Hymn: And Can it be that I should gain

Today's Hymn was written by Charles Wesley.

As is so true with most hymns, there is often a strong and powerful gospel message.

This hymn is no exception.

In this Hymn, the sacrificial substitute death of The Lord God Jesus Christ is explained:

He died that you and I and anyone who accepts His gift of His death as a substitute -- in place of our death -- so that we could be forgiven of our sins.

The lyrics are provided. 

HERE'S THE LINK to And Can it be that I should gain.

Gigapixels of the Andromeda Galaxy

A friend of DIT found this awesome link and sent it to us.

What is it?

Well, it is a most astounding image /video that NASA has taken and released to the Public.

If you were going to save it to your computer it would take 4.3 GB of disc space (but we don't suggest you save it because you can just look at it online via today's link.)

So what is it exactly?

Well, it seems that the Hubble Telescope has provided an image that "takes you through 100 million stars and travels over 40,000 light years"

And even though you will be astounded at what you see,

remember, this is only a part of  the Andromeda Galaxy --

and also remember that there are zillions and zillions of Galaxies. 

This is only one galaxy, the Andromeda.  

It is not our galaxy but one 'nearby'.

WOW. WOW. WOW.  This is truly astounding.

And be sure to watch all the way to the end for the final scene really puts things in perspective.

So with that by way of introduction,

HERE'S THE LINK to NASA's image of the Andromeda Galaxy. (and be sure to scroll down to the video and go full screen for the best view).


 

Correcting the Bow and Stern Confusion

Confusion?  Who is confused?  And about what?

Well, as you know by now --

The life size Noah's ark exhibit in Kentucky is open and folks are flocking to view it.

If you have not yet visited it - or even if you have --

you might be wondering about the large bow fin on the ark.

It seems that some people have questioned its size and location.

So, in order to address those concerns, AIG has posted an article.

HERE'S THE LINK to correcting the bow and stern confusion


 

Geyser in Nevada

A most unusual and impressive Geyser is located in Nevada, U.S.A.

The story of how it 'came to be' is very interesting --

and pictures of it are even more amazing.

Two friends of DIT found this and sent us an email describing it. 

We thought you would enjoy seeing this also -- 

so, without further ado,


HERE'S THE LINK to Fly Geyser in Nevada

"The Station" by Robert J. Hastings

Recently while visiting in a Doctor's Office, we saw a very interesting plaque on the wall.

What was it?

Well, it is not a picture but rather a very short and insightful  article written by Robert J. Hastings, titled "The Station".

Who was he?  And why did we pay attention to the plaque.

Well, Robert Hastings was a good friend of the father of several DIT'ers.

Mr Hastings also has a radio program titled "Tiny Town Tales" on BBN (Bible Broadcasting Network).  If you ever have a chance to hear it, be sure to listen.

It is a short short program in which he tells stories about a tiny town somewhere in the USA.  If you have ever lived in a tiny town, you will surely relate and enjoy.

But I digress --

Both the father and Mr. Hastings are now in heaven (though the "Tiny Town Tales" program lives on since it was recorded.)

And the words he wrote on the plaque also live on.

Since the words on the picture of the plaque shown here are likely too small for you to read, we found a website that has posted the words.

I think you will find this most encouraging and self-explanatory

HERE'S THE LINK to The Station by Robert J. Hastings

And if you would like to print it out, this link is very good.

Aunt and Uncles Day

You have heard about and observed Mother's Day, Father's Day, and many other special days.

But have you ever heard of Aunt and Uncles Day?

Probably not.

But, yes, it is a real holiday.

So, if you have (or are) an Aunt or Uncle -- this is your day to celebrate.

HERE'S THE LINK to information about Aunt and Uncle's day


 

Divine Providence Training Center

We have mentioned this Organization before.

Several friends of DIT are active in it.

What is it? you ask

It is an outreach of "Care To Learn International" and is doing an outstanding job of educating Pastors and Church Leaders in Kenya, Africa.

Gifts are usually given to the Graduates at the completion of their extensive course work.

In the past, those gifts included Bibles, various Commentaries, and other books to assist them in their Church planting and growth activities.

But due to rapidly changing technology, these graduates were given iPads!

Wow.  Bibles, Books, Commentaries, and much much more are now available to them on an iPad.

The link today will explain.

After viewing it, you may want to pray for and perhaps give to this very responsible Training Center.

HERE'S THE LINK to Divine Providence Training Center iPads.

Heaven and Earth

This is a very interesting video from AIG (Answers in Genesis).

The total run time is 18 minutes but it is divided up into  several (8) very short video segments which are back to back so keep watching after each segment ends.

It highlights the beauty and majesty of God’s awe-inspiring handiwork throughout the seemingly endless universe.

This video is from from the Creation Museum and can be purchased but is also provided on line. 

Hence you get to see it now.


