December 28, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/12-28-2015.html

   Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10         
          Monday December 21 st ~

     It's my Birthday! Made it to 60.

     Ministered at the "Golden Living" nursing home in Brookhaven, Mississippi.

          Tuesday December 22 nd ~

     Sang at the "Lawrence County Nursing Home" in Monticello, Mississippi. Then on to the Salem Heights Baptist church just outside of Laurel, Mississippi.

     Good timing. Got invited to join them for their annual staff Christmas luncheon. Rib Roast, Crab Legs & Baked potatoes. Yum!

          Wednesday December 23 rd ~

     Took care of a domestic chore using the church's washer & dryer. And at mid-week services enjoyed the honor of sharing a song.

          Thursday December 24 th ~

     Joined a group from the church who put on a Christmas Eve meal and program at The Mission in town. Had the privilege of sharing a couple of songs.

          Friday December 25 th ~

     Joined the folks at The Mission for their Christmas Day meal and got to sing and share during the devotional.

          Saturday December 26 th ~

     A day of rest.

          Sunday December 27 th ~

     Attended services here at Salem Heights where I was given the opportunity to share a couple of songs during a Sunday School class held in the old chapel. Then had lunch and a sweet visit with my new friend & Brother Richard.

     Ended the day watching a semi-professional fireworks display, which this rather large congregation had arranged on the grounds, following the evening service.

      

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

December 21, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/12-21-2015.html

   For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:6, 7         
          Monday December 14 th ~

     Published the newsletter from a restaurant in the lodge at the DeGray Lake State Park near Bismarck, Arkansas.

          Tuesday December 15 th ~

     Ministered at the "Wentworth Place " in Magnolia, Arkansas.

          Wednesday December 16 th ~

     Crossed the border into Louisiana to the town of Ringgold where I was able to share with some folks at their nursing home.

          Thursday December 17 th ~

     Drove east to Winnfield, Louisiana and sang at their oldest nursing home.

               ( Many years ago I stopped at a church in this town which offered a place to park and shower in their facility. One year later, when I stopped here, the person manning the office spoke to me through the locked front glass door informing me that they didn't have a current pastor. Although this person remembered me from the previous year, this person was so filled with fear that I was asked to, "Please go somewhere else".

     Needless to say, for a number of years I didn't bother them when passing through this area. However, this year the Spirit moved me to stop. And this time the person manning the office invited me in, made a quick phone call to make sure it was okay and even gave me a key to the facility so I could come and go. )

     Wounded---Healed. 

          Friday December 18 th ~

     Ministered at the "Autumn Leaves" assisted living facility here in Winnfield.

          Saturday December 19 th ~

     Having crossed the border into Mississippi, I spent the day at the Clear Springs campground in the Homochitto National Forest.

          Sunday December 20 th ~

     Attended worship services at the "Lucien Baptist Church" where I was given the honor of sharing a bit during their Christmas Service. Then joined some of the folks for a meal in Brookhaven, Mississippi.

      

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

December 14, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/12-14-2015.html

   He (Joseph) went there (Bethlehem) to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
Luke 2:5-7         
          Monday December 7 th ~

     Started this week in Yoakum, Texas. Sang at the nursing home in town where my aunt Leona lives. When I told her who I was she said, "How'd you get so big?"

          Tuesday December 8 th ~

     Driving north I stopped in Henderson, Texas and ministered at their older nursing home.

          Wednesday December 9 th ~

     Crossed the border into Oklahoma and joined my friend David in Idabel at the "Memorial Gardens" nursing home where several of us sang for a large group of residents.

          Thursday December 10 th ~

     Breakfast with David, then drove east into Arkansas.

          Friday December 11 th ~

     Stopped in Prescott, Arkansas and sang at the "Hillcrest Care Center".

          Saturday December 12 th ~

     A Day of Rest.

          Sunday December 13 th ~

     Attended the "Oak Bower Church" just outside of Bismark, Arkansas where I was invited to share in song, testimony and message. Then to a nearby campground to ride out a very rainy afternoon.

