GOOD STUFF…RIGHT?

Rick McPherson

March Newsletter, 2026 

      It was Dr. Robert Schuller who said, “Tough times never last, but tough people do!” When I heard that as a young man, I tucked it away in my memory bank and thought it was good stuff.  However, my life was relatively free of “tough times” at that point.  Then things changed.  Tough times arrived and with them the inevitable question, “Why?”  Why me?  Why us?  Why now?  Then I questioned whether I was eligible for “tough people” status.  Would I make it through?  Could I make it through?

     C.S. Lewis said, “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.”  The reality is that no one is void of difficulty in this life.  Everyone experiences tough times.  And I discovered in the midst of my struggles that I was asking the wrong question.  I should have been asking, “What?” not “Why?”  The truth is God uses the circumstances in our lives to do a work that can only be accomplished during difficult times.  Helen Keller said, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet.  Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened.”  When I was praying for God to change my circumstances, He was actually using my circumstances to change me.  

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory…For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”  II Corinthians 4:17-18

     Ultimately God has a purpose, process and perspective for our lives that is His will.  We can participate in it, willingly, or we can resist it and fight Him.  The choice is ours, the choice is always ours.  Our Heavenly Father will never force us.  But His Word is filled with promises like this one:  

He works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.”  Romans 8:28

     We stumble over the, “all things”, but God uses both good and bad circumstances to accomplish His ultimate purpose rather than promising immediate comfort or prosperity.  When the difficult times visit let’s ask the, “what?” question and allow God to fulfill His purpose in us of knowing Him, glorifying Him and enjoying an eternal relationship with Him.  We can rely on the truth that His process is evident in our circumstances, as difficult as they might be.  Finally, be assured that God does not view your problems as meaningless suffering, but as an opportunity for spiritual growth and character development.  His perspective includes greater intimacy, reliance on His strength and being conformed to the image of Jesus. Do you remember the slogan, “What Would Jesus Do?”  It’s more than a bumper sticker.  It’s a way of life.  And, that’s good stuff.

WARMS COLD HEARTS

Rick McPherson

February Newsletter, 2026

“Thank you.” These words are said millions of times every day by countless people for countless reasons. We thank each other for gifts, kind deeds, and simply for being there, and we thank everybody from our best friends to the co-workers we’ve spoken to once. One writer said, “A simple thank you has magic, it changes moods, opens doors & warms cold hearts.” Another, Alfred Agache, said, “Saying thank you is more than good manners, it is good spirituality.” Maya Angelou, wrote, “Thank you, always say thank you, it’s the greatest gift you can give someone.”

With those thoughts in mind, let me say thank you! Your ongoing prayers and financial support enable us to do this ministry. We never want to take you for granted or to be remiss in expressing how deeply thankful we are for your help. Outreach trips, preaching, teaching, podcasts, newsletters, videos, retreats, food distribution, counseling and mentoring are made possible because of people like you.

Each month through personal checks, bank drafts, Venmo, PayPal, debit and credit cards, and even cash (which we do not recommend), friends of the ministry send contributions. We respond with a receipt (as a 501 (c)(3) charitable, non-profit corporation) that you may use for tax purposes. The funds are controlled by our Board of Directors and an annual IRS 990 is filed. Please know that we receive your giving with prudence and accountability. Most importantly we consider your giving the means to help us tell the Good News of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness. That’s the main thing.

We are well aware that the greatest thing you can do for our ministry is pray!
So, thank you for your prayers! And, we have seen God answer prayers on so many occasions. (BTW the new prayer sticker is in the final stages of production and will be available soon…!) Do you think God smiles when He sees a RMR/PNWO prayer sticker on a water-bottle, lap-top or rear window of a classic, Chevy pickup truck? Whatever it takes to get people praying; is all I’m saying!

However, it also takes margin to provide ministry. So thank you for your financial gifts to support this ministry. Receive our heart-felt, “thank you!” It has changed moods, opened doors, warmed cold hearts … and been good spirituality!

*****

NOTE:
Last month we told you of the needed repairs for THE MULE, our 2016 Ford E450 delivery van. “The wood floor has been badly water-damaged and needs to be replaced…restored, renewed, and rebuilt”.
Thank you for those who responded with a special gift. We have received $400.00 for the repairs, to date. If you would like to help, please mark your check accordingly. Thank you!

