Someone I know, a Christian, recently decided to end his own life. I'm profoundly saddened that such a tragedy happened first and foremost, and also grieved that he didn't feel that anyone...not even God...cared about him.
So, what happens when a Christians commits suicide?
What about the ones left behind?
What about the family, friends, coworkers, and others who are left to ask "Why?"
Please let me encourage you...
If you are reading this "blog" and you feel that you have reached the "end" of what ever may be happening in your life, talk to someone.
PLEASE...talk to someone. There isn't anything happening in your life that is worth ending YOUR LIFE--because that really solves nothing...and it creates much, much, much pain and disappointment for so many others.
And, taking your own life grieves, may I even suggest, BREAKS, the heart of God.
You can email me if you want to...I will keep all contacts confidential...and I will pray.
onechicagoman@yahoo.com
God is good! He has created life within you...therefore, Life is good...
Blessings.
Phil Hoover
Chicago
An Update on Janet....
From Janet Paschal's website:
www.janetpaschal.com
Her husband John writes about a recent chemotherapy treatment that Janet endured:
Pressing on.....Yesterday was a good day for Janet. She was physically, emotionally, and spiritually charged. Words are simply inadequate in describing how proud I am of Janet. Not once, I mean it, not once has she indulged in self pity. In fact just the opposite.
Allow me to relate a recent event. This latest visit, after Janet and her Oncologist finished reviewing the lab work and other information garnered from that mornings work up, Janet headed upstairs to the chemotherapy room. I waited in the checkout line (that is correct...you wait to check in and you wait to check out, with patience not being a virtue but an absolute necessity!) and about 20 minutes later I joined up with Janet in the chemo room.
I entered Janet's little corner of the room just as Angela was inserting the catheter. Janet had tears in her eyes and I could tell she was really fighting the urge to cry. I waited until Angela walked away for a few minutes to re-supply her cart. I then asked Janet if inserting the catheter had hurt. She assured me that was not the case, but that she was crying because the gentleman sitting across from us had gotten ill during his chemo treatment and had vomited. She was crying for him....that my friends is Janet.
*****************************************************************
Please continue praying for this wonderful servant of the Lord.
www.janetpaschal.com
Her husband John writes about a recent chemotherapy treatment that Janet endured:
Pressing on.....Yesterday was a good day for Janet. She was physically, emotionally, and spiritually charged. Words are simply inadequate in describing how proud I am of Janet. Not once, I mean it, not once has she indulged in self pity. In fact just the opposite.
Allow me to relate a recent event. This latest visit, after Janet and her Oncologist finished reviewing the lab work and other information garnered from that mornings work up, Janet headed upstairs to the chemotherapy room. I waited in the checkout line (that is correct...you wait to check in and you wait to check out, with patience not being a virtue but an absolute necessity!) and about 20 minutes later I joined up with Janet in the chemo room.
I entered Janet's little corner of the room just as Angela was inserting the catheter. Janet had tears in her eyes and I could tell she was really fighting the urge to cry. I waited until Angela walked away for a few minutes to re-supply her cart. I then asked Janet if inserting the catheter had hurt. She assured me that was not the case, but that she was crying because the gentleman sitting across from us had gotten ill during his chemo treatment and had vomited. She was crying for him....that my friends is Janet.
*****************************************************************
Please continue praying for this wonderful servant of the Lord.
People dear to my heart...(link)
http://www.windwardworship.com/
Pastor Gary Langley was my youth leader in Huntsville, Alabama thirty years ago. He is now the Senior Pastor of Windward Worship Center in Kaneohe, Hawaii, where he has served for almost 23 years in various capacities, before becoming the Senior Pastor.
He is quite a character. Great sense of humor, good music, good speaker, and a very loving, and gracious man (most of the time).
Visit the link site, and tell him that Phil Hoover says "howdy."
Pastor Gary Langley was my youth leader in Huntsville, Alabama thirty years ago. He is now the Senior Pastor of Windward Worship Center in Kaneohe, Hawaii, where he has served for almost 23 years in various capacities, before becoming the Senior Pastor.
He is quite a character. Great sense of humor, good music, good speaker, and a very loving, and gracious man (most of the time).
Visit the link site, and tell him that Phil Hoover says "howdy."
Please read this....(link)
http://www.cwnews.com/news/viewstory.cfm?recnum=35925
Terri Schiavo's life is now in the hands of the legislature...and the Lord.
Please pray for her.
Terri Schiavo's life is now in the hands of the legislature...and the Lord.
Please pray for her.
The Power of the Gospel....
Just what do we proclaim when we say we are "sharing the Gospel..."?
Are we simply spewing a set of ideas, systematized centuries ago, and deep down inside wonder if all "this stuff" is really true? Does it really "live up to its' claims"?
Are we living out the Gospel of Christ in lives that have been radically transformed by His grace, rescued from the cesspools of sin by His love, and raised from the tombs that have imprisoned us by His power?
Just what is so "good" about this "Good News" that we call the "gospel"?
Does it make us love our neighbors?
Our enemies?
Does this "gospel" free us from our tendencies toward selfish ambitions, self-centeredness and "me-istic" conceit?
Just what does the "Gospel" do for us any way?
What do you think?
I'm listening....
Are we simply spewing a set of ideas, systematized centuries ago, and deep down inside wonder if all "this stuff" is really true? Does it really "live up to its' claims"?
Are we living out the Gospel of Christ in lives that have been radically transformed by His grace, rescued from the cesspools of sin by His love, and raised from the tombs that have imprisoned us by His power?
Just what is so "good" about this "Good News" that we call the "gospel"?
Does it make us love our neighbors?
Our enemies?
Does this "gospel" free us from our tendencies toward selfish ambitions, self-centeredness and "me-istic" conceit?
Just what does the "Gospel" do for us any way?
What do you think?
I'm listening....
"No Strings Attached..."
Well, everyone gets a bit "suspicious" when we hear these three words, don't we? "NO STRINGS ATTACHED..."
Yeah, right. Uh huh..."whatever you say..."
At least that's what most of us think anyway.
I've recently challenged people in my sphere of friendship and influence to live out their "care" with "no strings attached."
Let me explain what I mean:
As Christians, we are called to be the Body of Christ, the family of God....At least that is the meaning of two-thirds of the New Testament that we all claim to read...and believe.
We are told to have the "same care one for another" and to love one another fervently. Every Epistolary writer (James, Peter, Paul, John, Jude--as all the others) in the Scriptures gives us the picture of what the Family of God should look like.
It is to be one of rebuke and correction. And we all need that from time to time.
It is to be one of instruction in righteousness. And we all need that on a regular basis.
It is to be one of "great grace" (Acts 4:33). And we must have His grace to fill everything we do and want to accomplish.
But most of all, the "family of God" are to be people of love and care. That love and care is to be without strings....in other words, LOVE each other when you need something, and LOVE each other when you don't need anything.
Don't love someone simply for what they can do for you. After all, that's not love...not sure what to call it...but "love" ain't on the list...!
I know someone that will call me regularly when they need me to help them with something. And I know I can count on that person to contact me during those times.
But sadly, I never hear from them any other time.
No calls to say, "Hey Phil, just wanted to check in on you brother, and let you know how special you are..."
No calls to say, "Hey Phil, I missed you at ____________ the other day."
Sorta utilitarian at best, I guess.
But is that the message we want to send a "watching world"?
Is it really?
You decide...and let me know.
Yeah, right. Uh huh..."whatever you say..."
At least that's what most of us think anyway.
I've recently challenged people in my sphere of friendship and influence to live out their "care" with "no strings attached."
Let me explain what I mean:
As Christians, we are called to be the Body of Christ, the family of God....At least that is the meaning of two-thirds of the New Testament that we all claim to read...and believe.
We are told to have the "same care one for another" and to love one another fervently. Every Epistolary writer (James, Peter, Paul, John, Jude--as all the others) in the Scriptures gives us the picture of what the Family of God should look like.
It is to be one of rebuke and correction. And we all need that from time to time.
It is to be one of instruction in righteousness. And we all need that on a regular basis.
It is to be one of "great grace" (Acts 4:33). And we must have His grace to fill everything we do and want to accomplish.
But most of all, the "family of God" are to be people of love and care. That love and care is to be without strings....in other words, LOVE each other when you need something, and LOVE each other when you don't need anything.
Don't love someone simply for what they can do for you. After all, that's not love...not sure what to call it...but "love" ain't on the list...!
I know someone that will call me regularly when they need me to help them with something. And I know I can count on that person to contact me during those times.
But sadly, I never hear from them any other time.
No calls to say, "Hey Phil, just wanted to check in on you brother, and let you know how special you are..."
No calls to say, "Hey Phil, I missed you at ____________ the other day."
Sorta utilitarian at best, I guess.
But is that the message we want to send a "watching world"?
Is it really?
You decide...and let me know.
My heart's cry....
From the Eighth century, we get this wonderful hymn of Christendom:
Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me,
save that Thou art
Thou my best Thought,
by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping,
Thy presence my light.
Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee
and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father,
I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling,
and I with Thee one.
Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity,
Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul’s Shelter,
Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward,
O Power of my power.
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance,
now and always:
Thou and Thou only,
first in my heart,
High King of heaven,
my Treasure Thou art.
High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys,
O bright heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart,
whatever befall,
Still be my Vision,
O Ruler of all.
*************************************
What greater request and prayer can we make, except to ask the Lord to "be our vision..."
May I always see through His eyes. May I always cry out to Him, "Be Thou my vision...O Lord of my heart..."
Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me,
save that Thou art
Thou my best Thought,
by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping,
Thy presence my light.
Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee
and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father,
I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling,
and I with Thee one.
Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity,
Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul’s Shelter,
Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward,
O Power of my power.
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance,
now and always:
Thou and Thou only,
first in my heart,
High King of heaven,
my Treasure Thou art.
High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys,
O bright heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart,
whatever befall,
Still be my Vision,
O Ruler of all.
*************************************
What greater request and prayer can we make, except to ask the Lord to "be our vision..."
May I always see through His eyes. May I always cry out to Him, "Be Thou my vision...O Lord of my heart..."
Important Questions....
How can we encourage each other?
How can I encourage you to draw closer to Jesus our Lord?
What can I do to help you deepen your relationship to Christ and toHis children?
Do we "really" need each other?
Anybody want to take a stab at these questions?
How can I encourage you to draw closer to Jesus our Lord?
What can I do to help you deepen your relationship to Christ and toHis children?
Do we "really" need each other?
Anybody want to take a stab at these questions?
MEN (of all ages) Pay attention! Women can look too!
One of my colleagues, Larry, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He is only two years old than me (that would be an early forty-something). He has three small boys, and is just a bit concerned about this latest "drama" in his life and that of his family.
I'm beginning to get a little concerned myself...and so is my physician.
Here's a website you might want to check out.
http://www.prostate-cancer-institute.com
Cancer in any form is nothing to play around with...and I'm beginning to get "more than concerned" about my own physical well being.
I'm not gonna stay young forever....
Keep Larry in your prayers....
I'm beginning to get a little concerned myself...and so is my physician.
Here's a website you might want to check out.
http://www.prostate-cancer-institute.com
Cancer in any form is nothing to play around with...and I'm beginning to get "more than concerned" about my own physical well being.
I'm not gonna stay young forever....
Keep Larry in your prayers....
What a gracious couple! What a gorgeous woman!
I have ALWAYS admired Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr--even when I was a "wee child" and the 5th Dimension was the "hottest thing going..."
But I particularly loved MARILYN McCOO! And I still do.
I had the wonderful privilege of meeting these two last weekend here in Chicago during a discussion group/book signing at Border's Bookstore on N Michigan Avenue. Their new book, "Up, Up and Away" celebrate their faith, their lives, their careers, and their almost 36 years of marriage.
Here's a link to their website:
www.marilynmccoo.com
What a wonderful testimony of the faithfulness of God in their lives--and the more so even before they completely committed their lives to Him. Their witness for the transforming power of Jesus Christ is amazing, and refreshing.
Check them out. Read the book...and give one to somebody.
But I particularly loved MARILYN McCOO! And I still do.
I had the wonderful privilege of meeting these two last weekend here in Chicago during a discussion group/book signing at Border's Bookstore on N Michigan Avenue. Their new book, "Up, Up and Away" celebrate their faith, their lives, their careers, and their almost 36 years of marriage.
Here's a link to their website:
www.marilynmccoo.com
What a wonderful testimony of the faithfulness of God in their lives--and the more so even before they completely committed their lives to Him. Their witness for the transforming power of Jesus Christ is amazing, and refreshing.
Check them out. Read the book...and give one to somebody.
So someone in Southern California has some SENSE
Dr Phil McGraw is a transplant to the Los Angeles area. He is one of the leading voices championing "common sense" and particularly where families are concerned.
Please check out his website:
www.drphil.com
Use the resources, watch the show, and get on with living.
Please check out his website:
www.drphil.com
Use the resources, watch the show, and get on with living.
So, what if we spent those $$$ elsewhere?
The Catholic League has become very vocal in their critique of Hollywood-endorsed morality. And for the most part, rightly so. Yet, I wonder how many of those small green slips of paper with badly drawn pics of dead presidents would float California way if all the "Catholics" decided to not patronize the "Hollywood industry"--at the theatre, in their homes, in their social gatherings, and anywhere else?
Read it for yourself....
http://www.catholicleague.org/05press_releases/quarter%201/050223_Hollywoodmindset.htm
I grew up fairly legalistic, where morality was concerned. I never attended movies, because the church denomination of which I was a part at the time said it was "immoral." But at the same time, most of the adherents would have questionable things in their homes on the "boob tube."
If we want to really send a message to "Southern California morality-makers" then we need to stop patronizing their wares...period. No rented videos of objectionable material. No movie attendance, stop buying those products that actively sponsor such materials....
But alas, most of us Christians are afraid to "put our money where our mouths are..."
We'd rather "curse the darkness" instead of "lighting the candle."
After all, it takes less effort...and provides instant gratification...
Complaining that is....
Read it for yourself....
http://www.catholicleague.org/05press_releases/quarter%201/050223_Hollywoodmindset.htm
I grew up fairly legalistic, where morality was concerned. I never attended movies, because the church denomination of which I was a part at the time said it was "immoral." But at the same time, most of the adherents would have questionable things in their homes on the "boob tube."
If we want to really send a message to "Southern California morality-makers" then we need to stop patronizing their wares...period. No rented videos of objectionable material. No movie attendance, stop buying those products that actively sponsor such materials....
But alas, most of us Christians are afraid to "put our money where our mouths are..."
We'd rather "curse the darkness" instead of "lighting the candle."
After all, it takes less effort...and provides instant gratification...
Complaining that is....
The Philly 5..Is this "Justice" in America?
Read it for yourself:
**************************
Case Dismissed for Philly 5, But Battle Has Just BegunPro-Family Leader Demands Apology; Christian Group Pursues Legal Redress
By Allie Martin and Jenni Parker
February 22, 2005
(AgapePress) - The American Family Association of Pennsylvania is demanding that a judge apologize to members of a Christian group who were arrested during an outreach to homosexuals for comparing the street ministers to Nazis and the Ku Klux Klan. Meanwhile, though acquitted, the Christian activists may be heading back into court.
Last week, Judge Pamela Dembe of the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas dropped all charges against adult defendants belonging to the Christian group Repent America, who were arrested last fall for witnessing during a homosexual pride event in Philadelphia. The charges against the remaining member of the "Philly 5," a 17-year-old girl, were also dropped.