      

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

December 7, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/12-7-2015.html

   "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21         
          Monday November 30 th ~

     Published the newsletter from my friend Richard's wifi in Austin, Texas.

     Then got over to the "West Oaks" health & rehab center where I was able to minister for a bunch of folks.

     Spent a good part of the day with my dear friend George.

          Tuesday December 1 st ~

     Sang at the "Sodalis Memory Care" facility in Buda, Texas.

     And later, a sweet visit with my dear Sister Sarah.

          Wednesday December 2 nd ~

     Spent some time with Brother William.

          Thursday December 3 rd ~

     The first two nursing homes I approached this morning were booked with activities, which is a good thing. At the third one (Elmcroft) I was able to minister. Then lunch with my little brother Ray.

          Friday December 4 th ~

     Drove to Lockhart, Texas and sang at the "Parkview" nursing home for a short time until a lady showed up who holds a weekly Bible Study for some of the folks. Then on to Yoakum, Texas where I got to join a bunch of cousins for lunch.

          Saturday December 5 th ~

     Enjoyed spending the day with cousins, including taking the little ones into town to see Santa and this small town's Christmas Parade.

          Sunday December 6 th ~

     Attended the Cowboy Church in Edna, Texas where I was given the honor of sharing in song and testimony during the worship service. Then an afternoon of watching football with my dear cousin Ricci.   

    

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

November 30, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/11-30-2015.html

   Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
Psalm 91:1, 2         
          Monday November 23 rd ~

     Started this week in Center Point, Texas where I published the newsletter from the "Trinity Church". Drove on down the road to the "Riverhill" facility in Kerrville, Texas and ministered for the folks.

     Then about a hundred miles to Lakeway, Texas to a Home Church type gathering where I was given the honor of sharing a bit.

          Tuesday November 24 th ~

     Breakfast with Barb (leader of this awesome ministry "Luke 4:18"). Then to the "Brookdale" facility in Lakeway where I was allowed to share in their memory care section.

     Finally, on into Austin to (Richard's) an old friends' place, where I've been given a spot to park, plug-in, shower and such throughout the years when I'm in this area.

          Wednesday November 25 th ~

     The prescription eye glasses I use for driving are about ten years old and falling apart. So, I went to the Walmart eye doctor for an exam and new prescription. She proclaimed my eyes healthy.
      I ordered a new pair of glasses which should arrive in a week or so.

          Thursday November 26 th ~

     Thanksgiving Day! Enjoyed a relaxing day of watching ball games and eating too much.

          Friday November 27 th ~

     Taking another holiday off.

          Saturday November 28 th ~

     Joined some old friends for their Saturday morning Bible study. Many years ago an awesome Pastor, Carl (now passed on), started this unique study. With 31 chapters in the book of Proverbs, they focus each Saturday on the chapter which corresponds to the date (1-31) of that particular Saturday. Today it was chapter 28.

          Sunday November 29 th ~

     Attended "Jubilee Christian Center" in Austin, Texas where I got to see a few old friends.    

    

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

November 23, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/11-23-2015.html

   I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, Holy One of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you-- I whom you have delivered.
Psalm 71:22, 23         
          Monday November 16 th ~

     Drove a short way (60 miles) across southeast New Mexico. A major storm coming through with high winds. Stopped in Tatum (a small town with a free city campground) to ride out the storm.

     Sent out the weekly update yesterday, but unable to publish it on the website. Turned out that the web-host (yahoo) was making changes which would not allow editing until they'd gotten their act together.

          Tuesday November 17 th ~

     Drove south to Lovington, New Mexico and sang at the "Good Samaritan" nursing home. Then on to a campground in Hobbs which had wifi where I was able to publish the newsletter on the website.

          Wednesday November 18 th ~

     Crossed into Texas to the town of Seminole where I was able to minister at their rather large nursing home.