***

And save the date…September 25-26, 2026, Battle Ground Baptist, Men’s Retreat, Royal Ridges Camps, You’re invited!
Rick McPherson RESTORATION

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BE IT RESOLVED

Rick McPherson

January Newsletter, 2026

“My new year’s resolution was to quit all my bad habits, but then it occurred to me…nobody likes a quitter.”

“My new year’s resolutions:
1. Stop procrastinating so much.
2. I’ll post the rest tomorrow or whenever.”

“What exactly is a new year’s resolution?
It’s a ‘to do’ list for the first week of January.”

We have fun with resolutions. We make them. We break them. We laugh about how long the “new” lasted and then settle back into our old habits. Granted, some habits are good and others, not so much. Someone said, “It takes twenty-one days to break a habit and twenty-one days to start one.” Maybe you’ll agree that those three weeks can be challenging, to say the least.

With that in mind, my new year began with thoughts of renewal, rebuilding, restoration and yes resolutions. Sorry for the heavy alliteration. But did you know that the word, “restore” or “restoration” is found over 136 times in Scripture? When you mix in renew, resolve and rebuild, you capture the very heart of what God wants to do in our lives. Here are just a couple of examples:

…and be renewed in the spirit of your mind…and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness…” Ephesians 4:23-24

…but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” Romans 12:2

There’s no doubt this is God’s heart for us. He wants us back. He wants us restored. He wants us renewed. He’s done His part. We can do something, too. In fact, the very meaning of resolution is a firm determination to do something.
So, with 2026 in our windshield, will you resolve to do something? I love the verse that simply says,
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4:8

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Rick McPherson RESTORATION Podcast is on Spotify. It’s free!
Just load the Spotify app on your phone or computer and type in Rick McPherson RESTORATION or Pacific NW Outreach. Inc.

*****

THE “MULE” NEEDS A NEW FLOOR! Our 2016 Ford E450 delivery van, affectionately nick-named THE MULE, is in need of repairs. This vehicle is vitally important to our work and is used to deliver product to Reservations throughout the year. The wood floor has been badly water-damaged and needs to be replaced…restored, renewed, and rebuilt? We have friends of the Mission who have said they would help, but we need financial help for materials and parts. Will you help us with a special gift at this time? Thank you and God bless you for your on-going and faithful giving to this ministry.

*****

 

What I Learned in Kindergarten

Rick McPherson

November Newsletter, 2025

In 1986 Robert Fulghum wrote a collection of short essays entitled, “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten.” He used simple, kindergarten-level lessons to explore profound truths about life, love and human behavior. The book, which became a #1 New York Times bestseller, argues that fundamental principles like sharing, playing fair and cleaning up your own mess are the keys to a balanced and meaningful life. He also includes; don’t hit people, don’t take things that aren’t yours, say you’re sorry when you hurt somebody; and one of my favorites, warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.

In many respects, I agree whole heartedly with Mr. Fulghum. We need more of what he’s serving. But I would like to add another truth that my Irish mother drilled into my young brain as I collected my lunch bag and jacket and headed out the door for school. I can still see her brown eyes flashing whenever I wanted something or received something as she asked, “What do you say, Richard?”
“Please” or “Thank you” was the answer she was looking for. She would not have her son, ill-mannered. I was taught to say, please and thank-you.

Now, it’s never too early to teach your kids to say please and thank-you and learn good manners. As soon as they start talking you can start teaching. Encourage your child to thank people who help them. Share what you are grateful for with your children. Donate to others and get involved in charitable organizations. Be consistent. Like all skills gratitude and saying “thanks” is not learned in one lesson. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until your kids are older to teach them to be thankful.

Personally, I’m taking time to be thankful on a daily basis. My relationship with the Lord Jesus; my wife, Charlote and my daughter, Dayna and her husband, Durward and my grandsons, Grant and Will are my greatest blessings. I cherish them. I thank God for them. I have friends. I have health. I have strength. I have humor. I have entertainment. I have weather. I have provision. I have protection. I have intelligence. I have mobility. I have hobbies. I have peace. I have joy. I have contentment. I have purpose. I have value. I have identity.

