text:
The Church Postil of Dr. Martin Luther: Sunday in the Octave of Epiphany
Gospel Sermon (1523)
(Note from the Lenker edition: This sermon appeared in the editions of Luther's works in 1528 and 1540, and in the complete Wittenberg Edition of 1563 , volume 4, fol. 487 ff.; also in the Eisleben supplementary volumes, volume 1, fol. 140 ff. It also appeared four times in pamphlet form during the year 1523. The first time under the title: "A Sermon on the Gospel of Luke, 2 chapter. On the Sunday after the day of the Three Holy Kings; in which is set forth how they fare who are true Christians; also how we are to seek Christ only in the Temple, that is, in the divine Scriptures. Doctor Martin Luther. Preached in Wittenberg, 1523." German text: Erlangen edition, volume 2, page 1; Walch edition, volume 2, Colossians. 589; St. Louis Walch, volume 2, Col. 429.)
Text: Luke 2:41-52
And his parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up alter the custom of the feast; and when they had fulfilled the days, as they were returning, the boy Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem, and his parents knew it not; but supposing him to be in the company, they went a day's journey; and they sought for him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance: and when they found him not, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking for him. And it came to pass, after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them, and asking them questions: and all that heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. And when they saw him, they were astonished; and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? knew ye not that I must be in my Father's house? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth; and he was subject unto them: and his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
And Jesus advanced in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
1. This is a Gospel that presents to us an example of the holy cross, showing us through what experiences those have to pass who are Christians, and how they ought to bear their sorrow. For he who desires to be a Christian must expect to help bear the cross. For God will place him between the spurs and thoroughly test him that he may be humble and no one will come to Christ without suffering. Of this we have here an example, which we ought to imitate and shall now consider.
2. Although the holy mother Mary, who was highly blessed and upon whom many favors were bestowed, had undoubtedly the greatest delight in her child, yet the Lord so ruled that her joy was not without sorrow and like all others she did not attain complete blessedness until she entered heaven. For this reason she had to suffer so much sorrow, pain and anguish on earth. It was her first great sorrow that she had to give birth to her child in Bethlehem, in a strange town, where she found no room with her babe except in a stable. Then her second sad experience was that soon after the six weeks of her purification she was compelled to flee with her child into Egypt, a strange country, which was indeed a poor consolation. She undoubtedly experienced many more like trials, which have not been recorded.
3. One of them is related here, when her son caused her so much anxiety, by tarrying behind in the temple and letting her seek him so long, and she could not find him. This alarmed and grieved her so that she almost despaired, as her words indicate: "Behold, thy father and I, sought thee sorrowing." For we may well imagine that thoughts like these may have passed through her mind: "Behold this child is only mine, this I know very well, and I know that God has entrusted him to me and commanded me to take care of him; why is it then that he is taken from me? It is my fault, for I have not sufficiently taken care of him and guarded him. Perhaps God does not deem me worthy to watch over this child and will take him from me again." She was undoubtedly greatly frightened and her heart trembled and was filled with grief.
4. Here you see what she experienced. Although she is the mother of a child in whom she might have gloried before all mothers, and although her joy was immeasurably greater than any she had ever felt, yet you perceive how God deprives her of all happiness, in that she can no longer call herself the mother of Jesus. In her great dismay she probably wished, she had never known her child and was tempted to greater sins than any mother had ever committed.
5. In the same manner the Lord our God can take from us our joy and comfort, if he so desires, and cause us the greatest sorrow with the very things that are our greatest joy, and, on the other hand, give us the greatest delight in the things that terrify us most. For it was the greatest joy of Mary that she was the mother of this child, but now he has become the cause of her greatest sorrow. Thus we are afraid of nothing more than of sin and death, yet God can comfort us so that we may boast, as St. Paul says in Romans 7, that sin served to the end that we became justified and that we longed for death and desire to die.
6. The great sorrow of the mother of Christ, who was deprived of her child, came upon her in order that even her trust in God might be taken from her. For she had reason to fear that God was angry with her and would no longer have her to be the mother of his Son. Nobody will understand what she suffered who has not passed through similar experiences. Therefore we should apply this example to ourselves, for it was not recorded for her sake, but for our benefit. She is now at the end of her sorrows; therefore we should profit by her example and be prepared to bear our sorrow if a similar affliction befall us.
7. When God vouchsafes to us a strong faith and a firm trust in him, so that we are assured he is our gracious God and we can depend upon him, then we are in paradise. But when God permits our hearts to be discouraged and we believe that he takes from us Christ our Lord; when our conscience feels that we have lost him and amidst trembling and despair our confidence is gone, then we are truly in misery and distress. For even if we are not conscious of any special sin, yet in such a condition we tremble and doubt whether God still cares for us; just as Mary here doubts and knows not whether God still deems her worthy to be the mother of his Son. Our heart thinks in the time of trial thus: God has indeed given me a strong faith, but perhaps he will take it from me and will no longer want me as his child. Only strong minds can endure such temptations and there are not many people whom God tests to this degree. Yet we must be prepared, so that we may not despair if such trials should come upon us.
8. We find many examples of this in the Scriptures, as for instance in Joshua 7:6-7. God had given to Joshua great and strong promises, telling him that he would exterminate the heathen and charging him to attack his enemies courageously and vigorously, which he also did. But what happened? When his faith was strong he,sent three thousand men against a city to take it. They were proud, seeing that it was a small city with only a few people to defend it. When the men of Israel approached, the enemy sallied forth from the city and defeated the people. Then Joshua fell to the earth upon his face before the ark of Jehovah until the evening, lifting up his voice and lamenting before God, saying: "Alas, O Lord Jehovah, wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over the Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to cause us to perish?" His faith had become weak and he was utterly discouraged, so that God himself had to raise him up again. Thus God deals with his great saints, whom he sometimes deprives of Christ, that is, of their faith and confidence.
9. But God does all this out of his superabundant grace and goodness in order that we might perceive on every hand how kindly and lovingly the Father deals with us and tries us, so that our faith may be developed and become continually stronger and stronger. And he does this especially so as to guard his children against a twofold danger which might otherwise threaten them. In the first place, being strong in their own mind and arrogant, they might ultimately depend upon themselves and believe they are able to accomplish everything in their own strength. For this reason God sometimes permits their faith to grow weak and to be prostrated, so that they might see who they are and be forced to confess: Even if I would believe, I cannot. Thus the omnipotent God humbles his saints and keeps them in their true knowledge. For nature and reason will always boast of the gifts of God and depend upon them. Therefore God must lead us to a recognition of the fact that it is he who puts faith in our heart and that we cannot produce it ourselves. Thus the fear of God and trust in him must not be separated from one another, for we need them both, in order that we may not become presumptuous and overconfident, depending upon ourselves. This is one of the reasons why God leads his saints through such great trials.
10. Another reason is, that he wants to give us an example. For if in the Scriptures we had no examples of saints who passed through the same experiences, we should be unable to bear our trials and would imagine that we alone are thus afflicted, that God never dealt with any one in this manner; therefore my suffering must be a sign of God's displeasure with me. But when we see that the Virgin Mary and other saints have also suffered, we are thereby comforted and need not despair, for their example shows that we should calmly and patiently wait until God comes and strengthens us.
11. We find many examples of similar trials in the Scriptures, and here we might refer to the words of David in Psalm 31:22: "As for me, I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes," just as we sometimes think that God does not want us. Such trials are unendurable and severe beyond measure, wherefore the saints passing through them lament greatly, for if God would not deliver them they would be in hell. Compared with these trials other temptations and sorrows are trivial, as for instance when our possessions and honors are taken from us, or when the innocent babes were murdered and Jesus was forced to flee into Egypt. The prophet speaks of this in Psalm 94:17: "Unless Jehovah had been my help, my soul had soon dwelt in silence." So great is the terror and anguish of such visitations. But God permitted them that we might lay hold of these examples, be comforted and saved from despair. At the end of our lives we must also pass through like trials. Therefore we must be armed and prepared for them.
12. Such is the narrative and example of the great sorrow as it is portrayed in this Gospel, but we are also shown where comfort may be found. The parents of Jesus lost him, going a day's journey and seeking for him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance, but found him not. They return to Jerusalem and after a search of three days he is found by them in the temple. Here God has pointed out how we can find consolation and strength in all our sorrows, and especially in these great trials, and how we can find Christ the Lord, namely by seeking him in the temple. Jesus said to his parents: "Knew ye not that I must be in my Father's house?"
13. The words of Luke "and they understood not the saying which he spake unto them" are especially to be noted here. With these words he silenced the idle talk of those who exalted and praised the Virgin Mary too highly, asserting that she knew everything and could not err. For you see here how the Lord permits her to seek her child for a long time in vain, till she finds him in the temple after three days. In addition to this, Jesus seems to reprimand her when he says: "How is it that ye sought me? knew ye not that I must be in my Father's house?" She understood not the saying which he spake to her. Consequently all the idle talk to which we have referred is nothing but falsehood, and the Virgin Mary does not need this fabricated and mendacious praise. God concealed much from her and led her through many trials, so that she might remain humble and not think herself better than others.
14. But the consolation of which I have spoken is that Christ is only found in the temple, that is to say in the house of God. But what is the house of God? Is it not the whole creation? It is indeed true that God is everywhere, but he is especially present in the Holy Scriptures, in his Word, more than anywhere else. We learn therefore here that nobody can presume to derive any comfort from anything but the Word of God; you will find the Son only in the temple. Now look at the mother of Jesus who does not yet understand this and does not know that she must seek for him in the temple. When she sought for him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance, and not at the right place, she did not find him.
15. Therefore I have often said and say again, that in the Christian church nothing should be preached but the pure Word of God. With this the Gospel agrees when it says that they did not find the Lord among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. It is therefore wrong to say that we must believe what the councils have decreed, or what Jerome, Augustine and other holy fathers have written. We must point out the place where Christ may be found, which he himself points out when he says that he must be in his Father's house, which means that he can only be found in the Word of God. We should therefore not believe that our conscience may trust in the teachings of the holy fathers or derive comfort from them. Now if they say to you: Should we not believe the holy fathers? you may reply: Christ is not found among the kinsfolk and acquaintance. It would indeed be well if Christians generally were to heed this example from the Gospel and use it as a maxim against every doctrine that does not agree with the Word of God.
