photojones

Yellow-rumped Warbler

2007-02-05T05:06:00.000-08:00

These little guys are all around the marsh. Quick and shy they are hard to get a shot of sometimes. This was a lucky capture.

Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, are sin! -- Proverbs 21:4

"We're number one!" is the cry today. However, the scripture above tells us that the wicked light their own way with their haughty eyes and proud heart. In contrast, God lights the way for his people with his word (Scripture) and with his Word (Jesus). But arrogance, pride, "uppity-ness" -- or whatever name you want to call it -- is called sin by God. God is number one and all the other numbers are important only because of him. It's just that simple.

Holy and righteous Father, help me place you and your character in the place of most importance in my heart, my life decisions, and in my influence. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
God bless.

dns

Caracara

2007-02-05T05:02:00.000-08:00

This pair of Mexican Eagles may nest close to one of my walk areas. I hope I will be able to get some nice pictures if they have youngones.

Great Blue Heron

2007-02-05T04:50:00.000-08:00

Interestingly this fellow let me sit close by and watch as it went about feeding.

Blue-wing Teal

2007-01-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

Birds eye view.

White-tailed Hawk

2007-01-23T18:56:00.000-08:00

A lucky shot.

Who's the jock?

2007-01-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

Showing off.

Howling

2007-01-23T18:44:00.000-08:00

These were strutting for their mate.

Osprey

2006-12-28T18:12:00.000-08:00

Close-up of Osprey at the beach.

Egret

2006-12-28T18:01:00.000-08:00

Google has taken over the blog so I am trying again to work on it.

I was having a hard time before uploading so I stopped.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T19:19:00.001-08:00

Enter [the Lord's] gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. -- Psalm 100:4-5

God bless

dns

Yes Deer

2006-11-23T19:19:00.000-08:00

:) Yeah there were a lot of them out wondering around. Free and not afraid. In a local ranch where they are protected. ( Well most of the time.)

Whooping Cranes in Transit

2006-11-08T06:23:00.000-08:00

An awesome sight! I could hear them but no seethem. The main group of 30 or so were up several thousand feet and were flying in circles calling out. They are very loud. Then this small group came along at a 5 or 600 feet up. They dissapeared from sight soon after.

But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, ... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. -- Joshua 24:15

While we can't speak for everyone in our family, we can commit to what everyone in our family should desire: We will serve the Lord! But more than commit, let's set the example and lead the way."I will serve the Lord, TODAY!" Then we can ask them to join us.

Heavenly Father I commit myself to serve you and only you. Today and everyday. I pray my family, friends, and these reading this will join in and serve only you. Amen..

Awaiting His return.

God bless

dns

Ibis at rest

2006-11-08T06:18:00.000-08:00

Ibis in flight

2006-11-08T06:13:00.000-08:00

Sunset behind construction site

2006-11-05T06:59:00.000-08:00

Finishing out a day of shooting. The sun was setting behind this crane on over a new LNG storage tank. It is a new fixture on the island.

It is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast. -- Ephesians 2:8-9

Don't you love gifts! Especially when they're truly given, with no strings attached, all we have to do is receive them. The greatest gift we've ever received has nothing to do with our efforts. It is a gift from God. We didn't earn it, deserve it, or purchase it. God gave it through his sacrificial gift so our salvation would not be our boast, but his kindness.

Holy God, I can never thank you enough for sending Jesus and paying the debt for my sin. May I never presume on your grace or take the cost of your gift lightly. At the same time, Father, I want to live confidently, knowing that my salvation is not dependent on my mistakes but upon your grace. Because of such a lavish gift, I want to live for you today in a way that reflects the joy I have at receiving such an awesome gift. In the name of Jesus, my source of hope and grace, I pray. Amen.

Maranatha

God bless

dns

Brown Creeper

2006-11-05T06:56:00.000-08:00

A little far South for this little fellow.

Northern Flicker

2006-11-05T06:53:00.000-08:00

This is theYellow Shafted.

Grasshopper

2006-11-03T05:24:00.000-08:00

Nice lunch. :))

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. -- Romans 13:1
Yes, there are things we don't like about our government. But God has truly blessed most of us so we can enjoy the protection of the authorities where we live. But we also live in the time of some of the greatest persecution ever known in the Christian era. So, as we pray for our leaders and thank God for our freedoms, let's not forget the persecuted church all over the world.

