Today is the day we Christians celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior.
Unfortunately, all too many of us buy into the materialistic secular stuff and forget the reason for the season.
Now, there is nothing wrong with a secular Christmas celebration -- if you're not a Christian. After all, a party is a party is a party.
But if you're a practicing Christian, whatever day you choose to celebrate the birth of Jesus should be just that, a celebration of Jesus.
Yes, a celebration of Jesus, of family, of love. Gifts are good, yes, but they should be gifts of love, not just the flavor of the week "stuff" that's broken, returned, or regifted within days.
Christmas, at the heart of Christianity, isn't about buying out the mall...
It's not about money...
It's not about me, me, me...
It's not about what the world thinks...
It's all about Jesus.
Today is the day that leads straight to our Salvation.
Happy Birthday Jesus!
(Technically, yes, December 25th was probably not His birthday. Jesus was actually probably born in the fall, after the harvest. But we celebrate it in Faith as a representation of His day. The most important day in the Christian calendar is the day of our Salvation, Easter Sunday...)
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Through The Fog
I'm reading the most interesting book The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey.
Wow!
While I'm a voracious reader, I'm not one to read a bunch of books about "religion". It's just not my thing. In fact, the way "religious" books are written usually put me off. I start feeling like:
a) It's endless blathering about God instead of from God.
or
b) I'm subtly being put down because I don't subscribe to everything in that particular bit of doctrine.
However, something Yancey wrote caught my attention.
"I read scores of accounts of the etymology of Jesus' name, discussions of what languages he spoke, debates about how long he lived at Nazareth or Capernaum or Bethlehem. Any true-to-life image receded into a fuzzy, indistinct blur. I had a hunch that Jesus himself would be appalled by many of the many portrayals I was reading.
"At the same time, with great consistency I found that whenever I returned to the Gospels themselves, the fog began to lift."
Hmmmm, so I'm not the only one who starts feeling like the Word is being obscured by man?
I'm still working my way through this book, but another bit caught my attention this morning and I started thinking about some things that Yancey wrote about the life of Jesus.
First, Jesus didn't seek out the big men of the day. He didn't hang out with the rich, the rabbis, the politicians, the people with power. No, no, Jesus hung out with the little people, teaching them, encouraging them, giving that glimpse of Heaven and the Father that we long for.
Jesus' friends and followers were people with problems, self doubt, poverty, health, all the issues that bedevil us today, Christian and non-Christian alike.
Again, I'll quote from Yancey:
"Perhaps prostitutes, tax collectors, and other known sinners responded to Jesus so readily because at some level they knew they were wrong and to them God's forgiveness looked very appealing. As C. S. Lewis has said, "Prostitutes are in no danger of finding their present life so satisfactory that they cannot turn to God: the proud, the avaricious, the self-righteous, are in that danger.'"
Interesting. Those of us who are Blessed with more, face the danger of relying upon ourselves, not upon God?
Yes, I believe that is true.
We risk unbelief by being so secure in our prosperous little lives. And yes, despite the gloom and doom of the media, we who live in the United States are prosperous. The poorest among us have more than the "middle class" of other nations, other parts of the world.
In any case, with unbelief comes doubt, a lack of Faith.
How often are we getting our tightie-whities in a bunch over someone else's sin, and ignoring our own greater sins with our own legalisms and self-righteousness?
Let me ask you:
Would the sinners that Jesus hung out with be welcomed in your home, in your church?
Would you sit next to the man who's wearing a workman's clothing without even thinking about it?
Would you be willing to comfort and counsel the prostitute, the drug addict, the mentally ill?
And, here's the thing, would your church??
You know that each of us are representatives first of Jesus, second of our respective churches.
If your church is not encouraging you in being Christlike, in reaching out to your brothers and sisters in need, Saved or unsaved, then maybe you need to take it all back to the Word and see what Jesus Himself said and did during his short time as a man on this earth.
I too fail the test.
I too fall short of the task.
I too fall short of the standard Jesus set for us.
And God sets me back on the right Path. Jesus lights my way with the Sword of Truth. I fight against principalities, not just on the earth, but inside myself as well.
For there are many battles.
The battle within,
the battle without,
the battle in the Heavenlies.
There is no choice but to win. To fight, to fall, to rise up and battle again, and again, and again.
To fight our way through the fog again and again, each time receiving only a glimpse, at best, of the Kingdom of God lying before us.
But the Word prepares us, cuts through that fog, puts us on the right Path that will lead us to the final Glory in all things.
Despite our failings, despite our sins, despite all that we do to misunderstand, misrepresent, misuse the Word, the Word ALWAYS shows us the right way to go.
Through the fog I seek Jesus, like a blind woman, feeling my way along the long and rocky Path in the wilderness.
The fog burns away in the Light of the Son...
Wow!
While I'm a voracious reader, I'm not one to read a bunch of books about "religion". It's just not my thing. In fact, the way "religious" books are written usually put me off. I start feeling like:
a) It's endless blathering about God instead of from God.
or
b) I'm subtly being put down because I don't subscribe to everything in that particular bit of doctrine.
However, something Yancey wrote caught my attention.
"I read scores of accounts of the etymology of Jesus' name, discussions of what languages he spoke, debates about how long he lived at Nazareth or Capernaum or Bethlehem. Any true-to-life image receded into a fuzzy, indistinct blur. I had a hunch that Jesus himself would be appalled by many of the many portrayals I was reading.
"At the same time, with great consistency I found that whenever I returned to the Gospels themselves, the fog began to lift."
Hmmmm, so I'm not the only one who starts feeling like the Word is being obscured by man?
I'm still working my way through this book, but another bit caught my attention this morning and I started thinking about some things that Yancey wrote about the life of Jesus.
First, Jesus didn't seek out the big men of the day. He didn't hang out with the rich, the rabbis, the politicians, the people with power. No, no, Jesus hung out with the little people, teaching them, encouraging them, giving that glimpse of Heaven and the Father that we long for.
Jesus' friends and followers were people with problems, self doubt, poverty, health, all the issues that bedevil us today, Christian and non-Christian alike.
Again, I'll quote from Yancey:
"Perhaps prostitutes, tax collectors, and other known sinners responded to Jesus so readily because at some level they knew they were wrong and to them God's forgiveness looked very appealing. As C. S. Lewis has said, "Prostitutes are in no danger of finding their present life so satisfactory that they cannot turn to God: the proud, the avaricious, the self-righteous, are in that danger.'"
Interesting. Those of us who are Blessed with more, face the danger of relying upon ourselves, not upon God?
Yes, I believe that is true.
We risk unbelief by being so secure in our prosperous little lives. And yes, despite the gloom and doom of the media, we who live in the United States are prosperous. The poorest among us have more than the "middle class" of other nations, other parts of the world.
In any case, with unbelief comes doubt, a lack of Faith.
How often are we getting our tightie-whities in a bunch over someone else's sin, and ignoring our own greater sins with our own legalisms and self-righteousness?
Let me ask you:
Would the sinners that Jesus hung out with be welcomed in your home, in your church?
Would you sit next to the man who's wearing a workman's clothing without even thinking about it?
Would you be willing to comfort and counsel the prostitute, the drug addict, the mentally ill?
And, here's the thing, would your church??
You know that each of us are representatives first of Jesus, second of our respective churches.
If your church is not encouraging you in being Christlike, in reaching out to your brothers and sisters in need, Saved or unsaved, then maybe you need to take it all back to the Word and see what Jesus Himself said and did during his short time as a man on this earth.
I too fail the test.
I too fall short of the task.
I too fall short of the standard Jesus set for us.
And God sets me back on the right Path. Jesus lights my way with the Sword of Truth. I fight against principalities, not just on the earth, but inside myself as well.
For there are many battles.
The battle within,
the battle without,
the battle in the Heavenlies.
There is no choice but to win. To fight, to fall, to rise up and battle again, and again, and again.
To fight our way through the fog again and again, each time receiving only a glimpse, at best, of the Kingdom of God lying before us.
But the Word prepares us, cuts through that fog, puts us on the right Path that will lead us to the final Glory in all things.
Despite our failings, despite our sins, despite all that we do to misunderstand, misrepresent, misuse the Word, the Word ALWAYS shows us the right way to go.
Through the fog I seek Jesus, like a blind woman, feeling my way along the long and rocky Path in the wilderness.
The fog burns away in the Light of the Son...
Friday, October 31, 2008
Hey, It's Halloween
Hey, it's Halloween.
Yes, my brothers and sisters in Christ, it's Halloween.
Some of you took your kids trick or treating. Some went to a church harvest festival. Some went to private parties. And some of you stayed home.
Some are probably horrified that I was out giving candy to little trick or treaters (LOL, some weren't so little).
Look, my brothers and sisters, there are WAY more important things to worry about than a defunct "holiday" that's been transformed into a night of giving out candy. (Praise God that we are still fighting to keep Christ in Christmas -- a far more important issue if you ask me!)
Let's worry about the evil that walks in the daylight every day, setting out to fool you and yours.
Crooked contractors taking advantage of the elderly.
Dishonest lenders taking advantage of homeowners.
Lying politicians and their mud-slinging campaigns.
False prophets.
People who may be sitting right next to you in church on Sunday, and plotting to steal your money, your home, your job, maybe even your family on Monday.
The evil one is out there every day, bedeviling you.
That off the cuff comment that makes you wonder.
That snide little remark that cuts you to the heart.
That knowing look that makes you doubt.
When you begin to doubt, the evil one starts working on your fears.
No, Halloween is the least of our worries.
It's far more important to don the armour of the Lord and set out to battle against principalities, than to worry about the motives of the little princess at the door, asking for candy.
I think we need to stop being distracted.
Yes, distracted.
The evil one works with smoke and shadows, distractions and lies.
Don't be distracted. Don't be drawn off track by trickery.
There is work to be done, and it's up to us to do it.
There are seeds to be planted, watered, prepared for the Harvest.
There are people to be helped, children to be taught, poor to be sheltered and fed, elderly to be cared for with all respect, sick to be healed.
There are battles to be fought and won by the Faithful.
As for tonight, hey, it's Halloween.
Have a piece of candy and thank Him for it.
And get ready for the Work to be done tomorrow, and the next day, and the rest of your tomorrows.
Yes, my brothers and sisters in Christ, it's Halloween.
Some of you took your kids trick or treating. Some went to a church harvest festival. Some went to private parties. And some of you stayed home.
Some are probably horrified that I was out giving candy to little trick or treaters (LOL, some weren't so little).
Look, my brothers and sisters, there are WAY more important things to worry about than a defunct "holiday" that's been transformed into a night of giving out candy. (Praise God that we are still fighting to keep Christ in Christmas -- a far more important issue if you ask me!)
Let's worry about the evil that walks in the daylight every day, setting out to fool you and yours.
Crooked contractors taking advantage of the elderly.
Dishonest lenders taking advantage of homeowners.
Lying politicians and their mud-slinging campaigns.
False prophets.
People who may be sitting right next to you in church on Sunday, and plotting to steal your money, your home, your job, maybe even your family on Monday.
The evil one is out there every day, bedeviling you.
That off the cuff comment that makes you wonder.
That snide little remark that cuts you to the heart.
That knowing look that makes you doubt.
When you begin to doubt, the evil one starts working on your fears.
No, Halloween is the least of our worries.
It's far more important to don the armour of the Lord and set out to battle against principalities, than to worry about the motives of the little princess at the door, asking for candy.
I think we need to stop being distracted.
Yes, distracted.
The evil one works with smoke and shadows, distractions and lies.
Don't be distracted. Don't be drawn off track by trickery.
There is work to be done, and it's up to us to do it.
There are seeds to be planted, watered, prepared for the Harvest.
There are people to be helped, children to be taught, poor to be sheltered and fed, elderly to be cared for with all respect, sick to be healed.
There are battles to be fought and won by the Faithful.
As for tonight, hey, it's Halloween.
Have a piece of candy and thank Him for it.
And get ready for the Work to be done tomorrow, and the next day, and the rest of your tomorrows.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Life Doesn't Revolve Around Me
We are but a breath of air, a bit a dust in the wind.
Our lives are very short.
It came to me last week that I, like all too many, live for the weekends.
Life is too short to live for the weekends.
I need to make a change in my attitude and if I can't make that change at this job, I need to change my situation.
Life is too short to live for the weekends.
As the Chaplain told us at the Stand Down, living life outside of ourselves, that's what God wants for us. He wants us to not live for ourselves, but to pick up our own personal crosses and labor on His behalf.
Living for the weekend is "me" centered, not God centered.
I am wrong in how I've been living.
I repent of my selfishness.
It will take much prayer and work on my inner self to repair the damage I've already done to my Spirit. Yes, it damages me. It damages you. It hurts us all when we don't step outside of our selfish little lives and work for Him.
Living for the weekends, oh my, what have I done? Old habits are HARD to break, but I'm going to start working on that flaw in my thinking.
Life does not revolve around me.
Life is not fair.
It's up to me to get God centered and work on His projects, His Plan, follow His Word in all things.
Life doesn't revolve around me.
I have much work to do.
And life is short, I'd better hurry up and get those paintings painted, that Christian novel finished, that spiritual book I have in my head written, I have much to do. It can't wait until the weekends, I need to start working on it all today, tomorrow, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday...
As long as I think life revolves around me and my needs, health, financial, spiritual, things aren't going to go the way I think they should.
But my opinion doesn't matter anyway. Life doesn't revolve around me.
It's all about Him.
Not me.
Him.
Our lives are very short.
It came to me last week that I, like all too many, live for the weekends.
Life is too short to live for the weekends.
I need to make a change in my attitude and if I can't make that change at this job, I need to change my situation.
Life is too short to live for the weekends.
As the Chaplain told us at the Stand Down, living life outside of ourselves, that's what God wants for us. He wants us to not live for ourselves, but to pick up our own personal crosses and labor on His behalf.
Living for the weekend is "me" centered, not God centered.
I am wrong in how I've been living.
I repent of my selfishness.
It will take much prayer and work on my inner self to repair the damage I've already done to my Spirit. Yes, it damages me. It damages you. It hurts us all when we don't step outside of our selfish little lives and work for Him.
Living for the weekends, oh my, what have I done? Old habits are HARD to break, but I'm going to start working on that flaw in my thinking.
Life does not revolve around me.
Life is not fair.
It's up to me to get God centered and work on His projects, His Plan, follow His Word in all things.
Life doesn't revolve around me.
I have much work to do.
And life is short, I'd better hurry up and get those paintings painted, that Christian novel finished, that spiritual book I have in my head written, I have much to do. It can't wait until the weekends, I need to start working on it all today, tomorrow, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday...
As long as I think life revolves around me and my needs, health, financial, spiritual, things aren't going to go the way I think they should.
But my opinion doesn't matter anyway. Life doesn't revolve around me.
It's all about Him.
Not me.
Him.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Honor Your Mother And Father
Even Jesus honored His earthly parents.
He followed the commandment: "Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." (Exodus 20:12)
Sure, He had his moments, like when He was at the Temple and they had to go back for Him. He honestly didn't get it, He was about His Father's business. But you'll note, He went home with Mary and Joseph. (Luke 2:41-50)
A better example is John 2:1-8, when the wine at the wedding ran out. Mary told Jesus, "They have no wine."
His response, "Woman, what have I do do with thee? Mine hour is not yet come."
Yes, He then turned the water to wine.
So, He told Mary that it wasn't time yet for miracles, but for His mother, He did one anyway.
Jesus always honored His earthly parents, and even in His last moments on the Cross, He provided for His mother, seeing His disciple and telling them. "Woman, behold thy son! Behold thy mother." And the disciple took her to his own home. (John 19:26-27)
Jesus always honored His parents.
Now, He didn't always do what they wanted Him to do.
But He always honored them.