16. But in order to emphasize this more and to make it clearer, let us see what other doctrines have been proclaimed that do not agree with the Word of God. Up to this time we have had three different systems of doctrine. The first and coarsest is that of St. Thomas (if indeed he be a saint). This was taken from the system of pagan science and art which was written by that great light of nature, Aristotle. Now they say that his philosophy is like a bright, shining plate, and the Word of Christ is like the sun. And as the sun shines upon the plate, causing it to gleam and glitter all the brighter, so the divine light shines upon the light of nature and illumines it. With this beautiful simile they have introduced pagan doctrines into the Christian church, which have been taught and cultivated by the great universities and in which teachers and preachers have been instructed. The devil has taught them to speak in this way. Thus the Word of God is trodden under foot, for when it is given full play, it subverts all these satanic doctrines.
17. In the second place, they have taught and prescribed human laws, called the institutions and precepts of the holy Christian church. Thereby these fools have thought to lead men to heaven and to be able to comfort and pacify our conscience. These human laws prevail to such a degree that like a great deluge they cover the whole world and have submerged everything else, so that it is almost impossible that any one may be saved from going down to hell. For they clamor unceasingly as though they were insane: This has been decreed by the holy councils and that has been commanded by the church; we have observed this a long time, shall we not believe it now?
18. Therefore we should reply to this from the Gospel, as I said: Even if Mary, the Holy Virgin, had done this, it would not be surprising if she had erred. She was the mother of God, and yet she did not know where to find Christ; she sought him among her kinsfolk and acquaintance and failed to find him. Now if she did not succeed in finding Christ among her kinsfolk, but had finally to come to the temple, how shall we expect to find him outside of the Word of God in human doctrines, in the decrees of the councils or the teachings of the scholastics? Bishops and councils have undoubtedly not possessed the gift of the Holy Spirit in as large a measure as Mary. If she erred, why should not they also be mistaken who fancy to find Christ elsewhere but in his Father's house, that is in the Word of God?
19. If therefore you find one who adheres to these two different systems of doctrine, believing them to be right and trusting in them, ask him whether he is quite confident that they will comfort his soul in the hour of death or under the judgment and the wrath of God, whether he will be able to say then with a conscience undaunted: This has been declared and decreed by the pope and the bishops in their councils, I depend upon that and am quite certain I shall not fail? He will soon be obliged to say: How can I be so certain of this? Thus, when it comes to the point and you are in the presence of death, your conscience will say: It is indeed true, the councils have decreed this, but what if they were mistaken, and who knows whether they were right? Then when you are in such doubts, you cannot hold out, and Satan will assail you and hurl you to the ground, so that you lie there helpless.
20. In the third place, besides these two theories they have also pointed us to the Holy Scriptures and said, that above every other doctrine the laws and decrees of the pope in matters of faith must be observed. But here they except the teachings of some of the holy fathers, who have interpreted the Scriptures, and whom they have exalted so highly that they place them on the same level with the pope of Rome, or a little above him, asserting even that they could not err, and clamoring: How could it be possible for the holy fathers not to understand the Scriptures? But let these fools say what they wish, always remind them of the words of Christ: "Knew ye not that I must be in my Father's house?" We must above all things have the Word of God and cling to it, for Christ will be there and in no where else. Therefore it is in vain that you seek him elsewhere. For how can you convince me that Christ must be found in the writings of the holy fathers?
21. This Gospel is therefore a severe thrust at every doctrine and every comfort of any kind that is not derived from the Word of God. You may therefore say: It matters not how highly you exalt reason and the light of nature, I reserve the right of not putting my trust in it. The councils have issued decrees and the pope or the holy fathers have taught what they wish, but that does not concern me; I will not depend upon them. We will soon agree if they decide and propose what they please, but grant me the liberty to say: If it pleases me, I shall observe it, but not as something that is especially meritorious. They will however not grant us this right; for they are not satisfied to let us use our own discretion in these things, but demand in addition that we base our trust and comfort on them, teaching that if we trust in them, it is as much as if we place our confidence in Christ and the Holy Spirit. We can not tolerate their delusions according to which they think that they are doing a good work who keep their laws, and again, that it is a sin not to keep them. For they declare that the precepts and doctrines of the pope and the church come from the Holy Spirit and are the Word of God, for which reason we ought to believe and observe them. But this is an obvious and shameless lie; for how can they prove it?
22. But, they say, the Christian church is always led by the Holy Spirit, who will not permit the church to err or go wrong. To this we answer with what we said before: However good the church may be, it has never possessed the Spirit in as large a measure as Mary, who although she was led by the Spirit, erred nevertheless, so that we might learn from her experience. If she herself is uncertain, how can you make me certain?
Whither should we then go? We must also come into the temple, that is to say we must cling to the Word of God, which is secure and will not fail us and where we will certainly find Christ. I must therefore always be with the Word, if I cleave to it. If the Word of God goes conquering through death and remains alive, I must also pass through death to life, and nothing can hinder or destroy me, neither sin nor death, nor the devil. The comfort and boldness I derive from the Word of God cannot be engendered by any other doctrine, for none can be compared with it.
23. Therefore it is necessary that we understand this clearly and not place our confidence in human doctrines and the teachings of the holy fathers. God has demonstrated this by many other examples in order to teach us not in the least to depend upon men, as the saints also may sometimes make mistakes. We read for instance in Acts 15:5f that not more than eighteen years after the ascension of Christ the apostles and the majority of the Christians held a conference. The question was raised whether the Gentiles should be compelled to submit to circumcision. There stood up the leaders of the sect of the Pharisees who believed and said: It is necessary to circumcise them, and to charge them to keep the law of Moses. There was a great commotion and all seemed to hold the same opinion. Only Peter, Paul, Barnabas and James were opposed to this view, and Peter especially rose up and said unto them: God has given the Holy Spirit unto the Gentiles who have heard the Gospel from me, even as he did unto us; and he made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith. Now if they received the Holy Spirit and were not circumcised, why would you force them and put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in like manner as they.
24. You notice that many Christians were at this council who were true believers, at a time when the church was in its youthful vigor and almost perfect, and yet God permits them all to err with the exception of three or four men. If these few men had not protested, erroneous doctrines would have been taught and a law not in accordance with the Gospel of Christ been established. Yet we are such blind fools as to say continually: The councils and the church have commanded this or that, and as they cannot be in error, their decrees must be observed.
25. Later on we read that even the most prominent leaders, both Peter and Barnabas, fell into error and all the other Jews with them. Then Paul alone rose up and rebuked Peter publicly, as he himself writes in Galatians 2:11. Now if these holy councils and holy men erred, why should we put our trust in our own councils? For they cannot for an instant be compared with the councils held by the apostles.
26. Why does God permit these things to occur? He does it that we may not depend upon or derive comfort from the words and doctrines of men, however holy they may be, but place our confidence only in the Word of God. If then even an apostle came or an angel from heaven, as St. Paul says in Galatians 1:8-9, who would preach another Gospel, we should openly declare it is not the Word of God and refuse to listen to it. Do not forget that the child can be found in no other place but the temple, or the house of God. Mary indeed sought him among the kinsfolk, who are the great, learned and pious people, but she did not find him among them.
27. There are many similar examples and types elsewhere in the Gospel which point out the same truth, namely, that nothing should be taught but the Word of God and no other doctrine should be accepted, because Christ can be found only in the Scriptures. Thus we read in the Gospel for Christmas, Luke 2:12, where the angel, who announced the birth of Christ, said to the shepherds: "And this is the sign unto you: Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger." Why does he not direct them to Mary and Joseph, but only points them to the swaddling clothes and the manger? The reason is that God will not point us to any saint, not even to the holy mother herself, for they may all err. Therefore a special place must be pointed out where Christ is, namely the manger, where he surely may be found, even if Joseph and Mary were not present. This signifies that Christ is completely wrapped in the Scriptures, just as the body is wrapped in the clothes. The manger is the preaching of the Gospel, where he is lying and where he is apprehended, and from which we take our food. Now it would indeed appear that the child should lie where Joseph and Mary are, these great and holy people. Yet the angel points only to the manger, which he will not have overlooked or dishonored. It is an insignificant and simple expression, but Christ is found in it.
28. The same truth is also pointed out in other narratives, as for instance in that of holy Simeon, who had received a promise from God that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord Christ. He came in the Spirit into the temple, found the child and received him into his arms. But here it is only emphasized that he finds Christ in the temple. From all this we learn that God would warn us against human doctrines, however excellent they may be, advising us not to depend upon them, but cleave to the only true guide, the Word of God. Lay aside everything else. Their declarations and decrees may indeed be good and right, but our heart cannot trust in them.
29. This then is the comfort we derive from this Gospel in our great trials, of which we have spoken above. We know that consolation may be found only in the Scriptures, the Word of God. For this reason God caused this to be recorded, so that we might learn these lessons, as St. Paul writes to the Romans: "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that through patience and through comfort of the Scriptures we might have hope." Romans 15:4. Here he says that the Scriptures are comforting, that they impart patience and comfort. Consequently there can be nothing else that comforts the soul, not even in the most trifling temptations. For everything else with which man comforts himself, however great it may be, is altogether uncertain, and the heart inquires constantly: Who knows whether it is right? if I only were sure about it! etc. But when the heart clings to the Word of God, it may say without any wavering: This is the Word of God, which can not lie nor err, of this I am certain. And this is our greatest struggle that we keep and hold firmly to the Word; for if that is taken from the heart, man is lost.
30. Let us then be prepared for their representations and expostulations to the effect that the Christian church can not err, so that we may know how to meet them, and say: Here is not the word of man, but the Word of God. We read in this Gospel that his mother, Mary, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and yet she erred. Likewise we read in the Acts that there was a Christian council of such who believed and who had the Spirit, and yet they stumbled and would have established an unchristian law, if others had not protested. We should therefore not believe any council or, saint, if they come without the Word of God. This is then the sum total of this Gospel, and if anything else is to be said on it, we will let those explain it who have leisure; but he who studies it faithfully, will easily understand it.