O Great Deliverer, God of the Exodus, as you have shown your power and deliverance in the past, we ask that you act today and bless every believer who is persecuted for your sake. Please bless them with tenderness, healing, and protection on this day. In the powerful name of Jesus we ask it. Amen.

Awaiting His return

God bless

dns

Tri-color

2006-11-03T05:21:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite birds to shoot. Them and the snowy egrets will let you get real close to them. This is a full frame shot.

Cooterville

2006-11-03T05:18:00.000-08:00

The Coots have been gathering in the marsh. Looks like a family reunion. :)

Grackel shadow

2006-11-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

The rest flew away, but this fellow stayed behind to be my model. :))

I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God -- this is your spiritual act of worship. -- Romans 12:1

Because God went first and sacrificed what is most precious to him to save us, he can ask us to surrender ourselves to him. Only one problem: The sorry ol' sacrifice wants to keep crawling off the altar. We must offer ourselves, our will, our time, our heart, our commitment, to God each day. Otherwise, the altar is empty and our sacrifice is gone.

Holy and Righteous Savior, I want to surrender my life, my body, and will to you. But I confess, there are little things (and maybe some big things), that I keep from ever placing on that altar.Things I don't want to give up. To the best of my ability, I will live for you today in a way that leaves nothing outside yourLordship and control. I offer you me -- all that I have and am --to be yours today and all the forever I have. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Awaiting His return

God bless

dns

Evening flight

2006-11-02T05:55:00.000-08:00

Looking for a place to spend the night.

Daily bread

2006-11-02T05:50:00.000-08:00

Feeding the gulls, they eat, I practice.

Brown Creeper

2006-10-29T07:07:00.000-08:00

Hard one to capture. Very tiny and moves quickly. Another one God's little creatures I have never seen before.

Into the Sun

2006-10-26T04:11:00.000-07:00

I finally got a picture in. :) I had given up, but wanted to drop in this verse because it is so meaning full. You see there are really people who disbelieve the bible, but still call themselves Christians and even do bible study? Duh! I had read about it and I know people who do not believe in God, but believers who don't believe?

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching ,rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. -- 2 Timothy 3:16-17

God wants us to be prepared to do good works. Thankfully he gave us the Scriptures. Today we have the Bible translated into many different languages, dialects, and versions. Rather than a threat, this is a great blessing. But we must remember that the goal of Scripture is not to be learned but to be lived. God intended his Word to be practical truth -- a gift that prepares us to do every good work.

Holy God, it still amazes me that you chose to speak to us, your finite creatures, in our own words. May I never take for granted the great gift of being able to read your Word and learn your Truth. But Father, please give me the character and the courage to put it into practical use and let it train me to do your will. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Awaiting His return

God Bless

dns

Seafood

2006-10-08T04:16:00.000-07:00

Here is an Osprey feeding on a large fish. It didn't sit there long after I arrived and started shooting, but it stayed long enough to get a few shots like this one.

dns

Backroad

2006-10-08T03:50:00.000-07:00

Evening in the country.

"I, even I, am the Lord, and apart from me there is no savior. I have revealed and saved and proclaimed -- I, and not some foreignGod among you. You are my witnesses," declares the Lord, "that I am God." -- Isaiah 43:11-12

1 Peter 2 reminds us that we are here as witnesses to "declare the praises of him who has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light." We have seen and experienced God's saving work.We are recipients of his blessing. We are the people who anticipate his mighty deliverance yet to come. How can we remain silent? How can we remain bitter, pessimistic, or discouraged? The God who made the tomb empty and made the corpse of Jesus our living and exalted Lord is our God. He is mighty to save. He is our Savior!

O Mighty God, I confess that I slip so easily into my day-to-day rut and grow immune to the joy and excitement of your salvation. Give me fresh eyes to see and a bold voice to tell of your glorious deeds, your mighty works, and your answered promises. I believe you are leading me to glory, so help me show and share that glory with those who do not know you as God, Savior, and King. In the name of Jesus Christ, my Savior I pray. Amen.
Waiting His return

God bless

dns

Mean skies

2006-10-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

I really enjoy these type of skies. The sun illuminating the sky with fire.