Eleven Christians were initially arrested, a group that ranged from 17 to 72 years of age. They were taken into custody and held in jail for 21 hours, simply for ministering at a city-funded, public homosexual event called "OutFest" in October 2004. They were charged with three felonies and five misdemeanors and faced a potential sentence of up to 47 years in prison and $90,000 in fines each.
Some of the charges were dropped without a hearing, but four of the adult Repent America members that had been arrested -- Michael Marcavage, Mark Diener, Dennis Green, and James Cruse -- were bound over for trial by District Court Judge William Austin Meehan. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Lauren Murch faced a separate trial.
Justice Served with an Unflattering Comparison
According to WorldNetDaily reports, when Judge Dembe reviewed the evidence -- much of it provided by Repent America, since the group had videotaped the events leading up to the arrests -- she found no basis for the allegations against the remaining defendants and dismissed the charges. Dembe is also the judge who, last month, removed the bail requirement that the defendants keep at least 100 feet away from any homosexual gathering.
After hearing arguments and reviewing the videotape of the arrests, the Common Pleas judge noted that America is one of the few countries in the world "that protects unpopular speech." She said this means "Nazis can March in Skokie, Illinois" and "the Ku Klux Klan can march where they wish to" since, in the U.S., "we cannot stifle speech because we don't want to hear it, or we don't want to hear it now."
But while Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania, is glad justice was served, she feels the remarks the judge made in dismissing the charges should have been withheld. She says the Repent America members did not deserve to be compared with fascists and white supremacists, especially after all they had been through.
"For 18 weeks their life has been in an upheaval," Gramley says, "and then the judge who dismisses the charges makes these statements. It's just outrageous as far as I'm concerned, and I would encourage folks to contact her and let her know that her comments were not appreciated."
Gramley feels Dembe's framing comments put the defendants on a par with hate-filled groups and characterized the Christian activists unfairly. "We're very pleased that the judge handed down the decision that she did," the pro-family spokeswoman says, "but we just wish she had not used the words Nazis and KKK in the statement that she made, equating Repent America with those types of hate organizations."
When Love of God and Neighbor Becomes a Hate Crime
Repent America founder Michael Marcavage would say that, far from being a hate group, his group is offering a loving response to sins that are destroying the social fabric of America. He feels the ministry has a calling and a responsibility to confront abortion, homosexuality, and other sins, and in describing its mission, he says, "If we love God, we will obey His commandments; and if we love our neighbors, we will go to them with the Word of God, so that they may be saved."
But after coming through his arrest and the ordeal of being tried in court for ministering at OutFest, Marcavage notes that the price of godly obedience is becoming increasingly steep in an increasingly faith-hostile America. "Christianity is being criminalized," he says. "The attack against Christians by government officials has never been so extreme. Not only are they removing symbols of Christianity from the public square, but they are now removing the Christians themselves."
Marcavage says what he finds most disturbing about this case, aside from "the arrests, imprisonment, and malicious prosecution," is the use of Pennsylvania hate crime law, which has added sexual orientation as a protected category. "Philadelphia District Attorney Lynne Abraham knew exactly what she was doing when she targeted us with the hate law due to our biblical opposition to homosexual behavior," the Repent America spokesman says. He notes that Abraham sits on the National Executive Committee of the Anti-Defamation League, whose members he calls "the architects of the hate crimes legislation."
Brian Fahling, senior trial attorney for the American Family Association Center for Law & Policy, has worked on behalf of the Philadelphia Christian group in the federal courts. In a statement responding to this latest ruling, he commented that the AFA Law Center is pleased for its clients as well as relieved that "justice has finally been done in the criminal system, and though it is apparently slow and rusty, the system still works."
But according to Fahling, Judge Dembe's decision to dismiss the charges ends only the first chapter in the ongoing saga of the Philadelphia 11. The group's legal representatives will be pursuing federal legal action against the arresting officers and the City of Philadelphia, and they are calling for a Department of Justice investigation into the corruption and abuse of power they allege took place in the so-called City of Brotherly Love.
© 2005 AgapePress all rights reserved.
**************************
Case Dismissed for Philly 5, But Battle Has Just BegunPro-Family Leader Demands Apology; Christian Group Pursues Legal Redress
By Allie Martin and Jenni Parker
February 22, 2005
(AgapePress) - The American Family Association of Pennsylvania is demanding that a judge apologize to members of a Christian group who were arrested during an outreach to homosexuals for comparing the street ministers to Nazis and the Ku Klux Klan. Meanwhile, though acquitted, the Christian activists may be heading back into court.
Last week, Judge Pamela Dembe of the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas dropped all charges against adult defendants belonging to the Christian group Repent America, who were arrested last fall for witnessing during a homosexual pride event in Philadelphia. The charges against the remaining member of the "Philly 5," a 17-year-old girl, were also dropped.
Eleven Christians were initially arrested, a group that ranged from 17 to 72 years of age. They were taken into custody and held in jail for 21 hours, simply for ministering at a city-funded, public homosexual event called "OutFest" in October 2004. They were charged with three felonies and five misdemeanors and faced a potential sentence of up to 47 years in prison and $90,000 in fines each.
Some of the charges were dropped without a hearing, but four of the adult Repent America members that had been arrested -- Michael Marcavage, Mark Diener, Dennis Green, and James Cruse -- were bound over for trial by District Court Judge William Austin Meehan. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Lauren Murch faced a separate trial.
Justice Served with an Unflattering Comparison
According to WorldNetDaily reports, when Judge Dembe reviewed the evidence -- much of it provided by Repent America, since the group had videotaped the events leading up to the arrests -- she found no basis for the allegations against the remaining defendants and dismissed the charges. Dembe is also the judge who, last month, removed the bail requirement that the defendants keep at least 100 feet away from any homosexual gathering.
After hearing arguments and reviewing the videotape of the arrests, the Common Pleas judge noted that America is one of the few countries in the world "that protects unpopular speech." She said this means "Nazis can March in Skokie, Illinois" and "the Ku Klux Klan can march where they wish to" since, in the U.S., "we cannot stifle speech because we don't want to hear it, or we don't want to hear it now."
But while Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania, is glad justice was served, she feels the remarks the judge made in dismissing the charges should have been withheld. She says the Repent America members did not deserve to be compared with fascists and white supremacists, especially after all they had been through.
"For 18 weeks their life has been in an upheaval," Gramley says, "and then the judge who dismisses the charges makes these statements. It's just outrageous as far as I'm concerned, and I would encourage folks to contact her and let her know that her comments were not appreciated."
Gramley feels Dembe's framing comments put the defendants on a par with hate-filled groups and characterized the Christian activists unfairly. "We're very pleased that the judge handed down the decision that she did," the pro-family spokeswoman says, "but we just wish she had not used the words Nazis and KKK in the statement that she made, equating Repent America with those types of hate organizations."
When Love of God and Neighbor Becomes a Hate Crime
Repent America founder Michael Marcavage would say that, far from being a hate group, his group is offering a loving response to sins that are destroying the social fabric of America. He feels the ministry has a calling and a responsibility to confront abortion, homosexuality, and other sins, and in describing its mission, he says, "If we love God, we will obey His commandments; and if we love our neighbors, we will go to them with the Word of God, so that they may be saved."
But after coming through his arrest and the ordeal of being tried in court for ministering at OutFest, Marcavage notes that the price of godly obedience is becoming increasingly steep in an increasingly faith-hostile America. "Christianity is being criminalized," he says. "The attack against Christians by government officials has never been so extreme. Not only are they removing symbols of Christianity from the public square, but they are now removing the Christians themselves."
Marcavage says what he finds most disturbing about this case, aside from "the arrests, imprisonment, and malicious prosecution," is the use of Pennsylvania hate crime law, which has added sexual orientation as a protected category. "Philadelphia District Attorney Lynne Abraham knew exactly what she was doing when she targeted us with the hate law due to our biblical opposition to homosexual behavior," the Repent America spokesman says. He notes that Abraham sits on the National Executive Committee of the Anti-Defamation League, whose members he calls "the architects of the hate crimes legislation."
Brian Fahling, senior trial attorney for the American Family Association Center for Law & Policy, has worked on behalf of the Philadelphia Christian group in the federal courts. In a statement responding to this latest ruling, he commented that the AFA Law Center is pleased for its clients as well as relieved that "justice has finally been done in the criminal system, and though it is apparently slow and rusty, the system still works."
But according to Fahling, Judge Dembe's decision to dismiss the charges ends only the first chapter in the ongoing saga of the Philadelphia 11. The group's legal representatives will be pursuing federal legal action against the arresting officers and the City of Philadelphia, and they are calling for a Department of Justice investigation into the corruption and abuse of power they allege took place in the so-called City of Brotherly Love.
© 2005 AgapePress all rights reserved.
Is it LOVE or is it LUST? You decide...
I wrote this for a men's group back in early January 2005. Tell me what you think:
____________________________
Someone recently mentioned "loving rather than lusting..." and I found the statement to be immensely "loaded." There is just SO much there to consider.
Let's talk about a couple of items:
LOVE says, " I want what is in YOUR best interest...not what will harm you, injure you, or bring disgrace to you."
LUST says, "I want what I want, when I want it. My immediates needs and desires are paramount, and gratifying my desires is supreme....regardless of what you or anyone else thinks."
LOVE says, "You are one who bears the image of God, and I am compromising my love for GOD if I 'have my way' with you. God's image in you is holy. I will not touch it."
LUST says, "Your body, your sexuality, and your person brings me great pleasure (in that order), and once I'm gratified (not satisfied), then you hold little, if any value to me."
LOVE says, "Christ has made a way for me to be holy, to live holy, and to respond to every desire in a way worthy of being called 'Christian'"
LUST says, "Live, let live...and my contentment and desires are first and foremost. Regardless of who is destroyed in the process...after all, it's 'all about me.'"
LOVE says, "God is holy. He expects and requires me to live holy. No exceptions."
*****************************
So what say ye?
____________________________
Someone recently mentioned "loving rather than lusting..." and I found the statement to be immensely "loaded." There is just SO much there to consider.
Let's talk about a couple of items:
LOVE says, " I want what is in YOUR best interest...not what will harm you, injure you, or bring disgrace to you."
LUST says, "I want what I want, when I want it. My immediates needs and desires are paramount, and gratifying my desires is supreme....regardless of what you or anyone else thinks."
LOVE says, "You are one who bears the image of God, and I am compromising my love for GOD if I 'have my way' with you. God's image in you is holy. I will not touch it."
LUST says, "Your body, your sexuality, and your person brings me great pleasure (in that order), and once I'm gratified (not satisfied), then you hold little, if any value to me."
LOVE says, "Christ has made a way for me to be holy, to live holy, and to respond to every desire in a way worthy of being called 'Christian'"
LUST says, "Live, let live...and my contentment and desires are first and foremost. Regardless of who is destroyed in the process...after all, it's 'all about me.'"
LOVE says, "God is holy. He expects and requires me to live holy. No exceptions."
*****************************
So what say ye?
Some great local churches..and their websites...
I believe in the local church!
I remember one of my seminary professors saying, "If you love the Body of Christ everywhere, then you must love the Body of Christ somewhere..specifically."
I couldn't agree more.
So, I wanted to post some links to some great local congregations that mean a lot to me. I either know the pastoral staff in these places, or I'm very familiar with their ministries. I heartily endorse these local congregations, and encourage you to visit with the "family of God" when you are in the vicinity.
Valley Baptist Church, San Rafael, California.
http://www.vbcsanrafael.com/index.cfm/method/content.home
Senior Pastor Chris Losey and his wife Sharon have been precious and treasured friends for almost twenty years now. He is a retired United States Air Force Chaplain, and tremendous servant of the Lord and His people. I've had the great privilege of singing in this church on several occasions. It is always a great joy to be with these people in the San Francisco Bay area.
Denver First Church of the Nazarene, Englewood, Colorado
http://www.dfcnaz.org/
Senior Pastor Tim Stearman and his wife Jane have shepherded this marvelous congregation for almost twelve years now. When I was stationed at Lowry AFB (in suburban Aurora) right outside of downtown Denver, I became acquainted with the Denver First Church family. After my first visit there, I never looked for another congregation. I was "home" with the DFC folks--and no, I didn't grow up Nazarene, and not a member of the Church of the Nazarene. But this is one wonderful congregation. If you decide to visit, find Missions Pastor Lanny York, and tell him that Phil Hoover sent you. He will definitely be glad to see you..and to hear from me.
Westmore Church of God, Cleveland, Tennessee
http://www.westmorecog.org/
Senior Pastor Kelvin Page and his wife Debbie lead this growing congregation in the lovely town of Cleveland nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. You will find strong, Biblical preaching, vibrant fellowship, and a warm welcome at the Westmore Church.
On a personal note, I was a colleague of Pastor Page's during our undergraduate days at Lee College (now Lee University) way back in the early 1980s. He is a jewel of a person, and a shepherd after God's own heart. Pay them a visit.
The Moody Church, Chicago, Illinois
http://www.moodychurch.org/index.html
Doctor Erwin W Lutzer celebrates twenty five years of active service as the Senior Pastor of this great historic congregation in the heart of the Windy City. The Moody Church has something for everyone. Their ministries literally reach around the world. Pastor Lutzer's messages can be heard on anyone of three radio programs (Songs in the Night, Running To Win, The Moody Church Hour), and anytime via the Worldwide Web. This congregation is a vibrant, growing, engaging, and warm fellowship of people who seriously want to "connect with God and with each other." If you are ever in Chicago, please worship with the saints at The Moody Church. You will be so glad that you did.
I remember one of my seminary professors saying, "If you love the Body of Christ everywhere, then you must love the Body of Christ somewhere..specifically."
I couldn't agree more.
So, I wanted to post some links to some great local congregations that mean a lot to me. I either know the pastoral staff in these places, or I'm very familiar with their ministries. I heartily endorse these local congregations, and encourage you to visit with the "family of God" when you are in the vicinity.
Valley Baptist Church, San Rafael, California.
http://www.vbcsanrafael.com/index.cfm/method/content.home
Senior Pastor Chris Losey and his wife Sharon have been precious and treasured friends for almost twenty years now. He is a retired United States Air Force Chaplain, and tremendous servant of the Lord and His people. I've had the great privilege of singing in this church on several occasions. It is always a great joy to be with these people in the San Francisco Bay area.
Denver First Church of the Nazarene, Englewood, Colorado
http://www.dfcnaz.org/
Senior Pastor Tim Stearman and his wife Jane have shepherded this marvelous congregation for almost twelve years now. When I was stationed at Lowry AFB (in suburban Aurora) right outside of downtown Denver, I became acquainted with the Denver First Church family. After my first visit there, I never looked for another congregation. I was "home" with the DFC folks--and no, I didn't grow up Nazarene, and not a member of the Church of the Nazarene. But this is one wonderful congregation. If you decide to visit, find Missions Pastor Lanny York, and tell him that Phil Hoover sent you. He will definitely be glad to see you..and to hear from me.
Westmore Church of God, Cleveland, Tennessee
http://www.westmorecog.org/
Senior Pastor Kelvin Page and his wife Debbie lead this growing congregation in the lovely town of Cleveland nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. You will find strong, Biblical preaching, vibrant fellowship, and a warm welcome at the Westmore Church.
On a personal note, I was a colleague of Pastor Page's during our undergraduate days at Lee College (now Lee University) way back in the early 1980s. He is a jewel of a person, and a shepherd after God's own heart. Pay them a visit.
