2/28/09

Larger than life

Twenty or so years ago my in-laws had a camp in Newcomb, N.Y., not far from the Canadian border. This vivid picture reminds me of that camp and the cool crisp clean air that made you glad every time you took a breath. The picture was made using HDR photography, which is a special kind of computer enhanced photo which allows for a greater contrast in the color spectrum than normal; beyond that, I don't have a clue to exactly how it works. But I know that it does work and after all that's what really matters. It works so well that I remember all the good times we had at camp and all the fun; but most of all I remember the people. Aunt Helen, who was always there whenever anyone needed a bit of help financially. Grandpa Pete who would tell tales of the depression era and my Mother-In-Law who took care of everyone but herself. The Bible is full of memories like this too and I especially like this portion from the book of 1st Timothy:

2Ti 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God according to the promise of the life that is in Christ Jesus,
2Ti 1:2 To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
2Ti 1:3 I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day.
2Ti 1:4 As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy.
2Ti 1:5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.
2Ti 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,
2Ti 1:7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
2Ti 1:8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God,
2Ti 1:9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,
2Ti 1:10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,
English Standard Version
Paul remembers Timothy, who as his name implies, was a timid helper of Paul and very loved by him. But Timothy was more than just a helper, he became a very effective evangelist over the years as he overcame his youthful weaknesses. As time went by, he became closer and closer to Paul and it seems to me that he had a larger than life picture of him in his mind. Something like the clarity of a HDR photo that seems to bring pleasant memories into clear focus once again. God has a way of giving you exactly what you need, exactly when you need it. Paul knew it and decades of experience have shown me the same thing. Whatever life is, God makes it better because through him you begin to understand the big picture; that life is really only life to the extent that you let God into it. That is better than anything I know, even the wonderful times we had in Newcomb.

2/27/09

Satan will hate

If you stand for something, someone will hate you, of that you can be certain! We are known by our friends and our enemies! Why does Satan hate the church? I can't be certain of all the reasons, but look at the book of 1st Peter for a at least one:

1Pe 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
1Pe 1:2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.
1Pe 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
1Pe 1:4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,
1Pe 1:5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
1Pe 1:6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials,
1Pe 1:7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
1Pe 1:8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory,
1Pe 1:9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
English Standard Version
Have you ever noticed children playing with their toys at Christmas? They are enjoying themselves and then one of them opens a present which the other one wants. What happens; well, I guess that depends on the kids, but many times there is a fight! I think that is what is going on with Satan; God made a way for us and Satan is jealous; jealous of the blessings given to those who love God, jealous of the hope they have and of the final outcome of their faith. But we shouldn't worry about it, we should live our lives like their contents were plastered all over some bulletin board in a very public place... because they are and the location is in heaven! The question is: Are the contents of your life something that Satan will hate or not?

2/26/09

a basket case

Sometimes in life we really don't know what to do next. Its right about that time we experience a sinking feeling and we just shrug our shoulders. This situation reminds me of the tales of Commander McBragg. He would be faced with an impossible situation and escape by the skin of his teeth and always there was a pun at the end of it all. The Apostle Paul experienced something like this and escaped in an extraordinary way; read this passage from the book of Acts to find out!

Act 9:20 And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God."
Act 9:21 And all who heard him were amazed and said, "Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?"
Act 9:22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.
Act 9:23 When many days had passed, the Jews plotted to kill him,
Act 9:24 but their plot became known to Saul. They were watching the gates day and night in order to kill him,
Act 9:25 but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.
English Standard Version
When you do things, there are always consequences; some good and some, well, less than good. Paul had a reputation for opposing Christians and his proclamation that Jesus was the Christ of God must have taken people by surprise at first, but after a while hatred set in and evil was on their mind. He didn't really have a way out because the Jews were watching the exits, but he did the unexpected and escaped by a basket. That must have really been a surprise to the Jews a second time, for who would have ever thought that Paul was a basket case. By the way, in case you are wondering how to "escape" in the picture.... the answer is .... put the car into reverse, but make sure you look in the mirror lest someone mistake you FOR A BASKET CASE!

2/24/09

Your favorite food

Anyone who knows me is well aware of the fact that I love to eat, but I don't think I will be partaking of this soup anytime in the near future. Whether there are crickets or cockroaches in that little brew makes no difference to me, I don't want any part of it and my guess is that you are thinking one word right now...yuk! Face it, some things you just won't try, no matter what! Quite a number of years ago I worked in a vitreous china factory; no, we didn't make plates, we made toilets. One interesting fact was that it was made up of all sorts of nationalities; Koreans, Vietnamese, Polish, Chinese, Italians, etc.. Lunch time came around and everyone went to their respective groups, in fact, it was a real eyeopener to see how much the various groups hated and looked down upon the others. I am very glad that God doesn't think that way; that he doesn't condone favoritism. Read this passage from the book of Acts to see what I mean:

