“I assure you, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! For a shepherd enters through the gate. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they recognize his voice. They won't follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don't recognize his voice.” Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn't understand what he meant, so he explained it to them. "I assure you, I am the gate for the sheep," he said. "All others who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. Wherever they go, they will find green pastures. The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.” (John 10:1-10 NLV).
Jesus very clearly taught that the life He offers is one of joy. At least one of the elements in experiencing this joy is the ability to celebrate our successes. It's also one that's easily ignored and even contradicted. The problem for many of us is that we never quite feel successful because as soon as we reach one goal or pass a certain milestone, we're already going after the next one. Too often we don't stop to revel in the feeling of accomplishment. We're too focused on the next rung of the ladder that's if we've even noticed we've moved up another rung. I'm not advocating resting on our laurels. I'm suggesting we truly experience the joy that comes from seeing our progress and accomplishing our objectives.
When we don’t allow ourselves to celebrate the successes of our lives we rob ourselves of an important part of life. It's the wrong focus, and, when we do this, we're being ungrateful. We actually deny the abundance Christ came to give us. Of course we can always see ways we could have done it better or faster. But the truth is we did it. So celebrate it. Mark it as the high point in your life. Then start creating the next one. Indulge yourself in feelings of triumph and success, and thumb your nose at the natural tendency to disparage your work or yourself.
What accomplishment can you celebrate? What milestones can you highlight or acknowledge? Your last promotion? Helping someone through a tough time? Winning that new contract? Losing those five pounds? Giving that presentation? When we do these things, it anchors positive feelings into our consciousness and prepares us for more of the same. Like attracts like and our feelings are powerful magnets indeed.
I like to keep a “Win List” as part of my daily journal. I find that listing the wins in my life big and small is more than therapeutic. And it's a real pick-me-up to review the good things that have happened to me as well as the things I've made happen. It keeps me grateful and it keeps me focused on the good stuff. Celebrating our successes employs a universal law: when we appreciate what we have and what we've done, we find ourselves having more to appreciate. Start your own “Win List” today. See if the celebrations don’t begin to stack up as you focus on the good things God has brought into your life.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
A Death Worth Dying
George Armstrong Custer is a well-known name from American history. He was the commander of the 7th Calvary. In the comprehensive campaign against the Sioux planned in 1876, Custer's regiment was detailed to the column under the commanding general, Alfred H. Terry, which marched from Bismarck to the Yellowstone River. At the mouth of the Rosebud, Terry sent Custer forward to locate the enemy while he marched on to join the column under Gen. John Gibbon. Custer came upon the warrior encampment on the Little Bighorn and decided to attack at once. Not realizing the overwhelming numerical superiority of the Native Americans, most of whom lay concealed in ravines, he divided his regiment into three parts, sending two of them, under Major Marcus A. Reno and Capt. Frederick W. Benteen, to attack farther upstream, while he himself led the third (over 200 men) in a direct charge. Every one of them was killed in battle. Reno and Benteen were themselves kept on the defensive, and not until Terry's arrival was the extent of the tragedy known. The men, except Custer, whose remains were reinterred at West Point, were buried on the battlefield, now a national monument in Montana. Custer's spectacular death made him a popular but controversial hero, still the subject of much dispute as to his actions and character.
Very few people would regard his death as a death worth dying. However, there is one death that is worth dying. Read the words of Jesus spoken to His disciples just before He was crucified:
Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem to attend the Passover paid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. They said, "Sir, we want to meet Jesus." Philip told Andrew about it, and they went together to ask Jesus. Jesus replied, "The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. The truth is, a kernel of wheat must be planted in the soil. Unless it dies it will be alone – a single seed. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who despise their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. All those who want to be my disciples must come and follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And if they follow me, the Father will honor them. (John 14:20-26 NLV).
Custer was both courageous and committed, however his courage and his commitment were misplaced. His death did not bring him life. The death Jesus is talking about in this passage brings life. It also requires courage and commitment, but not to a cause. Jesus calls us to commit ourselves to Him.
In 1904 William Borden, heir to the Borden Dairy Estate, graduated from a Chicago high school a millionaire. His parents gave him a trip around the world. Traveling through Asia, the Middle East, and Europe gave Borden a burden for the world's hurting people. Writing home, he said, "I'm going to give my life to prepare for the mission field." When he made this decision, he wrote in the back of his Bible two words: "No Reserves." Turning down high paying job offers after graduating from Yale University, he entered two more words in his Bible: "No Retreats." Completing studies at Princeton Seminary, Borden sailed for China to work with Muslims, stopping first at Egypt for some preparation. While there he was stricken with cerebral meningitis and died within a month. Some might say that his life was a waste. Yet, there were countless thousands of people who have been touched by his story. His life has become a beacon of light to many people in darkness. Borden understood the value of this kind of courage and commitment. In his Bible underneath the words "No Reserves" and "No Retreats," he had written the words "No Regrets."
His death was worth dying. Will yours be that kind of death? Or a better question: is you life worth living? It can be. Commit yourself completely to following Christ in all that you do.
Very few people would regard his death as a death worth dying. However, there is one death that is worth dying. Read the words of Jesus spoken to His disciples just before He was crucified:
Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem to attend the Passover paid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. They said, "Sir, we want to meet Jesus." Philip told Andrew about it, and they went together to ask Jesus. Jesus replied, "The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. The truth is, a kernel of wheat must be planted in the soil. Unless it dies it will be alone – a single seed. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who despise their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. All those who want to be my disciples must come and follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And if they follow me, the Father will honor them. (John 14:20-26 NLV).
Custer was both courageous and committed, however his courage and his commitment were misplaced. His death did not bring him life. The death Jesus is talking about in this passage brings life. It also requires courage and commitment, but not to a cause. Jesus calls us to commit ourselves to Him.
In 1904 William Borden, heir to the Borden Dairy Estate, graduated from a Chicago high school a millionaire. His parents gave him a trip around the world. Traveling through Asia, the Middle East, and Europe gave Borden a burden for the world's hurting people. Writing home, he said, "I'm going to give my life to prepare for the mission field." When he made this decision, he wrote in the back of his Bible two words: "No Reserves." Turning down high paying job offers after graduating from Yale University, he entered two more words in his Bible: "No Retreats." Completing studies at Princeton Seminary, Borden sailed for China to work with Muslims, stopping first at Egypt for some preparation. While there he was stricken with cerebral meningitis and died within a month. Some might say that his life was a waste. Yet, there were countless thousands of people who have been touched by his story. His life has become a beacon of light to many people in darkness. Borden understood the value of this kind of courage and commitment. In his Bible underneath the words "No Reserves" and "No Retreats," he had written the words "No Regrets."
His death was worth dying. Will yours be that kind of death? Or a better question: is you life worth living? It can be. Commit yourself completely to following Christ in all that you do.
Memorial Day, 2011
Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May each year. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates soldiers who died while in the military service. It was first enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War. It was extended after World War I to honor all Americans who have died in all wars. It also often marks the start of the summer vacation season, and Labor Day its end. Begun as a ritual of remembrance and reconciliation after the Civil War, by the early 20th century, Memorial Day was an occasion for more general expressions of memory, as people visited the graves of their deceased relatives, whether they had served in the military or not. It also became a long weekend increasingly devoted to shopping, family get-togethers, fireworks, trips to the beach, and national media events such as the Indianapolis 500 auto race, held since 1911 on Memorial Day.
How will you spend your Memorial Day? This year I am traveling from a brief vacation and family reunion in Texas. Just seeing so many relatives, some I haven’t seen in decades, brings to mind many “memories.” Thinking about those past experiences brings me to a specific passage of Scripture today:
When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” (Luke 22:14-20 NIV).
At the last meal Jesus had with his disciples he instructed explained to them the necessity and purpose of his death and asked them to approach that time of worship in the future “in remembrance of him.” It was, after all, Passover. This was a Jewish celebration marking the miraculous deliverance of their nation from the slavery of Egypt. Just as God delivered them then, He did so again in the sacrifice of Jesus for all mankind. It was a complete sacrifice leaving nothing else to be done for all people in all time.
Memorial Day is a serious time of the year for many who mourn the great sacrifice of their loved ones on a field of battle given to insure our freedom. I would never lessen the magnitude of that sacrifice. However, as great a gift our freedom is in The United States, it is nothing compared to the freedom won for us through God’s gift of His only begotten Son. This Memorial Day, I hope you will remember all you have lost and honor them with your thoughts. But, would you also remember God’s gift to you? After all, it is the greatest of all gifts for eternity!
How will you spend your Memorial Day? This year I am traveling from a brief vacation and family reunion in Texas. Just seeing so many relatives, some I haven’t seen in decades, brings to mind many “memories.” Thinking about those past experiences brings me to a specific passage of Scripture today:
When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” (Luke 22:14-20 NIV).
At the last meal Jesus had with his disciples he instructed explained to them the necessity and purpose of his death and asked them to approach that time of worship in the future “in remembrance of him.” It was, after all, Passover. This was a Jewish celebration marking the miraculous deliverance of their nation from the slavery of Egypt. Just as God delivered them then, He did so again in the sacrifice of Jesus for all mankind. It was a complete sacrifice leaving nothing else to be done for all people in all time.
Memorial Day is a serious time of the year for many who mourn the great sacrifice of their loved ones on a field of battle given to insure our freedom. I would never lessen the magnitude of that sacrifice. However, as great a gift our freedom is in The United States, it is nothing compared to the freedom won for us through God’s gift of His only begotten Son. This Memorial Day, I hope you will remember all you have lost and honor them with your thoughts. But, would you also remember God’s gift to you? After all, it is the greatest of all gifts for eternity!
Friday, May 27, 2011
"Focusing on Abundance"
You formed the mountains by your power and armed yourself with mighty strength. You quieted the raging oceans with their pounding waves and silenced the shouting of the nations. Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in awe of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy. You take care of the earth and water it, making it rich and fertile. The rivers of God will not run dry; they provide a bountiful harvest of grain, for you have ordered it so. You drench the plowed ground with rain, melting the clods and leveling the ridges. You soften the earth with showers and bless its abundant crops. You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance. The wilderness becomes a lush pasture, and the hillsides blossom with joy. They all shout and sing for joy! (Psalm 65:6-13 NLV).
Sometimes we can’t see the forest for the trees! Seeing the blessing of God is like that. However, focusing on abundance does something amazing. It brings an awareness of God’s provision in forms that we do not expect. Looking through this filter of abundance invites more abundance into your life. While it might sound strange, it works! Are you stumped to see your abundance today? Here are ten to get you started:
1. You have an abundance of occasions to touch other people. A simple kind word can change the course of someone else's life today. Speak kindly to the clerk in the grocery store, dry cleaners or the sales person. Watch what happens. Abundance!
2. You have an abundance of choices to make, all of which can go towards the positive. What to wear? The outfit that makes you look your best! What to eat? The foods that make your body work the best! How to greet your co-workers? With a sincere compliment. Abundance!
3. You have an abundance of patience. What? Your schedule is jam-packed, you have three teens with incredible schedules, your refrigerator is empty and as you were getting dressed you ripped a whole in your socks or stockings? Well, cry out for patience, take a second to ask if this will all REALLY affect you a week from now. Breathe. Abundance!
4. You have an abundance of creative ideas. Everything you do can provide connections to solving the challenges of daily life. Simply look at everything through a slightly different filter. Maybe for a day you will look for similarities in all the objects you encounter that day. As you flex your brain, it will do amazing things! Abundance!
5. You have an abundance of smiles and laughter. Try this, drive around with a contented smile on your face, and watch the other drivers. By yourself now, not with others in the car. You will be amazed at the other drivers. They will see you AND smile back. It is fantastic how this feels, after ten minutes you will be giggling like a child! Abundance!
6. You have an abundance of stories. Everything that happens to you can be woven into a story to share with the people in your life. Tell your stories. Record them, write them down. Abundance!
7. You have an abundance of interesting people in your life. Truly try conversing with people differently today, as if you are mining for gold when you ask them questions. Just as you have literally an infinite number of bridge building stories, so do they. The most wonderful and strongest bridges are supported by many. Abundance!
8. You have an abundance of resources right at your fingertips. The Internet is literally a huge library, one that is growing and changing every moment. Interested in ANYTHING? Do a search, find your answers. Dig deeper, ask more questions. Abundance!
9. You have an abundance of new skills you can acquire. I began a new career at 50. Yes, it was painful at first, but that too passed. Now I am one of the most successful salesmen in our dealership. Say no to limiting beliefs and learn a joyful new skill today. Abundance!
10. You have an abundance of opportunities to explore and expand your own experience of life. You are precious and unique, born for your own special purpose. Yours, and yours alone. You can get off the treadmill of ordinary existence and step into your own extraordinariness. Abundance!
Sometimes we can’t see the forest for the trees! Seeing the blessing of God is like that. However, focusing on abundance does something amazing. It brings an awareness of God’s provision in forms that we do not expect. Looking through this filter of abundance invites more abundance into your life. While it might sound strange, it works! Are you stumped to see your abundance today? Here are ten to get you started:
1. You have an abundance of occasions to touch other people. A simple kind word can change the course of someone else's life today. Speak kindly to the clerk in the grocery store, dry cleaners or the sales person. Watch what happens. Abundance!
2. You have an abundance of choices to make, all of which can go towards the positive. What to wear? The outfit that makes you look your best! What to eat? The foods that make your body work the best! How to greet your co-workers? With a sincere compliment. Abundance!
3. You have an abundance of patience. What? Your schedule is jam-packed, you have three teens with incredible schedules, your refrigerator is empty and as you were getting dressed you ripped a whole in your socks or stockings? Well, cry out for patience, take a second to ask if this will all REALLY affect you a week from now. Breathe. Abundance!
4. You have an abundance of creative ideas. Everything you do can provide connections to solving the challenges of daily life. Simply look at everything through a slightly different filter. Maybe for a day you will look for similarities in all the objects you encounter that day. As you flex your brain, it will do amazing things! Abundance!
5. You have an abundance of smiles and laughter. Try this, drive around with a contented smile on your face, and watch the other drivers. By yourself now, not with others in the car. You will be amazed at the other drivers. They will see you AND smile back. It is fantastic how this feels, after ten minutes you will be giggling like a child! Abundance!
6. You have an abundance of stories. Everything that happens to you can be woven into a story to share with the people in your life. Tell your stories. Record them, write them down. Abundance!
7. You have an abundance of interesting people in your life. Truly try conversing with people differently today, as if you are mining for gold when you ask them questions. Just as you have literally an infinite number of bridge building stories, so do they. The most wonderful and strongest bridges are supported by many. Abundance!
8. You have an abundance of resources right at your fingertips. The Internet is literally a huge library, one that is growing and changing every moment. Interested in ANYTHING? Do a search, find your answers. Dig deeper, ask more questions. Abundance!
9. You have an abundance of new skills you can acquire. I began a new career at 50. Yes, it was painful at first, but that too passed. Now I am one of the most successful salesmen in our dealership. Say no to limiting beliefs and learn a joyful new skill today. Abundance!
10. You have an abundance of opportunities to explore and expand your own experience of life. You are precious and unique, born for your own special purpose. Yours, and yours alone. You can get off the treadmill of ordinary existence and step into your own extraordinariness. Abundance!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Mastering Change
"So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life – whether you have enough food, drink, and clothes. Doesn't life consist of more than food and clothing? Look at the birds. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than they are. Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not. "And why worry about your clothes? Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you? You have so little faith! "So don't worry about having enough food or drink or clothing. Why be like the pagans who are so deeply concerned about these things? Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.” (Matthew 6:25-34 NLV).
