What do you mean? He came to be our Savior?

M Well, I don’t understand that part of it. I know he was a great teacher, but there were other great teachers and philosophers even before him; like the Greek philosophers Plato and Philo, and others, so what’s the difference?

J Well, I sure can’t answer those questions, but tell you what—let’s call Brother Curtis. He used to be a Bible School teacher, so maybe he can explain some of this.


M Sounds like a good idea. I’ll call and see if he can come.

M Bro. Curtis, this is Michael. Joanne and I have some questions about the Christmas story and wonder if you could come over and help explain things… OK, thanks, we’ll be looking for you

J What did he say?

M He’s on his way; will be just a few minutes.

J. Well, let’s listen to one of the carols while we wait.

J or M, turns on radio; Congregation sings:
SILENT NIGHT HGP 67 Bb

SCENE II

(C KNOCKS ON DOOR; M OPENS IT AND GREETS HIM)

M Hi, Curtis! Thanks for coming, though sorry to disturb you!
Come on in and have a seat.

They are seated at a table.
J Can I get you something to drink?

C Oh, some Coke or Dr. Pepper, or whatever you’ve got?

J serves the drinks, & then click glasses
C To your health!

MJ
And to yours!

C So, you say you have some questions about Christmas? What kind of questions?

M Well, I’ve studied about some of the ancient Greek philosophers and they were really smart people; you know, people like Plato and Philo. So what’s the difference between great teachers like them and Jesus?

C Well, that’s a good question. I’ll see if I can help answer it.
And I can show you the connection between Plato, Philo, and the writings of the apostle John

J Well, you two have already got me confused; I know who John is, but who were Plato and Philo?

C Well, it’s a deep subject, and goes back long before Christ was born, but I’ll try to explain. God used the circumstances happening in the world to prepare for the coming of Christ. Before the Romans came to power, Greece had conquered the then-known world and everywhere Greek was spoken. It was the language that the New Testament is written in. Plato was a Greek philosopher who lived three centuries before Christ, but we’ll find that even his teachings would later be used to spread the Gospel

M How’s that?

C. Plato took the Greek word LOGOS (L-0-G-0-S) and tried to define it. He somehow equated the Logos as being the very thought or essence of God. So the goal was to somehow find this Logos

M So his Logos was the thought or essence of God?

C Yes, so if you could find that Logos, you could know God.
Now that’s a very simple way of explaining it, but in essence that
was his idea, and it spread rapidly.

J So, what about the other one you mentioned, Philo?

C Philo was a Jewish philosopher, — He was known as Philo Judaeus, and he lived in Alexandria.

J Where’s that?

C Alexander was on the coast of North Africa, in Egypt. It was the greatest center of learning of the then-known world. Their library was huge as they wanted a copy of every book ever written in the world to be in their library, and their philosophers would study these books.

M Does it still exist?

C No, it was destroyed many centuries ago.

M But get back to this guy, Philo? What does he have to do with the story?

C Philo was a contemporary of Christ and the Apostles, but he did not know them since he lived in Alexandria.[1] Philo’s teaching would even strengthen the teaching of Plato. Philo said that the Logos was the “active, intelligent, world-principle, the thought in the divine mind, and a mediator between God and the matter of his creation.” [2]

M Wow! I’m beginning to see the connection!

C To the Greeks “The use of logos (was) the logical ordering of the universe, in the existence of a personal God.” [3] In other words, this LOGOS was divine reason that operates the world and it is the medium of communion between God and man.

J OK, but what does that have to do with the Apostle John

C Do you have a Bible here?

J Sure

J gets up to get a Bible
C Well, before we start reading, why don’t we sing one of the carols?

J How about, “Away in a Manger”

CONGREGATION SINGS: AWAY IN A MANGER HGP 74 F

SCENE III
J Here’s the Bible.

C OK, turn to John chapter 1 & read verses 1 & 2.