{Jesus said,} "I am the true vine; my Father is the gardener. -- John 15:1

Jesus' statement is radical. The vine was a symbol of Israel. Jesus is saying that he is the place God's people will find their life. When people are in Christ, they will find themselves tended and cared for by God himself. This concept is both radical and comforting. Jesus reminds us that God cares for the sparrows, so he surely cares for us. The Father knows the number of hairs on our head. He knows what we need before we ask for it. God is not a God far off, but a God up close and personal. He knows us and will be involved in every aspect of ourlives.
Holy God, LORD Almighty, I am humbled and awed that in your incredible majesty you have also chosen to know me personally. Thank you for working in my life. Conform me to your will. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Maranatha (awaiting His return)

God bless

dns

Cool pic

2006-09-30T09:40:00.000-07:00

Storm clouds over Dow at sunset.

Rare find

2006-09-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

Sabine's gulls are very rare along the Gulf Coast. This juvenile was a long way from home. They normally nest in the artic, but have been seen here before during migration.

This is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ. -- Philippians 1:9-10

Knowledge comes from communication with the Father. Study increases our depth of insight. And learning the torah will teach what is best so we might be blameless. We must be ready for the return of our Savior.

Gracious and Almighty God, teach me your ways and give me your heart as I strive to not only love you, but to know your will and have insight into your ways. Help me to know the best things to do today and through the rest of my life. Give me wisdom to use my time in the best way possible to live out your will in my work, with my family, among my friends, and especially before those who do not know Christ as their Savior. In the name of Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord I pray. Amen.

Maranatha

God bless

dns

Osprey

2006-09-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

This pretty fellow and a couple of friends have returned to one of my hot spots.

Child of Light

2006-09-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

A favorite sunset sight. I like this back country road. These vultures are always there in the evenings and after a cool front I know I can expect a red sky.

Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God. -- John 3:20-21

Truth is seen in what it does and whom it seeks. Let's live as children of light and seek after the Father who dwells in indescribably glorious light so we might be the light of the world.

Father of every heavenly light, I ask you to correct me gently as I place myself, my imperfections, failures and sins in your presence. Forgive and cleanse me by the blood of Jesus so that I might be spotless and holy and blameless in your sight. O Lord, I don't just want to be forgiven; I want to be useful to you and your church. Please help me find my way to usefulness. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Awaiting His return

God bless

dns

Willet

2006-09-22T19:49:00.000-07:00

So windy today not much happening at my shooting spots. Mostly mosquitoes and a few birds. Another silhouette has to do for now.. :))

You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. -- Ephesians 5:8

Before and after -- that's the story of grace. "I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see." If we could only fully grasp what we so easily sing then life would be filled with more grace and our churches with more confident servants of God.

Lord God Almighty, by your grace I know today that I stand before you welcomed into your presence and received as a beloved child. Thank you for rescuing me from all the traps of the darkness and bringing me into your light. Guide my heart and my feet so they will walk your path and show forth your light. Through Jesus I pray. Amen.
Maranatha

God bless

dns

Blessings

2006-09-21T06:42:00.000-07:00

This Green Heron was upset by my presents. It shows it's crown when disturbed. I caught this silhouette of this one at Sea Center Texas yesterday evening.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. -- 2 Corinthians 13:14

When I was growing up there was this old lady who lived next door to us. I didn't see her much as to me, she was very old and I was very young, probably 6 or 7. I remember every time I saw her she would bless me. Now as I am getting old and study the bible myself, I better understand. As I read through the bible I see many blessings spoken. From the very early times through the gospels, God's children have blessed one another. Why have we forgotten the act of blessing each other?

Father, I am thinking of several precious friends who need the richness of this blessing to fall upon them. Please bless them richly and graciously. In Jesus' name I ask it. Amen.
Maranatha

God bless

dns

Quintana Jetty

2006-09-20T06:41:00.000-07:00

From end looking back.

Rejoice in the Lord your God, for he has given you the autumn rains in righteousness. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before. -- Joel 2:23
"The prayers go up and the blessings come down..." The words to this children's song are only half right, because God sends his blessings many times even when we don't pray. But just as we love the special smell that comes with a drought-breaking rain, God loves the aroma of his children's joy, especially when he is the source of its delight!

