After the christening of his baby brother in church, Jason sobbed all the way home in the back seat of his car.  His father asked him three times what was wrong.  Finally, the boy replied, "That preacher said he wanted us brought up in a Christian home, and I wanted to stay with you guys."

"Prepare and prevent rather than repair and repent."  - Unknown

Hello from sunny Florida!  I am so thankful to be in a warm climate.  A couple days ago, I talked to friends in Fargo, ND and they told us it was 17 degrees below zero- that was without the wind chill- ouch!  That would make your breath freeze in midair-ha!

This week and next, are heavy administrative weeks for us.  Larry is doing booking, and we're both working on sermon preparations.  We are trying to keep our minds to the grindstone.  I have been hoping to take off a couple days this week to relax, but it hasn't happened yet.  Last Sunday, we had the pleasure and rare opportunity to visit a church, and just sit and drink in the presence of God.  We went through the Orlando phonebook

Speaking of something else, Larry and I desperately need…that would be physical exercise.  Those jam-packed, cookie snatchin', food snakin' Christmas holidays were too good to our waistlines!  So again, we are getting back into our walking regimen.  I found it's much easier to take a mile or two walk in 70-degree weather, versus 20 below wind chill on snow and ice packed streets.  Wouldn't you agree?  That sure took a lot to figure that out, didn't it- ha!  Last night we went out for a walk around the area we're staying in.  About a quarter mile into our walk, we noticed a sheriff's car parked on the median with its bright blue bubble lights flashing.  We walked another block, and spotted another sheriff's car with flashing lights on.  Soon there was a helicopter hovering above us, as well.  In the next few minutes, at least 20 police cars assembled.  They had blocked off several blocks in front of us and behind us.  It was about 9:00 pm, and we were smack-dab in the middle of all of this.  We thought we'd briskly out walk all the commotion, but it only got worse.  At first Larry and I were curious, then we were really concerned and sensed something serious must be going on for this fleet of helicopters and cars to be all over the place.  Evidently, they were looking for someone or several people very close to where we were taking our walk, and we were encamped within the whole ordeal.  Larry walked up to a police car and said, "I guess we picked the wrong night and the wrong place for a walk."  Readily the police officer replied, "Yes, unfortunately, you have picked the wrong place to walk."  He asked where we were coming from and where we were going, so we told him.  Then, he urged us to get out of the area as quickly as we could because it wasn't safe.  It didn't take us long to obey his command!  We scurried down the street back to where we were staying.  Police cars and helicopters were in full swing, and so were we- ha!  I sighed a relief and told myself, "No more after dark walks."  We weren't sure why there was a commotion, but we were happy to arrive back safely.  As we rushed down the road during this episode, my imagination was going wild, "What if these people they are looking for jump out of the bushes with a gun or knife and try to overtake us?!"  That's a woman's imagination!  I prayed the blood of Jesus over us and recited the verse, "And He shall give the angels charge over thee, and keep thee in all thy ways." (Psalm 91:11)  Aren't we blessed to be able to call on the name of Jesus?  Growing up in my family with my 10 brothers, mom would always tell us, "If you are in danger, deathly sick or scared, just speak the name of Jesus and plead His blood over you."  That's great advice, and I'm sure I've done that literally thousands of times in my life.  Isn't it great that God is always there; He's never too distant or too busy to answer our calls for help.

"The world is more interested in what you practice than in what you profess." - Unknown

Greetings from Florida!

Can it really be January 10^th already?  I've been so busy that I've actually lost track of time!  I just asked Larry, "Honey, what date is it?"  He looked up from his computer and said, "It's January 10^th."  In disbelief I uttered, "It couldn't be."  He responded, "Well, it is." If the rest of this month goes as quickly as this first half, January will soon be just a memory!

Getting ready to leave on this 4 month tour has literally eaten up any spare time that I might have hoped for. Larry and I diligently sorted through boxes of office mail and papers, and tried to get caught up on some projects that our Sisseton, SD office needed before we embarked on this tour.  In the thick of this, Larry was fighting a horrendous tooth ache- and yes, it was his "Swedish sweet tooth"- Ha!  We had to wait 2 weeks to get into a dentist and by then the tooth was abscessed. The dentist told us he'd have to pull the tooth in order to get rid of the infection. Larry groaned and pleaded, "Isn't there another option?"  But, of course, the answer was no.  A bit disappointed- or should I say a lot- he immediately went through with the extraction of his back molar.  He came out looking like he had just been beaten up. Then the swelling began!  A couple days later when he was feeling better, I asked him if he was hiding walnuts in his cheeks.  He just grinned, which made him look even more comical.  The hardest part of the whole process was that he couldn't eat his treats for a few days. Poor Larry!