          Thursday November 19 th ~

     Drove a couple hundred miles across west Texas. A lot of "Oil Boom'n" going on.

          Friday November 20 th ~

     In Kerrville, Texas I was allowed to share at the "Villagio" memory care facility for a sweet group of folks.

          Saturday November 21 st ~

     Hooked up yesterday with friends at the "Trinity Church" in Center Point, Texas. They gave me the use of the double wide mobile home behind the church which is nowadays used for classes on Sunday.

     Before daybreak I sat-up the T.R.S. (temporary recording studio) in the master bedroom and recorded the final song ( "Power in the Blood" Click to hear. ) for the Cd I've been working on. Finished by mid-afternoon. Packed the equipment back into the van and started thinking about designing the jacket cover for this Cd number eleven.

          Sunday November 22 nd ~

     Attended worship services here at Trinity where I was given the opportunity to share in song and testimony, including a short slide presentation about the Australian Mission Trip. Followed by lunch with some of the members.

     Then in the evening, several of the local churches gathered at the school cafeteria for a Thanksgiving fellowship meal. I enjoyed the honor of leading some medleys we could all sing along with. 

    

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

November 16, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/11-16-2015.html

   If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.

1 Timothy 6:3-5         
          Monday November 9 th ~

     Published the newsletter from the "Westside Community Church" in El Paso, Texas.

     Did the laundry mat chore, then joined a member of the church (Elias) for lunch. He helped arrange and even paid for, a transmission filter change and transmission band adjustment scheduled for tomorrow morning.

          Tuesday November 10 th ~

     Arrived at the transmission shop as they were opening up for the day. They got started right off and finished shortly before noontime. Which allowed me to get over to the "Good Samaritan" assisted living facility in the afternoon and minister for about eight residents.

          Wednesday November 11 th ~

     Joined a few men for an early morning get-together at the church. Said my goodbyes. And drove northeast back into New Mexico.

          Thursday November 12 th ~

     Having stumbled onto a cheap State campground with electricity and showers, I decided to take a full day off. Reading and hiking.

          Friday November 13 th ~

     Continuing northeast, I stopped in Alamogordo and ministered at the "Good Samaritan" nursing home.

          Saturday November 14 th ~

     Sang for a lovely group at the "Sunset Villa Care Center" in Roswell, New Mexico.

          Sunday November 15 th ~

     Attended the "Trinity House of Praise" here in Roswell where I was given the opportunity to share a bit in song and testimony.  

    

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

November 9, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/11-9-2015.html

   Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.

Titus 3: 1, 2         
          Monday November 2 nd ~

     Started this week in Deming, New Mexico where I've had the T.R.S. (temporary recording studio) assembled in one of the classrooms at the Bethel Baptist church.

     Spent the day publishing the newsletter and doing recording work.

          Tuesday November 3 rd ~

     Finished editing the song I've been recording, "In The Sweet By & By" Click to hear.

     Ministered at the nursing home attached to the hospital in town. And did an oil & filter change on the van.

          Wednesday November 4 th ~

     Spent the day recording.

     A storm came through with heavy rain's at one point revealing a leak in the van's roof.

     At the mid-week service here I was given the opportunity to share in song & testimony.

          Thursday November 5 th ~

     Spent the morning finishing the editing work on "Walking Alone At Eve" Click to hear.

     Loaded the equipment back into the van. Said my goodbyes. And drove to Las Cruces, New Mexico where I was able to minister in the Alzheimer's section of the "Casa de Oro Center".

     Then to the Cowboy Church services at "Hill Baptist" where I'd been invited to share in song & testimony.

          Friday November 6 th ~

     Sang at the "Desert Peaks" assisted living facility in Las Cruces, then drove to El Paso, Texas where I hooked-up with long-time friends at the "Westside Community Church".

     They recently merged with another congregation, keeping the name but moving to the much larger facility which includes a Christian School.

          Saturday November 7 th ~

     Using the church's eight foot ladder, I applied a coat of Flex Seal (spray can of liquid rubber) to the van's roof.