The Moody Church, Chicago, Illinois
http://www.moodychurch.org/index.html
Doctor Erwin W Lutzer celebrates twenty five years of active service as the Senior Pastor of this great historic congregation in the heart of the Windy City. The Moody Church has something for everyone. Their ministries literally reach around the world. Pastor Lutzer's messages can be heard on anyone of three radio programs (Songs in the Night, Running To Win, The Moody Church Hour), and anytime via the Worldwide Web. This congregation is a vibrant, growing, engaging, and warm fellowship of people who seriously want to "connect with God and with each other." If you are ever in Chicago, please worship with the saints at The Moody Church. You will be so glad that you did.
Another friend..and a marvelous singer/musician
Please check out the website for my friend, Allison Durham Speer:
www.allisondurhamspeer.com
This lady who stands 5'1" has a voice that is at least ten feet tall. And what a communicator! What a wonderful, powerful minister of the grace of God through the gifts of music.
She and her husband Brian are just two great people.
Let me encourage you to check out her website, buy her music, and have them in your local church. Or at least encourage others to have them somewhere near you.
So, what are you waiting for? Go to the website....
NOW....
www.allisondurhamspeer.com
This lady who stands 5'1" has a voice that is at least ten feet tall. And what a communicator! What a wonderful, powerful minister of the grace of God through the gifts of music.
She and her husband Brian are just two great people.
Let me encourage you to check out her website, buy her music, and have them in your local church. Or at least encourage others to have them somewhere near you.
So, what are you waiting for? Go to the website....
NOW....
For this Lenten Season...
Legendary singer/songwriter, Dottie Rambo, has given the music world more than 2500 songs in her short life span. I grew up hearing the Singing Rambos, and loving Dottie's music. None of those great songs has profoundly impacted/influenced my spiritual life like this one:
*****************************************************************************
I boast not of works
Nor tell of good deeds;
For naught have I done
To merit His grace.
All glory and praise
Shall rest upon Him
So willing to die in my place....
My trophies and crowns,
My robes stained with sin
Were all that I had to lay at His feet.
So unworthy to eat
From His table of life
But God made provision for me!
I will glory in the Cross!
In the Cross!
Lest His suffering all be in vain!
I will weep no more
For the Cross that He bore,
But I will glory in the Cross!
--words and music by Dottie Rambo.
**************************************************************
What a testimony! What a joy! What an everlasting hope! May it ever be so!
*****************************************************************************
I boast not of works
Nor tell of good deeds;
For naught have I done
To merit His grace.
All glory and praise
Shall rest upon Him
So willing to die in my place....
My trophies and crowns,
My robes stained with sin
Were all that I had to lay at His feet.
So unworthy to eat
From His table of life
But God made provision for me!
I will glory in the Cross!
In the Cross!
Lest His suffering all be in vain!
I will weep no more
For the Cross that He bore,
But I will glory in the Cross!
--words and music by Dottie Rambo.
**************************************************************
What a testimony! What a joy! What an everlasting hope! May it ever be so!
Another Janet Update....
Here's a letter from John, Janet's husband, dated 21 February 2005 (Yesterday):
(6:30 AM) Today is day 5 following Janet's second round of chemotherapy, and there does seem to be a predictable pattern developing. Day 1 of chemotherapy is quite simply, total exhaustion! The good news this time was very little nausea immediately following the chemo treatment.
Day 2 is a very interesting day judging by these previous two rounds. This is the day where Janet feels pretty much "bullet proof". As she stated in her newsletter, "I'd begun to think that chemo had been getting a bad rap - what was the big deal?". I was upstairs working on a photo album to upload to the web site, when I hear the vacuum cleaner running. I go downstairs and Janet is vacuuming everything in sight, good thing Max was with Paw Paw for a few days. We exchange looks, no words are necessary, she then gently turns off the vacuum and lies down on the couch. I am now back upstairs cropping, and resizing when I hear the unmistakable sound, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh of the washing machine. Halfway down the stairs she hears me and defensively states "it's just one load, and a small one at that!".....back to the couch. I return upstairs and am working on about the 3rd photograph with what seems like a million to go, I hear sounds like, clank, clink. whirr, whirr, Janet is in the kitchen....OK, you get the drift of day two. Now, before you get the wrong impression, before you write me and say "let her work, it is good for her!" I say " NOT ON DAY TWO!" You see, day two is a lot like your credit card during those last fleeting days of Christmas, everything looks wonderful, you feel wonderful, all is right with the world. Then comes the end of January with the dreaded credit card bill!
Which leads us to days...3 & 4....horrible, terrible, just downright BAD! Day 2 giveth and Day 3 & 4 taketh away, and then some. As Janet states "I feel like I have been run over by a garbage truck!" Her body aches right to the marrow of her bones, she has a metallic taste in her mouth and NOTHING tastes good. She is totally and completely consumed by fatigue.
Today is day 5 with Janet feeling like she doesn't have to look in both directions before getting out of bed so as to avoid a rogue garbage truck. She definitely feels much better, but the road is still uphill. She is taking it easy right now for we plan to start walking around the neighborhood every day from today forward. Her Dr. says he is a firm believer in exercise, get the heart working and the blood circulating.
(5:00 PM) Janet and I just returned from a walk around the neighborhood of approximately 3 miles. She did great, in fact I had to ask her to slow down a couple of times. Thank you again for the wonderful letters of sharing and encouragement. I will post another update in about one week.
Two rounds of chemo down and two to go, we are halfway home!.
God bless all of you,
John
********************************************************************
Praising the Lord for such an encouraging report. Please continue praying for Janet Paschal and her husband, as they face this "trial" together. That's what the church is all about...how we "care for one another."
(6:30 AM) Today is day 5 following Janet's second round of chemotherapy, and there does seem to be a predictable pattern developing. Day 1 of chemotherapy is quite simply, total exhaustion! The good news this time was very little nausea immediately following the chemo treatment.
Day 2 is a very interesting day judging by these previous two rounds. This is the day where Janet feels pretty much "bullet proof". As she stated in her newsletter, "I'd begun to think that chemo had been getting a bad rap - what was the big deal?". I was upstairs working on a photo album to upload to the web site, when I hear the vacuum cleaner running. I go downstairs and Janet is vacuuming everything in sight, good thing Max was with Paw Paw for a few days. We exchange looks, no words are necessary, she then gently turns off the vacuum and lies down on the couch. I am now back upstairs cropping, and resizing when I hear the unmistakable sound, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh of the washing machine. Halfway down the stairs she hears me and defensively states "it's just one load, and a small one at that!".....back to the couch. I return upstairs and am working on about the 3rd photograph with what seems like a million to go, I hear sounds like, clank, clink. whirr, whirr, Janet is in the kitchen....OK, you get the drift of day two. Now, before you get the wrong impression, before you write me and say "let her work, it is good for her!" I say " NOT ON DAY TWO!" You see, day two is a lot like your credit card during those last fleeting days of Christmas, everything looks wonderful, you feel wonderful, all is right with the world. Then comes the end of January with the dreaded credit card bill!
Which leads us to days...3 & 4....horrible, terrible, just downright BAD! Day 2 giveth and Day 3 & 4 taketh away, and then some. As Janet states "I feel like I have been run over by a garbage truck!" Her body aches right to the marrow of her bones, she has a metallic taste in her mouth and NOTHING tastes good. She is totally and completely consumed by fatigue.
Today is day 5 with Janet feeling like she doesn't have to look in both directions before getting out of bed so as to avoid a rogue garbage truck. She definitely feels much better, but the road is still uphill. She is taking it easy right now for we plan to start walking around the neighborhood every day from today forward. Her Dr. says he is a firm believer in exercise, get the heart working and the blood circulating.
(5:00 PM) Janet and I just returned from a walk around the neighborhood of approximately 3 miles. She did great, in fact I had to ask her to slow down a couple of times. Thank you again for the wonderful letters of sharing and encouragement. I will post another update in about one week.
Two rounds of chemo down and two to go, we are halfway home!.
God bless all of you,
John
********************************************************************
Praising the Lord for such an encouraging report. Please continue praying for Janet Paschal and her husband, as they face this "trial" together. That's what the church is all about...how we "care for one another."
The "Janet Paschal" update...
John, Janet's husband sent out this email, and also posted it on her website (www.janetpaschal.com):
As I write this update, Janet is downstairs sleeping on the couch, a sleep that is so still and deep that it is a bit frightening. We have only been home for about an hour or so, Maw Maw, Paw Paw (Janet's Mother and Father) and Kay (her Sister) have just left with a promise to return day after tomorrow.
We arrived at the clinic at 8:30 am to have some blood drawn for the purpose of determining blood levels (white blood count and so forth). Then around 9:30 or so, we met with the Oncologist to review the results of the blood work-up and ascertain whether the tumor had been altered in any way as a result of the first round of chemo.
The Oncologist informed Janet that her white blood count had not returned to a level he would have preferred. Her count nudged into the region where they would NOT have to delay the second round of treatment; however, the number was sufficiently low enough to require another type of treatment in order to boost her immune system.
Also, an examination revealed the tumor had not changed in size or density. We were hoping to find a decrease in it's size, some measurable result telegraphing that the cancer was responding to the treatment. The Doctor was quick to reassure and to make clear that this phase was still very early in Janet's overall treatment.
11:30 am Janet was in her recliner reading (what else?) a recipe book while being administered her second round of chemotherapy. 2:30 pm we were back home, 3:30 pm Paw Paw, Maw Maw, and Kay left and Janet is now resting downstairs.
I have to be honest, once Janet was quietly asleep on the couch and I was sitting at my computer wondering what to say, a feeling of despondency settled over me. But then I remembered that Joshua was not instructed to march around Jericho just one time....and that Naaman wasn't instructed to dip into the Jordan just once, and so forth. I then went to the web site and reread all of the guest book entries, and the e-mail you have sent. I was humbled by the many prayers being offered for Janet, the encouragement, the moving testimonies of God reaching down and touching your lives and the gentle reminders of how "God Will Make A Way" for Janet as well. Thank you!
OK, now for some good news. Janet has followed quite a bit of the advice from those of you who have blazed this trail before us. She has gargled 4 to 5 times a day with warm salt water and has not experienced one mouth sore. She has also followed many of the suggestions of what to eat, how often, etc., and has experienced almost no nausea.
On the other hand, she has not followed the advice on the importance of resting and taking it easy. Janet is a dynamo and really has a hard time gearing down and coasting a bit....oh well, 2 out of 3 for now is not so bad!
We have been informed by numerous sources that the second treatment tends to take a greater toll on the body. I guess because of the cumulative effect of the treatment and also 3 weeks is simply not a sufficient amount of time to completely recover. Because of this, I will post an update in about 5 days from now letting you know how Janet is doing relative to the 5 days following the first treatment.
We covet your prayers and friendship. Please know that your encouragement sent via snail mail, e-mail, feedback form, and the sub/unsubscribe route are read and appreciated more than we can ever convey.
God bless.
John
**********************************************
Please continue praying for Janet and her husband, John. Feel free to visit her website, and to send her notes of your prayers, encouragement, or anything else you may want to send her.
As I write this update, Janet is downstairs sleeping on the couch, a sleep that is so still and deep that it is a bit frightening. We have only been home for about an hour or so, Maw Maw, Paw Paw (Janet's Mother and Father) and Kay (her Sister) have just left with a promise to return day after tomorrow.
We arrived at the clinic at 8:30 am to have some blood drawn for the purpose of determining blood levels (white blood count and so forth). Then around 9:30 or so, we met with the Oncologist to review the results of the blood work-up and ascertain whether the tumor had been altered in any way as a result of the first round of chemo.
The Oncologist informed Janet that her white blood count had not returned to a level he would have preferred. Her count nudged into the region where they would NOT have to delay the second round of treatment; however, the number was sufficiently low enough to require another type of treatment in order to boost her immune system.
Also, an examination revealed the tumor had not changed in size or density. We were hoping to find a decrease in it's size, some measurable result telegraphing that the cancer was responding to the treatment. The Doctor was quick to reassure and to make clear that this phase was still very early in Janet's overall treatment.
11:30 am Janet was in her recliner reading (what else?) a recipe book while being administered her second round of chemotherapy. 2:30 pm we were back home, 3:30 pm Paw Paw, Maw Maw, and Kay left and Janet is now resting downstairs.
I have to be honest, once Janet was quietly asleep on the couch and I was sitting at my computer wondering what to say, a feeling of despondency settled over me. But then I remembered that Joshua was not instructed to march around Jericho just one time....and that Naaman wasn't instructed to dip into the Jordan just once, and so forth. I then went to the web site and reread all of the guest book entries, and the e-mail you have sent. I was humbled by the many prayers being offered for Janet, the encouragement, the moving testimonies of God reaching down and touching your lives and the gentle reminders of how "God Will Make A Way" for Janet as well. Thank you!
OK, now for some good news. Janet has followed quite a bit of the advice from those of you who have blazed this trail before us. She has gargled 4 to 5 times a day with warm salt water and has not experienced one mouth sore. She has also followed many of the suggestions of what to eat, how often, etc., and has experienced almost no nausea.
On the other hand, she has not followed the advice on the importance of resting and taking it easy. Janet is a dynamo and really has a hard time gearing down and coasting a bit....oh well, 2 out of 3 for now is not so bad!
We have been informed by numerous sources that the second treatment tends to take a greater toll on the body. I guess because of the cumulative effect of the treatment and also 3 weeks is simply not a sufficient amount of time to completely recover. Because of this, I will post an update in about 5 days from now letting you know how Janet is doing relative to the 5 days following the first treatment.
We covet your prayers and friendship. Please know that your encouragement sent via snail mail, e-mail, feedback form, and the sub/unsubscribe route are read and appreciated more than we can ever convey.
God bless.
John
**********************************************
Please continue praying for Janet and her husband, John. Feel free to visit her website, and to send her notes of your prayers, encouragement, or anything else you may want to send her.
Country as "cornbread" but this is GOOD!
One of the great country/gospel songs from my childhood tells us of our journey through life. Not even sure who wrote, "Life is Like a Mountain Railroad"--but it surely speaks to all of us.
Let it speak to you:
_____________________________
Life is like a mountain railroad,
With an engineer that's brave;
We must make the run successful,
From the cradle to the grave;
Watch the curves, the hills, the tunnels;
Never falter, never quail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
And your eye upon the rail.
Chorus:
Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us,
Til we reach that blissful shore;
Where the angels wait to join us
In Thy praise for evermore.
You will roll up grades of trial;
You will cross the bridge of strife;
See that Christ is your conductor;
On this light'ning train of life;
Always mindful of obstruction,
Do your duty, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
and your eye upon the rail.
You will often find obstruction;
Look for storms of wind and rain;
On a hill, or curve, or trestle;
They will almost ditch your train.
Put your trust alone in Jesus;
Never falter, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
and your eye upon the rail.
As you roll across the trestle,
Spanning Jordan's swelling tide.
You behold the Union depot
Into which your train will glide.
There you'll meet the Superintendent,
God the Father, God the Son
With the hearty, joyous plaudit,
"Weary pilgrim, welcome Home!"
Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us
Till we reach that blissful shore!
Where the angels wait to join us
In Thy praise forevermore!
Amen, amen, amen!
Let it speak to you:
_____________________________
Life is like a mountain railroad,
With an engineer that's brave;
We must make the run successful,
From the cradle to the grave;
Watch the curves, the hills, the tunnels;
Never falter, never quail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
And your eye upon the rail.
Chorus:
Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us,
Til we reach that blissful shore;
Where the angels wait to join us
In Thy praise for evermore.
You will roll up grades of trial;
You will cross the bridge of strife;
See that Christ is your conductor;
On this light'ning train of life;
Always mindful of obstruction,
Do your duty, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
and your eye upon the rail.