In his book Celebrations of Life, Rene Dubos says that we fear change more today than ever before, and for less reason. The reason you fear change is because you are afraid that you will be worse off as a result. No one fears change that implies improvement. For example, if you learned that you were going to have to change your life-style because you had just won a lottery, this is not the kind of change that you would avoid or anticipate with dread. It is change that implies unpleasant surprises that you fear and become anxious about because it causes you to feel that you have lost a certain amount of control in that part of your life. Because of faith we may become “masters of change.” Faith in Christ allows us to embrace change, to welcome change, and to ride the tides of change. Boat builders know that the deeper the keel of a sailing vessel, the more stable it will be in storms, squalls and gusts of wind. The same holds true for you. The deeper your keel, or the stabilizing factors in your life, the less likely it is that you will be blown over, or off course, when unexpected change occurs. The more your understanding and experience of God grows in your life, the deeper the stabilizing factor of His strength and purpose becomes. This is not to say that you will not experience trials and difficulties. You will experience a continuous series of large and small disappointments and setbacks. That is the nature of life. They are inevitable and unavoidable. Some things work out, and some things don't. Sometimes you win; sometimes you lose. In spite of your best efforts, unexpected and unpredictable events will derail your best-laid plans. Problems, changes are like the rain, they just happen. Let me make a few practical suggestions in deepening your keel to sail the sea of change in your life.
1. The first step in dealing with any change is simply to accept the change as a reality. Acceptance is the opposite of rejection or resistance. Acceptance keeps your mind calm and positive. As William James said, "The starting point in dealing with any difficulty is to be willing to have it so." The minute you accept that a change has occurred, and that you can't cry over spilled milk, you become more capable of dealing with the change and turning it to your advantage.
2. The second step is to ask yourself, "What is the worst possible thing that can happen in this worry situation?" Much worry and stress comes from the refusal to face what might happen as a result of your difficulty or problem. When you clearly define the worst possible outcome, and write it down next to the definition of the problem, you will find that, whatever it is, you can handle it. Mentally resolve that, even if the worst possible consequences ensue from this situation, it will not be the end of the world for you. The very act of accepting the worst possible outcome completes the cycle of eliminating from your mind the stress and anxiety associated with the situation.
3. You are now ready for the third step in dealing with change, and that is to adjust your behaviors and actions to the new situation. Ask yourself, "What are all the things I can do to make sure that the worst possible outcome does not occur?" Sometimes we call this "damage control."
4. The final part of this four-step method for dealing with change is to improve on the existing situation. There is an old saying, "Crisis is change trying to take place." If, instead of resisting change, like a pine tree that snaps in a strong wind, you bend with change, like a willow tree, you will often find that the change is a healthy and positive step toward achieving your goals.
In his book Celebrations of Life, Rene Dubos says that we fear change more today than ever before, and for less reason. The reason you fear change is because you are afraid that you will be worse off as a result. No one fears change that implies improvement. For example, if you learned that you were going to have to change your life-style because you had just won a lottery, this is not the kind of change that you would avoid or anticipate with dread. It is change that implies unpleasant surprises that you fear and become anxious about because it causes you to feel that you have lost a certain amount of control in that part of your life. Because of faith we may become “masters of change.” Faith in Christ allows us to embrace change, to welcome change, and to ride the tides of change. Boat builders know that the deeper the keel of a sailing vessel, the more stable it will be in storms, squalls and gusts of wind. The same holds true for you. The deeper your keel, or the stabilizing factors in your life, the less likely it is that you will be blown over, or off course, when unexpected change occurs. The more your understanding and experience of God grows in your life, the deeper the stabilizing factor of His strength and purpose becomes. This is not to say that you will not experience trials and difficulties. You will experience a continuous series of large and small disappointments and setbacks. That is the nature of life. They are inevitable and unavoidable. Some things work out, and some things don't. Sometimes you win; sometimes you lose. In spite of your best efforts, unexpected and unpredictable events will derail your best-laid plans. Problems, changes are like the rain, they just happen. Let me make a few practical suggestions in deepening your keel to sail the sea of change in your life.
1. The first step in dealing with any change is simply to accept the change as a reality. Acceptance is the opposite of rejection or resistance. Acceptance keeps your mind calm and positive. As William James said, "The starting point in dealing with any difficulty is to be willing to have it so." The minute you accept that a change has occurred, and that you can't cry over spilled milk, you become more capable of dealing with the change and turning it to your advantage.
2. The second step is to ask yourself, "What is the worst possible thing that can happen in this worry situation?" Much worry and stress comes from the refusal to face what might happen as a result of your difficulty or problem. When you clearly define the worst possible outcome, and write it down next to the definition of the problem, you will find that, whatever it is, you can handle it. Mentally resolve that, even if the worst possible consequences ensue from this situation, it will not be the end of the world for you. The very act of accepting the worst possible outcome completes the cycle of eliminating from your mind the stress and anxiety associated with the situation.
3. You are now ready for the third step in dealing with change, and that is to adjust your behaviors and actions to the new situation. Ask yourself, "What are all the things I can do to make sure that the worst possible outcome does not occur?" Sometimes we call this "damage control."
4. The final part of this four-step method for dealing with change is to improve on the existing situation. There is an old saying, "Crisis is change trying to take place." If, instead of resisting change, like a pine tree that snaps in a strong wind, you bend with change, like a willow tree, you will often find that the change is a healthy and positive step toward achieving your goals.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Fear or Power?
This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So you must never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don’t be ashamed of me, either, even though I’m in prison for Christ. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the proclamation of the Good News. It is God who saved us and chose us to live a holy life. He did this not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan long before the world began – to show his love and kindness to us through Christ Jesus. And now he has made all of this plain to us by the coming of Christ Jesus, our Savior, who broke the power of death and showed us the way to everlasting life through the Good News. (2 Timothy 1:6-10 NLV).
Once when Marshall Ney was going into battle, looking down at his knees which were shaking together, he said, “You may well shake; you would shake worse yet if you knew where I am going to take you.” Napoleon was so much impressed with the courage and resources of Marshall Ney, that he said, “I have two hundred millions in my coffers, and I would give them all for Ney.”
Oliver Cresse said, “What or who builds self-imposed barriers? A stonemason named Fear, one who is highly skilled in building powerful barriers from nonexistent stones. Where does this craftsman live? In our minds. He's always there, but it's up to us whether he lives in the back of our minds or the front of our minds.” There is much truth to that statement. Fear is one of the most utilized tools of our enemy, the devil. It erases our desire to move forward in life. It paralyzes us and causes indecision and failure.
While we cannot be rid of fear, when we understand how it works, we can overcome it. When fear moves from the back of our minds to the front of our minds by shifting our concentration away from our faith, and choosing instead to focus on that which frightens us, not only does that action change fear's location, but through the process of concentration, it means we actually start to strengthen it. Fear has no strength of its own; its only strength is that which we choose to give it. When fear defeats us, it does so because of our own mental focus. And unfortunately, the strength we pass along to it is the very strength we need to overcome it! If, on the other hand, we choose to push our goals, wrapped in faith, to the forefront of our minds, then barriers break.
The Scripture teaches us that we already possess sufficient faith to initiate this process and win the victory. A person may not be born with an overabundance of talent, but he or she will certainly possess all the strength needed, whether used or unused, to develop the talent that is there. Today commit yourself to starve your fear and feed your faith! Probably the greatest book on fear ever written in this country was by Basil King and the title was "The Conquest of Fear." Here is the quotation: "Go at it boldly, and you'll find unexpected forces closing round you and coming to your aid." Isn't that terrific? "Go at it boldly, and you'll find unexpected forces closing round you and coming to your aid." Long before Basil King, Emerson said, "Do the thing you fear, and the death of fear is certain." You defeat worry and fear by filling your mind with the certain faith that you can do it. That is the best way to get rid of the worry and fear about those many things that are bothering you. Get out of yourself and do something about it, realizing that your Heavenly Father says to you, "For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, 'Fear not, I will help you.'"
Once when Marshall Ney was going into battle, looking down at his knees which were shaking together, he said, “You may well shake; you would shake worse yet if you knew where I am going to take you.” Napoleon was so much impressed with the courage and resources of Marshall Ney, that he said, “I have two hundred millions in my coffers, and I would give them all for Ney.”
Oliver Cresse said, “What or who builds self-imposed barriers? A stonemason named Fear, one who is highly skilled in building powerful barriers from nonexistent stones. Where does this craftsman live? In our minds. He's always there, but it's up to us whether he lives in the back of our minds or the front of our minds.” There is much truth to that statement. Fear is one of the most utilized tools of our enemy, the devil. It erases our desire to move forward in life. It paralyzes us and causes indecision and failure.
While we cannot be rid of fear, when we understand how it works, we can overcome it. When fear moves from the back of our minds to the front of our minds by shifting our concentration away from our faith, and choosing instead to focus on that which frightens us, not only does that action change fear's location, but through the process of concentration, it means we actually start to strengthen it. Fear has no strength of its own; its only strength is that which we choose to give it. When fear defeats us, it does so because of our own mental focus. And unfortunately, the strength we pass along to it is the very strength we need to overcome it! If, on the other hand, we choose to push our goals, wrapped in faith, to the forefront of our minds, then barriers break.
The Scripture teaches us that we already possess sufficient faith to initiate this process and win the victory. A person may not be born with an overabundance of talent, but he or she will certainly possess all the strength needed, whether used or unused, to develop the talent that is there. Today commit yourself to starve your fear and feed your faith! Probably the greatest book on fear ever written in this country was by Basil King and the title was "The Conquest of Fear." Here is the quotation: "Go at it boldly, and you'll find unexpected forces closing round you and coming to your aid." Isn't that terrific? "Go at it boldly, and you'll find unexpected forces closing round you and coming to your aid." Long before Basil King, Emerson said, "Do the thing you fear, and the death of fear is certain." You defeat worry and fear by filling your mind with the certain faith that you can do it. That is the best way to get rid of the worry and fear about those many things that are bothering you. Get out of yourself and do something about it, realizing that your Heavenly Father says to you, "For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, 'Fear not, I will help you.'"
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Garland, Judy Garland, was born in 1922 and died in 1969. She was one of America’s favorite singers and film actresses. She was originally named Frances Gumm. She sang in her father's theater from the age of four as one of The Gumm Sisters and later toured in vaudeville. Beginning her film career in 1935, she endeared herself to the public in the Andy Hardy film series and in the all time classic, The Wizard of Oz (1939). Her later films include Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), Easter Parade (1948), A Star is Born (1954), and Judgment at Nuremburg (1960). In The Wizard of Oz she sings a very familiar song, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The words are as follows:
Somewhere over the Rainbow Somewhere over the Rainbow
Way up high Bluebirds fly
There's a land that I heard of Birds fly over the Rainbow
Once in a lullaby Why then oh why can't I?
Somewhere over the Rainbow If happy little bluebirds fly
Skies are blue Across the rainbow
And the dreams that you dare to dream Why oh why can't I
Really do come true
Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds
Are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That's where you'll find me
Don’t you sometimes feel like that? We all wish for that “somewhere” that we can go to and be free from all our trial and difficulty. There is such a place. It is not some mythical or magical place hidden over a rainbow. It is the very home God has been preparing for all of those whom He has loved and called to be His adopted children. It is what the Apostle Paul wrote of to the Roman Christians who were suffering some of histories most heinous persecutions.
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And he gave them right standing with himself, and he promised them his glory. (Romans 8:26-30 NLV).
And, he writes to us today the same comforting promises. Today, no matter how it looks, believe that He will make all things work together for your good! Your rainbow is as close as your heart!
Somewhere over the Rainbow Somewhere over the Rainbow
Way up high Bluebirds fly
There's a land that I heard of Birds fly over the Rainbow
Once in a lullaby Why then oh why can't I?
Somewhere over the Rainbow If happy little bluebirds fly
Skies are blue Across the rainbow
And the dreams that you dare to dream Why oh why can't I
Really do come true
Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds
Are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That's where you'll find me
Don’t you sometimes feel like that? We all wish for that “somewhere” that we can go to and be free from all our trial and difficulty. There is such a place. It is not some mythical or magical place hidden over a rainbow. It is the very home God has been preparing for all of those whom He has loved and called to be His adopted children. It is what the Apostle Paul wrote of to the Roman Christians who were suffering some of histories most heinous persecutions.
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And he gave them right standing with himself, and he promised them his glory. (Romans 8:26-30 NLV).
And, he writes to us today the same comforting promises. Today, no matter how it looks, believe that He will make all things work together for your good! Your rainbow is as close as your heart!
Monday, May 23, 2011
The Alamo
The Alamo, is an old restored mission building in San Antonio, Texas. It has been called “the cradle of Texas liberty.” Built as a chapel after 1744, it is all that remains of the mission of San Antonio de Valero, which was founded in 1718 by Franciscans and later converted into a fortress. In the Texas Revolution, San Antonio was taken by Texas revolutionaries in December, 1835, and was lightly garrisoned. When Mexican General Santa Anna approached with an army of several thousand in February, 1836, only some 150 men held the Alamo, and confusion, indifference, and bickering among insurgents throughout Texas prevented help from joining them, except for 32 volunteers from Gonzales who slipped through the Mexican siege lines. Defying surrender demands, the Texans in the fort determined to fight. The siege, which began February 24th, ended with hand-to-hand fighting within the walls on March 6th. William B. Travis, James Bowie, Davy Crockett, and some 180 other defenders died, but the heroic resistance roused fighting anger among Texans, who six weeks later defeated the Mexicans at San Jacinto, crying, “Remember the Alamo!” The chapel-fort became a state preserve in 1883. Its surroundings were added in 1905, and the complex, restored in 1936–39, is now a major tourist attraction. As you read these words I will be in San Antonio visiting this memorial to these brave heroes of freedom.
Such courage is hard to imagine in the face of so many indifferent and apathetic people today. This kind of bravery calls for great sacrifice. Yet, it is not intended to be the exception, but the rule for those who follow Christ.
As they were walking along someone said to Jesus, "I will follow you no matter where you go." But Jesus replied, "Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but I, the Son of Man, have no home of my own, not even a place to lay my head." He said to another person, "Come, be my disciple." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." Jesus replied, "Let those who are spiritually dead care for their own dead. Your duty is to go and preach the coming of the Kingdom of God." Another said, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family." But Jesus told him, "Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God." (Luke 9:57-62 NLV).
While “Remember the Alamo” was a great rallying cry to freedom, “Remember Christ” ought to be far more powerful for those who claim to be His followers. Renew your commitment to keep your hand to the plow. David Livingstone said:
People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending so much of my life in Africa. Can that be called a sacrifice, which is simply acknowledging a great debt we owe to our God, which we can never repay? Is that a sacrifice which brings its own reward in healthful activity, the consciousness of doing good, peace of mind, and a bright hope of a glorious destiny? It is emphatically no sacrifice. Rather it is a privilege. Anxiety, sickness, suffering, danger, foregoing the common conveniences of this life—these may make us pause, and cause the spirit to waver, and the soul to sink; but let this only be for a moment. All these are nothing compared with the glory, which shall later be revealed in and through us. I never made a sacrifice. Of this we ought not to talk, when we remember the great sacrifice which He made who left His Father’s throne on high to give Himself for us.