“I am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.”
Henry David Thoreau

And let me close by saying “Thank You!” You are a part of this ministry and because of your faithful prayers and financial support we are able to improve lives with the truth of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness.

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NOW, THAT’S A BIG BEAR!

Rick McPherson

October Newsletter, 2025

 

  As a child I remember the Sunday School Christmas pageants.  The children would wear bath-robes with towels on their heads and pretend they were shepherds.  Three lucky kids would be wise men and the baby Jesus would be a plastic doll with Mary and Joseph hunkered down on bales of hay.  The angel choir would be others who forgot their pajama costumes or were absent for the rehearsals.  The evening would end with all of us receiving a gift bag with an orange, a couple of walnuts and an assortment of hard candy doled out by one of the teachers with waxed paper covering her hands. 

  Today’s programs rival Disney with audio-video presentations that are exciting, exhilarating and excellent in production and presentation.  Some feature professional directors and executives with head-sets and scripts just to make sure that everything is authentic!  Oh my, how things have changed.

Perhaps you’re smiling too as you recall memories from Christmas past.  We all have them, good, bad and funny.  I remember vividly a descending angel in one production that went terribly wrong when the guy-wires tangled themselves and the poor kid in the body harness, whose name escapes me, was left twisting in the wind.  The circular unending motion finally took its toll and his lunch had nowhere to go but up and out!  Now, that’s a memorable angel sighting!

  But fast forward to today and the Christmas plans we have to deliver toys, gifts and groceries to Native American Reservations.  Pictured here is an example of one gift that was given in a previous holiday.  The stuffed animal was, as the kids say, “ginormous!”  I say, “Now, that’s a big bear!”   Granted not all the gifts are this big but they’re all given with generosity and love.  As Dale Evans once said, “Christmas, my child, is love in action!”

  So let’s talk about that for a bit.  Christmas, the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ is the result of God, our Heavenly Father, who loved the world , gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him, will not perish but have eternal life.  Love was not a word, nor an emotion, it was an action.  And, the world has never again been the same. 

  Our action plan is to collect toys, gifts and groceries again at Christmas and deliver them to Celilo Indian Village (Yakama Reservation) and Lake Quinault (Quinault Reservation).  I am not exaggerating when I say for some children on the reservations; these gifts and toys are the only Christmas they will have, period.  You can help us with your financial gifts at this time.   I will make two trips before Christmas to deliver everything, (gifts, toys, groceries) but we need help with fuel and transportation costs and maybe a little extra for some groceries.  Thank you for caring, sharing and giving!  God bless you and Merry Christmas!

  Now, how am I going to pack another ginormous bear?

*****

IN LOVING MEMORY

Rick McPherson

September Newsletter, 2025

  An assassin’s bullet took the life of Turning Point USA founder and CEO, Charlie Kirk on Wednesday, September 10 at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.  He was a political activist, committed to free speech, intellectual inquiry and constructive dialogue.  He was also a follower of Jesus Christ, husband of Erika Frantzve (former Miss Arizona USA) and father of two children, ages one and three.  Charlie loved to debate and travelled the country visiting campuses, inviting students to ask questions on any subject including politics, economics, science, reproduction and religion.  Being autodidactic, Charlie read and devoured classic literature in many disciplines and was masterful in articulating his arguments and persuading young people.    Most importantly he loved to talk about his faith and was able to give a reason for the hope and truth that he had found in a personal relationship with his Savior, Jesus Christ.  

     Charlie often gave advice to youth, saying, “Go to church.  Get a Bible and read it.  Find your life partner.  Get married.  Have kids…lots of them.”  He would also emphasize that the most important thing in this life is a relationship with Jesus.  His Christian faith impacted and changed the world.  When his memorial service was held at State Farm Stadium in Glendale Arizona, eighty thousand people attended with thousands more in overflow tents and millions watched on television.  The President and Vice President of the United States and most of the Cabinet members attended, including Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, who gave a powerful presentation of the Gospel of Christ in an incredibly profound, precise and personal way.   I would encourage you to find the service and watch it.                                             Rest in peace, Charlie, we’ll see you in the Morning!

*****

Rick McPherson RESTORATION on Spotify

   Not long ago a friend said, “My son listens to your podcasts on his way to work.”  “Great!” was my reply, “I hope he likes them.”