After the tooth dilemma was taken care of, we began to pack for the tour.  What a predicament trying to pack all of our personal clothes, computer, and office supplies that we'll need for 4 months into two 50 pound suitcases!  We had planned to leave Sisseton last Saturday and drive to Minneapolis, MN to spend a day with daughter, LaDawn, and the grandkids.  Our plans changed when we had a last minute funeral to attend, so we didn't get out until Sunday night.  Larry called to confirm our Tuesday airline departure on Monday morning.  I heard him say, "Oh no…boy, am I ever glad I called tonight instead of tomorrow morning."  He turned to me and announced, "Honey, we're not leaving tomorrow afternoon."  My heart sunk!  I thought, "Oh no, they messed up our flight schedule!  Now when will we get out of Minneapolis?"  Larry looked at me and continued, "They changed our flight from tomorrow afternoon at 3:30, to tomorrow morning at 9:00.  We need to be at the airport at 7 am."  Boy, we were both thankful we had called that night, rather than in the morning, or we would've missed our flight!  We rushed around and got our suitcases ready again.  Then we weighed them, just holding our breath that we were under the 50 pound limit. Tuesday morning, LaDawn brought us out to the airport.  Light snow was falling and the Minnesota temperatures were brisk, only reaching about 12 degrees.  Once we were there, we quickly unloaded and stepped into the ticket line.  Larry grunted as he lifted the big suitcase on the scale.  The female ticket agent watched the scale, looked over her glasses, and chuckled, "Close…49.35 pounds!"  I let out a big sigh of relief.  I was wondering if I was going to have to take clothes out of the suitcase and go for the layered look just to get everything with us- Ha!

We had a smooth flight to Orlando, FL despite the imprint of a small foot on the lower part of my back from a rambunctious 5 year old boy that was sitting behind me.  He kicked the back of my airline seat for the entire 1500 miles.  Oh well, I'm fine now!  On arrival to Orlando, it was nearly 70 degrees.  We took in the beautiful sunshine, baby blue skies and palm tree branches waving in the light breeze.  Yes!  I'm so happy God called us to Florida to minister, how sweet it is!

While we were waiting for our transportation, we were seated next to a huge circular fish aquarium.  For the next hour or so I watched this one fish swim around and around the tank in circles, going as fast as his fins would take him.  It probably thought it had swum a great distance, but it really was just swimming in circles.  I'm sure it was totally oblivious that it wasn't going anywhere.  I thought of how people get caught up in life, just like that fish…rushing, pushing, but not going anywhere, just going in circles.  I thought of what I read years ago, "Christians often confuse business and activities with a personal relationship with God.  They think that if they are busy and on the run, that's what God wants."  But Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still and know that I am God."  Often times we cannot hear the voice of God due to the craziness of life and its demands.  I am preaching to myself on this one.  Almost everything I do is for ministry.  Sometimes, I remind myself of busy Martha in Luke 10, always going and doing rather than being a "Mary".  In Luke 10:41-42, Jesus scolded, or reminded Martha, "You are busy and troubled about many things, but one thing is needful, and Mary hath chosen the good part, (time with Jesus) which will not be taken from her."  Don't we all desperately need that?  There are times I feel like that fish, swimming frantically, around and around, and going nowhere spiritually.  In the beginning of this New Year, I admit I need to slow down and spend more quiet time in His presence.  That's what really matters.  How about you?  Have a great week!

Gloria

HOUSEHOLD HINT OF THE WEEK

To kill bacteria in your kitchen sponge or brush place it in the microwave for 60 seconds. It will kill the bacteria and be ready to use again.

 Greetings from "Snow" Dakota!  We had a brown Christmas this year which doesn't happen very often, but it was nice not having to fight snow, ice and sleet.  Then, December 28^th winter arrived!  I told Larry, "I know why it snowed.  It's because I took down my tree and decorations!"  We woke up to a winter wonderland after receiving the aftermath of the big Denver storm.  Like kids, Larry and I couldn't wait to get outside.  It was about 40 degrees and I suggested taking some photos.  I offered to take his picture first.  After I took a nice one of him and was preparing to snap another one, I saw a mischievous grin form on his face.  Larry had started to make a snowball and I just knew it was for me…not a gift…but, by the gleam in his eye I knew I was going to be the target.  Sure enough!  I said, "Okay, time to get even!"  As I was molding my masterpiece snowball Larry took my picture.  As you can see, a short snowball fight was inevitable.  Isn't life fun?  That "snow time" just made our day and gave us another spark to keep that first love alive. 