Such courage is hard to imagine in the face of so many indifferent and apathetic people today. This kind of bravery calls for great sacrifice. Yet, it is not intended to be the exception, but the rule for those who follow Christ.
As they were walking along someone said to Jesus, "I will follow you no matter where you go." But Jesus replied, "Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but I, the Son of Man, have no home of my own, not even a place to lay my head." He said to another person, "Come, be my disciple." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." Jesus replied, "Let those who are spiritually dead care for their own dead. Your duty is to go and preach the coming of the Kingdom of God." Another said, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family." But Jesus told him, "Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God." (Luke 9:57-62 NLV).
While “Remember the Alamo” was a great rallying cry to freedom, “Remember Christ” ought to be far more powerful for those who claim to be His followers. Renew your commitment to keep your hand to the plow. David Livingstone said:
People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending so much of my life in Africa. Can that be called a sacrifice, which is simply acknowledging a great debt we owe to our God, which we can never repay? Is that a sacrifice which brings its own reward in healthful activity, the consciousness of doing good, peace of mind, and a bright hope of a glorious destiny? It is emphatically no sacrifice. Rather it is a privilege. Anxiety, sickness, suffering, danger, foregoing the common conveniences of this life—these may make us pause, and cause the spirit to waver, and the soul to sink; but let this only be for a moment. All these are nothing compared with the glory, which shall later be revealed in and through us. I never made a sacrifice. Of this we ought not to talk, when we remember the great sacrifice which He made who left His Father’s throne on high to give Himself for us.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
What I Dun in Texas
Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep, but are really wolves that will tear you apart. You can detect them by the way they act, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit. You don't pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles. A healthy tree produces good fruit, and an unhealthy tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can't produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can't produce good fruit. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. Yes, the way to identify a tree or a person is by the kind of fruit that is produced. (Matthew 7:15-20 NLV).
A cowboy rode into town and stopped at the saloon for a drink (root beer, of course!). Unfortunately, the locals always had a habit of picking on those of a British background, which he was. When he finished, he found his horse had been stolen. He came back into the bar, handily flipped his gun into the air, caught it above his head without even looking and fired a shot into the ceiling. "WHICH ONE OF YOU SIDEWINDERS STOLE MY HOSS?" he yelled with surprising forcefulness. No one answered. "ALRIGHT, I'M GONNA HAVE ME ANOTHA SODA, AND IF MY HOSS AIN'T BACK OUTSIDE BY THE TIME I FINISH, I'M GONNA DO WHAT I DUN IN TEXAS! AND IIIIIIIIIIII DON'T LIKE TO HAVE TO DO WHAT I DUUUUUN IN TEXAS!" Some of the locals shifted restlessly. He had another root beer, walked outside, and his horse was back! He saddled up and started to ride out of town. The bartender wandered out of the bar and asked, "Say partner, what happened in Texas?" The cowboy turned back and said, "I had to walk home..."
Ever known anybody like that, lots of threats, but no real intention to carry out them out? All talk but ultimately no action? More to the point, is your Christian life characterized more by what you sat you're going to do, or by what you're actually willing to do? Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount was directed toward those who He called “hypocrites.” Many of the religious leaders of Jesus’ day were just such people. They talked a very good game, but when it came to actions they were very empty. They had no good “fruit,” because they were not good “trees.” Many Christians today fall into that category.
Please don’t misunderstand this truth and think that I’m talking about mere activity. Many people do a lot of things, but their actions are empty because at the heart of their motivation there is only pride and arrogance. The hypocritical religious people of Jesus’ day did many things, however they were motivated by selfish reasons. We are called to a life, which is motivated by a genuine love for God and others. Church attendance, good deeds, almsgiving, even ministry motivated by what we might gain is empty and hollow.
Today I encourage you to reexamine your motives for all of those things that you do. Don’t just ask “what?”, rather ask “why?” Rid yourself of any selfish attitudes and turn your talk into walk!
A cowboy rode into town and stopped at the saloon for a drink (root beer, of course!). Unfortunately, the locals always had a habit of picking on those of a British background, which he was. When he finished, he found his horse had been stolen. He came back into the bar, handily flipped his gun into the air, caught it above his head without even looking and fired a shot into the ceiling. "WHICH ONE OF YOU SIDEWINDERS STOLE MY HOSS?" he yelled with surprising forcefulness. No one answered. "ALRIGHT, I'M GONNA HAVE ME ANOTHA SODA, AND IF MY HOSS AIN'T BACK OUTSIDE BY THE TIME I FINISH, I'M GONNA DO WHAT I DUN IN TEXAS! AND IIIIIIIIIIII DON'T LIKE TO HAVE TO DO WHAT I DUUUUUN IN TEXAS!" Some of the locals shifted restlessly. He had another root beer, walked outside, and his horse was back! He saddled up and started to ride out of town. The bartender wandered out of the bar and asked, "Say partner, what happened in Texas?" The cowboy turned back and said, "I had to walk home..."
Ever known anybody like that, lots of threats, but no real intention to carry out them out? All talk but ultimately no action? More to the point, is your Christian life characterized more by what you sat you're going to do, or by what you're actually willing to do? Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount was directed toward those who He called “hypocrites.” Many of the religious leaders of Jesus’ day were just such people. They talked a very good game, but when it came to actions they were very empty. They had no good “fruit,” because they were not good “trees.” Many Christians today fall into that category.
Please don’t misunderstand this truth and think that I’m talking about mere activity. Many people do a lot of things, but their actions are empty because at the heart of their motivation there is only pride and arrogance. The hypocritical religious people of Jesus’ day did many things, however they were motivated by selfish reasons. We are called to a life, which is motivated by a genuine love for God and others. Church attendance, good deeds, almsgiving, even ministry motivated by what we might gain is empty and hollow.
Today I encourage you to reexamine your motives for all of those things that you do. Don’t just ask “what?”, rather ask “why?” Rid yourself of any selfish attitudes and turn your talk into walk!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Anger or Anguish?
My dear brothers and sisters, be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Your anger can never make things right in God's sight. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the message God has planted in your hearts, for it is strong enough to save your souls. And remember, it is a message to obey, not just to listen to. If you don't obey, you are only fooling yourself. For if you just listen and don't obey, it is like looking at your face in a mirror but doing nothing to improve your appearance. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you keep looking steadily into God's perfect law – the law that sets you free – and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. If you claim to be religious but don't control your tongue, you are just fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. (James 1:19-26 NLV).
It has been said that if you want to learn what a person is really like, ask three questions:
What makes him laugh?
What makes him angry?
What makes him weep?
These are fairly good tests of character that are especially appropriate for Christian leaders. I hear people saying, “We need angry leaders today!” or “The time has come to practice militant Christianity!” Perhaps, but James reminds us that “the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
What we need today is not anger, but anguish, the kind of anguish that Moses displayed when he broke the two tablets of the law and then climbed the mountain to intercede for his people, or that Jesus displayed when He cleansed the temple and then wept over the city. The difference between anger and anguish is a broken heart. It’s easy to get angry, especially at somebody else’s sins; but it’s not easy to look at sin, our own included, and weep over it. I have found that it is very easy for me to laugh and, of course, it is altogether too easy to get angry. However, the greatest challenge for me is to learn the true humility of anguish.
It was a tragic mistake. On July 3, 1988, the navy cruiser USS Vincennes shot down an Iranian airliner with 290 aboard. All were lost. The ship's captain mistakenly thought they were under attack by an F-14 Iranian fighter. Public opinion polls showed that most Americans opposed paying compensation to the victims' families. The cruel treatment of American hostages in Iran was still fresh in many minds. But President Reagan approved compensation. Asked by reporters if such payment would send the wrong signal, he replied, "I don't ever find compassion a bad precedent." To many people, the principle of revenge is so much simpler to practice. Yet compassion is Christ's way -- a deep caring for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the whole person. It reveals the heart of God for sinful people -- for you and for me. Abraham Lincoln said, “I am sorry for the man who can't feel the whip when it is laid on the other man's back.” What makes you weep today?
It has been said that if you want to learn what a person is really like, ask three questions:
What makes him laugh?
What makes him angry?
What makes him weep?
These are fairly good tests of character that are especially appropriate for Christian leaders. I hear people saying, “We need angry leaders today!” or “The time has come to practice militant Christianity!” Perhaps, but James reminds us that “the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
What we need today is not anger, but anguish, the kind of anguish that Moses displayed when he broke the two tablets of the law and then climbed the mountain to intercede for his people, or that Jesus displayed when He cleansed the temple and then wept over the city. The difference between anger and anguish is a broken heart. It’s easy to get angry, especially at somebody else’s sins; but it’s not easy to look at sin, our own included, and weep over it. I have found that it is very easy for me to laugh and, of course, it is altogether too easy to get angry. However, the greatest challenge for me is to learn the true humility of anguish.
It was a tragic mistake. On July 3, 1988, the navy cruiser USS Vincennes shot down an Iranian airliner with 290 aboard. All were lost. The ship's captain mistakenly thought they were under attack by an F-14 Iranian fighter. Public opinion polls showed that most Americans opposed paying compensation to the victims' families. The cruel treatment of American hostages in Iran was still fresh in many minds. But President Reagan approved compensation. Asked by reporters if such payment would send the wrong signal, he replied, "I don't ever find compassion a bad precedent." To many people, the principle of revenge is so much simpler to practice. Yet compassion is Christ's way -- a deep caring for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the whole person. It reveals the heart of God for sinful people -- for you and for me. Abraham Lincoln said, “I am sorry for the man who can't feel the whip when it is laid on the other man's back.” What makes you weep today?
Friday, May 20, 2011
Second Coming?
Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. “Do you see all these things?” he asked. “Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.” (Matthew 24:1-8 NIV).
Well, if you are reading this devotional on May 21st and are not in heaven one of two possibilities exist according to the belief of Harold Camping. Either you are not a Christian and are “left behind;” or, the rapture has not yet occurred! I’m going to opt for the latter! If I’m wrong, I’ll see you in heaven and we can get it straight from the Lord. I’m certainly okay with that!
The real key is in Jesus’ words that the beginning of birth pains is the many “signs” around us. Reverend Camping would insist that all these signs point to this day as THE day of the coming of our Lord. There have been those since the first century who have been predicting the end of this age. Jesus’ exhortation is very clear for me. He says, “Watch out that no one deceives you.”
I am encouraged by this teaching. Jesus does give us a warning, but within it is the absolute truth that he is coming again! It is a certain event. Biblical prophecy provides some of the greatest encouragement and hope available to us today. Just as the Old Testament is saturated with prophecies concerning Christ's first advent, so both testaments are filled with references to the second coming of Christ. There are 1,845 references to Christ's second coming in the Old Testament, where 17 books give it prominence. In the 260 chapters of the New Testament, there are 318 references to the second advent of Christ--an amazing 1 out of every 30 verses. Twenty-three of the 27 New Testament books refer to this great event. For every prophecy in the Bible concerning Christ's first advent, there are 8 which look forward to His second! That’s encouraging to me!
How tragic that some fear this great deliverance. I like the story found of the 1960 presidential campaign. John F. Kennedy often closed his speeches with the story of Colonel Davenport, the Speaker of the Connecticut House of Representatives: On May 19th, 1780 the sky of Hartford darkened ominously, and some of the representatives, glancing out the windows, feared the end was at hand. Quelling a clamor for immediate adjournment, Davenport rose and said, "The Day of Judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for adjournment. If it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. Therefore, I wish that candles be brought." Rather than fearing what is to come, we are to be faithful till Christ returns. Instead of fearing the dark, we're to be lights as we watch and wait.
Well, if you are reading this devotional on May 21st and are not in heaven one of two possibilities exist according to the belief of Harold Camping. Either you are not a Christian and are “left behind;” or, the rapture has not yet occurred! I’m going to opt for the latter! If I’m wrong, I’ll see you in heaven and we can get it straight from the Lord. I’m certainly okay with that!
The real key is in Jesus’ words that the beginning of birth pains is the many “signs” around us. Reverend Camping would insist that all these signs point to this day as THE day of the coming of our Lord. There have been those since the first century who have been predicting the end of this age. Jesus’ exhortation is very clear for me. He says, “Watch out that no one deceives you.”
I am encouraged by this teaching. Jesus does give us a warning, but within it is the absolute truth that he is coming again! It is a certain event. Biblical prophecy provides some of the greatest encouragement and hope available to us today. Just as the Old Testament is saturated with prophecies concerning Christ's first advent, so both testaments are filled with references to the second coming of Christ. There are 1,845 references to Christ's second coming in the Old Testament, where 17 books give it prominence. In the 260 chapters of the New Testament, there are 318 references to the second advent of Christ--an amazing 1 out of every 30 verses. Twenty-three of the 27 New Testament books refer to this great event. For every prophecy in the Bible concerning Christ's first advent, there are 8 which look forward to His second! That’s encouraging to me!
How tragic that some fear this great deliverance. I like the story found of the 1960 presidential campaign. John F. Kennedy often closed his speeches with the story of Colonel Davenport, the Speaker of the Connecticut House of Representatives: On May 19th, 1780 the sky of Hartford darkened ominously, and some of the representatives, glancing out the windows, feared the end was at hand. Quelling a clamor for immediate adjournment, Davenport rose and said, "The Day of Judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for adjournment. If it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. Therefore, I wish that candles be brought." Rather than fearing what is to come, we are to be faithful till Christ returns. Instead of fearing the dark, we're to be lights as we watch and wait.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
A Marathon, Not a sprint
And now I am coming to you. I have told them many things while I was with them so they would be filled with my joy. I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not. I'm not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They are not part of this world any more than I am. Make them pure and holy by teaching them your words of truth. As you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself entirely to you so they also might be entirely yours. I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me because of their testimony. My prayer for all of them is that they will be one, just as you and I are one, Father – that just as you are in me and I am in you, so they will be in us, and the world will believe you sent me. (John 17:13-21 NLV).
On more than one occasion I have said to people who have sales careers, “Don’t worry, the sales business is more like a marathon than it is a sprint.” In any commission sales job it is easy to become discouraged when you have some of those “slow” days. However, it is always true that when you simply keep doing the things that have proven successful in the past, it will eventually work to your benefit.
This is the image of what it is like to be a Christian, a marathoner. However, there are some differences also. The Apostle Paul described Christian life and faith as being like a race. We are moving headlong to the goal of communion with God. The image of the marathoner is powerful image because we understand that being a Christian is not something we do for just one hour a day, one day a week. Instead, being a follower and devoted disciple of Jesus is something we are for life, for eternity. And as compelling as Paul’s image is, we can sometimes take it too far. After all, marathoners run alone. They cannot even be helped along the way. If the stumble, they must get back on their feet without the help of anyone else, to be helped is to be disqualified. The image of the marathoner is helpful as long as we remember that Paul simply meant that being a Christian is a lifelong pursuit. But being a devoted disciple is not something we can be all by ourselves. Being a devoted disciple is a team endeavor.