Act 10:9 The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray.
Act 10:10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance
Act 10:11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth.
Act 10:12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air.
Act 10:13 And there came a voice to him: "Rise, Peter; kill and eat."
Act 10:14 But Peter said, "By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean."
Act 10:15 And the voice came to him again a second time, "What God has made clean, do not call common."
Act 10:16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.
Act 10:17 Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon's house, stood at the gate
Act 10:18 and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there.
Act 10:19 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Behold, three men are looking for you.
Act 10:20 Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them."
Act 10:21 And Peter went down to the men and said, "I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?"
Act 10:22 And they said, "Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say."
Act 10:23 So he invited them in to be his guests. The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him.
Act 10:24 And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends.
Act 10:25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him.
Act 10:26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, "Stand up; I too am a man."
Act 10:27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered.
Act 10:28 And he said to them, "You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean.
Act 10:29 So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me."
Act 10:30 And Cornelius said, "Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing
Act 10:31 and said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God.
Act 10:32 Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.'
Act 10:33 So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord."
Act 10:34 So Peter opened his mouth and said: "Truly I understand that God shows no partiality,
Act 10:35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.
Act 10:36 As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all),
Act 10:37 you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed:
Act 10:38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.
Act 10:39 And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree,
Act 10:40 but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear,
Act 10:41 not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.
Act 10:42 And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.
Act 10:43 To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."
English Standard Version
God doesn't concern himself with just food; its people he cares about; ALL PEOPLE, EVERYWHERE, NOT JUST JEWS! So, the next time you have your favorite food, remember that someone, somewhere, just might look at it and think.... YUK, but God looks at YOU and remembers HIS SON! You and I, in fact all of us, are special because all of us have the opportunity to obey the Gospel and become clean, completely clean. What to hear more... read the first Gospel sermon; its found in Acts chapter two.

Done for

The water just keeps getting deeper and deeper! You are filled with anxiety and apprehension about how deep it will be and whether you are going to make it! And that's just a bath! Today, a lot, and I do mean A LOT of people are concerned about what is going to happen next. They are afraid they will lose their job, their car, their house and who knows what else? I think it is perfectly reasonable to think this way considering what is happening in our country. But I can't help thinking; is this happening for a reason? Read Jonah chapter two for a little insight!

Jon 2:1 Then Jonah prayed to Yahweh, his God, out of the fish's belly.
Jon 2:2 He said, "I called because of my affliction to Yahweh. He answered me. Out of the belly of Sheol I cried. You heard my voice.
Jon 2:3 For you threw me into the depths, in the heart of the seas. The flood was all around me. All your waves and your billows passed over me.
Jon 2:4 I said, 'I have been banished from your sight; yet I will look again toward your holy temple.'
Jon 2:5 The waters surrounded me, even to the soul. The deep was around me. The weeds were wrapped around my head.
Jon 2:6 I went down to the bottoms of the mountains. The earth barred me in forever: yet have you brought up my life from the pit, Yahweh my God.
Jon 2:7 "When my soul fainted within me, I remembered Yahweh. My prayer came in to you, into your holy temple.
Jon 2:8 Those who regard lying vanities forsake their own mercy.
Jon 2:9 But I will sacrifice to you with the voice of thanksgiving. I will pay that which I have vowed. Salvation belongs to Yahweh."
Jon 2:10 Yahweh spoke to the fish, and it vomited out Jonah on the dry land.
World English Bible
God told Jonah to go to Nineveh and so what did Jonah do, he went in the opposite direction. Eventually, he finds himself in the belly of a big fish (some say a whale) and realizes he is done for. Then, he comes to his senses and reaches out to God. God listened and delivered him; end of story! Or, is it? Jonah went on to do what God wanted him to but still remained stubborn (and the last part I have never truly understood). See anything here; well, I do. America, wake up! We have been allowing this nation to turn from God in many ways for a long time and its getting worse. Do we really have to find ourselves in a situation where we realize we are done for before we change our way? Its not too late, pray about it; Jonah did and it worked. Maybe, just maybe it will work again!!

My wildest dreams

This sleeping kitten seems to be dreaming about something; I wonder what it could be? It does raise questions in my mind about dreams, though; what is their purpose and what do they mean? People have speculated about these questions for as long as there have been people, so don't expect me to have all the answers, save one from the book of Genesis:

Gen 40:1 It happened after these things, that the butler of the king of Egypt and his baker offended their lord, the king of Egypt.
Gen 40:2 Pharaoh was angry with his two officers, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker.
Gen 40:3 He put them in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, into the prison, the place where Joseph was bound.
Gen 40:4 The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he took care of them. They stayed in prison many days.
Gen 40:5 They both dreamed a dream, each man his dream, in one night, each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt, who were bound in the prison.
Gen 40:6 Joseph came in to them in the morning, and saw them, and saw that they were sad.
Gen 40:7 He asked Pharaoh's officers who were with him in custody in his master's house, saying, "Why do you look so sad today?"
Gen 40:8 They said to him, "We have dreamed a dream, and there is no one who can interpret it." Joseph said to them, "Don't interpretations belong to God? Please tell it to me."
Gen 40:9 The chief cupbearer told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, "In my dream, behold, a vine was in front of me,
Gen 40:10 and in the vine were three branches. It was as though it budded, its blossoms shot forth, and its clusters brought forth ripe grapes.
Gen 40:11 Pharaoh's cup was in my hand; and I took the grapes, and pressed them into Pharaoh's cup, and I gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand."
Gen 40:12 Joseph said to him, "This is its interpretation: the three branches are three days.
Gen 40:13 Within three more days, Pharaoh will lift up your head, and restore you to your office. You will give Pharaoh's cup into his hand, the way you did when you were his cupbearer.
Gen 40:14 But remember me when it will be well with you, and show kindness, please, to me, and make mention of me to Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house.
World English Bible
God gave the butler and the baker the dreams in order that Joseph might interpret them and ultimately save the Jews from starvation. God cared for them and he cares for us as well. I am approaching the sunset years of my life and I have seen many of my wildest dreams come true; not in any way that I could imagine, but in God's own way of doing things. So, the next time you have a dream, perhaps God may be trying to tell you something. I just wish Joesph was here to help us understand, it would make life so much simpler.

2/23/09

What time is it?

