One of the authors I really enjoy is John Ortberg. He has written a number of popular titles that help stir our hearts toward a deeper walk with the Lord. My favorites are: God Is Closer Than You Think, If You Want to Walk on Water You've Got to Get Out of the Boat, and The Life You've Always Wanted.
The event that triggered Christmas as we know it today, was a far different thing from what we see in the culture around us. We know from several passages in the Old Testament that God had appeared and spoken to men in various ways and situations. Adam, Abraham, Jacob, and Moses were receipients of some of God's earthly visitations, and connections personally with man. The burning bush, Moses' staff, the pillars of fire and cloud, were all evidence, as Ortberg says, that God was keeping His promise to "be with" His people.
It is interesting to me to visit a friend's town or subdivision, and almost without fail, the host will point out a home or business where a noted citizen lives or works. In Bethlehem, God didn't drop by for a visit... He moved into the neighborhood!!!
Jesus grew and ministered, and then came to a point where he basically said, "I need to go, so that SomeOne even better can come". Stunning was the news to those who had walked, witnessed miracles, and camped out with Him for 3 years. They had already decided, and stated their loyalty, "to whom else shall we go?" And now Jesus was definitely leaving, and promising SomeOne Else was on the way.
When we become Christians, the Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our hearts. That's God getting pretty close!! Too often we ask for God to "be with us"... when He covered that request 2,000 years ago!! Let us live believing that His every attempt to get as close to us as possible - has been fulfilled in our individual salvation - and just ask Him to live out Himself through us. Immanuel in Action!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
God Save The Queen; The King Saved Us!
Recently an email went around, suggesting that it was from the Queen of England. The substance of the message was that the English people had observed our political shenanigans here in the New World, (especially our Presidential elections!), and determined that we were not capable of self-government. The little story continued that Parliament had rejected our state of independence, and would immediately dissolve Congress and the Senate (and send out a survey in 6 months to see if we had noticed!!) It was a humorous little message that continued with directions for observing afternoon tea, and pronouncing a number of words "correctly".
For years I've been a fan of the Queen of England. Surely, being one of the wealthiest persons in the world has some benefits! But what I see in Queen Elizabeth II is a person who has laid aside any personal aspirations, and has chosen daily to be of service to her country, and an encouragement to her citizens, and actually to many non-citizens of the world. The monarch's unbelievably regimented daily schedule would have most of us in a rehabilitation program within weeks (and she's had her 80th birthday, and has over 50 years on-the-job employment history!) Just watch a documentary like "The Royal Family at Work" to get the picture of her life of service to her people and country.
In early 1982, the Argentine government, a triumvirate in trouble on the domestic front, looked several miles east across the Atlantic Ocean, and decided to "retake" the Falkland Islands. Sometime in the early 1800's, these islands had become part of the British Commonwealth, and after 150 years, were a quiet British settlement of roughly 1100 people, and LOTS of sheep.... not a real primary military target.
In response, the British Parliament passed a declaration of war against Argentina, as brought before them by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. This event led to her gaining the title, "The Iron Lady". A constitutional monarchy requires that the seated monarch sign or at least approve such a declaration of war. So, a procession of armored black vehicles carrying the Prime Minister moved rapidly through London, on it's way to Buckingham Palace. Citizens of Her Sovereign Majesty had been captured, and required aid and rescue by the Crown!!
Within days, British warships (including the ocean liner QE 2 as a troop ship) were on their way due south at an 'amazing' speed of approximately 25 miles per hour, in order to keep the 22 ships together at the pace of the slowest ship. Their journey took almost 3 weeks! (In comparison, our USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier alone moves with a contingent of 25 ships, as a Battle Strike Group.)
Now, the British monarch occupies several residences throughout the country, at various times during the year. The family flag of the seated monarch is flown on a high flagpole from whichever residence the Queen is occupying "presently". To see the Queen, one has to follow her flag! A British citizen does himself no good by going to any other location.
FREE translation: I believe that in the Kingdom of Heaven, the FATHER's flag is raised, and flying proud and victorious. It seems to me He has no other interest than the spiritual health and welfare of His citizens! There may be certain areas that the enemy seems to occupy, but when called for, help can soon be on the way. It might seem a little slow sometimes. It might not look how you'd like! (The QE 2 has no flight deck, anti-aircraft guns, or cruise missles! I've said to more than one person, if I'm in trouble, please don't drive 25 mph to come rescue me!)
When we need help, our appeal needs to be directly to our seated Monarch, The Ancient Of Days. I get a kick out of some of the science fiction space stories mentioning "light speed". My first thought is, "Go for it, but My Heavenly Father has got you beat, and His Sovereign Majesty specializes in rescue missions!!"
For years I've been a fan of the Queen of England. Surely, being one of the wealthiest persons in the world has some benefits! But what I see in Queen Elizabeth II is a person who has laid aside any personal aspirations, and has chosen daily to be of service to her country, and an encouragement to her citizens, and actually to many non-citizens of the world. The monarch's unbelievably regimented daily schedule would have most of us in a rehabilitation program within weeks (and she's had her 80th birthday, and has over 50 years on-the-job employment history!) Just watch a documentary like "The Royal Family at Work" to get the picture of her life of service to her people and country.
In early 1982, the Argentine government, a triumvirate in trouble on the domestic front, looked several miles east across the Atlantic Ocean, and decided to "retake" the Falkland Islands. Sometime in the early 1800's, these islands had become part of the British Commonwealth, and after 150 years, were a quiet British settlement of roughly 1100 people, and LOTS of sheep.... not a real primary military target.
In response, the British Parliament passed a declaration of war against Argentina, as brought before them by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. This event led to her gaining the title, "The Iron Lady". A constitutional monarchy requires that the seated monarch sign or at least approve such a declaration of war. So, a procession of armored black vehicles carrying the Prime Minister moved rapidly through London, on it's way to Buckingham Palace. Citizens of Her Sovereign Majesty had been captured, and required aid and rescue by the Crown!!
Within days, British warships (including the ocean liner QE 2 as a troop ship) were on their way due south at an 'amazing' speed of approximately 25 miles per hour, in order to keep the 22 ships together at the pace of the slowest ship. Their journey took almost 3 weeks! (In comparison, our USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier alone moves with a contingent of 25 ships, as a Battle Strike Group.)