On the last day Jesus was on earth, he gathered his disciples and told them that they were to continue his ministry of taking the good news of God’s love to the entire world. “Go into all the world,” Jesus said. Before he was arrested and put to death by the Roman political machine, Jesus prayed for his disciples. He told God that he was sending his devoted disciples into the world to continue the mission he started. Jesus spoke to God and said, “as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.” The bottom line for devoted disciples is that we have been saved for a purpose. When we talk about the life-long truth of being a Christian, the image of the marathoner works. But when we talk about being deployed in Jesus’ global mission, the image of the marathoner lacks firepower. Devoted disciples are not lone rangers running the race without need or benefit of other brothers and sisters in Christ. Being a devoted disciple and being deployed in Jesus’ global mission is a team sport. Today, think about the way that you can work with others in the mission God has given you to do. Be patient in your well doing. Run the race set before you and know that the Lord has been, and will continue to pray for you. Don’t give up!
On more than one occasion I have said to people who have sales careers, “Don’t worry, the sales business is more like a marathon than it is a sprint.” In any commission sales job it is easy to become discouraged when you have some of those “slow” days. However, it is always true that when you simply keep doing the things that have proven successful in the past, it will eventually work to your benefit.
This is the image of what it is like to be a Christian, a marathoner. However, there are some differences also. The Apostle Paul described Christian life and faith as being like a race. We are moving headlong to the goal of communion with God. The image of the marathoner is powerful image because we understand that being a Christian is not something we do for just one hour a day, one day a week. Instead, being a follower and devoted disciple of Jesus is something we are for life, for eternity. And as compelling as Paul’s image is, we can sometimes take it too far. After all, marathoners run alone. They cannot even be helped along the way. If the stumble, they must get back on their feet without the help of anyone else, to be helped is to be disqualified. The image of the marathoner is helpful as long as we remember that Paul simply meant that being a Christian is a lifelong pursuit. But being a devoted disciple is not something we can be all by ourselves. Being a devoted disciple is a team endeavor.
On the last day Jesus was on earth, he gathered his disciples and told them that they were to continue his ministry of taking the good news of God’s love to the entire world. “Go into all the world,” Jesus said. Before he was arrested and put to death by the Roman political machine, Jesus prayed for his disciples. He told God that he was sending his devoted disciples into the world to continue the mission he started. Jesus spoke to God and said, “as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.” The bottom line for devoted disciples is that we have been saved for a purpose. When we talk about the life-long truth of being a Christian, the image of the marathoner works. But when we talk about being deployed in Jesus’ global mission, the image of the marathoner lacks firepower. Devoted disciples are not lone rangers running the race without need or benefit of other brothers and sisters in Christ. Being a devoted disciple and being deployed in Jesus’ global mission is a team sport. Today, think about the way that you can work with others in the mission God has given you to do. Be patient in your well doing. Run the race set before you and know that the Lord has been, and will continue to pray for you. Don’t give up!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Not My Problem
Stop judging others, and you will not be judged. For others will treat you as you treat them. Whatever measure you use in judging others, it will be used to measure how you are judged. And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, 'Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye. (Matthew 7:1-5 NLV).
The Browns were shown into the dentist's office, where Mr. Brown made it clear he was in a big hurry. "No fancy stuff, Doctor," he ordered, "No gas or needles or any of that stuff. Just pull the tooth and get it over with." "I wish more of my patients were as stoic as you," said the dentist admiringly. "Now, which tooth is it?" Mr. Brown turned to his wife... "Show him, honey."
It's easy to be brave when someone else is the one experiencing the pain! It's also easy to believe that someone else is the only one needing treatment. "Don't look at me, doctor. Take care of her!" When I was regularly preaching, it was very common to hear from people as they exited the church such remarks. “Oh, pastor, you really gave it to them today!”
Just the other day a very good friend of mine came to see me. As he was leaving he took a piece of paper and outlined his hand on it. He then presented it to me and said, “Here’s a hand for you.” I looked at him and thanked him very much. I immediately knew what he wanted to say to me, even before he explained it. The outlined hand was much more than a symbol of his appreciation for me. He was giving me an “atta-boy.” All of us need and desire to be appreciated. All of the applause we receive from others is so welcomed and encouraging. But, this was much more than that. It was his way of saying “I’m here for you whenever and for whatever. No matter what might transpire I will be your friend. That’s a far cry from most “friendships” we encounter in our lives.
I love the poem I recently happened upon by Dinah Craik. It is titled “Friendship”:
O, the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person,
Having neither to weigh thoughts,
Nor measure words, but pouring them right out, just as they are
Chaff and grain together,
Certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them,
Keep what is worth keeping,
And with the breath of kindness blow the rest away.
Who do you need to give a “hand” to today? Look for those divine opportunities today to be a friend to those you come into contact with.
The Browns were shown into the dentist's office, where Mr. Brown made it clear he was in a big hurry. "No fancy stuff, Doctor," he ordered, "No gas or needles or any of that stuff. Just pull the tooth and get it over with." "I wish more of my patients were as stoic as you," said the dentist admiringly. "Now, which tooth is it?" Mr. Brown turned to his wife... "Show him, honey."
It's easy to be brave when someone else is the one experiencing the pain! It's also easy to believe that someone else is the only one needing treatment. "Don't look at me, doctor. Take care of her!" When I was regularly preaching, it was very common to hear from people as they exited the church such remarks. “Oh, pastor, you really gave it to them today!”
Just the other day a very good friend of mine came to see me. As he was leaving he took a piece of paper and outlined his hand on it. He then presented it to me and said, “Here’s a hand for you.” I looked at him and thanked him very much. I immediately knew what he wanted to say to me, even before he explained it. The outlined hand was much more than a symbol of his appreciation for me. He was giving me an “atta-boy.” All of us need and desire to be appreciated. All of the applause we receive from others is so welcomed and encouraging. But, this was much more than that. It was his way of saying “I’m here for you whenever and for whatever. No matter what might transpire I will be your friend. That’s a far cry from most “friendships” we encounter in our lives.
I love the poem I recently happened upon by Dinah Craik. It is titled “Friendship”:
O, the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person,
Having neither to weigh thoughts,
Nor measure words, but pouring them right out, just as they are
Chaff and grain together,
Certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them,
Keep what is worth keeping,
And with the breath of kindness blow the rest away.
Who do you need to give a “hand” to today? Look for those divine opportunities today to be a friend to those you come into contact with.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Written on His Hand
Never! Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for a child she has borne? But even if that were possible, I would not forget you! See, I have written your name on my hand. Ever before me is a picture of Jerusalem's walls in ruins. (Isaiah 49:15-16 NLV).
My memory is not as good as I would like for it to be. That is a trait that I share with many others. Everyone forgets things at one time or another, according to Karen Bolla, A Johns Hopkins' researcher. These are the things people most often forget:
1. 83% of people forget names
2. 60% of people forget where something is
3. 57% of people forget telephone numbers
4. 53% of people forget words
5. 49% of people forget what was said
6. 42% of people forget faces
And if you can’t remember whether you’ve just done something, you join 38 percent of the population! It’s like an older couple who had trouble remembering common, day-to-day things. They both decided that they would write down requests the other had, and so try to avoid forgetting. One evening the wife asked if the husband would like anything. He replied, “Yes. I’d like a large ice-cream sundae with chocolate ice cream, whipped cream and a cherry on top.” The wife started off for the kitchen and the husband shouted after her, “Aren’t you going to write it down?” “Don’t be silly,” she hollered back, “I’m going to fix it right now. I won’t forget.”
She was gone for quite some time. When she finally returned, she set down in front of him a large plate of hashbrowns, eggs, bacon, and a glass of orange juice. He took a look and said, “I knew you should have written it down! You forgot the toast!”
When you need to remember something important, many people skip post-it notes. They write it on their hand. Why? Because you may forget a piece of paper in your pocket or your purse, but your hand is always in front of you. The Scripture says that God is so concerned about His children, that He has done the same. He has written your name on His hand! He never forgets us. He never forsakes us. He never ignores our prayers or our cries for help. All He has to do is look at His hand and He sees our name.
The Bible says that God granted Solomon peace on every side from his enemies. God had established and blessed him. And when Solomon put his head to the pillow at night, he knew he had nothing to be afraid of. He was at total peace. Our Father longs to give us that peace: the peace that passes all understanding. That means that even in the midst of trial and difficulty, we have perfect peace. When we should be restless and distracted, God grants us peace. He reminds us that He is our rear-guard. He will protect us, provide for us, and keep us at peace. Our names are on His hand! Praise Him today for His provision for your life.
My memory is not as good as I would like for it to be. That is a trait that I share with many others. Everyone forgets things at one time or another, according to Karen Bolla, A Johns Hopkins' researcher. These are the things people most often forget:
1. 83% of people forget names
2. 60% of people forget where something is
3. 57% of people forget telephone numbers
4. 53% of people forget words
5. 49% of people forget what was said
6. 42% of people forget faces
And if you can’t remember whether you’ve just done something, you join 38 percent of the population! It’s like an older couple who had trouble remembering common, day-to-day things. They both decided that they would write down requests the other had, and so try to avoid forgetting. One evening the wife asked if the husband would like anything. He replied, “Yes. I’d like a large ice-cream sundae with chocolate ice cream, whipped cream and a cherry on top.” The wife started off for the kitchen and the husband shouted after her, “Aren’t you going to write it down?” “Don’t be silly,” she hollered back, “I’m going to fix it right now. I won’t forget.”
She was gone for quite some time. When she finally returned, she set down in front of him a large plate of hashbrowns, eggs, bacon, and a glass of orange juice. He took a look and said, “I knew you should have written it down! You forgot the toast!”
When you need to remember something important, many people skip post-it notes. They write it on their hand. Why? Because you may forget a piece of paper in your pocket or your purse, but your hand is always in front of you. The Scripture says that God is so concerned about His children, that He has done the same. He has written your name on His hand! He never forgets us. He never forsakes us. He never ignores our prayers or our cries for help. All He has to do is look at His hand and He sees our name.
The Bible says that God granted Solomon peace on every side from his enemies. God had established and blessed him. And when Solomon put his head to the pillow at night, he knew he had nothing to be afraid of. He was at total peace. Our Father longs to give us that peace: the peace that passes all understanding. That means that even in the midst of trial and difficulty, we have perfect peace. When we should be restless and distracted, God grants us peace. He reminds us that He is our rear-guard. He will protect us, provide for us, and keep us at peace. Our names are on His hand! Praise Him today for His provision for your life.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Happy Birthday Brandy!
Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided. (Judges 4:4-5 NIV).
Today is my daughter-in-law’s birthday. Brandy has been a marvelous inspiration in so many ways, especially as I have been able to be so near to her, Kyle, and the grandkids for the last seven years. As I began to reflect on some of the things I have learned through her example of love, courage, discipline, and faithfulness, I was drawn to Deborah.
Most of the great women in the Bible either are married to a great man or related to one. Sarah is primarily known as Abraham's wife, and Miriam as Moses' sister. Even Esther, who saves the Jewish people from Haman's attempted genocide, is guided by her adviser and cousin, Mordechai. A rare exception to this tradition is the prophetess and Judge Deborah, perhaps the Bible's greatest woman figure. While Brandy certainly is married to a wonderful man (I know I am prejudiced), she stands like Deborah exclusively on her own merits.
The key thought for today came to me from our reading. Deborah was a “judge.” She was responsible for helping others settle their disputes and issues in a way that would bring glory to God. She was also the key leader in delivering Israel from her enemies, the Canaanites.
Believe me when I say I have seen firsthand how important this ability has been with the twins! While Faith and Logan are certainly typical for their age, they have been given an incredible example to follow. And, often I am amazed at the level of maturity they show in the behavior. That is rooted in both a mother AND father’s example. Perhaps one of the most frustrating issues I deal with in my counseling ministry is the misplaced understanding of the role of a Christian woman. I see errors on both ends of the spectrum. There are those who declare a woman’s “place” is one of subservience which is a gross misinterpretation of the Scripture. There are others who mistakenly call attention to the “independence” of women and fail to understand the true nature of God’s will in the home.
The Apostle Paul draws on his knowledge of such Godly women as Deborah and the revelation of the Holy Spirit to instruct us that a woman is like the church to Jesus. She is powerful, responsible, and gifted. I love the word he uses when he speaks of a woman as a “weaker vessel.” It carries the meaning of “great value.” That is the appropriate place for any woman.
So, as give thanks for Brandy and wish her a very happy birthday today, I also encourage every woman to become that powerful, responsible, and gifted vessel of great value in their home. Additionally, I encourage every man to be the same kind of leader and friend that Jesus is to His Church.
Today is my daughter-in-law’s birthday. Brandy has been a marvelous inspiration in so many ways, especially as I have been able to be so near to her, Kyle, and the grandkids for the last seven years. As I began to reflect on some of the things I have learned through her example of love, courage, discipline, and faithfulness, I was drawn to Deborah.
Most of the great women in the Bible either are married to a great man or related to one. Sarah is primarily known as Abraham's wife, and Miriam as Moses' sister. Even Esther, who saves the Jewish people from Haman's attempted genocide, is guided by her adviser and cousin, Mordechai. A rare exception to this tradition is the prophetess and Judge Deborah, perhaps the Bible's greatest woman figure. While Brandy certainly is married to a wonderful man (I know I am prejudiced), she stands like Deborah exclusively on her own merits.
The key thought for today came to me from our reading. Deborah was a “judge.” She was responsible for helping others settle their disputes and issues in a way that would bring glory to God. She was also the key leader in delivering Israel from her enemies, the Canaanites.
Believe me when I say I have seen firsthand how important this ability has been with the twins! While Faith and Logan are certainly typical for their age, they have been given an incredible example to follow. And, often I am amazed at the level of maturity they show in the behavior. That is rooted in both a mother AND father’s example. Perhaps one of the most frustrating issues I deal with in my counseling ministry is the misplaced understanding of the role of a Christian woman. I see errors on both ends of the spectrum. There are those who declare a woman’s “place” is one of subservience which is a gross misinterpretation of the Scripture. There are others who mistakenly call attention to the “independence” of women and fail to understand the true nature of God’s will in the home.
The Apostle Paul draws on his knowledge of such Godly women as Deborah and the revelation of the Holy Spirit to instruct us that a woman is like the church to Jesus. She is powerful, responsible, and gifted. I love the word he uses when he speaks of a woman as a “weaker vessel.” It carries the meaning of “great value.” That is the appropriate place for any woman.
So, as give thanks for Brandy and wish her a very happy birthday today, I also encourage every woman to become that powerful, responsible, and gifted vessel of great value in their home. Additionally, I encourage every man to be the same kind of leader and friend that Jesus is to His Church.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Xavier or Assisi
Then the apostles and elders and the whole church in Jerusalem chose delegates, and they sent them to Antioch of Syria with Paul and Barnabas to report on this decision. The men chosen were two of the church leaders – Judas (also called Barsabbas) and Silas. This is the letter they took along with them: "This letter is from the apostles and elders, your brothers in Jerusalem. It is written to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. Greetings! "We understand that some men from here have troubled you and upset you with their teaching, but they had no such instructions from us. So it seemed good to us, having unanimously agreed on our decision, to send you these official representatives, along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, who have risked their lives for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ. So we are sending Judas and Silas to tell you what we have decided concerning your question. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these requirements: You must abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or eating the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. If you do this, you will do well. Farewell. The four messengers went at once to Antioch, where they called a general meeting of the Christians and delivered the letter. And there was great joy throughout the church that day as they read this encouraging message. (Acts 15:22-31 NLV).