This clock is just WAY TO MUCH LIKE WORK! Although if you have a 250 I.Q. it is probably child's play. What ever happened to KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid)? The clock is intriguing, though, because it does make you think about the passage of time. Why keep track of time? Well, if you didn't then how would we know when to plant or harvest crops, when to get up or go to bed or when to expect that newborn arrival into the world? I can't even imagine how many things we use time to track, but the number must be huge! What did we do before clocks? We looked at the moon and stars from the very beginnings of civilization. I like this passage from the old testament book of Ecclesiastes:

Ecc 3:1 To all there is an appointed time, even a time for every purpose under the heavens:
Ecc 3:2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pull up what is planted; Ecc 3:3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to tear down, and a time to build up;
Ecc 3:4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
Ecc 3:5 a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
Ecc 3:6 a time to seek, and a time to give up as lost; a time to keep, and a time to throw away;
Ecc 3:7 a time to tear, and a time to sew together; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
Ecc 3:8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
Ecc 3:9 What advantage has he who works in that which he did as a laborer?
Ecc 3:10 I have seen the task which God has given to the sons of men, to be humbled by it.
Ecc 3:11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has set eternity in their heart, without which man cannot find out the work that God makes from the beginning even to the end. LITV
Time leads us to discover the beautiful nature of life and leads us to the creator. So, the next time someone asks you "what time is it?".... tell them its God's time. After all, he put it there!


2/22/09

The smile on your face

Happiness brings you up, and the converse is true as well. Face it, we are social "animals"; we need other people. I meet new people all the time and I can tell you from personal experience that a smile goes a long way towards establishing a friendship. This is easy to see in everyday life, but what about the Bible? Luke 15 tells the tale of a son who had gone astray and a father who was overjoyed at his return:

Luk 15:11 And he said, "There was a man who had two sons.
Luk 15:12 And the younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.' And he divided his property between them.
Luk 15:13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living.
Luk 15:14 And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need.
Luk 15:15 So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs.
Luk 15:16 And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.
Luk 15:17 "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger!
Luk 15:18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luk 15:19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants."' Luk 15:20 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.
Luk 15:21 And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'
Luk 15:22 But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet.
Luk 15:23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate.
Luk 15:24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate. ESV
Do you think anyone smiled? Was there happiness there? Why? Aren't religious people supposed to be stuffed shirts? Whoever started that idea probably has never known the happiness that only God can bring into life. Make no mistake, this parable is about the religiously wayward returning to God. Do you think God smiles; I do, because HE is happy with all those who turn from sinful lives to ones that please HIM. And that not only affects God, but you as well. So, tomorrow, smile and watch the effect the smile on your face will have on others; who knows, they might just see God smiling through you.

2/21/09

The best gift ever

What did YOU get for Valentine's day; flowers, candy, or maybe a nice card? How about a nice big juicy heart of beef? Now, I know its weird and all that, but for me a nice big piece of meat would go great with a baked potato. But, for Valentine's day? Why not? Love can be expressed in all sorts of ways because people are different the world over. Read this passage from Romans for a slightly different spin about love:

Rom 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Rom 5:2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Rom 5:3 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance,
Rom 5:4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope,
Rom 5:5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Rom 5:6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.
Rom 5:7 For one will scarcely die for a righteous person--though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die--
Rom 5:8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
English Standard Version
Today is February 21st and by now the candy has been gobbled up, the flowers wilted and the card, well, who knows where it is. Genuine love is something that stays with you for a lifetime, something that withstands the test of time. I can't think of anything longer than eternal life, can you? So, I guess that makes God's gift of Jesus the best gift ever because it keeps on giving forever. Now, as far as Valentine's day 2010 goes, if one of my children should happen to read this.... GET ME THE STEAK and please don't forget the A-1, please!


2/20/09

Just wrong!

I remember what I was doing when I saw this and you probably do as well. It was almost beyond belief to see this happen and it was so upsetting to so many people around me that the company I was working for offered counseling to all those who felt they needed it. How could anyone do such a thing? I think we can gain some insight from this passage from the book of Matthew:

Mat 4:1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
Mat 4:2 And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.
Mat 4:3 And the tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread."
Mat 4:4 But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
Mat 4:5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple
Mat 4:6 and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you,' and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'"
Mat 4:7 Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'"
Mat 4:8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.
Mat 4:9 And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me."
Mat 4:10 Then Jesus said to him, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, "'You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.'"
English Standard Version
We are religiously according to what standard of authority we are willing to submit to. Christians follow the Bible and that is to be our standard. Think about it; if God is really God, then there must be one truth and only one, just as there is only one true God. There are those who say you can do anything you want in regards to religious matters, but I think they are just wrong. Wrong because there really is only one God to worship; anything else is the Satanic. Remember what Jesus said in verse ten? Think I am wrong, well, look at the picture once again and ask yourself what standard the people who did this evil act were following?

2/19/09

What a face!