HERE'S THE LINK to Heaven and Earth

To Put a Smile on your face

Recently we got an Email from a friend. 

It included a zillion pictures and was titled "Put a smile on your face".

And indeed it did. 

In fact it put several smiles on our faces.  

So many in fact that we thought we'd share these with you.

HERE'S THE LINK to Put a Smile on your face

Guide to Poisonous Plants

"Leaves of Three, Let it be" --

That is a rhyme that you have likely learned in the past. 

And it is a great way to remember how to identify poison ivy and other similarly dangerous plants.

A friend of DIT found today's interesting and helpful link.

It tells of 'leaves of three' and more.

Even though it is "Iowa Specific" the "info" provided is appropriate for anywhere in the world.

So with that by way of introduction,

HERE'S THE LINK to a brief guide to Poisonous Plants

Light from the 'Big Bang' casts no shadows

Our link today is to a very interesting and thought provoking article.

What / Why ? you ask.

Well, the opening comment explains: 

"If the big bang were true, the light from the fireball should cast shadows in the foreground of all galaxy clusters."

It seems there are no shadows.   Hmmm.

The article will explain.

And -- not to fear --

the article is short and an easy read so do not be afraid to check it out.

HERE'S THE LINK to Light from the big bang casts no shadows

How to Degerm a Hotel Room

It is summer time and many folks are likely taking vacations --

And many will be staying in Hotel and Motel rooms on their way to and from 'wherever'.

But before you just willy nilly enter the room and make your self comfortable --

you might want to heed the warnings in today's DIT.

HERE'S THE LINK to How to Degerm a Hotel room


 

100 year old Blackboards

Yes, it is true -- those of you who will be viewing these photos are not that old

but

many of you probably remember going to school with blackboards.

And those of you who didn't will also find this interesting.

Why? Because, these pictures will truly amaze -- not only in that they have been found --

but you will also notice that the pictures and topics are very different from today. 

Notice the topics (history, cursive writing, etc) that were covered 100 years ago compared with what is not covered today. Hmmmm.  Interesting.

Now with that by way of introduction, we are providing several links today.  Some with video, some with pictures, some with even more pictures.


Prepare to walk back in time and view History come alive

HERE'S THE LINK to Blackboards from 100 years ago

And HERE IS ANOTHER LINK with pictures and a video which follows a short commercial

And HERE'S A VIDEO without a commercial

And Last but not least HERE'S A LINK to Many pictures without the video -- don't miss this one




 

Hymn: When I survey the wondrous cross

Today's well known Hymn is by Isaac Watts. The words are posted below.

HERE'S THE LINK

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did eer such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

His dying crimson, like a robe,
Spreads oer His body on the tree;
Then I am dead to all the globe,
And all the globe is dead to me.

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Why Planes can fly through Hurricanes

We are still in Hurricane Season -- though fortunately so far it has been a a quiet season.

But, you have doubtless noted that when a Hurricane develops, special planes are sent out to evaluate them.

And, if you are like most folks you wonder --

Why do people deliberately fly into a hurricane?

Isn't that really dangerous?

And why / how do they survive?

The link today will answer those questions.

HERE'S THE LINK to Planes fly in Hurricanes.

 

Post Modern Art at Ohio State

A friend of DIT found this very short but very interesting comment on a blog.

It is from an address by Ravi Zacharias and speaks volumes.

As you read it you will surely discern its profound ramifications as it clarifies and explains much about today's events and situations.

HERE'S THE LINK to Postmodern Architecture at Ohio State



 

Fantastic Colors in nature

This is another email we received from a friend of DIT.

What is it?

Well, as suggested in the title -- Creations in nature are not 'blah'.  There are many vibrant and beautiful colors.

And they certainly were not made using Crayons or colored pencils.

As always, this makes a person wonder how all this could have happened by chance.

Think about that as you view these amazing pictures:

HERE'S THE LINK to Fantastic Colors in Nature

Thoughts of a First Responder

As you are sadly well aware -- First Responders are now under attack by many of those whom they protect.

You might be wondering what the First Responders think about such a situation.

Do they want to quit?

Well, this picture and post, both of which were on Facebook, speak volumes.

Check it out.
HERE'S THE LINK to what a First Responder has to say



 

Do we have enough evidence to trust the Bible?

This is another of those questions that we frequently hear debated and bandied about.

People repeatedly insinuate that the Bible can not be trusted.

Many have done research to find if there is enough evidence.

The article to which we are linking today was written by a Lawyer.

So he should certainly recognize evidence when he sees it.

Check out today's link to see what this lawyer decided.

HERE'S THE LINK to Do we have enough evidence to trust the Bible?

Which Came first: Knowledge of God or Morality? (Or Both?)

Which Came First: Knowledge of God or Morality? (Or both) -- that is the title of the article to which we are linking today.

Why?

Because this is a very important topic --

and one that is often debated.