          Sunday November 8 th ~

     Enjoyed the opportunity to share a bit during the morning service here at Westside. Then in the evening, visited with some folks during the youth services. 

    

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

November 2, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/11-2-2015.html

   I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.

Romans 8:18-21         
          Monday October 26 th ~

     Published the newsletter from the Calvary Chapel in Springerville, Arizona. Then got over to the "Beehive" residential care home where I was able to minister for eleven residents and four staff members.

     Back to the church to finish editing the songs we recorded this past week, then ended the day at the home of dear friends' Kenny & Laurie.

          Tuesday October 27 th ~

     Said my goodbyes to this sweet family and drove to Show Low, Arizona to sing in one of their nursing homes. A couple who were leading a Bible Study invited me to share for about twenty minutes, then I went into the Alzheimer's Unit for bit more.

          Wednesday October 28 th ~

     Drove southwest through the Salt River Canyon bordering the White Mountain Apache Reservation, on down to Globe, Arizona where I sang at the "Heritage" nursing home. As I finished singing "When the Roll is Called up Yonder", one of the lady's asked if she may sing it in the Apache language as I strummed along. Pretty neat!

     Continued on west to Apache Junction to say hi to old friends' Les & Judy.

          Thursday October 29 th ~

     Turned southeast, stopping in Benson, Arizona to share in the Alzheimer's section of the Good Samaritan. Once again, I had to stop at one point to ask some staff members to tone-it-down, pointing out that their loud talking was causing a distraction for the residents.

     I've learned over the years to be gentle when I do this. I suspect these dear children simply don't know any better. In general, they almost always apologize and change their behavior, once they realize what they've been doing.

          Friday October 30 th ~

     Having crossed into New Mexico, I hooked up with friends at the Bethel Baptist church in Deming where they have a place for me to park and plug-in. They even have a shower and washer & dryer in the building.

     I was given keys to the front door as well as one of the unused classrooms for recording. So I sat-up the T.R.S. (temporary recording studio) and started working.

          Saturday October 31 st ~

     Joined a men's breakfast fellowship where I was invited to share about the ministry. Then some more recording work back at the church, followed by a little afternoon rest before ending the day with this group's Trunk-or-Treat event.

          Sunday November 1 st ~

     Attended morning worship services at Bethel where I had the opportunity to contribute a Special.

     Lunch with dear friends' Phil & Paula.

     Then to the evening service at the First Baptist church where they gave me the whole hour to sing, share about the ministry, preach and answer questions. What an honor!

    

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

October 26, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/10-26-2015.html

   Your ways, God, are holy. What god is as great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples. With your mighty arm you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
Psalm 77:13-15

          Monday October 19 th ~

     Started off the week at the home of dear friends' Kenny & Laurie in Springerville, Arizona.

          Tuesday October 20 th ~

     Having been offered a place to do some recording in the church they pastor, I set-up the T.R.S. (temporary recording studio) in the nursery and began work on some songs using the freeware Audacity program.

     Then in the evening I joined them for a visit with Kenny's parents in the next town over.

          Wednesday October 21 st ~

     More recording work. Then met some of the church members at the mid-week fellowship meal and study.

          Thursday October 22 nd ~

     Got into the recording studio at 6:30 am. Knocked off at 3:00 pm to join my host at the elementary school for their daughter's first volleyball game of the season, then dinner out with the family.

          Friday October 23 rd ~

     Kenny & Laurie are school teachers here in Springerville on a four day week schedule. So with Fridays off, they joined me at the church to get Laurie's beautiful singing voice recorded in the songs I've been working on this week, as well as one of her's that she wrote.

          Saturday October 24 th ~

     Finished editing "Just a Closer Walk With Thee", then added another track to Laurie's song and finished editing it. Mighty God in a Manger" Click to hear.