What a face! I look at her and she says "go away" as surely as I am breathing. I actually like what she does with her eyes, but her tongue; WOW, what a tongue! I can only imagine what she might say? However large a tongue might be, its the words that people say that hurt! Words like dum-dum, RETARD, fat-boy, lazy, good for nothing and the like. Its not JUST the words, its HOW they are said, with stretched out syllables and emphasis that reveal hate that comes straight from the heart. I like how James puts it in chapter three:

Jas 3:2 For we all stumble in many ways. If any one does not stumble in word, this one is a mature man, able also to bridle the whole body.
Jas 3:3 Behold, we put bits in the mouths of the horses, for them to obey us; and we turn about their whole body.
Jas 3:4 Behold, the ships also, being so great, and being driven by violent winds, they are directed by a very small rudder, where the impulse of the one steering purposes.
Jas 3:5 So also the tongue is a little member, and boasts great things. Behold, how little a fire kindles how large a forest!
Jas 3:6 And the tongue is a fire, the world of iniquity. So the tongue is set among our members, spotting all the body, and inflaming the course of nature, and being inflamed by Hell.
Jas 3:7 For every species of beasts, both indeed of birds, of creeping things, and of sea animals, is tamed, and has been tamed by the human species;
Jas 3:8 but no one of men is able to tame the tongue; it is an unrestrainable evil, full of death-dealing poison.
Jas 3:9 By this we bless God and the Father; and by this we curse men having come into being according to the image of God. Gen. 1:26
Jas 3:10 Out of the same mouth comes forth blessing and cursing. My brothers, it is not fitting for these things to be so. LITV
Strong words indeed! Try to remember them the next time you want to say something less than flattering; who knows, you just might save someone a very bad memory. Words can be good, however! I once asked my wife why she married me: She said" Well, its not because of your nose, because its so big you could land a plane on it; its not for money, because you only have to open your wallet to see how broke you are; its not for your family because we both know how much both our families hate one another". Why, then OH, why did you do it, I said? Her reply has echoed throughout the years and has given me great joy: "I married you because you KEPT ON TELLING ME THAT YOU LOVED ME, OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN; Finally, I believed you!! Success! forty years and counting!

2/18/09

My cup runs over

You just had a nice meal and raised your glass for a toast and then... wham, it all goes so very wrong. Things like this really do happen in life: The washer breaks, the car has a flat tire even though its raining, one of the kids puts a crayon in the pocket of your favorite shirt and the list goes on and on and on. However, even though we have problems from time to time, by and large things go OK. Its even better when you know that God is with you, helping you day by day. Read the words of the first Psalm and see if it doesn't sound good to you.

Psa 23:1 Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing.
Psa 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
Psa 23:3 He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psa 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psa 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
Psa 23:6 Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in Yahweh's house forever.
World English Bible

The world is tough out there right now and it may be even more challenging in the years ahead. Its nice to know God is watching out for me, helping and guiding all the way. Although, my cup running over does not necessarily refer to a broken mug, it still sounds like a good life; so live with enthusiasm: every day above ground is a good day, even the bad ones (because there is hope that tomorrow may be better).

2/17/09

looking up

Beautiful, isn't it? Quite rare because light has to be at just the right angle to form this fire rainbow. Some day I hope to see such a beautiful thing in the heavens with my own eyes. That is something to look forward to, indeed. The Psalmist was looking forward to seeing God and one can only imagine what that would be like. Its interesting to me that he asks for just one thing. Read the verse and I think you will begin to see a depth in it that is not obvious at first glance.

Psa 27:4 One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple.

I can only imagine what it will be like to be in God's presence, to consider his form and speak with him. What would he say, how would I comphrend it and how would I respond? Good questions, all. I honestly don't know the answers, but I think it would be better than any fire rainbow that I may ever see. One thing is for sure, the best way to start begins by looking up; at least you are headed in the right direction. Oh yes, you have to look and keep on looking; that's what the "one" in the verse is all about.

2/16/09

OK, Here's the plan


The Three Little Pigs Three Little Pigs went out to dinner one night. The waiter came and took their drink order. 'I would like a Sprite,' said the first little piggy.'I would like a Coke,' said the second little piggy.
'I want beer, lots and lots of beer,' said the third little piggy. The drinks were brought out and the waiter took their orders for dinner. 'I want a nice big steak,' said the first piggy. 'I would like the salad plate,' said the second piggy.
'I want beer, lots and lots of beer,' said the third little piggy. The meals were brought out and a while later the waiter approached the table and asked if the piggies would like any dessert. 'I want a banana split,' said the first piggy. 'I want a cheesecake,' said the second piggy.
'I want beer, lots and lots of beer,' exclaimed the third little piggy. 'Pardon me for asking,' said the waiter to the third little piggy,' But why have you only ordered beer all evening?' You're gonna LOVE me for this.... The third piggy says - 'Well, somebody has to go 'Wee, wee, wee, all the way home!
I know, I know, its simple. But there is something interesting here if you think about it; the pigs obviously had gotten together and made a plan before they went out to dinner. God has made a plan too, read about it from the book of the book of Ephesians:
Eph 3:1 For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles--
Eph 3:2 assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you,
Eph 3:3 how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly.
Eph 3:4 When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ,
Eph 3:5 which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.
Eph 3:6 This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
Eph 3:7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power.
Eph 3:8 To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,
Eph 3:9 and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things,
Eph 3:10 so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.
Eph 3:11 This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord,
English Standard Version
Simple, people other than Jews have a way to God and that is through Jesus. No, it doesn't have to be complicated to be good and simple doesn't mean stupid. What it does mean is that all we have to do is to follow the plan and the man Jesus and that's that! True genius is making the complex simple while retaining its depth of meaning! Well, it would have to be that way if I were to understand it.
Thanks to Kathi Hall for sending me the story and to Steve Dixon for doing the drawing!

In the jaws of death

Crazy, absolutely certifiable! Who in their right mind would do such a thing? Obviously, this person would, but why? Life is short and as you grow older the times seems to just fly by, so why would someone be so cavalier about their life. I think actions like this are based on the presumption that one can do whatever they want, whenever they want; their life is their own and they can do with it as they please! Perhaps a reflection on this verse from the book of Psalms would be in order here:


Ps 19:13
13 Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me! Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. ESV
Life is precious and we should have a little respect for what has been given to us. While seeing someone in the jaws of death is easy, how about allowing "little sins" into our life? Little sins become big ones and lead to disaster. Help us all to heed the prayer found in the book of Psalms and desire to be blameless and innocent. Besides, the critter in the picture doesn't really need another meal, does he?