Now, the British monarch occupies several residences throughout the country, at various times during the year. The family flag of the seated monarch is flown on a high flagpole from whichever residence the Queen is occupying "presently". To see the Queen, one has to follow her flag! A British citizen does himself no good by going to any other location.
FREE translation: I believe that in the Kingdom of Heaven, the FATHER's flag is raised, and flying proud and victorious. It seems to me He has no other interest than the spiritual health and welfare of His citizens! There may be certain areas that the enemy seems to occupy, but when called for, help can soon be on the way. It might seem a little slow sometimes. It might not look how you'd like! (The QE 2 has no flight deck, anti-aircraft guns, or cruise missles! I've said to more than one person, if I'm in trouble, please don't drive 25 mph to come rescue me!)
When we need help, our appeal needs to be directly to our seated Monarch, The Ancient Of Days. I get a kick out of some of the science fiction space stories mentioning "light speed". My first thought is, "Go for it, but My Heavenly Father has got you beat, and His Sovereign Majesty specializes in rescue missions!!"
Thursday, December 11, 2008
God-Of-The-Angel-Armies!
I was thinking recently about how the phrase "Lord of Hosts" means "God-of-the-Angel-Armies". (The Message Bible translation writes it out that way, everytime!) And I thought... Armies... now, those guys aren't just sitting around, fluffing feathers!
Almost everytime in the Bible angels appear to a person or group, their first statement is "FEAR NOT". Several descriptions in the Bible indicate that they are tough looking dudes, and I suspect they make our Marines and Rangers look like school boys... and one of their most important commissions and duties is to serve and protect us... (Hebrews 1:13-14).
So we need to be expecting supernatural things, anytime, and calling for them to happen! The B-2 stealth bombers don't lift off from Whiteman Air Force Base until dispatched. But after they leave the tarmac on a 20-50 hour mission, they don't come back until their mission gets done!
Campus Safety or friends recently had to escort a college coed everywhere she went, due to the threatening behavior of another student. Now according to Ephesians 3:20-21, I'm thinking that the HEAVENLY FATHER's protective services are far better than any well-trained campus police staff (often former City Policemen and State Troopers!) See Isaiah 49 for support.
I'm going to add that thought into my "toolbox" as a prayer: "Excuse me, SIR, but it seems there's a need for angel service here..." Yes, it's true, I cry if I see more than 10 minutes of the movie "Angels in the Outfield" ...because something in my heart tells me, "they're just that close, and they do even better work!"
Almost everytime in the Bible angels appear to a person or group, their first statement is "FEAR NOT". Several descriptions in the Bible indicate that they are tough looking dudes, and I suspect they make our Marines and Rangers look like school boys... and one of their most important commissions and duties is to serve and protect us... (Hebrews 1:13-14).
So we need to be expecting supernatural things, anytime, and calling for them to happen! The B-2 stealth bombers don't lift off from Whiteman Air Force Base until dispatched. But after they leave the tarmac on a 20-50 hour mission, they don't come back until their mission gets done!
Campus Safety or friends recently had to escort a college coed everywhere she went, due to the threatening behavior of another student. Now according to Ephesians 3:20-21, I'm thinking that the HEAVENLY FATHER's protective services are far better than any well-trained campus police staff (often former City Policemen and State Troopers!) See Isaiah 49 for support.
I'm going to add that thought into my "toolbox" as a prayer: "Excuse me, SIR, but it seems there's a need for angel service here..." Yes, it's true, I cry if I see more than 10 minutes of the movie "Angels in the Outfield" ...because something in my heart tells me, "they're just that close, and they do even better work!"
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
It's All In Who You Know?
People often say when disappointed about their treatment in customer or public service (or maybe technical telephone support!), "Well, it's all in who you know!!" Some people really struggle with a sense of defeat in this area, thinking they can't get a good deal or fair treatment, because they don't have an "inside" connnection.
Once I had the opportunity to work with a rather well-known man, and I often would have individuals say, "Why, I've known him since high school". Others might say something like, "Tell him Abraham said 'hello', he'll know who you're talking about!" (Unfortunately, with all the descriptive power I possessed, I could not get a memory triggered about Abraham in the mind of the man to whom I'm referring).
In that same work, I had occasion to speak to both the mayor of the small town, and the commissioner of the county from time to time. After several months, we recognized each other's voices immediately over the phone, could quickly exchange greetings, and get to the business or messages needed.
It occurred to me that it really isn't "Who you know" that is important in getting things done, it's "Who knows you" !!
There's certainly a spiritual application from this insight. Jesus himself said that there would be people who would cry "Lord, Lord", and He would have to say to them, "I don't know you". I'm thinking that in the end times, that is NOT a conversation you would want to be party to!!
Make sure in your relationship with the Lord, that you are truly one of His, not just someone who goes to church, or knows some Bible verses... Salvation is free, but it does require giving our hearts and lives to Him, and asking for and accepting His forgiveness for our sins.
I'm glad to say that for several decades I've known the Lord as Saviour... but I'm more pleased with the knowledge that HE KNOWS me!!!
Once I had the opportunity to work with a rather well-known man, and I often would have individuals say, "Why, I've known him since high school". Others might say something like, "Tell him Abraham said 'hello', he'll know who you're talking about!" (Unfortunately, with all the descriptive power I possessed, I could not get a memory triggered about Abraham in the mind of the man to whom I'm referring).
In that same work, I had occasion to speak to both the mayor of the small town, and the commissioner of the county from time to time. After several months, we recognized each other's voices immediately over the phone, could quickly exchange greetings, and get to the business or messages needed.
It occurred to me that it really isn't "Who you know" that is important in getting things done, it's "Who knows you" !!
There's certainly a spiritual application from this insight. Jesus himself said that there would be people who would cry "Lord, Lord", and He would have to say to them, "I don't know you". I'm thinking that in the end times, that is NOT a conversation you would want to be party to!!
Make sure in your relationship with the Lord, that you are truly one of His, not just someone who goes to church, or knows some Bible verses... Salvation is free, but it does require giving our hearts and lives to Him, and asking for and accepting His forgiveness for our sins.