31. Some have broken their heads over the meaning of the words of Luke where he says that Christ advanced in wisdom and grace, for they assume that as true God he possessed all wisdom and grace from the time of his conception. But here they have shamefully altered the text with their commentaries. Therefore refrain from such idle talk and let the words stand just as they are without any commentary. We must understand them simply as saying that he grew continually and waxed strong in the Spirit, just as any other man, as we have explained it more fully in the Gospel for the Sunday after Christmas.
Epistle Sermon
Text: Romans 12:1-6
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace that was given me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but so to think as to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to each man a measure of faith. For even as we have many members in one body, and all the members have not the same office: so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and severally members one of another. And having gifts differing according to the grace that was given to us.
1. In the preceding sermons I have treated sufficiently of faith and love; and of crosses and afflictions, the promoters of hope. Faith, love and affliction bound the Christian's life. It is unnecessary that I should further discourse on these topics. As they— or anything pertaining to the life of the Christian— present themselves, reference may be had to those former postils. It is my purpose now briefly to make plain that the sum of all divine doctrine is simply Jesus Christ, as we have often heard.
2. This epistle lesson treats not of faith, but of the fruits of faith— love, unity, patience, self-denial, etc. Among these fruits, the apostle considers first the discipline of the body— the mortification of evil lusts. He handles the subject here in a manner wholly unlike his method in other epistles. In Galatians he speaks of crucifying the flesh with its lusts; in Hebrews and Colossians, of putting off the old man and mortifying the members on earth. Here he mentions presenting the body as a sacrifice; he dignifies it by the loftiest and most sacred terms. Why does he so?
First, by making the terms glorious, he would the more emphatically urge us to yield this fruit of faith. The whole world regards the priest's office— his service and his dignity— as representing the acme of nobility and exaltation; and so it truly does. Now, if one would be a priest and exalted before God, let him set about this work of offering up his body to God; in other words, let him be humble, let him be nothing in the eyes of the world.
3. I will let every man decide for himself the difference between the outward priesthood of dazzling character and the internal, spiritual priesthood. The first is confined to a very few individuals; the second, Christians commonly share. One was ordained of men, independently of the Word of God; the other was established through the Word, irrespective of human devices. In that, the skin is be-smeared with material oil; in this, the heart is internally anointed with the Holy Spirit. That applauds and extols its works; this proclaims and magnifies the grace of God, and his glory. That does not offer up the body with its lusts, but rather fosters the evil desires of the flesh; this sacrifices the body and mortifies its lusts. The former permits the offering up to itself of gold and property, of honor, of idleness and pleasure, and of all manner of lust on earth; the latter foregoes these things and accepts only the reverse of homage. That again sacrifices Christ in its awful perversions; this, satisfied with the atonement once made by Christ, offers up itself with him and in him, by making similar sacrifices. In fact, the two priesthoods accord about as well as Christ and Barabbas, as light and darkness, as God and the world. As little as smearing and shaving were factors in Christ's priesthood, so little will they thus procure for anyone the Christian priesthood. Yet Christ, with all his Christians, is priest. "Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek." Psalm 110:4. The Christian priesthood will not admit of appointment. The priest is not made. He must be born a priest; must inherit his office. I refer to the new birth— the birth of water and the Spirit. Thus all Christians become priests, children of God and co-heirs with Christ the Most High Priest.
4. Men universally consider the title of priest glorious and honorable; it is acceptable to everyone. But the duties and the sacrifice of the office are rarely accepted. Men seem to be averse to these latter. The Christian priesthood costs life, property, honor, friends and all worldly things. It cost Christ the same on the holy cross. No man readily chooses death instead of life, and accepts pain instead of pleasure, loss instead of gain, shame rather than honor, enemies rather than friends, according to the example Christ set for us on the cross. And further, all this is to be endured, not for profit to one's self, but for the benefit of his neighbor and for the honor and glory of God. For so Christ offered up his body. This priesthood is a glorious one.
5. As I have frequently stated, the suffering and work of Christ is to be viewed in two lights: First, as grace bestowed on us, as a blessing conferred, requiring the exercise of faith on our part and our acceptance of the salvation offered. Second, we are to regard it an example for us to follow; we are to offer up ourselves for our neighbors' benefit and for the honor of God. This offering is the exercise of our love — distributing our works for the benefit of our neighbors. He who so does is a Christian. He becomes one with Christ, and the offering of his body is identical with the offering of Christ's body. This is what Peter calls offering sacrifices acceptable to God by Christ. He describes priesthood and offering in these words: "Ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 2:5.
6. Peter says "spiritual sacrifices," but Paul says our bodies are to be offered up. While it is true that the body is not spirit, the offering of it is called a spiritual sacrifice because it is freely sacrificed through the Spirit, the Christian being uninfluenced by the constraints of the Law or the fear of hell. Such motives, however, sway the ecclesiasts, who have heaped tortures upon themselves by undergoing fasts, uncomfortable clothing, vigils, hard beds and other vain and difficult performances, and yet failed to attain to this spiritual sacrifice. Rather, they have wandered the farther from it because of their neglect to mortify their old Adam-like nature. They have but increased in presumption and wickedness, thinking by their works and merits to raise themselves in God's estimation. Their penances were not intended for the mortification of their bodies, but as works meriting for them superior seats in heaven. Properly, then, their efforts may be regarded a carnal sacrifice of their bodies, unacceptable to God and most acceptable to the devil.
7. But spiritual sacrifices, Peter tells us, are acceptable to God; and Paul teaches the same (Romans 8:13): "If by the Spirit ye put to death the deeds of the body, ye shall live." Paul speaks of mortifying through the Spirit; Peter, of a spiritual sacrifice. The offering must first be slain. Paul's thought is: "If ye mortify the deeds of the body in your individual, chosen ways, unprompted by the Spirit or your own heart, simply through fear of punishment, that mortification— that sacrifice— will be carnal; and ye shall not live, but die a death the more awful." The Spirit must mortify your deeds— spiritually it must be done; that is, with real enjoyment, unmoved by fear of hell, voluntarily, without expectation of meriting honor or reward, either temporal or eternal. This, mark you, is a spiritual sacrifice. However outward, gross, physical and visible a deed may be, it is altogether spiritual when wrought by the Spirit. Even eating and drinking are spiritual works if done through the Spirit. On the other hand, whatsoever is wrought through the flesh is carnal, no matter to what extent it may be a secret desire of the soul. Paul (Galatians 5:20) terms idolatry and heresies works of the flesh, notwithstanding they are invisible impulses of the soul.
8. In addition to this spiritual sacrifice— the mortifying of the deeds of the body— Peter mentions another, later on in the same chapter: "But ye are …. a royal priesthood …. that ye may show forth the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." Here Peter touches upon the preaching office, the real sacrificial office, concerning which it is said (Psalm 50:23), "Whoso offereth the sacrifice of thanksgiving glorifieth me." Preaching extols the grace of God. It is the offering of praise and thanks. Paul boasts (Romans 15:15) that he sanctifies and offers the Gospel. But it is not our purpose to consider here this sacrifice of praise; though praise in the congregation may be included in the spiritual sacrifice, as we shall see. For he who offers his body to God also offers his tongue and his lips as instruments to confess, preach and extol the grace of God. On this topic, however, we shall speak elsewhere. Let us now consider the words of the text.
"I beseech you therefore, brethren."
9. Paul does not say, "I command you." He is preaching to those already godly Christians through faith in the new man; to hearers who are not to be constrained by commandments, but to be admonished. For the object is to secure voluntary renunciation of their old, sinful, Adam-like nature. He who will not cheerfully respond to friendly admonition is no Christian. And he who attempts by the restraints of law to compel the unwilling to renunciation, is no Christian preacher or ruler; he is but a worldly jailer. "By the mercies of God."
10. A teacher of the Law enforces his restraints through threats and punishments. A preacher of grace persuades and incites by calling attention to the goodness and mercy of God. The latter does not desire works prompted by an unwilling spirit, or service that is not the expression of a cheerful heart. He desires that a joyous, willing spirit shall incite to the service of God. He who cannot, by the gracious and lovely message of God's mercy so lavishly bestowed upon us in Christ, be persuaded in a spirit of love and delight to contribute to the honor of God and the benefit of his neighbor, is worthless to Christianity, and all effort is lost on him. How can one whom the fire of heavenly love and grace cannot melt, be rendered cheerfully obedient by laws and threats? Not human mercy is offered us, but divine mercy, and Paul would have us perceive it and be moved thereby. "To present your bodies."
11. Many and various were the sacrifices of the Old Testament. But all were typical of this one sacrifice of the body, offered by Christ and his Christians. And there is not, nor can be, any other sacrifice in the New Testament. What more would one, or could one, offer than himself, all he is and all he has? When the body is yielded a sacrifice, all belonging to the body is yielded also. Therefore, the Old Testament sacrifices, with the priests and all the splendor, have terminated. How does the offering of a penny compare with that of the body? Indeed, such fragmentary patchwork scarcely deserves recognition as a sacrifice when the bodies of Christ and of his followers are offered. Consequently, Isaiah may truly say that in the New Testament such beggarly works are loathsome compared to real and great sacrifices: "He that killeth an ox is as he that slayeth a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, as he that breaketh a dog's neck; he that offereth an oblation, as he that offereth swine's blood; he that burneth frankincense, as he that blesseth an idol." Isaiah 66:3. Similarly, also: "What unto me is the multitude of your sacrifices? saith Jehovah: I have had enough of the burnt-offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he-goats." Isaiah 1:11. Thus, in plain words, Isaiah rejects all other sacrifices in view of this true one.
12. Our blind leaders, therefore, have most wretchedly deceived the world by their mass-offerings, for they have forgotten this one real sacrifice. The mass may be celebrated and at the same time the soul be not benefited, but rather injured. But the body cannot be offered without benefiting the soul. Under the New Testament dispensation, then, the mass cannot be a sacrifice, even were it ever one. For all the works, all the sacrifices of the New Testament, must be true and soul-benefiting. Otherwise they are not New Testament sacrifices. It is said (Psalm 25:10), "All the paths of Jehovah are lovingkindness and truth." "A living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God."