2/14/09

Please change me

This sign could be anywhere; not just on a United Methodist Church. So, its not about this PARTICULAR DENOMINATION, but the concept of church in general. I am sure those who put the sign up meant well, but face it, there sometimes is a lot of infighting with those who claim to follow Christ. Consider the following passage from the book of First Corinthians for example:

1Co 1:10 I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.
1Co 1:11 For it has been reported to me by Chloe's people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers.
1Co 1:12 What I mean is that each one of you says, "I follow Paul," or "I follow Apollos," or "I follow Cephas," or "I follow Christ."
1Co 1:13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?
1Co 1:14 I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius,
1Co 1:15 so that no one may say that you were baptized in my name.
1Co 1:16 (I did baptize also the household of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized anyone else.)
1Co 1:17 For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
1Co 1:18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1Co 1:19 For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart."
1Co 1:20 Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
1Co 1:21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
1Co 1:22 For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom,
1Co 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles,
1Co 1:24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
1Co 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. ESV
The next time there is a problem in the church, think of this congregation. They had far more problems than any congregation I have ever seen, anywhere. Division, pride, sin of all sorts and yet God and the Apostle Paul still loved them; so much so that two books of the New Testament are devoted to them. Now the good news; they listened and changed their ways. They needed to refocus on Christ and stop sinning; if they can do it, I think just about anyone can. As far as this sign goes; "Please change me", today if possible!

2/13/09

a heart in the sky

Flowers, candy, greeting cards with fancy poems and those fancy plush toys that gyrate and sing rock and roll are the stuff of valentine's day. The flowers make you wheeze, the candy adds just a couple more unwanted pounds and after reading that wonderful poem the love of your life sounds just a little on the slow side. Oh, yes and that singing plush toy just sang the song your old flame use to sing to you. Wonderful, just wonderful! In case you are wondering, I REALLY DO LIKE ALL THOSE THINGS! However, sometimes no matter what you do, face it, you are headed for the doghouse. Accept it and move on to the next day, already! But, wait, what is all the fuss about anyway? So, for those destined for the doghouse in a couple of days, reflect on the following verses from the book of proverbs:

Pro 31:10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.
Pro 31:11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.
Pro 31:12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.
Pro 31:13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.
Pro 31:14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.
Pro 31:15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.
Pro 31:16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
Pro 31:17 She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.
Pro 31:18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.
Pro 31:19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.
Pro 31:20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.
Pro 31:21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.
Pro 31:22 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.
Pro 31:23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.
Pro 31:24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.
Pro 31:25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.
Pro 31:26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
Pro 31:27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Pro 31:28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
Pro 31:29 "Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all."
Pro 31:30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Pro 31:31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.
English Standard Version
Talk about an impossible standard! Reminds me of that old commerical on TV where the woman talks about bringing home the bacon and frying it up in a fan. There you go, superwoman! Ha, there is no such person. Face it, we all have our faults; no one, even YOUR loved one is perfect. But, I think I am safe in saying she probably loves you and remember YOU AREN'T PERFECT EITHER! So, if you just happen to look up and see a heart in the sky, don't obsess about it, rather let it remind you that there is love out there and if God has blessed you with love you have everything you really need. But, if you say or do the wrong thing on Saturday, well, even a dog house can be nice if its properly decorated.

2/12/09

a heavy question

No, this isn't me with my shirt off; its Arnold Schwartsenegger (excuse my spelling). His physical appearance is awesome and I imagine his bank account is as well. Who would have guessed he would go from actor to California governor? Life is like that; you just never know what can happen next. Consider this passage from the book of Revelation:

Rev 1:4 John to the seven assemblies in Asia: Grace to you, and peace, from the One who is, and who was, and who is coming, and from the seven spirits which are before His throne;
Rev 1:5 even from Jesus Christ the Faithful Witness, the First-born out of the dead, and the Ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him loving us and washing us from our sins by His blood,
Rev 1:6 and made us kings and priests to God, even His Father. To Him is the glory and the might forever and ever. Amen.
Rev 1:7 "Behold, He comes with the clouds," and "every eye will see Him, and the ones who pierced" Him, and all the tribes of the earth "will wail on account of Him." Yes, Amen. LITV
Surprise, Jesus is more than just a "good man" or a great "teacher"; his is the LORD of all and has the power of judgement. Nobody likes to go to court and the idea of judgement is not a pleasant one to even think about, but we make decisions all the time and often quite important ones at that. Consider what Jesus has done and what he will do in the future. Now, that leads to a heavy question: What will I do about it?

2/11/09

Wake up!

Remember the last time you worked so hard that you fell asleep exhausted? The next day you could hardly WAKE UP and the alarm clock kept ringing and ringing and ringing. Sleep gives us what we need; relaxation for the body and refreshment for the mind, and when its good, it can be very GOOD! Death is often referred to as sleep in the Bible. Jesus had to confront death, even the death of a loved one. John chapter eleven puts it this way:


Joh 11:11 He said these things, and after that, he said to them, "Our friend, Lazarus, has fallen asleep, but I am going so that I may awake him out of sleep."
Joh 11:12 The disciples therefore said, "Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover."
Joh 11:13 Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he spoke of taking rest in sleep.
Joh 11:14 So Jesus said to them plainly then, "Lazarus is dead.