                              

Happy New Year!

Gloria

Forget It

Forget it!

Greetings...what an exciting Christmas we had! I hardly know where to begin. On December 15^th, our daughter, LaShawn, who lives in Nashville, Tennessee, flew into Minneapolis and drove home to Sisseton, along with her boyfriend, Liam Birt. Liam is originally from Toronto, Canada, and now resides in Nashville, Tennessee. They have been dating for about three years. It was so much fun having them with us for four days. Sunday night, while visiting in the living room, Liam asked our blessing and permission to marry LaShawn. We were ecstatic to say the least and of course, granted his request. So...we will be having a wedding coming up in 2007. They are currently working on scheduling a wedding date. We are so happy for both of them. Liam is a special man and has won the hearts of all our family.

Well, that news sent the remaining Christmas celebrations into motion. We were anxiously awaiting the arrival of the rest of our family. LaDawn, Dante' and Myanna were scheduled to come home on the 23^rd. This year, we were disappointed that our son, Donovan, who also lives in Nashville, wouldn't be able to make it home. I tried really hard not to let that bother me realizing that with schedules, work and distance, family get-togethers don't always happen the way Dad and Mom want them to. I had psyched myself to stay upbeat, but on the afternoon of December 23^rd, while we were waiting for LaDawn and the kids to drive in, a deep pain arose in my heart as I so desired our whole family to be together.

Shortly before arriving, LaDawn called and reported she was about two miles away. My emotions fluttered with anticipation to see LaDawn and our two grandchildren. We watched for her car to pull into our driveway and when it did, LaShawn, Larry and I ran out to the car to greet them with hugs. We then scurried back into the house. Once all of the exhilaration from their arrival died down, LaDawn asked if we could help her carry in some gifts from the back seat of the car right away so, we hastened back outside. When Larry opened the back door of her car, Donovan jumped out from his hiding place under a blanket. Larry squealed and hollered, and I didn't know what was going on at this point. When I peered in and saw Donovan, I just stood there stunned for a few seconds literally in disbelief. I then wrapped my arms around his neck, hugged him and just held him. Needless to say, tears of joy were trickling down my cheeks. Larry hollered out with a big grin on his face, "This is the best Christmas gift I could ever get-to have my whole family home for Christmas!" At that point we were all ambulant with excitement.

We spent the next three days talking, laughing, eating, snacking, reminiscing of days gone by, swapping sibling stories, and playing games. It was such a special time, words just cannot fully express! The vacation time together went only too fast but all the memories will last a lifetime.

                              

On December 25^th, LaDawn and Dante' made their way back to Minneapolis but not before I could measure them on the infamous Lundstrom bathroom closet door. It records their height since they were toddlers. It contains our children's measurements and our grandchildren's. The door may look ugly to others, but to us, it represents many milestones. After our measuring extravaganza, we discovered that both Dante' and Myanna had grown over 3 ½ inches this past year.

On December 26^th, LaShawn and Donovan took Myanna to Minneapolis to drop her off. They will eventually go on to Nashville. It was sure difficult to say goodbye. We anticipated those few action-packed days all year and now they are a part of our history.

Today the house is quiet.. There are no giggles and no kids running around the house. What remains are remnants of Christmas wrappings, a few leftovers from Christmas dinner, a smattering of Christmas goodies...and oh yes, an aching heart. I already miss the children and grandchildren as I savor the precious times we shared. From this moment, we will begin looking forward to next Christmas.

Larry and I received so many beautiful Christmas cards, letters and photos. It was fun to catch up on the lives and events of so many of our friends and family. Isn't it wonderful that at this time of year, people take time to connect or reconnect? We all need that.

Now that Christmas is over, people will soon be taking down the tree, the twinkling lights, and Christmas decorations packing them away for another year. With all of the packing away, let's be careful not to pack away the Spirit of Christmas which should be evident in our lives every day of the year. Let's be careful not to pack away the Spirit of giving, forgiveness and love. Ephesians 4 :32 (NIV) says, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you." Most importantly, let's not pack away the Babe in the manger...Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Keep Him alive and let Him shine through us unto others we will come in contact with in 2007.

We will talk more next year!

Gloria

Christmas is just a few days away and Larry and I are getting anxious for our family to come home. They will only be able to be here for a short time, but we will savor every moment with them. We look forward to this special time all year long.