He followed the commandment: "Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." (Exodus 20:12)
Sure, He had his moments, like when He was at the Temple and they had to go back for Him. He honestly didn't get it, He was about His Father's business. But you'll note, He went home with Mary and Joseph. (Luke 2:41-50)
A better example is John 2:1-8, when the wine at the wedding ran out. Mary told Jesus, "They have no wine."
His response, "Woman, what have I do do with thee? Mine hour is not yet come."
Yes, He then turned the water to wine.
So, He told Mary that it wasn't time yet for miracles, but for His mother, He did one anyway.
Jesus always honored His earthly parents, and even in His last moments on the Cross, He provided for His mother, seeing His disciple and telling them. "Woman, behold thy son! Behold thy mother." And the disciple took her to his own home. (John 19:26-27)
Jesus always honored His parents.
Now, He didn't always do what they wanted Him to do.
But He always honored them.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Thank You For Another Day
Thank you Lord for another day.
Thank you for this wonderful place You've Blessed us with.
It's not the Garden, no, but it's beautiful anyway.
If this world is this beautiful, I can't imagine the Garden.
Being human, I can't help but imagine what it may be like.
However, being human, I also realize that my imaginings aren't enough. It will be more. More than I could ever think, dream, imagine in my puny little mind.
I dream of it anyway.
Thank you Lord for this day.
Thank you every day.
Thank you for this wonderful place You've Blessed us with.
It's not the Garden, no, but it's beautiful anyway.
If this world is this beautiful, I can't imagine the Garden.
Being human, I can't help but imagine what it may be like.
However, being human, I also realize that my imaginings aren't enough. It will be more. More than I could ever think, dream, imagine in my puny little mind.
I dream of it anyway.
Thank you Lord for this day.
Thank you every day.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
The Lord Be With You
"The Lord be with you."
"And also with you."
A little piece of Catholic mass.
Yet a sentiment that we Christians seem to lose track of.
A classic Catholic mass is a very formalized worship service.
The Church is the Bride of Christ. ALL the Church.
Catholicism may be very formal, but unlike some of my evangelistic charismatic Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I still see Catholics as Christians, just as Christian as you or I.
Yes, I know, I hear people say, "My husband was Methodist and I'm a Christian," or something on the order of "Catholics aren't real Christians."
Oh my Lord, what is up with that?
We are ALL Christians! Every single one that accepts Jesus, whether in a formalized ritual or a free form charismatic experience, every single one of us is a Christian.
This divisiveness is not good for the Bride.
We may have differences in experience, in doctrine, even in which Bible we read, but it's all Christianity, it's all the Word.
We're all Christians.
"May the Lord be with you."
"And also with you."
The Lord is with each and every one of us.
The larger Body, the Body of Christ, has many parts and each has a function. And honestly, some parts don't function at all. But that's a matter of individuals not choosing to serve.
"The Lord be with you."
That is not the question. The Lord is always with us.
The question is, "Are you with the Lord?"
Jesus might be your homie, but where are you taking Him in your day-to-day life?
Ummmm, oops.
Are you taking your Homie with you when you sin?
Ummmm, yes.
Are you taking your Homie with you when you act in an unChristian way?
Ummmm, yes.
The Lord is with you. Everywhere, every day, in every thing, the Lord is with you.
Do you REALLY want to take Jesus with you to the bar, to the movies, to work, to play?
Yes, of course you do. That's part of being a Christian. We don't turn Jesus off on and on like we turn on the shower.
He's already washed us, cleansed us of our sins, made us new inside.
But maybe you should take to heart those simple sentences in a Catholic mass:
"The Lord be with you."
"And also with you."
He is always with you, so maybe it's past time to consider where YOU are in your life, your worship, your service. You may be new on the inside, but if you don't start working on the outside, you're going to stay stuck in that old sinful rut.
"The Lord be with you."
Simple, yet effective.
"The Lord be with you."
Whole sermons are written around that simple phrase.
"The Lord be with you."
My prayer for you today is that you absorb that into your mind and spirit, that your soul be uplifted in knowing that the Lord is with you. And you reflect that Spirit to the world.
That you become a better and more effective part of the Body, of the Bride.
And you willingly and joyfully walk in the Path the Lord has set before you.
"The Lord be with you."
"And also with you."
"And also with you."
A little piece of Catholic mass.
Yet a sentiment that we Christians seem to lose track of.
A classic Catholic mass is a very formalized worship service.
The Church is the Bride of Christ. ALL the Church.
Catholicism may be very formal, but unlike some of my evangelistic charismatic Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I still see Catholics as Christians, just as Christian as you or I.
Yes, I know, I hear people say, "My husband was Methodist and I'm a Christian," or something on the order of "Catholics aren't real Christians."
Oh my Lord, what is up with that?
We are ALL Christians! Every single one that accepts Jesus, whether in a formalized ritual or a free form charismatic experience, every single one of us is a Christian.
This divisiveness is not good for the Bride.
We may have differences in experience, in doctrine, even in which Bible we read, but it's all Christianity, it's all the Word.
We're all Christians.
"May the Lord be with you."
"And also with you."
The Lord is with each and every one of us.
The larger Body, the Body of Christ, has many parts and each has a function. And honestly, some parts don't function at all. But that's a matter of individuals not choosing to serve.
"The Lord be with you."
That is not the question. The Lord is always with us.
The question is, "Are you with the Lord?"
Jesus might be your homie, but where are you taking Him in your day-to-day life?
Ummmm, oops.
Are you taking your Homie with you when you sin?
Ummmm, yes.
Are you taking your Homie with you when you act in an unChristian way?
Ummmm, yes.
The Lord is with you. Everywhere, every day, in every thing, the Lord is with you.
Do you REALLY want to take Jesus with you to the bar, to the movies, to work, to play?
Yes, of course you do. That's part of being a Christian. We don't turn Jesus off on and on like we turn on the shower.
He's already washed us, cleansed us of our sins, made us new inside.
But maybe you should take to heart those simple sentences in a Catholic mass:
"The Lord be with you."
"And also with you."
He is always with you, so maybe it's past time to consider where YOU are in your life, your worship, your service. You may be new on the inside, but if you don't start working on the outside, you're going to stay stuck in that old sinful rut.
"The Lord be with you."
Simple, yet effective.
"The Lord be with you."
Whole sermons are written around that simple phrase.
"The Lord be with you."
My prayer for you today is that you absorb that into your mind and spirit, that your soul be uplifted in knowing that the Lord is with you. And you reflect that Spirit to the world.
That you become a better and more effective part of the Body, of the Bride.
And you willingly and joyfully walk in the Path the Lord has set before you.
"The Lord be with you."
"And also with you."
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Our Days Are Numbered
Sometimes it's hard to accept that our days are numbered and only He knows how many we have.
I'm starting to get to an age where family members and some of my peers are passing over.
It's hard.
It's hard to accept that God takes people home long before I'm ready for them to go. (But I'd never be ready...)
Just in the last few of years, I lost an old friend from the party days. My friend lost his father. Not one but two of the people from the group I work with to help homeless Veterans passed. My grandma went Home.
I say that I lost them, but they really aren't lost at all. I fully expect to find them in Heaven.
Still, it's been wearing on me.
Life is short, we have just a brief moment. I am just a breath of wind, a puff of smoke, a brief flash in the universe.
But I belong to a greater Whole.
So when my days are done and my spirit and soul leave this body, I will pass from this limited plane of existence, and rejoin my Father, rejoin Jesus, rejoin my family and friends. Rejoin the greater consciousness that rules the Universe, the great I AM that we call God.
Despite my Faith in my God and in everlasting life with Him, I'm human. I'm not in a hurry to go.
I have more work to do here...
And there is SO much work to do.
I'm starting to get to an age where family members and some of my peers are passing over.
It's hard.
It's hard to accept that God takes people home long before I'm ready for them to go. (But I'd never be ready...)
Just in the last few of years, I lost an old friend from the party days. My friend lost his father. Not one but two of the people from the group I work with to help homeless Veterans passed. My grandma went Home.
I say that I lost them, but they really aren't lost at all. I fully expect to find them in Heaven.
Still, it's been wearing on me.
Life is short, we have just a brief moment. I am just a breath of wind, a puff of smoke, a brief flash in the universe.
But I belong to a greater Whole.
So when my days are done and my spirit and soul leave this body, I will pass from this limited plane of existence, and rejoin my Father, rejoin Jesus, rejoin my family and friends. Rejoin the greater consciousness that rules the Universe, the great I AM that we call God.
Despite my Faith in my God and in everlasting life with Him, I'm human. I'm not in a hurry to go.
I have more work to do here...
And there is SO much work to do.
Friday, September 5, 2008
RIP Matt
Matt Garcia went Home this week.
God took him Home and we ask, "Why Lord, oh why did You take him so young? Was his work done already?"
None of know why he was murdered. None of us know why he was shot -- yet.
All will be revealed, the Truth cannot be hidden.
But losing Matt Garcia, a young Fairfield Councilman, only 22 years old, is a blow to all of us.
As a Christian, I take comfort in knowing that I will see him again.
As a mother, I mourn for his parents and grandparents.
As a former Fairfield resident, I'm still in shock that this fine young man, a Christian, a rising politician in the local community, would be taken from us in this way.
"Why Lord? Why?"
I don't know. God knows in His infinite wisdom.
But let me quote from Matt's own MySpace page, posted on August 27th:
"I been thinking about my life and it is not complete but it is getting there. I thought about the things I have accomplished over the years it has truly been a blessing. It just shows people when you put your mind to something you can make it happen. I still haven't accomplished everything, but I am working towards it and I believe if it is God's Will, it will happen...
"I just see the potential in our generation to make things happen. Some other people in past generations, and sometimes in my case our generation, don't feel that way but let's prove them wrong. That is what drives me proving people wrong when they think I CAN'T but then, I keep making things happen."
RIP Matt.
We NEED more fine young men and women of Faith like you. I hope that many will follow in your footsteps, that you have inspired our youth to follow their Paths to the end of their days.
You will be sorely missed by those of us who only met you in passing and those who knew you intimately.
And I pray that when you met Jesus, you heard, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Welcome Home."
Rest In Peace my young Brother in Christ.
Rest In Peace.
God took him Home and we ask, "Why Lord, oh why did You take him so young? Was his work done already?"
None of know why he was murdered. None of us know why he was shot -- yet.
All will be revealed, the Truth cannot be hidden.
But losing Matt Garcia, a young Fairfield Councilman, only 22 years old, is a blow to all of us.
As a Christian, I take comfort in knowing that I will see him again.
As a mother, I mourn for his parents and grandparents.
As a former Fairfield resident, I'm still in shock that this fine young man, a Christian, a rising politician in the local community, would be taken from us in this way.
"Why Lord? Why?"
I don't know. God knows in His infinite wisdom.
But let me quote from Matt's own MySpace page, posted on August 27th:
"I been thinking about my life and it is not complete but it is getting there. I thought about the things I have accomplished over the years it has truly been a blessing. It just shows people when you put your mind to something you can make it happen. I still haven't accomplished everything, but I am working towards it and I believe if it is God's Will, it will happen...
"I just see the potential in our generation to make things happen. Some other people in past generations, and sometimes in my case our generation, don't feel that way but let's prove them wrong. That is what drives me proving people wrong when they think I CAN'T but then, I keep making things happen."
RIP Matt.
We NEED more fine young men and women of Faith like you. I hope that many will follow in your footsteps, that you have inspired our youth to follow their Paths to the end of their days.
You will be sorely missed by those of us who only met you in passing and those who knew you intimately.
And I pray that when you met Jesus, you heard, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Welcome Home."
Rest In Peace my young Brother in Christ.
Rest In Peace.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Twelve Extraordinary Women
That's the book I'm reading right now, Twelve Extraordinary Women: How God Shaped Women of the Bible, and What He Wants to Do with You by John MacArthur.
It's fascinating.
I've only read a couple of chapters, so I can't really give a review on the entire book.
But with only a couple of chapters read, I'm already ready to recommend you add this book to your reading list.
In addition, the author has written Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You. I've already decided that I need to buy that book too.
I definitely need these in my home library!
It's fascinating.
I've only read a couple of chapters, so I can't really give a review on the entire book.
But with only a couple of chapters read, I'm already ready to recommend you add this book to your reading list.
In addition, the author has written Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You. I've already decided that I need to buy that book too.
I definitely need these in my home library!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
The Very Last Line
A miracle happened in Brazil last week and, shamefully, the most important part of the story was the very last line.
It should've been the headline.
In Brazil, an 18-month-old boy fell out of a third story window, about thirty feet to the ground.
He should have been killed.
But...
Yes, when we're talking God, there is always a BUT!
BUT his disposable diaper caught on the security spike protruding from the building.
Yes, his diaper.
Yes, it tore and he dropped the rest of the way to the ground.
BUT, that diaper slowed his fall, supported him just long enough that he only had minor fractures. He survived the fall.
The media picked up the story, I first heard it on the radio. However, I didn't hear what his father said. The last line of the story:
"It wasn't the diaper that saved him, it was God."
The MOST important part of the entire event was the last line in the newspaper story.
"It was God."
Darn right it was God!!
And THANK YOU GOD for saving that child! May his life be Blessed in all ways, may he do much for You as he walks his Path through this life. In Jesus' holy name, AMEN!!
Link:
http://home.peoplepc.com/psp/newsstory.asp?cat=strange&id=20080828/48b622c0_3421_1334520080828684969154
It should've been the headline.
In Brazil, an 18-month-old boy fell out of a third story window, about thirty feet to the ground.
He should have been killed.
But...
Yes, when we're talking God, there is always a BUT!
BUT his disposable diaper caught on the security spike protruding from the building.
Yes, his diaper.
Yes, it tore and he dropped the rest of the way to the ground.
BUT, that diaper slowed his fall, supported him just long enough that he only had minor fractures. He survived the fall.
The media picked up the story, I first heard it on the radio. However, I didn't hear what his father said. The last line of the story:
"It wasn't the diaper that saved him, it was God."
The MOST important part of the entire event was the last line in the newspaper story.
"It was God."
Darn right it was God!!
And THANK YOU GOD for saving that child! May his life be Blessed in all ways, may he do much for You as he walks his Path through this life. In Jesus' holy name, AMEN!!
Link:
http://home.peoplepc.com/psp/newsstory.asp?cat=strange&id=20080828/48b622c0_3421_1334520080828684969154
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Pray For Them
I was working on something today and I started thinking about atheists.
Madelyn Murray O'Hair in particular. She suffered a terrible death.
I can't tell you if she would have been spared if she were a Believer. I can't tell the future and perhaps her murder was always looming at the end.
I do think that it was her unbelief that paved her path down that road, that put her and her family in harms way. Her unbelief coupled with her own troubled life and dishonest ways.
Ironically, William Murray, the very son that she fought the battle to remove prayer from schools for, all the way to the Supreme Court, became a Christian and a Pastor.
O'Hair's reaction was, "...I repudiate him entirely and completely for now and all times...he is beyond human forgiveness."
(Fortunately, Murray isn't depending on human forgiveness when he meets Jesus at the Throne.)
After O'Hair, her son and granddaughter's bodies were found, Murray said:
"My mother was an evil person... Not for removing prayer from America's schools... No, she was just evil. She stole huge amounts of money. She misused the trust of people. She cheated children out of their parents' inheritance. She cheated on her taxes and even stole from her own organizations. She once printed up phony stock certificates on her own printing press to try to take over another atheist publishing company....Regardless of how evil and lawless my mother was she did not deserve to die in the manner she did."
Murray was right. Despite all that she did, O'Hair did not deserve to be murdered.
No one deserves to die like she did.
But I can't help but think that if she had found her way to Christ, He could have turned her life around. God's Path was not her path, but if it was, couldn't she have been saved?
Maybe, maybe.