Joh 11:39 Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to him, "Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days."
Joh 11:40 Jesus said to her, "Didn't I tell you that if you believed, you would see God's glory?"
Joh 11:41 So they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, "Father, I thank you that you listened to me.
Joh 11:42 I know that you always listen to me, but because of the multitude that stands around I said this, that they may believe that you sent me."
Joh 11:43 When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!"
Joh 11:44 He who was dead came out, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Free him, and let him go." ESV

Lazarus was raised out of death; now that's one deep sleep indeed! His death led to living again and what a testimony he must have had. However, one day we will all "wake up" and the question before us is "do I know where I am going"? Now, WAKE UP and ask yourself what must I do to have my last wake up call one that I can look forward to?

2/10/09

x marks the spot

Technology rules our lives; if you have any doubt about it, just keep a (paper) log and see. If you watched TV, rode in a car or listened to the radio you used technology. And that is old style; consider cell phones, computers and GPS (global positioning devices) to name a few. All these things help you do the things you want to do on an everyday basis, but do they tell you where you are in life? This picture tells you the obvious, but it does raise a good question, namely, where are you really? What are you doing with your life? There is a verse in the book of proverbs that should cause us all to reflect on this:


Pro 16:9 A man's heart plans his course, but Yahweh directs his steps. (WEB)


The years I spent in Northeast School of Biblical Studies were the best ones of all. During that time I remember Bill Bean singing "slip sliding away" by Simon and Garfunkle. The words come to mind often as they make me think about the futility of the things we do in life. Those who love (and are loved by) God are directed by HIM. This relationship causes us to be exactly where HE wants us to be; to be used by him. The "X" marks the spot in the picture is where God wants you to be and that's that. Stay put, God will show you where to go next; wait and see.

2/9/09

An angel or a devil?

What does an angel look like? I don't know; never have seen one! This man seems like one at first, but take a closer look; he just doesn't seem to foot the bill somehow. Maybe its the look on his face or his stance, but something says a BIG NO! We assume we know a lot of things in this world, but what do we really know? I could be very, very wrong and he could be Michael the archangel, but I assume he isn't, based on my ssumptions and guesses. That is just what the Sadducees did; they had their minds made up about things beyond their comprehension. How Jesus put them straight is seen in the following passage from the book of Matthew:

Mat 22:23 The same day Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question,
Mat 22:24 saying, "Teacher, Moses said, 'If a man dies having no children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up children for his brother.'
Mat 22:25 Now there were seven brothers among us. The first married and died, and having no children left his wife to his brother.
Mat 22:26 So too the second and third, down to the seventh.
Mat 22:27 After them all, the woman died.
Mat 22:28 In the resurrection, therefore, of the seven, whose wife will she be? For they all had her."
Mat 22:29 But Jesus answered them, "You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God.
Mat 22:30 For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.
Mat 22:31 And as for the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was said to you by God:
Mat 22:32 'I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? He is not God of the dead, but of the living."
Mat 22:33 And when the crowd heard it, they were astonished at his teaching.
English Standard Version
They didn't know the Scriptures, heavenly matters or even GOD for that matter! The opinions of the Sadducees were based on their "religious" knowledge and Jesus put that to shame quickly indeed. It would have been better if they had simply asked Jesus about the resurrection or marriage, but no, they had to show their superiority. Sounds like a situation of the first being last and the last being first; but that is obvious, isn't it? Maybe I should take a dose of my own medicine and ask "Who do you think this is; an angel or a devil"? I can't wait to hear from you, but wait, is it me, or does he look a little bit like John Mackenroe? Well, I had better stop with all my opinions, because I think I am seeing quicksand up ahead and I might need a miracle to get pulled out. There never is an angel around when you really need one, is there?

Any way you compute it

Right!? Does the phrase "figures don't lie, but liars figure" ring a bell? When found out, some people will continue to lie, no matter what! Call it "creative reality" or "a different perspective" or anything else you want, a lie is still a lie, period. The consequences of which can be just embarrassment or something in the extreme. Read the following passage from the book of Acts and see how dangerous lying to God can be:

Act 5:1 But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property,
Act 5:2 and with his wife's knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles' feet.
Act 5:3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land?
Act 5:4 While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God."
Act 5:5 When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it.
Act 5:6 The young men rose and wrapped him up and carried him out and buried him.
Act 5:7 After an interval of about three hours his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.
Act 5:8 And Peter said to her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for so much." And she said, "Yes, for so much."
Act 5:9 But Peter said to her, "How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out."
Act 5:10 Immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in they found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband.
Act 5:11 And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.
ESV
How much more serious punishment could there be? In fact, there is no such thing as a harmless lie, especially if God is involved. A half truth is still a whole lie any way you compute it. Think about that the next time you step up to a chalkboard.

2/8/09

Your every word...

When I look at this cat I see a look I remember on my daughter's faces when they were very young; this was before boys, before school and sometime after they learned to walk. When we went somewhere they actually wanted to hold my hand and when they wanted something they would say "PLEASE Daddy, PLEEEEEASE!!!!" There was an undefinable trust there, a certain something that bound us together in a way I will never completely understand; they hung on my every word. They learned from both their mother and me, which is as it should be. Listen to how God wants us to teach our children from the book of Deuteronomy:
Deut 6:4-7
4 "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.
5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
6 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart.
7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. ESV
Teaching begins with your heart and learning with theirs. When they are listening, teach! The days of intense listening to your every word are few; use them wisely! Now, maybe its time I bought that cat?