J Just a minute—here it is: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

C “In the beginning was the Word”—that’s our English translation,
but in the original Greek it says ‘LOGOS”! In the beginning was the Logos (the Word), and the Logos was with God, and the Logos was God, The same was in the beginning with God.”
What John is saying, is that this Logos that you’ve been talking about—that’s Jesus, He is the Word, He is the Logos!
So all this time, He is the One you’ve been looking for!

M So John was just defining something they already talked about?

C That’s right! He’s saying that this very One you’ve talked about, searched for, and wondered how to obtain, that’s Jesus, He is the Word, and He is God!

M Wait a minute! You said that Jesus is God. I thought the Father, Jehovah, was God.

C Yes, but let’s look at another verse, Joanne, would you read Genesis 1;1?

J OK, just a minute…. Here it is: In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth

C The Hebrew word that we have translated “God” is the word “Elohim” and it is plural. And in chapter GE 1:26 And God said, “Let us make man in our image,” He didn’t say “Let me”, but “let us…” And many other verses are like that. Another important verse is Proverbs 30:4. Joanne can you read it?

J Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?

M That’s amazing, but why couldn’t the Jews see this?

C Many did later, but many had their eyes blinded to this truth, unless like Paul, their eyes were opened.

C One more Scripture will pretty well cinch it up: Phil 2:6-11

J Phil 2:6-11… Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7. But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10. That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11.And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

C This is what makes Jesus different from Plato, Philo, and anyone else. He is the Son of God, Who became incarnate—that is, took upon himself the very form of man—that he might pay the supreme sacrifice for our sins!
Michael, do you now see the difference?

M Yes, I see, and I believe! Now I know why He is my Savior, the Logos—the Word. Now I understand why I can believe and trust in Him!

J Me, too, I already believed, but that helps strengthen my faith just to know what John was talking about!

C That’s great! So let’s have a word of prayer

Curtis leads in a short prayer. Then Michel turns to Joanne and says:
M Joanne, see what’s going on outside; sounds like there’s people out there.

Joanne looks out over congregation and replies:
J It’s carolers, and they’re going to sing for us!

M & C get up, look towards the congregation.
M Oh, there’s a whole group of them—that’s really nice for them to do this!

C Well, let’s just sing along with them!

Barbara leads congregation in O COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL
Hymns of Glorious Praise 78; pefer Somg His Praise p. 420 G
M, J, & C THEN WAVE TO THE CONGREGATION
M-J- C (Waving) Thank you! Thank you very much! Merry Christmas!

Optional: M-J-C & Carolers all sing: WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS
© Curtis Dean 12/2009 Drama written by Curtis
[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philo
[2] NIV Bible Dictionary
[3] The Expository Dictionary of Bible Word

YOU'VE ADDED ANOTHER YEAR!

YOU’VE ADDED ANOTHER YEAR!
by Curtis Dean

So now you’ve added another year,
There’s no need to shed a single tear;
But rejoice in the Lord, He cares for you,
That’s why He kept you the whole year through!

If He did it before, He can do it again,
He’s there to protect, to shield and defend;
So trust Him and keep Him as your dearest friend,
And ev’n when you’re ill, He can help you to mend!

Oh yes, times get rough and sometimes so tough,
But you’ll make it through, if you’ve got the right stuff,
And that comes from His love; it’s really enough,
So, don’t let the Devil succeed with his bluff!

Just keep on going and serving the Lord,
Rely on His Word, it’s your shield and your sword.
Until the day that He calls you home,
Don’t let your footsteps away from Him roam!

For someday in Glory we'll see His dear face,
And that's all because of His marvelous grace.
So, birthdays we count until that wonderful day,
When at last we'll be home with Him forever to stay!

© Curtis Dean, 10/9/10

Pierce City Assembly Founded 60 Years Ago

A memoir by Curtis Dean, Sept. 2010

It was early September, 1950, and school had just started at Central Bible Institute, in Springfield, MO. I had frequently preached back in Kansas, and some at CBI knew this. A man therefore came to me and said: “We would like to have a church started at Pierce City and hear that you are a preacher. Would you be willing to be the team leader?” I replied, “No, I’m just a freshman, but I know a senior who might be willing.”