With all the joy and excitement of Christmas, there is also a tinge of sadness that there will be empty chairs of loved ones who have passed on. When dealing with grief, there is no doubt that there is a huge void at Christmas. I will personally miss my dad who has been gone for six years, Larry's parents and my oldest brother. We've also had many friends and partners pass away this past year. We miss their letters and prayers for us. But...we know that they are spending this precious Christmas season in heaven. I know if they were given a choice to come back or stay in heaven it would be a tough choice, yet I know they would not want to leave the splendor of heaven and being in the presence of Jesus.

I'm so thankful that we still have my precious mother, Julie Brooks, who is 91 years young. She is still so active and is full of life, humor and zest. Last Sunday she fixed us a full roast beef dinner with mashed potatoes and gravy, baked corn casserole, and pumpkin pie. Like my daughter, LaDawn said the other day after I told her what Grandma had made, she commented, "When I'm 91 years old, I'd be happy just to be able to blow my own nose!" When I'm home I try to spend as much time as possible with Mom amidst our busy schedule. Last Sunday night I took her for a ride around our small town to see all the Christmas lights and displays. We chatted, laughed and reminisced for about three hours. Each moment with her is so precious. I'm amazed that every time we're together I learn something new about her or discover some tidbit that I didn't know. Of course...Mom is a full blood Norwegian. We always try to have lefse with brown sugar and butter on it for a late afternoon lunch and as always, we pray in Norwegian. Ahh, such sweet times together!

During the holidays we would love to hear from you. If you would like to send a special tax deductible Christmas gift to this ministry to help us continue touching hearts and lives, please do so by clicking on the "Make Donation" link on the side of this page. For each gift of $10.00 or more to this ministry, we would like to send you my Lunches, Munchies and Household Hints cookbook. It's our way of saying thanks to you and will come in handy during the holidays.

Larry and I wish you a very blessed Christmas and may you feel the presence and peace of the Christ of Christmas.

Gloria and Larry

Praise the Lord! We are back home in Sisseton, South Dakota! We were greeted by zero degree, snowy, blustery winds rolling off the South Dakota prairie. Believe me, it didn't take long to unload the car in those frigid conditions. I sighed and told Larry, "Honey, I am so glad to be home! I just want to crank up the heat, put on my pajamas, housecoat, and some warm socks, crawl into my favorite chair and relax." And that is exactly what I did!

When we left home in September, the weather was toasty warm and the flowers were still blooming. Wow! What a switch! Again, I am reminded of how quickly the seasons change.

I peered out the living room window and gazed at the neighbor's Christmas lights twinkling and flickering. Hopefully, I can find the zeal and energy amidst my office duties so I can get my house cleaned and do some decorating. I will probably be the last one in town to get it together but that's okay. My mom used to say, "Missy, Christmas will come whether you are ready or not." How true!

Last week, I flew in from Nashville to Minneapolis. Larry and I stayed with Dante', Myanna and LaDawn for a couple of days. We wanted to celebrate Dante's 14^th birthday with him. He wanted to go to Godfather's Pizza and the ice cream parlor. We had fun! I can hardly believe he is 14 already. My little grandson is growing up!

Saturday night, we were pleased to be able to attend the Country Christmas at Celebration Church in Lakeville, MN. Larry's brother, Lowell, pastors the church and they put on this production each year. Our grandaughter, Myanna, was in the production for the first time this year and she loved it! Every time she saw us, she would grin from ear to ear. She was so happy we could be there.

While there, we were able to get a quick photo of the three Lundstrom brothers and wives. With everyone's busy schedules throughout the year, it is a rare moment we are all together. Here is a photo of Larry's brothers, Lowell and his wife, Connie, and Leon and his wife, Ronda. Amidst the busyness of it all, we were able to visit for a few short moments.

At this time, I would like to say how much I have personally enjoyed connecting with you through this website every week. Our website family continues to grow. You truly are family to us. We have been able to minister to thousands through the avenue of our website. If you have enjoyed this "On the Road" ministry, I would love to hear from you this Christmas. Please send a photo or tell us about your family. Also, if you could send an extra special Christmas gift to help enable us to keep this outreach going, it would mean so much. Here is our address: Larry & Gloria Lundstrom, PO Box 300, Sisseton, SD 57262, or you can give online via the "Make A Donation" link on the menu.

In this wonderful Christmas season amidst all the festivities and activities, I pray that we won't forget the real reason for the season. The story is told of a first birthday party that was to be given for an only child. Many guests were invited to the home and as they arrived, their coats were carried to a bedroom and laid upon the bed. After the usual excited conversations and commotions, they were ready to open the gifts when someone asked, "Where's the baby?"