2/6/09

On the brink

If you look closely at the picture above, you will see a truck perched on the edge of the cliff, ready to go over it. Scary place to be, but sometimes we find ourselves in dangerous situations. I remember working on my soon-to-be in laws farm during the hay season; it was the end of the day and the hay wagon was stacked nine tier high and we were headed down a very steep hill. I don't remember why, but my future mother-in-law was having trouble with the brakes and we just kept going faster and faster. Thinking we were going to crash, I went over to Linda (who later became my wife) and hugged her tightly as we waited for the crash. Somehow, Linda's mom managed to put enough force on the brakes of that old tractor for us to stop, but all I remember is seeing her literally standing upright on them. Later, I learned she had also put on the emergency brake but all that really mattered was she knew what to do at the right time. In the book of Esther we see another dangerous situation with a lady with the courage to do what was necessary to save her people.
Est 4:1 When Mordecai learned all that had been done, Mordecai tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and he cried out with a loud and bitter cry.
Est 4:2 He went up to the entrance of the king's gate, for no one was allowed to enter the king's gate clothed in sackcloth.
Est 4:3 And in every province, wherever the king's command and his decree reached, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting and weeping and lamenting, and many of them lay in sackcloth and ashes.
Est 4:4 When Esther's young women and her eunuchs came and told her, the queen was deeply distressed. She sent garments to clothe Mordecai, so that he might take off his sackcloth, but he would not accept them.
Est 4:5 Then Esther called for Hathach, one of the king's eunuchs, who had been appointed to attend her, and ordered him to go to Mordecai to learn what this was and why it was.
Est 4:6 Hathach went out to Mordecai in the open square of the city in front of the king's gate,
Est 4:7 and Mordecai told him all that had happened to him, and the exact sum of money that Haman had promised to pay into the king's treasuries for the destruction of the Jews.
Est 4:8 Mordecai also gave him a copy of the written decree issued in Susa for their destruction, that he might show it to Esther and explain it to her and command her to go to the king to beg his favor and plead with him on behalf of her people.
Est 4:9 And Hathach went and told Esther what Mordecai had said.
Est 4:10 Then Esther spoke to Hathach and commanded him to go to Mordecai and say,
Est 4:11 "All the king's servants and the people of the king's provinces know that if any man or woman goes to the king inside the inner court without being called, there is but one law--to be put to death, except the one to whom the king holds out the golden scepter so that he may live. But as for me, I have not been called to come in to the king these thirty days."
Est 4:12 And they told Mordecai what Esther had said.
Est 4:13 Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, "Do not think to yourself that in the king's palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews.
Est 4:14 For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
Est 4:15 Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai,
Est 4:16 "Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish."
English Standard Version

Well, Esther didn't perish and saved her people from certain destruction. The enemies of the Jews were destroyed and the lineage of the Christ was preserved. Towards the end of the book there is much rejoicing by the Jews over their deliverance and its easy to see why they would be happy. I imagine that whoever drove that truck in the picture was happy to escape as well. Being on the brink of destruction is a very scary thing indeed; but for those who follow God, its nice to know that we don't have go through danger alone. Somehow that makes all the difference in the world!

STOP

Stop, it is among the first words we teach our children. How often have I had to repeat it several times before one of my children would listen. Adults sometimes won't listen either and perhaps that is why they put up this forceful sign. Jesus had to use hard language to teach hard hearts; this passage from the book of Matthew is a good example:

Mat 23:27 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness.
Mat 23:28 So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.
Mat 23:29 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and decorate the monuments of the righteous,
Mat 23:30 saying, 'If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.'
Mat 23:31 Thus you witness against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets.
Mat 23:32 Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers.
Mat 23:33 You serpents, you brood of vipers, how are you to escape being sentenced to hell?
Mat 23:34 Therefore I send you prophets and wise men and scribes, some of whom you will kill and crucify, and some you will flog in your synagogues and persecute from town to town,
Mat 23:35 so that on you may come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of innocent Abel to the blood of Zechariah the son of Barachiah, whom you murdered between the sanctuary and the altar.
Mat 23:36 Truly, I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation.

English Standard Version

God had sent prophets, wise men and scribes and they were rejected, so as a last resort HE sent Jesus to teach them. They needed to STOP placing emphasis on the externals of religion and START changing inwardly! If you have ever looked in the mirror and realized the word hypocrite could apply to you in any way.... then you just stopped. Now start over again and proceed with caution, PLEEEASE!

2/5/09

What are you really worth?

They may pay more than the NYPD, but it would seem they don't know the difference between a "then" and a "than". This sign does raise an interesting question: what are you really worth? I once worked for a pottery in central New Jersey and the plant manager told me that hiring employees was like buying a loaf of bread: "You pay what you have to in order to get the people you want". In the business world there are often a lot of different salaries for the same job, but what about the spiritual realm? The apostle Paul put it this way in his letter to the Philippians:

Php 2:5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,
Php 2:6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,
Php 2:7 but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
Php 2:8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
Php 2:9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name,
Php 2:10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
Php 2:11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
You are worth enough to have Jesus humble himself for you; so each one of us is worth a great deal indeed. Don't ask me to put a monetary value to your real worth, but one thing is for certain.... its more than Exxon can pay.

2/4/09

Gold "Wonder"

Imagine sitting in the driver's seat of this baby! Gold, imagine that, Gold! I can picture myself sinking into gorgeous leather seats and listening to Gustav Hosts' "The planets" via a sound system that really rocks! Mercedes Benz are known for their quality, so I can't even think that something would go wrong! But, face it, EVERYTHING BREAKS DOWN; your car, your brand new super-duper TV and that fancy new recliner too. It is not wrong to own fine things; just don't let fine things own you. I like the way Jesus puts it:

Mat 6:19 "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal,
Mat 6:20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Mat 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
English Standard Version
Put your priorities where they will reap benefits in a hundred years and I think that will work out just fine. The cost of this Gold Wonder can be calculated, but I wonder how you go about putting a price on the love you leave behind after you leave this life and the true value of the life to come?