That senior was Forrest Farley, and he agreed to be the team leader and pastor. The team members were from Kansas, Mary (Hollis) Jones, from El Dorado, and the rest of us were all from the First Assembly of God, of Wichita: Forrest and his wife, Joan; Marjorie (Kloefkorn) Spikes; A.J. Fox (with us the first couple of months), and myself. Occasionally, others would go along to help.

Towards the middle of September, we began street meetings on Saturday evenings, at Walnut and Main St. The pharmacy next door let us plug into their electricity for our sound system. We also met with some residents who were interested in starting an Assembly. I do not remember the names of most of them, but do remember that a Bro. & Sis. Ray were among the original members and supporters.

Very soon thereafter, we rented the main floor of a store-front building on Main St, just west of Elm St. and someone donated the benches. Therefore, by early October, 1950, we had the first services in that building and the Assembly was established under the supervision of the Southern Missouri District Council.

Highway I-44 did not exist in those days, so it was a long trip over hilly, winding roads. Sometimes we had dinner with the Rays or others, but usually we brought sack lunches from the school. We were there for both the morning and evening services, and it would be late night before we arrived back at the school. Our trip to and from Pierce city was further from the school than any other student ministry assignments that year.

Services in that small building were unique in some ways. The children’s class met on the platform, the adult class in the auditorium, and the only sound-proofing was the curtain between. The church had its own “preacher alert” system—WASPS! Sometimes they dive-bombed the preacher. One preacher got stung twice—the second time he exclaimed, “He got me again, but this time I got him!” The church also had its own “listener alert” system, too—rickety benches. One man would often doze off and lean back in his bench. It would start to tilt and he would wake up startled. The bench would KLUNK back down with its own sound effects!

The people were faithful and slowly the church began to grow. In May, 1951, Forrest Farley resigned as he was graduating from CBI and moving back to Kansas. Orman (Ricky) Coats became the new pastor. One of his team members, Wilbur Schuessler, later became the pastor of the church. It was during Schuessler’s pastorate that the present church was constructed.

Thank the Lord for this ministry that began sixty years ago! It was a privilege to be a member of that original Pierce City student ministry team, and to be under the wise and cordial leadership of the founding pastor, Forrest Farley!

WHY KNOCK MYSELF OUT?

So far, my memoirs have been about the missionary work of Jeanne and me. This time, however, my memoir goes back many years before that, to an event that includes a friend who is now in a nursing home, Vona (Ward) Wilson-Hearle. Perhaps this story will be an encouragement to her and give her the honor she is due.

The event is about the “Christ’s Ambassadors”, the young people of First Assembly of God, Wichita, Kansas, now known as Maranatha Worship Center. It takes place in the late ‘40s. I was the leader of the tract distribution group, and on Sunday afternoons we would usually go downtown to hand out gospel tracts.

It was a bitterly cold, windy Sunday, with snow on the ground, At first, I debated whether to even go to the church, but decided that I should at least show up, but doubted that anyone else would be there, and they certainly could not be blamed for staying home! One person had come, it was Vona. We went downtown by bus and there began handing out tracts to the few who braved such weather. Most had sense enough to stay home!

Then we found a man, standing alone, leaning against a building. We gave him a tract, witnessed briefly, and invited him to come to the evening service. After that, we decided to get back to the church for we were already half frozen, and by then I was building up a good case of self-pity and the blues! After the evening service, instead of gathering with the others at the altars to pray, I went downstairs where I could pray by myself, and my prayer of complaint was, “Lord, why do I have to knock myself out this way?"

It was only a few minutes before someone came downstairs and called me saying, “Curtis, the pastor wants you upstairs!” Once upstairs, I saw the pastor, and Vona, and a man—the man to whom we had witnessed on the street! He explained, “I was so amazed that anyone cared enough about my soul to come out and witness on a day like this, that I decided to visit the church whose address was on the tract. I’m just a salesman passing through Wichita. When I came to Wichita, I was a lost salesman, but tomorrow I leave as a saved one!” Was it worth it? Oh yes, and Lord, forgive me for being such a complainer!
My sincere thanks to Vona for also braving that weather. It meant that man’s salvation!