You will often find obstruction;
Look for storms of wind and rain;
On a hill, or curve, or trestle;
They will almost ditch your train.
Put your trust alone in Jesus;
Never falter, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
and your eye upon the rail.
As you roll across the trestle,
Spanning Jordan's swelling tide.
You behold the Union depot
Into which your train will glide.
There you'll meet the Superintendent,
God the Father, God the Son
With the hearty, joyous plaudit,
"Weary pilgrim, welcome Home!"
Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us
Till we reach that blissful shore!
Where the angels wait to join us
In Thy praise forevermore!
Amen, amen, amen!
If I were gonna be a Catholic...(link)
If I were going to be a Catholic believer, this is the kind I would be:
http://www.saintsabina.org/index2.htm
May the Lord continue to use and bless Pastor Pfleger and the people of the Faith Community of St Sabina on the south side of Chicago.
These people are carrying out the Scriptural mission of "lighting a candle" in a very dark world. Maybe the rest of us should follow suit.
http://www.saintsabina.org/index2.htm
May the Lord continue to use and bless Pastor Pfleger and the people of the Faith Community of St Sabina on the south side of Chicago.
These people are carrying out the Scriptural mission of "lighting a candle" in a very dark world. Maybe the rest of us should follow suit.
Cancer Victim or Victor: Janet's Update
A few weeks back, I posted a link to my friend Janet Paschal's website/newsletter, where she told all of us that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. I also asked everyone to pray for her. Here's her latest newsletter, and she sounds in good spirits:
______________________________________________
Hey Everybody,
It's early, early Sunday morning; John and Max are asleep, as is most everyone except newspaper carriers and the first shift at Krispy Kreme . I've been lying awake identifying the sounds of 4am, like the baby birds in the gutter and the footsteps of the deer who've just topped off my hostas - again. I've also been thinking it was a good time for me to update you on all the 'stuff' going on.
I had my first chemo treatment almost three weeks ago. Having no idea what to expect, I was wide-eyed from the minute we parked in the garage. I had visions of wires and tubes and heavy equipment and torturers with masks, only to find that the treatment room was lined with recliners and staffed with soft-spoken, genteel nurses. The process was simple - an IV in the arm, a sedative, and the little red vial of the potent stuff. During the process they showed me a video of possible side effects, helpful hints, etc., during which I fell asleep (John said they could have saved the sedative and just started with the movie, as I tend to sleep through movies.)
That day and the next were not bad; in fact, I'd begun to think that chemo had been getting a bad rap - what was the big deal?
THEN days 3-5 happened, and I felt like I'd been hit by a tour bus! I'll spare you the details, but suffice it to say that I began to consider the consequences if I just didn't take it anymore. Days 6-7 were better, and the next week I actually felt very normal, but fatigued. This week, I've felt as good as I've ever felt in my life. It's just as my oncologist said, one bad week, two good weeks; those are odds I can live with.
My next chemo treatment is this Wednesday (2 of 4) so I'll be halfway finished at that point. Following the chemo is lumpectomy, then radiation - oh yes, I signed on for the smorgasbord - a little taste of everything. Everyone says the chemo is the hardest part, so it should be downhill from there - at least that's what I'll be telling myself on days 3-5.
Remember I told you that my friend said this process would show you who you are, as the layers are peeled away and the deepest core of yourself is exposed? I didn't quite understand what he meant at the time, but I think I am learning. During the early days of tests, fear, shock, etc., I felt as though I was watching from a distance, scrutinizing someone else's faith, watching for fractures or weak spots. I really did not know how I would react. I fully expected to go through a gamut of emotions which included 'Why me? Why now? Is this fair?' and I can honestly (and happily) say that I have never felt any inclination toward those questions at all.
Statistically, our family was due (1 woman in 7 this year) and I am, in fact, grateful to be plowing through this in lieu of my mother or my sister. Not only has my faith not been shaken, but it has not been tapped, or analyzed, or called into question to any degree.. I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR THAT. It must be that the Lord gives extra grace, just as others have said. It has reminded me so often of my grandmother who stood in the face of her worried family and dared them to doubt the Lord's sovereignty.
Frederick Buechner wrote of his own grandmother whom he likened to the large rocks near the shoreline; weathered and battered, but unmoved and unshaken. I continue to see the Lord's hand in every little detail. I'm beginning to think He especially likes details. I'm amazed at the way He prepares us, the people He brings to us, the day-to-day 'ordinaries' He orchestrates. I am inundated with cards, books, flowers, notes, email - all of which are in plain view from where I am now sitting.
How blessed can you get?
One more thing - I am getting to your emails, except for some 1400 I accidentally deleted (oh yes, chemo has an adverse effect on one's technological reserves). Thanks for your patience.I am so grateful for you - and can't wait to tell you all in person.
Won't THAT be fun!
Love,
Janet
********************************************************
Please keep this precious woman in your prayers. Her ministry has reached around the world, magnified our Lord Jesus Christ, and encouraged hearts in places where only God knows all the details.
His name be praised!
______________________________________________
Hey Everybody,
It's early, early Sunday morning; John and Max are asleep, as is most everyone except newspaper carriers and the first shift at Krispy Kreme . I've been lying awake identifying the sounds of 4am, like the baby birds in the gutter and the footsteps of the deer who've just topped off my hostas - again. I've also been thinking it was a good time for me to update you on all the 'stuff' going on.
I had my first chemo treatment almost three weeks ago. Having no idea what to expect, I was wide-eyed from the minute we parked in the garage. I had visions of wires and tubes and heavy equipment and torturers with masks, only to find that the treatment room was lined with recliners and staffed with soft-spoken, genteel nurses. The process was simple - an IV in the arm, a sedative, and the little red vial of the potent stuff. During the process they showed me a video of possible side effects, helpful hints, etc., during which I fell asleep (John said they could have saved the sedative and just started with the movie, as I tend to sleep through movies.)
That day and the next were not bad; in fact, I'd begun to think that chemo had been getting a bad rap - what was the big deal?
THEN days 3-5 happened, and I felt like I'd been hit by a tour bus! I'll spare you the details, but suffice it to say that I began to consider the consequences if I just didn't take it anymore. Days 6-7 were better, and the next week I actually felt very normal, but fatigued. This week, I've felt as good as I've ever felt in my life. It's just as my oncologist said, one bad week, two good weeks; those are odds I can live with.
My next chemo treatment is this Wednesday (2 of 4) so I'll be halfway finished at that point. Following the chemo is lumpectomy, then radiation - oh yes, I signed on for the smorgasbord - a little taste of everything. Everyone says the chemo is the hardest part, so it should be downhill from there - at least that's what I'll be telling myself on days 3-5.
Remember I told you that my friend said this process would show you who you are, as the layers are peeled away and the deepest core of yourself is exposed? I didn't quite understand what he meant at the time, but I think I am learning. During the early days of tests, fear, shock, etc., I felt as though I was watching from a distance, scrutinizing someone else's faith, watching for fractures or weak spots. I really did not know how I would react. I fully expected to go through a gamut of emotions which included 'Why me? Why now? Is this fair?' and I can honestly (and happily) say that I have never felt any inclination toward those questions at all.
Statistically, our family was due (1 woman in 7 this year) and I am, in fact, grateful to be plowing through this in lieu of my mother or my sister. Not only has my faith not been shaken, but it has not been tapped, or analyzed, or called into question to any degree.. I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR THAT. It must be that the Lord gives extra grace, just as others have said. It has reminded me so often of my grandmother who stood in the face of her worried family and dared them to doubt the Lord's sovereignty.
Frederick Buechner wrote of his own grandmother whom he likened to the large rocks near the shoreline; weathered and battered, but unmoved and unshaken. I continue to see the Lord's hand in every little detail. I'm beginning to think He especially likes details. I'm amazed at the way He prepares us, the people He brings to us, the day-to-day 'ordinaries' He orchestrates. I am inundated with cards, books, flowers, notes, email - all of which are in plain view from where I am now sitting.
How blessed can you get?
One more thing - I am getting to your emails, except for some 1400 I accidentally deleted (oh yes, chemo has an adverse effect on one's technological reserves). Thanks for your patience.I am so grateful for you - and can't wait to tell you all in person.
Won't THAT be fun!
Love,
Janet
********************************************************
Please keep this precious woman in your prayers. Her ministry has reached around the world, magnified our Lord Jesus Christ, and encouraged hearts in places where only God knows all the details.
His name be praised!
Six Grammy Awards and counting...
http://www.brooklyntabernacle.org/music/
The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has received a Grammy Award for "LIVE..This is Your House" released May, 2004.
This is very special to me, because our local congregation, Chicago Tabernacle, is a daughter church of the Brooklyn Tabernacle. Chrissy Toledo, our Music Director (and Pastor's wife) is the oldest child of Brooklyn's Senior Pastor Jim Cymbala, and his wonderful wife Carol--who founded and has directed the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir now for more than 30 years.
Praise the Lord!
The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has received a Grammy Award for "LIVE..This is Your House" released May, 2004.
This is very special to me, because our local congregation, Chicago Tabernacle, is a daughter church of the Brooklyn Tabernacle. Chrissy Toledo, our Music Director (and Pastor's wife) is the oldest child of Brooklyn's Senior Pastor Jim Cymbala, and his wonderful wife Carol--who founded and has directed the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir now for more than 30 years.
Praise the Lord!
The Ninety and Nine
Ira D Sankey, renowned musician for Evangelis D L Moody in the 1800s, wrote this wonderful ballad, recounting the love of our Lord Jesus for all humanity. Here are the words:
There were ninety and nine that safely lay
In the shelter of the fold.
But one was out on the hills away,
Far off from the gates of gold.
Away on the mountains wild and bare.
Away from the tender Shepherd’s care.
Away from the tender Shepherd’s care.
“Lord, Thou hast here Thy ninety and nine;
Are they not enough for Thee?”
But the Shepherd made answer:
“This of MineHas wandered away from Me;
And although the road be rough and steep,
I go to the desert to find My sheep,
I go to the desert to find My sheep.”
But none of the ransomed ever knew
How deep were the waters crossed;
Nor how dark was the night the Lord passed through
Ere He found His sheep that was lost.
Out in the desert He heard its cry,
Sick and helpless and ready to die;
Sick and helpless and ready to die.
“Lord, whence are those blood drops all the way
That mark out the mountain’s track?”
“They were shed for one who had gone astray
Ere the Shepherd could bring him back.”
“Lord, whence are Thy hands so rent and torn?”
“They are pierced tonight by many a thorn;
They are pierced tonight by many a thorn.”
And all through the mountains, thunder riven
And up from the rocky steep,
There arose a glad cry to the gate of heaven,
“Rejoice! I have found My sheep!”
And the angels echoed around the throne,
“Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!
Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!”
_________________________________________
My heart is always pierced with the marvelous words of our Lord in Luke 15 where he tells the story of the lost coin, the lost sheep, and the lost son. In each of the three accounts there is great rejoicing when the "lost" objects are found. Not alot of questions...but an awful lot of rejoicing.
May it ever be so!
There were ninety and nine that safely lay
In the shelter of the fold.
But one was out on the hills away,
Far off from the gates of gold.
Away on the mountains wild and bare.
Away from the tender Shepherd’s care.
Away from the tender Shepherd’s care.
“Lord, Thou hast here Thy ninety and nine;
Are they not enough for Thee?”
But the Shepherd made answer:
“This of MineHas wandered away from Me;
And although the road be rough and steep,
I go to the desert to find My sheep,
I go to the desert to find My sheep.”
But none of the ransomed ever knew
How deep were the waters crossed;
Nor how dark was the night the Lord passed through
Ere He found His sheep that was lost.
Out in the desert He heard its cry,
Sick and helpless and ready to die;
Sick and helpless and ready to die.
“Lord, whence are those blood drops all the way
That mark out the mountain’s track?”
“They were shed for one who had gone astray
Ere the Shepherd could bring him back.”
“Lord, whence are Thy hands so rent and torn?”
“They are pierced tonight by many a thorn;
They are pierced tonight by many a thorn.”
And all through the mountains, thunder riven
And up from the rocky steep,
There arose a glad cry to the gate of heaven,
“Rejoice! I have found My sheep!”
And the angels echoed around the throne,
“Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!
Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!”
_________________________________________
My heart is always pierced with the marvelous words of our Lord in Luke 15 where he tells the story of the lost coin, the lost sheep, and the lost son. In each of the three accounts there is great rejoicing when the "lost" objects are found. Not alot of questions...but an awful lot of rejoicing.
May it ever be so!
"Bible-Belt" Catholics
I have some very dear friends who express their relationship to the Lord Jesus Christ in the Catholic tradition. Needless to say, we have some theological differences...but by and large, those "differences" do not hinder our friendship and fellowship.
TIME Magazine's February 14th edition has this great story about Catholics in the Deep South. Check it out:
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1025176,00.html
TIME Magazine's February 14th edition has this great story about Catholics in the Deep South. Check it out:
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1025176,00.html
"Facing the Fight"...Are you ready?
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-- and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you; whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.
______________________________________________________
The Apostle Paul, in the First Century Church, has given some very clear and applicable instructions to the saints of God in the Twenty-First Century Church. His message is this:
"Face the fight and be ready when you do."
From Ephesians Chapter 6.
Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.
Amen.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-- and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you; whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.
______________________________________________________
The Apostle Paul, in the First Century Church, has given some very clear and applicable instructions to the saints of God in the Twenty-First Century Church. His message is this:
"Face the fight and be ready when you do."
From Ephesians Chapter 6.
Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.
Amen.
"Willing Heart"--Do you have one?
One of the great songs from the early 1980s was this original by singer/songwriter, Kelly Willard:
_______________________________
Willing Heart
Words and music by Kelly Willard
Once I stumbled into darkness
Doing only as I pleased
but I wasn't really happy
And my heart was not at ease.
I just didn't have the willingness
To follow His commands
'til I laid my heart completely
In His hands.
If you don't have a willing heart
Ask Him to give you one.
If you can't seem to make a start
Trust in His power!
For the Lord of Love is watching you
He sees what you're going through
And He can make a way
If you want Him to
Oh, do you want Him to
Then tell Him so.
All the things my heart held on to
Only filled me with despair
And the road that I was travelin'
Never took me anywhere
And I knew no satisfaction
'til I found my rest in Him
Then He filled my heart with
Gladness once again
©1981 Maranatha Music/Willing Heart Music
All rights reserved.
International copyright secured.
Use by permission only.
_______________________________
Willing Heart
Words and music by Kelly Willard
Once I stumbled into darkness
Doing only as I pleased
but I wasn't really happy
And my heart was not at ease.
I just didn't have the willingness
To follow His commands
'til I laid my heart completely
In His hands.
If you don't have a willing heart
Ask Him to give you one.
If you can't seem to make a start
Trust in His power!
For the Lord of Love is watching you
He sees what you're going through
And He can make a way
If you want Him to
Oh, do you want Him to
Then tell Him so.
All the things my heart held on to
Only filled me with despair
And the road that I was travelin'
Never took me anywhere
And I knew no satisfaction
'til I found my rest in Him
Then He filled my heart with
Gladness once again
©1981 Maranatha Music/Willing Heart Music
All rights reserved.
International copyright secured.
Use by permission only.
Don't Miss This! (link)
http://foundersweek.com/default.asp?SectionID=64C2D2CDBA3A47E6809FB7EB8F3EAB30
The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago will be hosting their annual premier Bible Conference, "Founder's Week 2005" starting next Monday evening, January 31, through Saturday evening, February 5th. If you are in the Chicago area, the morning and evening services/sessions will be held at the Moody Memorial Church (located between Clark and LaSalle at North Avenue).