13. Paul here makes use of the three words "living," "holy" and "acceptable," doubtless to teach that the sacrifices of the Old Testament are repealed and the entire priesthood abolished. The Old Testament sacrifices consisted of bullocks, sheep and goats. To these life was not spared. For the sacrifice they were slain, burned, consumed by the priests. But the New Testament sacrifice is a wonderful offering. Though slain, it still lives. Indeed, in proportion as it is slain and sacrificed, does it live in vigor. "If by the Spirit ye put to death the deeds of the body, ye shall live." Romans 8:13. "For ye died, and your life is hid with Christ in God." Colossians 3:3. "And they that are of Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with the passions and the lusts thereof." Galatians 5:24.
14. The word "living," then, is to be spiritually understood — as having reference to the life before God and not to the temporal life. He who keeps his body under and mortifies its lusts does not live to the world; he does not lead the life of the world. The world lives in its lusts, and according to the flesh; it is powerless to live otherwise. True, the Christian is bodily in the world, yet he does not live after the flesh. As Paul says (Corinthians 10:3), "Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh"; and again (Romans 8:1), "Who walk not after the flesh." Such a life is, before God, eternal, and a true, living sacrifice. Such mortification of the body and of its lusts, whether effected by voluntary discipline or by persecution, is simply an exercise in and for the life eternal.
15. None of the Old Testament sacrifices were holy— except in an external and temporal sense— until they were consumed. For the life of the animal was but temporal and external previous to the sacrifice. But the "living sacrifice" Paul mentions is righteous before God, and also externally holy. "Holy" implies simply, being designed for the service and the honor of God, and employed of God. Hence we must here understand the word "holy" as conveying the thought that we let God alone work in us and we be simply his holy instruments. As said in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost… and ye are not your own… therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." Again (Galatians 6:17), "I bear branded on my body the marks of Jesus." Now, he who performs a work merely for his own pleasure and to his own honor, profanes his sacrifice. So also do they who by their works seek to merit reward from God, whether temporal or eternal. The point of error is, they are not yet a slain sacrifice. The sacrifice cannot be holy unless it first lives; that is, unless it is slain before God, and slain in its own consciousness, and thus does not seek its own honor and glory.
16. The Old Testament sacrifices were not in themselves acceptable to God. Nor did they render man acceptable. But in the estimation of the world— before men— they were pleasing, even regarded highly worthy. Men thought thereby to render themselves well-pleasing in God's sight. But the spiritual sacrifice is, in man's estimation, the most repugnant and unacceptable of all things. It condemns, mortifies and opposes whatever, in man's judgment, is good and well-pleasing. For, as before stated, nature cannot do otherwise than to live according to the flesh, particularly to follow its own works and inventions. It cannot admit that all its efforts and designs are vain and worthy of mortification and of death. The spiritual sacrifice is acceptable to God, Paul teaches, however unacceptable it may be to the world. They who render this living, holy sacrifice are happy and assured of their acceptance with God; they know God requires the death of the lusts and inventions of the flesh, and he alone desires to live and work in us.
17. Consequently, Paul's use of the word "body" includes more than outward, sensual vices and crimes, as gluttony, fornication, murder; it includes everything not of the new spiritual birth but belonging to the old Adam nature, even its best and noblest faculties, outer and inner; the deep depravity of self-will, for instance, and arrogance, human wisdom and reason, reliance on our own good works, on our own spiritual life and on the gifts wherewith God has endowed our nature. To illustrate: Take the most spiritual and the wisest individuals on earth, and while it is true that a fraction of them are outwardly and physically chaste, their hearts, it will be found, are filled with haughtiness, presumption and self-will, while they delight in their own wisdom and peculiar conduct. No saint is wholly free from the deep depravity of the inner nature. Hence he must constantly offer himself up, mortifying his old deceitful self. Paul calls it sacrificing the body, because the individual, on becoming a Christian, lives more than half spiritually, and the evil propensities remaining to be mortified Paul attributes to the body as to the inferior, the less important, part of man; the part not as yet wholly under the Spirit's influence. "Which is your spiritual (reasonable) service."
18. A clear distinction is here made between the services rendered God by Christians and those which the Jews rendered. The thought is: The Jews' service to God consisted in sacrifices of irrational beasts, but the service of Christians, in spiritual sacrifices— the sacrifice of their bodies, their very selves. The Jews offered gold and silver; they built an inanimate temple of wood and stone. Christians are a different people. Their sacrifices are not silver and gold. Their temple is not wood and stone; it is themselves. "Ye are a temple of God." 1 Corinthians 3:16. Thus you observe the unfair treatment accorded Christians in ignoring their peculiar services and inducing the world to build churches, to erect altars and monasteries, and to manufacture bells, chalices and images by way of Christian service— works that would have been too burdensome for even the Jews.
19. In brief, this our reasonable service is rightly called a spiritual service of the heart, performed in the faith and the knowledge of God. Here Paul rejects all service not performed in faith as entirely unreasonable, even if rendered by the body and in outward act, and having the appearance of great holiness and spiritual life. Such have been the works, offerings, monkery and stringent life of the Papists, performed without the knowledge of God— having no command of God— and without spirit and heart. They have thought that so long as the works were performed they must be pleasing to God, independent of their faith. Such was also the service of the Jews in their works and offerings, and of all who knew not Christ and were without faith. Hence they were no better than the service and works of idolatrous and ignorant heathen. "And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
20. As before said, the world cannot endure the sight or hearing of this living sacrifice; therefore it opposes it on every side. With its provocations and threats, its enticements and persecutions, it has every advantage, aided by the fact that our minds and spirits are not occupied with that spiritual sacrifice, but we give place to the dispositions and inclinations of the world. We must be careful, then, to follow neither the customs of the world nor our own reason or plausible theories. We must constantly subdue our dispositions and control our wills, not obeying the dictates of reason and desire. Always we are to conduct ourselves in a manner unlike the way of the world. So shall we be daily changed— renewed in our minds. That is, we come each day to place greater value on the things condemned by human reason— by the world. Daily we prefer to be poor, sick and despised, to be fools and sinners, until ultimately we regard death as better than life, foolishness as more precious than wisdom, shame nobler than honor, labor more blessed than wealth, and sin more glorious than human righteousness. Such a mind the world does not possess. The mind of the world is altogether unlike the Christian's. It not only continues unchanged and unrenewed in its old disposition, but is obdurate and very old.
21. God's will is ever good and perfect, ever gracious; but it is not at all times so regarded of men. Indeed, human reason imagines it to be the evil, unfriendly, abominable will of the devil, because what reason esteems highest, best and holiest, God's will regards as nothing and worthy of death. Therefore, Christian experience must come to the rescue and decide. It must feel and prove, must test and ascertain, whether one is prompted by a sincere and gracious will. He who perseveres and learns in this way will go forward in his experience, finding God's will so gracious and pleasing he would not exchange it for all the world's wealth. He will discover that acceptance of God's will affords him more happiness, even in poverty, disgrace and adversity, than is the lot of any worldling in the midst of earthly honors and pleasures. He will finally arrive at a degree of perfection making him inclined to exchange life for death, and, with Paul, to desire to depart that sin may no more live in him, and that the will of God may be done perfectly in himself in every relation. In this respect he is wholly unlike the world; he conducts himself very differently from it. For the world never has enough of this life, while the experienced Christian is ready to be removed. What the world seeks, he avoids; what it avoids, he seeks.
22. Paul, you will observe, does not consider the Christian absolutely free from sin, since he beseeches us to be "transformed by the renewing of the mind." Where transformation and renewal are necessary, something of the old and sinful nature must yet remain. This sin is not imputed to Christians, because they daily endeavor to effect transformation and renovation. Sin exists in them against their will. Flesh and spirit are contrary to each other (Galatians 5:17), therefore we do not what we would. Romans 7:15. Paul makes particular mention of "the mind" here, by contrast making plainer what is intended by the "body" which he beseeches them to sacrifice. The scriptural sense of the word "mind" has already been sufficiently defined as "belief," which is the source of either vice or virtue. For what I value, I believe to be right. I observe what I value, as do others. But when belief is wrong, conscience and faith have not control Where unity of mind among men is lacking, love and peace cannot be present; and where love and faith are not present, only the world and the devil reign. Hence transformation by renewal of the mind is of vital importance. Now follows:
"For I say, through the grace that was given me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but so to think as to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man a measure of faith."
23. Paul, in all his epistles, is careful to give this instruction to Christians. His purpose is to preserve simplicity of faith among them everywhere; to prevent sects and schisms in Christian life, which have their origin in differing minds, in diversity of belief. To make admonition the more forcible, he refers to his apostolic office; to the fact that he was, by the grace of God, chosen and sent to teach the things he advocates. His words here mean: "Ye possess many graces, but let everyone take heed to confine his belief and opinions to the limits of faith. Let him not esteem himself above another, nor attach to the gifts conferred upon himself greater value than he accords those conferred upon another. Otherwise he will be inclined to despise the lesser gifts and emphasize the more exalted ones, and to influence others to the same practice." Where there is not such humility, recourse is had to works and to the honoring of gifts, while faith is neglected. Thus belief prompts to do as the world does, to value what is exalted and to despise what is humble.
24. This principle cannot be better illustrated than by the prevailing examples of our time. For instance, monks and priests have established spiritual orders which they regard highly meritorious. In this respect they do not think soberly, but extravagantly. They imagine ordinary Christians to be insignificant in comparison with them. But their orders represent neither faith nor love, and are not commanded by God. They are peculiar, something devised by the monks and priests themselves. Hence there is division. Because of the different beliefs, numerous sects exist, each striving for first place. Consequently, all the orders become unprofitable in God's sight. The love and faith and harmony which unite Christians are dissipated.
25. Paul teaches that, however varied the gifts and the outward works, none should, because of these, esteem himself good, nor regard himself better than others. Rather, every man should estimate his own goodness by his faith. Faith is something all Christians have, though not in equal measure, some possessing more and others less. However, in faith all have the same possession— Christ. The murderer upon the cross, through faith, had Christ in himself as truly as had Peter, Paul, Abraham, the mother of the Lord, and all saints; though his faith may not have been so strong. Therefore, though gifts be unequal, the precious faith is the same. Now, if we are to glory in the treasures of faith only, not in the gifts, every man should esteem another's gifts as highly as his own, and with his own gifts serve that other who in faith possesses equal treasure with him. Then will continue loving harmony and simple faith, and none will fall back upon his own works or merits. Of this "mind," or belief, you may read further in the preceding postils, especially in the epistle selection for the third Sunday in Advent. Further comment on this text will be left for the next epistle lesson, the two being closely connected.