Holy God and tender Father, you are my great delight. When all others fail, you are still God. You are my rock and fortress, you are my tender shepherd, and you are my solid mountain that cannot be shaken or moved. Your blessings and grace shower down upon me and fill me with joy. I can't wait for the day I get to see you face to face and delight in your presence forever. Until then, Iwill rejoice in anticipation. In Jesus' glorious name I pray. Amen.

Maranatha

God bless

dns

Swainson's Hawk

2006-09-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

This fellow has been hanging around out at the refuge, but I was unable to get a shot of it. For several days I tried, but failed. Several photographers were successful, but not me. So yesterday I finally got close enough for a couple of minutes to get some nice photos to share.

All people will know that you are my followers if you love each other." -- John 13:35 (ERV)

Want to know churches that are really Jesus' disciples? Simple --administer the love test. Do they truly love each other?

Father, please help me and my church family to pass the love test! In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Maranatha, awiting His return.

God bless

dns

Wisdom

2006-09-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

Stopped in the street and got to take these. I wonder what passers-by were thinking??

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. -- James 3:13
The character of a loving and humble lifestyle shows who is truly wise. It is so easy for people to act arrogantly, yet in the Lord's eyes they are worse than silly; they are woefully ignorant.Wisdom is not about flaunting knowledge but about living a godly life. Which more closely resembles you in your walk with Jesus --wisdom expressed through a humble and loving lifestyle or smart aleck with feelings of superiority and arrogance? (Humm.. )

Loving Shepherd, I know you have been a wise and loving Father to me. Help me share the care that you have lavished on me with the person who most needs it today. Please protect me from arrogance and feelings of superiority, and gently humble me in the ways that make me a more useful tool in your hands. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

This hits so close to home for me it really sticks out. Man was a words. Praisie God!!

Maranatha.

God bless

dns

Even to old age

2006-09-10T06:31:00.000-07:00

[The Lord says,] "Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. -- Isaiah 46:4
God will not forget us when we're in trouble or when we are old. We may outlive our friends and be forgotten by those who know us, but God will never leave us or forsake us. He will sustain, carry, protect, and rescue us.

Thank you, my Father, for promising to never forget me. Because of your faithfulness to your children of old, I know I can trust your promise to never leave me. I trust that no matter where I am or where I go, you will go with me. In Jesus' name I offer my heartfelt thanks. Amen.

What an awesome God we serve.

Maranatha

God bless.

dns

Little Blue

2006-09-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

In white morph.

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. -- Psalm 143:10

We want the Spirit to be at work in us to make us like Jesus. For this to happen, we must open our hearts to the will of God.There are no greater words God wants to hear than "teach me to do your will." That is what it means for him to be God, to have control over our lives and our wills.
Almighty God, I want you to truly be God in my life. I renounce any attempt on my part to try to manipulate or use your grace and kindness for my benefit. I submit my will to yours. But Holy Father, I confess that I struggle at times with my own selfish and evil desires that lead me astray. Please forgive me when my heart is cold and my ears are deaf to your will. Please, take control of my life today. Through Jesus my Lord, and in his name, I ask you to assert your will as God in my life. Amen.

Maranatha,

God bless

dns

Dragon-fly

2006-09-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

I like the shot, but I like the mosquito eating dragonfly too.

Flying through

2006-09-09T12:56:00.000-07:00

Didn't mean to put this one, but since it uploaded with only 2 tries I'll leave it..

Hard Time

2006-09-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

I have been having a very hard time getting my photos to load here. Sometimes it will take an hour and several tries to get the photos loaded. So that is why I do not post here much anymore. But I do post regularly on my pbase site. See link on the right side bar. I am discontinuing dentio.com in favor of pbase. Cost and hits are the main reasons plus I don't need 2 places to exhibit photos. So if you are one of the 2 who come here regular, please go to the pbase site and look for recent posts.
Thanks and God bless,
dns

True Authority

2006-09-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

[Jesus said,] "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." -- Matthew 28:18-20

Last words! The last words of a parent to a child leaving for college ... The last words of a loved one at the bedside of someone dying ... The last words of a friend before moving to a distant place ... These last words are chosen with care because they leave a lasting impact. Jesus' last words are our marching orders. "Go make disciples of all peoples!" To do this, he emphasized, "you must go where they are, baptize them, and then teach them to do what I taught you to do." The words are not hard to understand, so what are we doing about obeying those last commands?