“He does.  Keep doin’ ‘em,” he said.

   So, let me invite YOU to listen in, and explain it’s EASY and FREE.  Just follow the instructions and you can load up the Spotify app on your device and join the podcast.  You don’t need a membership, code, secret hand-shake or credit card information!  It’s free and easy.  It’s also amazing that I can sit at my desk in the basement and tell the Good News of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness and the message is heard, “…to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) Amazing!

102° IS HOT!

Rick McPhersonLeave a comment

August Newsletter, 2025

 Over the many years of this ministry, I’ve driven thousands of miles on I-84, and weather is something you always keep in mind.  Rain, freezing rain, snow, wind and bone-chilling temperatures can make the miles miserable.  The recent trip to Celilo Indian Village on the Yakama Reservation in Oregon on the Columbia River was an experience in another extreme, heat!  The thermometer read 102 degrees, Fahrenheit.  I know, some of my friends  will smirk when I report that number, as they endure higher numbers for extended weeks and months, but let’s not quibble…102 is hot!  But it was worth it!  We had a fantastic trip delivering backpacks to the children and fresh groceries to the families in the Village.  The pictures are just images that represent lives that have been impacted by God’s love and provision.  Thank you to the many who responded to the last newsletter when we explained the outreach ministry and the costs of the backpacks; filled with pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, erasers, glue-sticks, rulers, pencil sharpeners, highlighters and crayons.  We even included ear buds and headphones for the older children.  Our budget was $600.00 and we spent another $200.00 for fuel.  To date we have received $550.00 in designated funds and we are very thankful.  If you would like to help us with the shortfall that would be great!   God bless you and God bless the children and families at Celilo Indian Village.  

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Prayer for today…!

“Heavenly Father, today I declare a fresh start in every area of my life.

Breathe new life into my dreams, my relationships and my calling.

I leave behind defeat, fear and doubt,

And I pick up faith, strength and expectancy.

Let this be a turning point where everything begins to shift for my good.

Thank you for being the God of restoration and rebirth.

I’m stepping into this day with a renewed spirit.

In Jesus’ name.  Amen.”

 

Don’t forget SPOTIFY and FaceBook/Instagram

     I was talking to a business man this week and he said, “You do a podcast?  Really?  I want to listen to it!”  I explained it’s FREE!  Just go to your App Store and load, SPOTIFY and then type: Rick McPherson RESTORATION or Pacific NW Outreach, Inc. and over 50 podcasts will be listed…just click and enjoy.  Thank you for your continued prayers and support for this ministry.  Be sure and tell your friends and family.

*****

 

NEW PRAYER STICKERS!

NOW AVAILABLE!

Limited supply, so please

Call today!

Laptops!  Toolboxes!

Water bottles!  Refrigerator doors!

“IS THERE ROOM FOR MY TEDDY BEAR?”

Rick McPhersonLeave a comment

July Newsletter, 2025

          When flash floods swept through the Texas Hill Country in the early morning hours on the 4th of July, dumping 7” of rain in 45 minutes and causing the Guadalupe River to rise over 28 feet the resulting devastation was horrific and catastrophic.  During the rescue operations, flying MH-65E Dolphin helicopters, the U.S. Coast Guard rescued people from trees, flooded buildings and swift currents.  One video showed a crew member rescuing a child from a tree who asked the rescue swimmer, “Is there room for my teddy bear?”

        Tragically the death toll has exceeded 135 including dozens of girls from Camp Mystic.  The loss of life and devastation to the area is overwhelming.  Your prayers and support are greatly appreciated during the recovery and rebuilding stage.  Our hearts are broken and we extend sincere condolences to the many families who have lost loved ones.  Because my wife and I lived and ministered in Texas for many years, we are very familiar with the Hill Country and have been involved in countless camps, seminars and retreats.  We have many friends who still live and minister in the immediate area.  Let me recommend three reputable groups that you can donate to that will help.

*CONVOY OF HOPE … providing immediate aid, water, food and hygiene supplies.  Contact @ConvoyofHope

*MERCY CHEFS …serving hot meals to families and first responders.    Contact @mercychefs

*LIVING WATERS CHURCH …Pastors Mike & Tammy Burroughs – 108 Aqua Vista Dr., Kerrville, TX 78028 (830)792-5030  

THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS YOU!