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November 3, 2010
This is an amazing jacket. Not only does it look good, but Norse uses some premium materials to make it extra buttery. This down puffer jacket from Norse Projects is wind and water proof, and Its made of 100% New Zealand wool with riri zip features. Hit the jump to view some detailed images of the jacket. Thumbs up from Fat Kids.

subset: commoncrawl


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When do you get a chance to truly contemplate? To come up with creative ideas? To solve real problems and add value to your life?
We live in an age of on-demand TV and social media which makes it easier than ever to be forever distracted by inane "entertainment" rather than actually use your brain.
Thinking requires a lot of energy, the brain uses more energy than any other organ. Aversion to deep thought might be a coping strategy that our exhausted bodies employ to conserve energy. Conciously we make excuses like; "I'm too busy", "I'm too tired", "I'll think about it later". But, what if every once in awhile we allow ourselves a moment of clarity, to clear our minds of the everyday clutter and start thinking, deeply?
It's a tough proposition. It involves turning off, tuning out, and removing the pinging and dinging distractions, and moving your mind to a state where there is only you and your thoughts.
Personally, I've found a great solution which works well for me and fits in with a busy lifestyle. For me, the ideal time to really think, is when my body is active but my mind is not. This can happen under all kinds of circumstances, but for me the best times are either in the shower or whilst exercising. These are times when my body knows what to do, muscle memory takes over, my body goes into autopilot allowing my mind to detach from the real world.
I've heard it many times before; "the idea came to me in the shower!"
I often find myself contemplating all kinds of things from; solutions to problems at work, project ideas, to my feelings and emotions. I often find clarity and, more often than not, the answers I've been searching for.
So, next time you're struggling for answers or stuck for inspiration, try putting your body to work by going for a run or taking an extended shower, turn off your devices, zone-out and let your mind wander. You'll be amazed at the the results.
You're welcome.
Update April 2017:
An interesting new TED talk by Manoush Zomorodi (with actual science) seems to corrolate with my ramblings and is well worth a watch...


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Spring. It's so gorgeous with all of the baby lambs and wildflowers along the highways. But there are some things I dread every year when the spring starts to….well….spring. It isn't all chicks and rainbows. There are some annoyances about the season that really get me.
- To buy flowers or not to buy flowers. The annual decision about whether or not to spend $75+ on flowers for the porch. Yes, they're beautiful and we do all enjoy them. OK, so they cheer me up when I go in and out the front door. But I am a plant killer. It's in my genetic makeup. These plants that I so lovingly choose at the nursery and repot in my adorable old milk cans will die within 6 weeks and it always makes me feel like I have wasted my hard earned money.
- Closet rearranging. The warmer weather means putting away the sweaters and digging out my lightweight tops and skirts. I have to get the step ladder, take it in my closet to reach the shelves where I keep the out of season clothes. The whole changeover is wrought with stress. Do I keep any cold weather clothes out? Will I need at least one sweater? Then there's the discovery that my summerish clothing really shouldn't have been saved at all because it's all raggedy and stained. The step ladder stays in my closet, in the way of everything, just in case I need something from that top shelf later on. It's a pain.
- Daylight Savings Time. Need I say more?
- White sandals. Once again I begin my eternal search for the perfect white sandal. It eludes me. I have spent the past 7 years stopping in every shoe store, looking through their shoes and hoping to find that white sandal that will give my foot the support it needs while still looking carefree and cute. And even if I find them, they won't last more than a year. After that they go into the "shouldn't have been saved" category just like my clothes in the top of the closet.
- It's too late to lose as much weight as I wanted before summer. I try at the beginning of January. I feel like I have so much time before I have to stop wearing layers and covering up those holiday pounds. Then all of a sudden…bam! The season is right here and I don't have enough time to get it all off. Bummer.
- Pollen. It's all over my car, it's all over the street, it's on my clothing if I stay outside more than an hour. Those gorgeous flowers and blooming trees everywhere come at a cost.
- The heat. I am a cool weather person, which is probably why fall is my favorite season. I love chilly weather and crisp evenings, wrapping up in a blanky, making fires and drinking hot tea. Spring is the reminder that I am about to spend 6 months fanning myself and sweating.
- Bunny resistance. Every year I fight the urge to buy a baby bunny at the feed store. I know we don't need it and it will die and we will all be broken hearted, but I want it. They're so cute!
- Bugs. They are every.where. Mostly the front of my car. I spend half my weekend scraping them off my hood, only to have them cover it before the next weekend. It's icky.
- Endless mowing. I love a freshly mowed yard, but we mow over an acre and it's a big job, especially considering I am extremely lazy. I do have sons and they do some of the mowing. But they're busy with their own jobs and school and activities and I feel mom-guilt asking them to keep the grass short in the spring since that requires mowing 24/7. We would have to mow every 2 days to keep it looking nice, which you might say, "Who cares….you're in the country…let it go!" That would be great except then we would have to wade through a jungle just to get to the bug covered car.
- Deadly stickers. Have you heard of goathead stickers? Also known as Puncturevine, Texas sandbur, bull's head and devil's-thorn. Whatever you call them, if you step on one in the carpet you will be saying words your mama would blush over. They have such long, firm burs that they can go all the way through your foot into the bone. I have so many bruises on the bottoms of my feet by the end of summer from pulling these suckers out of my soles that I look like I have some kind of disease. If you don't know what I'm talking about, Google it. Then you'll want to send me a sympathy card.
- The constant urge to clean. All year long the little messes and undone jobs don't bother me much. But in the spring they nag at my thoughts until I have no other choice but to halt my life and deal with them. Everything stops and I tackle the junk drawers and broken toys like my life depends on it. It's not called spring fever for nuthin'.
All in all I guess the beautiful skies and gorgeous flowers are worth all of the woes of the season. The newness is nice after the cold, brown winter. Being able to see the stars at night and feeling the breeze through my hair is pleasant. I'm just rolling with the problems, bracing myself for the inevitable foot bruising and bug cleaning that will come. In everything, there is a season.


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Where do jobs come from? According to the chart above:
1) War – US Department of Defense, Chinese People's Liberation Army
2) Big Box Stores – Walmart
3) Fast Food – McDonald's
4) Energy – China National Petroleum, State Grid Corporation of China
5) Health – National Health Service
6) Transportation – Indian Railways
7) Postal Services – China Post Group
8 ) Cable and Wire – Hon Hai Precision Industry
This is interesting but it doesn't tell the whole story. Maybe in a future post we could research jobs by country per capita. North Korea has one of the highest military jobs per capita in the world. Much of where a countries jobs come from would be based on their exports and what they specialize in.
In the debate about were jobs come from know how most countries employ their citizens could provide some valuable information.