Father from whom all peoples derive their hope, use your Spirit to rouse within me a passion to share your grace with others. Nudge me out of my safety zone and call me into your empowering and sacrificial grace so that I can help others come to know you. In the saving name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Maranatha, awaiting His return,

God bless.

dns

The Marsh

2006-09-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

Several different species have begun to return to the marshes. As Summer gets closer to an end ( Thank God) and Fall approches. Here we can see Greater Yellow Legs, Little Blue Herons, in different morphs, Black Neck Stilts, Great Blue Heron, Rosetta Spoonbills, and some others. There were also, not pictured here, Tri colored Herons, Am. Avocet, Clapper Rails, King Rails, Willots, Reddish Herons, Snowy Egrets, Sparrows, Red Wing Blackbirds, Ibis, both White and White face, Wood Storks, various ducks, and Grackels. Also Green Herons and Least Bitterns were heard but not seen. Quiet an intersting day on the marshes.

dns

Little Blue Heron

2006-09-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

Man I tell you, this time of year these birds and their colors are very confusing. The little blues and reddish juveniles are white, as well as, the snowy egrets. To tell difference one needs a degree in birds. :) So I guess most of the time. But there a markings that help like the color of the legs or the beak or the feet.

To Live

2006-08-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

To me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. -- Philippians 1:21

The truth is often as simple as it is sweet -- if Jesus is our life, then our lives have no end. Death does not strip life from us, but ushers us into life in Jesus' very presence!

Eternal God, thank you for sending Jesus to show me your love and thank you for sending him again soon to take me home. He is my anchor in the storms of life and my light in the darkest nights reminding me that you love me with an undying love. In the name of Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life, I pray. Amen.
Maranatha - Awaiting His return

God Bless

dns

Colored sky

2006-08-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

Evening storm clouds to the North.

Not a dragonfly..

2006-08-27T06:53:00.001-07:00

It snatched the dragonfly so fast I almost missed it.

What's for Dinner?

2006-08-27T06:48:00.000-07:00

Umm fresh toad.

A Prayer

2006-08-22T21:14:00.000-07:00

By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me-- a prayer to the God of my life. -- Psalm 42:8

I have always loved music. To this day, songs help unlock the part of me that is most yielded to God. It helps me declare my love for him and my praise to him. But as the psalmist says, at night, especially on those nights when sleep is hard to come by, his song is with me.
O God of my life, thank you for music and song. Thank you forgiving me so many good things to sing joyfully about. Thank you for hearing my heart when I sing and not just my words and the song's melody. I long, dear Father, for the day I get to hear you sing and I join the heavenly chorus around your throne. Until then, fill my life with your song. Through Jesus' name I ask it. Amen.

Maranatha

God Bless.

dns

Sundown

2006-08-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

Nice evening out.

Wildrose

2006-08-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

After a shower.

Bee

2006-08-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

Pretty little honey maker...

Grebe family

2006-08-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

A nice family shot. Notice the little one riding on Mom's back? Shortly after this shot was taken the Mom took off very quickly, there was a splash, and a gator appreared.... eating something... The gator then stopped a minute to look at me... Then took off quickly toward the reeds and struck again.. The young ones had disappeared... I've been back twice since have not seen them again..

Hungry gator

2006-08-19T07:46:00.000-07:00

The gator swimming fast for the reeds...

Siblings

2006-08-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

Pair of juvenile Green Herons.

Juvenile Yellow-crown Night Heron

2006-08-19T07:35:00.000-07:00

There has been an abundance of these guys around here this year.

Juvenile Green Heron

2006-08-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

I've been watching this young one grow over the past couple of months.

Red Tail Hawk

2006-08-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

This big fellow wouldn't let me get very close. I did excitedly get several shots though..