All sessions are FREE..
If you want to listen from anywhere in the world, log into the link posted above...or check for your local Moody Broadcasting Network affiliate station.
Praising our Lord together!
The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago will be hosting their annual premier Bible Conference, "Founder's Week 2005" starting next Monday evening, January 31, through Saturday evening, February 5th. If you are in the Chicago area, the morning and evening services/sessions will be held at the Moody Memorial Church (located between Clark and LaSalle at North Avenue).
All sessions are FREE..
If you want to listen from anywhere in the world, log into the link posted above...or check for your local Moody Broadcasting Network affiliate station.
Praising our Lord together!
Pastor Eddie's place...
Through circumstances that only the Lord could orchestrate, I became friends with Edward Britz on an airplane flight that I wasn't supposed to be on in the first place!
Here's the link to his website:
http://www.edwardbritz.com/
Eddie is a missionary in many senses of the word. He is a wonderful, godly man, who loves the Lord Jesus. He also loves people, and is very good at it, if I may say so myself.
Please visit his site, and drop him a line.
Tell him that "Phil Hoover in Chicago" sent you.
Here's the link to his website:
http://www.edwardbritz.com/
Eddie is a missionary in many senses of the word. He is a wonderful, godly man, who loves the Lord Jesus. He also loves people, and is very good at it, if I may say so myself.
Please visit his site, and drop him a line.
Tell him that "Phil Hoover in Chicago" sent you.
So what does "community" mean to the Christian?
This theme of "community" captured my heart several years ago, and it still has quite a hold on my brain.
What does "community" mean, anyway?
I look to the Scriptures and see how the New Testament Church exhibited and practiced "community"--imperfect though it sometimes was.
I see where the Biblical writers, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, instructed believers of every age to be in "community" with one another.
So what does "community" mean to you?
What does "community" mean, anyway?
I look to the Scriptures and see how the New Testament Church exhibited and practiced "community"--imperfect though it sometimes was.
I see where the Biblical writers, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, instructed believers of every age to be in "community" with one another.
So what does "community" mean to you?
The Curiosity Cat...
I've been posting things on this "blog" now for several months.
I'm wondering how many of you good folk actually visit "Something To Consider"?
Would you mind posting a comment or two about something that you've read, or just say "hi"?
You can remain anonymous if you want to...but I'd like to know if and who is reading....
Thanks a bunch.
I'm wondering how many of you good folk actually visit "Something To Consider"?
Would you mind posting a comment or two about something that you've read, or just say "hi"?
You can remain anonymous if you want to...but I'd like to know if and who is reading....
Thanks a bunch.
Definitions: What would you say?
I wrote this more than a year ago. I wanted to post it here:
******************************
I was getting ready for work this morning, and just happened to have "Good Morning America" on, sipping my "battery acid with a lump of sugar" (aka Mountain Dew), and saw this young fellow who had been lost in an avalance in a snowboarding escapade. Due to some extreme frost bite, he lost both feet, and is now on the mend, thanks to God's grace and medical technology.
One of the remarks that stood out to me was when his physician said, "Eric is so defined by his athletic/physical prowess, this has to be tough.."
So what else defines Eric? How does Eric define himself? While he had "athletic prowess" he was defined by the way he "walked." Now that he has to use artificial feet, how will he be defined?
All of a sudden it just "hit me" like a ton of bricks. What defines me? Who defines me?
I was talking with a Christian friend not long ago, and that person focused on their emotional struggles, and for them, their sole definition was their struggle. The most and only important thing in their life....their struggle. And sadly enough, their relationship to God, to other believers, to family members, and to society at large was defined by....you got it, their emotional battles.
So, now that the "Mountain Dew" has had it's desired effect (mental stimulation), I must get real and see what honestly "defines me." Is it my life struggles? Is it the blessing of friendships of all kinds in so many places? Is the primary definition gained from the grace and love of the crucified, risen, ascended Christ who has transfered me from the "kingdom of darkness" into the "kingdom of light"?
What really defines me? So many, myself included, want to blame everything and everyone for all the human maladies we experience. Growing up as pretty much an orphan, I have my own extensive list of "whodunits" that could be rightfully accused. But that's not the way God wants me to live.
That's not the way God defines me. And I can't let my own sense of "victimhood" define me that way either.As a Christian, I continue to grow in the knowledge that this life isn't all there is to living. This life is only a "dress rehearsal" for eternity.
So, I hurt for this person, because of the "definition" that he has accepted. How can I help him see that the "real defining moments" are what God, in His Son, Jesus Christ has said, accomplished, and promised? Unlike our friend on Good Morning America I don't want to be defined by my athletic/physical prowess (not that I would EVER have any worry of someone making that mistake...LOL), but rather by how I most reflect this living, vibrant relationship to Christ and other citizens of that city "whose Builder and Maker is God.
"What defines you?
Why?
******************************
I was getting ready for work this morning, and just happened to have "Good Morning America" on, sipping my "battery acid with a lump of sugar" (aka Mountain Dew), and saw this young fellow who had been lost in an avalance in a snowboarding escapade. Due to some extreme frost bite, he lost both feet, and is now on the mend, thanks to God's grace and medical technology.
One of the remarks that stood out to me was when his physician said, "Eric is so defined by his athletic/physical prowess, this has to be tough.."
So what else defines Eric? How does Eric define himself? While he had "athletic prowess" he was defined by the way he "walked." Now that he has to use artificial feet, how will he be defined?
All of a sudden it just "hit me" like a ton of bricks. What defines me? Who defines me?
I was talking with a Christian friend not long ago, and that person focused on their emotional struggles, and for them, their sole definition was their struggle. The most and only important thing in their life....their struggle. And sadly enough, their relationship to God, to other believers, to family members, and to society at large was defined by....you got it, their emotional battles.
So, now that the "Mountain Dew" has had it's desired effect (mental stimulation), I must get real and see what honestly "defines me." Is it my life struggles? Is it the blessing of friendships of all kinds in so many places? Is the primary definition gained from the grace and love of the crucified, risen, ascended Christ who has transfered me from the "kingdom of darkness" into the "kingdom of light"?
What really defines me? So many, myself included, want to blame everything and everyone for all the human maladies we experience. Growing up as pretty much an orphan, I have my own extensive list of "whodunits" that could be rightfully accused. But that's not the way God wants me to live.
That's not the way God defines me. And I can't let my own sense of "victimhood" define me that way either.As a Christian, I continue to grow in the knowledge that this life isn't all there is to living. This life is only a "dress rehearsal" for eternity.
So, I hurt for this person, because of the "definition" that he has accepted. How can I help him see that the "real defining moments" are what God, in His Son, Jesus Christ has said, accomplished, and promised? Unlike our friend on Good Morning America I don't want to be defined by my athletic/physical prowess (not that I would EVER have any worry of someone making that mistake...LOL), but rather by how I most reflect this living, vibrant relationship to Christ and other citizens of that city "whose Builder and Maker is God.
"What defines you?
Why?
160,000 people, and Nate Berkus
The recent tsunami in South Asia is, without question, the worst natural disaster of my lifetime (and I'll be forty-something on 13 March 2005!).
It seems like we will never hear the end of the horrors of this event shortly after Christmas Day, 2004.
Nate Berkus--the Chicago-based interior designer, and an Oprah-made "star" in his own right was in Sri Lanka when all of this took place. He is safely back home in Chicago now, from all accounts.
His friend/partner/whatever Fernando wasn't so fortunate. He was swept away in a the flooding, and hasn't been found. He is now, many days later, presumed to be dead. We are very saddened concerning this loss--along with the 160,000 others who lost their lives and faced eternity without even a glimpse of a warning.
Now, the "buzz" is what kind of relationship did Fernando and Nate have anyway? Were they close friends, or a homosexual couple? The "worldwideweb" is afloat with all the innuendoes, speculations, and downright rumors about what Nate meant when he said "my partner Fernando" on his official website, as well as his statement on Oprah's official website (www.oprah.com).
As a committed Christian, I cannot agree with the homosexual lifestyle. But, as a committed Christian, I am firmly resolved to love the persons as purely and as humanely as I possibly can, with the strength that God Himself will grant to me.
As a Christian, my heart breaks to see such devastation in that wonderful part of the world. I went to seminary with three pastors from Indonesia, and I can only imagine the horrific loss the brethren have experienced, if they are still alive.
But this event is very sobering for all of us. We will face God in eternity someday. And more than 160,000 people could testify that facing God could very well be sooner rather than later.
Now, He is a loving, merciful, and righteous God, who seeks to give us life and that even more abundantly than we could ever think or imagine.
Now, this same God has provided a way for us to come into a loving relationship with Himself--His Son, Jesus Christ. Only Jesus can provide us a safe passage from this life into eternity.
There is no other way.
More than 160,000 people, if they could speak now, would tell you the same thing.
It seems like we will never hear the end of the horrors of this event shortly after Christmas Day, 2004.
Nate Berkus--the Chicago-based interior designer, and an Oprah-made "star" in his own right was in Sri Lanka when all of this took place. He is safely back home in Chicago now, from all accounts.
His friend/partner/whatever Fernando wasn't so fortunate. He was swept away in a the flooding, and hasn't been found. He is now, many days later, presumed to be dead. We are very saddened concerning this loss--along with the 160,000 others who lost their lives and faced eternity without even a glimpse of a warning.
Now, the "buzz" is what kind of relationship did Fernando and Nate have anyway? Were they close friends, or a homosexual couple? The "worldwideweb" is afloat with all the innuendoes, speculations, and downright rumors about what Nate meant when he said "my partner Fernando" on his official website, as well as his statement on Oprah's official website (www.oprah.com).
As a committed Christian, I cannot agree with the homosexual lifestyle. But, as a committed Christian, I am firmly resolved to love the persons as purely and as humanely as I possibly can, with the strength that God Himself will grant to me.
As a Christian, my heart breaks to see such devastation in that wonderful part of the world. I went to seminary with three pastors from Indonesia, and I can only imagine the horrific loss the brethren have experienced, if they are still alive.
But this event is very sobering for all of us. We will face God in eternity someday. And more than 160,000 people could testify that facing God could very well be sooner rather than later.
Now, He is a loving, merciful, and righteous God, who seeks to give us life and that even more abundantly than we could ever think or imagine.
Now, this same God has provided a way for us to come into a loving relationship with Himself--His Son, Jesus Christ. Only Jesus can provide us a safe passage from this life into eternity.
There is no other way.
More than 160,000 people, if they could speak now, would tell you the same thing.
Another Cancer Victim...Please Pray
My good friend, Singer/Songerwiter Janet Paschal has been informed that she has breast cancer. Here's the email that she has sent out:
It's Monday afternoon, January 10th, and I wanted to touch base with you all. As is so often the case, this piece of news is both sweet and bitter. I just never thought I'd be sharing it 'first person'. I'll spare you the details and just tell you that I received a phone call on Friday morning (9:45 am to be exact) from a Duke Hospital oncologist who said he was calling with the lab results of a biopsy from last week.
His next word was "Unfortunately..." and I knew it wouldn't be good. Bottom line is this - I have been diagnosed with breast cancer and no one could be more surprised. At this point, we are still uncertain of the type, severity, options, etc., but we'll learn soon enough, to be sure. I think I'm still numb, and that's probably a good thing. I also think it's probably good that the information comes in doses, as it allows time to absorb each piece and still breathe in and out.
John keeps asking if I'm scared and I can honestly say that I am not - at least I don't think I am. I am not questioning my faith (why should I be exempt?) or asking 'Why?' - not at this juncture, anyhow. After I learn more of the details I may be retracting all of these declarations, but I honestly hope not.
My paternal grandmother had breast cancer when she was in her late sixties. The family was so afraid to tell her - so unsure that she could handle that kind of devastating news. I think I've told you all before of her response, "Oh honey, don't worry. The Lord's gonna take care of me."
She wound up comforting the ones in the room who didn't have cancer, and who wouldn't face that dreaded enemy. She has lived cancer free for more than ten years. I am so abundantly rich in the ways that count.
I have the best family in the world - bar none; they are all prayer warriors and I've watched their prayers 'turn the hearts of kings' on more than one occasion. I've been the benefactor of some of those impassioned pleas and I can point to specific occurrences where there is no explanation except '...but God.' John is my rock; completely supportive and unwavering in his belief that God will do what He promised just because He said so. End of conversation.
My close friends were hand-picked by God, knowing that they would have to be strong because I would need them so much. For years, they have been encouraging, challenging, and above all, they've told me the truth. As I said, I am so, so rich. We are being inundated with mail, and we are so appreciative. I hope you understand that I will probably not be able to answer your mail during this stretch of the 'good road', but it sure means a lot when you write.
You, too, are a gift from God to me. We will keep you updated as we receive information and digest this process. Your prayers are so important. I do not take them for granted.
Blessings,
Janet
************************************************************
This precious lady has been in active music ministry for as long as I can remember. Please pray for her in this very difficult time. Her website is:
www.janetpaschal.com
May the healing hand of Jesus touch this precious servant of His!
It's Monday afternoon, January 10th, and I wanted to touch base with you all. As is so often the case, this piece of news is both sweet and bitter. I just never thought I'd be sharing it 'first person'. I'll spare you the details and just tell you that I received a phone call on Friday morning (9:45 am to be exact) from a Duke Hospital oncologist who said he was calling with the lab results of a biopsy from last week.
His next word was "Unfortunately..." and I knew it wouldn't be good. Bottom line is this - I have been diagnosed with breast cancer and no one could be more surprised. At this point, we are still uncertain of the type, severity, options, etc., but we'll learn soon enough, to be sure. I think I'm still numb, and that's probably a good thing. I also think it's probably good that the information comes in doses, as it allows time to absorb each piece and still breathe in and out.
John keeps asking if I'm scared and I can honestly say that I am not - at least I don't think I am. I am not questioning my faith (why should I be exempt?) or asking 'Why?' - not at this juncture, anyhow. After I learn more of the details I may be retracting all of these declarations, but I honestly hope not.
My paternal grandmother had breast cancer when she was in her late sixties. The family was so afraid to tell her - so unsure that she could handle that kind of devastating news. I think I've told you all before of her response, "Oh honey, don't worry. The Lord's gonna take care of me."
She wound up comforting the ones in the room who didn't have cancer, and who wouldn't face that dreaded enemy. She has lived cancer free for more than ten years. I am so abundantly rich in the ways that count.
I have the best family in the world - bar none; they are all prayer warriors and I've watched their prayers 'turn the hearts of kings' on more than one occasion. I've been the benefactor of some of those impassioned pleas and I can point to specific occurrences where there is no explanation except '...but God.' John is my rock; completely supportive and unwavering in his belief that God will do what He promised just because He said so. End of conversation.
My close friends were hand-picked by God, knowing that they would have to be strong because I would need them so much. For years, they have been encouraging, challenging, and above all, they've told me the truth. As I said, I am so, so rich. We are being inundated with mail, and we are so appreciative. I hope you understand that I will probably not be able to answer your mail during this stretch of the 'good road', but it sure means a lot when you write.
You, too, are a gift from God to me. We will keep you updated as we receive information and digest this process. Your prayers are so important. I do not take them for granted.
Blessings,
Janet
************************************************************
This precious lady has been in active music ministry for as long as I can remember. Please pray for her in this very difficult time. Her website is:
www.janetpaschal.com
May the healing hand of Jesus touch this precious servant of His!
"Except for Grace"
Jeff Silvey wrote an amazing song several years ago...and here it is! Let the Lord Jesus minister to your heart through these words:
EXCEPT FOR GRACE
You've lost it all, your dignity and pride.