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Mostly hardwood & tile. Freshly painted kitchen with granite & stainless steel appliances. Newer bath. Newer roof/windows/gas furnace. Walk up easy expandable attic will add 7-800 sq ft for 2 more bedrooms. Two garages. One 2 car and one oversize for the hobbiest with toys.
Listing information
- Year Built: 1950
- Status: Sold on 9/15/2015
- New Construction: No
- Estimated Annual Taxes: $4,523
- Property ID: 103866742
- Beds: 2
- Total Rooms: 5
- Total Square Footage: 1,056 ($131.18 per sq. foot)
- County: Schenectady
- Style: Cape Cod
- Baths: 1 (Full: 1 3/4: 0 1/2: 0 Other: 0)
- Parking Type Description: Detached 3 cars
- Lot Area: 0.37
- School District: Schalmont (Rotterdam)
Age Description Estimated
Amenities Ceramic Tile, Chair Rail, Crown Molding, Walk In Closet, Wall To Wall Carpet, Wall Wall Over Hardwood, Wood Floors
Appliances Dishwasher, Freezer, Range W Oven, Refrigerator, Washer Dryer
Attic Full, Walk Up
Basement Full
Condition Excellent
Cooling Type Wall A C Unit
Exterior Vinyl, Wood
Exterior Features Lighting, Outbuilding, Porch Enclosed, Privacy Fence
Garage Description Detached
General Taxes Description Estimated
Heat Fuel Natural Gas
Heat System Hot Water
Interior Features Cable Hook Up, Garage Door Opener, Gran Solid Surf Counters
Lot Description Landscaped, Level, Treed Wooded
Master Bedroom First Floor
Other General Taxes - 2251, Possession - Upon Closing, School Taxes - 2272, Tax Id Section - 48.15, Tax Identification Block - 3, Tax Identification Lot - 18
Roof Asphalt Shingle
School Taxes Description Estimated
Sewer Public
Sign Yes
Total Taxes Description Estimated
Water Public
3 season Main Level
Bedroom Main Level
Bedroom Main Level
Kitchen Main Level
Living Room Main Level
Listed by Paul Friello of Coldwell Banker Prime Properties 518-370-2100


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Espresso Football Truffles
Football season isn't complete without "football food." I don't mean food food. I really mean football food. As in food that looks like footballs. If you need more explanation, please refer to my football deviled eggs, which have been pinned and repinned over 1,660 times, thanks to the gods and goddesses of social media! For all y'all football fans out there, my football truffle looks just like The Duke, which is the professional football they use in the NFL. Therefore, it doesn't have the white rings that encircle the pointy ends of football. Do whatever you think looks best.
Click here for the recipe for 'Espresso Football Truffles'
These football truffles also aren't your ordinary truffles. They're decadently espresso flavored. Amaze your senses with some deep coffee flavor as you sit back, relax in front of your TV, and enjoy these kickbutt chocolate-y and intensely aromatic truffles. They should keep you awake all day Football Sunday.
Here's what you need:
Two kinds of chocolate: bittersweet and semisweet. Also grab some heavy cream, instant coffee powder, and store-bought white decorating icing.
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add your cream.
As soon as it starts to bubble, pull it off the heat. Don't walk away from the pot because dairy tends to over-boil pretty quickly!
Turn off the heat and whisk in some instant coffee powder. This will make your truffles rock.
As soon as the coffee powder dissolves, pour the entire mixture over your chocolate chips. Make sure you're working with a heat-proof bowl.
Let the hot cream mixture rest for about 1-2 minutes in the bowl until all the chocolate is melted.
Then whisk away, but don't overmix. We don't want to add many grainy air bubbles to this mix! Just mix gently.
Now that. Looks. Awesome. Wrap the bowl with plastic wrap and set it on the counter to set up for about 1.5 hours or so. If it's a warm day, you can definitely put it in the fridge for about 30 minutes, but not too long because we want the chocolate to be pliable.
When the chocolate sets, it'll have a moldable texture like this. Grab a tablespoon and scoop a ball out. Shape the balls into footballs. It's best to form logs basically and then pinch the ends of the log to make the pointy football ends.
Place your formed footballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Now. Onto more chocolate! Of course. Melt about 8 ounces of semisweet chocolate in a double boiler. Make a double boiler by placing a heat-proof bowl over a pot of gently simmering water (make sure it's not rapidly boiling or you'll burn your chocolate). The bowl should fit over the pot, but make sure the bottom of the bowl is a few centimeters from the surface of the water.
Let's cover these awesome footballs. Use a spoon, fork, or wooden skewers to help you. We just want to coat the footballs, and then shake off all the excess chocolate. Don't coat them with too much chocolate or it'll get really messy really fast.
Shake shake shake all that excess chocolate off.
Okay, not bad. Looks sorta borderline obscene, but we still need to add the white lines.
Place them in the fridge so the chocolate shell can harden up!
Now, the fun part. Here's where preciseness is important. You need to have very sharp straight lines, otherwise your football truffle will just look like… so not The Duke. Start with one long line in the middle, and add the little stitches after.
Add the stitches to the outside, then one in the middle. Then two more lines. That's a total of five stitches.
Like this!
Even an ugly espresso truffle looks great once you add the perfect stitches. Enjoy!
Espresso Football Truffles
Total time: 3 hours
Prep: 3 hr
Cook: 0 min
Yield: about 2 dozens
Level: Medium
1/2 lb semisweet chocolate chips + another 1/2 lb for coating truffles
1/2 lb bittersweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons instant coffee
1 cup heavy cream
Store-bought white icing with small piping tip (recommended: Wilton brand)
Place 1/2 lb semisweet chips and all of bittersweet chips in a large heat-proof bowl. Set aside.
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, heat heavy cream just until it gently simmers, being careful not to over-boil. Remove from heat immediately, and add in 2 tablespoons of instant coffee powder and whisk until it dissolves.
Pour hot coffee cream mixture over chocolate chips to submerge them, and allow to sit for about 2 minutes until all chocolate is melted. Then carefully whisk together chocolate and cream until combined, being careful not to over-beat chocolate. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and set aside at room temperature for about 90 minutes until chocolate firms up.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. With a tablespoon measurement, scoop balls of truffle mixture and form into a football shape. Place formed footballs on parchment paper.
Melt remaining 1/2 lb of semi-sweet chocolate in a double boiler. Remove from heat. Coat each football in melted chocolate using a spoon or fork and shake excess chocolate off. Place back on lined baking sheet and store in fridge until chocolate coating hardens, about 20 minutes. Using white icing and a small piping tip, pipe football stitches on truffles. Serve immediately, or store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to one week.


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Alpha Corp (3434.T)
19 Jan 2018
¥-5 (-0.22%)
Latest Key Developments (Source: Significant Developments)
Alpha completes acquiring car access security business from ASSA ABLOY AB at 1.95 bln yen
Alpha <3434.T>:Says it completed acquiring car access security business from ASSA ABLOY AB at 1.95 billion yen on Sep. 30. Full Article
Alpha reaches agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice regarding automotive parts
Alpha Corp <3434.T>: Says on Sep. 15 (U.S. time), the company entered into a plea agreement with the United States Department of Justice .Says it agreeing to pay a fine of $9 million (equivalent to about 900 million yen) based on charges that it violated U.S. anti-trust laws in connection with automotive parts. Full Article
Alpha revises effectivce date for business acquisition
Alpha Corp <3434.T>: Says it to acquire car access security business from ASSA ABLOY AB expected effective after June instead of May 31 . Says it will disclose information as soon as completion of transaction .Says previous release disclosed on March 3. Full Article
Alpha to acquire business from ASSA ABLOY AB
Alpha Corp:Says to acquire car access security business in Mexico, Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland, and China that managed by ASSA ABLOY AB.Transaction price 17 million euro (about 21 billion yen).Planned effective May 31. Full Article
Alpha amends consolidated full-year outlook for FY 2016
Alpha Corp:Says the company amended the consolidated full-year outlook for the FY ending March 2016.Confirmed the revenue at 50,000 million yen.Operating profit forecast decreased to 1,350 million yen from 2,000 million yen.Ordinary profit forecast decreased to 800 million yen from 2,000 million yen.Net profit forecast decreased to 250 million yen from 1,500 million yen.Earnings per share decreased to 26.17 yen from 157.03 yen.Comments that effect of foreign exchange and decreased production of auto parts are the main reasons for the forecast. Full Article


text:
April 30, 2012
Happy birthday Ellen Marit!
6 comments:
- Lovely Linda said...
Oh my giddy aunt Gunn - this is divine! I love this image and the way you have used it! Your work is so eclectic and filled with warmth Gunn - beautiful! Thanks for the inspiration - I am sure the recipient will love it! {{{hugs}}}
- May 1, 2012 at 3:45 PM
- MaxineD said...
Oh Gunn this is a stunner - love all the flowers and pearls!!! The image is fabulous, and I just wish the shimmer on the wings showed in the photo.
- May 2, 2012 at 4:14 AM
- Chris said...
Wow...she will be thrilled to get this (and could frame it, it's art!). Thank you so much for joining me this week for my Amusing Challenge!
- May 2, 2012 at 3:17 PM
- Kathy said...
This is beautiful, so very elegant! Thanks for joining us at the Corrosive Challenge this week.
- May 7, 2012 at 6:27 PM
- Liz's creative corner said...
Thanks for sharing your lovely creation with us at ATSC, lovely card and fabby detail, hugs Liz xx
- May 9, 2012 at 3:22 PM
- knitmachinequeen (KMQ) said...
Great card and wonderful way to showcase Tim Holtz embellishments. Thanks for joining our fortnight challenge at The Corrosive Challenge. Please join us again soon.
- May 14, 2012 at 2:20 AM