We are constantly faced with a myriad of choices. It reminds me of the story of a wealthy eccentric who had died and left a million dollars to his nephew, John. When the will was read at the lawyer’s office, the lawyer said to John, “According to your uncle’s instructions, payment of your inheritance will depend on choices that you must make.” The lawyer held his two fists out in front of him and asked, “Do you choose what is in my right hand or in my left hand?” John decided to take what was in the attorney’s right hand. The lawyer opened his left hand to reveal a gold coin and a silver coin. “Had you chosen this hand,” he said, “you would have received a substantial share in a gold mine or a silver mine in Chile.” Then he opened his right hand to reveal a nut and a coffee bean. “These represent a million dollars’ worth of nuts or coffee from Brazil,” said the attorney. “Which do you choose?” John decided on the nuts. A week went by before John arrived in Brazil to take charge of his holdings. In the interim, fire destroyed a huge warehouse where the nuts that John had inherited were stored and coffee prices doubled. Since John hadn’t gotten around to insuring his holdings, he soon was bankrupt. He barely had enough for his airfare home to New York or Los Angeles, where he could stay with a friend. He chose Los Angeles. Just before he took off, the New York plane came out on the runway. It was a brand new super jet. For the connecting flight to Los Angeles, the plane was a 1928 Ford trimotor with a sway back that took half a day to get off the ground. It was filled with crying children and tethered goats. Over the Andes one engine fell off. Our man crawled up to the cockpit and said, “Let me out if you want to save your lives. Give me a parachute.” The pilot agreed but said, “On this airline, anybody who bails out must wear two chutes.” John jumped from the plane and as he fell he tried to make up his mind which rip cord to pull. Finally he chose the one on the left. It was rusty, and the wire pulled loose. He pulled the other handle. The chute opened, but its shroud lines snapped. In desperation the poor fellow cried out, “St. Francis save me!” Suddenly a great hand reached down from Heaven, seized the poor man’s wrist and let him dangle in midair. Then a gentle voice asked, “St. Francis Xavier or St. Francis of Assisi?”
There is altogether too much truth to this humorous story! Making choices is often difficult. We recall the many failures in our past. The key is in the highlighted portion of our verses this morning. Prayer is the key to understanding the will of God for our lives. Pray with others and listen to the voice of God. He will protect you in each decision of your life.
We are constantly faced with a myriad of choices. It reminds me of the story of a wealthy eccentric who had died and left a million dollars to his nephew, John. When the will was read at the lawyer’s office, the lawyer said to John, “According to your uncle’s instructions, payment of your inheritance will depend on choices that you must make.” The lawyer held his two fists out in front of him and asked, “Do you choose what is in my right hand or in my left hand?” John decided to take what was in the attorney’s right hand. The lawyer opened his left hand to reveal a gold coin and a silver coin. “Had you chosen this hand,” he said, “you would have received a substantial share in a gold mine or a silver mine in Chile.” Then he opened his right hand to reveal a nut and a coffee bean. “These represent a million dollars’ worth of nuts or coffee from Brazil,” said the attorney. “Which do you choose?” John decided on the nuts. A week went by before John arrived in Brazil to take charge of his holdings. In the interim, fire destroyed a huge warehouse where the nuts that John had inherited were stored and coffee prices doubled. Since John hadn’t gotten around to insuring his holdings, he soon was bankrupt. He barely had enough for his airfare home to New York or Los Angeles, where he could stay with a friend. He chose Los Angeles. Just before he took off, the New York plane came out on the runway. It was a brand new super jet. For the connecting flight to Los Angeles, the plane was a 1928 Ford trimotor with a sway back that took half a day to get off the ground. It was filled with crying children and tethered goats. Over the Andes one engine fell off. Our man crawled up to the cockpit and said, “Let me out if you want to save your lives. Give me a parachute.” The pilot agreed but said, “On this airline, anybody who bails out must wear two chutes.” John jumped from the plane and as he fell he tried to make up his mind which rip cord to pull. Finally he chose the one on the left. It was rusty, and the wire pulled loose. He pulled the other handle. The chute opened, but its shroud lines snapped. In desperation the poor fellow cried out, “St. Francis save me!” Suddenly a great hand reached down from Heaven, seized the poor man’s wrist and let him dangle in midair. Then a gentle voice asked, “St. Francis Xavier or St. Francis of Assisi?”
There is altogether too much truth to this humorous story! Making choices is often difficult. We recall the many failures in our past. The key is in the highlighted portion of our verses this morning. Prayer is the key to understanding the will of God for our lives. Pray with others and listen to the voice of God. He will protect you in each decision of your life.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Who Am I?
But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so very much, that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's special favor that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ, and we are seated with him in the heavenly realms – all because we are one with Christ Jesus. And so God can always point to us as examples of the incredible wealth of his favor and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us through Christ Jesus. God saved you by his special favor when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (Ephesians 2:4-10 NLV).
Who am I? I was born in 1725, and I died 1807. The only godly influence in my life, as far back as I can remember, was my mother, whom I had for only seven years. When she left my life through death, I was virtually an orphan. My father remarried, sent me to a strict military school, where the severity of discipline almost broke my back. I couldn't stand it any longer, and I left in rebellion at age of ten. One year later, deciding that I would never enter formal education again, I became a seaman apprentice, hoping somehow to step into my father's trade and learn at least the ability to skillfully navigate a ship. By and by, through a process of time, I slowly gave myself over to the devil. And I determined that I would sin to my fill without restraint, now that the righteous lamp of my life had gone out. I did that until my days in the military service, where again discipline worked hard against me, but I further rebelled. My spirit would not break, and I became increasingly more and more a rebel. Because of a number of things that I disagreed with in the military, I finally deserted, only to be captured like a common criminal and beaten publicly several times. After enduring the punishment, I again fled. I entertained thoughts of suicide on my way to Africa, deciding that would be the place I could get farthest from anyone that knew me. And again I made a pact with the devil to live for him. Somehow, through a process of events, I got in touch with a Portuguese slave trader, and I lived in his home. His wife, who was brimming with hostility, took a lot of it out on me. She beat me, and I ate like a dog on the floor of the home. If I refused to do that, she would whip me with a lash. I fled penniless, owning only the clothes on my back, to the shoreline of Africa where I built a fire, hoping to attract a ship that was passing by. The skipper thought that I had gold or slaves or ivory to sell and was surprised because I was a skilled navigator. And it was there that I virtually lived for a long period of time. It was a slave ship. It was not uncommon for as many as six hundred blacks from Africa to be in the hold of the ship, down below, being taken to America. I went through all sorts of narrow escapes with death only a hairbreadth away on a number of occasions. One time I opened some crates of rum and got everybody on the crew drunk. The skipper, incensed with my actions, beat me, threw me down below, and I lived on stale bread and sour vegetables for an unendurable amount of time. He brought me above to beat me again, and I fell overboard. Because I couldn't swim, he harpooned me to get me back on the ship. And I lived with the scar in my side, big enough for me to put my fist into, until the day of my death. On board, I was inflamed with fever. I was enraged with the humiliation. A storm broke out, and I wound up again in the hold of the ship, down among the pumps. To keep the ship afloat, I worked along as a servant of the slaves. There, bruised and confused, bleeding, diseased, I was the epitome of the degenerate man. I remembered the words of my mother. I cried out to God, the only way I knew, calling upon His grace and His mercy to deliver me, and upon His son to save me. The only glimmer of light I would find was in a crack in the ship in the floor above me, and I looked up to it and screamed for help. God heard me. Thirty-one years passed, I married a childhood sweetheart. I entered the ministry. In every place that I served, rooms had to be added to the building to handle the crowds that came to hear the gospel that was presented and the story of God's grace in my life. My tombstone above my head reads, "Born 1725, died 1807. A clerk, once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was by the rich mercy of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he once long labored to destroy." I decided before my death to put my life's story in verse. And that verse has become a hymn. My name? John Newton. The hymn? "Amazing Grace."
Perhaps you need to call out to His amazing grace today also! It is available even to the worst of sinners. Trust in Him today!
Who am I? I was born in 1725, and I died 1807. The only godly influence in my life, as far back as I can remember, was my mother, whom I had for only seven years. When she left my life through death, I was virtually an orphan. My father remarried, sent me to a strict military school, where the severity of discipline almost broke my back. I couldn't stand it any longer, and I left in rebellion at age of ten. One year later, deciding that I would never enter formal education again, I became a seaman apprentice, hoping somehow to step into my father's trade and learn at least the ability to skillfully navigate a ship. By and by, through a process of time, I slowly gave myself over to the devil. And I determined that I would sin to my fill without restraint, now that the righteous lamp of my life had gone out. I did that until my days in the military service, where again discipline worked hard against me, but I further rebelled. My spirit would not break, and I became increasingly more and more a rebel. Because of a number of things that I disagreed with in the military, I finally deserted, only to be captured like a common criminal and beaten publicly several times. After enduring the punishment, I again fled. I entertained thoughts of suicide on my way to Africa, deciding that would be the place I could get farthest from anyone that knew me. And again I made a pact with the devil to live for him. Somehow, through a process of events, I got in touch with a Portuguese slave trader, and I lived in his home. His wife, who was brimming with hostility, took a lot of it out on me. She beat me, and I ate like a dog on the floor of the home. If I refused to do that, she would whip me with a lash. I fled penniless, owning only the clothes on my back, to the shoreline of Africa where I built a fire, hoping to attract a ship that was passing by. The skipper thought that I had gold or slaves or ivory to sell and was surprised because I was a skilled navigator. And it was there that I virtually lived for a long period of time. It was a slave ship. It was not uncommon for as many as six hundred blacks from Africa to be in the hold of the ship, down below, being taken to America. I went through all sorts of narrow escapes with death only a hairbreadth away on a number of occasions. One time I opened some crates of rum and got everybody on the crew drunk. The skipper, incensed with my actions, beat me, threw me down below, and I lived on stale bread and sour vegetables for an unendurable amount of time. He brought me above to beat me again, and I fell overboard. Because I couldn't swim, he harpooned me to get me back on the ship. And I lived with the scar in my side, big enough for me to put my fist into, until the day of my death. On board, I was inflamed with fever. I was enraged with the humiliation. A storm broke out, and I wound up again in the hold of the ship, down among the pumps. To keep the ship afloat, I worked along as a servant of the slaves. There, bruised and confused, bleeding, diseased, I was the epitome of the degenerate man. I remembered the words of my mother. I cried out to God, the only way I knew, calling upon His grace and His mercy to deliver me, and upon His son to save me. The only glimmer of light I would find was in a crack in the ship in the floor above me, and I looked up to it and screamed for help. God heard me. Thirty-one years passed, I married a childhood sweetheart. I entered the ministry. In every place that I served, rooms had to be added to the building to handle the crowds that came to hear the gospel that was presented and the story of God's grace in my life. My tombstone above my head reads, "Born 1725, died 1807. A clerk, once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was by the rich mercy of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he once long labored to destroy." I decided before my death to put my life's story in verse. And that verse has become a hymn. My name? John Newton. The hymn? "Amazing Grace."
Perhaps you need to call out to His amazing grace today also! It is available even to the worst of sinners. Trust in Him today!
Friday, May 13, 2011
The Promised Land
The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way. The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees. For the honor of your name, O LORD, forgive my many, many sins. Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose. They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the Promised Land. Friendship with the LORD is reserved for those who fear him. With them he shares the secrets of his covenant. (Psalm 25:8-14 NLV).
The history of Israel is the story of God’s faithfulness to His promises. A Hebrew kingdom was established in 1000 BC. It was later split into the kingdoms of Judah and Israel. Assyrians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans, and Alexander the Great of Macedonia subsequently invaded them. By AD 135, few Jews were left in Palestine; most lived in the scattered and tenacious communities of the Diaspora. Palestine became a center of Christian pilgrimage after the emperor Constantine converted to that faith. The Arabs took Palestine from the Byzantine Empire in AD 634–40. Interrupted only by Christian Crusaders, Muslims ruled Palestine until the 20th century with a Turkish rule from 1516. During World War I, British forces defeated the Turks in Palestine and governed the area under a League of Nations mandate from 1923. As part of the 19th-century Zionist movement, Jews had begun settling in Palestine as early as 1820. This effort to establish a Jewish homeland had received British approval in the Balfour Declaration of 1917. During the 1930s, Jews persecuted by the Hitler regime poured into Palestine. The postwar acknowledgment of the Holocaust, Hitler's genocide of 6 million Jews, increased international interest in and sympathy for the cause of Zionism. However, Arabs in Palestine and surrounding countries bitterly opposed prewar and postwar proposals to partition Palestine into Arab and Jewish sectors. The British mandate to govern Palestine ended after the war, and in 1947 the UN voted to partition Palestine. When the British officially withdrew on May 14, 1948, the Jewish National Council proclaimed the State of Israel. U.S. recognition came within hours. The next day, Arab forces from Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq invaded the new nation. By the cease-fire on Jan. 7, 1949, Israel had increased its original territory by 50%, taking western Galilee, a broad corridor through central Palestine to Jerusalem, and part of modern Jerusalem.
Even though there is still controversy and conflict in the Middle East, it cannot be denied that God has been faithful to return the Jews to their Promised Land. He keeps His promises. Of course there are many different lessons we may find interesting from a study of the return of the Jews to Israel, however the main principle I’d like to show you today is in the faithfulness of God to His word. As Christians we have a “Promised Land” also. For every believer in Jesus Christ, we have a hope in heaven that will be fulfilled. It is that hope, that promise that encourages and motivates me to walk in the joy of victory. When the enemy comes, and come he will, that promise provides the strength to endure every trial.
This week, on the anniversary of the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel, remember there is coming a day of fulfillment for you as well! Trust in His word!
The history of Israel is the story of God’s faithfulness to His promises. A Hebrew kingdom was established in 1000 BC. It was later split into the kingdoms of Judah and Israel. Assyrians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans, and Alexander the Great of Macedonia subsequently invaded them. By AD 135, few Jews were left in Palestine; most lived in the scattered and tenacious communities of the Diaspora. Palestine became a center of Christian pilgrimage after the emperor Constantine converted to that faith. The Arabs took Palestine from the Byzantine Empire in AD 634–40. Interrupted only by Christian Crusaders, Muslims ruled Palestine until the 20th century with a Turkish rule from 1516. During World War I, British forces defeated the Turks in Palestine and governed the area under a League of Nations mandate from 1923. As part of the 19th-century Zionist movement, Jews had begun settling in Palestine as early as 1820. This effort to establish a Jewish homeland had received British approval in the Balfour Declaration of 1917. During the 1930s, Jews persecuted by the Hitler regime poured into Palestine. The postwar acknowledgment of the Holocaust, Hitler's genocide of 6 million Jews, increased international interest in and sympathy for the cause of Zionism. However, Arabs in Palestine and surrounding countries bitterly opposed prewar and postwar proposals to partition Palestine into Arab and Jewish sectors. The British mandate to govern Palestine ended after the war, and in 1947 the UN voted to partition Palestine. When the British officially withdrew on May 14, 1948, the Jewish National Council proclaimed the State of Israel. U.S. recognition came within hours. The next day, Arab forces from Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq invaded the new nation. By the cease-fire on Jan. 7, 1949, Israel had increased its original territory by 50%, taking western Galilee, a broad corridor through central Palestine to Jerusalem, and part of modern Jerusalem.