Shelter

2006-08-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. -- Psalm 91:1

At the end of summer's scorching summer heat, where did you find your shadow of protection and refreshment? When we place our lives in the care of God Most High, we find that his shadow of protection and refreshment covers us. Even in times of difficulty, we know that he has protected us from the worst of Satan's withering attack and that his presence offers us strength that we may not often see but always can trust.
Give me eyes to see, O LORD, and a heart to believe that you are there when I cannot see any evidence of your presence. Please be my protection in times of attack and my refreshment in times that bring soul-withering despair. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Maranatha,

God Bless

dns

Nice clouds

2006-08-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

This evening just after sun down...

Least Bittern

2006-08-17T20:16:00.000-07:00

In flight behind the reeds...

Skimming

2006-08-17T20:09:00.000-07:00

Liked the reflection..

Richness

2006-08-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. -- Psalm 119:14

Our treasure and our truth come from Scripture. Scripture is God's guidance for us on how to avoid Satan's harmful traps and to live God's blessed life. Rather than seeing God's Word as limiting, we need to see it as a gift of love and to value it more highly than riches.
Holy God, thank you for your written Word, your people's Scripture. May your truth come alive in my life just as it does in my heart and mind. In the name of your Son Jesus I pray. Amen.

Maranatha, awiting His return,

God bless,

dns

Shape

2006-08-12T07:45:00.000-07:00

A flower on a small vine.

Colors

2006-08-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

A pleasent mixture.

Trust

2006-08-09T08:23:00.000-07:00

You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word. -- Psalm 119:114

Where can we go to remain secure from the onslaught of bad ideas, evil influences, and false hopes? We can go to God and his Word. While people can be disloyal and misguided, God's love is proven through history and through Jesus and his truth stands forever.
Almighty God, you alone are trustworthy. You keep your word and fulfill your promises. Forgive me when I trust my own insight and the wisdom of others rather than seeking your will in your Word. Please give me your wisdom as I seek your will in your Word. In the name of Jesus, your ultimate Word, I pray. Amen.

Awaiting His return,

God bless

dns

Clouds

2006-08-09T08:19:00.000-07:00

A marsh sunset.

Stormy sky

2006-08-09T08:12:00.000-07:00

This one is hard to repoduce the way it looked with deep colors and orange.

Setting sun...

2006-08-06T07:51:00.000-07:00

... behind the LNG plant. As they put these monsters next ot our beach, we need to see them as something not so evil. I guess..

The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. -- Psalm 119:130

Sometimes the right path is not so difficult to find; we just need to know where to begin our search -- the reading of God's words. The right way is very seldom just the property of the bright, wise, and scholarly; it is very clear if we will but look for it!
Holy Father, thank you for making your will known through your words in Scripture. Bless me as I open your Word. May I find not only the answer to my questions, but may I find you and your precious will. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.

Maranatha.

God bless.

dns

P.S. Come look at my new photo site at: http://www.pbase.com/dnsmac

Fly by

2006-08-06T07:49:00.000-07:00

At the beach. Flying over to check me out.. :)

Going fishing

2006-08-06T07:46:00.000-07:00

Headed to the unknown?!

Jolly Roger

2006-08-06T07:44:00.000-07:00

At the beach..

Faith

2006-07-26T17:34:00.000-07:00

This hold a lot of meaning for me...

Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. -- Hebrews 11:1

While the road ahead of us may be clouded with questions and concerns, we can look back and see the many ways God has acted in our behalf to get us to the places we need to be. But more than just us, we see his work through history and we can take assurance that his promises are true and his victory in us is assured.
Almighty God, I believe that before there was a world, you existed. I trust that even now you sustain our world with your word of grace. I am confident that before the future arrives you are already there preparing it for us. Help me in those moments when I am not so confident to remember my faith today and to press on trusting that you are there waiting with your grace. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Maranatha

God Bless

dns

Tropical weather

2006-07-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

In the Gulf 7-24-06 the 1st storm this year.

In the middle left side of this picture (click to enlarge) is a first for me with a bunch of years shooting skies. The clouds behind the dark clouds are rainbow colored. It was an awesome sight that God sent me out to see. I almost stayed home because of the storm.

dns

Cowbird

2006-07-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

Cow - bird..

Bring home the...