I'm glad to say that for several decades I've known the Lord as Saviour... but I'm more pleased with the knowledge that HE KNOWS me!!!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Current Events & Old Testament Prophets
In my daily reading through the Bible, I've recently finished Proverbs, Ezekiel, Daniel, and Hosea. I make notes of thoughts and impressions in a journal I keep with my Bible, and look over them from time to time.
There was a stunning revelation, reading how God spoke to his people about their choices, and their activities. He talked about the way they conducted themselves and how they treated others. He was very upset, and predicted a time of financial, agricultural, political, military and natural disasters. He gave particular detail for these things as they would occur to different peoples.
The part that was so amazing to see: I couldn't tell the difference between what I'm reading in the Bible, and what I'm reading in the newspaper, see on the web, or find in the cable news!! God's description over 2,000 years ago of the conduct of His chosen people, sounds like a breaking update on a current news story!!
Keep your Bible close, read it, and check the Old Testament prophets against your favorite source of daily news! See what you think....
There was a stunning revelation, reading how God spoke to his people about their choices, and their activities. He talked about the way they conducted themselves and how they treated others. He was very upset, and predicted a time of financial, agricultural, political, military and natural disasters. He gave particular detail for these things as they would occur to different peoples.
The part that was so amazing to see: I couldn't tell the difference between what I'm reading in the Bible, and what I'm reading in the newspaper, see on the web, or find in the cable news!! God's description over 2,000 years ago of the conduct of His chosen people, sounds like a breaking update on a current news story!!
Keep your Bible close, read it, and check the Old Testament prophets against your favorite source of daily news! See what you think....
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Sailing On the Spiritual Wind
As I read Romans 8, I am reminded of an adventure I had off the coast of New Jersey the summer of my Senior year of college.
Paul is talking about the work of the Holy Spirit (which literally means "wind") in our lives. He says that letting the Spirit give us guidance is supposed to be both a freeing and a powerful thing.
On a summer beach missions project, I went with a friend from Philadelphia to his favorite sailing spot on the east coast, "up near the Barnaget light". The short, small, but beautiful wooden sailboat he carried in the back of his cargo van would be our transportation out into the Atlantic Ocean. He was an experienced sailor. I and my roomie were there to do as directed, when needed, for this windy adventure to work properly.
Lugging the boat into the water, we hopped in... well, no, actually this boat is just a big wooden kayak with a mast, so we put our 6 feet in the small well designed for 4! There was a center board to be lowered or raised as needed for "drag" in the water. The rudder was manned by our fearless captain. The sail and mast were over 12 feet tall when fully raised, and the seafaring guys from Iowa and Georgia were in charge of it!
We began our journey by sailing past the swimmers and surfers, south away from the lighthouse. There was a strong wind from offshore, and it made the sail billow strongly. The salt spray and open water made us feel like we were true sailors!
Too soon, it was time to turn around, and head in. We were given instructions about raising and lowering the centerboard, and being ready to "duck when I say duck"!! With rudder hard over, and the crew literally kissing the deck as the sailboom swung over our heads, the captain brought our boat around, and we were aimed back toward the lighthouse from which we'd come several miles.
Then the stunning realization hit me: the same strong offshore wind that had made possible our wonderful trip out, was still blowing us out!! We would never be able to sail into it, and make it back to land or sand!!
The captain began giving some simple instructions about how to position the sail, to lower the centerboard for leverage, and he adjusted the rudder. Within seconds we were moving at a 45 degree angle into the wind, all of us leaning away from the sail, headed straight toward the lighthouse. I was amazed! It was as if Ella Wheeler Wilcox's poem had come to life:
"One ship sails east, another west, with the selfsame winds that blow. 'Tis the set of the sails, and not the gales, that determine the way they go."
Talk about a surprised landlubber!! In fact, before the afternoon was done, we had made several turns, going both north and south, following the shore, actually going anyway we chose, before we finally called it a day.
Paul is challenging us in Romans 8 to live our lives that the Spirit may have control of the centerboard, the rudder, and the sail. He will take us on an adventure that can overcome all our fears, misunderstandings, and lack of faith. I'm not sure the Holy Spirit speaks with a North Jersey accent, but he makes a Mighty Fine Captain!
Paul is talking about the work of the Holy Spirit (which literally means "wind") in our lives. He says that letting the Spirit give us guidance is supposed to be both a freeing and a powerful thing.
On a summer beach missions project, I went with a friend from Philadelphia to his favorite sailing spot on the east coast, "up near the Barnaget light". The short, small, but beautiful wooden sailboat he carried in the back of his cargo van would be our transportation out into the Atlantic Ocean. He was an experienced sailor. I and my roomie were there to do as directed, when needed, for this windy adventure to work properly.
Lugging the boat into the water, we hopped in... well, no, actually this boat is just a big wooden kayak with a mast, so we put our 6 feet in the small well designed for 4! There was a center board to be lowered or raised as needed for "drag" in the water. The rudder was manned by our fearless captain. The sail and mast were over 12 feet tall when fully raised, and the seafaring guys from Iowa and Georgia were in charge of it!
We began our journey by sailing past the swimmers and surfers, south away from the lighthouse. There was a strong wind from offshore, and it made the sail billow strongly. The salt spray and open water made us feel like we were true sailors!
Too soon, it was time to turn around, and head in. We were given instructions about raising and lowering the centerboard, and being ready to "duck when I say duck"!! With rudder hard over, and the crew literally kissing the deck as the sailboom swung over our heads, the captain brought our boat around, and we were aimed back toward the lighthouse from which we'd come several miles.
Then the stunning realization hit me: the same strong offshore wind that had made possible our wonderful trip out, was still blowing us out!! We would never be able to sail into it, and make it back to land or sand!!
The captain began giving some simple instructions about how to position the sail, to lower the centerboard for leverage, and he adjusted the rudder. Within seconds we were moving at a 45 degree angle into the wind, all of us leaning away from the sail, headed straight toward the lighthouse. I was amazed! It was as if Ella Wheeler Wilcox's poem had come to life:
"One ship sails east, another west, with the selfsame winds that blow. 'Tis the set of the sails, and not the gales, that determine the way they go."