Yes, sometimes we have to “knock ourselves out” as it were, and many times we will never know the results. Thankfully, this time we did!

STAND UP, SALUTE THE FLAG!

STAND UP, SALUTE THE FLAG!
by Rev. Curtis Dean

Hundreds of thousands bled and died that our nation might be free,[1]
And despots we have conquered to give people liberty.
Don’t tell me that our flag is a “symbol of oppression”,
For repeatedly we’ve given to folk the freedom of expression!

In Belgium, for example, they would often say to me,
“Please thank your people for us ‘cause America set us free!”
In France, the Freedom Fighters tell how they joined with the Yanks,
And time and time again they’d say, “Please tell your people thanks!”

Just remember that most people cannot “sing a happy song”,
If liberty and freedom are disappearing and almost gone!
So stand up, salute the flag, when it comes passing by,
Please don’t use some lame excuse; our flag does proudly fly!

6/19/2010


This poem may be freely used as long as my name is listed as the author.
The poem is meant for any and all Americans,
but especially for one certain important official. You guess who!

[1] 651,030 and counting! http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0004615.html

I LOVE MY DAD

My Dad, he loved, he loved the Lord, and served Him faithfully;
At work, at home, his love for God was there for all to see!
In joys and difficulties, too, he faithfully pressed on,
And often we would hear him sing a joyous gospel song.

The years rolled on, through toils and tears, but Daddy never changed;
He knew what God had done for him, his life was rearranged!
His love for God was sure and firm, through hard times it would stand,
‘Till some sweet day, in Heav’n above, he’d reach the Golden Strand.

So faithfully he labored on, and raised his children, too.
He prayed that they would love the Lord and serve Him all life through.
With dedication he would lead his family all the way,
Until the day that God would call him home, in Heav’n to stay!

I love my Dad, really I do! He meant so much to me;
His love was sure, his word was firm, he knew what I should be.
When things went wrong, or days seemed long, I knew that he still cared,
I love my Dad, why shouldn’t I? His life he with me shared!
by Curtis Dean
3/25/08

FIFTY YEARS!

Written and dedicated to my sister and brother-in-law, Nancy & Ron Haffner, for their 50th Anniverary, held at Okeene, Okla 6/5/10

FIFTY YEARS!

(A poem dedicated to Nancy & Ron on their 50th!)

Fifty years is a long, long time, for hearts to be as one;
The years have come, the years have gone, now the fiftieth you have won!
Who ever thought your love could last this long, but it’s been done;
And now you know down deep inside, it was really worth the run!

Though joy and tears, though laughs and cries, the years have come and gone;
Sometimes the days were very good, sometimes all things seemed wrong.
But faithfully you still went on when days seemed, oh, so long;
So now rejoice, you’ve got the right, to fill your hearts with song!

It’s through God’s love and by His grace you’ve made it to this day;
He’s surely been the Rock on which your home would firmly stay.
You trusted Him, it mattered not, what others might do or say;
He’s guided by His gentle hand to lead you on life’s way!

So may His blessings be with you and keep you in His care,
He really understands your hearts, and has His love to share.
When things are tough, just go to Him, your burdens He will bear.
And yes, He’ll keep you ‘till that day when a Crown of Life you’ll wear!

Happy Anniversary!
With lots of love,

Curtis

By Curtis Dean, (Written 6/2/10)

ON THE BEACH OF NORMANDY

ON THE BEACH OF NORMANDY

I stood on the Beach of Normandy
And looked as far as eye could see,
And knew that here thousands had died
With no place near where they could hide.

The battles were fierce, the days wore on;
It seemed to many a hope forlorn.
But triumph they did, they gained the ground,
And they gave freedom to those around.

De Gaulle had lied and even yelped,
“We did it alone with no one’s help!”
But those of Normandy aren’t aloof,
And readily say, “We know the truth!”

The graves are there for all to see,
Thousands of them beside the sea.
The gravesites are immaculately kept,
And loved ones often have come and wept.