          Sunday October 25 th ~

     Attended Calvary Chapel here in Springerville where I was given the sermon time to share a few songs, a few messages, testimony about the Lords provision for this ministry and a slide show about the Australian mission trip.

         

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

October 19, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/10-19-2015.html

   Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.

2 Timothy 2:15, 16

          Monday October 12 th ~

     Drove across the southeast corner of Colorado. Stopped in Trinidad and ministered in the Alzheimer's section of the "Trinidad Inn Nursing Home". Then continued south into New Mexico.

          Tuesday October 13 th ~

     Sang at the nursing home in Springer, New Mexico.

          Wednesday October 14 th ~

     Drove past Santa Fe to the town of Espanola to see friends' who Pastor one of the churches there.

          Thursday October 15 th ~

     Breakfast with Paul & Lisa who pastor the First Baptist church here, followed by a Slide Show presentation I made about the Australian Mission trip, for the Lady's Bible Study group.

     Then drove to Albuquerque to the "Faith Comes By Hearing" headquarters,  formerly Hosanna. Obtained permission to stay at the founders' "Beulah Retreat" about ten miles south.

          Friday October 16 th ~

     Spent the day at this peaceful sanctuary going for walks along the canal, sitting in the swing under the Gazebo and petting the friendly dogs.

          Saturday October 17 th ~

     Drove south to Socorro, New Mexico and ministered at the "Good Samaritan" nursing home. Then up into the mountains where I parked overnight at a church in the town of Datil. These dear folks leave the door unlocked encouraging travelers like myself to make themselves at home. Refreshing!

          Sunday October 18 th ~

     Attended services here where I was given the opportunity to share a song. Enjoyed a delicious pot-luck fellowship lunch. Then drove into Arizona.

         

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

October 12, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/10-12-2015.html

   The Lord says: "These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught.

Isaiah 29:13

          Monday October 5 th ~

     Started the week in Osceola, Nebraska at the home of friends' Bill & Jo where I published, accessing their wifi.

          Tuesday October 6 th ~

     Said my goodbyes to this awesome couple and drove south to Geneva, Nebraska where I was able to minister at the "Heritage Crossing" assisted living facility at the end of their devotion time in the chapel.

          Wednesday October 7 th ~

     Crossed the border into Kansas and sang at the nursing home in the town of Lincoln.

          Thursday October 8 th ~

     In Great Bend, Kansas I sang in the Alzheimer's Section at one of the nursing homes. One of the rare times I've had to stop singing and walk over to some staff members to ask them to tone down their loud talking which was causing a distraction for the residents.

     A bit further southwest in Larned, Kansas I pulled into an older Mobil Home/RV Park where the sweet couple running the place gave me a free night's parking as a donation. Lovely!

          Friday October 9 th ~

     Continued west to Garden City, Kansas where I ministered at the "Homestead" nursing home for about eleven residents as well as quite a few staff members who were popping in and out.

          Saturday October 10 th ~

     Spent the day and night at a place named "Beymer Park" just outside of Lakin, Kansas. It was originally a sand-pit which was donated to the city and turned into a large camping/picnic area including a shower house which is open for another week, before they turn off the hot water for the winter. With electric hookups and only ten dollars a night, I spent this warm day going for walks and doing some writing.

          Sunday October 11 th ~

     Crossed the border into Colorado and attended two different churches this morning in the town of Lamar.

     Found a campground with wifi, but it's a bit slow, so I decided to go ahead and publish the newsletter this afternoon while it's working fairly well.

         

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

October 5, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/10-5-2015.html

   Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God--I say this to your shame.
1 Corinthians 15: 33, 34

          Monday September 28 th ~

     Published the newsletter from the Christian Radio Station here in Redfield, South Dakota. Then spent the rest of the day online, trying to get the Pro Tools recording program working. No go.

          Tuesday September 29 th ~

     Decided to try recording with the freeware recording program "Audacity". Worked out fairly well. Not as easy (user friendly) as Pro Tools, but by the end of the day I was able to get it done. "Just Say No" Click to hear.