A sinking soul, swimming in the tears you've cried.
Alone and hopeless, without a word to say
Because guilt has taken it all away...
Except for grace, and your faith
Knowing that God's love will forgive mistakes.
There's nothing that can clear your sinful past,
Bear your bitter pain or can ever take your place,
Except for grace...
We've all stood right where you're at.
Facing the shame of failures and regrets,
Leaving us empty, broken and afraid to dream.
Sin has stripped us clean of everything....
Except for grace, and our faith,
Knowing that God's love will forgive mistakes.
There's nothing that can clear our sinful past,
Bear our bitter pain or can ever take our place,
Except for grace...
The price is much too high for us to ever pay!
We could try forever and find no other way...
Except for grace and our faith,
Knowing that God's love will forgive mistakes
There's nothing that can clear our sinful past
Bear our bitter pain or can ever take our place,
Except for grace....
Except for grace!
************************************************
I'm so eternally grateful that He is such a gracious, merciful God.
I'm so eternally thankful that Christ came looking for me, when I was dead in my sins, and wanted nothing to do with Him.
I'm so eternally in awe that One so holy and so mighty would stoop down to bring me back to life, by surrendering His own, and then taking it up again.
Except for grace.....
EXCEPT FOR GRACE
You've lost it all, your dignity and pride.
A sinking soul, swimming in the tears you've cried.
Alone and hopeless, without a word to say
Because guilt has taken it all away...
Except for grace, and your faith
Knowing that God's love will forgive mistakes.
There's nothing that can clear your sinful past,
Bear your bitter pain or can ever take your place,
Except for grace...
We've all stood right where you're at.
Facing the shame of failures and regrets,
Leaving us empty, broken and afraid to dream.
Sin has stripped us clean of everything....
Except for grace, and our faith,
Knowing that God's love will forgive mistakes.
There's nothing that can clear our sinful past,
Bear our bitter pain or can ever take our place,
Except for grace...
The price is much too high for us to ever pay!
We could try forever and find no other way...
Except for grace and our faith,
Knowing that God's love will forgive mistakes
There's nothing that can clear our sinful past
Bear our bitter pain or can ever take our place,
Except for grace....
Except for grace!
************************************************
I'm so eternally grateful that He is such a gracious, merciful God.
I'm so eternally thankful that Christ came looking for me, when I was dead in my sins, and wanted nothing to do with Him.
I'm so eternally in awe that One so holy and so mighty would stoop down to bring me back to life, by surrendering His own, and then taking it up again.
Except for grace.....
Children Learn What They Live
I first saw this about 30 years ago...and since I was only a "kid" back then, it didn't mean alot to me. Now, it means a great deal to me. Here it is:
Children Learn What They Live
Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D.
If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.
************************************************************************
So what did you live with as a "child?" What future(s) do you see for today's children?
Something to consider, indeed.
Copyright © 1972 by Dorothy Law Nolte
Children Learn What They Live
Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D.
If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.
************************************************************************
So what did you live with as a "child?" What future(s) do you see for today's children?
Something to consider, indeed.
Copyright © 1972 by Dorothy Law Nolte
Just "let it go..."
Well, I might just get a bit personal here...and if so, then...I've gotten a bit personal....
One of the buzz phrases over the last few years is "just let it go..."
What the user normally means is to just dismiss whatever "it" might be, and get it out of one's mind, and to dethrone it from the place of prominence "it" currently has.
In short, forgive and forget--and to make a conscious effort to do both.
Much easier said than done. Can I get a witness?
Yesterday morning at the end of our worship gathering, I saw two precious men praying in the second pew on the right side of the sanctuary. One of the brothers, whom I'll call "Joe" (not his real name) was embracing the other brother whom I'll call "John" (again, not his real name).
I know a little bit about John's story.
John has been hurt...deeply hurt. And by those whom he trusted with everything...other Christians. He was serving in active ministry in another congregation in another place.
John has been hurt so intensely that he and his family had to change congregations.
That's tough under pleasant and wonderful circumstances. Imagine what it must be like under the clouds of disappointment, hurt, and grief.
Yet, I witnessed God washing John's soul....As Joe was praying with him, I saw John weep strong tears of pain and anguish...
But those same tears were healing and restorative. Those tears were washing John's eyes--his physical and spiritual eyes.
Those tears were cleansing, and refreshing John's life in a way that probably hasn't happened in a long time.
In short, God brought John to a place where he can "let it go."
We all need to find that place. God, grant it to be so.
One of the buzz phrases over the last few years is "just let it go..."
What the user normally means is to just dismiss whatever "it" might be, and get it out of one's mind, and to dethrone it from the place of prominence "it" currently has.
In short, forgive and forget--and to make a conscious effort to do both.
Much easier said than done. Can I get a witness?
Yesterday morning at the end of our worship gathering, I saw two precious men praying in the second pew on the right side of the sanctuary. One of the brothers, whom I'll call "Joe" (not his real name) was embracing the other brother whom I'll call "John" (again, not his real name).
I know a little bit about John's story.
John has been hurt...deeply hurt. And by those whom he trusted with everything...other Christians. He was serving in active ministry in another congregation in another place.
John has been hurt so intensely that he and his family had to change congregations.
That's tough under pleasant and wonderful circumstances. Imagine what it must be like under the clouds of disappointment, hurt, and grief.
Yet, I witnessed God washing John's soul....As Joe was praying with him, I saw John weep strong tears of pain and anguish...
But those same tears were healing and restorative. Those tears were washing John's eyes--his physical and spiritual eyes.
Those tears were cleansing, and refreshing John's life in a way that probably hasn't happened in a long time.
In short, God brought John to a place where he can "let it go."
We all need to find that place. God, grant it to be so.
Points to Ponder
A wise man changes his mind; a fool, never.
A man is about as big as the things that make him angry.
The Bible doesn't need to be re-written, just re-read.
Your character is built on what you stand for. Your reputation is built on what you fall for.
To get nowhere, just follow the crowd.
An imperfect conscience needs a flawless Guide.
The best way to lose a friend is to tell them something "for their own good."
A useful life cannot be entirely peaceful and carefree.
A man is about as big as the things that make him angry.
The Bible doesn't need to be re-written, just re-read.
Your character is built on what you stand for. Your reputation is built on what you fall for.
To get nowhere, just follow the crowd.
An imperfect conscience needs a flawless Guide.
The best way to lose a friend is to tell them something "for their own good."
A useful life cannot be entirely peaceful and carefree.
More than just "slogans"
Found these this morning:
If Caleb had asked Joshua for a valley instead of a mountain, who would be impressed?
God gives His best to those who leave the "choice" to Him.
He who abandons himself to God will never be abandoned by God.
It doesn't take much of a man to be a Christian--It takes ALL of him.
It is easy to make a mountain out of a molehill: just add more dirt.
The person who never changes their mind, never corrects their mistakes either.
Jesus wants disciples, not admirers. Admirers are the "cheap edition" of a disciple.
The fire of God in your heart will melt the lead in your feet.
LOVE is the Christian's ID card.
Faith is remembering I am God's priceless treasure when I feel utterly worthless.
Only those who see the invisible can do the impossible.
To the Israelites, GOLIATH was "too big to hit" but to little David, GOLIATH was "too big to miss."
If you were another person, would you like to be a friend of yours?
The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail, NOT HIS TONGUE.
Don't say "Our Father" on Sunday, and spend the rest of the week living like an orphan.
The closer you get to Christ, the closer you get to other Christians.
God's answers are always wiser than our prayers.
The God who knows our load limit graciously limits our load.
If what you say is not something that you would write down, then don't say it!
It is hard to tune in on heaven's message if our lives are full of earthly static!
A "holy week" is meaningless to an unholy life.
Love will endure if you keep it pure.
Never be afraid to be gracious. Look what a little polish can do for scuffed shoes.
Delayed obedience is disobedience.
God's laws last alot longer than those who break them.
I would rather BE hurt than to DO hurt.
A weakness many have is they want others to be better than they are willing to be themselves.
PRAY is one four-letter word you can use anywhere.
A person who takes time for prayer will find time for all the other things needing their attention.
The longest leap in the world is to jump to a conclusion.
Most self-made people stop working too soon!
Reputation is manufactured, character is grown.
In eternity, it's WHO you know that counts.
*******************************************************
Some pretty sage advice, huh? What do you think?
If Caleb had asked Joshua for a valley instead of a mountain, who would be impressed?
God gives His best to those who leave the "choice" to Him.
He who abandons himself to God will never be abandoned by God.
It doesn't take much of a man to be a Christian--It takes ALL of him.
It is easy to make a mountain out of a molehill: just add more dirt.
The person who never changes their mind, never corrects their mistakes either.
Jesus wants disciples, not admirers. Admirers are the "cheap edition" of a disciple.
The fire of God in your heart will melt the lead in your feet.
LOVE is the Christian's ID card.
Faith is remembering I am God's priceless treasure when I feel utterly worthless.
Only those who see the invisible can do the impossible.
To the Israelites, GOLIATH was "too big to hit" but to little David, GOLIATH was "too big to miss."
If you were another person, would you like to be a friend of yours?
The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail, NOT HIS TONGUE.
Don't say "Our Father" on Sunday, and spend the rest of the week living like an orphan.
The closer you get to Christ, the closer you get to other Christians.
God's answers are always wiser than our prayers.
The God who knows our load limit graciously limits our load.
If what you say is not something that you would write down, then don't say it!
It is hard to tune in on heaven's message if our lives are full of earthly static!
A "holy week" is meaningless to an unholy life.
Love will endure if you keep it pure.
Never be afraid to be gracious. Look what a little polish can do for scuffed shoes.
Delayed obedience is disobedience.
God's laws last alot longer than those who break them.
I would rather BE hurt than to DO hurt.
A weakness many have is they want others to be better than they are willing to be themselves.
PRAY is one four-letter word you can use anywhere.
A person who takes time for prayer will find time for all the other things needing their attention.
The longest leap in the world is to jump to a conclusion.
Most self-made people stop working too soon!
Reputation is manufactured, character is grown.
In eternity, it's WHO you know that counts.
*******************************************************
Some pretty sage advice, huh? What do you think?
Haven't Heard this one in years....
Recently heard this "country gospel" song on the internet. "The Baptism of Jesse Taylor" was a big hit for the Oak Ridge Boys (who got their start in "southern Gospel" music) back in the late 1970s. This song tells a powerful story of just what an encounter with our living Lord Jesus can do:
Among the local taverns they'll be a slack in business
'Cause Jesse's drinkin' came before the groceries and the rent
Among the local women they'll be a slack in cheatin'
'Cause Jesse won't be be steppin' out again.
They baptized Jesse Taylor in Cedar Creek last Sunday
Jesus gained a soul and Satan lost a good right arm
They all cried "Hallelujah" as Jesse's head went under
'Cause this time he went under for the Lord.
The scars on Jesse's knuckles were more than just respected
The county courthouse records tell all there is to tell
The pockets of the gamblers will soon miss Jesse's money
And the black eye of the law will soon be well.
They baptized Jesse Taylor in Cedar Creek last Sunday
Jesus gained a soul and Satan lost a good right arm
They all cried "Hallelujah" as Jesse's head went under
'Cause this time he went under for the Lord.
From now on Nancy Taylor can proudly speak to neighbors
Tell how much Jesse took up with little Jim
Now Jimmy's got a daddy and Jesse's got a family
And Franklin County's got a lot more man.
They baptized Jesse Taylor in Cedar Creek last Sunday
Jesus gained a soul and Satan lost a good right arm
They all cried "Hallelujah" as Jesse's head went under
'Cause this time he went under for the Lord...
**************************************************************
Just as the Apostle Paul told the Roman Christians, "the gospel is the power of God unto Salvation....to all who will believe." (1:16, 17).
Among the local taverns they'll be a slack in business
'Cause Jesse's drinkin' came before the groceries and the rent
Among the local women they'll be a slack in cheatin'
'Cause Jesse won't be be steppin' out again.
They baptized Jesse Taylor in Cedar Creek last Sunday
Jesus gained a soul and Satan lost a good right arm
They all cried "Hallelujah" as Jesse's head went under
'Cause this time he went under for the Lord.
The scars on Jesse's knuckles were more than just respected
The county courthouse records tell all there is to tell
The pockets of the gamblers will soon miss Jesse's money
And the black eye of the law will soon be well.
They baptized Jesse Taylor in Cedar Creek last Sunday
Jesus gained a soul and Satan lost a good right arm
They all cried "Hallelujah" as Jesse's head went under
'Cause this time he went under for the Lord.
From now on Nancy Taylor can proudly speak to neighbors
Tell how much Jesse took up with little Jim
Now Jimmy's got a daddy and Jesse's got a family
And Franklin County's got a lot more man.
They baptized Jesse Taylor in Cedar Creek last Sunday
Jesus gained a soul and Satan lost a good right arm
They all cried "Hallelujah" as Jesse's head went under
'Cause this time he went under for the Lord...
**************************************************************
Just as the Apostle Paul told the Roman Christians, "the gospel is the power of God unto Salvation....to all who will believe." (1:16, 17).
A Song for 2005
One of the most marvelous poems/hymns ever penned in the English language tells me of how great our God is:
1. O Love that will not let me go,
I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe,
That in thine ocean depths its flow
May richer, fuller be.
2. O light that followest all my way,
I yield my flickering torch to thee;
My heart restores its borrowed ray,
That in thy sunshine’s blaze its day
May brighter, fairer be.
3. O Joy that seekest me through pain,
I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
And know the promise is not vain,
That morning shall tearless be.
4. O Cross that liftest up my head,
I dare not ask to fly from thee;
I lay in dust life’s glory dead,
And from the ground there blossoms red
Life that shall endless be.
*******************************************
Know this much, if you forget everything else in the year 2005:
God's love will never change for you. He loves you supremely...He always has, and He always will. Even in your sins, your failures, your guilt, your shame, and your "mess"....
When others who profess their love for you have long fled from you...leaving you alone, hurt and heartbroken, realize that God will never change His love one iota.
1. O Love that will not let me go,
I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe,
That in thine ocean depths its flow
May richer, fuller be.
2. O light that followest all my way,
I yield my flickering torch to thee;
My heart restores its borrowed ray,
That in thy sunshine’s blaze its day
May brighter, fairer be.
3. O Joy that seekest me through pain,
I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
And know the promise is not vain,
That morning shall tearless be.
4. O Cross that liftest up my head,
I dare not ask to fly from thee;
I lay in dust life’s glory dead,
And from the ground there blossoms red
Life that shall endless be.
*******************************************
Know this much, if you forget everything else in the year 2005:
God's love will never change for you. He loves you supremely...He always has, and He always will. Even in your sins, your failures, your guilt, your shame, and your "mess"....
When others who profess their love for you have long fled from you...leaving you alone, hurt and heartbroken, realize that God will never change His love one iota.
The "Stranger"
A longtime friend sent me this:
A few months before I was born, my Dad met a stranger who was new to our small Tennessee town. From the beginning, Dad was fascinated with this enchanting newcomer and soon invited him to live with our family.
The stranger was quickly accepted and was around to welcome me into the world a few months later.As I grew up, I never questioned his place in my family. In my young mind, he had a special niche. My parents were complementary instructors: Mom taught me the word of God, and Dad taught me to obey it.
But the stranger? He was our storyteller. He would keep us spellbound for hours on end with adventures, mysteries and comedies. If I wanted to know anything about politics, history or science, he always knew the answers about the past, understood the present and even seemed able to predict the future!