Talk about a surprised landlubber!! In fact, before the afternoon was done, we had made several turns, going both north and south, following the shore, actually going anyway we chose, before we finally called it a day.
Paul is challenging us in Romans 8 to live our lives that the Spirit may have control of the centerboard, the rudder, and the sail. He will take us on an adventure that can overcome all our fears, misunderstandings, and lack of faith. I'm not sure the Holy Spirit speaks with a North Jersey accent, but he makes a Mighty Fine Captain!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Current Economy Expert - EZEKIEL !!
If you would be interested in getting a review of an economic situation similar to the current economic crisis in the USA and the world markets, here's an idea. Try what J. Vernon Magee used to say before each session of his through-the-Bible radio broadcasts: "Let's take a look into the Old Book!"
It is interesting to me to read what our friend the Prophet Ezekiel had to say on the Lord's behalf, especially when read in a modern translation like The Message. Take a look at Ezekiel 7, and find some statements like the following: "the end of business as usual", "the country is bankrupt because of its sins, and it's not going to get any better", "the bottom has dropped out of buying and selling". It makes we wonder: if the results sound the same, could the cause be the same?
Ezekiel had more to say, and if you'd like to stay on the web to find it, you can search on http://www.lifeway.com/ , http://www.biblegateway.com/ , or http://www.crosswalk.com/ . You can look for Ezekiel 7, or any other passage you'd like to reference, just by entering it into the search box. Maybe there's something more going on in the economy than boards, billions, hearings and investigations can actually fix!!
It is interesting to me to read what our friend the Prophet Ezekiel had to say on the Lord's behalf, especially when read in a modern translation like The Message. Take a look at Ezekiel 7, and find some statements like the following: "the end of business as usual", "the country is bankrupt because of its sins, and it's not going to get any better", "the bottom has dropped out of buying and selling". It makes we wonder: if the results sound the same, could the cause be the same?
Ezekiel had more to say, and if you'd like to stay on the web to find it, you can search on http://www.lifeway.com/ , http://www.biblegateway.com/ , or http://www.crosswalk.com/ . You can look for Ezekiel 7, or any other passage you'd like to reference, just by entering it into the search box. Maybe there's something more going on in the economy than boards, billions, hearings and investigations can actually fix!!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
"Do Hard Things"
Recently I was directed to a website that has the blogs, booklists, and speaking schedule of 19 year old twin brothers Alex and Brett Harris. Their older brother is Joshua Harris (I Kissed Dating Goodbye, Boy Meets Girl). They are in college, but have traveled world-wide speaking to missions conferences.
They wrote a book together titled "Do Hard Things". It is a challenge to young men and women to find a place of service and ministry in the world, wherever one may be. Part of it's premise is that our modern society in the USA does not really have a place for young people to make significant contributions until they have finished college.
It is amazing what Alex and Brett have on their site, from the books they've read, those they plan to read, the movies they've seen, and their commitment to the Lord and walking worthy of Him. You can find excerpts from the book posted, as well as some videos about going off to college and other issues. These men have what Dr. Howard Hendricks refers to as "the real disease" when it comes to passion for the Lord's work!
I am thoroughly impressed by what I've seen and experienced here. They are where I want to be as a Christian, and where I pray many young Christians want to be, as well!! These are some guys we could use as spiritual heroes and models... and again, they are nineteen, and college Freshmen!
http://www.therebelution.com/
They wrote a book together titled "Do Hard Things". It is a challenge to young men and women to find a place of service and ministry in the world, wherever one may be. Part of it's premise is that our modern society in the USA does not really have a place for young people to make significant contributions until they have finished college.
It is amazing what Alex and Brett have on their site, from the books they've read, those they plan to read, the movies they've seen, and their commitment to the Lord and walking worthy of Him. You can find excerpts from the book posted, as well as some videos about going off to college and other issues. These men have what Dr. Howard Hendricks refers to as "the real disease" when it comes to passion for the Lord's work!
I am thoroughly impressed by what I've seen and experienced here. They are where I want to be as a Christian, and where I pray many young Christians want to be, as well!! These are some guys we could use as spiritual heroes and models... and again, they are nineteen, and college Freshmen!
http://www.therebelution.com/
Saturday, September 27, 2008
FireProof Movie
What a great story, both gripping and challenging, whatever your age! This movie has the excitement of riding with the firemen on real calls, and the pain of dealing with relationships in life that just don't seem to work right, whatever you do. Kirk Cameron does an excellent job in presenting the character of Caleb Holt, a man who is a hero everywhere but at home. It is well worth your time and money! More information can be found on the website: http://www.fireproofthemovie.com/ . You may have friends you'll want to take, or encourage to see it in their city.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Fame You Might Not Want
In our college & singles study of Matthew, we looked this week at Matthew 18:21-35. The story Jesus used was to help answer Peter's question about forgiving his brother, and to further explain the Kingdom of Heaven. (I like John Ortberg's prayer in God Is Closer Than You Think: "Make it down here, like it is up There!!")
We discussed forgiveness, and the need sometimes to make restitution (to fix the damage done by our actions, words, attitudes). We sometimes don't know how the little things we do impact others. Suddenly during our class time, I remembered how 4 of the class members had been involved in an incident on Spring Break of their Senior year, that involved having to rebuild a wooden door.... all of them had forgotten it, but finally remembered it, with prompting. Then came a few dropped heads, a few groans, a few chuckles. They didn't know how I knew about something 3.5 years previous. It was a small thing, that happened out of state, and everything there got fixed and settled.
Life is not always that simple!
Fast forward to 2008, and to an incident that took place privately earlier this year. (This is not a political or judgmental comment, just an observation about publicity). It seems that Levi Johnston spent some personal, private time with a young lady, who happened to be the daughter of the Governor of the largest state (by land area) in the USA. Evidently the family, and the small town, had come to deal with the unwed teenage pregnancy in a manner that worked for them, and honored life. A very private encounter soon became local common knowledge.