The baby was nowhere to be found. After several minutes of frantic searching, someone remembered that the baby had been laid down to nap on one of the beds. Rushing into the bedroom, the mother found the baby lying on the bed under the coats of the guests. The chief reason why they had come had been forgotten, neglected and almost destroyed.

This Christmas many will forget and neglect the Christ child. He will be forgotten under tinsel, wrapping paper, ribbon, and even programs and events which reminds us of the words of Luke, "There was no room for them in the inn." Let me encourage you, as I also encourage myself, to make room for Jesus this season.

God Bless!

Gloria

Quiet my heart, Lord,

And show me a Christmas

As peaceful and calm as

Slow down my pace, Lord,

And help me seek Jesus,

The Son of Your love,

Steady my spirit, Lord,

Call me from chaos,

In simple surrender

Break through the busy,

Too-bright celebration,

And whisper your message,

"Be still, and know I am God." Ps 46:10

-Author Unknown

            HOUSEHOLD HINT OF THE WEEK

Greetings from Minneapolis, Minnesota! We have covered a lot of miles since last week. Our last service of this tour was in Smithfield, North Carolina. We then drove to Orlando, Florida, where we parked our coach until mid-January when we will start our 2007 tour in Florida. Squeezed for time and with much to do, Larry and I quickly packed our suitcases and went our separate ways! Hold on...don't get shook...let me explain!

All of our family was unable be together for Thanksgiving. Since we were flying back to South Dakota anyway, we decided that I would fly to Nashville, TN, to be with our son, Donovan, and daughter, LaShawn, while Larry would fly on to Minneapolis so he could spend the holiday with our daughter, LaDawn, and our grandchildren, Dante' and Myanna. This way....everybody could be happy! HA!

For the next six days in Nashville, Donovan and LaShawn pampered their mother. I was really ready for it after this year's full tour. They spoiled me by taking me to some local Southern cookin' restaurants. Mmmmmm! I sampled and tasted southern specialities such as barbecued watermelon ribs, fried okra, cornbread, grits, and baking powder biscuits just to name a few. They then escorted me to downtown Nashville where we toured the Country Music Hall of Fame. What an experience! The next day was Thanksgiving. Our son bought a smoked turkey which was a real Southern treat. I prepared a multitude of their favorite side dishes to accompany it. On Saturday, they took me to Nashville's unbelievable flea market that fills the fairgrounds. There was a little bit of everything there...trinkets, antiques, furniture and even puppies. We really had a lot of fun! Of course...I couldn't buy a thing as my suitcase was already maxing its 50 pound limit. This fact removed the temptation to buy while shopping but I sure loved looking! During those few days in Nashville, I simply rested and enjoyed my time with Donovan and LaShawn. It was just what the doctor ordered me to do a couple weeks prior to this. It truly was a pleasurable few days.

Meanwhile, Larry was in Minneapolis with LaDawn and the kids. He ended the tour exhausted as well and was definitely ready for a short weekend break. Larry, LaDawn and the kids celebrated Thanksgiving with his brother, Lowell and family in Lakeville, MN. They had a great time with family and friends. The grandkids loved having Grandpa around as they know where Grandpa is, there is bound to be some excitement. They did many fun things together over the Thanksgiving weekend including picking out a Christmas tree, bringing it home and decorating it. A fun time was had by all!

On Tuesday, I bid LaShawn and Donovan good-bye. It was difficult to do as I miss them so very much. I boarded the plane and flew into Minneapolis on Tuesday afternoon. I was anxious to get back to my sweetheart, Larry. I pulled my luggage from the baggage claim to the curb and when I saw Larry drive up, my heart went pitter-patter! He wrapped his big arms around me embracing me. We both chimed, "Oh how I missed you! It's so good to be back together again!" We drove back to LaDawn's and it was a treat to see Dante' and Myanna as I hadn't seen them since September. They looked like they had each grown about 4 inches. I couldn't believe Dante' was getting so tall. I stood next to him and he said, "Grandma, you are getting shorter." I quickly corrected him, "No...you are just growing faster than a weed!" Dante' just had his cast cut off his foot the day before from his foot injury six weeks ago. Instead of his cast, he now wears one of those big boots which enables him to walk some without his crutches. Needless to say, he is anxious to get walking and running once again. It's hard for a teenager to be inactive when he's used to much activity.

Larry and I are busy trying to catch up on a week's pile-up of mail and office duties. We are able to accomplish this while LaDawn and the kids are gone during the day. We will head home to Sisseton this coming Sunday.