We, as Christians, need to pray for our brothers and sisters who embrace the religion of nothingness.
Religion?
Oh, yes, it most certainly is. And it's adherents follow it more rigidly and stridently than most Christians follow Christ.
If only Believers had as much Faith in Jesus as atheists do in nothingness.
I keep praying for the atheists I know. Yes, they'd probably be offended if they knew, but it's my right and duty to pray for them, just as it's their right to reject it. So I pray. And pray. And pray.
As I am quite sure that Murray prayed and prayed and prayed for his mother.
We have to accept that, while God does not want any to be lost, we are also Blessed with free will. Thus, people choose to die alone and comfortless in their unbelief.
We can't fix that.
We can only pray for them.
We can pray that seeds be planted, watered, and with time, the harvest is gathered, and our loved ones willing join us as members of the Body of Christ.
We can pray for them.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madalyn_Murray_O
Madelyn Murray O'Hair in particular. She suffered a terrible death.
I can't tell you if she would have been spared if she were a Believer. I can't tell the future and perhaps her murder was always looming at the end.
I do think that it was her unbelief that paved her path down that road, that put her and her family in harms way. Her unbelief coupled with her own troubled life and dishonest ways.
Ironically, William Murray, the very son that she fought the battle to remove prayer from schools for, all the way to the Supreme Court, became a Christian and a Pastor.
O'Hair's reaction was, "...I repudiate him entirely and completely for now and all times...he is beyond human forgiveness."
(Fortunately, Murray isn't depending on human forgiveness when he meets Jesus at the Throne.)
After O'Hair, her son and granddaughter's bodies were found, Murray said:
"My mother was an evil person... Not for removing prayer from America's schools... No, she was just evil. She stole huge amounts of money. She misused the trust of people. She cheated children out of their parents' inheritance. She cheated on her taxes and even stole from her own organizations. She once printed up phony stock certificates on her own printing press to try to take over another atheist publishing company....Regardless of how evil and lawless my mother was she did not deserve to die in the manner she did."
Murray was right. Despite all that she did, O'Hair did not deserve to be murdered.
No one deserves to die like she did.
But I can't help but think that if she had found her way to Christ, He could have turned her life around. God's Path was not her path, but if it was, couldn't she have been saved?
Maybe, maybe.
We, as Christians, need to pray for our brothers and sisters who embrace the religion of nothingness.
Religion?
Oh, yes, it most certainly is. And it's adherents follow it more rigidly and stridently than most Christians follow Christ.
If only Believers had as much Faith in Jesus as atheists do in nothingness.
I keep praying for the atheists I know. Yes, they'd probably be offended if they knew, but it's my right and duty to pray for them, just as it's their right to reject it. So I pray. And pray. And pray.
As I am quite sure that Murray prayed and prayed and prayed for his mother.
We have to accept that, while God does not want any to be lost, we are also Blessed with free will. Thus, people choose to die alone and comfortless in their unbelief.
We can't fix that.
We can only pray for them.
We can pray that seeds be planted, watered, and with time, the harvest is gathered, and our loved ones willing join us as members of the Body of Christ.
We can pray for them.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madalyn_Murray_O
Friday, August 22, 2008
How Do You Forgive The Unforgivable?
How do you forgive the unforgivable?
I don't know.
How do you forgive a person that betrayed your trust, abused you, hurt you emotionally, mentally, physically?
I don't know.
I have never suffered like some have. I never suffered from child abuse. (Spankings yes, beatings never. There IS a huge difference.)
I'm thinking again about Dolores Aguilar and the obituary her daughter wrote. I talked about it in my last post.
"There will be no service, no prayers and no closure for the family she spent a lifetime tearing apart..."
I'm incredibly sad for this family. Emotional, mental, physical abuse of the children and no one apparently knew, no one stepped in, no one called CPS. Although no one has said it, I strongly suspect that her husband also suffered from domestic violence. (Yes, men are abused by women too, domestic violence is a two way street.)
This should not have happened. And yet stories like this abound. Child abuse, domestic violence goes on behind closed doors every single day. We don't know what's in another person's heart, we only know them by their fruits.
My first reaction to the obituary was horror. My second was asking why this daughter would air the family's "dirty laundry" to the world.
However, upon reflection, I realized that sometimes it's good to air your laundry.
Perhaps this is the start of a new life, not just for this family, but for families suffering from the same issues, right now, today. Perhaps this is the end of a generational curse.
The dialogue that Dolores' obituary has started isn't going to end in a day or a week.
My friends, there are children out there who need our help. There are families that need our help.
As Christians, we CANNOT turn away. We are mandated to follow authority. And if the person abuses their authority, we are mandated to take it to a higher level. Not "just" laying it at the Throne.
No, we are mandated to step up and report domestic violence, report child abuse, report the bruises on that child, report that argument that's going on next door, wife screaming and children crying out. We are mandated to report it to earthly authorities as well as taking it to the Throne.
These are our brothers and sisters, we NEED to step up.
For you see, when a parent abuses their authority by abusing their children, a man (or woman) abuses the spouse/partner/significant other, he/she has stepped outside of the Will of God. Once a person has stepped outside of God's Authority (and abuse is most certainly that!) we must, as members of the Body, step up and say "STOP".
We, as the Body, need to let people know that staying in an abusive relationship is NOT the Will of God. Oh heck no!!
And staying in a relationship where the other parent abuses the children, OH HECK NO!!
All of our brothers and sisters are collectively ALL our responsibility. If our brother or sister in Christ steps outside the Will of God, it's our Duty to step up and do the right thing. Yes, that means calling the cops or CPS AND informing the Pastor and Elders AND praying for the victim AND praying for the abuser.
And if the abuser is the Pastor him/herself?
Do I really, really have to say it? If the Pastor has stepped outside the Will of God, then the Pastor needs to step down. Bottom line, that's it. If you can't shepherd yourself, you surely can't Shepherd the Body.
And the victims?
How do the victims of abuse forgive?
I don't know.
But God knows and that's what we lay at the Throne, prayers for Healing, prayers for Happiness, prayers for Forgiveness.
I have no answers on how to forgive the unforgivable.
I know the earthly side. Turn the abuser in, testify in court, let the earthly authorities punish him/her, get counseling and therapy.
But how do you forgive the unforgivable?
How do you forgive the abuser, the murderer, the evil that men and women do to the people they claim to love?
How can you heal the mind, soul, spirit of the victims?
I can only say that we are all Forgiven, that Jesus forgave us all in that moment,
"Father, forgive them, they know not what they do."
He has Forgiven me. He can Forgive you.
But how do you forgive the unforgivable?
"There will be no service, no prayers and no closure for the family she spent a lifetime tearing apart..."
Maybe you can't do it alone. I don't think I could.
But God can do it. All you have to do is ask Him. All you have to do is lay it at the Throne.
God will handle it all.
Even if there is no justice on this earth, there is still the Judgment at the Throne. I take comfort in knowing that there is still a final Authority on all things.
Even though Dolores passed from this earth unpunished for the abuse she laid on her family, she still has to face the final Judgement.
She will not be alone.
I don't know.
How do you forgive a person that betrayed your trust, abused you, hurt you emotionally, mentally, physically?
I don't know.
I have never suffered like some have. I never suffered from child abuse. (Spankings yes, beatings never. There IS a huge difference.)
I'm thinking again about Dolores Aguilar and the obituary her daughter wrote. I talked about it in my last post.
"There will be no service, no prayers and no closure for the family she spent a lifetime tearing apart..."
I'm incredibly sad for this family. Emotional, mental, physical abuse of the children and no one apparently knew, no one stepped in, no one called CPS. Although no one has said it, I strongly suspect that her husband also suffered from domestic violence. (Yes, men are abused by women too, domestic violence is a two way street.)
This should not have happened. And yet stories like this abound. Child abuse, domestic violence goes on behind closed doors every single day. We don't know what's in another person's heart, we only know them by their fruits.
My first reaction to the obituary was horror. My second was asking why this daughter would air the family's "dirty laundry" to the world.
However, upon reflection, I realized that sometimes it's good to air your laundry.
Perhaps this is the start of a new life, not just for this family, but for families suffering from the same issues, right now, today. Perhaps this is the end of a generational curse.
The dialogue that Dolores' obituary has started isn't going to end in a day or a week.
My friends, there are children out there who need our help. There are families that need our help.
As Christians, we CANNOT turn away. We are mandated to follow authority. And if the person abuses their authority, we are mandated to take it to a higher level. Not "just" laying it at the Throne.
No, we are mandated to step up and report domestic violence, report child abuse, report the bruises on that child, report that argument that's going on next door, wife screaming and children crying out. We are mandated to report it to earthly authorities as well as taking it to the Throne.
These are our brothers and sisters, we NEED to step up.
For you see, when a parent abuses their authority by abusing their children, a man (or woman) abuses the spouse/partner/significant other, he/she has stepped outside of the Will of God. Once a person has stepped outside of God's Authority (and abuse is most certainly that!) we must, as members of the Body, step up and say "STOP".
We, as the Body, need to let people know that staying in an abusive relationship is NOT the Will of God. Oh heck no!!
And staying in a relationship where the other parent abuses the children, OH HECK NO!!
All of our brothers and sisters are collectively ALL our responsibility. If our brother or sister in Christ steps outside the Will of God, it's our Duty to step up and do the right thing. Yes, that means calling the cops or CPS AND informing the Pastor and Elders AND praying for the victim AND praying for the abuser.
And if the abuser is the Pastor him/herself?
Do I really, really have to say it? If the Pastor has stepped outside the Will of God, then the Pastor needs to step down. Bottom line, that's it. If you can't shepherd yourself, you surely can't Shepherd the Body.
And the victims?
How do the victims of abuse forgive?
I don't know.
But God knows and that's what we lay at the Throne, prayers for Healing, prayers for Happiness, prayers for Forgiveness.
I have no answers on how to forgive the unforgivable.
I know the earthly side. Turn the abuser in, testify in court, let the earthly authorities punish him/her, get counseling and therapy.
But how do you forgive the unforgivable?
How do you forgive the abuser, the murderer, the evil that men and women do to the people they claim to love?
How can you heal the mind, soul, spirit of the victims?
I can only say that we are all Forgiven, that Jesus forgave us all in that moment,
"Father, forgive them, they know not what they do."
He has Forgiven me. He can Forgive you.
But how do you forgive the unforgivable?
"There will be no service, no prayers and no closure for the family she spent a lifetime tearing apart..."
Maybe you can't do it alone. I don't think I could.
But God can do it. All you have to do is ask Him. All you have to do is lay it at the Throne.
God will handle it all.
Even if there is no justice on this earth, there is still the Judgment at the Throne. I take comfort in knowing that there is still a final Authority on all things.
Even though Dolores passed from this earth unpunished for the abuse she laid on her family, she still has to face the final Judgement.
She will not be alone.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Lord, Let This Family Be Healed
Oh, Lord, sometimes I come across something so incredibly sad that I have trouble believing it's true.
I was going to take out the names, but this is all over the Internet, many blogs have posted the entire obituary so it's pointless to try to hide the names of the deceased woman and her family.
Before you read this, I want you to know that I looked further and found a news story about the author of this obituary. She said that her mother didn't take care of the children, didn't feed them, and beat them every day. She believed that her mother was mentally ill, but was able to fool people outside the family.
Oh, Lord, it's so, so sad. I just want to pray for healing on this entire family.
I know, you're wondering what it is that's bothering me so much. Yes, it is REALLY bothering me, I just don't comprehend the family dynamics that could cause so much pain and suffering. So much that when her mother died, this woman wrote this obituary:
Dolores Aguilar ---------------------1929-Aug. 7, 2008
Dolores Aguilar, born in 1929 in New Mexico, left us on August 7, 2008. She will be met in the afterlife by her husband, Raymond, her son, Paul Jr., and daughter, Ruby. She is survived by her daughters Marietta, Mitzi, Stella, Beatrice, Virginia and Ramona, and son Billy; grandchildren, Donnelle, Joe, Mitzie, Maria, Mario, Marty, Tynette, Tania, Leta, Alexandria, Tommy, Billy, Mathew, Raymond, Kenny, Javier, Lisa, Ashlie and Michael; great-grandchildren, Brendan, Joseph, Karissa, Jacob, Delaney, Shawn, Cienna, Bailey, Christian, Andre Jr., Andrea, Keith, Saeed, Nujaymah, Salma, Merissa, Emily, Jayci, Isabella, Samantha and Emily; I apologize if l missed anyone.
Dolores had no hobbies, made no contribution to society and rarely shared a kind word or deed in her life. I speak for the majority of her family when I say her presence will not be missed by many, very few tears will be shed and there will be no lamenting over her passing. Her family will remember Dolores and amongst ourselves we will remember her in our own way, which were mostly sad and troubling times throughout the years. We may have some fond memories of her and perhaps we will think of those times too. But I truly believe at the end of the day ALL of us will really only miss what we never had, a good and kind mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. I hope she is finally at peace with herself. As for the rest of us left behind, I hope this is the beginning of a time of healing and learning to be a family again. There will be no service, no prayers and no closure for the family she spent a lifetime tearing apart. We cannot come together in the end to see to it that her grandchildren and great-grandchildren can say their goodbyes. So I say here for all of us, GOOD BYE, MOM.
I am honestly at a loss for words.
I read this over and over again.
There is evil in this world, and this family has been horribly scarred by it. I can only pray that they will be healed of their pain and the generational curse will be broken.
Yes, I do think there's a generational curse. Dolores was a sick woman. And her family suffered for it. And they're still suffering, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren.
Lord, I pray that this family be healed. Let the cycle of child abuse end with Dolores and let the new generations be freed of the chains of mental illness. Let them be healed of the evils of this world so the children can move on and be all that You meant them to be.
And in their healing, Lord, I pray that somehow they can find forgiveness for their mother, and that she may rest in peace.
Lord, let this family be healed.
In Jesus' holy name, Amen.
I was going to take out the names, but this is all over the Internet, many blogs have posted the entire obituary so it's pointless to try to hide the names of the deceased woman and her family.
Before you read this, I want you to know that I looked further and found a news story about the author of this obituary. She said that her mother didn't take care of the children, didn't feed them, and beat them every day. She believed that her mother was mentally ill, but was able to fool people outside the family.
Oh, Lord, it's so, so sad. I just want to pray for healing on this entire family.
I know, you're wondering what it is that's bothering me so much. Yes, it is REALLY bothering me, I just don't comprehend the family dynamics that could cause so much pain and suffering. So much that when her mother died, this woman wrote this obituary:
Dolores Aguilar ---------------------1929-Aug. 7, 2008
Dolores Aguilar, born in 1929 in New Mexico, left us on August 7, 2008. She will be met in the afterlife by her husband, Raymond, her son, Paul Jr., and daughter, Ruby. She is survived by her daughters Marietta, Mitzi, Stella, Beatrice, Virginia and Ramona, and son Billy; grandchildren, Donnelle, Joe, Mitzie, Maria, Mario, Marty, Tynette, Tania, Leta, Alexandria, Tommy, Billy, Mathew, Raymond, Kenny, Javier, Lisa, Ashlie and Michael; great-grandchildren, Brendan, Joseph, Karissa, Jacob, Delaney, Shawn, Cienna, Bailey, Christian, Andre Jr., Andrea, Keith, Saeed, Nujaymah, Salma, Merissa, Emily, Jayci, Isabella, Samantha and Emily; I apologize if l missed anyone.