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Not all pure almond extracts are the same. Silver Cloud uses the maximum amount of pure bitter almond oil in this extract and as a result, it tastes better and is stronger than many almond extracts. The added strength means this Pure Almond Extract is bake and freeze-proof. This means the flavor does not disappear when you bake and freeze your cakes, cookies and other products.
Try Silver Cloud's Pure Almond Extract in cakes, cookies, frosting and pies. Cooks who prefer natural products can use this extract to replace imitation almond extract in any recipe. This flavoring is gluten-free.
Ingredients: Water, Alcohol and Bitter Almond Oil.
• Brand: Silver Cloud Estates


text:
Get access to the exclusive HR Resources you need to succeed in 2018!
Training, policies and tools to help HR prevent and respond to harassment claims.
Is your employee handbook keeping up with the changing world of work? With SHRM's Employee Handbook Builder get peace of mind that your handbook is up-to-date.
Develop your HR competencies and knowledge in-person in 12 U.S. cities or virtually.
#SHRM18 will expand your perspective – on your organization, on your career, and on the way you approach HR. Join us in Chicago June 17-20, 2018
Employment attorney urges HR to draft, implement policies that address many concerns
Social media has grown up.
But apparently people's behavior on social platforms has not kept pace with that growth.
"In general, many of [the things people do on social media] are the typical employment issues—just seen through the lens of social media," said Douglas Towns, a partner with Sherman & Howard, a law firm in Atlanta. He was the speaker in a standing-room-only session at the Society for Human Resource Management's (SHRM's) 2016 Employment Law & Legislative Conference on March 14 in Washington, D.C.
New challenges are cropping up regarding social media and the courts are still catching up with changes in technology.
Know What Employees Are Using
Towns told the HR professionals in attendance that it's imperative that they understand what social media platforms employees are using—Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, Vine, Flickr, YouTube, and even dating apps like Tinder or Happn—and how those sites work.
"So talk about the misuses of social media and the power of the Internet" with your employees. - Douglas Towns.
In addition to providing an analysis of IT and HR concerns related to workers' privacy and organizations' information security, he urged employers to craft social media policies to restrict and monitor employees, applicants and potential litigants both inside and outside the workplace.
Employers should "diminish" employees' expectations of privacy, whether they're using company computers or their own device at work.
Citing online statistics portal Statista, he said that in 2010 there were nearly 1 billion social media users. By 2018, there will 2.44 billion. Facebook currently leads the way with 1.5 billion users, followed by instant messaging service What's App with 900 million users, and the Chinese instant messaging app QQ (also known as Tencent) with 860 million users.
Towns told attendees to monitor employees' use and misuse of social sites to help prevent discrimination and harassment and to protect the company's brand, trade secrets and confidential information. Through monitoring, HR may uncover evidence of violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act as well.
Citing a 2012 study from SHRM, Towns said that 33 percent of employers surveyed have disciplined employees for improper usage of social media.
"But what I'm more concerned about is that 60 percent of those surveyed said they did not have a formal social media policy," he added.
Employees' Bad Behavior on Social Media
Here's why your company needs a social media policy:
"So talk about the misuses of social media and the power of the Internet" with your employees, Towns said, and be sure to explain how data within even anonymous photos can lead "right back to the person who posted it."
Employers should keep reviewing and updating their social media policies as technology evolves, he added. For example, Towns said, what does your policy say about recording video and audio in the workplace? A recent ruling from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) stated that in most circumstances, employers can't ban employees from using their smartphones to make recordings at work.
Employers should consider, too, potential sexual harassment, privacy and negligence claims implicated by the use of new products and platforms, such as Snapchat, Vine and Google Glass.
Should certain apps like Tinder be banned in the workplace, he asked, since they could lead to harassment between employees? Should the use of a hands-free device be permitted while driving on the job?
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text: What 5K or 200 does not have a coil-over set up in the back? Bernie > From: Brian Link <brianl at starsys.com> > Organization: Starsys Research > Date: Mon, 5 Nov 2001 07:50:01 -0600 > To: "'Bernie Benz'" <b.m.benz at prodigy.net> > Subject: RE: [200q20v] RE: Bad rear shock? > > all I know when I put my Bilstiens in they came with a tag that said "do > not install external bump stop, bump stop is internal" maybe others will > chime in and prove me wrong in any case, my car with bilstien/ eibach, > don't make any clunks and I am sans bump stops. although I have a coil-over > set up in the back. > > Brian Link > > -----Original Message----- > From: Bernie Benz [SMTP:b.m.benz at prodigy.net] > Sent: Monday, November 05, 2001 8:16 PM > To: Brian Link > Cc: 200q20V mailing list > Subject: Re: [200q20v] RE: Bad rear shock? > > I don't know about Bilstiens specifically, but all of many brands of shocks > that I have seen/overhauled have internal rebound stops, and no internal > bump stops. > > Bernie > >> From: Brian Link <brianl at starsys.com> >> Organization: Starsys Research >> Date: Sun, 4 Nov 2001 09:11:13 -0600 >> To: "'200q20v at audifans.com'" <200q20v at audifans.com> >> Cc: "'paul at clarity.net'" <paul at clarity.net> >> Subject: [200q20v] RE: Bad rear shock? >> >> I would try autozone (If you have them where you live), I have replaced >> Bilstiens through them sans receipt in the past no problems or questions >> asked. >> >> When you replace them, you might want to leave out your external bump > stop, >> Bilstiens are internal. Correct me if I'm wrong anyone. >> >> Brian Link >> Boulder, CO >> >> Date: Sat, 03 Nov 2001 12:47:27 -0500 >> From: "Paul R. Luevano" <paul at clarity.net> >> To: 200TQ20V List <200q20v at audifans.com>, Patrick Burns > <patrick at cape.com> >> Subject: [200q20v] Bad rear shock? >> >> OK, I think I know the answer to this already, but I thought I would run > it >> by >> your guys first. >> >> Over the last week or so, I have been getting a pretty loud "clunk" from >> the >> right rear of my 200 when I hit a good sized bump/pothole/speedbump. I >> know >> that's not right, and since I'm getting ready to take the car on a nice >> 4000 >> mile or so trip, I thought I would look into it. >> >> So I pulled off the wheel and poked around, this is what I saw: >> >> http://www.clarity.net/~paul/audi/temp/rear_shock/ >> >> _______________________________________________ >> 200q20v mailing list >> 200q20v at audifans.com >> http://www.audifans.com/mailman/listinfo/200q20v


text:
Video: Nextant's King Air G90XT Powered by GE »
Nextant Aerospace has hade a business of "remanufacturing" the Hawker Beechjet 400A/Hawker 400XP -- offering a new aircraft experience at a used aircraft price. Now it's expanding that business model to the King Air, refitting the aircraft with GE engines. More


text:
New York Style Consultant
July is a great time to get a personal stylist!
06/25/14 12:13
It's hard to believe, but July 4th is right around the corner! To celebrate, we're offering an exclusive discount on our New York style consultant services. Book a wardrobe styling and shopping appointment for any date in July, and take $40 off when you mention code JULY4STYLE.
Read More...


text:
Heritage Way Advisors, LLC
Heritage Way Advisors, LLC (CRD# 124816) is a financial advisory firm headquartered in Rockford, IL. They manage $153,640,744 in 296 accounts and serve the financial needs of clients across 5 states (or territories).
Current Firm Details
By the Numbers
Total Assets Under Management154MILLION
Total Number of Accounts296ACCOUNTS
Average Account Value$519,057
Compensation Options
- A percentage of assets under your management
Advisory Services Offered
- Financial planning services
- Portfolio management for individuals and/or small businesses
- Portfolio management for businesses (other than small businesses) or institutional clients
Types of Clients
Registered States
Registered Investment Advisor
Advisors affiliated with a RIA are permitted to work with up to five clients in nearly-all states* without explicit registration. The map below shows states where this firm has explicit registration only.
Financial Advisors at Heritage Way Advisors, LLC
Eric Wendt (CRD# 5897588) is an Investment Advisor Representative working at Heritage Way Advisors, LLC in Rockford, IL and has over 6 years of experience in the finance industry.
Gary Ollmann (CRD# 4621372) is an Investment Advisor Representative working at Heritage Way Advisors, LLC in Rockford, IL and has 1 year of experience in the finance industry.
Ready to hire a financial advisor? Get competitive proposals from multiple advisors.


text:
Like the firms they supply, slow, but steady is the operating philosophy of practice management software suppliers. John Stokdyk looks at how practice software has developed since 2006.
Software checklist
Target market Does the application fit your needs and budget?
Ease of use Look at set up, navigation, query & data entry
Time & fees Look for a simple process that anyone within the firm can understand with flexibility to fit your needs.
Staff planning A vital facility for those in larger firms.
Integration tools Do the di...
Please Login or Register to read the full article
The full article is available to registered AccountingWEB.co.uk members only. To read the rest of this article you'll need to login or register. Registration is FREE and allows you to view all content, ask questions, comment and much more.