Even though there is still controversy and conflict in the Middle East, it cannot be denied that God has been faithful to return the Jews to their Promised Land. He keeps His promises. Of course there are many different lessons we may find interesting from a study of the return of the Jews to Israel, however the main principle I’d like to show you today is in the faithfulness of God to His word. As Christians we have a “Promised Land” also. For every believer in Jesus Christ, we have a hope in heaven that will be fulfilled. It is that hope, that promise that encourages and motivates me to walk in the joy of victory. When the enemy comes, and come he will, that promise provides the strength to endure every trial.
This week, on the anniversary of the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel, remember there is coming a day of fulfillment for you as well! Trust in His word!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Two Stories
Choose a good reputation over great riches, for being held in high esteem is better than having silver or gold. (Proverbs 22:1 NLV).
World War II produced many heroes. One such man was Butch O'Hare. He was a fighter pilot assigned to an aircraft carrier in the South Pacific. One day his entire squadron was sent on a mission. After he was airborne, he looked at his fuel gauge and realized that someone had forgotten to top off his fuel tank. He would not have enough fuel to complete his mission and get back to his ship. His flight leader told him to return to the carrier. Reluctantly he dropped out of formation and headed back to the fleet. As he was returning to the mother ship, he saw something that turned his blood cold. A squadron of Japanese Zeroes was speeding their way toward the American fleet. The American fighters were gone on a sortie and the fleet was all but defenseless. He couldn't reach his squadron and bring them back in time to save the fleet. Nor could he warn the fleet of the approaching danger. There was only one thing to do. He must somehow divert them from the fleet. Laying aside all thoughts of personal safety, he dove into the formation of Japanese planes. Wing-mounted 50 caliber’s blazed as he charged in, attacking one surprised enemy plane and then another. Butch wove in and out of the now broken formation and fired at as many planes as possible until finally all his ammunition was spent. Undaunted, he continued the assault. He dove at the Zeroes, trying to at least clip off a wing or tail, in hopes of damaging as many enemy planes as possible and rendering them unfit to fly. He was desperate to do anything he could to keep them from reaching the American ships. Finally, the exasperated Japanese squadron took off in another direction. Deeply relieved, Butch O'Hare and his tattered fighter limped back to the carrier. Upon arrival he reported in and related the event surrounding his return. The film from the camera mounted on his plane told the tale. It showed the extent of Butch's daring attempt to protect his fleet. He was recognized as a hero and given one of the nation's highest military honors. And today, O'Hare Airport in Chicago is named in tribute to the courage of this great man.
Some years earlier there was a man in Chicago called Easy Eddie. At that time, Al Capone virtually owned the city. Capone wasn't famous for anything heroic. His exploits were anything but praiseworthy. He was however, notorious for enmeshing the city of Chicago in everything from bootlegged booze and prostitution to murder. Easy Eddie was Capone's lawyer and for a good reason. He was very good! In fact, his skill at legal maneuvering kept Big Al out of jail for a long time. To show his appreciation, Capone paid him very well. Not only was the money big, Eddie got special dividends. For instance, he and his family occupied a fenced-in mansion with live-in help and all of the conveniences of the day. The estate was so large that it filled an entire Chicago city block. Yes, Eddie lived the high life of the Chicago mob and gave little consideration to the atrocity that went on around him. Eddy did have one soft spot, however. He had a son that he loved dearly. Eddy saw to it that his young son had the best of everything clothes, cars, and a good education. Nothing was withheld. Price was no object. And, despite his involvement with organized crime, Eddie even tried to teach him right from wrong. Yes, Eddie tried to teach his son to rise above his own sordid life. He wanted him to be a better man than he was. Yet, with all his wealth and influence, there were two things that Eddie couldn't give his son. Two things that Eddie sacrificed to the Capone mob that he could not pass on to his beloved son--a good name and a good example. One day, Easy Eddie reached a difficult decision. Offering his son a good name was far more important than all the riches he could lavish on him. He had to rectify all the wrong that he had done. He would go to the authorities and tell the truth about Scar-face Al Capone. He would try to clean up his tarnished name and offer his son some semblance of integrity. To do this he must testify against The Mob, and he knew that the cost would be great. But more than anything, he wanted to be an example to his son. He wanted to do his best to make restoration and hopefully have a good name to leave his son. So, he testified. Within the year, Easy Eddie's life ended in a blaze of gunfire on a lonely Chicago street. He had given his son the greatest gift he had to offer at the greatest price he would ever pay.
I know what you're thinking. What do these two stories have to do with one another? Well, you see, Butch O'Hare was Easy Eddie's son. Make your commitment to conduct yourself with honesty and integrity throughout this day.
World War II produced many heroes. One such man was Butch O'Hare. He was a fighter pilot assigned to an aircraft carrier in the South Pacific. One day his entire squadron was sent on a mission. After he was airborne, he looked at his fuel gauge and realized that someone had forgotten to top off his fuel tank. He would not have enough fuel to complete his mission and get back to his ship. His flight leader told him to return to the carrier. Reluctantly he dropped out of formation and headed back to the fleet. As he was returning to the mother ship, he saw something that turned his blood cold. A squadron of Japanese Zeroes was speeding their way toward the American fleet. The American fighters were gone on a sortie and the fleet was all but defenseless. He couldn't reach his squadron and bring them back in time to save the fleet. Nor could he warn the fleet of the approaching danger. There was only one thing to do. He must somehow divert them from the fleet. Laying aside all thoughts of personal safety, he dove into the formation of Japanese planes. Wing-mounted 50 caliber’s blazed as he charged in, attacking one surprised enemy plane and then another. Butch wove in and out of the now broken formation and fired at as many planes as possible until finally all his ammunition was spent. Undaunted, he continued the assault. He dove at the Zeroes, trying to at least clip off a wing or tail, in hopes of damaging as many enemy planes as possible and rendering them unfit to fly. He was desperate to do anything he could to keep them from reaching the American ships. Finally, the exasperated Japanese squadron took off in another direction. Deeply relieved, Butch O'Hare and his tattered fighter limped back to the carrier. Upon arrival he reported in and related the event surrounding his return. The film from the camera mounted on his plane told the tale. It showed the extent of Butch's daring attempt to protect his fleet. He was recognized as a hero and given one of the nation's highest military honors. And today, O'Hare Airport in Chicago is named in tribute to the courage of this great man.
Some years earlier there was a man in Chicago called Easy Eddie. At that time, Al Capone virtually owned the city. Capone wasn't famous for anything heroic. His exploits were anything but praiseworthy. He was however, notorious for enmeshing the city of Chicago in everything from bootlegged booze and prostitution to murder. Easy Eddie was Capone's lawyer and for a good reason. He was very good! In fact, his skill at legal maneuvering kept Big Al out of jail for a long time. To show his appreciation, Capone paid him very well. Not only was the money big, Eddie got special dividends. For instance, he and his family occupied a fenced-in mansion with live-in help and all of the conveniences of the day. The estate was so large that it filled an entire Chicago city block. Yes, Eddie lived the high life of the Chicago mob and gave little consideration to the atrocity that went on around him. Eddy did have one soft spot, however. He had a son that he loved dearly. Eddy saw to it that his young son had the best of everything clothes, cars, and a good education. Nothing was withheld. Price was no object. And, despite his involvement with organized crime, Eddie even tried to teach him right from wrong. Yes, Eddie tried to teach his son to rise above his own sordid life. He wanted him to be a better man than he was. Yet, with all his wealth and influence, there were two things that Eddie couldn't give his son. Two things that Eddie sacrificed to the Capone mob that he could not pass on to his beloved son--a good name and a good example. One day, Easy Eddie reached a difficult decision. Offering his son a good name was far more important than all the riches he could lavish on him. He had to rectify all the wrong that he had done. He would go to the authorities and tell the truth about Scar-face Al Capone. He would try to clean up his tarnished name and offer his son some semblance of integrity. To do this he must testify against The Mob, and he knew that the cost would be great. But more than anything, he wanted to be an example to his son. He wanted to do his best to make restoration and hopefully have a good name to leave his son. So, he testified. Within the year, Easy Eddie's life ended in a blaze of gunfire on a lonely Chicago street. He had given his son the greatest gift he had to offer at the greatest price he would ever pay.
I know what you're thinking. What do these two stories have to do with one another? Well, you see, Butch O'Hare was Easy Eddie's son. Make your commitment to conduct yourself with honesty and integrity throughout this day.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
The Fountain of Youth
Although the wicked flourish like weeds, and evildoers blossom with success, there is only eternal destruction ahead of them. But you are exalted in the heavens. You, O LORD, continue forever. Your enemies, LORD, will surely perish; all evildoers will be scattered. But you have made me as strong as a wild bull. How refreshed I am by your power! With my own eyes I have seen the downfall of my enemies; with my own ears I have heard the defeat of my wicked opponents. But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted into the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. They will declare, "The LORD is just! He is my rock! There is nothing but goodness in him!" (Psalms 92:7-15 NLV).
Men have been searching for the “fountain of youth” for centuries. It seems that some manufacturers believe they have found such an elixir! To the befuddlement of scientists and regulators, many of the largest food manufacturers are embellishing their products with the active ingredients found in dietary supplements and traditional herbal medicines, some of which may not be effective, or even safe.
Major brands like Snapple now promise to "enlighten your senses" by brewing herbs like ginkgo biloba into bottles of iced tea. Celestial Seasonings urges consumers to steep away their stresses with kava, a sedative root from the South Seas now found in its Tension Tamer cocktail. Even Coca-Cola and Procter & Gamble are working on fruit-flavored tonics to soothe the pain of aging baby boomers with stiff knees by adding glucosamine, a building block of cartilage. The SoBe beverage line of PepsiCo offers elixirs with herbs like St. John's wort, appealing to New Age enthusiasts looking for Wisdom and Karma, as the drinks are called. And Dannon is working on a new super-yogurt intended to enhance the immune system. Ever since the advent of vitamin enriched white bread and fortified milk, companies have been bolstering drinks and foods with vitamins and minerals, drawing on decades of scientific research. Initial steps taken by Coke and Pepsi into nutraceuticals, as the new foods and beverages are called, could not have been more different. Pepsi acquired the South Beach Beverage Company last October. Since then, it has brought drinks like SoBe Adrenaline Rush, which contains the stimulant guarana, into dozens of new markets, hoping to attract the college crowd in search of a late night lift. On the other end of the spectrum, Coke formed a partnership with Procter & Gamble earlier this spring. The companies are now preparing to introduce a drink called Elations, which promises to ease the aches and pains of the nation's aging population. Each bottle of Elations contains 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine, a dietary supplement that has been popular among people with arthritis for years. A study published this year in the British journal Lancet suggested that glucosamine slowed cartilage erosion, and Elations is being tested in Cape Coral, Fla., under the slogan "Joy for Joints." Douglas N. Daft, Coke's chief executive, has depicted Elations as the equivalent of youth in a bottle, and hopes it will eventually be available in every gas station, supermarket and convenience store in America. "Baby boomers don't want to grow old," Mr. Daft said. "They're looking for the very thing that will help that desire, something that will make the joints ache a little less."
How tragic that we will not listen to the truth of God! There is no magic elixir that will eliminate physical aging. The “fountain of youth” is to be found in a spiritual sense through godly living. This is not to say that a godly lifestyle will eliminate or inhibit physical aging or illness. In fact, it won’t! But, it will produce strength of mind and spirit that allows for happiness in the face of our frailties. God’s concern today is our “inner” spirit, not the outward frame that surrounds it. There will be a day for our bodies to be transformed. Today, He wants to transform our spirits. Allow Him to transplant you into His courts and watch how you will flourish!
Men have been searching for the “fountain of youth” for centuries. It seems that some manufacturers believe they have found such an elixir! To the befuddlement of scientists and regulators, many of the largest food manufacturers are embellishing their products with the active ingredients found in dietary supplements and traditional herbal medicines, some of which may not be effective, or even safe.
Major brands like Snapple now promise to "enlighten your senses" by brewing herbs like ginkgo biloba into bottles of iced tea. Celestial Seasonings urges consumers to steep away their stresses with kava, a sedative root from the South Seas now found in its Tension Tamer cocktail. Even Coca-Cola and Procter & Gamble are working on fruit-flavored tonics to soothe the pain of aging baby boomers with stiff knees by adding glucosamine, a building block of cartilage. The SoBe beverage line of PepsiCo offers elixirs with herbs like St. John's wort, appealing to New Age enthusiasts looking for Wisdom and Karma, as the drinks are called. And Dannon is working on a new super-yogurt intended to enhance the immune system. Ever since the advent of vitamin enriched white bread and fortified milk, companies have been bolstering drinks and foods with vitamins and minerals, drawing on decades of scientific research. Initial steps taken by Coke and Pepsi into nutraceuticals, as the new foods and beverages are called, could not have been more different. Pepsi acquired the South Beach Beverage Company last October. Since then, it has brought drinks like SoBe Adrenaline Rush, which contains the stimulant guarana, into dozens of new markets, hoping to attract the college crowd in search of a late night lift. On the other end of the spectrum, Coke formed a partnership with Procter & Gamble earlier this spring. The companies are now preparing to introduce a drink called Elations, which promises to ease the aches and pains of the nation's aging population. Each bottle of Elations contains 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine, a dietary supplement that has been popular among people with arthritis for years. A study published this year in the British journal Lancet suggested that glucosamine slowed cartilage erosion, and Elations is being tested in Cape Coral, Fla., under the slogan "Joy for Joints." Douglas N. Daft, Coke's chief executive, has depicted Elations as the equivalent of youth in a bottle, and hopes it will eventually be available in every gas station, supermarket and convenience store in America. "Baby boomers don't want to grow old," Mr. Daft said. "They're looking for the very thing that will help that desire, something that will make the joints ache a little less."
How tragic that we will not listen to the truth of God! There is no magic elixir that will eliminate physical aging. The “fountain of youth” is to be found in a spiritual sense through godly living. This is not to say that a godly lifestyle will eliminate or inhibit physical aging or illness. In fact, it won’t! But, it will produce strength of mind and spirit that allows for happiness in the face of our frailties. God’s concern today is our “inner” spirit, not the outward frame that surrounds it. There will be a day for our bodies to be transformed. Today, He wants to transform our spirits. Allow Him to transplant you into His courts and watch how you will flourish!
Monday, May 9, 2011
The Green-eyed Monster
A stone is heavy and sand is weighty, but the resentment caused by a fool is heavier than both. Anger is cruel, and wrath is like a flood, but who can survive the destructiveness of jealousy? (Proverbs 27:3-4 NLV).
The following story is often told for the truth, however, it cannot be substantiated. It does provide an interesting story to illustrate jealousy and envy and the resulting damage they can do in our lives.
Walter ordered a Jaguar the minute he became a partner in the law firm. He'd earned his wealth, now he was intent on enjoying it. Flaunting it, even! It was a beautiful car. However, after a week, he began to notice an annoying rattle. He brought it back to the dealership where they did a thorough check-up. They found nothing wrong with the car and told him he was just sensitive because it was a new car. But the rattle was still there! After two more check-ups by the dealership, Walter vowed not to bring the car to them again. Every time he got in the car, the rattle annoyed him just a little bit more, until he was so enraged that he decided to pull the car apart in his driveway. Three hours later, the rattle was still there each time he started the car. He turned the car off and got out. Enraged, he kicked the door panel just below the handle. Surprise, there was the rattle, even though the car wasn't running! Walter tore the inside of the door off and found what had bothering him all this time. There was an empty bottle of whiskey with a note inside. Walter opened the bottle and read the note: "You finally found it! I drank this fifth of whiskey my last day working for Jaguar, and couldn't resist giving it to someone! I hope it drove you crazy!”