Dolores had no hobbies, made no contribution to society and rarely shared a kind word or deed in her life. I speak for the majority of her family when I say her presence will not be missed by many, very few tears will be shed and there will be no lamenting over her passing. Her family will remember Dolores and amongst ourselves we will remember her in our own way, which were mostly sad and troubling times throughout the years. We may have some fond memories of her and perhaps we will think of those times too. But I truly believe at the end of the day ALL of us will really only miss what we never had, a good and kind mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. I hope she is finally at peace with herself. As for the rest of us left behind, I hope this is the beginning of a time of healing and learning to be a family again. There will be no service, no prayers and no closure for the family she spent a lifetime tearing apart. We cannot come together in the end to see to it that her grandchildren and great-grandchildren can say their goodbyes. So I say here for all of us, GOOD BYE, MOM.
I am honestly at a loss for words.
I read this over and over again.
There is evil in this world, and this family has been horribly scarred by it. I can only pray that they will be healed of their pain and the generational curse will be broken.
Yes, I do think there's a generational curse. Dolores was a sick woman. And her family suffered for it. And they're still suffering, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren.
Lord, I pray that this family be healed. Let the cycle of child abuse end with Dolores and let the new generations be freed of the chains of mental illness. Let them be healed of the evils of this world so the children can move on and be all that You meant them to be.
And in their healing, Lord, I pray that somehow they can find forgiveness for their mother, and that she may rest in peace.
Lord, let this family be healed.
In Jesus' holy name, Amen.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
If You're Worrying, You're Not Praying
I don't have any answers for the world's troubles. I'm just a basic, practical Christian, trying to live right in the world.
I miss the target often. I have to pick myself up, dust myself off, and try, try again.
But like the paper I have stuck to my cube wall says:
If you're worrying, you're not praying. If you're praying, you don't have to worry.
Or, as my pastor once preached, negative thoughts and words bring negative results.
Worrying is negative energy.
Praying is positive energy.
Praying over the problem and turning it over to the Lord allows Him to work on it. You don't know what your end result will be, but it WILL be positive. Even if it doesn't look like it in that moment.
Sometimes, something has to happen to trigger a good end result.
Losing that house seems like a financial disaster. But you know, maybe it's freeing you up to make that move to a better location and a better job. Maybe it's setting you free from a financial burden that you don't need to bear right now. Maybe by letting go now and re-establishing your finances and credit, you're going to be able to buy again in three years, when the real estate market has hit bottom and you're again considered a first time buyer. (Next time, get a fixed rate FHA loan!)
And maybe it's one of those hard lessons that we all face in this life, to not overextend ourselves, not let the world convince us that we're better off than we are. Because GOD determines our worth, not the world.
Maybe that house was just more "stuff".
You don't have to impress anyone. There is only One that matters.
Pray on it.
I have personally found that when you lay it all at the foot of the Throne, you will be restored. It will take time.
Seed, time, harvest.
Restoration takes time.
Stop worrying, start praying.
If you're worrying, you're not praying. If you're praying, you don't have to worry.
He ALWAYS answers.
Start praying, then the answer will become clear.
I miss the target often. I have to pick myself up, dust myself off, and try, try again.
But like the paper I have stuck to my cube wall says:
If you're worrying, you're not praying. If you're praying, you don't have to worry.
Or, as my pastor once preached, negative thoughts and words bring negative results.
Worrying is negative energy.
Praying is positive energy.
Praying over the problem and turning it over to the Lord allows Him to work on it. You don't know what your end result will be, but it WILL be positive. Even if it doesn't look like it in that moment.
Sometimes, something has to happen to trigger a good end result.
Losing that house seems like a financial disaster. But you know, maybe it's freeing you up to make that move to a better location and a better job. Maybe it's setting you free from a financial burden that you don't need to bear right now. Maybe by letting go now and re-establishing your finances and credit, you're going to be able to buy again in three years, when the real estate market has hit bottom and you're again considered a first time buyer. (Next time, get a fixed rate FHA loan!)
And maybe it's one of those hard lessons that we all face in this life, to not overextend ourselves, not let the world convince us that we're better off than we are. Because GOD determines our worth, not the world.
Maybe that house was just more "stuff".
You don't have to impress anyone. There is only One that matters.
Pray on it.
I have personally found that when you lay it all at the foot of the Throne, you will be restored. It will take time.
Seed, time, harvest.
Restoration takes time.
Stop worrying, start praying.
If you're worrying, you're not praying. If you're praying, you don't have to worry.
He ALWAYS answers.
Start praying, then the answer will become clear.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Christians Are People Too
I'm always amazed at the double standard that people employ when criticizing Christians.
Somehow, because we're held to a higher standard by Jesus, we aren't allowed to make mistakes.
My friends, we Christians are human. We make mistakes, just like everyone else.
The difference is, when that mistake is discovered, when the Spirit speaks, when the Word leaps off the page and Speaks to our hearts, we're supposed to do our best to make it right.
And if you refuse to accept the correction, repair, reparation or apology or whatever else the right thing to do is, then we can leave it to the Lord from there.
So...
If I owe you an apology and because you're angry, you refuse to accept it, then I can pray over it, turn it over to the Lord, and resolve to do better in the future. I don't have to accept your hate, I don't have to keep your anger. That is your problem.
If I owe you money and because you're angry, you refuse to accept it, then I can pray over it and then apply it where the Spirit directs. Now, I don't get to keep it, I MUST pass it on. And if you get mad over that, well that's your problem. (And trust me, being a smart Christian, I'll send you a check first and if you send it back or shred it or otherwise refuse it, I'll document it all. Then I'll apply it to the Lord's work.)
And if I do something so horrible that I end up in jail over it, as a Christian, I must accept my punishment and try to make restitution to you. Accepting responsibility for my actions is the Christian thing to do. And if you don't like that, honestly, that's your problem.
We Christians do sin. And sin is wrong.
But we can be Christ-like in trying to repair the damage we have done. We can be Christ-like in accepting responsibility for our sins.
But for you to try to act like my sin is tarnish over all Christians, well, you know, that's pretty darn judgemental of you.
Not all people who profess Christianity are actually walking with the Lord on the Path.
Just because one "Christian" did you wrong doesn't mean that all of Christianity is tainted.
As a Christian, I walk in this world just like you do. And I make mistakes, just like you do. And I sin, just like you do.
And in the end I will answer, not to you, but to a Higher Authority that will judge all that I have done.
So the next time you start ranting and raving about Christians this and Christians that, think of this -- I forgive you.
Because in your ignorance, you have not a single clue of what being a Christian really is.
Christians are people too.
And most of us walked in the world's ways long before Jesus took charge of our lives.
Walking with Jesus is a process. I might be a new woman on the inside, but it takes time to redo the outside. Jesus is still working on me and trust me, He's still raking, watering and fertilizing this rocky soil. He's still planting seeds and pruning branches. He still has much work to do.
I'm a Christian, but I'm far from perfect. He'll be working on me until the day I go Home.
Somehow, because we're held to a higher standard by Jesus, we aren't allowed to make mistakes.
My friends, we Christians are human. We make mistakes, just like everyone else.
The difference is, when that mistake is discovered, when the Spirit speaks, when the Word leaps off the page and Speaks to our hearts, we're supposed to do our best to make it right.
And if you refuse to accept the correction, repair, reparation or apology or whatever else the right thing to do is, then we can leave it to the Lord from there.
So...
If I owe you an apology and because you're angry, you refuse to accept it, then I can pray over it, turn it over to the Lord, and resolve to do better in the future. I don't have to accept your hate, I don't have to keep your anger. That is your problem.
If I owe you money and because you're angry, you refuse to accept it, then I can pray over it and then apply it where the Spirit directs. Now, I don't get to keep it, I MUST pass it on. And if you get mad over that, well that's your problem. (And trust me, being a smart Christian, I'll send you a check first and if you send it back or shred it or otherwise refuse it, I'll document it all. Then I'll apply it to the Lord's work.)
And if I do something so horrible that I end up in jail over it, as a Christian, I must accept my punishment and try to make restitution to you. Accepting responsibility for my actions is the Christian thing to do. And if you don't like that, honestly, that's your problem.
We Christians do sin. And sin is wrong.
But we can be Christ-like in trying to repair the damage we have done. We can be Christ-like in accepting responsibility for our sins.
But for you to try to act like my sin is tarnish over all Christians, well, you know, that's pretty darn judgemental of you.
Not all people who profess Christianity are actually walking with the Lord on the Path.
Just because one "Christian" did you wrong doesn't mean that all of Christianity is tainted.
As a Christian, I walk in this world just like you do. And I make mistakes, just like you do. And I sin, just like you do.
And in the end I will answer, not to you, but to a Higher Authority that will judge all that I have done.
So the next time you start ranting and raving about Christians this and Christians that, think of this -- I forgive you.
Because in your ignorance, you have not a single clue of what being a Christian really is.
Christians are people too.
And most of us walked in the world's ways long before Jesus took charge of our lives.
Walking with Jesus is a process. I might be a new woman on the inside, but it takes time to redo the outside. Jesus is still working on me and trust me, He's still raking, watering and fertilizing this rocky soil. He's still planting seeds and pruning branches. He still has much work to do.
I'm a Christian, but I'm far from perfect. He'll be working on me until the day I go Home.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
If Only All Christians Followed His Teachings
"Bring the little children to Me."
In Pakistan, there is a couple who say just that. They take in the unwanted children, mostly girls, who would otherwise be killed or abandoned to die.
In a country of too many poor, they serve God in their own way. Since they began in 1951, the Edhi Foundation has rescued at least 20,000 babies and placed an estimated 16,700 children in homes. Despite threats by some Muslims, they take in children of any and every faith. They try to find homes and raise the children to adulthood with a trade, skills and a brighter future than they had before being found abandoned or dropped off in one of the cradles around Pakistan.
If only more Christians would follow this example of doing God's Work.
(And yes, my church supports several orphanages around the world.)
Links:
http://www.edhifoundation.com/
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/02/MN8N11PFOF.DTL
To make a donation:
http://www.edhifoundation.com/contact.asp
In Pakistan, there is a couple who say just that. They take in the unwanted children, mostly girls, who would otherwise be killed or abandoned to die.
In a country of too many poor, they serve God in their own way. Since they began in 1951, the Edhi Foundation has rescued at least 20,000 babies and placed an estimated 16,700 children in homes. Despite threats by some Muslims, they take in children of any and every faith. They try to find homes and raise the children to adulthood with a trade, skills and a brighter future than they had before being found abandoned or dropped off in one of the cradles around Pakistan.
If only more Christians would follow this example of doing God's Work.
(And yes, my church supports several orphanages around the world.)
Links:
http://www.edhifoundation.com/
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/02/MN8N11PFOF.DTL
To make a donation:
http://www.edhifoundation.com/contact.asp
A Quilt Of Holes
I don't know who wrote this, but when I got it in my e-mail, it brought tears to my eyes.
As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.
But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.
I glanced around me.
Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune.
I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened. My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.
Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been.
My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.
My gaze dropped to the ground in shame.
I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it.
I had to start over many times.
I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again.
I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life.
I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.
And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.
I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.
An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me.
Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes.
He said, "Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."
"Welcome Home My Child"
I know that this may have arrived in your e-mail already. My google search brought up many postings, all saying "author unknown". But it doesn't matter how many times this is posted and reposted, the important part is the Word that comes with it.
"...let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."
The mantra of the Christian, to be Christ-like in all we do.
May He shine through my life today. May He shine through your life today.
And when my days on this earth are done, I pray that I too hear Him say, "Welcome home My child."
As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.
But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.
I glanced around me.
Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune.
I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened. My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.
Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been.
My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.
My gaze dropped to the ground in shame.
I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it.
I had to start over many times.
I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again.
I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life.
I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.
And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.
I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.
An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me.
Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes.
He said, "Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."
"Welcome Home My Child"
I know that this may have arrived in your e-mail already. My google search brought up many postings, all saying "author unknown". But it doesn't matter how many times this is posted and reposted, the important part is the Word that comes with it.
"...let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."
The mantra of the Christian, to be Christ-like in all we do.
May He shine through my life today. May He shine through your life today.
And when my days on this earth are done, I pray that I too hear Him say, "Welcome home My child."
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Follow The Light
For all of you who doubt, let me reassure you, Satan KNOWS that God exists.
I believe that the evil one invades the Church every day.
For example, look at the tragedy of Dennis Rader, the BTK killer. Oh, my dear Lord, the man was a church-goer, if I remember right, a Deacon of his church.
Obviously, he attended church. But that doesn't mean that the evil one didn't have his heart.
He sold his soul to Satan long ago.
I know, you wonder how he could sit in church with the Believers and keep up the pretense of his life for all those years.
He made a choice.
God gives us free will. Rader could have repented of his choice, given his life over to the Lord, became the man the Lord intended him to be.
Instead, he used his free will to become a follower of evil.
Let him be an example, Christians, be warned. There are people right now, today, sitting next to you at church that do not have your best interests at heart.
Certainly most of them are not at the level of evil that Dennis Rader, the BTK killer is. But that doesn't mean that they don't have designs on your money, your wife or husband, your kids, your life.
Evil inhabits this world and it comes to church with you.
We have to live in this world, but we can CHOOSE to not buy into it.
Please remember, I'm not saying to be paranoid, or to lose your Faith. Not at all.
In fact, I'm telling you the exact opposite! Live YOUR life right. God gave each of us free will. That means it's our DUTY to be vigilant. Push the evil one out of our lives.
Don't be like Radar. Yes, he went to church, he went through the motions, but Radar chose the dark path.
Be aware.
Watch out.
Jesus himself turned over the tables in the Temple. He knew that the world comes to church with the Believers. He turned over the tables and drove the world out that day.
It's 2,000 years later. Follow His example, Believers, push the world back out of the Church. Pray, counsel, and watch. And listen to the Spirit. He tells you in a whisper that something is just not right. Listen to the quiet voice in your heart.
Not the voice of condemnation. Not the voice shouting at you. That's the evil one trying to distract you from what is Right.
No, the little voice that tells you that something is just not right with that person, situation, job, financial advice, pastor.
Satan KNOWS that God is here with us every single day. Don't give him that opening into your heart. Be careful what you do, lest he take advantage of you, mislead you and lead you down the dark path. Watch what you take in, be careful what you put out.
You don't have to choose the dark ways of this world, you can choose to follow the Light. It's a hard Path, but it's the Way of Truth.
Follow the Light.
I believe that the evil one invades the Church every day.
For example, look at the tragedy of Dennis Rader, the BTK killer. Oh, my dear Lord, the man was a church-goer, if I remember right, a Deacon of his church.
Obviously, he attended church. But that doesn't mean that the evil one didn't have his heart.
He sold his soul to Satan long ago.
I know, you wonder how he could sit in church with the Believers and keep up the pretense of his life for all those years.
He made a choice.
God gives us free will. Rader could have repented of his choice, given his life over to the Lord, became the man the Lord intended him to be.
Instead, he used his free will to become a follower of evil.
Let him be an example, Christians, be warned. There are people right now, today, sitting next to you at church that do not have your best interests at heart.
Certainly most of them are not at the level of evil that Dennis Rader, the BTK killer is. But that doesn't mean that they don't have designs on your money, your wife or husband, your kids, your life.
Evil inhabits this world and it comes to church with you.
We have to live in this world, but we can CHOOSE to not buy into it.
Please remember, I'm not saying to be paranoid, or to lose your Faith. Not at all.
In fact, I'm telling you the exact opposite! Live YOUR life right. God gave each of us free will. That means it's our DUTY to be vigilant. Push the evil one out of our lives.
Don't be like Radar. Yes, he went to church, he went through the motions, but Radar chose the dark path.
Be aware.
Watch out.
Jesus himself turned over the tables in the Temple. He knew that the world comes to church with the Believers. He turned over the tables and drove the world out that day.
It's 2,000 years later. Follow His example, Believers, push the world back out of the Church. Pray, counsel, and watch. And listen to the Spirit. He tells you in a whisper that something is just not right. Listen to the quiet voice in your heart.
Not the voice of condemnation. Not the voice shouting at you. That's the evil one trying to distract you from what is Right.