Then came a phone call from a Presidential candidate to the Alaskan Governor in August, asking Sarah Palin to become his Vice Presidential candidate. Suddenly, an encounter in April became world news, and a young man finds that his comments and pictures on his MySpace page become public domain. Some websites are actually becoming something of a "fan" page for Mr. Johnston...soon to be a groom and dad. That which was for a while known only to 2 people, is now known by any of the billions of people who can access the web!!!
Again, this is not a judgment, or a political opinion. It's just a suggestion to my young friends, "as the great-grandfather you never knew". Be very careful how you conduct yourself, what you say, what you do, and the attitudes you reflect. Be very cautious about what you post, and ALLOW to be posted, on any website that has your name one it. Someday, and maybe sooner than you think, it could be news that you'd prefer not to have in the "public domain".
We discussed forgiveness, and the need sometimes to make restitution (to fix the damage done by our actions, words, attitudes). We sometimes don't know how the little things we do impact others. Suddenly during our class time, I remembered how 4 of the class members had been involved in an incident on Spring Break of their Senior year, that involved having to rebuild a wooden door.... all of them had forgotten it, but finally remembered it, with prompting. Then came a few dropped heads, a few groans, a few chuckles. They didn't know how I knew about something 3.5 years previous. It was a small thing, that happened out of state, and everything there got fixed and settled.
Life is not always that simple!
Fast forward to 2008, and to an incident that took place privately earlier this year. (This is not a political or judgmental comment, just an observation about publicity). It seems that Levi Johnston spent some personal, private time with a young lady, who happened to be the daughter of the Governor of the largest state (by land area) in the USA. Evidently the family, and the small town, had come to deal with the unwed teenage pregnancy in a manner that worked for them, and honored life. A very private encounter soon became local common knowledge.
Then came a phone call from a Presidential candidate to the Alaskan Governor in August, asking Sarah Palin to become his Vice Presidential candidate. Suddenly, an encounter in April became world news, and a young man finds that his comments and pictures on his MySpace page become public domain. Some websites are actually becoming something of a "fan" page for Mr. Johnston...soon to be a groom and dad. That which was for a while known only to 2 people, is now known by any of the billions of people who can access the web!!!
Again, this is not a judgment, or a political opinion. It's just a suggestion to my young friends, "as the great-grandfather you never knew". Be very careful how you conduct yourself, what you say, what you do, and the attitudes you reflect. Be very cautious about what you post, and ALLOW to be posted, on any website that has your name one it. Someday, and maybe sooner than you think, it could be news that you'd prefer not to have in the "public domain".
Friday, September 5, 2008
Cornfield Prayer!
This is an interesting farm photo, done by a farmer with his tractor, GPS, and bushhog!!!
Being a former farm boy myself, I certainly appreciate the energy, time, and fuel this creation took to make.
Maybe we realize the impact that our life has on others, maybe we don't. This fellow was "intentional" about what he wanted to communicate, and how important it was to him to get his message out. Shucks, maybe we should take his example, and be more determined about sharing the good news and encouragement we have in Christ, for whoever might be watching!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
A Spiritual Bucket List
Reading through the New Testament, we eventually come to Hebrews 12. Having just written what is known as the "Hall of Fame of Faith", the writer turns his attention to his audience, which now includes you and me, challenging us to live a life worthy of the Lord's call on our life.
He indicates that there may be some difficulty, pain, and weariness ahead...but the challenge is always to move forward. We've not suffered like some of those folks he talked about in Hebrews 11, he reminds us.
A common expression in sports that was heard during the 2008 Olympics, is "leave everything on the field". Loosely interpreted, that means, "don't come back into the locker room without having given your best, and all of it, in the game". Our writer reminds us that Jesus deserves our best effort, even more than any sporting event (including Professional Flag Football - where the coaches ARE really serious!)
Perhaps you've heard of a "bucket list"... the things you want to do before you "kick the bucket" (country term for 'die'). Hebrews 12 challenges us to have a worthwhile, Christ-centered "bucket list". Note this interesting story that occured during the Olympics....
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,410541,00.html
...we might not have as much time as we'd hoped, huh?
He indicates that there may be some difficulty, pain, and weariness ahead...but the challenge is always to move forward. We've not suffered like some of those folks he talked about in Hebrews 11, he reminds us.
A common expression in sports that was heard during the 2008 Olympics, is "leave everything on the field". Loosely interpreted, that means, "don't come back into the locker room without having given your best, and all of it, in the game". Our writer reminds us that Jesus deserves our best effort, even more than any sporting event (including Professional Flag Football - where the coaches ARE really serious!)
Perhaps you've heard of a "bucket list"... the things you want to do before you "kick the bucket" (country term for 'die'). Hebrews 12 challenges us to have a worthwhile, Christ-centered "bucket list". Note this interesting story that occured during the Olympics....
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,410541,00.html
...we might not have as much time as we'd hoped, huh?
Monday, August 18, 2008
Miss Minnie Warehouse
Sometimes people ask me how my cousin from Rocky Face is doing, Miss Minnie Warehouse. Oh, she's fine, as always. Due to some great work by some masterful audio/video/website engineering by Don R. King, one of her visits to a Tabernacle Church Missions Banquet is now available on Godtube. It's actually on my site,
http://www.godtube.com/tombbandy
Just follow the link, and scroll down a little on the right to my "shared videos". Click on her picture, and there she is!
http://www.godtube.com/tombbandy
Just follow the link, and scroll down a little on the right to my "shared videos". Click on her picture, and there she is!
Friday, August 15, 2008
A Few Good Laughs . . . (author unknown)
I wondered why the baseball was getting bigger. Then it hit me.
Police were called to a day care where a 3-year-old was resisting a rest.
Did you hear about the guy whose whole left side was cut off? He's all right now.
The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference.
To write with a broken pencil is pointless.
When fish are in schools, they sometimes take debate.
The short fortune teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.
A thief who stole a calendar got 12 months.
A thief broke his leg falling in wet cement. He became a hardened criminal.
When the smog lifts in Los Angeles, U.C.L.A.
The dead batteries were given out free of charge.
A dentist and a manicurist fought tooth and nail.
A bicycle can't stand alone; it is two tired.
A will is a dead giveaway.
Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.
A backward poet writes inverse.