2006-07-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

... in this case it's not bacon.. :) dns

The way

2006-07-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws. -- Psalm 119:30

Jesus reminded us to "pick up your cross daily and follow" him. The way of truth is a daily choice. To not seek to intentionally put him at the center of our life, the top priority in all of our decisions, is to slip a little bit further away from the life he calls us to lead. Any decision made without consciously seeking to please him is a decision to place him at the periphery of our lives. So let's set our heart on him. Let's choose his way, the way of truth, the way of life, and set our hearts on doing his will.
Heavenly Father, I choose to follow you and your truth today.Open my eyes that I may see your truth and open my heart that I may live it with consistency and passion. I decide today, again, to follow you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Maranatha

God bless

dns

Backroads II

2006-07-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

This whirlwind in the canyon is on a lonesome road just outside of Big Bend.

Rust never sleeps

2006-07-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid there was a weather man who would always tell us here the temperature in Presidio, which is usually the hottest spot in Texas. And it is almost the other side of the state. So I went looking around there once and found this old truck sitting on a hilltop. Just sitting there in the middle of nowhere slowly rusting in the desert. Will post it someday in color. I can't decide which looks better.

Boat on a lake

2006-07-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

This rugged looking boat was on a lake somewhere in Honduras.

I went there on a little vacation in 1990 or '91. Can't remember the date. Can't even remember taking the picture, but it was in with my Honduras negatives. :) But I do remember going?!

Salvation for ALL

2006-07-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. -- Romans 1:16

For the rich and poor, young and old, weak and strong, thin and heavy, there is still just one message and one name and one story that makes the eternal difference. That one message, story, and name are announced in the gospel -- God's good news to the world in Jesus Christ. God's good news of life in the story of Jesus Christ is The Story and The Message and The Hope for all.
Great Redeemer, make me more bold to proclaim the Gospel today. Give me eyes to see those who are waiting to be told. Fill me up with your Spirit so that I will not be ashamed but will gladly proclaim the story of Jesus. Fill my life with the optimistic hope of Jesus' glorious and victorious return so that I might share it with passion and others will know of your grace. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Maranatha - O come LORD!

God Bless,

dns

Salt Lake

2006-07-19T06:54:00.000-07:00

Changed locals for the evening shoot.

Skimmer fly-by

2006-07-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

Caught this one flying by.

Snowy Egret

2006-07-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

Just got a few quick shots before it took off.

A Measure of Faith

2006-07-16T21:53:00.000-07:00

By the grace given me I say to everyone of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. -- Romans 12:3

Pride does go before a fall! Try balancing these two truths: "I must not be prideful, but I must understand just how much God values me." It's not easy. Satan can use our self denigration, whatI call the worthless worm syndrome, to discourage us and keep us from using our gifts and knowing our value to God for Kingdom work. On the other hand, pride takes God out of the picture and attributes any contribution to God's Kingdom to us and not to God.To be both bearer of the image of God and part of fallen humanity is more than a theological issue; it is the daily struggle of being a disciple. But we maintain the proper balance by praising the One who made us his child and adopted us into his family.
Holy Father, as your child, redeemed at the cost of Jesus' life, I know I am loved and valuable to you. I know you have given me abilities and gifts to use for your glory and to bless your church. I know you have given methe gifts, abilities, and experiences that have shaped me, soplease empower me to your glory. But Father, I never want the glory that is achieved from your gifts to puff me up or rob from me the realization that I am what I am, I have what I have, and I do whatI do, because of your grace and your generous gifts. May I ever be your humble but valuable child at work in your Kingdom. I pray in the name of Jesus, my older brother and your Son. Amen.

Maranatha (Christ is coming.)

God bless.

dns

Barn Swallow

2006-07-16T21:40:00.000-07:00

Bringing home dinner..

Days end

2006-07-16T21:29:00.000-07:00

On the marsh..

The Gator

2006-07-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Nice for a pet, but the feed bill might be harder to take care of. :)

The Lord is Flawless

2006-07-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. -- Psalm 18:30

God is a shield whose Word can be trusted. His way is not only true, but it is also life-giving. But, we must take refuge in himif his flawless word and his perfect way are going to be blessings and his presence is going to bless us as our shield. Our allegiance, reliance, and dependence must be voluntarily placed in him and lives must be committed to living by flawless word.
God of our Fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, I trust my soul and future to you. You are my strength and shield. Please protect and guard me, my family, and your church from the Evil One. Please keep us physically safe, spiritually vibrant, and morally upright as we serve you this summer and seek to honor your will by obeying your Word. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Amen...