No, the little voice that tells you that something is just not right with that person, situation, job, financial advice, pastor.
Satan KNOWS that God is here with us every single day. Don't give him that opening into your heart. Be careful what you do, lest he take advantage of you, mislead you and lead you down the dark path. Watch what you take in, be careful what you put out.
You don't have to choose the dark ways of this world, you can choose to follow the Light. It's a hard Path, but it's the Way of Truth.
Follow the Light.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Someone Violated The Western Wall????
Oh my!!
I was listening to KGO radio and Karel was going off about someone grabbing Obama's prayer off the Western Wall.
What? Someone violated his private prayer? Written on a piece of paper and pushed into the cracks in the Wall, like many, many prayers every day. Yet someone thought it was OK to grab it and then Israel's newspaper and CNN PUBLISHED it?? (From Wikipedia: In July, 2008 United States Presidential candidate Barack Obama, on a visit to Europe and the Middle East, placed a written prayer in the wall, which was later taken by a seminary student and published in the newspaper Maariv.)
Please tell me, someone, why the man can't even PRAY without someone disrespecting him?
Oh my Lord, what have we come to?
I can tell you this, whoever grabbed that paper, whoever sold it to the newspaper and CNN, they will answer to the Lord Himself for this one. And you know, it really doesn't matter if he is an atheist or a Christian, or a Muslim or a Jew. Doesn't matter, the Lord will handle this business.
I'm going to do my best to NOT view that prayer. That was between Obama and God and, to be blunt, it's none of my business.
It's obvious that whoever violated Obama's prayer has forgotten this:
Matthew 6:5-24 TNIV
5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."
Obama prayed according to Jewish tradition, wrote his prayer in private and placed it on the Wall, trusting that it would stay private. He respected the traditions of Israel. He trusted the elder Brothers, the chosen people of God to respect his prayer.
Too bad he wasn't Blessed with that same respect by that student.
Hypocrite. And hypocrites. And more hypocrites.
If I had any doubt that the media is directly influenced by the evil one, it's gone now. I am becoming more and more aware that the world is a darkening place, where the bright light of Jesus stands as a beacon for the lost.
God is not willing that any should be lost.
But the world is sucking our peoples in like an evil pool of quicksand. A seminary student, of all people, to violate the privacy of prayer?
Oh my Lord, I pray that Obama is able to forgive him for this betrayal.
And I pray for the student, Lord, that he may be forgiven for desecrating the Western Wall. Or perhaps in Jesus' own words: "Forgive them Lord, for they know not what they do."
They know not what they do.
But they ought to.
Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Wall
http://english.thekotel.org/content.asp?id=212
I was listening to KGO radio and Karel was going off about someone grabbing Obama's prayer off the Western Wall.
What? Someone violated his private prayer? Written on a piece of paper and pushed into the cracks in the Wall, like many, many prayers every day. Yet someone thought it was OK to grab it and then Israel's newspaper and CNN PUBLISHED it?? (From Wikipedia: In July, 2008 United States Presidential candidate Barack Obama, on a visit to Europe and the Middle East, placed a written prayer in the wall, which was later taken by a seminary student and published in the newspaper Maariv.)
Please tell me, someone, why the man can't even PRAY without someone disrespecting him?
Oh my Lord, what have we come to?
I can tell you this, whoever grabbed that paper, whoever sold it to the newspaper and CNN, they will answer to the Lord Himself for this one. And you know, it really doesn't matter if he is an atheist or a Christian, or a Muslim or a Jew. Doesn't matter, the Lord will handle this business.
I'm going to do my best to NOT view that prayer. That was between Obama and God and, to be blunt, it's none of my business.
It's obvious that whoever violated Obama's prayer has forgotten this:
Matthew 6:5-24 TNIV
5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."
Obama prayed according to Jewish tradition, wrote his prayer in private and placed it on the Wall, trusting that it would stay private. He respected the traditions of Israel. He trusted the elder Brothers, the chosen people of God to respect his prayer.
Too bad he wasn't Blessed with that same respect by that student.
Hypocrite. And hypocrites. And more hypocrites.
If I had any doubt that the media is directly influenced by the evil one, it's gone now. I am becoming more and more aware that the world is a darkening place, where the bright light of Jesus stands as a beacon for the lost.
God is not willing that any should be lost.
But the world is sucking our peoples in like an evil pool of quicksand. A seminary student, of all people, to violate the privacy of prayer?
Oh my Lord, I pray that Obama is able to forgive him for this betrayal.
And I pray for the student, Lord, that he may be forgiven for desecrating the Western Wall. Or perhaps in Jesus' own words: "Forgive them Lord, for they know not what they do."
They know not what they do.
But they ought to.
Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Wall
http://english.thekotel.org/content.asp?id=212
I'm So Excited!
The oldest copy of the New Testament in the world is online now. http://www.codexsinaiticus.org/en/
Yes, I know, we can't access it all yet.
And it's not in English yet.
But I'm still really excited about this.
I already know that it is not precisely like the current versions of the Bible. I am not worried about that. I am not looking to pick apart the versions, I'm looking to expand my relationship with the Word.
Theologians can argue about the details.
I just want to immerse myself in the Bible that is the closest to the times that Jesus walked this earth. The Spirit will lead me in understanding what I read. At least, as much understanding that I, in my limited capacity as a human, can understand.
There is a Reason why, in these troubled times, this Bible is becoming available online.
I am looking forward to translations, so I can immerse myself in the Word.
(Actually, when I looked online, it appears that someone has translated it. http://www.sinaiticus.com/. No matter, I want to see the original text.)
Links:
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2008/07/24/online-codex-sinaiticus.html
http://www.sinaiticus.com/
http://www.codexsinaiticus.org/en/
Yes, I know, we can't access it all yet.
And it's not in English yet.
But I'm still really excited about this.
I already know that it is not precisely like the current versions of the Bible. I am not worried about that. I am not looking to pick apart the versions, I'm looking to expand my relationship with the Word.
Theologians can argue about the details.
I just want to immerse myself in the Bible that is the closest to the times that Jesus walked this earth. The Spirit will lead me in understanding what I read. At least, as much understanding that I, in my limited capacity as a human, can understand.
There is a Reason why, in these troubled times, this Bible is becoming available online.
I am looking forward to translations, so I can immerse myself in the Word.
(Actually, when I looked online, it appears that someone has translated it. http://www.sinaiticus.com/. No matter, I want to see the original text.)
Links:
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2008/07/24/online-codex-sinaiticus.html
http://www.sinaiticus.com/
http://www.codexsinaiticus.org/en/
Friday, July 25, 2008
What Is Done In Secret
Matthew 6:1-24 TNIV
1 "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' in front of others, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
I have noticed more and more, how people like to stand up on their soapboxes. "I did this" and "I did that".
Hello?
Did we miss something here? Unclear on the concept?
When you stand up on your soapbox and flaunt what you've done to help others, that's all you're going to get out of it. Yes, people will oooh and aaah over you. But that's it. That's all you get -- your own worldly self satisfaction.
I don't think I want somebody I don't even know admiring me for an act of charity. Especially something that the Lord has mandated me to do. So whose opinion is most important?
Not somebody down the block.
Not somebody around the corner.
Not somebody on the Internet.
Not somebody at church.
Only the Lord is important. He sees me as I am, inside and out. Good and bad.
In fact, He sees me in a way that I don't see myself. A better way than I think I am.
I am all too aware that I still sin.
But He sees me, all of me, and He thinks I'm worthy to be Saved.
Let me be worthy of His trust in me. And let me trust Him through all the days of my life.
That includes remembering that I'm not supposed to jump up and down, boasting about what little I can do in this world to help others. Let me just help them, like Jesus wants me to. It doesn't matter if anyone else knows what I've done.
HE knows.
What is done in secret receives its own reward, whether the act was good or evil.
It's up to me to make sure it's good.
He knows.
1 "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' in front of others, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
I have noticed more and more, how people like to stand up on their soapboxes. "I did this" and "I did that".
Hello?
Did we miss something here? Unclear on the concept?
When you stand up on your soapbox and flaunt what you've done to help others, that's all you're going to get out of it. Yes, people will oooh and aaah over you. But that's it. That's all you get -- your own worldly self satisfaction.
I don't think I want somebody I don't even know admiring me for an act of charity. Especially something that the Lord has mandated me to do. So whose opinion is most important?
Not somebody down the block.
Not somebody around the corner.
Not somebody on the Internet.
Not somebody at church.
Only the Lord is important. He sees me as I am, inside and out. Good and bad.
In fact, He sees me in a way that I don't see myself. A better way than I think I am.
I am all too aware that I still sin.
But He sees me, all of me, and He thinks I'm worthy to be Saved.
Let me be worthy of His trust in me. And let me trust Him through all the days of my life.
That includes remembering that I'm not supposed to jump up and down, boasting about what little I can do in this world to help others. Let me just help them, like Jesus wants me to. It doesn't matter if anyone else knows what I've done.
HE knows.
What is done in secret receives its own reward, whether the act was good or evil.
It's up to me to make sure it's good.
He knows.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
The Silver Rule
I'm pretty sure we all know about the Golden Rule:
Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.
I'm not so sure people know about the Silver Rule:
Don't let anybody do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
I know, you're saying, "Huh?"
No, it doesn't exactly say that in the Bible.
But listen to me, just because you're a Christian doesn't mean that you have to be a sucker.
There are a lot of false prophets out there. There are a lot of scammers trying to take advantage of your good heart and good intentions. The Bible warns us against fakes and frauds.
If you would never take advantage of someone's belief system, then don't let anyone take advantage of yours. If someone starts telling you what you need to do or give them so Jesus will help you, STOP!
Jesus doesn't need a middleman. Remember, you have a direct line to the Spirit. You don't need to be brokered into a deal with the Lord, you can ask Him yourself!
God is watching over us all, and you need to take these "if it sounds too good to be true" deals straight to Him. Take it to the Word.
If the preacher promises you a tenfold increase tomorrow if you just give him a thousand dollars today, RUN! That's not the Bible, that's the world tempting you to do wrong.
If the Lord wants you to give the man (or woman) $1000, the Spirit will speak to you. You'll know what you need to do. It will be clear.
You don't have to be pressured by a fast talking sales pitch from someone pretending to speak for the Lord.
Don't let anyone do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
If you have a question, take it straight to the Word.
If you have a doubt, take it straight to the Word.
If you have needs, take them straight to the Word.
You don't need a middleman.
Jesus is here for you, right now, every day, everywhere. All you have to do is speak His name, sit down, have a nice talk with Him about what's going on.
Yeah, I know, you're telling yourself, "But He didn't give me a clear answer about that donation the preacher was demanding."
Let me ask you, did you become more and more uncomfortable about it? The more you thought about it, the worse you felt?
That was your answer.
The Spirit speaks in a quiet voice.
Satan shouts. Shouts and carries on and demands.
The Spirit doesn't have to shout.
Don't let anyone do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
Just because you're a Christian doesn't mean you have to fall for every con artist that comes down the road.
Oh, and just because you met him/her at church, doesn't mean that their intentions are Godly.
Don't let anyone do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
The Golden Rule and the Silver Rule.
Good rules for you to remember as you follow your Path through this life.
Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.
I'm not so sure people know about the Silver Rule:
Don't let anybody do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
I know, you're saying, "Huh?"
No, it doesn't exactly say that in the Bible.
But listen to me, just because you're a Christian doesn't mean that you have to be a sucker.
There are a lot of false prophets out there. There are a lot of scammers trying to take advantage of your good heart and good intentions. The Bible warns us against fakes and frauds.
If you would never take advantage of someone's belief system, then don't let anyone take advantage of yours. If someone starts telling you what you need to do or give them so Jesus will help you, STOP!
Jesus doesn't need a middleman. Remember, you have a direct line to the Spirit. You don't need to be brokered into a deal with the Lord, you can ask Him yourself!
God is watching over us all, and you need to take these "if it sounds too good to be true" deals straight to Him. Take it to the Word.
If the preacher promises you a tenfold increase tomorrow if you just give him a thousand dollars today, RUN! That's not the Bible, that's the world tempting you to do wrong.
If the Lord wants you to give the man (or woman) $1000, the Spirit will speak to you. You'll know what you need to do. It will be clear.
You don't have to be pressured by a fast talking sales pitch from someone pretending to speak for the Lord.
Don't let anyone do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
If you have a question, take it straight to the Word.
If you have a doubt, take it straight to the Word.
If you have needs, take them straight to the Word.
You don't need a middleman.
Jesus is here for you, right now, every day, everywhere. All you have to do is speak His name, sit down, have a nice talk with Him about what's going on.
Yeah, I know, you're telling yourself, "But He didn't give me a clear answer about that donation the preacher was demanding."
Let me ask you, did you become more and more uncomfortable about it? The more you thought about it, the worse you felt?
That was your answer.
The Spirit speaks in a quiet voice.
Satan shouts. Shouts and carries on and demands.
The Spirit doesn't have to shout.
Don't let anyone do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
Just because you're a Christian doesn't mean you have to fall for every con artist that comes down the road.
Oh, and just because you met him/her at church, doesn't mean that their intentions are Godly.
Don't let anyone do anything to you that you wouldn't do to them.
The Golden Rule and the Silver Rule.
Good rules for you to remember as you follow your Path through this life.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Deep Blue Sea
My daughter and I were watching Deep Blue Sea last night.
Yeah, it's not the best movie out there. And I'm sure you're asking, "Why is she talking about this movie in this blog? Instead of over on razzberry-jam where she talks about life and art and movies and books?"
I have a purpose here.
The movie was OK. Not super bad, not Academy Award material, but for once the Black guy lived. And not only the Black guy, the CHRISTIAN Black guy.
Hey!
That's a welcome change from the usual scenario!
Usually the Black guy dies and the movie openly discounts and disrespects the Power of the Lord. Instead, LL Cool J portrays a recovering alcoholic, born again Christian who prays, wears his cross openly, tells the other characters that God is in charge and knows what's going on, and in fact is saved by the cross around his neck in a most practical (and kinda gruesome) way.
You might not approve of the theme, of the language, of the type of movie, but look at the underlying issues before entirely discounting it.
The Christian Brother relies on the Lord and survives. The scientists meddling with nature all die. The last one sacrifices herself. I don't want to say more than that, if you're curious, you should watch the movie and then decide if it's appropriate for your teens.
But remember, sometimes the best lessons about the Lord are through mediums that we don't normally consider.
Oh, and about LL Cool J? He really is a Christian, lives with his wife and four kids, and had a music label he started in 1993 called P.O.G. (Power Of God). Since it folded, LL has founded another record label, "Platinum Harvest".
(Hey, I should get my daughter to do some songs and submit them to his label! That would be way cool! I've always liked LL, his music and oh my, he's a cutie pie. And yes, married men are OFF-LIMITS, so I can admire him from afar without my mind going into sinful thoughts.)
Deep Blue Sea, 1999, Warner Brothers. Available on DVD.
Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LL_Cool_J
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deep_Blue_Sea (Spoiler alert!! Don't read this link if you don't want to know what happens in the movie!)
Yeah, it's not the best movie out there. And I'm sure you're asking, "Why is she talking about this movie in this blog? Instead of over on razzberry-jam where she talks about life and art and movies and books?"
I have a purpose here.
The movie was OK. Not super bad, not Academy Award material, but for once the Black guy lived. And not only the Black guy, the CHRISTIAN Black guy.
Hey!
That's a welcome change from the usual scenario!
Usually the Black guy dies and the movie openly discounts and disrespects the Power of the Lord. Instead, LL Cool J portrays a recovering alcoholic, born again Christian who prays, wears his cross openly, tells the other characters that God is in charge and knows what's going on, and in fact is saved by the cross around his neck in a most practical (and kinda gruesome) way.