In a democracy it's your vote that counts; in feudalism, it's your Count that votes.
A chicken crossing the road: poultry in motion.
If you don't pay your exorcist you can get repossessed.
Show me a piano falling down a mine shaft & I'll show you A-flat miner.
The guy who fell onto an upholstery machine was fully recovered.
A grenade fell onto a kitchen floor in France, resulted in Linoleum Blownapart
You are stuck with your debt if you can't budge it.
A calendar's days are numbered.
A lot of money is tainted: 'Taint yours, and 'taint mine.
A boiled egg is hard to beat.
He had a photographic memory which was never developed.
Those who get too big for their britches will be exposed in the end.
When you've seen one shopping center, you've seen a mall.
When she saw her first strands of gray hair, she thought she'd dye.
Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead to know basis.
Santa's helpers are subordinate clauses.
Acupuncture: a jab well done.
Police were called to a day care where a 3-year-old was resisting a rest.
Did you hear about the guy whose whole left side was cut off? He's all right now.
The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference.
To write with a broken pencil is pointless.
When fish are in schools, they sometimes take debate.
The short fortune teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.
A thief who stole a calendar got 12 months.
A thief broke his leg falling in wet cement. He became a hardened criminal.
When the smog lifts in Los Angeles, U.C.L.A.
The dead batteries were given out free of charge.
A dentist and a manicurist fought tooth and nail.
A bicycle can't stand alone; it is two tired.
A will is a dead giveaway.
Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.
A backward poet writes inverse.
In a democracy it's your vote that counts; in feudalism, it's your Count that votes.
A chicken crossing the road: poultry in motion.
If you don't pay your exorcist you can get repossessed.
Show me a piano falling down a mine shaft & I'll show you A-flat miner.
The guy who fell onto an upholstery machine was fully recovered.
A grenade fell onto a kitchen floor in France, resulted in Linoleum Blownapart
You are stuck with your debt if you can't budge it.
A calendar's days are numbered.
A lot of money is tainted: 'Taint yours, and 'taint mine.
A boiled egg is hard to beat.
He had a photographic memory which was never developed.
Those who get too big for their britches will be exposed in the end.
When you've seen one shopping center, you've seen a mall.
When she saw her first strands of gray hair, she thought she'd dye.
Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead to know basis.
Santa's helpers are subordinate clauses.
Acupuncture: a jab well done.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Spend the Night Company - Apostle Paul
In my annual read-through-the-Bible program, I recently arrived at Philemon, and was reminded again of the number of times that Paul asked for prayer for his work... more than once he made it clear that his life and ministry were totally in the hands of praying friends...
I find Philemon 1 and 22 stunning when restated together:
"I am prisoner of the Roman Empire; would you prepare me a room at your house for me to stay, so it will be ready when you pray me out of here??"
I find Philemon 1 and 22 stunning when restated together:
"I am prisoner of the Roman Empire; would you prepare me a room at your house for me to stay, so it will be ready when you pray me out of here??"
Southern Sayings - Language Laughter
Just a few items of Southern Linguistics, mostly from north Georgia:
Oh! That's a Gracious Plenty:
This is when someone is giving you something from their garden, or if someone has gotten more of something than they needed, and is sharing with you. If they offered or included 1 more item, you would have to resist and say: "Oh, no, that's a gracious plenty, keep them or give them to someone else"
Way Too Much:
One more item than a Gracious Plenty.
Do us Just Fine:
This is the right amount of anything, whether you're being given things as above, or out in the grocery store, getting a number of things. Your shopping partner might ask if you don't need a 2nd pack of party cups, and if you had the right amount you'd say:
"No, I think this will do us just fine"
Right Much:
This is actually from lowland Virginia, and Earl Fitchett has used it here for 20 years, so it's Georgian, now! It reflects less measurable or tangible things, and is more about respect, appreciation, gratitude, personal admiration. Can also be an indicator of enjoyment of an event.
"He was tough on us, and some folks didn't like him, but I always thought right much of him"
"The movie was a bit long, but we all seemed to enjoy it right much.
Don't Cotton To That:
A reflection of someone's dislike for a procedure, a person's activity, dress, conduct; or perhaps a disdain for a new law or imposed rule. It is not just a personal preference...it relates to a sincere belief that the "new thing" is not right, and should be corrected.
"That dress she wore might be okay at the beach, but not at Sunday church! Your grandma and me don't cotton to that"
"She told us first it was okay, and then the next girl said they'd never done it, we'd have to rewrite the whole thing; I just don't cotton to that type treatment!"
Hill of Beans:
(Beans in a garden are sometimes planted inside small raised mounds (like some melons), but most of us planted the seeds in a row, down in the ground, and covered them) This saying reflects a measure of something that has little or no value. It generally relects a slight disdain for someone or something from the past, either recent, or distant.
"Everything he promised before the campaign didn't amount to a hill of beans."
"We followed all the instructions that fellow gave us, and what we got out of it wasn't worth a hill of beans"
He's a Snake in the Grass:
This is a pretty negative statement about someone, who once was favored. Unfortunately for the animal kingdom, and reptiles in general, many Southerners feel that snakes of any length or color are dangerous, and most likely deadly; thus, they should be dispatched to their reward as quickly as possible, with whatever garden implement is handy. Obviously, the comparision of an individual to a snake carries similar sentiments.
"He promised all along that he was for our proposal, and then by the time the committee voted on it, he'd talked 1/2 of them into voting 'no'; he's just a snake in the grass!!"
When All's Said and Done:
This is a reference to some generally unknown date or event in which all things men are currently doing will be evaluated, rated, and seen for what they really are. It can refer to the final rewards by the Lord, or it may be used regarding a current election, political debate, public issue, or personal conduct.
"Well, I know that hurt you, honey, but when all's said and done, he'll get what's coming to him."
What's Coming to Him:
The reward and individual will receive for their actions and attitude at the time "when all's said and done"!!
He's Harmless:
This is not a compliment! Most likely to be heard regarding people in positions of influence, or even elected power, when they might be speaking out against something, or complaining. Generally conveys a lack of respect for the individual and for the impact of what is being said. It basically means they are considered to have no positive or negative influence with anyone.