This article has significant insights which will greatly aid your understanding of this often debated and discussed concept.

HERE'S THE LINK to Which came first: Knowledge of God or Morality?

Sunday Hymn: O Sacred Head now wounded

Today's hymn is another classic and favorite of many.

It tells of the death of  The Lord God Jesus Christ and WHY He died.

HERE'S THE LINK to O Sacred Head now wounded


 

The Mimic Octopus

Pictured here is a toy octopus from Amazon.

Christopher (you remember him as the amazing miracle baby who had a heart and kidney transplant) loves toy Octopuses.

Indeed he has several Octopus toys that he carries around much like other kiddos have teddy bears.

So, Christopher might enjoy today's DIT link --

because it talks about an octopus that mimics other animals.

But you will like it, too -- 

because

This is an amazing article.

 HERE'S THE LINK to the mimic octopus






 

How Long were the Days of Genesis 1

Doubtless you have heard or been told that the days of Genesis Chapter 1 were not 24 hours days --

but were thousands or millions or even billions of years long.

Some people even say that those days are just figurative and don't mean days at all -- in the sense of 24 hour units of time as the day is considered today.

So how long were the days of Genesis Chapter 1 and why does it matter anyway?

The article to which we are linking today will explain.

HERE'S THE LINK to how long were the days of Genesis 1

Noah's Ark Launches today

No, there is no giant rain fall and no world wide flood beginning today

But

The long awaited 'launch' of Noah's Ark by AIG Ministries opens today.

This is a full size Ark -- using the dimensions in the Bible --

so it is 510 feet long, 51 feet high, and 85 feet wide.

It is located in Williamstown, Ky -- which is very close to Cincinnati and is on I-75 so is easy to access by plane or auto.

And beginning today -- for 40 days and 40 nights, there will be extended hours for everyone to visit it.

If you have not yet taken your summer vacation -- or even if you have -- you should put this on your 'bucket list' (pun intended) of things to do ASAP.

For more information about this amazing Noah's Ark HERE'S THE LINK

The Battle of Blue Licks

Pictured here is the monument at the Blue Licks Battlefield State Park in Kentucky.

Why is this important?  

Because one of, if not the, last battles of the Revolutionary war took place in Kentucky (though it was really Virginia at the time) at the Battle of Blue Licks.

Alas, This battle happened a year after the war was over !!!

What !

Yes, sadly word of victory had not reached the mountains and forests of Virginia (now Kentucky) so the Patriots (Militiamen) were still battling the British, Canadian loyalists, and Indians thinking that they still needed to fight to gain independence from England.

Since communication in those days was very limited and spotty at best, word had not made it to the 'west' (i.e. Virginia / Kentucky) that the war was over and the Patriots had won.

Sadly, therefore, many died needlessly because of this lack of communication.

Those who died included a relative of several DIT'ers and a relative of Daniel Boone. Daniel Boone also participated in this battle but survived.

To learn more about the Battle of Blue Licks HERE'S THE LINK

How long did the Revolutionary War Last?

Sunday we listened to one of the songs that was popular during the Revolutionary war which began in 1775 and lasted till 1781.

Monday we read WHY and HOW the United States was established and the war that was fought to win Independence from Great Britain (aka England). 

It was during that long 7 year period of fighting that the United States of America finally became a country of its own and was no longer under the rule of England.

For more details and a short summary of the events

 HERE'S THE LINK to How Long did the Revolutionary War last

Today is Independence Day in the USA

Pictured here is the scene titled "Yankee Doodle" painted by A.M. Willard.  Later it became known as The Spirit of 76  (That's 1776)

The Historically Challenged ask: Why is this important? And what is so special about July 4, 1776 --

To which Bill Federer answers with detailed information about WHY the people in North America in what is now the USA decided to stop being 'under the thumb and rule' of England and establish their own country.

The citizens of what is now the United States of America declared their Independence from England.

To read the details

HERE'S THE LINK to July 4 is Independence Day


 

Yankee Doodle

The Song today is not a Hymn

but

it is one of the popular songs during the Time of the Revolutionary War of 1776,

and since the people in the USA celebrate Independence Day (4th of July) tomorrow --

we are beginning the celebration early with this song.

HERE'S THE LINK to Yankee Doodle


 

Earliest fossil forest surprisingly complex

While we are on the topic of trees -- (you will recall we considered trees in yesterday's  DIT) --

The article to which we are linking today, in a way, continues that thought.

How?

Well, it seems that there are many 'fossil forests' around the world -- and when they are evaluated they show some surprising things.

What kind of things?

Well, this article will explain

HERE'S THE LINK to earliest fossil forest surprisingly complex

Trees Trees Trees

The next Arbor Day is April 28, 2017

but a friend of DIT recently sent us a link to a very interesting article about Trees and Arbor day.

I think you will find this very informative.

HERE'S THE LINK to Arbor Day: Celebrating God's Design for Trees