You might not approve of the theme, of the language, of the type of movie, but look at the underlying issues before entirely discounting it.
The Christian Brother relies on the Lord and survives. The scientists meddling with nature all die. The last one sacrifices herself. I don't want to say more than that, if you're curious, you should watch the movie and then decide if it's appropriate for your teens.
But remember, sometimes the best lessons about the Lord are through mediums that we don't normally consider.
Oh, and about LL Cool J? He really is a Christian, lives with his wife and four kids, and had a music label he started in 1993 called P.O.G. (Power Of God). Since it folded, LL has founded another record label, "Platinum Harvest".
(Hey, I should get my daughter to do some songs and submit them to his label! That would be way cool! I've always liked LL, his music and oh my, he's a cutie pie. And yes, married men are OFF-LIMITS, so I can admire him from afar without my mind going into sinful thoughts.)
Deep Blue Sea, 1999, Warner Brothers. Available on DVD.
Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LL_Cool_J
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deep_Blue_Sea (Spoiler alert!! Don't read this link if you don't want to know what happens in the movie!)
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Let It Be According To Your Will
Last weekend, my Pastor was praying over the issue of homosexual marriage. He was praying against the implementation of marriage between same sex couples.
As you know, I think that same sex marriage is OK.
How do I reconcile my beliefs with my Pastor and church's beliefs?
Like Obama, I'm not going to change my church over a prayer that doesn't necessarily reflect my personal beliefs about certain issues.
Why should I? While my church is more conservative than I am, who says that's a bad thing? Pastors are SUPPOSED to teach us, lead us, help us follow God's Word. Even when we don't necessarily quite believe in exactly what Pastor is teaching.
So what do I do when these conflicts arise?
I pray, along with my church, in fervent prayer.
My prayer is, "Let it all be according to Your Will."
I then leave it all in His most capable Hands.
Yes, not everyone at my church agrees with my personal beliefs regarding this issue. I'm quite sure that there are many things that I hold near and dear that they don't believe in. As well as the reverse.
Unlike some of my brothers and sisters in Christ, I do my best to leave it in the Lord's hands. Maybe you think it's wishy-washy. However, I think of it as doing what God commanded me to do, submit my will and give it all to Him.
So that's what I try to do.
"Let it all be according to Your Will."
As you know, I think that same sex marriage is OK.
How do I reconcile my beliefs with my Pastor and church's beliefs?
Like Obama, I'm not going to change my church over a prayer that doesn't necessarily reflect my personal beliefs about certain issues.
Why should I? While my church is more conservative than I am, who says that's a bad thing? Pastors are SUPPOSED to teach us, lead us, help us follow God's Word. Even when we don't necessarily quite believe in exactly what Pastor is teaching.
So what do I do when these conflicts arise?
I pray, along with my church, in fervent prayer.
My prayer is, "Let it all be according to Your Will."
I then leave it all in His most capable Hands.
Yes, not everyone at my church agrees with my personal beliefs regarding this issue. I'm quite sure that there are many things that I hold near and dear that they don't believe in. As well as the reverse.
Unlike some of my brothers and sisters in Christ, I do my best to leave it in the Lord's hands. Maybe you think it's wishy-washy. However, I think of it as doing what God commanded me to do, submit my will and give it all to Him.
So that's what I try to do.
"Let it all be according to Your Will."
Friday, May 30, 2008
I Believe In Miracles
The story of Adam Taliaferro is a great one.
A young man brought down by a devastating football injury, paralyzed, his parents told that he'd never walk again. Adam was given only a 3% chance of recovery.
Six months later, he was walking.
Sure, the articles I've referenced below talk about the doctors, the therapy, Adam's determination to beat the odds. All that is good.
But Adam had more than that, he had God. Our God who answers all prayers.
I believe in miracles and God gave Adam one.
There were many prayers for this young man, from the moment he lay unmoving on that football field, through surgery, during the days and weeks and months of his recovery. Prayer covered him, sustained him, and his healing came.
Not all healings come in a flashing moment. Many come through Prayer, Faith, Belief, in the Knowingness of God's mighty power and the willingness of His people to work hard, do all we can do, and submit the rest to Him.
Some religions will tell you that there are no more miracles here on this earth. That's a lie straight from Satan himself. I have seen miracles happen. I believe in miracles.
America saw one happen when Adam walked again.
Seven years after being paralyzed, Adam has graduated from law school, receiving his law degree on May 22, 2008.
He walked down that aisle.
He walked.
And the Spirit of God walked with him.
http://www.beatingtheodds.org/adam.html
http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2001/07/07-25-01cm/07-25-01cm-7.asp
http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Hoop/7191/Adam_T_Olympic_T.html
http://www.virtua.org/page.cfm?id=healthsavvy_display&savvyID=61
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Taliaferro
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/19170329.html
A young man brought down by a devastating football injury, paralyzed, his parents told that he'd never walk again. Adam was given only a 3% chance of recovery.
Six months later, he was walking.
Sure, the articles I've referenced below talk about the doctors, the therapy, Adam's determination to beat the odds. All that is good.
But Adam had more than that, he had God. Our God who answers all prayers.
I believe in miracles and God gave Adam one.
There were many prayers for this young man, from the moment he lay unmoving on that football field, through surgery, during the days and weeks and months of his recovery. Prayer covered him, sustained him, and his healing came.
Not all healings come in a flashing moment. Many come through Prayer, Faith, Belief, in the Knowingness of God's mighty power and the willingness of His people to work hard, do all we can do, and submit the rest to Him.
Some religions will tell you that there are no more miracles here on this earth. That's a lie straight from Satan himself. I have seen miracles happen. I believe in miracles.
America saw one happen when Adam walked again.
Seven years after being paralyzed, Adam has graduated from law school, receiving his law degree on May 22, 2008.
He walked down that aisle.
He walked.
And the Spirit of God walked with him.
http://www.beatingtheodds.org/adam.html
http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2001/07/07-25-01cm/07-25-01cm-7.asp
http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Hoop/7191/Adam_T_Olympic_T.html
http://www.virtua.org/page.cfm?id=healthsavvy_display&savvyID=61
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Taliaferro
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/19170329.html
Sunday, May 18, 2008
I've Been Healed
I've not said anything until now.
It's been two weeks since my epiphany of what my Brother had said to me, about it being the Knowingness.
What I didn't reveal was that on that same morning, as the Spirit flowed, prophesy was spoken, healings were happening, that I too had a healing.
I hurt my knees two years ago and it's been a long and slow recovery. I've had to take a prescription anti-inflammatory to keep the swelling down enough that I was merely in pain.
Merely in pain.
But two weeks ago, I was deep in the flow of the Spirit, up in the back of the church. And when Pastor started speaking the Word and the Spirit moved through the church like a wave of the silver ocean, I flowed with it, I felt it working in me.
I was healed.
I haven't had those pain meds since. Tylenol, yes, but for muscle aches and headaches. Not for my poor, long-suffering, abused knees.
I am healed.
It really is in the Knowing of God and letting His Spirit move.
I am healed.
Hallelujah!!
It's been two weeks since my epiphany of what my Brother had said to me, about it being the Knowingness.
What I didn't reveal was that on that same morning, as the Spirit flowed, prophesy was spoken, healings were happening, that I too had a healing.
I hurt my knees two years ago and it's been a long and slow recovery. I've had to take a prescription anti-inflammatory to keep the swelling down enough that I was merely in pain.
Merely in pain.
But two weeks ago, I was deep in the flow of the Spirit, up in the back of the church. And when Pastor started speaking the Word and the Spirit moved through the church like a wave of the silver ocean, I flowed with it, I felt it working in me.
I was healed.
I haven't had those pain meds since. Tylenol, yes, but for muscle aches and headaches. Not for my poor, long-suffering, abused knees.
I am healed.
It really is in the Knowing of God and letting His Spirit move.
I am healed.
Hallelujah!!
Monday, May 12, 2008
It's The Word Of God
Recently I was sitting with some other parents at our kids' hockey game. Another boy's parents came rushing in, they'd been at a Bar Mitzvah that morning, so they looked so nice, all dressed up.
As the game went on, Mom was talking to another parent about the event. I guess she'd never been to one.
She was talking about the scroll that they read from, how it was treated with such reverence. She asked her husband about it and he said that it was hand written and very old.
She was very impressed and started talking about how it was no wonder that they treated it with such respect, so carefully. She was really impressed.
And then her husband said, ever so gently, "They treat it so carefully because it's the Word of God."
She was silent.
Sometimes we forget that the material manifestation of God may be a Bible or a Scroll, but in either case, it's still the literal Word of God.
It's the Word of God.
To be treated with all respect.
As the game went on, Mom was talking to another parent about the event. I guess she'd never been to one.
She was talking about the scroll that they read from, how it was treated with such reverence. She asked her husband about it and he said that it was hand written and very old.
She was very impressed and started talking about how it was no wonder that they treated it with such respect, so carefully. She was really impressed.
And then her husband said, ever so gently, "They treat it so carefully because it's the Word of God."
She was silent.
Sometimes we forget that the material manifestation of God may be a Bible or a Scroll, but in either case, it's still the literal Word of God.
It's the Word of God.
To be treated with all respect.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
It's In The Knowing
I was sitting in church on Sunday and it was DEEP. The Spirit was flowing, prophesy was spoken, healings were happening.
But I was thinking. I was thinking hard about something a friend said to me.
I had posted something about how even Satan believes in God.
My friend corrected me, "satan KNOWS there is a God!! belief is for those who arent sure!! Knowingness is for those that KNOW!!!!"
It caught me, there in church, I realized that it's more than Faith, it's more than Belief.
I KNOW God is here, in me, around me, everywhere, always.
Yes, the Spirit was moving mightily on Sunday.
Why else would I think of this conversation, six months later, and suddenly have the epiphany of exactly what my friend meant?
I caught what Jesus was trying to teach us.
Thomas was a Believer, but even in his Faith, he doubted.
Peter, Paul, they KNEW. And in their Knowing, the Spirit moved in and through them.
We have to KNOW Jesus so we can be Christ-like in all we do.
Not just Believe and not just have Faith. That's not enough.
It's in the Knowing.
But I was thinking. I was thinking hard about something a friend said to me.
I had posted something about how even Satan believes in God.
My friend corrected me, "satan KNOWS there is a God!! belief is for those who arent sure!! Knowingness is for those that KNOW!!!!"
It caught me, there in church, I realized that it's more than Faith, it's more than Belief.
I KNOW God is here, in me, around me, everywhere, always.
Yes, the Spirit was moving mightily on Sunday.
Why else would I think of this conversation, six months later, and suddenly have the epiphany of exactly what my friend meant?
I caught what Jesus was trying to teach us.
Thomas was a Believer, but even in his Faith, he doubted.
Peter, Paul, they KNEW. And in their Knowing, the Spirit moved in and through them.
We have to KNOW Jesus so we can be Christ-like in all we do.
Not just Believe and not just have Faith. That's not enough.
It's in the Knowing.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Music Opens The Heart
Last weekend, I had a couple of friends over for cake and ice cream for my birthday.
My daughter, bless her hard headed self, decided that she would bless us with her singing. So she stood in the living room and sang "Be Blessed" for my friends.
She brought my one friend, a kinda hardened, crusty old guy, to tears.
Yes, she did.
He even admitted it.
Music is one way that we as Christians can open the hearts, minds, souls of those who are trying to resist the call of God. Music opens a door that the Lord can use to work His Will upon even the most hard hearted, strong willed person.
There's good reason why we have praise and worship before we have the lesson at church. Music opens us up, makes us willing recipients of the Word. It pushes the world away as voices and then hands raise in worship. We become open to the Lord.
Then His Word reaches, teaches us.
Music opens the heart, not just among the unsaved, but among His chosen people as well.
I would urge you today, turn on the music. Put on the spiritual songs that touch your heart. Let Him work on you today.
Hallelujah, hallelujah. Raise your voice to sing to Him today.
Hallelujah.
My daughter, bless her hard headed self, decided that she would bless us with her singing. So she stood in the living room and sang "Be Blessed" for my friends.
She brought my one friend, a kinda hardened, crusty old guy, to tears.
Yes, she did.
He even admitted it.
Music is one way that we as Christians can open the hearts, minds, souls of those who are trying to resist the call of God. Music opens a door that the Lord can use to work His Will upon even the most hard hearted, strong willed person.
There's good reason why we have praise and worship before we have the lesson at church. Music opens us up, makes us willing recipients of the Word. It pushes the world away as voices and then hands raise in worship. We become open to the Lord.
Then His Word reaches, teaches us.
Music opens the heart, not just among the unsaved, but among His chosen people as well.
I would urge you today, turn on the music. Put on the spiritual songs that touch your heart. Let Him work on you today.
Hallelujah, hallelujah. Raise your voice to sing to Him today.
Hallelujah.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Even The Best Of God's People Make Terrible Mistakes
Yes, even the best of God's people make terrible mistakes.
For example, David lusted after and took loyal Uriah's wife. A terrible mistake.
When poor Bathsheba became pregnant (poor woman -- what foolish person would say no to the king?), he arranged that Uriah would die in battle. Bad decisions follow terrible mistakes. Trying to cover up a sin is just asking for more trouble to follow.
David made a terrible, terrible mistake and then tried to hide it. Action, then reaction.
For his mistake and his bad decisions afterward, he paid a horrible price. The consequences were worse than he could have imagined.
15 ...the LORD struck the child that Uriah's wife had borne to David, and he became ill.
16 David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and went into his house and spent the nights lying on the ground.
17 The elders of his household stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he refused, and he would not eat any food with them.
18 On the seventh day the child died. David's servants were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they thought, "While the child was still living, we spoke to David but he would not listen to us. How can we tell him the child is dead? He may do something desperate."
19 David noticed that his servants were whispering among themselves and he realized the child was dead. "Is the child dead?" he asked. "Yes," they replied, "he is dead."
20 Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the LORD and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate
21 His servants asked him, "Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!"
22 He answered, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.'
23 But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me."
24 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and lay with her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The LORD loved him;
25 and because the LORD loved him, he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah. [loved by the Lord] -- 2 Samuel 12:15-25
Yes, in the end, David did the right thing. He repented. He prayed. He worshipped the Lord. He did what little he could (at this point) to make things right. He comforted Bathsheba (now his wife) and from them came Solomon, who was loved by the Lord.
Even the best of God's people make terrible mistakes.
The moral of this story is meant for all of us.
Do we learn from our mistakes and do we deal with the consequences?
Do we rail against God? Or do we repent of our sins and move forward?
Do we choose to avoid responsibility for our actions, or do we accept it and get back on the right Path?
As Christians, we are held to a high standard. We try and all too often we fail. Yet, as we repent of our sins, we step up, we get back into the Path that the Lord has laid before us. We walk the walk, one step at a time, every day.
Just as David did.
Actions.
Reactions.
Then consequences.
David paid a terrible price for his actions and reactions.
Yes, even the best of us make terrible mistakes.
For example, David lusted after and took loyal Uriah's wife. A terrible mistake.
When poor Bathsheba became pregnant (poor woman -- what foolish person would say no to the king?), he arranged that Uriah would die in battle. Bad decisions follow terrible mistakes. Trying to cover up a sin is just asking for more trouble to follow.
David made a terrible, terrible mistake and then tried to hide it. Action, then reaction.
For his mistake and his bad decisions afterward, he paid a horrible price. The consequences were worse than he could have imagined.
15 ...the LORD struck the child that Uriah's wife had borne to David, and he became ill.
16 David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and went into his house and spent the nights lying on the ground.
17 The elders of his household stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he refused, and he would not eat any food with them.
18 On the seventh day the child died. David's servants were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they thought, "While the child was still living, we spoke to David but he would not listen to us. How can we tell him the child is dead? He may do something desperate."
