The Sheepfold and the Voice of the Shepherd

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Stone sheepfold John 10:22-30 Recently my boys have been spending a great deal of time outside in the area that will soon be transformed into our garden. They spend endless hours digging in the dirt for worms. They then promptly take those worms and throw them to the chickens. It amazes me how even chickens can learn to recognize sounds or voices. My oldest makes this funny high-pitched sound when he comes out of the house and heads toward the coop. The chickens practically fall over themselves running toward the fence or out of the coop when they hear him making his sound. They know there is food to follow! In Sunday's Gospel Jesus tells us that, "My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me." and "I am the gate for the sheep." Today, again, Jesus mentions that His sheep know His voice and follow Him.  In these few verses we learn that Jesus is both gate and shepherd for the sheep. In those days and even today in some places, a sheepfold w
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Father's Day Gift Ideas Part II

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Missed Part I?
Click here for all of the juicy details and gifts 6-10....


#5* - Beer Making Kit - I've been making my own beer for 10 years and love it.  It's realitively easy to do with a little patience and a minimal amount of equipment.  Now, these aren't the  Mr. Beer kits that you see at Wally World (I've heard good things about Mr. Beer).  This is genuine, honest to goodness, brewing ingredients.  The kits have been tried and tested over and over so messing it up takes some real genius.  If dad is a guy who loves trying different micro brews, cooking, or is a mad scientist, a beer making kit would be a perfect gift.  You can get him started for less than $100 and that includes some crucial equipment and ingredients.  If you are really not sure if he'd like it or not, there are also small 1 Gallon Batch Kits for around $50.


#4* - A Personal Journal - I know, most dad's aren't going to be jumping up and down with joy when they receive this gift.  However, it's a gift to them that they, in turn, can give back to you. These are more than mere journals.  They contain 12 questions or statements per month to help dad get started on writing down his life, experience, and wisdom.  I'd love to have a shelf full of these from my dad, grandfather, great-grandfather and so on.  He'll see the wisdom and beauty of passing on his memories if you but ask.



#3* - Pocket Knife -  I cannot remember a time that my father did not have a pocket knife.  My grandfather always had a pocket knife as well.  In fact, when he died, they discovered loads of pocket knives and the grandsons each received one.  I now have at least half a dozen pocket knives sitting on my dressing shelf.  Each one has it's own history, personality, and use.  Don't roll your eyes, I'm serious.  Where I'm going or what I'll be doing that day determines which knife I bring along.  DO NOT CALL IT AN ACCESSORY!!  I'm not a fan of sheath knives, nor is anyone in line at the bank.  Nor am I in favor of pocket knife so big I walk with a limp.  I prefer a compact, old fashioned 2-3 blade knife that is sharp, easy to use, and fits well in my pocket without being bulky.  If you are really trying to win points, have it engraved!  Click here for reasons why every man should carry a pocket knife.


#2 - Of the Month Clubs - Oh my, there are so many awesome "of the month" clubs I don't even know where to start.  You can see some  great ones here but I'll list two of my favorites.  A) Taster's Club: Great Whisky Every Month and Learn all about it.  This is awesome.  I love whisky and I love learning about whisky and other drinks.  Each month they send you not only a bottle of whisky (bourbon, scotch, etc) but also an educational piece on How to Properly Taste Whisky, How Whisky is made, and more.  B) Mystery Tackle Box - do I really need to go into detail on this one.  Each month you get a box packed with lures, baits, and more.  Of the month clubs are a great gift that keeps on and on and dad remembers you each time that shipment arrives.


#1 - A Handwritten Note - This is probably the least expensive gift on the list but one that costs us the most.  It may not be easy to do but it will be worth it and you won't regret it.  Take time to write dad a note.  Tell him what he means to you, how much you appreciate all he has done for you.  Recall wonderful memories and jot them down for him.  Chance are he may not even remember the event or think it was significant and will be moved to know how it affected you.  I've spoken to too many people who regret not doing this simple act with a pen and paper.  Even if your father is no longer with you, write the note.  If your father wasn't the best, write it to a father figure in your life - a priest, grandfather, cousin, co-worker, etc.  Tell a the man/father figure in your life that you love him, admire him, and are praying for him.  We dads need it, even if we act like we don't.

Update: I originally posted this list in 2015, I've updated much of it but I apologize if links don't work. This past January I lost my father but I am so glad that our relationship healed through efforts on his and my part. Ultimately, love and forgiveness are the best Father's Day gifts and one that blesses you both.



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God bless you - Jim Hahn


* Contains affiliate links. No, that doesn't mean that the kids should leave the room. Rather, it means that if you click on a link, and if you purchase something, I may get some financial remuneration for that click and buy. All that means is that my kids will finally get to eat, just kidding but I may get something, just so you know...

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