Anecdotal evidence dates this story to at least 1969. It gained national prominence in 1986 when Brian "Boz" Bosworth, then a star linebacker at the University of Oklahoma, claimed in Sports Illustrated's preseason football issue to have sabotaged cars in this fashion while working at the General Motors plant in Oklahoma City during the summer of 1985. Boz eventually apologized for repeating a yarn as fact, thus calling into question the quality control practices at that local General Motors plant. A fellow employee said of the incident, "He heard a lot of auto war stories, but we don't even have any nuts or bolts in that part of the plant where Brian worked." It is interesting to think that someone might feel this way about others. We do know many stories of how people have become resentful toward others in their good fortune. The key to life is not in the demise of others, but in blessing them and asking God to do MORE for them!
If you are wise and understand God's ways, live a life of steady goodness so that only good deeds will pour forth. And if you don't brag about the good you do, then you will be truly wise! But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your hearts, don't brag about being wise. That is the worst kind of lie. For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and motivated by the Devil. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every kind of evil. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no partiality and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness. (James 3:13-18 NLV).
The following story is often told for the truth, however, it cannot be substantiated. It does provide an interesting story to illustrate jealousy and envy and the resulting damage they can do in our lives.
Walter ordered a Jaguar the minute he became a partner in the law firm. He'd earned his wealth, now he was intent on enjoying it. Flaunting it, even! It was a beautiful car. However, after a week, he began to notice an annoying rattle. He brought it back to the dealership where they did a thorough check-up. They found nothing wrong with the car and told him he was just sensitive because it was a new car. But the rattle was still there! After two more check-ups by the dealership, Walter vowed not to bring the car to them again. Every time he got in the car, the rattle annoyed him just a little bit more, until he was so enraged that he decided to pull the car apart in his driveway. Three hours later, the rattle was still there each time he started the car. He turned the car off and got out. Enraged, he kicked the door panel just below the handle. Surprise, there was the rattle, even though the car wasn't running! Walter tore the inside of the door off and found what had bothering him all this time. There was an empty bottle of whiskey with a note inside. Walter opened the bottle and read the note: "You finally found it! I drank this fifth of whiskey my last day working for Jaguar, and couldn't resist giving it to someone! I hope it drove you crazy!”
Anecdotal evidence dates this story to at least 1969. It gained national prominence in 1986 when Brian "Boz" Bosworth, then a star linebacker at the University of Oklahoma, claimed in Sports Illustrated's preseason football issue to have sabotaged cars in this fashion while working at the General Motors plant in Oklahoma City during the summer of 1985. Boz eventually apologized for repeating a yarn as fact, thus calling into question the quality control practices at that local General Motors plant. A fellow employee said of the incident, "He heard a lot of auto war stories, but we don't even have any nuts or bolts in that part of the plant where Brian worked." It is interesting to think that someone might feel this way about others. We do know many stories of how people have become resentful toward others in their good fortune. The key to life is not in the demise of others, but in blessing them and asking God to do MORE for them!
If you are wise and understand God's ways, live a life of steady goodness so that only good deeds will pour forth. And if you don't brag about the good you do, then you will be truly wise! But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your hearts, don't brag about being wise. That is the worst kind of lie. For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and motivated by the Devil. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every kind of evil. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no partiality and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness. (James 3:13-18 NLV).
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Friendly Fire
This week marks the death of one of the great military figures of our history. Thomas Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson, was born in 1824 and died in 1863. He served with distinction under Winfield Scott in the Mexican War and from 1851 to 1861 taught at the Virginia Military Institute. He resigned from the army in February, 1852 at the beginning of the Civil War. Though Jackson was practically unknown he was made a colonel of Virginia troops and sent to command at Harpers Ferry. At the first battle of Bull Run, he and his brigade earned their sobriquet by standing, in the words of Gen. Barnard Bee, “like a stone wall.” Jackson was promoted to major general, and in November, Johnston assigned him to command in the Shenandoah Valley. Jackson's attack on James Shields's division at Kernstown on Mar. 23, 1862, was repulsed but forced the retention of Union troops in the valley. In April, Robert E. Lee suggested that Jackson fall upon Nathaniel P. Banks's force in the lower valley, hoping that Irvin McDowell's army would thereby be diverted from joining George McClellan before Richmond. Jackson's renowned Valley campaign resulted. He first defeated part of John C. Frémont's force at McDowell on May 8, 1862, and then, returning to the Shenandoah, routed Banks at Front Royal and Winchester and drove him across the Potomac. When Lee reorganized the Army of Northern Virginia after Antietam, he made Jackson commander of the 2d Corps, and Stonewall was promoted to lieutenant general. Jackson's turning movement completely crumbled Hooker's right. Pressing on in the darkness, Stonewall Jackson was mortally wounded by the fire of his own men. His death was a severe blow to the Southern cause. Jackson was a tactician of first rank and, though a strict disciplinarian, had the affection of his men. His devout Calvinism, fighting ability, and arresting personal quirks make him one of the most interesting figures of the war. He was Lee's ablest and most trusted lieutenant. Yet, he was killed by “friendly fire.”
There is another kind of friendly fire that is just as deadly. In many churches today it has become easier to condemn and ostracize those who have had failures in their lives than to pray for and redeem them to fullness of fellowship. John had this in mind when he wrote to the church in Asia.
And we can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we know he is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure that he will give us what we ask for. If you see a Christian brother or sister sinning in a way that does not lead to death, you should pray, and God will give that person life. But there is a sin that leads to death, and I am not saying you should pray for those who commit it. Every wrong is sin, but not all sin leads to death. (1 John 5:14-17 NLV).
There is one sin that leads to death. Jesus said it was rejection of Him. Matthew’s gospel calls this sin “blasphemy of the Spirit.” Notice all others call us to pray that they may have life once again. A Japanese magazine has a picture of a butterfly on one of its pages. Its color is a dull gray until warmed by one's hand. The touch of a hand causes the special inks in the printing to react, and the dull gray is transformed into a flashing rainbow of color. What other things can be thus changed by the warmth of your interest and love? Your family? Your church? Even your city? This old world is hungry for the touch of someone who cares, someone who really cares! That someone can transform your home, your entire life. His name is Jesus!
There is another kind of friendly fire that is just as deadly. In many churches today it has become easier to condemn and ostracize those who have had failures in their lives than to pray for and redeem them to fullness of fellowship. John had this in mind when he wrote to the church in Asia.
And we can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we know he is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure that he will give us what we ask for. If you see a Christian brother or sister sinning in a way that does not lead to death, you should pray, and God will give that person life. But there is a sin that leads to death, and I am not saying you should pray for those who commit it. Every wrong is sin, but not all sin leads to death. (1 John 5:14-17 NLV).
There is one sin that leads to death. Jesus said it was rejection of Him. Matthew’s gospel calls this sin “blasphemy of the Spirit.” Notice all others call us to pray that they may have life once again. A Japanese magazine has a picture of a butterfly on one of its pages. Its color is a dull gray until warmed by one's hand. The touch of a hand causes the special inks in the printing to react, and the dull gray is transformed into a flashing rainbow of color. What other things can be thus changed by the warmth of your interest and love? Your family? Your church? Even your city? This old world is hungry for the touch of someone who cares, someone who really cares! That someone can transform your home, your entire life. His name is Jesus!
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Mother's Day, 2011
If you curse your father or mother, the lamp of your life will be snuffed out. The eye that mocks a father and despises a mother will be plucked out by ravens of the valley and eaten by vultures. (Proverbs 20:20-20; 30:17 NLV)
Anna M. Jarvis (1864-1948) first suggested the national observance of an annual day honoring all mothers because she had loved her own mother so dearly. At a memorial service for her mother on May 10, 1908, Miss Jarvis gave a carnation, which was her mother’s favorite flower, to each person who attended. Within he next few years, the idea of a day to honor mothers gained popularity, and Mother’s Day was observed in a number of large cities. On May 9, 1914, by an act of Congress, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. He established the day as a time for “public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” By then it had become customary to wear white carnations to honor departed mothers and red to honor the living, a custom that continues to this day. It is such a wonderful time to pay tribute to those who have served us in our lives. The following story illustrates the worth of a godly mother.
By the time the Lord made mothers, he was into the sixth day working overtime. An Angel appeared and said, "why are you spending so much time on this one?" And the Lord answered and said, "have you read the spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic; have 200 moveable parts, all replaceable; run on black coffee and leftovers; have a lap that can hold three children at one time and that disappears when she stands up; have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart; and have six pairs of hands." The Angel was astounded at the requirements for this one. "Six pairs of hands! No Way!" said the Angel. The Lord replied, "Oh, it's not the hands that are the problem. It's the three pairs of eyes that mothers must have!" "And that's on the standard model?" the Angel asked. The Lord nodded in agreement, "Yep, one pair of eyes are to see through the closed door as she asks the children what they are doing even though she already knows. Another pair in the back of the head is to see what she needs to know even though no one thinks she can. And the third pair is here in the front of her head. They are for looking at an errant child and saying that she understands and loves him or her without even saying a single word." The Angel tried to stop the Lord. "This is too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish." "But I can't!" The Lord protested, "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick AND can feed a family of six on a pound of hamburger and can get a nine year old to stand in the shower." The Angel moved closer and touched the woman, "But you have made her so soft, Lord." "She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish." "Will she be able to think?" Asked the Angel. The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate." The Angel then noticed something and reached out and touched the woman's cheek. "OOPS, it looks like you have a leak with this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one." "That's not a leak." the Lord objected. "That's a tear!" "What's the tear for?" asked the Angel. The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her disappointment, her pain, her loneliness, her grief, and her pride." The Angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything for this one. You even created the tear!" The Lord looked at the Angel and smiled and said, "I'm afraid you are wrong again, my friend. I created the woman, but she created the tear!"
If your mother is living today, pray for her. Bless her with your special attention and love today. Lift her before your heavenly Father that He may bring to her His very best blessing.
Anna M. Jarvis (1864-1948) first suggested the national observance of an annual day honoring all mothers because she had loved her own mother so dearly. At a memorial service for her mother on May 10, 1908, Miss Jarvis gave a carnation, which was her mother’s favorite flower, to each person who attended. Within he next few years, the idea of a day to honor mothers gained popularity, and Mother’s Day was observed in a number of large cities. On May 9, 1914, by an act of Congress, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. He established the day as a time for “public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” By then it had become customary to wear white carnations to honor departed mothers and red to honor the living, a custom that continues to this day. It is such a wonderful time to pay tribute to those who have served us in our lives. The following story illustrates the worth of a godly mother.
By the time the Lord made mothers, he was into the sixth day working overtime. An Angel appeared and said, "why are you spending so much time on this one?" And the Lord answered and said, "have you read the spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic; have 200 moveable parts, all replaceable; run on black coffee and leftovers; have a lap that can hold three children at one time and that disappears when she stands up; have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart; and have six pairs of hands." The Angel was astounded at the requirements for this one. "Six pairs of hands! No Way!" said the Angel. The Lord replied, "Oh, it's not the hands that are the problem. It's the three pairs of eyes that mothers must have!" "And that's on the standard model?" the Angel asked. The Lord nodded in agreement, "Yep, one pair of eyes are to see through the closed door as she asks the children what they are doing even though she already knows. Another pair in the back of the head is to see what she needs to know even though no one thinks she can. And the third pair is here in the front of her head. They are for looking at an errant child and saying that she understands and loves him or her without even saying a single word." The Angel tried to stop the Lord. "This is too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish." "But I can't!" The Lord protested, "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick AND can feed a family of six on a pound of hamburger and can get a nine year old to stand in the shower." The Angel moved closer and touched the woman, "But you have made her so soft, Lord." "She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish." "Will she be able to think?" Asked the Angel. The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate." The Angel then noticed something and reached out and touched the woman's cheek. "OOPS, it looks like you have a leak with this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one." "That's not a leak." the Lord objected. "That's a tear!" "What's the tear for?" asked the Angel. The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her disappointment, her pain, her loneliness, her grief, and her pride." The Angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything for this one. You even created the tear!" The Lord looked at the Angel and smiled and said, "I'm afraid you are wrong again, my friend. I created the woman, but she created the tear!"
If your mother is living today, pray for her. Bless her with your special attention and love today. Lift her before your heavenly Father that He may bring to her His very best blessing.
Friday, May 6, 2011
True Riches
If you will listen, I will answer you from my own experience. And it is confirmed by the experience of wise men who have heard the same thing from their fathers, those to whom the land was given long before any foreigners arrived. Wicked people are in pain throughout their lives. They are surrounded by terrors, and even on good days they fear the attack of the destroyer. They dare not go out into the darkness for fear they will be murdered. They wander abroad for bread, saying, 'Where is it?' They know their ruin is certain. That dark day terrifies them. They live in distress and anguish, like a king preparing for an attack. For they have clenched their fists against God, defying the Almighty. Holding their strong shields, they defiantly charge against him. These wicked people are fat and rich, but their cities will be ruined. They will live in abandoned houses that are ready to tumble down. They will not continue to be rich. Their wealth will not endure, and their possessions will no longer spread across the horizon. They will not escape the darkness. The flame will burn them up, and the breath of God will destroy everything they have. Let them no longer trust in empty riches. They are only fooling themselves, for emptiness will be their only reward. They will be cut down in the prime of life, and all they counted on will disappear. They will be like a vine whose grapes are harvested before they are ripe, like an olive tree that sheds its blossoms so the fruit cannot form. For the godless are barren. Their homes, enriched through bribery, will be consumed by fire. They conceive trouble and evil, and their hearts give birth only to deceit. (Job 15:17-35 NLV).
How Poor Are We? One day a father and his rich family took his son to a trip to the country with the firm purpose to show him how poor people can be. They spent a day and a night in the farm of a very poor family. When they got back from their trip the father asked his son, "How was the trip?" "Very good Dad!" "Did you see how poor people can be?" the father asked. "Yeah!" "And what did you learn?" The son answered, "I saw that we have a dog at home, and they have four. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of the garden; they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lamps in the garden; they have the stars. Our patio reaches to the front yard, they have a whole horizon." When the little boy was finishing, his father was speechless. His son added, "Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are!"
Isn't it true that it all depends on the way you look at things? If you have love, friends, family, health, good humor and a positive attitude towards life, then you've got everything! Job understood that principle. Even when it seemed everyone and everything was lost to him, he knew that God would never leave him. That became the foundation for his sense of wealth. There have been many people who have left us with this example to follow.
Ellen Meisberger wrote, “Money can buy a bed but not sleep, a hammer but not a carpenter,
things but not friends, a toy but not a child's happiness, a pen and paper but not an author, a pencil but not an idea, a house but not a home, an agreement but not peace, paints but not an artist, eyeglasses but not eyesight, a chair but not rest, a computer but not wisdom, a school but not students, death but not life, a flag but not patriotism, a gun but not a soldier, a book but not knowledge, a machine but not a skill, a desk but not a teacher, a name but not a man, a church but not a religion, an altar but not salvation, and a cross but not a savior.
Look for the true riches God has placed around you today and give Him thanks!