This year has gone by so quickly. On Thanksgiving Day in Nashville, we observed many of the families gathering in the neighborhood. The front door and yard were decorated with pumpkins and autumn accouterments. By sunset, many of the neighbors were already hanging their Christmas lights and dressing their trees with an array of ornaments and decorations. Wow..I observed two seasons in one day! Up until about 4 PM, everyone enjoyed Thanksgiving and then...boom...the Christmas surge had begun. The streetlights bearing their new festive lights shone brightly and Christmas music wafted through the streets. Again, I was reminded, how quickly the seasons come and go. With the arrival of each Christmas season, there also comes a multitude of activities...business parties, church programs, family and friend get-together and the list goes on and on. I don't know about you, but sometimes I feel like I am thrust into Christmas and its rush rather than taking the time to experience the true-meaning of Christmas. I know that as soon as I enter the front door of my home in South Dakota, like everyone else, I will face many tasks to be accomplished such as cleaning a house covered with dust, decorating the house, and trying to prepare for Christmas sandwiched in between our full ministry office duties. I know I will need to make choices and I pray that God will help me to make the right choices as I realize I cannot do it all. I desire to do what it important so I can experience the peace of Christmas rather than the crisis of Christmas.

May you have a wonderful week! Be blessed, enjoy each moment and I will talk to you from home next week.

1/3 cup flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

2 cups broth

5 carrots, sliced

3 stalks celery, sliced

Potatoes, as many as you desire in chunks

2 onions, cut

salt and pepper to taste

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together, flour, salt and pepper. Coat the venison roast with flour mixture. Slowly heat a small amount of oil in a sturdy dutch oven; add the meat browning it on all sides. Add the broth to the meat and stir. Bake the roast, covered in a 350 oven for 2 1/2-3 hours or until meat is tender. Add the vegetables and bake for one more hour.

Hi! Wow! We just had another bustling week. As I mentioned last week, we had a great time at Woodbridge, VA. We left there, stopped in Richmond, VA, and had planned to nest for a day, but the television news broadcasts forewarned us of storms that were racing our way. They warned that the severe weather was to include high winds, flash floods and the possibility of tornadoes. When I heard these storms were drenching Washington D.C., where we had just come from, I prodded Larry to travel onward to our next destination, Smithfield, NC, located about 30 miles south of Raleigh. We quickly pressed on watching as the storm clouds in the distance propelled our way.

Wearily, finally reaching our destination, we parked our coach in the church parking lot at First Assembly of God in Smithfield, NC. Relieved that we beat the storm, we pulled the shades on the coach and I announced to Larry, "Tomorrow morning I'm resting in, and I am staying in my pajamas until noon! " He just smiled and agreed. Well, that plan was not going to happen.

In the middle of the night, we were awakened to rain pounding on the roof of the coach. I pulled up the shade to peer outside, and it looked like someone had turned on a water faucet full blast. It rained over an inch in just a little while. Little did we know at that time that this storm had hastened across the US and left a deadly trail of high winds, heavy rains and tornadoes in its wake. It was now making its way towards North Carolina. An F-3 tornado ravaged the little community of Riegelwood, NC, killing 8 and injuring 20. I tuned into the local news and the weatherman announced, "There is a funnel cloud moving towards Smithfield." I hollered, "Larry, there is a tornado funnel 10 miles away and they are instructing everyone in Smithfield to take cover immediately." Just then, the cell phone rang, and it was Pastor Steve Smith calling from the church across the parking lot, "Gloria, I don't mean to scare or bother you, but there is a tornado funnel headed this way. It will be here in about 10 minutes...you better get out of your coach and take refuge in the church with us until it blows over." Talk about a startling wake-up call! We threw on our clothes, fled across the parking lot through a wall of rain and took refuge in the church where they had all the school children sitting against the interior brick wall praying the storm would pass by. The sky appeared a dark grayish black color. The wind raged, the rain pelted, but thank God the storm traveled on by without bringing harm to us. I told Larry, "That's as close as I ever want to get to a tornado!" The news reported that over 25 tornadoes were created out of that violent thunderstorm. My heart breaks for the small community of Riegelwood where all of those people were killed and injured.

The next day, the sun once again shone brightly, and it was a picture perfect fall day in North Carolina. We truly thank the Lord for His protection these past 40 plus years on the road in all types of weather and situations.

Yesterday, Larry and I were reminiscing about this tour. We commented on how blessed we were to minister in so many wonderful churches with the greatest pastors. Every one of them was so special.