God Bless,

Maranatha,

dns

Home away..

2006-07-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

... from home. One of my walking places over the past 2 years.

Part of my Father's world.

dns

Evening on the beach

2006-07-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

Looking East looking for the moon. :)

Walking for strength

2006-06-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

Three weeks have past now and I am growing stronger each day. Soreness and some stiffness are there at times. I can not carry my camera much because of the weight. May be in a few weeks I will be able to walk with it. Until then I will shoot what I can and will spend as much time enjoying my Father's world as I am able. :)

Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and will not be faint. -- Isaiah 40:31

It is easy for us to live victoriously for the Lord when we soar on the wings of eagles. It can be exciting when we run and don't grow weary in the work of the Lord, buoyed by his power and presence. But it often takes heroes to keep walking and not faint when trying times come. Keep on walking brother and sister. The Lord is there when you most fear he has forgotten you!

Majestic God, whose voice holds together our universe, give those who can barely walk the strength to continue as they face the stress and assault of the evil one. I specifically want to pray for those I know personally who are facing trying times. Please, dear LORD, give them strength and meet their most pressings needs. Through Jesus, who conquered Satan, sin and death, and in the power of his holy name I pray. Amen.

Blackpowder Brigade

2006-06-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

A little ceremony to remember one of the founders of the Son's of the Republic of Texas. This is the cemetery where S.F. Austin was originally buried.

dns

The Sovereign Lord is my strength

2006-06-08T20:31:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday morning I had a Cervical Laminectomy. A week has quickly past. The one day in the hospital is a dim memory. Lots of hoses and tubes stuck in me in places I don't care to remember and didn't like having stuck there. The pain was there and being treated with a press of a button. Nurses and others were everywhere looking in on me or just passing by. I got up and started walking a quickly as I was able.

I walked around the halls for hours it seemed. But it past away the time. The doctor came by at 6:00 the next morning to check on me. Was happy with my condition, but was joking at have to wrestle with the bear. I had food brought in, but wasn't hungry. Went walking some more looking forward to going home. Called Mom to come get me around 10:30 or 11:00. The hoses and tubes were removed and it felt good to be free to move around better. The last obstacle, make sure I could pee with out any problem. One concern was from the anesthiea and the other from the catheter, and one more from the nerves very close to the site of the surgery.

At the same time my camera had been acting up some. Seemed like a shutter problem, so I felt this was a good time to send it in fro repair. Take care of it all at one time.

So here I am a week later. Have not shot any photos in over a week. Been taking it easy hoping to get stronger and study some new angles in landscape photography.

These shots post today are some from before me and the camera went in for repairs.

The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. -- Habakkuk 3:19

"The Lord is my strength!" Wow, what power we have in his abiding and empowering presence in the Holy Spirit. And I have just lived a week enjoying that strength that comes from Him. Praise God!!

Sovereign God and Almighty Father, be not only my strength, but the strength of those battling depression, grief and despair. Thank you for always being there past present and in the future. I praise you through your Son my Lord and with the Holy Spirit my protector. Amen.

God bless

Maranatha

dns

Colors

2006-06-08T20:21:00.000-07:00

I was asked about blue bonnets, here's my shot fro this year. :)
A least bittern in flight..

dns

Some more color

2006-06-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

Natural colors in my Father's world..

dns

Roosting

2006-05-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given to me -- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. -- Acts 20:24

How important is grace? Paul said that telling about that grace was more important to him than his life! In fact, that was his life after his conversion to Jesus!

Almighty God, Holy Father, thank you for your lavish grace demonstrated and fully expressed in sending Jesus to die for me. As your child, and in thanks to your sacrificial gift, I pledge to you my life, my love, and my all. Through Jesus. Amen.

God bless,

Maranatha

dns

Perching

2006-05-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

Taken off the Texas-City Dike.

Big birds flying

2006-05-27T11:34:00.000-07:00

Some bigger birds in the air.