"Yes, I read his letter to the editor, and some might see it; but when all's said and done, basically, he's harmless"
Oh! That's a Gracious Plenty:
This is when someone is giving you something from their garden, or if someone has gotten more of something than they needed, and is sharing with you. If they offered or included 1 more item, you would have to resist and say: "Oh, no, that's a gracious plenty, keep them or give them to someone else"
Way Too Much:
One more item than a Gracious Plenty.
Do us Just Fine:
This is the right amount of anything, whether you're being given things as above, or out in the grocery store, getting a number of things. Your shopping partner might ask if you don't need a 2nd pack of party cups, and if you had the right amount you'd say:
"No, I think this will do us just fine"
Right Much:
This is actually from lowland Virginia, and Earl Fitchett has used it here for 20 years, so it's Georgian, now! It reflects less measurable or tangible things, and is more about respect, appreciation, gratitude, personal admiration. Can also be an indicator of enjoyment of an event.
"He was tough on us, and some folks didn't like him, but I always thought right much of him"
"The movie was a bit long, but we all seemed to enjoy it right much.
Don't Cotton To That:
A reflection of someone's dislike for a procedure, a person's activity, dress, conduct; or perhaps a disdain for a new law or imposed rule. It is not just a personal preference...it relates to a sincere belief that the "new thing" is not right, and should be corrected.
"That dress she wore might be okay at the beach, but not at Sunday church! Your grandma and me don't cotton to that"
"She told us first it was okay, and then the next girl said they'd never done it, we'd have to rewrite the whole thing; I just don't cotton to that type treatment!"
Hill of Beans:
(Beans in a garden are sometimes planted inside small raised mounds (like some melons), but most of us planted the seeds in a row, down in the ground, and covered them) This saying reflects a measure of something that has little or no value. It generally relects a slight disdain for someone or something from the past, either recent, or distant.
"Everything he promised before the campaign didn't amount to a hill of beans."
"We followed all the instructions that fellow gave us, and what we got out of it wasn't worth a hill of beans"
He's a Snake in the Grass:
This is a pretty negative statement about someone, who once was favored. Unfortunately for the animal kingdom, and reptiles in general, many Southerners feel that snakes of any length or color are dangerous, and most likely deadly; thus, they should be dispatched to their reward as quickly as possible, with whatever garden implement is handy. Obviously, the comparision of an individual to a snake carries similar sentiments.
"He promised all along that he was for our proposal, and then by the time the committee voted on it, he'd talked 1/2 of them into voting 'no'; he's just a snake in the grass!!"
When All's Said and Done:
This is a reference to some generally unknown date or event in which all things men are currently doing will be evaluated, rated, and seen for what they really are. It can refer to the final rewards by the Lord, or it may be used regarding a current election, political debate, public issue, or personal conduct.
"Well, I know that hurt you, honey, but when all's said and done, he'll get what's coming to him."
What's Coming to Him:
The reward and individual will receive for their actions and attitude at the time "when all's said and done"!!
He's Harmless:
This is not a compliment! Most likely to be heard regarding people in positions of influence, or even elected power, when they might be speaking out against something, or complaining. Generally conveys a lack of respect for the individual and for the impact of what is being said. It basically means they are considered to have no positive or negative influence with anyone.
"Yes, I read his letter to the editor, and some might see it; but when all's said and done, basically, he's harmless"
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Hitting The Road
In studying the book of Hebrews (chapter 5 & 6) in the ThreadsMedia study of Life: Where Are You Going?, we come to some challenging material. The author of this letter to Jewish Christians early in the first century is talking pretty straight to them. He feels that they should be more mature in Christ than they are.
It's as if he is saying: "If you're not saved, that's got to come 1st. If you are saved, you need to stop living the sinful, sin-filled way you are, and there ought to be more fruit visible in your life".
People have used some verses in chapter 6 to say we can lose our salvation. But if we consult I Corinthians 3:11-15, we see a statement by our friend Paul that shows it is possible for us to be saved, but to live so worldly that there's nothing of our earthly work worthy of the Kingdom. I've more than once carried useless building materials to a smoking scrap pile for burning, and that's not where I want to be standing when spiritual rewards are passed out someday!
Hebrews says it's basically time for us to "hit the road", and quit fooling our life away! See this GodTube video about a man who determined to do just that. A double amputee, Scott Rigsby lived for years in a life of addiction to meds, until he got (and responded to!) a call to "hit the road" for the Lord.
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=3a44ada9659d13ab2f1a
It's as if he is saying: "If you're not saved, that's got to come 1st. If you are saved, you need to stop living the sinful, sin-filled way you are, and there ought to be more fruit visible in your life".
People have used some verses in chapter 6 to say we can lose our salvation. But if we consult I Corinthians 3:11-15, we see a statement by our friend Paul that shows it is possible for us to be saved, but to live so worldly that there's nothing of our earthly work worthy of the Kingdom. I've more than once carried useless building materials to a smoking scrap pile for burning, and that's not where I want to be standing when spiritual rewards are passed out someday!
Hebrews says it's basically time for us to "hit the road", and quit fooling our life away! See this GodTube video about a man who determined to do just that. A double amputee, Scott Rigsby lived for years in a life of addiction to meds, until he got (and responded to!) a call to "hit the road" for the Lord.
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=3a44ada9659d13ab2f1a
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Scars & Stripes
One of my great joys is working with the men and women in our church's college and young singles ministry. I get a kick out of telling them that I know all about MyFace, and SpaceBook! (And I do have a word of caution for my friends: Google once did not "find" things in FaceBook, but now I've noticed that it does....even brings up names of people from conversations "just between you and ______")
In the last 6 months, we've had several of our group to have injuries from softball sliding, mountain biking, contact with trees (yes!), cliff diving, etc. I've seen the results - and now Flag Football is coming up! Facebook testifies to other bloody events I've not witnessed in person. For some young men, they don't bother with tatoos, they just make their own scars through personal injury - - their body is like an adventure scrapbook: "I did it" !!