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BACK TO SCHOOL!  CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?

     For many years we have provided back-packs for the children at Celilo Indian Village on the Yakama Reservation, The Dalles, Oregon.  This year is no exception.  I know time flies and yesterday was Memorial Day and tomorrow is Labor Day!  Where did the Summer go?  Nontheless we are now planning to purchase and give these back-packs that are filled with:  pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, eraser, glue-stick, ruler, pencil sharpener, scissors, highlighter, crayons and headphones.  Cost:  $600.00 for 26 children or $23.08 each.   Will you help us?  Your donation, no matter the amount, will enable us to minister to these families.  Thank you for your generosity and God bless you!

 

DON’T FORGET SPOTIFY AND FACEBOOK/INSTAGRAM

     We are very encouraged with the podcast on Spotify and iHeart radio.  If you haven’t had a chance to catch the podcast (we’ve aired over 50 so far) be sure and tune in.  Just go to your App Store and load Spotify, it’s FREE, then type in Rick McPherson, RESTORATION or Pacific NW Outreach and the program will come right up for you…click and enjoy.    What a privilege to share the Good News and help improve lives with the truth of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness!

FINALLY…!

      Just a gentle reminder to remember our ministry with your prayers and financial donations.   We rely on our friends who help us with their gifts to sustain this work and ministry outreach.  We can’t do it without you.  So, thanks again!

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RESTORATION, ANYONE?

Rick McPhersonLeave a comment

June Newsletter, 2025

    “Restoration often focuses on renewal, recovery and the process of returning something to its original state or a better one.  It can apply to physical objects, relationships, or even one’s inner self.” Ai

     “In the Bible, restoration refers to God’s action of returning something, or someone to their original state or bringing them back to a previous condition often with the sense of unusual circumstances.  It encompasses physical, spiritual and relational aspects, highlighting God’s desire to heal and mend His creation.”

     The theme of restoration recurs throughout the Bible, offering hope and healing to those who have experienced hardship, loss or brokenness (i.e. all of us).  The words “restore” and “restoration” are used over 136 times in the Bible and provides insight to our Father’s intentions for us.

“He restores my soul…”  Psalm 23:3

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation…”  Psalm 51:12

“I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds…”  Jeremiah 30:17

     If you recall your childhood and your parents’ instructions about manners, courtesy and all matters that pertain to civilized life, you will remember repetition.  When something is important you say it over and over again.  Perhaps 136 times to be specific.  Please remember, never forget, restoration is vitally important to God.  In fact as you read through Scripture you see examples of people that were restored.  Think of Saul of Tarsus who became the Apostle Paul.   Or, Peter the fisherman who became a Disciple.  How about Zacchaeus, the tax-collector?  There was also blind Bartimaeus in Jericho and a crippled man by the pool in Bethesda and the list goes on and on.  In fact, it continues through church history and today.  Every one of us is part of God’s restoration plan.

     If you’ve ever tried to restore anything; whether an old wooden boat or leather chair or even an aluminum four barrel carburetor, you know it takes time and effort to do the job.  And don’t forget the cost.  The cost is what causes people to raise their eyebrows and ask, “Is it worth it?”

     Answering that question usually determines whether you attempt the restoration or not.  “Who’s going to pay the bill?” is what folks want to know.  

Remember our definition of restoration…”God’s desire to heal and mend His creation.”  So, who pays the bill?

      The Good News is this…the bill has already been paid.  Through Christ’s sacrifice, the legal demands and consequences of sin have been cancelled and removed, freeing us from condemnation.  (Colossians 2:14)  The author of the old hymn is unknown, but the words are right on…

“He paid a debt He did not owe; I owed a debt I could not pay, I needed someone to wash my sins away…”

     So, the answer to the question, “Is it worth it?” is a resounding “Yes!”  Because you are worth it and God loves you so much that He gave His only Son to die for you and pay for your sin, once and forever.  If you believe in Him you will not perish and have everlasting life.    

*****

PS-

Remember, Rick McPherson RESTORATION podcast on SPOTIFY

Your prayers and financial gifts make this ministry possible.  Thank you!