2/3/09

Grandeur

This picture of the Alps reminds me of the ones Walter Hewitt showed me in 1980. Walter and his wife Lillian had taken what seemed like thousands of similar pictures. I still remember the wonder in his voice as he described the surroundings; those pictures were amazing! I went home that night feeling a little overwhelmed by all I had seen and Walter’s excitement made me realize once again how small we as human beings are and how great the works of the Almighty. However, not everyone believes in God and many are in violent opposition to him. Think for a moment about this passage from the book of first Corinthians:

1Co 1:18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1Co 1:19 For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart."
1Co 1:20 Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
1Co 1:21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
1Co 1:22 For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom,
1Co 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles,
1Co 1:24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
1Co 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1Co 1:26 For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth.
1Co 1:27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong;
1Co 1:28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are,
1Co 1:29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God.

English Standard Version

If you examine the best of your attributes, someone else is always better. If you work around those who possess true genius, you will feel stupid, but, just by being around them you WILL become smarter, guaranteed! Now, if this is true from an Earthly perspective, consider the spiritual implications. If you learn to appreciate the true grandeur God has placed in the world around us, then how much more will you grow as you begin to understand something of the nature of God. Now, that is a high mountaintop indeed, something worthy of the climb and that will give joy in each step along the way!

2/2/09

Wonder

Someone is having a bad day and from the looks of the monument in the background, I think he was just hit with a big dose of reality and the wonderment that exists in childhood has been somewhat tarnished. This wonder is the stuff of imagination that enables us to soar above the doldrums of everyday life and greet every new day with excitement and expectation. Our dreams may or may not have foundation in reality, but they do make living worth while. When a dream dies, it is a sad thing, but usually something better takes its place. God does this for us in ways we really can not begin to comprehend because he knows us better than we know ourselves. Consider the following passage from the book of Psalms:

Psa 139:1 Yahweh, you have searched me, and you know me.
Psa 139:2 You know my sitting down and my rising up. You perceive my thoughts from afar.
Psa 139:3 You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.
Psa 139:4 For there is not a word on my tongue, but, behold, Yahweh, you know it altogether.
Psa 139:5 You hem me in behind and before. You laid your hand on me.
Psa 139:6 This knowledge is beyond me. It's lofty. I can't attain it.
Psa 139:7 Where could I go from your Spirit? Or where could I flee from your presence?
Psa 139:8 If I ascend up into heaven, you are there. If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, you are there!
Psa 139:9 If I take the wings of the dawn, and settle in the uttermost parts of the sea;
Psa 139:10 Even there your hand will lead me, and your right hand will hold me.
Psa 139:11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will overwhelm me; the light around me will be night;"
Psa 139:12 even the darkness doesn't hide from you, but the night shines as the day. The darkness is like light to you.
Psa 139:13 For you formed my inmost being. You knit me together in my mother's womb.
Psa 139:14 I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. My soul knows that very well.
Psa 139:15 My frame wasn't hidden from you, when I was made in secret, woven together in the depths of the earth.
Psa 139:16 Your eyes saw my body. In your book they were all written, the days that were ordained for me, when as yet there were none of them.
Psa 139:17 How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!
Psa 139:18 If I would count them, they are more in number than the sand. When I wake up, I am still with you.

The World English Bible

The boy may be crying now, but once he stops, I hope he can dream once again, and let his spirit be uplifted by the complex simplicity of the glory of life, which unfolds into wonder. As I understand it, a life worth living begins by searching for the creator of all things and ends with finding all things in him; now, that is truly wonderful!


2/1/09

Fear

I don’t think it would be a good idea to get this dog any more angry than he already is. Maybe someone gave him the wrong dog food or did not put his water dish out or one of a thousand things, but make no mistake, this dog means business. Even though he is small, he is a fearful sight indeed! We often associate fear with negative things, but it can have positive aspects as well. Fear can prevent you from doing something very dangerous or perhaps even stupid. It can give you strength in time of danger and cause you to reconsider your actions. Fear can be good! Fearing the WRONG THINGS leads to phobias and fearing the RIGHT THINGS might just save your life. Jesus spoke about fear; listen to what he told his disciples:

Mat 10:16 "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.
Mat 10:17 Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues,
Mat 10:18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.
Mat 10:19 When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.
Mat 10:20 For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Mat 10:21 Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death,
Mat 10:22 and you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
Mat 10:23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
Mat 10:24 "A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master.
Mat 10:25 It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.
Mat 10:26 "So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.
Mat 10:27 What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops.
Mat 10:28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Mat 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.
Mat 10:30 But even the hairs of your head are all numbered.
Mat 10:31 Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Mat 10:32 So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven,
Mat 10:33 but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 10:34 "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.
Mat 10:35 For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
Mat 10:36 And a person's enemies will be those of his own household.
Mat 10:37 Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
Mat 10:38 And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.
Mat 10:39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

English Standard Version


The worst men can do is to kill you, but God can “destroy both soul and body in hell”. This sounds just a little bit more severe than dying, doesn’t it? The irony of this life is that if you lose it for God, then you keep it forever; you just have to love God more and fear men less. God cares about us enough to warn us and so I think it would be a pretty good idea if we perked up our ears. Oh, yes and watch out for nasty little dogs too!