19 David noticed that his servants were whispering among themselves and he realized the child was dead. "Is the child dead?" he asked. "Yes," they replied, "he is dead."
20 Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the LORD and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate
21 His servants asked him, "Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!"
22 He answered, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.'
23 But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me."
24 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and lay with her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The LORD loved him;
25 and because the LORD loved him, he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah. [loved by the Lord] -- 2 Samuel 12:15-25
Yes, in the end, David did the right thing. He repented. He prayed. He worshipped the Lord. He did what little he could (at this point) to make things right. He comforted Bathsheba (now his wife) and from them came Solomon, who was loved by the Lord.
Even the best of God's people make terrible mistakes.
The moral of this story is meant for all of us.
Do we learn from our mistakes and do we deal with the consequences?
Do we rail against God? Or do we repent of our sins and move forward?
Do we choose to avoid responsibility for our actions, or do we accept it and get back on the right Path?
As Christians, we are held to a high standard. We try and all too often we fail. Yet, as we repent of our sins, we step up, we get back into the Path that the Lord has laid before us. We walk the walk, one step at a time, every day.
Just as David did.
Actions.
Reactions.
Then consequences.
David paid a terrible price for his actions and reactions.
Yes, even the best of us make terrible mistakes.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
God Always Answers
Yes, I believe in that with all my heart. God ALWAYS answers our prayers.
And this is the confidence we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His Will, He heareth us:
And if we know that He hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him. 1 John 5:14-15
However, we humans tend to hear what we want to hear, skipping the most important part of the whole verse. What part of "according to His Will" did we not understand?
Yes, God always answers.
Sometimes it's "Yes".
Sometimes it's "No".
Sometimes it's "You've GOT to be kidding". (Although I know He knows I'm not kidding, the response makes me wake up to the selfishness or foolishness of my prayer.)
And sometimes, sadly, it's "I'm going to say yes, because there's a lesson you must learn in this. But you will be sorry".
Oh, I so hate that last answer. I heard that one so many times and, after I've learned the lesson, I've had to repent and pray to Him, submitting my will to His, asking Him to guide me in all things. Which, naturally, was part of the lesson.
Yes, I'm an obstinate child of God.
But you know, I'm so, so grateful that He is always here for me.
He always answers my prayers.
Always.
And this is the confidence we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His Will, He heareth us:
And if we know that He hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him. 1 John 5:14-15
However, we humans tend to hear what we want to hear, skipping the most important part of the whole verse. What part of "according to His Will" did we not understand?
Yes, God always answers.
Sometimes it's "Yes".
Sometimes it's "No".
Sometimes it's "You've GOT to be kidding". (Although I know He knows I'm not kidding, the response makes me wake up to the selfishness or foolishness of my prayer.)
And sometimes, sadly, it's "I'm going to say yes, because there's a lesson you must learn in this. But you will be sorry".
Oh, I so hate that last answer. I heard that one so many times and, after I've learned the lesson, I've had to repent and pray to Him, submitting my will to His, asking Him to guide me in all things. Which, naturally, was part of the lesson.
Yes, I'm an obstinate child of God.
But you know, I'm so, so grateful that He is always here for me.
He always answers my prayers.
Always.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
The False Division In The Mind
I'm going to return to the topic, "There Is No Conflict".
I've started reading the most interesting book, Spiritual Evolution, edited by John Marks Templeton and Kenneth Seeman Giniger. It's a collection of essays written by scientists about their spiritual journeys.
Yes, despite what the world believes, scientists also have spiritual journeys.
What really struck me was "Tracks In Snow" by Dr. Larry Dossey, a doctor of internal medicine.
Dr Dossey was speaking of his journey while in college:
"...One could choose, on one hand, to be rational, analytical, logical, and scientific. Or one could choose to be intuitive, religious, spiritual, and intellectually reckless. It was obvious to me that these two psychological vectors -- science and 'the spiritual' -- were inherently incompatible and could not be harmonized.
"Although today I regard these choices as artificial, at the time they seemed valid and ineluctable. They persist in our colleges and universities. These choices are, literally, schizophrenic because they create a false division in the mind..."
I agree with his evaluation of this situation.
However, I want to take this a bit further. I think that we as the Body should teach our kids that we CAN believe in God, the Bible, the Word, without sacrificing the seeking, the exploration, the discoveries of science.
As I've said before, science is reaching to learn the mysteries of the Universe that God has created, it's seeking to rewrite what is already Written.
There is nothing wrong with seeking to learn all that we can about life, the world and the Universe.
If we weren't meant to use our brains, why did God give them to us?
Yes, exactly. He expects us to learn, the explore, to share the knowledge that we find. He expects us to be all that we can be.
The only problem is that we think there's a problem.
Think about it. If all good things come from God, why would we think that science, medicine, astronomy, the arts, even evolution didn't come from God? Why would we think that we discovered these things all on our own?
I submit to you, my brothers and sisters, that God has provided it all to us.
We are busy little creatures and we have to stay busy or, like all children, we get ourselves into trouble. He knows how we are, so He has provided many mysteries for us to ferret out.
We should thank Him for Blessing us with things to do, discover, invent.
There is no conflict, except the ones we create in our limited understanding of the Creation.
We need to stop creating false divisions.
Science has a valid place in our lives, we depend on it every day. We use it every day. Computers, the Internet, planes, trains, automobiles, electricity, eyeglasses, antibiotics, we use science all the time.
There is nothing wrong with science UNLESS we base our spiritual lives on it. How can you base your Faith on something that's only a tiny part of the Whole? Why limit yourself in such a simplistic way?
Have Faith, there really is no conflict.
Really.
Link:
http://www.dosseydossey.com/larry/default.html
I've started reading the most interesting book, Spiritual Evolution, edited by John Marks Templeton and Kenneth Seeman Giniger. It's a collection of essays written by scientists about their spiritual journeys.
Yes, despite what the world believes, scientists also have spiritual journeys.
What really struck me was "Tracks In Snow" by Dr. Larry Dossey, a doctor of internal medicine.
Dr Dossey was speaking of his journey while in college:
"...One could choose, on one hand, to be rational, analytical, logical, and scientific. Or one could choose to be intuitive, religious, spiritual, and intellectually reckless. It was obvious to me that these two psychological vectors -- science and 'the spiritual' -- were inherently incompatible and could not be harmonized.
"Although today I regard these choices as artificial, at the time they seemed valid and ineluctable. They persist in our colleges and universities. These choices are, literally, schizophrenic because they create a false division in the mind..."
I agree with his evaluation of this situation.
However, I want to take this a bit further. I think that we as the Body should teach our kids that we CAN believe in God, the Bible, the Word, without sacrificing the seeking, the exploration, the discoveries of science.
As I've said before, science is reaching to learn the mysteries of the Universe that God has created, it's seeking to rewrite what is already Written.
There is nothing wrong with seeking to learn all that we can about life, the world and the Universe.
If we weren't meant to use our brains, why did God give them to us?
Yes, exactly. He expects us to learn, the explore, to share the knowledge that we find. He expects us to be all that we can be.
The only problem is that we think there's a problem.
Think about it. If all good things come from God, why would we think that science, medicine, astronomy, the arts, even evolution didn't come from God? Why would we think that we discovered these things all on our own?
I submit to you, my brothers and sisters, that God has provided it all to us.
We are busy little creatures and we have to stay busy or, like all children, we get ourselves into trouble. He knows how we are, so He has provided many mysteries for us to ferret out.
We should thank Him for Blessing us with things to do, discover, invent.
There is no conflict, except the ones we create in our limited understanding of the Creation.
We need to stop creating false divisions.
Science has a valid place in our lives, we depend on it every day. We use it every day. Computers, the Internet, planes, trains, automobiles, electricity, eyeglasses, antibiotics, we use science all the time.
There is nothing wrong with science UNLESS we base our spiritual lives on it. How can you base your Faith on something that's only a tiny part of the Whole? Why limit yourself in such a simplistic way?
Have Faith, there really is no conflict.
Really.
Link:
http://www.dosseydossey.com/larry/default.html
Sunday, February 24, 2008
What Is Heaven?
What is Heaven?
Is it a place where the angels sing and we flit here and there?
Is it a place where I can eat all the chocolate I want, and never get fat?
Is the disco ball making the stars in the heavens sparkle, and we're all boogeying down on the night shift?
Is more than my mind can ever imagine?
Yes, I think that's it. Heaven is more. More than my puny little mind can imagine.
And when it's time to go Home, I think that my mind, my spirit, my soul will expand out of this mortal body, free to expand out across the millions of dimensions, to join the Whole that we know as God.
And He will be more than I could ever image.
Is it a place where the angels sing and we flit here and there?
Is it a place where I can eat all the chocolate I want, and never get fat?
Is the disco ball making the stars in the heavens sparkle, and we're all boogeying down on the night shift?
Is more than my mind can ever imagine?
Yes, I think that's it. Heaven is more. More than my puny little mind can imagine.
And when it's time to go Home, I think that my mind, my spirit, my soul will expand out of this mortal body, free to expand out across the millions of dimensions, to join the Whole that we know as God.
And He will be more than I could ever image.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
There Is No Conflict
Yes, I know, as a Christian that believes in the Word of the Bible, there seems to be a lot of conflicts between what is Written and the secular world.
I have a Word for you all.
There is no conflict.
Yes, I know the Bible says God created it all in 6 days, and on the 7th He rested. Science says the earth is billions of years old.
God created Man. Science says we evolved.
My brothers and sisters, there is NO conflict.
How can I say that?
We are looking at this from God's point of view, from His Word written for us.
Science is looking over at the backside of the earth and the sun and the moon and the stars, trying to recreate what has already been Written.
And no one realizes that we're looking at exactly the same things.
There is no conflict.
However, our limited understanding, plus our limited ability to see and hear and feel all the world that God has made for us, leads us to many, many conclusions, perhaps even misconceptions.
How long ago was it that we believed the world was flat? That the earth was the center of the universe?
Yes, not that long ago.
How long ago did we realize that there are more colors than our eyes can see? More sounds than our ears can hear? More smells than our noses can distinguish? And if that is true, then isn't it entirely possible that there is so much more out there in the universe? Things that we don't even know to look for?
How long ago did we start to realize that there are more than 3 or 4 dimensions? Yes, not that long ago either.
Besides our inability to see, hear, feel, smell, touch all the possibilities of the world, our humanity makes us suseptible to vain imaginings. We make things way more complicated than they are. And we also try to explain complicated things we don't understand in words that are far too simple to even start to encompass the world God blessed us with.
We keep trying to limit God to fit our understanding.
There is no conflict.
There is only our limited ability to comprehend the vastness of the universe -- and the infinity of God.
Accept, have Faith, realize that there doesn't have to be an argument.
Because there is no conflict.
I have a Word for you all.
There is no conflict.
Yes, I know the Bible says God created it all in 6 days, and on the 7th He rested. Science says the earth is billions of years old.
God created Man. Science says we evolved.
My brothers and sisters, there is NO conflict.
How can I say that?
We are looking at this from God's point of view, from His Word written for us.
Science is looking over at the backside of the earth and the sun and the moon and the stars, trying to recreate what has already been Written.
And no one realizes that we're looking at exactly the same things.
There is no conflict.
However, our limited understanding, plus our limited ability to see and hear and feel all the world that God has made for us, leads us to many, many conclusions, perhaps even misconceptions.
How long ago was it that we believed the world was flat? That the earth was the center of the universe?
Yes, not that long ago.
How long ago did we realize that there are more colors than our eyes can see? More sounds than our ears can hear? More smells than our noses can distinguish? And if that is true, then isn't it entirely possible that there is so much more out there in the universe? Things that we don't even know to look for?
How long ago did we start to realize that there are more than 3 or 4 dimensions? Yes, not that long ago either.
Besides our inability to see, hear, feel, smell, touch all the possibilities of the world, our humanity makes us suseptible to vain imaginings. We make things way more complicated than they are. And we also try to explain complicated things we don't understand in words that are far too simple to even start to encompass the world God blessed us with.
We keep trying to limit God to fit our understanding.
There is no conflict.
There is only our limited ability to comprehend the vastness of the universe -- and the infinity of God.
Accept, have Faith, realize that there doesn't have to be an argument.
Because there is no conflict.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Render Unto Caesar...
Yes, it's that lovely time of year again, when we get out the sharpened pencils and calculators, the receipts and W-2s and 1099s, and sit for hours at our desks.
I just e-filed my taxes this morning.
Once more, I balanced out pretty well. I don't believe in big refunds. Why would I give my money to the government, just so I can fill out paperwork and get my own money back next year? That makes no sense at all! I try to take just enough deductions and have just enough withheld that I don't have to pay anything to the IRS at the end of the year.
Now, don't get me wrong, I do my taxes every year, and yes, I look for every legal deduction I can get. There is nothing wrong with that.
However, I do have a problem. There are just too many people who don't think they should have to do their taxes. They use false doctrines presented by people who do NOT have their best interests in mind.
Nobody likes to pay taxes. Nobody.
However, we all benefit from having a government that makes laws, takes care of the roads and economy. We may not always agree with the government, but we are Blessed here in America; we have the right to vote the scoundrals out and vote new ones in.
But back to the annual flauntings of tax scofflaws. There are plenty of scams out there, just check www.irs.gov. All too many of the Body are sucked into the scams and lies of the evil one. Yes, the evil one. Misdirection, lies, scams presented by fast talking tax preparers who are only out to collect your money. If the IRS catches up to them, they'll turn over on you in a heartbeat. If the IRS catches up to you, they'll abandon you without a thought, taking no responsibility for their slick lies.
Well, I have a thought for all of us. If we aren't supposed to pay taxes, how do we explain Mathew 22:15-22?
15 Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk.
16 And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.
17 Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?
18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?
19 Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny.
20 And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?
21 They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
22 When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.
To my mind, Jesus was telling them that as long as we live under law, there will be taxes and they must be paid. In addition, He was revealing the methods of the current day tax scofflaws who will suck you into a morass of legal problems, fines, perhaps even jail. The evil one doesn't have to do much, our need to hear that we don't have to cough up money is enough to suck all too many into the trap.
And I have another set of verses which are even more to the point, Mathew 17:25-27.
25 “Yes, he does,” Peter replied. Then he went into the house. But before he had a chance to speak, Jesus asked him, “What do you think, Peter? Do kings tax their own people or the people they have conquered?”
26 “They tax the people they have conquered,” Peter replied. “Well, then,” Jesus said, “the citizens are free!
27 However, we don’t want to offend them, so go down to the lake and throw in a line. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch, and you will find a large silver coin. Take it and pay the tax for both of us.”
Jesus was telling Peter to go with the program. And that includes paying taxes.
Don't be sucked in, my Brothers and Sisters.
At least go to www.irs.gov and check out the lastest scams, and then turn to your Word before you decide to go against the law and Jesus' words.
And remember, Jesus said He didn't come to set aside the law...
I just e-filed my taxes this morning.
Once more, I balanced out pretty well. I don't believe in big refunds. Why would I give my money to the government, just so I can fill out paperwork and get my own money back next year? That makes no sense at all! I try to take just enough deductions and have just enough withheld that I don't have to pay anything to the IRS at the end of the year.
Now, don't get me wrong, I do my taxes every year, and yes, I look for every legal deduction I can get. There is nothing wrong with that.
However, I do have a problem. There are just too many people who don't think they should have to do their taxes. They use false doctrines presented by people who do NOT have their best interests in mind.
Nobody likes to pay taxes. Nobody.
However, we all benefit from having a government that makes laws, takes care of the roads and economy. We may not always agree with the government, but we are Blessed here in America; we have the right to vote the scoundrals out and vote new ones in.