text:
That's right! It's one of Kimmy's bored posts again.
Just wanted to know if anyone wanted to debate topics or discuss their favorite scene or part of breaking bad? Like one question I have is does anyone side with Walter? He was such an asshole! He treated Jesse like shit, the writers treated Jesse like shit. I felt horrible for him. :(
So any takers?
Most Helpful Guy
I saw where he was coming from in the beginning, probably from seasons 1 to 4. The start of the 5th season Walter had completely lost it. I always felt bad for Jesse, Jesse has the worst luck throughout the entire series.11|00|0
I kinda agree except he's been a douchebag the entire time. Before season five he would keep Jesse's money from him, threaten to go solo. Once Jesse turned the tables Walt thought it was the end of the world!
- Show AllShow Less
@asker the feds came in as he was dying, so who knows.
That's true


text:
Archaeological site museums in Russia. problems of formation and functioning
The modern world is increasingly faced with the challenge of finding methods of preservation and rational use of historical and cultural heritage. This is especially difficult when dealing with archaeological sites. Within this problem, there are different proposals, but the popularity of the creation of archaeological museums-reserves. It is significant that this trend is not localized in individual countries. having a powerful intellectual, economic and other resources, and assumes a worldwide scale.
This has been demonstrated through a number of archaeological museums-reserves around the world – Stonehenge, the Altamira in Europe, pustynna Nebraska in North America, La Venta in South America, Tassili, Carthage in Africa, and others.
In Russia in the last decade also there has been a sustained drive to expand the list of archaeological museums-reserves. But real Museum objects across the country is not much. according to the data of 2006 in Russia there were 103 of the Museum-reserve and 41 farmstead Museum. Thus the geography of their distribution shows the absolute leadership of the Central regions of the country and very low scores for Siberia and the Far East. Continue reading
The Israelis dug up the history of the green
Beliefs about the evil eye – some of the oldest in the middle East. Mesopotamian texts Dating back to 2500 BC, refers to "the evil eye". These traditions are still preserved: the famous blue eyes – one of the most popular Souvenirs brought from Turkey. But there are also green – they probably have more ancient roots.
The first farmers were defending themselves and their crops by using green magic amulets. The importance of amulets was so great that they were made of special minerals, specially brought from afar.
The results of archaeological excavations of settlements from the Neolithic period on the territory of modern Israel was published in the journal PNAS.
Jewelry is as old as the world itself. For example, we already wrote about the oldest known artifacts, also found in the middle East – their age is estimated at up to 135 thousand years.
At different times of the jewelry carried a variety of meanings, but originally probably served primarily a sacral function.
The basic material from which were made beads, green or brown Apatite
Daniella Bar-Yosef Mayer (Daniella Bar-Yosef Mayer ) at the University of Haifa (Universityof Haifa ) and Naomi Porat (Porat Naomi ) from the Israeli geological Institute (Geological Survey of Israel ) believe that the fashion for all things green appeared during the Neolithic revolution, which was accompanied by adaptation of primitive beliefs. Continue reading
In St. Petersburg will present the findings of archaeological expeditions in the history of Russia
Moscow, April 15. St. Petersburg archaeologists will present the finds of the expeditions of 2014, providing new evidence about the history of different regions of Russia and Asia. As reported TASS, the results of the field studies conducted in St. Petersburg, the Crimea, Tuva, Kola Peninsula, Turkmenistan will be considered at the enlarged meeting of the academic Council of the Institute of history of material culture (IIMK), ran, the newspaper reports "Kryminform ".
"The geography of research was very wide – from Tuva to Vyborg, the Kola Peninsula and the Krasnodar territory and on the territory of other States," said TASS Deputy Director of the Institute Natalia Solovieva. – Besides fundamental research, the Institute carried out work on 42 contracts for conducting security-saving actions in the areas of economic development of Russia".
At the meeting of the Academic Council archaeologists will also present the research plans, which in 2015 will be held in Crimea, the site of a unique underwater monument – sunken ancient city of AKRA, which is also called the "Crimean Atlantis". Specialists of the Institute work there for the fourth year together with colleagues from the State Hermitage and the black sea center of underwater researches of the Crimea. Continue reading


text:
Hey there, Figlets. You don't know me. But I know you. I've been watching you for a while now. Every heart, every swap. Every post about Harry Potter. Every gif of Darren Criss winking.
And because I know everything that's going on at Figment, I've got a surprise for you. The queen of secrets and my dear friend A is coming to Figment. And, as always, she's bringing the dirt with her. Pretty Little Liars is coming to Figment in a big way. We've got a contest to be judged by Sara Shepard, author of the Pretty Little Liars series. The winners will get signed copies of the newest PLL books, Ruthless and Pretty Little Secrets.
Speaking of secrets, Figment's got an excerpt of the newest book from the girls of Rosewood, PA. Pretty Little Secrets features four brand new novellas, each one about a different Little Liar. Click here to be one of the first to sneak a peek. And I'll know if you didn't…
Stay tuned for more Liars action. Until then, I'll be watching-


text:
China Pavillion has been offering full lunch and dinner buffets, including chicken, beef and pork, in a casual dining atmosphere since 1994.
Opened in 2006, Chipotle offers awesome, street-vendor style burritos (the kind it takes two hands to hold). Chipotle is the perfect establishment for the socially and environmentally conscious consumer. The corporation is dedicated to serving hormone-free beef and chicken, free range pork, and organic beans as much as possible. (Updated 2/19/14)
Chuck E. Cheese offers a magical place for families to play games, eat food and celebrate special occasions. The food menu includes pizza, sandwiches, appetizers and salad bar, while the entertainment options include games, rides and a show featuring Chuck E. Cheese and friends. The establishment requires that anyone under the age of 18 be accompanied by a parent or guardian. (Updated 5.7.10)
Coyote Canyon is a favorite stop among Topeka buffet-goers because steak is always on the buffet. But the place is also popular for nightly specials.
Monday features an Italian kitchen themed buffet. Tuesday is Family Night. On Wednesday, enjoy a Mexican Fiesta. On Thursday, try the Asian favorites at the Orient Express. Friday features a seafood feast buffet.
Saturday is barbecue night, and the Sunday "Family Dinner Table" menu caters to the family feast people have come to expect for a Midwestern Sunday meal. Don't miss the breakfast buffet from 8-11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
A banquet room is available for reservation, except on weekends. (Updated 5.12.10)
Cracker Barrel, which bills itself as "Half Restaurant. Half Store. All Country," was founded in Lebanon, Tenn., in the late 1960s to better meet the needs of country travelers. The founder felt that fast food was decreasing the quality and prevalence of roadside diners and sought to start a business to alleviate this problem. From its birth, Cracker Barrel has maintained this dedication to American South style breakfast, lunch and dinner favorites.
Opened in April 2008 in the Hunter's Ridge area in Northwest Topeka, Cryster's offers authentic Chinese, Japanese and Korean foods served in a clean, modern, casual atmosphere. And the service is great.
Enjoy Denny's delicious breakfast and dinner menu in a casual diner atmosphere all day. Check out favorites from the breakfast menu like the Meat Lover's Breakfast or the Original Grand Slam. Or try something from the lunch and dinner menu for a heartier meal. \
Enjoy Denny's delicious breakfast and dinner menu in a casual diner atmosphere all day. Check out favorites from the breakfast menu like the Meat Lover's Breakfast or the Original Grand Slam, or try something off the lunch and dinner menu for a heartier meal. (Updated 5.12.10)
Dickey's Barbecue Pit is part of a franchise founded in Dallas in 1941. The franchise is known for its "Lip Smackin', Finger Lickin', Rib Ticklin', Knee Slapping', Foot Stompin', Great Tastin'" barbecue, paired with speedy service and inexpensive prices.
Specialties include Dickey's signature beef brisket, which is slow smoked using an overnight cooking process, as well as southern pulled pork, fall off the bone pork ribs and Virginia-style ham. There is an extensive menu of homemade side items, including waffle iron fries, jalapeno beans, fried okra and mac & cheese, as well as a variety of catering options.
Domino's delivers hot pizza later than any other restaurant in Topeka. Try a tasty sandwich or side item, too.


text:
LIFE on Mars imagined in Lego, why chocolate may become extinct, the ethics of artificial intelligence and an exhibition of tiny homes are just some of the highlights for visitors to this year's Edinburgh International Science Festival.
Building Better Worlds is the theme behind the 2016 line-up unveiled today, which will see a range of performances, exhibitions, interactive events and discussions for adults and children at venues around the city.
The focus is on how science, technology, engineering and design can benefit the planet and the ways people live.
Internationally acclaimed percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie will be making her debut appearance at the festival this year, performing a new piece by composer Jill Jarman in the world premiere of Sounds of Science.
The 21-minute "soundscape" is an interpretation of the ways humans have affected the world in terms of science and engineering over the past 10,000 years.
Artificial intelligence is one of the key topics within the Being Human strand, which looks at improving lives through better health and understanding of the human condition.
Science and technology have the potential to help us address so many of the key challenges we faceAmanda Tyndall, Creative director, Edinburgh International Science Festival
European Space Agency astronaut Jean-Francois Clervoy will be touching down to appear at the Updates from Space event, where he will give an insider's view on Tim Peake's working conditions on the International Space Station.
If you've ever wanted to know about the maths behind football then More than a Game, with guests including Scots sports pundit Pat Nevin, can shed some light.
An appearance by Lee Towersey, one of the brains behind Star Wars: The Force Awakens robot R2D2, looks certain to be a crowd-puller. As do hands-on events Explore Our World in Minecraft and Mars Master Constructors, where children can take inspiration from artist Warren Elsmore's Lego model of a Martian habitat to create their own vision of extraterrestrial life.
Tried-and-tested favourites include the Big Bang Bash, this year featuring music by David Bowie, as well as futuristic foodie strand Gastrofest and the Mini Maker Faire.
The Reading Experiment is also returning, with highlights such as a session with the creator of blockbuster virtual reality game EVE:Valkyrie.
Exhibitions include Tiny Homes Village, a large-scale outdoor installation that explores how small building could offer realistic solutions to modern living.
Festival creative director Amanda Tyndall said: "I'm excited by the mix of world-leading scientists, artists, authors and innovators that will join audiences in Edinburgh to share and debate their visions of a better world.
"Science and technology have the potential to help us address so many of the key challenges we face; from how we feed, heal and fuel the world to how we live happy and fulfilling lives as we do so."
The 2016 event will focus on "the fertile space where science meets the arts".
EISF is at venues including Summerhall, the National Museum of Scotland and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh from 26 March until 10 April.


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Not Within Top #500
Anakin's Betrayal
John Williams
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text: AND if you live here and it has gotten to damn expensive for you to live properly (you know like living in a shitty hotel room or cramming 11 of you in a 2 bedroom apartment), MOVE to a less expensive area. It is a BIG country, everyone does not have to be in an already overcrowded city that is beginning to look like some third world country. Queens has already become a third world slum.