     Loaded the equipment back into the van in preparation for heading out tomorrow.

          Wednesday September 30 th ~

     Started south, stopping in White Lake, South Dakota where I was able to minister in the county nursing home for a sweet group of staff and residents.

          Thursday October 1 st ~

     Crossed the border into Nebraska and sang at the "Evergreen" assisted living facility in the town of O'Neill.

          Friday October 2 nd ~

     Continued south to Osceola, Nebraska where I shared at the "Good Samaritan" nursing home.

          Saturday October 3 rd ~

     A day of rest spent at the home of friends' Bill & Jo.

          Sunday October 4 th ~

     Attended the Lutheran church here in Osceola where I was given the opportunity to share during the first and second services. Followed by an afternoon back at Bill & Jo's. 

 

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

September 28, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/9-28-2015.html

   I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest-- and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.
Proverbs 24: 30-34

          Monday September 21 st ~

     Published the newsletter from the van, accessing the wifi at the "Wilderness Baptist Church" in Dubois, Wyoming.

     Did the laundry-mat thing in town, then drove east into the central part of the State.

          Tuesday September 22 nd ~

     Ministered at an older nursing home in Worland, Wyoming for twenty residents. Then drove across the Big Horn Mountain Range.

          Wednesday September 23 rd ~

     Stopped in Gillet, Wyoming and sang at the "Pioneer Manor". First in the main reception area, then in the Alzheimer's Unit.

          Thursday September 24 th ~

     Last night a squirrel decided to make it's home in the engine compartment of the van. Thankfully I heard it scurrying around this morning. When I opened the hood, it took off. It had already stored a pine-cone on the radiator for the winter.

     Free of the varmint, I continued east across Wyoming on into South Dakota.

          Friday September 25 th ~

     Stopped in Faulkton, South Dakota and ministered at "The Meadows" assisted living facility. Then on to Redfield where I hooked up with my friend Ted, leader of the Baptist church in town.

          Saturday September 26 th ~

     Assembled the T.R.S. (temporary recording studio) in one of the unused classrooms to work on a song. Unfortunately the recording software had a glitch. Spent the rest of the day trying to fix it, to no avail.

          Sunday September 27 th ~

     I was given the honor of sharing during the sermon time here at the "Redfield Baptist Church". So using their overhead projector I presented a slide show about the Mission Trip to Australia.  

 

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

September 21, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/9-21-2015.html

   In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
2 Timothy 4:1-5

          Monday September 14 th ~

     Ministered at the "Spring Creek Manor" in American Falls, Idaho. Then published from the town's library.

          Tuesday September 15 th ~

     A rainy cold front came through last night revealing another leak in the roof. Stopped raining about noon, which allowed me to borrow a ladder and do some caulking around the skylight.

          Wednesday September 16 th ~

     Got over to the hospital in town to sing for the residents in the nursing home section. Later, back at the church I'm parked at, I enjoyed some time with a few adults and a bunch of kids during their Awana program.

          Thursday September 17 th ~

     Took a rest day to allow the end of this wet/cold front to slide on by, before I continue east through mountain passes. Early snow is falling in some of those higher elevations. Used the time to do some maintenance on the laptop.

          Friday September 18 th ~

     Back on the road headed east to just shy of the Wyoming border. Found a reasonably priced campground with electricity to run the heater on this cold night.

          Saturday September 19 th ~

     Crossed border into Wyoming, all the way to Dubois where I was able to minister at the "Warm Valley Lodge" assisted living facility for ten residents.

          Sunday September 20 th ~

     Attended the "Wilderness Baptist Church" here in Dubois where I was given the opportunity to share a bit during the service.

 

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

September 14, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/9-14-2015.html

   Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, "Who is it you want?" "Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "I am he," Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, "I am he," they drew back and fell to the ground.

John 18:4-6

          Monday September 7 th ~

     Labor Day.  In Eureka, California I published the newsletter from the Covenant church and then did the laundry thing. Spent the afternoon relaxing.