Tell me not of America’s faults,
‘Till you her glories have thoroughly taught!
For we gave, we prayed, and thousands died,
So others might live on victory’s side!

How often Belgians whom I met,
Would thank me and tell me of their debt,
To Americans who fought victoriously,
That they might live in liberty!

Stand up, America, and let’s be proud!
Shout freedom’s song both clear and loud!
Don’t hang your head, there’s naught to shame!
We fought and won; we’re due the fame!

by Rev. Curtis Dean
May 17, 2009 (May be used freely
as long as my name is listed as the author.)
***
See photo by Luke M. Curley at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:WW2_Normandy_American_Cemetery_Rain.JPG

WILL THE SAVIOR STAND BY ME?

WILL THE SAVIOR STAND BY ME?
by Curtis Dean, June 26, 2009

When “I’m growing old and feeble”, will the Savior stand by me?
When the way is hard to see, and things of life a puzzle be,
Will He care? Will He share? Will He make the shadows flee?
Yes, the Lord, the King of Glory, stands by me!

Has He led in years gone by, and heard and met our faintest cry,
Though our spirit would only sigh, we seemed to crawl instead of fly?
Be assured He sees our tears, understands our foolish fears,
And our petition, rest assured, He really hears.

Even in the darkest night, He will give a ray of light;
He will show the way to go, there’s no need for fear or fright.
Once you’ve done all things to stand, just reach out and take His hand,
For you’ve built upon the Rock, not on the sand!

Yes, He loves ev’n if we’re old, will never leave us, we’ve been told.
Our lives He simple shapes and molds, we need not fear, tho’ times seem cold.
So whate’re your lot may be, look to God and you shall see,
That by faith you, too, can say, “He stands by me!”

This poem may be freely used non-commercially, as long as my name is listed as author.
Curtis Dean. For any commercial use, please contact me at: E-mail: curtisdean1@sbcglobal.net

GENESIS CHARTS & NOTES, PARTS 1 & 2

These charts concerning Genesis are ideal for teaching classes or for your own study. These are NOT Bible study commentaries, but charts that help explain the subject; many are illustrated. These will help you understand and/or teach from Genesis, and to show the correlation of events and people.

To obtain copies, e-mail me at: curtisdean1@sbcglobal.net Specify the page numbers & titles you want and they will be sent to you as e-mail attachments. Most are in regular document form. A few are PDF, and are so indicated below. (An entire set may be requested, but it will probably require several e-mails to do it—that remains to be seen.)
With your first order, the PAGE OF RULES will also be sent. These rules must be followed: namely that the lessons are for your personal or class-room use only; not to be sold, and if reproduced must retain my name and all the credits listed. Also, if you let me know how you plan to use these, it will be appreciated. These are furnished free, since they are not allowed to be sold. (However, personal offerings are always appreciated.)

PAGE TITLE and Description
a. Rules for Use of the Lessons
1. Correlation of Days of Creation
Correlates days 1-2-3 with 4-5-6.
2. God, The Creator of Natural Universe
Chart: List of verses proving God is the Creator.
3. Covenant of Day & Night;
Chart ref. God’s covenant with day & night.
4. The Chosen Line;
Chart showing the Chosen Line, Adam to Jacob.
5. The Cain Line;
Chart of the rejected lineage, Cain until the flood.
6. Covenant with Noah;
Illustrated chart, God’s covenant with Noah.
7. Lifespan Chart- Before Flood;
Chart shows length of years; example: who was living
when Adam & others were alive. –PDF format only.
8. Lifespan chart- Noah to Abram -pdf format
9. Who Were the Giants?
Chart presents various possible answers.
10. Abram & The War of the Kings.
Data ref personalities involved.
11-12. The Covenant with Abraham.
Chart of various stages of his life.
13. The Covenant of Circumcision.
Implications of such a covenant.
14-15. The Covenant with Isaac
Chart of various stages of his life.
16-17. The Covenant with Jacob
Chart of various stages of his life.
18-19. The Angel of the Lord
Pre-incarnate appearances of Christ.
20. Jacob’s Latter Years
Aspects of his latter years.