It's not too often that we minister in a church with a pastor who has been an evangelist and lived on the road as well. Last weekend, we had the unique pleasure to be with our pastor friends, Steve and Becky Smith. Becky grew up in the state of Wisconsin and had followed the Lundstrom Ministry through weekly television programs and our rallies. She met Steve, they married and then spent 16 years on the road ministering like we do. This couple is so multi-talented and musical. When their daughter, Sarah, was six years old, she was diagnosed with cancer. They halted their traveling ministry and began a pastorate where they could be close to doctors and clinics for treatments. She is now 11 years old and we were so happy to see Sarah looking so well. Her big brother, Nate, is a senior in high school and is also an extra-special young man. Pastor Steve and Becky are doing a wonderful job of pastoring and their congregation loves them dearly. They shared the following comments with us"

"When I was growing up, the Lundstroms would come to our area several times a year. I looked forward to each visit with great anticipation because when I watched them minister I always said, "That's what I want to do when I grow up." They were my heroes and my inspiration.

And sure enough, when I grew up, my husband and children and I did "The Lundstrom Thing" for fifteen years, living on the road full time and singing and preaching around the country.

When we left the road due to our daughter's cancer diagnosis, Larry and Gloria stood with us through it all by means of prayers, financial help, and phone calls of encouragement.

After all that history, what a special joy it was to have them minister in the church that my husband now pastors; their ministry blessed our congregation in great ways. I am so thankful that Larry and Gloria have been an important part of my life for thirty-five years!"

We are soon coming to the end of our 2006 road tour. It has been an exciting year of soulwinning. Hundreds have made decisions for Christ. In a few days, Larry and I will journey home to Sisseton where our home office is located. We will take off our evangelist hat and put on our office hat for the next month. We will also be preparing for our 2007 tour.

Right now, as you are reading this, you are probably suffering from turkey overload due to your Thanksgiving dinner. We hope you had a wonderful time with your loved ones! Hopefully next week, we will put in a couple photos of our Thanksgiving celebrations.

Before I close, I would like to leave a couple of thoughts with you about prayer. You and I both know you can't separate prayer from Thanksgiving.

-William Fitch

"Our prayers must mean something to us if they are to mean anything to God."

-Maltbie Babcock

Gloria

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Greetings from the East Coast! We have had an exciting weekend in the Washington D.C. area. The traffic here is quite different than the Midwest! HA! Larry had a significant challenge maneuvering our coach and suburban through all the traffic. With all of the weaving in and out of speeding cars, I was glad Larry had 45 years of bus driving under his belt. Also, it has become more clear to me why cases of road rage take place as there is definitely much hustle and bustle as everyone scrambles to and from work on the congested roads combined with a lack of patience amongst many drivers.

It was a special joy to be back at Christ Chapel in Woodbridge, Virginia, with our pastor friends, Bill and Lynna Roberts. We first ministered at Christ Chapel 18 years ago when the church was meeting in a gymnasium. This was now our fourth return trip. A lot has happened in that span of 18 years. They have built a beautiful sanctuary for their congregation of 1800-2000 people. They have also added a daycare, a Christian school for grades 1-9, a Masters Commission school to train young people for ministry, an extension of Valley Forge Christian College, mothering two new churches, and their own Hispanic church just to name a few of the ministries and outreaches. It is an exciting and active church!

Pastor Bill and Lynna, along with their wonderful staff, are reaching the nations through these many diversified ministry outreaches. We are really proud of them. Pastor Bill and Lynna shared the following comments with us:

"We had Larry and Gloria minister at Christ Chapel 18 years ago. In that service, the altars were packed with people coming to Christ. We have had them minister here three times since, and without exception, as it was last Sunday, dozens made commitments to Christ. Larry and Gloria are true evangelists with a burning passion for the Lost. Their message in music, testimony and word touches the hearts of all ages and nationalities. We appreciate their down to earth ministry and like I told my congregation last Sunday when they were here, 'They are the same on the platform as they are off. What you see is what you get!' Larry's evangelistic heart reaches beyond the pulpit to wherever he is. Whether he is in a restaurant or on the street, he's leading people to Christ. We appreciate having true evangelists minister in Christ Chapel."

We also have these comments to share from Jeff Nordin, a special young man dear to our hearts:

"I am no stranger to Larry and Gloria Lundstrom as I am originally from Willmar, MN, just 90 miles from Sisseton where they live and base their ministry. I have followed the Lundstrom Ministries since I was a little kid watching them on weekly television and was always inspired by their music.