How Poor Are We? One day a father and his rich family took his son to a trip to the country with the firm purpose to show him how poor people can be. They spent a day and a night in the farm of a very poor family. When they got back from their trip the father asked his son, "How was the trip?" "Very good Dad!" "Did you see how poor people can be?" the father asked. "Yeah!" "And what did you learn?" The son answered, "I saw that we have a dog at home, and they have four. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of the garden; they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lamps in the garden; they have the stars. Our patio reaches to the front yard, they have a whole horizon." When the little boy was finishing, his father was speechless. His son added, "Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are!"
Isn't it true that it all depends on the way you look at things? If you have love, friends, family, health, good humor and a positive attitude towards life, then you've got everything! Job understood that principle. Even when it seemed everyone and everything was lost to him, he knew that God would never leave him. That became the foundation for his sense of wealth. There have been many people who have left us with this example to follow.
Ellen Meisberger wrote, “Money can buy a bed but not sleep, a hammer but not a carpenter,
things but not friends, a toy but not a child's happiness, a pen and paper but not an author, a pencil but not an idea, a house but not a home, an agreement but not peace, paints but not an artist, eyeglasses but not eyesight, a chair but not rest, a computer but not wisdom, a school but not students, death but not life, a flag but not patriotism, a gun but not a soldier, a book but not knowledge, a machine but not a skill, a desk but not a teacher, a name but not a man, a church but not a religion, an altar but not salvation, and a cross but not a savior.
Look for the true riches God has placed around you today and give Him thanks!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
The Old Things
One day some Pharisees and teachers of religious law arrived from Jerusalem to confront Jesus. They noticed that some of Jesus' disciples failed to follow the usual Jewish ritual of hand washing before eating. (The Jews, especially the Pharisees, do not eat until they have poured water over their cupped hands, as required by their ancient traditions. Similarly, they eat nothing bought from the market unless they have immersed their hands in water. This is but one of many traditions they have clung to – such as their ceremony of washing cups, pitchers, and kettles.) So the Pharisees and teachers of religious law asked him, "Why don't your disciples follow our age-old customs? For they eat without first performing the hand-washing ceremony." Jesus replied, "You hypocrites! Isaiah was prophesying about you when he said, 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far away. Their worship is a farce, for they replace God's commands with their own man-made teachings.' For you ignore God's specific laws and substitute your own traditions." (Mark 7:1-8 NLV).
The first week of May, in 1985, the first cans of “New Coke” rolled out of bottling and canning plants marking the 99th anniversary of Coca-Cola. In 1886, John S. Pemberton, an Atlanta druggist seeking a headache and hangover remedy, added kola nut extract to cocoa extract and produced Coca-Cola. Today, heavily sweetened carbonated drinks, or soda pops, are among the most popular beverages in the world. In the last two decades, the introduction of diet drinks containing artificial sweeteners has increased sales of carbonated beverages. Annual Coca-Cola sales alone total more than a billion dollars, and soda pops account for one-fourth of the annual sugar consumption in the United States. However, even with the intense marketing campaign that preceded the introduction of “New Coke.” The public would not accept the latest formula. “Classic Coke” was revived and soon eclipsed completely the new product. It was ultimately done away with completely. I was one of those who would not accept the new coke. Perhaps you were also. I just didn’t like the way it tasted! I wish now I had bought a case and saved it. I’m sure it would be a collector’s item now.
In our text this morning, Jesus teaches about the validity of traditions. They are not of themselves bad or good. Just like the new coke was neither bad nor good in concept. Most people preferred the taste of the old one. It failed in the market place because it didn’t taste as good. So it is with religious traditions. No matter how they may be “marketed,” when they don’t reflect an earnest desire to honor God, they are worthless.
In today’s modern church, there are many examples of such traditions. There is a wonderful true story of a small plot of ground in Russia. If you were to visit the Kremlin grounds today you would see a small enclosed area of about 100 square feet (10’ x 10’) with a guard posted twenty-four hours a day. You might assume this is a very important historical spot, perhaps even the burial plot for some important historical figure. However, upon inquiry you would discover no such importance. In fact, you would see that in 1776, Catherine the Great was walking along the path and saw the first flowers of spring at this spot and wanted it preserved until the flower died. So, she posted a guard to protect it from the trampling feet of others. Days turned to weeks, weeks to months, months to years. The flower faded and died, but the guard was never released from that spot! Traditions may be good or bad. Judge them only on the motive of your heart in following them. How are you honoring God today in your traditions?
The first week of May, in 1985, the first cans of “New Coke” rolled out of bottling and canning plants marking the 99th anniversary of Coca-Cola. In 1886, John S. Pemberton, an Atlanta druggist seeking a headache and hangover remedy, added kola nut extract to cocoa extract and produced Coca-Cola. Today, heavily sweetened carbonated drinks, or soda pops, are among the most popular beverages in the world. In the last two decades, the introduction of diet drinks containing artificial sweeteners has increased sales of carbonated beverages. Annual Coca-Cola sales alone total more than a billion dollars, and soda pops account for one-fourth of the annual sugar consumption in the United States. However, even with the intense marketing campaign that preceded the introduction of “New Coke.” The public would not accept the latest formula. “Classic Coke” was revived and soon eclipsed completely the new product. It was ultimately done away with completely. I was one of those who would not accept the new coke. Perhaps you were also. I just didn’t like the way it tasted! I wish now I had bought a case and saved it. I’m sure it would be a collector’s item now.
In our text this morning, Jesus teaches about the validity of traditions. They are not of themselves bad or good. Just like the new coke was neither bad nor good in concept. Most people preferred the taste of the old one. It failed in the market place because it didn’t taste as good. So it is with religious traditions. No matter how they may be “marketed,” when they don’t reflect an earnest desire to honor God, they are worthless.
In today’s modern church, there are many examples of such traditions. There is a wonderful true story of a small plot of ground in Russia. If you were to visit the Kremlin grounds today you would see a small enclosed area of about 100 square feet (10’ x 10’) with a guard posted twenty-four hours a day. You might assume this is a very important historical spot, perhaps even the burial plot for some important historical figure. However, upon inquiry you would discover no such importance. In fact, you would see that in 1776, Catherine the Great was walking along the path and saw the first flowers of spring at this spot and wanted it preserved until the flower died. So, she posted a guard to protect it from the trampling feet of others. Days turned to weeks, weeks to months, months to years. The flower faded and died, but the guard was never released from that spot! Traditions may be good or bad. Judge them only on the motive of your heart in following them. How are you honoring God today in your traditions?
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Penguins in Peril
For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down – when we die and leave these bodies – we will have a home in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long for the day when we will put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. For we will not be spirits without bodies, but we will put on new heavenly bodies. Our dying bodies make us groan and sigh, but it's not that we want to die and have no bodies at all. We want to slip into our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by everlasting life. God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee he has given us his Holy Spirit. So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. That is why we live by believing and not by seeing. Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. So our aim is to please him always, whether we are here in this body or away from this body. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in our bodies. It is because we know this solemn fear of the Lord that we work so hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too. (2 Corinthians 5:1-11 NLV).
Oil spills are some of the most challenging environmental disasters. These toxic spills pollute the ocean, often injuring and killing animals that live there. Birds and mammals need to be captured, cleaned, and given medical treatment to have a chance of survival. Rescue workers must act quickly and sometimes creatively. In January 2000 an oil spill near Phillip Island, Australia, threatened the tiny penguins that live there. The penguins' home was already at risk. In the last eighty years the penguins have lost more than ¾ of their Phillip Island breeding area, mostly as a result of human actions. Rescue workers at the Phillip Island Nature Park tried different ways to keep the penguins warm and to stop them from swallowing the deadly oil. Dressing the penguins in doll sweaters proved to be the most successful technique. Soon, news of the penguins' need for sweaters spread via the Internet. Knitters in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States downloaded penguin sweater patterns and set to work. Some got very excited, adding special touches, like little bows. Others knitted sweaters in the colors of their favorite sports teams. The birds' shiny feathers are coated in natural oils that keep them warm and waterproof in the icy waters. The crude oil from the spill destroys the penguins' natural oils. When this happens, the birds cannot protect themselves from the cold. To make matters worse, penguins clean and smooth their feathers using their beaks. If a penguin preens after an oil spill, it will swallow poisonous oil, and probably die. The wool sweaters keep in the penguins' body heat, and prevent them from being poisoned by the oils. The tiny Phillip Island penguins, known as Fairy Penguins, or Little Penguins, are only half as tall as the famous Emperor Penguins of Antarctica. In fact, they are the smallest penguins in the world. Their sweaters are about 9 inches high and 4 inches wide, with openings for the head and flippers. The sweaters must be pure wool to provide enough warmth for the penguins. "They look so cute," said Pat Gallup, who coordinated a Canadian effort to make sweaters. "You can just see their heads and little flippers sticking out." So if you visited Phillip Island a year from now, would you see groups of little penguins in sweaters swimming along? No, the sweaters aren't forever. After the penguins are cleaned and dressed in the sweaters, they are put in salt-water pools at the rehabilitation center. As they swim and regain their strength, the salt water destroys the wool. By the time the penguins are ready to return to the ocean, their natural oils will have come back, and they can go home dressed only in their feathers.
The Holy Spirit is our “sweater” of protection against this world’s pollution and poison. As long as we live in this world we have His presence to keep us safe. However, we also have the unalterable promise of God that we will be released from the encumbrance of this world’s flesh and given a new immortal body. So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. That is why we live by believing and not by seeing. Be encouraged today! Put on the Holy Spirit and rest in Him!
Oil spills are some of the most challenging environmental disasters. These toxic spills pollute the ocean, often injuring and killing animals that live there. Birds and mammals need to be captured, cleaned, and given medical treatment to have a chance of survival. Rescue workers must act quickly and sometimes creatively. In January 2000 an oil spill near Phillip Island, Australia, threatened the tiny penguins that live there. The penguins' home was already at risk. In the last eighty years the penguins have lost more than ¾ of their Phillip Island breeding area, mostly as a result of human actions. Rescue workers at the Phillip Island Nature Park tried different ways to keep the penguins warm and to stop them from swallowing the deadly oil. Dressing the penguins in doll sweaters proved to be the most successful technique. Soon, news of the penguins' need for sweaters spread via the Internet. Knitters in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States downloaded penguin sweater patterns and set to work. Some got very excited, adding special touches, like little bows. Others knitted sweaters in the colors of their favorite sports teams. The birds' shiny feathers are coated in natural oils that keep them warm and waterproof in the icy waters. The crude oil from the spill destroys the penguins' natural oils. When this happens, the birds cannot protect themselves from the cold. To make matters worse, penguins clean and smooth their feathers using their beaks. If a penguin preens after an oil spill, it will swallow poisonous oil, and probably die. The wool sweaters keep in the penguins' body heat, and prevent them from being poisoned by the oils. The tiny Phillip Island penguins, known as Fairy Penguins, or Little Penguins, are only half as tall as the famous Emperor Penguins of Antarctica. In fact, they are the smallest penguins in the world. Their sweaters are about 9 inches high and 4 inches wide, with openings for the head and flippers. The sweaters must be pure wool to provide enough warmth for the penguins. "They look so cute," said Pat Gallup, who coordinated a Canadian effort to make sweaters. "You can just see their heads and little flippers sticking out." So if you visited Phillip Island a year from now, would you see groups of little penguins in sweaters swimming along? No, the sweaters aren't forever. After the penguins are cleaned and dressed in the sweaters, they are put in salt-water pools at the rehabilitation center. As they swim and regain their strength, the salt water destroys the wool. By the time the penguins are ready to return to the ocean, their natural oils will have come back, and they can go home dressed only in their feathers.
The Holy Spirit is our “sweater” of protection against this world’s pollution and poison. As long as we live in this world we have His presence to keep us safe. However, we also have the unalterable promise of God that we will be released from the encumbrance of this world’s flesh and given a new immortal body. So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. That is why we live by believing and not by seeing. Be encouraged today! Put on the Holy Spirit and rest in Him!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Red Cross
The American Red Cross was organized this month in 1881 by Clara Barton and received its first federal charter in 1900. In 1905, it was brought into closer relationship with the government when a new congressional charter was granted. The charter was revised in 1947. The organization, with headquarters in Washington, D.C., is supported entirely by voluntary contributions. The president of the United States is honorary chairman of the society, responsible for the appointment of its president and seven other members of its board of governors. The American Red Cross puts special emphasis on disaster relief, services to the armed forces and veterans, and public health and safety programs. The nationwide Red Cross blood program is a comprehensive system designed to collect, store, treat, and distribute blood and blood products to the ill and injured throughout the United States. Clara Barton was quite a lady. She was born in 1821 and died in 1912. She was an American humanitarian, taught school, and clerked in the U.S. Patent Office before the outbreak of the Civil War. She then established a service of supplies for soldiers and nursed in army camps and on the battlefields. She was called the Angel of the Battlefield. In 1865 President Lincoln appointed her to search for missing prisoners; the records she compiled also served to identify thousands of the dead at Andersonville Prison. In Europe for a conference at the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, she went to work behind the German lines for the International Red Cross. She returned to the United States in 1873 and in 1881 organized the American National Red Cross, which she headed until 1904. The symbol of the Red Cross has been recognized as one of safety and healing.
There is another cross, however. It is the Cross of Christ. This cross is the real agent of healing and safety. It is such a tragedy that so many people have never really heard the message of this cross. And, often when they do hear it, it seems to be foolish and impossible to believe. The Apostle Paul recognized this when he wrote to the Church in Corinth.
For Christ didn't send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News – and not with clever speeches and high-sounding ideas, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power. I know very well how foolish the message of the cross sounds to those who are on the road to destruction. But we who are being saved recognize this message as the very power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:17-18, NLV).
Officer Peter O'Hanlon was patrolling on night duty in northern England some years ago when he heard a quivering sob. Turning in the direction that it came from, he saw in the shadows a little boy sitting on a doorstep. With tears rolling down his cheeks, the child whimpered, "I'm lost. Take me home." The policeman began naming street after street, trying to help him remember where he lived. When that failed, he repeated the names of the shops and hotels in the area, but all without success. Then he remembered that in the center of the city was a well-known church with a large white cross towering high above the surrounding landscape. He pointed to it and said, "Do you live anywhere near that?" The boy's face immediately frightened. "Yes, take me to the cross. I can find my way home from there!" Perhaps you need to make your way back to the Cross today. It will point you home.
There is another cross, however. It is the Cross of Christ. This cross is the real agent of healing and safety. It is such a tragedy that so many people have never really heard the message of this cross. And, often when they do hear it, it seems to be foolish and impossible to believe. The Apostle Paul recognized this when he wrote to the Church in Corinth.
For Christ didn't send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News – and not with clever speeches and high-sounding ideas, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power. I know very well how foolish the message of the cross sounds to those who are on the road to destruction. But we who are being saved recognize this message as the very power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:17-18, NLV).
Officer Peter O'Hanlon was patrolling on night duty in northern England some years ago when he heard a quivering sob. Turning in the direction that it came from, he saw in the shadows a little boy sitting on a doorstep. With tears rolling down his cheeks, the child whimpered, "I'm lost. Take me home." The policeman began naming street after street, trying to help him remember where he lived. When that failed, he repeated the names of the shops and hotels in the area, but all without success. Then he remembered that in the center of the city was a well-known church with a large white cross towering high above the surrounding landscape. He pointed to it and said, "Do you live anywhere near that?" The boy's face immediately frightened. "Yes, take me to the cross. I can find my way home from there!" Perhaps you need to make your way back to the Cross today. It will point you home.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)