21-22. Joseph, the Preserver
Chart of various stages of his life.
23. Judah’s transformation;
From cruel and sinful, to caring,
responsible ancestor of Christ.
24-26. Correlation of Jacob’s & Moses’ Tribal Prophecies.
A 3-page study showing correlation of Jacob’s & Moses’
prophecies concerning the tribes and their fulfillment.
27. What Happened? –music, (PDF format.)
Song by Curtis Dean to illustrate the fall & possible
redemption of man. Song was used in ICI audio course.
28. What Happened? –lyrics

CAP & TRADE; LICENSE REQUIRED FOR HOMES

To my American readers:
It was not my original purpose to use my blogspot for political matters, but this is just unbelievable. Wake up, America, before it's too late. In fact, I'm afraid it is already too late!

Cap and Trade: A License Required for your Home http://www.nachi.org/forum/f14/cap-and-trade-license-required-your-home-44750/
HR2454 American Clean Energy & Security Act: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-2454
Cap & Trade A license required for your home: http://www.prisonplanet.com/cap-and-trade-a-license-required-for-your-home.html
Cap and trade is a license to cheat and steal: http://www.sfexaminer.com/opinion/columns/oped_contributors/Cap-and-trade-is-a-license-to-cheat-and-steal-45371937.html

LOST MANUSCRIPT FOUND AND MAILED

In the early 90s, Jeanne began a project of getting the study course “The Minister’s Wife”, translated into French. This was a study produced by the Southern Baptist’s Seminary, Extension Education Division.

The translation was done by Martin Gabriel and Christinne King, and was typed into proper manuscript form. They also translated the cassette that was used with the course, and the French recording was done by Therese Dutron, member of the Nivelle Assembly.
The tape was then sent to Gary Sallee for the final mixing. Gary was a former studio technician there at Continental Bible College (now Continental Theological Seminary).
(Others may have been involved of whom I’m not aware.)

Unfortunately, after all that work, some confusion arose and the Baptists were no longer interested, or something… not sure just what. Jeanne was very disappointed and of course, all that work done by the others now seemed in vain. By then, it was time for us to return to the States, and to make matters worse, the manuscripts, recordings, and all of it was lost somewhere in our baggage! Even days before her passing, Jeanne begged me to “Please find the project and get someone to publish it!” It was a burden of her heart that ministers’ wives in Francophone countries should have this available, but the years continued to pass.

Becky recently found the materials, all stuffed in an unmarked Belgian shopping bag! Then I began correspondence with the Baptist’s again. Although they could not promise publication, after all these years have passed and formats have changed, etc., they agreed that I should send the materials to them for their evaluation, with there being a possibility that someday it might be published. (They were not able to release it for publication by someone else, but at least now agreed to review the materials.)

It was then necessary for me to sort out the various parts of the project and get them properly labeled: the translation of the study guide; the translation of the cassette, etc.
TODAY, IT ALL GOT MAILED! So, Lord, please have one of the angels tell Jeanne that the manuscripts and the recordings, have now been sent. She will be thrilled! And now we trust that, after reviewing the materials, the Baptists will eventually publish it and make it available in these many countries where it is so desperately needed!

My sincere thanks to those team members who worked so many days on this project, and now, maybe at last, there is some hope that it will be realized! I sincerely thank you team members for all the work you did. And I thank Becky for finding this long-lost material! My thanks also to Randal Williams, the director of the Seminary Extension for agreeing that the materials should be sent to him. My belated thanks also to Jeanne for having this burden, this vision-- and now maybe, just maybe, it will come to pass!

Since I still believe that the Lord can work things out in His time, I will still believe and trust that someday this material will finally help and encourage the wives of pastors in many countries. An article that was with this study concerning the pastor’s wife, was entitled, “The Loneliest Lady in Town”! I’m sure that many pastors’ wives could relate to that!

HE IS RISEN

HE IS RISEN!