Scripture tells us that Jesus came to earth, lived among men, died to be our Savior, and left with the scars to prove it. Hebrews makes it clear that Jesus' blood and scars show He was fully man, and fully God, and He did His adventure for us. Check this video from our friends at Bluefish:
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=9828c4f137e349cde467
In the last 6 months, we've had several of our group to have injuries from softball sliding, mountain biking, contact with trees (yes!), cliff diving, etc. I've seen the results - and now Flag Football is coming up! Facebook testifies to other bloody events I've not witnessed in person. For some young men, they don't bother with tatoos, they just make their own scars through personal injury - - their body is like an adventure scrapbook: "I did it" !!
Scripture tells us that Jesus came to earth, lived among men, died to be our Savior, and left with the scars to prove it. Hebrews makes it clear that Jesus' blood and scars show He was fully man, and fully God, and He did His adventure for us. Check this video from our friends at Bluefish:
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=9828c4f137e349cde467
Friday, August 8, 2008
USS New York - "Never Forget"
The following information has been verified by http://www.snopes.com/ (a great way to test some of the stories you get before you forward them!) Two men commented that since the ship was made from World Trade Center steel, it was a moving, spiritual, and motivating experience for those involved.
The ship is the first to be fully designed from the CAD-screen up to support all three of the Marines' primary mobility capabilities - Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV), Landing Craft, Landing Craft Air Cushioned vehicle and the MV-22 Osprey. This basically means that the USS New York can approach a target from offshore, hide just beyond the horizon, put its fighting Marines on the transport craft, and the smaller craft roar to shore with a battallion fully armed & ready to engage in battle....
It was built with 24 tons of scrap steel from the World Trade Center. It is the fifth in a new class of warship - designed for missions that include special operations against terrorists. It will carry a crew of 360 sailors and 700 combat-ready Marines to be delivered ashore by helicopters and assault craft.
Steel from the World Trade Center was melted down in a foundry in Amite, LA to cast the ship's bow section. When it was poured into the molds on Sept 9, 2003, 'those big rough steelworkers treated it with total reverence,' recalled Navy Capt. Kevin Wensing, who was there. 'It was a spiritual moment for everybody there.'
Junior Chavers, foundry operations manager, said that when the trade center steel first arrived, he touched it with his hand and the 'hair on my neck stood up.' 'It had a big meaning to it for all of us,' he said. 'They knocked us down. They can't keep us down. We're going to be back.' The ship's motto? 'Never Forget'.
The sacrifice and death of over 3,000 people gave the energy and motivation to create this very active response to their unplanned sacrifice on 9/11/2001...
I wonder, as we look at Jesus' sacrifice for us, will you or I be as touched as these steelworkers?
Will you and I make a response, redirecting the energy of our lives, because He gave His life for us? I do wonder....
Friday, July 25, 2008
S.H.A.P.E.
One of the more challenging books I've read lately is S.H.A.P.E. by Erik Rees. Subtitled Finding & Fulfilling your Unique Purpose for Life, it is a 12 chapter book designed to help lead the reader on a journey of spiritual self-discovery and practice. It includes assessments within the pages, end of chapter examination questions, as well as online support at http://www.shapediscovery.com/. This is another product of one of the pastors at Saddleback Church, and considered to be a Purpose Driven Resource.
Mr. Rees' basic premise is that God has designed each of us with unique Spiritual Gifting, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences, for His service in the Body of Christ. It requires time and a good pen to cover the distance from the front cover to the back, but I found the energy well worth the effort!! Some of the inventories prompt immediate response, and the online assessment will give a quick print-out when finished. But some of the questions will take hours, maybe longer to answer the first time, depending on how comfortable you are with self-exposure and open honesty. Even the author indicates some of his statements have been refined many times!!
I am glad to have been directed toward this excellent tool for Uncovering, Unlocking, and Unleashing my unique S.H.A.P.E. both for God's glory, and the sense of fulfillment available in knowing I've come to learn more of the special design He built into me!
Mr. Rees' basic premise is that God has designed each of us with unique Spiritual Gifting, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences, for His service in the Body of Christ. It requires time and a good pen to cover the distance from the front cover to the back, but I found the energy well worth the effort!! Some of the inventories prompt immediate response, and the online assessment will give a quick print-out when finished. But some of the questions will take hours, maybe longer to answer the first time, depending on how comfortable you are with self-exposure and open honesty. Even the author indicates some of his statements have been refined many times!!
I am glad to have been directed toward this excellent tool for Uncovering, Unlocking, and Unleashing my unique S.H.A.P.E. both for God's glory, and the sense of fulfillment available in knowing I've come to learn more of the special design He built into me!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Retooling
One of the most exciting things I've learned lately is that God can really do more than we imagine in our lives, if we are willing to step out, and trust Him. For years it did not seem "wise" or "credible" that I should leave a comfortable job situation, and start in ministry service again, when I seemed to have no particular calling or direction. But sometimes I would think quietly inside, "Is God's next thing for me NOT going to show up, until I leave where I am, and put myself completely in His hands for provision and direction?"
So, after 20+ successful years in the business world, it was just time to do something different, and find out what God was whispering in my heart. Opportunities of service and training began opening up, suggestions were made about attending conferences, questions were asked about next possible steps; and now I find myself as a Certified LPCCI Life Purpose Coach, working on a Biblical counseling certificate through the American Association of Christian Counselors & the Light University program.
Now I have more tools and training for the work I really enjoy, teaching & mentoring young people from middle school up to college age and young singles! It has been an exciting adventure, and one that's hard to explain when the question is asked, "What are you doing now?" My answer is simply that I'm helping folks along in their Christian walk and relationship with the Lord, just like others did for me when I first became a Christian!
So, after 20+ successful years in the business world, it was just time to do something different, and find out what God was whispering in my heart. Opportunities of service and training began opening up, suggestions were made about attending conferences, questions were asked about next possible steps; and now I find myself as a Certified LPCCI Life Purpose Coach, working on a Biblical counseling certificate through the American Association of Christian Counselors & the Light University program.
Now I have more tools and training for the work I really enjoy, teaching & mentoring young people from middle school up to college age and young singles! It has been an exciting adventure, and one that's hard to explain when the question is asked, "What are you doing now?" My answer is simply that I'm helping folks along in their Christian walk and relationship with the Lord, just like others did for me when I first became a Christian!
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