But back to the annual flauntings of tax scofflaws. There are plenty of scams out there, just check www.irs.gov. All too many of the Body are sucked into the scams and lies of the evil one. Yes, the evil one. Misdirection, lies, scams presented by fast talking tax preparers who are only out to collect your money. If the IRS catches up to them, they'll turn over on you in a heartbeat. If the IRS catches up to you, they'll abandon you without a thought, taking no responsibility for their slick lies.
Well, I have a thought for all of us. If we aren't supposed to pay taxes, how do we explain Mathew 22:15-22?
15 Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk.
16 And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.
17 Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?
18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?
19 Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny.
20 And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?
21 They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
22 When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.
To my mind, Jesus was telling them that as long as we live under law, there will be taxes and they must be paid. In addition, He was revealing the methods of the current day tax scofflaws who will suck you into a morass of legal problems, fines, perhaps even jail. The evil one doesn't have to do much, our need to hear that we don't have to cough up money is enough to suck all too many into the trap.
And I have another set of verses which are even more to the point, Mathew 17:25-27.
25 “Yes, he does,” Peter replied. Then he went into the house. But before he had a chance to speak, Jesus asked him, “What do you think, Peter? Do kings tax their own people or the people they have conquered?”
26 “They tax the people they have conquered,” Peter replied. “Well, then,” Jesus said, “the citizens are free!
27 However, we don’t want to offend them, so go down to the lake and throw in a line. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch, and you will find a large silver coin. Take it and pay the tax for both of us.”
Jesus was telling Peter to go with the program. And that includes paying taxes.
Don't be sucked in, my Brothers and Sisters.
At least go to www.irs.gov and check out the lastest scams, and then turn to your Word before you decide to go against the law and Jesus' words.
And remember, Jesus said He didn't come to set aside the law...
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Every Day We're More And More Blessed
Yes, every day we're more and more Blessed.
One of my co-workers was at a meeting last week. There's an event coming up quickly, and one of the organizers said that they wanted someone to sing the Black National Anthem to open the event.
Now, my co-worker has heard my girl sing. She sang the National Anthem at our 9/11 Observance back in September. So he mentioned to the lady that he might know someone.
The funny thing is, neither of these people had any idea that my daughter is already practicing Lift Every Voice And Sing for the concert in San Francisco on February 16th!
So she's going to go and sing for them next week.
They are thrilled. So am I!
More and more, the Lord is putting opportunities in my child's Path. He has a Plan. I'm not sure what it is or where He's taking us, but I'm doing my best to fulfill His expectations of what I, Mom, should do to help my child.
(Don't think she and I don't argue. OMGoodness, there are days we fight like cats and dogs. Nobody said our lives are perfect. LOL, not hardly! But my Brothers and Sisters, God and Love will carry us through these difficult times. More and more, we are Blessed. Hallelujah!)
Celebrating Black History Month
Bethel Temple
San Francisco, CA
February 16th, 6pm
One of my co-workers was at a meeting last week. There's an event coming up quickly, and one of the organizers said that they wanted someone to sing the Black National Anthem to open the event.
Now, my co-worker has heard my girl sing. She sang the National Anthem at our 9/11 Observance back in September. So he mentioned to the lady that he might know someone.
The funny thing is, neither of these people had any idea that my daughter is already practicing Lift Every Voice And Sing for the concert in San Francisco on February 16th!
So she's going to go and sing for them next week.
They are thrilled. So am I!
More and more, the Lord is putting opportunities in my child's Path. He has a Plan. I'm not sure what it is or where He's taking us, but I'm doing my best to fulfill His expectations of what I, Mom, should do to help my child.
(Don't think she and I don't argue. OMGoodness, there are days we fight like cats and dogs. Nobody said our lives are perfect. LOL, not hardly! But my Brothers and Sisters, God and Love will carry us through these difficult times. More and more, we are Blessed. Hallelujah!)
Celebrating Black History Month
Bethel Temple
San Francisco, CA
February 16th, 6pm
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Do Unto Others...
...as you would have them do unto you.
This should be our mantra, day in and day out.
But, you know, my girlfriend and I were talking about my daughter going to the teen retreat, and then we moved on to talking about kids and how we do our best, but at some point, they start making their own decisions. No matter how we raise them, no matter if we're a good or bad examples, kids take their own path. With luck and the Good Lord guiding them, they'll find their way back Home.
Then she mentioned that even the Pastor's son had some issues.
That brought to mind, how hard we are on the preachers' kids.
Poor kids, we as the congregation really have some unrealistic expectations of our pastors' kids.
Our kids can be mess-ups and we pray over them and forgive them for all the crazy things they do.
But let the pastors' kids act up and oh my goodness, you'd think satan himself had entered the church doors!
We are so dang judgemental and unfair to the pastors' kids. No wonder some do bust loose and do some wild things along the way. We pile our hopes and dreams and expectations on the pastors' kids.
They're held to a higher standard. A higher standard than we hold our own kids.
It's not fair to our young people.
We, as the congregation, need to remember those important words:
"Judge not, lest ye be judged"
and
"Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you."
This should be our mantra, day in and day out.
But, you know, my girlfriend and I were talking about my daughter going to the teen retreat, and then we moved on to talking about kids and how we do our best, but at some point, they start making their own decisions. No matter how we raise them, no matter if we're a good or bad examples, kids take their own path. With luck and the Good Lord guiding them, they'll find their way back Home.
Then she mentioned that even the Pastor's son had some issues.
That brought to mind, how hard we are on the preachers' kids.
Poor kids, we as the congregation really have some unrealistic expectations of our pastors' kids.
Our kids can be mess-ups and we pray over them and forgive them for all the crazy things they do.
But let the pastors' kids act up and oh my goodness, you'd think satan himself had entered the church doors!
We are so dang judgemental and unfair to the pastors' kids. No wonder some do bust loose and do some wild things along the way. We pile our hopes and dreams and expectations on the pastors' kids.
They're held to a higher standard. A higher standard than we hold our own kids.
It's not fair to our young people.
We, as the congregation, need to remember those important words:
"Judge not, lest ye be judged"
and
"Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you."
Sunday, January 20, 2008
God Is Working Mightily
My dear child is off to a Christian teen retreat this weekend.
Now, she is a diva, I have to admit that. She's a strong-willed child -- a good child with a temper.
And I'm a strong-willed woman -- a good mom with a temper. No wonder we clash.
Anyway, she called me last night. She called to tell me that she loved me and she's going to do better. That God is working on her. God is working on her mightily.
I told her I love her always. Always. Always. Always.
We'll both try to do better.
God is working mightily. On both of us.
Now, she is a diva, I have to admit that. She's a strong-willed child -- a good child with a temper.
And I'm a strong-willed woman -- a good mom with a temper. No wonder we clash.
Anyway, she called me last night. She called to tell me that she loved me and she's going to do better. That God is working on her. God is working on her mightily.
I told her I love her always. Always. Always. Always.
We'll both try to do better.
God is working mightily. On both of us.
Friday, January 11, 2008
The Road To Hell
Yes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions.
Good intentions, coated by inaction and the lies of the evil one.
But you know what? I have a Word for you today.
Yes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, but so is the road to Heaven! The difference is that you can start following through with those good intentions and make them a reality.
You are known by your fruits. So choose to stop procrastinating, stop listening to lies, stop doubting. Stop listening to the lies of this world. Focus. Focus on the Blessings you already have. Pick yourself up and start taking inspiration from Jesus' example. Start listening to the positive whisper in your mind, heart, spirit. He is with you. He is always with you.
So start picking up those good intentions along that winding road we call life. Don't step over that good intention you had. Stop, look at it, let the Spirit tell you if it's a load the Lord would have you carry, and then pick it up, pick up the Work, and make it a part of your reality, your Path, your road to Heaven.
And not to worry, I'll be there with you, working my way along my Path. Maybe our Paths will cross somewhere and we'll know each other by the fruits of our lives. And if not, well then, our roads lead to Heaven, I'll plan on seeing you there.
I'll do my best, like I know you will too. And at the end of that Road, I pray that Jesus will say, "Well done, good and faithful servant".
"Well done."
Good intentions, coated by inaction and the lies of the evil one.
But you know what? I have a Word for you today.
Yes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, but so is the road to Heaven! The difference is that you can start following through with those good intentions and make them a reality.
You are known by your fruits. So choose to stop procrastinating, stop listening to lies, stop doubting. Stop listening to the lies of this world. Focus. Focus on the Blessings you already have. Pick yourself up and start taking inspiration from Jesus' example. Start listening to the positive whisper in your mind, heart, spirit. He is with you. He is always with you.
So start picking up those good intentions along that winding road we call life. Don't step over that good intention you had. Stop, look at it, let the Spirit tell you if it's a load the Lord would have you carry, and then pick it up, pick up the Work, and make it a part of your reality, your Path, your road to Heaven.
And not to worry, I'll be there with you, working my way along my Path. Maybe our Paths will cross somewhere and we'll know each other by the fruits of our lives. And if not, well then, our roads lead to Heaven, I'll plan on seeing you there.
I'll do my best, like I know you will too. And at the end of that Road, I pray that Jesus will say, "Well done, good and faithful servant".
"Well done."
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
A Word Of Hope For 2008
The last day of 2007 -- what a day!
I'd driven back from Oregon on Sunday. It was the usual 7 or so hours so I was tired. Even though I was tired, we had plans for New Year's Eve so I had to get us all home.
Yes, New Year's Eve was a beautiful night. My church has a great New Year's Eve party that we call "Showtime At Liberty". It's a great show, featuring singers, dancers, musicians, lip-syncing, with lots of fun and worship.
My daughter has been practicing for weeks. She's a singer and she has truly been Blessed with a big voice. I'm Mom and yes, I know, all moms think their kids can sing. But my daughter can't just sing, God blessed her with a VOICE and she can BLOW!
Anyway, we spent some time with her vocal coach, Jonathon, then her best friend flat-ironed her hair and they got ready to go. We arrived at the church on time and many friends were there. It's always good to go in the doors, I feel the worries of the world drain out of me when I get to church.
Anyway, my girl was fifth in the lineup. I enjoyed the other young people, a pianist, another singer, a flutist, a hip-hop dance group. But I was waiting for my girl.
I was so proud.
I am so proud of my child.
She got up there and was so beautiful, quietly waiting for her introduction. Then, the music started and she opened her mouth and her spirit and her soul and she sang. OMG she SANG! She sang a Word of Hope for 2008 for me and my Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
Be Blessed, sung by Yolanda Adams is an awesome song. Sung by my girl, it moved the church.
"Cause I spoke to God, I called out your name
And on your behalf, I just asked if He would be there for you"
I could feel the power of His Spirit moving her and moving across the church with her voice, soaring above us. He was there. The angels were moving through the crowded pews, touching hearts, minds, souls, spirits.
Her best friend was crying.
When the last note faded, my Brothers and Sisters were on their feet, clapping and cheering and praising God.
The Spirit moved. He moved.
------------------------------------------------------
I am such the proud mom.
But that's not all.
In Blessing us with her singing, she was also Blessed. She was so focused on singing, she forgot that this was also a talent show.
Yes, it was a tight competition, because there was other wonderful Talent. But my girl WON!
And not only did she win that gift certificate, but she's been invited to sing at another church in San Francisco in February, at a Black History Celebration.
AND we have two people at church who have recording studios and she's been invited to record FOR FREE!
Hallelujah!
------------------------------------------------------
AND that's not all!
Part of "Showtime At Liberty" is a fundraiser so our teens and young adults can go to Encounter in January. The young people were selling water, candy, pizza and had a raffle for two bicycles.
Now, my youngest son had his bicycle stolen a couple of weeks ago. He took half of what was left of his birthday and Christmas money and bought 7 tickets. Sure, he wanted to win a bike, but he also wanted to support the fund-raiser. Being the sweet kid that he is, and knowing that with about 1100 people in the audience, his odds weren't good, he still bought the tickets, knowing that he was blessing the teens (including his big sister).
Yes, I know you know where I'm going with this.
Yes, he WON!
And I won too, because I also have had a Word of Hope for 2008. All that we've went through this past year, and at the very end of the year, I've been blessed with that bright light shining Hope into my life.
All will be well.
Storms will come. Storms will come and they will pass. And when the Light shines through the dark clouds, I'll again be reminded of how 2007 ended, with joy and hope and the Spirit moving in our lives.
And I will praise Him. Through the good, through the bad, I will praise the Lord God Almighty, because despite how things may look at the moment, it's going to be all right...
(And I can hardly wait for the video. Her dad made it to the church and taped her singing, so I'll be able to share with family and friends. I'm so excited!)
I'd driven back from Oregon on Sunday. It was the usual 7 or so hours so I was tired. Even though I was tired, we had plans for New Year's Eve so I had to get us all home.
Yes, New Year's Eve was a beautiful night. My church has a great New Year's Eve party that we call "Showtime At Liberty". It's a great show, featuring singers, dancers, musicians, lip-syncing, with lots of fun and worship.
My daughter has been practicing for weeks. She's a singer and she has truly been Blessed with a big voice. I'm Mom and yes, I know, all moms think their kids can sing. But my daughter can't just sing, God blessed her with a VOICE and she can BLOW!
Anyway, we spent some time with her vocal coach, Jonathon, then her best friend flat-ironed her hair and they got ready to go. We arrived at the church on time and many friends were there. It's always good to go in the doors, I feel the worries of the world drain out of me when I get to church.
Anyway, my girl was fifth in the lineup. I enjoyed the other young people, a pianist, another singer, a flutist, a hip-hop dance group. But I was waiting for my girl.
I was so proud.
I am so proud of my child.
She got up there and was so beautiful, quietly waiting for her introduction. Then, the music started and she opened her mouth and her spirit and her soul and she sang. OMG she SANG! She sang a Word of Hope for 2008 for me and my Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
Be Blessed, sung by Yolanda Adams is an awesome song. Sung by my girl, it moved the church.
"Cause I spoke to God, I called out your name
And on your behalf, I just asked if He would be there for you"
I could feel the power of His Spirit moving her and moving across the church with her voice, soaring above us. He was there. The angels were moving through the crowded pews, touching hearts, minds, souls, spirits.
Her best friend was crying.
When the last note faded, my Brothers and Sisters were on their feet, clapping and cheering and praising God.
The Spirit moved. He moved.
------------------------------------------------------
I am such the proud mom.
But that's not all.
In Blessing us with her singing, she was also Blessed. She was so focused on singing, she forgot that this was also a talent show.
Yes, it was a tight competition, because there was other wonderful Talent. But my girl WON!
And not only did she win that gift certificate, but she's been invited to sing at another church in San Francisco in February, at a Black History Celebration.
AND we have two people at church who have recording studios and she's been invited to record FOR FREE!
Hallelujah!
------------------------------------------------------
AND that's not all!
Part of "Showtime At Liberty" is a fundraiser so our teens and young adults can go to Encounter in January. The young people were selling water, candy, pizza and had a raffle for two bicycles.
Now, my youngest son had his bicycle stolen a couple of weeks ago. He took half of what was left of his birthday and Christmas money and bought 7 tickets. Sure, he wanted to win a bike, but he also wanted to support the fund-raiser. Being the sweet kid that he is, and knowing that with about 1100 people in the audience, his odds weren't good, he still bought the tickets, knowing that he was blessing the teens (including his big sister).
Yes, I know you know where I'm going with this.
Yes, he WON!
And I won too, because I also have had a Word of Hope for 2008. All that we've went through this past year, and at the very end of the year, I've been blessed with that bright light shining Hope into my life.
All will be well.
Storms will come. Storms will come and they will pass. And when the Light shines through the dark clouds, I'll again be reminded of how 2007 ended, with joy and hope and the Spirit moving in our lives.
And I will praise Him. Through the good, through the bad, I will praise the Lord God Almighty, because despite how things may look at the moment, it's going to be all right...
(And I can hardly wait for the video. Her dad made it to the church and taped her singing, so I'll be able to share with family and friends. I'm so excited!)
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