He is risen! Now let’s tell it,
Tell to nations of the world;
Tell the story with jubilation,
Let His banner be unfurled!

Do not cringe or meekly stutter,
“Well, we think it’s really so”;
For we have a sure salvation,
Let Him all the doubts o’erthrow!

With His living Presence in you,
And the joy and peace He gives,
We can have that sweet assurance,
“Yes, He really, truly lives!”

So, just tell the blessed story,
Spread the news both near and far;
‘Till the day we stand before Him,
In that Land beyond the stars!

Then the crowns that He has promised,
Will be laid at Jesus’ feet;
And the saved of all the nations,
Will sit down with Him to eat.

Let us live with expectation,
Let us press towards the prize;
‘Till that Resurrection Morning,
When together we shall rise!

--by Curtis Dean
3/23/08

This poem may be used freely by others, as long as my name remains attached as the author.
For any saleable publication, permission for use should be requested at:
E-mail: curtisdean1@sbcglobal.net
Note: My proof of ownership is “postal protected”. –Curtis Dean

This poem may be sung to the tune of: “Brethren We Have Met To Worship”,
or “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”

PRESS ON -- A poem for those in bereavement

PRESS ON!
(A poem for those in bereavement.)

The storms of life may loudly roar,
And billows of sorrow around us soar;
But God does surely understand,
And He still holds us in His hand.

For His compassion is full and free,
Though we can’t really, fully see;
Yet we must trust Him more and more,
Until we reach that Distant Shore.

Press on, my friend, and don’t despair,
For we are still within His care;
The storms cannot His favor hide,
Instead, in Him we shall abide.

So, may His comfort now be near,
Ev’n though your eyes are filled with tears;
He knows, He keeps, He satisfies,
And all our hope on Him relies.

Press on, for there’s no turning back,
Of grace and strength there is no lack;
His love and peace He gladly shares,
If on Him now you place your cares.

He still loves you, there’s not a doubt,
No reason now to sit and pout!
For in the night He gives a song,
What you must do is still “Press On!”

by Curtis Dean
01/29/10

This poem may be used freely by others, as long as my name remains attached as the author.
For any saleable publication, permission for use should be requested at:
E-mail: curtisdean1@sbcglobal.net

Note: My proof of ownership is “postal protected”. –Curtis Dean

JUST KEEP ME WORKING

1.
Oh yes, I know that I am seventy-eight,
And as for me my time is getting late;
But I don’t plan to sit around and wait,
But keep on working for my Lord’s sake;
Yes, keep on working for my Lord’s sake!

2.
Perhaps no more in lands afar I’ll roam,
But I can serve Him though I’m here at home;
I’m not content to simply moan and groan,
For His love’s sweeter than the honeycomb; [1]
Yes, His love’s sweeter than the honeycomb!

3.
Where’er it is, whatever it may be,
I pray His love will still be seen in me;
Be it in words or be it in my deeds,
Just help me, Lord, to live for Thee;
Yes, help me, Lord, to live for Thee!

4.
Sometimes the toil and pressures of this world,
Keep life mixed up and often in a whirl;
And sometimes Satan’s darts at me are hurled,
But help me, Lord, keep the banner unfurled;
Yes, help me, Lord, keep the banner unfurled!

5.
Someday to Heaven’s golden shores I’ll go,
A place is waiting just as we’ve been told;
But ‘til then, ev’n if winds around me blow
Just help me, Lord, Your Word to sow,
Yes, help me, Lord, Your Word to sow!

SUMMARY
Please help me, Lord, keep the banner waving free;
And, help me, Lord, to live for Thee!
For Your love’s sweeter than honey from the bees;
So keep me working (Yes, keep me working)
JUST KEEP ME WORKING, I ASK OF THEE!