He took my family to the first major league ball game. He made me laugh, and he made me cry. The stranger never stopped talking, but Dad didn't seem to mind. Sometimes Mom would get up quietly while the rest of us were shushing each other to listen to what he had to say, and she would go to her room and read her books. (I wonder now if she ever prayed for the stranger to leave.)
Dad ruled our household with certain moral convictions, but the stranger never felt obligated to honor them. Profanity,for example, was not allowed in our home... not from us, our friends or any visitors. Our long-time visitor, however, got away with four-letter words that burned my ears and made my dad squirm and my mother blush.
My Dad was a teetotaler who didn't permit alcohol in the home, not even for cooking. But the stranger encouraged us to try it on a regular basis. He made cigarettes look cool, cigars manly and pipes distinguished. He talked freely (much too freely!) about sex. His comments were sometimes blatant, sometimes suggestive, and generally embarrassing. I now know that my early concepts about relationships were influenced strongly by the stranger. Time after time, he opposed the values of my parents, yet he was seldom rebuked... and NEVER asked to leave.
More than fifty years have passed since the stranger moved in with our family. He has blended right in and is not nearly as fascinating as he was at first. Still, if you were to walk into my parents' den today you would still find him sitting over in his corner, waiting for someone to listen to him talk and watch him draw his pictures.His name?
We just call him TV.
A few months before I was born, my Dad met a stranger who was new to our small Tennessee town. From the beginning, Dad was fascinated with this enchanting newcomer and soon invited him to live with our family.
The stranger was quickly accepted and was around to welcome me into the world a few months later.As I grew up, I never questioned his place in my family. In my young mind, he had a special niche. My parents were complementary instructors: Mom taught me the word of God, and Dad taught me to obey it.
But the stranger? He was our storyteller. He would keep us spellbound for hours on end with adventures, mysteries and comedies. If I wanted to know anything about politics, history or science, he always knew the answers about the past, understood the present and even seemed able to predict the future!
He took my family to the first major league ball game. He made me laugh, and he made me cry. The stranger never stopped talking, but Dad didn't seem to mind. Sometimes Mom would get up quietly while the rest of us were shushing each other to listen to what he had to say, and she would go to her room and read her books. (I wonder now if she ever prayed for the stranger to leave.)
Dad ruled our household with certain moral convictions, but the stranger never felt obligated to honor them. Profanity,for example, was not allowed in our home... not from us, our friends or any visitors. Our long-time visitor, however, got away with four-letter words that burned my ears and made my dad squirm and my mother blush.
My Dad was a teetotaler who didn't permit alcohol in the home, not even for cooking. But the stranger encouraged us to try it on a regular basis. He made cigarettes look cool, cigars manly and pipes distinguished. He talked freely (much too freely!) about sex. His comments were sometimes blatant, sometimes suggestive, and generally embarrassing. I now know that my early concepts about relationships were influenced strongly by the stranger. Time after time, he opposed the values of my parents, yet he was seldom rebuked... and NEVER asked to leave.
More than fifty years have passed since the stranger moved in with our family. He has blended right in and is not nearly as fascinating as he was at first. Still, if you were to walk into my parents' den today you would still find him sitting over in his corner, waiting for someone to listen to him talk and watch him draw his pictures.His name?
We just call him TV.
A Word for 2005...Precious Promises
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust."
Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler
And from the perilous pestilence.
He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,
Nor of the arrow that flies by day,
Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,
Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
A thousand may fall at your side,
And ten thousand at your right hand;
But it shall not come near you.
Only with your eyes shall you look,
And see the reward of the wicked.
Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,
Even the Most High, your dwelling place, No evil shall befall you,
Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,
The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.
"Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;
I will set him on high, because he has known My name.
He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life I will satisfy him,
And show him My salvation."
*******************************************
With such exceeding and precious promises, what more can we ask for?
Praising Him this day!
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust."
Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler
And from the perilous pestilence.
He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,
Nor of the arrow that flies by day,
Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,
Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
A thousand may fall at your side,
And ten thousand at your right hand;
But it shall not come near you.
Only with your eyes shall you look,
And see the reward of the wicked.
Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,
Even the Most High, your dwelling place, No evil shall befall you,
Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,
The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.
"Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;
I will set him on high, because he has known My name.
He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life I will satisfy him,
And show him My salvation."
*******************************************
With such exceeding and precious promises, what more can we ask for?
Praising Him this day!
" A lifelong sentence" or was it...?
My personal physician recently diagnosed me with HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE....
Since I've heard all the "ills" of this condition, I almost felt like a "death sentence" had been pronounced on me.
For those who are remotely interested in High Blood Pressure, here's a great site:
www.HealthyBP.com
And yes, I'm learning to modify my diet, exercise more than I have been doing (and any exercise at all will be MORE than I've been doing in recent months)....
So here's for a healthier 2005...
Since I've heard all the "ills" of this condition, I almost felt like a "death sentence" had been pronounced on me.
For those who are remotely interested in High Blood Pressure, here's a great site:
www.HealthyBP.com
And yes, I'm learning to modify my diet, exercise more than I have been doing (and any exercise at all will be MORE than I've been doing in recent months)....
So here's for a healthier 2005...
For 2005...My prayer...
Gloria Gaither is probably my favorite living poet....hands down! More than twenty years ago, she penned a wonderful song of testimony and petition. Here it is:
I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven;
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child, and I am not afraid.
So greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive another;
The law of love I gladly will obey.
I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion;
I’ve been so loved that I’ll risk loving, too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through.
Your kingdom come around and through and in me,
Your pow’r and glory, let them shine thru me.
Your Hallowed Name O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world thru me.
-- words by Gloria Gaither
--sung to the tune of Finlandia
I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven;
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child, and I am not afraid.
So greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive another;
The law of love I gladly will obey.
I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion;
I’ve been so loved that I’ll risk loving, too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through.
Your kingdom come around and through and in me,
Your pow’r and glory, let them shine thru me.
Your Hallowed Name O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world thru me.
-- words by Gloria Gaither
--sung to the tune of Finlandia
My favorite Christmas Song...
I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet, the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head
"There is no peace on earth", I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men."
Till ringing, singing, on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
- Words by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1864.
- Music by J. Baptiste Calkin, 1872.
************************************************************
And when I hear the bells on Christmas Day, I'll remember that "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep." I'll remember that regardless of what has gone "wrong" in 2004 that HE is indeed full of mercy, tender compassions, and that His love knows no limit, and His grace knows no measure.
I'll remember that regardless of the heartaches of this year (and there have been plenty) that the tiny Baby born in Bethlehem's manger is still the Healer of wounded hearts and shattered dreams. He is the "heart-mender" and the "mind-regulator" (to quote a Negro spiritual from my childhood), and nothing that happens will ever escape His watchful eyes.
No disappointment or disillusionment
No wounds, scars, or conflicts.
No misunderstanding, rumors, tale-bearing, nor idle gossip.
He has experienced it all. And He sees it all.
May there be "goodwill toward men" in the name of that Blessed Baby born in Bethlehem so many years ago.
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet, the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head
"There is no peace on earth", I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men."
Till ringing, singing, on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
- Words by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1864.
- Music by J. Baptiste Calkin, 1872.
************************************************************
And when I hear the bells on Christmas Day, I'll remember that "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep." I'll remember that regardless of what has gone "wrong" in 2004 that HE is indeed full of mercy, tender compassions, and that His love knows no limit, and His grace knows no measure.
I'll remember that regardless of the heartaches of this year (and there have been plenty) that the tiny Baby born in Bethlehem's manger is still the Healer of wounded hearts and shattered dreams. He is the "heart-mender" and the "mind-regulator" (to quote a Negro spiritual from my childhood), and nothing that happens will ever escape His watchful eyes.
No disappointment or disillusionment
No wounds, scars, or conflicts.
No misunderstanding, rumors, tale-bearing, nor idle gossip.
He has experienced it all. And He sees it all.
May there be "goodwill toward men" in the name of that Blessed Baby born in Bethlehem so many years ago.
So who/what are they "singing" about?
Interesting to say the least....
© 2004 WorldNetDaily.com
Santa Claus joins President and Laura Bush in singing carols at the White House
WASHINGTON – What's virtually missing from the White House commemoration of Christmas this year?
Jesus.
The little baby in the manger.
The reason for the season.
While President Bush was re-elected last month in an election victory many attributed to an outpouring of support by evangelical Christians impressed with his candid outspokenness about his faith, some Americans notice the White House website lacks even a single mention of Jesus, whose birth is celebrated by hundreds of millions worldwide Dec. 25.
The official White House site proclaims this as the "Season of Merriment and Melody" – not the birth of the Savior of the world.
"Throughout the world, the holiday season is greeted by joyful music that brightens hearts and evokes wonderful memories," reads the message. "This year's theme brings to the White House the magic of holiday songs that have been favorites for generations of Americans."
Among the website's many photographs of secular decorations is a shot of a creche, or Nativity, displayed in the East Room, but the baby Jesus is virtually invisible.
The White House has not responded to WND's request for comment.
The White House residence, the site proclaims is decorated with "delightful vignettes illustrating many of the best-loved songs of the season."
White House decorated like a winter wonderland.
Not one of those songs is a traditional spiritual carol or hymn. Instead, the songs listed include "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," "Here Comes Santa Claus," "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," "All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth," "Upon the Housetop," "Blue Christmas," "Jingle Bells," "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," White Christmas," "Frosty the Snowman, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Marshmallow World."
In fact, even the word Christmas is only used in song titles and as an adjective – such as before the word tree.
At the lighting of the National Christmas Tree Dec. 2, Bush remarked: "Tonight we begin a joyous season, and the city of Washington is never more beautiful than during the holidays. At Christmas time we celebrate good tidings first announced two thousand years ago, and still a source of great joy in our world. Laura and I are always happy to join in the Pageant of Peace, and we thank you all for coming this evening.
"The season of Advent is always the season of hope," Bush continued. "We think of the patient hope of men and women across the centuries who listened to the words of the prophets and lived in joyful expectation.
We think of the hope of Mary, who welcomed God's plan with great faith. We think of the hope of the Wise Men who set out on a long journey guided only by a slender promise traced in the stars. We are reminded of the hope that the grandest purposes of the Almighty can be found in the humblest places.
And we embrace the hope that all the love and gifts that come to us in this life are the signs and symbols of even a greater love and gift that came on a holy night. The old carol speaks of a 'thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.' And every year at this time we feel the thrill of hope as we wait on Christmas Day."
Bush went on to remember troops serving in foreign wars this Christmas season.
It has been noted that the Bushes' holiday card this year includes a Scripture verse. But, again, it does not mention Jesus.
This card has a line from Psalms, 95:2: "Let us come before him with Thanksgiving and extol him with music and song."
First lady Laura Bush supervises the card selection. She also picked cards with Bible verses when her husband was Texas governor.
The Republican National Committee paid for production and distribution.
On Dec. 9, Bush participated in a special menorah lighting ceremony at the White House.
"Hanukkah is a festive holiday that celebrates a great victory for freedom," he said. "We remember the liberation of Jerusalem and a miracle witnessed in the holy Temple 2,000 years ago. For eight days the oil burned, and the light of freedom still burns in Jewish homes and synagogues everywhere. We are honored to celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah in the White House this evening."
Likewise, Bush issued a Hanukkah proclamation Dec. 7. "I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of lights," he said. "On the 25th day of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar, Jews around the world commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem more than 2,000 years ago. During this time of darkness, the Temple had been seized, and Judaism had been outlawed. Judah Maccabee and his followers fought for three years for their freedom and successfully recaptured Jerusalem and the Temple. Jewish tradition teaches that the Maccabees found only one small bottle of oil to be used for temple rituals, but that oil lasted eight days and nights. The miracle of this enduring light, remembered through the lighting of the Menorah, continues to symbolize the triumph of faith over tyranny."
He continued: "The bravery of the Maccabees has provided inspiration through the ages. We must remain steadfast and courageous as we seek to spread peace and freedom throughout the world. This holiday season, we give thanks to God, and we remember the brave men and women of our Armed Forces and their families. We also pray that all who live under oppression will see their day of freedom and that the light of faith will always shine through the darkness. Laura joins me in wishing you a blessed and Happy Hanukkah."
In 2001, Bush issued a Kwanzaa greeting from the White House, and repeated it in 2002 and 2003.
*************************************************************************
So where does JESUS play into all of this "much ado about whatever"?
© 2004 WorldNetDaily.com
Santa Claus joins President and Laura Bush in singing carols at the White House
WASHINGTON – What's virtually missing from the White House commemoration of Christmas this year?
Jesus.
The little baby in the manger.
The reason for the season.
While President Bush was re-elected last month in an election victory many attributed to an outpouring of support by evangelical Christians impressed with his candid outspokenness about his faith, some Americans notice the White House website lacks even a single mention of Jesus, whose birth is celebrated by hundreds of millions worldwide Dec. 25.
The official White House site proclaims this as the "Season of Merriment and Melody" – not the birth of the Savior of the world.
"Throughout the world, the holiday season is greeted by joyful music that brightens hearts and evokes wonderful memories," reads the message. "This year's theme brings to the White House the magic of holiday songs that have been favorites for generations of Americans."
Among the website's many photographs of secular decorations is a shot of a creche, or Nativity, displayed in the East Room, but the baby Jesus is virtually invisible.
The White House has not responded to WND's request for comment.
The White House residence, the site proclaims is decorated with "delightful vignettes illustrating many of the best-loved songs of the season."
White House decorated like a winter wonderland.
Not one of those songs is a traditional spiritual carol or hymn. Instead, the songs listed include "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," "Here Comes Santa Claus," "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," "All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth," "Upon the Housetop," "Blue Christmas," "Jingle Bells," "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," White Christmas," "Frosty the Snowman, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Marshmallow World."
In fact, even the word Christmas is only used in song titles and as an adjective – such as before the word tree.
At the lighting of the National Christmas Tree Dec. 2, Bush remarked: "Tonight we begin a joyous season, and the city of Washington is never more beautiful than during the holidays. At Christmas time we celebrate good tidings first announced two thousand years ago, and still a source of great joy in our world. Laura and I are always happy to join in the Pageant of Peace, and we thank you all for coming this evening.
"The season of Advent is always the season of hope," Bush continued. "We think of the patient hope of men and women across the centuries who listened to the words of the prophets and lived in joyful expectation.
We think of the hope of Mary, who welcomed God's plan with great faith. We think of the hope of the Wise Men who set out on a long journey guided only by a slender promise traced in the stars. We are reminded of the hope that the grandest purposes of the Almighty can be found in the humblest places.
And we embrace the hope that all the love and gifts that come to us in this life are the signs and symbols of even a greater love and gift that came on a holy night. The old carol speaks of a 'thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.' And every year at this time we feel the thrill of hope as we wait on Christmas Day."
Bush went on to remember troops serving in foreign wars this Christmas season.
It has been noted that the Bushes' holiday card this year includes a Scripture verse. But, again, it does not mention Jesus.
This card has a line from Psalms, 95:2: "Let us come before him with Thanksgiving and extol him with music and song."
First lady Laura Bush supervises the card selection. She also picked cards with Bible verses when her husband was Texas governor.
The Republican National Committee paid for production and distribution.
On Dec. 9, Bush participated in a special menorah lighting ceremony at the White House.
"Hanukkah is a festive holiday that celebrates a great victory for freedom," he said. "We remember the liberation of Jerusalem and a miracle witnessed in the holy Temple 2,000 years ago. For eight days the oil burned, and the light of freedom still burns in Jewish homes and synagogues everywhere. We are honored to celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah in the White House this evening."