In 1988, Larry and Gloria invited me to be their pianist for their ministry on the road. I was thrilled! I traveled coast to coast with them from 1988-1990. Night after night and rally after rally, I personally saw altars filled with hundreds coming to Christ.

Six years ago, Gloria suggested I submit my resume to Christ Chapel in Woodbridge, VA. I was hired on as the Minister of Music and Fine Arts and I continue to serve in that capacity. I love my ministry here.

Larry and Gloria are like family to me. It was great having them minister here. Christ Chapel is known as a church of all nations because of its diversity of nationalities due to its close proximity to Washington D.C. What I have always loved about their ministry is that is crosses all cultural barriers. I especially appreciated them speaking momentarily on marriage as it really impacted the hearts and homes of our people. Our congregation enjoyed their music and message. Gloria's sharing and Larry's message were simple and straightforward. They spoke to the non-Christians as well as the Christians, which was evident when Larry gave the altar call as dozens stepped forward to make decisions for Christ.

I am personally touched to see the consistency of Larry and Gloria's genuine anointed ministry all through the years. Their heartbeat for the Lost and ministry today is as great or greater than it was way back when I traveled with them."

Jeff has continued to be involved in our ministry by helping with the song arrangements for our music CD's. Thanks, Jeff!

One last testimony we would like to share with you that touched our hearts is from Audrey Lipsomb. Audrey came up to us before the service and said, "I met you when you were here 18 years ago and have been here every time you have ministered. I am now pastoring a small church and hurried over here to attend your early service before my church service begins. I have really appreciated your ministry all through the years."

Thanks giving is almost here. It is representative of a time to thank God for His many blessings in our lives...by the way this a good habit not just for Thanksgiving but every day! Many of you will be gathering with your families on Thanksgiving Day. Unfortunately, holidays can be awkward for families due to past offenses, hurts or misgivings. For some reason, those differences tend to surface and are the most painful on holidays. Oh, how the devil loves to attack the family and cause division. I would like to encourage you to not only be thankful but to be thoughtful as you meet with your family. Entreat God to direct what you say and how you say it. Ask God to fill you with His love so that it may spill out of you onto your entire family. These times of gatherings can be times of great healing in families.

I was in a grocery store checkout line last week. The customer ahead of me knew the cashier and asked if she would come be with her family on Thanksgiving. The cashier snarled, "I don't do anything with my family. We don't talk or communicate. I haven't talked to my younger brother in years. I don't know where he is and I don't care." She continued, "I have had nothing to do with my dad for years and years. In fact, I didn't even know his whereabouts until someone sent me his obituary." She snapped again, "And that's fine with me!" The customer chimed in and spoke about how she, too, is alienated from her family. She said, "That's the way I want it and that's the way I like it." She grabbed her groceries and trotted out of the store. I walked up next and placed my groceries on the conveyor belt. The cashier hesitated slightly knowing that I had heard their conversation. She put her hand on her hip and asked, "And, how are you today?" I smiled and responded, "Great! Isn't it a wonderful day? Every day I wake up is a great day, and how about you?" She just muttered something, bagged my groceries and I got the feeling she wanted me out of there. I smiled and said as I was leaving, "Have a great day! Every day is a gift from God." She looked stunned!

I thought to myself how sad it is that these families have been so fragmented by some misunderstanding or misgiving. Life isn't worth the pain of unforgiveness and the resulting anguish and misery it causes. This Thanksgiving, take the challenge and make amends with your family. Forget the past and build the present so that you can have a family relationship for the future.

Ephesians 4:31-32, "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice; and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

FORGET IT

If you ain't been treated right.....forget it.

Don't go looking for a fight....forget it.

There's no need to bear a grudge,

'Twill your happiness besmudge.....forget it!

Anyway, you ain't the judge.....forget it!

So you've been misunderstood?....forget it!

You did the best you could?.....forget it.

There's no need to pout and whine,

Sit around all day and pine.

Cheer up, neighbor, sing and shine.....forget it.

So somebody slandered you?....forget it.

Just make sure it wasn't true, then....forget it.

Needless grief will mar your life

If you let it.

No use nagging at your wife.....forget it!

There's no need to be depressed

Though you've gone through many a test

And you feel that you're oppressed

And by many care possessed.

Tell the Lord, He knows what's best.

If you all your wrongs confessed

And you'll follow His behest

Then your soul will be so blessed

And you'll find such perfect rest

Like a birdie in its nest,

There's no need to be depressed....forget it!

-Unknown

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