By Curtis Dean
78th Birthday: Feb. 3, 2010
[1] Psalms 19:10

GENESIS CHARTS AND NOTES- PART 1

The following charts concerning Genesis are ready. If interested , notify me at my e-mail address:
curtisdean1@sbcglobal.net
Specify the ones you want and they will be sent to you as e-mail attachments.
The first ones are as follows:
1. The Correlation of the Six days of Creation
2. God, the Creator of the Universe
3. The Day & Night Covenant
4. The Chosen line -chart
5. The Cain line -chart
6. The Covenant with Noah

More will be forthcoming soon, as quickly as I can adjust them to this system.
You also need to request a copy of the Rules concerning using the charts.
Also, if you sign up as a follower on my blog site, you will receive confirmation of any new additions to the sight.

IS HE COMING?

IS HE COMING?
by Curtis Dean

Is He coming? Does it matter if Christ is coming very soon?
Can’t I just go on with living and maybe whistle a happy tune?
Why should I even be conscious of some event, we know not when,
For days, and months, and years roll by; just as it’s always been!

For there’s my work and family, all require a lot of time,
Why should I be so worried, is this problem really mine?
For life is filled with other things, why should I be concerned,
When it seems the date of His return can’t really be confirmed?

But then one day the words hit home, the words that our Lord spoke,
They hit so hard down deep inside, my stubborn will He broke;
Jesus said, not even the angels, know the day or know the time,
“Watch ye therefore”, He commanded, and our light we must let shine.

So there’s more to earthly living, more involved than some may know,
And to those who live around us, the love of Christ we need to show.
Yes, His coming is much nearer, closer than we might surmise.
And we must be ever ready, lest it catch us by surprise.

“Watch ye therefore,” let us do it as we go about our tasks,
For we know that all the earthly things will not forever last;
But this we know for certain, that He’s coming very soon,
Just when we really know not, be it morning, night or noon.

Yes, He’s coming, for He promised, His return is drawing nigh,
So while the Spirit’s moving, do not let Him pass you by;
Open up your heart to Jesus, let the doubts just flee away.
For the Lord Himself is waiting in your life to have full sway.

You will never, e’er regret it, it’s a decision you must make,
Just come to Him believing, trusting Him is all it takes;
Let the love of Christ possess you, let Him fully take control,
Then you’ll have the sweet assurance: all is well within your soul!

3/7/2010

This poem may be used freely by others, as long as my name remains attached as the author.
For any saleable publication, permission for use should be requested at:
E-mail: curtisdean1@sbcglobal.net
Note: My proof of ownership is “postal protected”. –Curtis Dean

OUR YEARS AS MISSIONARIES

OUR YEARS AS MISSIONARIES

My late wife, Jeanne, and I were Assemblies of God foreign missionaries for forty years. After language study in Switzerland, for the next eighteen years, we were stationed in the city of Koudougou, Burkina Faso (ex-Upper Volta), West Africa. In addition to village evangelism and many other responsibilities, I founded and directed THE JOYFUL SONG RECORDING STUDIO, that is still producing broadcasts that are sent to various stations in four languages.
Jeanne was the musician for the Koudougou Temple and radio choir and for the National Choir. Also, I established the Upper Volta office for the INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENCE INSTITUTE (ICI), and Jeanne was the secretary.

After that, we transferred to Belgium. For awhile we were with the internaional ICI office, but then transferred to CONTINENTAL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, near Brussels. Jeanne taught English as a second language. I taught Bible, theology, missions, and media; served as the director of student ministries, and directed a recording studio whose broadcasts were released on several stations in Europe and even in Africa. Also, during three years, I pastored the Assembly of God church, then located in Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium. During our final years as missionaries, I taught accelerated courses in various C.I.S. (former Soviet) countries. Retirement became necessary when Jeanne became too ill.

Since then, for ten years, I taught Berean study courses, including six years serving as the director of the Wichita-area Berean Study Centers (of the Kansas Assemblies of God). Now, I'm living in a retirement community at Cheney, Kansas, about twenty-five miles west of Wichita.

During these many years of teaching, I developed scores of lesson sheets. Eventually, it is my hope to post some of these titles to this blog, and they will then be available as e-mail attachments. How soon it will take for me to get this ready remains to be seen! Meanwhile, I may be contacted by e-mail at curtisdean1@sbcglobal.net