Likewise, Bush issued a Hanukkah proclamation Dec. 7. "I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of lights," he said. "On the 25th day of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar, Jews around the world commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem more than 2,000 years ago. During this time of darkness, the Temple had been seized, and Judaism had been outlawed. Judah Maccabee and his followers fought for three years for their freedom and successfully recaptured Jerusalem and the Temple. Jewish tradition teaches that the Maccabees found only one small bottle of oil to be used for temple rituals, but that oil lasted eight days and nights. The miracle of this enduring light, remembered through the lighting of the Menorah, continues to symbolize the triumph of faith over tyranny."
He continued: "The bravery of the Maccabees has provided inspiration through the ages. We must remain steadfast and courageous as we seek to spread peace and freedom throughout the world. This holiday season, we give thanks to God, and we remember the brave men and women of our Armed Forces and their families. We also pray that all who live under oppression will see their day of freedom and that the light of faith will always shine through the darkness. Laura joins me in wishing you a blessed and Happy Hanukkah."
In 2001, Bush issued a Kwanzaa greeting from the White House, and repeated it in 2002 and 2003.
*************************************************************************
So where does JESUS play into all of this "much ado about whatever"?
A "must read" for Christians who wonder....
I recently saw this lady, Carol Kent, do an interview on television. I heard the incredible story she told. I found this review of her book.
WHEN I LAY MY ISAAC DOWN:
Unshakable Faith in Unthinkable Circumstances
Carol Kent
NavPress: Christian Living ISBN: 1576834743
• About the Book
In some theoretical realm we all know that life can change drastically in an instant --- a slip on the ice, a freak accident. But most white-collar, suburban churchgoers do not expect the message that Carol Kent and her husband received in October 1999, just a few weeks after she had mused, "Does life get any better than this?" (Their careers --- directing a national Christian speakers' bureau --- were on track. Their only son --- an earnest Christian, a navy lieutenant --- was married and the stepfather to two young daughters, whom they enjoyed grandparenting.)
The devastating news? That their son, Jason, was in jail, charged with the first-degree murder of his wife's ex-husband --- a crime witnessed by several bystanders. With this as the book's setting, you quickly understand the subtitle "Unshakable Faith in Unthinkable Circumstances."
As may be obvious, the book's title is drawn from the biblical story of Abraham, who was willing to give up all claim to his son Isaac. It is a book about surrender and the paradoxical lessons it can teach. "There is hidden power in our unthinkable circumstances," she says. Subtitles of the eight chapters outline the journey: "The Power of Unthinkable Circumstances;…of Relinquishment;…of Heartache;…of Community;… of Hope;…of Faith;…of Joy;…of Speaking Up."
The narrative, which includes quotes from journals of Carol and her husband, draws the reader into the depths of parental wipeout but without dragging the reader through detailed specifics of the author's own circumstance. It is, at the same time, a very personal and yet impersonal story. You "see" emotion and spiritual process and growth more than you "see" Jason or the courtroom, for example; in some ways Jason is representative of any "heart sacrifice," any relinquished dream. (Unlike Abraham, the Kents have seen no miraculous and evident "deliverance." Jason is serving a sentence of life in prison without parole.) "When we release our grasp…It's an act of trusting God when we cannot envision a positive outcome. But in the end, it's the only thing that works."
Carol's spiritual discussion in some chapters is supplemented by anecdotes tracing other people's faith journeys: a woman hearing that a husband has sexually abused a daughter, a single man losing the love of his life. The copyright page says some of these are "true to life" and included with permission; others are "composites of real situations." This disclaimer made it hard for me to endow a few compelling anecdotes with real-character authenticity.
Because of their nationwide ministry, the Kents have been "upheld" by a network of supportive "stretcher bearers" who have girded them in ways that may be enviable to the average reader. But I encourage the average reader to set aside that distinction and walk this journey alongside the author, who dares through darkness to hope in God's redemptive purposes --- some of which she can identify by the end of the book: "If [we] had never endured unthinkable circumstances, we might not have understood the pain of brokenness…. If there had been 'a lamb in the thicket' for our family, we wouldn't have launched Speak Up for Hope," a new prison-related ministry. "If life hadn't held unspeakable tragedy, we never would have been the recipients of such extravagant love."
Each chapter ends with questions that help the reader process personal pain. To her credit, at the end of the book, Carol goes out of her way to establish that her pain is not necessarily greater than that of other people's losses. "We don't need a meter to tell us which pain hurts the most. All of our heartaches produce great sadness, and telling our stories to each other brings a release, a comfort, and the knowledge that somebody cares." Most of all, she's newly aware of the love of God. "I know He loves me more than I love my 'Isaac.'"
--- Reviewed by Evelyn Bence
You can buy this volume in any Christian bookstore, as well as ordering it on line from one of the many distributors available.
Get this book for yourself. And for someone you love.
WHEN I LAY MY ISAAC DOWN:
Unshakable Faith in Unthinkable Circumstances
Carol Kent
NavPress: Christian Living ISBN: 1576834743
• About the Book
In some theoretical realm we all know that life can change drastically in an instant --- a slip on the ice, a freak accident. But most white-collar, suburban churchgoers do not expect the message that Carol Kent and her husband received in October 1999, just a few weeks after she had mused, "Does life get any better than this?" (Their careers --- directing a national Christian speakers' bureau --- were on track. Their only son --- an earnest Christian, a navy lieutenant --- was married and the stepfather to two young daughters, whom they enjoyed grandparenting.)
The devastating news? That their son, Jason, was in jail, charged with the first-degree murder of his wife's ex-husband --- a crime witnessed by several bystanders. With this as the book's setting, you quickly understand the subtitle "Unshakable Faith in Unthinkable Circumstances."
As may be obvious, the book's title is drawn from the biblical story of Abraham, who was willing to give up all claim to his son Isaac. It is a book about surrender and the paradoxical lessons it can teach. "There is hidden power in our unthinkable circumstances," she says. Subtitles of the eight chapters outline the journey: "The Power of Unthinkable Circumstances;…of Relinquishment;…of Heartache;…of Community;… of Hope;…of Faith;…of Joy;…of Speaking Up."
The narrative, which includes quotes from journals of Carol and her husband, draws the reader into the depths of parental wipeout but without dragging the reader through detailed specifics of the author's own circumstance. It is, at the same time, a very personal and yet impersonal story. You "see" emotion and spiritual process and growth more than you "see" Jason or the courtroom, for example; in some ways Jason is representative of any "heart sacrifice," any relinquished dream. (Unlike Abraham, the Kents have seen no miraculous and evident "deliverance." Jason is serving a sentence of life in prison without parole.) "When we release our grasp…It's an act of trusting God when we cannot envision a positive outcome. But in the end, it's the only thing that works."
Carol's spiritual discussion in some chapters is supplemented by anecdotes tracing other people's faith journeys: a woman hearing that a husband has sexually abused a daughter, a single man losing the love of his life. The copyright page says some of these are "true to life" and included with permission; others are "composites of real situations." This disclaimer made it hard for me to endow a few compelling anecdotes with real-character authenticity.
Because of their nationwide ministry, the Kents have been "upheld" by a network of supportive "stretcher bearers" who have girded them in ways that may be enviable to the average reader. But I encourage the average reader to set aside that distinction and walk this journey alongside the author, who dares through darkness to hope in God's redemptive purposes --- some of which she can identify by the end of the book: "If [we] had never endured unthinkable circumstances, we might not have understood the pain of brokenness…. If there had been 'a lamb in the thicket' for our family, we wouldn't have launched Speak Up for Hope," a new prison-related ministry. "If life hadn't held unspeakable tragedy, we never would have been the recipients of such extravagant love."
Each chapter ends with questions that help the reader process personal pain. To her credit, at the end of the book, Carol goes out of her way to establish that her pain is not necessarily greater than that of other people's losses. "We don't need a meter to tell us which pain hurts the most. All of our heartaches produce great sadness, and telling our stories to each other brings a release, a comfort, and the knowledge that somebody cares." Most of all, she's newly aware of the love of God. "I know He loves me more than I love my 'Isaac.'"
--- Reviewed by Evelyn Bence
You can buy this volume in any Christian bookstore, as well as ordering it on line from one of the many distributors available.
Get this book for yourself. And for someone you love.
Holiday Eating Tips..thse are funny!
Holiday Eating Tips....
1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. Like fine single-malt scotch, it's rare. In fact, it's even rarer than single-malt scotch. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-aholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.
5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.
8. Same for pies. Apple. Pumpkin. Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or, if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
9. (Optional) Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Reread tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner!
***************************************************
Before anyone gets in a "twit" these tips are by no means my own...even though I think they are hilarious!
1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. Like fine single-malt scotch, it's rare. In fact, it's even rarer than single-malt scotch. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-aholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.
4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.
5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.
8. Same for pies. Apple. Pumpkin. Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or, if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
9. (Optional) Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Reread tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner!
***************************************************
Before anyone gets in a "twit" these tips are by no means my own...even though I think they are hilarious!
"Twas the Night Before Christmas"--revised
T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, REVISED
T'was the night before Christmas and all through the town
Not a sign of Baby Jesus
was anywhere to be found.
The people were all busy with Christmas time chores
Like decorating, and baking, and shopping in stores
No one sang "Away in a manger, no crib for a bed".
Instead, they sang of Santa dressed-up in bright red.
Mama watched Martha Stewart,
Papa drank beer from a tap.
As hour upon hour the presents they'd wrap
When what from the TV
did they suddenly hear?
'Cept an ad.. which told of a big sale at Sears.
So away to the mall they all flew like a flash...
Buying things on credit..and others with cash!
And, as they made their way home
From their trip to the mall,
Did they think about Jesus?
Oh, no... not at all.
Their lives were so busy
with their Christmas time things
No time to remember Christ Jesus,
the King of Kings.
There were presents to wrap and cookies to bake.
How could they stop and remember who died for their sake?
To pray to the Savior...
they had no time to stop.
Because they needed more time
to "Shop til they dropped!"
On Wal-mart!
On K-mart!
On Target!
On Penney's!
On Hallmark!
On Zales!
A quick lunch at Denny's!
From the big stores downtown
to the stores at the mall
They would dash away,
dash away, and visit them all!
And up on the roof,
there arose such a clatter
As grandpa hung icicle lights
up on his brand new step ladder.
He hung lights that would flash.
He hung lights that would twirl.
Yet, he never once prayed to Jesus...
Light of the World.
Christ's eyes... how they twinkle!
Christ's Spirit... how merry!
Christ's love... how enormous!
All our burdens... He'll carry!
So instead of being busy,
overworked, and uptight
Let's put Christ back in Christmas
and enjoy some good nights!
Merry Christmas, my friends!
Author Unknown
T'was the night before Christmas and all through the town
Not a sign of Baby Jesus
was anywhere to be found.
The people were all busy with Christmas time chores
Like decorating, and baking, and shopping in stores
No one sang "Away in a manger, no crib for a bed".
Instead, they sang of Santa dressed-up in bright red.
Mama watched Martha Stewart,
Papa drank beer from a tap.
As hour upon hour the presents they'd wrap
When what from the TV
did they suddenly hear?
'Cept an ad.. which told of a big sale at Sears.
So away to the mall they all flew like a flash...
Buying things on credit..and others with cash!
And, as they made their way home
From their trip to the mall,
Did they think about Jesus?
Oh, no... not at all.
Their lives were so busy
with their Christmas time things
No time to remember Christ Jesus,
the King of Kings.
There were presents to wrap and cookies to bake.
How could they stop and remember who died for their sake?
To pray to the Savior...
they had no time to stop.
Because they needed more time
to "Shop til they dropped!"
On Wal-mart!
On K-mart!
On Target!
On Penney's!
On Hallmark!
On Zales!
A quick lunch at Denny's!
From the big stores downtown
to the stores at the mall
They would dash away,
dash away, and visit them all!
And up on the roof,
there arose such a clatter
As grandpa hung icicle lights
up on his brand new step ladder.
He hung lights that would flash.
He hung lights that would twirl.
Yet, he never once prayed to Jesus...
Light of the World.
Christ's eyes... how they twinkle!
Christ's Spirit... how merry!
Christ's love... how enormous!
All our burdens... He'll carry!
So instead of being busy,
overworked, and uptight
Let's put Christ back in Christmas
and enjoy some good nights!
Merry Christmas, my friends!
Author Unknown
Where I Work
Coyne American Institute is one of the oldest vocational training schools in the United States. We are leaders in the HVAC, Electrical Maintenance, and Electronic Technician trades. We have just moved into a gorgeous, spacious new facility, built just for us.
Here's our website:
www.coyneamerican.edu
I'll write more later.
Here's our website:
www.coyneamerican.edu
I'll write more later.
Lee University at the WHITE HOUSE....
I am an alum of Lee University, Cleveland TN (www.leeuniversity.edu). I am so thrilled to learn that "Voices of Lee"--one of the premier musical groups in the USA will be guest artists at the White House. Here's the story:
Lee University's Voices of Lee have been asked to perform at the White House for a special Christmas performance on Dec. 17.
The 15-member ensemble will give a concert for the invitation-only guests of the president's home, who will be viewing the Christmas decorations at the house.
Their hour and a half, a capella performance will feature what Murray calls "vocal orchestration" with traditional Christmas music such as "Do You Hear What I Hear?" and "Joy to the World." The group will also sing "Tender Tennessee Christmas."
The group was referred to the White House by Congressman Zach Wamp's office. When Rhonda Houston, of the White House Visitors Office, contacted the group, director Danny Murray said they immediately accepted the invitation and completed the appropriate security documents.
"This is the kind of thing every group at Lee wants to do," Murray said. "We're really excited about it, and the kids are just elated. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
Murray and his singers hope to meet the president and first lady, though they have no idea if the couple will be there or who the president's special guests are.
In recent years, the guests have included New York City firefighters who served during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
The invitation comes at a special time for the Voices of Lee, as they are celebrating 10 years of singing and ministry.
The group's trip to the White House is just another performance to add to their already long list of memorable concerts, which include performances in Jerusalem, the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris and numerous a capella festivals across the country. The group has also appeared on "Good Morning America" and Bill Gaither's "Praise Gathering."
"During their college career, you hope something like this could happen, but you never know," Murray said. "This is something they will look back on and always remember."
The Voices of Lee website: www.voicesoflee.com
Lee University's Voices of Lee have been asked to perform at the White House for a special Christmas performance on Dec. 17.
The 15-member ensemble will give a concert for the invitation-only guests of the president's home, who will be viewing the Christmas decorations at the house.
Their hour and a half, a capella performance will feature what Murray calls "vocal orchestration" with traditional Christmas music such as "Do You Hear What I Hear?" and "Joy to the World." The group will also sing "Tender Tennessee Christmas."
The group was referred to the White House by Congressman Zach Wamp's office. When Rhonda Houston, of the White House Visitors Office, contacted the group, director Danny Murray said they immediately accepted the invitation and completed the appropriate security documents.
"This is the kind of thing every group at Lee wants to do," Murray said. "We're really excited about it, and the kids are just elated. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
Murray and his singers hope to meet the president and first lady, though they have no idea if the couple will be there or who the president's special guests are.
In recent years, the guests have included New York City firefighters who served during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
The invitation comes at a special time for the Voices of Lee, as they are celebrating 10 years of singing and ministry.
The group's trip to the White House is just another performance to add to their already long list of memorable concerts, which include performances in Jerusalem, the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris and numerous a capella festivals across the country. The group has also appeared on "Good Morning America" and Bill Gaither's "Praise Gathering."
"During their college career, you hope something like this could happen, but you never know," Murray said. "This is something they will look back on and always remember."
The Voices of Lee website: www.voicesoflee.com
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