          Tuesday September 8 th ~

     Today I left the cool (69 degree high) west coast, driving east through the Salmon Mountains down through the hot (100 degree high) Sacramento Valley, on up into the cooler (83 degree) higher elevation of the Lassen National Forest.

          Wednesday September 9 th ~

     Stopped in Susanville, California and sang at the "Eagle Lake Village". First in their memory care section, then in the main lounge area.

          Thursday September 10 th ~

     Having crossed into Nevada, I ministered at the "Highland Village" assisted living facility in the town of Fallon.

          Friday September 11 th ~

     Drove east to Battle Mountain, Nevada and shared at the Hospital's nursing home for ten residents.

     I'm caught in an area going through a mini-heat-wave. The outside temperature reading on the van was 107 degrees. Thank goodness for this little air-conditioner.

          Saturday September 12 th ~

     Headed northeast into Idaho, all the way to American Falls where I hooked up with old friends' Lyle & Barb.

          Sunday September 13 th ~

     Attended worship services at the Baptist church here in town where I was given the opportunity to share a bit.

     These dear folks have provided a place to park overnight and a key to the building so I can access the shower. Sweet.

 

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

September 7, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/9-7-2015.html

   Sing the praises of the LORD, you his faithful people; praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

Psalm 30:4-5

          Monday August 31 st ~

     A day of chores. First I published from the Covenant church here in Eureka, California. Also did the laundry-mat thing and arranged a nursing home for the morrow.

     Got over to friends' Dennis & Daphany so she could do a bug check in my hair. I've had an itchy scalp lately. Thankfully, no lice. It was all in my head (imagination that is).

          Tuesday September 1 st ~

     Sang at the "Seaview" nursing home for a nice group of folks. The activity director told me this, "I've been playing one of your Cd's for residents in their rooms as they near their last days". She went on to share about the positive effects she'd observed.

     Needless to say, hearing this lifted my spirit.

          Wednesday September 2 nd ~

     Started caulking on the roof-vent of the van and also did an oil & filter change.

     Joined the folks here at the Covenant church for their Wednesday evening fellowship meal.

          Thursday September 3 rd ~

     Ministered at the "Granada" nursing home here in Eureka. The activity director had gathered a nice group of residents and she even stuck around for the whole time. I've noticed that when staff members join-in, it seems to help in many ways.

     Back at the church I did some more caulking on the van's roof.

          Friday September 4 th ~

     Attended the early morning men's meeting here at the church, then ministered in the memory care section of the "Eureka Health & Rehab" facility.

     Swung by friends' Dennis & Daphany's to pick up the traveling companion she made for me. A cute little crocheted kangaroo (Click for Image).

          Saturday September 5 th ~

     A day of rest.

          Sunday September 6 th ~

     Enjoyed the honor of leading the song service at the Calvary church in Fields Landing, followed by some sweet fellowship time with dear Brothers and Sisters.

 

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

August 31, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/8-31-2015.html

   In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.

Hebrews 1:1-4

          Monday August 24 th ~

     Published the newsletter from the Restoration Worship Center in Bandon, Oregon. Then drove south down the coast to a State campground for the night.

          Tuesday August 25 th ~

     Continued south to Brookings, Oregon where I arranged to sing tomorrow for the folks at the "Good Samaritan" nursing home. These sweet folks allowed me to park overnight at their facility and even treated me to a meal.

          Wednesday August 26 th ~

     Sang for the residents here in the "Good Samaritan". This facility's occupancy is down. I was told; due (at least in part) to some State rule changes enacted by their previous Governor to move border-line patients out of skilled nursing homes into assisted living facilities in an effort to save State dollars.

     I heard some pretty strong feelings of concern for those individuals not getting the care they needed, resulting in increased hospitalizations and even one premature death.

     There seems to be some hope of this mandate being removed.

          Thursday August 27 th ~

     Having crossed into California, I drove south to Eureka where the folks at the First Covenant Church allow me to park while in the area and even give me a loner key for easy access the shower.

          Friday August 28 th ~

     Attended an early morning men's meeting here at the church, then sang for eight residents at the "Especially You" assisted living facility here in Eureka.

          Saturday August 29 th ~

     Hooked up with my friend Dennis (Pastor at the Calvary church in Fields Landing) which is just outside of Eureka.

          Sunday August 30 th ~

     Enjoyed the opportunity to share during the worship service at the church in Fields Landing. One of the rare times I had to stand behind the Pulpit because they have a camera set-up there to Skype the service with a secluded mountain community named Honeydew.

     Lunch and dinner was spent in sweet fellowship with long time friends' Dennis, Daphany, Fred and Carolyn.

    

And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

August 24, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/8-24-2015.html

   Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 13:8-13

          Monday August 17 th ~

     Published the newsletter from the Nazarene Church in North Bend, Oregon.
     I've been parked and plugged in here for a few days. Tonight, along about 3:00 am, local police knocked on the van, waking me up to ask if I had permission to be here. Thankfully they believed me when I said, "Yes".

     By the way; today is the eleven year anniversary of this ministry. On August 17, 2004 I sang at the first nursing home in Austin, Texas and hit the road shortly thereafter.

          Tuesday August 18 th ~

     Sang at the "Inland Point" assisted living facility here in North Bend.

          Wednesday August 19 th ~

     Spent some time today doing vehicle repair on the van. Replaced the 30 amp power converter that got fried a few months ago in Ohio. Ron (the Pastor here) very graciously offered to cover the cost of the new part. Almost two hundred dollars. And also had the tools I needed to do the job. Sweet!

          Thursday August 20 th ~

     Having said my goodbyes to these dear folks, I drove down the coast to Bandon, Oregon where I was able to sing for a few residents at the "West Wind Court".

          Friday August 21 st ~

     Ministered at the "Pacific View" assisted living facility here in Bandon for a large group of folks in their assisted living section.

          Saturday August 22 nd ~

     Back to "Pacific View" to sing in their memory care section for about 16 residents.

          Sunday August 23 rd ~

     Attended worship services at the "Restoration Worship Center" here in Bandon where I've been parked for the past few days. These dear folks gave me the opportunity to share a Special.     

    
And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!

August 17, 2015

Greetings,
For this week's newsletter click on;www.nursinghomemusicministry.com/8-17-2015.html

   Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the

coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith--of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire--may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

1 Peter 1:3-9

          Monday August 10 th ~

     Ministered at the "Terpening Terrace" retirement community in Eugene, Oregon for a wonderful group of folks. Most of them sang along, making numerous song request. Some current and past activity staff members were present which made for a Special time together.

          Tuesday August 11 th ~

     Drove west to the Oregon coast, on down to North Bend where folks at the Nazarene church graciously welcomed me with parking, laundry and shower privileges as in years past.

          Wednesday August 12 th ~

     Took care of some domestic chores and joined a group of men from the church for a fellowship luncheon.

          Thursday August 13 th ~

     A day off.

          Friday August 14 th ~

     Sang at the "Ocean Ridge" assisted living facility in Coos Bay. Enjoyed being treated to lunch with the residents, as well as a wonderful conversation with a lady at my table who is 102 years old.

          Saturday August 15 th ~

     Joined a group of folks who'd gathered to do some work on the church playground.

          Sunday August 16 th ~

     I was given the honor of presenting a Special during the morning service here at the Nazarene church in North Bend. Shared a report about the Australian Mission Trip and sang "It Is Well With My Soul".

     Got invited to lunch with the Pastor's Ron & Deb at their house, then back at the church, led a bunch of songs during the evening service.   

    
And so begins another week.

May The Lord Our God
Guard, Guide And Direct You.
In The Name Of Jesus. Amen!

Your Brother in Christ, Larry Eugene Stevens

P.S.    To God be the Glory!